[NOTE: These minutes are made available to the public prior to Town Council acceptance.]

REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 15, 2003

The Wethersfield Town Council held a meeting on September 15, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall.

Present: Councilors Cascio, Flynn, Gardow, Hemmann, Morin, Sassano (8:20), Deputy Mayor O'Connor and Chairperson Czernicki.

Absent: Councilor Fitzpatrick.

Also present: Bonnie Therrien, Town Manager, and Dolores G. Sassano, Town Clerk.

Chairperson Czernicki stated that there will be an Executive Session following the Regular Meeting to discuss Union Negotiations and the MDC.

All stood for the pledge of allegiance to the flag which was led by Councilor Gardow.

Recognition of Wethersfield High School Cheerleaders

Chairperson Czernicki presented Wethersfield High School Cheerleader Squad and their Coach Kathy Cascio with a recognition certificate for their accomplishments at this summer's National Cheerleaders Association Camp in Rhode Island. The Wethersfield High School Varsity Cheerleaders were selected as "NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BID WINNERS" entitling them to compete nationally and were also awarded the "TOP CHANT TROPHY" and the "SPIRIT AWARD" which is voted on by all participating teams based on which squad they would most like to be a part of. Six members of the Varsity squad were chosen for the All-American Cheerleading Team. The six are seniors Carly Brooks, Danielle Cousineau, Nayomi Dawes, Amanda Ocasio, and sophomores Nicole Citino and Tiffany Ruiz. Chairperson Czernicki congratulated the squad for their combined and individual talents making for a championship cheerleading squad that is a model for all athletes to emulate.

The Cheerleading Squad demonstrated some of their stunts and performed cheers for the Council and the audience.

Recognition of Volunteer Firemen's 200th Anniversary and State Convention

Chairperson Czernicki presented a certificate to the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department recognizing their 200th Anniversary Celebration and their continuous and invaluable service to the citizens of Wethersfield. The certificate also recognized the 120th Anniversary of the Connecticut State Firefighter's Association. Chairperson Czernicki announced that the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting a carnival at Cove Park on September 19-21. A gala parade will be held on Sunday, September 21 which will include Fire Departments from 88 towns and over 2,500 marchers. Chairperson Czernicki urged all residents to get out to the parade route which will run from the Police Facility on the Silas Deane Highway to Wells Road and down Main Street. Chairperson Czernicki said that the Cornfest will also be running this weekend starting Friday with Family Movie Night on the Broad Street Green and continuing Saturday with the 19th Annual Wethersfield Cornfest, Craft Fair and Business Expo.

Councilor Cascio moved "TO REMOVE ITEM C.2.b FROM THE TABLE", seconded by Deputy Mayor O'Connor. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

Councilor Cascio moved "TO ADD TO THE AGENDA THE ALLOWANCE OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO SUPERVISE THE RECREATION AND PARKS EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM", seconded by Deputy Mayor O'Connor. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

Councilor Cascio moved "TO ADD TO THE AGENDA THE RESOLUTION REGARDING OPPOSITION TO INCREASED FARES FOR ROCKY HILL FERRY", seconded by Deputy Mayor O'Connor. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

HEARING

None

GENERAL COMMENTS

Gordon Distin, 105 Valley View Drive, commented on the automated refuse pickup. The majority of residents he's spoken to don't understand why the Council voted for such a radical change in refuse pickup. These residents have a strong trust in the Council, but they object to amending the contract with Paine's Refuse, and they would like to see reconsideration. Mr. Distin would like to know what residents are to do with their current trash containers. When speaking with the Town Manager this week, she was sympathetic; however, she had no solution. He'd like to see the Town consider an agreement with Paine's in which they buy back the current containers at $10 per container. Mr. Distin said that the $10,000 savings for the first ten months of the nine-year contract with Paine's equates to a savings of $.11 per household per year.

Jay Cottone, 37 Drummer Lane, thanked the Council for recognizing the High School Cheerleaders. He commented on the Resolution being introduced this evening for the installation of artificial turf and lights at Cottone Field. He said that the field requires a tremendous amount of maintenance as it is often very soggy. A report from the Recreation Department stated that the surface soil was not the required depth. This makes it easy for the turf to be damaged. The cost to maintain the field is typically $18,000 - $20,000 per year. The proposal would allow for very little maintenance of the field and allow for the Recreation and Parks crew to concentrate their efforts on other areas in Town. CCSU Athletic Director, C.J. Jones, has informed Mr. Cottone that athletic injuries to the knee and cartilage at CCSU have decreased significantly since their installation of the proposed material. Mr. Cottone supports the proposed resolution as it would provide for a first class facility for Wethersfield's youth.

