Video index
1. Call Meeting to Order
7
2. Prayer: Pastor Doug Rowse, New River Community Church
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Roll Call
Roll call (10 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
5. Public Input [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Town Council.]
John Branigan, Pine Knob - Full Time Firefighter and part time EMS - 32 South Windsor Ambulance has been serving South Windsor. SW is a non profit organization - SW Ambulance was asked to upgrade their services which has been done. SW Ambulance can provide BLS and ALS.
Roseanne Williams, 182 Smith Street - we are fortunate to have our own Ambulance Service. SW Ambulance has been in Town for 32 years. They do fundraisers and collect funds from insurance companies but all the funds go back into the department. SW Ambulance is prepared to do ALS servide 24/7 to South Windsor. All free service to the Town - use common sense and know what contracting with another service - why try to get rid of an agency that has done nothing but good. What harm would it do to give them another chance to see how they would do.
Mary Young, 976 Pleasant Valley Road - I was an EMS - Ambulance service is wonderful, please keep them.
8 Rockland Drive - Executive Director of the SW Ambulance - 2013 - over 2100 calls - working towards updated heart certifications. we have staffed emergency shelters when asked. have been gearing up for the last 9 months - we work with teh state and medical control. ask you allow us to continue to serve SW.
Allison Bloom, Atorney - if SW Ambulance holds BLS for SW so if at any point the contract is awarded to BLS and will fight with legal action if they are not awarded that contract.
- when a child at the high school died - that is when - SW Ambulance has been housed at the Fire Department and they have not paid rent and have not paid for fuel. As a taxpayer want to know. March 2013 after the Patria incident they have been trying to go to ALS and then Larry Gorman resigned. There is no ALS provided assigned to the Town - ambulances are going to be unavailable - policy for mutual aid. you can not change the BLS provider - there has never - we have a process that you need to follow. do not waste my tax dollars on a battle that the town is going to lose. Athletic fields was a large waste of tax dollars. I have 35 years providing EMS - don't make a mistake - you can not change BLS - don't make the town responsible.
Greg Roberts, - Candlewood Drive - have open door policy on Saturdays - people are coming to me to say we need local organization that will serve SW. Need ambulance corp.that will be there when they say they will.
Cindy Bealieu, Cody - there is on the agenda the EDC Advisory - Councilor asked who would be on this and it was answered tell you when we decide. It should have been more specific. your intention is to grow economic development and the more burocracy that you have the more difficult it is going to be. Another item of concern is REgula rmeeting at 7:00 p.m. - WS allowed for the public to speak twice - now with the change the public can not speak untl the end of the meeting. Also TM report is not until the end. The agenda should be reviewed and make sure the most important items be discussed first.
Ed DeVancy, Diane Drive - founder of SW Ambulance Corp. When started it was all volunteer. we did have agreemetn with the town that we could buy gas at cost. right now I am concerned about the way things are be run. the ambulance corp has brand new slate and the town should back them like they backed us. we did provide total tax free - relied on donations - the Rotary Club, Lions Club, PTA's, Women's Club helped. It would be ashamed to toss them out. let them prove themselves.
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message
Anwar - seeing changes in the temperatures - black ice - be careful. Liz - asking residents to clear fire hydrants.
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
Snyder, Delnicki unanimous
8. Public Petitions
none
9. Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council
Al Larson - Chair of Park & Recreation - Back in November the Mayor reached out and asked how the Park & Recreation could be improved. We discussed how some times the Commission has been bypassed over the years on some projects. Park & Recreation was drafting Ordinance to allow Commission to be able to make recommendations to the Council on recreation projects. The Ordinance was forwarded to TM who in turn sent it to the Town Attorney for review. at the 12/16 meeting this item was discussed when it was not on the agenda. The comments at the last meeting were uncalled for. The Commission was not here to discuss. Requesting the ability to review new projects and do the research for the Council adn make recommendations on how to move forward. Look forwad to future council meeting to discuss ordinance properly.
