Regular Meeting September 22, 2008
1. Call to Order
The Killingworth Board of Selectmen held its regular meeting on Monday, September 22, 2008, at the Killingworth Town Office Building, 323 Route 81, Killingworth. In attendance were First Selectman Richard Cabral, Selectman Fred Dudek and Selectwoman Catherine Iino. First Selectman Cabral called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting held September 8, 2008
Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, to approve September 8, 2008 Minutes with the following amendment – change Item B under New Business to read “suggested by Iino”. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
4. Visitors – Concerning Items on the Agenda
Motion by Cabral, second by Dudek, to add Item G under New Business – Demolition Ordinance to the Agenda. Voting in favor – Cabral, Dudek, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
9. New Business
G. Demolition Ordinance
Tom Lentz, Municipal Historian, introduced himself. He presented for consideration a Demolition Delay Ordinance. It would allow for a 180 delay for demolition of historical buildings in Town. Everything should be done to preserve these buildings. Selectwoman Iino asked if there was provision currently for demolition delay. Mr. Lentz replied no, but the Building Official could delay demolition for either 60 or 90 days. First Selectman Cabral noted the Board would consider the Ordinance.
5. Tax Abatements & Refunds
Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve tax refunds as reviewed (per attached). Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
6. Vacancies
First Selectman Cabral noted the following vacancies – IWWC – 1, OEM – 1, Public Health – 5, Health & Safety Committee (Helen Mahoney resigned) – 1, Traffic Study Committee – 2, Housing Partnership – 4, Library Board -1 and Estuary Council of Seniors.
7. Appointments
Health & Safety Comm. - Harold Wright
Motion by Cabral, second by Iino, to appoint Harold Wright to Health & Safety Committee. Voting in favor – Cabral, Iino, Dudek. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
8. Old Business
A. Five Year Capital Plan
Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve the Five Year Capital Plan as presented and discussed at the last meeting. Discussion followed. Selectwoman Iino asked if this effected the Town Office Building Committee with regard to funding. First Selectman Cabral noted this is already in the 09/10 budget. Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
B. Hours of Town Hall – Cathy Iino
Selectwoman Iino noted she had surveyed surrounding towns and all but one currently has evening hours and all those that do have evening hours are happy with the experience. She also did a survey of residents through KillingworthToday.com. Nine positive responses were received. No negative responses. Selectwoman Iino suggested the Town try evening hours. Selectman Dudek asked if the Union Contract has been researched regarding this topic. First Selectman Cabral noted Town Crew hours are set by contract. The Town Hall hours are set in the Employee Manual and can be changed. Selectwoman Iino will submit a plan for evening hours at the next meeting.
9. New Business
A. Discussion of and vote upon the endorsement of proceeding forward with the land acquisition of the Venuti properties.
Motion by Cabral that the Board of Selectmen endorse the recommendation of the Open Space Committee for the purchase of the Venuti properties for the amount not to exceed $8.5 million by forwarding this recommendation to the Board of Finance. Discussion followed. The wording of the motion was reviewed. Selectman Dudek noted before he endorsed anything he wanted to do how it was going to be paid for and how much it would cost. David Gumbart, Open Space Committee Chairman, noted this figure was arrived at from two professional appraisals, one from the Venuti family and one from the Town. He noted the Venuti family was interested in knowing if the Town would at least be in favor of moving forward with this concept at this purchase price. The Committee voted last week to bring this before the Board of Selectmen. Selectwoman Iino noted she understood the need to move the process forward but felt this was a very fluid financial situation nationwide. Can a motion be made to send this to the Board of Finance for their input without endorsing the specific number? First Selectman Cabral stated he felt the Board of Finance would want to know whether or not the BOS would endorse the purchase at $8.5 million. Cabral also noted the procedure would be for the Board of Finance to endorse this and then it would come back to the Board of Selectmen before going to Town Meeting/Referendum. Selectman Dudek felt there should not be a dollar amount in this motion sending it to Board of Finance as it will come back for bonding and that's where the number will come into play. First Selectman Cabral withdraw his motion. There was much discussion regarding proposed language for the motion. Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, for the Board of Selectmen to request an analysis from the Board of Finance on the purchase of the Venuti property for a purchase price not to exceed $8.5 million. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
Motion by Cabral, second by Iino, to move Item F. Municipal Agent up on the Agenda. Voting in favor – Cabral, Iino, Dudek. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
