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Town Council Regular Meeting Minutes 12/15/2014
TOWN COUNCIL

TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR

Regular Minutes Page 1  December 15, 2014



TOWN COUNCIL – Regular Meeting
Council Chambers – South Windsor Town Hall

1.      Call Meeting to Order

Mayor Anwar called the Regular Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

4.      Roll Call

Members Present:        Mayor M. Saud Anwar
        Deputy Mayor Edward Havens
        Councilor Thomas Delnicki
        Councilor Andrew Paterna
        Councilor Liz Pendleton
        Councilor Carolyn Mirek
        Councilor Janice Snyder
        Councilor Stephen Wagner

Also Present:           Matthew B. Galligan, Town Manager
Keith Yagaloff, Town Attorney

Ms. Kathy Daugherty, Chairperson for the Republican Town Committee came forward to speak, stating that South Windsor suffered a huge loss in the passing of Cary Prague.  He expected a lot of himself and went above and beyond.  Cary truly loved South Windsor and served his community in many capacities.  As a community we can learn much from Cary and as a community we will mourn the passing of Cary Prague.  Ms. Daugherty thanked Cary for his service to South Windsor.

5.      Public Input

Mr. Don Gonsalves, 40 Bayberry Trail came forward and stated that there are two items on the agenda tonight that he has been requesting for nine years which are pension and health care.  Mr. Gonsalves recommended that the Council not discuss health care until Council members have read the audit report from last year, pages 41 through 45, because there are significant mistakes in the audit report.  

Mr. Kevin McCann, 170 Lisa Drive stated that he understands that the Council imposes a 3 minute limit on comments from the public.  Mr. Mccann requested if the Council would consider extending that for 2 or 3 minutes this evening because there is not a lot of public here tonight.  Mr. McCann thanked Kathy Daugherty and Tom Delnicki on the comments made for Cary Prague.  Mr. McCann stated that he would like to address the rule changes that are being proposed tonight.  There are

ITEM:

5.      Public Input (Continued)

a lot of changes that make a lot of sense.  It makes sense to have the ability to send the agenda by email.  There are changes that should be reconsidered such as limit the time that the public speaks.  The full 30 minutes should be allowed to be used that is set aside for public input and is not always the case when the 3 minutes rules is enforced.  The second item that should be reconsidered is changing the meeting time to 7:00 p.m.  Work Sessions used to be held and the Council should consider going back to Work Sessions in order to hold informal discussions.  Rather than limiting public input, Council members do not need to summarize what other Council member have said.  In the past the rules were amended to help the public understand when they could speak.  The rules were amended to allow people to talk to items that are not on the agenda.  Item 5 allowed public to speak to items not on the agenda and Item 14 allowed the public to speak for 30 minutes to talk about items that were on the agenda prior to the Consent Agenda, Unfinished Business and New Business.  Mr. McCann suggested that the Council review the rules as they were written for the agenda that was set at that time.  It called for the public participation for items on the agenda prior to the action items.

6.      Environmental Health & Safety Message

None

7.      Adoption of Minute of Previous Meetings

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council approves the Minutes of the following Town Council Meetings:  Public Hearing Meeting Minutes of December 1, 2014; Regular Meeting Minutes of November 17, 2014 and December 1, 2014; and Special Meeting Minutes of November 24, 2014.

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Councilor Snyder
The motion was approved, unanimously

8.      Public Petitions

None

9.      Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council

None

ITEM:

10.     Reports from Standing Committees

Councilor Wagner stated that the Energy Committee received very good news about the results of the program called Energize South Windsor.  In the period from June to November, 370 people took part in the home energy audits.  Of the 370 people, 38 people have applied for insulation rebates which created an even larger savings.  The Solarize South Windsor program is just getting underway.  There was a workshop in November that several dozen people participated in.  There have been people signing up for solar power under that program.  There is another workshop scheduled for January 12th and February 4th.  Residents who already have solar have agreed to become Solar Ambassadors and will give tours of their homes on Saturday, January 17th.  There is a deadline of March 17th for participation in this program.  There are rebates from the State that come with the buying of solar.  The Energy Committee is working on having the Town issue a Request for Proposal to obtain pricing for LED Street Lights.  It is hopeful that the RFP will be sent out in January.  

