MINUTES ADOPTED AS PRESENTED 06/07/2010
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING
MONDAY, MAY 17, 2010
A Special 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, May 17, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m.
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; Director of Finance, Lynn Nenni
RESOLUTION #896 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Hall.
RESOLVED, that pages 13-14, General Fund Revenue Summary and page 17, Summary of Expenditure of the Town Budget, as submitted by the Town Manager and the estimates for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2010 and ending June 30, 2011 including estimates of receipts and expenditures and recommendations of said Town of Enfield for:
Emergency Medical Services (pgs. 97, 100);
Water Pollution Control (pgs. 103, 105);
Social Services Fund (pgs. 110, 115);
Dog Fund (pgs. 141-142);
Information Technology Fund (pgs. 145 - 147); and
Recreation Fund (pgs. 151-153, 155, 157)
Insurance Fund (pgs. 161-162);
Capital Improvement Fund (pgs. 165-166)
be accepted and approved by the Town Council of the Town of Enfield.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Bosco, seconded by Councilman Keller to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 19 in accordance with the following schedule: (professional development/travel)
TOWN COUNCIL FROM TO
PURCHASED PROF. & TECHNICAL SVCE. $51,450 $48,400
OTHER PURCHASED SERVICES $16,735 $11,300
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #2 by Councilman Keller, seconded by Councilman Lee to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 21 in accordance with the following schedule: (health insurance, social security)
TOWN MANAGER FROM TO
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $77,751 $74,954
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #2 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #3 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Dumont to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 23 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, social security, Medicare, health ins)
FROM TO
TOWN ATTORNEY
PERSONAL SERVICES $262,172 $226,379
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $ 62,980 $ 44,651
PURCHASED PROF. & TECHNICAL SVCE. $ 90,592 $ 95,592
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #3 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #4 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 27 in accordance with the following schedule: (social security)
FROM TO
REGISTRAR OF VOTERS
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $6,409 $2,565
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #4 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #5 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Chairman Kaupin to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 29 in accordance with the following schedule: (social security, health ins.)
FROM TO
TOWN CLERK
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $127,660 $123,824
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #5 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #6 by Chairman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 31 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
RECORDS MANAGEMENT
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $21,749 $21,269
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #6 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #7 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 33 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
HUMAN RESOURCES
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $45,754 $44,960
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #7 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #8 by Councilman Kiner, seconded by Councilman Crowley to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 35 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
FINANCE ADMINISTRATION
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $33,309 $32,718
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #8 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #9 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 37 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
TREASURY
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $114,856 $113,212
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #9 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #10 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 39 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
COLLECTION OF REVENUE
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $55,336 $53,848
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #10 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #11 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Bosco to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 41 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
ASSESSOR
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $93,914 $91,621
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #11 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #12 by Councilman Bosco, seconded Keller to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 43 in accordance with the following schedule: (social security, health ins)
FROM TO
GENERAL SERVICES
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $21,158 $18,838
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #12 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #13 by Councilman Keller, seconded by Councilman Lee to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 45 in accordance with the following schedule: (annual funding)
FROM TO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ENFIELD REVITALIZATION $4,000 $3,000
BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE $6,500 $4,000
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMITTEE $6,065 $3,000
CULTURAL ARTS $12,000 $6,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #13 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #14 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Dumont to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 47 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, stipends, health insurance, Medicare, equipment)
FROM TO
PROTECTION OF LIFE & PROPERTY
SALARIES $7,291,318 $7,791,727
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $2,081,022 $2,116,375
PROPERTY $ 39,000 $ 44,000
Chairman Kaupin stated because of incidents in Thompsonville today, this is one amendment the Council needs to support for the Police Department. He noted it’s important to be proactive instead of reactive.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #14 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #15 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 49 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $276,660 $270,935
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #15 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #16 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Chairman Kaupin to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 53 in accordance with the following schedule: (social security)
FROM TO
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $185 $45
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #16 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #17 by Chairman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 59 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, fringe benefits)
FROM TO
BUILDINGS & GROUNDS MAINTENANCE
SALARIES $1,233,424 $1,184,793
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $ 503,250 $ 476,569
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #17 adopted 10-1-0, with Councilman Mangini voting against the amendment.