F. Municipal Agent – Approval of SFM Grant through State Dept. of Social Services (Special Funding for Municipalities).
Diane Gladstone, Municipal Agent, noted the Town of Killingworth has received a special fund initiative from the State of Connecticut in the amount of $3,450 to benefit the over age 60 population. All 169 towns in the State were offered the opportunity to apply for this grant. Because Killingworth does not have a senior center, Ms. Gladstone applied for 69 $50 Stop & Shop or Walmart credit cards to be used by our needy senior population to purchase food or gas. Selectwoman Iino asked how this would be allocated. Ms. Gladstone reviewed how allocation was made. Selectman Dudek noted the BOS would have to approve the dollar amount and it would then be reimbursed by the State. Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, to approve the SFM Grant through the State Department of Social Services in the amount of $3,450 for the purchase of gift cards to assist low income seniors to be reimbursed by the State through the SFM Grant and to be publicly announced by the Municipal Agent to the population that might qualify. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
Motion by Cabral, second by Dudek, RESOLVED that the First Selectman, Richard Cabral, is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of this Contractor with the Department of Social Services of the State of Connecticut for a Special Funding for Municipalities program and to affix the corporate seal. Voting in favor – Cabral, Dudek, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
B. Discussion of and vote upon the charge to the commission responsible for the development of the municipal recreation facilities for the Wettish Property.
Motion by Cabral that the Park & Recreation Commission be charged with the development of the municipal recreation facilities for the Wettish Property. Discussion followed. Selectman Dudek stated he thought this was done already by Charter. First Selectman Cabral reviewed Section 5-9 and 5-17D. There was discussion regarding a previous Committee established under the Board of Selectmen (in 2007 for the Wettish Property) and not the Park & Recreation Commission. Selectman Dudek explained this was brought back before the BOS because there were individuals on the previous subcommittee that were not on the Park & Recreation Commission. This turned out to be a conflict with the Charter. First Selectman Cabral noted any request for funding would still need to come back to the Board of Selectmen. It was also noted all subcommittees must abide by FOI rules, post agendas, file motions and prepare and file minutes. Any individuals whose expertise was sought who were not members of Park & Recreation Commission would be considered ex-officio members without a vote. First Selectman Cabral will send a letter to the subcommittee explaining the membership and voting situation as it pertains to the Charter. First Selectman Cabral withdrew the above motion.
C. Public Works Future Projects – Walter Adametz
Walter Adametz noted the Board of Finance requested a long term road project report. Mr. Adametz prepared such a report from 2007 through 2014/2015. He noted the chip seal program has been extending pavement life. The biggest problem with roads is water which causes superficial cracks. Mr. Adametz reviewed preventive maintenance of the roads. He noted a lot of the footprint roads do not have sufficient base. Mr. Adametz reviewed the road inventory and inspections of crossings and bridges. It was noted bridges 20 feet or over are inspected by the State. There was discussion regarding one of the bridges that adjoins the Town of Madison. Mr. Adametz noted he didn't have a recent inspection report from the State. First Selectman Cabral instructed Mr. Adametz to contact the State to request an inspection if one has not been done. He will also request an updated list of bridges that have been inspected. Mr. Adametz reviewed the Alders Bridge Phase 2 Project. There could be drainage right issues with this project. Mr. Adametz reviewed the difference between pavement overlay and chip seal. Selectman Dudek asked if the same number of miles of road are done every year. Mr. Adametz replied yes, however, it was also noted the “dollars” available dictate how many roads will be done in any given year. This report will be shared with the Board of Finance.
Mr. Adametz asked what the status was of hiring a new mechanic. He noted this position needs to be addressed. It was indicated most mechanics have their own tools. The job description was briefly discussed and it was agreed any changes would have to go before the Union.