Councilor Paterna stated that the SWAAN has submitted a grant application to the State Historic Preservation Office in the amount of $10,000.  The Town should know in about three weeks if that grant has been approved.  The SWAAN could have $14,000 fund to begin to bring some Architects and Engineers in to see what the feasibility of using that building might be.  

Councilor Wagner then stated that the Sidewalk & Bikeway Sub-Committee is holding public information session on December 16, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers where discussions will e held regarding the options of connecting sidewalks from Town Hall over to the Town Center.  There are presently two options that are being reviewed and will be discussed.

11.     Reports of Temporary Committees

12.     Consent Agenda

None








ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business

A.      Resolution Removing from the Table Item 14. A. of the Town Council’s Regular Meeting of December 1, 2014 – Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Sign and Execute a Participation Agreement for Municipal Textile Recycling Services Between the Town of South Windsor and Bay State Textiles, inc.

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby removes from the table, Item 14. A. of the Town Council’s Regular Meeting of December 1, 2014 – Resolution authorizing the Town Manager to sign and execute a Participation Agreement for Municipal Textile Recycling Services between the Town of South Windsor and Bay State Textiles, Inc.

Was made by Councilor Pendleton
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously

B.      Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Sign and Execute a Participation Agreement for Municipal Textile Recycling Services Between the Town of South Windsor and Bay State Textiles, Inc.

WHEREAS, Municipal members of the Central Connecticut Solid Waste Authority have the option of participating in a Textile Recycling Services contract; and

WHEREAS, materials that would be acceptable are items such as footwear, clothing, certain accessories, linens and stuffed animals which will be collected by Bay State Textiles, Inc. from collection bins in the Town of South Windsor every 14 days; and

WHEREAS, Bay State Textiles, Inc. will pay the Town a fee of $100/ton for materials collected; and

WHEREAS, the Town will pay Central Connecticut Solid Waste Authority an administrative fee of 3% of fees collected; and

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)




ITEM:

13.     B.      (Continued)

WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor is interested in participating in this program

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to sign and execute a Participation Agreement for Municipal Textile Recycling Services between the Town of South Windsor and Bay State Textiles, Inc., subject to review by the Town Attorney.

Was made by Councilor Delnicki
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Havens

Councilor Delnicki questioned if the issues regarding the Town having to go out for an RFP have been addressed?

Mr. Galligan stated that the Town Council should table this item because when the legal opinion from the prior Town Attorney was being sought, it was found out that it was not a written opinion but was a verbal opinion given to staff.  The Town will have Attorney Michael Markowitz from Murtha Cullina who gave the verbal opinion to give a written opinion.

Councilor Delnicki made a motion to table this item to the next meeting.  Councilor Snyder seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

C.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 2

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 2 as follows:

The Regular Meetings of the Council shall be held on the first and third Monday of each month, except August, at 7:00 p.m. at the South Windsor Town Hall.  If at any time any Regular Meeting falls on a holiday, such Regular Meeting shall be held on the next business day.  If it shall be unsafe

(Resolution Continued on the Next Page)



ITEM:

13.     C.      (Continued)

to meet in the place designated, the meetings may be held at such place as designated by the Mayor, provided a copy of the minutes of any such meeting adequately setting for the nature of the emergency and the proceedings occurring at such meeting shall be filed with the Town Clerk not later than seventy-two (72) hours following the holding of such meeting.

Was made by Councilor Wagner
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Havens
The motion failed on a Roll Call vote of 5 to 3 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of the motion; and Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek and Councilor Snyder voting in opposition of the motion.

D.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (a)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (a) as follows:

a.      The Mayor or the Clerk, upon written orders from the Mayor or at least three (3) Members of the Council, shall be empowered to call Special Meetings and shall give notice of time and place of Special Meetings and reasons therefore by email, mail or by personal delivery to all Council Members, Town Manager and Town Attorney at least forty-eight (48) hours before the time of such meeting.

