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2006 Town Council Meeting Minutes |
December 5, 2006
November 14, 2006
October 3, 2006
Sept. 5, 2006
August 31, 2006
August 21, 2006
August 8, 2006
July 18, 2006
June 13, 2006
June 6, 2006
May 30, 2006
May 2, 2006
April 17, 2006
April 4, 2006
March 7, 2006
February 17, 2006
February 7, 2006
January 5, 2006
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- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Joint Meeting Town Council, Board of Finance & Board of Ed.
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
- Special Town Council Meeting Minutes
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Other years Council Meeting Minutes:
2011 Minutes | 2010 Minutes | 2009 Minutes | 2008 Minutes | 2007 Minutes
* Minutes are subject to approval by the Town Council at their next meeting. All attachments are on file in the Plymouth Town Clerk's Office.
SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
December 5, 2006 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville. ABSENT: Councilman Sekorski.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 8:10 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance -
This was dispensed with due to the pledge being recited during the public hearing. |
3. |
Approval of the November 14, 2006 Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the minutes of November 14, 2006 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilman Zagurski reported that the Public Works Department has been interviewing for a Labor Grade 4 Truck Driver and an Engineering Tech position. Harwinton Tree Service was the bid winner for the tree removal service. They located property lines at Lake Winfield and met with Northeast Utilities concerning lighting bills. They installed catch basins, new street signs and drainage. Councilwoman Scoville reported that Public Health is still having flu shot clinics and to contact them for the schedule. Santa will be at the library this week on Saturday and it is sponsored by the Friends of the Library and the Chamber of Commerce. Councilman Goodwin reported that most of the boards he covers did not meet since the last meeting but wanted to commend the Police Department for the work they did during the tragic event that happened on Benedict St . The Councilman wanted to thank the Chief and her department. Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Police Commission approved two traffic signs, one a directional for Rte. 72 and the other a yield at Allentown Rd. and Lane Hill Rd. They did not approve a request for No Parking signs in front of Silvio’s because it would be detrimental to business and there was no history of accidents in that area. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to change the order of the agenda by moving item #11 to item #6 and moving the rest of the items down one. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to add to #4 Privilege of the Council Section (e) that any written information contributed by a member of the public at a council meeting must be submitted through the chair. Copies of any such document should be supplied for each person at the council table. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski explained that there were several reasons for this addition. One was to avoid disruptions especially when a speaker was at the podium and papers are being handed to council people. Secondly, Councilwoman Murawski thought that if information was useful to one councilman then it should be useful to all of the council. Lastly, she felt it was a matter of courtesy. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss and take action to approve the revised General Order #06-18 as submitted by the Police Commission – Chief Krasicky was asked by the Mayor to come forward to answer any questions. Councilman Goodwin was concerned about the female police officer and other female civilian police staff that may have to do this search and wanted to know if another person would be available as a witness to avoid accusations of inappropriateness. The chief replied that there is always someone else there. Councilwoman Scoville asked what would happen if the female civilian staff did not want participate in a strip search. The chief said that is why the language states “may be used” because it is not a requirement. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to approve the revised General Order #06-18 entitled “Strip Searches” as submitted by the Police Commission. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski noted that the charter in section 5b-2 states that the Police Commission, subject to the approval of the Town Council shall make these changes. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to reappoint Janice Basoli to the Human Services Commission with a term to expire October 1, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin commented that Jan Basoli has good attendance and contributes a lot to this commission. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral reappointment of Stephen J. Fennessey with a term to expire November 4, 2009 to Board of Fire Commissioners. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral reappointment of Martin Sandshaw with a term to expire November 4, 2009 to the Board of Fire Commissioners. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilman Goodwin commented that Marty Sandshaw is a tireless volunteer. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral reappointment of Gerald Wunsch to the Board of Fire Commissioners with a term to expire November 4, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the Mayoral reappointment of David Boilard to the Board of Fire Commissioners with a term to expire November 4, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report –
- Mayor Krampitz said that concerning labor negotiations, the unions have yet to make a medical insurance proposal to provide affordable benefits. As you may recall, we implemented a new plan on November 1 that will expire June 30, 2007 that fits our budget. Therefore, we need to go to arbitration in January and the goal will be to have the arbitrator rule on the medical insurance issue because we need to plan past July 1, 2007 .
- The Mayor presented Sharon LaCourse our Terryville Library Director with a Certificate of Appreciation as our Director for nineteen years. She will retire December 31, 2006 . The search for her replacement will conclude soon.
- The Mayor, along with Bill Kuehn, our Economic Development Director, attended a workshop concerning Affordable Housing hosted by the Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency.
- Property owners have received their assessments which represents a 40 percent increase of value to their home. The commercial real estate increase is about 60 percent. As you know this figure represents 70 % of the estimated fair market value of their property as of October 1, 2006 . As in all cases when the town goes through revaluation, the mill rate will go down. We need to continue to caution residents to not multiply their new assessment by the present mill rate. A new mill rate will be set after next year’s budget process.
- We have interviewed and selected our design consultant for the Waterwheel Park. The committee’s choice was unanimously BL Company, a company that has had a long positive association with the Town. We had excellent proposals which reinforce that that site will be a major focal point and jewel for the community. The Inland Wetlands Commission Hearing for the Belonick property teardown will be tomorrow evening.
- As you all know, we had a random act of violence last Thursday night which resulted in one homicide and one injury. Mayor Krampitz commended our Police Chief and our Police Department for their professionalism in not only bringing this incident to conclusion with the State Police but showing they can work with our state agencies during times of crisis. Police Chief Krasicky was especially comforting in her media words to the public in stressing public safety but kept the Mayor fully informed – day and night.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Alexander Datzuk $267.28 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes to Alexander Datzuk $267.28. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action to approve Fall Mountain Water Project assessment – Mayor Krampitz stated that we have had the public hearing and the amount would be $3,158.00 for 15 years. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to set the Fall Mountain Water Project Assessment in the amount of $3158.00 for a period of fifteen years. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she was on the council when the property was purchased. The land purchase and grant was in place between the Mischke and Covello administrations and Mary Grasso was the USDA liaison to the Town at that time. Councilwoman Scoville recalled that there was a vote missing but it was corrected and everything was made right back then. Councilman Zagurski thought it was a well-attended public hearing with many valid questions that were answered. Councilman Goodwin stated that having water on the mountain is a good thing. He thought Mr. Houle made an outstanding point about public safety. Councilwoman Murawski was happy to see this project being finished because she was part of the council that sent it to referendum during the Mischke administration and she remembered meeting with the residents and listening to their struggles on bringing water to their homes to drink, cook and bathe with. Mayor Krampitz asked if there were any public comments. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – disagreed with Councilwoman Scoville’s opinion of the land purchase. Councilman Goodwin commented that there does not seem to be any constructive purpose to keep dredging up the past. He agreed with Councilwoman Scoville that if a problem had existed that it had been corrected and the town moved forward. Councilwoman Scoville added that we are better off today because we have a water tower and water in that area and she agreed with Councilman Goodwin. Lisa Whitney, 541 Main St., asked if the 4.75% was also on the $250,000 land purchase portion and was told yes. Brian Barnes, 25 Fall Mt. Terrace – stated as the President of the association that everyone is pleased that the water is up there. Pattie DeHuff, 20 Lynn Ave. – asked what the total was for the referendum and what it included. She was told it was 4.75 million and Councilman Goodwin read from a letter from Robinson & Cole that stated “In reply to your inquiry, the Town has taken all steps necessary to authorize expenditures for the Fall Mountain Lake water supply project, including acquisition of the site and related equipment for construction of a water tower and water distribution facilities to serve the Fall Mountain Lake area. Such expenditures may be met from the captioned loans and grants to be provided by the Rural Development under the bond resolution authorizing the project.” Mayor Krampitz assured the Town Council that they have all of the information needed. Everything is correct and legal and Mary Grasso of the USDA has signed off on it. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the question. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Mayor Krampitz explained that the motion, if passed would stop all discussion immediately. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Back to the original motion – MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action on report of the Capital Improvements Committee – Mayor Krampitz introduced David Barbieri, Chairman. Mr. Barbieri stated that the report forwarded to the Town Council earlier was approved unanimously by the Capital Improvements Committee earlier that evening. The CIC asked the Town Council to receive the report and has recommendations to move it forward. The CIC feels strongly about the need for short and long term capital project plans. Mayor Krampitz asked if there were any changes to the proposed draft that was submitted to the council and Mr. Barbieri said there were none. The Mayor stated it would be considered final. Councilwoman Scoville asked for a comment on the CIC’s breakdown of its “essential” area. Mr. Barbieri responded that they received requests from the Police and Fire departments for facilities. The thought was with the new high school being built and other facilities becoming available, how do we prioritize these. There are other needs also like the highway garage that fit into this category. Councilman Goodwin liked the recommendation for the creation of a town facilities study committee that inventories and evaluates the Town’s facilities. The councilman wanted to know if that same committee would also be charged with looking for funding sources. The answer was that it was only to do the inventory. Councilman Zagurski thanked the CIC for a very comprehensive report but he would have liked to have seen more emphasis on sidewalks. Mr. Barbieri responded that sidewalks should be an on-going program that is within the operating budget and should not be a capital project. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the 2006 Capital Improvements Committee Report and distribute a copy to the Board of Finance members. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
12. |
Public Comment – Kathy Kosak, 201 N. Harwinton Ave. – felt that the new high school was a detriment to the neighborhood as far as the revaluation assessments because their area was experiencing 60% increases which was far greater than the reported average. Pattie DeHuff, 20 Lynn Ave. – cited sections in the town charter that she felt were in violation because of budget deficits in the tax office. Mayor Krampitz explained that the entire budget would have to be in deficit. Sally Barnes, 279 Main St. – commended the Police Chief and the department for the fantastic job that they did on Benedict St . |
13. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to discuss the Annual Chamber of Commerce 2006 Awards Dinner. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilwoman Scoville stated that the dinner is the last Tuesday in January and the local recipients are Lauretano Sign Co., Evergreen Project, Gaye Zukauskas, Not Just Blinds, Rotary, American Legion and David Barbieri. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to discuss the health care going to arbitration. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilwoman Murawski – no. MOTION FAILED. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to discuss Scott Funeral Home 100 th Anniversary. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilman Zagurski wanted to congratulate Scotts for 100 years of business in our community. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to discuss the property Silvio purchased on Main St . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilman Zagurski wanted to recognize Silvio for taking a blighted property and making it look so nice on Main St . Mayor Krampitz stated that everyone was pleased with the quick progress. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to discuss the K-9 Handler and job description. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilwoman Murawski – no. MOTION FAILED. |
14. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:40 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
November 14, 2006 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilman Scoville.
|
1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:12 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Mayor noted for the record that the meeting was moved to the Community Room because we were beyond capacity in the assembly room. The Mayor also thanked Mr. DeHuff for volunteering to video the meeting. |
3. |
Approval of the October 3, 2006 Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of the October 3, 2006 regular meeting. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilman Zagurski reported that the School Building Committee met and the new high school is on schedule and within budget. The Fire Commission raised concerns about apartments that are being occupied without their knowledge and want to work with the building official and zoning staff to update this information. The fire department had 26 fire calls last month. The Public Works Department has been sweeping chipped-sealed roads and replacing damaged signs. They installed drainage and cleaned up after the last storm. They have also advertised for a labor grade 4 truck driver and an engineering tech position. $3,306 was received for scrap metal. Councilwoman Scoville reported that the VNA received 400 flu vaccines and will be holding sessions soon and will be doing homebound patients. The Library will be losing their director to retirement and interviews have started. The board has also met with the CIC for future needs. On December 3 rd there will be a celebration for Sharon LaCourse. Councilman Sekorski reported that the WPCA is still awaiting the specifications for the pump station on the development on Washington Rd. They have negotiations with their employees. He also participated in the walk through with the building committee of the new high school and it is impressive. Councilman Goodwin reported that the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed continued vandalism at Lake Winfield and they have spoken to the Police Department. EDC cancelled their October meeting and the consultant has been working with eight businesses discussing some expansion plans. Human Services is meeting tonight to elect officers and set their meeting schedule. Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Police Commission general order 06-1 was approved and is in the packet tonight. The Chief is also trying to set up a Crime Watch presentation in the Fall Mountain area. Representatives from the CT. Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility spoke at October’s BOE meeting and the BOE voted to endorse them as we did. They also voted to name the schools and the present middle school building will be the Harry S. Fisher Elementary School . The new high school will be Terryville High School . The board approved Eli Terry Middle School for the present high school building but Mayor Krampitz let the Superintendent know that there should be a Jr. in the name for the person that they wanted to honor, so that change has been made. The Housing Authority has approved a ten dollar fee for late payment of rent. There are twelve empty apartments, seven of which are ready to rent. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – Mayor Krampitz stated that upon recommendation of the Plymouth Economic Development Commission the two names that she brought forward were approved. The Mayor was pleased to report that Mrs. Janice Shurack and Mr. Marty Sandshaw will be appointed as alternates to EDC. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the reappointment of Susan Boilard to the Human Services Commission with a term to expire October 1, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin stated that Sue is the chairman and does a good job keeping the board going and has a lot of energy. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the appointment of John F. Murphy to the Zoning Board of Appeals as an alternate member with a term to expire February 28, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the resignation of John G. Swicklas, Sr. from the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilwoman Scoville stated that Mr. Swicklas rightfully has a street named after him and thanked the Mayor for her letter to him for his “award winning tenure”. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report- Mayor Krampitz reported that:
- There will be a new start up business coming to Altair Ave. from which will generate approximately $34,000 in additional tax revenue.
- The town received notification of Local Capital Improvement Program grant in the amount of $101,000 for road repairs.
- The Mayor received a thank you note from Board of Education and Services for the Blind for attending their 2006 Awards Event at the State Capitol.
- As you well know, the 2006 Charter Revision Commission was dissolved upon submittal of their report. The Mayor again wanted to thank them for their service to the Town. The recount took place last evening and the results were 787 yes and 794 no.
- The Inland Wetlands Hearing on December 6th will be on the take down of the Belonick property at 262 Main Street .
- The Mayor has had employee meetings to explain how the new employees’ medical insurance plan will be implemented. Oxford Health Plans is the new medical insurance company and the third party administrator is Progressive Benefit Solutions. This is to fit our insurance in the existing budget.
- RaeAnn Walcott, Tax Assessor, and the Mayor met with Sr. Citizens at their monthly meeting to explain the new State Statute concerning an Elderly Tax Freeze that could be implemented by ordinance in towns.
- The Mayor met in negotiations on October 11 and November 8 & 13. The Police Union was scheduled to meet with us on November 6 but cancelled. The Mayor is continuing to work on proposed medical insurance costs starting July 1, 2007 .
- Mayor Krampitz attended all of the Capital Improvements Committee meetings.
- Tony Lorenzetti , our Director of Public Works, and the Mayor met with CL&P over electricity costs.
- The Mayor attended the Historic District Study Committee where the Director of Culture and Tourism talked about the grant process and you will be voting on what they require later in the agenda.
- Mr. Lorenzetti and the Mayor met with Mr. Folino, of Eagle Environmental, who is contracted to do the Phase I report for demolition of the Belonick property. Their report will be completed by the end of the week.
- The Mayor was pleased to attend the Americans with Disabilities Act Coalition of Connecticut, Inc. luncheon in Farmington to honor Sharon LaCourse and Kelly Churnos for their work on a Special Needs Playgroup at the Terryville Library.
- The Mayor attended the very informative Health Fair at Terryville High School on October 26.
- Mayor Krampitz met with United Way campaign promoters on November 1. Our town is privileged to benefit from many United Way funds.
- The Mayor met with owners of Automation Development in the Industrial Park and they indicated desires to expand.
- The Mayor sat in on first interviews for Library Director because Sharon LaCourse will retire in December and she conducted Second interviews. Our work is not yet finished in hiring a new director.
- Mayor Krampitz was honored to participate in the Veteran’s Memorial service last Saturday at the park.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Raymond or Sylvia Durette $164.37; James and Cynthia Benway $59.89; Honda Lease Trust $138.43;Warren or Barbara Kulman $17.89; Steven A Gagnon $167.07; Catherine L. Pelletier $40.67; Peter or Kimberly Cook $78.88; DCFS Trust $247.01; Jeffrey or Elaine Tomlin $26.51; Sylvia or Timothy Markovich $53.65; John P. Capobianco $19.25; Terri L. Lapan $66.08; Dennis or Brian Chizinski $142.07;Toyota Motor Credit Corp. $266.79 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action to approve the revised General Order #06-1 “Promotional Procedure to the Rank of Sergeant and the Duties and Responsibilities of a Sergeant” as submitted by the Police Commission – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the revised General Order #06-1 “Promotional Procedure to the Rank of Sergeant and the Duties and Responsibilities of a Sergeant” as submitted by the Police Commission. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Mayor Krampitz asked Chief Krasicky to come forward to answer council questions. Councilwoman Murawski asked for the reason in the change from the Police Commission deciding on the promotion to the Chief and the Captain doing it. The answer was that it was in line with the charter and more consistent with the other general orders. Councilman Sekorski asked about section 2 under policy as far as reasonable time. Would it be in conflict with any union language as far as filling positions? The answer was that there was no existing language and that the word “reasonable” was deemed appropriate. The union president had also reviewed the order and had no problems with it. Councilwoman Scoville stated that this one is 24 years old and wanted to know if more were coming. The Chief said that she wanted to update all of the old ones first and then start working on new ones. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action to adopt Resolution on Acceptance of the Pequabuck River Watershed Management Plan – Mayor Krampitz asked William Kuehn, Director of Planning to give an overview of the plan and answer any questions. Mr. Kuehn gave a brief summary. Councilman Goodwin asked if passing this resolution could make us eligible for grant money. Mr. Kuehn stated that he was not aware of any specific grants at this time but it certainly could not hurt. Councilwoman Scoville noted the local people that were involved. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to adopt the following resolution:
WHEREAS,
the Pequabuck River Watershed is an important natural resource that contributes many vital
functions for the Town of Plymouth ; and
WHEREAS,
the value of a clean Pequabuck River and watershed are major assets that the Town of Plymouth can enjoy; and
WHEREAS,
a stakeholder committee of dedicated citizens from the Pequabuck River Watershed Towns of Bristol, Burlington, Farmington, Harwinton, Plainville and Plymouth worked on a plan to help conserve and preserve the vitality of this precious resource; and
WHEREAS,
the Pequabuck River Watershed Management Plan has been adopted by the Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency, the Pequabuck River Watershed Association, Farmington River Watershed Association, the City of Bristol , and the Town of Plainville ; and
WHEREAS,
the citizens and the Town of Plymouth can use any portion of the Plan as a guide to a clean and healthy watershed, with the realization that acceptance of the Plan does not obligate full implementation of the Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED,
That the Town of Plymouth accepts the Pequabuck River Watershed Management Plan as a tool to provide actions and strategies to conserve and preserve the water quality, land use, habitat and protected open space that the watershed affords. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – abstained with the explanation that she owns property that abuts the river and according to the report, the cleaner the water, the more valuable adjoining properties will be. MOTION PASSED. |
11. |
Discuss and take action to schedule a Public Hearing and Special Town Council Meeting concerning Fall Mountain Water Project Assessment – Mayor Krampitz explained that the first step in establishing the assessment for the project is setting the public hearing date. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to set the Public Hearing for Fall Mountain Water Project Assessment on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilwoman Scoville referred to the WMC correspondence and asked if the assessment was for the entire project and the property that was already purchased. Mayor Krampitz indicated that it was for the entire project and the land purchase. Councilman Sekorski wanted to know what the total figure was as far as what was loan and what was grant. The Mayor said that the information would be available for the hearing. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
12. |
Discuss and take action to recommend an appropriation of $27,072 to the Board of Finance for the Tax Collector Clerk position – Mayor Krampitz explained that this position had been in the budget for the first and second referendum and the Board of Finance Chairman had indicated that it would be appropriate for the Town Council to make a recommendation to the Board of Finance concerning this position. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to recommend to the Board of Finance an appropriation of $27,072 for the Tax Collector Clerk position. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, was asked to come forward to answer any council questions. Councilman Goodwin asked about the contingency money that was in the BOF budget when the council approved 3% increases. Mr. Merchant confirmed that monies were used for the SRO position and monies were allocated for a Human Resources position but not all of the money was moved out of that account. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she was looking at minutes from previous BOF meetings and the two items in contingency were moved and one was put back into the general fund and that was the tax collector portion. Councilwoman Murawski asked if there was money left to transfer as a result of the council raising the budgets up to 3% or would there be money anywhere in the budget to transfer instead of taking it from the fund balance. Mr. Merchant explained that it should come from fund balance but if it did come from a transfer, it would have to come from someone else. Councilwoman Scoville asked how the position exists now. Mayor Krampitz explained that when she came into office she was told of the vacancy and that the union had posted the vacancy. The Mayor had a discussion with the Tax Collector who informed her that the office desperately needed the position filled. The Mayor checked with Comptroller Gomes who confirmed that the money was in contingency so the vacancy was filled. The Mayor went to a BOF meeting a few weeks later and it was at that meeting that the Comptroller and the Mayor learned from Dave Merchant and the BOF that this contingency money had some strings attached that was unknown. There were unwritten rules that the BOF had on this money unbeknownst to the Mayor and Comptroller and the discussion came about when they were building the next budget. Linda Hood, Tax Collector, summarized the need for the position in that office. The tax office has had three people for the past 30 years. The work-load has doubled since 1987 due to increases in real estate and motor vehicles plus other responsibilities such as the new water project. Back tax collection needs to be continued and a reduction in staff will affect the overall collection rate. The Mayor asked for public comment. Ann Tuleja, 383 Allentown Rd. – stated that if the Town Council approves the money for the tax collector clerk position, then it should approve money for a new police officer. Councilwoman Murawski interjected that one-third of the police department was not eliminated but one-third of the tax office was. Pablo Arroya, 13 Holt St. – stated that the Police Department was not cut but it has not been increased either. Jim Benway, 25 Knollwood Ln. – stated that the position does not appear to be authorized. Dianna Schenkel, 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. – stated that this was deficit spending and that is illegal. Mayor Krampitz pointed out that the Town Council approved deficit spending at the end of the fiscal year which included this position and the BOF did the same at their August meeting. Linda Hood, Tax Collector, read for the record the letter she had sent to the Bristol Press on 9/20/06 which gave a brief history of how the position was eliminated and what she had done as Tax Collector to get it reinstated. Mark Goodwin, 5 South St. – stated that he approved keeping the contingency in place for the position. He said that trying to approve the motion is a violation of State Statute. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – read excerpts from the 4/26/05 meeting. She also claimed that the Tax Collector and her assistant went on vacation the first week that the clerk was hired and left her alone in the office. Linda Hood, Tax Collector, denied that happened and stated that no vacations were taken until long after the new staff person was trained. Pattie DeHuff, 21 Lynn Ave. – stated that Dave Merchant had warned the town that the fund balance was low. The Mayor asked for any other council comments. Councilman Goodwin asked if the Town Attorney could comment on the State Statute that was mentioned. Attorney Tom Conlin said he would research on the spot if Mr. Goodwin would refer to a specific statute. The statute was identified as 7-348. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to recess at 8:39 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 8:55 p.m. Attorney Tom Conlin was asked for his response following his research of State Statute 7-348. He stated that this was from section 106 that deals with Boards of Finance. 7-348 deals with contracting and over-expenditures that deals with existing contracts. This would apply to contracts that the Town of Plymouth would have with vendors. The Town Council is recommending an appropriation because they do not have the authority to appropriate themselves therefore there is nothing in this statute that would make you liable for any action you take. Councilman Sekorski questioned if there may be other statutes that would apply in this case. Councilman Zagurski stated that the issue at hand would be is the position required and he believed it was. The appropriation was for the betterment of the town and its future. Councilwoman Murawski pointed out that this position was cut and it certainly was not for the good of the town. Councilman Goodwin stated that there is money that can be shifted to cover the cost based on what was done earlier with the budget. Councilwoman Scoville stated that the charter states that the budget goes to the people. Why not wipe out that entire section and have the BOF and the Town Council decide on the budget like the City of Bristol . Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – no, Councilman Sekorski – no, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilwoman Murawski –yes. MOTION PASSED. |
13. |
Discuss and take action to select a Town Council member to serve on the Retirement and Pension Oversight Board – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to select Councilman Goodwin as the Town Council member to serve on the Retirement and Pension Oversight Board. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
14. |
Discuss and take action to adopt resolution to keep a local Social Security Office – Mayor Krampitz stated that she did testify at the hearing on October 5th in Bristol and asked them to consider a contact station in Plymouth . MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the following resolution:
WHEREAS:
The Town of Plymouth Town Council and Mayor encourage the Social Security Administration to keep the Bristol office open for the welfare of our citizens and all area seniors who use this facility.
WHEREAS:
The Town of Plymouth would encourage a “contact station” to be located in our community so that our eligible seniors would have greater access to Social Security assistance.
