Mayor Trinks called the regular meeting to order at 7:30 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. Proclamation honoring May 18, 2003 – May 24, 2003 as National Public Works week

Deputy Mayor Curtis read the proclamation.
 

5. Public Communications and Petitions

   Mr. Edward Thomas, 192 Capen Street, expressed his opposition to the installation of lights at O’Brien Stadium. He is concerned that funds are being moved around to fund this project which is not part of the budget.

   Mr. George Yeramian, 739 Prospect Hill Road, commented on the Sports Complex proposed for the landfill. He is opposed to the Sports Complex and submitted a letter to the Council. He urged that the residents be fully informed of the proposal and the ramifications.

   Mr. Michael Turner, 375 Prospect Hill Road, agreed with Mr. Thomas’ comments on the lighting at O’Brien Field. He feels that the Council is wrong by using funds for a project not budgeted.

   Mr. William Crosson, 17 Sage Park Road, is against investing in the O’Brien Stadium lights. He feels the money could be better utilized in an interest bearing account or on the field house, which is long overdue for renovations.

   Mr. John Litter, Jr., 274 Capen Street, is opposed to the installation of lights at O’Brien Field.

   Ms. Rosemarie Miskavitch, 20 Coach Circle, asked if any members of the Council would have a financial interest in the lights. She believes that the funds should be invested into the youth of Windsor. She noted several opportunities that the lights would afford. In Lansing, Michigan they use shrouds to limit the glare from their field lights. She summarized outcomes from the focus groups for the lights. She is in favor of the lights for the youth and everyone in town.

   Ms. Kay Nowiszewski, 64 Alden Road, addressed the Council regarding her support of the lights at O’Brien Field. The 90-ft lights direct down at the field, unlike the temporary lights now being rented at considerable cost. The youth of this town are citizens of this town as well as the future of this town.

   Mr. Andy Daly a former WHS football team member spoke to the Council. He is in support of the lights for the enormous positive impact evening games have on the youth and community. There is some impact on the neighborhood, but on the other side, it could positively effect the children and townspeople in Windsor.

   Mr. Tim Sokoloski, 302 Capen Street, is against the lights. He is in favor of sports in town, but doesn’t want the lights shining in his home. He suggests using the money for turf improvements.

   Mr. Patrick Daley, 911 Poquonock Avenue, a member of WHS Football Team spoke to the Council regarding the lights. He feels that the lights will bring up town morale. He asked students who play sports (excluding football) to come to the meeting tonight. One student said the lights would be awesome because fans could come to the soccer games.
   
    

6. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions

1. Economic Development Commission

   Mr. Mark Griffin, Economic Development Commission reported to the Council on the behalf of Chairperson David Early. He reviewed the activities that have taken place since their last report in 2002.
    

2. Fair Rent Commission
   The commission has not met since the last report to the Council.
    
3. Public Building Commission

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

WHS Renovations – contractors are finishing the punch list and the HVAC system is undergoing scrutiny for any malfunctions. Final pavement of the south parking lot will be complete by the late summer. O&G is still forecasting a $50,000 deficit, however, the change orders netted a $30,000 gain last week. They have also received more reimbursement (approximately $130,000) from the state than they anticipated.

Goslee Pool – scheduled completion is Memorial Day. Awnings will be placed in the next several weeks.

Public Works Renovation – the wash rack portion will be complete by June 1^st.

330 Windsor Avenue – walls will be painted and ceilings installed. They expect the project to be completed in July 2003.

L.P. Wilson roof – there will be an early summer bid with construction starting in the fall.

Town Hall Roof Project – work should commence the beginning of June. Portable lifts will be used instead of scaffolding.

Deputy Mayor Curtis questioned the additional state reimbursement of $130,000. Mr. Novak replied that there was an estimate performed years ago, based on certain work that would be qualified as educational reimbursement. At the time of bonding, it was estimated that 46% would qualify as reimbursement.

Councilor Mulligan asked about the screening around the HVAC equipment. Mr. Novak said that they did authorize the architects to submit a design. Some of the screening will be through plantings. It should happen this summer.

