Mayor Trinks called the regular meeting to order at 7:34 p.m.

1. Roll Call – Present: Mayor Trinks, Deputy Mayor Curtis, Councilor Albano, Councilor Broxterman, Councilor Jepsen, Councilor Mulligan, Councilor Pacino, Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker.
2. Prayer – Deputy Mayor Curtis
3. Pledge of Allegiance – Deputy Mayor Curtis
4. Resolutions and Awards

None.

5. Public Communications and Petitions

None.

6. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions

1. Windsor Housing Authority

Mr. Harold DePianta, Chairman of Windsor Housing Authority, gave a summary of the Windsor Housing Authority’s history and current members. He reported on two housing programs--the elderly disabled housing program (state guidelines) and Section 8 Rental Assistance Program (federal guidelines). The 112 elderly and disabled unit rents are 30% of tenant’s income. The program operates without any financial assistance from the State or Town of Windsor. Less than $200 per month is paid by 50% of the tenants.

The Section 8 program is an outreach program to subsidize rent payments to landlords. It is completely funded by the Federal Government. Dwelling units are located throughout the town of Windsor. All units are inspected prior to a contract signing. Income limits are 1 person - $23,540; 2 people - $26,800; 3 people - $30,150; 4 people - $33,500; 5 people - $36,200; and 6+ people - $38,000.

The WHA is currently in negotiation with the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority to purchase the 40 units at John Fitch Court. Prior to the final sale, the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority will install new windows.

Councilor Albano inquired about the agreement for Fitch Court. Mr. DePianta responded that the closing would be shortly after the new windows are installed. A structural engineer also has to inspect the property.

Councilor Simon asked if there were waiting lists for both section 8 and town owned rentals. Mr. DePianta replied that there are waiting lists for both programs. There is a limit of 168 Section 8 certificates to be issued. The elderly housings turnover rate is greater because of the population served.

2. Public Building Commission

Mr. Joseph Novak addressed the Council. The Town Hall roof and HVAC are complete with the exception of the replacement skylight. The project will be closed in the spring of 2002.

The architects are meeting with the staff of 330 Windsor Avenue. An architect firm has been hired for the Windsor Public Library project. The bid package for the Poquonock School windows will be out to bid within two weeks.

The Windsor High School project is now more than 56% complete. The renovated pool and women’s locker room were open November 6^th. Final wiring of the scoreboard is still to be completed. The reason that the project is taking longer than expected is that they found more asbestos than originally anticipated. Mr. Novak summarized the history of the Windsor High School project. The project is within budget.

Councilor Jepsen asked about the reason behind the delay request. Mr. Novak replied that is was a request from the Board of Education administration due to scheduling problems.

Councilor Broxterman asked about the fee negotiations with the architect. Mr. Novak replied that an offer was made by the architect which the Public Building Commission (PBC) will likely counter offer.

Deputy Mayor Curtis commended the PBC on their work with the Windsor High School project. He asked about the basketball courts that were eliminated. Mr. Novak responded that there are courts available, however they do need more.

Councilor Simon asked about the asbestos and its impact on the timing of the project and the cost. Mr. Novak replied that the asbestos has had a significant impact on the scheduling.

Councilor Pacino commented that students have been sharing desks in study halls and some classes. He asked if more furniture would be ordered. Mr. Novak stated that because of storage space, the purchasing of furniture is being done in stages. He also reported that some of the athletes feel that the lockers are too thin. Councilor Pacino asked if there are any penalties if the construction is late. Mr. Novak commented that there are penalties in the contract, however the PBC was late with the contract and there were other delays, so it is not an option that should be pursued. Councilor Pacino asked if site work or athletic fields were reimbursable. Mr. Novak responded that if site work is related to the buildings it is reimbursable, however athletic fields are not reimbursable.

 

Projected State Aid For Windsor Remains Stable for Now

The State of Connecticut partially dealt with a projected $300 million deficit this fiscal year (FY 2002). The General Assembly reduced the State budget by about $200 million through cuts in programs and agencies and by shifting some capital project to bond funding. The Governor agreed to delay the phase out of the inheritance tax, which maintains $11 million in revenues. The General Assembly agreed to not reduce aid to cities and towns two weeks ago and their actions were consistent with that pledge. However, the forecast for FY 2002-03 looks more ominous with a $700 million deficit and with many legislators keeping cities and towns sacrosanct from funding reductions. I reported to you in September how Windsor should fare well in the State’s FY 2003 Budget, but this is in jeopardy with a fast declining economy. On the other hand, retail sales in Connecticut were up 6.7% in October compared to the year before. We will continue to keep you updated on this matter.

