Mayor Trinks called the regular meeting to order at 7:33 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 – Councilor Mulligan
   
    
3. Pledge of Allegiance – Councilor Mulligan
   
    
4. Proclamations/Awards
   None.
   
    
5. Public Communications and Petitions

   Mr. Mike Stamper, 181 Birchwood Road, addressed the Council regarding the brink of war with Iraq. He doesn’t want to waste countless dollars and lives. All over the country citizens have petitioned politicians to send a resolution against the war to state legislators. He urged the Council to insert a resolution against the war with Iraq onto the next agenda.

   Mr. Guy Blais, 317 Dunfey Lane, thanked the members of the Council for their work. He believes it is appropriate to pass a resolution that no unilateral or preemptive war on Iraq begins. For many years our government has supported brutal suppressive regimes worldwide. In 1999 UNICEF and the World Health Organization did a research survey. America led sanctions and bombs that have killed 600,000 Iraqi children since 1991. He hopes that Council can support saying no to the innocent massacre of Iraqi children and people.

   Mr. Jeffrey Schaefer, 10 Barry Lane, supports Mr. Stamper and Mr. Blais against an Iraqi invasion. He thinks that an invasion without UN support is wrong. He questions our government’s intentions of invading Iraq.

   Ms. Katherine Zager, 146 Giddings Avenue, represented the Windsor High School Green Party Club. They are requesting that a resolution on war against Iraq be put on the next agenda. She submitted a sample resolution to Council.

   Ms. Cheryl Nguyen, 92 Alcott Drive, supports the fact that Iraq does present a danger. A full-scale invasion of Iraq will cost $200 billion dollars. That money would be better spent on school systems and a failing health system. She agrees with the previous speakers supporting a resolution.

   Mr. Timothy Craine, 34 Chestnut Drive, spoke in favor of a war against Iraq resolution. He agrees with the previous speakers. He feels it is entirely appropriate to hold a public hearing so the residents can speak about this issue.

   Ms. Pat Fahy, 225 Palisado Avenue, also supports the resolution regarding the war with Iraq.
   
    

6. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions

1. Board of Education

Ms. Jane Garibay, President of BOE, reported to the Council. The CMT scores have been received. They now have three years in a row comparing the same students. She reviewed the scores. Some of the initiatives are Trailblazers, professional development for teachers, after school programs, summer school and many other programs. They are looking at bringing new students up to par with long-standing students. The BOE is starting their budget meetings.

Deputy Mayor Curtis thanked Ms. Garibay for the information, especially new students compared to long-term students. Windsor has many students moving in and out of the district. He requested a copy of the CMT scores. Ms. Garibay also commented that Windsor has a large foster care population. She added that approximately 192 out of 300+ students in eighth grade were in Windsor since first grade. The standards for the CMT are going to change.

Councilor Broxterman asked if we include the Magnet School attendees in the CMT scores. Ms. Garibay said that we do not.

Councilor Albano asked if everybody who moved into Windsor did poorly compared to Windsor children. Ms. Garibay said no, some do reach goal. They are smart kids and they may not have had the same preparation for the CMT that Windsor offers.

Councilor Walker asked what the school system is doing for the incoming children. Ms. Garibay said that any student below goal could go to summer school free of charge. They are able to identify the student’s strengths and weaknesses and help the children.

Deputy Mayor Curtis commented that if we had a more stable population, the scores would be better. Ms. Garibay said that some students come from out of state and Connecticut has very stringent standards.

Councilor Pacino asked how the policy for expectations for extracurricular activities is coming along and if any coaches are involved. Ms. Garibay said that it is being worked on and it will be presented to the Board in March. Ms. Garibay will check if any coaches are involved in setting the policy. Councilor Pacino noted that a few towns have instituted pay for play rule. Ms. Garibay said that it has been enacted in the past but it is not a consideration right now.
 

7. Town Manager’s Report

I am pleased to announce that Sharon Enot, RN, BSN Public Health Nurse/Health Educator, and a member of the town’s Health and Social Services Department was recently notified that she is the recipient of a scholarship from the Federal Center for Disease Control to attend the UConn course, Public Health Response to Bioterrorism.

The CDC granted these scholarship awards after noting the State of Connecticut as a "front runner" in the planning and preparation phases of this topic.

