These minutes are for informational purposes only. For official minutes contact either the Town Clerk's office or the First Selectman's office.

Regular Meeting

February 14, 2000

1. CALL TO ORDER

The meeting was called to order at 7:36 p.m. Present were First Selectman Anita Mielert, Deputy First Selectman Joel Mandell, William Garrity, John Romano, Madeleine Gilkey and Thomas Vincent. Also present were: Gerard Toner, Director of Culture, Parks and Recreation, and other interested parties.

2. RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - ALFRED L. SHULL, RETIRING CHIEF OF POLICE

Ms. Mielert stated that Chief Shull has served the Town for almost 10 years and she noted his accomplishments during that time. She presented Chief Shull with a gift. Chief Shull thanked the officers who supported his changes in the department and the Police Commission for their support. Edward Cosgrove, Police Commission Chairman, thanked Chief Shull on behalf of the Police Commission. He noted that Chief Shull developed the Rules & Regulations for the Police Department and did a marvelous job of implementing improvements in the department. Ms. Mielert presented Chief Shull with a Simsbury key pin.

3. PUBLIC AUDIENCE

Joan Coe, 26 Whitcomb Drive, questioned why the Police Commission changed their meeting night. She questioned the policy of this administration to answering questions from the public. She stated that the documentation of the State's investigation into Joe Grace is now available at the library. Ms. Coe thanked Dawn Bobryck for finding a publication of the Valley Cigar News which notes what pesticides were used on tobacco. She stated that this publication was distributed to the land use commissions.

Ms. Coe stated that it is alleged that the sand pits is the proposed site for the new high school. She pointed out that this is the location of the CL&P substation and she questioned whether environmental issues were discussed before choosing the site. She suggested that the BOE should continue to investigate ways to renovate the high school at a lower cost. Ms. Coe stated that her husband was removed from the Democratic Town Committee due to comments she made and this is unjust.

Ms. Coe questioned whether CIL is used deferred taxes to stabilize the rents at Eno Farms and whether the Town has applied for reimbursement. Ms. Coe stated that she is vehemently against the sale of beer and wine at Septemberfest because it doesn't send a positive message to the youth.

Kevin North, President, Simsbury Fire District, stated that Bridgeport Hydraulic has filed a new application with the DPUC for the purchase of the Village Water Company. He stated that the Fire District will appear at the Public Hearings on February 29th. He urged the BOS to consider the position of the citizens of Simsbury, particularly the 3,200 who signed the petition. Mr. North stated that local control and accountability for service is paramount and water is a critical asset to Simsbury. He suggested that the Tuller Reservoir remain open space, but noted that Bridgeport Hydraulic has a history of selling its assets. He pointed out that Simsbury has some of the lowest water rates in the State.

Mr. North stated that the Fire District has been in contact with legal counsel, Fleet and the Cromwell Fire District regarding their potential purchase of the Village Water Company. He stated that they would bring this capital project before the Town with the revenue stream to retire the bonds and possibly lower water rates for residents. He submitted a letter to the BOS (Addendum 1).

Dan Crowley questioned (1) why he needs to continue to come to the BOS meetings to take action, (2) when the BOS will discuss the DPUC Public Hearing, (3) why alcohol consumption is a requirement for listening to symphonic music, and (4) whether the BOS plans to fight the attempt to take over the Village Water Company by a foreign entity. He stated that he heard that the high school was not considered as a site for the Hartford Symphony because alcohol is not permitted on high school grounds. Mr. Crowley stated that the Yorkshire Water Company has a history of frightful water and sewer rates. He urged the BOS to tell the DPUC to keep local water under Fire District Control.

4. STATE OF THE TOWN - FIRST SELECTMAN

Ms. Mielert stated that it is the one year anniversary of the Heart Starters Program and over $40,000 was collected. She stated that 12 defibrillators were purchased, training was provided for, and the surplus of $4,000 was give to the Fire District towards the purchase of a thermal imaging camera. Ms. Mielert reviewed the Meadowood Public Hearing schedule. She noted that the new Police Chief was sworn in and Chief Shull has retired. Ms. Mielert stated that James Clifton has been hired as the WPCA Superintendent and there are 2 part-time positions open at Town Hall.

Ms. Mielert noted that the presidential preference primary will be held on March 7th. She stated that the Simsbury Food Closet needs canned corned beef and protein products. She stated that tax counseling is being offered at the Senior Center on Tuesdays, and a luncheon is being held this Tuesday with a guest speaker. Ms. Mielert stated that a questionnaire regarding police services to citizens will be available in the Hartford Courant and at Town Hall and the library.

