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Town Council Minutes 2/17/2015
TOWN COUNCIL

TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR

Minutes Page 1  February 17, 2015



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

5.      Public Input

None

6.      Environmental Health & Safety Message

Councilor Pendleton requested if residents have a fire hydrant on their property to please make sure the hydrant is cleared 3 feet around the entire hydrant to ensure that if there is an emergency, Firefighters will have access.  

Mayor Anwar asked residents to be cautious while driving because visibility has been decreased due to the high snow banks.

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 with amendments:  Regular Meeting Minutes of January 20, 2015.

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


ITEM:

8.      Public Petitions

None

9.      Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council

None

10.     Reports from Standing Committees

Councilor Wagner informed the Council that the Energy Committee would like to report that an RFP has been issued for LED Street Lights.  The RFP was written by Mr. Gantick who is the Director of Public Works.  This proposal has the potential to save the Town approximately $200,000 per year.  Proposals should be coming in by March 12th and a firm will hopefully be selected by the end of March.  On February 18th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. there will be office hours for people who are in the process of getting solar installed on their homes and have questions regarding this process.  The other date for office hours is March 4th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  

11.     Reports of Temporary Committees

Mr. Kevin McCann who is the Chairperson for the Sidewalk & Bikeway Subcommittee came forward and explained that there is a resolution on the agenda tonight for the approval of the plan for sidewalks that connect the Town Hall and Library through the intersection of Sullivan Avenue/Buckland Road/Oakland Road/Ellington Road down to Deming Street.  The plan for this proposal is available to anyone wishing to review it.  The plan was adopted unanimously by the Subcommittee and recommended after considering several alternatives.  The plan includes sidewalks, cross walks throughout the intersection, pedestrian signalization, pull over areas for buses, pavement markings for bicycles and a mechanism for reducing the speed limit in the South Windsor Center.

Deputy Mayor Havens questioned how and when this plan would be completed?  Mr. McCann answered that as soon as this plan is approved by the State of Connecticut, Department of Transportation, the funds of approximately $1,000,000 will be released so the Town can move forward with this plan.





ITEM:

12.     Consent Agenda

Councilor Pendleton made a motion to approve Agenda Items 14. E.* through 14. H.* as the Consent Agenda.  Councilor Wagner seconded the motion; and they were approved, unanimously.

14.     New Business

* E.    Resolution Reappointing Deborah Duarte (D) an Alternate 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 reappoints Deborah Duarte (D) an Alternate to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a term ending November 30, 2018 and postpones consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

(Approved by Consent Agenda)

* F.    Resolution Appointing Matthew Montana (D) to the Public Building Commission 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 Matthew Montana (D) to the Public Building Commission for a term ending November 30, 2015 to fill the unexpired term of Tim Wentzell and postpones consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

(Approved by Consent Agenda)

* G.    Resolution Appointing Courtney King (D) an Alternate to the Planning & Zoning Commission 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 Courtney King (D) an Alternate to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a term ending November 30, 2017 to fill the unexpired term of Cody Guarnieri and postpones consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

(Approved by Consent Agenda)

ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

* H.    Resolution Reappointing Wayne McKinney (D) to the Demolition Delay Committee 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 Wayne McKinney (D) to the Demolition Delay Committee for a term ending December 31, 2016 and postpones consideration of this motion until the Town Council’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

(Approved by Consent Agenda)

13.     Unfinished Business

 A.    Resolution  Appointing Matthew Riley (R) to the South Windsor Town Council

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Matthew Riley (R) to the Town Council for a term ending November 9, 2015 to fill an unexpired term of Cary Prague, such appointment to be effective upon the resignation of Matthew Riley (R) from the Board of Education.

Was made by Councilor Snyder
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki

Mayor Anwar stated he is looking forward to working with Mr. Riley on the Town Council.

Councilor Delnicki welcomed Mr. Riley to the Town Council.

