The Wethersfield Town Council held a meeting on December 4, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Silas Deane Middle School.
Present: Councilors Drake, Forrest, Fortunato, Kirsche, Kotkin, Walsh, Deputy Mayor Adil and Chairperson Morin.
Absent: Councilor Cascio.
Also present: Bonnie Therrien, Town Manager, and Dolores G. Sassano, Town Clerk.
All stood for the pledge of allegiance to the flag which was led by Chairperson Morin.
Mark Scheinberg, President of Goodwin College, provided a brief history and current status of the college which is a non-profit institution currently located in East Hartford. He said that in approximately five years the enrollment in the college will increase to the point where the school will grow out of its current campus. Mr. Scheinberg provided a handout which describes the expansion project, its environmental impact and its economic impact. He stated that Goodwin College has recently unveiled plans to build a new $75 million riverfront campus on seven hundred acres between Route 2 and the Connecticut River in East Hartford, the initial stages of which should be completed in the Fall of 2008. Mr. Scheinberg explained that the environmental impacts of the project include area clean up and future use of seven hundred acres of environmentally-sensitive floodplains along the Connecticut River, which will be used for environmental studies, a research vessel, green space, walking trails, and collaboration with Riverfront Recapture, the Science Center of Connecticut, and other organizations. He further explained that the economic impacts include employment opportunities for graduates and the resulting tax revenue from the State of Connecticut, economic benefits of additional full time equivalent jobs, and the acquisition of tax-delinquent properties. Mr. Scheinberg pointed out that, due to the change in the course of the river over many years, there is actually a small piece of land that is Wethersfield on the east side of the river. Mr. Scheinberg discussed the 330 acre parcel of land known as Crow Point which includes Crow Point Cove which is very pristine. He said that Goodwin College has an option that ends in July, 2007 to purchase the property and sees the purchase as a good environmental opportunity.
Chairperson Morin stated that he supports the project for its efforts to build environmental awareness in so many ways. He said that he has heard some concerns from residents in Wethersfield over the possibility of future development of the property. Chairperson Morin suggested that Mr. Scheinberg maintain open discussions with the Town Manager regarding zoning regulations and such.
Councilor Kotkin asked for clarification of particular pieces of property depicted on the map and Mr. Scheinberg identified them as wetlands. Councilor Kotkin asked if the proposed bike trail through Rocky Hill will also go through the property discussed. Mr. Scheinberg said that it is not, although, as a non-profit institution, Goodwin College is happy to work in partnership with the Town in any use that makes sense.
RESOLUTION FOR HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT FUNDS
RESOLUTION APPROVING REVISED TOWN PENSION PLAN
No one wished to speak and the Chairperson declared the Hearing segment closed.
Richard Lasher, Honorary Mayor of Griswoldville, extended greetings to the Council from the residents of Griswoldville. He congratulated Chairperson Morin on his successful election to the office of State Representative. Mr. Lasher distributed a number of gifts and presented a "key of Griswoldville" to the Mayor and wished all a Merry Christmas.
Board of Education member and former Town Councilor Julie Montinieri, 43 Amato Circle, said that she appreciates the opportunity she's had to work with Chairperson Morin and congratulated him as he moves forward. She said that in her short tenure working with Chairperson Morin, she observed that he always did what was right for the Town. Mrs. Montinieri thanked Chairperson Morin for his service to the Town.
Lee Sekas, 117 Wells Road, commented that because of the efforts of Chairperson Morin and the Town Council, the Town is doing better and that it needs to keep doing better. Mr. Sekas wished Chairperson Morin good luck at the State Capitol. Chairperson Morin commented that Mr. Sekas' presence tonight should remind residents that there are people out there with special needs and that they should make sure to clear their sidewalks in the winter.
Shirley Steinmetz, 375 Brimfield Road, thanked Chairperson Morin for his eleven years of serving the Town in a number of capacities including the Board of Education and the Town Council. She commented that under his leadership, with the support of the Council, many things have been accomplished in Wethersfield, and she sees him bringing his many qualities to the State Capitol as a Representative from Connecticut's 28th District. Ms. Steinmetz wished Chairperson Morin the best in his new endeavor.
