Town Manager's Report - March 1, 2021
COVID – 19 Vaccination Scheduling Assistance
Staff has developed resources for seniors wishing to sign up for vaccinations that do not have computer access, require help through the scheduling process, or are homebound.
Public Library
Both the Main Branch Library and the Wilson Branch Library have computers and staff available to help during operating hours.
Senior Center
The Senior Center and Recreation Department have implemented a “call-center” service for seniors that do not have computer access or need assistance in scheduling their appointment. A collection of volunteers and staff at the LP Wilson Community Center have been accepting phone calls and scheduling appointments via the state-wide online system. The call center is available Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. There are at least two individuals available to process calls. Residents may call 860-285-1990.
Dial-A-Ride Transportation Services is also providing rides specifically to COVID-19 testing and vaccination appointments Monday – Friday from 9: 00 a.m. – 3:00 pm. This round trip service is free for Windsor residents 60 and older and individuals with disabilities. There are limits to this service. Transportation will be to the closest facility and will not provide rides to drive-through facilities. A companion, including Personal Care Attendant (PCA), may also ride for free. A wheelchair accessible vehicle is available, and an aide must accompany the wheelchair rider. To make a reservation, residents should call 860-285-1996 at least two days in advance.
The Senior Center and Recreation staff are currently calling individuals on the Dial-A-Ride list to inquire if they have scheduled a COVID vaccination appointment and, if not, are notifying them that assistance is available.
Social Services
Social Services has contacted individuals on their At-Risk Registry and to date has identified several individuals requiring an at-home appointment offered by the Windsor Health Department.
Vaccination Schedule
The Health Department has been working to meet an ever-changing landscape when it comes to COVID vaccinations. As of today, persons 55 years of age and older as well as school staff, daycare and group home personnel are eligible to receive vaccinations.
Per the direction of the State Department of Public Health, local health departments are to focus on providing shots to school, daycare and group home staff as well as fulfilling 2nd doses for persons who already received shots at our local clinics.
This week we are planning to hold 5 clinics in total. We will be providing shots to 40 housing authority tenants and homebound individuals. We will also be providing 2nd shots to previously scheduled recipients.
Staff and volunteers will be providing approximately 400 first doses to Windsor public school employees and will conduct 2 clinics in South Windsor for those scheduled for their 2nd dose and for South Windsor School staff.
Health Department staff are in the process of coordinating other clinic dates to serve the daycare centers, group homes and remaining schools.
With the approval of the 3rd vaccine, we are all hopeful that the supply of vaccines will increase soon to allow for more vaccinations.
Wireless Telecommunications Facility off of Prospect Hill Road
A private company has filed a permit application with the Connecticut Siting Council to construct a communication tower off of Prospect Hill Road near the Day Hill Road end. Per State regulation, the Siting Council has exclusive jurisdiction over the siting/approval of cell towers.
The Siting Council has set two hearings for Thursday, March 4, 2021. There will be an evidentiary session held at 2:00 p.m. and at 6:30 p.m. on that day is a public comment session. The applicant will provide a brief overview of the proposal and the public may make brief statements into the record. Both sessions will be held virtually.
Town staff has posted the hearing information on the town’s website. This will include how to sign up for the evening session as well as links to the CT Siting Council.
Talk Without Text
The Town of Windsor Youth Services Bureau and the Windsor Locks Youth Services Bureau have teamed up to provide a community-wide “Talk Without Text” program. This program is geared toward having meaningful conversations during mealtimes with your family. “Talk Without Text” packs will be delivered in March and will provide suggested conversation topics, highlight the benefits of spending quality family time, along with other health resources. For more information, call Sarah Maffiolini, YSB Coordinator, at 860-285-1946 or register online at www. townofwindsorct.com.
Summer Fun Camps
Registration for Summer Fun Camps opened on March 1, 2021. Camps are for campers ages 5 – 13 and will be held from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Campers must have finished kindergarten to participate. Campers will enjoy organized games, activities, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, special events and so much more! $145 per week. Scholarships and payment plans are available. We will be sure to provide fun while following all COVID guidelines and restrictions to keep our campers safe. For more information, call 285-1990 or visit our website at www.townofwindsorct.com.
From Ireland to America
In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, on Wednesday, March 17th, at 3:00 p.m. the Windsor Senior Center will be offering a shared program via Zoom with our friends from the South Windsor Senior Center titled, “From Ireland to America”. This will be a festive music program celebrating traditional Irish music and culture and is presented by singer, yodeler and multi-instrumentalist Roger Tincknell. For more information, to register or get zoom information, call the Senior Center at 860-285-1992.