Sharon is just one of nine individuals in the State of Connecticut granted a scholarship for this course which will provide valuable training from variety of experts on the topic.

I am very pleased to announce the 2003 Grand List grew by 3.86 percent, or $68,291,100 million. This growth will generate $2.2 million in new tax revenue at the current mill rate of 32.6. Real estate values increased by $32,415,200 million, or 2.39%, and personal property increased by $31,887,890 million, or 12.6 percent. Notable additions to the grand list include the following:

• Windsor Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
• CIGNA Data Center Addition
• Hampton Inn Hotel
• American Airlines Call Center
• Pitney Bowes Management Services
• Key Logic Educational Training
• 51 Residences
• IBM Credit Corporation
• FleetBoston Financial
• Westinghouse
• Verizon Wireless
• Stowe Machine Company

This is good news and is a contraire perspective compared to other nearby communities. These stellar results come from activity one to two years ago. Our prospects for next year and the year after rely on what projects are currently in our development process, which is not much. Much of our near future grand list growth will depend on our current redevelopment efforts. Notable abandoned properties such as the Terry Steam Building and 115 Pierson Lane have been renovated and have already taken on tenants. Nineteen (19)-housing units currently use the town’s Exemption for Major Renovations Program. Of course I’m cognizant of the need to continue this trend with particular focus on the Rappaport Building, the Redevelopment Parcel, and the Plaza Building. Negotiations are about to begin with a developer of the Rappaport Building, action to consolidate the ownership at 458 Windsor Avenue is on tonight’s agenda already getting private interest, and remaining environmental hurdles at the Plaza Building recently being resolved. This year should prove to be most interesting for continued growth. My only trepidation with our excellent financial position is the possibility the pending state aid reductions could be slanted more heavily to towns that manage themselves with discipline and high performance.

I want to review some additional information that should give most of us reason to be optimistic and buoyant about our future rather than the easy avenue of fashionable pessimism. Councilor Simon will provide the basic information behind a good annual financial report for FY 2002. Let’s put that information in perspective:

• Debt per capita was $1,592 – a moderate amount, but elevated by Windsor standards
• Debt service per capita was $159, up from $140 in FY 1999

The fall 2002 issue of The Connecticut Economy, a University of Connecticut quarterly publication, further showed Windsor as having the second highest property taxes as a percentage of income in the State. Only Ridgefield is higher. This phenomenon is due to the town’s high concentration of industrial and commercial properties that creates large amounts of revenue compared to our incomes. That issue of The Connecticut Economy also shows Windsor as having the 15^th lowest expenditures per capita, that’s $1,974, in the 58-town Hartford metropolitan area. My only trepidation with our excellent financial position is the possibility the pending state aid reductions could be slanted more heavily to towns that manage themselves with discipline and high performance.

Links defining the disease, information about the smallpox vaccine as well as smallpox vaccination clinic information is available.

Join in the family fun this Friday evening, February 7^th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Youth Service Bureau’s Winter Festival held at the Community Center at 330 Windsor Avenue. Shake off the winter blues with games, crafts, face painting, puppets, music, refreshments and bounce-house amusements. This festival has something for everyone. Admission is $2.00 at the door, which includes a ticket for door prizes. For more information call 298-9976.

Councilor Walker asked how many homes in town are valued or assessed over $1 million. He asked if there are there any plans to work with builders to build larger lots for $500,000+ homes. Town Manager Churchill said that Windsor does not have a 1-acre lot law. He feels it is important to promote diverse housing.

Councilor Simon noted that a tax reimbursement from that State has not been paid to Windsor. Town Manager Churchill elaborated that State Aid to Town Roads is a source of funds that is being considered by the CT General Assembly for a $12 million dollar cut. The impact to Windsor would be $87,000. The payment due on January 31^st has not been received. Councilor Simon asked for the status on contacting state legislators. Town Manager Churchill has received no commitments. A lot of things are being negotiated. He has spoken with the house members who have been most active with putting together alternative budgets.
 

8. Communication from Council Members

   Councilor Albano – None.

   Councilor Broxterman – None.

   Councilor Jepsen – spoke regarding tabling items. He also mentioned the President’s State of the Union address and his request for volunteers for mentoring programs. Councilor Jepsen is a mentor and urged everyone, especially men, to volunteer for the mentoring programs.