Ed Tevald, 894 Ridge Road, commented that he does not have anything positive to say about what's happened in Wethersfield. Mr. Tevald raised concerns about non-resident students attending Wethersfield public schools and stated that the transcription of his comments in the September 18 Council minutes on the Wethersfield website were not accurate. He said that the intent of his comments was to find out if Wethersfield was having any problems with non-residents attending Wethersfield schools, and, if so, what was being done about it. Mr. Tevald said that he had asked for the annual per pupil cost for students attending Wethersfield public schools, and Chairperson Morin told him that he would get back to him with an answer; however, he hasn't yet. Mr. Tevald said that he read a recent Hartford Courant article stating that Wethersfield has a serious problem with illegal enrollments at a cost of $10,000 per pupil per year. He said that Wethersfield has already removed forty-nine students from school this year and fifty more cases are currently suspected. Mr. Tevald stated that something further has to be done about this problem. Mr. Tevald also commented about the replacement/repair of sidewalks along Ridge Road, the cost of which is the responsibility of the property owners. He stated that the Town recently installed sidewalks along both sides of the eastern end of Two Rod Highway at a considerable cost, yet residents on Ridge Road have to pay for their own sidewalks repairs. Mr. Tevald suggested that the Sidewalk Ordinance be amended to remedy this by having those who use the sidewalks, the residents, pay for the repairs. Chairperson Morin explained to Mr. Tevald that the Public Comment segment of the meeting does not include open dialog between the public and Council members. Chairperson Morin apologized to Mr. Tevald if he had told him that he would get back to him with an answer to one of his inquiries; however, he usually directs the public to contact the Town Manager with any inquiries they may have.
Brendan Flynn, 109 Springdale Road, commented that he served together with Chairperson Morin on both the Board of Education and the Council. He thanked Chairperson Morin for his service to the Town and congratulated him and wished him the best of luck in his new role at the State Capitol.
No one else wished to speak and the Chairperson declared the Public Comment segment closed.
Councilor Fortunato reported that she attended the recent Shared Services Committee meeting where a brief review of the 2005 goals was provided and it was suggested that the Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools make any necessary revisions to the goals for the next meeting in February. She said that at that time, the Shared Services Committee anticipates having the completed Facility Maintenance Plan available to go to the Capital Improvement Advisory Committee. Councilor Fortunato said that an architectural study is being conducted for potential renovations at both Wethersfield High School and Hanmer School. She reported that the Munis System is currently running live on the Town side and is moving forward with combining with the Board of Education.
Councilor Kirsche spoke of comments he received during his recent Councilor hours concerning issues with the video feed being weak in its audio. He asked if this issue has been addressed or will be addressed since the meetings will continue to be taped until the Council moves back into the Council Chambers at the Town Hall. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she has just been made aware of the issue and has yet had a chance to address it, but that she will.
Deputy Mayor Adil stated that he has received a lot of positive feedback on the leaf pickup program this year. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien stated that the leaf season went very well this year thanks to the Town staff and the Council's approval of new equipment. She said that Mother Nature did a fabulous job this year as well in cooperating with the weather. The Town Manager said that leaf pickup has taken place twice in every area of Town and in some areas a third pickup has occurred. She stated that the trucks have all been dismantled for leaf pickup at this point; therefore residents who still have leaves to dispose of should bring them to the Transfer Station.
Councilor Fortunato commented on remarks made by Mr. Tevald regarding the sidewalks on Ridge Road. She stated that this was a topic of discussion at a recent Infrastructure Committee meeting where it was determined that the public needs to be encouraged to contact the Town Manager if they have a problem with financing the sidewalk repair/replacement on their property.
Councilor Forrest commented that it has been a pleasure serving on the Council with Chairperson Morin. He said that he, personally, also considers Chairperson Morin a good friend to himself and his family. Councilor Forrest congratulated Chairperson Morin and stated that he will miss Chairperson Morin on the Council and that the State is better off with his election as a Representative.
Councilor Fortunato commented that she and Chairperson Morin have served in office together for eleven years. She said that a recent Shared Services Committee meeting the term "Morin factor" was brought up regarding Chairperson Morin's ability to work hard to make things happen and to seek and obtain financial resources for the needs of the Town. Councilor Fortunato said that because of all the time she and Chairperson Morin have spent together working for the good of the Town, she considers him to be like family. She said that as a State Representative, she sees Chairperson Morin doing great things not only for the Town of Wethersfield, but for the entire State of Connecticut.
Deputy Mayor Adil commented that he first met Chairperson Morin in 1999 and that since then he's known him to be a great neighbor, a great friend, and a forceful leader in Wethersfield, moving the Town in the right direction in terms of infrastructure. Deputy Mayor Adil stated that Chairperson Morin has been a huge inspiration to him and he wished him well in the future.
Councilor Drake wished Chairperson Morin well and stated that he knew him back when he was a Republican. He said that he supports Chairperson Morin in his new endeavor, and thanked him for doing some great things for Wethersfield.
