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BOARD OF SELECTMEN 8/16/04
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                                                                                                           AUG. 16, 2004
TOWN OFFICE BUILDING                                                                                                  6:30 P. M.

First Selectman Eldredge called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. with the following in attendance:  Selectmen Blessington & Patton, L. Nicholls, K. Acimovic, J. Andersen, J. Burn, S. Cobb, L. Geiser, L. & R. Hisey, D. & P. Latincsics, T. Millix, S. & J. Lewis, N. Vogel, D. Cutler and Library Building Com.  
First Selectman Eldredge led the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SELECTMAN BLESSINGTON MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF 8/2/04.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

PRESENT TO SPEAK
Judy Andersen and Nancy Vogel, Registrars of Voters, were present to discuss use of the old Senior Center for the election in November.  They have been told by the State that they will not be given a waiver for the Town Hall if there is some place else with handicap accessibility, the old Senior Center could be used for voting.  They need to know if it will definitely be available.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that it would be available.  The only problem the Registrars see is the door that would be used for wheelchair entrace, the handle is in the way.  Lynn Nicholls commented that we could remove the door completely.  Judy commented that they would need furniture, tables, chairs, etc.  They have also been told that all the voting machines cannot be stored in one spot.  Karl Acimovic will do a structure analysis on the center.  The machines will have to be moved from the Town Hall and are very heavy, other towns use moving companies to do this.  The Registrars also requested that their office be moved to the nurse’s office permanently.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he will consider that and the door will be taken care of.

Jennifer Burn was present to discuss the Dog Warden and his response time to calls and follow up.  She was bitten by a dog and had to go through rabies shots because it took so long to fine out if the dog had gotten a rabies shot.  She feels that there is no follow up on the Dog Warden’s part and that he ignores phone calls.  The phone at the dog pound is not checked for messages regularly and this needs to be done, we need to work out a system to get calls addressed.  Ms. Gieser commented that the Dog Warden told her that his job is not to catch dogs.  He seems very put out with our calls.  We need to sign complaint forms but have a hard time getting those also.  Selectman Blessington commented that it is unfortunate that we do not have the Dog Warden here tonight to hear his side.  Selectman Patton suggested that they all sit down with the First Selectman.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that we would schedule a meeting.  Ms. Burns suggested that we put information on what to do if you are bitten on our website.  This will be looked into.

REGULAR MEETING                                    -2-                                                                        AUG. 16, 2004

Chief Tyler Millix, Willington Fire Dept. #1, was present to discuss forming a committee to look into adding an additional paid person.  They have gotten by with the personnel they have and are covered 5 AM to 5 PM, 7 days.  They could use one more full time and they could share with Willington Hill.  There is a lot of paper work now with Homeland Security along with everything else.  Tyler would like the committee made up of the 2 chiefs, 1 person from the Board of Finance and 1 person from the Board of Selectmen and see what dollars we need.  Maybe Lt. Fox would be interested in it.  Tyler would like the Selectmen to take a real hard look.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he would like to sit down with the 2 chiefs and see if we need a committee.  Tyler commented that if we are going to move forward we need to bring in everyone to sit down and be thoroughly informed.  He needs a commitment from the Board of Selectmen.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he will meet with Tyler and Chief D’Agata first.  Selectman Patton commented that we can put it on the next agenda.  Tyler asked what is the harm in forming a committee?  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he wants a clear understanding of what you want to do before going to the Board of Selectmen, lets sit down and talk first.  Selectman Patton commented that that would be the point of the committee, to figure out what the needs are.  Tyler commented that we have to be careful, it is not a wish list; I want to focus on the paid personnel I do not want to open it to the whole fire department.  It takes more than a meeting with the Board of Selectmen.  Tyler asked if this would be on the next agenda?  Selectman Blessington commented that it should be on the agenda.

CORRESPONDENCE
A list of correspondence was available at the meeting and in the Selectman’s office.

