Town Manager's Report - January 6, 2020
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration – January 20, 2020
The Archer Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church is sponsoring its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration for the community on Monday, January 20, 2020, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM in the Council Chambers of town hall. All are welcome to attend. For questions, please contact the church office at 860-688-5225.
Also, Town Offices will be closed on January 20, 2020 due to the holiday.
Winter Parking Rules
Just a reminder that until April 15th, there is no parking on Windsor streets between the hours of 1:00 AM and 6:00 AM and no parking on any street during a snow or ice storm that has been in progress for one hour or more. Also, please do not leave your vehicle on the street in such a position that it impedes snowplowing operations or the free flow of traffic.
When the snow arrives this year, please remember that the town ordinance requires all property owners to clear snow from the sidewalk (and fire hydrants if there is one on your property) within 12 hours after the storm.
Blood Pressure Screenings
The Health Department will be sponsoring several Blood Pressure Screenings as well as six 2-hour educational sessions over the Winter and Spring 2020. Blood Pressure Screenings will be held from 10:30 AM to noon on the first Wednesday of each month. The first screening is this Wednesday at the L.P. Wilson Community Center. You do not need to register for the screenings.
Educational sessions will be on the second Wednesday of the month starting on February 12th at Town Hall. The session will start at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include Blood Pressure Classifications and the Importance of Blood Pressure Control, Self-Measurement of Blood Pressure, Lifestyle modifications, etc. For more information and to register, go to www.townofwindsorct.com/health or call 860-285-1824.
Coyote and Fox Sightings
In the past several days there have been sightings of coyotes and foxes during the day in the Rood Ave, Ford Road and Custer Drive neighborhoods. Animal Control Officer, Brian Davis, will canvas the neighborhoods to provide informational material so residents are aware of what steps to take should they see wildlife in their neighborhoods.
Residents should call police immediately if they see any of these animals behaving abnormally or if they are posing an immediate public threat.
Here are some links provided by CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection that gives guidance on coyotes, fox and bears:
Coyotes: https://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=325936&deepNav_GID=1655
Fox: https://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=325940&deepNav_GID=1655
Bears: https://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=325930&deepNav_GID=1655
This information along with DEEP links will be posted on the town’s website and through various social media platforms.
Rail Crossing – Quiet Zone Public Information Meeting
On December 19th a public information meeting regarding Quiet Zone Designation for rail crossings was held here at Town Hall. Approximately two dozen residents attended and heard presentations from the Federal Railroad Administration as well as the Connecticut Department of Transportation.
The process to pursue a Quiet Zone Designation from the Federal Railroad Administration can be rather complex and lengthy. Therefore, it is my recommendation that the town secure proposals for technical assistance from engineering consulting firms that have experience with this type of work. It is expected the work will include evaluating each of the seven crossings as to the current safety measures in place and identify what additional improvements might be needed to meet Federal Quiet Zone regulations. Additional services may involve assisting the town in discussions with Amtrak and the CT DOT.
Staff will be soliciting technical assistance proposals over the next several weeks.
Fiscal Year 19 Independent Financial Audit
The FY 19 independent financial audit performed by RSM US LLP has been completed and submitted to the State of Connecticut prior to the end of the calendar year.
Hard copies have been distributed to the Council.
An auditor’s management letter was not issued as there were no material findings or recommendations by the auditors.
As in years past, I look forward to reviewing the reports with the Finance Committee and the external auditor at the Committee’s convenience.
MDC Invoice Changes
This month the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) is implementing a major upgrade to its computer operating system. In order to prepare to switch from the current system to the new one, billing cycles have been adjusted, which resulted in some customers receiving invoices earlier than usual in December.
Also starting this month, MDC water customers will notice a new look to their bill. The new format will show past usage and new payment options. Also, customer account numbers will be changed.
Health Department Offering Flu Shots
Come and get your flu shot. There are still plenty available. The flu shot is your best protection to avoid getting influenza. Remember to bring your insurance card with you when you come. If you don’t have insurance, the cost will be $30 cash. To schedule an appointment, call the Health Department at 860-285-1823 or go online to learn more at https://townofwindsorct.com/health and click on the ‘get your flu shot’ advertisement.