MINUTES ADOPTED AS PRESENTED 01/04/2010
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2009
The Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Kaupin in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, December 21, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Kiner.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Bosco, Edgar, Hall, Kaupin, Keller, Kiner, Lee, Mangini and Nelson. Councilmen Crowley and Dumont were absent. Also present were Town Manager, Matthew Coppler; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Kevin Deneen; Director of Public Works, Piya Hawkes
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Kaupin made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #686 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the November 9, 2009 Organizational Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #686 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #687 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kiner to accept the minutes of the December 7, 2009 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #687 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #688 by Councilman Nelson seconded by Councilman Kiner to accept the minutes of the December 7, 2009 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #688 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #689 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Keller to accept the minutes of the December 8, 2009 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #689 adopted 7-0-2, with Councilmen Edgar and Nelson abstaining.
SPECIAL GUESTS
The Enfield Town Council presented Ted Plamondon with a proclamation in honor of his induction in the Connecticut Veterans’ Hall of Fame in Hartford, Connecticut.
Present from the Clean Energy Committee were Karen LaPlante, Steve Moriarty and Ray Gwozdz.
Ms. LaPlante explained the Clean Energy Committee was established through Resolution #9451 on October 15, 2007. She noted seven members were appointed by the Town Manager, and they held their first meeting in June, 2008. She then went on to highlight Resolution #9451 as follows:
- Town commits to statewide 20% by 2010 Clean Energy campaign
- Committee shall investigate all options for meeting that goal
- Explore CT Clean Energy Communities Program
- 100% of any electricity savings goes to additional purchases of Clean Energy
- Encourage residents and businesses to choose the Clean Energy Option on their electricity bill. The town earns points towards a free solar array
She then highlighted progress to date as follows:
- Joined 20% by 2010 Clean Energy Statewide Campaign
- Participated in 2008 4th of July event and informational booth at 2008 Town Energy Fair at Asnuntuck Community College
- Booth at 2008 Chamber of Commerce Home Show
- Total points towards free solar array – 117 (last updated in September)
- Committee to the EPS Community Energy Challenge
- Research energy conservation and efficiency programs
Ms. LaPlante pointed out they have done a lot of research on energy conservation and efficiency programs.
She stated the next steps for the Town include making a municipal clean energy purchase. She noted this needs to be done by December of 2010, therefore, that will need to be included in this budget year. She stated the Town needs to purchase 13% of its power because 7% is already required by the suppliers with the state. She explained there are a number of different ways to buy clean energy. She noted the Town can sign up for Connecticut Clean Energy options, which means they’d pay a little surplus on the power bill. She added she’s unsure whether this is possible with Trans-Canada. She noted they can purchase green e-certified renewable energy certificates or install a Class I renewal energy system. She pointed out some towns have used those points towards buying the solar PV system, and they’ve installed it on schools. She noted the Clean Energy Fund will actually pay for 50% of the cost of installing that system, and they’ll also pay for the percentage earned by the town, therefore, Enfield could get this system at a reasonable price if it was decided to go in that direction.
Ms. LaPlante stated the program has been changed quite a bit at they went along. She explained they’ve added different requirements and keeping up has been somewhat of a challenge.
She noted the EPA community energy challenge requires the Town to set a goal to reduce energy use in buildings by 10% or more, and they believe that’s easily accomplished by conservation methods without any cost to the town. She stated the Town must promote energy efficient and renewables to the companies and organizations within the town. She noted perhaps this is something Economic Development can start doing. She stated they need to benchmark the energy performance of all the facilities for the Town through the EPA Manager. She pointed out the Clean Energy Committee has volunteered to do this, and all they need is the data. She noted they did get a good start on the data through the School Board’s Audit Committee.
Ms. LaPlante then reviewed the Committee’s next steps as follows:
- Enter data into EPS Portfolio Manager
- Co-Sponsor the Second Annual Energy Fair at Asnuntuck Community College on January 23, 2010
- Promote clean energy education programs within school system
She noted West Hartford Public Schools has saved hundreds of thousands of dollars, and they’re on line to save a half million dollars in just changing the way they do things.