NOW , THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
The Town of Plymouth Town Council and Mayor recognize the need to maintain a local Social Security presence for all citizens, in particular our elderly and disabled citizens. The need to service an area with a population that exceeds 100,000 people is paramount. Plymouth citizens need to be considered in the decision-making process. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
15. |
Discuss and take action to schedule Regular Town Council Meetings for 2007 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to set January 9, February 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, July 10, August 7, September 4, October 2, November 19, and December 4, 2007 at 7 p.m. in Town Hall. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
16. |
Discuss and take action to amend Historic District Study Committee – Mayor Krampitz stated that at the last Historic District Study Committee meeting Mr. Paul Loether from the Conn. Commission on Culture and Tourism noted a technical correction requiring Town Council approval. The committee should be renamed the historic property study committee. Bill Kuehn, Town Planner, stated that the resolution submitted will take care of the necessary technical change. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved that the resolution language contained in the Town Council minutes of May 2, 2006 concerning the Certified Local Government Program (item#12) be amended to change the phrase “historic district study committee” to “historic property study committee”; and said language amendment is technical in nature; and said resolution is hereby re-adapted as amended. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
17. |
Discuss and take action to adopt Waterwheel Grant Resolution – Mayor Krampitz stated that necessary documentation to realize the $350,000 grant for the Waterwheel site requires the following resolution and she has met with State Senator Tom Coliapetro who initiated this grant for the Town. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the following resolution: That Jan A. Krampitz, as Mayor, is authorized to enter into and execute a grant contract with the State of Connecticut, acting by and through the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, in the amount of $350,000 on behalf of the Town of Plymouth for the purpose of completing eligible restoration, rehabilitation, stabilization and/or construction work on the following project: Restoration of Historic Water Wheel and Generator in Terryville. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilman Sekorski asked if the grant can be used for property acquisition. Mr. Kuehn stated that he could not rule that out as a use at this time. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
18. |
Discuss and take action to adopt Tax Incentive Committee’s Resolution. – Mayor Krampitz stated that the Tax Incentive Committee met and Bill Kuehn gave an overview of the meeting. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved the following resolution: WHEREAS, Prestwick Property Mgt., LLC has purchased the property at 84 Napco Drive within the Business Park; and WHEREAS, Prestwick Property Mgt., LLC has requested financial assistance to construct two buildings, each 9,600 sq. ft. in size for the purpose of providing industrial incubator spaces ranging from 1,200 sq. ft. to 2,400 sq. ft.; and WHEREAS, the Tax Incentive Committee has determined that the applicant meets the policy criteria and has recommended a tax abatement as a development incentive. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN OF PLYMOUTH TOWN COUNCIL: That the Mayor be and is hereby authorized to enter into a tax abatement agreement with Prestwick Property Mgt., LLC for a fifty (50%) percent abatement of real property for a three year period applicable to Building #1 only; and that the fifty percent tax abatement shall take affect on the grand list of the first day of October following the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
19. |
Public Comment – Mayor Krampitz read the public comment section of the Council Rules and Procedures before asking for the public to come forward. Eugene Kaczepenski, 6 Maple St. – wanted to know when the meeting would be held for the Pequabuck River Management Plan and where they would start the work. He was told that he would be contacted. Jim Murdock, 44 Minor Rd. – asked if the Mayor could negotiate health benefits for the BOE and was told that she could not. Bill DeHuff, 21 Lynn Ave. – asked if it was legal for Channel 16 to have promoted the new high school project with town funds and he was told to bring that to the BOE. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – wanted more discussion on the K-9 handler. The following residents spoke in opposition to the proposed Knollwood Lane subdivision that would require an easement or land swap between the Town and the Deschaines: Jim Benway – 25 Knollwood Ln., Scott Skidmore – 6 Knollwood Ln., Tom Walton – 35 Knollwood Ln., Carmine Sciaretto – 24 Knollwood Ln., Tim Lane – 18 Knollwood Ln., and Pattie DeHuff – 21 Lynn Ave. A summary of the concerns brought before the council was the alleged swap of properties was not fair in value and heavily favored the developer, the cul-de-sac would be gone and thru-way traffic would be a problem, added drainage problems would be created and existing ones have not been addressed, and there was a general concern of the fairness of the process and what the residents felt was a lack of notification. Bill Kuehn told the Council that the PZC’s only requirement for an 8-24 meeting is to post it in the Town Clerk’s office. If there is a Public Hearing they post it in the Bristol Press. There is no requirement to notify neighbors. |
20. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations and pending litigation/claims Clement Paskus vs. Town of Plymouth – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to go into executive session at 10:05 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and pending litigation/claims Clement Paskus vs. Town of Plymouth and invite in Bill Kuehn, Attorney Conlin and Attorney McQuade. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 10:55 p.m. ADJOURNED EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 10:52p.m. |
21. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved that the Plymouth Town Council reject the proposal from Mr. Deschaine for land and/or easement exchange regarding Town-owned land at Knollwood Lane . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend to the Board of Finance an appropriation in the amount of $44,168.22 in order to pay benefits to Clement Paskus for a claim made pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 7-433c. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
22. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to discuss K-9 Handler. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Mayor Krampitz indicated that four votes would be needed in order to add this item. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilman Murawski – no. MOTION FAILED FOR LACK OF 2/3. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to discuss the Oxford Benefit Plan. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilwoman Murawski – yes. MOTION PASSED. Mayor Krampitz explained that there is a lot of paperwork involved with the insurance and she would have been glad to sit down with Councilwoman Scoville had she called her prior to the meeting with any concerns. Councilwoman Scoville said she would make an appointment but wanted to know if Oxford was going to pay for bills that existed under the Anthem plan. Mayor Krampitz answered that Oxford assured the Town that they would continue the coverage for employees that had existing conditions. |
23. |
Adjournment. - MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to adjourn at 11:02 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
October 3, 2006 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski and Councilwoman Scoville.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance |
3. |
Approval of the August 31, 2006 Public Hearing, August 31, 2006 Special Council Meeting and September 5, 2006 Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the approval of the August 31, 2006 Public Hearing minutes. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the approval of the Special Council Meeting of August 31, 2006 minutes. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the approval of the September 5, 2006 Town Council Meeting minutes. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED by 4 with Councilwoman Scoville abstaining. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that Gosinski Park has eleven vacancies. Four apartments are ready to be rented, but waiting on paperwork. They are performing their annual apartment inspections. She presented information on the Connecticut Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility to the Board of Education. Dr. Distasio is setting up a School Naming Committee for the new high school, present high school and Fisher School . Committee will include administrators from the three schools, two Board of Education members, a PTA member, a teacher, a student and one citizen of the town. Special Education teacher Mary Connelly was presented with the Teacher of the Year award. Stop signs were requested at Allentown and Lane Road and no parking signs have been requested for Main Street near Silvio’s restaurant – these are under consideration and waiting from reports for the Public Works Director and the Chief. Chief Krasicky present revised general orders for “Reporting For Duty” and “Bad Checks” and they were approved by the Police Commission. Councilman Sekorski did not have a report from the Inlands/Wetlands Commission, but the minutes for that commission are now online and he has requested to be part of that contact list. WPCA did not hold a September meeting. ZBA has a new Chairman – Martin Sandshaw. Ken Marino resigned. Planning and Zoning has extended the public hearing regarding Lucky Forest . Councilwoman Scoville reported that the flu clinics held by the VNA are up and running. Also, the VNA/Public Health passed their review with flying colors. The volunteer appreciation luncheon was postponed because a number of volunteers being recognized were unable to attend on the original date. She was unable to attend the most recent Library Board meeting. Councilman Zagurski reported that the high school project is on schedule and on budget. The bids for the Prospect Street School Roof were opened. The Fire Commission’s contract for the new fire truck has been signed; they are waiting for a chassis so they can start building it. There is going to be a meeting set up between the Fire Department, Police and Dispatchers to determine when the Fire Department should be dispatched to calls. The Public Works Department replaced curbing and sidewalks on Prospect Street and installed a curtain drain in front of the firehouse. They have re-paved Diamond St. , Gold St. , Silver St. , Meadow St. , Prospect St. , and Prospect St. Ext. and chip sealed E. Plymouth Rd. , Preston Rd. , Burger Rd. , Williams Way , and S. Eagle St . They performed test borings on Bemis St. and Seymour Rd. Tony began work on tree removal specification bids, reviewed plans for Planning & Zoning and Wetlands meetings, he completed the LOCIP application for 2006-2007, submitted a draft transfer station permit to our consultant, completed tree cutting inspections on Canal St. and Lucky Forest Estates. There were nine demolition permits, thirty-three appliance permits and three right-of-way permits issued this past month. Councilman Goodwin reported that the Parks and Recreation Commission did not meet this past month. Human Services Commission met and is concerned about the starting balance of the Cleveland fund. The Economic Development Commission held a special meeting and approved a consultant to make application for Brownfield’s grants – remediation of the waterwheel site because there is contamination coming from adjacent properties. Elm Press is expanding. Phoenix Products purchased the old Napco II building at 105 Napco Drive . SunnyCorp is also looking to expand. The commission is concerned about the old Terryville Trust building – there seems to be no progress on that. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments - Mayor Krampitz explained that due to an inaccurate list kept in the Town Clerk’s Office and a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission not realizing that he had been appointed as a regular member by the previous administration, it was necessary to alter Carl Johnson’s appointment to alternate member. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to alter Carl Johnson’s regular member Planning & Zoning Commission appointment from a term to expire February 19, 2007 to alternate member with a term to expire February 19, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. DISCUSSION: Councilwoman Murawski inquired as to whether the current list is up to date. Mayor Krampitz stated that she believes so. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to alter Lawrence Deschaine’s alternate member Planning & Zoning Commission appointment from a term to expire February 19, 2009 to a regular member term to expire February 19, 2007 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. DISCUSSION: Councilwoman Murawski clarified that Mr. Deschaine’s appointment will now be what it should have been in the first place. Mayor Krampitz stated that he was appointed as a regular member almost three years ago. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Krampitz interviewed Louis Santos for the Water Pollution Control Authority board. He was one of three applicants interested in the board. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral appointment of Louis Santos to the Water Pollution Control Authority as an alternate member with a term to expire January 21, 2007 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report
- Waterwheel Park Project – The committee is selling sweatshirts to raise awareness of this project. You may have noticed a yellow notice at 262 Main Street formerly known as the Belonick Property next to the Waterwheel. That is the notice to demolition and we expect RFQ’s back on October 18.
- Received notice of state surplus money coming to Plymouth in the amount of $116,000.
- $5000 was awarded to us by the Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency for a Historic Resources Survey. This project will identify, map and document historically significant sites and structures & undesignated sites and structures and recommend preservation activities related to those sites in the Town.
- Attended a welcome reception for the new President of Bristol Hospital, Kurt Barwis.
- Pleased to announce that Bristol Hospital ’s Terryville Medical Center is responsive to our suggestions and needs. Their new walk-in hours are Monday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. , Wed. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. , Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their laboratory hours are Monday and Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. , Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Brochures are in our hallway.
- Collected $17,900 in blight fines - one was from a property on 166 Main Street. You may have noticed improvements already on this blighted property.
- I have received the Certification of completion of all three phases of the Fall Mountain Water Project for the pump stations, water tank and water mains. The Connecticut Water Company has come to Town Hall three times to sign up Fall Mountain area residents for water service.
- Will be issuing a White Cane Safety Day Proclamation to promote public awareness of safety regarding people who use a white cane or guide dog for assistance and I will be attending a state award program for Matt Langer, a Terryville High School student.
- I have sent letters on behalf of the Town to our congressmen and congresswomen at the request of a consortium we belong to called Workforce Partners. They are anticipating a proposed rescission impact of the Connecticut and Capital Workforce Partners of $1,206,000, which could mean no longer having local incumbent worker training funds to upgrade the skills of our workforce in Connecticut .
- I have had employee meetings to share the new medical insurance company information. Effective November 1 we will rely on Oxford , a United Healthcare Company, to provide medical insurance coverage to our employees. This new company’s premium will close the gap on what we pay for coverage versus what we had budgeted for coverage.
- The Historic District Study Committee met on September 27 and Bob Greene was elected Chairman and Keith Golnik, Vice Chairman. We were fortunate to have with us Mary Donahue from the State Department of Culture and Tourism to assist.
- I have appointed Paul Schwanka as Director of Emergency Management to replace outgoing Director Clem Paskus. Clem has served us well and assured me of a smooth transition.
- I marched in the Burlington Bicentennial Parade at the invitation of First Selectman, Ted Scheidel, on September 9. Their coin is on display in the Town Hall hallway.
- Opened the Terryville Country Fair with a speech that mentioned that we would honor Steve Kopcha in our Annual Report.
- Met today with Congresswoman Johnson and State Rep. William Hamzy at two companies in the Industrial Park.
- Met with Police Union over negotiations on September 8.
- Congratulated Terryville Fire Department for their state championship in the tanker competition.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Robert F. White $13.50; Frances Swierczynski $68.55; Edward or Charlene Zukowski $60.71; Sharon or Blair Soucy $14.17; Karen L. Morrissey $128.03; Janice A. Croce $108.21; Larry Grela Well Drilling Inc. $1,584.68; Susan G. or David Boilard $7.23; Cheryl Corrigan $33.45; Michael B. Mindera $40.07, James C. Dowd $79.59 and Ann C. Zarrilli $122.10 – MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action on Board of Education request for Removal and Replacement of oil tanks – Mayor Krampitz stated that the BOE will be replacing oil tanks in the summer of 2007. Also, $260,000 is in the Capital Projects portion of the budget and grant money is anticipated. A building committee must be designated to make this happen and they will also be asked to oversee preparation of schematic drawings and submission of the grant application. It will be the removal and replacement of four tanks. Councilwoman Scoville asked Gerry Perusse if there was any indication of leaks or is this precautionary. Mr. Perusse stated that they are tested every year and this is precautionary because the tanks are made of single wall steel. They are almost twenty years old and DEP recommended they be tested. Councilman Goodwin asked how much grant money we would receive. Mr. Perusse responded it would cover 72% of the cost. Mr. Perusse stated that the Board of Education needs the Town Council’s authorization to apply for the grant. Councilwoman Murawski asked if the work is contracted out. Mr. Perusse stated that they are planning on bidding the four tanks out, plus the one at the high school. The high school tank is empty and they are using gas there. The tank at the high school will probably be taken out of the ground when the sprinkler system is replaced because the tank is surrounded by electrical and water pipes in the driveway. Mr. Perusse stated that the numbers he gave to the Council are an average. The tanks are different sizes and some are under the driveway. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to authorize our School Building Committee to oversee the preparation of schematic drawings and submission of the grant application for removal and replacement of the 10,000 gallon oil tank at Main Street School . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: : Councilwoman Murawski moved to authorize our School Building Committee to oversee the preparation of schematic drawings and submission of the grant application for removal and replacement of the 8,000 gallon oil tank at Plymouth Center School. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. DISCUSSION: Councilman asked what the tanks would be replaced with. Mr. Perusse stated the tanks will be replaced with double wall fiberglass tanks. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to authorize our School Building Committee to oversee the preparation of schematic drawings and submission of the grant application for removal and replacement of the 10,000 gallon oil tank at Prospect Street School . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to authorize our School Building Committee to oversee the preparation of schematic drawings and submission of the grant application for removal and replacement of the 6,000 gallon oil tank at Harry S. Fisher School . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action to approve the revised General Orders #06-3 “Reporting for Duty” and #06-6 “Bad Checks” as submitted by the Police Commission and approved at their last meeting (Please note that this item was taken up after item 13 to allow for the Chief of Police to be in attendance for discussion) – Chief Krasicky stated that she revised the general orders by making minor changes, cleaning up the format, making them look more professional and making some procedural changes. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to accept the revised General Order #06-3 “Reporting for Duty” as submitted. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the revised General Order #06-6 “Bad Checks” approved by the Police Commission. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Under Council Rules and Procedures MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to take up item #16 after #13. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Roll call vote: Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
11. |
Discuss and take action to schedule a Public Hearing and Special Town Council Meeting concerning Fall Mountain Water Project Assessment – No action taken. Councilman Sekorski asked if the Council will set the rates of the assessment. Mayor Krampitz explained that the Council will set the rates over a fifteen year period. Connecticut Water Co. will not provide recommendations for assessment. This assessment rate is akin to the sewer assessment in town. It’s a one time assessment spread over a period of time. |
12. |
Discuss and take action to approve Resolution for Lauretano Sign Group expansion – Mayor Krampitz introduced Director of Economic Development and Planning Bill Kuehn and stated that a request for town owned property adjacent to Lauretano Sign Group has been discussed for years for expansion purposes. Mr. Kuehn handed out a revised resolution due to a change in the last line. It should read “commissioner” instead of “commission.” Mr. Kuehn read the resolution. The expansion consists of 17,000 square feet on site. Lauretano Sign began planning their expansion in 2001. They are looking to use a conservation easement that can be utilized by Lauretano Sign and the Town. The packet previously given to Council contains: the project plan approved by DECD in 1999, the site plan which shows athletic facilities and a parking area. Parking in that configuration is on the already approved plan for Phase III. It is a conservation easement, not open space. The long term lease agreement will be prepared by Attorney Tom Conlin. Lauretano Sign needs off-street parking in order to do building expansion. Councilman Zagurski asked if Lauretano was going to put in that whole parking lot with no expense to the town. Mr. Kuehn responded that was correct. Councilman Zagurski asked if that parking lot could be used by residents. Mr. Kuehn responded that the intent is joint use. Councilwoman Murawski asked whose liability the parking lot was and how long is the long term lease. Mr. Kuehn responded that liability would be worked out in the lease and the term of the lease is undefined, but probably would be twenty years. Councilwoman Murawski asked if there was compensation for the lot. Mr. Kuehn responded there has not been discussion of compensation and maintaining it is their responsibility. Attorney Conlin stated that the lease would make the lessee responsible for providing insurance for the town and for anyone who might use it and we would be the initial insured. Compensation for town vis-à-vis rent has not been discussed. Mayor Krampitz stated that Lauretano’s expansion means more employees and more tax dollars – they have been in town almost sixty years. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to authorize the Mayor to enter into a long lease agreement between the Town of Plymouth and Lauretano Sign Group for off-street parking within Phase III of the Plymouth Business Park to enable the expansion of Lauretano Sign Group’s manufacturing facility at 1 Tremco Drive, said agreement to be pursuant to correspondence from DECD Commissioner James Abromaitis dated September 15, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. DISCUSSION: Councilwoman Murawski asked if there was any progress on the ball fields. Mr. Kuehn responded that there was nothing to report. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
13. |
Public Comment – Melanie Church, 328 Main Street – Gave Silvio Cavicchio credit for cleaning up the blighted property across from Silvio’s Restaurant. Stated that she hoped the public would be able to comment on the topics brought up during the “Other Business” item since it is new to the agenda. Gave her opinion that the Police Commission is not coming to the Council asking for more officers because it was cut from the budget, which was voted on by the people and she hopes no other department will ask for money for an additional person. Pattie DeHuff, 20 Lynn Avenue – Asked that the Board of Finance minutes be put online. She is concerned that taxpayer dollars are being spent on extra copies made in the Town Clerk’s Office for the Mayor’s Office. Robert White, 24 Overlook Road – Thanked the Mayor and Council for bringing water to the Fall Mountain area, which will bring property values up. However, the sale of drugs and the drug problem there will bring the property value down again. Jan Oullette, 104 Eastview Road – Feels there are not enough police officers in town. Believes there are gang members and drug dealers living in the Fall Mountain area. She would appreciate it if, when she calls in a suspicious vehicle or other problem, that the Police Department would not give her address and name over the scanner. She stated that there have been a lot of break-ins and gunfire. She feels if the drug problem is taken care of, the amount of crime will decrease. She stated that she knows people are willing to form a neighborhood watch and to help the police and community. Robert White, 24 Overlook Road – Feels that information given to the police is back out on the street before they get home. Mayor Krampitz thanked Ms. Oullette and Mr. White for voicing their concerns and stated that she would speak to Chief Krasicky about giving a neighborhood watch presentation to the residents. Jon Stevens, 104 Eastview Road – He was fired upon and it took too long for the police to get to scene. There are children ranging in age from 7 to 14 years old smoking crack and doing coke. He feels they are prisoners in their own houses. |
14. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to discuss the closing of the social security office in Bristol . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Roll call vote: Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes. MOTION PASSED. Councilwoman Scoville stated that it has been publicized that the federal government is trying to close the social security office in Bristol . The office serves Bristol , Burlington and Plymouth . If it were to close, Plymouth residents would have to go to Waterbury or New Britain – transportation will be a huge issue. There is a meeting Thursday, October 5 th at Bristol ’s City Hall at 4:00 p.m. regarding this issue. Mayor Krampitz stated that she and others will be testifying at the hearing and transportation will be their focus. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to announce that there is a Thursday afternoon meeting at Chippanee with Jim Abromaitis. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Roll call vote: Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes. MOTION PASSED. Thursday at noon , Jim Abromaitis from DECD will be at Chippanee to make a presentation. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to discuss the Assistant Tax Collector’s position. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Roll call vote: Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes. MOTION PASSED. Councilwoman Scoville asked if there was a person in that position, is that person being paid and if so, where is that money coming from? Mayor Krampitz responded that there is still money to pay that person, the person is still on staff, and she has requested the Board of Finance to transfer money instead of asking for an appropriation because an appropriation would dip into our fund balance. Board of Finance Chairman received a memo in June making that request and she has not heard from them. Their last meeting was cancelled. Melanie Church, 328 Main Street – Believes there was a contingency line item for Assistant Tax Collector. The state of Connecticut told her that as of June 30, 2006 when that money was not yet appropriated, it goes back into the general budget. So it is not part of this budget and it is not part of the amount. She believes there was a motion made to cut that $27,042 out of salary. Mayor Krampitz stated that there is money there and Ms. Church is not correct. |
15. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations - Councilman Goodwin moved to go into Executive Session at 8:10 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and invite in Attorney Tom Conlin and Bill Kuehn. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:44 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 8:48 p.m. |
16. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – No action taken. |
17. |
Adjournment - MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:49 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: Erica Nodine, Acting Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
September 5, 2006 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski. ABSENT: Councilwoman Scoville.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:00 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the August 8, 2006 Special Town Council Meeting and August 21, 2006 Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of August 8, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilman Goodwin wanted to clarify for the record that the fee schedule on pages 5 and 6 was tabled at that meeting. Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – abstained, Councilwoman Murawski -yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of August 21, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Housing Authority had ten vacancies at Gosinski Park . School opened August 28 th and new teachers were hired to replace our retirees. The Police Commission voted not to install stop signs at Harwinton Ave. at Bemis St. and Holt St . They have also hired a part time animal control officer. Councilman Sekorski – No report. Councilman Zagurski – reported that the Fire Department went out for bid on their new truck. The bids were opened and are being reviewed. They have also been doing a study for their needs for the next ten years. The new school construction is on schedule and within budget. They are going to move a telephone pole that is at the entrance of the driveway. The Public Works Department received a check for metal recycling for $2,344.65. Bids were put out for washed-stone, truck equipment package, chip-sealing, diesel fuel and generators. The Canal St. project will be starting and DOT will be closing permanently Pines Crossing, a portion of Center St. and a portion of Canal St. Allen St. will be dropped three feet so the grading will create the closing of Pines Crossing. DOT said these were on the plan and it will be closed. Roads have also been prepared for paving projects. Councilman Goodwin reported that Human Services did not meet. EDC approved an addition for Elm Press. Parks and Recreation is looking for a gymnastics instructor. They were also looking for more police protection at Lake Winfield because of vandalism. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – Councilman Goodwin asked that under Public Comment that people conduct themselves in a business like manner and maintain decorum. At the public hearing it was difficult at times to talk. No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved appointment of Anita Hamzy to the Terryville Library Board with a term to expire November 12, 2007 to fill the vacancy left by Kathryn Malley. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the appointment of Catherine Mathiason to the Terryville Library Board with a term to expire November 10, 2011 to fill the vacancy left by Judith Kosikowski. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilman Goodwin commented that both of these people will be assets to the library board. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilwoman Murawski recused herself from the next appointment. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved the appointment of Timothy D. Murawski to the Board of Assessment Appeals with a term to expire November 12, 2007 to fill the vacancy left by John Dering. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report – This was a report for June, July and August.
- Clarence B. Atkinson was appointed as Building Inspector on July 13 th. He is experienced and worked in that capacity in West Hartford .
- Waterwheel Park Project– The committee met to plan a fundraising kick-off event. They are planning a goods and services auction on a Friday night. The Brownsfield study has been completed and reviewed and a draft RFQ has been submitted to the State.
- The Mayor attended the Community Night hosted by the Human Services Commission, the Eagle Scouts award ceremony, the installation of Rev. Freddie Jackson at the Grace Baptist Pentecostal Church, the Hot Dog Roast where Volunteer of the Year Steve Mindera was awarded, Terryville High School graduation ceremony, the Police Commission life-saving award ceremony, the Pequabuck Golf Course Chamber Tournament luncheon, met with a Ridge Road resident that is having on-going neighborhood issues, cut a grand opening ribbon at the Evergreen facility on South Street on Sunday, July 16, attended an in-house, managerial workshop for Sexual Harassment, served as a costume judge at one of the local band concerts, met with Daisy the Pig at Terryville Library who promoted reading, met with former Skateboard Park committee members for an update, met with The First Selectmen of Thomaston and Harwinton at their invitation to discuss the Connecticut Water Company divesture of a Class III watershed land located in our three towns and cut a red ribbon for the grand opening of The Peanut Cupboard on Saturday, August 19.
- Regarding the unanimous Town Council vote to establish a new Charter Revision Commission, Mayor Krampitz met with the appointed members on July 25th for an organizational meeting. The Mayor attended all of their meetings and hearings and thanked them for their dedicated service to the charter revision process.
- Mayor Krampitz was glad to report that we received $200,000 from Congresswoman Johnson’s efforts toward the road paving for the Fall Mt. Water Project and the Waterwheel Park Project. This money was a result of my visit to her office last January. Also, she met with Mary Grasso, USDA Rural Development Area Director, to seek additional funding for completion of the project. Town officials were invited by the Fall Mt. Lake Association to an informational meeting concerning the Fall Mt. Water Project, on August 24. With approximately one hundred and seventy-five attendees, residents were encouraged to follow proper procedures to hook up now that the water is there. Service agreements with Conn. Water Company, permitting processes, service to dwellings not vacant lots, an assessment over fifteen years, repaving next year, and replacement of the culvert bridge were some of the items discussed. Residents were very happy and commended the contractor Pete and Steve for their dedication to the project.
- The Phase IV Industrial Park Property located at the corner of Preston Road and North Harwinton Road has been purchased by Trilogy Trust Company. They will build a 40,000 sq. ft. medical office building right away.
- CL&P has awarded us over $211,000. toward energy efficient fixtures at the New High School.
- Jim Nypert was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his dedicated service to the WPCA. Jim retired July 1.
- The Mayor had some very interesting visitations in the Plymouth Business Park. She met with ES Metals, Eric Schleich, President and Mike Thibeault, Malco Company, Kevin Lacilla, President of DAWG, Dick Clukey, President of Accu-Grind, Richard Eykelhoff of AMCI. One of the major issues on their minds was the rate jump in electricity. Mayor Krampitz referred them to an energy consortium for help. Most of the companies talked about future expansions in the Industrial Park.
- The Mayor has asked the Police Department to reinstate a Neighborhood Watch Program due to localized vandalism.
- Mayor Krampitz is in receipt of a request from the Police Chief to negotiate for a position of Canine Handler and added it to the list of items for negotiations.
- Regarding Lake Winfield , the Mayor has asked Director of Public Works Tony Lorenzetti to submit estimates to the Capital Improvements Committee as to how much it would cost to clean up Lake Winfield for swimming again versus an environmental clean-up. This would mean a possible referendum vote by the townspeople based on the expense.
- Mayor Krampitz appointed the following residents to the Historic District Study Committee: Helen Nejfelt, Patricia Doherty, Robert Green, Keith Golnik, Lisa Whitney, Richard Daponte, Steven Solomito, and Michael Drozdick. I will ask them to have an organizational meeting in September to initiate their report which may take six months.
- Regarding union labor negotiations, a new medical insurance proposal was made by the Town and it was rejected by the unions. On June 6, the Mayor terminated our past association with our insurance agent of eighteen years and appointed a new agent of record. After numerous meetings we came up with a new hybrid-type, proposal that would offer them the comparable insurance with higher co-pays which saved the town a tremendous amount of money in premiums and announced it to the employees. The Mayor met with the Supv./Non-Supv. and Nurses unions on August 24th at which time it was announced that the previous medical insurance proposal offered was not what the agent stated. On August 29, Mayor Krampitz met with the Town Hall and Public Works Unions and announced the termination of our new agent and the appointment of a third agent who agreed to seek a comparable plan that we could afford. We await their positive results.
- Now that we are in a new fiscal year, we will be living month to month with this new budget. As mentioned before, at the end of the first quarter, the Board of Finance will analyze expenditures to keep deficits to a minimum.
- The Mayor organized a Back to School Kids Parade to celebrate Connecticut Family Day on August 26th which concluded with the viewing of the 1995 Bicentennial Parade Videotape.
- As a result of a Board of Finance member’s actions at its last meeting, Mayor Krampitz has initiated a conflict resolution process with Chairman David Merchant and Democratic Town Committee Chairman Carl Kulesa to resolve his issues.
- On Sunday September 10 th at 7:00 p.m. , there will be a 9/11 Ceremony at First Baptist Church . The public is invited.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Gary L. Hanson or Steven C. Quick $237.06; Sebastian Russo $56.58; Salvatore J. Gallo $43.73; Pamela Peatman $78.68; Janice Boucher $98.29; Cheryl Devito $8.55; Toyota Motor Credit Corp $98.78; Paula or Thomas Maghini $86.35; Ghislain A. Lamontagne $288.37; Roberto S. Aguirre $64.06; GMAC $566.22; GMAC $393.98; LaLa Mattei $13.75; Richard or Jean Arden $19.50; John or Barbara Riggs $9.04; Michael Witik $65.67; Thomas P. Barlowski $3.72 and Mathew N. Kaminski $69.17. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Connecticut Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility presentation and take action if necessary – Mayor Krampitz introduced the Granby Board of Finance Chairman Michael Guarco as the presenter. Mr. Guarco introduced Art Johansson, the Finance Chairman from Burlington . A color-coded state map of endorsements was displayed which indicated which communities supported the consortium’s finance, municipal and educational initiatives. Mr. Guarco presentation centered on the growing number of communities that are seeing their budgets get defeated, the common legislative agendas of CCM, COST and CABE, that tax increases average 5% while inflation is lower, that three basic planks to a Mission Statement are common to all towns, that towns can not afford unfunded mandates, we need to broadcast our common agenda and advocate our agenda. Mr. Johansson added that prevailing wage issues are also a common problem for towns. Councilman Goodwin thought the concept made sense and was straight forward. Councilman Sekorski asked how the steering committee was chosen and was told it was mostly made up of the board members. Mayor Krampitz recognized Dave Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance and he said that he would not oppose joining the consortium. Questions from the public included concerns on education, the Governor’s office and binding arbitration. Mr. Guarco used examples from other towns to highlight those topics. Mayor Krampitz asked if there had been any discussions on reconfiguring the ECS formula and was told not through their organization. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to adopt the following Resolution in Support of the Consortium Group:
WHEREAS; state interventions into traditionally local budgetary affairs have negatively impacted the delicate balance between a municipality’s capacity to provide services and the local taxpayers’ ability to pay for said services,
AND WHEREAS; such interventions have effectively reduced the municipalities’ ability to manage major components of a typical town budget,
AND WHEREAS; COST , CABE, CCM and other municipal advocacy agencies have all traditionally called for repeal or reform of prevailing wage and binding arbitration laws that currently apply to the negatively impact the municipalities across Connecticut,
AND WHEREAS; the state legislature in Connecticut continues to force new mandates upon the towns while reneging on its own statutory municipal aid commitments to said towns.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council in the Town of Plymouth join and support the CT Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility in its effort to bring about changes beneficial to the municipalities and taxpayers across Connecticut . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
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10. |
Discuss and take action to establish Fee Schedule for Permits and Plan Reviews by Fire Marshal - MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to remove from the table the Fee Schedule for Permits and Plan Reviews by Fire Marshal. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilman Goodwin stated he was pleased with the square foot breakdown but had one question. If an alarm system needed to be added under the specialty plan review section, would the $75 be added to the plan review cost and Fire Marshal Schubert told him yes. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the fee schedule as submitted by the Fire Marshal. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski asked if people have to keep paying the fees if they come back and she was told that it would be half the cost. Councilman Zagurski asked about buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet because someone reviews the plans also. The fire marshal explained that he is ultimately responsible for all review and must check the work of others and used the new high school project as an example. Councilwoman Murawski – no, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Mayor Krampitz – yes. MOTION PASSED. The Fee Schedule for Plan Review submitted to the Town Council was as follows:
- Buildings 2000 sq. ft. or less $50. 2000 to 4999 sq. ft. $100. 5000 to 9999 sq. ft. $250.
- 10,000 to 49,000 sq. ft. $500. over 50,000 sq. ft. $1,000 + costs
- Renovations $50 and additions are the same as buildings. Resubmittals are 50% of original fee with a $50 minimal fee. Site Plan Review up to one acre $50, up to 5 acres $75, 5 acres and greater $100.
- Specialty Plan Review for fire alarm, sprinkler, venting and any other system other than building plans - $75 per system. The schedule also included independent plan reviews for buildings exceeding 50,000 sq. ft.