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

Councilor Wagner made a motion to suspend the rules and move to Item 14. A.  Councilor Paterna seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.



ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

A.      Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Matthew Riley (R) from the South Windsor Board of Education

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts with regret, the resignation of Matthew Riley (R) from the South Windsor Board of Education, said resignation effective immediately; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its thanks to Matthew Riley for the time he had dedicated to serving his community by his membership on the Board of Education.

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki

Councilor Snyder stated that Mr. Riley did a great job on the Board of Education and she is very excited to have him become part of the Town Council.

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

Mrs. Lori Trahan, Town Clerk came forward and swore in Mr. Riley as a member of the South Windsor Town Council.

B.      Resolution Appointing Jamie Gamble (R) to the South Windsor Board of Education

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Jamie Gamble (R) to the South Windsor Board of Education for a term ending November 9, 2015 to fill an unexpired term of Matthew Riley, such appointment to be effective upon the resignation of Matthew Riley from the Board of Education.

Was made by Councilor Delnicki
Seconded by Snyder

Councilor Snyder welcomed Mr. Gamble to the South Windsor Board of Education and wished him well.

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:

14.     B.      (Continued)

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

Mrs. Lori Trahan, Town Clerk came forward and swore in Mr. Gamble as a member of the South Windsor Board of Education.

14.     New Business

B.      Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Cody Guarnieri (D) an Alternate from the Planning & Zoning Commission

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts with regret, the resignation of Cody Guarnieri (D) an Alternate from the Planning & Zoning Commission, said resignation effective immediately; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its thanks to Cody Guarnieri for the time he has dedicated to serving his community by his membership on the Planning & Zoning Commission.

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

C.      Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Caroline Taylor (D) an Alternate from the Historic District Commission

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts with regret, the resignation of Caroline Taylor (D) an Alternate from the Historic District Commission, said resignation effective immediately; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its thanks to Caroline Taylor for the time she has dedicated to serving her community by her membership on the Historic District Commission.

Was made by Councilor Paterna
Seconded by Councilor Pendleton
The motion; was approved, unanimously.





ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

D.      Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Michael Balesano (D) an Alternate from the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby accepts with regret, the resignation of Michael Balesano (D) an Alternate from the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission, said resignation effective immediately; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its thanks to Michael Balesano for the time he has dedicated to serving his community by his membership on the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission.

Was made by Councilor Pendleton
Seconded by Councilor Snyder
The motion; was approved, unanimously.

I.      Resolution Approving the South Windsor Center Intersection Sidewalks as Recommended by the South Windsor Sidewalk and Bikeway Subcommittee

WHEREAS, at the January 13, 2015 Sidewalk and Bikeway Subcommittee meeting, the committee made a unanimous decision to recommend to the Town Council the creation of a Complete Streets Treatment plan which enhances the safety of all users at South Windsor Center; and

WHEREAS, the plan would consist of sidewalks on the east side of Sullivan Avenue, four crosswalks at the South Windsor Center intersection, a mechanism for reducing the speed limit in the South Windsor Center, pedestrian signalization, pavement markings for bicycles, bus pull over areas for bus stops, handicap accessibility, and Town staff to be responsible for the clearing of snow on the sidewalks

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the South Windsor Center Intersection Sidewalks as recommended by the South Windsor Sidewalk and Bikeway Subcommittee.

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

14.     I.      (Continued)

Was made by Councilor Mirek
Seconded by Councilor Wagner

Councilor Mirek made a friendly amendment stating that in the first paragraph, treatment is capitalized and should not be.  Councilor Wagner accepted the friendly amendment.

Councilor Mirek explained that at the next Town Council meeting, Ms. Emily Hultquist who is a Principal Planner and Policy Analyst at CRCOG will be addressing Complete Streets.

Councilor Delnicki voiced concern with the placement of this sidewalk because of the difficulty and funding it would take to remove snow.

