2003 Minutes  
 

Windsor Town Council

Council Chambers – Town Hall

July 7, 2003

Approved Minutes

 

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 Pacino, Councilor Simon and Councilor Walker Absent: Councilor Mulligan


     
  2. Prayer – Councilor Pacino


     
  3. Pledge of Allegiance – Councilor Pacino


     
  4. Proclamations/Awards
  1. Proclamation recognizing the week of July 26 through August 2, 2003 as West Indian Week Councilor Walker read the proclamation recognizing the week of July 26 through August 2, 2003 as West Indian Week and that the Windsor community recognize and celebrate the rich traditions of the West Indian culture.
     
  2. Yankee Doodle Celebration

Mr. Paul Norris, Recreation Department, introduced and recognized Sebatian Marino and Victoria Huertas for receiving the Yankee Doodle Little Miss and Mister award.

 

  1. Public Communications and Petitions

    Mr. George Yeramian, 739 Prospect Hill Road, addressed the Council regarding the Windsor/Bloomfield Landfill’s current and projected tonnage. He asked where the additional tonnage noted in the projected amount is coming from since it is more than double the current tonnage.

    Mr. Bill Warner-Prouty, 50 Ford Road, spoke on behalf of the Windsor Library Association. They encouraged the Council to move forward with the library expansion. It will serve a wide spectrum of Windsor and will be a source of pride for the community.

     

  2. Report of Appointed Boards and Commissions
  1. Human Relations Commission
    None.
     
  2. Board of Education
    None.
     
  3. Public Building Commission

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

WHS Renovations – the landscaping is complete. The parking lot lights will be repaired this summer. The rooftop screening for HVAC is under design and will be done later this summer. Additional interior doors will be replaced this summer. Final pavement of the south parking lot will be completed by late summer. There has been a favorable settlement with the architect.

Goslee Pool – is complete and the pool is open. The interior of the bathhouse is substantially complete.

Public Works Renovation – staff is working on the specs. The wash rack portion is nearly complete.

330 Windsor Avenue – is slightly behind schedule. The Caring Connection will move to this location the first week in August. Furniture will be delivered tomorrow.

L.P. Wilson roof – return of bids are expected within a month with construction starting in the fall.

Town Hall Roof Project – is behind schedule because of the wet spring. The contractor is anticipating a start date of July 21st. It should be completed in August.

O’Brien Field Lights – on schedule for completion by August 29th.

Councilor Jepsen asked if the clock has started for closing out the project and the State’s final reimbursement. Town Manager Churchill said that it will be inspected by the State prior to the final reimbursement.

Councilor Pacino asked about the air hoses and obstacles in the Industrial Arts area. Mr. Joseph Novak said that Mr. Wes Vasko is working with the teachers to come up with the best solution for the hose layouts. It is not complete yet. They are looking into retractable air hoses.

Mayor Trinks received a letter from a citizen regarding the placement of a dumpster and damaged mature trees on Capen Street. Mayor Trinks requested that some new plantings be done. Mr. Novak said that it could be discussed at the PBC meeting tomorrow.

 

  1. Town Manager’s Report

    More Grant Funding for the Caring Connection

    The Fleet Bank-Ensworth Charitable Foundation announced today that Windsor’s Caring Connection has been awarded $5,000 to continue the art therapy program. The same foundation awarded the Caring Connection $3,000 last year. The North Central Area on Aging Grant also awarded the Caring Connection $4,688 for the Alzheimer's Aide Funding grant. This helps support the Caring Connection’s efforts in assisting those with Alzheimer’s disease. The Caring Connection under the leadership of Ms. Debbie Boemmels has exhibited extraordinary entrepreneurial skills demonstrated by raising $51,941 in grant funds this last fiscal year.

    Canoe and Kayak Rental and Trips Now Available

    A license agreement with Long River Adventures, a Windsor-based company, was executed last week for various canoe and kayak services ranging from rentals, moonlight trips, coastal sea kayaking, lessons, sales, and camp certifications. The agreement is consistent with town ordinances for recreational activities so the term is limited to 15 days. The agreement allows for the use of River Street, Pleasant Street, and East Barber Street (if State permission is obtained) boat launches for no more than 20 canoes and 30 kayaks. Operations are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on all days except Monday and Friday. This license should be characterized as part of a pilot or trial program that can be renewed in 15-day increments.