Was made by Councilor Snyder
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously



ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

E.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (c)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (c) as follows:

c.      Notice of the time and place of such Special Meetings shall be posted in the office of the Town Clerk and a newspaper or newspapers having general circulation in the Town shall be advised of such Special Meetings at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the time of said meeting.  The notice shall specify the business to be transacted.

Was made by Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously

F.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (e)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article I, Section 3 (e) as follows:

  • In the event of a weather related cancellation of a Regular Meeting, a Special Meeting may be called as follows:
  • The Mayor or at least three (3) Members of the Council shall be empowered to call a Special Meeting and shall give notice of the time and place, stating that the reason is a weather related cancellation of the Regular Meeting, by email, mail or by personal delivery to all Council Members, Town Manager and Town Attorney at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of such meeting.


(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

13.     F.      (Continued)

  • The business to be considered at this Special Meeting shall be solely that business which was to be conducted at the Regular Meeting which was cancelled because of weather.
  • Notice of the time and place of this Special Meeting shall be posted not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the meeting on the Town Internet website, if available, and filed not less than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the time of such meeting in the office of the Town Clerk.
Was made by Councilor Paterna
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton
The motion failed on a Roll Call vote of 5 to 3 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of the motion; and Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek and Councilor Snyder voting in opposition of the motion.

G.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IV, Section 2 (d)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IV, Section 2 (d) as follows:

d.      The South Windsor Resident or Taxpayer shall limit his/her speaking time to three (3) minutes.  This may be exceeded with the consent of the Council.

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Mayor Anwar
The motion failed on a Roll Call vote of 5 to 3 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of the motion; and Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek and Councilor Snyder voting in opposition of the motion.


ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

H.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IV, Section 2 (e)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IV, Section 2 (e) as follows:

  • During this segment of the meeting, a South Windsor Resident or Taxpayer wishing to speak to any matter on the Agenda shall take precedence over those wishing to speak to an Item not on the Agenda.
Was made by Councilor Pendleton
Seconded by Councilor Paterna
The motion failed on a Roll Call vote of 5 to 3 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of the motion; and Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek and Councilor Snyder voting in opposition of the motion.

I.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article V, Section 1 (c)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article V, Section 1 (c) as follows:

  • Additional items for the Agenda may be made by the above persons provided that all such additions be supplied to the Clerk of the Council at least five (5) business days prior to the meeting for which they are intended for consideration.  The name of the person submitting an item for Council consideration shall appear on the Agenda after the item submitted.
Was made by Councilor Delnicki
Seconded by Councilor Paterna
The motion passed on a Roll Call vote of 7 to 1 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Snyder and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of the motion; and Councilor Pendleton voting in opposition of the motion.


ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

J.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article V, Section 1 (f) (g) and (h)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article V, Section 1 (f) (g) and (h) as follows:

f.      The Clerk of the Council will provide a list of the New Business Agenda items, as submitted to the Clerk under these Rules, intended for consideration at the next meeting of the Town Council members by email or fax at least three (3) business days prior to the meeting.  However, errors, delays and/or unintentional omissions of the items will not prevent the Council from taking up the items at the Council Meeting, so long as the items are taken up as otherwise provided under these Rules.

g.      The Agenda shall contain the following notice:

        Public Meetings are the time and place at which the Town Council conducts official business of the Town.  The Council reserves time and invites the public to be heard during three segments of each Public Meeting, as follows:

Item #5 and #17:

Public Input – A segment of up to thirty (30) minutes (which may be extended by the Chair with consent of the Council) is set aside to hear from the public on any matter.  Precedence is given during this segment to any South Windsor Resident or Taxpayer who wishes to speak to any matter on the Agenda.  South Windsor Residents or Taxpayers generally are to limit their comments to three (3) minutes each and shall avoid personalities or impugning of improper motive to any person.

Item #8:

Public Petitions – A South Windsor Resident or Taxpayer may petition the Council, in writing, to include a new item on the Agenda for the next Regular Meeting of the Council.  An item duly presented in writing shall be placed on

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

13.     J.      (Continued)

the Agenda for such meeting.  South Windsor Residents or Taxpayers shall refrain from any discussion of the item until the next Regular Meeting, except when the Chair, with the unanimous consent of the Council Members present, shall suspend the rules.

h.      For the purpose of this section, the day of the Town Council meeting shall be considered a business day prior to the meeting.