Councilor Jepsen inquired about the PBC’s exclusive authority over a project like the lights at O’Brien Field. Mr. Novak responded that there has always been question about what projects should go through the PBC. He would think that a tower or something that is being erected would be defined as a structure and the PBC should be involved in the project. He asked that the objectives of the project be defined specifically for the PBC.

Mayor Trinks asked about the pillars on the Town Hall portico being repaired. Town Manager Churchill said that it is not part of the project but they could address it along with the Town Roof Project.
 

7. Town Manager’s Report

   Town of Windsor Memorial Day Observance

   The Town of Windsor Public Celebrations Committee has announced the following plans for ceremonies to be held on Monday, May 26, 2003. A ceremony will be held at the Elm Grove Cemetery located in Poquonock beginning at 8:00 a.m. followed by a ceremony at Veteran’s Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. Following the ceremony at Veteran’s Cemetery, the Memorial Day Parade will proceed to Town Hall for the Parade Marshal’s address. The parade usually arrives in the center of town between 9:45 – 10:00 a.m.

   Any groups, including scout troops or youth sport teams wishing to march in the parade should meet at the corner of East and Pleasant Street between 8:30 – 8:45 a.m. to assemble.

   In case of rain, there will be one single ceremony in the Town Hall Council Chambers at 10:00 a.m. For more information, call 285-1835.

   Skate Park

   By way of a quick update on the skate park, Mountain View Landscapes, Inc. has started work at the Sage Park site. The contract calls for them to complete their work by May 28, 2003.

   Windsor Fire Marshal to Receive Award

   Windsor’s Fire Marshal, Ray Walker has been named CT Burglar and Fire Alarm Association "Fire Marshal of the Year" and will be honored at a banquet on May 29^th. This award is presented annually to a Fire Marshall or Building Official that epitomizes the goals of the association.

   Mr. Walker is being honored for his advocacy for the proper installation and service of fire alarms and burglar systems, as well as his willingness to interact with many dealers and vendors to assist them in meeting the requirements of town codes. Mr. Walker has also been a supporter of various training courses offered by the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association and has been instrumental in getting many of these courses approved for CT Fire Marshal certification. In addition, his efforts in reducing false alarms through legislation, training and the education of alarm users will be recognized. Congratulations to Ray.

   Public Outreach Opportunities for Road Projects Coming Soon

   The Engineering Office will host a public informational meeting on Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at Town Hall in the Ludlow Room to present preliminary plans on the Day Hill and Addison Road intersection project. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is designed to specifically address issues such as realignment, need for a traffic light, and rights of way.

   On Wednesday, May 28, 2003, the Engineering Office will have another public informational meeting about the preliminary design for Corey Street including work on Bussey Street and Broadview Road. This meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the Ludlow Room. You may recall that this project was recently awarded a Community Development Block Grant of $445,000 for Corey Street’s reconstruction.

   For further information, please call the Town Engineer at 285-1804.

   Councilor Pacino asked if there is a Parade Marshal. Town Manager Churchill said that there is, but he does not have the name at this time.

   Deputy Mayor Curtis asked about the consolidation of commissions. Town Manager Churchill said that the Fair Rent Commission and the Human Relations Commission have both agreed on a fair merger into one governing body. He recently sent out a letter to members of both commissions requesting volunteers for the merged commission. The Fair Rent Commission has not met in the last eight years.

   Councilor Simon asked when the Veteran’s Pool would be open. Town Manager Churchill said that they are hoping for an opening in July.

   Councilor Walker asked for a street sweeping schedule. Mr. Brian Funk, Public Works, responded that the southern part of town and some of the center has been completed. He summarized the remaining schedule, which should be completed by late June.
   
    

8. Communication from Council Members

   Councilor Albano – None.

   Councilor Broxterman – stated that he would receive no financial gain if the lights go up.

   Councilor Jepsen – would not receive financial gain from the installation of the lights. He congratulated a new author in town, Sandy Katz. On May 9^th, he represented the town at the Capital Region Development Force.

   Councilor Mulligan – expressed that he has nothing to gain from the installation of the lights. He thanked all the volunteers who spent so much time to educate and encourage the voters.