John Hagenbart, Wethersfield High School Football Coach, stated that there are a number of reasons to upgrade the football field with synthetic turf. Safety is the key issue as the field space was decreased in order to provide for a softball field and the synthetic turf would provide for a safer practice field.

Tony DiCicco, 30 Summerfield Drive, said that the proposed synthetic turf is remarkable technology. It is a combination of ground rubber and sand mixed together to feel like soil. It is forgiving and soft and the blades of grass look like real grass. It is a safe surface because it never really gets hard and the turf requires virtually no maintenance. All youth sports would be able to benefit from the field as it would no longer be overused.

Barbara Distin, 105 Valley View Drive, stated that she opposes the new trash pickup proposal. She had previously presented a petition to the Council listing signatures of residents who also oppose the new proposal. These petition signers would like to see a public hearing held on the matter and a possible reconsideration.

Martha Mayer, 133 Griswold Road, believes that the Town would do better to spend funds on the proposed Mill Woods Master Plan rather than on installation of artificial turf at the High School football field. She recommends that the Physical Services Department deal with the surface water damage at the football field.

Jim Clynch, 903 Ridge Road, spoke as the Service Officer of the Disabled American Veterans. The flag on Main Street was not flying recently and the flag at Town Hall was at half-staff. He inquired at the Police Station, and was told that the flag was not put up because of the inclement weather. He was told the flag outside the Police Station was made of a different, sturdier fabric than the other one. The weather did not change and he noticed the flag in Old Wethersfield is flying. He did not have an explanation as to why the flag was not flying on the previous day. He feels this does not set a good example for our youth. As the Service Officer of the Disabled American Veterans it is his duty to make sure that the flags fly over Wethersfield. Also, the MIA/POW flag did not fly over Main Street on September 14. He said that this is grossly unacceptable. This flag honors our Veterans who have yet to return home. Chairperson Czernicki said that she will look into the flag situation. Wethersfield's Town Clerk generally communicates with the Governor's office as to the status of the flags. She spoke for all Council members when stating that the American Flag is honored and that they are fully aware of the symbolism of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Robert Young, 20 Coppermill Road, said that he attended last week's Siting Council Hearing and would appreciate a run down of what occurred at the meeting. He would like to know if there will be transcripts of the meeting available to the public, or if the meeting will be televised. Chairperson Czernicki said that the transcripts will be available within a two- to three-week time frame. He commented on a home being built on Spring Street that looks totally out of place. Regarding the sewer installation, he said that wetlands have always been looked at as requiring high protection which seems to mean nothing. Chairperson Czernicki said that the public hearing for the MDC and the Inland Wetlands Commission will be held this Wednesday evening.

Rocco Orsini, 95 Broad Street, spoke on behalf of the Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. He agrees with Mr. Clynch's observations and concerns regarding the American Flag. He suggests the Town Manager review the process so there is a formal procedure that will provide consistency with all Town-hung flags. The Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. suggests that Councilor Gardow be appointed as the Town Council representative to teachers' negotiations. Mr. Gardow is from the private sector and they would like to see someone from the private sector involved in Union negotiations. For years, Wethersfield Town Managers have expressed the need for additional computers and have been granted the funds to acquire them. The current system may be dysfunctional, but $153,000 is a lot of money and the Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. does not want the extra money from the reserve fund going toward computers. They would like to see the money due to the growth of the reserve fund returned to the taxpayers or used in next year's budget. They support granting the Town Manager one-half of the amount or $75,000 and the remaining $75,000 needs to be found elsewhere.

No one else wished to speak and the Chairperson declared the General Comments segment closed.

COUNCIL ACTION

Deputy Mayor O'Connor moved "TO ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF CHARLES VIANI FROM THE WETHERSFIELD INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES COMMISSION", seconded by Councilor Gardow. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

Councilor Gardow moved "TO ACCEPT THE FOLLOWING APPOINTMENTS:

SENIOR CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

BUILDING COMMITTEE, TOWN HALL/POLICE STATION

", seconded by Councilor Cascio. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Request for Abandonment of Town Property on Columbus Street

Deputy Mayor O'Connor reported that the Traffic and Transportation Committee met and recommends that the request from Mr. Kelly to exchange property be allowed. There is no impact to the Town as it is a matter of simply swapping the two parcels of land.