10. Reports from Standing Committees
none
11. Reports of Temporary Committees
none
Yagaloff - take 14 U out of order, Havens second, unanimous
14. New Business
* A. Resolution Reappointing James Kupchunos (D) to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* B. Resolution Appointing Steven Carty (D) a Full Member to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* C. Resolution Reappointing Gary Pitcock (D) to the Historic District Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* D. Resolution Reappointing Carol Flagg (D) to the Library Board and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* E. Resolution Reappointing Alan Larson (D) to the Park and Recreation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* F. Resolution Reappointing Joseph Kennedy (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* G. Resolution Reappointing Cile Decker (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* H. Resolution Reappointing James Kupchunos (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* I. Resolution Reappointing Wayne McKinney (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* J. Resolution Reappointing Robert Waldron (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* K. Resolution Reappointing Sandy Jeski (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* L. Resolution Reappointing Dwight Johnson (D) to the Housing Authority and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* M. Resolution Appointing Cody Guarnieri (D) an Alternate to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* N. Resolution Appointing Arthur Jennings (D) a Full Member to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* O. Resolution Appointing Joseph Durette (D) to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* P. Resolution Appointing Karen Wagner (D) to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Mayor,
* Q. Resolution Appointing Edward Havens, Jr. (D) a Full Member to the Water Pollution Control Authority and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* R. Resolution Reappointing Karen Wagner (D) to the Mass Transit and Highway Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* S. Resolution Reappointing Winifred Wilson (D) to the Personnel Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* T. Resolution Reappointing Dwight Johnson (D) to the Economic Development Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
U. Resolution Approving Ambulance Service of Manchester, LLC as Ambulance Provider for All Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support Calls in the Town of South Windsor
Yagaloff, Havens, Yagaloff - we have had two ambulances services in town - Manchester held all of the paramedic services. Ambulance Service of Manchester has done ALS for 26 years for nothing. We also have SW Ambulance Service for 32 years. The report that we received as part of the RFP - can that information be discussed. Bloom - advise against that - report confidential Yagaloff - are you going to allow me to speak -or keep confidential Bloom - keep confidential Yagaloff- how many people in this room have read that report resident - confidential how could we Yagaloff - this council has been able to review that report. has lead to some change by SW Ambulance. This council has had repeated problems with SW Ambulance beginning 5-6 years ago. How come both vechiles are not running, how come SW Ambulance Service has not had paramedic service. South Windsor Ambulance has refused to sign a lease and also refused to pay for gas. they have been asked to upgrade to ALS. 2012 we brought Ambulance before this council and asked why only have two vehicles, how come one always out of service and how come do not provide paramedic service. - asked again why one vehicle is significantly out of service. why not upgrade to paramedic service in 2011, 2012 - in 2013 one vehicle still out of service. when child died there was only one vechile out of service. SW Ambulance has had profound leadership failures. staffing is great - SW Ambulance then made a change and pushed Larry Gormen out and new person is great leader and trying to establish when previously leadership was very poor. When sitting on Board should not be paid - where is the balance beween the paid officers for SW Ambulance and separate from Board of Directors. We are looking for organization to do both ALS and BLS. SW Ambulance has had leadership failure for years. ASM has great staffing also but why hasn't SW Ambullance made organizational changes necessary. They need to reformulate Board of Directors - - why for years only one vehicle on the road and why they did not fix - if members of and leadership answered why they did not fix their vehicle and what they plan to do to make things better. SW needs appropriate service. Council is basing our decision on all of hte information provided to the Town Council.
Snyder - committe that reviewed RFP - SW looking at briing in ALS service - SW offers basic life - is it the wish of the committee to put an RFP out to have one provided provide both services? Anwar - we as a council made a decision that we needed to have ALS service - this was based on demographic shift. this was before the incident happened at the high school. We received RFP Aug 2012 - one thing tht was started in the past Council was what was the best proposal that was presented. we have had extensive discussions and had the confidential report from SW Ambulance. What is the best safety for the Town an dthe sustainability of that issue. no one has questioned the great work the staff has done. This committee voted unanimously that Manchester was the best. Snyder - received 3 reponses Galligan - AMR, ASM and SW Ambulance Snyder - where all of these providers asked to come to speak to the committee Galligan - at thte time of the propsal SW Ambulance did not have ALS Snyder - how did you know Gallligan - they are just getting it right now. In Sept. they wrote letter - saying they were going to try to get ALS service - the RFP was done in August. In my mind that puts them out of the ability to provide what the RFP is requesting. AMR wanted funds to only provide BLS - ASM would provide BLS and ALS at no cost to the town. they did not want to use the station. Lot of communities are upset - we are looking right now to change the way things are done with these services. the bottom line is it becomes an unfunded mandate. Town has no control over the ambulance service. really surprised - there are no standards for calls - ther are industry standards - it all depends on where the ambulane is located. it is a global and local issue - the committee tryyied to take all of th einformation and make the best decision they felt. Snyder - when RFP is put out and at the closing date the business has to meet the scope of what the RFP is requesting. AT the time of the RFP closing SW Ambulance Corp was not certified ALS provider? Galligan - tht is correct
Anwar - what we are doing is at many levels very personal to us. The staff provides great care. Along the way things did not go right. our needs changed and we obviously expected with the amount of work the ambulance corp changed from volunteer to paid. We as a Town Council noticed the problems that were happening with SW Ambulance. the new providers will be housed in SW to provide BLS and ALS to residents. They have 9 ALS vehicles and 22 other vehicles. As we go forwad with health care changes, small entitties will not be able to survive. we will be asking to protect our number one asset which is the staff.