Mr. Galligan explained that the Town presently has 25,000 linear feet of sidewalk which costs about $200,000 for the removal of snow.  The Town will probably have to use a bobcat to remove snow from this proposed sidewalk.  Clearing snow from this sidewalk would probably be safest at night.  At this time is felt it would be necessary to update some of the equipment that is used for snow clearing because a lot of it is very old.

Mr. John Caldwell explained that the current equipment is very old.  A bobcat has recently been purchased by the Town.  When there is snow, the Town presently takes care of all of the buildings and some sidewalks that are considered priority at night.  The rest of the sidewalks are done the next day or after the snow has ended.  The proposed sidewalk will be a tough area to remove snow from.  There is a small snow shelf and the Town’s equipment will probably be wider then the sidewalk.  This year in the equipment budget there is a proposal to add some snow removal equipment because it is necessary.  Mr. Caldwell stated that it would cost approximately $87,500 for equipment to remove snow on this proposed sidewalk.  There is other equipment that would be very helpful for snow removal, but it is very expensive.

Councilor Delnicki stated that the Town would need to buy special equipment for the removal of snow in this area and would also have the cost of labor.  Mr. Caldwell explained that the equipment is necessary regardless.

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)

ITEM:

14.     I.      (Continued)

Councilor Pendleton said that this equipment will be used elsewhere, not only for the proposed sidewalks and will make the Town’s job more efficient.

Answering questions from Councilor Riley, Mr. McCann explained that Complete Streets is something that has been adopted by the State of Connecticut for all of its road improvements.  Whenever the State improves roads, the plan must call for at least 1% of the total cost to go into making the entire improvement usable and safe for use by motor vehicles, handicap individuals, pedestrians and bicycles.  Items such as bike lanes,   signalizations at cross walks and traffic calming measures to reduce the speed of traffic are examples of Complete Streets concepts.  The plan presented tonight incorporates and adopts the principles of Complete Streets, although the Town of South Windsor does not have a Complete Streets ordinance.  It is less expensive to incorporate the Complete Streets approach while the street is being improved or constructed.  

Councilor Riley reiterated that the Complete Streets policy is a set of principles or standards by which the Town would be guided in developing a plan?  Mr. McCann stated yes and explained that it is not important for the Town to adopt every detail that the State has adopted.  The Sidewalk & Bikeway Subcommittee is recommending that the Town does adopt some measures of a Complete Streets policy and implements it into this plan.  The subcommittee created a plan with the help of the Town Engineer who has presented several alternatives to the subcommittee and the subcommittee decided upon one of those alternatives.  The plan has not been submitted to the Town Council but has been available for review for the past six weeks.  At the next Council meeting there will be a presentation regarding Complete Streets.

Councilor Pendleton stated that she is concerned because this plan calls for snow removal by the Town and the department that would be responsible for the snow removal has not been notified or has not seen the plan.  

Mayor Anwar explained that this proposal has been discussed for over one year by the subcommittee.  The intersection is very busy and the ability to walk from the Town Hall to the South Windsor Center is necessary.  

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

14.     I.      (Continued)

Councilor Riley felt that since Complete Streets is doing a presentation at the next Council meeting it may be preferable to postpone this resolution, hear the presentation, and then vote on this resolution at the next meeting.  This would allow the Town Council members to be more informed.

Councilor Riley made a motion to table Item 14. I. to the next meeting.  Councilor Snyder seconded the motion; and it failed on a roll call vote of 4 to 5 with Councilor Delnicki, Councilor Mirek, Councilor Snyder and Councilor Riley voting in favor of postponement and Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton and Councilor Wagner voting in opposition of postponement.

Councilor Delnicki then questioned how Wapping Church feels about this plan?  Mr. McCann explained that members of Wapping Church that came to the meetings did not support putting the sidewalks on Sullivan Avenue because they were concerned about the landscaping that is presently there.  

Councilor Paterna stated that this plan is part of the “Village Concept” of the South Windsor Center.  This is part of a long term plan that the Town has already adopted.

