ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2010
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, February 1, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Nelson.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Bosco, Crowley, Dumont. Edgar, Hall, Kaupin, Keller, Kiner, Lee, Mangini and Nelson. 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 #746 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the minutes of the January 19, 2010 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #746 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #747 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the January 19, 2010 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #747 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #748 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the January 20, 2010 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #748 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Edgar and Keller abstaining.
SPECIAL GUESTS
Chairman Kaupin presented a proclamation to Mary Ann Burns of the American Heart Association designating February as American Heart Month and February 5, 2010 as “Wear Red for Women Day”.
Judge of Probate, Susan Warner, spoke about the efforts to consolidate with Somers and Stafford.
Judge Warner discussed some changes in the probate court system that have occurred as a result of Connecticut legislation regarding probate court reform, which was passed in 2009. She noted significant changes go into effect in January, 2011, but much planning and preparation is underway now and has been for months. She stated she has kept the Town Manager informed about the status of what’s taking place, and she met with Council leadership as well.
She explained probate courts are statutory courts under the laws of Connecticut, and they have jurisdiction pursuant to the statutes over matters including administration of decedents’ estates, trusts, children’s matters such as guardianship, termination of parental rights, adoption, etc.
Judge Warner pointed out Connecticut has 117 probate courts. She noted probate courts are not a municipal department, but most are located within municipal buildings as in Enfield. She stated under Connecticut General Statutes, there’s a statute that requires the town or towns comprising each probate district to provide court facilities meeting minimum standards required by that section.
She stated Enfield’s probate court has become a little cramped in recent years, and they could use space for an additional clerk. She noted at times people in the waiting room spill out into the hall. She acknowledged the Town Council has always been extremely accommodating, and they have nicely appointed facilities. She noted the budget has generally been around $15,000 in recent years. She pointed out Enfield isn’t responsible for paying the salaries of the judge and staff.
Judge Warner stated the 2009 legislation will cause a reduction in the number of courts in the state from 117 to 54, therefore, courts will consolidate. She noted the public act establishes a new regional court for this area as of January, 2011. She stated Enfield will be part of a regional court comprised of the towns of Enfield, Somers and Stafford. She noted Somers and Stafford are currently one court located in Stafford. She stated the regionalized court would serve a population of 67,000 people as opposed to the 45,000 that Enfield currently serves.
She stated the Public Court Administrator, who is appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, has authority to promulgate the regulations regarding management of these courts. She noted the probate districts have to be named by March 31, 2010, and this deadline was set so that the names of the districts would be finalized in time for the nominating process for the 2010 election cycle, and the election for the judges for each of the 54 new courts will take place on November 2, 2010.
Judge Warner stated they expect the consolidated courts will be able to use existing facilities in one of the towns in the district, but larger facilities will clearly be necessary in some situations, and they definitely would be necessary in this situation. She pointed out the courts in Enfield and Stafford are not big enough to handle the increased volume of a multi-town district court without at least some renovation or expansion. She estimated the need of five to six clerks in a regionalized district, some of which would be part-time.
She stated the decision as to where the court will be located is up to the governing bodies of the towns in the district. She noted she can make herself available for discussions regarding the location and is happy to participate. She stated Councilmen Kiner and Lee have been involved as Council liaisons for meetings with the other towns. She noted so far, they’ve had one meeting with the other towns, and she was present.
Judge Warner stated her understanding they’re looking for the most fiscally sound approach, but they also need to keep in mind geography and where the bulk of the population is located in the district.
She noted the statute provides that municipal expenses to support a probate court are to be allocated among the towns in the district according to their grand list. She stated historically, when there have been multi-town districts, sometimes they make other arrangements aside from just the grand list, therefore, it’s flexible.
Judge Warner stated as concerns municipal budgets, the Probate Administration is recommending the host town treat the probate court like a department of the town for budget purposes. She noted under this system, the other towns in the district contribute their proportionate share of the court’s budget, which in turn pays the expenses on behalf of the court. She stated, as noted in the Probate Administrator’s letter, it’s imperative that towns plan their fiscal year 2010/2011 budgets with the needs of the new courts in mind. She noted the second half of the fiscal year will involve the budget of the new multi-town district. She stated they’ll have the usual operating expenses of the courts, but they’ll also need to consider expenses associated with the establishment of the new probate district, including budgeting for facility modifications, furniture, equipment and possibly moving expenses.