Wagner - at the time the RFP was closed, SW Ambulance did not have a qualified proposal? Glaligna - no Wagner - Atty Bloom brought up isue that there ther is aprocess with the PSA, if we pass resolution, what will happen? Galligan - follow that process that is by law - bring change to Public Health Wgner - what is a missed call
Mirek - appreciate everyone in the room - appreciate the services. seems like a lot of people are feeling tht they are being pushed out. There are things that have been asked for year after year which is ALS - Demographics have changed and is somehting we need to have. we are talking bout having an EOc - if you have large emergency cna no rely on one vehicle. This was not something that was decided on a whime. The bid was not complete. We have to do what is right for our population.
Delnicki - the biggest concern we had was the staff of SW Ambulance. We want to see as many of those people hired by ASM and continue to do the good work they are doing which we would like as a condition if possible. The RFP itself, our TA said that it does not meet the requirements of what was issued publicly. It did not meet those requirements and legally it would have placed us in a jackpot. We ran into a situation. It was not an easy decision. Depending on what happens at the State level this decision may be moot.
Havens - talk about a struggle. As time progresses, things change. Difficult decision. the concern has always been discussed about the staff. We have to make move to have better service. reluctantly I will need to support the resolution.,
Pendleton - follow Deputy Mayor Havens sediment. It is a very difficult decision for me to make tonight. I was not on the past Council. I as one councilor do not make a vote or decision without knowing all of the information. The information is going to help me make a decision tonight.
Mayor called for vote - unanimously.
12. Consent Agenda [All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Town Council and will be enacted by one Motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Council member so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the General Order of Business and be considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda.]
Mirek motion to approve consent agenda, Wagner Mirek - 13A Wagner 14A-14J 14K - 14T Tom second out of consent - Havens - 14Q, 14P - unanimously
13. Unfinished Business
* A. Resolution Reappointing William E. Keohane to the Redevelopment Agency
B. Resolution Establishing a Temporary Economic Development Advisory Council
Mayor Anwar - Havens Anwar - have had a lot of conversation on this item. Reviewed the organizational chart he presented to all council members (attachment). Mirek - Where would the Redevelopment Agency be Anwar - you feel the Redeveloment Agency should be included in the resoluiton., We can make that a friendly amendment. Mirek - would like to see the Redevelopment agency on the diagram. Anwar - we can add someone from that commission - paragraph Chair or Rep of Redevelopment Agency -FRIENDLY AMENDMENT - agreement Havens in agreement Snyder - worried that we are adding another burecratic and making this difficult - adding layer of burocracy. the committee is big and almost unmanageable. Do not understand why we can't tkae the Redevelopment Agency and EDC and broaden their scope. Mayor is going to pick and choose who he wants on that committee. my concern is that w ar egoin to have popele that you are picking to be on committee - they will be tapping into econimic development - frankly not comfortable having volunteers do this type of work. I think that is the TM's job. I don't want volunteers talking to the businesses. I think the important business should be left to confidentiality of the Town Maanger. When I think economic development I see it happening through the Town Manager. Do we have an economic development coordinator? We have a freeze Anwar - Town Council on top and then the Town Manager. No one will take anything away from the Town Manager. Snyder - Economic Development Coordinator? Anwar - Shari Snyder - Town Manager is there - Shari still there and no one is happening a secret conversation. I did not see anyone who is a regional expert, economic development on expert, workforce development, transportaion expert. I see volunteers on economic development - Economic Development is guiding Town Council and no on will take anything away from them. Need to be more receptive to new businesses. Snyder - so what people are you planning Anwar - We have been talking to a number of people at different levels. will require number of people - talk to people at various groups of Hartford DeMallie - with respect to the composition of it was to have group of experts - supplement the committee with how to promote econmic development, new ideas of how to apprroach. if you don't strive to stay ahead you ae not going to keep up. Transportation - there are 3rd world countries that have better transportaion then we do. Snyder - what other members DeMallie - experts, workforce development, expert in transportaion, expert in overall economic developmetn outside of SW, real estate, with idea tht this will be temporary on how we can better position ourselves and work with other Towns and how the region can work tgether. work collectively for employers. if we improved transportation. there are a lot of emplloyees that can not get to SW because of transportation and there are employers looking for Snyder - who is doing that stuff now. Galligna - me - Shari does additional work. Snyder - that process will not change Anwar - no DeMallie - bring expert advise to the Town Manager, EDC and Town Council. Snyder - will these appointments be brought before