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. Proclamations/Awards

1. National Community Development Week

Deputy Mayor Curtis read the proclamation Honoring National Community Development Week from April 1-7, 2002.

Mr. James Hallisey and Ms. Diane McDougald from the Community Development Office accepted the proclamation.

5. Public Communications and Petitions

Ms. Cathy Carroll, 1194 Windsor Avenue, thanked Mayor Trinks and the Windsor Police Department and Fire Department for participating in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hartford on Saturday, March 16, 2002.

6. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions

1. Public Building Commission

Mr. Joseph Novak, Chairperson of the Public Building Commission, reported to the Town Council. Temporary classrooms in gym 2 at Windsor High School will allow renovations to take place in area 8. Effective March 25, 2002 bus unloading and pickup will be altered. Students will be parking in the south lot effective March 25, 2002. During April vacation, access will be severely limited due to construction. The fire watch has been suspended. Mr. Novak thanked the Windsor Fire Department for their help and stated the situation in January has been resolved. Financially, the contingency budget is close. $932,000 in change orders has been produced and another quarter million is expected to be produced placing the contingency budget close to a deficit. There is currently $275,000 in contingency funds. There could be a deficit of at least $30-$40,000 in the contingency fund.

The demolition of interior walls and ceilings at 330 Windsor Avenue is complete. The architect will complete designs this spring. Bids will begin on April 4, 2002 for the Poquonock School project. The L.P. Wilson roof grant applications for the State have been completed.

The Goslee pool bathhouse renovations are designed. Funding is scheduled for FY ’03. The Poquonock asbestos abatement project has not yet been funded. The Poquonock office renovations are funded in part and additional funds will be requested in FY ’03.

Councilor Mulligan inquired about the L.P. Wilson roof and the premature failure of it for the lack of expansion joints in the roof. He requested an update on the status of the warranty. Mr. Novak stated that the manufacturer is out of business. The roof is at 80% life expectancy. The Town Attorney feels that the cost of taking legal action would outweigh any legal awards because of the age of the roof.

Councilor Jepsen asked about the status of the pool at Windsor High School during the summer. Mr. Novak responded that it was the Public Building Commission’s recommendation to keep as many people out of the school during the summer months in order to facilitate construction. Town Manager Churchill replied that there are significant gains by not utilizing the indoor Windsor High School pool. This directly effects the Windsor Water Rats swim program which the Recreation Department contacted this past Friday. The outside pool is planned to be operational.

Councilor Pacino asked about the deficit. Is it for the contingency or the total project? Mr. Novak responded that the deficit is for the whole project. There is extra money in the furniture budget (approximately $100,000), which the Windsor High School staff agreed to turn over to the construction project. Councilor Pacino requested that the Town Council be notified weekly of the progress. Mr. Novak agreed to e-mail the Town Council when he receives updates.

7. Town Manager’s Report

Proposed FY 2003-08 Capital Improvements Plan

As I prepare to submit the FY 2003 Proposed Budget later this week, the starkness of our financial realities becomes clearer. On a positive note, I am pleased to announce that the town recently acquired a 4.25% interest rate on our most recent bond sale.

The Proposed Budget you receive later this week is one that will be sensitive to those realities such as declines in interest earnings and state aid and a local economy, although better than most, is still not settled as to how fast we will come out of a short recession. The Capital Improvement Program, or CIP, will also likely have to undergo some changes if it wants to be sensitive to our financial realities. The town just sold its bonds for the last installment of the Windsor High School Renovation project and the full impact of that issue and its predecessors will be felt in FY 2004 where debt service will increase by $1.1 million. To put that increase in perspective, that is about the amount the town’s general government will increase for FY 2003, it is half of this year’s grand list growth, and it is the equivalent of 1/3 of mill to Windsor taxpayers. The CIP has a relatively small portion funded by general (ongoing) revenues. This is the part that directly effects the operating budget and our ability to afford it is in serious jeopardy. I have some thoughts on how to address this issue and I am hopeful they can be discussed with the Town Council’s Town Improvements Committee where the CIP has been referred.

 

Noise Study Continues – Seeks Citizen Input

The citizens committee on the Bradley Field Part 150 Noise Study will be evaluating a proposal for re-routing some of the southerly takeoffs on runway 6-24. Two of these paths may turn in a more easterly direction from the current heading, which would impact residents in the northwest area of Windsor, especially in the Stone Road and Merriman Road vicinity.