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11. |
Public Comment – Diane Schenkel, 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. – questioned the Mayor about the report she gave concerning the possible clean-up of Lake Winfield and wanted to know why the town was not pursuing legal action against the polluters. The Mayor explained that this happened before she was in office. Pattie DeHuff, 20 Lynn Ave. – had issues with the meeting being held in the Assembly Room instead of the Community Room, with the meetings not being taped for cable access television and with the Public Comment agenda item being near the end of the agenda. Councilwoman Murawski responded that she likes the meetings in the assembly room because the council can be at eye level with the people and also remarked that no volunteers have come forward to tape the meetings. Councilman Goodwin said that the public gets to comment on every agenda item and placing Public Comment at the end gives people a chance to hear all of the comments before they say anything. Mayor Krampitz indicated that many Town Council meetings had been held in the Assembly Room in the past. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – stated that she is opposed to the fees for the fire marshal inspections. |
12. |
Other Business – No action taken. |
13. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
August 31, 2006,
immediately following the Public Hearing |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville. |
1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 8:17 p.m. The Mayor reviewed for the record what the council had received which was the Public Hearing notice, the side-by-side comparison, the draft report which was marked Exhibit A, the agenda and the last sheet highlighted the motions from our attorney that would be necessary this evening. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Due to the fact that the Pledge of Allegiance had already been said earlier in the evening, without objection, this was not done at this session. |
3. |
Discuss and take action on proposed Charter Revisions as presented by the 2006 Charter Revision Commission - The Mayor thanked the Charter Revision Commission for their work and time. Mayor Krampitz stated that the focus was on individual department and adding the word aggregate and crossing out the “s” after budget. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved adoption of the following resolution: That the Town Council of the Town of Plymouth hereby deems the draft report of the Town’s Charter Revision Commission, attached hereto as Exhibit A, to be final, and that the Town Council hereby approves the recommendation contained in said report. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilman Goodwin thanked the commission for doing a lot of work in a short period of time. Councilman Sekorski – no, Councilwoman Scoville – no, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
4. |
Discuss and take action to adopt ballot language for November Charter vote – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved adoption of the following resolution: That the recommendation contained in the Final Report of the Charter Revision Commission be submitted to a referendum vote in accordance with Section 7-191 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended, on Tuesday, November 7, 2006 , between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. under the following ballot heading: “SHALL THE TOWN OF PLYMOUTH APPROVE THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE CHARTER REVISION COMMISSION TO AMEND SECTION 3B OF CHAPTER VII OF THE TOWN’S CHARTER TO LIMIT THE 3 PERCENT BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS BY THE TOWN COUNCIL TO THE AGGREGATE TOWN BUDGET RATHER THAN INDIVIDUAL DEPARTMENT BUDGETS?” and that the Town Clerk include a notice of such referendum in the notice of election for said date and make absentee ballots available. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Zagurski had a concern about non-electors being able to vote. Attorney Sam Caligiuri of Day, Berry & Howard stated that in Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-191 subsection f, concerning charter amendments and specifically states that it is by the electors of the municipality. The electors would be permitted to vote on this question. Councilman Sekorski wanted to explain why he could not support this. He stated that he was disappointed that there was not more clarity to the language, but apologized for not attending the Charter Revision Commission meetings. He thought it cleared up some of the discrepancy but not all of it and suggested that if this change passed that we should get a legal opinion to guide the Town Council in the future. He agreed that the word aggregate returned some ability back to the Board of Finance. Councilman Zagurski thought the Commission did a great job. The clarity may not be perfect but there is an immediate need before the next budget session. Councilwoman Scoville stated she would have preferred the amended budget because that is the true budget. Councilwoman Murawski stated that it was very clear that aggregate was the sum of the parts. It is the whole budget. No one is claiming that it will correct everything that is wrong with the charter but it is a good step. Councilman Goodwin stated that he believes that this would enable the Board of Finance to use their best judgment and that is why he would support it. Councilman Sekorski – no, Councilwoman Scoville – no, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
5. |
Public Comment – No comments. |
6. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:38 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
August 21, 2006, 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 5:00 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Take action to schedule a Public Hearing on the Charter Revision Commission’s draft report - Mayor Krampitz explained that the Charter Revision Commission had moved rapidly and in order to keep going and get this on the ballot, the Town Council must hold a Public Hearing on the draft report submitted by the Charter Revision Commission. The suggested date is August 31 st, a Thursday, at 7:00 p.m. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to schedule a Public Hearing on August 31, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Room on the Charter Revision Commission’s draft report. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski stated that although the Town Council did not need a quorum present at the hearing, she thought that it was important that all were there in order to hear public comments. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Take action to schedule a Special Town Council Meeting concerning the Charter Revision Commission’s draft report – Mayor Krampitz explained that the Charter Revision Commission expects to have the draft report tonight. Therefore, a special Town Council meeting should be scheduled immediately after the Public Hearing. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to schedule a Special Town Council Meeting on August 31, 2006, immediately following the Public Hearing in the Community Room to take action on the Charter Revision Commission’s draft report. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:05 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
August 8, 2006. 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
PRESENT : Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilwoman Murawski. ABSENT: Councilman Sekorski.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:00 p.m. The Mayor noted that the regular meeting was cancelled last week due to vacation schedules so this special meeting was scheduled. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the July 18, 2006 Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the July 18, 2006 Special Town Council Minutes. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to reappoint Helen R. Nejfelt to the Housing Authority with a term to expire August 31, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Gary J. Gallagher to the Planning & Zoning Commission as an alternate member with a term to expire September 5, 2007 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Martin J. Archambault $67.32 and $30.39; David E. Schultz $52.29; Carmen or James Skoczylas $23.67; Sandra or Roderick Ives $31.51; Robert Johnson $16.77; Paul or Dorothy Tichanski $65.18; Ray J. Blanchette or Colleen Ferreira $7.93; VW Credit Leasing Ltd. $101.10; GMAC $372.53; Rebecca or Brian Harnish $34.78; Lionel St. Pierre $63.60; Patel Hemang Ravji $66.00; Brad S. Picard $268.45; Angela A. Soden $26.13; Warren or Brenda Weems $24.41; Robert J. Polidoro $58.36; Martha or Ronald Rice $23.91; Paula or Thomas Maghini $86.35 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Take action to approve deficits for fiscal year 2005/2006 – Mayor Krampitz introduced Manuel Gomes, Comptroller to offer more information about the list presented. Mr. Gomes explained the process as an appropriation of money to cover deficits in line items. This serves as an internal control mechanism for spending approved at last year’s town meeting and does not affect the year-end surplus. The surplus will always be what the town spent compared to the total revenue brought in. Mr. Gomes named a variety of problems that led to some of the deficits. The last pay period of fiscal year 04-05 was posted to this fiscal year which impacts fund balance. New line items were added such as for sergeants in the police department. However, no monies were ever taken from that line item. The pensions are the only projected item in the report and were mis-posted from last year. Adjustments were made that make no sense. Mr. Gomes stated that he is confident that all the payments were for legal bills but that these problems were a result of mis-posting. The process had broken down. Councilwoman Scoville commented that she thought the comptroller was referring to bad bookkeeping. Mr. Gomes said that these problems came to light when he tried to balance the books. Councilman Goodwin stated that there was a breakdown before Mr. Gomes arrived but he was also concerned about department heads monitoring monthly budget reports. Mr. Gomes stated that the breakdown has been taken care of and an emphasis is being placed on reviewing the budget reports each month. The Board of Finance is also going to do a review because of the three percent increase and they want to keep a close eye on each line item. Mayor Krampitz informed the Town Council that twenty five percent of the deficits are utilities and that the total is 1.35% of the budget which is less than what it has been in the past. Councilwoman Scoville noted that the town audit was rather large. Mayor Krampitz confirmed with Mr. Gomes that last year’s audit cost the town approximately $30,000 more. Councilman Goodwin asked about the surplus and Mr. Gomes said that conservatively it would be approximately $300,000. Mayor Krampitz also noted that this budget was inherited in November and a lot of activity happened between July and November of last year. The Budget Deficits Report for Fiscal Year 2005-2006 submitted by the comptroller is as follows:
Mayor - Administrative Assistant $14,288; Advertising $1,384 Comptroller – Staff $1,610; Salary O/T $9,827; Advertising $514 Central Office – Tech Support $8,244; P/T Flex Workers $2,902; Service Contracts $8,049; Mileage $1,784 Registrars - Salary Registrars $1,681; Wages-Election Workers $2,734; Maintenance& repairs $1,409 Board of Finance – Salary-Meeting Secretary $200; Expenses $2,450; Town Audit $31,400 Tax Collector – Salary Staff $10,667; Service Contracts $4,725; Tax Refunds $20,415 Legal Fees – Labor Attorney $40,750 Employee Benefits – Pensions $30,000 (projected); Unemployment Compensation $4,843; Wage/Benefits Adjustment $46,443; Educational Incentives $4,000 Additional Appropriations – Tax Assessor Computer Grant $1,954 Fire Marshal - $863 Police Department - Salary-Police Chief $2,006; Dues & Fees $674; Repairs & Supplies $2,843; Electrical Repairs & Supplies $1,253; Physicals $344 Fire Department – Fire Hydrants $9,370; Physicals $2,512 Terryville Station – Heat $1,619; Elec.,Gas & Water $3,384 Plymouth Station – Heat $1,270; Elec., Gas & Water $613 Fall Mountain Station – Heat $4,791 Facilities – Repairs & Supplies $870; Sewer User Fees $3,765; Heat $22,649; Electricity $900; Street Lights $9,738 Highway – Wages F/T $39,719; Wages O/T $8,540; Electricity $1,112 Public Works Director – Salary-Secretary $1,819; Overtime/P/T Help $7,188 Maintenance Garage – Wages-Assistant $1,513; Wages Overtime $1,165; Heat $777; Gas & Oil $42,782 Building Inspector – Salary-Building Inspector $13,720 Human Service – Human Services Commission $178; General Assistance $1,465 Public Health – Salaries-F/T $3,211; HHA Scheduler $2,188 Ambulance Corps – Electricity $4,311 Library – Salary P/T $1,829; Repairs & Supplies $2,736; Electricity $5,643 Planning & Zoning – Salary – Enforcement Officer $4,046; Contract Services $3,193. The Grand Total for these deficits is $468,880.
MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend the 2005/2006 budget deficits to the Board of Finance for approval. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY . |
7. |
Discuss and take action on proposed ordinances titled Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal and Retirement and Pension Oversight Board – Mayor Krampitz stated that the packets included the information from June 6 th and the new draft for tonight and that Fire Marshal Jack Schubert was available for questions. Councilman Zagurski asked if a plan gets rejected do the applicants have to pay the fees again and Mr. Schubert told him only the fees for the specific changes. Councilwoman Scoville stated that if it is coming out of their pockets, maybe they will become aware of the code first. Councilman Goodwin asked what would constitute a violation per section five. He was told that would be if someone did not pay the second time. There was concern about the Fee Schedule as it would affect new business construction. The Town Council wanted to maintain a fee schedule but keep it more business friendly. There was discussion about establishing a step system for fees or other more equitable options. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve ordinance titled “Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal”. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Mayor Krampitz pointed out that because the Town Council had already indicated that it was going to table the fee schedule portion of the ordinance to create a better method of charging applicants, the Town would delay publication of the ordinance so that the deadline dates would not become an issue. The ordinance will be published when the fee schedule is determined. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilman Zagurski wanted to note that the service is still free until a fee schedule is set. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to table the “Fee Schedule for Permits and Plan Reviews by the Fire Marshal” until the next meeting. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilman Goodwin volunteered his time to work with the Fire Marshal to develop other fee schedule options. (The following draft was approved by the council.)
ARTICLE VI. FEES FOR PLAN REVIEW BY THE FIRE MARSHAL
Sec. 2-101. Purpose.
The purpose of the Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal is to reduce the number of plans that are received for a specific project and to offset the expense incurred in the review of these plans.
Sec. 2-102. History.
Previously, when there are new construction plans for new buildings or plans submitted for renovations to existing buildings, the owner/contractors have been submitting plans that are reviewed by the office of the fire marshal. Many times these plans need to be revised as they do not have the required information needed to do the review. The people submitting these plans are using the office as a free plan resource. This ordinance should reduce the number of re-submittals by making the submitter make sure the plans are complete before sending them in for review, therefore reducing the number of hours spent by the office in plan review. It will also generate revenue to offset the cost of the plan review.
Sec. 2-103. Fees for permits and plan reviews by the fire marshal.
(1) Effective October 1, 2006 , the office the Fire Marshal of the Town of Plymouth shall charge a fee for all requests for permits and registration required by:
- The Connecticut Flammable and Combustible Liquid code,
- The Connecticut Liquefied Petroleum Gas & Liquefied Natural gas code, and
- The code for the storage, transportation and use of explosives and blasting agents,
as the same may be amended from time to time, or required under any similar codes hereafter adopted, as the same may be amended from time to time. The fees to be charged for such permit and registration shall be indicated in the fee schedule.
(2) Effective October 1, 2006 , the office of the Fire Marshal of the Town of Plymouth shall charge a fee for all plan reviews required by the Connecticut Fire Safety Code, as the same may hereafter be amended from time to time, or for plan reviews required under any similar Fire Safety Code hereafter adopted, as the same may be amended from time to time. The fees to be charged for such plan reviews shall be based on the final value as disclosed by the Town of Plymouth Building Department permits for construction, extension, removal or alteration. This is subject to the schedule on file in the Fire Marshal and Town Clerk’s offices.
The applicant shall file an initial statement of value with Office of the Fire Marshal at the time the plan review is requested. If the value of the construction, extension, removal or alteration increases from that disclosed in the initial statement of value, a supplemental statement of value shall be filed and any increased fee shall be paid at the time a certificate of occupancy is required, or at the time the construction, extension, removal or alteration is completed.
(3) No application for such plan review shall be deemed to be received until such fee shall have been paid to the Office of the Fire Marshal. for which shall issue a numbered receipt. The Office of the Fire Marshal shall provide each applicant for a permit, registration or plan review with a numbered payment receipt which shall contain an itemization of the fees received, the date of the receipt, the payer’s name and address, the nature of the permit, registration or plan review and the physical location at which the construction or other activity will take place.
All monies received by the Office of the Fire Marshal for such permits and registrations and plan reviews shall be remitted to the tax collector on a weekly basis. With each monetary remittance, the Office of the Fire Marshal shall provide the comptroller with a duplicate original of the numbered receipt provided each applicant. which receipt. shall contain an itemization of the fees received, the date of the receipt, the payer’s name and address, the nature of the permit, registration or plan review and the physical location at which the construction or other activity will take place.
(4) The Town Council of the Town of Plymouth shall adopt a fee schedule based upon recommendations of the Fire Marshal’s Office and review the fee schedule, if needed, on a yearly basis. as a part of its budget deliberations and any recommendations for a change in the fee schedule shall be submitted to Fire Marshal and Comptroller.
(5) Violations of the provisions of this ordinance shall be punishable by a fine of Twenty-Five Dollars ($25.00) per day the violation continues. each day that a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. Citations for violation of the provisions of this ordinance shall be issued by the Fire Marshal. Such penalties shall exist as a lien against the premises wherein said violation exists and may be recorded upon the land records of the Town of Plymouth . Such liens shall be perfected and be in effect in accordance with the provisions of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, relating to the collection of taxes on real estate.
FEE SCHEDULE FOR PERMITS AND PLAN REVIEWS BY FIRE MARSHAL
Permit and registration $20.00
VALUE |
FEE |
| 0 TO $4000 |
- $20.00 |
| In excess of $4000 |
- $20. plus $7.00 per $1000. or portion thereof in excess of $4000. |
Mayor Krampitz introduced Manuel Gomes, Comptroller to answer any questions concerning the Retirement and Pension Oversight Board ordinance and explained to the council the changes recommended by the attorney. Councilwoman Scoville asked if the comptroller already works with a broker. She was told that the town would advertise for consultants. Mr. Gomes said that we would have to adopt an investment policy for the assets and a schedule for quarterly and annual reviews. We’ll follow what other communities have done and fit it to our town. Councilman Goodwin asked what would happen when contracts are negotiated. Mr. Gomes said that it should be stated in the procedures that any changes to the pension language needs to be approved or at least potential costs need to be run by that board for approval or disapproval. This gives it the oversight. The other question was the Board of Education and the assets are segregated. They have their own report separate from ours. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the ordinance title “Retirement and Pension Oversight Board”. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
(The following draft was approved by the council.)
ARTICLE VII . RETIREMENT AND PENSION OVERSIGHT BOARD
Sec. 2-111. Created.
There is hereby created a Retirement and Pension Oversight Board which shall serve as the administrator of the pension plan(s) for Town employees in accordance with Section 7-450 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended and maintain current knowledge of pension plan design, investment strategies and statutory responsibilities. It shall plan, direct and monitor investment performance to maximize returns consistent with the prudent management of Plan assets. to ensure employee benefit commitments.
Sec. 2-112. Composition.
The membership of the Retirement and Pension Board shall consist of the Mayor, Treasurer, Comptroller, a Town Council member, a member of the Board of Finance and an elector of the town. The Town Council shall select one of its members to serve, the Board of Finance shall select one of its members to serve and the Mayor shall appoint an elector. The term of each shall terminate on the same date as the term of the Mayor, provided that each member shall continue to serve until the member’s successor is appointed and qualified. Any vacancy shall be filled in the manner of original appointment. Any member of the Board may be removed by the appointing entity for cause. The members of the Board shall receive no compensation for their services.
Sec. 2-113. Duties.
The Board shall keep records of its meetings and other activities. The Board shall submit an annual report to the Town Council and the Board of Finance during their February meetings on the status of the pension plan and its fund, including a current the most recent actuarial report describing the Pension Plan actuarial assumptions based on the plan assumptions and the adequacy of the fund to meet the obligations of the plan. The report should analyze the Pension Plan, explain its competitiveness, explore investment strategies and recommend changes, if any. The Board shall have all the powers conferred on it and perform all the duties required of it by law.
Sec. 2-114. Meetings.
The Mayor or the Mayor’s designee will serve as Chairman of the Board. Annually at its first meeting the Board will select from its members a Vice-Chairman. Regular meetings will be held quarterly and special meetings may be scheduled by the Mayor or the Mayor’s designee as necessary if necessary. Three (3) members shall constitute a quorum.
8/8/06 Draft |
8. |
Public Comment – Mayor Krampitz read from the Council Rules and Procedures that the speakers must be recognized by the Chair, state their names and addresses, and be concise in their comments in consideration for others who wish to speak. Speakers must have courtesy and respect for the opinions of others and behave in a manner appropriate to the Council Chambers. No response should be expected from the Chair, Council, attorney, Public Works Director or any Town Official. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – stated that departments should ask for special appropriations instead of having year-end deficits. She also wants the council to consider hiring another police officer. Councilwoman Murawski responded by stating that we have had openings and had a very difficult time finding qualified candidates. Councilman Zagurski agreed with that statement but added that the process should be started if we are short-handed. Councilwoman Murawski added that we had a person in the academy at the moment. Mayor Krampitz reminded everyone that we would have had another police officer if the budget passed. It is simply not in the budget and we do not have money for medical insurance to cover adding staff. If the budget had passed, we could have done this. We have to abide by our budget. Cathy Paskus, 4 Arrow Dr. – wanted to compliment the administration and town council because it inherited a lot of these financial problems and you have done a good job resolving them. She also wanted to know if she could have some information on the back to school parade that was being organized. Mayor Krampitz informed her it was scheduled for August 26 th and this was a result of the State asking us to celebrate Connecticut Family Day. Melanie Church, 328 Main St. – asked why there has not been more progress concerning the police dog. Mayor Krampitz explained that the care of that dog has to be negotiated and the police union has cancelled the last three meetings. |
9. |
Executive Session for pending litigation/claims James Dubowsky vs. Town of Plymouth and Clement Paskus vs. Town of Plymouth - MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to go into executive session at 8:17 p.m. for pending litigation/claims James Dubowsky vs. Town of Plymouth and Clement Paskus vs. Town of Plymouth and invite in Attorney Joseph McQuade. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:30 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 9:35 p.m. |
10. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend to the Board of Finance the appropriation of $35,722.44 from the town’s budget line item 101-01-019-60 for the purposes of paying permanent partial disability benefits to James Dubowsky in connection with his claim filed pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 7-433c. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:36 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
|
|
|
SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
July 18, 2006, 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilwoman Murawski.
|
1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 5:07 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the May 30, 2006 Public Hearing, May 30, 2006 Special Town Council Meeting, June 6, 2006 Regular Town Council and June 13, 2006 Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the Public Hearing minutes of May 30, 2006 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the Special Town Council minutes of May 30, 2006. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the Regular Town Council minutes of June 6, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the June 13, 2006 Special Town Council minutes. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept with regret the resignation of Kathryn D. Malley from the Terryville Library Board of Directors. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept with regret the resignation of Angelo Llopis from the Conservation/Inland/Wetlands Commission. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Carl R. Johnson as a regular member to the Planning & Zoning Commission with a term to expire September 5, 2007 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to appoint Henry Poulin to the Ambulance Corps Board of Directors. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the regular membership of James Deutsch to the Conservation/Inland/Wetlands Commission with a term to expire September 1, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Mayor Krampitz explained that with the regular vacancy, Chairman Matt Tellier had requested that Mr. Deutsch be moved from the alternate membership to regular membership. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Marsha Button $30.62; Robert V. Bissonnette $18.97; Frank J. Darmofalski $201.54; Daniel Westberg $27.30 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Take action to approve participation in Connecticut Consortium for Cooperative Purchasing – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the following resolution: Be it resolved that Jan A. Krampitz, Mayor is authorized to participate in the solicitation of electricity supply services with the Connecticut Consortium for Cooperative Purchasing and enter into a contractual agreement presented and recommended by Connecticut Consortium for Cooperative Purchasing for electricity supply services on behalf of the Town of Plymouth. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Mayor Krampitz explained that this was needed to join the consortium in order to save on electricity costs. Councilman Goodwin asked if this would include street lights or buildings and facilities. Anthony Lorenzetti, Public Works Director, said that the street lights are not included because we do not own them but the buildings would be such as the sewer plant, pump stations and town hall. Councilwoman Murawski asked if there would be a term review and was told by Mayor Krampitz that it would be yearly. Councilman Sekorski thought that the Board of Finance might be able to create a line item for electrical services and take it out of each department. Mayor Krampitz indicated that the Board of Finance would be made aware of the contract once it is signed. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Take action to approve Urban Act Resolution for Water Pump Station – Mayor Krampitz stated that our Economic Development Consultant, Craig Stevenson, has advised that the following resolution be passed in accordance with the grant money for the Pump Station installation at Phase III of the Business Park . MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the following resolution: WHEREAS , pursuant to CGS 4-66c “Urban Act”, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development is authorized to extend financial assistance for economic development projects; and WHEREAS, it is desirable and in the public interest that the Town of Plymouth make an application to the State for $500,000 in order to undertake the construction of a WATER PUMP STATION to service Phase III and Phase IV of the Plymouth Business Park and to execute an Assistance Agreement.
NOW , THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLYMOUTH TOWN COUNCIL:
- That it is cognizant of the conditions and prerequisites for the State Assistance imposed by CGS 4-66c “Urban Act”.
- That the filing of an application for State financial assistance by the Town of Plymouth in an amount not to exceed $500,000 is hereby approved and that the Mayor, Jan A. Krampitz, is directed to execute and file such application with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, to provide such additional information, to execute such other documents as may be required, to execute an Assistance Agreement with the State of Connecticut for State financial assistance if such an agreement is offered, to execute any amendment, decisions, and revisions thereto, and to act as the authorized representative of the Town of Plymouth. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Goodwin asked what the conditions and prerequisites were. Mayor Krampitz answered that this would enable the Town of Plymouth to receive an additional $200,000 to go along with the $500,000 for the water tower for the industrial park. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
|
8. |
Take action to approve Emergency Management Performance Grant Resolution – Mayor Krampitz stated that Homeland Security needs an authorizing resolution passed in order to release FY 2007 funds for the Emergency Management Performance Grant program. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved that Mayor Jan A. Krampitz be hereby authorized to act on behalf of the Town of Plymouth in executing a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Connecticut , Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, for participation in FY 2007 Emergency Management Performance Grant program. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action on solid waste hauling and disposal bids – Mayor Krampitz introduced Public Works Director Tony Lorenzetti and asked him to report on the bid results. He briefed the council on the four areas of the bid package which included solid waste hauling and disposal, demolition materials, recycling collection and disposal and metal salvage. Mayor Krampitz suggested that each item be discussed and voted on separately. The first topic was Solid Waste Hauling and Disposal and two bids were received. Councilman Goodwin asked if the low bidder would be able to accommodate the Saturday hours and was told that it would be no problem. Councilwoman Scoville asked if the Town of Plymouth automatically goes with the lowest bidder and was told that it is the lowest responsible bidder. Mr. Lorenzetti indicated that the contact would have a two-year base with three option years. He also expressed that both bidders had good working relationships with the town and the Mayor concurred. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to award the Town of Plymouth ’s Solid Waste Hauling contract to C.W.P.M. Service, Inc. starting in August 1 st of 2006 up to July 31 st 2011 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes. MOTION PASSED. The second topic was Curbside Recycling and two bids were received. Mr. Lorenzetti indicated that the low bidder already had a vehicle and that could be the reason for the difference. Questions were asked about Albreada’s numbers in the first column and were told that a mistake was made and those were to be ignored. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to award the Curbside Recycling contract to C.W.P.M. Service, Inc. starting in August 1 st of 2006 up to July 31 st 2011 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. The third topic was Demolition Materials and two bids were received. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to award the Demolition Materials contract to C.W.P.M. Service, Inc. starting in August 1 st of 2006 up to July 31 st 2011 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. The fourth topic was Metal Salvage and three bids were received. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to award the Metal Salvage contract to J.W. Green Inc. starting in August 1 st of 2006 until July 31 st 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action to waive bid process per Charter Chapter VI Sec. 4 Sub. 6 for catch basin cleaning per Public Works request – Mayor Krampitz referred the council to the memo in the packet that explained the unusual situation and asked Tony Lorenzetti to explain the situation and answer questions. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to waive the bid for catch basin cleaning services and award it to Fred A. Cook, Jr. Inc. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss and take action to appoint and organize a Charter Revision Commission – Mayor Krampitz explained that as a result of the previous meeting motion stating that she would submit 12 names to be appointed to the newly created Charter Revision Commission, ballots will be passed out with 12 of the fourteen applicants submitted. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the following resolution: That the Town Council of the Town of Plymouth hereby ratifies and confirms its resolution adopted at meeting held June 6, 2006 establishing, in accordance with the provisions of Section 7-188 of the Connecticut General Statutes, a Charter Revision Commission (the “Commission”), to consist of seven electors of the Town to be appointed by the Town Council from a list of twelve proposed members to be submitted by the Mayor.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Town Council hereby appoints the following persons to be members of the Commission, not more than one-third of whom hold any other public office in the Town and not more than a bare majority of whom are members of any one political party:
David J. Barbieri of 10 Scott Road in Terryville, Carl Kulesa of 14 Dewey Avenue in Terryville, Walter R. Lassy of 178 Poland Brook Road in Terryville, Cathleen Paskus of Arrow Drive in Terryville, Rodney G. Houle of 16 Frankie Lane in Terryville, Stephen W. Mindera Jr. of 5 Virginia Road in Terryville, and Richard P. Pinkerton of 22 Oakdale Road in Terryville.
Each member shall serve at the pleasure of the Town Council, and shall serve until such member’s successor, if any, is appointed and qualified. Any vacancy shall be filled in the manner of original appointment.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Mayor is directed to call an organizational meeting of Commission, at which meeting the Commission shall select from amongst its members a Chairman, Vice Chairman and Secretary, and may undertake any other business necessary or desirable. The Mayor shall chair such meeting until the Commission has selected its officers. The Commission shall conduct and keep records of its meetings in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the members of the Commission shall receive no compensation for their services as such but shall be reimbursed for their necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties. In the performance of its duties and in the exercise of its powers aforesaid, the Commission shall not incur any expenses or obligate the Town to pay any expense in excess of the funds appropriated for such purpose.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Charter Revision Commission is hereby directed to review and report its recommendations regarding the provisions of Chapter VII of the Town Charter with respect to the annual budget process, and in particular the procedures set out in Section 3b of said Chapter with respect to: (1) the holding of a subsequent budget referendum upon the rejection at referendum of an initial budget proposal, and (2) the adoption by the Town Council of a budget upon the rejection at referendum of a second budget proposal.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Charter Revision Commission submit its draft report to the Town Clerk for transmittal to the Town Council not later than August 21, 2006.
SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Each Town Council member was handed a ballot with twelve names and spent time choosing seven from the list. The ballots were collected and Mayor Krampitz asked the council clerk to read and record the results. For the record, Councilwoman Murawski stated that her husband was one of the twelve candidates. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she did not believe that an employee of the town should be on the Charter Revision Commission. Mayor Krampitz responded that by law it is allowable. Councilman Sekorski asked what would happen in the event of a tie. Mayor Krampitz reminded the council that the motion included that the Mayor would break a tie vote. The results were as follows: Councilman Sekorski voted for Mr. Barbieri, Mr. Benway, Mr. Hogan, Mrs. Kosak, Mr. Kulesa, Mr. Lassy and Mrs. Paskus. Councilwoman Murawski voted for Mr. Barbieri, Mr. Houle, Mr. Kulesa, Mr. Lassy, Mr. Mindera, Mrs. Paskus and Mr. Pinkerton. Councilwoman Scoville voted for Mr. Barbieri, Mr. Benway, Mr. Hogan, Mrs. Kosak, Mr. Kulesa, Mr. Lassy and Mr. Pinkerton. Councilman Goodwin voted for Mr. Barbieri, Mr. Houle, Mr. Kulesa, Mr. Lassy, Mr. Mindera, Mrs. Paskus and Mr. Pinkerton. Councilman Zagurski voted for Mr. Barbieri, Mr. Houle, Mr. Houle, Mr. Kulesa, Mr. Lassy, Mr. Mindera, Mrs. Paskus and Mrs. Rockwell. The results were read with the following people having five votes: David Barbieri, Carl Kulesa and Walter Lassy. Cathy Paskus had four votes. The following people had three votes: Rodney Houle, Stephen Mindera and Richard Pinkerton. There were three Democrats, three Republicans and one unaffiliated voter. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
12. |
Public Comment – Melanie Church, 328 Main St. - distributed a page from the budget and claimed that the administrative assistant was making the total of that salary and the salary of the meetings secretary making David Denis’s salary $55,775. She also claimed that at the end of former Mayor Mischke’s term, Jan Krampitz, his Administrative Assistant, had a salary of $39,023. Mayor Krampitz responded by saying that the figures used were once again not accurate. The Mayor said that bits of information are being used and put out there as truth and reality when they are not. The meetings secretary line item is not just for the administrative assistant position. It for other uses such as Charter Revision so that assumption is wrong. Secondly, the Mayor knew what she had made in 2002 and 2003 and her salary for that position was not $39,000. The Mayor reiterated that the information presented was false and that her staff and every employee deserve every penny that they make. Mrs. Church also wanted to know why budget deficits were not on the agenda. Mayor Krampitz explained that all of the accounts have been reconciled and the auditors have agreed that deficits can be done in August and she commended the comptroller’s office for an outstanding job. |
13. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to go into Executive Session at 6:40 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and invite in Public Works Director, Tony Lorenzetti and Attorney Tom Conlin. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:18 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 7:23 p.m. |
14. |
Take action from executive session if necessary- MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept by deed in lieu of foreclosure the property at 146 Fall Mountain Lake Road currently owned by the estate of Hollis Church . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
15. |
Adjournment- MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:25 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
|
|
|
|
SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
June 13, 2006, 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville
|
1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Discuss and take action to adopt Fiscal Year 2006-07 Budget per Charter Chapter VII Section 3b – Mayor Krampitz gave a brief history of how the Town Council reached this point due to the new charter language. She referred to the May 30 th meeting when the department totals were given to the Board of Finance and that board met on June 2 nd. The Mayor then recognized David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, to give a report on that meeting and the recommended budget. Mayor Krampitz stated that the proposed recommendation was in the packet that the Town Council had already received and wanted a motion before any discussion. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adopt the budget based on $35,775,536. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. The Mayor informed the council that there was an error and that is why the total is $2,256 less than it appears on page one. David Merchant began by discussing the charter changes. He did not believe that the budget would ever pass with a referendum. Mayor Krampitz asked him to clarify if this was his opinion or that of his board and Mr. Merchant claimed that it was his personal opinion. Mr. Merchant said that his board will be asking the council to put all departments at a 3% increase after the presentation. He understands why the action was taken but the Board of Finance would have never presented the budget the way it had if they knew what kind of results it was going to have. This budget is set up for deficits and we will have to dip into the fund balance. The budget before the council raises the taxes .3 mills. If the council increases all the departments to 3%, then the taxes will increase .6 mills. The report began on page 6 with the Mayor’s department. $10,500 was added to this budget. Advertising – legal notices increased by $5,500 and Expenses increased by $5,000. Town Council had no change. Comptroller’s Department $10,529 was added by putting $5,000 into the part time salary and $5,229 into Contract Services. On page 7, Central Office added $7,964 by putting in the part time flex worker. Treasurer had no change. Registrars had to be decreased by $8,417 so wages-election workers were decreased by $4,117, printing was reduced by $1,000, maintenance and repairs $2,300 and voting machine inspection $1,000. On page 8, Board of Finance had $14,795 added by putting that into the contingency. The Assessor had $50 added to office supplies. Board of Assessment Appeals had $14 added to conferences and memberships. On page 9, Tax Collector was decreased by $43,914. Salary staff was reduced by $27,072, service contracts lost $2,842 and tax refunds was reduced by $14,000. Legal Services had $30 added to town attorney. Insurance had $142 added to workers compensation. On page 10, Employee Benefits was reduced by $436,557 by taking away $65,000 from pensions, $250,479 from health insurance and $121,078 out of wage adjustments. Town Clerk lost $1,410 from computer records. Probate Court had $835 added to office supplies. On page 11, Special Services stayed the same. Fire Marshal lost $3,132 by reducing the salary by $1,132, the training by $500, service contracts by $500, office supplies by $500 and investigative equipment by $500. On page 12, Police Department was increased by $16,533 by adding $6,553 part-time salaries and $10,000 to overtime salaries. The Chairman noted that this was different than what the Town Council had approved last time because of the research that was done after that meeting concerning the part-time and overtime accounts. Emergency Management was increased by $4,638. The generator was put back in this department and taken out of facilities. On page 13, Dog Warden was reduced by $4,776 and this was taken out of the salary line item. Communications had no change. On page 14, Fire Department had the fire hydrants taken out of this budget and placed in a separate department. The total reduced was $8,817 by taking $500 out of truck repairs, $1,000 out of equipment, $1,219 out of physicals, and $1,000 out of refurbishing trucks and $500 out of training equipment. On page 15, there were no changes to the stations. Facilities had street lights removed and put into a separate department as was the generator maintenance. This was reduced by $37,180. Service contacts was reduced by $2,000, employee safety committee by $3,000, repairs and supplies by $2,000, heat by $5,000, electricity by $9,150, and telephones by $16,030. On page 16, Snow Removal had to be reduced by $16,569 by taking $569 from supplies and equipment, $8,000 from sand and $8,000 from salt. Highway was reduced by $24,608 by taking $14,608 from repairs and supplies and $10,000 from street signs. On page 17, Transfer Station was reduced by $20,703 by taking $13,000 from contract services, $5,000 from repairs and supplies, $403 from electricity, $300 from tire disposal and $2,000 from land fill testing. Public Works Director was reduced by $8,146 by taking that from the salary for the engineering tech. On page 18, Maintenance Garage was reduced by $4,610 by taking $610 from repairs and supplies, $2,000 from gas and oil and $2,000 from tires and tubes. Building Inspector had no change. On page 19, Human Services had no change. Public Health had $258 added to medical supplies. On page 20, Medical Director was reduced by $2,877 by taking $877 from the health director and $2,300 from the podiatry clinic. Ambulance Corps was reduced by $5,723 by taking $2,000 from heat and $3,723 from electricity. On page 21, Public Health (other) had the mistake in the budget. The total should be $25,558 not $27,814. The adjustment will be made. Terryville Library was reduced by $2,935 which was taken from periodicals. On page 22, Plymouth Library was reduced by $2,202. Recreation was increased by $939 and this was added to the part-time salary item. On page 23, Planning and Zoning was decreased by $986 by taking $300 from contract services and $686 from advertising. On page 24, ZBA had no change. Conservation had no change. Economic Development was increased by $28,788 which was added back into contractual services. The rest of page 24 and page 25 contained Debt Service and was not part of the report. Miscellaneous had no change. On page 26, Board of Education, at 3% had to be reduced by $3,642 for a total of $20,975,188. Streetlights and Fire Hydrants were placed in a utilities department on that page. Capital Outlay was increased by $330,969. This was done by adding $150,000 to roads, $105,179 for the fire department rescue truck, $5,790 for fire marshal software and $70,000 for a dump truck. Councilwoman Scoville asked what .3 mills equal in dollars and Comptroller Gomes indicated it is $165,000. Mayor Krampitz referred to page 3 and gave a summary of each department’s percentage of increase or decrease for the Town Council’s benefit. AMENDMENT: Councilwoman Scoville moved that any area that the council gave a negative adjustment move to a plus three adjustment to equal the Board of Finance recommendation. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. David Merchant gave an explanation of the concern of deficit spending and that there is no margin of error. He explained that the fund balance is low and should be between five and seven percent. Councilman Goodwin stated that he was disappointed that no one from the Board of Finance mentioned that all the departments should be given a 3% increase while the council met for nearly four hours during a meeting on May 30 th going over every line item. Councilman Zagurski asked if the amendment was only going to increase the departments that had decreases of if it was intended to increase all departments to three percent. The intent was clarified to include all departments would be increased to three percent. Councilwoman Scoville asked where the town stood with staffing issues and Mayor Krampitz informed the council that there were negotiations the next day. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED, the Mayor noted that the new total if the $165,000 is accurate would be $35,940,536, PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Public Comment – There were questions for the Board of Finance concerning the School Resource Officer, Tax Collector’s office and the Personnel Director. David Merchant answered the questions. The Mayor was asked what the total mill increase would be and she said it would be .6 mills. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:03 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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|
|
SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
June 6, 2006 |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville (arrived at 7:05 p.m. )
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| 1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
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2. |
Pledge of Allegiance -
Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the May 2, 2006 Minutes - MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the May 2, 2006 minutes with the changes on page 5 that “an elector” be added to the beginning of the composition section of the ordinance and Councilman Goodwin be recorded as a “no” vote and Councilman Zagurski be recorded as a “yes” vote. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
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4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Police Commission is having an awards ceremony on June 13 th. Police dog drafts approved. BOE reported that Mrs. Lavery has resigned as principal at THS. The Housing Authority is looking to get some dead shrubs replaced. Councilman Goodwin reported that the Parks and Recreation Department was dealing with some vandalism to new picnic tables. Human Services workshops have been well attended. The EDC’s new chairman is Dave Philbrick. Some businesses are looking to expand like Lauretano Sign, Phoenix , and Elm Press. Councilman Zagurski reported that the School Building Committee is on schedule with the school. Public Works is installing catch basins, sweeping streets and hot patching pot holes around town. The Fire Commission is concerned about the budget and CERT Teams. Councilman Sekorski reported that the WPCA is working on their budget and will be completed with that shortly. Councilwoman Scoville reported that the Terryville Public Library received the Connecticut Award for Excellence in Library Service and will be hosting an event. The Councilwoman read the June 22 nd invitation into the record.
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5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Ken Marino from the Zoning Board of Appeals with regret. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Mayor Krampitz noted that Ken had been Chairman for years and this would a big loss for the community. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept the resignation of Patricia Chasse from the Parks & Recreation Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Gaye V. Zukauskas from the Planning & Zoning Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept the resignation of John W. Dering from Board of Assessment Appeals with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Judith Kosikowski from the Library Board of Directors with regret. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Jeanette Dorn to the Parks & Recreation Commission to fill the vacancy of Patricia Chasse with a term November 5, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Richard A. Daponte to the Zoning Board of Appeals to fill the vacancy of Ken Marino with a term to expire February 19, 2007 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report – Mayor Krampitz reported that:
- In addition to the May 2006 report about reimbursement from FEMA for last October’s flood damage, we will be receiving an additional $22,000.00.
- State Senator Tom Colapietro has informed us that he has sent a letter to Senator Don Williams requesting monetary support for budget items that were reduced from our budget. The Mayor had earlier contacted our legislators for additional funds.
- The Mayor met with our labor unions since our last meeting on May 16 and on May 30. Prior to May, she had met with them on March 10, March 31, April 3, April 11, and April 25 and May 5. There were other times scheduled but canceled by the unions because they wanted to wait to see if the budget referenda passed which caused further delays. The main topic was always medical insurance for our employees.
- May 12 was Student Gov. Day and we had an exuberant group that day that seemed to really sink their teeth into the workings of town government at the town council meeting. It was educational for all of us and the thank you notes that we received also gave that indication.
- The Waterwheel Committee is progressing nicely. Bill Kuehn, Tony Lorenzetti and the Mayor had a site walk with Paul Loether Director of Culture & Tourism for the State of Connecticut at the wheel and were very encouraged about what the grant money could do for that site.
- The Mayor attended a CCRPA luncheon meeting at the Lucky Cup with other mayors and selectmen where the Director of Connecticut Workforce was the speaker.
- The Mayor attended the anniversary celebration of Eli Terry Retirement Community Center where I saw realized the funds granted to them from Small Cities Block Grants.
- She participated in the Memorial Day Parades.
- She regretted to inform the council that our Building Inspector Bill Herzman will be leaving us for a position in Naugatuck. His last day with us is June 13 and he stated that he would try to help out with the transition. The Mayor posted and published for this position and talked to surrounding communities about coverage.
- The Mayor met with Mayor Bill Stortz about the intertown water agreement and the need for a building inspector. He will get back to us soon.
- She was pleased to attend the Eagle Scout ceremony last Sunday for seven scouts. Also that afternoon she attended the installation of Rev. Jackson at the Grace Baptist Pentecostal Church.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: GMAC $80.42; GMAC $154.46; GMAC $397.15; VW Credit Leasing Ltd $182.33 – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Take action to reschedule August Town Council meeting – Mayor Krampitz explained that the Regular Council Meeting scheduled for August 1st could not be held due to vacation schedules. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to schedule a Special Council Meeting for Tuesday August 8 th at 7:00p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action on proposed ordinances titled Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal and Retirement and Pension Oversight Board – Mayor Krampitz indicated that we had received some opinions from our attorney who specializes in charter language. There are a few more items that need to be considered but the item was left on the agenda for any council discussion or action based on public hearing comments. The Town Council had concerns about the $4,000 fee with the Plan Review for the Fire Marshal. They had concerns about non-profit groups being charged too much and also the possibility of keeping business away. They talked about flat fees or a step increase that could be used. It was a consensus to invite Jack Schubert and Bill Kuehn to the next meeting with ideas for a fee schedule. Comments on the Retirement and Oversight Pension Board included discussions for the need to have a BOE member on the board. There was also discussion about having a union representative on the board but it was pointed out that there are seven unions so it would become cumbersome. More information was asked about liability of membership and BOE involvement. |
11. |
Discuss and take action on Blight Fees list per Blight Abatement ordinance – Mayor Krampitz informed the Town Council that this was an updated list but the activity started in 2000. Councilman Goodwin stated that if the town collected half of the blight fees, the budget situation would go away. Mayor Krampitz informed the council that the ordinance requires that the list be presented to them at the regular June meeting. The information has been verified by the Building Inspector. Within seventy-five days of receipt of this list, it is deemed approved. Councilwoman Scoville stated that some of the fees due probably outweigh the value of the property and wanted to know what happens to the people who can not pay for the fines. Mayor Krampitz explained there are liens on the properties so they would be required to pay the blight fine before the property was transferred. Councilwoman Murawski asked if the people were aware of the liens and fines. The Mayor explained that she had seen the files and that all the people had received notification and had returned paperwork to that affect. Councilman Goodwin asked if foreclosure is an option. Mayor Krampitz said that the ordinance allowed the town to acquire property. |
12. |
Discuss and take action to create a Charter Revision Commission – Mayor Krampitz stated that she had received a written request from Councilwoman Murawski and included a list of basic steps for establishing a municipal charter revision commission. Councilwoman Murawski stated that to be able to do something by the November election is almost impossible. Councilwoman Scoville wanted to know what the intent of forming the commission would be and Councilwoman Murawski answered that if the words “by department” are eliminated she would have no problem with it. Councilman Goodwin thought that having a cap would be good for the community. Councilman Zagurski stated that the commission could be made up of new members and old members. Public comment included the need to keep the referendum format because of the large voter turn-out. They recognized the need to change the language and asked the council to consider ways to do that part first and work on other charter issues at a later time. Councilman Sekorski stated that it would be inappropriate to rush through charter revision when we can look at how departments are organized. Mayor Krampitz reviewed some of the steps with the Town Council that are required by state statute. The Mayor explained that the Council could give a tentative time line. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to create a Charter Revision Commission. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville wanted the members of the most recent commission to be invited to come back. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved that the Charter Revision Commission consist of seven members appointed by the Mayor with Council approval. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Mayor Krampitz asked if there was a consensus that the Mayor’s office contact the previous members and without objection she informed the council that would be done. Councilman Sekorski suggested that the Mayor could bring forward a maximum number of names to choose the seven from as opposed to voting on Mayoral appointments. AMENDMENT: Councilman Sekorski moved to have the Mayor submit twelve names from which the council would choose seven by paper ballot and the total votes counted must meet the criteria of minimum representation with the Mayor breaking a tie if necessary. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. AMENDMENT PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
13. |
Discuss and take action to establish Transfer Station fees for FY 2006/07 – Anthony Lorenzetti, Director of Public Works, presented the proposed transfer station fee schedule as it related to upgrades. It was broken down by annual resident permit, tires, appliances, bulky items and demolition and construction materials. A comparison matrix was also distributed that gave a fee comparison of Plymouth to other communities. Councilman Goodwin was concerned about how we police the annual resident fee. If people are not residents, how do we keep them out. He was told that the stickers are a good indicator but it is a manpower issue. Councilwoman Scoville asked if the annual permit could take care of the rest of the fees. The response was that we were losing so much money on demolition and other materials that one small fee would not cover the costs. Councilman Goodwin urged the town to look at creative ways to recycle and reuse motor oil. Councilman Sekorski asked if there might be a way to set up a special fund to deposit the fees instead of the general fund getting the money. Public comment included concerns about the annual fee, the handling of scrap metal and the number of people working there. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adopt the proposed 2006 transfer station fees excluding the annual resident permit fee of $50. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Discussion took place on motor oil and demolition materials. AMENDMENT: Councilman Sekorski moved to drop the fee for motor oil and have a flat fee of $100 for any pick-up truck for demolition materials. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
14. |
Public Comment – No comments. |
15. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into Executive Session at 9:18 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and invite in Attorney Tom Conlin. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:38 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 9:40 p.m. |
16. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept property in lieu of foreclosure at 47 Todd Hollow Rd , Plymouth and to execute any and all documents necessary to affect the transfer of the property to the town. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
17. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to schedule a Special Town Council Meeting on June 13, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. to adopt the budget for 2006/07. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
18. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:43 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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|
|
SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING |
DATE: |
January 5, 2006 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski
|
1. |
Call Meeting to Order – Meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 5:02 p.m. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz requested that Councilwoman Murawski lead the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval the December 1, 2005 and December 6, 2005 Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the minutes of December 1, 2005 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the minutes of December 6, 2005 with the correction on page 1 that Kevin Sulek is still the DARE officer. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mr. James Murdock to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire June 1, 2010 . SSECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to reappoint Mr. David Philbrick to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire June 2, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mr. James Fried to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire November 16, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to reappoint Ms. Linda Kazmierski to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mrs. Karen Zagurski to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mrs. Barbara Rockwell to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville asked if there might be a possible conflict because Mrs. Rockwell is an employee. Mayor Krampitz pointed out there was a legal opinion and asked Mrs. Rockwell to explain the situation further. Mrs. Rockwell indicated that a legal opinion was sought from a previous administration when she was appointed years ago and it was deemed that there were no conflict issues. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman moved to approve the mayoral reappointment of Mr. Lyle Kosikowski to the Fire Commission with a term to expire November 4, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman moved to appoint Mrs. Susan Boilard to the Board of Assessment Appeals with a term to expire November 11, 2007 due to a clerical error that left her name off of the November 2005 ballot. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the resignation of Ms. Keri Ann Warner from the Plymouth Volunteer Ambulance Corps Board of Directors with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Ford Motor Credit $1450.40; Joan A. Brown $9.65 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Take action to approve appointed Comptroller – Manuel Gomes. – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the Mayoral appointment of Manuel Gomes as Comptroller. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she would not be voting in support of the motion. She felt Mr. Gomes left on his own free will and that the town did not give Ms. Napier a chance. Councilman Sekorski stated that he would not be supporting the motion because he was disappointed in how we got to this point. He felt that the town had a capable person in place at a significantly less amount of money. He thought audit issues reflected back to previous comptrollers and that the contract put the town in a compromising position. Councilwoman Murawski stated that Mr. Gomes was the one person that could get the town back on track and recover the comptroller’s office. He can get us back where we should be. Councilman Goodwin stated that sometimes we have to take a step back to take a step forward. We have been floundering along and we need to get back on track as soon as possible. Councilman Zagurski stated that from past history Mr. Gomes has always done a good job for the town and is a valuable asset. Councilman Goodwin- yes, Councilman Sekorski- no, Councilman Zagurski– yes, Councilwoman Scoville- no, Councilwoman Murawski-yes MOTION PASSED. |
7. |
Take action to dissolve Charter Revision Commission – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to dissolve the Charter Revision Commission that was established on March 2, 2004 and thank them for their service. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Sekorski stated that he hoped that this council would consider another charter revision commission in the future because there are more issues to deal with. Mayor Krampitz encouraged him to give her those suggestions for her folder for future consideration. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
8. |
Discuss and take action to recommend an appropriation of $16,250 to the Board of Finance for Police Vests – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend an appropriation for police vests of up to $16,250.00 to the Board of Finance and waive bid requirements. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Chief Krasicky answered council questions that dealt with requirements for officers wearing the vests and what they had to sign if they chose not to wear one. She explained the research she had done with the vendors that made their presentations and explained the differences of the different models of vests. The 50% reimbursement was reiterated. The Chief is going to find out what other towns use this vest and more history of the company chosen. This information will be supplied to the Mayor before the Board of Finance meeting so that Mayor Krampitz can inform the finance board of this additional information as their liaison. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action to authorize the Mayor to sign application for STEAP grant – Mayor Krampitz introduced William Kuehn, Town Planner and Craig Stevenson, Consultant, to give an overview of the grant and answer questions. The discussion centered on the continued improvement of the infrastructure and land acquisition for Phase IV of the Plymouth Business Park and to establish a business incubator program to provide companies a future location in Phase III and Phase IV. The pump station is planned to be located in the bottom right corner of lot number 2 and there is an easement set aside where there are pipes running right to the edge of the easement. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the following: WHEREAS, the Connecticut General Assembly has authorized funding for municipal grants under Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) Section 4-66g the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP); and WHEREAS, Public Act 05-194 enables Connecticut municipalities to continue qualifying for STEAP grants in lieu of being eligible for financial assistance under section 4-66c “Urban Act”, by a vote of its legislative body, and submitting a written notice of such vote to the Secretary of the Office of Policy; and WHEREAS, it is desirable and in the public interest that the Town of Plymouth make an application under Section 4-66g in the amount of $500,000 in order to undertake: economic development projects eligible for funding under this grant program. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Plymouth that pursuant to PA 194-05, the Town shall forego its eligibility to seek funds under section 4-66c “Urban Act” and in lieu thereof funds made available through Section 4-66g the Small Town Economic Assistance Program; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor is hereby directed to notify the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management for a Small Town Economic Assistance Program grant for $500,000.00 and to execute any amendments, decisions, and revisions thereto. The STEAP grant if approved shall be used to fulfill its purposes under this resolution. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action for the temporary employment of counsel – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Attorney Richard S. Conti of Diana, Conti & Tunila, LLP as temporary counsel to the Town of Plymouth per the PLYMOUTH TOWN CHARTER. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss and possibly take action on Agreement between the Plymouth Board of Education and Plymouth Education Association July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2009 . Dr. Anthony Distasio was requested to highlight the changes in the contract and he listed the longer instruction times, more steps that are in the contracts, the salary increases and the co-pay contributions. Public comment was made by James Murdock, 44 Minor Rd. who felt our town and all towns are being held hostage by public education and teachers and their unions. We cannot afford it. No action taken. |
12. |
Public Comment – Jim Carone, 93 Town Hill Rd. wanted to know the status of the trash pick up and why the town council meetings were not being taped. Mayor Krampitz explained that the RFP for the trash RFP has been extended until March 6 th while the Board of Finance gets their questions answered. Volunteers tape the meetings and need to be trained to do so. There is a student interested in doing this and we hope this will begin soon. Susan MacDonald, 42 South St wanted to know what was going on with the property by the water wheel. Mayor Krampitz replied that the town is exploring all options to pursue creating a park in that area. We are looking at the other two adjacent properties and we have a grant for the testing of the soil. We want to reestablish the ad-hoc water wheel committee and change it slightly so that we can be eligible for grants. |
13. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations. – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into executive session for real estate negotiations at 6:24 p.m. and invite in Attorney Conlin, William Kuehn and Craig Stevenson. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:12 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 8:13 p.m. Mayor Krampitz noted that Councilwoman Scoville had to leave before executive session was over so she is no longer present. |
14. |
Take action from Executive Session if necessary. No action taken. |
15. |
Adjournment. – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
|
SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
May 30, 2006, Immediately following Public Hearing on Ordinances |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville.