Was made by Councilor Wagner
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously

K.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VII, Section 1 (a)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VII, Section 1 (a) as follows:

a.      All Ordinances and Resolutions except those relating to appointments or designation of officers of the Council or its internal procedures shall be introduced in written form, (Charter, Section 307).  It shall be the duty of the Clerk of the Council immediately upon introduction of a written ordinance to prepare at least fifteen copies of each such proposed ordinance, one copy of which shall be retained in the Town Clerk’s Office for public inspection, and one copy to be posted in a public place in the Town office building.  For the convenience of the public, copies shall be placed in each of the Town’s public libraries and, if feasible, should be posted on the Town’s website.

Was made by Councilor Snyder
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously







ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

L.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VII, Section 1 (c)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VII, Section 1 (c) as follows:

c.      Any Ordinance shall be introduced and a time and place set for Public Hearing as follows:

BE IT RESOLVED an Ordinance entitled:  (Name Ordinance) on file in the Town Clerk’s Office is introduced and (state date, time and location) is set for a Public Hearing on said Ordinance.

Was made by Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton
The motion was approved, unanimously

M.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VIII, Section 4

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article VIII, Section 4 as follows:

Resignations of elected Town officials shall be submitted directly to the Town Clerk, with a copy to the Clerk of the Council.  Further, the Clerk of the Council shall advise the Town Clerk in writing of all subsequent appointments to fill unexpired terms of elected officials within three (3) days of action by the Town Council on such resignations and/or appointments.

Was made by Councilor Paterna
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously






ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

N.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a)

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) as follows:

  • The following Standing Committees, consisting of three (3) or more Members from the Council (which include the Mayor), shall be appointed by the Mayor within two (2) weeks of the adoption of the Rules and Procedures, temporary or otherwise, by the Council and shall be subject to confirmation by the Council
Audit Committee
Committee of Ethics
Energy Committee
Education Committee
Financial Planning Committee
Personnel Committee
Public Health & Safety Committee

And such other Standing Committees as the Council may from time to time approve.

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki
The motion was approved, unanimously

O.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Audit Committee

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Audit Committee as follows:

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)



ITEM:

13.     O.      (Continued)

Audit Committee

The purpose of this committee is to hire (or recommend hiring of) and evaluate performance of the Town’s financial auditor. Meet quarterly to conduct a post audit meeting with the auditor; review internal controls and programs and controls designed to prevent and detect fraud including compliance with same with auditor; and plan future audits.  Meet as necessary to review and forward to auditor suspected fraud or illegal acts affecting the government that come to the attention of the committee.  Management is responsible for forwarding these items to the committee as soon as possible.

Was made by Councilor Pendleton
Seconded by Councilor Wagner

Councilor Wagner felt that since this is the first time this is being brought up, the Council should postpone consideration until the next Town Council meeting.  The Council should review this and make necessary changes.

Councilor Delnicki also felt that there should be a discussion held regarding this item.

Councilor Wagner explained that he has been on the Audit Committee since being appointed to the Council and has been looking for a statement of what the Audit Committee’s scope is and feels that although this is a beginning, the wording should be reviewed and changed as necessary.  

Councilor Delnicki stated that he has been on the Audit Committee in the past and what is written summarizes what the Audit Committee has done but language should be added to allow the Audit Committee’s scope to be broadened to protect the financial stability of the Town.

Councilor Yagaloff explained that while the Council Clerk was reviewing the rules, it was noted that a description of the Audit Committee was not included.  Also done was a description for the Energy Committee.  These changes should be presented tonight and postponed to the next meeting for a vote.

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

13.     O.      (Continued)

Councilor Wagner made a motion to postpone consideration of this motion to the next regularly scheduled meeting.  Councilor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

P.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Energy Committee

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Energy Committee as follows:

Energy Committee

The purpose of this committee shall be to investigate appropriate and cost-effective opportunities for implementing energy efficiency measures in all aspects of South Windsor’s public buildings, including operational changes and changes in maintenance or capital improvements.  These recommendations shall be forwarded to the Town Council or appropriate municipal agency or official as designated by the Town Council.