Mayor Anwar called for a vote on the motion; it passed on a roll call vote of 7 to 1 to 1 with Mayor Anwar, Deputy Mayor Havens, Councilor Mirek, Councilor Paterna, Councilor Pendleton, Councilor Snyder and Councilor Wagner voting in favor of approval; Councilor Delnicki voting in opposition of approval; and Councilor Riley abstaining.

J.      Resolution Approving the Sidewalk and Bikeway Subcommittee’s Recommendation for a Town Policy Regarding the Repair and/or Replacement of Town Sidewalks

WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor owns a substantial network of sidewalks throughout the Town, and continues to add to that network; and

WHEREAS, the sidewalk network is an important asset of the Town, with an estimated replacement cost in excess of $4,000,000; and

WHEREAS, the Town’s sidewalks serve the residents by providing safe means of non-motorized travel, in much the same way that the Town’s roads provide safe means of motorized travel; and

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)

ITEM:

14.     J.      (Continued)

WHEREAS, the Town has recognized certain segments of the its sidewalks as being in need of repair or replacement to reduce or eliminate tripping hazards, and had identified such segments with pink paint to alert pedestrians to potential tripping hazards; and

WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of the Town and its residents to maintain the existing network of sidewalks, as well as future sidewalks, in a safe condition, in a similar manner to the maintenance of the Town’s roads; and

WHEREAS, the Sidewalks and Bikeways Subcommittee submits this recommendation to the Town Council that the Town maintains its sidewalks through a systematic plan of repairs and replacement, especially those segments that have already been identified as potential tripping hazards, and include an ongoing plan to inspect and identify future segments in need of maintenance, and that the Council provide sufficient funding for such maintenance, repairs, and replacement on an ongoing, and regular basis

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the Sidewalk and Bikeway Subcommittee’s recommendation for a Town Policy regarding the repair and/or replacement of Town sidewalks.

Was made by Councilor Wagner
Seconded by Councilor Paterna

Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Gantick explained that approximately three years ago the Town Council changed the Sidewalk Ordinance so that any repairs and/or replacement of sidewalks would be the responsibility of the Town.  There has not been any money funded for the purpose of repair and/or replacement.  There is about 120 miles of sidewalk throughout the Town.  There is a list of 21 areas that requires repairs which would cost about $85,000 to $90,000.  The only time the Town would not be responsible for the repair to a sidewalk is if a contractor went across the sidewalk and damaged it.  There are other Town’s that take responsibility of the sidewalks such as Manchester but it varies throughout the State.  

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)



ITEM:

14.     J.      (Continued)

Deputy Mayor Havens voiced concern that the Town took on the responsibility of repair and/or replacement of sidewalks.  This could be a very expensive endeavor.

Councilor Snyder questioned if the thought is to put this item into the operating budget or putting a certain amount away each year into Capital Projects and building on it each year?

Mr. Galligan explained that the Town use to have a Sidewalk Account under the Capital Projects where $50,000 was put into this account each year.  When the account was built to approximately $200,000 the Town would go out and repair/replace sidewalks.  This account was taken out of the budget.  The problem with this ordinance is the Town is not only taking on the repair, but also the liability.  The premise of changing the ordinance was to encourage residents to be in favor of the construction of sidewalks abutting their property because sidewalks do create connections through neighborhoods and boost property values.  The homeowner is not responsible for the repair/replacement or liability of the sidewalk, but is responsible for the clearing of the snow.  There needs to be a systematic approach where so much money is put away each year and then the Town would need to start with the repair/replacement of the worst sidewalks and work through the Town.  Mr. Galligan suggested that $100,000 each year be put into Capital Projects where funds will not lapse each fiscal year.  When a major road construction project is happening, that is when the sidewalks should be reviewed to be repaired/replaced.  

