BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Meeting Minutes
Regular Meeting May 5, 2014
Lower Level Conference Room 6:30 P.M.
*Minutes are not official until approved at the next regular meeting
First Selectman Mailhos called the meeting to order at 6:34 P.M. with the following in attendance: Selectmen Kowalyshyn & Blessington and residents. First Selectman Mailhos led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Minutes:
Selectman Kowalyshyn moved to approve the minutes of April 21, 2014 with the following edit:
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote 3 Yes (Mailhos Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Selectman Blessington moved to approve the minutes of April 25, 2014 as written.
First Selectman Mailhos noted the following edits: page 3; second paragraph – Appendix A is the insurance waiver payment form. (and should be clarified); also last sentence remove “and $650” (as the waiver was only offered for $800). Lastly, page 2; should read: if the employees are covered by it (remove “we”).
Selectman Blessington withdrew his motion.
First Selectman Mailhos moved to approve the minutes of April 25, 2014 with the above mentioned edits.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote 3 Yes (Mailhos Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Present to Speak:
Will McCaplin was present to discuss the C-Pace program.
Mr. McCaplin began the presentation stating that C-Pace stands for: Commercial/Industrial-Property Assessed Clean Energy program; it is administered by the Connecticut State Green Bank; CEFIA. It was established to provide cheap, clean and more reliable energy to businesses and residents in Connecticut at a low cost for long term.
All projects must meet a “savings to investment” ratio (meaning that the savings must be more). C-Pace provides up-front capital which goes into a senior loan through the Tax office. In order to do so, they must also obtain lender consent (through the mortgage company). Mr. McCaplin stated that they have been successful with receiving consent because the program will put the applicant in a better financial position to repay the existing debt on the property. The Town is involved, as the lien for the energy upgrades, are recorded through the Town Clerk’s office and then payments are collected semi-annually along with the tax payments through the Revenue Collector’s office. As part of the agreement with CEFIA (which is authorized through adopting a Resolution in the
future); the Town will be reimbursed for recording the lein and the processing that is involved. The program is available to all commercial / industrial business properties, as well as non-profits – also can be used for new construction as well.
Selectman Blessington asked what happens if a business goes out of operation? Mr. McCaplin stated that CEFIA will take over collection of the delinquent payments at that point, rather than the Town. He clarified that even though the CEFIA loan is attached through the taxes, the taxes still take priority.
Willington Revenue Collector, Carol Larson stated that she believes it might be more work for her department, as the Revenue Department uses a separate bank account, which will then result in the Treasurer cutting additional checks to pay on the liens. Mr. McCaplin explained that CEFIA is compatible with the accounting program that the tax collector is already using; and he will be happy to talk to them offline about using the separate accounts.
Selectman Blessington stated that he is confused why the company goes through the tax office, rather than doing it on their own. He then asked what happens if the State decides to no longer support it? Mr. McCaplin stated that they are a State agency; and using the tax collection structure, they are able to offer competitive interest rates; and he then reiterated that the legal agreement states that it is not the Town’s responsibility to go after the delinquent payments.
Selectman Kowalyshyn asked who is eligible to apply for the program. Mr. McCaplin responded that it is available for commercial/industrial buildings, non-profits and multifamily dwellings (with more than 5 units); he added that Willington has approximately 15 properties that are eligible at this time. Selectman Blessington asked if they have been in contact with any of the businesses in Town to see if they are interested in the program. Selectman Kowalyshyn affirmed that EDC has been asked to offer the program, but cannot, unless the Town is on board with participating in it.
Robert Wiecenski asked if they can offer extra salaries for the town workers, since they are taking on an extra burden? Mr. McCaplin clarified that the Town will receive $500 in administrative payments per lien.
Jason Bracich, EDC member asked if the applicants can use local builders, if they choose to. Mr. McCaplin stated that CEFIA will work with vendors, but they also have a list of certified vendors as well.
Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that she understands that this might be a little extra work; however this is a chance for us to show goodwill and support our businesses; and we need them.
Mr. Bracich asked how long the process takes. Mr. McCaplin gave an example of a solar project, where application process takes about 4 or 5 weeks. The terms of the liens could be up to 20 years, but it would depend on the scope of the project; solar could take 20 years, where lighting projects could be less time. The business owners can also make extra payments as well.
Mr. McCaplin stated that CPACE would also come to the office to train the departments that would be involved for the Town.
First Selectman Mailhos noted that the discussion will be put on the next agenda under old business for further discussion and perhaps a final decision. In the meantime, the Revenue Collector will find out more at the Revenue Collector Association annual meeting next week.
Correspondence:
A list of correspondence was available at the meeting and in the Selectman’s office.
First Selectman Status Report
First Selectman Mailhos went over the updated report:
- Senior Housing; Phase 3 – the Housing Authority is moving forward with the project. They had funding left over from Phase 2 earmarked to get as much done on the infrastructure as possible.
- Old Town Hall Renovations – The Contractor has begun the demolition of the bathrooms this morning. First Selectman Mailhos noted that the 2 bathroom sinks and the kitchen sink might be of value to the Historical Society and will check with them to see if they are interested in taking them.
- Turnpike Road- Phase 2 – The Contractor will begin construction this week, starting with the “soft cutting where the drainage will be. First Selectman Mailhos noted that the work done on Balazs road will require a road closure and we will notify the residents of when this will happen. She added that we will also notify the Ashford residents of this as well.
- Sidewalk on Route 32 – Selectman Blessington will call a meeting next week to begin discussions.
- Personnel Policy Review – First Selectman Mailhos and Amanda Palotti will work on the policy this week and then schedule another workshop thereafter.
Public Works:
Derek reported that the crew has been working on the following tasks:
Sweeping, patching of pot holes, grading of gravel roads and trimming of trees at TOB as well as removal of old computers, as well as repairing the broken gutter.
We also received a larger water tank (on loan from the Town of Tolland). The tank has been installed on one of the trucks, which reduces the number of trips to get water (from 12 per day to 4); which saves time and fuel.
The crews have repaired street signs, performed vehicle maintenance and burnt the brush pile at the Transfer Station.
Lastly, Derek stated that Turnpike Road construction will begin this week. He had a pre-construction meeting on April 29th, and was able to meet with a property owner to get a temporary construction easement for a culvert installation.
New Business
- Proclamation – Town Clerk Week – May 4 – 10, 2014
First Selectman Mailhos read and moved to adopt the following Proclamation:
Proclamation Town Clerks Week May 4 - 10, 2014
WHEREAS, The Office of the Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part of local government exists throughout the world, and
WHEREAS, The Office of the Town Clerk is the oldest among public servants, and
WHEREAS, The Office of the Town Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other levels, and
WHEREAS, Town Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all, and
WHEREAS, The Town Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local government and community, and
WHEREAS, Town Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Town Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county and international professional organizations, and
WHEREAS, It is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of the Town Clerk;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Board of Selectmen of Willington, Connecticut, do recognize the week of May 4 through May 10, 2014, as Town Clerks Week, and further extend appreciation to our Town Clerk Donna Hardie and Assistant Town Clerk, Maureen Gantick and to all Town Clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent.
Dated this 5th day of May, 2014; Willington Board of Selectmen
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
- Request for building permit waiver
First Selectman Mailhos noted that we received a request from a resident on Navratil Road who received a building permit for a garage on their property back in 2013, however they have not begun construction yet. The Building Inspector informed them that the permit expired after 180 days, however, there is no expiration date noted on the permit. The residents paid $180 for the permit. Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that it is not fair; and then suggested we should waive the fee, and then recommend that the building department add the expiration information on the form to avoid confusion in the future.