Landfill Update

Various town staff met with representatives of the State Department of Environmental Protection two weeks ago on how to proceed with the closure of the Windsor-Bloomfield Landfill. The DEP’s feedback was generally positive, but the town has much work to do over the next two years. A complete and thorough presentation on this necessary work will be given at the December 3^rd Town Council meeting. That presentation will touch upon ongoing closure activities; determining the final landfill design, form, and function; determine the need for air permits; and leachate control issues. The first order of business in 2002 will be determining the final landfill use as suggested by the DEP. We want to submit the final landfill design to the DEP in May 2002 so work with the community should begin in January.

MDC Budget

The Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) presented its CY 2002 Budget a few weeks ago with impacts to Windsor comparable to recent years. While consumers pay directly for their water consumption, the eight towns in the service area pay for sewer charges via assessments. The assessments are based on a three-year average of budget changes (usually increases). The MDC’s sewer budget increases 3.92% in 2002 resulting in a 4.9% increase, or $97,000, to Windsor’s fiscal year budget. This increase is less than experienced this year of about $107,880. Other towns projected impacts range from an increase of 6% for West Hartford to –1.8% for Hartford. This proposed budget will get adopted in December so there may be some changes. We have to be very cognizant of the financial impact complying with the new Nitrogen Reduction law. Windsor’s two representatives and I will keep the Town Council apprised of the MDC budget.

Windsor Community Service Council Accepting Annual Support

Although our thoughts remain with the victims and families of the September 11th terrorist attack, the Windsor Community Service Council continues to operate to meet the needs of people in our own community.

To support its annual holiday, food bank and fuel bank assistance programs, the Windsor Community Service Council is currently accepting contributions from Windsor businesses and citizens. Checks can be made out to the Windsor Community Service Council and mailed to Health & Social Services, 599 Matianuck Avenue, Windsor, CT. All contributions are tax deductible and 100% goes to Windsor residents in need.

 

Annual Carol Sing

Windsor’s traditional Carol Sing on the Green is a wonderful way to get in the holiday spirit and is scheduled for Thursday, November 29^th at 7:00 PM. After the carol sing, enjoy hot chocolate and free pictures with Santa at Windsor Federal Savings & Loan. For more information call 688-5165.

Torch Light Parade

More holiday fun is in store as the Windsor Fire Department welcomes other fire departments from throughout Connecticut as they show off their holiday decorated vehicles at the Torch Light parade. This year’s parade will be held on Saturday, December 1^st beginning at 6:30 PM in downtown Windsor. A bonfire with refreshments will be held near the pond by the commuter parking lot on Mechanic Street. For more information call 688-5165.

Indoor Pool Set to Re-Open – Free Swimming

The Windsor High School Indoor Pool will reopen on Tuesday, November 27^th . The pool will be open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:30-8:15 PM for family swim, and 8:15-9:00 PM for adult lap swim. The pool will also be open on Saturdays from 10:00 AM –11:00 AM for adult lap swim and 11:00 am—12:00 am for adult open swim. Family Swim on Saturdays will be held from noon to 2:00 PM.

Use of the pool is free of charge to Windsor residents through December 22^nd. For more information call 285-1990.

 

 

 

Update on Civic Participation Project

The second of three-scheduled stakeholder meetings was held last week as part of Windsor’s Civic Participation Project. The first two meetings have attracted 65-70 participants and have focused on defining what we mean and want from civic participation and assessing Windsor’s strengths and weaknesses.

Through a series of small group exercises and large group discussions, stakeholders have emphasized higher voter turnout, increased civic engagement among citizens, and streamlined communications between government and the public as desired outcomes of this project (among other things).

