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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
APRIL 19, 2004
Before the Regular Meeting was called to order, Chairman Tallarita read the Arbor Day Proclamation.
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Tallarita in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, April 19, 2004. The meeting was called to order at 7:42 p.m.
PRAYER - Chairman Tallarita gave the Prayer.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Egan, Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, Peruta, Reveruzzi, Tait and Tallarita. Councilman Dodd was absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott Shanley; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Social Services, Dorothy Allen; EMS Director, Gary Wiemokly.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #7123 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Fiore to accept the minutes of the March 15, 2004 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7123 adopted 9-0-1, with Chairman Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #7124 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Fiore to accept the minutes of the March 30, 2004 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7124 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7125 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the April 5, 2004 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7125 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7126 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of the April 5, 2004 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7126 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7127 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of the April 5, 2004 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7127 adopted 10-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Mrs. Collins, Hazardville Section
Stated two years ago when work was done near her property, some of her groundcover plantings were removed and still haven't been replaced.
Mrs. Collins urged the Council to control spending in the school system. She added her hope the Town will freeze taxes for senior citizens.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Thanked the Public Works Department for filling in the large pot hole he spoke about at the previous meeting.
He stated he has attended some budget workshops and can't tell where the Council is leaning concerning the budget.
Mr. Woods stated his belief now is the time for the Council to put on the brakes regarding spending. He noted he's not in favor of spending money on items such as a fishing pier around the pond.
He stated the advisory committee to the Board of Education brought forward several cost-saving ideas, however, a lot of items were ignored by the Board of Education and a budget with a $2 million dollar increase was submitted.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she also attended budget workshops and she feels it's the same old status quo. She went on to state her hope the Council will look at the school system for savings, i.e., teachers' insurance and too many administrators.
Ms. Jedziniak referred to Arbor Day and the planting of more trees and stated her hope the Town won't plant too many because this will result in more leaves for pick up.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini reminded everyone the nice weather will bring more people outdoors and she cautioned drivers to watch for children on the roadways.
Councilman Mangini commended Tri-State Kenwood for being awarded Kenwood Dealer of the Year.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether the Council will get a full report concerning the alarm ordinance. Mr. Shanley indicated that can be done at the next meeting.
Councilman Kaupin stated he received an e-mail concerning freezing taxes. He noted at some point in time, he would like a discussion regarding taxes and senior citizens.
Councilman Kaupin expressed his appreciation for the highway goal documents from Mr. Sferrazza.
Councilman Fiore reminded everyone that the annual Athletic Hall of Fame golf tournament will be held Sunday, May 16th at Oakridge Country Club. He noted anyone who would like to attend can let him know.
MOTION #7128 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Items 13d and 13f to Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7128 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilman Peruta referred to an e-mail from a person expressing concern about the Town and School budget situation. He noted she's not happy about the tax situation, however, if a tax increase means better education for her children, then she'd be all for it.
Councilman Peruta stated aside from the budget workshops currently being held, there will be a lot more budget discussions before things are settled.
Chairman Tallarita stated the budget process was changed a little this year. He noted they tried to eliminate some redundant type of questions, whereby they tried to get questions to the Town Manager and department heads prior to the budget workshops so that questions could be answered in written format and available to the Council and the public at each and every meeting. He pointed a lot of the real discussion happens after the budget workshops.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini reported the Fourth of July Town Celebration Committee met recently and they are working very hard to put on a nice celebration. She thanked everyone on this committee for all their hard work.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
All appointments remained tabled.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
All appointments remained tabled.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #7129 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7129 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COUNCIL/BOARD INITIATIVES
Chairman Tallarita stated a couple weeks ago leadership had some discussion with the Chairman of the Board of Education regarding trying to form a joint blue ribbon commission on IT Technology. He noted the intent is to form a commission that would be empowered by both the Board of Education and the Town Council. He explained the goals of this committee would be to do a thorough review of technology in both the Board of Education and the Town side, not only from a hardware, software and staffing aspect, but also develop short term goals with the goal of trying to bring them back together as one sole entity for the entire community as well as form a five-year plan for this community so they have long term vision as to where IT is going and how it would be handled by both sides.