Councilor Flynn said that because this is simply a swap and Mr. Kelly realizes that he will not be able to subdivide and build, there is no economic downside to either Mr. Kelly or the Town.

Councilor Flynn moved "TO REFER FOR AN 8-24 REVIEW THE REQUEST OF STEVEN KELLY TO EXCHANGE TOWN OWNED LAND WITH AN ABUTTING PIECE OF PROPERTY OWNED BY MR. KELLY IF THE EXCHANGE IS OF EQUAL LAND SIZE AND THE PROPERTY HAS NO BUILDABLE LOTS", seconded by Councilor Cascio. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

Wethersfield TLC Early Childhood Program

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the State Department of Public Health has cited the Town's TLC Early Childhood Program concerning whether it is a recreational program or should be considered a daycare program. A hearing with the State will be held on October 8 to review the Statutes and to put forth the idea that this is really a recreational program and not a daycare program. In the meantime, the Town would like to continue this very popular program by having it administered by the Board of Education. Dr. Proctor agreed to have the Board sponsor the program for one year until the State Hearing is held and Council decides what to do with the program. This item will be on the next Board of Education meeting agenda. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien would like the Council to review the recommendation before it goes to the Board of Education.

Chairperson Czernicki asked if this item was discussed at this evening's earlier Shared Services Committee meeting. Councilor Cascio said that it was discussed briefly.

Councilor Morin moved "TO PRESENT TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION THE MOTION TO ADOPT AN AGREEMENT WITH THE TOWN REGARDING THE BOARD OF EDUCATION'S ADMINISTRATION OF THE TLC EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM", seconded by Councilor Flynn.

Councilor Gardow asked if the Town has budgeted for this program in the current fiscal year. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that there is money on the Town side and most of the program is paid for through fees collected. The Board of Education would be responsible for administering the program. Councilor Gardow is concerned about the Board's authority to then move monies around.

All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 7-0-0.

Resolution Regarding Opposition to Increased Fares for the Rocky Hill Ferry

Chairperson Czernicki said that Rocky Hill Mayor Barbara Surwilo as well as several Rocky Hill Councilors presented this Resolution addressing the proposed fairly significant rate fee for the ferry. The Legislature has passed a package for daily commuters of the ferry, but has not yet done anything about decreasing the new rate.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor doesn't understand why only half of Rocky Hill's Council is supporting this Resolution. He'd like to send a similar Resolution to Rocky Hill stating that the Town of Wethersfield wishes to go on record as being strongly opposed to the MDC dumping raw sewage into the Wethersfield Cove and have Rocky Hill's Council unanimously support that as well.

Councilor Gardow said that he will not support this Resolution as the fares have not been increased recently and it appears that higher fares are in order. People will continue to pay the increased fee in order to ride the ferry.

Councilor Flynn moved "TO SUPPORT ROCKY HILL'S RESOLUTION REGARDING OPPOSITION TO INCREASED FARES FOR THE ROCKY HILL FERRY", seconded by Councilor Hemmann.

Councilor Flynn feels that a fare increase is necessary and appropriate; however, doubling the fare is too much. It is a sure way to kill the ferry program. The Wethersfield Council has gone on record supporting reviving the ferry service and the fare increase is not consistent with that.

The following roll call vote was taken:

The motion passed 5-1-2.

OTHER BUSINESS

Computer Study - Walker Systems Inc.

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that there are a lot of computer issues Town wide and as hardware is upgraded the software has not been. The server in the Assessors Office needs to be upgraded for the upcoming property revaluation. The server replacement will allow the new CAMA software system to run effectively. Training needs to be provided to the Staff enabling them to use the new system without the constant utilization of Walker Systems Inc. The recommendation at this point is to take the funds from the Contingency Account rather than the reserves. It is also recommended that Council go to a public hearing before any decision is made.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor said that he thought that the goal was to upgrade the e-mail and now the goal has grown to upgrading everyone to Office 2000. He is not sure why every PC has to be upgraded. He asked why a single 166 MHz Pentium processor is being recommended for such high traffic. He would think there should be multiple processors.

