Mayor Trinks called the Budget Session Special
Meeting to order at 6:34 p.m.
- Present: Mayor Trinks, Deputy Mayor Curtis,
Councilor Albano, Councilor Broxterman, Councilor
Jepsen, Councilor Mulligan, Councilor Pacino,
Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker.
- Safety Services
Chief Kevin Searles from the Police Department,
Chief Bill Lewis from the Fire Department, Chief Joe
Frederick and Mr. Nicholas Cormier from the Windsor
Volunteer Ambulance presented their budgets. The
proposed budget for FY 2004 is $6,340,140, an
increase of $61,970 or 4.96% over last year’s budget
of $6,318,520.
Deputy Mayor Curtis asked about the reductions in
the patrol budget and its impact. Lieutenant Shannon
Hayes said the payroll is staying flat and they have
shifted officers. There may be a change in staffing
levels, however there is a minimum staffing
requirement per shift. Deputy Mayor Curtis asked if
the elementary school officer position is an
elimination. Captain Kelvan Kearse said that it will
be a shared resource with Sage Park Middle School.
Chief Searles said that the DARE Program will
continue, but the Partnership officer will be
removed from the elementary schools.
Councilor Mulligan asked about fleet repairs. Ms.
Hayes said that there has been a decrease in the
number of new vehicles brought into the fleet during
the last few years. Because vehicles are being kept
longer, the maintenance is increasing.
Councilor Jepsen asked about the uniform patrol
section, subsection "protect persons and property",
seems to have decreased from last year. Captain
Kearse said we are currently operating at code
orange on a regular basis and are increasing those
efforts into their daily operations.
Councilor Pacino noted the loss of seizure grants
this year and he asked if last year’s grants were
included in this budget. Chief Searles said they are
included in drug enforcement and seizure accounts
and are used to do non-budgeted or unexpected
activities.
Councilor Pacino asked if we could use that money
towards another new vehicle. Chief Searles responded
that it’s formal use is to be utilized over and
above the normal budget for the purpose of drug
enforcement. Councilor Pacino asked about the
substation rental. Chief Searles stated they are
moving to 330 Windsor Avenue at no rent cost.
Councilor Pacino said that it would be beneficial if
the substation moved to 330 Windsor Avenue.
Councilor Simon asked how many vehicles are in
the Police Department. Lieutenant Hayes said that
there are 30 vehicles in total. Councilor Simon
asked for the dollar increase in the overtime
budget. Chief Searles said that it would actually be
reduced by $15,000. Traditionally, they have
under-budgeted the overtime to account for vacancies
not being filled right away. Councilor Simon asked
for clarification from the Town Manager’s office on
the overtime budget. Mr. Souza said they would
provide it to the Council.
Councilor Walker asked how the residents of
Wilson would be notified about the substation
moving. Chief Searles responded that the
Wilson/Deerfield community would be notified and
signage would be installed.
Councilor Pacino suggested adding a sign to 330
Windsor Avenue that lists the tenants.
Mayor Trinks asked about peer mediation and
anti-bullying and any police presence at the
elementary level. Lieutenant Mark Francis said that
an officer would handle any legal matters with a
student.
Councilor Pacino asked how many explorers are in
the Fire Department. Chief Bill Lewis responded
there are approximately fifteen that are being
trained to become full-fledged firefighters.
Deputy Mayor Curtis asked about daytime coverage
of the Fire Department. Chief Lewis said that
daytime coverage is still a problem. There are two
firefighters who are retiring from Bradley
International Airport and they will help with the
daytime coverage. They will likely have to explore
hiring paid firefighters for daytime coverage in the
future.
Councilor Jepsen asked about fighting fires at
the high rise hotels in town. Chief Lewis responded
that the cost of $12,000 for the high rise equipment
was cut from the budget.
Councilor Simon asked how many self-contained
breathing apparatus we have. Chief Lewis replied
there are presently three different types of
breathing apparatus in town. Some are older and they
are trying to order all of them from the same
vendor.
Mayor Trinks expressed his appreciation of the
firefighter rescue of a resident last evening. He
also commended everyone who fought the fire.
Mr. Nicholas Cormier (WVA) donated a
defibrillator to be used at Town Hall.
Councilor Pacino asked about the cost of the new
ambulance. Mr. Cormier responded that the cost is
approximately $59,000.