- The Committee will continue signing up residents and businesses for the Clean Energy Option so the Town can get more points
- Apply for grant CT Clean Energy Fund
- Spread the word through shows, press releases, civic events and ETV
Ms. LaPlante stated they’d like to make clean energy and conservation a priority in Enfield. She noted people need to start thinking seriously about this.
She stated it would be appreciated if the Council budgets for the clean energy purchase this year. She noted they want the Town to take advantage of all the available opportunities. She pointed out the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund allows zero interest “on bill financing” for energy efficiency improvements for any municipal building. She noted for each building that gets a power bill, Enfield could get up to $150,000 worth of energy efficiency work done at zero interest. She pointed out these savings would add up very quickly. She noted the Efficiency Fund is implemented by Northeast Utilities, and they have programs available for lighting, electricity, natural gas and all kinds of building operation type things. She stated their website is www.ctsavesenergy.org. She noted the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund provides grants, educational programs, incentive and the PV systems.
Ms. LaPlante stated EPA has a lot of information on their Clean Energy site. She urged everyone to sign up for their clean energy option on their power bills so Enfield can earn a free system.
Councilman Kiner questioned if there are opportunities with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Ms. LaPlante stated she has been passing information along, and a lot of towns have been using this act.
Councilman Kiner questioned whether the Town has to research this, or does a third party contractor get the incentive from the government. Ms. LaPlante stated it depends on how they apply for the funds. She stated her understanding the Town was going to apply for some funds, and they were talking about some LED lighting, however, she’s not sure what the status is on this. She noted Joel Cox is the staff liaison, and he passed along a lot of this information, however, she’s not sure it’s getting to the right person. Councilman Kiner stated he will look into this.
Councilman Hall questioned if this Committee has a Town staff liaison, and Mr. Coppler responded Joel Cox.
Councilman Hall questioned if information is available on E-TV so people understand how to sign up for clean energy. Mr. Moriarty stated there are slides that encourage people to sign up for clean energy options. Ms. LaPlante stated their website helps people sign up for clean energy. She noted it’s about a penny per kilowatt hour, therefore, an average household will be paying about $7.00 to $8.00 extra to participate in this program. She stated people can also sign up for an alternate supplier through DPUC, and they can save even more.
Councilman Bosco suggested Ms. LaPlante call him so they can set something up with the DPW Subcommittee.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Stated Steve Jarmoc was told his farm stand is 20 inches too high to the peak of the roof. He pointed out this is a beautiful building, which is fitting for the farm property. He noted Mr. Jarmoc owns the property north, south, east and west of the farm stand, therefore, he isn’t infringing on anyone. He pointed out Enfield is supposed to be business friendly. He stated his belief it would be more appropriate if the regulations stated a building is within a percentage of the height of surrounding buildings.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini stated she received some phone calls from people concerned about a traffic accident happening in the area of a traffic light near the Crowne Plaza. She noted people have observed vehicles frequently not stopping for a red light in this area.
Councilman Mangini stated she had the opportunity and privilege to accompany Mr. Coppler, State Representative Kathy Tallarita and other delegates from Enfield to New York City to have lunch with Enfield’s Sister City, Chung Lee, and this was a great experience.
Councilman Mangini stated she attended the Metro Hartford Alliance with Mr. Coppler and Mr. Warren, and they have a lot of interesting economic development things happening. She noted this was also a good experience. She added they’re continuing their work on a monthly basis.
Councilman Nelson referred to Mr. Sheridan’s comment and noted the Town Council is not the Planning & Zoning Commission, and the Town Council has zero influence, which is the way it has to be. He noted there is a Zoning Board of Appeals, and Mr. Jarmoc has the right to appeal this decision or the regulations. He went on to state accessory features are 12 feet, and exceptions aren’t made to the rules.
MOTION #690 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to suspend the rules to address Items 14 D, E, and F under Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #690 adopted 8-1-0, with Councilman Kiner voting against the motion.
Councilman Keller responded to a question raised at the last meeting by Margaret Jedziniak concerning the Violence Prevention Program and how much it costs to actually administer the grant. He noted the background he received from Pam Brown is as follows: The grant was for $160,000, and this is a grant that started from October 15, 2007 through September 30, 2009. He noted the administrative expenses to implement the grant for the period of two years included about three hours per week of secretarial work basically totaling $5,000 for the two-year period. He stated if they’re looking at doing something similar for the $150,000 grant that was voted on last time, the administrative cost would be about the same, and they’d also be able to enlist the admin and management support services from existing Town personnel.