    I will continue to apprise the Council and community on this initiative's effectiveness with an eye toward a more long-term license on a competitive basis if successful. Please call me at 285-1800 if there are any questions.

    Start Smart and Healthy People Initiatives Lauded

    The Urban Land Institute just published a new book, "Halfway to Everywhere: A Portrait of America's First-Tier Suburbs" by William Hudnut, former Indianapolis mayor and a ULI senior resident fellow. Chapter 16, entitled, "Stay Well: Providing Health and Social Services," prominently highlights Windsor’s Healthy People Initiative and Start Smart Program.

    Hudnut paints a picture of these suburbs--from their birth through their decline to their rebirth. His portrayal of these metropolitan pivot points provides reasons for hope and strategies for rejuvenation, offering solutions for local officials, policy makers, developers, and citizens whom are looking for ways to bring new life to these communities.

    The book is approximately 175 pages in a hardcover format. It retails for $34.95 and can be purchased at the ULI website at www.uli.org/fusebox/bookstore. Congratulations to the Healthy People Strategy Team and the Windsor community that embraces it.

    Councilor Pacino inquired about any progress on the State’s requirement to expand the recycling program, specifically to include bulk clothing and other items. Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works and Mr. Mark Goossens, Landfill Manager, responded that the crushed glass at the landfill is now included in the recycling percentages. Mr. Goossens has been working with the DEP and town departments. The 40% number is a composite, which includes Christmas trees, electronics and clothing among other things. The list hasn’t grown, but the percentage goal is close. Town Manager Churchill said that before we expand the list of items recycled, we would work to improve promotion of the recycling program in town.

    Councilor Broxterman asked if there is an additional cost to have two or three recycling containers. Mr. Funk said that residents are encouraged to put items in paper bags, tie items with a string or put them along side the recycling bin. An additional container can be obtained from the landfill.


     

  2. Communication from Council Members

    Councilor Albano – None.

    Councilor Broxterman – None.

    Councilor Jepsen – offered condolences to the Melley-Coyne family for their loss. He would like to transfer the leftover Capital Fund balance to the Open Space Fund. He requested clarification on the amount and the addition of the item on the Council’s August agenda.

    Councilor Mulligan – Not present.

    Councilor Pacino – thanked everyone for the brunch on June 22nd. He congratulated Carlos Salmon who won the Class "L" Championship for Boys Tennis. He questioned the Tobacco Shed reconstruction. Mr. Peter Souza responded that it is before the Zoning Board of Appeals to request an additional extension for completing reconstruction. Councilor Pacino asked if there is a policy of admission for the pools during heat waves. A concerned resident also reported that some children were admitted without paying admission. He also asked when Veteran’s Pool will be open. Town Manager Churchill responded that there is not a pool admittance policy that is based on the temperature. The issue of those who have not paid admission was addressed last week. It is our policy not to admit without payment, but he cannot say that it has not and does not occur. The head lifeguard has been taken out of the guarding position and put in charge of customer service and overseeing the pool operations. Three additional lifeguards were hired to compensate for the head lifeguard removed from guarding duties. A part time person was hired for the gate at Goslee Pool from 1-5 p.m. for five to seven days per week. The target opening for Veteran’s Pool is July 19th.

    Councilor Simon – None.

    Councilor Walker – reported on Rte 218 and Columbia Road. A letter from Commissioner Byrnes was received stating that the town’s design for that site has been approved. The survey will start this month with design starting this fall and if there are no right-of-way issues, they anticipate advertising in December of 2005 with construction starting in the spring of 2006. The project includes a signal at the intersection and the removal of the one at West Wolcott. This project will be paid for through federal funds. He attended the grand opening of Focus Photography at 376 Windsor Avenue. Premier Pets and Supplies will be welcomed soon. He wanted to thank Rovers, Inc. for inviting him to their 10-year celebration. They are involved in soccer clubs, but they also provide scholarships to college students. The Mayor of Hartford plans to use members of the group in the Hartford school systems for kids who are at risk for failing or dropping out. At the First Town Downtown Awards Presentation, Jim Burke and town staff received an "Oh my gosh, we can’t do without you" award.

    Deputy Mayor Curtis – attended the Performance Arts Center celebration and it was a great event. He noted some local talent such as David France and Ann Anderson who recently performed at L.P. Wilson. At the Centre Coffee Bar, resident Doug Mayer played with his Jazz band.