The third phase will be to develop action plans for addressing these issues, though some participants have already started generating strategies. This third meeting is scheduled for December 4th and the public is still welcome to jump into the fray. Anyone interested in participating can call Julian Freund at 285-1892. Interested citizens can familiarize themselves with the issues and what’s been discussed so far by visiting the Citizen Involvement section of the town website. The meeting on December 4 will begin at 5:30 and will be held at Sage Park Middle School with dinner provided.

Councilor Albano – thanked the voters for another term on the Council

Councilor Broxterman – thanked all who turned out to vote, whether you voted for him or not. Only 31% of eligible voters cast a vote. Food Share is 8,000 turkeys short for Thanksgiving, he urged all to contribute.

Councilor Jepsen – thanked all who voted for him. He commended Mike Swift, a Windsor resident, recipient of the Newspapers Editors 2001 Award.

Councilor Mulligan – None

Councilor Pacino – thanked everyone who voted and elected him.

Councilor Simon – also thanked the voters of Windsor and welcomed the new members.

Councilor Walker – None

Deputy Mayor Curtis – thanked all who came out and voted.

Mayor Trinks – thanked the voters of Windsor. He thanked WDRC FM for their support of Food Share. Mayor Trinks reported that there would be a Jaycees sponsored free coffee stop, exit 36 at Trinity Church. He encouraged all to participate. He also wished all a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

None.

None.

None.

1. Adopt 2002 schedule for Town Council Meetings

Town Manager Churchill made a correction for the first date in March, which should be March 4^th, not March 11^th.

Motioned by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepson to accept the amended 2002 schedule for Town Council Meetings.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

2. Adopt the 2002 schedule for Annual Board/Commissions Reports to Town Council

Councilor Albano asked if the Council could send letters to the Board/Commissions to inform them that they can request a session with the Council in case they have a need for Council input.

Mayor Trinks encouraged keeping the schedule and also sending the letters.

Councilor Simon also agreed that the schedule should be adopted and if the Board/Commissions need to meet with the Council they can contact the Town Manager.

Councilor Mulligan recommended a letter to the Board/Commissions advising them of their scheduled date of report to the Council and also informing them that they may request a session with the Council at any time.

Town Manager Churchill remarked that currently they do send a letter with information on the schedule of reports to the Council and said that it could be revised.

Motioned by Councilor Jepson, seconded by Councilor Pacino to adopt the 2002 schedule for Annual Board/Commissions Reports to Town Council.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

3. Abandonment and Conveyance of Batchelder and Island Roads

Town Manager Churchill summarized the background and referred to the map displayed at the meeting. The Town of Windsor and the Loomis Chaffee Institute have discussed terms for the transfer of Island and Batchelder Roads since August 2000. Loomis Chaffee is motivated to execute this transaction to improve the roads commensurate with recent capital improvements on the campus and to enhance safety for students.

Councilor Broxterman asked for clarification regarding the safety of the students and why owning the roads would effect the safety. Mr. Wejchert, Loomis Chaffee, replied that Loomis Chaffee would perform the improvements and maintenance. The quality of the road is substandard and the school would incur the expenses of improvements, which he estimates to be $5,000 per year.

Councilor Pacino asked if the Safety Services has been consulted about access to the roads. Mr. Wejchert commented that they would have access to the roads and all roads on the campus.

Councilor Simon commented that this is the third time the Council is being asked to approve the transfer of land to private owners. The other two properties were quite small and they were transferred with the benefit of taxes being paid on the property. He commented that taxes would not be paid on this particular property so why should the Town be motivated to make this transfer without payment. Town Manager Churchill replied that the motivation is cost reduction for future capital improvements and maintenance and the shift of liability to Loomis Chafee. While there may not be financial compensation there are cost avoidances.

Town Manager Churchill recommended that the Town Council not act on scheduling a Special Town Meeting until they receive a recommendation from the Town Planning and Zoning Commission.

Councilor Walker voiced his concerns regarding conflicts that may arise if Loomis Chaffee plans to widen the road at the same time that the town plans on making the center more pedestrian friendly. Mr. Wejchert replied that the main goal is to improve the quality of the road. The school wants to maintain the proper character and safety of the road.

Councilor Broxterman asked about the causeway and the bridge. Mr. Wejchert responded that significant budget dollars would be spent on the causeway and bridge to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety.

