Mayor Trinks called the regular meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.

1. Roll Call – Present: Mayor Trinks, Deputy Mayor Curtis, Councilor Albano (arrived 7:45 p.m.), Councilor Broxterman, Councilor Jepsen, Councilor Mulligan, Councilor Pacino, Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker
    
2. Prayer – Councilor Broxterman
    
3. Pledge of Allegiance – Councilor Broxterman
    
4. Proclamations/Awards
   None.
    
5. Public Communications and Petitions

   Mr. George Yeramian, 739 Prospect Hill Road, thanked the Council for their hard work. He spoke in regards to the soccer/lacrosse complex at the landfill. He is concerned with the impact it would generate on Saturdays and Sundays for traffic on Prospect Hill Road. He is also concerned about the noise and the lighting. He has another list of questions and concerns, which he submitted to the Council. He hopes that people will have time to consider the impact of this project.
    

6. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions

1. Youth Commission

   Ms. Florence Barlow and Mr. Joe Novak reported to the Council. She thanked Mr. Novak and Dr. Gange for their service to the Commission. The Commission has nine regular members, including one student member. They currently have three vacancies. They monitor youth activities, skate park progress, PAL activities, public schools and libraries in the town. The Commission promoted the 1001 Pumpkins event and Red Ribbon Week, which signified drug prevention and education week. Beginning in 2003, they will start a Youth Council as part of the Youth Commission. Ms. Caitlyn Turgeon, student member of the Commission, will be working with this group of students. A breakfast will be held in January for the Youth Council. The Commission will also begin working on a directory identifying programs and activities available for youth and their families in Windsor

2. Zoning Board of Appeals

   Mr. Max Kuziak reported to the Council. The Board is made up of eight appointed members assisted by the Town Building Official and the Building Inspector. There are five regular members and three alternates. The Board convened eight times in 2002 and granted 17 requests for variances. There were two denials. There are two requests on the agenda for the meeting on December 18, 2002.

3. Public Building Commission

Mr. Joseph Novak, Chairman, PBC reported to the Council.

WHS Renovations - will be completed by the end of this month or by early January 2003. The technical education and art areas will be occupied in early January and O&G Industries’ trailer will move out in January. Most of the construction will be completed in January, with so called punch list items to be completed through the winter and spring.

Goslee Pool – design work will be reviewed at their next meeting.

Public Works Renovation – plans were approved by the PBC at their December 10^th meeting.

330 Windsor Avenue - The interior work is expected to start this week and last three or four months.

Town Hall Roof Project - has gone out to bid and will be completed within four months.

Poquonock School Windows – windows arrived after Thanksgiving and 50% of them have been installed. The remaining will be installed during Christmas break week. Once all the windows are installed, window treatments will be installed.

L.P. Wilson Roof – design will be complete in the spring, with construction beginning next summer.

Windsor Library Expansion Project – awaiting direction from the Council.

Clover Street - design funds have been approved and the roof will be replaced in 2003. The architect has been hired to design the project by the end of the year.

Poquonock Office Improvements – design is completed, funding has not been approved.

Councilor Albano asked for clarification on the punch list. Mr. Novak replied that once a room is complete, the staff inspects the rooms and, for example, if a piece of molding is discovered missing the item will be added to the punch list and O&G will finish the work on the punch list.

Councilor Pacino asked if the lights on the stage would be replaced. Mr. Novak said that in the original project the lights and sound system were going to be replaced, however, they were cut from the project. Some of the defective fixtures have been replaced. Wes Vasco told him that the lighting on the stage was adequate, however, he will follow-up with staff regarding the lighting. The cost to replace all of the lighting is $100,000.

Councilor Mulligan asked why the Clover Street Window Project came in so low below estimated costs. Mr. Novak said that the PBC does not get involved in the original estimate and he believes that the school may have supplied the original estimate.

7. Town Manager’s Report

The town’s application for 2002 Small Cities funding has been approved by the State of Connecticut. Grant funding in the amount of $445,000 for the reconstruction of Corey Street was recently approved and our engineering staff is proceeding with the necessary environmental review process to insure the release of the funds in a timely manner.

Construction will begin in the summer of 2003. I will continue to keep the Council updated on the progress of his project.