Councilor Kotkin stated that he has known Chairperson Morin for decades and that he has always been impressed with Chairperson Morin's exemplary attendance record at countless meetings without ever complaining. Councilor Kotkin stated that Chairperson Morin has never been satisfied with "status quo" and has been driven by an intense desire as a public servant and leader in making Wethersfield better. He commented that the State's gain is Wethersfield's loss; however, he knows that Chairperson Morin will work diligently and effectively for Wethersfield.
Councilor Walsh thanked Chairperson Morin for his service, stating that he has served with him on both the Board of Education and the Town Council. He said that he has been pleased with the way Chairperson Morin has shown quiet leadership of the Council, being a consensus builder and a conscientious servant who leads by example. Councilor Walsh stated that Wethersfield's loss is the Capital's gain.
Councilor Kirsche thanked Chairperson Morin for giving him a voice for the past year. He wished Chairperson Morin good luck at the Capital, stating that he knows he'll serve Wethersfield well.
Chairperson Morin announced a number of upcoming community events. He commented to the Council, the Town Manager, the Town Clerk, and the public that since this will be the last Town Council meeting of 2006, he'd like to take the opportunity to share some thoughts before he steps down. Chairperson Morin stated that he will officially resign as Mayor of Wethersfield effective January 1, 2007 and that he is proud of the work that has been done by the Council on behalf of the Town and that he has been proud to serve with the members of this Council. He said that each Council member is a dedicated public servant who he admires and respects for their service. Chairperson Morin thanked the voters of Wethersfield for placing their faith in him. He thanked the Democratic Town Committee, especially Joe Coombs for supporting him throughout all of the elections. Chairperson Morin thanked the members of the Town Council who selected him to be their leader, including John Karangekis, Christine Fortunato, and Andy Adil who have provided constant support and friendship. Chairperson Morin thanked Town Manager Bonnie Therrien for her strength, determination, and constant source of information enabling the Council to make informed decisions. Lastly, Chairperson Morin thanked his family for their love and support, and for understanding the responsibility involved in being a public official. Chairperson Morin stated that it has been a privilege to serve as Mayor in such a great Town as Wethersfield and that he believes that his tenure as Mayor has provided him with the experience and knowledge necessary to move into his new role as State Representative. He said that he will continue to work hard on behalf of the Town of Wethersfield, as well as the State of Connecticut.
Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO APPOINT THE FOLLOWING TO THE BUILDING COMMITTEE - COMMUNITY CENTER:
| NICHOLAS J. D'ERAMO | R | 444 RIDGE ROAD |
| FRANK DELLARIPA | U | 37 ROBBINSWOOD DRIVE |
| THOMAS C. DOLAN | D | 145 BROAD STREET |
| GEOFFREY S. GAUNT | D | 36 MCMULLEN AVENUE |
| MARK W. TRAHAN | R | 21 ROBBINSWOOD |
| CHARLES P. VIANI | D | 35 SUNRISE TERRACE |
| THOMAS A. WILLSEY | R | 18 BROAD STREET |
FOR THE TERM 12-4-06 TO COMPLETION", seconded by Councilor Kirsche.
Deputy Mayor Adil made the point that a liaison from the Council should be appointed as well.
Chairperson Morin thanked the members of the group for volunteering, saying that the Town looks forward to working with Judy Keane, who he thanked as well for her efforts.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION FOR HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT FUNDS", seconded by Councilor Walsh.
Town Manager Bonnie Therrien explained that for 2006, the Town will be receiving funding in the amount of $19,818.
Councilor Drake asked if there are plans already for spending this funding. The Town Manager answered that the twenty-nine member Towns of the Capitol Region Council of Governments are pooling their dollars to purchase items and equipment for their emergency shelters. Councilor Drake asked why the resolution is written in such a way so as to not include certain set-aside projects. The Town Manager said that this is the way the State does it.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REVISED TOWN PENSION PLAN", seconded by Councilor Forrest.
The Town Manager explained that she and Finance Director Lisa Hancock have realized that the Town of Wethersfield's Pension Plan has not been updated in a long time and there have been a number of law and rule changes. She said that the update has been approved by the IRS and is now being presented to the Council for approval. The Town Manager stated that both Ms. Hancock and the Town's Pension Attorney Jack Strother are present at tonight's meeting to answer any questions.
Councilor Drake asked for a summary of the changes to the Plan. Attorney Strother explained that the review of the Plan began in 2004 and has been brought before all of the Town's bargaining units. He said that the revisions are technical in nature and include acts of Congress passed regarding limitations and tax referrals affecting the Plan since it was last reviewed in 1966.