Research and facilitate the use of clean, renewable energy within the Town of South Windsor.

Educate South Windsor residents about clean energy options, energy efficiency, and energy conservation.

Identify appropriate Federal and State incentive and grant programs that provide opportunities for clean, renewable energy, energy efficiency or energy conservation.

Take advantage of unique opportunities and resources within South Windsor for providing clean, renewable energy to help fulfill local energy needs.

Was made by Councilor Delnicki
Seconded by Councilor Wagner

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

13.     P.      (Continued)

Councilor Delnicki felt that in this charge, the Board of Education should be included because it talks about all aspects of South Windsor’s public buildings.

Councilor Wagner explained that he agrees with the statement made by Councilor Delnicki and explained that Mr. Patrick Hankard who is the Facilities Director is part of the Energy Committee.  Membership on the committee should also be reviewed.

Councilor Mirek questioned if language should be added that will make it clear that municipal funds are being used to assist in the maintenance of other buildings such as in the case of the fire stations.

Mr. Galligan explained that the Town looks at all of the public buildings.  In next years budget the Town Council should note that the Town will be requesting funds in order to take over the maintenance of the fire stations.  All of the buildings should be included.

Councilor Paterna questioned if members of the Board of Education could be invited to represent the Board of Education, rather than requiring them?

Mr. Galligan stated that the Town Council can not require the Board of Education to serve on any committee.  In the past, the Town Council has established committees and then have invited the Board of Education to participate.

Councilor Wagner suggested that where it says “public buildings”, the Town Council may want to say “public facilities”.  The Energy Committee also discusses items that are not buildings.

Councilor Delnicki made a motion to postpone consideration of this motion until the Town Council Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting.  Councilor Wagner seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

Q       Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Public Health and Safety Committee

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article IX, Section 7 (a) – Public Health and Safety Committee as follows:

Public Health and Safety Committee

The purpose of this committee shall be to study our problems of both public health and safety, and bring to the attention of the Council whatever measures the committee believes necessary to improve our standards in both of these fields; also, to maintain liaison between the Board of Education, the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Town Manger, the Water Pollution Control Authority, the Volunteer Fire Department, the Ambulance Service Provider for the Town, and the Council.

Was made by Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki

Councilor Mirek pointed out a spelling error where is says “Manger” should say “Manager”.  Councilor Wagner stated that the ambulance service provider should not be capitalized.

The paragraph will read:

The purpose of this committee shall be to study our problems of both public health and safety, and bring to the attention of the Council whatever measures the committee believes necessary to improve our standards in both of these fields; also, to maintain liaison between the Board of Education, the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Town Manager, the Water Pollution Control Authority, the Volunteer Fire Department, the ambulance service provider for the Town, and the Council.

Mayor Anwar called for a vote on the motion; it was approved, unanimously.

ITEM:

13.     Unfinished Business (Continued)

R.      Resolution Approving an Amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article XI

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves an amendment to the South Windsor Town Council Rules and Procedures, Article XI as follows:

Meetings of the Council shall not be later than 11:00 p.m. unless this rule is waived by a unanimous vote of the Council.

Was made by Councilor Snyder
Seconded by Councilor Mirek

Councilor Delnicki stated that he felt this language is the same language and does not see any change.

Town Attorney Yagaloff explained that the second paragraph read “Meetings of the Council shall not be later than 11:00 p.m. unless this rule be waived by a unanimous vote of the Council.”  The change would be to delete “be” and insert “is”.

Mayor Anwar called for a vote on the motion; it was approved, unanimously.

After a lengthy discussion it was decided that even though Article I, Section 2 did not pass, a simple correction of the time the Regular Meeting will begin should be 7:00 p.m.  It was changed on December 9, 2013, but was never changed in the rules.  Councilor Snyder noted that on page 15, “Article” is spelled incorrectly and should be corrected.


