TOWN COUNCIL
TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
Minutes Page 1 October 17, 2011
TOWN COUNCIL – Regular Meeting
Council Chambers – South Windsor Town Hall
1. Call Meeting to Order
Mayor Pelkey called the Regular Meeting to order at 8:00 p.m.
4. Roll Call
Members Present: Mayor John Pelkey
Deputy Mayor Edward Havens
Councillor Saud M. Anwar
Councillor Tom Delnicki
Councillor Janice Favreau
Councillor Kevin McCann
Councillor Cary Prague
Councillor Keith Yagaloff
Members Absent: Councillor Gary Bazzano
Also Present: Matthew B. Galligan, Town Manager
Mayor Pelkey presented Councillor Prague with a plaque thanking him for his time as Mayor and then also placed former Mayor Cary Prague’s picture on the wall. Councillor Prague has been on the Council since 2005 and served as Mayor in 2008/2009.
Councillor Prague invited Deputy Mayor Havens, Councillor Delnicki and James Throwe to the podium. Deputy Mayor Havens presented a plaque to Mayor Pelkey thanking him for his service to the Town.
Mayor Pelkey came forward and stated that he has served with Deputy Mayor Havens for fourteen years and thanked him and the rest of the Council.
Principals from TicketNetwork came before the Council and presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to the South Windsor Community Foundation. The funds will be donated to the Pitching and Batting Facility.
Mr. Craig Zimmerman came forward and thanked TicketNetwork for their donation.
Mayor Pelkey thanked all of the volunteers for their time spent working on the Pitching and Batting Facility. Mayor Pelkey also thanked TicketNetwork for their donation to this facility.
Councillor Anwar came forward and explained that he is one of the Board members of the South Windsor Community Foundation as well as Councillor Prague and Councillor McCann. On behalf of the South Windsor Community Foundation, Councillor Anwar thanked TicketNetwork for their donation.
5. Public Input
Ms. Cindy Beaulieu, 19 Cody Circle came before the Town Council and thanked the Parks Department and the Town Council for upgrading the fields in the Town of South Windsor.
Mr. Craig Zimmerman, 5A Amato Drive came forward again and thanked all involved in the creation of the Pitching and Batting Facility. Mr. Zimmerman then presented to Mayor Pelkey a plaque thanking him specifically for his contributions to this project.
Mayor Pelkey thanked the American Legion for the recognition. The project is coming along and this facility should benefit the softball and baseball program in South Windsor.
Mr. Anthony Duarte, 210 Brook Street came forward and thanked Mayor Pelkey and Councillor Favreau for their service to the Town and wished them both the best in their future endeavors.
Mr. Robert Dickinson, 19 Birch Road came before the Town Council as a member of the WPCA. Mr. Dickinson explained that one year ago the initial proposal was to raise sewer fees considerably because of the payments on the new sewer plant. When the WPCA was assured by the Council that the Town was going to take over that burden, WPCA went back to the rate that was set. When the Town had the sewer break that needed repair and with the prospect that much more work would have to be done was the major reason WPCA ended up with the sewer rate so a reserve fund could be established to help with burden of the fixing of further sewers throughout Town.
Ms. Elizabeth Pendleton, 319 Hilton Drive thanked Mayor Pelkey and Councillor Favreau for their dedication, time and years of service they have given to the Town. Ms. Pendleton stated her wish for our Town in the future would be to have a bipartisan Council that will work for the betterment of the community and its citizens.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to Suspend the Rules in order to bring Item 17. E. forward. Councillor McCann seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business
E. Resolution for a “Citizen Matching Mini-Grant” to the Monday Night Social Club/South Windsor Teen Center
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council created a “South Windsor Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program” on June 20, 2005; and
WHEREAS, Bobby and Danielle Tabshey has duly submitted a proper application for matching funds in the amount of $700.00 to help fund for pool sticks, ping pong paddles, ping pong balls, pool bridge, wood triangle and table and chair set which will be used at the South Windsor Teen Center; and
WHEREAS, Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan has reviewed and approved this project and application and has determined that it meets all of the criteria of the “South Windsor Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program”
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to issue $700.00 of matching funds to the Monday Night Social Club/South Windsor Teen Center from the “South Windsor Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program”.