Citizens in this area are advised to express their concerns to our State Representatives, the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation, and Kevin Lynch, Transportation Planner II of the Department of Transportation. Please contact the Windsor Planning Department at 860.285.1980 to get addresses, review maps, and confirm meeting schedules. As of now the next meeting of the committee has not yet been scheduled and the Public Hearing on the plan is tentatively scheduled for early May.

DiscoverAmerica "discovers" Windsor

Windsor has been selected as a featured locale in an upcoming episode of DiscoverAmerica, a national television series available to over 30 million households via the Discovery Network’s Travel Channel. Each 30-minute episode entertainingly describes delightful vacation, cultural and business opportunities across the world. Windsor is the first Connecticut location ever selected by the producers of Discover America and organizers hope to have the filming take place this fall. The portion of the show featuring Windsor will be 5-6 minutes in length. The Chamber of Commerce and town staff are actively seeking corporate sponsorships and pursuing partnerships with local hotels to defray certain pre-production costs. I will continue to update the Town Council on this exciting project in the coming months.

Councilor Simon inquired about public feedback received regarding "E-Direct" notifications of meetings. Town Manager Churchill stated that there hasn’t been any feedback.

Councilor Jepsen reported that the Windsor Reminder had a meeting listed tonight for discussion of the Day Hill Road/Addison Road Intersection project and he asked if the meeting took place. Town Manager Churchill responded that the meeting did take place as scheduled.

Mayor Trinks feels it is important that citizens in the airport area let the town know their concerns that they don’t want the flight path changed so their voices can be heard.

8. Communication from Council Members

Councilor Albano – None.

Councilor Broxterman – the beginning of spring will be the start of lacrosse and little league. Sports leagues, SummerWind and other organizations need volunteers to keep these programs running. He urged all residents to become volunteers.

Councilor Jepsen – urged everyone to support the Police Athletic League and the Huntington House Museum at the April 5, 2002 Chamber of Commerce auction event.

Councilor Mulligan – spent some time at the Huntington House Museum this past weekend. He suggested that residents visit the museum to view the exhibits. Museum hours are Thursday-Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. General admission is $6, $4 for seniors, and children under 12 pay no admission.

Councilor Pacino – thanked all that participated in the Windsor Basketball League, including coaches, referees, timekeepers, and many others. Without their help the league couldn’t function. He also congratulated the teams in the older age groups who won.

Councilor Simon – discussed the Heritage Park recreational facility project and reported that the Town Council has received other ideas for the facility that will involve less town funding. He requested that the item be added to the next Town Council meeting agenda.

Councilor Walker – reminded residents that March 8, 2002 was "International Women’s Day" and March is "Women’s National History" month.

Deputy Mayor Curtis – attended the community forum sponsored by the Healthy People’s program which reviewed childcare needs and the needs of Windsor’s families. He commended the town and staff for beginning the discussion. He also attended the Windsor High School band’s dinner dance. Proceeds from the dinner dance went towards the band’s trip to Myrtle Beach.

Mayor Trinks – thanked the town for the Healthy People forum. There will be more meetings in the series. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade was a lot of fun. Windsor rivaled everyone else in the parade contingent. He was pleased that the Windsor Police and Fire Departments were selected. The Windsor Fife and Drum Corps was outstanding. Mayor Trinks congratulated Cub Pack 203 for their annual awards dinner that he was unable to attend. Mayor Trinks expressed condolences to Mr. Robert Geisel’s family.

9. Reports of Standing Committees

1. Finance Committee Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 21, 2002 to select a new auditor.
2. Town Improvement Committee will meet Thursday, March 21, 2002 to review the proposed capital improvement plan for 2003-2008.

Motioned by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to move agenda item 12D until after the Executive Session.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

10. Ordinances

1. Introduce an ordinance entitled "An ordinance establishing voting districts for the Town of Windsor".

Ms. Karen Andrews and Ms. Anita Mips, Registrars of Voters, reported to the Town Council. The Registrars of Voters have completed the task of ascertaining new voting district lines in accordance with the newly drawn senate and assembly districts set forth in the 2001 reapportionment plan. The new voting districts have to be implemented by January 1, 2003, but it is desirable to have it done earlier so the community can adjust to the new voting locations. Ms. Andrews and Ms. Mips explained the redistricting. The voting locations proposed are Rainbow Fire House, Poquonock Elementary School, Oliver Ellsworth School, 330 Windsor Avenue Community Center, Town Hall, Kennedy Elementary School and the L.P. Wilson Community Center.

Councilor Simon asked how the public would be notified about the new locations. Ms. Andrews reported that a brightly colored postcard would be sent to all voters this spring and again in the fall as a reminder.

