Town of Willington
BOARD OF SELECTMEN ° 40 OLD FARMS ROAD ° WILLINGTON, CONNECTICUT 06279 ° (860) 487-3100 ° FAX (860) 487-3103
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
REGULAR MEETING APR. 7, 2003
TOWN OFFICE BUILDING 6:30 P. M.
First Selectman Patton called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. with the following in attendance: Selectmen Eldredge & Lewis, S. Bourbeau and J. Semmelrock. P. Latincsics arrived latter. First Selectman Patton led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SELECTMAN LEWIS MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF 3/17/03 & 3/20/03.
Selectman Eldredge seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
PRESENT TO SPEAK – No one.
CORRESPONDENCE
A list of correspondence was available at the meeting and in the Selectman’s office.
FIRE COMMISSION STUDY COMMITTEE
Selectman Lewis commented that Henry Becker, Board of Finance, and Butch Littell, taxpayer, have both agreed to be on the Fire Commission Study Committee. The first meeting will be on April 9, 2003 at 5:30 P.M. at the Town Office Building.
SELECTMAN LEWIS MOVED TO APPOINT HENRY BECKER AND RICHARD LITTELL TO THE FIRE COMMISSION STUDY COMMITTEE.
First Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
YOUTH, FAMILY & SOCIAL SERVICES
Shannon Bourbeau, Director of the Willington Youth, Family & Social Services, was present to bring the Board
up-to-date on her department. First Selectman Patton commented that he read Shannon’s report to the Board of Finance and the Selectmen. We have not seen her for a while, it has been going very well and this will give her an opportunity to toot her horn. Shannon commented that she would go over the highlights. She had the cell phones for seniors programs, 16 seniors got cell phones for emergency use. She had a day for instructions on use of the phone. First Selectman Patton commented that a sticky with instructions could go on the phone; Shannon thought that was a good idea. She is planning on having this program again. Summer camp was held at Hall school last year for 7 weeks, this year it will run for 8 weeks and will start on Mon. after school ends. Last year
she had 73 kids and 10 junior counselors who were in 7th, 8th and 9th grade. She must get her counselors re-certified in CPR and is starting that soon.
REGULAR MEETING -2- APR. 7, 2003
She works with families that need it to set up payment plans or reduced rates. Shannon believes that calling it summer camp does not do it justice. They had many programs going on, Willington Fire Dept. #1 came and did a great job, they were in full gear and it was extremely hot. The National Guard came 2 times with a helicopter, a parent came and talked about disabilities awareness, this was very helpful to the kids. The field trips were interesting; there were some time issues with the buses. Shannon would like to have a trip to the State Capitol this year. The registration for this year’s camp has started and they are not just from Willington; Stafford and Mansfield residents have called also and they have their own programs. First Selectman Patton asked what
Shannon attributes that to? Shannon commented that word of mouth and press releases help. The April camp registration is going on also. She has a couple of things lined up for that; Ned Beebe is doing a magic show and she is having the Happy Little Critters. At the end of summer last year Shannon worked with the Salvation Army to get the Boots & Shoes and the Backpack programs in Town. Payless gave very good discounts for the Boots & Shoes program and the Salvation Army gave backpacks with materials in them for Shannon to distribute to children who needed them; she hopes to get more this year. Shannon worked closely with the schools and churches to do this. First Selectman Patton asked how much money was made at the Christmas bell ringing and was told $396. Shannon reported that through the Access Agency grant we have Brenda Foreman, in her office, working for Senior Services for Willington, Ashford and Mansfield. Brenda
is working with 3 from Ashford, 4 from Mansfield and 10 to 15 from Willington. Her services include case management, information and assistance, outreach and friendly visitor. Selectman Eldredge asked how long the grant would last? Shannon commented that it ends Sept. 30th. and we hope to get it again. Shannon commented that Brenda is fantastic; she has worked with senior housing and senior recreation, she is in constant touch with different agencies. Selectman Eldredge asked who writes the grant? Shannon commented that she writes her own with assistance from Access, she is applying for a grant to do a program for high school kids for financial awareness. Shannon commented that they will know in June if they are getting the Senior Services grant again, that one will not include the friendly visitor but will include benefits education. Shannon hopes to take over the friendly visitor services with the volunteers. First Selectman
Patton asked how is it working with the projected number of clients? Shannon commented that we will be right on target at the end of the month. Shannon commented that she worked with First Selectman Patton and Betty Robertson, President of the Senior Center, on a grant. She arranged a yoga program at the Senior Center, it was well liked and done by a Town person who offered to cut her fee in half and do it again. Shannon reported that she does a lot of case management, works with the schools, info line and gets clients by word of mouth. This year she has worked with 75 clients, the numbers do not include any one time calls, campers who do not receive other services, one time food requests, Thanksgiving or Christmas. Info Line is telling Ashford residents to call here, Shannon refers them to the Access Agency and gives them dial-a ride’s phone number. If they are seniors Brenda helps them. First Selectman Patton commented that he
talked to the Ashford First Selectman, John Zulick, about the Access Agency, they have a lot of knowledge and resources but many people do not know it exists. Shannon commented that some of the services she rendered included application assistance, advocacy and program follow up for Husky, ConnPace, Renters Rebate, Fuel Assistance, Social Security Disability, electric shut off, unemployment counseling, financial planning and budgeting, child abuse in conjunction with DCF, elder abuse, Alzheimer’s education and advocacy and Salvation Army vouchers. Shannon is starting up a Senior Citizen Police Academy, a 5 week program on safety and scams, how to safeguard the home for grandchildren and fall proof the house. She is also going to have a safe kids camp for incoming kindergarteners. Shannon commented that she is very proud of her programs. Selectman Lewis commented that it sounds like you expanded on the old program and made it better.
