BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Meeting Minutes
Regular Meeting May 19, 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 6:32 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 May 5, 2014 as written.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote 3 Yes (Mailhos Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Present to Speak:
No one.
Correspondence:
A list of correspondence was available at the meeting and in the Selectman’s office.
First Selectman Status Report
First Selectman Mailhos stated that she did not have a chance to update the report today.
Public Works:
Derek reported that the crew has been working on the following tasks:
- Sweeping of streets (finished the entire south side of Town already)
- Vehicle repairs
- Grading of gravel roads
- Sign replacement
- Spring cleaning of Public Works, Dog Pound, Transfer Station
Turnpike Road Phase II start was delayed on starting the project but the contractor has moved equipmentin in and a small crew on-site this morning and will start installing head walls mid-week.
New Business
- Proclamation – National Public Works Week – May 18 – 24, 2014
First Selectman Mailhos read and moved to adopt the following Proclamation:
National Public Works Week - May 18-24, 2014
WHEREAS; public works infrastructure, facilities, park and open spaces, and service are of vital importance to the health, safety and well-being of the residents of the Town of Willington; and
WHEREAS; it has been demonstrated that Public Works provides critical response capabilities, experience and support to all levels of government and town agencies in times of natural and man-made disasters; and
WHEREAS; it is in the public interest for the citizens and civic leaders of this community to gain knowledge of and to maintain a progressive interest in the public works needs and programs and employees;
NOW, THEREFORE, We, The Board of Selectmen of the Town of Willington do hereby designate the week May 18-24, 2014, as National Public Works Week; and I urge all our people to join with representatives of governmental agencies and the American Public Works Association in activities and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works employees and to recognize the substantial contributions of health and welfare they provide daily on a local and national level.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the Town of Willington this 19th Day of August, 2013.
Selectman Blessington seconded the motion.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
Old Business
Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that we need to make a decision; as she has had several inquiries about the program and 2 applications have already been submitted. She added that the Tax Collector is adamant that they need 2 separate bank accounts. Selectman Kowalyshyn clarified that she will have Mr. McCaplin contact them to work out the details. Town Treasurer, Tish Ignatowicz added that she would also like clarification on how the accounts work before we implement the program. She added that the money doesn’t have to sit in an account, when it can be wired immediately. She then added that the bank most likely will not allow us to have an account sitting around with no money in it most of the time (without being charged for it). First Selectman Mailhos
added that she was planning to have the Attorney look at it as well.
First Selectman Mailhos moved to move forward with the C-Pace program after consultation with the Town Attorney and the Treasurer.
Selectman Kowalyshyn seconded the motion.
Discussion was held. Tish Ignatowicz stated that she is aware that the Tax Office has concerns about implementing the program; one being that it might be more work for them, but she clarified that it shouldn’t be after the initial set up is done.
Selectman Blessington stated that he has concerns: one being what if a company signs on and then goes bankrupt? Will the Town be liable? Selectman Kowalyshyn clarified that the agreement states that the lien has nothing to do with the Town.
Selectman Blessington then asked what happens if the State no longer decides to support the program, as they have in mandated in the past. Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that her concern is our businesses in Town. Other Towns have signed on and she has not heard any issues. She then stated that we need to do something for our businesses and then said maybe no one will end up using it. She then said sometimes you have to take a chance; and to her, she feels this is worth taking a chance for our businesses.
First Selectman Mailhos asked Selectman Kowalyshyn to request a copy of the contract sent to her so she can forward on to the Attorney. Tish Ignatowicz, Town Treasurer suggested to make sure the contract states that the Town will receive a stipend for each lien. She noted that the contract that was present is worded differently and suggests the town will receive $500 for signing on.
Vote: 2 Yes (Mailhos & Kowalyshyn) 1 No (Blessington)
- Wilford Farms Timber Harvest Right of Way Request Discussion with Conservation Commission and applicant
Chris Casadei, Forester at Hull Forest Products, Inc. and Peter Andersen, Chairman of the Conservation Commission were present. Mr. Casadei stated that he has received approval from the Wetlands Commission and is in the process of zoning approval for a parcel with a conservation easement. He added that the Planning and Zoning Commission suggested that he seek the right of way through the Board of Selectmen.
First Selectman Mailhos cautioned that the road, which is considered a woods road, might not be passable with a logging truck. Mr. Casadei confirmed that the road might require additional gravel or rip rap in some areas to make it passable for a log truck. He then added they will leave it in better condition than what they found it.