Councilor Jepsen inquired about hospitals
replenishing WVA supplies. Mr. Cormier reported that
the situation has not changed, the hospitals do not
replenish their WVA’s.
- Civil Preparedness
Dr. Charles Petrillo, Director of Health, spoke
about the budget, which remains the same as last
year.
Councilor Broxterman asked if L.P. Wilson could
serve the same number of people that the high school
could for emergency shelter. Dr. Petrillo responded
that it could. The location was moved to prevent any
disruptions if shelter is needed while the high
school is in session.
Mr. Peter Souza, Assistant Town Manager, said
that on April 23rd, the CIP would address
a request for $5,000 for biohazard equipment and an
additional $2,000 for civil preparedness.
- Public Works
Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works, Mr.
Wayne Radke, Operations Manager and Bob Dinallo,
Project Engineer discussed the budget. The proposed
general fund budget for FY 2004 is $4,059,720 which
is an increase of $181,490 or 4.6% over last year’s
budget of $3,703,510.
Councilor Walker inquired about traffic safety
and community support, specifically the funding of
utility costs for streetlights and the difference in
costs. Mr. Funk replied that we pay a fee on a per
light basis to CL&P for their streetlights and that
CL&P owns them (rental fee, electricity, maintenance
costs). We maintain town owned streetlights, only
paying CL&P the electricity costs for those lights.
Mr. Dinallo stated the per unit cost is not
available, but they are currently analyzing whether
the town should purchase the streetlights. There is
a difference in the utility rates, approximately 60%
less for town owned streetlights. However, the
maintenance costs of light bulb burnouts, knockdowns
and replacements of lamps have to be put into the
equation. Councilor Walker asked about the
percentage of the fleet that needs replacement
today. Mr. Funk said that the Tree Bucket Truck was
purchased in 1977 and is 26 years old; the Vac-All
was purchased in 1981; two snow plow trucks were
purchased in 1979 and 1980; a crew leader truck is
23 years old; some of the trailers are over 20 years
old and a tractor is 23 years old. Mr. Funk added
that they have a great mechanic crew.
Councilor Mulligan asked if CL&P has provided an
audit on the street lights yet. Mr. Funk said that
they did provide the audit and there was little
difference between our data and theirs.
Councilor Pacino asked about the status of
filling the vacancies. Mr. Funk responded that they
hope to fill the vacancies in the summer if the
budget is approved. They will not be able to provide
the same level of service to the athletic fields as
in the past. The schools have always been the
highest priorities, with Little League and similar
leagues second and recreation programs third.
Councilor Pacino asked about seasonal personnel and
FTEs. Mr. Funk said they brought in seasonal
personnel in addition to the students who are hired
as seasonal employees. It did not work out as well
as hoped because the unions were upset that the
vacant positions remained open. Until the vacancies
are filled, it will not be pursued again. There is a
Maintainer III who maintains the town owned
streetlights. Perhaps that person would not perform
that function and possibly take on other contractual
services, especially building facility services
currently being maintained by vendors.
Councilor Pacino asked about the condition of
Deckers Brook. Mr. Funk said that the concrete
channel was built in the early 1970s. There has been
very little repair to it over the years. Some of the
concrete panels that make up the sides have begun to
fall into the brook and some of the concrete has
cracks. There is a project in the CIP, although it
is unscheduled.
Councilor Pacino asked if mailboxes are included
in repairs to lawns because of snow removal. Mr.
Funk said that the town is very generous in
repairing or replacing mailboxes. It’s the weight of
the snow that hits the mailbox that damages it, not
the snowplow.
Councilor Simon is concerned over the condition
and age of the vehicles. He questioned why we didn’t
do more in the past years when we did have funds.
Mr. Peter Souza, Assistant Town Manager, replied
that each year the budget is a process in which
fiscal realities and service delivery goals must be
balanced to meet Council and community goals.
Councilor Broxterman asked about purchasing used
equipment or leasing. Mr. Funk stated their plans
include initiating a lease/purchase and to purchase
used vehicles.
Councilor Broxterman inquired about the winter
sand and debris removal done by June 15th
and is that the normal scheduled time. Mr. Funk said
that the June 15th date relates to 2004.
Last winter it was very mild and we were sweeping
streets mid-March and were finished by the end of
May. This year we will finish by the end of June.