Councilor Kotkin asked if the work done to revise the Town Pension Plan helps in anyway in updating the Firefighters' Pension Plan and to have that plan comply. Attorney Strother explained that, as he understands it, the IRS has declared that the firefighters are employees of the Town. He said that this created a whole new picture since they were previously not allowed to participate in the Town Pension Plan and now the Town needs to decide how to deal with it.
Chairperson Morin stated that the topic of the Pension Plan has been brought before the Pension Committee numerous times and he thanked Attorney Strother for this forum.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
None.
Councilor Forrest moved "TO AUTHORIZE THE TOWN MANAGER TO SIGN ALL NECESSARY APPLICATIONS FOR REVIEW AND APPROVAL RELATED TO THE LITTLE RED SCHOOL HOUSE PARKING LOT EXPANSION", seconded by Deputy Mayor Adil.
Town Manager Bonnie Therrien explained that at their last meeting, the Council authorized her to sign an application for a variance for a processed stone parking lot expansion at the Little Red School House, and she has since found out that the plan is to install a bituminous parking lot; therefore, she needs authorization to sign site plan review applications to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Deputy Mayor Adil asked how often the parking lot is used, and the Town Manager answered that it is actually used quite a bit since there are constantly programs and classes being offered at the location.
Councilor Drake stated that he seems to recall that the Council approved funding for gravel. The Town Manager stated that Mr. Turner's estimate was based on bituminous material.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Councilor Walsh moved "TO WAIVE THE ZONING APPLICATION FEE OF $155 FOR THE KEANE FOUNDATION FUND RAISER AT 185 BROAD STREET", seconded by Deputy Mayor Adil.
Town Manager Bonnie Therrien explained that the Keane Foundation will be holding a large fundraiser in October, 2007. She said that they are requesting a waiver of the zoning application fees for their request for a variance to place a large tent on the north side of the property at 185 Broad Street. The Town Manager said that since the Foundation gives money to the Town, it doesn't make sense to charge them the fees for the variance.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Councilor Kotkin moved "TO CANCEL THE DECEMBER 18, 2006 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING", seconded by Councilor Forrest.
Chairperson Morin explained that this has been brought before the Council due to a conflict with the use of the Silas Deane Middle School on that date, and the Town Manager being unable to find another suitable vacant room to hold the meeting. He said that a Special Meeting will be scheduled if any issues come up that need to be addressed.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO AUTHORIZE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ELECTRONIC PROCESSING OF PAYMENTS, AS RECOMMENDED, FOR TAXES AND OTHER PROGRAMS TO BE DETERMINED BY THE TOWN MANAGER", seconded by Councilor Forrest.
Town Manager Bonnie Therrien explained that the Town is looking to provide credit card options for customers and the Council has authorized her to negotiate with Bank of America to provide this service. She said that it is expected that this service will begin in January in both the Tax and Parks & Recreation Offices. The Town Manager said that Finance Director Lisa Hancock has gone through a lot of work and conversations to bring this service to fruition for the Town and provide the most feasible option for both the Town and customers.
Ms. Hancock provided an overview of the options available for credit card processing of payments in the tax department and also for all other department payments. She outlined the three options available and the fees involved for tax payments which are: (1) accept all card types and Automated Clearing House (ACH) debit cards/online checks, (2) accept all card types but no ACH or online checks, (3) acceptance of all payment types except VISA. Ms. Hancock stated that option #3 is one to consider; however, she recommends that the Town go with option #2 which will allow the consumer to pay on line with any type of credit card with a convenience fee of 2.75%, and payment with a debit card or check will allow the consumer to use their own on line banking software to send the payment electronically to the Town with no convenience fee. Moving on to payments for all other departments, Ms. Hancock explained that option #1 requires that, due to VISA rules, the Town must charge the same flat rate/fixed amount convenience fee to everyone on all payments made online regardless of amount or payment type. She said that she does not recommend that the Council pursue this option since it is costly. Ms. Hancock explained that option #2 provides that all credit card brands and ACH/check payments online and in-house be accepted with no convenience fee, and that the cost of the service be built into the overall program fee being charged to everyone. She said that option #2 will allow for the reduction in the amount of walk-in or mail-in registrations and will allow Town staff to streamline the registration process. She said that consumers will be more inclined to use the electronic method if the cost is the same with no appearance of a convenience fee, and this allows the service to be provided at no additional cost to the Town.