Councilor Albano asked if the Nature Center was considered as a location. Ms. Andrews stated that the location was not considered, adding that lack of ample parking near the buildings was a concern.

Councilor Jepsen stated that Ms. Andrews and Ms. Mips did a great job. The charter has some verbiage in placing voting locations out of districts and the town attorney has addressed this issue.

Deputy Mayor Curtis asked about the condition of the voting machines. Ms. Mips stated that the machines are in excellent condition and we have spare machines available. Ms. Andrews reported that Windsor is very fortunate to have two excellent voting machine mechanics.

Both Ms. Andrews and Ms. Mips thanked the Engineering Department for all of their hard work in this project.

Moved by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Simon that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall in the Council Chambers on Monday, April 1, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) on the foregoing ordinance." Further resolved, that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish notice of said Public Hearing."

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Albano for a two-minute recess beginning at 8:33 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Moved by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Simon that a Public Hearing be held at the Windsor Town Hall in the Council Chambers on Monday, April 1, 2002 at 7:15 p.m. (prevailing time) on the foregoing ordinance." 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. Unfinished Business

None.

12. New Business

1. Presentation from Police Explorers

Ms. Caitlin Turgeon, member of the Windsor Police Explorers, reported to the Town Council. She has been a member for two years. The post is a non-profit organization in town. Since 1981, the Windsor Police Explorers have been helping the community by offering young men and women the opportunity to gain insight into law enforcement, developing responsible youth by sponsoring programs geared towards this effort, and by encouraging academic excellence, leadership, teamwork and volunteerism. Throughout the year, members participate in a variety of community service activities such as Windsor’s Kids’ Safety Fair, Big D 103’s, etc. Team building activities offered to members include extreme survival, a low and high rope course and other outdoor challenges. Members are required to attend a Member Orientation session once selected and complete a 6-month probationary period. In order to be considered for membership, you must be at least 11 years of age, pass a background check, and be a model citizen.

Members must maintain a "C" average in school and pay a $50 annual registration fee per family along with a $3 monthly fee. They meet monthly and attend training classes related to police work. This includes a "high stress scenario" where the members are video taped and critiqued. They have been rated #1 Police Post in the state for two years in a row. The members do a lot of volunteer work, including GHO, directing traffic at various events, and providing security. They also prepare meals for the homeless and adopt a family at the holidays and participate in team building activities and hold fundraisers. There has been a 74% growth in membership for a total of 40 members to date. There are many expenses related to new members including additional transportation, uniforms, equipment, and training.

Ms. Turgeon extended a "thanks" from the Windsor Police Explorers to all the groups that support them, including the Town of Windsor.

Councilor Mulligan commented on the "Caravan of Carriages" for WDRC FM and the wonderful job the Windsor Police Explorers do.

Mayor Trinks said they are an invaluable resource to the town, improving the quality of life for the community. He commended Ms. Turgeon for her great presentation.

2. Appropriation for Project Graduation 2002

Councilor Walker discussed Project Graduation 2002 which has been in place for more than 13 years and has enjoyed many years of great success. This event offers high school seniors a place to celebrate in a safe, drug and alcohol free environment. Mr. David Pinard, Committee Chairman, is requesting that the town donate $2,500 towards this endeavor. Mr. Pinard discussed the program and is hoping that the town will continue to support this program. He feels this is a positive experience at the end of each student’s school career in Windsor and hopefully this will entice him or her to return after college and start their families here. This would be the town’s first year in helping to fund this event with a monetary donation. The committee has come up short in donations. The event runs from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following morning and students cannot leave the event. If they leave the event, they are not allowed to re-enter and students are not eligible for the raffle at the end. Food is donated from businesses in town. There is a casino, raffles for items they can use in college and a large prize. American Airlines is donating two round trip tickets to be used anywhere in the U.S.A. by the end of the year. The biggest concern is keeping the students safe. Windsor has a history of drunk driving youth accidents and deaths and safety is important.

Councilor Walker said that in his discussions with Ms. Jane Garibay, President of the Board of Education, she stated the Board of Education plans to appropriate $2,500 for the event. Mr. Pinard stated that it was requested as an annual budget item at the Board of Education, but the Board of Education agreed to a one-year commitment for this year’s event.

Councilor Pacino asked if this qualifies under the matching grant program. Town Manager Churchill said that it could if a very liberal view of the guidelines was interpreted. If a conservative view is taken, a construction or capital expense is a "bricks and mortar" type project for the grant program.