Evidence continues to pour in regarding Windsor’s successful Economic Development activity as compared to the greater Hartford region which was published in the December 9, 2002 Hartford Business Journal. Two Windsor properties were ranked at the top of the list for the largest 2002 commercial sales in greater Hartford. In a tie for the number one ranking, properties at 200 Great Pond Road and #5 & #7 Waterside Crossing led the list of 39 "biggest deals."

In addition, four Windsor properties were listed in the top 20 "Largest New Commercial Leases" as measured by total square footage and two Windsor properties made the top 20 list of "Biggest Developments" as measured by cost.

The position of full-time Senior Center Programmer was offered to Stephany Wall. Ms. Wall has accepted the position and will begin before the New Year. We plan to advertise the vacated 19-hour per week, part-time position previously held by Ms. Wall at the Senior Center. This position will be filled in the first few months of 2003.

The State of Connecticut continues to respond to its budget deficit and the impacts to Windsor could be very severe. The Town has essentially closed the financial shortfall created by the decline in interest earnings as reported last June. The projected shortfall of $145,000 has been closed mostly through the freezing of positions such as a secretary position, two maintenance worker positions, budget analyst, and others.

The Town now faces the challenge of the Governor’s mid-year rescissions to municipalities. Our analysis shows an impact of $165,566, up from our estimate in October ($137,251). The current projected deficit for this fiscal year is 183,166 when the residual deficit from our prior action left $17,600 unaccounted for is included.

The Governor has since proposed additional mid-year reductions to town aid for the General Assembly to consider. These proposed reductions go beyond the Governor’s rescission authority and require approval by both he and the General Assembly. The proposed reductions include $619,988 in general government aid and $503,085 in reduced Education Cost Sharing for a total of $1,123,073 that could be effective as early as January 9, 2003. These proposed reductions include Pequot/Mohegan grant funding so that towns get 20% of the revenues, down from 78% when first enacted; Manufacturing & Equipment reimbursement at 54%, down from 100% two years ago; and Town Aid at its lowest levels since inception. These proposed reductions are necessary on one hand, but they are also mean-spirited and ill timed by being in the middle of a fiscal year and this scenario could have been reasonably forecast last summer. Keep in mind, this organization began adjusting for this fiscal year in June 2002 when analyzing our interest earnings. The Town does not have the ability to nibble at discretionary spending to address this shortfall. For example, travel in the general government totals $32,000 and the training budget is $86,000. These totals clearly can’t address reductions in State Aid that total 9.4% of all aid the town receives.

Several actions have to be considered to close this new deficit. These actions fall into five major categories:

• Defer or alter funding of capital expenditures (e.g., no capital for remainder of FY 2003 and 2004)
• Service Level reductions (e.g., reduce library hours)
• Freeze or eliminate operating expenditures (e.g., maintenance, travel, pay increases, etc.)
• Reduce the Scope of Government (e.g., sell real estate holdings)
• Restructure or re-engineer services (e.g., buy streetlights from CL&P or regionalize services)

There are larger issues to contemplate. The Governor can now be heard stating "Well, Minnesota cut all aid to cities and towns". We need to keep in mind that localities in that state also have local option taxes like a hotel bed tax. All Connecticut towns receive from the State is a patronizing and paternalistic relationship built on distrust. The State has it both ways – cut aid to towns and not allow them a way to manage through difficult times.

Perhaps the State of Connecticut is considering walking away from aid to cities and towns. We are now left to decide if we are going to walk away from our responsibility. We won’t. We will also ask the citizens of Windsor what you want. We have to answer some basic questions over the next few months of what role you want your local government to perform? And do you like your quality of life? All things being equal, the State is asking Windsor taxpayers are they willing to spend .6 of mill more for the same services – about a $61 increase for your average home. These actions also have applicability for the FY 2004 Financial Plan as with every year and every option has to be considered.

1. Finance Committee – met last Monday to discuss the budget format for the upcoming fiscal year which is on the agenda this evening; the proposed lease for the soccer complex (no action was taken); and reviewed the current revenues and expenditures for the Town.
2. Town Improvements Committee – None.
3. Health and Safety – None.
4. Special Projects – None.
5. Joint Board of Education and Town Council Committee – None.

10. Ordinances

    None.

11. Unfinished Business

1. Approve Budget Format for FY 2003-2004

   Councilor Simon spoke regarding the budget format. Some Councilors have recently expressed interest in disclosing or knowing more about the nature of vacancies in town government. The Council’s Finance Committee unanimously recommends that supplemental information be provided in the Town’s Financial Plan. This information should include why a position is vacant, its budgetary impact, and impact on service delivery.

   Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Albano that budget format for FY 2004 be the same as that utilized for the presentation of FY 2003 budget with the addition of explanatory information pertaining to staff vacancies and their impact on the budget & services.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

2. Approve the Tax Increment Finance Policy

The Town Finance Committee reviewed the proposed TIF policy at its meeting on October 29. The Committee voted to recommend Town Council approval of the policy with a change to Section III.4., to clarify that the developer is to use best efforts to provide job creation priority for Windsor residents. The Committee also requested that the redevelopment properties list be officially adopted by the Council and that a procedure be established to review and update the list at least annually and otherwise when needed.

On December 2, the Town Council adopted a Priority Redevelopment Properties List and Policy in response to Council Members’ concern for an official and up-to-date list.

Resolved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the Town of Windsor Tax Increment Financing Policy attached as Exhibit A.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

12. New Business

1. Small Pox Vaccination Presentation

Dr. Charles Petrillo, Public Health Director, made a presentation to the Council. President Bush will make the smallpox vaccination available to all Americans as a precaution against a possible bio-terrorism attack. The general public will be offered the vaccine on a voluntary basis as soon as large stockpiles are licensed, probably early in 2004. Dr. Petrillo explained in depth the three stage plan drafted by Connecticut health officials. The State has been divided into 41 planning regions, each of the regions having a minimum of 50,000 residents and having a Health Director. Windsor and South Windsor have been grouped into region 31. The region would be responsible for a mass vaccination clinic to vaccinate the region within a 10-day period, upon the direction of the President. They recommended Windsor High School and South Windsor High School as clinic locations. Either site would suffice, however, South Windsor High School meets the selection criteria more closely.

The Federal Government will pay for the smallpox vaccine as part of this mobilization. However, localities will likely have to bear the cost of the administration, logistics, and general management of the mass vaccinations. It is too early to assemble a credible estimate, but costs will be direct in the form of care workers, and indirect in the form of overtime for public safety workers and time away from traditional municipal functions. The Town Council will eventually be asked to approve the Clinic Plan perhaps in February 2003.

Councilor Simon asked if it is going to be a large diversion for the Health Department staff. Dr. Petrillo answered that it has been taking 50% of his and another staff member’s time for quite some time now. That time should decrease by the end of January or early February when the coordinators come on board.

Councilor Broxterman inquired what happens if we can’t get the required number of volunteers and would they be vaccinated. He also asked when the last vaccinations for smallpox were given. Dr. Petrillo is not concerned with getting 230-240 volunteers, however, he is concerned that they may not be able to keep up the pace for 10 days, so substitutes will be necessary. Those volunteers will be from Windsor and South Windsor. The last immunizations were given in 1972 to anyone older than one year of age. It is estimated that the immunization lasts anywhere from 10-20 years. Dr. Petrillo said that vaccinations are voluntary, however it is recommended that anyone who volunteers in the clinics is vaccinated. The only mandated vaccinations are military at this time.

Deputy Mayor Curtis asked about the development of the new vaccine. Dr. Petrillo responded that there are some changes in the new vaccine. The antibiotics currently used in the vaccine will not be added to the new vaccine.

Councilor Pacino asked about having the clinic at the two proposed sites because of possible transportation or other issues that may prevent a Windsor resident to get to South Windsor High School. Dr. Petrillo said that they are considering those issues in developing the plan. The stipulations by the government for control of the vaccine are so strict that a single site is being considered at this point. We are trying to coordinate supplies statewide to help keep costs down. We are also keeping a list of costs in case the federal government later decides to reimburse municipalities. Dr. Petrillo will provide the estimated costs to the Town Council once they have them.

Councilor Albano stated the preference for a clinic in Windsor to increase convenience for Windsor residents

2. Approve appropriation for $10,500 for design services related to the O’Brien Field Lighting Project

   Mr. Tom Lenehan, Town Engineer, discussed the appropriation. The project needs sufficient design work in order to proceed with permitting and cost estimation. The design of the sports lighting system will include the design of the field lighting, the evaluation of the lighting levels of the seating areas, adjacent parking area and walkways, and the determination and reduction of light spillage in the surrounding neighborhood. The estimated cost of the design is $10,500. Funds are available from the proceeds of the $75,000 private donation.