She stated she met with the Town Manager, Assistant Town Manager and Director of Finance last week and reminded them of the additional expenses in the second half of the fiscal year of 2010/2011, which will hopefully be shared with the other towns. She acknowledged it’s very difficult to figure out expenses until they know where the court is to be located and what needs to be done to get that facility ready for January, 2011. She encouraged the Council to move forward in determining the location of the court.
Councilman Mangini stated this appears to be another unfunded mandate, and the Council doesn’t have enough money to support the town. She noted looking for a location before finding the dollars is like putting the cart before the horse and puts Enfield in a very compromised position because of the dollars.
Councilman Kiner questioned what extra costs would Stafford and Somers not pick up if the court is to be located in Enfield. Judge Warner stated those towns are supposed to contribute toward expenses according to their grand list. Mr. Coppler stated there could be additional costs once they determine the location.
Councilman Kiner stated with the bulk of residents coming from Enfield, it makes sense that the court should be located in Enfield. Mr. Coppler stated either they would remain at the current location with some expansion, move to the eastern part of Enfield, or locate the court in Somers. He noted they are generating costs if the location were to remain at Town Hall, and he’s waiting for cost estimates for the eastern part of Enfield, and Somers is working on some costs.
Councilman Crowley questioned the possibility of having offices in Stafford and Enfield, whereby Stafford’s office might run on a part-time basis so that Stafford and Somers cases could be handled in that area and the Enfield cases would be handled at the Enfield location. Judge Warner noted this was the first question she raised, but the Probate Administrator’s position is that they want one location. She stated the Probate Administration said they will not service the computer system at a second facility.
Councilman Crowley stated his hope the Probate Court will remain in Enfield. He stated his belief this is a great service to residents, and the Enfield Probate Court is very busy.
Councilman Lee questioned whether the Administrator received suggested names. Judge Warner stated there were a couple names submitted.
Chairman Kaupin questioned how do the towns actually come to the decision regarding location. Mr. Coppler stated in the end it’s about the money. He added his belief there’s an openness to keep the court in Enfield.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Olivia Kidman, 5 Park Avenue
Explained she started a group called, “Making a Difference”. She noted she started this group at Facebook and hopes to bring it further than Facebook. She listed some of the activities this group would be involved in – door-to-door collection of food; foster homes for animals to help people whose homes are being foreclosed; Enfield Clean Up on Earth Day, tutoring, provision of transportation for job interviews, clean up of the Green Manor Pond, etc.
Ms. Kidman requested the assistance of the Town Council in making photocopies of a flyer to promote this group. She noted she would like to post this flyer at the soup kitchen, grocery stores and possibly distribute them door-to-door.
Chairman Kaupin suggested Ms. Kidman provide a copy of the flyer, and the Council will look into getting copies from businesses in Enfield.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Expressed his disappointment with the Board of Education giving in to the demands of the ACLU regarding the graduation location. He noted there are organizations at the federal and state level willing to take on the fight in this situation.
Mr. Sheridan stated he’s against covering the fields for graduation. He noted there are other locations on grass where they could hold the graduation. He pointed out the cost is much greater to have the event on the fields than having it at First Cathedral. He noted if it rains, tickets will be reduced to two.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated at the last census, the per capita income in Enfield was $21,967. She noted this makes Enfield one of the poorest towns in Connecticut. She noted it’s evident that Enfield’s state representatives have not taken time to figure the load of social services that their town is carrying within this small area of the state. She agreed people who have fallen on hard times have to be taken care of, but Enfield seems to be the place to come to for help.
Ms. Jedziniak stated a few sizeable agricultural farms and landscaping businesses are located in the immediate area. She noted Enfield has a downtown clinic that takes care of the farm workers’ health care in Enfield along with the workers in surrounding towns.
She noted Enfield Schools have clinics to serve low-income students for their dental needs. She questioned if Enfield is the town for all these regional clinics to be located. She noted people have asked her what percentage of liability does Enfield have and how many town buildings will be given over to these enterprises in the future.
Ms. Jedziniak stated all the outsiders coming in to Enfield take a toll on the police, and they’re becoming overburdened. She questioned when some of the other towns will take over some of the regional problems in this area.
Ms. Jedziniak stated anytime something regional comes in, it always ends up in Enfield because it’s the largest town, however, Enfield is one of the poorest towns.
She pointed out over 600 Enfield school children receive free lunches.