Chairman Tallarita distributed the draft of a charge for this committee. He noted they would like to begin some discussion on the Council side so they can give this to the Board of Education so they can discuss this. He stated they would then pass a resolution on the Council and the Board side to formulate this committee.
He went on to state the vision is that this committee would be comprised of seven voting members, five of which would be residents from the community with specific knowledge in the IT industry, with IT project management as well. He noted there would also be one Council member and one Board member that would be voting members. He added there would also be liaisons from the Board of Education and Town sides from the business, finance, and IT departments.
Chairman Tallarita stated the charge would give them a target date of no later than June 1, 2005 to come up with a recommendation to both the Council and Board of Education concerning the future of IT in this community. He listed the five specific tasks of this committee:
1. Investigate the overall technology usage in order to potentially eliminate redundancies between both organizations
2. Review the overall cost of both organizations in order to recommend cost reductions
3. Review all current software in order to recommend eliminating software redundancies within the IT organizations
4. Recommend a management and staffing structure that would support one combined IT organization
5. Review the prospects and costs associated with outsourcing all IT services to an external vendor
Chairman Tallarita stated previous reports and studies would be taken into consideration as well as interviewing all the pertinent staff that would be required in order to come up with their conclusions.
Councilman Edgar stated he'd prefer to see a target date of December 1, 2004. He stated his belief this shouldn't take a whole year, and he would like to see the figures relating to this before next year's budget.
Councilman Fiore stated he has been involved in IT for over 25 years, and these tasks could not be accomplished correctly and in the best interest of the Town of Enfield in less time.
Councilman Tait stated he has also been involved in IT for about 35 years and agrees with Councilman Fiore. He noted the depth of this study is intense if done correctly. He feels this will take a year of a lot of hard work.
Councilman Mangini stated such a commission is definitely needed and she supports this endeavor. She questioned when the committee could begin its duties.
Chairman Tallarita stated the intent would be to pass a resolution adopting the charge, and the Board of Education would do the same thing. He noted thereafter they would solicit for individuals within the community and make appointments as soon as possible. He went on to note that although the deadline says June, 2005, the Committee is entitled to come before the Council should they be ready before that date. He added this charge also requests a quarterly report to learn where things are in the process.
Councilman Edgar stated a prior report came out that recommended that there be one IT Department, however, it was decided to go with two separate departments. He noted the Town paid good money for the previous study and he feels this should help get this done in six months. He suggested reconsidering the number people on this committee since too many persons on a committee make it cumbersome.
Councilman Peruta stated he has also been involved in the IT business for a long time. He stated his belief it's difficult to put a deadline on projects when it's not known what the workload will be.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the solicitation of IT members and suggested possibly a letter could be directed to the IT department heads of the large businesses in Enfield to learn if an employee that resides in Enfield might be interested in serving on this committee. As concerns the size of the committee, he questioned the need to have the Council and Board members be voting members, or perhaps they can be liaisons as well, and the five non-elected public officials would be the voting members.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief in order for these recommendations to be implemented they will need to be endorsed by both the Board and the Council jointly. He stated his belief they are still not in a situation that's good for the Town as a whole, therefore, they need some method like this to really take a look at it and try to bring both departments back together so that they can have that one IT function that the Gartner Group did recommend in the late 1990's.
Councilman Egan referred to Task #4 and noted they have to have two bodies willing to do that. She noted they spent a long time attempting to do that. She noted she would not like to spend another long period attempting to do this and then have one body saying no. She stated her hope they will listen to staff since they are the ones that have to do the job.
Chairman Tallarita stated in the discussions he has had with the Chairman of the Board there's an indication there's a willingness to proceed with this.