   Councilor Mulligan – None.

   Councilor Pacino – None.

   Councilor Simon – attended the Clover Street School concert last week among hundreds of parents and relatives. He was impressed to see ten or twelve six-year old children playing the violin. He is proud to be part of a town that teaches more than just the three R’s. He encouraged residents to contact their representatives regarding the budget crisis. He thanked residents who spoke about taking a stand against war on Iraq during the public comment.

   Councilor Walker – None.

   Deputy Mayor Curtis – mentioned the loss of lives on the Columbia shuttle. His prayers are with their families. He also thanked those who came forward regarding the resolution for the impending war on Iraq. He supports a public hearing and resolution on this matter.

   Mayor Trinks – went to the enrichment cluster finale at Sage Park School. He commended the students who participated in the American Idol portion of the finale.
   
    

9. Reports of Standing Committees

1. Finance Committee – met on January 27^th with a presentation by the independent auditors. They also discussed the consideration of a procurement policy giving preference to a local business. Current updates of the budget options were also reviewed.
2. Town Improvements Committee – None.
3. Health and Safety – item 11. B. to be discussed later in the agenda.
4. Special Projects – None.
5. Joint Board of Education and Council Committee – discussed the proposed BOE budget and the potential consolidation of services between general government and the BOE.
    

10. Ordinances

1. Tabled Items

1. Adopt 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.

   Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Simon to postpone until May 19, 2003 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".

   Motion Passed 8-1-0 Councilor Jepsen opposing.

   Councilor Simon explained that the postponement would allow more time to see the outcome of the State budget.

   Councilor Pacino asked what the cost would be to bring the field up to standard. Town Manager Churchill said that the recommendation is to make a better situation at O’Brien Field. If drainage is not improved, grass will burn out quickly. He recommends that some improvements for the drainage be made or this issue will be revisited in the near future.

   Mayor Trinks suggested that the motion be defeated and it be reintroduced in part or as a whole at a later time.

   Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Simon that 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" be removed from the table.

   Motion Failed 0-9-0

2. 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.

Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Walker to postpone 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".

Motion Passed 7-2-0 with Councilor Pacino and Councilor Jepsen opposing.

Councilor Simon removed this item from the table because it was not discussed at the last meeting and it was immediately tabled. He asked what the estimated energy savings would be upon the replacement of these windows. Town Manager Churchill said that he does not have an estimated savings, however, the replacement is an industry standard.

Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Walker that 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" be removed from the table.

Motion Failed 0-9-0
 

11. Unfinished Business

1. Introduce amendments to the Alarm Ordinance

   Councilor Broxterman said that it has come to the Health and Safety Committee’s attention that there are some points that need to be further reviewed. He would recommend that it be referred to the committee again.

   Mayor Trinks noted that some citizens and businesses might be concerned about a list of locations with alarms. Mayor Trinks referred the item to the Health and Safety Committee.

2. Set date for a public hearing on March 3, 2003 at 7:15 p.m. (prevailing time) for the purpose of receiving public input on amendments to Alarm ordinance

No action taken. Mayor Trinks referred this to the Health & Safety Committee.
 

12. New Business

1. Authorize the Town Manager to execute a contract regarding Long Island Sound Ecosystem Tank and Education Program

Resolved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that R. Leon Churchill, Jr., Town Manger is authorized to execute and deliver in the name and on behalf of the Town of Windsor a contract with the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection, a grant of $6,805 to conduct a Long Island Sound Ecosystem Tank and Education Program.

Ms. Robin Newman, Director of Family & Leisure Services, spoke about the program. The State Department of Environmental Protection submitted a contract to the town of Windsor for the Northwest Park Nature Center, which will provide funding under the Long Island Sound Fund for the project entitled "Long Island Sound Ecosystem Tank and Education Programs." The contract is in the amount of $6,805 which will give Northwest Park an opportunity to enhance both the Nature Center’s exhibits and environmental education program.

Councilor Albano asked if the funding covers maintenance. Ms. Newman responded that it includes building of the tank, the contents and maintenance. In the future, a special revenue account will be created and fundraising will assist with maintenance.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

2. Approval of the purchase of a reverter from the State of Connecticut and sales agreement with ADVO, Inc.

   Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that the purchase of a reverter from the State of Connecticut on the land described in Exhibit A and the sales agreement between the Town of Windsor and ADVO, Inc. for said land be approved contingent upon C.C.S. Sec 8-24 approval by the Town Planning and Zoning Commission.