   Councilor Mulligan asked what we are looking for from the consultant. Mr. Lenehan expects the final design and specifications for the lights which include the surrounding lights in the parking lots and seating areas. This would include the type of system and features of the system.

   Deputy Mayor Curtis asked if the height of the poles influence which sports can play at night. Mr. Lenehan stated that a primary factor is the level of light intensity. Greater amounts are needed for sports such as lacrosse or field hockey. The design consultant would be charged with designing and evaluating a lighting control system which could vary the light intensity depending on field or stadium use.

   Councilor Pacino asked if we could request the design work deadline be moved up. His concern is that the design will not be completed by the time that the TP&Z application is submitted. Mr. Lenehan said that we could move up the deadline, however, we need the time so we can provide all of the information that the TP&Z needs.

   Councilor Mulligan asked what information is going to be supplied to the TP&Z. Mr. Lenehan said the site plan, §8-24 Review, Special Use and Pole Height Waiver will be necessary to approve the site plan.

   Councilor Simon is disappointed and frustrated that this is the second time that this is on the agenda and none of the proponents are present. He intends to support this tonight, but it does not indicate final support of the project.

   Councilor Albano confirmed that this money is coming out of town funds if we don’t go through with the project. He cannot support this in case we don’t go through with the project. This is a luxury item and he feels we can do without it. He is not supporting it.

   Councilor Walker is in favor of lighted fields, however, he urges the Council to be prudent in these economic times.

   Councilor Mulligan asked if this project is eligible for State reimbursement. Town Manager Churchill stated staff feels the project is eligible for reimbursement.

   Mayor Trinks said that he will be supporting the motion for the concept and the plan, but is not committing himself to the final project at this time.

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Mulligan that $10,500 be appropriated from the Capital Projects Fund – O’Brien Field Renovations Project (Account #02540400-43180-9315) to fund the design of the sports lighting system at O’Brien Field.

   Motion Passed 7-2-0 (Councilors Albano and Walker opposing)

3. Approve appropriation of $1,300 to WIN-TV Government Channel

   Town Manager Churchill explained the appropriation. In the early negotiations between the town and WIN-TV to develop a delegation agreement for the operation of Channel 21, the WIN-TV Board of Directors noted that they budgeted $3,000 for the contractual services to produce live Town Council, Board of Education, and TP&Z meetings. As part of the negotiations, they requested the remaining $1,300 be returned to the total amount of WIN-TV’s contribution from the town for a total of $10,000 for Fiscal Year 2003.

   Because the town would be assuming one-third of the responsibilities by operating Channel 21, the town manager originally thought taking one-third of the appropriation would be a fair distribution of the funds. The authorization of an additional $1,300 to WIN-TV as part of negotiating a delegation agreement was necessary to obtain the long-term benefits of municipal control.

   Councilor Simon clarified for viewers that the $1,300 is not a new appropriation, but a transfer of funds from an existing line item.

   Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to appropriate the amount of $1,300 from account 01-1-10-132 (Information Services/Public Relations) to WIN-TV as part of the Government Channel 21 Delegation Agreement.

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 (Councilor Walker opposing)

4. Approve appropriation of $6,000 to fund local match of Heritage Tourism Plan

   Mr. Burke, Economic Development Director, discussed the appropriation. The Council is requested to authorize utilization of $6,000 of Community Development Block Grant program income as the local match for a grant provided by the Connecticut Historical Commission to update Windsor’s Heritage Tourism Plan.

   Councilor Pacino asked if the North Central Tourism District would directly or indirectly benefit from this plan and why they refused to match the grant. He also asked what Fund 8100 was for. Mr. Burke said that the North Central Tourism District would benefit because they promote the tourism in this area, including Windsor. If we can better package Windsor’s tourism, we can be a better presence in the North Central Tourism District’s advertisement and promotion. He was not able to confirm why they did not match the grant. Income from past Community Development Block Grant efforts are placed in Fund 8100 and can be utilized for historical preservation, economic development, along with housing and neighborhood development activities.