Chairman Kaupin stated since the last meeting, the Council has begun its goal setting process. He invited residents to forward any suggestions they have to a Council member.
He stated last Monday he held his first Mayor’s Advisory Council meeting, and about 40 people were in attendance. He noted there was a good exchange at this meeting. He stated he will forward to the Council the ideas and suggestions that came out of that meeting.
Chairman Kaupin stated the 17th Annual Rotary Basketball Girls’ Classic is scheduled for December 28 & 29 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Enfield High School.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Coppler stated the Town received notification from the National League of Cities that Councilman Mangini has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Public Finance Panel.
He stated last week, they had an informational meeting on the South Maple Street Bridge. He noted one of the items they’ve been lobbying for with CT DOT and the Federal Transportation Agency was to bid out some of the structure that has to be pre-cast. He explained the Town received notice on Friday that they were successful in lobbying for that, therefore, this project will effectively be split into two – one doing the beams and other pre-cast abutments and the second part will be the actual hiring of the contractor to install those. He noted this will still be a 180-day process, but they’ll be able to do that in advance of the July 1st start time.
As concerns the public informational meeting on the South Maple Street Bridge, Mr. Coppler noted there was some discussion regarding sidewalks. He stated staff and DOT have looked at the possibility of including sidewalks in this project. He noted they could add an alternate bid to the bridge project to learn what the cost would be for sidewalk installation. He pointed out this project does not cover sidewalks, therefore, they’d have to start the process of talking to CRCOG to see if they could get federal funding to cover the sidewalks. He pointed out there’s a good case to be made for the sidewalks if the Council wishes to go that route. He noted if the Town is successful in getting that money, it would be an 80-20 match, whereby the Town would have to come up with 20% of the match.
Mr. Hawkes stated the estimate to install sidewalks from Dusthouse Road to Route 190 would be about $300,000 to $350,000 plus a needed retaining wall. Mr. Coppler stated the Town would need to contribute about $80,000.
Chairman Kaupin stated other residents attending the informational meeting asked for sidewalks from the bridge through the hollow up Powder Hill Road and down to Abbe Road. He noted the DOT representative felt a sidewalk from the bridge to Hazard Avenue was somewhat within the scope of the project, but the other route was way out of the scope of the project.
Councilman Nelson questioned whether a subdivision was approved in this area last year. He suggested checking to see if sidewalks were included within those plans in the hollow. Mr. Coppler stated he didn’t believe there was anything coming out onto the road in the area of the sand and gravel pit. He added they will check to make sure.
Chairman Kaupin stated the bridge will include sidewalks or a walking path on both sides of the bridge.
Councilman Nelson questioned the possibility of getting the State to contribute some money for the sidewalk since this would access the state park. Mr. Coppler stated it’s challenging dealing with the State relating to that park.
Councilman Mangini questioned where the Town would come up with $80,000 during this tough economic time. Chairman Kaupin stated the Town has money set aside for South Maple Street Bridge. He noted if the actual cost of the construction comes in lower, they could have funding available for sidewalks. He stated that is the advantage of an add alternate.
Councilman Lee questioned which side of the street the sidewalk would be installed, and Mr. Hawkes suggested the west side so they can access Dusthouse park. Councilman Lee stated there were recommendations in the Route 190 corridor study that suggested the installation of sidewalks. He went on to raise the question of what might be involved in terms of maintaining a sidewalk that’s on such a steep incline.
Councilman Bosco stated before they put a sidewalk in this area, they should talk to the residents in that area about the maintenance of that sidewalk. Mr. Coppler stated if they have an actual design done, they could get input from residents. Councilman Bosco stated his belief a sidewalk this steep will need additional maintenance.
Councilman Edgar questioned whether all the residents effected want sidewalks, and will it be necessary to take property from residents to install sidewalks. Chairman Kaupin stated he doesn’t know where the people who expressed a desire for sidewalks actually live. Councilman Edgar stated his belief they should survey the residents in that area to learn what they all feel about sidewalks.