|
1. |
Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:58 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Discuss and take action on Fiscal Year 2006-07 Budget per Charter Chapter VII Section 3b – Mayor Krampitz gave a brief history of the events that led to this meeting. The Town of Plymouth had a charter change on how to approve a budget. The charter revisions passed last November 8 th. The first Public Hearing was in April and the first Referendum was May 1 st. The amount of that was $36,878,386 and the vote on that was 236 yes and 1,050 no which included absentee ballots. That failed and a second referendum was held within twenty days by charter and the budget went back to the Board of Finance and they presented another budget which was $36,085,096. The second referendum took place on May 19 th and the yes votes were 462 and the no votes were 700 including absentee ballots. Therefore, action is needed by the Town Council to adopt the budget. The charter language calls for a 3% adjustment which means up or down. The Town Council will be establishing department totals tonight. Councilman Goodwin asked if we received legal opinion on reductions not exceeding 3%. Mayor Krampitz explained that Attorney Gillette from Day, Berry & Howard gave the legal ruling on this charter language reflecting back to how the budget was done before, Town Council action will be forwarded to the Board of Finance and they recommend a budget document with line items to match the new totals acted upon tonight. This is the first step of three steps. There is tonight. Chairman Merchant believes he can get a quorum in approximately one week. The recommendations will come back to the Town Council for one more meeting to adopt a budget for Fiscal Year 06-07. Mayor Krampitz pointed out that the intent is to honor the work of the Board of Finance by seeking their counsel one more time. The Mayor referenced a worksheet that the Town Council had and explained that she would be making recommendations for each department and then ask for a motion. Councilwoman Scoville asked for clarification regarding Emergency Management as an example from the work sheet and noted that it went down 41% but the Town Council would only be able to reduce it by 3%. The extra money would need to be authorized to be spent and the unspent money would go back to the general fund. Comptroller Gomes indicated the difference in this line item was the removal of generators into the facilities line item. He also indicated that all unspent funds are returned to the general fund. Mayor Krampitz stated that there seemed to be many people here for the Board of Education item and it is listed last because that is how it appears in the budget but she will take that item first. Councilman Zagurski stated for the record that his wife is an employee of the Board of Education. Councilman Sekorski asked a procedural question if the intent was to do a line by line motion on each department. Mayor Krampitz informed the Town Council that each department required a motion. The Mayor and Town Council clarified Public Comment by stating that the public could comment after each motion for each department. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Board of Education. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin stated that he has looked at the budgets and considering the referendum failed and the board was at 3% during that vote, he thinks it needs to be lower. Councilwoman Murawski agrees with the mandate of the people that it has to be cut. Councilwoman Scoville thinks the 3% is fair. Mayor Krampitz stated that she has received some calls about the education budget from people who think that she can determine how this money is spent. She explained that the BOE is its own entity. Councilman Sekorski stated that the ECS grant pays a lot of the cost and creates an actual cost of $11,000,000 for us. He thought that 3% is fair. The overwhelming majority of public comment was in favor of the 3% increase. The Superintendent of Schools, Anthony Distasio, answered questions about benefits and the Plymouth 16 program. Councilwoman Murawski stated that there are many people here but most of the people who voted are not present and many people present are from out of town. There are other areas in education that can be cut that would not hurt the children at all but this is not the forum to point to where those areas would be. The Mayor took a roll call vote. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – no, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Capital Outlay. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. A few public comments supported the motion because more roads could be repaired. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Miscellaneous. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Economic Development. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Zagurski asked if the reduction in this department was the elimination of the consultant position. That was confirmed by the Mayor. Public comment was split on the need to have an economic consultant based on the previous performance. Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the Conservation Commission. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the ZBA. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for P & Z. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Recreation. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Plymouth Library. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Terryville Library. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin stated for the record that his wife is an employee of the Terryville Library. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Public Health (other). SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Ambulance Corps. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Medical Director. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski questioned the town’s ability to pay the medical director if a fee is charged and we have a reduction in this department. Mayor Krampitz explained that this item also included the Torrington Area Health District, Hepatitis B, and a clinic. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.2% increase for Public Health. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Murawski wanted to note that the town receives a good amount of revenue from this department. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Human Services. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.5% increase for the Building Inspector. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Maint. Garage. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Councilman Goodwin asked if the truck that was requested in the capital outlay item would be restored now that the money is back in the budget. David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, said it was too early to determine. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Director. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Transfer Station. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville stated that this is the area where the town will feel the most impact. Councilman Sekorski asked the comptroller if each of these public works areas is considered a separate department and if they are could they then be eligible to each seek a special appropriation to cover costs. He was told yes to both concerns. Councilman Goodwin asked for an update on bids and was told that drafts were done. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Highway. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Snow Removal. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin asked if that was for material and salaries and was told that it covered both. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Facilities. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Discussion took place concerning street lights and Anthony Lorenzetti, Public Works Director, requested that street lights be removed from this department and placed in a separate line item. Councilman Zagurski asked if street lights purchasing had been considered. He was told that it appeared to be very expensive because of additional equipment and manpower needs. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Fire Dept. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski brought the fire hydrant rental issue because it is a fixed cost and will deplete the budget. This needs to be moved to another line item also. Mark Sekorski, Fire Chief, explained there is a $31,000 hole. He needs to protect the firefighters first and that is where they will spend the money. Dave Merchant, Chairman Board of Finance, stated that they will find a way to address that problem when they come back to the Town Council with a recommended budget. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to recess at 9:55p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Krampitz called the meeting back to order at 10:10 p.m. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1.2% increase for Communications. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Scoville asked if this was enough to cover our dispatchers. Comptroller Gomes stated that the Board of Finance recommendation was equal to the department request. Councilman Zagurski stated for the record that his son works as a part-time dispatcher. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Dog Warden. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Emergency Mgmt. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski stated that the Board of Finance had recommended a 41% decrease in the line item. The by department wording has to go in the charter. Councilwoman Murawski stated that she would formally request that charter revision be placed on the next Town Council agenda. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1% increase for the Police. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Public comment was in support of maintaining the present levels of police protection. Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville –yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Fire Marshal. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Special Services. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Probate. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Town Clerk. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Employee Benefits. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville hopes that co-workers will be willing to give back in order to keep everyone working. Councilman Goodwin asked what the total lay-off count could be if an agreement can not be reached. Mayor Krampitz stated it could be 15-20 staff. Councilman Sekorski asked why we had such a high increase and the comptroller explained it was due to claims. Councilman Zagurski asked if the retirees are included in this amount and was told that they were. Councilman Goodwin asked if the town is looking at other options and was told that others have been looked at. Councilman Zagurski asked if the benefits could be separated by departments and would that help to save jobs. The Comptroller indicated that it would force some departments to shut down. Public comment included eliminating the “by department” language in the charter and the need for the Town and Unions to reach agreement on insurance to avoid lay-offs. Debra Dabrowski, Union President, stated for the record that her union along with the public works union, police union and nurses union are very willing to work with the town. We have members that are offering to pay double their co-pay and are willing to take a hit on higher co pays. She referenced the BOE co-pay 12% and the $5 to $30. Dawn Armbruster, Nurses Union, stated that all of the unions are agreeable to something in the middle of the line. We are willing to pay more co-pays. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1.7% increase for Insurance. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.2% increase for Legal Services. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Tax Collector. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Board of Assessment Appeals. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Assessor. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Board of Finance. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Registrars. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.9% increase for the Treasurer. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease in the Central Office. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Comptroller. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin wanted to clarify that we share the comptroller with Woodbury so there is some cost sharing. The comptroller indicated that two-fifths of the salary and health costs are paid by the other community. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the Town Council. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Mayor. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin stated that he had heard some people may have voted against the budget because of salaries in the Mayor’s budget and the irony is that the Mayor’s budget was reduced by 9% and now we can only reduce it 3%. So it will increase by 6% because of this process. Councilwoman Murawski agreed. Most of the public comment dealt with educating the public to the new process to help to avoid this next year. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – no, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
4. |
Public Comment – This was incorporated into agenda item number three. No further action. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to adjourn the meeting at 11:29 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD OF FINANCE AND BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES |
DATE: |
April 17, 2006, Immediately after the 7:00 p.m. Budget Public Hearing |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Senior Lounge |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Board of Finance members Paul Ashton, Victoria Carey, Peter Gianesini, Mark Goodwin, David Merchant, Daniel Murray, Board of Education members Raymond Engle, Lisbeth Leonhardt, Velma McConnell, Patrick Perugino, Michelle Spencer, Jennifer Zalaski.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 9:05 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
3. |
Discuss and take action on proposed FY 2006-07 budget - Mayor Krampitz turned the floor over to David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, so that this board could discuss and take action on the proposed budget. Chairman Merchant began the discussion with his disagreement with the remarks that Mayor Krampitz had made during a television program. He pointed out to the board that there was an oversight that involved a line item on page 14 concerning Hydrant/Plan Reviews/Meetings of $3,500. He believed that this amount was to be included in the proposed budget and the board concurred that this was an oversight and it should be included. Victoria Carey stated that if there were no other additions or subtractions from the budget, she would like to hear from the Town Council and the Board of Education before anything else is done. Chairman Merchant agreed and Mayor Krampitz asked for comments from the Board of Education Chairman Raymond Engle. Chairman Engle stated that the Board of Education was going to wait and see where the suggested cuts were before they make any final decisions because they know they have to make up $500,000 right now. Mayor Krampitz asked for comments from the Town Council. Councilman Goodwin asked about the 10% increases in Administrator Salaries at Main St. and Prospect St. Schools. He was told that this was a result of not only a raise but a step increase. Councilwoman Scoville stated that the problem is that if this budget goes to referendum it will fail. We heard 200 people tell us that we have to do something. Councilwoman Murawski stated that she agreed with Councilwoman Scoville. The Board of Finance did a good job but they did not have cuts that hurt and we have to do that. Chairman Merchant stated that he did not disagree with either Councilwoman. He had a hard time thinking that this was going to pass. Where would the cuts come from? Councilwoman Murawski also responded to Chairman Merchant’s opening remarks by stating that it should have come as no surprise that Mayor Krampitz was opposed to a higher tax increase. It is simply a matter of a different philosophy and was certainly not personal or political. She was also concerned that the Board of Education’s budget was the proposed budget before it had been cut by the Board of Finance. She wants the people to be able to see what they are voting on and the proposed budget does not show it. Councilman Sekorski stated that our system of determining a budget does not make a lot of sense because we really do not know what our revenue will be from the State side. We all end up speculating quite a bit. We should move this proposal forward for a referendum vote. Councilman Zagurski stated that he believed that the townspeople were going to vote the budget down but we need to put it to a vote and if it is voted down the Board of Finance will have to sharpen their pencils. Councilman Goodwin thought that we needed to listen to the people at the hearing because if we do not, we will only have one opportunity to adjust this budget. Councilwoman Scoville reiterated that we need to listen to the people at the hearing tonight. She recommended that the budget be reduced by a half of a mill. With no further Town Council comments, Mayor Krampitz turned the floor back to David Merchant who stated that most people show up at a hearing that oppose the budget. People will show up to vote no at a referendum and have no idea what the town needs. He said that he heard nothing at the Public Hearing that changed his mind on the budget proposal. Victoria Carey stated that she did not want to see her taxes go up but they spent three months on this budget and looked at everything and she would prefer to send this proposal to the public with the minor adjustment. The board had workshops all year and no one really attended to become informed. Paul Ashton stated that there was nothing specific that the people wanted adjusted. To cut it now without another public hearing to indicate the changes made would not be right for the people. We should move forward with this proposal with minor corrections. Daniel Murray clarified that the increase was 2.7 mills not 2.4. He also stated that it is difficult to predict the outcome of the referendum. But if it fails twice and goes to the Town Council, it will be a big step backward for the town. Peter Gianesini stated that we assume that if we cut the budget a half a million dollars that it will pass and that is foolish. There are people that will keep cutting it and will care less. If it fails, we have to make cuts that will hurt the least. Mark Goodwin stated that historically over the last six years we have gone up four percent so as far as going forward, three percent would be going backward. MOTION: Paul Ashton moved to accept the budget as presented with the small addition of the Hydrant/Plan Reviews/Meetings of $3500 and to send forward to referendum. SECOND: Victoria Carey. Paul Ashton – yes, Victoria Carey – yes, Daniel Murray – yes, Mark Goodwin – no, Peter Gianesini – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
4. |
Discuss and take action to schedule a referendum for FY 2006-07 budget - MOTION Councilwoman Scoville moved to schedule a referendum to vote on the FY 2006-07 budget on May 1, 2006 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Town Hall Community Room. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Adjournment - MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:44 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
June 13, 2006, 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Discuss and take action to adopt Fiscal Year 2006-07 Budget per Charter Chapter VII Section 3b – Mayor Krampitz gave a brief history of how the Town Council reached this point due to the new charter language. She referred to the May 30 th meeting when the department totals were given to the Board of Finance and that board met on June 2 nd. The Mayor then recognized David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, to give a report on that meeting and the recommended budget. Mayor Krampitz stated that the proposed recommendation was in the packet that the Town Council had already received and wanted a motion before any discussion. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adopt the budget based on $35,775,536. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. The Mayor informed the council that there was an error and that is why the total is $2,256 less than it appears on page one. David Merchant began by discussing the charter changes. He did not believe that the budget would ever pass with a referendum. Mayor Krampitz asked him to clarify if this was his opinion or that of his board and Mr. Merchant claimed that it was his personal opinion. Mr. Merchant said that his board will be asking the council to put all departments at a 3% increase after the presentation. He understands why the action was taken but the Board of Finance would have never presented the budget the way it had if they knew what kind of results it was going to have. This budget is set up for deficits and we will have to dip into the fund balance. The budget before the council raises the taxes .3 mills. If the council increases all the departments to 3%, then the taxes will increase .6 mills. The report began on page 6 with the Mayor’s department. $10,500 was added to this budget. Advertising – legal notices increased by $5,500 and Expenses increased by $5,000. Town Council had no change. Comptroller’s Department $10,529 was added by putting $5,000 into the part time salary and $5,229 into Contract Services. On page 7, Central Office added $7,964 by putting in the part time flex worker. Treasurer had no change. Registrars had to be decreased by $8,417 so wages-election workers were decreased by $4,117, printing was reduced by $1,000, maintenance and repairs $2,300 and voting machine inspection $1,000. On page 8, Board of Finance had $14,795 added by putting that into the contingency. The Assessor had $50 added to office supplies. Board of Assessment Appeals had $14 added to conferences and memberships. On page 9, Tax Collector was decreased by $43,914. Salary staff was reduced by $27,072, service contracts lost $2,842 and tax refunds was reduced by $14,000. Legal Services had $30 added to town attorney. Insurance had $142 added to workers compensation. On page 10, Employee Benefits was reduced by $436,557 by taking away $65,000 from pensions, $250,479 from health insurance and $121,078 out of wage adjustments. Town Clerk lost $1,410 from computer records. Probate Court had $835 added to office supplies. On page 11, Special Services stayed the same. Fire Marshal lost $3,132 by reducing the salary by $1,132, the training by $500, service contracts by $500, office supplies by $500 and investigative equipment by $500. On page 12, Police Department was increased by $16,533 by adding $6,553 part-time salaries and $10,000 to overtime salaries. The Chairman noted that this was different than what the Town Council had approved last time because of the research that was done after that meeting concerning the part-time and overtime accounts. Emergency Management was increased by $4,638. The generator was put back in this department and taken out of facilities. On page 13, Dog Warden was reduced by $4,776 and this was taken out of the salary line item. Communications had no change. On page 14, Fire Department had the fire hydrants taken out of this budget and placed in a separate department. The total reduced was $8,817 by taking $500 out of truck repairs, $1,000 out of equipment, $1,219 out of physicals, and $1,000 out of refurbishing trucks and $500 out of training equipment. On page 15, there were no changes to the stations. Facilities had street lights removed and put into a separate department as was the generator maintenance. This was reduced by $37,180. Service contacts was reduced by $2,000, employee safety committee by $3,000, repairs and supplies by $2,000, heat by $5,000, electricity by $9,150, and telephones by $16,030. On page 16, Snow Removal had to be reduced by $16,569 by taking $569 from supplies and equipment, $8,000 from sand and $8,000 from salt. Highway was reduced by $24,608 by taking $14,608 from repairs and supplies and $10,000 from street signs. On page 17, Transfer Station was reduced by $20,703 by taking $13,000 from contract services, $5,000 from repairs and supplies, $403 from electricity, $300 from tire disposal and $2,000 from land fill testing. Public Works Director was reduced by $8,146 by taking that from the salary for the engineering tech. On page 18, Maintenance Garage was reduced by $4,610 by taking $610 from repairs and supplies, $2,000 from gas and oil and $2,000 from tires and tubes. Building Inspector had no change. On page 19, Human Services had no change. Public Health had $258 added to medical supplies. On page 20, Medical Director was reduced by $2,877 by taking $877 from the health director and $2,300 from the podiatry clinic. Ambulance Corps was reduced by $5,723 by taking $2,000 from heat and $3,723 from electricity. On page 21, Public Health (other) had the mistake in the budget. The total should be $25,558 not $27,814. The adjustment will be made. Terryville Library was reduced by $2,935 which was taken from periodicals. On page 22, Plymouth Library was reduced by $2,202. Recreation was increased by $939 and this was added to the part-time salary item. On page 23, Planning and Zoning was decreased by $986 by taking $300 from contract services and $686 from advertising. On page 24, ZBA had no change. Conservation had no change. Economic Development was increased by $28,788 which was added back into contractual services. The rest of page 24 and page 25 contained Debt Service and was not part of the report. Miscellaneous had no change. On page 26, Board of Education, at 3% had to be reduced by $3,642 for a total of $20,975,188. Streetlights and Fire Hydrants were placed in a utilities department on that page. Capital Outlay was increased by $330,969. This was done by adding $150,000 to roads, $105,179 for the fire department rescue truck, $5,790 for fire marshal software and $70,000 for a dump truck. Councilwoman Scoville asked what .3 mills equal in dollars and Comptroller Gomes indicated it is $165,000. Mayor Krampitz referred to page 3 and gave a summary of each department’s percentage of increase or decrease for the Town Council’s benefit. AMENDMENT: Councilwoman Scoville moved that any area that the council gave a negative adjustment move to a plus three adjustment to equal the Board of Finance recommendation. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. David Merchant gave an explanation of the concern of deficit spending and that there is no margin of error. He explained that the fund balance is low and should be between five and seven percent. Councilman Goodwin stated that he was disappointed that no one from the Board of Finance mentioned that all the departments should be given a 3% increase while the council met for nearly four hours during a meeting on May 30 th going over every line item. Councilman Zagurski asked if the amendment was only going to increase the departments that had decreases of if it was intended to increase all departments to three percent. The intent was clarified to include all departments would be increased to three percent. Councilwoman Scoville asked where the town stood with staffing issues and Mayor Krampitz informed the council that there were negotiations the next day. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED, the Mayor noted that the new total if the $165,000 is accurate would be $35,940,536, PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Public Comment – There were questions for the Board of Finance concerning the School Resource Officer, Tax Collector’s office and the Personnel Director. David Merchant answered the questions. The Mayor was asked what the total mill increase would be and she said it would be .6 mills. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:03 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
June 6, 2006 |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville (arrived at 7:05 p.m. )
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the May 2, 2006 Minutes - MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the May 2, 2006 minutes with the changes on page 5 that “an elector” be added to the beginning of the composition section of the ordinance and Councilman Goodwin be recorded as a “no” vote and Councilman Zagurski be recorded as a “yes” vote. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Police Commission is having an awards ceremony on June 13 th. Police dog drafts approved. BOE reported that Mrs. Lavery has resigned as principal at THS. The Housing Authority is looking to get some dead shrubs replaced. Councilman Goodwin reported that the Parks and Recreation Department was dealing with some vandalism to new picnic tables. Human Services workshops have been well attended. The EDC’s new chairman is Dave Philbrick. Some businesses are looking to expand like Lauretano Sign, Phoenix , and Elm Press. Councilman Zagurski reported that the School Building Committee is on schedule with the school. Public Works is installing catch basins, sweeping streets and hot patching pot holes around town. The Fire Commission is concerned about the budget and CERT Teams. Councilman Sekorski reported that the WPCA is working on their budget and will be completed with that shortly. Councilwoman Scoville reported that the Terryville Public Library received the Connecticut Award for Excellence in Library Service and will be hosting an event. The Councilwoman read the June 22 nd invitation into the record. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Ken Marino from the Zoning Board of Appeals with regret. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Mayor Krampitz noted that Ken had been Chairman for years and this would a big loss for the community. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept the resignation of Patricia Chasse from the Parks & Recreation Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Gaye V. Zukauskas from the Planning & Zoning Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept the resignation of John W. Dering from Board of Assessment Appeals with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the resignation of Judith Kosikowski from the Library Board of Directors with regret. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Jeanette Dorn to the Parks & Recreation Commission to fill the vacancy of Patricia Chasse with a term November 5, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Richard A. Daponte to the Zoning Board of Appeals to fill the vacancy of Ken Marino with a term to expire February 19, 2007 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report – Mayor Krampitz reported that:
- In addition to the May 2006 report about reimbursement from FEMA for last October’s flood damage, we will be receiving an additional $22,000.00.
- State Senator Tom Colapietro has informed us that he has sent a letter to Senator Don Williams requesting monetary support for budget items that were reduced from our budget. The Mayor had earlier contacted our legislators for additional funds.
- The Mayor met with our labor unions since our last meeting on May 16 and on May 30. Prior to May, she had met with them on March 10, March 31, April 3, April 11, and April 25 and May 5. There were other times scheduled but canceled by the unions because they wanted to wait to see if the budget referenda passed which caused further delays. The main topic was always medical insurance for our employees.
- May 12 was Student Gov. Day and we had an exuberant group that day that seemed to really sink their teeth into the workings of town government at the town council meeting. It was educational for all of us and the thank you notes that we received also gave that indication.
- The Waterwheel Committee is progressing nicely. Bill Kuehn, Tony Lorenzetti and the Mayor had a site walk with Paul Loether Director of Culture & Tourism for the State of Connecticut at the wheel and were very encouraged about what the grant money could do for that site.
- The Mayor attended a CCRPA luncheon meeting at the Lucky Cup with other mayors and selectmen where the Director of Connecticut Workforce was the speaker.
- The Mayor attended the anniversary celebration of Eli Terry Retirement Community Center where I saw realized the funds granted to them from Small Cities Block Grants.
- She participated in the Memorial Day Parades.
- She regretted to inform the council that our Building Inspector Bill Herzman will be leaving us for a position in Naugatuck. His last day with us is June 13 and he stated that he would try to help out with the transition. The Mayor posted and published for this position and talked to surrounding communities about coverage.
- The Mayor met with Mayor Bill Stortz about the intertown water agreement and the need for a building inspector. He will get back to us soon.
- She was pleased to attend the Eagle Scout ceremony last Sunday for seven scouts. Also that afternoon she attended the installation of Rev. Jackson at the Grace Baptist Pentecostal Church.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: GMAC $80.42; GMAC $154.46; GMAC $397.15; VW Credit Leasing Ltd $182.33 – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Take action to reschedule August Town Council meeting – Mayor Krampitz explained that the Regular Council Meeting scheduled for August 1st could not be held due to vacation schedules. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to schedule a Special Council Meeting for Tuesday August 8 th at 7:00p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action on proposed ordinances titled Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal and Retirement and Pension Oversight Board – Mayor Krampitz indicated that we had received some opinions from our attorney who specializes in charter language. There are a few more items that need to be considered but the item was left on the agenda for any council discussion or action based on public hearing comments. The Town Council had concerns about the $4,000 fee with the Plan Review for the Fire Marshal. They had concerns about non-profit groups being charged too much and also the possibility of keeping business away. They talked about flat fees or a step increase that could be used. It was a consensus to invite Jack Schubert and Bill Kuehn to the next meeting with ideas for a fee schedule. Comments on the Retirement and Oversight Pension Board included discussions for the need to have a BOE member on the board. There was also discussion about having a union representative on the board but it was pointed out that there are seven unions so it would become cumbersome. More information was asked about liability of membership and BOE involvement. |
11. |
Discuss and take action on Blight Fees list per Blight Abatement ordinance – Mayor Krampitz informed the Town Council that this was an updated list but the activity started in 2000. Councilman Goodwin stated that if the town collected half of the blight fees, the budget situation would go away. Mayor Krampitz informed the council that the ordinance requires that the list be presented to them at the regular June meeting. The information has been verified by the Building Inspector. Within seventy-five days of receipt of this list, it is deemed approved. Councilwoman Scoville stated that some of the fees due probably outweigh the value of the property and wanted to know what happens to the people who can not pay for the fines. Mayor Krampitz explained there are liens on the properties so they would be required to pay the blight fine before the property was transferred. Councilwoman Murawski asked if the people were aware of the liens and fines. The Mayor explained that she had seen the files and that all the people had received notification and had returned paperwork to that affect. Councilman Goodwin asked if foreclosure is an option. Mayor Krampitz said that the ordinance allowed the town to acquire property. |
12. |
Discuss and take action to create a Charter Revision Commission – Mayor Krampitz stated that she had received a written request from Councilwoman Murawski and included a list of basic steps for establishing a municipal charter revision commission. Councilwoman Murawski stated that to be able to do something by the November election is almost impossible. Councilwoman Scoville wanted to know what the intent of forming the commission would be and Councilwoman Murawski answered that if the words “by department” are eliminated she would have no problem with it. Councilman Goodwin thought that having a cap would be good for the community. Councilman Zagurski stated that the commission could be made up of new members and old members. Public comment included the need to keep the referendum format because of the large voter turn-out. They recognized the need to change the language and asked the council to consider ways to do that part first and work on other charter issues at a later time. Councilman Sekorski stated that it would be inappropriate to rush through charter revision when we can look at how departments are organized. Mayor Krampitz reviewed some of the steps with the Town Council that are required by state statute. The Mayor explained that the Council could give a tentative time line. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to create a Charter Revision Commission. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville wanted the members of the most recent commission to be invited to come back. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved that the Charter Revision Commission consist of seven members appointed by the Mayor with Council approval. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Mayor Krampitz asked if there was a consensus that the Mayor’s office contact the previous members and without objection she informed the council that would be done. Councilman Sekorski suggested that the Mayor could bring forward a maximum number of names to choose the seven from as opposed to voting on Mayoral appointments. AMENDMENT: Councilman Sekorski moved to have the Mayor submit twelve names from which the council would choose seven by paper ballot and the total votes counted must meet the criteria of minimum representation with the Mayor breaking a tie if necessary. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. AMENDMENT PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
13. |
Discuss and take action to establish Transfer Station fees for FY 2006/07 – Anthony Lorenzetti, Director of Public Works, presented the proposed transfer station fee schedule as it related to upgrades. It was broken down by annual resident permit, tires, appliances, bulky items and demolition and construction materials. A comparison matrix was also distributed that gave a fee comparison of Plymouth to other communities. Councilman Goodwin was concerned about how we police the annual resident fee. If people are not residents, how do we keep them out. He was told that the stickers are a good indicator but it is a manpower issue. Councilwoman Scoville asked if the annual permit could take care of the rest of the fees. The response was that we were losing so much money on demolition and other materials that one small fee would not cover the costs. Councilman Goodwin urged the town to look at creative ways to recycle and reuse motor oil. Councilman Sekorski asked if there might be a way to set up a special fund to deposit the fees instead of the general fund getting the money. Public comment included concerns about the annual fee, the handling of scrap metal and the number of people working there. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adopt the proposed 2006 transfer station fees excluding the annual resident permit fee of $50. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Discussion took place on motor oil and demolition materials. AMENDMENT: Councilman Sekorski moved to drop the fee for motor oil and have a flat fee of $100 for any pick-up truck for demolition materials. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
14. |
Public Comment – No comments. |
15. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into Executive Session at 9:18 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and invite in Attorney Tom Conlin. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:38 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 9:40 p.m. |
16. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to accept property in lieu of foreclosure at 47 Todd Hollow Rd , Plymouth and to execute any and all documents necessary to affect the transfer of the property to the town. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
17. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to schedule a Special Town Council Meeting on June 13, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. to adopt the budget for 2006/07. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
18. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:43 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
May 30, 2006, Immediately following Public Hearing on Ordinances |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:58 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Discuss and take action on Fiscal Year 2006-07 Budget per Charter Chapter VII Section 3b – Mayor Krampitz gave a brief history of the events that led to this meeting. The Town of Plymouth had a charter change on how to approve a budget. The charter revisions passed last November 8 th. The first Public Hearing was in April and the first Referendum was May 1 st. The amount of that was $36,878,386 and the vote on that was 236 yes and 1,050 no which included absentee ballots. That failed and a second referendum was held within twenty days by charter and the budget went back to the Board of Finance and they presented another budget which was $36,085,096. The second referendum took place on May 19 th and the yes votes were 462 and the no votes were 700 including absentee ballots. Therefore, action is needed by the Town Council to adopt the budget. The charter language calls for a 3% adjustment which means up or down. The Town Council will be establishing department totals tonight. Councilman Goodwin asked if we received legal opinion on reductions not exceeding 3%. Mayor Krampitz explained that Attorney Gillette from Day, Berry & Howard gave the legal ruling on this charter language reflecting back to how the budget was done before, Town Council action will be forwarded to the Board of Finance and they recommend a budget document with line items to match the new totals acted upon tonight. This is the first step of three steps. There is tonight. Chairman Merchant believes he can get a quorum in approximately one week. The recommendations will come back to the Town Council for one more meeting to adopt a budget for Fiscal Year 06-07. Mayor Krampitz pointed out that the intent is to honor the work of the Board of Finance by seeking their counsel one more time. The Mayor referenced a worksheet that the Town Council had and explained that she would be making recommendations for each department and then ask for a motion. Councilwoman Scoville asked for clarification regarding Emergency Management as an example from the work sheet and noted that it went down 41% but the Town Council would only be able to reduce it by 3%. The extra money would need to be authorized to be spent and the unspent money would go back to the general fund. Comptroller Gomes indicated the difference in this line item was the removal of generators into the facilities line item. He also indicated that all unspent funds are returned to the general fund. Mayor Krampitz stated that there seemed to be many people here for the Board of Education item and it is listed last because that is how it appears in the budget but she will take that item first. Councilman Zagurski stated for the record that his wife is an employee of the Board of Education. Councilman Sekorski asked a procedural question if the intent was to do a line by line motion on each department. Mayor Krampitz informed the Town Council that each department required a motion. The Mayor and Town Council clarified Public Comment by stating that the public could comment after each motion for each department. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Board of Education. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin stated that he has looked at the budgets and considering the referendum failed and the board was at 3% during that vote, he thinks it needs to be lower. Councilwoman Murawski agrees with the mandate of the people that it has to be cut. Councilwoman Scoville thinks the 3% is fair. Mayor Krampitz stated that she has received some calls about the education budget from people who think that she can determine how this money is spent. She explained that the BOE is its own entity. Councilman Sekorski stated that the ECS grant pays a lot of the cost and creates an actual cost of $11,000,000 for us. He thought that 3% is fair. The overwhelming majority of public comment was in favor of the 3% increase. The Superintendent of Schools, Anthony Distasio, answered questions about benefits and the Plymouth 16 program. Councilwoman Murawski stated that there are many people here but most of the people who voted are not present and many people present are from out of town. There are other areas in education that can be cut that would not hurt the children at all but this is not the forum to point to where those areas would be. The Mayor took a roll call vote. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – no, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Capital Outlay. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. A few public comments supported the motion because more roads could be repaired. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Miscellaneous. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Economic Development. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Zagurski asked if the reduction in this department was the elimination of the consultant position. That was confirmed by the Mayor. Public comment was split on the need to have an economic consultant based on the previous performance. Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the Conservation Commission. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the ZBA. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for P & Z. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Recreation. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Plymouth Library. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Terryville Library. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin stated for the record that his wife is an employee of the Terryville Library. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Public Health (other). SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Ambulance Corps. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Medical Director. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski questioned the town’s ability to pay the medical director if a fee is charged and we have a reduction in this department. Mayor Krampitz explained that this item also included the Torrington Area Health District, Hepatitis B, and a clinic. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.2% increase for Public Health. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Murawski wanted to note that the town receives a good amount of revenue from this department. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Human Services. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.5% increase for the Building Inspector. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Maint. Garage. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Councilman Goodwin asked if the truck that was requested in the capital outlay item would be restored now that the money is back in the budget. David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, said it was too early to determine. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Director. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Transfer Station. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville stated that this is the area where the town will feel the most impact. Councilman Sekorski asked the comptroller if each of these public works areas is considered a separate department and if they are could they then be eligible to each seek a special appropriation to cover costs. He was told yes to both concerns. Councilman Goodwin asked for an update on bids and was told that drafts were done. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Highway. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Snow Removal. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin asked if that was for material and salaries and was told that it covered both. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for PWD Facilities. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Discussion took place concerning street lights and Anthony Lorenzetti, Public Works Director, requested that street lights be removed from this department and placed in a separate line item. Councilman Zagurski asked if street lights purchasing had been considered. He was told that it appeared to be very expensive because of additional equipment and manpower needs. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Fire Dept. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski brought the fire hydrant rental issue because it is a fixed cost and will deplete the budget. This needs to be moved to another line item also. Mark Sekorski, Fire Chief, explained there is a $31,000 hole. He needs to protect the firefighters first and that is where they will spend the money. Dave Merchant, Chairman Board of Finance, stated that they will find a way to address that problem when they come back to the Town Council with a recommended budget. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to recess at 9:55p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Krampitz called the meeting back to order at 10:10 p.m. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1.2% increase for Communications. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Scoville asked if this was enough to cover our dispatchers. Comptroller Gomes stated that the Board of Finance recommendation was equal to the department request. Councilman Zagurski stated for the record that his son works as a part-time dispatcher. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Dog Warden. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Emergency Mgmt. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. Councilwoman Murawski stated that the Board of Finance had recommended a 41% decrease in the line item. The by department wording has to go in the charter. Councilwoman Murawski stated that she would formally request that charter revision be placed on the next Town Council agenda. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1% increase for the Police. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. Public comment was in support of maintaining the present levels of police protection. Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville –yes. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Fire Marshal. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for Special Services. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Probate. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Town Clerk. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Employee Benefits. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville hopes that co-workers will be willing to give back in order to keep everyone working. Councilman Goodwin asked what the total lay-off count could be if an agreement can not be reached. Mayor Krampitz stated it could be 15-20 staff. Councilman Sekorski asked why we had such a high increase and the comptroller explained it was due to claims. Councilman Zagurski asked if the retirees are included in this amount and was told that they were. Councilman Goodwin asked if the town is looking at other options and was told that others have been looked at. Councilman Zagurski asked if the benefits could be separated by departments and would that help to save jobs. The Comptroller indicated that it would force some departments to shut down. Public comment included eliminating the “by department” language in the charter and the need for the Town and Unions to reach agreement on insurance to avoid lay-offs. Debra Dabrowski, Union President, stated for the record that her union along with the public works union, police union and nurses union are very willing to work with the town. We have members that are offering to pay double their co-pay and are willing to take a hit on higher co pays. She referenced the BOE co-pay 12% and the $5 to $30. Dawn Armbruster, Nurses Union, stated that all of the unions are agreeable to something in the middle of the line. We are willing to pay more co-pays. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 1.7% increase for Insurance. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.2% increase for Legal Services. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Tax Collector. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for Board of Assessment Appeals. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for Assessor. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Board of Finance. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% increase for the Registrars. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 2.9% increase for the Treasurer. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease in the Central Office. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Comptroller. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin wanted to clarify that we share the comptroller with Woodbury so there is some cost sharing. The comptroller indicated that two-fifths of the salary and health costs are paid by the other community. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of no increase for the Town Council. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the mayoral recommendation of a 3% decrease for the Mayor. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin stated that he had heard some people may have voted against the budget because of salaries in the Mayor’s budget and the irony is that the Mayor’s budget was reduced by 9% and now we can only reduce it 3%. So it will increase by 6% because of this process. Councilwoman Murawski agreed. Most of the public comment dealt with educating the public to the new process to help to avoid this next year. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – no, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
4. |
Public Comment – This was incorporated into agenda item number three. No further action. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to adjourn the meeting at 11:29 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
May 2, 2006, 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville (arrived at 7:45 )
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the April 4, 2006 and April 17, 2006 Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of April 4, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of April 17, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilman Sekorski reported that the WPCA cancelled its meeting because it was the same night as the hearing on the budget. The Planning and Zoning Commission has four active public hearings for subdivisions and they are always busy. Two portions of the zoning regulations have been approved. Councilman Sekorski referenced a memo that was received concerning adding a Public Comment agenda item to the Commission’s agenda. He thought it was important that it be on their agenda and wanted the Mayor to follow-up on that even before a legal opinion is sought. Councilman Zagurski reported that the new high school is on schedule. Work is out of sequence because of rock that needed to be blasted. The School Building Committee is also working on the roof replacement for Prospect St. and Main St. Schools. The Public Works Department has installed new catch basins on South Eagle St., swept roads, installed catch basins and pipes on Burger Rd., Lane Hill Rd. is now open, cleaned-up and bark mulched the highway department/Fisher School area and it looks beautiful, the brush dump is open for the season, bids were prepared for a number of services, a grant application was prepared for FEMA reimbursement, 89 demolition permits, 39 tire permits, and 3 appliance permits were issued. The Fire Commission is planning for its 100 th Anniversary which will be in 2011. Two candidates have been accepted for training in classes for Fire Marshal and fire inspection. The department is still looking for a response to who maintains the underground tanks in subdivisions. The Fire Department responded to 25 calls. The fire marshal will bring the proposed ordinance for plan review to the Fire Commission’s next meeting. Mayor Krampitz added that Anthony Lorenzetti answered the question of underground tanks recently. Councilman Goodwin reported that Human Services had no meeting but they had some seminars scheduled this month. EDC is reviewing maintenance for Phase III and the entrances on Bemis St. Parks and Recreation met to discuss other activities that could be held at Lake Winfield . Councilwoman Murawski reported that there was a request for stop signs on Harwinton Ave. where it intersects with Bemis St. and Holt St . The Police Commission has placed it under consideration. Councilwoman Murawski stated that the Chief had a rough draft of a policy for a police dog so one of the first steps is being done. The Board of Education has a committee getting input on establishing a full-time kindergarten. A number of high school students have volunteered to do an outdoor spring cleaning for the Housing Authority at Gosinski Park . |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to change the agenda by reassigning item #13 to #11 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to change the agenda by reassigning #14 to #12 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to accept the resignation of Chester E. Scoville Jr. for the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin thanked Mr. Scoville for his many years of service and as chairman did a fine job. The community is at a loss to see him go. Mayor Krampitz agreed and said that a thank you letter will be sent. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Krampitz stated that the packet included the resignation of Janet H. Manyak, Deputy Registrar of Voters, which does not require Town Council approval. Also, confirmation of a replacement was included in the packet specifying that Bonnie Leroux has been sworn in as the new Deputy Registrar and Mayor Krampitz thanked the Registrar of Voters for their expediency in finding a replacement. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the reappointment of Patrick Herzing to the Planning & Zoning Commission with a term to expire February 19, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the reappointment of Lawrence Deschaine to the Planning & Zoning Commission with a term to expire February 19, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the Mayoral appointment of James A. Fried (now an alternate member) as a regular member to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire March 2, 2009 replacing Chester Scoville. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved the reappointment of Martin E. Sandshaw to the Zoning Board of Appeals member with a term to expire February 19, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report -
- We received $40,000 from Pineview Estates toward the Water Wheel Park project – in lieu of sidewalks. Also we have received $23,800 for the Town’s open Space fund from Pineview Estates.