the Council Snyder - who is appointing Anwar - I will but if you have any recommendations tht would be good. Snyder - we should all know who is going on this. anwar they have no authority Shari - current businesses of DST and FedEx - why did they locate here and use information from them why they came here, etc. That is information that we can use. Wagner - As I read this resolution - this is an Advisory Committee - get together and ask certain questions. I don't see them interfering - Here to advise how to work together better to achieve better economic development. Anwar - it is a capacity building. We need to strengthen Matts capacity. we need to do better. Delnicki - this reminds me of somethign we did years ago - sounds like roundtable with econimic development - strategic planning - is that a fair statement. Galligan - kind of the same thing. Delnicki - this committee does not have authority to force any regulations? Anwar - that is correct Delnicki - do not think it does any harm and could yield some positive Yagaloff - I see this as a two directional benefit - benefit from town to experts. Get word out that South Windsor is - our economic information will be leaking out to other communities and businesses. that will help with regional improvement. eventually we want people to think of South Windso rwhen they think of CT. We are going to get word out about SW and we have a lot to offer. Think it is worth a shot. Pendleton - will support - I have never turned a volunteer away. Welcome their idea from these experts to help with economic development. Totally support - I have not read that if at any time if person wants to remove themselves from this committee they can do so. Anwar - they are volunteers - there will be discussions, no bylaws. Havens - It amazes me the talent that is in this community and now the town can use those type of individuals to come out with this issue. it is worth a shot. Mirek - we need to stay positive because SW's future is bright. I think we should look at the base of people on commission right now and maybe we could start strengthening things there. Hard decisions are still going to be with TM - he is doing so many different things- need to have an assistant - there are a lot of things going on - we have to choose local to support them. Do we get an assistant for Matt. Anwar - matt knows what needs to be done, that is why require broader capacity process. Prague - I am opposed to this. I don't want people from Hartford or Springfield deciding SW's future. I do't want to see buses come down Old Main Street - I want SW to remain a sleepy community. we don't have a lot of land to work with. Galligna - we have some areas industrial - we have a few parcels between - land is starting to be used up. Prague - as far as redevelopment goes some building sneed to be knocked down and rebuilt Galligan - it is tough to tell land owners tha they have to reconstruct oetc. I have been recommending a lot of different buildings to individuals - people want different items now. Prague - I can count the votes, I will lose this but I am opposed to this because we don't need people from Springfield or Hartford passed 6-3
C. Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Twenty-Four (24) South Windsor Taxpayers
Prague, Yagaloff unanimous
15. Passage of Ordinance
16. Communications and Reports from Town Manager [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed ten (10) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Council.]
Jan 13 and 27 13th - orientation 27 - Strategic Planning WPCA Joint meeting - 21st Wednesday 15th meeting with staff budget process coming up - we are working on that to get notices out to staff. Capital Project EMS - Fiscal year Audit - 14th 7:30 am - will be putting out announcement Management letter Audit Committee has to put out RFP - bottom line did have good year, overe 5M in fund balance. increase to the fund balance was a little over 5M. health insurance in good condition. Opeg in good condition. BOE had good two years and they kept money in there for Town claims. Anwar - with the recent storms, Public Works - rode in snow plow and they put in numerous hours away from their families. I think we ahve used up quite a bit of our salts. what mechanisms are in place Galligan - will be purchasing more - so should have enouigh. we Anwar - discussion on parking lot lights for the Town Garage, 23,000 added to budget for LED lights, seems high Galligan - have to look at payback - CCM - will get report Deolnicki - see that the CERC class starting Janu 23rd? Galligan - I think there will be an announcement. glad you mentioned it. Delnicki - how many slots available? Galligan - 40 to 50 Delnicki - should get number of slots out there. so far 11 inches of snow - we have used 1,021 tons to date which seems high Galligan - we put is out in advance and there are areas that ice up. Delnicki - received grant for brine solution - East hartford and East Windsor Galligan - brine applicator we are getting - will let you know when to expect that. Wagner - always impressed with the complexity that you and staff do. Galligna - one year ago went to -
17. Public Input [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Town Council.]
Kevin McCann, 170 Lisa Drive - I have great expectations for this council. You have already adopted a spending/hiring freeze even though you dong good so far. You have also extended the CT Studios reverter again. Tonight created Economic Development - fired business. The Town Manager has had mixed messages. He is now applying for two STEAP grants - created conflict for TM - need to set priorities. do not undo what prior councils have done. I employ you to build upon what has been done in the past.