Mr. Gantick explained that the Town did a random sampling of sidewalks throughout Town and from that it was calculated that there is potentially $4,000,000 worth of sidewalks to be repaired/replaced.  The 21 identified problems with sidewalks are items that have been called into the Town in the last 2 ½ years.  

Councilor Delnicki questioned if the Town would intend to hire a Sidewalk Inspector?  Mr. Galligan stated that there are other Towns with this same responsibility that do have Sidewalk Inspectors.  

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

14.     J.      (Continued)

Town Attorney Yagaloff informed the Council that the ordinance was changed in October of 2012.  The ordinance does not necessarily say that the Town needs to do the repairs of the sidewalks.  The first section, 86-81 says that the Town Manager may conduct inspections on an annual basis to determine whether the repairs need to be made to make the sidewalks safe.  So the Town Manager is not obligated to do that but may do that if it is deemed appropriate.  It does not say that the Town must make those repairs.  The next section, 86-82 says that if an abutter owner willfully or negligently allows the sidewalk to be damaged, then they have a responsibility to make the repairs.  The Town has the right to contract that person and tell them they must make those repairs.  If they refuse to make the repairs, in Section 86-83 it says the Town can make the repairs and bill the homeowner who is responsible for the damage.  Section 86-74 states that the Town can put a lien on the owner’s property if they refuse to make the repairs and the Town does it.  If the Town affirmatively says it will accept responsibility for those repairs, the Town will be opened up for negligence claims.  Town Attorney Yagaloff advised the Council to be cautious because right now the ordinance says the Town may inspect and determine whether or not a repair/replacement is necessary.  Once the Town accepts responsibility affirmatively for making repairs to the 120 miles of sidewalk, there may be an issue.  CIRMA should be allowed to do an analysis to determine the potential claims from other Towns before the Council affirmatively obligates itself to repairs of the 120 miles of sidewalk.  

Answering further questions from the Council, Town Attorney Yagaloff explained that people can see what is open and obvious so they should be able to avoid hazards.  The pink spray paint helps people avoid hazards, but at night the paint is not able to be seen so it is not open and obvious anymore.  The ordinance as it stands right now does not read that the Town must make those repairs but it could be inferred.  The ordinance could be amended to say the repairs that are considered to be structural damage that constitutes a serious risk that is brought to the Town’s attention shall be repaired by the Town.  CIRMA would probably want to have some feedback with this issue.  


(Resolution Continued on Next Page)



ITEM:

14.     J.      (Continued)

Mr. McCann stated that it is apparent from the discussion of the Council that it may be helpful for the subcommittee to address the specific concerns that Council has identified in this discussion tonight and come back with specific recommendations and reasons for those recommendations.  The subcommittee could look into additional detail of liability of the Town if the Town does not take responsibility of repair/replacement of sidewalks.  

Councilor Delnicki said he would not mind the subcommittee reviewing this but would like the Town Attorney to review legal options to protect the Town on what can be done from the Town being exposed to liability and the Town incurring an unfunded mandate onto the taxpayers.  The ordinance could be amended.

Town Attorney Yagaloff stated he would meet with Mr. McCann and the subcommittee to work on the specific points regarding liability.  A recommendation could be brought back to the Town Council regarding this issue.

Councilor Pendleton requested that the Council be given the history on the ordinance change.

Councilor Riley questioned if the Town could obligate a homeowner to report necessary repairs to the Town?  Town Attorney Yagaloff stated that Town does not usually require homeowners to report certain items but it can be reviewed.  The original ordinance can be reviewed and a decision can be made on what the Town would like to do with the sidewalk policy.  The decision of the homeowner reporting damage can be made after the Town decides if the Town will be responsible for the damaged sidewalks.

Mayor Anwar said the subcommittee can review this with the Public Works Department as well as with the Town Attorney.  A budget should be reviewed also.

Councilor Wagner withdrew his motion to Item 14. J.  Councilor Paterna accepted the withdrawal of the motion.