Motioned by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Mulligan, to refer the proposed abandonment and conveyance of Batchelder and Island Roads to Loomis Chafee to the Town Planning & Zoning Commission for a CGS 8-24 review.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Mayor Trinks referred the project to the Health and Safety Committee for review and recommendation.

4. Authorize the Town Manager to execute an agreement with the State of Connecticut for financial assistance to the Windsor Amphitheater

Town Manager Churchill noted construction recently began for the Summerwind Amphitheater in Griffin Office Park. The funding requirements for the project have increased significantly since first conceived 15 months ago. State and private funds have been committed to the project to meet the funding requirements.

Councilor Simon asked what a personal service agreement was. Town Manager Churchill commented that the language was provided to us. The funds are State-bonding money. Town Manager Churchill commented that the State sees the project in their best interest to foster the Arts, which will improve the quality of life amenities to a corporate area north of Hartford and sees it essential for future development.

Councilor Mulligan noted that the State has gone from being almost last in the nation for supporting the Arts to currently being second only to Hawaii.

Councilor Pacino asked if non-profit status has been received. Town Manager Churchill replied that Celebrate Windsor, Inc. is in the process of receiving the non-profit status and indeed may have already received it.

Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Walker to authorize the Town Manager to execute on behalf of the Town of Windsor a Personal Services Agreement with the State of Connecticut for financial assistance to the Windsor Amphitheater.

Motion Passed 9-0-0.

5. Resolution to Support Bradley Area Transportation Study

Deputy Mayor Curtis read the resolution that the Mayor of Windsor and the Town Council support the general concepts proposed in the Bradley Area Transportation Study Improvement Plan and recommend conducting a formal design process to develop detailed plans and address any unresolved issues.

Mr. Mario Zavarella, Town Planner, summarized the plan of the Bradley Area Transportation Study. These recommendations have been made with the objective for Bradley International Airport to fully realize its role as a major economic engine for Windsor and the metropolitan area. On the local level, it proposes solutions for several roadway problems in each town. There are also four projects that are considered to have regional impacts. These are the Route 75 congestion improvements that involve a short segment of the State road in Windsor, a much longer one in Windsor Locks consisting of mass transit bus connections between Hartford and Bradley field via the Griffin line and/or the AMTRK line (this is slated for further study), the Bradley Park Road/International Drive corridor with further studies recommended to evaluate the connection of this corridor to Route 75 in Suffield, and the new Suffield Roadway connecting Route 75 to Route 190 and I-91, to the north.

Councilor Albano inquired about the local roads. Mr. Zavarella replied that one of the roads is a State road and it is hoped that the State will fund proposed improvements.

Councilor Mulligan inquired about the timetable of the intersection on Rainbow Road or the other local improvements. Mr. Zavarella replied this is a conceptual plan and the priorities have to be decided.

Deputy Mayor Curtis made a motion, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the resolution as read.

Motion Passes 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to accept the resignations of Don Jepsen from the Inland, Wetlands and Watercourses Commission and Lori A. Gaudino from the Youth Commission.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Pacino to reappoint Abraham Morrison to the Board of Ethics for a five-year term to expire July 31, 2006 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Pacino to appoint Nicholas Lefas to the Economic Development Commission for a five year unexpired term to expire July 31, 2003 or until as successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Pacino to appoint Lisa Hernick to the Library Advisory Board for a three year unexpired term to expire January 3, 2003 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Correction: Item O. appears as a vacancy and Rita Melly Coyne was appointed to the position (in the minutes).

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Pacino to table Items D, F, G, H, I, J, K, M, N, P, Q AND R.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Walker, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis to add the resignation of Lenworth Walker from the Human Relations Commission to the agenda.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to accept the resignation of Lenworth Walker from the Human Relations Commission.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

14. Minutes of Preceding Meetings

1. Minutes of the October 15, 2001 Public Hearing Meeting

Motioned by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Mulligan to approve the minutes of the October 15, 2001 Public Hearing Meeting.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

2. Minutes of the October 15, 2001 Town Council Meeting

Correction – Item 4.B. Deputy Mayor Curtis read the resolution.

Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepson to approve the corrected minutes of the October 15, 2001 Town Council Meeting.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

None.

None.

Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 9:21 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library

Wilson Branch