Mr. Coppler stated they would have to go through the engineering process to learn where there might need to be takings for a sidewalk installation.
It was the consensus of the Council to go forward with the add alternate to gain information.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated CCM is looking to make the state very much aware that cutting funding to the municipalities is actually going to increase property tax. She noted CCM has a very solid campaign going forward to try and persuade the state to not do mid-term cuts.
OLD BUSINESS
MOTION #691 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove Item A.2. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #691 adopted 9-0-0.
NOMINATION #692 by Councilman Nelson to appoint Brandon Messenger as an alternate member to the Loan Review Committee.
MOTION #693 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #693 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Brandon Messenger appointed to the Loan Review Committee by a 9-0-0 vote.
There were no other appointments.
Items C., D., and E. remained tabled.
MOTION #694 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove Item F. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #694 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: WITHDRAWAL FROM HEALTH DISTRICT
Mr. Coppler stated he provided the requested information about going along or going with another municipality that isn’t part of the North Central Health District (NCHD).
Councilman Lee stated after the presentation by the NCHD, he questioned whether the Town Manager had any thoughts on how staff would monitor the progress of NCHD. Mr. Coppler stated the Board of NCHD will have to commit to a true feedback process.
Councilman Nelson stated there was a discussion about several different options, and one of those options was to possibly place the Town Manager in one of the seats on the Board of NCHD as a voting member. He noted he would be more comfortable having someone like the Town Manager on this Board since he’s familiar with the Town’s needs. Mr. Coppler stated if he is on the Board, he would be an advocate for what the Town Council believes is top priority and that’s making sure that all the services that touch the Town’s businesses and residents are performing at a high level.
Councilman Mangini stated her belief it’s important that they do set the criteria. She noted she does not want to see the Town Manager assume the role of Board member, but she’d rather see a staff person assigned by the Town Manager. She added she would not want to see a staff person as a voting member. She noted she’d like to see a liaison person assigned to this Board and report back to the Town Council just as they do with all the other commissions. Mr. Coppler responded he does not see this as a big deal for him to do this. He noted by doing this, it would provide the highest level of accountability for the Town Council. He pointed out he is the most appropriate member of the Town administration that the Council would want to put on that Board. Councilman Mangini questioned whether the Town Manager would have a problem being a voting member, and Mr. Coppler responded not at all.
Chairman Kaupin pointed out Councilman Nelson was appointed as liaison to the NCHD with this new Town Council.
Councilman Nelson stated if NCHD follows through, it will make a big difference in all aspects of the Health District, and it will be a win-win for everyone.
MOTION #695 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #695 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #696 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove Item G. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #696 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #697 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item G. from the agenda.
Chairman Kaupin stated both the Democratic and Republican caucuses had meetings with their Board counterparts, and it was unanimous that they would not pursue the merger at this time primarily based on no projected savings. He noted they asked the Town Manager to put together an implementation plan. He stated in reviewing the numbers, there was not a savings, but rather a slight cost increase to do a merger. He noted there’s an open door for further dialog for different components within Human Resources on where they can share resources and trim costs, i.e., benefits administration.
Councilman Kiner stated he will vote to remove this from the agenda only because they can put it back on the agenda at any time. He stated his belief they should look at this in the future.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #697 adopted 8-1-0, with Councilman Edgar voting against the motion.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #698 by Councilman Nelson to appoint Albert Boudreau (U) to the Enfield Housing Authority for a term which expires 11/30/2013.
MOTION #699 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Kiner to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #699 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Albert Boudreau appointed to the Enfield Housing Authority by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #700 by Councilman Nelson to appoint Matthew Coppler to the North Central District Health Department for a term which expires 6/30/2012.
MOTION #701 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Lee to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #701 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Matthew Coppler appointed to the North Central District Health Department by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #702 by Councilman Kiner to reappoint Andrew Urbanowicz (U) to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/2013.
MOTION #703 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #703 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Andrew Urbanowicz reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 9-0-0 vote.
All other appointments remained on the agenda.