ITEM:

14.     New Business

A.      Resolution Appointing the Current Water Pollution Control Authority Members to Transition Terms 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 the following current members of the Water Pollution Control Authority to transition terms in accordance with Section 98-31(c) of the Town Ordinances, beginning November 30, 2014 and ending as indicated below:

  • Richard Aries (D), Edward Havens, Jr. (D) and Robert Dickinson (R) to terms ending November 30, 2015.
  • William Vees (D) to a term ending November 30, 2016.
  • Donald Antaya (R), Vicki Paliulis (R) and Carol Fletterick (D) to terms ending November 30, 2017.
  • Richard Siedman (R) an Alternate and Atif Quraishi (D) an Alternate to terms ending November 30, 2015.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this motion be postponed to the next regularly scheduled meeting.

Was made by Councilor Wagner
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton

Councilor Wagner informed the Council that this particular set of terms was discussed with the WPCA.  There is one member, Robert Dickinson, whose term is being shortened and he did not have a problem with that.  Another member, Williams Vees, had a term that was corrected from a previous mistake.

Mayor Anwar called for a vote on the motion; it was approved, unanimously.

ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

  • Resolution Reappointing Marion Burke (U) to the Housing Authority 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 reappoints Marion Burke (U) to the Housing Authority for a term ending November 30, 2019 and postpones consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

Was made by Councilor Paterna
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton

Councilor Paterna explained that the governing rules for this agency is that a resident be part of that Housing Authority and Marion Burke is a resident there and has been doing a great job.  

Mayor Anwar stated that a large segment of the community is unaffiliated.  All segments of the South Windsor community should have the opportunity to sit on the Boards and Commissions.  

Councilor Delnicki felt the same as Mayor Anwar and then read Marion Burke’s letter into the record, as shown in attached Exhibit A.

Deputy Mayor Havens stated that the Council should review the senior housing in Town and research federal grant opportunities in order to allow more senior housing in Town.

Mayor Anwar called for a vote on the motion; it was approved, unanimously.

  • Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Twenty-One (21) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a refund of property taxes to twenty-one (21) South Windsor Taxpayers, the total of said refund being $4,331.87, and as more fully described on attached Exhibit B.

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton
The motion was approved, unanimously

ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

  • Discussion Item:  Business Incubator, (requested by Councilor Mirek)
Mr. Galligan explained when the Town applied for the STEAP funds the first time, staff made sure there was a strong statement promoting economic development in the community.  There were 79 Towns applying for this grant and not enough funds to go to every Town.  When South Windsor received this grant based upon the EOC/Business Incubator, other communities were upset because they felt it should be one or the other.  The reason it was written the way it was because the technology that is going to be used for the EOC would be the same technology that would be used for a business incubator.  The incubator that is being proposed is not about having a space for businesses to run their business, but the Town would like to give home based businesses an opportunity to use broader technology with the Town’s assistance.  As a business grows, the Town will then lend a hand in trying to find that business space in Town to operate their business.  The main focus for this building will be the EOC, but there will not be emergencies all of the time so the building will be utilized to help educate small businesses in Town through technology.  Mr. Galligan stated that it is hopeful that this will help small businesses grow.

Mayor Anwar congratulated the Town because it is not easy to get a STEAP grant.  The State of Connecticut has been investing in some of these business incubators.  This will be an investment in the community, the young minds in South Windsor and individuals who are re-evaluating their careers.  The tax revenue generated from new businesses will benefit the residents of South Windsor.

Councilor Mirek questioned if there would be a fee for the services provided, how many businesses would the Town or the Chamber of Commerce be able to mentor, and would the South Windsor Chamber of Commerce be promoting this, advertising this or vetting this?


(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:

14.     D.      (Continued)

Mr. Galligan explained that when the South Windsor of Commerce was doing our economic development program, they went out and spoke to a lot of businesses in Town and did ratings.  This will be an opportunity to take those ratings and start educating those businesses.  This incubator is not supposed to be a money maker; it is supposed to be a way to help businesses grow.  If a company would like to come in and wanted to use the facility for a function, there may be a fee but Mr. Galligan stated he does not want to charge businesses to help educate them.  The Town wants to expand existing businesses.  This would be a continuing program as long as the Town can work with the Chamber to promote it for businesses.