AMENDMENT #18 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 61 in accordance with the following schedule (social security, health ins)
FROM TO
CUSTODIAL/MAINTENANCE
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $1,031,954 $1,006,255
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #18 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #19 by Councilman Kiner, seconded by Councilman Crowley to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 63 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, fringe benefits)
FROM TO
HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE
SALARIES $638,231 $739,216
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $214,080 $243,880
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #19 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #20 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 65 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, fringe benefits)
FROM TO
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
SALARIES $522,191 $473,561
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $182,093 $163,433
Councilman Kiner questioned whether some of these reductions are due to early retirements. Mr. Coppler explained this is related to the parts position that was removed.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #20 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #21 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 67 in accordance with the following schedule: (salaries, fringe benefits)
FROM TO
REFUSE COLLECTION & DISPOSAL
SALARIES $1,085,794 $1,033,440
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $ 464,688 $ 439,266
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #21 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #22 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Bosco to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 69 in accordance with the following schedule: (part time salaries, fringe benefits)
FROM TO
PUBLIC LIBRARY
SALARIES $980,231 $989,520
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $281,285 $266,921
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #22 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #23 by Councilman Bosco, seconded by Councilman Keller to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 71 in accordance with the following schedule: (fringe benefits, equipment)
FROM TO
ENFIELD TELEVISION
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $7,544 $6,914
PROPERTY $9,600 $5,100
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #23 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #24 by Councilman Keller, seconded by Councilman Lee to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 75 in accordance with the following schedule: (fringe benefits)
FROM TO
PLANNING & ZONING
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $612 $116
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #24 adopted 10-1-0, with Councilman Mangini voting against the amendment.
AMENDMENT #25 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Dumont to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 77 in accordance with the following schedule: (fringe benefits)
FROM TO
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $153 $29
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #25 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #26 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 79 in accordance with the following schedule: (fringe benefits)
FROM TO
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $115 $22
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #26 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #27 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Chairman Kaupin to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget a shown on page 81 in accordance with the following schedule: (fringe benefits)
FROM TO
INLANDS/WETLANDS
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $383 $73
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #27 adopted 10-1-0, with Councilman Mangini voting against the amendment.
AMENDMENT #28 by Chairman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 83 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $54,631 $53,569
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #28 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #29 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 85 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $32,614 $32,036
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #29 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #30 by Councilman Kiner, seconded by Councilman Crowley to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 87 in accordance with the following schedule: (health ins)
FROM TO
BUILDING INSPECTION
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS $74,156 $71,382
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #30 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #31 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 90 in accordance with the following schedule: (liability ins)
FROM TO
INSURANCE AND BOND CHARGES
OTHER PURCHASED SERVICES $532,000 $512,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #31 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #32 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 91 in accordance with the following schedule: (workers comp, pension)
FROM TO
EMPLOYEE BENFITS
MEDICAL/DENTAL INS $ 272,018 $ 312,018
PENSION $1,204,000 $1,144,000
WORKERS’ COMP $ 20,000 $ --
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #32 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #33 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Bosco to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 92 in accordance with the following schedule: (transfers to other funds, contingency, CIP)
FROM TO
MISC CHARGES AND TRANSFERS
FUND TRANSFER-EMS $ 302,536 $ 251,661
FUND TRANSFERS-WPCF $2,092,341 $2,087,871
FUND TRANSFERS-SOCIAL SERVICES $1,547,409 $1,571,066
FUND TRANSFERS-RECREATION $ 420,141 $ 407,509
FUND TRANSFERS-IT $1,634,155 $1,625,549
FUND TRANSFERS-DOG FUND $ 15,000 $ 12,954
FUND TRANSFERS-CIP $1,286,381 $1,511,481
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #33 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #34 by Councilman Bosco, seconded by Councilman Keller to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 93 in accordance with the following schedule: (bonding)
FROM TO
DEBT SERVICE
PURCHASED PROF & TECH SVCES $153,332 $--
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #34 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #35 by Councilman Keller, seconded by Councilman Lee to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget by INCREASING total Town Operations Appropriations as shown on Page 17 from $50,104,797 to $50,375,297.