Councilman Fiore stated it's recommended having voting members from both the Board and Council because whatever the final outcome, they have to have a buy-in, and part of that buy-in is to make sure there's a voting member from each body.
Councilman Fiore noted there are plenty of IT people in the Town of Enfield. He noted they're looking for some of the following qualifications from members:
" Knowledge of the IT financial services industry
" IT project management experience
" Analytical, organizational and diagnostic skills
" Ability to gather information by various methods
" Ability to produce and draft conclusions
" Strong written/verbal/interpersonal communication skills
" Formal presentation skills
Councilman Reveruzzi pointed out one early indication of progressing with this endeavor is the Board of Education passing a resolution similar to the Council's resolution.
Chairman Tallarita stated he will forward this to the Chairman of the Board of Education and they will discuss it at their next meeting.
MOTION #7130 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7130 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7131 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7131 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: EMS INTERIM PLAN
RESOLUTION #7132 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, the various Fire Districts of the Town of Enfield are continuing to develop a plan to provide Emergency Medical Services to the community; and
WHEREAS, the Emergency Medical Director has identified action steps to be paid for from revenue produced from fees, which will reinforce the existing arrangement to be more effective for the short term;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Interim Plan will be in effect until such time as the Town Council authorizes a new plan for Emergency Medical Services.
Present for this discussion was Gary Wiemokly, EMS Director.
Mr. Wiemokly read the following statement:
"I come before the Council tonight to request approval for an Interim EMS Plan. Please note that this is a temporary measure and is not meant as the new EMS plan. I believe that most will agree that the EMS system in the Town of Enfield is in need of serious renovation and improvement and has been for some time. While we are waiting for detail and implementation of the new EMS system, gaps in coverage remain, the system remains in flux and patients, the reasons for having an EMS system, experience at times less than excellence in care and transportation.
The recommendation I offer tonight has been viewed and discussed by the Police Chief, who is responsible for EMS in the town and community, the four fire district chiefs whose services participate as supplemental responders, the Town Manager, and the system's Medical Director, Dr. Bazil. They're all in agreement that this temporary or interim plan would be an appropriate step to take until the new system is in place.
The interim plan does not change any of the current activity that is being provided by the police or fire districts, nor does it add to them. Instead the interim plan relies on per diem EMT basics who would be hired for the express purpose of providing patient care and the accompanying required duties, such as re-supplying an ambulance after a call, required patient care records, billing information, HIPPA compliance, delivering of the ambulance to the patient's location and other activities as appropriate to patient care and transportation.
The ability to pay for this per diem staff would come from the revenue recovery process which the Town had begun on April 5th. The hours of utilizing the per diem staff are also indicated within the handout.
Essentially the per diem EMT basics would be stationed at the public safety complex from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. and this would be divided between two eight-hour shifts. These are the hours that most often experience a gap in coverage or require a minimum of two police officers to manage the medical emergency so we would be able to keep additional officers on the beat. The addition of EMT basics in this manner would allow the continuation of the Medicare co-pay waiver and would mesh seamlessly into the Town's HIPPA compliance."
Councilman Tait questioned if each of these individuals will work a 40-hour week. Mr. Wiemokly stated he anticipates these individuals will probably look to do the per diem work as a supplement to where they're already working. He envisioned most of the EMT basics that would hire on as per diems are probably already doing 40 hours per week elsewhere. He noted his thought would be that they'd have someone doing perhaps one, two or three shifts a cycle or two shifts one cycle and then not work for a week or two. He stated this will also work well for EMT basics in Paramedic School that are looking to supplement their income.
Councilman Tait stated if that's the case, they will need a lot of these people to fill all of these shifts. Mr. Wiemokly stated there are 25 shifts per week to cover, therefore, he anticipates a pool of 20 to 25 people.
Councilman Tait clarified these people would not be employees of the Town but rather contractors, and Mr. Wiemokly responded that's correct.
Councilman Peruta referred to the per diem EMT's and questioned if there would be any preference to people who already have the training, i.e., volunteer fire fighters, and Mr. Wiemokly responded yes.