NEW LIBRARY UPDATE
Dale Cutler, Architect for the new library, and the Library Building Committee were present to give an update on the new library.  Dale reported that they have the septic design, which must go to the Sanitarian for approval before moving on to Inland/Wetlands and PZC.  The State had no money for grants before but there is now so we are applying for a grant and that will affect the timetable.  The grant is for $500,000; the application must in by 9/1/04 to the State Library.  They make their decision by 11/15/04, if we make that list then it goes to the Bond Commission and a decision should be make between Jan. and Mar. 2005.  You can’t sign a construction contract prior to the Bond Commissions’ announcement.  The documents will be ready if we do not make the Nov. list.  The application will be ready for 9/1/04.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he wants the Town Attorney to look at the application.  The deed for the property is in the attorney’s hands.  The Board of Selectmen must approve the application; there will be a special meeting set to do this when the application is ready.  Selectman Patton asked if we needed to go for 8-24 to PZC and go to Town Meeting for the property transfer?  That will be done also.  Discussion on going to bid followed; we could go to bid with a start date of April 1st with or without the grant.  Selectman Blessington asked is there anything else beside the deed needed for the application and was told no.  Selectman Patton asked about a funding update.  Dale commented that there is no update on the soft costs, we did 5% contingency on the initial estimates for building costs and site work costs.  There are some changes on the mechanical system and finish of metal to roof system, we are tracking costs.  Selectman Patton asked if he could get a copy of the sheet?  Dale commented that he could give him a summary.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that you have made some changes to hold the budget. Selectman Patton asked Dale if you think propane is as effective as oil?  Dale commented that you have to get good competitive prices in propane and a direct fire system.  Selectman Patton commented he is looking to get operating and maintenance at a low cost.  Dale commented that propane is more efficient and will get Selectman Patton information on it.  Suzanne Chapman asked how are negotiations going on the North property?  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he had a meeting with CT Parks & Forestry, they have a meeting with UCONN this week; if UCONN will preserve then Norcross will give them money to buy the

REGULAR MEETING                                    -3-                                                                        AUG. 16, 2004

property, if not then Norcross will loan them the money, $250,000.  We agreed to have a memorandum of understanding for the Board.

KECHKES ROAD BRIDGE
Karl Acimovic, Town Engineer, gave the Board a list of projects that are ongoing.  The Kechkes Road Bridge  
Project must be a scale job that could raise the cost from $180,000 to between $250,000 & $300,000.  This project can only be done after Oct. 12th.  Discussion followed on trying to replace the bridge this October or wait until October 05.  First Selectman Eldredge will wait to go to the Board of Finance until we get a better cost estimate.  Karl commented that we must do something this year with it.  

POLICY FOR FILLING VACANCIES
SELECTMAN BLESSINGTON MOVED THAT THE FIRST SELECTMAN ISSUE A LETTER ESTABLISHING THIS AS POLICY FOR APPOINTMENTS.
First Selectman Eldredge seconded the motion.
Selectman Patton commented that as he just got this tonight he would like to look it over.
Selectman Blessington withdrew his motion and tabled this until the next meeting.

RE-ESTABLISHING CONSOLIDATION COMMITTEE
Selectman Patton commented that this can be a tool for the Town to have the Board of Finance, the Board of Education and the Board of Selectmen, along with staff, meet periodically to discuss different issues and problems.  We can all offer solutions and ideas in terms of good relations, not us vs. them.  We have different budgets but the money comes out of the same pocket.  It worked well when we consolidated finances and went on to technology issues.  It is a good planning tool.  It is an avenue for all factions of the Town to talk, discuss problems, look at today and the future.  Selectman Blessington asked what decision making power does it have?  If you create a commission that does not have authority, people from the Board of Finance, Board of Education,
Board of Selectmen and staff, they have to go back to their Board.  It seems like creating a commission without real power is just for show.  Selectman Patton commented that if you have a formal committee it gives people an agenda, you can’t speak for a board as a whole but we never got into a real problem.  Talk is not such a bad thing, it is a good thing.  These people could come up with some recommendations, everyone thinks their problems are the most important; we need to deal with things collectively.  We need to think and plan which way to go.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he understands his points but has a hard time supporting that idea.  We can work back and forth; we solve problems by being asked.  This is just another bureaucracy; he doesn’t feel like it is a plus.  Selectman Patton asked what does it hurt?  Many times when someone asks for help it is too late.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he agrees there needs to be interaction but in retrospect when he was a Board of Education member and financial consolidation took place, e felt that he lost the ability to act upon each financial detail.  Selectman Blessington commented that we are creating bureaucracy that I do not see will really accomplish anything that can’t be accomplished at meetings; maybe we should have a meeting of the 3 organizations to see how they feel.  They must have decision-making powers or it is not worth doing.  Selectman Patton asked how do you think things get done?  You have to look 10 years out; we should get together to plan things.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he does not feel comfortable re-establishing this.  Selectman Blessington commented me either.
SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED THAT WE APPROACH THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE BOARD OF FINANCE AND STAFF TO FORM A CONSOLIDATION COMMITTEE.
There was no seconded.  Motion fails.