Paul Dudley, Data Services Coordinator, introduced both Josh Rappaport, Walker Systems Inc. Account Representative and Evan Mandell, Walker Systems Inc. Engineer who conducted the onsite study and authored the Assessment Recommendation document. Regarding the processor, Mr. Dudley said that the 166 MHz processor is the current obsolete processor. This service is actually the slowest machine in the organization. This will be replaced with a Compaq ML350 which is a single 2.8 GHz processor. Deputy Mayor O'Connor asked if Gateway was considered as a purchasing option. Mr. Dudley said that he does not have access to Gateway's specs as opposed to Compaq's. Deputy Mayor O'Connor said that Compaq is the most expensive system to purchase. Mr. Dudley said that the specs provided were for the specific hardware and not for the price. Deputy Mayor O'Connor asked why it is necessary to go to Office 2000. Mr. Dudley said that that was not one of the recommendations although he feels that it is appropriate. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she recommended that all issues be addressed now so that there wouldn't be problems in the near future. The incompatibility of software does not allow for communication between many Town staff members. Mr. Dudley said that the recommendations by Walker Systems Inc. are almost 100% based on the technical aspects and not the costs.

Councilor Hemmann said that she appreciates the information provided in the report and referred to a previous report which listed the hardware and software, but didn't really have any direction. This report is much more informative. She believes that the recommendation for the server is overdue.

Councilor Flynn said that he endorses almost all of Deputy Mayor O'Connor's comments. He feels that an e-mail fix has morphed into a $150,000 budgetary nightmare. He would like to have seen some type of prioritization in the process in order to make decisions regarding resource allocation. He asked Town Manager Bonnie Therrien what the current total is in the Contingency. The Town Manager said that the total is approximately $250,000. Councilor Flynn said that the computer system expenditure would reduce that fund to $100,000 and we haven't even seen any snow yet. He doesn't think that it makes sense to deplete the reserves before we've entered the snow season. We need to think of last year's snow removal budget and how it was wiped out. Councilor Flynn has a problem with awarding this proposal without a bid process taking place.

Councilor Gardow said that he appreciates the concerns of Councilor Hemmann, Deputy Mayor O'Connor, and Councilor Flynn. He can see the need for a new server, but prioritization and education must be addressed. This proposal is a good plan for the long run; however, spending $150,000 is not a prudent short term decision. We should go forward only with the portions that are necessary for today.

Chairperson Czernicki said that prioritizing needs and a bid process are very important issues regarding this proposal. She suggested that Councilors look through the packet provided by Walker Systems Inc. and submit any questions to the Town Manager for discussion during the public hearing at the next Town Council meeting.

Architect Contract - Friar and Associates - Webb School

Architect Contract - Bianco, Giolitto, Weston Architects - Stillman Building

Construction Manager Contract - Newfield Construction Inc.

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien reported that she met with members of the School Building Committee to negotiate contracts with Friar Associates; Bianco Giolitto Weston Architects; and Newfield Construction and Council members have before them the proposed contracts with the exception of the Physical Services Contract with Friar Associations which she will get to them tomorrow.

Councilor Cascio moved "TO AUTHORIZE THE TOWN MANAGER TO SIGN THE AIA CONTRACT WITH FRIAR ASSOCIATES FOR ARCHITECTURAL WORK ON THE WEBB SCHOOL, BIANCO GIOLITTO WESTON ARCHITECTS FOR ARCHITECTURAL WORK ON THE STILLMAN BUILDING, AND NEWFIELD CONSTRUCTION TO SERVE AS CONSTRUCTION MANAGER FOR THE WEBB/STILLMAN/ AND PHYSICAL SERVICES BUILDINGS", seconded by Councilor Gardow.

Councilor Flynn said that he has a number of concerns with these contracts and asked if Mr. Drake is present to address them. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that Mr. Drake had a Building Committee meeting tonight. Councilor Flynn is concerned that the contract reads that the drawings remain the property of the architects. He referred to the current issue with the drawings for the drainage problem and the drawings needing to be redone. Councilor Flynn thinks that the Town should retain the drawings. Deputy Mayor O'Connor pointed out that the contract stipulates that the "owner" can retain copies of the drawings. Councilor Flynn said that we'd need to obtain the architects permission in order to use the drawings in future projects. He feels that the Town should own the drawings in order to have the right in the future to do with them what we wish. Councilor Flynn said that he noticed that the contract has been amended to provide for a January 30 deadline and a liquidated damages clause in the event that the architects do not comply. Regarding Newfield Construction, Councilor Flynn questioned the reimbursable costs for Project Manager, Project Superintendent, and Project Engineer and why they are not included in the construction management fee. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that they are reimbursable and the wording may need to be changed. She said that this contract is set up exactly the same way as it was for the Silas Deane Middle School, but she will check with the Town Attorney regarding this.