ITEM:

14.     New Business (Continued)

K.      Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Sign and Execute an Agreement with Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless and Referring the Proposed Lease of a Portion of a Town Building to the South Windsor Planning & Zoning Commission Pursuant to Section 8-24 of the Connecticut General Statues

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to sign and execute an agreement with Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless and refers the proposed lease for space on the South Windsor Public Library rooftop for transmission equipment to the Planning & Zoning Commission pursuant to Section 8-24 of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Was made by Councilor Snyder
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki

Mr. Galligan explained that this resolution will allow Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless to put the transmission equipment through the Town’s line into the Library so the Library will have a wider bandwidth.

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

L.      Resolution Approving a Transfer of $40,000 from the Contingency Account to the Public Works Department Street Services Division Snow and Ice Control Account

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a transfer of $40,000 from the Contingency Account to the Public Works Department Street Services Division Snow and Ice Control Account (0001-13-3112-224) to cover the purchase of additional treated road salt.

Was made by Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by Councilor Delnicki

(Resolution Continued on Next Page)





ITEM:

14.     L.      (Continued)

Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that at the next Town Council meeting there will be a resolution requesting additional funds for overtime in the amount of $50,000.  It may be necessary to come back to the Council at a later date to request even more funds for salt.

Council members thanked the Public Works Department for a job well done on keeping the public streets safe.

Answering further questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan stated that the Town has not taken any snow off of the public buildings.  The Board of Education has done some snow removal from roof tops of the school buildings.  Mr. Major explained that presently the snow is approximately 11 pounds per square foot on the roof tops, so it is not a concern at this point.  The Town will be measuring again later this week.  The Town is concerned when the poundage reaches 22 pounds and when it reaches 24 to 25 pound, it is critical.

M.      Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Twenty (20) South Windsor Taxpayers

BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a refund of property taxes to twenty (20) South Windsor Taxpayers, the total of said refund being $21,346.90, and as more fully described on attached Exhibit A.

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

  • Discussion Item:  Public Building Maintenance – Clay Major, Facilities Manager to be present (requested by Councilor Pendleton)
Mr. Clay Major, Facilities Manager came before the Town Council and reviewed the costs of maintaining South Windsor’s Public Buildings, as shown in attached Exhibit B.  


(Discussion Continued on Next Page)


ITEM:

14.     N.      (Continued)

Answering questions from the Council, Chief Cooney explained that the exact cost for maintaining the Fire Department’s buildings will not be known until Mr. Major reviews the budget.  There are a number of items that could be transferred to Public Building Maintenance and will be determine when reviewing all of the items.  

Mr. Major explained that the Town has a need to hire a new person and if the Town is going to maintain the Fire Department’s buildings, there will be an even greater need to hire another individual.  There could be a savings by using the Town’s contractors at the Fire Department buildings.  Option 3 in the presentation would fund an additional position and allocate budget dollars to properly support facility operations/maintenance.

Mr. Galligan stated that the salary for the new position would be $65,000 and another $27,000 would be necessary for the positions benefits.

Councilor Riley felt it would be helpful to know all of the cost savings that could be found which could offset other costs.  

After further discussion, it was determined that the Council would like solid numbers from quotes to review before making any decisions regarding how to go forward.

Councilor Delnicki made a motion to suspend the rules in order to go to Item 14. R.  Mayor Anwar seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

R.      Discussion Item:  Police Community Outreach Program (requested by Mayor Anwar)

Chief Matthew Reed from the Police Department came before the Town Council with comments regarding the analysis of policy traffic stops, as shown in attached Exhibit C.

Mayor Anwar stated that he has never heard of any complaints about South Windsor Police Officers and does not feel that the report reflects South Windsor’s population and does not give the numbers of those who are traveling from different Town’s or the time of day.

(Discussion Continued on Next Page)

ITEM:

14.     R.      (Continued)

Councilor Delnicki reiterated that he has heard nothing but good comments regarding the South Windsor Police Department.