AMENDMENT #35A by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kiner to increase this figure by $300,000.
Councilman Mangini stated this is due to the fact that the Council has eliminated numerous jobs within this budget session. She pointed out the country is trying to put people back to work. She stated one department hit very hard, in addition to the Board of Education, is the Engineering Department. She voiced concern about the expense involved in contracting out for engineering services. She went on to note that a lot of people losing these jobs are Enfield residents.
Councilman Edgar stated in the review of minutes at the recent budget hearing, he was impressed by comments made by Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall and Thomas and Marilyn Tyler regarding the need for engineering services. He went on to note no one has given any concrete figure as to what consulting costs will be for outside agencies.
Councilman Nelson questioned if there’s a particular place where these extra funds would come from, or is it intended to increase the bottom line. Councilman Mangini responded she is looking to add $300,000 to the budget to restore the Engineering Department.
Councilman Dumont stated her understanding $293,000 was taken from the Engineering budget. She questioned if the Town Manager put some money into a CIP account to pay for outside services, and if so, what was that figure. Mr. Coppler stated they did put money in to cover 10% to 15% for engineering costs for any projects. He pointed out they don’t really have a lot of engineering projects in the upcoming year, therefore, they believe they have a sufficient amount of money.
Chairman Kaupin stated he will not support this amendment. He noted the Town Manager provided recommendations regarding the reorganization of Town Hall. He stated there was a long discussion concerning this topic during budget deliberations, and he’s comfortable with the explanation provided by the Town Manager and Director of Public Works as to how they feel they’re going to take care of these tasks going forward.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #35A defeated by a 4-7-0 vote, with Councilmen Bosco, Dumont, Hall, Kaupin, Keller, Lee and Nelson voting against the amendment.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #35 adopted 7-4-0, with Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Kiner and Mangini voting against the amendment.
AMENDMENT #36 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Dumont to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget by INCREASING the Entire Budget Appropriation s shown on Page 17 from $112,815,804 to $113,086,304.
AMENDMENT #36A by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Crowley to increase this figure by an additional $776,264.
Councilman Mangini explained this is equivalent to 1.24% to restore to the Board of Education the increase they requested. She pointed out this was the bare minimum they requested.
Councilman Hall stated she never received a budget from the Board of Education. She noted if she did have a budget, she might have been able to support the 1.24% increase or Dr. Gallacher’s budget. She stated the Town Attorney provided a memo explaining the Board of Education was not in compliance with Town Charter or state law by proposing the line item they gave the Council. She stated it bothers her to flat fund the Board of Education. She pointed out she has always been very supportive of the Board of Education. She stated her understanding the Town Council will be getting a detailed budget next year.
Councilman Edgar stated he had reservations about supporting this, but he will because he believes this will support the students. He agreed with Councilman Hall in that this is a flagrant violation of the Charter. He noted this was called to the Board of Education’s attention, and there’s a legal opinion from the Town Attorney. He stated the Board of Education did nothing to correct this situation, and they had ample time.
Councilman Kiner stated he will support this amendment.
Councilman Nelson stated the Council did not flat fund the Board of Education this year. He stated the Council took out the Excess Costs, which is $800,000 that the Council budgeted in their budget last year. He noted this year, the Council took the $800,000 out of the General Fund and added that to the Board of Education budget, and they still have $800,000 in an account with the Town of Enfield. He stated the Board can use that $800,000 at any point they choose. He went on to state that without a budget, it’s difficult to add more money to their budget. He stated he sees the Council and Board working together to make some great changes in the Board of Education to hopefully send more money their way for programs for the students through redistricting and possibly merging or closing some schools.
Councilman Dumont stated she cannot support this amendment because the Council never really received a final figure as to what the Board of Education budget would look like.