18. Communications and Petitions from Council [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed twenty (20) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Council.]
19. Executive Session
20. Adjournment
Snyder - wondering if you could get information - spending freeze - where are we now compared to where you expect us to be. Galligan - prefer to sit with Finance Director and look at collections. we still monitor equipment - expenditures - prefer to sit with Finance Director and Tax Collector and get report out to Council. Snyder - the agenda meetings. can we set specific dates and times. Anwar - we do - weather - Wednesday at 12:00 p.m. in the afternoon Galligan - we accomodate the Mayor first - can do call in's. Snyder - that is the time it needs to start. Mirek - LoCIP funds and a bridge popped up. trying to find out how much of those funds have been spent, is bridge added to list? Galligan - bridge included. can get you an account of what has been spent for what. Mirek - where are we with this money. Galligna - used to post on website - we can post it again on the website. - will get accounting for you Yagaloff - thanked Matt for the good work doing on budget. The council always wants to take credit but ultimately it comes down to the Town Manager and staff. With the freeze if did not do in December, it would be done in January. Gall
Havens, Snyder, 9:30 p.m. unanimous
Jan 06, 2014 Town Council Meeting
Full agenda
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1. Call Meeting to Order
7
2. Prayer: Pastor Doug Rowse, New River Community Church
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Roll Call
Roll call (10 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
5. Public Input [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Town Council.]
John Branigan, Pine Knob - Full Time Firefighter and part time EMS - 32 South Windsor Ambulance has been serving South Windsor. SW is a non profit organization - SW Ambulance was asked to upgrade their services which has been done. SW Ambulance can provide BLS and ALS.
Roseanne Williams, 182 Smith Street - we are fortunate to have our own Ambulance Service. SW Ambulance has been in Town for 32 years. They do fundraisers and collect funds from insurance companies but all the funds go back into the department. SW Ambulance is prepared to do ALS servide 24/7 to South Windsor. All free service to the Town - use common sense and know what contracting with another service - why try to get rid of an agency that has done nothing but good. What harm would it do to give them another chance to see how they would do.
Mary Young, 976 Pleasant Valley Road - I was an EMS - Ambulance service is wonderful, please keep them.
8 Rockland Drive - Executive Director of the SW Ambulance - 2013 - over 2100 calls - working towards updated heart certifications. we have staffed emergency shelters when asked. have been gearing up for the last 9 months - we work with teh state and medical control. ask you allow us to continue to serve SW.
Allison Bloom, Atorney - if SW Ambulance holds BLS for SW so if at any point the contract is awarded to BLS and will fight with legal action if they are not awarded that contract.
- when a child at the high school died - that is when - SW Ambulance has been housed at the Fire Department and they have not paid rent and have not paid for fuel. As a taxpayer want to know. March 2013 after the Patria incident they have been trying to go to ALS and then Larry Gorman resigned. There is no ALS provided assigned to the Town - ambulances are going to be unavailable - policy for mutual aid. you can not change the BLS provider - there has never - we have a process that you need to follow. do not waste my tax dollars on a battle that the town is going to lose. Athletic fields was a large waste of tax dollars. I have 35 years providing EMS - don't make a mistake - you can not change BLS - don't make the town responsible.
Greg Roberts, - Candlewood Drive - have open door policy on Saturdays - people are coming to me to say we need local organization that will serve SW. Need ambulance corp.that will be there when they say they will.
Cindy Bealieu, Cody - there is on the agenda the EDC Advisory - Councilor asked who would be on this and it was answered tell you when we decide. It should have been more specific. your intention is to grow economic development and the more burocracy that you have the more difficult it is going to be. Another item of concern is REgula rmeeting at 7:00 p.m. - WS allowed for the public to speak twice - now with the change the public can not speak untl the end of the meeting. Also TM report is not until the end. The agenda should be reviewed and make sure the most important items be discussed first.
Ed DeVancy, Diane Drive - founder of SW Ambulance Corp. When started it was all volunteer. we did have agreemetn with the town that we could buy gas at cost. right now I am concerned about the way things are be run. the ambulance corp has brand new slate and the town should back them like they backed us. we did provide total tax free - relied on donations - the Rotary Club, Lions Club, PTA's, Women's Club helped. It would be ashamed to toss them out. let them prove themselves.