  • Discussion Item:  Cost Containment Strategy, (requested by Councilor Wagner)
Councilor Wagner stated that every year the Council has voted on a spending freeze and imposed certain restrictions on Town staff.  Councilor Wagner felt that a spending freeze should only be done if there is an emergency, and even if there is an emergency, the Council should be relying on staff for the proper response.  If there comes a time that it is felt a spending freeze would be necessary to help the Town Manager, the Town Manager can inform the Council at that time.

Mr. Galligan explained that as the budget is being developed for next year, Town staff is looking at some areas of revenue where there are concerns.  Staff is always looking to find savings in the expense side of the budget.  There are two items under blight right now that were not counted under revenue which total $64,000.  Mr. Galligan stated he would initiate a spending freeze if he feels it is necessary and the Council would be informed if that happens.  

Councilor Delnicki stated that there are many residents in South Windsor who are still having a tough time economically.  The Council may need to implement a spending freeze after reviewing revenues and expenditures.  


ITEM:

14.     E.      (Continued)

Mayor Anwar said that some residents may still be having tough economic times, but Town staff has shown excellent management skills that keep in mind a mechanism for the protection of residents.  The hiring freeze and spending freeze are more of a statement that the Council makes to suggest to the residents that the Council does hear concerns and is taking action.  

Mr. Galligan stated that in the 19 years he has been Town Manager in South Windsor, he has never over spent the budget.  Mr. Galligan explained that prior to the Council instituting a spending freeze; he always took it upon himself to institute a spending freeze.  Town staff will monitor everything and keep the Council informed.  Mr. Galligan explained that he has a fiduciary responsibility and if the help of the Council is needed, he would come to the Council.

Deputy Mayor Havens said that the Council not being involved in times of stress would not be looked upon favorably.  The Council always wants the public to know that they are on top of the budget.  

  • Discussion Item:  Health Care Costs for Town Employees (requested by Mayor Anwar)
Mr. Galligan reviewed items on the Audit Report and pointed out that in the report it is stated that 100% of the premium of health care costs are paid for by the retiree.  It is not something that the Town is paying for, in the report it shows a group rate that is out there for a retiree.  The South Windsor Police Union, AFSCME, Local 1480 who complete 25 years of service or reach the age of 50 are ale to retire.  The Town contributes 75%of the cost of their health insurance for members hired prior to July 1, 2006.  A change that was instituted was members hired after July 1, 2006 have the option of continuing medical benefits at their own expense.  Another change that has been instituted for members who retire from the Town that have been with the Town prior to July 1, 2006, now have to go on Medicare at the age of 65.  If someone retires at an age younger than 65 and they take a job with another company, they are required to take the other company’s benefits.  If they leave that job prior to the age of 65, they can come back to the Town’s benefits until they reach 65.  At this time, there is only one individual that the Town contributes 75% of the cost of their health insurance.  All other employee’s are offered benefits but they have to pay 100% of the premium.  


ITEM:

14.     F.      (Continued)

The Town and Board of Education did go self insured which got rid of the premium base.  At that time there was a savings of $1.6 million dollars from the premium cost but also saved on the premium tax of 2%.  The Town now has High Deductible Plans which have reduced the claims even further.  In the next negotiations it has been decided to have everyone contribute more where it will be $2,000/$4,000 which means the employees will contribute on a family plan $1,500 out of their own pocket and on a single plan $700.00.  The PPO plan right now is $2,500 per month and the HSA is $1,768.00.  It has been found that people are managing their health a little bit more by switching to an HSA.  The Town had looked at going onto the State plan, but has found that the Town plan is better and is less expensive.  The Town will forward claim information to Partners for a Healthy Connecticut for further analysis.  The State’s dental plan is more expensive with less benefits and it has been stated that most likely the medical plan option is going to be more expensive because the State’s plan is richer.  There is no State plan that caries a high deductible plan.  Mr. Galiigan reviewed further the Town’s plans, as shown in attached Exhibit C.  Mr. Galligan explained that over the next two years, the Town will have to be aware of and review how the Affordable Care Act will affect the Town.