Councilor Broxterman also asked about the
addition of an ingredient to the sand/salt mix. Mr.
Funk said that a salt/sand mixture lowers the
freezing point when the solid salt turns to liquid
(brine). It will take a while to implement, but they
want to distribute the salt brine (liquid form) onto
the street directly. The great benefit is that they
could put it down before the storm and have a
beneficial effect for the first two or three hours
of the storm. They are looking to purchase some
equipment to make the salt brine liquid. They will
start initially with parking lots for town
facilities.
Councilor Albano asked if Public Works would be
hiring two staff members and if they were approved,
how quickly would they be filled. Mr. Funk said that
they are requesting three FTEs. Mr. Souza stated it
would take 60-90 days with the hiring process,
perhaps filling the positions in August and
September.
Councilor Jepsen inquired about maintenance of
town buildings. He asked about the costs of
maintaining the four buildings that are for sale.
Mr. Funk said that he does not have the figures with
him, but will provide them to the Council. Councilor
Jepsen asked about cleaning out the storm drains and
is concerned about the ecological impact. Mr. Funk
said that they do not use oil separators because
they only take care of the town storm drains, not
storm drains that are on business properties.
- Landfill Enterprise Fund Budget
Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works, and Mr.
Mark Goossens, Solid Waste Manager presented the
budget. Primarily tipping fees of solid waste
materials fund the Landfill Enterprise Fund Budget.
The spot market rate was lowered 22% during the
first quarter of FY 2003. They anticipate getting
more tonnage in July when rates at other facilities
increase. A $2.00 per ton tipping fee is budgeted
effective January 4, 2004.
Councilor Albano asked about the $300,000
landfill engineering proposed and asked if anything
was done this year. Mr. Funk responded that the
services had a lot of different aspects, the biggest
component being engineering issues. They are trying
to highlight those engineering issues in the FY 2004
budget. Councilor Albano requested the 2003 figures
to be reformatted into the FY 2004 format for
comparison purposes.
Councilor Simon asked when capacity would be met.
Mr. Funk said it is estimated to be the end of 2006
or early 2007.
Councilor Jepsen asked if the market for recycled
materials sales has dried up. Mr. Funk said that
they placed the estimated revenue in the scrap metal
revenues category. Our goal was to reduce the amount
of metal coming into the landfill. CFCs have to be
removed from items like refrigerators at a cost to
the landfill enterprise fund.
Councilor Pacino asked if we are going to lose
money taking in tires in FY 2004. Mr. Goossens said
that it costs money to get rid of the tires, plus
the operator’s salary.
Deputy Mayor Curtis asked if the Town of
Bloomfield sends any materials to the landfill. Mr.
Goossens responded that Bloomfield’s residential
goes to Hartford, but we do get a small amount,
mainly from businesses and residents.
- Development Services
Mr. Peter Souza, Assistant Town Manager, Mr. Ray
Walker, Fire Marshal, Mr. Jim Burke, Economic
Development Director, Mr. Steve Dupre, Chief
Building Official, Mr. Mario Zavarella, Town Planner
Director, Mr. Tom Lenehan, Town Engineer and Mr. Jim
Hallisey Community Development Coordinator presented
the Development Services budget.
The proposed budget for FY 2004 is $1,275,190,
which is an increase of $9,330 or 0.74% over last
year’s budget of $1,265,860.
Councilor Albano asked about the cost savings
impact relative to decreasing face-to-face
recruitment efforts and delayed plan review. Mr.
Souza said that it is difficult to calculate a
figure, we will continue to use the website and
other sources. There is no loss of revenue related
to delayed plan review. It provides an inconvenience
to the applicant. There will be less clerical
support in the building safety division. Mr. Walker
added the state mandates a 30-day turnaround time,
15-20 days would be well within that requirement.
Councilor Pacino said that it seems like we send
a lot of work out to contractors that he believes
could be performed in house. He asked how much money
is saved. Mr. Lenehan replied that he would have to
gather the figures. It is more expensive to contract
out, but it is also more responsive.
Mayor Trinks asked about business expansion and
services and if there is a point person for a small
business person to come to. Mr. Souza said that Mr.
Burke is that point person and the library also has
a section dedicated to small business development.
Mr. Burke said that to the extent that we can, we
provide services to small businesses and refer them
to other agencies like the University of Hartford
Women’s Entrepreneurial Service Center. There is a
Loan Development Office that provides loans to small
businesses.