- The Fall Mt. Water Project is on schedule. Water is scheduled to flow in September.
- Application has been completed for FEMA for last October’s flood damage amounting to over $30,000. We received notification last week that we received $11,536.54.
- If any residents are looking for low interest loans from the Small Business Administration for disaster relief from flood damage, please call our office and we will provide the state information for you.
- By invitation, I attended the Plymouth-Terryville PTA Reflections Program, Harry S. Fisher CPR Program 10 th Anniversary celebration assembly, Terryville High School Voter Registration Day.
- I hosted a Town Hall Tour for eight Tiger Cubs who are part of Troop 75.
- I met with Connecticut Water Company who advised us to expect a twenty percent rate increase in the next year.
- We received notification that we have met all requirements in a Compliance Review for the Fall Mt. Lake Water Project and Sewer Pump Station from U.S.D.A. Rural Development. We are in compliance.
- I have written thank you notes to local businesses and residents who helped with our Earth Day – Main Street Clean up Day.
- Last Thursday, the Planning and Zoning Commission set a public hearing date for June 8 concerning a moratorium on subdivisions involving new roads.
- The Budget Referendum failed yesterday yes votes “233”, no votes “1035”. The Board of Finance set a special meeting to discuss the budget for Thursday, May 4 at 7 p.m. Since the second referendum has to take place within 20 days of the first, I will be asking the Town Council to set a new date for May 19.
- I threw the first pitch for the Little League Opening Day Ceremony and the 5K Rotarian Road Race was a huge success.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Thomas Porrini $130.28, Robert A. Yeates $255.64, Cheryl Ann Beckwith $126.20, Elmer Michaud $95.03, Aurea E. Guzman $100.20, Kevin J. Engle $9.03 – MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Presentation of Ronald St. Onge Citation – Mayor Krampitz stated that Officer Ronald St. Onge had aided in the rescue of a woman on March 7, 2006 . The Mayor read the recognition and congratulated him. The Certificate of Recognition was presented to Officer St. Onge with his family by his side. |
10. |
Presentation of Earth Day Proclamation – Mayor Krampitz read the Earth Day Proclamation originally scheduled for reading April 22. At the end of the clean-up it was raining too hard. The following residents were thanked and Mayor Krampitz noted that significant gains were made with a few dedicated volunteers. Mark and Helen Nejfelt who started it all, Patrick Herzing, Cheryl Russell, and Sally Barnes for spearheading its organization, IGA for donation of water, Terryville True Value Hardware for equipment and refreshments, Lee Hardware for equipment and supplies, Ritchie’s Terryville Bakery for food, Beacon Pharmacy for gloves, etc., Diane and Christopher Ranft for litter clean-up in the McDonald’s area, Jim Deutsch for raking in the plaza area, Jan Basoli, Barb Sekorski, Kathy Nelson, Sue Murawski, Chris Goodwin and friend Tom, Dawn and Emily Ganem, Tom and Katherine Conlin, Ed Graveline and others. |
11. |
Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security presentation on Community Emergency Response Teams – Mayor Krampitz introduced Mr. Paul Beneyda from Homeland Security and thanked Mr. Carl Johnson for arranging this presentation. A slide show was given with the major points being the formation of a Citizen Corps, CERT Program Topics, CERTs in a Disaster Setting, Responding to a Disaster, Non-disaster CERT Roles, Additional CERT Training Opportunities, Preparing for a Disaster, and a CERT summary. Mayor Krampitz asked for questions. Clem Paskus, Emergency Management Director, questioned the Town’s liability using CERTs. He was told that there is a Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 and the CERTs should be sworn in under the General Statutes 28-517 and it will cover the town under 28-11 too. Councilman Goodwin asked about CERT team sizes. The recommended size is ten. Mayor Krampitz questioned the required age of the participants. It was recommended that 18 is the minimum. Councilman Goodwin asked what the trigger would be to activate the CERT team. He was told it would be whatever is in the charter. |
12. |
Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism presentation on Certified Local Government Program and take action if necessary – Mayor Krampitz introduced Mr. Bill Kuehn, Director of Planning and Economic Development, who introduced Ms. Mary Donahue, Architectural Historian Survey and Grants Director. Ms. Donahue gave an overview of the program and the certification requirements. She explained how communities can play a part in preserving their historical buildings. The Town would have to follow the guidelines of State Statute 7-147. Mayor Krampitz asked for questions. Councilman Goodwin asked if the grants can be used for private structures or is it just for public ones. He was told that non-profit buildings could be eligible but there are no grants for restoration of private homes. Councilwoman Scoville asked if the Waterwheel would qualify because it is not a building. She was told that it would because it is a resource. Councilman Sekorski stated that the Waterwheel meets the minimum standard already so the process has started. We would need to start the committee next. He was told that the Town’s next step would be separate from what has already been done. Mayor Krampitz asked for public comment. Ann Tuleja, 383 Allentown Rd. – asked if the Plan of Development would be of any help to this process. She was told that it was an unrelated process. Bill Kuehn indicated that the Plan of Development recommends that the Town engage in further studies and surveys. This is a way to get the money to do this. Mayor Krampitz asked him to confirm that there are currently three historic districts in town. Mr. Kuehn said there are the East Plymouth and Plymouth Center Historic Districts and the Waterwheel. Councilwoman Scoville asked if there is an age requirement for historic district. She was told there is none. Mayor Krampitz noted that the reason she had Bill Kuehn look into this was not just for the Waterwheel but for all of Main St. because other structures could qualify. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin read the necessary resolution to be certified as a Certified Local Government. “BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLYMOUTH TOWN COUNCIL THAT: 1. The Mayor be and is hereby authorized to appoint a historic district study committee consisting of five regular members and three alternate members who shall be electors of the Town of Plymouth holding no salaried municipal office; 2. The qualifications for membership on the historic district study committee shall be consistent with purposes of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended and with the Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-147 et seq.; 3. The historic district study committee shall expeditiously prepare those documents necessary in order for the Town of Plymouth to request certification as a Certified Local Government from the SHPO; and 4. The historic district study committee and/or any successor commission may make recommendations concerning other actions or programs as may be available to encourage the preservation of historic resources in the Town of Plymouth . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
13. |
Discuss and take action to recommend an appropriation of $21,000 for purchase and installation of equipment shelter for communications tower – Mayor Krampitz stated that this equipment shelter will protect our emergency services generator and power supply at the cell tower site at the Terryville Fairgrounds. Clem Paskus, Director of Emergency Management gave a brief overview and answered questions. Councilman Goodwin asked what the equipment is housed in now. He was told it was temporarily housed in a Lions Club shed. Councilwoman Scoville asked what departments would be involved in this. Mr. Paskus explained that it would be for the Police, Fire and Ambulance. Councilman Zagurski asked if there was anything in writing from the Lions Club stating that we can use that property. He was told that at a March 1 st meeting the Lions requested a written agreement that if any of our employees get hurt on the site that we would be responsible such as an access waiver. Verizon is also providing us the use of their generator for free. A new building would cost $24,000. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend an appropriation of $21,000 for the purchase and installation of an equipment shelter for communications tower to the Board of Finance. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to waive the bid process for this project. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
14. |
Discuss and take action to recommend an appropriation up to $30,000 for Library Air conditioner repair – Mayor Krampitz introduced Director of Public Works Anthony Lorenzetti and Library Director Sharon LaCourse to explain the status of the Terryville Library’s air conditioners. Mr. Lorenzetti discussed the bid process and what was submitted for bids. Mrs. LaCourse discussed the need for the air conditioning in the library and how it stopped working in June of 2005. The windows do not open in the library and the second floor gets over ninety degrees. Councilwoman Scoville stated that as liaison to the Library Board, this is a health issue for the residents and the employees and she supports this. Mayor Krampitz indicated that the Board of Finance made it a goal of theirs to have this fixed as soon as possible so that this would not be a problem again this summer. Councilman Goodwin asked what the size of our collection was. He was told it was in excess of 60,000 and worth $2,000,000. Councilman Goodwin stated that if we look at the investment that we are protecting, it is worth the small insurance this appropriation gives. Councilman Sekorski asked about the various other funds that the library has with endowments. Mrs. LaCourse stated that money donated is used for specific projects and programs. Mayor Krampitz stated that she had asked the Terryville Library Board and Friends of the Library if any special funds could be used for this project and she hopes to hear back on this soon. Councilwoman Scoville stated that as a community we should be responsible to take care of our buildings. Secondly, if we get a historic district, maybe the library will qualify under the plan and we can get some funding for it. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend an appropriation of up to $30,000. for Terryville Library conditioner repair to the Board of Finance . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – abstained, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
15. |
Discuss and take action to set Public Hearing date on proposed ordinances – Mayor Krampitz updated the Town Council on the ordinances. Councilman Sekorski asked if both ordinances could be held at the same hearing and could they be adjusted after the hearing. The Mayor told him that was the case. Councilman Sekorski also wanted to know what date would be good. Mayor Krampitz suggested May 30 th because the Special Town Meeting was that night and the hearing could follow it. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to set a public hearing for ordinances entitled “ARTICLE VII . RETIREMENT AND PENSION BOARD” and “ARTICLE VI. FEES FOR PLAN REVIEW BY THE FIRE MARSHAL” for Tuesday, May 30, 2006 in the Community Room immediately following the Special Town Meeting at 7:00 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Zagurski informed the Town Council that the Fire Commission has not had the opportunity to review the fee schedule yet and Mayor Krampitz asked him to invite the commission to the hearing. Discussion took place to amend the proposed Retirement and Pension Board Ordinance. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to amend line 16 under Sec. 2-112 Composition “and the Mayor shall appoint the elector.” SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to amend line 1 changing the title to Retirement and Pension “Oversight” Board. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Zagurski – No, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville –yes. MOTION PASSED. MAIN MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
16. |
Public Comment – Deb Blanchette - Ridge Rd. said she is having a problem with ATVs in her neighborhood for four years. She needs something to be done. She has gone to court once already. Ann Tuleja – 383 Allentown Rd., was concerned that the police commission was not invited to the meeting for the Certificate of Recognition presentation and she had concerns about the Police Dog fund raising. Mayor Krampitz explained that the certificate was presented because she did not want any more time to go by without recognizing Officer St. Onge. The Mayor also explained that the Police Dog issue can move forward when she receives something in writing to start negotiations. Councilwoman Murawski stated that the Police Commission had not voted for a police dog because she would have indicated it during liaison reports. Mayor Krampitz concurred that it is not in their minutes. Patrick Herzing – Scott Rd., stated that there should be a Main St. fund. This could be an avenue for funding for various projects. Melanie Church – 328 Main St., was concerned about raises in the Mayor’s office staff and town staff using vehicles to go home. She wanted the Town Council to enact ordinances to address those issues. Sally Barnes – 279 Main St., wanted clarification on who needed to send the written request in for the police dog. Mayor Krampitz informed her that it would be the Chief and/or the Commission to the Mayor’s office. Patrick Herzing – Scott Rd., encouraged the Mayor and Town Council to appoint a Charter Revision Commission because the section requiring public comment at all meetings puts the Planning and Zoning Commission in a legal bind. Our minds are supposed to be untainted by an outside source and if comments are made during public comment items that precede a public hearing, our decision making could be influenced by something that was said before the hearing took place. |
17. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into Executive Session at 9:10 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and invite in Attorney Tom Conlin and Bill Kuehn. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:55p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 9:56p.m. |
18. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – No action taken. |
19. |
Other Business – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to discuss and take action on setting a date for the second 2006-2007 budget referendum. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to schedule a referendum to vote on the FY 2006 – 2007 budget on May 19, 2006 from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Community Room. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
20. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:58pm . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD OF FINANCE AND BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES |
DATE: |
April 17, 2006, Immediately after the 7:00 p.m. Budget Public Hearing |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Senior Lounge |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilman Zagurski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Board of Finance members Paul Ashton, Victoria Carey, Peter Gianesini, Mark Goodwin, David Merchant, Daniel Murray, Board of Education members Raymond Engle, Lisbeth Leonhardt, Velma McConnell, Patrick Perugino, Michelle Spencer, Jennifer Zalaski.
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 9:05 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
3. |
Discuss and take action on proposed FY 2006-07 budget - Mayor Krampitz turned the floor over to David Merchant, Chairman of the Board of Finance, so that this board could discuss and take action on the proposed budget. Chairman Merchant began the discussion with his disagreement with the remarks that Mayor Krampitz had made during a television program. He pointed out to the board that there was an oversight that involved a line item on page 14 concerning Hydrant/Plan Reviews/Meetings of $3,500. He believed that this amount was to be included in the proposed budget and the board concurred that this was an oversight and it should be included. Victoria Carey stated that if there were no other additions or subtractions from the budget, she would like to hear from the Town Council and the Board of Education before anything else is done. Chairman Merchant agreed and Mayor Krampitz asked for comments from the Board of Education Chairman Raymond Engle. Chairman Engle stated that the Board of Education was going to wait and see where the suggested cuts were before they make any final decisions because they know they have to make up $500,000 right now. Mayor Krampitz asked for comments from the Town Council. Councilman Goodwin asked about the 10% increases in Administrator Salaries at Main St. and Prospect St. Schools. He was told that this was a result of not only a raise but a step increase. Councilwoman Scoville stated that the problem is that if this budget goes to referendum it will fail. We heard 200 people tell us that we have to do something. Councilwoman Murawski stated that she agreed with Councilwoman Scoville. The Board of Finance did a good job but they did not have cuts that hurt and we have to do that. Chairman Merchant stated that he did not disagree with either Councilwoman. He had a hard time thinking that this was going to pass. Where would the cuts come from? Councilwoman Murawski also responded to Chairman Merchant’s opening remarks by stating that it should have come as no surprise that Mayor Krampitz was opposed to a higher tax increase. It is simply a matter of a different philosophy and was certainly not personal or political. She was also concerned that the Board of Education’s budget was the proposed budget before it had been cut by the Board of Finance. She wants the people to be able to see what they are voting on and the proposed budget does not show it. Councilman Sekorski stated that our system of determining a budget does not make a lot of sense because we really do not know what our revenue will be from the State side. We all end up speculating quite a bit. We should move this proposal forward for a referendum vote. Councilman Zagurski stated that he believed that the townspeople were going to vote the budget down but we need to put it to a vote and if it is voted down the Board of Finance will have to sharpen their pencils. Councilman Goodwin thought that we needed to listen to the people at the hearing because if we do not, we will only have one opportunity to adjust this budget. Councilwoman Scoville reiterated that we need to listen to the people at the hearing tonight. She recommended that the budget be reduced by a half of a mill. With no further Town Council comments, Mayor Krampitz turned the floor back to David Merchant who stated that most people show up at a hearing that oppose the budget. People will show up to vote no at a referendum and have no idea what the town needs. He said that he heard nothing at the Public Hearing that changed his mind on the budget proposal. Victoria Carey stated that she did not want to see her taxes go up but they spent three months on this budget and looked at everything and she would prefer to send this proposal to the public with the minor adjustment. The board had workshops all year and no one really attended to become informed. Paul Ashton stated that there was nothing specific that the people wanted adjusted. To cut it now without another public hearing to indicate the changes made would not be right for the people. We should move forward with this proposal with minor corrections. Daniel Murray clarified that the increase was 2.7 mills not 2.4. He also stated that it is difficult to predict the outcome of the referendum. But if it fails twice and goes to the Town Council, it will be a big step backward for the town. Peter Gianesini stated that we assume that if we cut the budget a half a million dollars that it will pass and that is foolish. There are people that will keep cutting it and will care less. If it fails, we have to make cuts that will hurt the least. Mark Goodwin stated that historically over the last six years we have gone up four percent so as far as going forward, three percent would be going backward. MOTION: Paul Ashton moved to accept the budget as presented with the small addition of the Hydrant/Plan Reviews/Meetings of $3500 and to send forward to referendum. SECOND: Victoria Carey. Paul Ashton – yes, Victoria Carey – yes, Daniel Murray – yes, Mark Goodwin – no, Peter Gianesini – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
4. |
Discuss and take action to schedule a referendum for FY 2006-07 budget - MOTION Councilwoman Scoville moved to schedule a referendum to vote on the FY 2006-07 budget on May 1, 2006 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Town Hall Community Room. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Adjournment - MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:44 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
April 4, 2006, 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski, Councilwoman Scoville
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order - Mayor Krampitz called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval of the March 7, 2006 and March 22, 2006 Minutes – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the minutes of March 7, 2006 with the change on page 6 that the officer was on patrol. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville - abstained. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilwoman moved to approve the minutes of March 22, 2006 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Mr. Gary Travers, the H. S. Fisher vice-principal was named principal of that school effective July 1. The Board of Education also unanimously approved the FY 06-07 budget brought before them. Councilman Zagurski reported that the Public Works Department installed new drainage, processed brush and started street sweeping. They also submitted an application for FEMA reimbursement, went out to bid for catch basin cleaning and for library air conditioning. The water project to Fall Mountain should resume this week and the State has gone out to bid on Canal St . The Fire Commission made an evacuation plan for Gosinski Park . Former commissioner George Baraniecki was honored for his many years of service. Water tanks used for fire hydrants are still an issue as to who maintains them. The School Building Committee is still on schedule with the new high school. Footings and walls have been poured. Councilman Sekorski reported that the WPCA is still having an issue with the DEP with the disposal of their screening material. Letters have been sent with the hopes of bringing this to a resolution. Another issue with a sub-division came up as far as a pump station being required and who would be responsible for that station. Councilwoman Scoville reported that the Library is going to distribute a town-wide survey to determine if it is meeting the needs of the community in mid-April. The Public Health Department is also going to conduct a survey with seniors through the Human Services Commission and the VNA to see if their needs are being met. Councilman Goodwin reported that The Human Services Commission was exploring a name change but that would need a charter change. They are interested in using part of Main St. School for a community center. They are also applying for three major grants. The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed issues with the tennis courts. The Economic Development Commission discussed the incubator plan for business and the waterwheel park. The Beautification Committee is going to do a clean up project on Earth Day, April 22nd. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures - No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – Mayor Krampitz stated that she has appointed Diane B. Mindera to the Waterwheel Committee. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral appointment of Sean P. Doran to the Conservation Inland-Wetlands Commission (to fill a vacancy) as an alternate member with a term to expire September 1, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the Mayoral appointment of Mark Nejfelt to the Beautification Committee with an unlimited term. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the Mayoral appointment of Patrick Herzing to the Beautification Committee with an unlimited term. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral appointment of Cheryl Russell to the Beautification Committee with an unlimited term. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the appointment of Joyce A. Relihan to the Human Services Commission with a term to expire October 1, 2007 to fill the vacancy of Susan Janser. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s report – Mayor Krampitz reported that:
- Waterwheel Park Project– after two months of negotiations with the Belonick family we have purchased 262 Main Street . The closing was last Friday, the same day as grant approval for $350,000. with the help of State Senator Colapietro. We now own three of the four properties that are part of the project.
- The Fall Mt. Water Project is on schedule.
- We had good results from Small Cities Block Grant audit.
- She presented Larry Gronau with certificate of appreciation for his dedicated service to the WPCA. When he retired.
- We have had some very interesting developments in the Plymouth Business Park and hope to be able to make those developments public at the next meeting.
- I have toured Phoenix and Coldform companies and met with their company officials.
- I appointed Dr. Scappiticci as our Town’s medical director for public nursing services.
- We will submit application to Gov. Rell’s office for relief from recent Nor’easter damage.
- An application has been completed for FEMA for last October’s flood damage amounting to over $30,000.
- We met with EcoLogic Aquatic, Terrestrial and Wetland Consultants about the water condition of Lake Winfield . We will take their recommendations under advisement.
- I have appointed Day Berry & Howard, as our Bond Counsel.
- I attended all Board of Finance meetings for the past two months. They completed their work last evening and will present their budget at the Public Hearing on April 17, 2006 . The proposed budget represents a 2.7 mill increase.
- There are Community Emergency Response Team brochures available tonight if any residents are interested in this training having to do with Homeland Security.
- Town Hall is now equipped with T1 connection after my conversations with the Board of Ed. At Main Street School .
- We have received an energy assessment from CL&P.
- I had the pleasure of participating in Read Across America Day by reading to Ms. Triahos’s second grade class at Prospect Street School .
- We have set Student Government Day for Friday, May 12 and need to know who from the Town Council can participate.