Councilor Cascio asked if this is a similar document to other projects in the past. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the School Building Committee took an AIA document and modified it into a model contract. Councilor Cascio asked if the contracts can be approved with the adjustment that the Town will own the original documents. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that this can probably be done, but she would like to check on it legally. With this change, the architects can either accept the contract or, if not, Town Manager Bonnie Therrien will need to come back to the Council.

Councilor Gardow expressed his concern for the tight schedule required. He asked if the contract needs to be further negotiated, he asked if this would stop the project. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the project has already begun and that delaying the contract would not stop the work. Councilor Gardow therefore concurred with Councilor Flynn's concerns regarding ownership of the drawings.

Councilor Morin asked if the Town's legal counsel has reviewed the contracts and signed off on them. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that because these contracts are based on the model approved by the previous Town Attorney, there was no need to have it reviewed again. Councilor Morin suggested that the current Town Attorney review any additions.

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien suggested that these contracts be added to the agenda of the September 29 or 30 Special meetings. She will speak to the Town Attorney and have more answers by this date.

Councilor Flynn said that he has no problem voting to approve the contracts tonight provided they are changed to stipulate that the Town has title to any drawings prepared. He is concerned with the performance deadline in paragraph 12.3 of the Friar contract. He feels that it is meaningless unless we hold their feet to the fire and impose a significant monetary penalty should they not meet the deadline. He'd like to see this issue addressed.

Councilor Gardow said that the penalty clause is actually a two-way street. If the Town doesn't adhere to the contract, we could be out money as well. He believes that paragraph 12.3 should be left as is.

Councilor Cascio asked about any past practice regarding penalty clauses. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she is not aware of any other penalty clauses.

Councilor Flynn clarified that the penalty paragraph is a time-based clause and doesn't stipulate any penalty should the Town staff screw up. He thinks that it is money well spent to offer the architect incentive to finish earlier.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor asked the Town Manager if the construction will stop until the Council approves the contracts. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the construction has not yet started, but all of the architects have been great with moving ahead before negotiations even started. She doesn't believe that there will be any delay caused by Council not approving the contracts tonight.

Chairperson Czernicki asked the Council members if they would like to wait until September 29 or 30 and have this item reappear on the agenda.

Councilor Gardow said that he'd like to wait and suggested that members of the Building Committee be in attendance at the future meeting in order to address any questions and concerns.

Chairperson Czernicki said that the Plan of Conservation and Development is scheduled to be reviewed on September 29 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and suggested that a Council meeting be scheduled following that meeting to discuss this issue. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she recommends meeting on September 30 because the Building Committee meets on Monday, September 29. Council members agreed that it would be better to meet on September 29 as they would all be here already. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she will see that the review be finished by 8:00 p.m.on September 29 so that they can then join the Council after for a joint meeting.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor asked about the stipulation in the contract which states that the Town would be responsible for providing coffee for the vendor. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she is not sure about this.

Councilor Flynn moved "TO TABLE THE MOTION UNTIL THE JOINT MEETING WITH THE BUILDING COMMITTEE ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 AT 8:00 P.M.", seconded by Deputy Mayor O'Connor. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve the Millwoods Master Plan with the caveat that the Council should consider phasing the construction of the new parking areas as the use demonstrates the need.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor said that most of the Master Plan involved adding fields to the Park. Two softball fields have been taken away and he wonders where those fields will show up now.

Kathy Bagley, Director of Recreation and Parks, said that the softball fields being eliminated will be accommodated for by rescheduling how the softball field is currently utilized. Fuller Field will pick up any needs of the softball program.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor finds it hard to believe that the needs will be met in the future with the removal of two fields when there is already scheduling problems.

Councilor Morin said that he'd be interested to see the usage of the Adult Softball programs and how many of the participants are actually residents of Wethersfield. If the majority is residents, we should make sure that they are accommodated. He'd like to make sure that the kids' leagues are fully accommodated because they are all residents of Wethersfield.

Councilor Cascio asked where the funds will be coming from if Council votes tonight to approve this project. Also, he'd like to know what the timeline for the project will be.

