Windsor Town Council
Council Chambers - Town Hall
December 18, 2000 - Public Hearing
Approved Minutes
Public Hearing relative to the proposed Town Hall replacements and repairs
Mayor Hogan called the public hearing to order at 7:17 PM and read the legal notice.
Present: Mayor Hogan, Deputy Mayor Curtis, Council member Albano, Council member Broxterman (arrived at 7:19), Council member Haverstock, Council member Pacino, Council member Simon and Council member Trinks
Public Works Director, Brian Funk and Facilities Manager, Al Neumann provided details of a proposed bond ordinance appropriating $450,000 for Town Hall replacements and repairs, including roof replacement and air handling, condensing and conditioning equipment replacement and related work.
Brian Funk listed what the estimated costs would include. Al Neumann provided an overview of the proposed project. The original roof on the building was constructed in approximately 1965 and was sprayed over with urethane 16 years ago. It was intended that the roof be replaced within 10 years, we have been patching for the past several years for leaks and bubbles. The air-handling units are original and well beyond life expectancy with refrigerant leaking into the atmosphere. Based on State of Connecticut regulations and guidelines the unit in the Town Clerks vault should be removed and serviced from outside. The vault unit is 22 years old and is in constant need of repair, a new one should be installed outside in the hallway servicing the vault; it would not be visible. Brian Funk said that schedule wise all of the work to take place in the fall of 2001.
Public Comment
None
The public hearing closed at 7:23 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah S. Burgess
Substitute Clerk of the Windsor Town Council
Cc: Town Clerk
Main Library
Wilson Branch
Minutes Approved: January 2, 2001
Windsor Town Council
Council Chambers - Town Hall
December 18, 2000 - Regular Meeting
Approved Minutes
Mayor Hogan called the regular meeting to order at 7:33 PM.
Council member Broxterman read the proclamation honoring and commending the Windsor Giants A Team on their outstanding accomplishments during the 2000 season.
Council member Broxterman read the proclamation honoring and commending the Windsor Giants A Team Cheerleaders for winning first place in the annual Eastern Connecticut Conference Cheerleading Competition.
c. Proclamation honoring Windsor Giants B Team Cheerleaders
Council member Pacino read the proclamation honoring and commending the Windsor Giants B Team Cheerleaders for winning first place in the annual Eastern Connecticut Conference Cheerleading Competition.
Cori-Lynn Webber, Executive Vice President, Police Athletic League, asked the Council to support P.A.L.'s utilization of 330 Windsor Avenue.
Leon Churchill, Town Manager, Reported the following:
Concerns Raised by Poquonock Avenue Citizens
The Department of Transportation Commissioner has expressed an interest in working with the town regarding traffic concerns along Poquonock Avenue. We plan to collaborate with area residents before making any recommendations to DOT. Some initial thoughts are to work on speed limit designs, with a uniform speed limit and posting signs encouraging commercial traffic to use I91.
A Brief Update Regarding Last Thursday's Storm
Public Works monitored conditions placing crews on the roads by 3:00 AM with plows and sanders. Everything was in good shape by mid-afternoon.
DECD Community Block Grant
The Department of Economic and Community Development has awarded the Town of Windsor $300,000 to relocate and expand the Caring Connection Adult Day Health Center, along with $200,000 for our housing rehabilitation program.
Council member Simon wished everyone happy holidays. Has been looking at how other towns in the region have been enhancing cooperation between the Board of Education and the Town Council. In looking at Windsor's future where there are lots of capital projects in the works he suggested that Windsor form a joint committee with the Board of Education. He has discussed this idea informally with some of the Board and has received some positive response.
Council member Broxterman wished everyone happy holidays, and safe travel.
Council member Pacino wished a safe and happy holiday to everyone. Noticed in the USA Today, under state of NY in the State by State report, for the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards, only one percent of NY teachers have passed the certification test offered by the Board. Since 1995 Windsor has had two teachers pass this test and receive certification. He encouraged other Windsor teachers to get certified. The state does pay for half of the costs involved. Congratulations again to the Windsor Giants.
Council member Albano wished happy holidays to all.
Council member Trinks thanked CRCOG for the presentation of the Bradley Area Transportation Study. The Jaycees have sold all of their Christmas trees; it was a very festive and active weekend. Happy holidays to all.
Deputy Mayor Curtis gave best wishes for the holiday.
Mayor Hogan wished happy holidays to all. She also thanked CROG for coming out with the Bradley Area Transportation Study as well. It does affect Windsor, suggested keeping an eye on the web-site, noted that effected areas are Rainbow Road, Poquonock Avenue and several other areas.
Mayor Hogan asked that a motion be made adding to the executive session, under pending litigation a new item, Rizzuto vs. the Town of Windsor. Deputy Mayor Curtis made a motion to add Rizzuto vs. the Town of Windsor to the executive session, seconded by Council member Haverstock. The motion was approved 8-0-0.