    Mayor Trinks – Project Graduation was an immense success. It was well attended with 260 out of the total class of 307 in attendance. He enjoyed the Volunteer Brunch. He congratulated James McCulligan for receiving his award in Eagle Scouts and Catherine McCarthy for achieving her Goal Award in Girl Scouts. He thanked the staff for coordinating the "Just For Fun" Dog Show. He thanked the India Association of Greater Hartford for inviting him to their folk dance competition. Thursday night concerts on the green have started. Mayor Trinks expressed his condolences to the Melley-Coyne family.


     

  3. 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.

 

  1. Ordinances
    None.


     
  2. Unfinished Business
    None.


     
  3. New Business
  1. Introduce proposed revisions to Personnel Rules

Ms. Amelia Bliss, Director of Human Resources, reviewed the proposed revisions to the Personnel Rules. These proposed changes were reviewed by the Healthy Organization Strategy Team which is comprised of employees from several town departments. Many of the proposed changes are for clarification of existing practices and have no financial impact.

Councilor Simon asked if the Personnel Rules apply to the Bargaining Unit and asked if these benefits will be offered to the union employees at the next negotiation. Ms. Bliss said that these rules apply to non-union employees, unless union contracts are "silent" on the topic. She anticipates similar negotiated benefits with union employees.

Councilor Simon asked if the merit increases and performance evaluations would apply to part time employees. Ms. Bliss confirmed that they would apply for regular part time employees.

Councilor Jepsen asked if there is a policy for donating time to employees in hardship. Ms. Bliss said that there is not a policy.

Mayor Trinks referred the proposed changes to the Special Projects Committee for review and to make a recommendation to the Town Council.

  1. Authorize Town Manager to execute and sign a real estate agreement for intersection improvements at Day Hill and Addison Road

    Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the Town Manager, R. Leon Churchill, Jr. to sign the agreement between the State of Connecticut and the Town of Windsor for rights of way activities in conjunction with Urban Systems Improvements for acquisition of property for intersection realignment of Day Hill Road at Addison Road.

    Mr. Tom Lenehan, Town Engineer, discussed the intersection improvements. The town is required to purchase the required right of way and pay the State 10% of their administrative costs. The State will reimburse the town 90% of these expenses or up to $58,500.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  2. Resolution increasing the authorized positions at the Windsor/Bloomfield Landfill

    Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Walker that the Full Time Equivalent (FTE) totals for the Landfill Enterprise Fund for FY 2004 be increased as follows: Regular Full-Time Employees from 8.0 to 9.0, Part-Time Employees from 0.6 to 1.0, with the new total FTE amount becoming 10.0.

    Town Manager Churchill discussed the need for additional positions at the Landfill to meet the goals of the landfill which includes: 1) meet financial responsibility for closure and post closure activities, 2) close in a timely basis, and 3) leverage next disposal site/location. Mr. Brian Funk, Director of Public Works, and Mr. Mark Goossens, Landfill Manager, discussed the request for additional positions.

    The effect on the FY 2004 budget for the Landfill Enterprise Fund would be to increase expenditures for Personnel Services by approximately $63,350 (assuming that the new personnel are hired by September 1st), and to increase the Capital Outlay budget line by $160,000 in order to purchase a used compactor or bulldozer. This plan would increase revenues for the Landfill Enterprise Fund for FY 2004 by approximately $1,950,000 above what was budgeted for the current fiscal year.

    Councilor Broxterman asked if we have looked at the cost of creating these channels compared to the cost of creating a 6-7% pitch and what the difference in tonnage would be. Mr. Funk responded that if we cut ditches into the landfill, we would probably lose space for waste. By creating these moguls, we achieve the ability of getting water off the landfill quicker and increasing the tonnage.

    Councilor Simon inquired about the closure of the landfill originally estimated at 2004 and now it is 2014. Town Manager Churchill responded that the capacity as of June 2001 was almost 173,000 cubic yards. To address the drainage issues in the southwestern portion, the capacity increased by 192,000 cubic yards in December 2001. Town Manager Churchill noted that alterations to the final landform would increase the capacity an additional 440,000 cubic yards. There are entities that will bring the waste in and contracts can be signed as soon as it is approved.

    Councilors Jepsen and Walker requested addressing this item in further detail at another meeting.

    Deputy Mayor Curtis commented that this plan is significantly different than the plan that was presented to the public. He recommends that this item be presented to the public again.