Was made by Councillor Prague
Seconded by Councillor Anwar
Councillor Prague stated he was pleased when he heard this application was coming. Bobby and Danielle Tabshey have done a wonderful job of raising funds for various causes including the Monday Night Social Club and Special Olympics. Councillor Prague said he would be supporting this resolution and is hopeful the rest of the Council will also.
Councillor McCann said this is the type of project he takes great pleasure in endorsing and supporting. Bobby and Danielle Tabshey have gone above and beyond to raise funds for different causes.
Councillor Favreau feels the Monday Night Social Club gives an opportunity for individuals with special needs to get out and socialize. Councillor Favreau stated that she would be supporting this resolution.
ITEM:
17. E. (Continued)
Deputy Mayor Havens explained that the Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program is one that Mayor Pelkey had created.
Mayor Pelkey stated that this resolution is exactly what he had in mind when he wrote the original language for the Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program application. This program is a way for individuals to work towards something that is wanted and the Town will match the funds raised.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on the motion; it was approved, unanimously.
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message
Councillor McCann reminded the public and the Town Council that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All women and men should make sure they get the appropriate screening.
Mayor Pelkey announced that October 29, 2011 is the prescription drop off at the Police Department.
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council approves the Minutes of the following Town Council Meetings: Regular Meeting of October 3, 2011.
Was made by Councillor Anwar
Seconded by Councillor Delnicki
None
9. Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council
None
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
None
ITEM:
11. Reports from Standing Committees
None
12. Reports of Temporary Committees
None
13. Communications and Petitions from Council
Councillor Favreau thanked the citizens of South Windsor who have provided her with the opportunity to serve the Town of South Windsor. It has been a tremendous experience to serve on the Town Council and is hopeful that her participation has benefitted the community. Councillor Favreau wished Mayor Pelkey all the best in the future and expressed her appreciation and best wishes to the rest of the Council as well as the Town Manager and the Town staff.
Councillor Yagaloff stated that during this political season, the political parties should not publish information that is not accurate. The financial reputation of the Town should not be damaged.
Councillor McCann stated that South Windsor is a great community to live in and was recognized as one of the best small communities in the country in which to live. The volunteers of South Windsor are what make this a great community to live. Councillor McCann then stated that he had met with the Director of Parks & Recreation and a consultant to the Town with respect to the Multi-Purpose Field. There have been drainage issues on this field but the Town is addressing those concerns.
Councillor Anwar thanked Mayor Pelkey and Councillor Favreau for all that they have done for the Town of South Windsor. Councilor Anwar then stated that during this political process he has been somewhat disappointed how personalities or actions change during the last month before an election.
Deputy Mayor Havens concurred with Councillor Anwar and stated that he had nothing to do with the raising of the sewer rates.
Councillor Delnicki thanked Mayor Pelkey for his service to the Town and stated that Mayor Pelkey has set a high standard for the next Mayor. Councillor Delnicki then questioned the Town Manager asking what kind of safeguards the Town has
ITEM:
13. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued)
against the computer system crashing which would leave the Town without the ability to generate purchase orders, send out bills, etc.
Mr. Galligan answered that the Town has a strong firewall and does not allow employee’s to use the internet. If an employee needs to get on a site, they need to get permission. The other thing the Town has is three back-up systems. The Police Department has a separate system.
Councillor Delnicki requested at the next Town Council meeting there be an Executive Session in order to have the Information Technology Department explain the safeguards that are in place.
Mr. Galligan informed the public that the fund balance is presently over $1,000,000.00 Mr. Galligan then stated to the Mayor that it has been a pleasure working with him for the past 14 years on the Council. It has also been a pleasure to work with Councillor Favreau.
Mayor Pelkey listed items that the next Council will need to discuss which are as follows:
- It will need to be decided if the 1/20th payment for the sewer plant will be paid for by all residents through taxes or by sewer users through their sewer user bill.