Mayor Hogan noted that it is time to initiate the annual performance evaluation for the Town Manager. She has put together some suggestions for changes to the form and added the previous year's evaluations. She further suggested a meeting in January with the Town Manager. And recommended that the Ad-hoc Personnel Committee stay in existence after working on the Manager's evaluation, noting that personnel policies are due to be sent to the Council within the next couple of months and that the committee should review them.
The Mayor also expressed an interest in conferring with Council member Simon regarding his suggest joint committee between the Board of Education and the Town Council. She said such a committee might be a good opportunity for dialog.
Council member Trinks made a motion, seconded by Council member Broxterman, resolving that the reading into the minutes of the text of the ordinance entitled "An ordinance appropriating $450,000 for Town Hall replacements and repairs, including roof replacements and air handling, condensing and conditioning equipment replacement and related work, and authorizing the issue of $450,000 bonds and notes to finance the appropriation" is hereby waived. The Motion Passed 8-0-0.
Council member Trinks made a motion, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis, moved that the following ordinance, the complete text of which is recorded as an attachment with the meeting minutes, entitled "An ordinance appropriating $450,000 for Town Hall replacements and repairs, including roof replacements and air handling, condensing and conditioning equipment replacement and related work, and authorizing the issue of $450,000 bonds and notes to finance the appropriation", be introduced.
Mayor Hogan asked for comments from council members.
Council member Pacino questioned why the work would be done in the fall instead of this spring.
Brian Funk, Director of Public Works approached and replied that it takes three or four months to obtain the equipment and the work would likely not be able to be completed by the warm weather season as needed. Also, he believes a better price can be found that time of year, for the equipment and for the service. There is also a fair amount of projects for staff to coordinate at this time such as Goslee Pool, Clover Street, Poqounock School and asbestos removal at 330 Windsor Avenue.
Council member Pacino asked if the work would be completed before the winter's snow. Brian Funk said that it should not be a problem.
Council member Albano questioned if the air-handling equipment wasn't replaced when the Town Hall was remodeled. Brian Funk answered that the equipment was installed in the 1960's.
The Motion Passed 8-0-0.
Mayor Hogan asked Deputy Mayor Curtis to provide an overview of the proposed ordinance establishing a partial real estate tax exemption. Deputy Mayor Curtis stated one of the main reasons for this ordinance is to help increase the value of homes and commercial property in Windsor. This ordinance would provide incentive to homeowners and commercial property owners to complete additions and renovations to their property by offering a graduated tax break over seven years.
Jim Burke, Director of Economic Development and Bill Sandwell, Assistant Town Assessor detailed the proposed ordinance. Jim Burke noted that the basic approach is that improvements are encouraged by deferring tax assessment, 100% the 1st year, 80% the 2nd year down to 7% the 7th year. Eligible properties would be homes 25 years and older and commercial properties 40 years or older. It is required in the ordinance that there be a higher level of improvement for commercial property (15%), also there must be an improvement to the exterior for commercial.
Council member Simon asked if projects already underway are eligible. Jim Burke, Economic Development Director, stated as long as the improvement has not been assessed they are eligible.
Council member Simon asked how the impending re-evaluations impact the deferment. Bill Sandwell, Assistant Town Assessor, responded that the same percentages are used on the new numbers.
Deputy Mayor Curtis made a motion that the reading of the ordinance adopting the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes 12-65 to provide for a rehabilitation area is hereby waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the Council and copies being made available to persons attending this meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting. Council member Simon seconded the motion to waive the reading.
The Motion was approved by a 8-0-0 vote
Deputy Mayor made a motion, seconded by Council member Broxterman, to set a public hearing Tuesday, January 2, 2001 at 7:15 PM, on the aforesaid ordinance. The Motion Passed 8-0-0.
Council member Broxterman provided an overview of the ordinance. The proposed amendment would require handicapped spaces to be marked with a sign that informs the public how to report a violation to the Windsor Police Department.
Council member Broxterman made a motion, seconded by Council member Simon, that the reading of the ordinance amending Chapter 16, Article III, Section 16-35(e) of the Windsor Code be waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting. Motion Passed 8-0-0.
Council member Broxterman made a motion, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis to set a Public Hearing of the Town Council on January 16, 2001 at 7:15 PM, in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, on the aforesaid ordinance.
Council member Haverstock, asked if it is intended for the ordinance to be acted on at the next meeting without further review, or will a committee review it.
Mayor Hogan referred the matter to the Health and Safety Committee and asked them to meet on the issue before January 16, 2001.
The Motion Passed 6-2-0 with Council member Albano and Council member Pacino voting nay.
None.