   Mr. Tom Lenehan, Town Engineer, discussed the agreement. ADVO, Inc. has requested that the Town of Windsor release approximately 15,410 square feet of land to ADVO, Inc., to facilitate road improvements and other related site enhancements on their campus area. This land was given to the town by the State of Connecticut in October of 2000 with the caveat that the area was to be used for highway purposes. ADVO, Inc. has decided not to accept this land with that condition, and the State is only willing to eliminate that condition if the town purchases the property for $36,000. ADVO, Inc. has written to the town stating that they are willing to purchase the property for $36,000. The town will be paid $36,000 in advance before payment is given to the State for the parcel. There is a closing date of April 1, 2003, at which time the town will have received a deed from the State and will deliver a quit claim deed for the property.

   Councilor Mulligan asked if we could ask ADVO, Inc. to pay the costs in addition to the $36,000. Town Manager Churchill said that given ADVO, Inc. paying for the land inadvertently demonstrates a good neighbor and the land will become taxable property.

   Councilor Broxterman added that ADVO, Inc. has also agreed to make improvements to the land.

   Councilor Jepsen asked if a separate 8-24 review is required for the reverter. Mr. Lenehan confirmed this.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

3. Refer to Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) to approve or disapprove the purchase of a reverter from the State of Connecticut and sales agreement with ADVO, Inc.

Resolved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Walker, that a Special Town Meeting to be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) to approve or disapprove the purchase of a reverter from the State of Connecticut on the land described in Exhibit A and the sale of said land to ADVO, Inc. per the sales agreement between the Town of Windsor and ADVO, Inc. The Town Council recommends approval of the purchase and the sale and further resolved that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish said notice of said Public Hearing.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

4. Approval of the purchase and sales agreement for property located at 458 Windsor Avenue

   Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Deputy Mayor Curtis, that the purchase and sales agreement between the Town of Windsor and Gloria Sward et al be approved contingent upon 8-24 approval by the Town Planning and Zoning Commission.

   On January 15^th the Economic Development Commission discussed the redevelopment concept plan and the proposed land acquisition of 458 Windsor Avenue. The Commission voted to approve the property purchase and to recommend Town Council approval. Staff met with the Wilson Deerfield Advisory Commission on January 22^nd to discuss the development concept and the proposed land purchase. The Commission was supportive of the project and its potential positive impact on the area. The Town Planning and Zoning Commission will be requested to approve the acquisition of the property at their February 11^th meeting.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

5. Refer to Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time), approval of the purchase and sales agreement for property located at 458 Windsor Avenue.

Resolved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen, that a Special Town Meeting to be held at the Windsor Town Hall on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) to approve or disapprove the purchase of a parcel of land located at 458 Windsor Avenue, which purchase the Town Council recommends, be approved and further resolved that the Town Clerk is authorized and directed to post and publish said notice of said Public Hearing and that the Town Manager is duly authorized to notify the landowners that a Public Hearing is taking place.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

13. Resignations and Appointments

Motioned by Councilor Mulligan, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to reappoint John Purcell to the Commission on Aging & Handicapped for a three-year term to expire January 31, 2006 or until a successor is appointed and to appoint Stephany Wall to the Commission on Aging & Handicapped for a two-year term to expire November 8, 2004 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

14. Minutes of Preceding Meetings

1. Minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing (Sage Park/WHS Athletic Fields)

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing. Corrections: Add title for the Public Hearing.

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

2. Minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing (L.P. Wilson Roof)

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing. Corrections: Add title for the Public Hearing.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

3. Minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing (Clover St. Window Replacement)

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the January 21, 2003 Public Hearing. Corrections: Add title for the Public Hearing.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

4. Minutes of the January 21, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the January 21, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting. Corrections: the vote on page 13 after Executive Session was 8-0-0.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

15. Public Communications and Petitions

    Mr. Bradshaw Smith, 23 Ludlow Road, spoke about CRRA seeking a permit to expand the dump in the North Meadows. He urged the Council to take action.
    
     

16. Executive Session
    None.
    
     
17. Adjournment

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 9:36 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library

Wilson Branch