RESOLUTION #704 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council wishes to update and amend the Snow Removal Ordinance to provide more time for residents to clear sidewalks after snow and ice events while increasing penalties for failure to do so; and
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council held a public hearing on Monday, December 7, 2009 to seek input from the residents on the proposed amendments to this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council believes adoption of these amendments to be important to the safety and welfare of all residents of the Town of Enfield.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council does hereby adopt the amended and revised, attached as “Attachment A” Snow Removal Ordinance-Town Clean-up Provision.
Mr. Coppler stated when the Director of Public Works declares an event to be over, that information will be provided on the Town’s website and E-TV. He noted Public Works has access to different weather authorities that help them determine when events will start and end.
Councilman Kiner stated an Abbe Road resident recommended starting the clock after the last snow plow goes through because snow plows push snow onto many sidewalks.
Mr. Coppler noted it might be difficult to determine the timing of when the last snowplow goes through.
Mr. Coppler stated there were a number of questions about enforcement. He noted they would be switching from a police-oriented enforcement to a citation enforcement, which would allow a number of different people to be involved in this process. He noted they will primarily start with DPW, however, they do have resources within Development Services, the Police Department and other agencies within the Town as well to actually do the enforcement.
Councilman Nelson questioned whether they determined what the fee will be if the Town has to do the shoveling. Mr. Coppler stated they’re looking at a linear foot charge, and initially looking at a linear foot charge of $1.00.
Councilman Nelson stated he would like to see this fee doubled for repeat offenders. Mr. Coppler pointed out there’s a citation fee on top of the fee to clear the walkway. Attorney Deneen stated he’s not sure the doubling of the clearing fee is permissible because it’s supposed to be tied to actual cost.
Councilman Nelson suggested $2.00 per linear foot.
Councilman Bosco stated his belief 24 hours is a reasonable amount of time for everyone.
Councilman Lee questioned the possibility of the fee being based on square footage rather than linear foot. Mr. Coppler indicated that’s something that could be done as well.
Councilman Lee stated one of the things that Development Service’s staff has been asking about since they started working on the blight ordinance side of this was the establishment of a permanent fund to receive municipal citations associated with this policy and the summertime blight. He questioned if this will be pursued. Mr. Coppler stated his belief they’ve been working on this out of the budget process, and they’ll bring it forward sometime in the near future. Councilman Lee pointed out a hearing process could reverse charges, and the Town would then be responsible for paying a vendor.
Chairman Kaupin questioned the process for submitting a complaint, particularly over weekends. Mr. Coppler noted there can be different ways to submit a complaint, i.e., police dispatch and e-mail. He noted they can put out e-mail addresses, which can be monitored. Chairman Kaupin suggested an e-mail address such as “Sidewalks at Enfield.org, which would bypass the Q-Alert system so there’s a direct means of communication.
Chairman Kaupin questioned the turnaround time for a complaint. Mr. Coppler indicated it could be fairly quick, unless the complaint is submitted in the middle of the night.
Chairman Kaupin stated his belief the message to the public should be that the sidewalks need to be cleared to their full width.
Chairman Kaupin stated he was disappointed that during the last snowstorm, the parking ban wasn’t announced on E-TV. He noted the Town has to do a better job communicating during snowstorms. He stated with today’s technology, people should be overloaded with the information.
Chairman Kaupin stated he will support this ordinance, however, he’s very leery that the Town has the ability to enforce it. He feels the Town needs to bend over backward in information flow to the public and to the Council to show they’re actually enforcing this ordinance.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #704 adopted 9-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #705 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Nelson.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby adopt the POLICY AND PROCEDURE FOR ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS, dated December 7, 2009.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #705 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #706 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #706 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #707 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
Resolution for Town Farm/Post Office Road Project
copy appended
Mr. Coppler stated adopting this resolution will allow the Town to make use of up to $2.8 million dollars of stimulus money for this project.
Mr. Hawkes provided an overview of the project. He noted the objective of this project is to create a safer road to travel on, and to do so, they have to address the horizontal and vertical curves on this road and improve the three intersections that abut Town Farm and Post Office Road, as well as install new drainage and improve existing drainage.
Mr. Hawkes stated at the present time, there are a few different funding sources for this project – State funds through DOT, CRCOG funds, STP urban funds, stimulus funds, and the Town’s CIP accounts.