Ms. Mielert stated that the BOS Budget Workshops begin on February 15th. She stated that her proposed budget is $12,494,449 which is a 3.96% increase over last year and within the BOF 4% guideline. She stated that she is recommending $7.45 million in capital projects, which is within the budget guideline. Ms. Mielert stated that of the $480,000 budget increase, 90% is due to negotiated salaries and health insurance costs. She noted that her budget includes expanding the Business Reference Librarian to a full-time position. Ms. Mielert stated that community policing has been supported in the budget. She stated that requested capital improvements include maintenance of Town facilities, the purchase of development rights and open space, funding for the Greenway, an upgrade of the streetscape in town center, a fleet maintenance facility shared with the BOE, and 3 athletic fields. She noted that she also included the construction of a new golf club at Simsbury Farms which will be funded 50% by revenues generated at Simsbury Farms. Ms. Mielert stated that the CNR budget includes a new generator for Town Hall, a new communication system for Public Works, and Simsbury Farms improvements.

Mr. Mandell moved to add the February 4, 2000 Special Meeting minutes to the agenda for approval. The motion was seconded by Mr. Vincent and carried unanimously.

5. FINANCE

a. Fiscal Year 1999/2000 Budget Transfers

Ms. Mielert stated that all of the transfers relate to employment issues (Addendum 2).

Mr. Mandell moved to approve the fiscal year 1999/2000 budget transfers in the amount of $156,920. The motion was seconded by Mr. Vincent and carried unanimously.

6. PLANNING AND CONSERVATION

a. Presentation by Streetscape Advisory Group on Streetscape Design

Charles Stephenson, Chairman of the Streetscape Advisory Group, stated that the committee was put in place to determine how to utilize funds made available by the State. He stated that they have preliminary design ideas and will make a presentation at the library on February 16th at 7:00 p.m. Mr. Stephenson stated that the DOT will redesign the intersection of Rt. 10 and West Street and will incorporate the features of their streetscape plan in the DOT plan. He noted the steps which have been taken by the committee and stated that Johnson Land Design and Milone & MacBroom were selected to develop a master plan. He noted that the utility companies have been contacted regarding improving the visuals along the street. Mr. Stephenson stated that after the presentation on February 16th they will go before the land use commissions for approval of their recommendations. He noted that the project scope is along Hopmeadow Street, from Westminster School to West Street, and all of the recommendations are for improvements within the right-of-way, not on private property.

Dean Johnson, Johnson Land Design, reviewed the plans and presented historical photographs. He stated that they addressed the lighting, sidewalks, benches, and reducing the impact of asphalt. He noted the proposed gateways which are comprised of a brownstone wall with the Town seal. Mr. Johnson stated that there is currently 25 types of lighting, in the town center, which are predominantly carriage style and acorn style. He noted that the acorn style tends to be used in more urban locations and there are attractive sites in town utilizing the carriage style lighting. He stated that CL&P is considering handling a carriage style fixture and they have sent a modification of the light to the manufacturer to see if it can be done.

Mr. Johnson noted the proposed brick sidewalks and pedestrian crossings and stated that the DOT appears willing to incorporate these into their plan. He stated that the recommended bench is a restoration style. He suggested that the signs pointing out sites of interest could include the Town seal. Mr. Johnson discussed various ways to deal with obstructing the asphalt via brownstone walls, white picket fences or low evergreen hedges. He suggested that they would also add shade trees in these areas. Mr. Johnson recommended that some of the signs be cleaned up in town. He suggested that the area between the library and Boy Scout Hall be cleaned out and possibly a small pond be created. He also suggested that the underbrush north of St. Mary's be cleaned out.

Ms. Mielert noted that some of the recommended changes can be done by the Public Works Department and a lot can be done by the DOT as part of the West Street project. She noted that applicants before the land use commissions can be told to comply with the master plan. Ms. Mielert stated that they want to reduce the number of electrical poles and CL&P thinks it is possible to reduce the number of poles by half at no cost to the Town. She pointed out that this plan can be implemented over time.

7. PUBLIC SAFETY

a. Request by Simsbury Chamber of Commerce to (1) Utilize Town Owned Property on Iron Horse Boulevard on September 8-10, 2000 for Septemberfest; and (2) Sell Beer and Wine During Septemberfest 2000 on September 8-10, 2000

Jewel Gutman, Chamber of Commerce, stated that this is the twelfth Septemberfest and the event has demonstrated a history of moderation and restraint in the use of alcohol. She stated that volunteers are trained by Hartford Distributors to ensure that moderation is followed and the event has been recommended by Chief Shull in the past.