Councilor Simon asked how the expenses are incurred. Mr. Pinard stated that the funds are used to pay for the casino games, inflatables (moon walk for participants), a hypnotist, a D.J., and for some of the cost of the food and prizes that are not donated. The Board of Education provides the building.

Councilor Simon asked how much Project Graduation raised last year. Mr. Pinard stated that they raised $15,000. The committee wants to get the town involved in giving to relay the message to businesses that the town supports this worthy cause. Mr. Pinard stated that the town support would alleviate the pressure of numerous fundraising events.

Mr. Pinard stated the average amount of money spent per attendee was $50. Councilor Pacino asked if students are refused attendance if parents are unable to pay the $50. Mr. Pinard stated that they do not get $50 from every family and the graduating students are still invited to attend.

Councilor Mulligan inquired about the expected attendance this year. Mr. Pinard stated that there are 315 kids in the senior class.

Mayor Trinks attended this function last year. The number of kids attending and the parents volunteering amazed him. He would like to see if the program could benefit from the matching grant program.

Councilor Broxterman asked how many students participated last year. Mr. Pinard stated that 270+ attended, close to an 80% turnout.

Councilor Pacino inquired if the program can be referred to the Special Projects Committee to come up with a guideline for the matching funds program to assist in funding for this program.

Mayor Trinks referred the issue of reviewing matching funds guidelines to the Special Projects Committee.

Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis that $2,500 be appropriated from the FY ’02 Unclassified account for Project Graduation 2002.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

3. Proposal for Windsor Homeowner Citizen Reward Program

Councilor Walker explained the proposal and eligibility for the Windsor Homeowner Citizen Reward Program. The reward program is for a total of five owner-occupied residential homeowners who will be randomly selected for a property tax exemption up to a value of $5,000 each to be paid by the town on an annual basis in conformance with eligibility requirements and procedures. Councilor Walker strongly urged that volunteerism be included as a big part of the requirements.

Councilor Albano was concerned that this may be perceived as buying votes. Councilor Walker stated that this is a bipartisan vote. Deputy Mayor Curtis stated that being a registered voter is a requirement.

Councilor Mulligan would support sending this to the Special Projects Committee. Mayor Trinks referred the program to the Special Projects Committee.

13. Resignations and Appointments

Motioned by Councilor Albano, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to appoint Kerry Ruiz to the Economic Development Commission for a five-year term to expire July 29, 2005 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 8-0-0 (Councilor Pacino absent from the room)

Motioned by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to reappoint Dorothy Bruno to the Commission on Aging and Handicapped for a three year term to expire January 31, 2005 or until a successor is appointed, reappoint Susan Viner to the Commission on Aging and Handicapped for a three year term to expire January 31, 2005 or until a successor is appointed, appoint Estelle LaBarre to the Commission on Aging and Handicapped for a three year term to expire January 31, 2005 or until a successor is appointed, reappoint George Bolduc to the Greater Hartford Transit District Commission for a four year term to expire February 28, 2006 or until a successor is appointed, reappoint Alfred Bertoline to the Library Advisory Board for a three year term to expire January 31, 2005 or until a successor is appointed, reappoint Cheryl Curtis to the Library Advisory Board for a three year term to expire January 31, 2005 or until a successor is appointed, to appoint Leigh Ann Tyson to the Library Advisory Board for a three year term to expire July 1, 2002 or until a successor is appointed, and to appoint Scott Suty to the Youth Commission for a two year unexpired term to expire September 30, 2003 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to table Items A-C, E, H-I, K-M, O-S, W-Z, and BB.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

14. Minutes of Preceding Meetings

1. Minutes of the March 4, 2002 Town Council Meeting

Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the minutes of March 4, 2002 Regular Town Council Meeting. Corrections: Page 6, first line, Poquonock.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

15. Public Communications and Petitions

None.

16. Executive Session

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Pacino to enter into Executive Session at 9:21 p.m. for discussion concerning the appointment, employment, performance, evaluation, health or dismissal of a public officer or employee.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Present: Mayor Trinks, Deputy Mayor Curtis, Councilor Albano, Councilor

Broxterman, Councilor Jepsen, Councilor Mulligan, Councilor Pacino,

Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker.

Town Manager Churchill entered the Executive Session meeting at 10 p.m.

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Mulligan to come out of Executive Session and re-enter the Regular Town Council meeting at 10:18 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Motion made by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Mulligan to increase the Town Manager’s annual salary by 3.5% retroactive to January 1, 2002.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

17. Adjournment

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 10:20 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library

Wilson Branch