Mr. Adametz reviewed winter snow operations. There was discussion about the increased cost of fuel and whether or not this should go out to bid. There are pros and cons for going out to bid. Mr. Adametz noted he checked with the Towns of Chester, East Haddam and Middletown and Killingworth is very comparable. A route consists of about 3 hours and 2 hours for just a sanding event. Mileage itself is also pretty equal among the towns. Mr. Adametz reviewed the routes and what trucks are involved for various types of storms (heavy vs. light snow). He noted the cost of snow removal has been a concern for every administration but one of his duties is to keep the roads as safe as possible taking into consideration fiscal restraints. The roads need to be open and safe to the public. Mr. Adametz noted Killingworth is way under all the towns as far as cost per mile. Selectwoman Iino asked if there was any way to cut costs without jeopardizing the safety of the roads. Mr. Adametz noted the only possible thing would be to try and cut back on the use of the small trucks and leave the snow in the middle of the cul-de-sacs, but if there is a lot of snow that would become a issue. Cul-de-sacs with a 110 foot radius are very time consuming to clear. Intersections also take a considerable amount of time especially during the day when traffic is out. It was decided Mr. Adametz will send out the usual letters to the contractors. There was a brief discussion regarding the use of sand versus salt and whether the sand needs to go out to bid.
Mr. Adametz noted he will also be looking at lifting the canopies on the roads this winter. This hasn't been done in some time.
D. Tree Warden – Additional Appropriation
First Selectman Cabral noted a new tree warden has been hired and requested additional funds. Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve an additional appropriation in the amount of $1,500 plus $200 for training and certification for the Tree Warden. Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
E. Municipal Land Use Committee – RFP brush clearing at Parmelee Property
First Selectman Cabral noted there is a $27,000 line item and asked if everyone was in agreement to send this out to bid. The consensus was yes.
10. RJC Announcements – none.
11. Selectmen's Concerns
Selectman Dudek noted this Board should have a discussion about what's happening financially in the world and how this might effect pensions, etc.
12. Visitor Comments: General – none.
13. Adjournment
Motion by Dudek to adjourn at 11:52 AM. Voting in favor – Dudek, Cabral, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
The Killingworth Board of Selectmen held its regular meeting on Monday, September 22, 2008, at the Killingworth Town Office Building, 323 Route 81, Killingworth. In attendance were First Selectman Richard Cabral, Selectman Fred Dudek and Selectwoman Catherine Iino. First Selectman Cabral called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting held September 8, 2008
Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, to approve September 8, 2008 Minutes with the following amendment – change Item B under New Business to read “suggested by Iino”. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
4. Visitors – Concerning Items on the Agenda
Motion by Cabral, second by Dudek, to add Item G under New Business – Demolition Ordinance to the Agenda. Voting in favor – Cabral, Dudek, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
9. New Business
G. Demolition Ordinance
Tom Lentz, Municipal Historian, introduced himself. He presented for consideration a Demolition Delay Ordinance. It would allow for a 180 delay for demolition of historical buildings in Town. Everything should be done to preserve these buildings. Selectwoman Iino asked if there was provision currently for demolition delay. Mr. Lentz replied no, but the Building Official could delay demolition for either 60 or 90 days. First Selectman Cabral noted the Board would consider the Ordinance.
5. Tax Abatements & Refunds
Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve tax refunds as reviewed (per attached). Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
6. Vacancies
First Selectman Cabral noted the following vacancies – IWWC – 1, OEM – 1, Public Health – 5, Health & Safety Committee (Helen Mahoney resigned) – 1, Traffic Study Committee – 2, Housing Partnership – 4, Library Board -1 and Estuary Council of Seniors.
7. Appointments
Health & Safety Comm. - Harold Wright
Motion by Cabral, second by Iino, to appoint Harold Wright to Health & Safety Committee. Voting in favor – Cabral, Iino, Dudek. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
8. Old Business
A. Five Year Capital Plan
Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve the Five Year Capital Plan as presented and discussed at the last meeting. Discussion followed. Selectwoman Iino asked if this effected the Town Office Building Committee with regard to funding. First Selectman Cabral noted this is already in the 09/10 budget. Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
B. Hours of Town Hall – Cathy Iino
Selectwoman Iino noted she had surveyed surrounding towns and all but one currently has evening hours and all those that do have evening hours are happy with the experience. She also did a survey of residents through KillingworthToday.com. Nine positive responses were received. No negative responses. Selectwoman Iino suggested the Town try evening hours. Selectman Dudek asked if the Union Contract has been researched regarding this topic. First Selectman Cabral noted Town Crew hours are set by contract. The Town Hall hours are set in the Employee Manual and can be changed. Selectwoman Iino will submit a plan for evening hours at the next meeting.