Ms. Jedziniak concluded stating Enfield is going downhill fast, and she wishes the Council would realize Enfield isn’t the only town in this area.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini stated she recently received a lot of complaints about The Reminder paper being tossed into people’s driveways. She noted this is creating an eyesore. She suggested perhaps they can talk to The Reminder with respect to the Town’s blight concerns.
Councilman Mangini commended Olivia Kidman and other young people who are looking to do positive things for people and animals. She requested Ms. Kidman notify the Town Manager’s office so they can learn if there are any adults assisting and guiding these young people with their efforts.
Councilman Crowley stated there was a meeting with the water company on Thursday afternoon, and it was a good meeting. He noted the water company and contractor have been very cooperative. He acknowledged they’re doing the best they can with Alden Avenue and High Street. He noted there isn’t much that can be done during the winter months. He noted the water company followed up right away regarding a resident’s water problem.
Councilman Kiner questioned how the Council can find the link regarding the topic raised by Olivia Kidman. Chairman Kaupin stated he will forward that link to the Town Council.
Councilman Dumont commended Ms. Kidman on her efforts. She suggested she keep the Council updated on how this group is doing.
Councilman Dumont stated there will be a Connecticut Loves to Read Day on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Enfield Central Library on Middle Road from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Councilman Hall offered to do some copying for Ms. Kidman’s flyer.
Councilman Nelson stated other Council members can chip in to run copies for Ms. Kidman. He commended Ms. Kidman for her efforts.
MOTION #749 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move to Miscellaneous Items 14A, C1, D, E, F, G and H.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #749 adopted 10-0-0, with Councilman Lee absent at the vote.
Councilman Nelson stated he sent the Town Manager an e-mail about the possibility of installing a stop sign at the intersection of Main Street. He noted there have been complaints about speeding in this area.
Chairman Kaupin stated there will be a retirement send-off for Susan Lott, Children’s Librarian at Enfield Central Library. He noted this event will take place Friday, February 5, 2010 at the library between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. He thanked Ms. Lott for her years of service.
Chairman Kaupin requested the Town Manager coordinate a joint hearing with the Planning & Zoning Commission regarding the Plan of Conservation & Development.
Chairman Kaupin referred to a recap he heard at a recent CRCOG meeting concerning the financial troubles faced by the State of Connecticut. He noted the projected $500 million dollar budget deficit of this current year pales in comparison to the projected $3.6 billion dollar deficit for the next fiscal year. He stated this will make the Town’s job very challenging. He requested this information be posted on the Town’s website with a link and possibly a Q-Alert e-mail can direct people to that link so Enfield residents can read about this financial picture for the coming year.
Chairman Kaupin stated the Four Chaplains’ Mass is scheduled for February 7th at St. Adalbert’s Church beginning at 11:00 a.m. He explained this service recognizes the heroism of four chaplains who gave up their life vests for sailors aboard the Dorchester when it was hit by a German torpedo and sunk.
Chairman Kaupin commended Ms. Kidman’s efforts and noted she has the Council’s support.
Chairman Kaupin recognized Boy Scout Troop #108 present at this evening’s meeting. He noted they are working on their merit badges.
Chairman Kaupin stated there will be a meeting of the group, “Making a Difference” on February 25, 2010 at 3:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Coppler invited Daniel Lesnieski, Infrastructure Rehabilitation Manager for Connecticut Water and Jack Keith, Northeast Regional Manager for Connecticut Water.
Mr. Lesnieski thanked Councilman Crowley and Town staff for helping facilitate a very productive meeting last week. He noted absent of being able to do any real physical improvements to the roads, they will continue to maintain those roads. He stated they have a schedule for completion of the work in the middle of April. He noted there will be direct communication to the customers on both of the roads effected by the water main projects so there will be a clear understanding of when work will be done. He stated at this time, they’re restricted by the weather.
Mr. Coppler stated staff is looking at different options and still working on numbers concerning a covering for the athletic fields. He noted they’re also looking at using one of the natural turf areas for graduation. He stated more details will be forwarded to the Council as soon as possible.
Councilman Crowley stated his belief they shouldn’t have to include a cost for chair rentals.
Councilman Nelson questioned how many chairs were stored improperly and had to be disposed of, and Mr. Coppler stated approximately 125 chairs were discarded.
Councilman Lee stated his understanding there’s a limitation of the types of activities that can take place on the Fermi remediated soils. He requested those limitations be provided in writing. Mr. Coppler indicated he’d look into that.
Councilman Lee stated there’s currently a CCM research request to learn if some other community has a field covering which Enfield could possibly borrow. He noted that information should be available by the end of the week.