- April 22 is the Plymouth Pride Clean up Day sponsored by the Town’s Beautification Committee which will begin around 9 a.m. Residents are encouraged to come out and help. The next organizational meeting will be Monday, April 10.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Ford Motor Credit Co. $383.80; Volvo Finance Na Inc. $205.21; Richard Sutphin $200.12; Craig A. Larson $24.02; VW Credit Leasing Ltd. $56.90; Walter K. Lassy Jr. $81.40. – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to refund property taxes to those as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Take action to set Joint Meeting immediately following the Public Hearing on the Budget – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to schedule the Joint Meeting of the Town Council, Board of Finance and the Board of Education on Monday, April 17, 2006 in the Town Hall Community Room immediately following the 7:00 p.m. Annual Public Hearing on the budget. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss proposed ordinances – Mayor Krampitz introduced Fire Marshal Schubert and Comptroller Gomes to answer questions concerning the proposed ordinances. The Mayor asked the Fire Marshal to begin. Jack Schubert gave a brief history of the beginning of the proposed Fees for Plan Review by the Fire Marshal ordinance and then explained how the plans are reviewed. He explained that the plans should come to the town in complete form so that his office does not have to essentially do them. The fee schedule will help to encourage this process. Councilman Zagurski wanted to know if this was going to cost the average resident more money. The response was that it would affect three family dwellings. Councilman Goodwin asked if others help with plan review and was told that the deputies help and with the new codes his office has to work very closely with the Building Inspector. Councilwoman Scoville asked if he would be able to glance at plans and know right away that something is wrong and give them back. She was told that each component has to be looked at. Councilman Sekorski asked how the dollar amount was determined and was told that it was based on the same permit fees as the building department. Mayor Krampitz explained to the Council that this ordinance is still in draft form and they have time to make changes. She plans to hold a hearing after all of the proposed ordinances have been drafted and discussed so that one hearing can be held for a number of ordinances. The Mayor asked Jack Schubert if the Fire Commission knows about this ordinance and he claimed that they know but are not aware of the details. By consensus, the Council wanted a recommendation from the Fire Commission on this ordinance. The proposed Retirement and Pension Board ordinance was discussed next. Councilman Sekorski asked what the genesis of this ordinance was. Was it due to a specific liability or was it a preemptive strike? Comptroller Manuel Gomes indicated that it was a combination of all of those items. He indicated that many communities now have boards because we have a litigious society. We have a defined benefit program and we are responsible for providing a fixed amount of dollars. There should be a more scheduled oversight of the pension plan. On a quarterly basis, the investment rate of return, the performance of the trustee and the approval of the pensions will be looked at. Councilwoman Scoville wanted to know who would usually make up the board. She was told that it varies in different communities. It usually consists of the comptroller, a member of the Board of Finance, it can also include the Mayor or her designee, a member of the Town Council but if it only elected officials it can change. Councilwoman Scoville asked if qualifications could be written to appoint someone on the board so that they would have experience to deal with pensions. She was told that this would be written into the RFP or the RFQ. Councilman Goodwin asked if there is currently an annual report given on the pension plan and he was told that it is only included in the audit report. Councilman Goodwin thought that it would be a good idea to have more eyes on it. Councilwoman Murawski asked if this could possibly save us some cost on our audit. She was told it would not save money on the audit but if the plan performs better there would be a savings there. Councilwoman Murawski was concerned that someone would need to be on there that has a financial background. Councilman Zagurski stated that he would like to see a member of the general public on the board. |
11. |
Take action to schedule a Special Town Meeting to appropriate $1,100,000 for payment of bond anticipation notes – Mayor Krampitz stated that she was informed by the Comptroller that this was something that had to be done this fiscal year and asked Manuel Gomes to give the background information to the Town Council. Mr. Gomes stated that when bond resolutions are written, there is usually language that indicates that a portion of this will be offset by State grants. This one was not written this way. When the industrial park was passed the second time, a grant came in after the fact and was used to pay off BANS in October of 2005. The problem is that our audit report was terrible last year and Moody’s is coming in here because we need to sell bonds for the new school. We need to take care of the integrity of our Bond Rating. What we do not need is another mark from the auditor that we did something wrong this fiscal year. We need to appropriate the 1.1 million dollars that we spent that we did not appropriate. The auditor is clear that we have to appropriate the money and it has not been done per the previous Town Council and Board of Finance minutes. Councilman Sekorski wanted to clarify that we were not appropriating an additional 1.1 million dollars but that this was a paper appropriation to rectify the books. Councilman Goodwin stated that this is going to add an appropriation above and beyond what was budgeted for this year. The comptroller acknowledged that it would but it would not reduce fund balance. Councilman Goodwin stated that he knows it is something that we have to do but how did we get to this point. He was upset that someone spent it without permission. Mayor Krampitz noted that this expense occurred in October of 2005 and Comptroller Gomes was not here at that time. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to set a Special Town Meeting to appropriate $1,100,000. on Tuesday, May 30 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall Community Room. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to recommend to the Board of Finance an appropriation of $1,100,000. for the payment of bond anticipation notes. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
12. |
Discuss and take action to install stop signs at the intersection of Preston Rd. and Burger Rd. as recommended by the Traffic Authority. Mayor Krampitz explained that in the past these requests were submitted to the Board of Public Safety which then recommended these signs to the Town Council. This board has been inactive. The Traffic Authority by statute is empowered to have signs erected but the reason it is on the agenda tonight is because the Town Council needs to be aware of these changes and there was an incident last year with the rumble strips that the Council was not aware of and had no input. Mayor Krampitz wanted Town Council input as to how they wanted to be kept informed. Councilwoman Murawski stated that as liaison to the Police Commission, she can keep the Council informed of traffic sign installation. Kevin Engle – 205 Preston Rd., stated that he has almost been hit three times at that spot. It has always been a sight line issue. Councilman Zagurski pointed out that it costs the Public Works Department $50 per sign out of its budget yet it has no say in it. It was the consensus of the Town Council that they would be content to be informed by the Mayor or through liaison reports of any new signage. |
13. |
Discuss and take action to accept Gabriel Court – Mayor Krampitz noted for the record that the street name is “Gabrielle” not “Gabriel” as listed on the agenda. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved the following resolution: WHEREAS, the Plymouth Planning & Zoning Commission on June 24, 2004 approved the subdivision known as Pinecrest including Gabrielle Court , a cul-de-sac extending south from Preston Road ; and WHEREAS, Gabrielle Court has been completed in accordance with the approved plans and recommended for acceptance by the Plymouth Planning & Zoning Commission on March 30, 2006 . NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLYMOUTH TOWN COUNCIL: That Gabrielle Court be accepted as a town road as shown on the plans entitled: “Improvement Location Survey – Roadway Asbuilt – Land of Philip Ferraro Family LLC – Gabrielle Court – Pinecrest Subdivision – Plymouth, Connecticut” showing Gabrielle Court plan, profile and cross-section, dated January 2005, Rev. 01-20-06 by R.R.Hiltbrand Engineers and Surveyors as further described as beginning at the centerline of Preston Road at Sta. 0+00 thence proceeding southerly along the centerline of the newly completed Gabrielle Court to the backside of the cul-de-sac at the double catch basin at Sta. 6+43.85; and Further, that the above referenced as-built plans will be placed on file in the Plymouth Land Records. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilwoman Murawski – abstained, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
14. |
Take action to approve Federal Homeland Security Grant Funding resolution – Mayor Krampitz read the following resolution.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN
THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & HOMELAND
SECURITY AND THE TOWN OF PLYMOUTH
AUTHORIZING RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security (DEMHS) is the designated recipient and State Administrative Agency (SAA) of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Office of Domestic Preparedness for the Fiscal Year 2004 State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP), Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Program (LETPP), and Citizen Corps Program (CCP);
WHEREAS, The Governor's Domestic Preparedness Senior Steering Council approved an allocation formula for grant funds available under the SHSGP, LETPP, and CCP Grants;
WHEREAS, the Town of Plymouth is a sub-state local jurisdiction recognized by the SAA as an eligible jurisdiction to receive grant funds in the amount of $74,846;
THEREFORE, the SAA and the Town of Plymouth enter into this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) authorizing the SAA to act as the agent of the Town of Plymouth and allow the SAA to retain and administer such grant funds on behalf of the Town of Plymouth.
RESOLVED: That Mayor Jan A. Krampitz, be and hereby is authorized to act on behalf of the Town of Plymouth Town Council in executing a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, for participation in the FY 2004 State Homeland Security Grant Program.
In WITNESS WHEREOF: The undersigned has affixed her signature this fourth day of April 2006.
Signed by: Jan A. Krampitz, Mayor |
MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved that the Homeland Security Resolution be adopted as read. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Mayor Krampitz stated that the funding would be used for generators and a state-of-the-art finger-printing machine. Melanie Church – 328 Main St ., stated that Thomaston has the finger printing machine and it is a positive thing for the community. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
15. |
Public Comment – Melanie Church – 328 Main St., stated that there was a rumor around town that the Mayor was against having a police dog and she wanted to know if it was true. Mayor Krampitz explained that she is not opposed to having a police dog. In fact she is a big dog lover. She had been approached by the Lions’ Club concerning fund raising and explained to them that a lot of procedural steps had to take place before the Town could accept funds from them. The dog would need a full time care taker and that needs to be negotiated. The Police Commission also needs to do some research. We can not take the money for something that has not been established. Councilman Zagurski stated that he is also in favor of the police dog and has asked if there is a policy in place and has been told that there is nothing in place yet. He would like to see a policy in place before the town starts collecting funds. |
16. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations and for purposes of discussing strategy regarding pending claims filed by Clement Paskus, James Dubowsky and Wallace Mendela Jr. and discussion of litigation matters privileged by attorney-client relationship pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 1-200(6). MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. for the purposes of real estate negotiations and for purposes of discussing strategy regarding pending claims filed by Clement Paskus, James Dubowsky and Wallace Mendela Jr. and discussion of litigation matters privileged by attorney-client relationship pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 1-200(6) and invite in Attorneys McQuade and Hamzy. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:40 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 9:45 p.m. |
17. |
Take action from executive session if necessary – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved that the Town formally accept the claim for benefits filed pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 7-433c by James Dubowsky on or about March 23, 2005 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved that the Town formally accept the claim for benefits file pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 7-433c by Clement Paskus on or about December 5, 2003 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved that the town waive any back taxes and blight fees for the property at 262 Main St . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
18. |
Other Business- No action taken. |
19. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
March 22, 2006, 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Terryville High School Gymnasium |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski, Councilwoman Scoville
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order- The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:05 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance- Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Public Comment on solid waste options of keeping the transfer station or changing to a curbside pick-up program- Mayor Krampitz notified the public that information was located at the back of the gymnasium and she introduced Anthony Lorenzetti, Director of Public Works, to give a brief overview of the two proposals that had been discussed at the previous two meetings. Mr. Lorenzetti reviewed the draft estimate for presentation purposes for the transfer station budget analysis. Costs were shared concerning refurbishing and repairing the current transfer station. The categories included salaries, contract services, repairs and supplies, dump rental, electricity, telephone, water, tire disposal, DEP permit, landfill testing, equipment costs, solid waste handling, tank pump-outs, upgrades, snow removal, benefits and reimbursement for tipping fees which totaled $1,063,485. The proposed curbside collection proposal included salary, contract services, repairs and supplies, dump rental, DEP permit, landfill testing equipment and reimbursement for tipping fees which totaled $947,474. Both projected totals were for fiscal year 2006-07. Mayor Krampitz opened the discussion to the public and informed the council that she would take their comments and questions during agenda item four.
Richard Daponte – 13 Holt St . , stated that he represented the unit owners of Winfield Lake Association and wanted to know if the town was going to pay for their dumpster's and if the collection was going to be once or twice a week. He was told that the plan was to provide dumpster's and it was once a week.
Gail Welwood – 25 South Lakeside Dr. , wanted to know what would happen to Jensen trailer park residents when the taxes go up and they still have to pay their fees. It is a double tax.
Dianna Schenkel – 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. , clarified that the plans were already in the existing budget so taxes were going to be collected for either plan.
Melanie Church – 328 Main St. , believed that once the transfer station is closed we can not open it again but if we keep it open, we can control it.
Ray Engle – 6 Knight Ln. , wanted to know what kind of escalating clauses and escape clauses were in the contract. He was told that there were no escalating clauses and that there were escape clauses based on performance.
Laurie Lamontagne – Bemis St . , stated that she was representing Country Farms Condominiums and was in favor of the curbside pick-up proposal.
Don Souza – Eastview Rd. , He thought the bottom line could change because of income. We should keep the transfer station and better manage it.
Patricia Kopcha – Hillside Ave. , was disappointed when trash pick-up was taken away years ago and is in favor of bringing it back.
John Pajeski – 4 Lynn Ave. , was against trash pick-up because it would be too expensive. We have too many expenses coming up in the future.
Gerry Bourbonniere – 6 Fairmount Ave. , wanted further explanation of the DEP permit costs and received the information he requested.
Noel Schenkel – 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. , Stated he is for trash pick-up and questioned why the town does not recycle itself.
Ralph Zovich – 4 Knight Ln. , asked if there was a performance bond and was told there was. He commented on cost sharing and the savings of using the curbside proposal.
Mike Polchies – Orchard St. , stated that the taxes are not going to go down. If one bid is a lot lower then something is wrong.
Gary Belanger -13 Holt St . , stated that the only people dumping at the transfer station have stickers that have been issued at town hall.
Chet Scoville – 24 North St . , stated that we can save $600,000 for five years and then decide what to do after that. It made no difference to him personally. We elected the council to make the best decision for the town.
Jim Deutsch – 34 Orchard St. , stated that he liked having the choice and using the transfer station as a contingency plan.
Melanie Church – 328 Main St . , stated that contracts can be changed and rising fuel costs could be added later.
Rich Lyga – 23 Scott Rd. , stated he was in favor of the transfer station. He would like to see it open all day on Saturday and a half day during the week.
Eugene Kaczepenski – 6 Maple St . , requested to look at a list of tipping fees and this was shown to him. He said that the Bristol Tech School removes CFCs from appliances for free. He was in favor of keeping the transfer station.
Diana Schenkel – 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. , wanted to know if there was still an issue with the Torrington Area Health District and a letter that they had written. She was told that the last letter was positive.
Shirley Weir – Bemis St. , asked about the cost and weight of the trash barrels.
Dan Gentile – 223 Mt. Tobe Rd. , questioned the difference in the tipping fees. This was explained to him.
Karen Nodine – 38 Burger Rd. , stated that she liked the convenience of going to the transfer station whenever she wanted to.
Dave Yarochowicz – 412 Main St . , stated he was representing Pilgrims’ Landing Condominiums and they are for the curbside pick-up proposal.
Gary Gallagher – 30 Seymour Rd. , stated he is involved with a condo association and wanted clarification on what was considered acceptable solid waste.
Jim Deutsch – 34 Orchard St . , commented that the proposals have had different dollar amounts for the last three meetings. It was explained that numbers were being fine-tuned and adjusted to have an apples to apples comparison plus additional staff was removed and changes were recommended by the Board of Finance.
Keith Golnik – 46 Orchard St . , was concerned about the placement of the trash barrels by the curb. If cars park in the way or other things block the vendor from access, they will not pick up the garbage.
Melanie Church – 328 Main St . , wanted an explanation of the changes at the transfer station if a vendor ran it.
Dave Zukauskus – 100 Heather Ln. , was concerned that if the barrel was not placed just right or something falls out of it, it will stay on the road. Oliver Trucking picks it up. His street is squeaky clean. You get what you pay for.
There were no more public comments under this agenda item. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recess for five minutes at 8:50 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Discuss and take action on solid waste proposals- Mayor Krampitz called the meeting back to order at 9:00 p.m. and explained that at this point the Town Council could accept the Transfer Station as is or it could go with the curbside collection or postpone for one fiscal year or it could be no action at all. The Mayor also said that we have tallied information from all of the meetings and the e-mails and phone calls and the results are that 51% were in favor of the transfer station, 30% were in favor of curbside pick-up and 19% were neutral. The 51% represented 32 responses, the 30% represented 19 responses and the 19% represented 12 responses. Councilwoman Scoville said that the numbers were not accurate because there were people here that represented condominium owners that numbered far more than the numbers show. Mayor Krampitz reiterated that this only showed the number of responses that we had received. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved that the Mayor be authorized to enter into an agreement with Albreada Company to provide curbside trash pickup and oversee the operation of the transfer station under the terms of the proposal provided. Further, that the mayor be authorized to enter negotiations with the provider regarding any outstanding items included but not limited to, contract negotiations, outstanding fees for disposal of larger bulk items, hours of operation and final terms of pickup in areas such as condominiums and trailer parks. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Goodwin asked who would pay the tipping fees for Albreada when they fill a roll off for demolition material. The answer was that Albreada would pay for that out of their fee schedule. Councilman Goodwin also pointed out that we currently do not have a recycling contract. The bottom line is do we want to control our own destiny or contract it out. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she had no personal preference but felt that a lot of people were being represented that lived in condos and she wanted to do what the constituents wanted. She felt the town waited too long to do something and we should have acted sooner. Councilman Sekorski believed it is a mathematical situation. He did not believe we were in a position to make money or be in a position to break even. He thought that the contract offered enough protection for the town and the numbers were better. This proposal makes sense to him. Councilman Zagurski stated that he understood that the bargaining unit contract has a job description for garbage pickers and wanted to know how that would affect the agreement. He was told that there would have to be adjustments. Councilman Zagurski also said he is uncomfortable having to vote on a contract that still has undetermined costs. Councilwoman Murawski was concerned with losing control. She wants to think about what happens after the five years. I think we need to keep it in house. Councilman Goodwin stated that Thomaston had re-bid their trash and he wanted to know how they had done. He was told that their bids came in lower than they are paying now. Councilwoman Scoville said that can not make a profit because we are not in the garbage business. With no further Town Council comments, Mayor Krampitz asked if there were any public comments.
Dave Zukauskus – 100 Heather Ln. , stated that he did the math and he did not see a list of names of condo owners that any of these individuals represented. He can say that he represents all the owners of Heather Ln.
Melanie Church - 328 Main St. , when Jensen’s had an issue they had to have a list with all of the residents’ signatures on it to prove representation.
Diana Shenkel – 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. , stated that she was sure that these people are representing who they say they are.
Noel Shenkel – 269 Mt. Tobe Rd. , wanted to know if anyone went to the vendor’s site. Mike Polchies – Orchard St. , stated that he would want to see the signatures because it is a hearing. If it is important enough, they should be here. Otherwise, table this and give him the opportunity to get signatures to oppose this plan.
Jim Deutsch – 34 Orchard St . , stated that people would have to show for a referendum so they should be here.
Don Souza – Eastview Rd. , stated that the council has to vote on behalf of the whole town regardless of who shows.
Ray Engle – 6 Knight Ln. , stated that there is a net savings of $20,000 and a lot of unanswered questions and it should be tabled.
Gerry Bourbonniere – 6 Fairmount Ave. , questioned why condos are part of any town plan for garbage pick-up.
Dave Yarochowicz – 412 Main St . , pointed out that he pays the same mill rate at his condo as the rest of the town and wants to be included in the garbage proposal.
Laurie Lamontagne – Bemis St . , stated that even though we raised condo fees recently, we have other expenses and we pay taxes like everyone else.
Dan Donovan – Hancock Ct. , stated that when we lost our trash pick-up in 1982 and there were condos then and we did not take their garbage, why would we do it now? It was explained that the bid was written that way.
Hearing no more comments Mayor Krampitz re-read the motion and asked for a roll call vote. Councilman Zagurski – no, Councilwoman Scoville – yes, Councilman Goodwin – no, Councilman Sekorski – yes, Councilwoman Murawski – no. MOTION FAILED. |
5. |
Take action to recommend an appropriation of $36,000 to the Board of Finance for the purchase of property located at 262 Main St . Mayor Krampitz explained that she has been in negotiations for a few months with the Belonik family and that this is the property east of the waterwheel on the corner of Benedict and Main St . This is part of the Town’s plan to construct a waterwheel park. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve and forward to the Board of Finance an appropriation of $36,000 for the purchase of 262 Main St . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Adjournment. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:58 p.m. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
March 7, 2006, 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:02 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
3. |
Approval of the February 7, 2006 and February 17, 2006 Minutes – MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the minutes of February 7, 2006 with the change on page 1of the word “issue” to “process” under Liaison Reports . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of February 17, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilwoman Murawski reported that she attended the Board of Education Finance Subcommittee meeting and they approved a budget to be voted on by the full board of a 6.4% increase over this year’s budget. The Housing Authority designated two people as emergency contacts in case of power outages or the need of evacuations. Marilyn Grodecki and Joyce Relihan have been named. The Police Commission acting as Traffic Authority for the town has approved a three-way stop sign on Preston Rd. at the end of Burger Rd. Councilman Zagurski reported that the Fire Commission is questioning whether the fire chiefs are covered by the town’s insurance when they go to a fire call directly. There is also someone interested in buying the old Plymouth fire house. The School Building Committee report is that the site work is moving along very well and they should be able to pour the foundation soon. The Public Works Department is repairing catch basins on Bobbin Rd. and Eastview Rd. , patching potholes, clearing brush, taking care of draining issues on Fountainhead Rd. , and doing a road inventory program. Councilman Goodwin reported that the Human Services Commission did not meet in February but they will be having seminars for residents this spring. The Economic Development Commission cancelled their meeting but the Manufacturers Expo was held last month at the Lyceum. Special thanks to Matt Tellier and Dick Clukey for organizing the event. The Parks & Recreation Commission is recommending repairs to the tennis courts at Lake Winfield . Councilman Sekorski noted that his reports were based on minutes of the meetings and contacts with commissioners as he was unable to attend the meetings last month. The Inlands/Wetlands Commission is still working on resolving the issues on the dam on Wolcott Rd. They are trying to discover what the historical level of the water was. Planning & Zoning is still continuing their public hearings on their regulations. There was also a concern about public works setting up for tree cutting at a bus stop area. It caused congestion so we need to be aware of these areas. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments - Council members were provided copies of the Mayoral appointments of Jeanine Audette and Cathleen Paskus to the Waterwheel Committee which is a sub-committee of the Plymouth Economic Development Commission. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved the appointment of David Barbieri to the Capital Improvements Committee with a term to expire February 7, 2011 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the appointment of Louise B. Johnson to the Capital Improvements Committee with a term to expire February 7, 2010 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to appoint Wesley W. Petrin to the Capital Improvements Committee with a term to expire February 7, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to appoint Rodney G. Houle to the Capital Improvements Committee with a term to expire February 7, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to appoint Joseph M. Green to the Capital Improvements with a term to expire February 7, 2007 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report – Mayor Krampitz reported that:
- Governor Rell has announced that she is accepting new nominations to the Conn. Veterans Hall of Fame. Ten Conn. Veterans are inducted each year. A nomination packet may be obtained by calling the Veteran’s Affairs 721-5939.
- 262 Main Street – Testing of soil samples took place recently.
- We are seeking members for the Beautification Committee. Apply at the Mayor’s Office.
- It has come to my attention that all community events are not be submitted to the Town’s website—I would encourage all to submit their activities especially with the busy spring and fall months coming up. This is a free service for groups to get their information out.
- I have spoken to Terryville Medical Center about being open more hours and they will be open: two nights a week until 7 p.m. instead of 1 p.m. , Saturday morning 9 a.m. until noon or 1 p.m. as needed and the lab will be open starting at approximately 6:15 a.m. weekdays.
- I received National Incident Management System training, commonly known as NIMS, which comes to us from Homeland Security and Connecticut Department of Emergency Management. Our emergency personnel will take the training in April. The common thread running through the training is that all emergencies are local. They recommend in addition to our Local Emergency Planning Committee, which I chair once a month, that we form a CERT team which stands for Community Emergency Response Team which would be an auxiliary to LEPC. I will be encouraging residents to be involved in a CERT in the coming months once we have more information.
- Residents have approached my office about a Route 6 – Main Street Clean-up day and I would encourage any volunteer groups to plan on getting involved once a date is set. A planning meeting will take place on Monday, March 13 in the Town Hall.
- I attended the Manufacturing Expo held at the Lyceum on February 15 which was an excellent showcase of the products and services our local manufacturers provide. I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with officials from every company in attendance. It was considered a huge success in that not only did our townspeople have the opportunity to view what they have to offer but networking among the manufacturers occurred not only during the Expo but in the following days.
- I attended the Cub Scout Blue and Gold Banquet on Sunday, February 26 and was privileged to be one of the Cake Decorating Judges. Also, I attended the 60 th Anniversary celebration of our Boy Scout Troop on February 8. Apparently if it were not for the Terryville Congregational Church sponsorship right after World War II, this troop would have not survived.
- Board of Finance Budget Meetings have started and I would encourage any resident interested in attending. Presently they are meeting each Monday and Thursday. Please remember that the budget will be decided by referendum this year.
- I appointed Tony Lorenzetti as Public Works Director/Town Engineer on February 17, 2006.
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8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Ford Motor Credit Co. $850.20; Ford Motor Credit Co. $94.47; Ford Motor Credit Co. $378.87; James or Mary Pepides $428.16; Kenneth A. Jones $21.45; James Lynch $207.97; Dean Bergeron $206.14; Susan R. Murawski $13.80; Dean G. Bergeron $188.69; E S Metal Fabrications Inc. $123.32. – Councilwoman Murawski requested that her refund be a separate motion. Mayor Krampitz said there will be two motions for these refunds. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to refund property taxes to: Ford Motor Credit Co. $850.20; Ford Motor Credit Co. $94.47; Ford Motor Credit Co. $378.87; James or Mary Pepides $428.16;Kenneth A. Jones $21.45; James Lynch $207.97; Dean Bergeron $206.14; Dean G. Bergeron $188.69; E S Metal Fabrications Inc. $123.32. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to refund property taxes to Susan R. Murawski $13.80. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. VOTE TAKEN: Councilwoman Murawski – abstained, Councilman Zagurski – yes, Councilman Goodwin – yes, Councilman Sekorski – yes. MOTION PASSED. |
9. |
Take action to approve school building contracts that exceed $1,000,000. – MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to approve contract with GDS Contracting Corp. for Gypsum Wall Board & Ceiling Systems in the amount of one million eight hundred twenty five thousand six hundred two dollars. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve contract with Mafco Electrical Contractors for Electrical in the amount of three million two hundred thirty thousand eight nine dollars. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve contract with Silktown Roofing, Inc. for Roofing and Waterproofing in the amount of one million nine hundred twenty three thousand seven hundred five dollars. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Take action to approve Fair Housing Resolution. – Mayor Krampitz stated that this resolution is required yearly in order to support our Small Cities Program and/or future application requests. Mayor Krampitz read the resolution aloud: WHEREAS, All American citizens are afforded a right to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice; and
WHEREAS, State and Federal Fair Housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, mental or physical disability, lawful source of income, sexual orientation, familial status, be given equal access to rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and
WHEREAS, The Town of Plymouth is committed to upholding these laws, and realizes that these laws must be supplemented by an Affirmative Statement publicly endorsing the right of all people to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Plymouth hereby endorses a Fair Housing Policy to endure equal opportunity for all persons to rent, purchase and obtain financing for adequate housing of their choice on a non-discriminatory basis; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor, of the Town of Plymouth or his/her designated representative is responsible for responding to and assisting any person who alleges to be the victim of an illegal discriminatory housing practice in the Town of Plymouth.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor be and is hereby authorized to sign, execute and/or endorse those policy statements and documents necessary to reaffirm the Town of Plymouth’s commitment to Fair Housing, including a Fair Housing Policy Statement and Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, Jan A. Krampitz, Mayor of Plymouth, do hereby set my hand and cause the Seal of the Town of Plymouth to be affixed this seventh day of March 2006. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved that the Fair Housing Resolution be adopted as read. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss proposed ordinances – Mayor Krampitz stated that the origin of proposed ordinance ARTICLE VI. FEES FOR PLAN REVIEW BY THE FIRE MARSHAL had come from Fire Marshal Schubert and its purpose is to reduce the number of re-submittals by making the submitter make sure the plans are complete before sending them in for review, therefore reducing the number of hours spent by the office in plan review. The origin of the proposed ordinance entitled ARTICLE VII . RETIREMENT AND PENSION BOARD is modeled after Town of Woodbury language that removes the liability from one person to a board with all the different pension and retirement laws. Councilman Goodwin questioned if there were guidelines provided for builders to follow in the Fire Marshall’s office. Mayor Krampitz believed there were guidelines available. Councilman Goodwin also questioned the fee schedule. If the project was a commercial kitchen or a house, it could be extensive. We are trying to encourage business to come to town and we do not want to create a hefty fee structure. Councilman Zagurski wanted to know what other kinds of permits would be covered by this ordinance with the $20 fee. Councilman Sekorski asked if the comptroller brought the retirement ordinance to our attention and Mayor Krampitz indicated that he had. Councilman Goodwin asked how it is handled now and the Mayor informed him that it is done by the comptroller. Councilman Sekorski suggested that not only should Mr. Shubert be here for the first ordinance but Mr. Gomes be present also so that a clear understanding of duties can be explained. The Mayor said this item will be on the agenda next month. |
12. |
Discuss solid waste bid proposal and take action if necessary – Mayor Krampitz introduced Director of Public Works Tony Lorenzetti and stated that at the prior Town Council meeting a motion was passed to have ready for this meeting a comparison of figures for curbside pick-up and repair of the present Transfer Station facility. Mayor Krampitz also stated that residents need to voice their opinion on this issue. There are hand-outs for the public. Tony Lorenzetti shared information from a DRAFT FOR PRESENTATION PURPOSES ONLY a Transfer Station Budget Analysis. The categories covered for the current system were: Salaries, Contract Services, Repairs/Supplies, Dump Rental, Electricity, Telephone, Water, DEP Permit, Landfill Testing, Equipment Cost Adjustment, Temporary Curbside Trash Collection, Tank pump-outs, Upgrades, Snow Removal, Benefits and Reimbursement for Tipping Fees which totaled $1,159,109 for FY 2006-07. The categories covered for the proposed curbside pick-up were: Salary, Contract Services, Tipping, Refuse Barrels, Dump Rental, DEP Permit, Landfill Testing, Cost Sharing Revenue, Equipment and Reimbursement for Tipping Fees which totaled $943,838 for FY2006-07. In 2007-08 the Current system would be $976,211 and the proposed would be $942,209. Projections were given out to the Fiscal Year 2010-11. After the presentation, Mayor Krampitz said that she would give everyone a few minutes to digest all of the numbers and she would take questions from the Town Council first and then the public but she received a letter that she wanted to read for the record. The letter was from Country Farms Condominiums Association, Inc. dated 2/24/06 and requested that the council vote in favor of trash pick up for the association’s residents. Councilman Goodwin wanted Mr. Lorenzetti to share information from their meeting yesterday on demolition material fees and costs for disposal. The response was that we charge $25 for a pick-up truck and it costs the town $90.40 to dispose of that demolition material. He also wanted to know how much the town collects in fees for tires and demolition on an annual basis if there is a ballpark number. All the permits totaled $25,000 so it would be a piece of that. Approximately $20,000 is solid waste permits. Councilman Zagurski wanted to know what the fee schedule was going to be for Albreada. The answer was that a fee schedule was provided but that the town has a right to negotiate those fees. Information was provided from the Albreada fee schedule that was read into the record last month and fees from Thomaston were shared. Councilman Zagurski also wanted to know how they would handle all of the electronic waste. The contract section was read to cover these items. The councilman also asked if waste oil and batteries would be taken at no charge and that would be the case. Councilwoman Murawski asked that if the cost is too high after the end of the contact, can we go back to using the transfer station. We would still own the facility and would be able to go back. There is a state permit and they would still be maintained. The Councilwoman also asked about any DEP concerns for the site and was told that the concerns can be addressed with a few adjustments. Councilman Sekorski wanted to know how many other communities are doing this. Mr. Lorenzetti said not many are using this process any more. Councilman Sekorski asked if we were losing money because we were not collecting an appropriate amount of fees. We were losing because the fees do not match the cost to dispose. The Councilman stated that we have to take a serious look at what it costs to get rid of our garbage and expect the costs to go up. Mayor Krampitz pointed out that there are four communities in the BRRFOC that have transfer stations and that New Britain is building a new one. Councilman Goodwin added that the proposal also included a roll-off truck so it would change the way that we haul to Bristol . Councilman Zagurski stated that he feared that if the fees went up too high that we would be faced with more illegal dumping. Mayor Krampitz asked for public comment at this time.