9. New Business
A. Discussion of and vote upon the endorsement of proceeding forward with the land acquisition of the Venuti properties.
Motion by Cabral that the Board of Selectmen endorse the recommendation of the Open Space Committee for the purchase of the Venuti properties for the amount not to exceed $8.5 million by forwarding this recommendation to the Board of Finance. Discussion followed. The wording of the motion was reviewed. Selectman Dudek noted before he endorsed anything he wanted to do how it was going to be paid for and how much it would cost. David Gumbart, Open Space Committee Chairman, noted this figure was arrived at from two professional appraisals, one from the Venuti family and one from the Town. He noted the Venuti family was interested in knowing if the Town would at least be in favor of moving forward with this concept at this purchase price. The Committee voted last week to bring this before the Board of Selectmen. Selectwoman Iino noted she understood the need to move the process forward but felt this was a very fluid financial situation nationwide. Can a motion be made to send this to the Board of Finance for their input without endorsing the specific number? First Selectman Cabral stated he felt the Board of Finance would want to know whether or not the BOS would endorse the purchase at $8.5 million. Cabral also noted the procedure would be for the Board of Finance to endorse this and then it would come back to the Board of Selectmen before going to Town Meeting/Referendum. Selectman Dudek felt there should not be a dollar amount in this motion sending it to Board of Finance as it will come back for bonding and that's where the number will come into play. First Selectman Cabral withdraw his motion. There was much discussion regarding proposed language for the motion. Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, for the Board of Selectmen to request an analysis from the Board of Finance on the purchase of the Venuti property for a purchase price not to exceed $8.5 million. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
Motion by Cabral, second by Iino, to move Item F. Municipal Agent up on the Agenda. Voting in favor – Cabral, Iino, Dudek. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
F. Municipal Agent – Approval of SFM Grant through State Dept. of Social Services (Special Funding for Municipalities).
Diane Gladstone, Municipal Agent, noted the Town of Killingworth has received a special fund initiative from the State of Connecticut in the amount of $3,450 to benefit the over age 60 population. All 169 towns in the State were offered the opportunity to apply for this grant. Because Killingworth does not have a senior center, Ms. Gladstone applied for 69 $50 Stop & Shop or Walmart credit cards to be used by our needy senior population to purchase food or gas. Selectwoman Iino asked how this would be allocated. Ms. Gladstone reviewed how allocation was made. Selectman Dudek noted the BOS would have to approve the dollar amount and it would then be reimbursed by the State. Motion by Iino, second by Dudek, to approve the SFM Grant through the State Department of Social Services in the amount of $3,450 for the purchase of gift cards to assist low income seniors to be reimbursed by the State through the SFM Grant and to be publicly announced by the Municipal Agent to the population that might qualify. Voting in favor – Iino, Dudek, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
Motion by Cabral, second by Dudek, RESOLVED that the First Selectman, Richard Cabral, is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of this Contractor with the Department of Social Services of the State of Connecticut for a Special Funding for Municipalities program and to affix the corporate seal. Voting in favor – Cabral, Dudek, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
B. Discussion of and vote upon the charge to the commission responsible for the development of the municipal recreation facilities for the Wettish Property.
Motion by Cabral that the Park & Recreation Commission be charged with the development of the municipal recreation facilities for the Wettish Property. Discussion followed. Selectman Dudek stated he thought this was done already by Charter. First Selectman Cabral reviewed Section 5-9 and 5-17D. There was discussion regarding a previous Committee established under the Board of Selectmen (in 2007 for the Wettish Property) and not the Park & Recreation Commission. Selectman Dudek explained this was brought back before the BOS because there were individuals on the previous subcommittee that were not on the Park & Recreation Commission. This turned out to be a conflict with the Charter. First Selectman Cabral noted any request for funding would still need to come back to the Board of Selectmen. It was also noted all subcommittees must abide by FOI rules, post agendas, file motions and prepare and file minutes. Any individuals whose expertise was sought who were not members of Park & Recreation Commission would be considered ex-officio members without a vote. First Selectman Cabral will send a letter to the subcommittee explaining the membership and voting situation as it pertains to the Charter. First Selectman Cabral withdrew the above motion.