Mr. Coppler stated a question was raised as to when they’d be doing the presentation of the audit findings, and they may be doing this at the February 16th or March 1st meeting.
Mr. Coppler noted he will talk to the Police Department regarding a stop sign on North Main Street.
As concerns the Plan of Conservation and Development, Mr. Coppler noted he spoke with the Town Planner about a two-meeting setup. He explained early in the process, they’d have a formal presentation before the Council, Planning & Zoning and the public perhaps in an auditorium setting, not necessarily to drive a lot of comment, but there will be a point for comment at that meeting. He pointed out they are working with a 65-day window. He noted toward the end of the process, they could then have the formal public hearing in cooperation with the Planning & Zoning Commission, and they could get comments from the public. He stated they would like to do the presentation as soon as possible, i.e., sometime in mid to late February.
Councilman Crowley stated the streetlights are out from Russell Street to Pearl Street. Mr. Coppler stated Buildings & Grounds is trying to isolate what circuit went down. He indicated he’d get an update on this.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Deneen stated the biggest thing coming up will be the Governor’s address on Wednesday, which will present the budget adjustments for the 2012 budget and also any additional mitigation items. He noted they will work with the Town Manager’s staff in terms of any adjustments to any of the mandate issues.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated she attended the CIRMA annual meeting last week. She noted the keynote speaker was Thomas Sullivan, the State Insurance Commissioner. She noted Enfield is very active with CIRMA, and she believes it’s important the town stays active with that group.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
All Town Council and Town Manager appointments remained tabled.
Items C, D, and E remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #750 by Councilman Kiner to reappoint Leonard DeLorge (D) to the Connecticut River Assembly as an Alternate for a term which expires 1/12/ 2013.
MOTION #751 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Keller to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #751 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Leonard DeLorge reappointed to the Connecticut River Assembly by an 11-0-0 vote.
DISCUSSION RE: COVERING OF ATHLETIC FIELDS FOR EVENT USE
Chairman Kaupin noted this item was addressed under the Town Manager’s report. There were no further comments, and this item will be moved to Old Business.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
All items have been moved to Miscellaneous.
MISCELLANEOUS
MOTION #752 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Nelson to approve the Consent Agenda. Transfer $800 Police Department Overtime
Transfer $7,500 DPW Professional Services
copies appended
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #752 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #753 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kiner to accept the Town Manager’s recommendation to reappoint Robert Stefanik (D) to the Fair Rent Commission for a term which expires 6/30/2011.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #753 adopted 10-0-0, Councilman Nelson absent at vote.
RESOLUTION #754 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, Congressman Courtney, Senator Dodd and Senator Lieberman are accepting applications for projects from municipalities seeking funding through Federal Appropriations;
WHEREAS, federal funding will reduce the local tax burden associated with these projects; and
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council is interested in submitting applications for federal funding of these important projects.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOVLED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the Town Manger to submit applications to Congressman Courtney, Senator Dodd and Senator Lieberman to obtain federal funding for the following projects:
Project Funding Request
Radio Communications Improvement Project $6,100,000
Enfield Transit Center $7,000,000
Higgins School Building Renovations $6,000,000
Mullen Road Reconstruction $5,059,584
Enfield Road Improvements Program $6,800,000
Bridge Lane Improvements $ 760,000
Elm Street Improvements $1,000,000
Mr. Coppler explained every year the Town submits projects to the federal delegation – Congressman Courtney, Senator Dodd and Senator Lieberman, on important projects for the Town of Enfield. He noted this has been fairly successful in the recent past. He pointed out the Town Farm Road/Post Office Road project is a federal earmark received by the Town a number of years ago. He stated another successful earmark is the South Maple Street Bridge. He noted more recently, the Town received nearly a million dollars for the Enfield Transit Center on top of the nearly $3 million received in the past as well as $750,000 for the radio communications improvement project.
He stated this resolution doesn’t reflect the most updated cost, therefore, an amendment is needed.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Mangini to increase the Funding Request as follows:
Project Funding Request
Radio Communications Improvement Project $6,750,000
Enfield Transit Center $7,014,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0, Councilman Hall absent at vote.
Mr. Coppler stated the listing within the resolution shows the priority rankings. He noted the newest project included is the Mullen Road Reconstruction. He stated this is a substandard road, and there’s potential for redevelopment in that area, therefore, they believe this is a priority as well.