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message
Anwar - seeing changes in the temperatures - black ice - be careful. Liz - asking residents to clear fire hydrants.
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
Snyder, Delnicki unanimous
8. Public Petitions
none
9. Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council
Al Larson - Chair of Park & Recreation - Back in November the Mayor reached out and asked how the Park & Recreation could be improved. We discussed how some times the Commission has been bypassed over the years on some projects. Park & Recreation was drafting Ordinance to allow Commission to be able to make recommendations to the Council on recreation projects. The Ordinance was forwarded to TM who in turn sent it to the Town Attorney for review. at the 12/16 meeting this item was discussed when it was not on the agenda. The comments at the last meeting were uncalled for. The Commission was not here to discuss. Requesting the ability to review new projects and do the research for the Council adn make recommendations on how to move forward. Look forwad to future council meeting to discuss ordinance properly.
10. Reports from Standing Committees
none
11. Reports of Temporary Committees
none
Yagaloff - take 14 U out of order, Havens second, unanimous
14. New Business
* A. Resolution Reappointing James Kupchunos (D) to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* B. Resolution Appointing Steven Carty (D) a Full Member to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* C. Resolution Reappointing Gary Pitcock (D) to the Historic District Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* D. Resolution Reappointing Carol Flagg (D) to the Library Board and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* E. Resolution Reappointing Alan Larson (D) to the Park and Recreation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* F. Resolution Reappointing Joseph Kennedy (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* G. Resolution Reappointing Cile Decker (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* H. Resolution Reappointing James Kupchunos (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* I. Resolution Reappointing Wayne McKinney (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* J. Resolution Reappointing Robert Waldron (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* K. Resolution Reappointing Sandy Jeski (D) to the South Windsor Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* L. Resolution Reappointing Dwight Johnson (D) to the Housing Authority and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* M. Resolution Appointing Cody Guarnieri (D) an Alternate to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* N. Resolution Appointing Arthur Jennings (D) a Full Member to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* O. Resolution Appointing Joseph Durette (D) to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* P. Resolution Appointing Karen Wagner (D) to the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Mayor,
* Q. Resolution Appointing Edward Havens, Jr. (D) a Full Member to the Water Pollution Control Authority and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* R. Resolution Reappointing Karen Wagner (D) to the Mass Transit and Highway Advisory Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* S. Resolution Reappointing Winifred Wilson (D) to the Personnel Board of Appeals and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
* T. Resolution Reappointing Dwight Johnson (D) to the Economic Development Commission and Postponing Consideration of this Motion until the Town Council's Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting
U. Resolution Approving Ambulance Service of Manchester, LLC as Ambulance Provider for All Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support Calls in the Town of South Windsor
Yagaloff, Havens, Yagaloff - we have had two ambulances services in town - Manchester held all of the paramedic services. Ambulance Service of Manchester has done ALS for 26 years for nothing. We also have SW Ambulance Service for 32 years. The report that we received as part of the RFP - can that information be discussed. Bloom - advise against that - report confidential Yagaloff - are you going to allow me to speak -or keep confidential Bloom - keep confidential Yagaloff- how many people in this room have read that report resident - confidential how could we Yagaloff - this council has been able to review that report. has lead to some change by SW Ambulance. This council has had repeated problems with SW Ambulance beginning 5-6 years ago. How come both vechiles are not running, how come SW Ambulance Service has not had paramedic service. South Windsor Ambulance has refused to sign a lease and also refused to pay for gas. they have been asked to upgrade to ALS. 2012 we brought Ambulance before this council and asked why only have two vehicles, how come one always out of service and how come do not provide paramedic service. - asked again why one vehicle is significantly out of service. why not upgrade to paramedic service in 2011, 2012 - in 2013 one vehicle still out of service. when child died there was only one vechile out of service. SW Ambulance has had profound leadership failures. staffing is great - SW Ambulance then made a change and pushed Larry Gormen out and new person is great leader and trying to establish when previously leadership was very poor. When sitting on Board should not be paid - where is the balance beween the paid officers for SW Ambulance and separate from Board of Directors. We are looking for organization to do both ALS and BLS. SW Ambulance has had leadership failure for years. ASM has great staffing also but why hasn't SW Ambullance made organizational changes necessary. They need to reformulate Board of Directors - - why for years only one vehicle on the road and why they did not fix - if members of and leadership answered why they did not fix their vehicle and what they plan to do to make things better. SW needs appropriate service. Council is basing our decision on all of hte information provided to the Town Council.