Answering questions from the Council, Chief Reed explained that the South Windsor Police Department still offers individuals to ride along in the police vehicle but the PACT (Police and Community Together) program has not been offered for about 6 or 7 years.  It is hopeful that the program will be continued in the future.  This program was stopped in order to create a cost savings in the budget.  The South Windsor Police Department does have two Youth Summer Programs which were started 4 years ago.  The State of Connecticut is proposing a pilot program which would involve body cameras on the police officers.  South Windsor has begun to evaluate different cameras and a few officers are testing the use of them.  The price varies from a few hundred dollars per unit to a thousand dollars per unit.  There are a number of policy issues that need to be reviewed.  South Windsor Police Department is looking at ways to offset the costs of this endeavor because the storage of data is expensive.

O.      Discussion Item:  Wapping Elementary School – Ray Favreau to be present (requested by Mayor Anwar)

Mr. Ray Favreau, Director of Parks & Recreation came forward and explained that there have been a couple of meetings with Town staff.  There are other parties that are interested in using the building and the Parks & Recreation Department is evaluating how multiple uses in the building can be accomplished while still maintaining a community use building.  The varied uses are being reviewed at this time and once there are more details, the Town Council will be informed.  The goal is to still have this be a community building so it will be available to the community for meetings at night, summer camp, Park & Recreation programs, rentals and larger Town functions.

Mr. Galligan stated that he and the Superintendent of Schools did a walk through of the building and feel there are a number of programs that could be held at this location but a review of the uses needs to be done.  Mr. Galligan felt that some technical assistance will be necessary with items such as air conditioning and mechanical systems as this project progresses.  


ITEM:

14.     O.      (Continued)

It was felt that the users need to be identified in order to determine what needs are to be done in the building.

Councilor Snyder requested that a draft report be done showing the vision and the use of the building over the next several months.

Mr. Favreau explained to the Council that the initial plan is to get into the building in the most cost efficient way as possible and then do renovations over the years.  Grants could be sought to offset costs and other ways of funding could be reviewed at a later date.  Mr. Favreau then invited the Council members to do a walk through of the building.

Councilor Paterna felt that this project could be done in phases.  

P.      Discussion Item:  Full Time Health Director (Requested by Mayor Anwar and Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan)

Mr. Galligan explained that there would not be any additional costs to the Town budget for the Town to go to a full time Health Director.  The full time Health Director could be hired in this budget year.  Mr. Galligan suggested that the part time Health Inspector be made full time in next year’s budget which would cost approximately $30,000.  This position would help the Town receive grants and could offset some of the costs of hiring a full time Health Inspector.  Another suggestion would be to review the fee structure for this department and propose some fee changes and additions.

Mayor Anwar voiced support of a full time Health Director and stated the importance of this position.

Councilor Wagner felt that reasonable fees should be charged and requested that a proposal be part of the budget process.  

Councilor Mirek requested the job responsibilities and the duties of the Health Director.

(Discussion Continued on Next Page)





ITEM:

14.     P.      (Continued)

Answering questions from the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that this department has to inspect any facility that serves any type of food.  The department is also in charge of preventive measures which involves being in charge of the Health Committee and making sure employees are up to date with inoculations.  There are lists of programs that are done to keep the public safe that this department is in charge of.

Deputy Mayor Havens stated he would like minimum charges proposed that are fair.  Deputy Mayor Havens also stated that he does not want the Health Department to rate restaurants in their quality.

Mr. Galligan explained that he would like to have a Regional Health Department, but has not been successful in the creation of one.  South Windsor is one of the only Town’s that doesn’t charge fees for services under the Health Department.  This could help to reduce costs to the taxpayer.

Councilor Delnicki stated that the individuals that will be charged these fees are also taxpayers.  Mr. Galligan explained that there are times when the Health Department has to go back to businesses more than once and if there were charges, this would not happen.