Councilman Peruta stated currently it sounds like the Town is at some risk, and Mr.Wiemokly responded that's true. He added Enfield has the potential to provide excellent service.
Councilman Crowley questioned the possibility of a person wanting to work a 40-hour shift. Mr. Shanley stated they want to augment their EMS. He noted if a person can do per diem work up to 40 hours and not after six months be considered an employee under federal law, there wouldn't be a problem.
Councilman Edgar recommended the qualified fire fighters be given preference.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief this plan meets the need they have right now. He thanked Mr. Wiemokly for this plan.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7132 adopted 10-0-0. Councilman Edgar stated his vote is contingent on his recommendation.
Chairman Tallarita requested the Town Attorney provide the Council with an update regarding correspondence with the Fire Chiefs' Association.
Attorney Bromson stated in consultation with leadership, he prepared a letter asking them for some real specifics regarding their organizational and business plan as concerns the EMS proposal. He noted this letter was sent April 8th and thereafter he did tell their counsel if they needed any further articulation in regards to what was requested, they should feel free to ask him. He noted he has not heard anything back yet. He stated his understanding they did work out a format to form a commission among the fire departments to proceed with this endeavor and that should be accomplished in the next few weeks and they will be in a position to discuss the substantive issues raised in the Town's letter. He stated they gave them a deadline of May 14th to respond. He noted if he hears anything before then, he will let the Council know.
MOTION #7133 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7133 adopted 10-0-0.
Item f. remained tabled.
MOTION #7134 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Crowley to remove Item g. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7134 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7135 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined it is appropriate to form a committee to assess the old Senior Center and recommend a plan for its utilization and disposition;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby establishes the Old Senior Center Utilization Committee to consist of:
1. Two (2) Town Council members, one (1) member of the Enfield Revitalization Strategy Committee and two (2) citizens at large, all appointed by the Mayor.
2. One (1) staff person shall be assigned to assist the committee.
3. It shall be the charge of the committee to assess the building, analyze the maintenance and upkeep needs of the building as well as an assessment of the capital investments that would be necessary, explore opportunities for revenue stream and assess groups that may wish to utilize the building.
4. The committee shall report to the Council at the end of August 2004 with its findings.
Councilman Kaupin stated the question came up concerning committees appointed by the mayors and are they typically with the consent of the Council. He noted he wants to be sure they're following the rules they established for themselves. He questioned if that can be incorporated into the resolution. Attorney Bromson stated that would be a policy decision on any given board or commission unless it's statutorily required.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7135 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7136 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to re-table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7136 adopted 10-0-0.
Item h. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
The appointment to the Commission on Aging will appear under Old Business on the next agenda.
RESOLUTION #7137 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar.
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield has reviewed the proposed ordinance and conducted a Public Hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has made all changes it judges to be appropriate;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby accepts the attached Commission on Aging Ordinance.
Councilman Fiore questioned if it was the intent to keep all the current terms where they are, or is everyone going to start off fresh. He questioned if they can keep the terms intact as they are. Mr. Shanley stated the original intent was the initiative of the Council, therefore, it's up to the Town Council. Councilman Fiore questioned whether specific language is required to keep the current terms as they are without having to do reappointments, or is the intent of the Council enough. Mr. Shanley stated his belief the intent of the Council is good enough.
Councilman Fiore stated his belief the intent of the Council is to leave the current appointments in place.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the fourth sentence in Section 2-44 as follows:
"In addition to the nine (9) regular members and two (2) alternates of the commission, there will be two (2) council liaisons and the town manager, or his/her representative, shall be ex-officio members of the commission."
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7137 adopted 10-0-0, as amended.
DISCUSSION RE: SOUTH MAPLE STREET BRIDGE PRELIMINARY PLANS
Present for this discussion was Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski.