Ms. Bagley said that once the project is approved by Council, the Park Board will look at a variety of ways to fund the project. There is no set plan for presentation at this time.

Councilor Cascio is concerned about the funds being currently available as there are many Wethersfield projects that may have higher priority. He'd actually like to see the Council develop a priority list of Town projects.

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the intent at this time for funding is to do fund-raising and grants.

Councilor Cascio said that he'd also like to make sure that the Physical Services Department would be able to maintain the fields as they should be maintained.

Councilor Gardow asked Ms. Bagley to expand on the minutes of the August 19 Planning & Zoning Commission's meeting.

Ms. Bagley said that all that has been presented to-date is a conceptual plan. When there comes a time for a proposal and funding, it would need to be approved by Planning & Zoning. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien recommends that it would then come back to the Council for approval.

Councilor Gardow asked if there was any discussion about the Moeller Home/Nature Center project. He was told that there was. He asked what the status of the parking for this is.

Ms. Bagley said that the Moeller Home/Nature Center renovation has been meshed with the parking in the Mill Woods Master Plan in order to fit the needs of both.

Councilor Hemmann supports the conceptual Master Plan and believes that it is long overdue. She agrees with Councilor Cascio's recommendation for prioritization of Town projects. She appreciates the creative use of seeking grants and alternative funding. She supports accepting the plan provided all other Town & School projects are prioritized.

Councilor Gardow agrees with the recommendation to phase in the parking. He commented that the Strategic Plan was reviewed and under the section of Public Services it is recommended that portions of land on Elm Street be considered for recreational purposes. He asked Ms. Bagley if the Commission looked at this and what the output was. Ms. Bagley said that it was looked at as a purchase of land down in the Meadows and as the process progressed it appeared that that would not be happening in the near future. She said that the Park Board never came to Council with this proposal. Councilor Gardow is concerned therefore that the Plan of Development is not being followed. Ms. Bagley said that the project was deemed not feasible as the Commission went through the process. The Park Board continually looks at land throughout Town to determine if it would be appropriate for either Recreation programs or open space preservation. Councilor Gardow believes that it is important to distribute recreational use around all areas of Town.

Councilor Morin said that he'd like to see a meeting of the Land Use and Open Space Committee to start looking at this issue. Councilor Morin said that he has been asking for this for two years.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor said that he phoned the Town Manager a couple weeks ago and requested a meeting with Morris Farms and Kycia Farms. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she has yet to hear back from either of them.

Chairperson Czernicki asked Ms. Bagley if the Council was to vote this evening to move forward with the Plan and the efforts for fund-raising are not timely or sufficient enough to move forward, what will happen.

Ms. Bagley said that if her Department cannot come up with sufficient funds, the success of the Plan would depend on the priorities of the Town.

Chairperson Czernicki is concerned about the incredibly large amount of blacktop area in the Plan and also the priority of the Plan compared with other projects in Town. She is largely concerned that all of the work put into this Plan will be for naught if there is no funding available. She asked Ms. Bagley what she envisions happening with this Plan. Ms. Bagley said that she will go to the Park Board and set up a plan for accomplishment of elements of the Master Plan. Some elements can be accomplished independently and others need to be done as a package. She'd like to see small successes to demonstrate to the public that money can be found and this could further propel the Plan to larger items. Ms. Bagley is always looking at grant opportunities to accomplish this.

Councilor Sassano appreciates Ms. Bagley's hard work on this Plan and is pleased with the response of the Planning & Zoning Commission. He believes that the Plan needs to be refined and finalized. This has not been an exercise in futility. He applauds the Recreation & Parks Department's efforts in seeking funding mechanisms. He believes that if the funds are not available, it will then be up to the Town Council to decide if this Plan rises to the top of the Town priority list. Councilor Sassano said that a project of this magnitude should find its ultimate funding from the Town through the Capital Improvements Budget.

Councilor Flynn moved "TO APPROVE THE MILLWOODS MASTER PLAN", seconded by Councilor Morin.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor asked if approving the Plan tonight gives it a rubber stamp. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that it is a conceptual Plan that cannot go forward until the Council and the P&Z allows for it. Any specific plans will need to come back to the Council and P&Z for approval. Any fund-raising cannot go forward until there is an endorsement of the Plan by the Council and the P&Z.