C. Public Works Future Projects – Walter Adametz
Walter Adametz noted the Board of Finance requested a long term road project report. Mr. Adametz prepared such a report from 2007 through 2014/2015. He noted the chip seal program has been extending pavement life. The biggest problem with roads is water which causes superficial cracks. Mr. Adametz reviewed preventive maintenance of the roads. He noted a lot of the footprint roads do not have sufficient base. Mr. Adametz reviewed the road inventory and inspections of crossings and bridges. It was noted bridges 20 feet or over are inspected by the State. There was discussion regarding one of the bridges that adjoins the Town of Madison. Mr. Adametz noted he didn't have a recent inspection report from the State. First Selectman Cabral instructed Mr. Adametz to contact the State to request an inspection if one has not been done. He will also request an updated list of bridges that have been inspected. Mr. Adametz reviewed the Alders Bridge Phase 2 Project. There could be drainage right issues with this project. Mr. Adametz reviewed the difference between pavement overlay and chip seal. Selectman Dudek asked if the same number of miles of road are done every year. Mr. Adametz replied yes, however, it was also noted the “dollars” available dictate how many roads will be done in any given year. This report will be shared with the Board of Finance.
Mr. Adametz asked what the status was of hiring a new mechanic. He noted this position needs to be addressed. It was indicated most mechanics have their own tools. The job description was briefly discussed and it was agreed any changes would have to go before the Union.
Mr. Adametz reviewed winter snow operations. There was discussion about the increased cost of fuel and whether or not this should go out to bid. There are pros and cons for going out to bid. Mr. Adametz noted he checked with the Towns of Chester, East Haddam and Middletown and Killingworth is very comparable. A route consists of about 3 hours and 2 hours for just a sanding event. Mileage itself is also pretty equal among the towns. Mr. Adametz reviewed the routes and what trucks are involved for various types of storms (heavy vs. light snow). He noted the cost of snow removal has been a concern for every administration but one of his duties is to keep the roads as safe as possible taking into consideration fiscal restraints. The roads need to be open and safe to the public. Mr. Adametz noted Killingworth is way under all the towns as far as cost per mile. Selectwoman Iino asked if there was any way to cut costs without jeopardizing the safety of the roads. Mr. Adametz noted the only possible thing would be to try and cut back on the use of the small trucks and leave the snow in the middle of the cul-de-sacs, but if there is a lot of snow that would become a issue. Cul-de-sacs with a 110 foot radius are very time consuming to clear. Intersections also take a considerable amount of time especially during the day when traffic is out. It was decided Mr. Adametz will send out the usual letters to the contractors. There was a brief discussion regarding the use of sand versus salt and whether the sand needs to go out to bid.
Mr. Adametz noted he will also be looking at lifting the canopies on the roads this winter. This hasn't been done in some time.
D. Tree Warden – Additional Appropriation
First Selectman Cabral noted a new tree warden has been hired and requested additional funds. Motion by Dudek, second by Iino, to approve an additional appropriation in the amount of $1,500 plus $200 for training and certification for the Tree Warden. Voting in favor – Dudek, Iino, Cabral. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
E. Municipal Land Use Committee – RFP brush clearing at Parmelee Property
First Selectman Cabral noted there is a $27,000 line item and asked if everyone was in agreement to send this out to bid. The consensus was yes.
10. RJC Announcements – none.
11. Selectmen's Concerns
Selectman Dudek noted this Board should have a discussion about what's happening financially in the world and how this might effect pensions, etc.
12. Visitor Comments: General – none.
13. Adjournment
Motion by Dudek to adjourn at 11:52 AM. Voting in favor – Dudek, Cabral, Iino. Opposed – none. Motion Carried.