Mr. Mandell moved to grant the request of the Chamber of Commerce to utilize Town owned property on Iron Horse Boulevard on September 8-10, 2000 for Septemberfest 2000. The motion was seconded by Ms. Gilkey and carried unanimously Mr. Mandell moved to grant the request of the Chamber of Commerce to sell beer and wine during Septemberfest 2000 on September 8-10, 2000. The motion was seconded by Ms. Gilkey.

Mr. Romano stated that the BOS looks at the best interests of youth and he doesn't feel that Septemberfest sends a bad message because it is always a controlled event. Mr. Mandell stated that this is a responsible program and the servers take the program seriously. He noted that there are police officers present during the event.

The vote was unanimous. The motion carried.

8. PUBLIC WORKS

a. DPUC Public Hearing Reminder - Proposed Sale of Village Water Company to BHC - Tuesday, February 29, 2000 - 7:00PM - Eno Memorial Hall Ms. Mielert noted that at 9:00a.m., February 29th, a Public Hearing will be held at DPUC headquarters in New Britain.

9. RECREATION

a. Review of and Possible Action on Proposed Fee Changes for Golf, Swimming, Apple Barn Reservations and Playgrounds/Camps

Mr. Toner stated that the fee changes are recommended by the Culture, Parks and Recreation Commission and the Simsbury Farms Complex Committee (Addendum 3). He noted that the golf fee increases will be used as a surcharge for capital improvements at the golf course. Mr. Toner pointed out that the swimming pool rates are discounted if the passes are purchased early. He stated that it has been five years since the Apple Barn rates have been increased and they need to cover the maintenance cost. He noted that the playground and camp increases are due to the rise in the minimum wage. Mr. Toner stated that all fees are associated with the Simsbury Farms Special Revenue Fund.

Mr. Romano moved to accept the fees brought forward by the Culture, Parks and Recreation Commission regarding the golf course, the swimming pools, the Apple Barn, and the playgrounds and camps. The motion was seconded by Mr. Mandell.

Mr. Romano questioned the amount of non-residential use of the golf course. Mr. Toner responded that 20-24% of the total use of the golf course is by non-residents and it equates to 30% of their total revenue. Mr. Mandell stated that the proposed non-resident rates are competitive for the area.

The vote was unanimous. The motion carried.

10. SOCIAL SERVICES

a. Resolution Authorizing Chief Elected Official to Enter Into an Intergovernmental Agreement on Behalf of the Town of Simsbury with the Municipalities of the Capital Region to Implement Workforce Investment Activities in Accordance with Federal and State Laws

Ms. Mielert suggested that they submit the application, but not authorize the full implementation until they have additional information. Mr. Mandell moved to make an application with CRCOG at the present time. The motion was seconded by Ms. Gilkey and carried unanimously.

11. APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS

a. Appointment of Christopher Ursini to Building Code Board of Appeals (Bounds Seat) for Term to Expire January 2005

Mr. Mandell moved to appoint Christopher Ursini to the Building Code Board of Appeals (Bounds seat) for a term to expire in January 2005. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

b. Appointment of Charles Warren to Building Code Board of Appeals (Alternate - Ursini Vacancy) for Term to Expire January 2002

Mr. Garrity moved to appoint Charles Warren to the Building Code Board of Appeals (Alternate - Ursini vacancy) for a term to expire in January 2002. The motion was seconded by Mr. Mandell and carried unanimously.

c. Appointment of Louis George to Zoning Board of Appeals (Beaudreau Vacancy) for Term to Expire December 3, 2001

Mr. Romano moved to appoint Louis George to the Zoning Board of Appeals (Beaudreau vacancy) for a term to expire December 3, 2001. The motion was seconded by Ms. Gilkey and carried unanimously.

d. Reappointment of James W. Oliver to Historic District Commission for Term to Expire January 2005

Mr. Garrity moved to reappoint James W. Oliver to the Historic District Commission for a term to expire in January 2005. The motion was seconded by Mr. Mandell and carried unanimously.

e. Reappointment of Emil T. Dahlquist, William Gardner, Kevin E. Gray, Linda A. Kennedy and Charles Stephenson to Design Review Board for Term to Expire December 2001

Mr. Mandell moved to reappoint Emil T. Dahlquist, William Gardner, Kevin E. Gray, Linda A. Kennedy and Charles Stephenson to the Design Review Board for a term to expire in December 2001. The motion was seconded by Mr. Romano and carried unanimously.