- Capital Projects
- Opportunity Bonds
Mayor Pelkey then thanked Councillor Favreau for the wonderful job she has done and also reviewed issues that he has been a part of during his 14 years on the Town Council. Mayor Pelkey stated that his most proud achievement in all these years has been the creation of the Citizen Matching Mini-Grant Program.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to Suspend the Rules to bring Item 17. C. and 17. D forward. Councillor Prague seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
17. New Business
C. Resolution Accepting the Naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee’s Recommendation to Rename the South Windsor Bark Park in memory of Chief Emeritus Gary K. Tyler
WHEREAS, at the September 6, 2011 Town Council meeting, the South Windsor Town Council approved a resolution directing the Naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee to consider renaming the “South Windsor Bark Park” in memory of Chief Emeritus Gary K. Tyler; and
WHEREAS, the Sub-Committee met and discussed this issue on Thursday, October 13, 2011; and
WHEREAS, Chief Tyler served the citizens of South Windsor with honor and efficiency for 23 years; and
WHEREAS, the planning for the establishment of a dog park included such things as bringing forward the proper location for a dog park, rallying support from the business community who either volunteered their time and/or materials for this project, designing the park and seeking additional funds and volunteers to bring Chief Tyler’s vision to fruition; and
WHEREAS, Chief Tyler took great pride in the creation of the South Windsor Bark Park which opened its gates on November 18, 2007 and has been a huge success; and
WHEREAS, the Sub-Committee unanimously voted to recommend to the Town Council that the “South Windsor Bark Park” be renamed in memory of Chief Gary K. Tyler
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts the Naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee’s recommendation to rename the “South Windsor Bark Park” to “Chief Gary K. Tyler Memorial Bark Park”.
Was made by Councillor Delnicki
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Havens
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. C. (Continued)
Councillor Delnicki stated that he is honored to read this resolution into the record tonight. The South Windsor Bark Park is an asset to the community and was something that was near and dear to Chief Tyler.
Deputy Mayor Havens said he would be supporting this resolution.
Mr. Galligan stated that Chief Tyler was a good friend who loved working for this community and this Town. Chief Tyler deserves this honor and will be missed in this community.
Councillor Anwar stated that Chief Tyler was a man of courage, compassion and vision. Councillor Anwar said he would be supporting this resolution.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on this resolution; it was approved, unanimously.
D. Resolution Accepting the Naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee’s Recommendation to Name a Trail at Nevers Road Park in Memory of Ed Steben
WHEREAS, the Naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee met on Thursday, October 13, 2011 and discussed naming a trail at Nevers Road Park in memory of Ed Steben; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Steben served the South Windsor community in many capacities such as serving on the first Town Council in 1961; Scoutmaster with the Weblos and Cub Scout Packs for more than 15 years; active member in the South Windsor Little League; an Advisor to the Board of South Windsor Volunteer Ambulance Corps; member of the Rotary Club; member of the South Windsor Chamber of Commerce; served on the Zoning Board of Appeals for 12 years; served on the Capital Goals Commission for 15 years; a member of St. Margaret Mary Church where he served as a Chairman of the Church Council and ran its bingo program for 15 years; Parish Chairman of the Holy Family Retreat League; served on the Advisory Board of the former South Windsor Bank & Trust Co.; and served on the Board of Director’s at the former Bank of South Windsor;
and
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. D. (Continued)
WHEREAS, in 1972 Mr. Steben was the founder of Ed Steben Glass Company located in South Windsor, and was named the Business Person of the Year in 1999; and
WHEREAS, the Sub-Committee unanimously voted to recommend to the Town Council that a trail in Nevers Road Park be named in memory of Mr. Steben
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts the naming of Public Lands and Buildings Sub-Committee recommendation to name a trail at Nevers Road Park in memory of Ed Steben.
Was made by Councillor Yagaloff
Seconded by Councillor Delnicki
Councillor Yagaloff explained that the Sub-Committee was quite honored to have Tom Steben who is Ed’s son come before them. The Sub-Committee discussed various options and felt the option that would be most appropriate is to name a trail at Nevers Park. There are many individuals who could be recognized going forward.
Mayor Pelkey stated that it seemed like a good idea to name a trail after Mr. Steben’s in order to honor his memory.