Councilor Jepsen asked if zoning maps would be
updated. Mr. Zavarella replied that the digitized
zoning map is completed and is in use and on the
Internet.
Councilor Walker asked how many building
inspectors are on staff and will this budget reduce
the effectiveness and response time. Mr. Steven
Dupre, Zoning Officer, responded that there are
three on staff and it will not affect the response
time. Mr. Souza added that other departments such as
Health and the Fire Marshal’s Office could address
any life safety issues if necessary.
- Community Development
Mr. Jim Hallisey, Community Development
Coordinator and Mr. Jim Burke, Economic Development
Director discussed the budget. Mr. Burke discussed
the Community Development activities this past year.
The FY 2004 budget is $25,000, the same amount as
last year.
Councilor Pacino asked where the volunteer
support services are budgeted. Mr. Souza stated that
it is in the general fund. Councilor Pacino asked if
the town has final approval for facade or general
improvement to buildings. Mr. Hallisey said that we
do have input. He added that the shopping center was
a Small Cities Project. Mr. Souza said that there
was additional code improvement work that was
performed at the shopping center. We do not have
architectural guidelines in town, so we are limited,
but it is a collaborative effort. Councilor Pacino
asked how we would qualify the Plaza Theater for ADA
improvements. Mr. Hallisey responded that it could
be handicapped modified and the disabled qualify as
low to moderate benefit by HUD rules. Mr. Burke
added that a ramp and handicapped restrooms could be
installed.
Councilor Simon asked about operating expenses
from the general fund. Mr. Burke said there are some
activities they provide that do not fall into low to
moderate ratings and do not qualify for CDBG
funding.
Councilor Walker presented a scenario about a
married elderly couple living in Wilson owning a
home that needs repairs and the repairs would
improve the quality of the neighborhood. He asked
what programs would be available to them. Mr.
Hallisey responded that the Housing Rehab Program is
available for anyone meeting the criteria (a family
of four has an income limit of $51,000 per year).
Grants or forgiveness loans are given for asbestos
removal or underground oil tank removal. Councilor
Walker asked if block watch activities would be able
to be funded through Community Development. Mr.
Burke said the Police Department assists in
organizing block watch activities and there usually
is not a lot of expense involved.
Deputy Mayor Curtis commented on the Windsor
Shopping Plaza improvements and inquired if there
has been any interest in the owners of the
businesses located across the street from the
community center for any type of improvements. Mr.
Burke said that discussions with the owner have
taken place. Mr. Hallisey added that there was an
attempt with two businesses for facade improvements,
however, they were proposing cost prohibitive
improvements for Community.
- Administrative Services
Ms. Kelly Barrett, Assistant Finance Director and
Mr. Greg Pavitt, Finance Director, Mr. Frank Angelillo,
Director of Information Technology, and Ms. Amelia
Bliss, Human Resources Director discussed the budget.
. The proposed budget for FY 2004 is $1,472,680 which
is an decrease of $127,790 or -8.39% over last year’s
budget of $1,495,500.
Councilor Albano asked about the scaling back of
cash management and if we do sweep accounts. Mr.
Pavitt said that everyday they review their cash
management. Mr. Souza replied that they would explore
the option of sweep accounts.
Councilor Jepsen asked about the Windows NT and
Windows 98 issues. Mr. Angellino responded that most
technology was bought in Windows 2000. They are
windows based and have software assurance. Councilor
Jepsen asked how long it took to do the upgrades. Mr.
Angellino said that they do it on a case-by-case
basis, the power users get the new equipment and
others get the old computers, which are upgraded.
Mayor Trinks asked for the status on the accident
claims. Mr. Maynard responded that we are in the
process of collecting $24,000 for the replacement of
two police cruisers as well as a pole on Day Hill
Road. Many times we have no one to go back for the
pole replacement and the town pays the costs.
Councilor Walker asked about the reductions in the
clerical position in Human Resources and how it will
affect response time for benefit questions. Ms. Bliss
said that currently benefit questions are handled in
the Finance Department. Mr. Souza added that there is
a reduction of a part-time payroll clerk in the
Finance Department, which may delay response time on
complex benefit questions.
Motioned by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by
Councilor Jepsen to adjourn the meeting at 9:44 p.m.
Motion Passed 9-0-0.