Councilman Nelson stated his understanding Elm Street is a state road. Mr. Coppler stated this is the section that breaks off near Moody Road and continues to Hazard Avenue.
Councilman Mangini questioned whether they can calculate what’s already been received as an offset on some projects, i.e., the radio project. Mr. Coppler referred to the summary sheet which shows the total project cost. He noted what they’re requesting is based upon the other funding sources.
Councilman Nelson questioned whether they should be asking for money to assist people who are losing their jobs and homes. He suggested a line item asking for $5 million dollars for unfunded mandates. He stated his belief it’s time to be real with the government. He noted the government is placing all these unfunded mandates on towns, and towns should start asking the government to pay for those mandates.
Mr. Coppler stated this is geared more toward project dollars.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #754 adopted, as amended, by an 11-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #755 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Nelson.
BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter V, Section 14 of the Town Charter, the rates of pay for the following election workers will be increased by the following:
Checkers, Machine Clerks, and Demonstrators $8.25 per hour effective 01/01/2010
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter V, Section 14 of the Town Charter, the rates of pay for the following election workers will be decreased by the following:
Ballot Clerks $8.25 per hour effective 01/01/2010
Councilman Lee questioned whether there will be other motions similar to this representing changes in rates for other seasonal or part-time workers who are making minimum wage. Mr. Coppler stated he will look into this.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Nelson to change the word “by” to “to” in each paragraph of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #755 adopted, as amended, 11-0-0.
MOTION #756 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #756 adopted 9-2-0, with Councilman Lee and Nelson voting against the motion.
RESOLUTION #757 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Lee.
Resolution for the Town to Enter Into an Agreement with the
State of Connecticut DOT for the South Maple Street Bridge
copy appended
Mr. Hawkes updated the Council on the South Maple Street Bridge project. He noted the State has authorized the Town to do a two-phase process for the bridge. He explained the first process is to procure the concrete beams and abutments. He noted they’re at the 90% design stage, and they’re on hold waiting for DEP’s comments. He stated if the comments are good, they’ll proceed with advertising for materials by March. He noted they’ll obtain the materials by mid-October. He stated in the meantime, they’ll start Phase II of the project, which will entail hiring a contractor to actually put the pieces together. He noted they’ll advertise for that in April or May of this year. He stated the bridge should be built by the end of the year. He noted if DEP determines they need a diversion permit, that would be a 12 to 18 month process, which would delay the project. He stated DEP says because they’re expanding the width of the bridge, they’re increasing the flow through that reach. He suggested the engineers look at this and possibly keep the existing abutments in place and build the new abutments behind them so that they’re not expanding the width of the channel.
Mr. Hawkes stated there was a public informational meeting about a month and a half ago, and one of the main issues raised was whether they could add additional sidewalks to the project, extending from the project up to Hazard Avenue. He noted after that meeting, he sent out a survey to all abutters asking whether they’re interested in sidewalks. He stated he also sent the snow ordinance informing abutters they’d be responsible to clear those sidewalks of snow. He noted he sent this notice to 19 abutters, and 8 abutters responded with six not in favor of sidewalks.
Councilman Nelson questioned what happens to the stimulus money if they have to wait for a permit because of the widening of the channel. Mr. Hawkes stated there’s no stimulus money involved in this project. He noted they have high priority project money, STB urban money and Town CIP money.
Councilman Crowley requested an update at the next meeting as to what was actually approved and what it will look like.
Councilman Hall questioned when DEP will respond concerning a diversion permit. Mr. Hawkes estimated a couple weeks. Councilman Hall questioned whether it would help to contact the Town’s legislators to help this process along, and Mr. Hawkes responded that wouldn’t hurt.
Councilman Nelson stated his belief it’s absurd that the Town might lose funding on the Town Farm Road project when it’s almost time to start the project. Mr. Coppler stated his belief everything is being done at the state level to go forward.
Councilman Lee questioned the possibility of having a letter ready to go concerning this issue, and Mr. Coppler indicated that can be done.
Chairman Kaupin agreed with having a letter ready. He noted the key points of these projects should be highlighted for the legislators so they can address this with DOT, DEP and the Governor’s office.
Councilman Lee questioned whether any thought has been given to what might be improved pedestrian access regarding the South Maple Street Bridge project. Mr. Hawkes stated they talked to DOT about that, and DOT indicated they wouldn’t have a problem if the Town was willing to cover that cost.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #757 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #758 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Nelson.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Matthew W. Coppler, is authorized to enter into and amend contractual instruments with the Greater New Haven Transit District for the procurement of a lift-equipped mini-bus and to affix the Corporate Seal.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #758 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #759 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Dumont.