   Councilor Pacino – congratulated the track team who participated in the JI Track Meet over the weekend. Memorial Day is a time to reflect on everyone who has served our country in the armed forces.

   Councilor Simon – thanked the voters of Windsor for overwhelmingly passing the budget. He also thanked the volunteers who raised money and called voters. He commended Adam Gutcheon and David Furie for their time spent at the phone banks getting citizens to vote.

   Councilor Walker – stated that he has no financial gain for the lights at O’Brien Field.

   Deputy Mayor Curtis – said that he has no connection with the lights, football team or school system except that his children attend schools in the district. He also thanked Adam Gutcheon and David Furie and others who worked to get voters to come out.

   Mayor Trinks – his wife is a schoolteacher in the Windsor school system and he has excused himself from contract negotiations in the past. He will not receive any financial gain from the installation of the lights. He congratulated the Fire Marshal on his award. Mayor Trinks expressed his thanks to the voters for coming out and voting on the budget. It’s gratifying for public officials to see the public come out and support the budget. He thanked all that participated in the Shad Derby, especially the Vietnam Veterans.

   Mr. Frank Davis and his brother Mike Davis, of Birchwood Farms, discussed the Open Space Fund. Their farm is a good example of open space in Windsor. They thanked the Town Council for creating the Open Space fund. Birchwood Farms is donating $300 to the Open Space Fund. The Conservation Commission’s goal is to educate the public that the fund does exist and try to solicit funds. They will work with the Planning and Zoning Committee to establish a fee in lieu of open space preservation. Perhaps somewhere down the road, there will be a line item in the budget for open space.
   
    

9. Reports of Standing Committees

1. Finance Committee – None.
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

Moved by Councilor Mulligan, seconded by Councilor Pacino that $156,000 be appropriated from the Capital Projects Fund Undesignated, Unreserved Fund Balance for the installation of sports and support lighting at O’Brien Field with the oversight of the Public Building Commission.

Mr. Tom Lenehan, Town Engineer, and Mr. Ray Glidden, consulting engineer, discussed the proposal. There were three bidders on the lights and the low bid was $167,800. The project includes a four 90 foot pole system with approximately 16 lights per pole to sufficiently illuminate the field. Features of the lighting system include shielding from the adjacent properties, a control system that would allow varying lighting levels for the different activities, which includes recreational use of the perimeter track. The goal is to have the lighting system complete and ready for use by August 29, 2003. All field sports would have the ability to play night games or matches at O’Brien Field with these specifications. Mr. Misky has pledged $75,000 and other private fundraising efforts are underway.

The issue of light spillage was addressed by the Town Planning & Zoning Commission principally with their landscaping requirements. Current lighting technology also has little spillage to the point that it would be negligible to adjacent property owners.

Town Manager Churchill clarified the financial impact. The total cost of the project is estimated at $231,000, including the lighting at $167,800, design work at $12,000, landscape screening at $25,000, a third party structural review at $5,000 and contingency. The contribution by Mr. Misky would defray the cost by $65,000 after the town spent $10,000 for electrical engineering design. The entire $75,000 will be given back to Mr. Misky if the appropriation is rejected.

The Capital Projects Fund is the most logical source for funding. The Town Council transferred $541,945 to it at its last meeting, bringing its fund balance to $995,000. The Capital Projects Fund balance typically pays for projects eventually reimbursed through the State’s LoCIP program and unforeseen capital needs. A balance of $350,000 has historically satisfied these needs and is the amount prescribed in the Town’s Financial Policies.

Councilor Mulligan stated that this project has been discussed for over a year. He has had the opportunity to observe first hand the community involvement and the achievements of the sports teams, bands and dance groups. He fully supports this project.

Councilor Albano asked if the sidewalk and/or fence would have to be relocated. Mr. Lenehan said that the fence would have to be moved and the cost is included in the project.

Councilor Pacino asked what the third party structural review is and inquired about the $10,000 that was originally appropriated. Mr. Lenehan said the State requires a third party review for the structural stability of the towers. The $10,000 was appropriated for design and is included in the total cost of the project.