Deputy Mayor Havens said that Ed Steben was a friend of his and Deputy Mayor Havens said it is an honor to participate and support this resolution.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on this resolution; it was approved, unanimously.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to Suspend the Rules in order to bring Item 17. G. forward. Councillor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
G. Resolution Authorizing the Sale or Disposal of a Surplus Vehicle
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby declares the following Fire Department vehicle to be “surplus equipment” and authorizes Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to sell, or otherwise dispose of a 1987 Pumper Truck (Engine 3).
Was made by Councillor Bazzano
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Havens
Answering questions from the Council, Chief Crombie explained that the truck has been out of service since May when the new pumper truck came in. The new pumper is engine 3 also. The Fire Department is reviewing a bid that came in for another fire vehicle that the Fire Department is trying to sell.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on the resolution; it was approved, unanimously.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to Suspend the Rules in order to bring Item 17. F. forward. Councillor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
F. Resolution Authorizing $85,000 from the Capitol Non-Recurring Account for the Completion of the Energy Management System Upgrade Project at the Library
WHEREAS, on July 6, 2010 the Town Council held a Public Hearing for the use of Capitol Non-Recurring funds for a new Library Energy Management System; and
WHEREAS, on August 2, 2010 the Town Council approved the expenditure of $15,000 from Capitol Non-Recurring for the engineering design of the Library Energy Management System upgrade; and
WHEREAS, the Energy Management System engineering was completed and the project was put out to bid; and
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. F. (Continued)
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2011 the Town Council approved the expenditure of the remaining $85,000 project funds from the Capitol Non-Recurring account to complete the construction phase of the Library EMS project and directed Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to bring back bid results for final approval
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the expenditure of the remaining $85,000 project funds from the Capitol Non-Recurring account to complete the construction phase of the Library EMS project.
Was made by Councillor Favreau
Seconded by Mayor Pelkey
Councillor Favreau stated that the Town Council has discussed this long enough and the time has come to move forward with the construction phase and have that system upgraded.
Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan stated that there is approximately $100,000 left in Capitol Non-Recurring after this project is complete. A public hearing was held in July of 2010 for this item.
Councillor Prague read the bids into the record. The highest bid was $139,000, the next price was $109,000, and the final bid price was $105,000
Councillor Yagaloff complimented Mr. Major for bringing the project forward and explaining the need for this project to be completed.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on the resolution; it was approved, unanimously.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to place two addendums (Items 17. I. and 17. J) onto the agenda. Councillor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it as approved, unanimously.
Mayor Pelkey made a motion to Suspend the Rules to move Item 17. J. forward. Councillor Favreau seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
J. Resolution Approving Offer of a Tax Assessment Agreement with LinBob, LLC & Delisle, Inc. d/b/a Metals Testing Company
WHEREAS, a Request for Tax Abatement has been received from Bob Delisle, the owner of the property at 66 Kimberly Drive, the location of Metals Testing Company; and
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor’s Tax Partnership Program, established pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 12-65b, is intended to encourage the development and expansion of quality businesses in Town through tax and other economic incentives, and is designed to retain and attract businesses that will generate substantial additional tax revenues and employment opportunities for the Town while providing quality goods and services; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to said program, that a tax assessment agreement be offered to Delisle Inc. d/b/a Metals Testing Company as an incentive to invest an estimated $1,600,000 in total costs, including land and building improvements, and to construct a new 12,500 square foot addition to an existing industrial building at 66 Kimberly Drive in South Windsor (the land and building improvements collectively referred to as the “Real property”)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council is pleased to offer a tax assessment agreement between the Town and Delisle Inc. d/b/a Metal Testing Company reducing the amount of the estimated increase of $1,120,000 in real property assessment of the Real Property by 50% for a period of four (4) years with an estimated tax benefit reduction of approximately $15,870.40 annually for four (4) years, commencing with the Grand List following the date the Certificate of Occupancy is issued for the Real Property; provided, however, that if such assessment is changed by any future Town revaluation, the new assessed value of the Real Property shall be reduced by the percentage applicable to the year within the four (4) year period such assessment is changed; and
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. J. (Continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council’s offer is conditioned upon Delisle, Inc. d/b/a Metals Testing Company (1) meeting the estimated $1,600,000 construction cost figures and agreeing to the estimated assessment figure; and (2) continuing operations at the Real Property for a minimum of ten (10) years from the date the Certificate of Occupancy is issued; if Delisle, Inc. d/b/a Metals Testing Company fails to meet either of these conditions, Delisle, Inc. d/b/a Metals Testing Company shall refund the Town of South Windsor all of the tax benefit reductions it has received; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council’s offer is contingent upon Delisle, Inc, d/b/a Metals Testing Company’s execution of a written agreement reflecting the terms set forth in this Resolution and such other terms as the Town may require.