    Mayor Trinks asked about the traffic implications. He also agreed with setting up an escrow for any future implications or problems. Town Manager Churchill replied that at closure, if there were a resident drop-off or transfer station, the traffic would be the same.

    Councilor Simon requested that the item be referred to the Finance Committee. He also requested that a separate public meeting be set up to educate the public on these changes. Councilor Walker agreed.

    Deputy Mayor Curtis commented that this was never intended to be a money making adventure, but the goal was to be able to fund closure and post closure costs without increasing taxes.

    Mayor Trinks and Deputy Mayor Curtis thanked the Town Manager for his work in this plan. Mayor Trinks feels that this is a big step and it is a lot of information to digest in one meeting. Mayor Trinks referred the item to the Finance Committee. He also requested available dates from the Councilors to set up a Council Workshop to discuss this issue in further detail.

    Councilors Broxterman and Walker withdrew the motion.
     

  3. Authorization of funding for Methane Control Project at Landfill

    Moved by Councilor Simon, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to approve the installation of the geomembrane liner at the Windsor Bloomfield Landfill and that funds from the Landfill Enterprise Fund be utilized for the installation and associated costs.

    Town Engineer Tom Lenehan and Solid Waste Manager Mark Goossens provided an overview. In the operation of a solid waste landfill, methane gas is generated during the decomposition of the waste. The installation of a geomembrane liner will control the methane gas and reduce the probability of gas migrating off the landfill property. The estimated cost of the work is $200,000. Funding is available from the Landfill Enterprise Fund.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  4. Authorize the Town Manager to sign and execute a grant from the State of CT for a utility vehicle

    Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that R. Leon Churchill, Jr., Town Manager, be authorized to execute and deliver in the name and on behalf of this organization a certain contract with the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection, for a grant in the amount of $7,040 to purchase a trail maintenance vehicle for use at Northwest Park.

    Ms. Robin Newman and Ms. Cathy O’Donnell, Northwest Park, discussed the grant. In February 2002, a grant application was submitted by Northwest Park staff for the acquisition of a Kawasaki Mule Utility vehicle to be used for trail maintenance. This application was submitted to the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection, requesting $8,700 for the purchase of the vehicle. On June 17, 2003, notification was received stating that federal funding was approved through the National Recreational Trails program in the amount of $7,040. This vehicle will assist with emergencies on the trails, trail maintenance and wildlife habitat projects. The town’s share of the purchase cost is $1,660, which will be funded by Northwest Park’s general fund operating budget. Annual maintenance of the vehicle is estimated to be $250 and will be funded by the operating budget or Northwest Park.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  5. Authorize the Town Manager to sign and execute a grant from the State of CT for improvements to West Field Trail in Northwest Park

    Moved by Councilor Walker, seconded by Councilor Jepsen that R. Leon Churchill, Jr., Town Manager, be authorized to execute and deliver in the name and on behalf of this organization a certain contract with the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection, for a grant in the amount of $2,020 to construct and enhance the West Field Trail at Northwest Park.

    Ms. Robin Newman and Ms. Cathy O’Donnell, Northwest Park, discussed the grant. In February 2002, a grant application was submitted by Northwest Park staff for the construction and enhancement of the West Field Trail at Northwest Park. This application was submitted to the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection, requesting $2,525. On June 17, 2003, notification was received stating that federal funding was approved through the National Recreational Trails program in the amount of $2,020. The town’s share will be $505, which will be funded through Northwest Park’s Environmental Educational Program account. Annual maintenance of the trail shall be completed by Northwest Park staff and volunteers. Review by the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission is required and it will be reviewed at their July 8, 2003 Special Meeting.

    Councilor Jepsen asked if anyone with a canoe could use this trail. Ms. O’Donnell responded that anyone could use their own canoe but they would have to park in the parking lot. Only Northwest Park vehicles would use the trail.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  6. Ratification of CILU #45 contract

    Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to ratify the contract modifications in the CILU #45 collective bargaining agreement as contained in the memorandum of understanding dated June 30, 2003.