He stated this project has gone through several different review processes by several difference agencies. He noted they are going through the permitting process, and expect permits back to the Town by mid to end of February. He stated they’re also going through the Inland/Wetlands process.
Mr. Hawkes stated they’re aiming for December 30, 2009 for the first day of advertising, and bid opening is 21 days thereafter, which is January 20, 2010. He noted this project is estimated at approximately $8.6 million dollars. He pointed out past DOT projects have come in 20% to 50% less than the engineer’s estimates, therefore, this project is expected to come in at around $6.5 million dollars. Mr. Hawkes stated at the time of the bid opening, DOT and CRCOG may give the Town additional stimulus money based on what they see. He noted they award the actual project in March, 2010 and begin the project in April. He stated this will be a two-year construction season.
Mr. Hawkes stated the existing road is substandard and ranges between 22 and 32 feet in width with varying cross sections, and the horizontal and vertical curves are very sharp. He noted the three intersections are skewed, and there’s insufficient guardrail in that area, and pedestrian access is limited. He stated the drainage is substandard.
He stated the project entails full depth reconstruction of 1.3 miles of road, and there will be a uniform width of 30 feet with 11 feet of lanes in each direction. There will be four foot shoulders, and they’re adjusting the horizontal and vertical alignments for improvements in site distances.
Mr. Hawkes referred to an illustration to further point out the areas which will be under construction. He noted they’re required to do some mitigation concerning invasive species since they’ll be impacting 12,000 square feet of wetlands.
Councilman Kiner questioned whether they have identified those areas of Town Farm Road that have flooding problems, and Mr. Hawkes responded yes.
Councilman Mangini referred to the mitigation concerning invasive species and questioned whether this is approved by environmentalists. Mr. Hawkes responded yes.
Councilman Mangini questioned whether the bike path cost is built into the grant money, or are those extra dollars. Mr. Hawkes responded the bike path is part of the project. Councilman Mangini questioned the cost of the bike path, and Mr. Hawkes noted he would have to break out that figure. Mr. Coppler pointed out this project is going out to bid December 30th. He noted to make a change to the design would mean that this project won’t go out until 2011. He added they can provide the cost of the bike path.
Councilman Hall commended Town staff for a great job in moving this project forward.
Councilman Edgar stated his understanding there’s no guarantee additional funding will be coming forth, and Mr. Hawkes responded there’s a good chance they will get more stimulus money.
Councilman Edgar questioned the total cost of this project for the Town of Enfield. Mr. Coppler responded approximately $1.6 million dollars. He noted if the project comes in
lower, the Town’s match would be lower. He stated the stimulus money would take out the matching requirement portion. He pointed out there’s a lot of dependency on ultimately what the bid is and ultimately how much money the Town is getting from the stimulus funds.
Councilman Edgar questioned what’s available in the CIP fund for this project, and Mr. Coppler responded through Roads 2005, there’s a million dollars, they have another $550,000 from the funds from the prison agreement, and last year the Council budgeted another $200,000 towards this project. He added his belief there a little money left over in a couple of the design projects for CIP’s. He noted this adds up to over $1.7 million dollars.
Chairman Kaupin stated the CRCOG policy board makes the decisions on the additional ARRA funding. He noted in sitting through those meetings, the bids are coming in much lower. He stated at the December meeting, Enfield received funding for Raffia Road and the South Maple Street Bridge. He noted the ARRA money is starting to loosen up, and CRCOG is watching it very closely because they understand the money needs to be spent, and the Enfield projects are high priority projects on the list.
Councilman Lee stated he is impressed by the amount of drainage that will be corrected and improved in this project. He voiced his support of this project.
Councilman Bosco voiced his support of the project because needed drainage work will get done, and the Town will have a new road.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #706 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #707 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Nelson.