First Selectman Mailhos asked if any of the neighbors on Meadow Lane have shown any opposition at the public hearing. Mr. Casadei replied no, and stated that the property has been logged a few times over the past 30 years and the reason the request is being made is because of a parcel of land that has recently been deeded to the town. He then presented a map of the parcel to show the Selectmen where the work will be done.
Peter Andersen, Chairman of the Willington Conservation Commission stated that they just wanted to make sure that no trees are damaged along the right of way. He added that they are hopeful the integrity of the wetlands and vernal pools will not be compromised by the logging equipment on the 20 acre parcel. Mr. Casadei clarified that they received approval from the Wetlands Commission to proceed on the existing parcel (not the conservation easement).
He then presented a map for the Selectmen to view as well as the proposed Right of Way agreement.
Selectman Blessington moved to sign the temporary right of way agreement with Hull Forest Products as presented to the Board of Selectmen.
First Selectman Mailhos seconded the motion.
Mr. Casadei added that the agreement also offers to affix boundary placards on the open space parcel as well as the conservation easement, with the understanding that the Town is to supply the markers. Conservation Commission Chairman Andersen stated that he believes that they have some.
Chairman Andersen also asked possibility of logging the Town property (16 acres) while they are in there, as they normally would not have access to get back there otherwise. He added it would improve the timber stand as well as generate income. He then asked if the revenue could go into the Open Space Fund. Discussion was held on the application process and if there is enough time for them to get the permits submitted in time. First Selectman Mailhos stated that she agrees that the Conservation Commission should be able to control where the money is coming from. Robert Shabot, member of the Conservation Commission stated they would like to have support from the BOS. Chairman Andersen stated that the Conservation Commission will look into getting the permits going for the logging.
Vote: 3 Yes (Mailhos, Kowalyshyn & Blessington) 0 No.
- Possible Tax Abatement program for Fire Department members
First Selectman Mailhos stated that we are picking up where we left off. Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that she did not receive any information from Chief Millix (for Willington F.D. #1).
First Selectman Mailhos stated that she received feedback from the Town Attorney regarding the clause on having the members be current on their taxes in order to receive the abatement. The other item was possibly reducing the amount of the abatement to half of what is in the proposed ordinance.
WHFD Chief Snyder was present and stated that he received some feedback on both items. The $1,000 limit is what everyone else (other Towns) is doing; if you reduce the amount in half, why bother; it wouldn’t be a recruiting tool at that point. He then added that if a member is delinquent, receiving the abatement might make their tax payments more affordable, which would allow them to become current on their taxes.
First Selectman Mailhos clarified that she understands where the members are coming from, but they would be getting a benefit; and they should be doing what everyone else does, and pay their taxes on time. Tish Ignatowicz clarified that the Tax Collector offers a payment plan to anyone who has hardship keeping up with their taxes. First Selectman Mailhos noted if the Selectmen vote on this today, the Ordinance would not go into effect, it would just put it in motion to go to Town Meeting to be voted on. Selectman Kowalyshyn clarified that we would have to increase taxes to offset the cost of the abatement. Tish Ignatowicz clarified that $25,000 wouldn’t be a large increase to the taxpayers.
Selectman Kowalyshyn reiterated that she wants to see the numbers from WFD#1 before making a decision. Selectman Blessington agreed and said he wants to see a true number. Selectman Kowalyshyn then stated rather than reducing to a half, perhaps ¾ might be a better negotiation on both ends. First Selectman Mailhos reminded everyone if the Ordinance is passed, it would not take effect until 2015, which would give them time to figure out the budgets. She then added that we will be planning a Town Meeting on August 5th (for upcoming projects) and this Ordinance would most likely be added on that agenda. She then suggested having the Fire Departments go before the Board of Finance in the near future to request support from them.
First Selectman Mailhos stated that she and Amanda Palotti worked on the Policy for several hours. They found several things that needed to be moved and categorized to make it consistent throughout the entire document; as well as consistent with the FMLA policy.
She added that they created an “Appendix B”, which is now for Compensated and Elected Officials, and we have a handful of people who fall under that category (such as all of the Selectmen; Treasurer, Registrars of Voters and the Town Clerk). The Page mostly states that Longevity, Vacation Leave, Sick Leave and Term Life Insurance are not available. The insurance option states : Compensated Elected Officials shall be eligible to participate. However, they are responsible for payment of the full premium. And the Hours of Employment read: Compensated Elected Officials have no set working hours. She clarified that the payment for the Official’s services is a stipend, rather than a paycheck, as they are not “employees” of the Town..