Selectman Eldredge commented that you are doing very well; the summer camp must consume all your time. Shannon commented that she just lost her program director for the summer camp. First Selectman Patton commented that you are doing great, we are very impressed with your report.
REGULAR MEETING -3- APR. 7, 2003
FIRST SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED TO ADD FAIR HOUSING TO THE AGENDA AND TO ADD NATIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK TO THE AGENDA.
Selectman Lewis seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
SPECIAL BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING
FIRST SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED TO HAVE A SPECIAL BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING ON APRIL 14, 2003 AT 6:30 P.M.
Selectman Lewis seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
PUBLIC WORKS
First Selectman Patton commented that he looked over the numbers for snow removal and we are about $35,000 over, this does not include Friday night into Saturday that cost between $1,500 and $1,800. First Selectman Patton commented that we will have to get money for legal fees for the Fed Ex case, it has been a solid month of depositions and court, it went from a 3 day trial to a 5 day trial. Selectman Eldredge asked how close would we be if we settled? First Selectman Patton commented that there is a $150,000 difference; we did try to settle it. First Selectman Patton commented that the crew has been grading roads and will start sweeping soon. First Selectman Patton commented that since Lucien is not going to take the position of Public Works Supervisor, is it time to start looking for
someone? Selectman Eldredge commented that we should hold off. First Selectman Patton commented that he is inclined to start the process now to hire as of July 1st. Selectman Lewis commented that he expects this person would be a working manager. First Selectman Patton commented that Lucien is doing an excellent job but is not inclined to take the position. Selectman Eldredge commented that we should wait until July. Selectman Lewis commented that if we can do it financially, we should do it and not wait. First Selectman Patton commented that he would look at the finances; he will sit down with Lucien. The road crew started their 10-hour days, 4 days a week. Selectman Eldredge commented that the Transfer Station will be closed on Easter Sunday.
FAIR HOUSING
FIRST SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION BE ADOPTED:
TOWN OF WILLINGTON
FAIR HOUSING RESOLUTION
Whereas, All American citizens are afforded a right to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice; and
Whereas, State and Federal Fair Housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, mental or physical disability, lawful source of income, sexual orientation, familial status, be given equal access to rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and
Whereas, The Town of Willington is committed to upholding these laws, and realizes that these laws must be supplemented by an Affirmative Statement publicly endorsing the right of all people to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice.
REGULAR MEETING -4- APR. 7, 2003
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,
That the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Willington hereby endorses a Fair Housing Policy to ensure equal opportunity for all persons to rent, purchase and obtain financing for adequate housing of their choice on a non-discriminatory basis: and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the First Selectman of the Town of Willington, or his designated representative is responsible for responding to and assisting any person who alleges to be the victim of an illegal discriminatory housing practices in the Town of Willington.
Selectman Lewis seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
NATIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK
SELECTMAN LEWIS MOVED THAT THE BOARD AFFIRM THE FOLLOWING PROCLAMATION:
TOWN OF WILLINGTON
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK
Whereas, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program has operated since 1975 to provide local governments with the resources to meet the needs of low and moderate income, the elderly and other in need within our community, and CDBG funds have been used by neighborhood based non-profit organizations throughout the nation to address pressing neighborhood and human service needs; and
Whereas, the Community Development Block Grant program has had a significant impact on our community; and
Whereas, Willington, CT and other local governments have clearly demonstrated the capacity to administer and customize the CDBG program to identify, prioritize and resolve pressing local problems, such as affordable housing, neighborhood and human service needs, job creation and retention and physical redevelopment; and
Whereas, the Town of Willington has utilized funds for Senior Center construction, and a housing rehabilitation revolving loan program
Now, Therefore, I, John Patton, by virtue of the authority vested in me as First Selectman of Willington, CT, do hereby proclaim the week of April 21 – April 27, 2003 as
Willington, CT Community Development Week
In Willington, CT and urge all citizens to join in recognizing the Community Development Block Grant program and the important role it plays in our community.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereto set my hand and caused the Seal of Willington, CT to be affixed this 7th. day of April 2003.