All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

Town Council Representative to Teachers' Negotiations

Councilor Cascio asked what the meeting dates, times and timeframe for negotiations are. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the meetings are in the evening and are currently scheduled to commence at the end of September. Councilor Cascio said that the meetings often go until 2:00 a.m. and he recommends that the Council be given the time to consider who has the required amount of free time.

Board of Education member, Christine Fortunato, said that the first, official meeting is scheduled to be held on September 29 at 6:00 p.m. and that this should be confirmed with the Superintendent of Schools.

Chairperson Czernicki asked Councilor Gardow if he feels that this is something that he would like to commit to. Councilor Sassano asked if the Council has decided that they want to send one of its members to the negotiations and if the Board of Education has requested this. Chairperson Czernicki said that the Superintendent of Schools and Town Manager have discussed the matter and an invitation from the Superintendent was extended to have a member of the Council sit in on the negotiations.

Councilor Cascio said that the Council has been invited to negotiations in the past and often the Town Manager attended. He does not remember a Council member being present during any of his ten years on the Board. This would be the first time for this that he is aware of. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she will check into how active a part the Council member will take at the negotiations.

Mrs. Fortunato said that it is her experience that the representative from the Council has provided input but does not actively participate in the negotiations. Once again, Dr. Proctor, Superintendent of Schools, should be consulted to answer this more accurately.

Deputy Mayor O'Connor said that the Council member would not be able to attend on September 29 because the Council has a meeting on that same night. He asked if the Council could give this more thought and make the appointment at the Council meeting on September 29.

Councilor Gardow said that he would be willing to sit in on the negotiation meeting on September 23.

BIDS

None

ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS, APPOINTMENTS FOR INTRODUCTION

ORDINANCE TRANSFERRING $790,790 AMONG VARIOUS ACCOUNTS

BE IT ORDAINED, that pursuant to Section 709 of the Town Charter, the unencumbered balance of appropriations in the Contingency Account, Police Bureau, Town Manager, Economic Development, Fire Suppression, Street Lights, Engineering and Insurance & Risk Management of the FY 2002/2003 budget be transferred as follows:

RESOLUTION CONCERNING THE WETHERSFIELD HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL FIELD FOR THE INSTALLATION OF ARTIFICIAL TURF AND LIGHTS

WHEREAS, the current High School Football Field is in need of serious repair due to field conditions that prevent it from holding up in inclement weather; and

WHEREAS, the Town's annual cost to repair and maintain this field during the Football season is in excess of $20,000; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Education is aware of the issues at Cottone Field and has been for many years; and

WHEREAS, both the Principal and Athletic Director of Wethersfield High School fully support the idea of Lighting and Artificially Grassing the Football Field; and

WHEREAS, it is currently cost prohibitive to replace and maintain the Football field with a Grass Field; and

WHEREAS, by lighting the current Football Field, the High School will now be in a position, if it so chooses, to open later in the AM, as many National Studies have recommended as being in the best interest of High School aged children; and

WHEREAS, by creating a Multipurpose Soccer and Football field, issues with scheduling and make up games due to inclement Weather can be scheduled much easier and overtime can be reduced, and

WHEREAS, the ability for the Town to generate funds will now be present; and

WHEREAS, many surrounding communities, including inter-divisional competition, have undertaken similarly successful projects to address such issues; and

WHEREAS, the trend for High School Football is to play on Friday Nights, especially in light of UCONN Football playing on Saturdays; and

WHEREAS, Wethersfield has the Premier Soccer program in the State of Connecticut, and holds the record for the most State Championships by any town in Connecticut; and

WHEREAS; this can be a vehicle for Economic Development by attracting people from around the State to Wethersfield to shop and eat at our stores and restaurants; and

WHEREAS, the US Soccer Foundation is currently offering a discount program through NIKE to provide Lights and Artificial Turf to schools and municipalities;

BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council hereby directs the Town Manager to take the necessary actions needed to replace the current High School Football Field with Artificial Grass and Lights in time for a 2004 Fall Opening.

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENT WITH THE CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR A 2003 AMERICA-THE-BEAUTIFUL GRANT

RESOLVED, that Bonnie L. Therrien, Town Manager, is hereby authorized to enter into an Agreement with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for a 2003 America-the-Beautiful Grant for the planting of six trees on the grounds of the Charles Wright Elementary School, as part of a school-wide program focusing on the importance of trees.

MINUTES

Councilor Flynn moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF AUGUST 25, 2003", seconded by Councilor Gardow.