   Councilor Simon asked if we have to account to anybody for the CDBG funds. He asked if Fund 8100 is outside of the general fund. He also was disappointed that the Chamber was unable to match the grant and asked if they provided a reason. Mr. Burke said that it is his understanding that these were HUD funds awarded directly to the town, not CDBG Small Cities funds administered by the State of Connecticut. HUD has discontinued the direct entitlement program for smaller towns. The Town was told that they were no longer required to meet the program requirements, but was encouraged to use the funds for the same type of projects. Town Manager Churchill said that Fund 8100 is outside of the general fund, however, it needs an appropriation for this match. Mr. Burke said that the Chamber did not have the funds in their budget, however, they have committed staff time and resources to this project.

   Councilor Albano asked how much money was in this fund and what else can we use it for, suggesting flu shots or smallpox vaccines. Town Manager Churchill said that there is approximately $90,000 in the fund, however, on an annual basis, some of the funds are used to pay staff for work in those areas.

   Councilor Walker asked if this appropriation is something that can wait until the next meeting for a vote. Mr. Burke responded that we need to do the appropriation before the time runs out for the grant match requirement.

   Councilor Jepsen asked if these funds are in jeopardy of being pulled by the State. He also asked for the timeline for the grant. Mr. Burke said that these are federal funds that the State is managing. The grant provides that we need to complete this update by the end of June. The consultant needs from January to June to get the job done.

   Mayor Trinks enthusiastically supports the appropriation to enhance Windsor’s brand name recognition.

   Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Simon resolved that the Town Council hereby authorizes the expenditure of $6,000 from CDBG Fund Project 8100 to be used as the town’s match for a grant provided by the Connecticut Historical Commission to update Windsor’s Heritage Tourism Plan.

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 (Councilor Walker opposed)

5. Introduce a bond ordinance for Sage Park Athletic Fields

   Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works and Mr. Gregg Pavitt, Director of Finance reviewed the proposed improvements. The turf at Sage Park is being worn out by current use. In addition, the layout of the fields at Sage Park could be more efficient if modified. This project would entail installing an irrigation system at Sage Park, improving the effectiveness of the existing irrigation system at O’Brien Field; replacing the "crown" at O’Brien Field to improve drainage, followed by the re-sodding of the field; moving of certain drainage structures at O’Brien Field to allow for its potential use for soccer games; moving of the baseball field at Sage Park from the center of the park to the southwest corner in order to provide for a more efficient layout of the fields in the park; improving drainage in Sage Park; as well as replacing some of the fencing at the park, especially along the property lines.

   Councilor Simon asked Town Manager Churchill about the substantially lower costs for bonding than the amount projected in the CIP. He asked for a rundown on the costs. He believes the entire cost of this bonding will cost less than we thought. Town Manager Churchill said that Sage Park Athletic Fields was originally projected to cost $180,000, the addition of O’Brien Field, brought the cost to $300,000. The other projects on the agenda tonight include the BOE project for the L.P. Wilson Roof Replacement, which was estimated to be $785,000, actual projection is $800,000; the BOE Clover Street Window Replacement was originally estimated at $827,000, and it is now projected for $375,000; and the Poquonock School project was estimated at $443,000, now projected to be $305,000. Also, there have been other savings that have occurred in capital financing resulting in a projected debt service savings of $73,000. When debt service for the Public Safety Communications System is added, $39,000 is the net savings in annual debt service.

   Councilor Walker asked if this is a project that could wait until the next meeting when we have more information from the State. Town Manager Churchill said these are bond ordinance introductions tonight. The town could defer its decision to the January 21^st Council Meeting. He recommends that we introduce the ordinances tonight.

   Councilor Simon cautioned the Council that there may not be a quick resolution to the budget crisis.

   Councilor Jepsen asked if the additional $70,000 was for O’Brien Field. Mr. Funk responded that it is for O’Brien Field and a contingency fund of $40,000.

   Councilor Albano asked for clarification for bonding costs. Mr. Pavitt said that it is $263,000 of new bonding.

   Councilor Pacino asked about the $30,000 renovation a few years ago for the baseball field at Sage Park. He was under the impression that it was going to be moved for safety reasons. He asked the High School coach why he wasn’t playing his varsity games there. He was told that the coach was not consulted and the sun problem was the same as the field across the street. Mr. Funk said that he was not part of the renovation a few years ago. The coach is in support of the proposed relocation of the fields. They are looking to start sodding O’Brien field in May so it would be done early enough for the roots of the sod to grow before football in the fall. The rest of Sage Park would probably wait until after June 1^st, after the spring playing season is mostly over.