First Selectman Mailhos then noted that the Town Clerk is the only elected official who receives benefits as a regular employee. The current policy reads: “Recognizing the unique position of the Town Clerk, the official will be eligible for health benefits in the same proportion as other non-elected salaried employees. All other elected positions considered full-time shall have the option of buying into the Town Health insurance according to the Insurance Companies regulations. “ First Selectman Mailhos stated that it was explained to her that was added into the policy because the law states that the Town Clerk’s office must be open when the building is open and it was most likely decided to add benefits to that position because of that several years ago.
Town Treasurer, Tish Ignatowicz clarified that the state statute reads that someone needs to cover the Clerk’s office and added that we also have an assistant to cover the office when the Clerk is not here. She then added that she works over the allotted 27 hours and her position is offered nothing. Selectman Kowalshyn stated that is really not fair and should be changed to be the same across the board. First Selectman Mailhos said to be fair, anyone who works the full time hours should be allowed benefits, noting that if this were decided it should take effect after the next election.
Selectman Blessington said someone did this and then asked if it is not fair to undo it. He added that the position of the First Selectman and Treasurer have changed over the years and should be treated as full time. Lastly he asked how you can take away someone’s benefits if they have had them?
Kelly Trueb stated that it was discussed at a previous meeting that a candidate for the position of the First Selectman might sway votes if they do not need benefits, which would incur a financial burden to the Town. Tish Ignatowicz clarified that if benefits were offered, we might have a bigger pool of candidates come forward. Selectman Kowalyshyn asked if we can change it? Selectman Blessington stated years ago, the Town Clerk, Treasurer, Tax Collector and Assessor were all elected positions. Former Selectman Patton pushed through an ordinance that changed them all to appointed positions, however the Ordinance was withdrawn because State Law requires us to leave the Treasurer and Town Clerk as Elected. Selectman Kowalyshyn reiterated that it is not fair for one position to be offered benefits, but the
others who work the same amount of hours do not. Selectman Blessington stated that the First Selectman position is more now than it was in the past. First Selectman Mailhos stated that someone suggested raising the salary to cover the cost of the insurance coverage so the individual can decide to take the insurance for the other positions; where it would be the same across the board. Selectman Kowalyshyn clarified that you would have to do that for all of the positions.
Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that the Clerk’s position should be treated as a non-union employee, where sick, personal and vacation time should be accrued; noting that it is also not fair that the position is allotted longevity.
Selectman Blessington suggested that it was most likely a bad decision that was made long ago; and doesn’t think it can be taken away in good conscience. Selectman Kowalyshyn asked what happens if someone decides to run for the Town Clerk at the next election – and gets in? Will they get the benefits? Discussion was held on changing the policy to change at the end of the current term. Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that is fair, that way the current Clerk can decide if she wants to run again. Discussion was held on how long that position has had insurance and longevity benefits for. First Selectman Mailhos clarified that this has nothing to do with the current Clerk; it has to do with the position and the precedent we are setting. Tish Ignatowicz clarified that the hours
should also be set for the positions across the board and who determines how many hours are involved.
First Selectman Mailhos noted that it is good to have the “Appendix B,” we just need to work out what it will say and who approves it.. The Board of Finance will be looking ahead towards the next election and if they want to change the salaries, then we can go back and change the Appendix B. She added that she will make the revised policy available to the Town Employees to review and will also be available to the public as well.
Good & Welfare
First Selectman Mailhos sadly noted Esther Phelps passed away on Friday. She was close to turning 101. She did a lot for this town over her lifetime. Her funeral will be held on Saturday morning at 10 AM at the Federated Church on Route 74. Parking for attendees will be allowed on the Willington Town Green.
First Selectman Mailhos noted that the Old Town Hall renovations are coming along. She met with the Architect to go over the paint scheme for the back room, which was slated to be the same color as the main hall, until the contractor uncovered a wall and wainscot that had original paint, which might date back to 1920, which is a dark green, and they were able to match the color to the original paint.
Sam Belsito came in last week to inform First Selectman Mailhos that we have been awarded the $500,000 STEAP Grant; we will now be able to cnontinue on and make serious progress along Turnpike Road such as all of the drainage and some of the paving doe.
Selectman Blessington reminded everyone Willington Day is this Saturday from 12PM to 3PM; The fishing Derby will follow at 4 – 5:30 PM at Thompson’s Pond.
Robin Campbell reminded everyone that the Memorial Day parade will be on Monday, May 26th beginning by 8:30 AM on the Town Green.
Selectman Kowalyshyn stated that she has had 4 people inquire about the Safety Committee. She will check with the Town Clerk to see if the committee is required to have someone from each of the Fire Departments as well as the union, as it may be a requirement from our insurance company. She will then figure out a time of day as to when everyone would be able to meet.
Selectman Kowalyshyn moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 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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