Deputy Mayor Curtis has a concern with the light spillage. Mr. Glidden, consulting engineer, said that the lights are aimed onto the field, but there are louvers to adjust the lights. You will be able to see the lights in the sky, but the spillage will stop at the property line.

Councilor Mulligan asked about the timer. Mr. Glidden said that it is a programmable timer.

Councilor Jepsen asked where the power is coming from. Mr. Glidden said that there is a separate feed from Sage Park Road that is not connected to the Field House.

Mayor Trinks noted several other projects that have been on hold for years and he is concerned on the timing of these. We are talking about an enhancement to the program. He would have liked to have seen more private fundraising. There is one town that installed lights with 100% of the funds privately raised. He thinks that the neighbors are rightfully justified in thinking that this project was gone since it had been taken out of the budget. He does not agree with this appropriation, given the economic uncertainties. Perhaps if we give this some more time, fundraising efforts would be more considerable.

Councilor Albano agreed with Mayor Trinks’ comments. He also noted that the Board of Education did not vote on this project and did not take any action in regard to this item.

Councilor Mulligan added that the BOE has agreed to incur additional expenses for night games.

Councilor Simon is questioning the timing of this and the concerned citizens opinions. He doesn’t feel that the lights belong in the operating budget. However, if the surplus Capital Funds are used for this appropriation, new tax payer monies will not be used for the project. The BOE has decided to take no action or opinion on this project except if it impacts them financially. He gives credit to the people who have organized residents in support of the project. The Town Council has received almost 300 communications in support of the lights. Given all of these factors, he will vote in favor of this appropriation.

Councilor Pacino noted that he doesn’t see the athletic director or coaches here tonight. He noted that only one coach is in the audience. He urged fundraisers to continue to solicit funds for the project, now and in the future.

Councilor Walker said that this project is a means for the community to come together at some point and is a plus to the town. He is in favor of these lights. It’s time for us to be courageous and step up to the plate.

Town Manager Churchill said that in his consultation with the Police Department, they acknowledged that the crowds are larger and that certain ratios of spectators to security personnel need to be maintained. There will be areas that would not be in view as they would in the daytime, however, security would monitor these areas.

Deputy Mayor Curtis is in favor of this appropriation. There is technology today in lighting that eliminates overflow into the neighborhood. He thinks that the benefits outweigh the concerns. It is a benefit to the town and community. There have been discussions in town regarding opportunities for people to get together.

Councilor Broxterman noted that about four years ago, a similar project was proposed. A consultant came up with the idea that more lighted fields are needed in town. He went to Chief Searles of the Police Department for his opinion regarding use of temporary lights at the stadium. Chief Searles suggested lighting games for the whole season and stated that a lot of positives occur when a community comes together.

Councilor Simon said that we sit here and ask the public to get involved, to volunteer, and to let us know what they want to see happen in town. A group of citizens have done this, from every area of town, every race, and every economic level. They all agree that this is a positive way for residents to get together.

Councilor Jepsen made a friendly amendment adding "with the oversight of the Public Building Commission" to the end of the amendment. Councilors Mulligan and Pacino approved the friendly amendment.

Motion Passed 7-2-0 Mayor Trinks and Councilor Albano opposing
 

12. New Business

1. Presentation of the Small Pox Vaccination Plan

Dr. Charles Petrillo, Jr., Director of Health and Social Services, made the presentation to the Council. He reviewed the progress that has been made in the past ten months. The Plan covers in detail everything from the background for developing the plan, the selection of the clinic site, transportation of people to the clinic, span of control, clinic hours/ flow, vaccine delivery, storage and security, volunteer recruitment and training, and testing of the plan. The Plan, while substantially complete, will be undergoing constant revision as new information comes forward from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the State Department of Public Health.

For Windsor, the representatives are Assistant Town Manager Peter Souza, Town Manager Leon Churchill, Chief Kevin Searles, Captain Kelvan Kearse, and Lieutenant Shannon Hayes from the Police Department; and Sharon Enot and Dr. Charles Petrillo from the Health Department. Enita Jubrey from the Town Manager’s Office has also participated in the planning process.