Was made by Mayor Pelkey
Seconded by Councillor Anwar
Mayor Pelkey stated that he is in favor of doing this incentive.
Councillor McCann stated that this company is an example that the American dream is alive and well. They have built this company from scratch. The Town will provide appropriate incentives for businesses that expand.
Mayor Pelkey called for a vote on this Resolution; it was approved, unanimously.
14. Public Participation
None
15. Consent Agenda
Councillor Prague made a motion to approve Items 16. A. through 16. D as the Consent Agenda. Councillor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
16. Unfinished Business
* A. Resolution Reappointing Herbert Asplund (R) to the Patriotic Commission
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby reappoints Herbert Asplund (R) to the Patriotic Commission for a term ending August 31, 2014.
* B. Resolution Appointing William Carroll (R) to the Patriotic Commission
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints William Carroll (R) to the Patriotic Commission for a term ending August 31, 2014 to fill the expired term of Robert Moeller.
(Approved by Consent Agenda)
* C. Resolution Appointing Leonard B. Glasser (R) a Full Member to the Patriotic Commission
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Leondard B. Glasser (R) a full member to the Patriotic Commission for a term ending August 31, 2013 to fill a vacancy.
(Approved by Consent Agenda)
* D. Resolution Appointing Gene Botteron (R) an Alternate to the Patriotic Commission
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Gene Botteron (R) an Alternate to the Patriotic Commission for a term ending August 31, 2014 to fill the expired term of Leonard B. Glasser.
(Approved by Consent Agenda)
ITEM:
17. New Business
- Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Thomas Barrett (D) from the Board of Assessment Appeals
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts with regret, the resignation of Thomas Barrett (D) from the Board of Assessment Appeals; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its thanks to Thomas Barrett for the time he has dedicated to serving his community by his membership on the Board of Assessment Appeals.
Was made by Councillor Favreau
Seconded by Mayor Pelkey
The motion was approved, unanimously
B. Resolution Appointing Joan Walsh (D) to the Board of Assessment Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council’s Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Joan Walsh (D) to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a term ending November 30, 2011 to fill the unexpired term of Thomas Barrett and postponing consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.
Was made by Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by Councillor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously
H. Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Eleven (11) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a refund of property taxes to eleven (11) South Windsor Taxpayers, the total of said refunds being $3,421.52, and as more fully described on attached Exhibit A.
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. H. (Continued)
Was made by Councillor Anwar
Seconded by Mayor Pelkey
The motion was approved, unanimously
I. Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Two (2) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a refund of property taxes to two (2) South Windsor Taxpayers, the total of said refunds being $149.34, and as more fully described on attached Exhibit B.
Was made by Councillor McCann
Seconded by Councillor Bazzano
The motion was approved, unanimously
18. Passage of Ordinance
None
19. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued)
Mayor Pelkey read into the record a letter from the Sheri Fiveash, Executive Director of the Chamber, thanking the Mayor for presenting a citation at the Annual Dinner Meeting and Business Person of the Year Award ceremony.
Mayor Pelkey then thanked Town Manager, Matthew Galligan for all of his guidance over the years.
Councillor Anwar thanked Town Manager, Matthew Galligan for the presentation on the health care benefits.
Mr. Galligan wished all of the candidate’s good luck and informed the Council that the Chamber of Commerce would like to hold a meet the candidates.
Mayor Pelkey reminded the Council and the public that tomorrow, October 18, 2011 there will be a Joint Work Session with the Board of Education and Town Council regarding the CREC Elementary School in the Council Chambers.
ITEM:
20. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)
None
21. Executive Session
None
22. Adjournment
At 10:15p.m. Mayor Pelkey made a motion to adjourn the Regular Meeting. Councillor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah W. Reid
Clerk of the Council
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