Snyder - committe that reviewed RFP - SW looking at briing in ALS service - SW offers basic life - is it the wish of the committee to put an RFP out to have one provided provide both services? Anwar - we as a council made a decision that we needed to have ALS service - this was based on demographic shift. this was before the incident happened at the high school. We received RFP Aug 2012 - one thing tht was started in the past Council was what was the best proposal that was presented. we have had extensive discussions and had the confidential report from SW Ambulance. What is the best safety for the Town an dthe sustainability of that issue. no one has questioned the great work the staff has done. This committee voted unanimously that Manchester was the best. Snyder - received 3 reponses Galligan - AMR, ASM and SW Ambulance Snyder - where all of these providers asked to come to speak to the committee Galligan - at thte time of the propsal SW Ambulance did not have ALS Snyder - how did you know Gallligan - they are just getting it right now. In Sept. they wrote letter - saying they were going to try to get ALS service - the RFP was done in August. In my mind that puts them out of the ability to provide what the RFP is requesting. AMR wanted funds to only provide BLS - ASM would provide BLS and ALS at no cost to the town. they did not want to use the station. Lot of communities are upset - we are looking right now to change the way things are done with these services. the bottom line is it becomes an unfunded mandate. Town has no control over the ambulance service. really surprised - there are no standards for calls - ther are industry standards - it all depends on where the ambulane is located. it is a global and local issue - the committee tryyied to take all of th einformation and make the best decision they felt. Snyder - when RFP is put out and at the closing date the business has to meet the scope of what the RFP is requesting. AT the time of the RFP closing SW Ambulance Corp was not certified ALS provider? Galligan - tht is correct
Anwar - what we are doing is at many levels very personal to us. The staff provides great care. Along the way things did not go right. our needs changed and we obviously expected with the amount of work the ambulance corp changed from volunteer to paid. We as a Town Council noticed the problems that were happening with SW Ambulance. the new providers will be housed in SW to provide BLS and ALS to residents. They have 9 ALS vehicles and 22 other vehicles. As we go forwad with health care changes, small entitties will not be able to survive. we will be asking to protect our number one asset which is the staff.
Wagner - at the time the RFP was closed, SW Ambulance did not have a qualified proposal? Glaligna - no Wagner - Atty Bloom brought up isue that there ther is aprocess with the PSA, if we pass resolution, what will happen? Galligan - follow that process that is by law - bring change to Public Health Wgner - what is a missed call
Mirek - appreciate everyone in the room - appreciate the services. seems like a lot of people are feeling tht they are being pushed out. There are things that have been asked for year after year which is ALS - Demographics have changed and is somehting we need to have. we are talking bout having an EOc - if you have large emergency cna no rely on one vehicle. This was not something that was decided on a whime. The bid was not complete. We have to do what is right for our population.
Delnicki - the biggest concern we had was the staff of SW Ambulance. We want to see as many of those people hired by ASM and continue to do the good work they are doing which we would like as a condition if possible. The RFP itself, our TA said that it does not meet the requirements of what was issued publicly. It did not meet those requirements and legally it would have placed us in a jackpot. We ran into a situation. It was not an easy decision. Depending on what happens at the State level this decision may be moot.
Havens - talk about a struggle. As time progresses, things change. Difficult decision. the concern has always been discussed about the staff. We have to make move to have better service. reluctantly I will need to support the resolution.,
Pendleton - follow Deputy Mayor Havens sediment. It is a very difficult decision for me to make tonight. I was not on the past Council. I as one councilor do not make a vote or decision without knowing all of the information. The information is going to help me make a decision tonight.
Mayor called for vote - unanimously.
12. Consent Agenda [All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Town Council and will be enacted by one Motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Council member so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the General Order of Business and be considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda.]