Councilor Walsh asked if the Town finds an acceptable vendor for tax payments, if the process will go on-line at the same time the credit card program is offered. Ms. Hancock said that the Town is negotiating with Bank of America and making arrangements to make this all happen at one time. Councilor Walsh verified that the program will establish with banks that the Town of Wethersfield accepts electronic payments, and Ms. Hancock stated that this is correct. Councilor Walsh asked how the estimated cost of the electronic fees to be built into the overall program fees will be calculated. Ms. Hancock answered that the process of calculating the fees will begin with a good estimate and will be looked at as time goes on to compare the fees with those being charged by other surrounding Towns. Councilor Walsh asked if the fees will be reported back to the Council, and Ms. Hancock said that this is something that the Council can decide on.
Councilor Kotkin thanked the Town staff for their research and work on this program. He stated that he'd like to make sure that residents are made fully aware that check payments in person or by mail do not require any convenience payment fee. Ms. Hancock stated that she will be developing a marketing program with the bank and that she plans to provide on-line payments for tax bills only beginning January 1, 2007.
Councilor Forrest asked if debit card payments will be included in with the on-line check payment category. Ms. Hancock stated that banking institutions consider a debit card to be the same as a credit card.
Councilor Kirsche concurred with Councilor Kotkin that residents need to be made aware that they will be charged a 2.75% convenience fee for on-line payments. He stated that a concern of his is that he wants to make sure that those who experience problems with on-line payments are informed to notify Bank of America rather than the Town's Finance Department. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the Town has already made sure that this will be the case. Ms. Hancock explained that the transaction will go from the Town's website to the Bank of America website which will look like the Town's website. She said that once the transaction goes to the Bank of America website, it is totally out of the Town's hands, and that she can make sure that questions regarding on-line transactions are built into this website.
Deputy Mayor Adil asked if the Bank of America website will allow customers to access their personal banking information to set up e-check payments. Ms. Hancock answered that she is not recommending this option. She said that it is more advisable for customers to go to their own on-line home banking website to set themselves up as a payee and automatically generate the online check payment to the Town's account.
Councilor Drake asked Ms. Hancock if she has given thought to or had concerns over the fact that those paying by cash and check will be subsidizing those making credit card payments with option #2 offered for all departments other than the tax department, since the flat fee will be worked into the cost of the programs. Ms. Hancock stated that this has crossed her mind; however, when the overall cost of the fees is spread out, the additional cost to the programs will not be significant. She said that she has also considered the fact that there will be customers who will want to pay in-house with a credit card since a convenience fee on in-house credit card payments cannot be assessed, rather than making an on-line payment and being charged the convenience fee. Councilor Drake asked about the protocol for processing on-line registrations in terms of a first come first served basis compared with walk-in registrations. Ms. Hancock said that she will shortly be interviewing vendors who provide software that will address this issue and limit the number of on-line registrations accepted.
Councilor Forrest asked if customers will receive a receipt or authorization verifying that on-line payment has been made. Ms. Hancock answered that Bank of America will provide a printed receipt.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Councilor Kotkin moved "TO AUTHORIZE THE TOWN MANAGER TO ACCEPT CIGNA'S PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE LIFE AND DISABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE", seconded by Councilor Walsh.
Town Manager Bonnie Therrien explained that the Town's Agent of Record for Life Insurance, Chris Monroe, received quotes for employee life and disability insurances. She said that CIGNA provided the lowest rates with a quote lower than the Town's current vendor that will provide savings of approximately $23,000 per year. The Town Manager stated that the Insurance Committee voted on November 16 to recommend to the Town Council that they accept the proposal from CIGNA for the life and disability insurance coverage. She said that CIGNA also offers an Employee Assistance Program which may allow the Town to eliminate its current carrier.
Deputy Mayor Adil asked about the extra benefit to be considered during negotiations. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she is still comparing the two programs to the current Employee Assistance Program to double check that the exact same coverage is provided.
Councilor Kotkin stated that it is worth noting that this bid is locked in for three years which provides a further advantage to the Town.
All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
None.
Councilor Forrest moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL JOINT COUNCIL AND BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING OF NOVEMBER 13, 2006", seconded by Councilor Kirsche. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 13, 2006", seconded by Councilor Forrest. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Councilor Walsh moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 20, 2006", seconded by Councilor Kirsche. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Chairperson Morin wished all those in attendance and those watching at home a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.
At 8:40 p.m., Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION" seconded by Councilor Walsh. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
At 8:53 p.m., Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO ENTER BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING" seconded by Councilor Walsh. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
At 8:53 p.m., Deputy Mayor Adil moved "TO ADJOURN THE MEETING" seconded by Councilor Kirsche. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.
Dolores G. Sassano
Town Clerk
Approved by vote of Council 1/2/2007