   Resolved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen, that the reading into the minutes of the text of the ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $270,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SAGE PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL AND WINDSOR HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC FIELDS, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $270,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" is hereby waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the Council and copies being made available to those persons attending this meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting.

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 (Councilor Walker opposed)

   Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to introduce the following ordinance: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $270,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SAGE PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL AND WINDSOR HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC FIELDS, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $270,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION."

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 (Councilor Walker opposing)
    

6. Set a Public Hearing for a bond ordinance for Sage Park Athletic Fields on January 6, 2003 at 7:00 p.m.

   Mayor Trinks suggested that the meeting be scheduled on January 21^st rather than January 6^th.

   Councilor Mulligan requested a copy of the document with capital savings from Town Manager Churchill.

   Resolved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Monday, January 21, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) on the following ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $270,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SAGE PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL AND WINDSOR HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC FIELDS, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $270,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish notice of said Public Hearing.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0
    

7. Introduce a bond ordinance for L.P. Wilson Roof Replacement

   Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works and Mr. Gregg Pavitt, Director of Finance reviewed the project. This project would replace the roof on the north section of the facility. The roof on the south side of L.P. Wilson does not require replacement at this time. A section of the south side was replaced approximately five years ago. This section should last for about 15 more years. The remainder of the south roof would normally be scheduled for replacement in approximately five to six years. The Town monitors the condition of the roof on an annual basis.

   Councilor Albano asked about the extra $40,000. Mr. Funk said the $40,000 for the design is not part of the $800,000 bonding.

   Councilor Pacino asked why we are spending money for a roof replacement that was inferior from the beginning. Councilor Pacino also asked about the condition of the other sections of the roof and if it would be a cost savings to replace them along with the northern section. Mr. Funk said that Town Attorney said that they do not have enough of a case to proceed with legal action. The roof has been tested with infrared methods to determine soft spots and the south section is in good condition and would not be a good expenditure of funds at this time.

   Councilor Simon asked if the north section is leaking. Mr. Dennis Shevel, Facilities Manager, BOE, said that the roof is leaking, but not constantly, for the past 1 ½ to 2 years.

   Resolved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen, that the reading into the minutes of the text of the ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $800,000 FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE ROOF ON THE NORTH SECTION OF THE L.P. WILSON BUILDING, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $800,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" is hereby waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the Council and copies being made available to those persons attending this meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to introduce the following ordinance: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $800,000 FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE ROOF ON THE NORTH SECTION OF THE L.P. WILSON BUILDING, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $800,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION."

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 (Councilor Pacino opposing)
    

8. Set a Public Hearing for a bond ordinance for L.P. Wilson Roof Replacement on January 21, 2003 at 7:05 p.m.

   Resolved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Monday, January 21, 2003 at 7:05 p.m. (prevailing time) on the following ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $800,000 FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE ROOF ON THE NORTH SECTION OF THE L.P. WILSON BUILDING, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $800,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish notice of said Public Hearing.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0
    

9. Introduce a bond ordinance for Clover Street School Window Replacement

   Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works and Mr. Gregg Pavitt, Director of Finance reviewed the project. Approximately half of the windows in the original portion of the Clover Street School’s Main Building, Library Building, and Buildings #1, #2, #5 and #6 are of the full height, single pane, store front type. Due to the considerable heat loss from these windows, condensation accumulates, and uncomfortable and distracting drafts are the results. Replacement of these windows will significantly improve the comfort level, enhance the appearance of the facility’s exterior, and reduce fuel consumption.

   Councilor Pacino asked if these windows would finish all of the window replacements at the school. Mr. Shevel, Facilities Manager, BOE, confirmed this. Years ago, the windows that faced the interstate were replaced. The Clover Street windows were not replaced at that time.

   Councilor Jepsen asked about the $500,000 savings. Mr. Shevel said that there were two different estimates at two different times. The current architect has more insights and fewer assumptions than the estimate that was made years ago.

   Resolved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Walker, that the reading into the minutes of the text of the ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $335,000 FOR WINDOW REPLACEMENT AT CLOVER STREET SCHOOL, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $335,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" is hereby waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the Council and copies being made available to those persons attending this meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

   Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to introduce the following ordinance: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $335,000 FOR WINDOW REPLACEMENT AT CLOVER STREET SCHOOL, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $335,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION."