REGULAR MEETING                                    -4-                                                                        AUG. 16, 2004

BIDS – TOWN HALL ROOF
Only one bid was received for the Town Hall Roof, from McClintock Roofing for $23,508.00.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he thinks it is way out of line and would not accept it.
SELECTMAN BLESSINGTON MOVED THAT WE REJECT THE BID FOR $23,508.00 FOR THE TOWN HALL ROOF.
First Selectman Eldredge seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON) 0 NO

APPOINTMENTS
SELECTMAN BLESSINGTON MOVED TO APPOINT MICHAEL BURNS AS AN ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION, TERM EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY TO
12/1/05.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON) 0 NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPOINT ANNEMARIE POOLE AS A REGULAR MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TO REPLACE TOM SMITH, TERM EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY TO 12/31/08.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)  0 NO

SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED TO APPOINT MARK MASINDA AS AN ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS, TERM EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY TO 12/31/06.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)  0 NO

PUBLIC WORKS
Lynn Nicholls, Public Works Supervisor, reported that the lines at Center School were corrected.  She got her truck back from Ford; chip sealing is scheduled for the week of 8/23/04.  They are taking care of brush and mowing.  The catch basins cleaning started today.  The company says there are 725 and we think there are 750 basins, they will check on this.  Hipsky started boxing Hockla Farms Road today.  School buses will start running on 8/26/04.

SENIOR CENTER COMMITTEE
Selectman Patton commented that we talked about what to do with the Senior Center, do you want a committee to look at the space?  Selectman Blessington commented that we have to do something with it and if we don’t have any ideas the committee would be good.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he does not want to dump money into it to make office space, it has electric heat.  Discussion followed on setting up a committee and what can be done to make it better for townspeople when they come here.
SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED THAT WE ESTABLISH A TOWN OFFICE BUILDING SPACE COMMITTEE FOR THE PURPOSE OF MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS ON WHAT TO DO WITH THE VACANT OLD SENIOR CENTER.  MEMBERS TO BE FROM THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN, THE BOARD OF FINANCE AND 5 PEOPLE FROM THE TOWN OFFICE STAFF.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0 NO


REGULAR MEETING                                    -5-                                                                        AUG. 16, 2004

TAX REFUNDS
FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $424.48 TO D. & J. BRENGER.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $11.64 TO M. OR E. BRETON.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $19.82 TO J.D. LIN.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $78.77TO P. OR D. LYTRAS.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $194.69 to NISSAN INFINITI LT.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $6.05 TO J. PASSARDI.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $21.05 TO R. VOGEL.        
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $29.23 TO E. OR L. PASTULA.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

FIRST SELECTMAN ELDREDGE MOVED TO APPROVE A TAX REFUND OF $77.48 TO W. OR T. VONASEK.
Selectman Patton seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

ATTACHED LIST
Many of the items were cover on K. Acimovic’s list.        
REGULAR MEETING                                    -6-                                                                        AUG. 16, 2004

CHRO complaints status – nothing new it is still ongoing.
Union negotiations – Selectman Patton commented that the settlement will cost about $50,000 for the new position.  When the Board budget goes to the Board of Finance it will include the position, they can take it out and then you have to confer with the union.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he simply has to tell the union that it was taken out.  Selectman Blessington commented that for years we had that position filled, it is time to fill it, we need to put it in the budget.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he looked at it last year and said we could not do it.  Selectman Patton asked who will negotiate the upcoming union negotiations?  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he will do the negotiations.
Settlement cost of union grievance(s) - $105.00
Birmingham was going to get back and say this is what the design criteria is for.  Will contact.
Tax ordinance – hold until next meeting.
Transfer Station recycling – Selectman Patton thought that changing where the paper and the cardboard are would be worth exploring.  First Selectman Eldredge commented that he thought of that a few years ago but if you loose electricity that is where they go in.  
Town website – Need Board of Education and Board of Finance minutes on there, try to find out the number using and signed up for the site.  We need to let people know about the site.
Permitting system update and government operations – Not discussed.

GOOD & WELFARE - None

SELECTMAN PATTON MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:45 P.M.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
VOTE:  3 YES (ELDREDGE, BLESSINGTON & PATTON)    0  NO

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Bowen
Mary Bowen
Secretary