Don Souza- 50 Eastview Rd. , stated that we should operate our own transfer station. We can increase fees and change where we dump things. If they can operate it for a profit then why can’t we?
Dave Yarosovich- 412 Main St. , was representing Pilgrim’s Landing and wanted to know how it would work for them. The answer was that it would be handled with a dumpster.
Ralph Zovich- 4 Knight Ln . , stated that this process was more than just numbers. We had to judge the value of our time. We should also make the fines for illegal dumping stiffer such as $150-$200 and that problem will go away.
Patrick Herzing- 145 Scott Rd. , questioned if looking at raising the permit fees is legitimate because we cover the costs with our taxes. He is in favor of bulk pick-up. Safety is also important to consider as well as blight issues.
Don Souza- 50 Eastview Rd. , stated that people choose to pay more if they hire a private hauler because they choose not to use the transfer station.
Rich Whitney- 183 Lake Plymouth Blvd. , stated he was concerned that if we take this out of our hands we will lose control. We may be able to go back to the transfer station later but the regulations could change.
Jim Deutch- 34 Orchard St . , stated that he has a choice and uses a private hauler but would like a contingency plan and would like to keep the transfer station.
Robert Pelz- 21 Old Greystone Ct. , wondered how many people recycle. We should do bulk pick up every other month.
After the public comment was closed, Mayor Krampitz asked the council if they had any thoughts on how to inform the rest of the public and determine if they are in favor of curbside pick-up or not. Councilwoman Murawski also wanted to see a public hearing but beyond that a special town meeting and a vote to actually have the people decide. Mayor Krampitz said she was not sure that a special town meeting could be held. Councilman Goodwin was concerned about how much longer Albreada will honor their bid and the people have to decide. Councilman Zagurski wanted the people to be able to vote and express their opinions. If that is not possible, he would like to at least see a public hearing. Either way it is going to cost about the same amount of money. It is just a matter of preference. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to have a public hearing and/or town meeting concerning the transfer station/curbside pickup issue. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilman Goodwin suggested doing this sooner than April 4 th so that it can fit into the budget. Councilman Sekorski stated that because this is in the operating budget, we can decide by a public hearing. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
13. |
Public Comment. Rich Whitney- 183 Lake Plymouth Blvd. , was disheartened that the Board of Education was asking for a 6.4% increase. Also last winter the Public Works Dept. tore half of the apron on my driveway and I called the last administration and public works seven times and nothing has been done. |
14. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations, pending litigation and personnel. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to go into executive session for real estate negotiations, pending litigation, and personnel at 8:45 p.m. and invite in Attorneys David Monastersky and Tom Conlin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OF OUT EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:58 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 10:00 p.m. |
15. |
Take action from executive session if necessary. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to consent and agree to CIRMA settling the pending case Lausier versus Covello et al and authorize Mayor Krampitz to execute the settlement agreement on behalf of the Town of Plymouth . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilwoman Murawski- yes, Councilman Zagurski-yes, Councilman Goodwin-yes, Councilman Sekorski-abstained. MOTIONED PASSED. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to authorize town attorney to negotiate with a legal representative of the Perillo family at 331 Mt. Tobe Rd. for assignment of the Town’s liens on the Perillo property in exchange for full payment of the tax arrearage and marshal’s execution fees. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
16. |
Other Business. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to discuss the actions of one of our fine officers last Friday afternoon. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilwoman Murawski shared information about Officer St. Onge helping to save a woman that had fallen through the ice. He noticed her while being off duty and called for help. |
17. |
Adjournment. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:05 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
February 17, 2006 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Assembly Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order at by Mayor Krampitz at 5:00 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Executive Session for the purposes of discussing appointment of Public Works Director/Town Engineer and discussion of matters privileged by attorney-client relationship pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 1-200(6)-MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to go into executive session for purposes of discussing the appointment of a Public Works Director/Town Engineer at 5:01 p.m. and invite in Attorney Patrick McHale. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 5:44 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 5:45 p.m. |
4. |
Take action on appointment of Public Works Director/Town Engineer – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the Mayoral appointment of Anthony Lorenzetti as the Town of Plymouth ’s Public Works Director/Town Engineer effective immediately as discussed in executive session. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Zagurski stated that after posting the position and doing a search, Tony was the best applicant. Councilman Goodwin added that it was advertised in several papers and on website's. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOULY. |
5. |
Adjournment – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:46 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES |
DATE: |
February 7, 2006 7:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – The meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 7:00 p.m. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
3. |
Approval of the January 5, 2006 and February 2, 2006 Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the minutes of January 5, 2006 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the minutes of February 2, 2006 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Liaison Reports – Councilman Zagurski reported that the School Building Committee had contracts to be approved later on the agenda. He said that the committee was also interested in some adjacent property to the site and wanted the town to purchase it. The Fire Department responded to 369 calls last year. A new Deputy Fire Marshall, Mr. Robert Masacotti. Victor Mitchell was honored at the Chamber of Commerce dinner. The Public Works Department has been busy clearing snow banks, cold-patching pot holes, measuring streets for road inventory program, cut down trees, and chipping Christmas trees. Councilwoman Murawski reported that the Police Department will be receiving two new defribulators with a grant. Officer Robert Wright was promoted to Detective. Chief Krasicky was honored at the Chamber of Commerce dinner. The grant for the bullet-proof vests has been approved and we will be getting 50% of our cost back. The Board of Education will be facing an Accreditation issue soon. Budget workshops begin soon and the best way to educate oneself on the budget is to attend as many workshops as possible. Councilman Goodwin reported the Human Services Commission assisted 34 clients in November and 16 more in December. Small Wonders Christmas assisted 72 families with 154 children. Parks and Recreation Commission are working on their capital budget items. They are looking to replace the old playscape at beach at Lake Winfield . The lake will not be open for swimming until water quality issues are addressed. The Economic Development Commission was briefed on the Manufacturer’s Expo scheduled for 2/16/2006 . 84 Napco Dr. is a space provided for Incubator space for small manufacturers. Preliminary drawings have been submitted for the project. The old Terryville Trust building will now just have the blanket business but will not have other tenants. Boy Scout Troop 75 is celebrating its 60 th anniversary and Mayor Krampitz will be presenting a certificate recognizing this milestone. Councilwoman Scoville reported that the Library Board will be having their financial advisor talk to them about their endowment. They are also working on their budget and looking at the need for another part-time person. They are also reinstating a planning committee that they had long ago. The Public Health Department is concerned about the seniors not having a stand alone senior center. This will be presented to the Capital Improvements Committee. She also wanted to recognize others that were honored at the Chamber of Commerce dinner, Phoenix Products, Elm Press, Terryville True Value Hardware, and the American Legion. Councilman Sekorski reported that he was impressed with the Zoning Board of Appeals format of going over their process before the public hearing and business portion of their meeting. It is a complex process and this was a very informative way to make the people aware. They are anxiously awaiting the rezoning efforts of the Planning and Zoning Commission because a lot of the appeals deal with issues around the lake area. The WPCA has had an election of officers. Their chairman Jay Pickhardt has stepped down after many years of service. Inlands/Wetlands is trying to bring closure to the Marino Dam issue. |
5. |
Council Rules and Procedures – No action taken. |
6. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the resignation of Susan J. Janser from the Human Services Commission with regret. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY (Please note that Councilwoman Scoville was absent for this vote during agenda six). MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to reappoint Jeffrey K. Scott to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire November 24, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Nancy Santorso to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the Mayoral appointment of Roseann Stocker to the Police Commission with a term to expire January 14, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilman Sekorski asked about the process that was followed in the decision to appoint these people because there were two others that were serving and he wanted to know if there were interviews or what other thought process was behind these nominations. Mayor Krampitz replied that only one of the incumbents reapplied and was endorsed by the chairman and she did not conduct interviews. Councilwoman Scoville wanted to recognize the efforts of Jason Hogan and Wayne Radke for their service on the Police Commission. VOTE TAKEN: Councilman Sekorski- yes, Councilman Goodwin- yes, Councilman Zagurski- yes, Councilwoman Murawski-yes, Councilwoman Scoville- abstained. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved the Mayoral appointment of Keith G. Golnik to the Police Commission with a term to expire January 14, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. VOTE TAKEN: Councilman Sekorski- yes, Councilman Goodwin- yes, Councilman Zagurski- yes, Councilwoman Murawski- yes, Councilwoman Scoville- abstained. MOTION PASSED. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved the Mayoral appointment James Deutsch to the Water Pollution Control Authority as an alternate with a term to expire January 21, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved the Mayoral reappointment of George F. Andrews, Jr. to the Water Pollution Control Authority with a term to expire January 21, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved the Mayoral reappointment of Philip J. Armbruster to the Water Pollution Control Authority with a term to expire January 21, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
7. |
Mayor’s Report – Mayor Krampitz reported that the Waterwheel Committee had a meeting and the EPA will be on site testing soils. The report to the town on their findings is due to us in June. I have asked that we receive the report much earlier than June.
The mayor was approached by two citizens about forming a Historic Commission which can be done by ordinance. Research on such a commission and more information is forthcoming. The Mayor Appointed David C. Mischke as Assistant Town Treasurer. She also settled arbitration between “Town of Plymouth and Mr. James Schultz” on December 13, 2005 . On that day, Interim Public Works Director Tom Pollack and Public Works employee Karl Paulette abandoned their jobs. An update on Fall Mt. Water Project was given. The Mayor is seeking additional funds for culvert bridge and road paving (not road patching). The pump station is up but not operational yet and the water tank is 99% complete and water lines will continue in the spring. At Special Town Meeting on December 21, 2005 , funds for roof replacement of Prospect St. School and Main Street School was approved. Mayor Krampitz had a meeting with Mrs. Cronauer of Northwest Conservation District, Bill Kuehn and Paul Denis to discuss the water quality status of Lake Winfield . The general consensus was to restore the lake for Recreational purposes such as fishing but not swimming. The construction of a community pool was discussed. More information will be gathered along with an update with the Parks & Recreation Commission. The Mayor attended the Polish American Club “Toys for Tots” Program on Saturday, December 17. Over $3000. Was handed to the Toys for Tots program with over 80 children and parents in attendance. Eighty children received gifts from Santa and it was her pleasure to help Santa and his helpers pass the gifts out. She also participated in the Annual Church Christmas Walk and greeted and shook hands with 32 children from Plymouth Center School that brought Xmas gifts to our Town Hall Christmas Tree for children that may be without toys at Christmas. The Mayor signed a contract with Sterns & Wheeler to have Mr. Tony Lorenzetti, our former Public Works Director, to provide engineering services in the absence of a Public Works Director.
The bids for the New High School Project were opened on December 20 and 21.
The Mayor presented retirees Walter Dzronsc and Stephen Luba with Certificates of Appreciation for thirty-four years of service to the town in the Public Works Department.
Mayor Krampitz talked to our financial advisor, she will be meeting with Moody’s concerning erosion in fund balance because the Town used $877,000 last year to balance last year’s budget and this information is located in the Audit Report. Per the town charter, I am obligated to keep the Town Council advised of the financial condition of the town. The proposed restaurant at 103 Main Street is moving forward again. I met the owner recently. It will be an elegant Italian restaurant. We received information from our Town Clerk’s Office that per Public Act 05-228 $3.00 will be collected for LOCIP use in the town from “Land Protection, Affordable Housing & Historic Preservation Account.” We have so far collected $3340 and anticipate $9000 per year. These funds could be used for sidewalk development. The preliminary budgets for 06 – 07 will be in your mailboxes next week. There have had some very interesting developments in the Plymouth Business Park and the Mayor hopes to be able to make those developments public at the next meeting. Mayor Krampitz met with Congresswoman Nancy Johnson and State Rep. Hamzy on Monday, January 30 concerning additional funding for the Waterwheel Park and the Fall Mt. Water Project and is awaiting their assistance. |
8. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Jeffrey or Petulia Collins $88.59; Wille Irick $14.73; Deana L. Mastropietro $35.41; David or Donna Palance $29.79; GMAC $65.98; GMAC $189.14; GMAC $209.40; Carmelo A. Davino $87.91; Susan or Sean Ryalls $122.10; Russell E. Jacobs $122.10; Paul or Rosemary Mogob $914.54; Subaru Auto Leasing Ltd $361.41; Gregory S. Scoville $562.43; George E. Siel $513.03; Arnold Devine $43.95; GMAC $269.57. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Take action to approve Town Council salary recommendation for 2006-07 FY budget. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to set Town Council salary recommendation for 2006 – 2007 budget at $5410. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Take action to approve school building contracts that exceed $1,000,000. MOTION: Councilman Zagurski moved to approve the contract with Richards Corporation dated January 19, 2006 in the amount of four million eight hundred fifty four thousand seven hundred seventy dollars. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Sekorski had a question concerning Article 8 of the contract which deals with Termination or Suspension. It references language in Article 14 of the General Conditions and he wanted to have a copy of that information. The Mayor assured him that that would be provided. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Scoville moved to approve the contract with F & F Mechanical Enterprises, Inc. dated January 19, 2006 in the amount of five million four seven thousand dollars. SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Murawski moved to approve the contract with Enfield Builders Inc. dated January 19, 2006 in the amount of one million nine hundred fifty eight thousand eight hundred seventy five dollars. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to approve the contract with Shepard Steel Company, Inc. dated January 19, 2006 in the amount of two million two hundred ninety four thousand dollars. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the contract with W.J. Mountford Co. dated January 19, 2006 in the amount of one million three hundred eighty four thousand dollars. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss solid waste bid proposal with Board of Finance after public works presentation and take action if necessary. A presentation was given by Anthony Lorenzetti, engineering consultant from Stearns & Wheler. Before the presentation was given, Mayor Krampitz explained that this topic will also be discussed at next month’s meeting and also during the budget process. She pointed out that this will be the first time that there will be a public hearing and then a referendum to decide the annual budget but not a town meeting. The presentation examined the Town’s Solid Waste Options by reviewing its existing program at the transfer station and the existing curbside program. Photographs of the transfer station were shown from 1975 until the 2006 with the present day photographs taken at a variety of locations to give different views of the hopper and compacter. The pictures included visible corrosion of the trailers with obvious rust and holes. A solid waste collection price comparison and recycling price comparison was offered. Benefits of Option 1 and Option 2 were shared and then the Town Council asked questions. Councilwoman Scoville wanted to know what the costs would be to upgrade the transfer station because of the risks with the letters we have from the health district and the problems with the trailers and so on. What would it cost this community to build and find a new location? The response included Southington ’s recent cost of $550,000 for a transfer station. It was recommended to try to use the existing site. There would also be the cost of the trailers which is $40,000 each. Councilman Sekorski stated that people are concerned about their large bulk. There is confusion about how that would be handled. Is the private contractor going to maintain this site as a pay for drop site? This was confirmed that people would be able to drop off their large items but would have to pay for them. Councilman Zagurski wanted to know what would happen to items like waste oil. His concern was that if people had to pay a fee for everything, then we would start finding those items all over the sides of the road. How much of a cost would that be to the Public Works Department to clean up? The response was that there would be no charge for oil and that enforcement would be a key. Councilman Goodwin was concerned about the tank pump out. Who would monitor the ground water? The town would have to monitor based on permit requirements as it does now. Councilman Goodwin also spoke to the DEP about how our liquid is collected and the thought was that it could be processed through our sewer treatment plant. The response was that the hopper waste would include variable types of metals and there would be concerns about taking that to the plant. The town does not have the ability to take much more copper and metal at the plant. The councilman also wanted the town to look at the possibility of having a spring and fall bulk pick-up. Councilwoman Scoville had a question about the metals that have been dropped off there and she wanted to know how that would work with a vendor. It would go to the vendor but after two years, there is the ability for the town for revenue sharing. Councilman Zagurski referenced the Board of Finance minutes and read that they stated there would be a loss of $225,000 in revenues. He wanted an explanation. The response was that this is all the money that is reimbursed from people using the trash to energy plant so we would still be getting half of this. Councilwoman Murawski asked if DEP has set any deadlines or are telling us anything else. Torrington Area Health District has sent a letter addressing concerns but is comfortable with the process. The letter dated 2/3/2006 was read into the record. After the Town Council discussed the need to have a side by side comparison of the costs of keeping the system as it is or going to curbside pick-up, the Mayor asked for public comment on the issue. Don Souza – 50 Eastview Rd. , Liked the idea of a side by side comparison. We need to have a better idea of the income. He would like to see the transfer station stay. He does not want to see it in the budget process but as a separate vote. Walter Lassy- Poland Brook Rd. , If you turn this over to a private vendor is this no longer a transfer station or a compactor? There would be no more collection and compaction. He also likes the transfer station but would like to see a design where it could handle more than one car at a time so the wait time would be cut down. He would also like to see some recyclable bins so that if he missed his recycle time he could drop them off there. Henry Golenski- Ellen Dr. , questioned if we sign a five year contract and the company does not do a good job, are we stuck? The same amount of metal is going to come in and everyone is going to have to pay to get rid of it. What will they charge for these items? You will open up a whole can of worms. Melanie Church- 328 Main St., stated that Watertown used to pay the tipping fee but stopped it. Southington did the same thing. Once you stop having a transfer station it is too late to go back. The used trailers lasted thirty years. Contamination issues are sometimes just issues of kitty litter. At this point the Mayor read the fee schedule of Albreada for the record. Jim Carone- 93 Town Hill Rd., expressed concerns about people who cut in line while others have been waiting at the transfer station for a half hour. We need a guard out there. He would like to have curbside pickup or change the hours of the transfer hours to later during the week. Kathy Kosak- 201 Harwinton Ave., we need a side by side comparison. We need creative scheduling to have it open all day on Saturday and one night a week. Ernest Pickhardt- 3 Burger Rd., stated that households will actually have less garbage at the curbside because they would not be putting bulk waste in with their regular garbage. If cardboard has to be cut up people will be more inclined to recycle it. People who jump the line are not delaying anyone because they just get out of their car with one or two bags and walk up to the hopper and toss it in. Pablo Arroyo- 13 Holt St., said that anyone who jumps the line you can not excuse a lack of integrity. He was concerned that Clean Harbors should still do the pumping of the waste instead of a vendor. It would be the environmentally safe thing to do. Eric Pelz- 15 Old Greystone Court, wanted to know about environmental costs. Would the private vendor be willing to go longer than a five year contract? Stickers should be available for purchase at the transfer station. If there is a long weekend during the holidays like this past Christmas, would it be possible to bring a dumpster up to the gate so that the garbage could be put in and not thrown all over the place. Robert Pelz- 21 Old Greystone Court, transfer station is 35 years old and it needs some upgrading. It is a compactor with pistons and hydraulics that run it. With proper maintenance, it could run for another 35 years. I would like to see it keep going. Melanie Church- 328 Main St. , I was at the opening of the bids and one bid was double the bid. Why was one almost double this bid? Don Souza- 50 Eastview Rd., we can take care of a lot of issues by changing the way that we do business. We encourage people to throw everything into the hopper just by the way our sign is printed. Mayor Krampitz indicated that further discussions will take place at the March meeting and additional questions can be forwarded to the Mayor’s office. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to do a side by side comparison of the curbside pick-up option to the refurbishing of the transfer station option the best way that we can. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
12. |
Public Comment. Kathy Kosak- 201 Harwinton Ave. , Mr. Zagurski reported earlier that the school building committee wants to purchase more land adjacent to the school project area. Originally they bought 49 acres and then they wanted another 8 to 10 acres for ball fields and spent $425,000 for that which could have gone into the schools. They can not manage that land because people have already gotten stuck joy riding there. There were already cruisers and town equipment there and I wonder who has to pay the bill for that. We can not afford to pay another million dollars to buy more land. The last purchase was done in secret and now I see there is an executive decision for real estate on the agenda tonight and I am afraid the same thing is going to happen. The Mayor explained how the capital improvement process would work and that any request would have to be requested on a form and brought before that committee. Councilman Sekorski also objected to second purchase being secretive because it was public knowledge. Mrs. Kosak was also concerned about light pollution and snow drifts because of the trees that were cut down. Melanie Church- 328 Main St., we seem to be only getting enough flu shots for the elderly and not enough for the high risk patients. She also wanted all the council people to attend the budget workshops because the budget could come back to them. We supposedly got $6,000,000 in grant money and where is it now? Where is the Board of Finance tonight? A letter should be sent to them that they were derelict in their duty. Ann Tuleja- 383 Allentown Rd., she was not aware that the police vest appropriation was under her department’s one time special appropriation. She would have liked to have been informed or to have known by having it included in the motion. The mayor pointed out that it was an appropriation from the police department not the commission and that was in the minutes. Jim Carrone- 93 Town Hill Rd., did not think the building committee was blindly spending money. They are within budget unlike Burlington which is going back for more money. Before the next agenda item, Mayor Krampitz thanked Tony Lorenzetti and Pam Pelletier for the presentation on the solid waste proposal. |
13. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into executive session for real estate negotiations at 9:55 p.m. and invite in Town Attorney Tom Conlin. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 10:40 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 10:41 p.m. |
14. |
Other Business – No action taken. |
15. |
Adjournment. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:42 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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SUBJECT: |
SPECIAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING |
DATE: |
January 5, 2006 5:00 p.m. |
PLACE: |
Town Hall Community Room |
PRESENT: |
Mayor Krampitz, Councilman Goodwin, Councilwoman Murawski, Councilwoman Scoville, Councilman Sekorski, Councilman Zagurski
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1. |
Call Meeting to Order – Meeting was called to order by Mayor Krampitz at 5:02 p.m. Emergency exits were indicated by the Mayor for the safety of the audience. |
2. |
Pledge of Allegiance – Mayor Krampitz requested that Councilwoman Murawski lead the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
3. |
Approval the December 1, 2005 and December 6, 2005 Minutes – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to accept the minutes of December 1, 2005 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the minutes of December 6, 2005 with the correction on page 1 that Kevin Sulek is still the DARE officer. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
4. |
Resignations and Appointments – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mr. James Murdock to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire June 1, 2010 . SSECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to reappoint Mr. David Philbrick to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire June 2, 2009 . SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mr. James Fried to the Plymouth Economic Development Commission with a term to expire November 16, 2009 . SECOND: Councilman Sekorski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman Sekorski moved to reappoint Ms. Linda Kazmierski to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mrs. Karen Zagurski to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to reappoint Mrs. Barbara Rockwell to the Parks & Recreation Commission with a term to expire November 5, 2008 . SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Councilwoman Scoville asked if there might be a possible conflict because Mrs. Rockwell is an employee. Mayor Krampitz pointed out there was a legal opinion and asked Mrs. Rockwell to explain the situation further. Mrs. Rockwell indicated that a legal opinion was sought from a previous administration when she was appointed years ago and it was deemed that there were no conflict issues. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman moved to approve the mayoral reappointment of Mr. Lyle Kosikowski to the Fire Commission with a term to expire November 4, 2008 . SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilman moved to appoint Mrs. Susan Boilard to the Board of Assessment Appeals with a term to expire November 11, 2007 due to a clerical error that left her name off of the November 2005 ballot. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to accept the resignation of Ms. Keri Ann Warner from the Plymouth Volunteer Ambulance Corps Board of Directors with regret. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
5. |
Take action to refund property taxes to: Ford Motor Credit $1450.40; Joan A. Brown $9.65 – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to refund property taxes as presented. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
6. |
Take action to approve appointed Comptroller – Manuel Gomes. – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to approve the Mayoral appointment of Manuel Gomes as Comptroller. SECOND: Councilman Zagurski. Councilwoman Scoville stated that she would not be voting in support of the motion. She felt Mr. Gomes left on his own free will and that the town did not give Ms. Napier a chance. Councilman Sekorski stated that he would not be supporting the motion because he was disappointed in how we got to this point. He felt that the town had a capable person in place at a significantly less amount of money. He thought audit issues reflected back to previous comptrollers and that the contract put the town in a compromising position. Councilwoman Murawski stated that Mr. Gomes was the one person that could get the town back on track and recover the comptroller’s office. He can get us back where we should be. Councilman Goodwin stated that sometimes we have to take a step back to take a step forward. We have been floundering along and we need to get back on track as soon as possible. Councilman Zagurski stated that from past history Mr. Gomes has always done a good job for the town and is a valuable asset. Councilman Goodwin- yes, Councilman Sekorski- no, Councilman Zagurski– yes, Councilwoman Scoville- no, Councilwoman Murawski-yes MOTION PASSED. |
7. |
Take action to dissolve Charter Revision Commission – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to dissolve the Charter Revision Commission that was established on March 2, 2004 and thank them for their service. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. Councilman Sekorski stated that he hoped that this council would consider another charter revision commission in the future because there are more issues to deal with. Mayor Krampitz encouraged him to give her those suggestions for her folder for future consideration. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
8. |
Discuss and take action to recommend an appropriation of $16,250 to the Board of Finance for Police Vests – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to recommend an appropriation for police vests of up to $16,250.00 to the Board of Finance and waive bid requirements. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. Chief Krasicky answered council questions that dealt with requirements for officers wearing the vests and what they had to sign if they chose not to wear one. She explained the research she had done with the vendors that made their presentations and explained the differences of the different models of vests. The 50% reimbursement was reiterated. The Chief is going to find out what other towns use this vest and more history of the company chosen. This information will be supplied to the Mayor before the Board of Finance meeting so that Mayor Krampitz can inform the finance board of this additional information as their liaison. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
9. |
Discuss and take action to authorize the Mayor to sign application for STEAP grant – Mayor Krampitz introduced William Kuehn, Town Planner and Craig Stevenson, Consultant, to give an overview of the grant and answer questions. The discussion centered on the continued improvement of the infrastructure and land acquisition for Phase IV of the Plymouth Business Park and to establish a business incubator program to provide companies a future location in Phase III and Phase IV. The pump station is planned to be located in the bottom right corner of lot number 2 and there is an easement set aside where there are pipes running right to the edge of the easement. MOTION: Councilman Goodwin moved to approve the following: WHEREAS, the Connecticut General Assembly has authorized funding for municipal grants under Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) Section 4-66g the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP); and WHEREAS, Public Act 05-194 enables Connecticut municipalities to continue qualifying for STEAP grants in lieu of being eligible for financial assistance under section 4-66c “Urban Act”, by a vote of its legislative body, and submitting a written notice of such vote to the Secretary of the Office of Policy; and WHEREAS, it is desirable and in the public interest that the Town of Plymouth make an application under Section 4-66g in the amount of $500,000 in order to undertake: economic development projects eligible for funding under this grant program. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Plymouth that pursuant to PA 194-05, the Town shall forego its eligibility to seek funds under section 4-66c “Urban Act” and in lieu thereof funds made available through Section 4-66g the Small Town Economic Assistance Program; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor is hereby directed to notify the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management for a Small Town Economic Assistance Program grant for $500,000.00 and to execute any amendments, decisions, and revisions thereto. The STEAP grant if approved shall be used to fulfill its purposes under this resolution. SECOND: Councilwoman Scoville. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
10. |
Discuss and take action for the temporary employment of counsel – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to appoint Attorney Richard S. Conti of Diana, Conti & Tunila, LLP as temporary counsel to the Town of Plymouth per the PLYMOUTH TOWN CHARTER. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
11. |
Discuss and possibly take action on Agreement between the Plymouth Board of Education and Plymouth Education Association July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2009 . Dr. Anthony Distasio was requested to highlight the changes in the contract and he listed the longer instruction times, more steps that are in the contracts, the salary increases and the co-pay contributions. Public comment was made by James Murdock, 44 Minor Rd. who felt our town and all towns are being held hostage by public education and teachers and their unions. We cannot afford it. No action taken. |
12. |
Public Comment – Jim Carone, 93 Town Hill Rd. wanted to know the status of the trash pick up and why the town council meetings were not being taped. Mayor Krampitz explained that the RFP for the trash RFP has been extended until March 6 th while the Board of Finance gets their questions answered. Volunteers tape the meetings and need to be trained to do so. There is a student interested in doing this and we hope this will begin soon. Susan MacDonald, 42 South St wanted to know what was going on with the property by the water wheel. Mayor Krampitz replied that the town is exploring all options to pursue creating a park in that area. We are looking at the other two adjacent properties and we have a grant for the testing of the soil. We want to reestablish the ad-hoc water wheel committee and change it slightly so that we can be eligible for grants. |
13. |
Executive Session for real estate negotiations. – MOTION: Councilwoman Scoville moved to go into executive session for real estate negotiations at 6:24 p.m. and invite in Attorney Conlin, William Kuehn and Craig Stevenson. SECOND: Councilwoman Murawski. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. WENT OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:12 p.m. BACK IN OPEN SESSION AT 8:13 p.m. Mayor Krampitz noted that Councilwoman Scoville had to leave before executive session was over so she is no longer present. |
14. |
Take action from Executive Session if necessary. No action taken. |
15. |
Adjournment. – MOTION: Councilwoman Murawski moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 p.m. SECOND: Councilman Goodwin. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. |
Submitted by: David M. Denis, Council Clerk
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January 20, 2012
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