   Motion Passed 8-0-0 (Mayor Trinks was not in attendance for the vote)
    

10. Set a Public Hearing for a bond ordinance for Clover Street Window Replacement on January 21, 2003 at 7:10 p.m.

    Resolved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Monday, January 21, 2003 at 7:10 p.m. (prevailing time) on the following ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $335,000 FOR WINDOW REPLACEMENT AT CLOVER STREET SCHOOL, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $335,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish notice of said Public Hearing.

    Motion Passed 9-0-0
     

11. Introduce a bond ordinance for Public Safety Radio System

    Mr. Peter Souza, Assistant Town Manager, and Mr. Gregg Pavitt, Director of Finance, reviewed the Public Safety Radio System project. This project aims to replace a fifteen-year old radio communications system and will address a range of issues including radio coverage, system capacity, and reliability of equipment. When these existing issues are addressed in a comprehensive manner, safety conditions for police officers and volunteer firefighters will be significantly improved.

    Councilor Jepsen asked if this amount would be impacted by Windsor joining a Regional Dispatch Center. Mr. Souza responded that the Regional Dispatch Center would take two to three years to be developed. We have an immediate need for the radio system right now, which is fifteen years old.

    Resolved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen, that the reading into the minutes of the text of the ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $275,000 FOR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM UPGRADES, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $275,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" is hereby waived, the full text of the ordinance having been distributed to each member of the Council and copies being made available to those persons attending this meeting; and that the full text of the ordinance be recorded with the minutes of this meeting.

    Motion Passed 9-0-0

    Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to introduce the following ordinance: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $275,000 FOR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM UPGRADES, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $275,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION."

    Motion Passed 9-0-0
     

12. Set a Public Hearing for a bond ordinance for Public Safety Radio System on January 6, 2003 at 7:15 p.m.

Resolved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Monday, January 6, 2003 at 7:15 p.m. (prevailing time) on the following ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $275,000 FOR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM UPGRADES, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $275,000 BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE APPROPRIATION" and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish notice of said Public Hearing.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

13. Resignations and Appointments

Motioned by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Albano to table items A-X.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

14. Minutes of Preceding Meetings

1. Minutes of the December 2, 2002 Regular Town Council Meeting

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the December 2, 2002 Regular Town Council Meeting. Corrections: Page 5 Item 9.E. Joint BOE Council Committee – It wasn’t a priority of the BOE, however, they would support the lights if funding didn’t reduce their capital or operating budgets should be changed to The BOE would not be opposed to the lights.

Motion Passed 8-0-1 (Counselor Broxterman abstaining)

15. Public Communications and Petitions

    Mr. Bradshaw Smith, 23 Ludlow Road, spoke about an article in the press about a grant received by the town. Mr. Smith submitted the article for inclusion in the minutes. Given the amount of time that has transpired since it has appeared from the press, could we have a report from the Town Manager regarding the amount received and the conditions of the grant. It has been two months and four Council meetings and we have not received any information on this grant. He has found it disappointing that the Town Manager has the time to blast the Governor and state leadership without acknowledgement or thanks for what we are receiving from the state.

    Moved by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Pacino to enter into Executive Session at 10:40 p.m.

    Motion Passed 9-0-0

16. Executive Session

Councilor Jepsen made a motion, seconded by Councilor Pacino to enter Executive Session for the following items:

1. Discussion concerning the appointment, employment, performance, evaluation, health or dismissal of a public officer or employee.
2. Discussion of the selection of a lease, sale or purchase of real estate.
3. Strategy and negotiations with respect to pending claims and litigation.

Entered Executive Session at 10:40 p.m.

Present: Mayor Trinks, Deputy Mayor Curtis, Councilor Albano, Councilor Broxterman, Councilor Jepsen, Councilor Mulligan, Councilor Pacino, Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker

Staff Present: Town Manager Leon Churchill, Assistant Town Manager Peter Souza, Health Director Charles Petrillo, Finance Director Greg Pavitt, Town Engineer Tom Lenehan, Solid Waste Manager Mark Goossens, Public Works Director Brian Funk

Mr. Souza, Mr. Petrillo, Mr. Pavitt, Mr. Lenehan, Mr. Goossens and Mr. Funk left Executive Session at 11:03 p.m.

Moved by Councilor Broxterman seconded by Councilor Jepsen to re-enter the Regular Town Council meeting at 11:12 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

17. Adjournment

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Pacino to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 11:13 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library