f. Appointment of Stephen Ossias and John Stewart to Design Review Board for Term to Expire December 2001

Mr. Garrity moved to appoint Stephen Ossias and John Stewart to the Design Review Board for a term to expire in December 2001. The motion was seconded by Ms. Gilkey and carried unanimously.

g. Reappointment of Susan Royles to Pension Committee for Term to Expire December 2001

Mr. Mandell moved to reappoint Susan Royles to the Pension Committee for a term to expire in December 2001. The motion was seconded by Mr. Romano and carried unanimously.

h. Appointment of Deborah J. Ward as Assistant Town Clerk Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-38

Mr. Mandell resolved, that the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Simsbury approve the appointment of Deborah J. Ward as Assistant Registrar of Vital Statistics. The resolution was seconded by Ms. Gilkey and carried unanimously.

i. Appointment of Hometown Hero Selection Committee

Mr. Romano moved to appoint Anita L. Mielert, Madeleine Gilkey, Debra Abromaitis, Lois Calvert, Bruce Adams and Peg Bergethon to the Hometown Hero Selection Committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

j. Resignation of John P. Robinson from Design Review Board Effective February 2, 2000

Mr. Mandell moved to accept the resignation of John P. Robinson from the Design Review Board, effective February 2, 2000, with great thanks. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

k. Rescission of January 24, 2000 Appointment of Christopher Doskos to Public Safety Subcommittee

Mr. Mandell moved for a rescission of the January 24, 2000 appointment of Christopher Doskos to the Public Safety Subcommittee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

12. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Public Safety: No report.

b. Finance: No report.

c. Welfare: No report.

d. Personnel

Mr. Mandell stated that the Personnel subcommittee has 6 recommendations regarding fiscal year 2000/2001: (1) that salary ranges for non-union employees be increased by 4%, (2) that the salaries for non-union employees be increased by 3%, (3) that a merit step increase be available to non-union employees who are not at the top of their salary range in the amount of 3% for Exceptional and 2% for Commendable performance, (4) that non-union employees at the top of their salary range be eligible for a merit performance bonus of 2% for Exceptional and 1% for Commendable performance, (5) that the salary of the First Selectman and the Registrars of Voters be increased by 3%, and (6) that the salary of the Crossing Guards be increased by 3% (Addendum 4).

Mr. Mandell moved to adopt the recommendation of the Personnel Subcommittee to increase the salary ranges for non-union employees, for fiscal year 2000/2001, by 4%. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously. Ms. Mielert recused herself from the discussion and voting.

Mr. Mandell moved a general wage increase of 3% for non-union employees for fiscal year 2000/2001. The motion was seconded by Mr. Vincent and carried unanimously.

Mr. Mandell moved to provide merit step increases in accordance with Exhibit D, with a change in Effective performance to 0%. The motion was seconded by Mr. Vincent and carried unanimously

Mr. Mandell moved to provide a merit performance bonus for non-union employees at the top of their salary range. The motion was seconded by Mr. Vincent and carried unanimously.

Mr. Mandell moved to increase the salary of the First Selectman by 3%, effective July 1, 2000, to $85,190. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

Mr. Mandell moved to increase the salary of the 2 Registrars of Voters by 3%, effective July 1, 2000, to $18,403. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

Ms. Mielert returned to the meeting.

Mr. Mandell moved that the Crossing Guard's per diem wage, beginning fiscal year July 1, 2000, be $20.92 per day. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

Ms. Mielert stated that Ms. Miller worked hard on these recommendations and the hiring of the Police Chief and stated that a letter will be placed in Ms. Miller's personnel file.

13. LIAISON REPORTS

Ms. Gilkey reported that the Health and Welfare Commission is hosting a presentation by Laurie Zehe on the subject of inhalants. She noted that the presentation will be taped by SCTV for later broadcast.

14. CORRESPONDENCE

a. February 9, 2000 Correspondence From Helen K. Peterson Regarding Open Land Preservation Subcommittee

15. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

a. January 18, 2000 Joint Meeting

Mr. Mandell moved to approve the minutes of the January 18, 2000 Joint Meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Romano and carried unanimously.

b. January 24, 2000 Regular Meeting

Mr. Garrity moved to approve the amended minutes of the January 24, 2000 Regular Meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Mandell and carried unanimously.

c. February 4, 2000 Special Meeting

Mr. Mandell moved to approve the minutes of the February 4, 2000 Special Meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Garrity and carried unanimously.

16. ADJOURNMENT

Mr. Garrity moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:27 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Mandell and carried unanimously.

Approved February 28, 2000