Councilors Cascio, Flynn, Gardow, Hemmann, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. Councilors Morin, Sassano, and Deputy Mayor O'Connor abstained. The motion passed 5-0-3.

Councilor Hemmann moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 2, 2003", seconded by Councilor Morin. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

Councilor Cascio moved "TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 2, 2003", seconded by Councilor Gardow. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson, voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

GENERAL COMMENTS

REPORTS

Town Manager Bonnie Therrien reported that the Health Department will continue to pick up any dead birds throughout Town. After four or five birds are picked up and found positive for West Nile, the Town is no longer responsible to pick up the birds. Humans cannot catch West Nile Virus by picking up the dead birds. Regarding the Cell Tower situation, the Town Attorney is reviewing the consultant's full contract and she will report back to the Council later in the week.

COUNCIL

Councilor Gardow commented that there have been discussions with Mr. Paine that he will pick up any old garbage cans that residents currently have. Mr. Hart, former Physical Services Director, also said that they can be thrown into the dumpster. Chairperson Czernicki said that these issues need to be addressed as part of the Townwide education process. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she and Mr. Paine have agreed to have a public question and answer meeting before the new plan goes into place.

Councilor Hemmann corrected dollar amounts in the 2002/2003 Revenue Report memo. She commented that a resident asked her if the State mandated architect fees for the roof would be reimbursed by the State. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that no such request will be submitted.

Councilor Cascio reported that traffic problems at Hanmer and Wright Schools were discussed at the Shared Services meeting prior to this Council meeting. The problems are being addressed and brought back to the Traffic and Transportation Committee. He also reported that the roof at the Silas Deane Middle School is complete and the project is moving along on target. The cafeteria will be opened on Wednesday. Consolidation of services and a new budget format for 2004/2005 were also discussed.

Councilor Morin commented that he enjoys public participation, but does not look fondly on public comments stating that a State or Municipal employee should not be appointed to serve on a committee. This type of comment makes him feel that the public thinks that such employees aren't worthy of serving the Town and looking out for its best interests. He feels that these comments are inappropriate and he (and others in Town) doesn't appreciate them.

PUBLIC

Rocco Orsini, 95 Broad Street, spoke on behalf of the Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. said that he made the comment of which Councilor Morin is speaking. He said the comment because he looks for balance. He asked if the Town has made any plans regarding the oncoming hurricane and the issue of brush and branches being picked up at homeowner's curbs. The Town Manager said that there will be a meeting tomorrow morning addressing any of the issues. She will have a report of recommendations available for the Council members on Wednesday. Mr. Orsini stated the concerns of the 800 MHz systems throughout the country and wonders if the Town is addressing any problems within Wethersfield. The Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. would like a report of the status of Wethersfield's 800 MHz system. Chairperson Czernicki said that the Town Manager has provided the Council with information regarding this. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the Police are the last one's to get in on the 800 system. All others are currently on the system. Mr. Orsini is concerned with the appearance of Spring Street and asked Town Manager Bonnie Therrien if there are plans to clean up the construction debris and to address the condition of the trees. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that the State DOT has a punch list to complete and the Town will do no work until the DOT is finished. Mr. Orsini asked about the status of the canopy for the entrance of the Silas Deane Middle School. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien had no information available. The Wethersfield Taxpayers Association, Inc. is tired of the issue of Cottone Field. A lot of money has already been spent to redo this field. They don't think that anymore time or money should be spent on the field. The Town needs to look for a new home for the football field.

Councilor Flynn asked if the Executive Session's participation of Attorney Hammer will be confidential or will he be allowed to report to the public he represents. Councilor Flynn was told by Attorney Hammer that the Executive Session discussion is confidential and he is not to disclose anything that is said during such.

Councilor Morin commented that it would have made sense for the Town to have some sort of legal representation at the Executive Session as well. Town Manager Bonnie Therrien said that she informed Attorney Smith about the Executive Session and that she will report to him the results of the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

At 9:55 p.m., Councilor Cascio moved "TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION" seconded by Councilor Morin. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

At 11:17 p.m., Deputy Mayor O'Connor moved "TO END THE EXECUTIVE SESSION AND ENTER BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING" seconded by Councilor Flynn. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

At 11:17 p.m., Councilor Flynn moved "TO ADJOURN THE MEETING" seconded by Councilor Morin. All Councilors present, including the Chairperson voted AYE. The motion passed 8-0-0.

Dolores G. Sassano
Town Clerk

Unapproved