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council has identified weaknesses in the delivery of service by the North Central District Health Department (NCDHD); and
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council, after considering the proposed changes offered by the NCDHD Board of Directors to correct those weaknesses, concludes that it is in the best interest of the citizens of Enfield to withdraw from the NCDHD; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 19a-246 of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut pertaining to public health, the Town of Enfield must notify NCDHD prior to January 1st in any year must by vote pass a resolution to withdraw from the District such withdrawal to become effective July 1, 2010,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council does hereby adopt this resolution to withdraw from the North Central Health Department effective July 1, 2010.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Manager is directed to take any necessary actions to either create a single municipal health department or to join with other municipalities to create a new regional health department pursuant to the Statutes of the State of Connecticut. Final approval to be given by the Enfield Town Council prior to implementation.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the date in the third paragraph from July 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011 and amend the date in the fourth paragraph from July 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011.
Councilman Lee stated his understanding this amendment is empowering the Town Manager and municipality to hold the Board of Directors accountable to the changes they’ve spelled out. He noted he would like the District’s leadership to provide an update every six to eight weeks. He stated his belief this shows that Enfield is serious about making an improvement, and they’ll clearly hold the District accountable.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 8-1-0, with Councilman Mangini voting against the amendment.
Councilman Mangini stated she understands the intent, but has difficulty with the content. She agreed with Councilman Lee, however, by reading this resolution, they’re contradicting their content. She noted the first “Whereas” is fine, however, the second “Whereas” says the Town Council concludes it’s in the best interest of the people of Enfield to withdraw. She pointed out that’s not what has been said, but rather it’s been said they’re going to appoint the Town Manager to sit on the Board, they have a liaison, they’re going to monitor the District, they have a criteria and a measurement. She noted the third paragraph sets the District up for failure by mentioning a pull-out date. She went on to note the fourth paragraph mentions adopting the resolution in order to withdraw. She stated this is confusing because if they’re going forward in good faith, shouldn’t the Council wordsmith this resolution a little. She noted she can’t support this resolution since it’s all negative.
Councilman Nelson stated the Town Manager is only one Board member out of many members. He noted the Board has made some big promises to all the communities about changes they’re going to make, therefore, all they have to do is implement those promises. He stated if they do these things, he believes this will be a phenomenal Health District for all towns involved, however, if they don’t, Enfield is out, and this is their notice. He pointed out the Board now has a year notice that if they don’t change their ways, Enfield will pull out.
Councilman Kiner stated he doesn’t feel this resolution does much of anything. He noted the Town warned them, and they’ve responded with a lot of answers. He stated he would like to take the District at their word for it. He noted if they fail to deliver on their promise, then he agrees they should look at this again next year.
Referring to the second paragraph, Councilman Mangini questioned how they can conclude something that can’t be concluded until they get to the conclusion. Attorney Deneen stated the Whereas clauses are really preliminary or prefatory, and the “Now Therefore” is what the Council is actually resolving to do. He noted if the Council adopts it, then the Council, as a body, has reached that conclusion.
Mr. Coppler stated when this resolution was written, the intent was to withdraw directly from the Health District. He agreed what is happening now does change that. Councilman Mangini stated she would entertain a motion to address the language.
AMENDMENT #2 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Lee to strike the second paragraph.
Councilman Mangini stated she would feel more comfortable with this amendment because they wouldn’t be setting up the District for failure. She noted she believes in being fair, honest and open and giving the District the opportunity to do their job.
Councilman Nelson voiced support of the amendment.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #2 adopted 8-1-0, with Councilman Bosco voting against the amendment.
Councilman Bosco stated earlier in the day, he was going to vote to get rid of the District. He stated his belief they’ve had their fair warning. He noted they have one more year than they would have had with him earlier today.
Chairman Kaupin stated he too was ready to vote for 2010 based on conversation. He stated his belief this is a fair compromise. He noted the District promised a lot, but promises have to be delivered on. He stated he would like to see the Health District report back to the Council at the second meeting of February, April and June.
Councilman Keller stated he was on the same page with Councilmen Bosco and Kaupin, however, he believes this is really about accountability. He noted the Town of Enfield is the customer, and they’re demanding good customer service.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #707 adopted 8-2-0, with Councilmen Kiner and Edgar voting against the resolution.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Commended Mr. Hawkes for his presentation on the road project. He stated his recollection the original estimate for the bike path was the addition of $1.2 million dollars. He referred to the banked road vs. crowned road and stated banked roads are for southern roads because they don’t have to be concerned about ice and snow. He stated crowned roads are crowned so that when a car slides off the road, it goes out of the other lane. He noted the riprap will narrow the water stream, and it will increase the velocity, which will in turn increase scarfing, which can create potential problems. He stated it appeared to him that the riprap needed to be pushed back so they don’t narrow the river in that area.