WHEREAS, Staff identified deficiencies in the existing alarm ordinance and have proposed amendments to the ordinance to correct these deficiencies; and
WHEREAS, Council wishes to seek input on these changes from the public.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Hall Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at 6:50 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinions regarding the Proposed Amendment to Alarm Ordinance.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #759 adopted 11-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Referring to the South Maple Street Bridge project, Mr. Sheridan stated his understanding construction costs are going down. He went on to note that he went to engineering to look at drawings because he had questions about the riprap to protect the foundations of the bridge, particularly the Post Office Road Bridge. He stated he was concerned the riprap would increase the velocity of the river because it seemed to narrow the river. He noted as it turns out, they corrected that, and engineering has corrected drawings which show the velocity hasn’t changed.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Lee stated for a couple years, there has been an effort funded by the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism to do an assessment and inventory of New England barns. He noted the Connecticut Trust has put together a program, along with the State, and this program will make a stop in Enfield. He stated it’s being sponsored by the Enfield Conservation Commission, along with the Enfield Historical Society. He added his belief the Revitalization Committee and the Hazardville Institute Conservancy are also involved. He pointed out there will be some slides on E-TV in the near future. He noted there will be a presentation at Town Hall on Wednesday, March 31st at 7:00 p.m. He stated an RSVP is required by calling (203) 562-6312.
Chairman Kaupin requested the Town Manager’s office coordinate an RSVP.
Chairman Kaupin stated this past weekend, he noticed many unshoveled sidewalks. He stated his belief the Town isn’t actively enforcing the ordinance. He noted they have to do better, or they have to revise the ordinance. He stated for the next Council meeting, he wants a full report as to how many sidewalks have been cited.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #760 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Nelson to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #760 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Appended to minutes of 02/01/2010
Regular Town Council Meeting
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS
RESOLUTION NO. ________
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made.
TO: 2100 Police
Overtime 0100-01-0020-2100-00000-0140-00 $800.00
FROM:
Contributions/donations
0100-01-00-0000-17050-000-00 $800.00
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that the above-stated funds are available as of January 26 2010.
A. Lynn Nenni, Director of Finance
APPROVED BY: __________________________ Town Manager Date: _____
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS
RESOLUTION NO. ________
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made.
TO: 3700 Highway Maintenance
Other Professional Services
0100-01-30-3700-00000-0339 $7,500.00
FROM: 3700 Highway Maintenance
Disposal Services
0100-01-0030-3700-00000-0421 $7,500.00
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that the above-stated funds are available as of January 14, 2010.
A. Lynn Nenni, Director of Finance
APPROVED BY: ___________________________ Town Manager Date: _____
Appended to minutes of 02/01/2010
Regular Town Council Meeting
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO.____________
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT AND THE TOWN OF ENFIELD FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONTRACT PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS AND ESTIMATES FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF SOUTH MAPLE STREET BRIDGE #03972 UTILIZING FEDERAL FUNDS FROM THE HIGH PRIORITY PROJECTS PROGRAM
Whereas, the required contract plans, specifications and estimates are to be prepared for the Replacement of South Maple Street Bridge #03972 and road way approaches, hereinafter referred to as “improvements”; and
WHEREAS, said improvements include, but are not limited to, replacement of the bridge over the Scantic River with a new bridge, concrete sidewalks, drainage, shoulders and curbing, herein identified as State Project No. 48-192 and Federal-aid Project No. H097(001), hereinafter referred to as “the Project”; and
Whereas, the Safe, Accountable, Flexible Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU or the Act) provides funding authorization “for Federal-aid highways, highway safety programs, and transit programs, and for other purposes”; and
Whereas, the Project is eligible for funding under the High Priority Projects Program (HPPP) as defined in Title I, Section 1701 of the Act; and
Whereas, the State shall administer said federal funding received in conjunction with the Project and reimburse the Municipality for expenses incurred, upon approval of same; and
WHEREAS, Connecticut General Statutes §13a-165, as revised, authorizes the Commissioner of Transportation…“(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 Town has requested that federal funding be obligated so that Project-related design activities 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 and the applicable 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 Development of Contract Plans, Specifications, and Estimates For The Replacement of the South Maple Street Bridge #03972 Utilizing Federal Funds From The High Priority Projects Program.” |