Answering questions form the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that there has been a push from CCM to allow Towns to work collaboratively for their healthcare.  At this time Manchester and East Hartford are part of a pilot program for prescription drugs.  Town employees are given incentives if they take part of  different programs offered by Anthem.

  • Discussion Item:  Pension Costs for Town Employees (requested by Mayor Anwar)
Mr. Galligan explained that when he first started with the Town in 1996 he did an evaluation of the Towns plans offered and made a decision that all new management employees hired would not be offered the defined benefit plan but instead would be offered the ICMA 401 plan.  This has also been done during negotiations with unions and, at this time, all unions are only offered the ICMA 401 plan.  In the plan, employees contribute 6% and the Town contributes 6%.  The retirement on the plan for unions is 25 years of service or age 50 which helps with workman comp. claims in areas where the job may be tougher on an employee.  There are other benefits in the business

ITEM:

14.     G.      (Continued)

community that a municipality does not have.  The Town’s salaries are a little bit lower than the private sector and the Town does not pay on overtime in the pension.  Mr. Galligan stated that he is proud of what has been done to date to keep costs down for the taxpayers.  The next step will be for any new management employees hired in the future to have their benefit be 6% contribution by the employee and 6% contribution by the Town.

Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that he has been asked to sit in on negotiations with the Board of Education to try to negotiate pension plans. Mr. Galligan then stated that the Pension Committee has lowered the Town’s discount rate from 8% to 7.5% and may lower that again.  

  • Discussion Item:  Status of the Dashboard (requested by Mayor Anwar)
Mr. Galligan explained that the Town has found a way to create a dashboard under the existing GIS program that will not cost the Town anything.  Mr. Galligan stated that he would have control of the dashboard as well as Ashley Summers and Debbie Reid.

Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that this will not be a public record that will be going on the website.  This is a communication between Town staff and Council members.  If a project is decided to go forward from these communications, then it can be put onto the Town website.

  •        Discussion Item:  Health Department Reorganization (requested by Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan)
Mr. Galligan informed the Town Council members that Ms. Sherry McGann, who is the Environmental Health Officer has put her two week notice in.  The Town needs to decide how to fill this position.  The Town can stay status quo, hire a full time Health Director, or join a health district.  Mr. Galligan stated he would like the Council members to consider these options and this could be decided on at a later date.





ITEM:

15.     Passage of Ordinance

None

16.     Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)

Mr. Galligan informed the Council that he met with the Town Attorney Keith Yagaloff; the Director of Planning, Michele Lipe; Mr. Dzen; Mrs. Dzen; and their attorney, John Bond.  There has been a solution discussed on giving Dzen Tree Farm the ability to enter the farm with an entrance off of Barber Hill Road.  The solution will help the farm and not burden other residents in the area.  Attorney Bond and Ms. Lipe will meet to discuss this further.

17.     Public Input

Mr. Don Gonsalves, 40 Bayberry Trail came forward and stated he disagrees with the Town Manager on health benefits costs and the pension plan.  The Council should review the audit report.

18.     Communications and Petitions from Council

Mayor Anwar apologized to Councilor Mirek for interrupting her at the last Council meeting and then wished everyone a happy holiday and new year.

19.     Executive Session

At 9:30 p.m. Councilor Delnicki made a motion to go into Executive Session to discuss documents containing financial information provided in confidence and exempt from disclosure pursuant to C.G.S. §1-200(6) and §1-210(b) regarding the Health Department Reorganization.  Councilor Wagner seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

The following individuals were in Executive Session:  Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton, Councilor Mirek, Councilor Snyder, Councilor Wagner, Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan, and Town Attorney Keith Yagaloff.

At 9:55 p.m. Councilor Delnicki made a motion to adjourn the Executive Session.  Councilor Wagner seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

ITEM:

20.     Adjournment

At 9:55 p.m. Councilor Delnicki made a motion to adjourn the Regular Meeting.  Councilor Wagner seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,


                                                
Deborah W. Reid
Clerk of the Council