    Town Manager Churchill reviewed the proposed employee wage adjustments for FY 2004. The three collective bargaining groups have agreed to lower or receive no pay increases for FY 2004, but defers such compensation to future years when the town is presumably in better condition to sustain such increases. The proposed amendment for emergency dispatchers (CILU #45) reduces their pay increase to 2.5% and incorporates the decrease in fiscal years 2005, 2006 and 2007. The proposed amendment for public works and clerical employees (CILU #66) decreases the FY 2004 increase to 2.5% and incorporates the .75 decrease in FY 2005. The proposed amendment for Police Department employees (WPDEA) includes no increase in pay for FY 2004, and incorporates the recovery of the 3.5% increase in fiscal years 2006, 2007, and 2008. Employees who plan to retire within the next one to three years, depending on the collective bargaining group, will receive the previously agreed upon wage increase. The town has the right to accelerate the deferrals if circumstances allow. The wage increase for unaffiliated employees is budgeted for a 2.5% increase in FY 2004, and a small stipend of $1,500 is budgeted for each department head and its use will be based on performance. Future increases for unaffiliated employees will be comparable to the collective bargaining groups.

    Total savings for union concessions are $131,434 for FY 2004. Savings could be slightly higher when overtime costs are considered.

    Councilor Jepsen asked about the changes in health insurance benefits. Town Manager Churchill responded that no changes in health insurance benefits will be made in FY 2004. More time is needed to inform employees of their health plans and the increased costs.

    Councilor Simon thanked the three unions for their understanding and concessions in assisting Windsor in weathering the budget crisis.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  7. Ratification of CILU #66 contract

    Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to ratify the contract modifications in the CILU #66 collective bargaining agreement as contained in the memorandum of understanding dated June 30, 2003.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0
     

  8. Ratification of WPDEA contract

Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to ratify the contract modifications in the Windsor Police Department Employees Association collective bargaining agreement as contained in the memorandum of understanding dated July 7, 2003.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

 

  1. Resignations and Appointments

Moved by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to appoint William D. Chiodo to the Capital Improvements Committee for a three-year term to expire May 15, 2006 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepson to:

  1. Reappoint George Morganthaler to the Board of Ethics for a five-year term to expire July 31, 2008 or until a successor is appointed;
  2. Reappoint Rita Melley-Coyne to the Windsor Housing Authority for a five-year term to expire July 31, 2008 or until a successor is appointed;
  3. Reappoint Harold DePianta to the Windsor Housing Authority for a five-year term to expire July 31, 2007 or until a successor is appointed.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

Mayor Trinks appointed Randy Graff as the Chair of the Capital Improvements Committee.

 

  1. Minutes of Preceding Meetings
  1. Minutes of the June 16, 2003 Public Hearing for Bond Ordinance for Public Safety Radio System

    Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Albano to accept the minutes of the June 16, 2003 Public Hearing for Bond Ordinance for Public Safety Radio System. Corrections: None.

    Motion Passed 8-0-0

  2. Minutes of the June 16, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting

Moved by Councilor Broxterman, seconded by Councilor Albano to accept the minutes of the June 16, 2003 Regular Town Council Meeting. Corrections: None.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to add item 12 J. Discussion of Strategy and Negotiations with respect to pending claims and litigation – Triggs vs. Town of Windsor onto the agenda.

Moved by Councilor Jepsen, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to move item 12 J. to post Executive Session.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

 

  1. Public Communications and Petitions
    None.

Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Jepsen to enter into Executive Session at 10:12 p.m. for the purpose of discussing:

  1. Strategy and Negotiations with respect to pending claims and litigation – Triggs vs. Town of Windsor

Motion Passed 8-0-0
 

  1. Executive Session

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

    Absent: Councilor Mulligan, Mayor Trinks

    Staff: Town Manager Leon Churchill, Assistant Town Manager Peter Souza, Risk Manager Marty Maynard, Chief of Police Kevin Searles

    Guest: Vincent Oswecki, Town Attorney

    Moved by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Broxterman to leave Executive Session at 10:30 p.m.

    Motion Passed 7-0-0

    Re-entered the Regular Town Council meeting at 10:31 p.m.

    Moved by Deputy Mayor Curtis, seconded by Councilor Pacino to accept the settlement of Triggs vs. Town of Windsor as discussed in Executive Session.

    Motion Passed 7-0-1 (Mayor Trinks abstained)


     

  2. Adjournment

Moved by Councilor Pacino, seconded by Councilor Albano to adjourn the Regular Town Council Meeting at 10:32 p.m.

Motion Passed 8-0-0

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Kristin Countryman

Clerk of the Windsor Town Council

Cc: Town Clerk

Main Library

Wilson Branch