Councilman Kiner referred to a comment made about working well with the Board of Education and stated that may be true behind the scenes, however, every year the Council has not given the Board anywhere close to what was requested. He stated level funding will cost teacher jobs and increased class sizes.
Chairman Kaupin stated he will not support the amendment. He noted the Town is taking reductions amounting to well over $2 million dollars. He stated the Board of Education is being level funded, plus they do have access to the Excess Cost dollars, which the Town had to absorb on its side. He pointed out the Town side of the budget had to come up with an additional $800,000 in either reductions or revenue. As concerns the comment about working behind the scenes with the Board, he pointed out they’re working very hard publicly. He noted that’s why they established the Strategic Planning Subcommittee comprised of four members of the Board and four members of the Council with four Republicans and four Democrats. He stated this is very bi-partisan and public.
Councilman Kiner stated he was not insinuating there are any backroom deals going on, but rather he was referring to the Board of Education coming to the Council with their proposed budget and the Council not funding it. He stated there was no malicious intent, and he retracts that comment if that’s how it was perceived.
Councilman Nelson stated Councilman Kiner was one of the original members of that committee with the school redistricting and attended one or two meeting and then decided to step down. He noted he is going off the word of that committee that they’re making great headway.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #36A defeated by a 4-7-0 vote, with Councilmen Bosco, Dumont, Hall, Kaupin, Keller, Lee and Nelson voting against the amendment.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #36 adopted 7-4-0, with Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Kiner and Mangini voting against the amendment.
AMENDMENT #37 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget by INCREASING General Fund Revenue as shown on Page 13-14 in accordance with the following schedule:
ACCT FROM TO
PERSONAL PROPERTY 11030 $3,698,979 $3,737,479
BUILDING PERMIT FEES 12010 $ 330,000 $ 353,000
BULKY WASTE FEES 14220 $ 185,000 $ 237,000
RENTAL-TOWN OWNED PROP 16202 $ 15,000 $ 32,000
TELEPHONE PERS PROP TAX 17080 $ 0 $ 80,000
TRANSFERS IN 18010 $ 0 $ 60,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #37 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #38 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Chairman Kaupin to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 115 in accordance with the following summary of changes with related revenue impacts: (health ins, social security, other misc.)
DECREASE
ADMINISTRATION $ 621
DIAL-A-RIDE $ 4,088
ADULT DAY CARE $ 3,664
CHILD DEVELOPMENT $ 18,671
YOUTH SERVICES $11,745
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES $ 3,572
FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER $ 853
SENIOR CENTER $ 4,829
Councilman Crowley stated his understanding most of these departments found the savings within their own departments, and they’ll still be able to fund their plans and projects. Mr. Coppler responded that’s correct, except for Dial-A-Ride and the Congregate Living, which is in the next amendment where the Council is increasing the appropriation.
Councilman Hall stated during budget deliberations Council members received many calls concerning the Senior Center and Dial-A-Ride services. She pointed out Senior Center hours will not be cut, and Dial-A-Ride will look into fine-tuning some of their hours. She noted services should remain in tact.
Chairman Kaupin thanked Social Services for their hard work in coming up with ways to fill the gap and keep programs in tact.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #38 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #39 by Chairman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 115 in accordance with the following scheduled: (salaries, fringe benefits and programs)
INCREASE
DIAL-A-RIDE $14,881
CONGREGATE LIVING $54,719
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #39 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #40 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 135 in accordance with the following schedule: (boards and commissions)
INCREASE DECREASE
COMMISSION ON AGING $ 7,500
NETWORK AGAINST DOMESTIC ABUSE $ 16,100
THE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM $ 8,500
ENFIELD FOOD SHELF $ 17,400
EMERGENCY LOAN FUND OF ENFIELD $ 2,100
KITE $ 2,100
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS $53,700
Councilman Mangini stated she’s glad to see funds restored to these groups.
Councilman Lee questioned whether the commission that handles applications will be getting prompt notice that they have a role in the division of the balance of the funds.