Councilor Walker asked if any funds have been received yet. Dr. Petrillo said that they have not received any funds, however they hope to in 2004. Some supplies will come from the state, such as the vaccine and needles. However, items like gloves, paper, forms etc., will have to be paid for.

Deputy Mayor Curtis asked if the four members of the team have been vaccinated. Dr. Petrillo confirmed this.

Councilor Broxterman asked what is needed to begin. Dr. Petrillo said that they have already begun to recruit medical volunteers and they have started to look at non-medical volunteers. They will be meeting with businesses and civic groups and then going to the general public for volunteers. Dr. Petrillo said they are estimating 3:1 non-medical to medical volunteers.

2. Set Town of Windsor Mill Rate

   Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Walker that the tax rate for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2003 be set at 33.57 mills.

   The voters adopted the FY 2004 General Fund Budget of $77,323,970 on May 13, 2003. The mill rate needed to fund this budget is 33.57 mills. The impact on a typical (median value) home with a value of $96,700 will be an increase of $93.80 for a typical total real estate bill of $3,246.22. The percentage increase in taxes will be 2.98% when compared to the current mill rate of 32.6.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0
    

3. Approval of License Agreement for Settlement Hill Subdivision

Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the execution of the License Agreement between the Town of Windsor and Mr. Duane Orloske for the provision of water and the right of entry to maintain the memorial in the cul-de-sac on Settlement Hill.

Mr. Thomas Lenehan, Town Engineer, explained the license agreement request. Mr. Orloske and his neighbors on Settlement Hill have established a memorial site in memory of Mr. Orloske’s wife, Margaret Quinn Orloske, who was one of the unfortunate victims of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001. This license will allow them to provide the memorial site with a public water line to water the landscaped memorial. All expenses for the provision of this water line and the maintenance of the area will be the responsibility of the Licensee.

At their meeting on May 12, 2003, the Town Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the subject license.

Councilor Jepsen asked why a license agreement was chosen. Mr. Lenehan said that the other option was an easement, which would be complicated with the other utilities that run through the property.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

13. Resignations and Appointments

Motioned by Councilor Mulligan, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to appoint Nellie Mason Holmes to the Wilson Deerfield Advisory Committee, for a three-year term to expire April 30, 2005 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

14. Minutes of Preceding Meetings

1. Minutes of the May 5, 2003 Public Hearing

   Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the May 5, 2003 Public Hearing. Corrections: None.

   Motion Passed 9-0-0

2. Minutes of the May 5, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to accept the minutes of the May 5, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting. Corrections: Page 6 – Councilor Pacino’s comments - Windsor Dance Academy should be Greater Hartford Dance Academy.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

15. Public Communications and Petitions

Mr. William Crosson, 17 Sage Park Road, requested that the shrouds be placed over the lights at the girls softball field on the high school campus. He also requested if the lights could be shut off if the players finish their game prior to 10:00 p.m. He felt he was branded for coming forth against the lights. While he does live in the neighborhood affected, he is out there picking up the trash that is left outside of the field.

Mr. Bradshaw Smith, 23 Ludlow Road, addressed the Council regarding the sweeping from the center of town onto Route 159, a state highway. He asked why we are out spending local tax money sweeping a road that the state maintains. We are under no legal obligation to maintain that roadway. He commented that we will probably be mowing the grass on the medians in the summer and plowing the snow in the winter.

Ms. Rosemarie Miskavitch, 20 Coach Circle, thanked the Council for answering her questions regarding compensation and potential financial gain from the stadium lights. She also thanked the Council for passing the lights at O’Brien Stadium.

Motion made by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to enter into Executive Session at 10:52 p.m. for the purpose of:

1. Discussion concerning the appointment, employment, performance, evaluation, health or dismissal of a public officer or employee.

Motion Passed 9-0-0
 

16. Executive Session

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

    Leon Churchill entered Executive Session at 11:05 p.m.

    Motion made by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Pacino to exit Executive Session and re-enter regular Town Council session at 11:16 p.m.

    Motion Passed 9-0-0
    
     

17. Adjournment

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Alanbo to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 11:16 p.m.

Motion Passed 9-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library

Wilson Branch