Referring to the walkway being on the north side, Mr. Sheridan questioned whether they still plan to do land takes, and if so, it was his impression the land takes were to be on the other side of the road because there were problems with the north side. He questioned if they’re going to change the actual flow of the center line of the road, and will they add to the left side of the bridge or both sides of the bridge.
Referring to building heights, Mr. Sheridan stated perhaps Jose should look at these regulations for the future. He stated his belief it would be much better to use ratios.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Nelson agreed with Mr. Sheridan. He stated his belief the Plan of Conservation and Development will be going before Planning & Zoning very shortly.
Councilman Hall suggested perhaps Mr. Hawkes can call Mr. Sheridan to explain the decision to build banked roads. As concerns the bike path, she noted the last Plan of Conservation and Development called for a lot more passive recreation, and that’s what generated the idea of the bike path.
Councilman Lee congratulated the Enfield Dolphins who have a 2 and 0 record so far this year. He requested an update on the Fermi filter CIP project. Mr. Coppler indicated he would provide that.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #708 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #708 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
Appended to minutes of December 21, 2009
Regular Town Council Meeting
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO.____________
AGREEMENT BETWEEN STATE OF CONNECTICUT AND TOWN OF ENFIELD FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF POST OFFICE ROAD/TOWN FARM ROAD UTILIZING FEDERAL FUNDS UNDER THE AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009 public law 111-5 (HEREAFTER “aCT”)
Whereas, the required contract plans, specifications and estimates have been prepared for the Reconstruction of Post Office Road/Town Farm Road, from 120 feet easterly of the Post Office Rd./Raffia Rd./Simon Rd. intersection to 142 feet easterly of the intersection improvements with Abbe Road and Town Farm Road, a distance totaling approximately 6,680 feet; and
WHEREAS, said reconstruction includes, but is not limited to, full depth pavement
reconstruction; widening of bridge no. 3944 over the Scantic River, installation of riprap for scour protection of the abutments, control and removal of invasive vegetation; construction of a 10 foot wide bikeway along the length of the project; replacement of an existing water main (Hazardville Water Co.); new drainage system, curbing and landscaping, herein identified as State Project No. 48-186 and Federal-aid Project No. H011(002), (hereinafter referred to as the “Project(s)”); and
Whereas, the Municipality shall be responsible for the construction phase of the
Project(s), which includes, but is not limited to, administration, inspection, and construction engineering services in conjunction therewith; and
Whereas, the Act has appropriated Three Hundred Two Million Dollars ($302,000,000) to the State to provide funding for highways, bridges and other public safety projects; and
Whereas, the funding appropriated by the State for the Post Office Road/Town Farm Road Project shall be $2,851,000.00 under the Act; and
WHEREAS, if additional funding is necessary to construct the Project(s), municipal funding would be required and may be supplemented if funds are available; and
WHEREAS, Section 13a-165 of the Connecticut General Statutes, as revised, provides that the Commissioner of Transportation is authorized…“(b) to apply for and to obtain moneys, grants or other benefits from the United States or any agency thereof in connection with roads, bridges or highways and (c) to approve all programs, conclude all agreements, accept all deeds, make all claims for payment, certify all matters and do any and all other acts and things necessary or desirable to meet the requirements of and obtain such moneys, grants or benefits from the United States or other agency thereof.”, and
WHEREAS, the Municipality has requested that federal funding be obligated so that Project related construction activities can be authorized.
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize and direct Matthew W. Coppler, as Town Manager in accordance with the Charter of the Town of Enfield and the applicable Connecticut Statutes and Regulations, to execute and deliver any and all documents on behalf of the Town of Enfield and to do and perform all acts and things which he deems necessary or appropriate to carry out the terms of such documents, including, but not limited to signing the agreement entitled: Agreement between State of Connecticut & Town of Enfield For The Construction, Inspection and Maintenance of Post Office /Town Farm Road Utilizing Federal Funds Under The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act Of 2009 Public Law 111-5 (hereinafter “Act”).
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