Councilor Delnicki voiced concern for the businesses because they don’t have trash pick up, they get taxed and most do not have kids in the schools and now the Town is going to talk about making them pay higher fees.  Councilor Delnicki said he would see what the proposal is but is concerned.

Q.      Discussion Item:  Review of the First Two Quarters of Fiscal Year 2015 Revenues and Expenditures (requested by Councilor Wagner)

Mr. Galligan reviewed the different items in the budget with the Town Council and stated that he does not feel a calendarized budget is necessary.  Two years ago, the Town Council requested that the budget be changed in order to try to win a budget award and South Windsor has since received that award.  The budget is professional and it is transparent.  

Mr. Galligan felt that the Charter should be reviewed for changes because even if you look bid documents anything over $5,000.00, the Town needs to go out to bid for and more funds are spent because of this.  


ITEM:

14.     Q.      (Continued)

Mr. Galligan explained that the line item MRSA took the place of the M & E (machinery and equipment) account.  The M & E account was where taxes went that were collected from manufacturers.  Years ago, the State Legislature decided to take that tax away which really hurt municipalities.  The MRSA was created through our Legislators that basically reimburses the Town as long as road improvements are done.  The funding has been sustained each year and is a key account for South Windsor.  

Mr. Galligan also explained that the Town tries to make up the fund balance each year to keep it at a certain level.  The fund balance is presently just over 5% of the budget.  Rating agencies want the fund balance to be between 5% to 10% of the total budget.

15.     Passage of Ordinance

None

16.     Communications and Reports from Town Manager

Mr. Galligan reported on the following:

  • The Council members have received the budget calendar.  If any changes are needed, please contact the Town Manager’s Office.
  • The Town received an AA2 rating from Moody’s and an AA+ from Standard & Poor’s.
  • Eversource, previously CL&P, will be upgrading the transmission lines from Barber Hill Road to Manchester.  The project will begin in February of 2015 and will bring additional revenues to the Town.
  • The Town Attorney and I are working on a Capital Projects Ordinance.  It is hopeful that a draft will be brought to the next Town Council meeting.
  • Met with Tim Shepard regarding the property on Route 5 that the Land Trust is interested in.  Trying to set up a mechanism to move this property forward to the Land Trust.
  • Connecticut Studios filed an application with DECD.  The Payment Agreement on the fuel cell is being reviewed and will be brought to the Council for their review.  The agreement will ensure that funds will be given to the Town for public improvements.
ITEM:

16.     Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)

  • The Town’s budget will be submitted to the Town Council by March 22nd and the Board of Educations budget will be submitted by March 15, 2015.
  • The Town has submitted a proposal to the Dzen Tree Farm.  They have not responded to the proposal yet.
  • On February 18, 2015 Mr. Galligan stated he would be at the Capitol.  As soon as there is any news regarding the budget, the Town Council will be informed.
Answering question from the Council, Mr. Galligan explained that he believes there is not enough support for the changes to the car tax and no legislation has been pushed.  Municipalities know there are no increases to budgets, but it is hopeful that there are no decreases.  Another area of discussion will be prevailing wages because Towns are losing local contractors.

Mr. Galligan updated the Council regarding the Emergency Operation Center.  He explained that the Town should hear about the results of the grant application by spring.  The Town has moved forward with design on this project.

17.     Public Input

Ms. Mary Hockenberry, 16 Foxglove Lane came forward and thanked the Town Council and Town Manager for their hard work.  Ms. Hockenberry stated she would continue to review the budget and stated that she had gone to an OPM meeting and saw that South Windsor is at the top of the list in terms of their budgeting.

18.     Communications and Petitions from Council

None

19.     Executive Session

None


ITEM:

20.     Adjournment

At 10:49 p.m. Councilor Wagner made a motion to adjourn the Regular Meeting.  Councilor Delnicki seconded the motion; and it was approved, unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,


                                                
Deborah W. Reid
Clerk of the Council