None
Patrick McMahon, Economic Development Office provided an overview of the JDS Uniphase project. JDS is looking to expand and in order to make the necessary fiber optic connection would need to cross the town's right of way in the vicinity of Griffin Road South. JDS is offering to enter into a license agreement with the town, holding the town harmless against any claims.
Council member Pacino - asked if JDS Uniphase is aware of the proposed agreement. Patrick McMahon stated that JDS's attorney has a copy of the agreement.
Council member Trinks made a motion, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis to authorize the Town Manager to enter into a license agreement with JDS Uniphase allowing said corporation to install conduit and fiber optic cable in the Town's right of way as set forth in the license agreement. Motion Passed 8-0-0.
Town Manager Churchill provided background regarding the Police Athletic League. He expressed his desire to see PAL sponsored programs use a portion of the building. He noted that the Town's roll would be to provide the space and some programming and other roll modeling opportunities through the Windsor Police Department.
Mayor Hogan commented that she is excited about this project.
Council member Simon asked how many kids would most likely take advantage of this. Captain Tim Triggs responded that it is thought that approximately 75-100 kids would participate, and noted that karate would also be offered. He also pointed out that use of 330 Windsor Avenue would help address the issues of teenagers hanging out at the Wilson branch library.
Council member Pacino inquired if the necessary renovations would be completed through PAL's money. Captain Triggs responded that that was correct, PAL would be holding fundraising to cover these costs.
Council member Broxterman asked what nights the space would be utilized. Town Manager Churchill answered Monday, Wednesday and Friday's. Also arts, crafts and tutoring would be available Monday through Friday during the evening.
Council member Haverstock commented he thinks it is a fantastic idea and that PAL is a terrific organization. He noted that he is glad that the Town Council has been proactive with the Skate Park and also with this project in Wilson.
Deputy Mayor Curtis stated he also fully supports this use of 330 Windsor Avenue. There have been concerns in the past where these activities would take place and this would be a good use of the space. He asked if the gym at Wolcott would still be used by PAL.
Captain Triggs responded that yes it is used some nights and weekends.
Mayor Hogan encouraged potential volunteers to contact Cori-Lynn Webber, and also for the Youth Commission, which meets the first Wednesday of every month.
Deputy Mayor Curtis, made a motion, seconded by Council member Pacino, that the Town Council authorize the Town Manager to execute and agreement with the Police Athletic League for use of portions of 330 Windsor Avenue for programming use. Motion Passes 8-0-0.
Motion to table resignations made by Council member Pacino, seconded by Council member Trinks. Motion passed 8-0-0.
Council member Pacino made a motion, seconded by Council member Broxterman, to accept the minutes of the November 13, 2000 regular meeting.
Corrections: Bill Warner-Prouty misspelled, AJ Wright misspelled, check with Town staff member Julian on the correct spelling of his last name. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Curtis made a motion, seconded by Council member Pacino to accept the minutes of the December 4, 2000 special meeting. The motion passed 8-0-0
Council member Trinks made a motion, seconded by Council member Broxterman to accept the minutes of the December 4, 2000 public hearing. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Council member Pacino made a motion, seconded by Council member Trinks to accept the minutes of the December 4, 2000 regular meeting. Corrections: Governor Rowland misspelled, correct Paul Norris and Robert Newman. The motion passed 8-0-0
13. Public Petitions - None
Council member Boxterman made a motion, seconded by Council member Haverstock, to go into executive session regarding a). strategy and negotiations with respect to pending claims and litigation (Rizzuto vs. Town of Windsor), b.) consideration of alternate actions to enforce or implement relief of legal rights with respect to the landfill. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Present: Mayor Hogan, Councilmembers Albano, Broxterman, Curtis, Haverstock, Pacino, Simon, and Trinks. Staff and guests included Town Manager Churchill, Assistant Town Manager Souza, Police Chief Searles, Town Attorney Oswecki, and outside legal counsel Brian Leman.
At 8:53pm Police Chief Searles, Town Attorney Oswecki, and outside legal counsel Brian Leman left executive session.
At 8:53 Public Works Director Funk, Health Director Petrillo, Town Engineer Lenehan, Finance Director Pavitt, Landfill Administrator Slike, Financial Analyst Freund entered executive session to discuss consideration of alternate actions to enforce or implement relief or legal rights with respect to the landfill.
Executive session ended at 9:32pm and the Regular Town Council meeting reconvened. Council member Simon made a motion, seconded by Council member Pacino, to settle the Rizzutto vs. Town of Windsor case in accordance with discussion in executive session. Motion passed 6-1-1. Council member Haverstock voted nay and Council member Trinks abstained stating he knows the Plaintiff.
At 9:33pm Council member Simon made a motion, seconded by Council member Albano, to adjourn the regular Town Council Meeting. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah S. Burgess
Clerk of Windsor Town Council
cc: Town Clerk
Main Library
Wilson Branch
Minutes Approved: January 2, 2001