Mr. Coppler responded Ms. Brown will notify them, set up a meeting, and start organizing how the remaining funds will be separated out.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #40 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #41 by Councilman Kiner, seconded by Councilman Crowley to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 111-112 in accordance with the following schedule: revenue
INCREASE DECREASE
OTHER REVENUE $2,100
TRANSFERS IN $23,657
Special Meeting
05/17/2010
Page 16
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #41 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #42 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 100 in accordance with the following schedule with related revenue impact: (overtime, social sec. health ins)
DECREASE
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES $50,875
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #42 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #43 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 97 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS $50,875
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #43 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #44 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Bosco to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 105 in accordance with the following schedule and related revenue impact: (health ins)
DECREASE
WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FUND $4,470
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #44 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #45 by Councilman Bosco, seconded by Councilman Keller to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on page 103 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS $4,470
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #45 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #46 by Councilman Keller, seconded by Councilman Lee to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget a shown on Page 147 in accordance with the following schedule and related revenue impact: (health insurance, social security)
DECREASE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FUND $8,606
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #46 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #47 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Dumont to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 145 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS $8,606
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #47 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #48 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Pages 153, 155, 157 in accordance with the following schedule and related revenue impact: (health ins, social security)
DECREASE
RECREATION ADMINISTRATION $2,570
PROGRAMS $5,887
SWIMMING $4,175
Councilman Crowley questioned if these programs will be effected. Mr. Coppler responded no, this relates to the social security program.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #48 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #49 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Chairman Kaupin to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 151 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND TRANFERS $12,632
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #49 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #50 by Chairman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Pages 162 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
INSURANCE AND BOND CHARGES $20,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #50 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #51 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 161 in accordance with the following schedule:
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND $20,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #51 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #52 by Councilman Kiner, seconded by Councilman Crowley to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 142 in accordance with the following schedule (social security)
DECREASE
DOG FUND $2,046
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #52 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #53 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 141 in accordance with the following schedule (social security)
DECREASE
GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS $2,046
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #53 adopted 11-0-0.
AMENDMENT #54 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the Manager’s proposed 2010-2011 Budget as shown on Page 165-166 in accordance with the following schedule and related revenue impact.
INCREASE
CIP FUND
TEXTBOOKS $101,000
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES $ 25,000
FUTURE TOWN ROADS $100,000
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #54 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Crowley thanked the Town Manager and Town staff for their work on this budget. He stated there’s a lot of pain with this budget and people’s lives are effected. He went on to thank fellow Council members for their work on this budget. He stated although he didn’t support some amendments, he believes they made great progress in public safety by budgeting for four more police officers and a canine.
Councilman Mangini thanked everyone involved in this budget process. She stated she’s very concerned and disappointed about the job losses.
Councilman Hall noted this is the sixth Town budget she has worked on, and it was a painful and grueling process. She stated the worst part had to do with the loss of personnel. She added restructuring will help, but the coming year will be a test. She noted the big point is that the mill rate remains the same, which helps the average citizen in the Town of Enfield. She stated she’s disappointed about the Board of Education, however, that won’t happen again next year. She commended departments for running their business with less money.
Councilman Nelson questioned how many positions are being eliminated, other than early retirements. Mr. Coppler responded eleven with four taking early retirement.
Councilman Nelson pointed out the Town Council isn’t able to sit down with unions to discuss ways of saving money. He agreed this was a difficult budget process. He stated he considers Public Safety as number one. He thanked the Town Manager and Chairman Kaupin for their hard work.
Councilman Kiner stated he will not support this budget because there are too many unknowns. He agreed there are some good things in this budget, however, be believes the bad outweighs the good. He pointed out job loss is the biggest problem in this country. He stated his belief the Town Manager should have gone back to the unions for concessions. He noted he wished they raised some fees to save some jobs. He stated they don’t know how much outsourcing will cost, and it could end up costing more. He stated his belief they should have kept those positions in house.
Councilman Kiner stated the biggest unknown relates to education because the final recommendations are not yet known. He stated his belief they should have listened more to the Board of Education when they came before the Council with their budget.