John Patton, First Selectman
REGULAR MEETING -5- APR. 7, 2003
GOOD & WELFARE
First Selectman Patton commented that Tolland got the cost of a new high school, $58M without a pool and $63M with a pool. Selectman Lewis commented that our road crew did a terrific job this winter. He has heard that the Willington roads are better than others. Jeff Semmelrock commented that we get out early. Selectman Eldredge commented that we went over the Board budget, presented it to the Board of Finance and they tentatively accepted that budget, did we submit a new budget on March 27th with deductions? First Selectman Patton commented that it was not a new budget, only recommendations to the Board of Finance. Selectman Eldredge commented that those recommendations were accepted by them and asked why didn’t we sit as a Board to do this? First Selectman Patton commented
that he did not realize that the 27th was their last meeting
until he was at the Region 19 meeting on the 25th and talked to a B.O.F. member. He went to the B.O.F. with his recommendations; he makes recommendations every year. Selectman Eldredge commented that he had no idea that we were submitting anything on the 27th, we are a Board; we had submitted a budget to the B.O.F. he should have been notified we were going to do something else. First Selectman Patton commented that a copy of the recommendation letter was put in Selectman Eldredge’s folder. Selectman Eldredge commented that he did not receive it. First Selectman Patton commented that the recommendations on the 27th were no different than the recommendations he presented earlier. Selectman Eldredge commented that this budget eliminates positions and reduces hours.
First Selectman Patton commented that in the letter with the budget he explained those items and ramifications and said they were preliminary. Selectman Eldredge agreed that although we talked about those items it was a lot different from this budget. First Selectman Patton commented that the only changes that were made were the ones we talked about. Selectman Eldredge commented that they were not in the budget we presented to Finance and they accepted. First Selectman Patton commented that’s correct. Selectman Eldredge commented that we should have discussed this as a Board. Selectman Lewis commented that we did discuss it. Selectman Eldredge commented that he didn’t know we were going to submit these recommendations, we talked about these things but they were not in the budget we submitted as a Board. First Selectman Patton commented that’s correct, then I went to the B.O.F. and said here are the changes we
had discussed at the previous presentation and here is the financial impact of these things. Selectman Eldredge commented that it should have been as a Board. First Selectman Patton commented that everything had been discussed as a Board previously and had been in the first letter. Selectman Eldredge agreed but said it was not in our approved budget that we as a Board did. The Board of Finance did not ask us to cut out budget, they tentatively approved it and then I found out a different budget was presented on the 27th or a different impact on the budget that reduced it. First Selectman Patton commented that the B.O.F. makes changes up to the last minute. Selectman Lewis commented that we talked about it at the March 17th meeting. Selectman Eldredge commented that this budget is entirely different than what we presented. First Selectman Patton commented that there are only 3 things different. Selectman Eldredge commented that
yes we discussed those things but when we actually go to do it we need to sit down as a Board and discuss it. Selectman Lewis commented that we did sit down as a Board and discuss it. Selectman Eldredge commented that we did not; gentlemen, act like a Board please, I do not want to find out after the fact. First Selectman Patton commented that when he found out the 27th was their last meeting he realized that is when they make their last changes. Selectman Eldredge commented that he did not know this was happening until after the fact. First Selectman Patton commented that he apologizes, possibly he has been dealing with them to the point that he is used to going down there and giving his recommendations, he finds it easier to work with them and say this is what I think we can do and can’t do and I knew they were looking to reduce. Selectman Eldredge commented that you must understand my position, I thought our approved budget was with the
.78 increase, I never realized until I saw this that overall we came in negative 1.3. Selectman Eldredge commented enough said. First Selectman Patton commented that your point is taken, they don’t always come and ask us to cut, they take it upon themselves to cut; I found over the years that it is better to recommend cuts, not to pull punches with them, be fair with them.
REGULAR MEETING -6- APR. 7, 2003
History shows if we did not need money we did not spend it. I understand your point. Selectman Eldredge commented that we need to do this as a Board. First Selectman Patton commented that he thought Selectman Eldredge had the letter of recommendation.
SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:55 P.M.
Selectman Lewis seconded the motion.
VOTE: 3 YES (PATTON, ELDREDGE & LEWIS) 0 NO
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Bowen
Mary Bowen
Secretary
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