Mr. Kazmarski stated he needs a consensus from the Council as to which roadway alignment they want the design firm to pursue. He noted once that is decided, they will prepare the structure-type studies with more information about bridges for this location.
He briefly reviewed the four alternatives for this location:
1. Reconstruction of a new bridge in the exact same location as the old bridge with some modifications to the elevation in order to pass the required storm water flows in the Scantic River.
Mr. Kazmarski stated the biggest problem with this alternative is that during the entire construction process, there will be about a four-mile detour in effect and this bridge will not be available to handle any traffic.
2. Shifting the alignment of the bridge slightly to the east, which keeps the existing bridge in use as a means of handling traffic during construction on a limited basis as it is right now with weight restrictions on it.
Councilman Fiore stated it appears as though the sewer pump station will be right under the bridge in Alternative #2. Mr. Kazmarski stated it won't be under the bridge, but it will be very close to the roadway.
Mr. Kazmarski stated in Alternative #2, the southerly end of the bridge project, or Powder Hill Road, results in a true 90 degree bend. He went on to note Alternative #1 and #2 would require a stop condition at both sides, very similar to what exists right now.
3. This is a skew of the bridge alignment to the west and this provides for the utilization of the existing bridge to handle traffic during construction. This takes the majority of the construction away from the existing South Maple Street and existing Powder Hill Road so that the flow of traffic can go unimpeded across the existing bridge while the new one is being constructed.
Councilman Reveruzzi questioned whether these alternatives would result in having to get right-of-ways. Mr. Kazmarski stated all but Alternate #1 will require some acquisition of rights-of-way. He noted some limited, perhaps sliver takes, or by easement would be the recommendation rather than outright acquisition. Councilman Reveruzzi questioned whether this property involves DOT or private property owners, and Mr. Kazmarski responded private property owners.
Councilman Reveruzzi questioned whether costs shown earlier include property acquisitions Mr. Kazmarski stated those figures were basically construction costs. He added they did have some factor included about what property values might be and what some property owners might want for a five-foot wide take. He added design costs weren't included, however, that's funded right now. He stated the final cost will include everything, as well as contingency costs.
Mr. Kazmarski then spoke about Alternative 3A and noted this alternative eliminates a good portion of the double "S" curve on the southerly end of the roadway improvements and solves a lot of the current problems associated with that structure. He noted this doesn't have to be a multi-lane facility. He stated if there are potential federal funding sources involved with this, they may require that it be a two-lane facility to meet current standards. He went on to note there are some ways to do some mitigation concerning possible speeds on this roadway.
Mr. Kazmarski noted he distributed a handout to the Council which illustrates a typical representative of a type of wooden covered bridge that could be utilized for this particular area.
Councilman Crowley questioned the life expectancy of these bridges. Mr. Kazmarski stated any of the bridge styles will provide a good life span of at least 50 to 60 years.
Councilman Crowley raised the possibility of freezing problems on a covered bridge since the sun wouldn't be able to reach the roadway. Mr. Kazmarski stated that's a possibility, however, if it's a dark structure, there will be more absorption of the heat from the sunlight that might assist in the thawing.
Councilman Kaupin recommended having a community meeting and call it very quickly to get some feedback. He stated his belief the Council can make a decision on the alignment, however, he believes they need to get feedback from the community regarding the covered bridge. He went on to state he would like to see the bridge straightened as much as possible. He noted he recently witnessed a near miss between a car and pedestrian in this area. He voiced his support of Alternative 3A, but his biggest concern is speeding. He noted he would like to see something done to calm the traffic approaching the bridge from Hazardville.
Councilman Mangini agreed with Councilman Kaupin regarding the neighborhood meeting. She suggested perhaps the Powder Hollow Barn might be willing to host that meeting. She noted she also witnessed the danger of people crossing the road in this area. She questioned whether a covered bridge would take away from the fishing environment in that area. Mr. Kazmarski stated from an angling standpoint, a covered bridge will provide more shade and trout prefer shade. He went on to note there was discussion about a sidewalk on at least one side of the bridge and possibly both sides of the bridge. He noted this would separate pedestrians from vehicles and possibly people could fish off this walkway.