Selectman Blessington moved to waive the $180.00 re-fee for the case of Mr. Demule at 33 Navratil Road for garage construction.
Selectman Kowalyshyn seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Selectman Kowalyshyn moved to have the Board of Selectmen recommend that the Building Department should add a disclaimer at the bottom of the permit that states that people have to start construction within 180 days or the permit is null and void.
First Selectman Mailhos seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
- Wilford Farms Timber Harvest Right of Way request
First Selectman Mailhos stated that we received a request via email correspondence from Hull Forest Products, who will be timbering property on Tolland Turnpike, however they need a right of way through Town property to get to the area being harvested. First Selectman Mailhos clarified that the town property has an existing “woods road” that crosses from the property on Meadow Lane and Tolland Turnpike. First Selectman Mailhos clarified that the forester had sought approval from Planning and Zoning, however they felt they should defer it to the Board of Selectmen . First Selectman Mailhos added that this seems to be a complex request. As it turns out, the old wood road is more of a path, and will need to be improved before a timber truck is able to pass over it.
She also noted that the Conservation Commission has gotten involved as the harvesting involves the section of road that is on Town property in a conservation easement area and involves wetlands and crossing through streams. Also, we may have issues with the residents who live on Meadow Lane, as they might not be happy with the constant crossing of timber trucks along their road.
Selectman Blessington stated that he wished the Conservation Commission was there to voice any opposition. The Selectmen reviewed the map that was presented with the approval request. Selectman Kowalyshyn suggested that the harvesting company and the Conservation Commission should both be here to discuss this further. She added that if the Conservation Commission has any issues, we need to know what they are, and she stated that it is hard to make a decision on something that we do not really know anything about.
Robert Shabot commented that the Conservation Commission is usually the default caretaker of open space for the Town; however this time, the easement and decision making was given to the Planning and Zoning Commission. He believes this was the result of discussions with the lawyers regarding the recent Loves Truck Stop hearings. Mr. Shabot added that the Conservation Commission cannot comment because they are not the default party in this case.
The condition of the road was discussed. Mr. Shabot stated that the road is considered a farm road, for which a truck can pass over easily, however a 20 ton timber truck will not be able to pass over as easily. First Selectman Mailhos noted that the Public Works Director went out there this morning, and agreed; it is currently fine for a pick- up truck, but not a timber truck.
This item will be tabled until the next meeting. The Planning & Zoning Department and the Conservation Commission as well as the applicant will be invited to attend.
Old Business
First Selectman Mailhos recapped the discussion held a few weeks ago and added that the budget that is being voted on tomorrow includes Willington’s share of the payment for this year, which is $2,927.00. She added that the other towns have all agreed to pay their shares.
First Selectman Mailhos moved to have the Board of Selectmen approve the requested amount of $2,927 from Mansfield's Housing Authority to help fund the cost of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program for the FY 2014.15. The requested amount is included in the 14-15 budget which was adjourned to referendum on May 6, 2014.
Selectman Kowalyshyn seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
- Possible Tax Abatement program for Fire Department members
First Selectman Mailhos stated the Selectmen were going to review the proposed Ordinance presented at the last meeting. Willington Hill Fire Department Chief Snyder was present. Selectman Kowalyshyn added that the 2 Chiefs were supposed to bring additional information such as number estimates. Chief Snyder stated that the numbers have not changed dollar wise; and it is approximately $20,000 to $25,000 between both departments combined. He clarified that it is most likely a floating number as they are hopeful to attract new members.
First Selectman Mailhos reviewed the eligibility requirements: (as listed in Section 2A)
“Attendance at fifty percent of department meetings unless the member is excused for good cause” . First Selectman Mailhos stated that she does not like the way it is worded, and it puts the Chiefs in a tough spot; because it raises a question of who is granting the excuse and good cause is subjective. Selectman Blessington added that 50% attendance is pretty low. Chief Snyder was in agreement and would like to be a little stricter on that.