Councilman Lee stated things will be worse next year. He requested the Town Manager provide a proposal as to how they are going to monitor, and how Directors will manage the implementation of this budget. He noted he would like very regular insight from the Town Manager and staff on whether these decisions are having a negative impact on services. He went on to note that the Council made an extra appropriation this evening for $100,000 in textbooks. He noted if there’s a better place for that capital investment, he wants the Board to let the Council know when they adopt their budget. He acknowledged the insight that they did get from a few of the bargaining units. He referred to a memo put together by Roger Aslbaugh and acknowledged it contains good information. He apologized they couldn’t do more with some of those ideas. He noted Doug Finger has been getting information to the Council, and he appreciates the input from that bargaining unit as well.
Councilman Bosco thanked everyone who was involved in this budget process. He questioned what would happen should they vote “no” on this budget tonight. Mr. Coppler stated they’d have to continue deliberations. He noted failure to adopt the budget by the 19th means the Town Manager’s budget goes into effect.
Councilman Bosco stated if they vote no on this budget, they’re voting they don’t want crossing guards or to feed the elderly. He noted they shouldn’t be looking at what they took away in this budget, but rather what they added to this budget.
Councilman Dumont stated this was a very tough year, and the Council had a lot of tough decisions to make. She stated her belief they did their best to help everyone. She noted a budget is an estimate, and there will be a lot of unknowns. She stated this has been a very equitable process, and they did their best to try and help everyone.
Councilman Keller thanked everyone involved in the budget process. He stated his belief this is a good, workable budget.
Councilman Mangini stated she will not be supporting this budget. She stated her belief the extraction of the crossing guards should not have been part of the budget process from the onset. She noted of course they need to feed the elderly, and that should not have been part of the issue to begin with. She stated job loss is very harsh, and it has an adverse effect on this community. She pointed out they have no indication of what it will cost to contract out for services. She noted the government is trying to put people back to work not take away jobs.
Councilman Mangini agreed the Board of Education should have provided a more detailed budget, but the Charter says the Town Council does not dictate to the Board of Education as to how they spend their money.
Chairman Kaupin thanked everyone for their recommendations and hard work on this budget. He noted the State of Connecticut has a deficit of $3.8 billion dollars, and they borrowed $1 billion dollars to close this year’s budget. He stated municipalities have a revenue problem, grand lists aren’t growing, state aid is stagnant or decreasing, and unfunded mandates are still a problem. He noted this was the year that the Town had to reorganize. He acknowledged it’s painful to some people, but the Council had to make the tough decisions.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #896 adopted 8-3-0, as amended, with Councilmen Edgar, Kiner and Mangini voting against.
RESOLUTION #897 by Councilman Dumont, seconded by Councilman Hall.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield does hereby appropriate LOCIP Grant Funds in the amount of $339,000 for the following purpose in accordance with the 2010-2011 Annual Operating and Capital Budget.
Town Road Paving $339,000
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #897 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #898 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Kiner.
RESOLVED, that the Town Schools’ Budget adopted by the Town Council in the amount of $62,711,007 included the anticipated revenue of $28,380,144 from the Education Block (Cost Sharing) Grant a portion of which is Federal Stimulus funds allocated for such purpose by the Governor whether paid directly to the Board of Education or to the Town, on Page 8 of the 2010-2011 Annual Operating and Capital Budget.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #898 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #899 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Kiner.
RESOLVED, that a tax rate of 23.88 mills be set on the Grand List of October 1, 2009 for the Town of Enfield and shall be payable in two semi-annual installments – July 1, 2010 and January 1, 2010.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, however, that real estate and personal property taxes amounting to $100.00 or less shall be paid in full on July 1, 2010; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, however, that motor vehicle taxes shall be paid in full on July 1, 2010; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any supplemental motor vehicle or real estate taxes in the amount of $5.00 or less, shall be waived, pursuant to Connecticut State Statute 12-144c.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Nelson to correct the date in the first paragraph to January 1, 2011.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Lee questioned if July 1st is the official due date for motor vehicle tax, and was informed that’s correct.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #899 adopted 9-2-0, with Councilmen Kiner and Mangini voting against.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #899A by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #899A adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 7:10 p.m. |