Councilman Fiore stated his belief this needs to be a town-wide meeting, not just a neighborhood meeting. He stated Alternative 3A makes very good sense, but this alternative will require more land taking.
Councilman Reveruzzi stated his belief there needs to be study about controlling traffic and speeding in this area.
Mr. Kazmarski stated they estimated 3,600 cars per day use this roadway. He noted he has not spoken with the design engineer about the possibility of increased traffic after the improvement is done.
Chairman Tallarita stated he did not feel comfortable making a decision about the best roadway in that area. He stated his belief the Council needs a recommendation from a certified expert concerning the safety and traffic aspect. He noted safety is the most important thing to him. He agreed there needs to be community conversation about this.
Mr. Shanley stated staff will develop a recommendation and bring that back to the Council. He noted the recommendation that they need to come back with is an alignment that will cause people to drive slowly through this area.
MOTION #7138 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7138 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7139 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield has determined that it would be cost effective to install the "pier" on Freshwater Pond consistent with the Master Plan as much base work has needed to be done and while the firm is mobilized and contracted to do the work.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council hereby authorizes the transfer of $40,000 from the Sun Street Drainage Account #32008306 to Freshwater Pond Project #61008502.
Councilman Peruta questioned if this is partially done. Mr. Shanley stated there was a determination made last fall that it would be very cost effective to put the horizontal and vertical supports in before the wall was finished, therefore, they went forward to install those pieces.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief this project is consistent with the Master Plan that was developed. He noted this is the right time to act on this because of the cost savings. He added the Town does try to conserve its funds as much as possible, but when they are able to take incremental steps to improve the quality of life or the recreational resources in this community, they have to continue to think of their long term goals and not being short-sighted and focus just on conserving funds. He noted this was something that was planned to be done, it makes sense to be done now, and he's happy the Council will go forward to do this.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7139 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7140 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Tait to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7140 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7141 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Tait.
Councilman Reveruzzi abstained from the discussion and vote because the current auditor, Kostin & Ruffkess is involved in his business.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to amend the resolution as follows:
WHEREAS, the Council seeks bids every three years; and
WHEREAS, the Town received 5 bids, three were determined to be qualified by Town staff; and
WHEREAS, the second low bid is Scully & Wolf;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby appoints Scully & Wolf to conduct the annual combined financial audit for years ending 6/30/04 through 6/30/06. This is being done in the best interest of the community due to the fact the Council feels it's appropriate to have a new auditing firm every three years.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 9-0-1, with Councilman Reveruzzi abstaining.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7141 adopted 9-0-1, as amended. Councilman Reveruzzi abstained.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
The appointment to the Housing Code Appeals Board will appear under New Business on the next regular meeting agenda.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: INSURANCE PROCEDURE CHANGES
Chairman Tallarita stated this item will move to New Business. He noted this item was discussed at the Special Meeting held earlier.
Item c. will appear on the next agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT #4130-120 SALARIES TO ACCOUNT #4130-630 FOOD - $4000
Present for this discussion was Director of Social Services, Dorothy Allen.
Councilman Fiore questioned the status of the year-to-date revenue for client fees for congregate living. He stated based on that he would like Ms. Allen to take a re-look at next year's client fees for congregate living. He stated his understanding more seniors are participating, therefore, he believes the client fees should be increasing. He is advocating the Council not make this transfer tonight until more information is provided.
Ms. Allen stated contributions are donations, they are not required. She noted this is a federal government program - The Older Americans' Act. She stated they do ask for contributions, however, people are not required to pay for them. She noted they've indicated they expect to get about $9,000 in contributions. She stated the term "client contributions" is used because they're not allowed to say fees because they can't charge for this.
Councilman Fiore stated perhaps they should change the budget book to show this as donations.