The Administrator Leadership roles were discussed. First Selectman Mailhos noted that both departments have different titles at each of the organizations. Chief Snyder stated that they have different members that do different things and gave an example that one of the members is in charge of the hall rental – who works year round with the daily tasks of rental management; and has been doing so for over 20 years; he is not the president, but should be recognized as an active member. Selectman Blessington warned that the reason for the Ordinance should be to recognize the people who run into burning buildings; the next thing will be that members from the Planning & Zoning Department (for example) will be asking for a tax break as well. Chief Snyder clarified that the worker still
provides a service to the town and should be recognized as well; he then clarified that he is just asking for the Fire Service members, and has no control over what the other organizations are going to do.
First Selectman Mailhos stated that someone had asked what happens if the members are delinquent with their taxes. The Revenue Collector suggested adding a stipulation that the members must be current on their tax payments for the last 2 years; otherwise, they will not be eligible.
Town Treasurer, Tish Ignatowicz reminded everyone that the eligible members would be given a 1099 or a W2 to claim on their Federal Taxes.
Selectman Kowalyshyn asked to see the numbers from Chief Snyder. Chief Snyder presented the estimated numbers for Willington Hill Fire members only; which was estimated at $20,250. Selectman Kowalyshyn added that she would also like to see what Chief Millix presents for WFD#1 and would like to see what the Town Attorney has to say as well. She then said that she doesn’t think we can afford it. Selectman Kowalyshyn then asked if we had an option of negotiating on the amounts of the abatements (max is $1,000.00; can it be lowered?). Chief Snyder clarified that it does look like a big number, but it is far less expensive than adding on an entire paid force per year.
First Selectman Mailhos said that every year the Selectmen are always trying to minimize our expenditures, and this is similar (even though it is a reduction in revenue, and it does effect the bottom line); and she wishes she can find somewhere to offset the deficit. She then suggested seeing if we can cut the numbers in half, which might be easier for the Town to absorb.
Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that our budgets are already tight and she just is not sure how we are going to be able to afford it. Town Treasurer, Tish Ignatowicz asked when this would take effect. First Selectman Mailhos clarified that we did not budget for this (for this coming fiscal year) and also noted that the draft is slated to take effect on July 1, 2015. Selectman Kowalyshyn then added that she is willing to pay a little extra and it might be ok with our residents as well. She then added that it is riskier and there is more to be lost if we lose the volunteers.
First Selectman Mailhos stated that she will run this by the Town Attorney this week.
Good & Welfare
First Selectman Mailhos stated that she went to the new UCONN book store in Storrs Downtown (StoDo) this past weekend, where Joe and Trish Froehlich held a book signing. At the signing, they also had a presentation about how they worked on the book. First Selectman Mailhos stated that she had no idea how much work really went into it. They rented a cabin in Maine and worked on the book for a week. They worked nights and weekends on it ,and did not see family or friends the entire time the book was in progress. First Selectman Mailhos added that we found Joe (and Trish)
by sending out an email looking for a Town Historian, and Joe took it very seriously – they have become close with many of our seniors, and sadly, have attended funeral services since being involved in the Historian role. Lastly, she added that the Froehlichs give her inspiration to find more volunteers around Town.
First Selectman Mailhos reminded everyone that Willington Day is coming soon – it will be held on Saturday, May 24th from 12PM to 3 PM; Raindate: Sunday, May 25th same time.
The annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony are in the works. The Parade will be at 8:30 AM on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2014.
Congratulations to Mr. Raymond Gantick, who was among 102 Veterans who were recently flown to Washington DC as part of the American Warriors project.
First Selectman Mailhos mentioned the recent passing of Elsie LaBonte; who was one of the people the Froehlichs got to know during the making of their book. Ms. Labonte requested to have the book be buried with her.
Selectman Kowalyshyn moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 P.M.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Respectfully submitted,
Robin Campbell
Administrative Assistant
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