Ms. Allen stated this is the same program as what they have at the senior center and at the congregate on weekdays, except this is a special grant to Enfield for weekend meals. She noted people can contribute or choose not to. She pointed out in the past they've collected about $9000 in contributions.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if this money is specifically for weekend meals only. Ms. Allen responded yes - weekends and holidays.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if these are the people living at Mark Twain and participating in that program. Ms. Allen responded it's about 50-50. She noted they have to open this to outsiders because of the nature of the funding, to the extent that people can
find a place to park, particularly when people are using the parking area for soccer games. She stated they have about 70 people on Sundays and about 50 on Saturdays. She noted they provide dinner on Christmas and Thanksgiving - every holiday and weekend. She noted midweek they have CRT meals-the same as the senior center.
Councilman Mangini questioned if they're covering costs by transferring funds from one social service fund to another. Ms. Allen responded yes.
Councilman Edgar stated he wants to be sure that every resident understands the meals on weekends and holidays are free. Ms. Allen stated they have this posted. She noted most people choose to contribute because they know their money goes into making this a better program. She noted they're able to use the income in this program. Councilman Edgar stated he would like to see a notice go to every person letting them know these meals are free. He noted people have told him people have to pay for these meals.
Councilman Tait disagreed because if they put a sign up saying it's free, nobody is going to pay and the revenues are going to go down not up. He noted they could go from a $9000 to a $0 contribution.
Councilman Egan questioned if there's a charge for the CRT meals served during the week. Ms. Allen responded it's the same thing - this would be a donation, whereby if people choose not to pay, they do not have to. She added they can choose to pay whatever they wish. She noted the money that comes in for the CRT meals goes to CRT in Hartford, however the weekend income is retained in this program.
Councilman Egan questioned if social services is paying for the meal, delivery, or both because she gets a bill every month for her aunt who is receiving meals every day. Ms. Allen stated that would come from CRT. She explained CRT has programs here and they have home-delivered meals. She noted she doesn't know what they're billing for, however, they can't be billing for transportation because they're all delivered by volunteers.
Chairman Tallarita questioned where these participants are coming from, and Ms. Allen responded more from outside than the residents. She noted a lot of these people come to the senior center during the week and on weekends come to the congregate center. Chairman Tallarita questioned what qualifies a person to participate, and Ms. Allen responded a person, age 60 and over, only needs to make a reservation.
DISCUSSION RE: RESOLUTION RE: REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT #4120-0732 VEHICLES TO ACCOUNT #4120-0110 DIAL-A-RIDE SALARIES - $9000
Councilman Fiore referred to the account these funds are coming from and noted the Council has been budgeting money in that particular account every year to replace Dial-A-Ride vehicles. He questioned if they're making a transfer of $9,000 from this account, does that leave the vehicle account short. Ms. Allen stated the transit district lets them know when they can have a vehicle. She noted they can't just apply for it. She pointed out they're not eligible for a vehicle this year. She noted the transit district has elected to restock their own vehicles in Greater Hartford. She stated they are on the list for allocation next year for at least two vehicles. She explained her account pays 20% of the cost of the vehicle.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #7142 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Zoning Board of Appeals-P/T Salaries $600.00
Account #6300-120
FROM: Zoning Board of Appeals-Profess. Dev. $400.00
Account #6300-322
Zoning Board of Appeals-Advertising $200.00
Account #6300-540
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $600.00 is available from Account #6300-322 and #6300-540 as of April 12, 2004.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7142 adopted 9-1-0, with Councilman Reveruzzi voting against the resolution.
RESOLUTION #7143 by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Registrar of Voters
Account #1500-134 - Election Workers $3100
Account #1500-423 - Custodial Services $ 20
Account #1500-540 - Advertising $ 275
______
Total $3,395.00
FROM: Contingency Fund
Account #8030-840 $3,395.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $3395 is available from Account #8030-840 as of 3/30/04.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7143 adopted 10-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no comments.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #7144 by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7144 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 9:52 p.m.
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