Mirek motion to approve consent agenda, Wagner Mirek - 13A Wagner 14A-14J 14K - 14T Tom second out of consent - Havens - 14Q, 14P - unanimously
13. Unfinished Business
* A. Resolution Reappointing William E. Keohane to the Redevelopment Agency
B. Resolution Establishing a Temporary Economic Development Advisory Council
Mayor Anwar - Havens Anwar - have had a lot of conversation on this item. Reviewed the organizational chart he presented to all council members (attachment). Mirek - Where would the Redevelopment Agency be Anwar - you feel the Redeveloment Agency should be included in the resoluiton., We can make that a friendly amendment. Mirek - would like to see the Redevelopment agency on the diagram. Anwar - we can add someone from that commission - paragraph Chair or Rep of Redevelopment Agency -FRIENDLY AMENDMENT - agreement Havens in agreement Snyder - worried that we are adding another burecratic and making this difficult - adding layer of burocracy. the committee is big and almost unmanageable. Do not understand why we can't tkae the Redevelopment Agency and EDC and broaden their scope. Mayor is going to pick and choose who he wants on that committee. my concern is that w ar egoin to have popele that you are picking to be on committee - they will be tapping into econimic development - frankly not comfortable having volunteers do this type of work. I think that is the TM's job. I don't want volunteers talking to the businesses. I think the important business should be left to confidentiality of the Town Maanger. When I think economic development I see it happening through the Town Manager. Do we have an economic development coordinator? We have a freeze Anwar - Town Council on top and then the Town Manager. No one will take anything away from the Town Manager. Snyder - Economic Development Coordinator? Anwar - Shari Snyder - Town Manager is there - Shari still there and no one is happening a secret conversation. I did not see anyone who is a regional expert, economic development on expert, workforce development, transportaion expert. I see volunteers on economic development - Economic Development is guiding Town Council and no on will take anything away from them. Need to be more receptive to new businesses. Snyder - so what people are you planning Anwar - We have been talking to a number of people at different levels. will require number of people - talk to people at various groups of Hartford DeMallie - with respect to the composition of it was to have group of experts - supplement the committee with how to promote econmic development, new ideas of how to apprroach. if you don't strive to stay ahead you ae not going to keep up. Transportation - there are 3rd world countries that have better transportaion then we do. Snyder - what other members DeMallie - experts, workforce development, expert in transportaion, expert in overall economic developmetn outside of SW, real estate, with idea tht this will be temporary on how we can better position ourselves and work with other Towns and how the region can work tgether. work collectively for employers. if we improved transportation. there are a lot of emplloyees that can not get to SW because of transportation and there are employers looking for Snyder - who is doing that stuff now. Galligna - me - Shari does additional work. Snyder - that process will not change Anwar - no DeMallie - bring expert advise to the Town Manager, EDC and Town Council. Snyder - will these appointments be brought before the Council Snyder - who is appointing Anwar - I will but if you have any recommendations tht would be good. Snyder - we should all know who is going on this. anwar they have no authority Shari - current businesses of DST and FedEx - why did they locate here and use information from them why they came here, etc. That is information that we can use. Wagner - As I read this resolution - this is an Advisory Committee - get together and ask certain questions. I don't see them interfering - Here to advise how to work together better to achieve better economic development. Anwar - it is a capacity building. We need to strengthen Matts capacity. we need to do better. Delnicki - this reminds me of somethign we did years ago - sounds like roundtable with econimic development - strategic planning - is that a fair statement. Galligan - kind of the same thing. Delnicki - this committee does not have authority to force any regulations? Anwar - that is correct Delnicki - do not think it does any harm and could yield some positive Yagaloff - I see this as a two directional benefit - benefit from town to experts. Get word out that South Windsor is - our economic information will be leaking out to other communities and businesses. that will help with regional improvement. eventually we want people to think of South Windso rwhen they think of CT. We are going to get word out about SW and we have a lot to offer. Think it is worth a shot. Pendleton - will support - I have never turned a volunteer away. Welcome their idea from these experts to help with economic development. Totally support - I have not read that if at any time if person wants to remove themselves from this committee they can do so. Anwar - they are volunteers - there will be discussions, no bylaws. Havens - It amazes me the talent that is in this community and now the town can use those type of individuals to come out with this issue. it is worth a shot. Mirek - we need to stay positive because SW's future is bright. I think we should look at the base of people on commission right now and maybe we could start strengthening things there. Hard decisions are still going to be with TM - he is doing so many different things- need to have an assistant - there are a lot of things going on - we have to choose local to support them. Do we get an assistant for Matt. Anwar - matt knows what needs to be done, that is why require broader capacity process. Prague - I am opposed to this. I don't want people from Hartford or Springfield deciding SW's future. I do't want to see buses come down Old Main Street - I want SW to remain a sleepy community. we don't have a lot of land to work with. Galligna - we have some areas industrial - we have a few parcels between - land is starting to be used up. Prague - as far as redevelopment goes some building sneed to be knocked down and rebuilt Galligan - it is tough to tell land owners tha they have to reconstruct oetc. I have been recommending a lot of different buildings to individuals - people want different items now. Prague - I can count the votes, I will lose this but I am opposed to this because we don't need people from Springfield or Hartford passed 6-3
C. Resolution Approving a Refund of Taxes to Twenty-Four (24) South Windsor Taxpayers
Prague, Yagaloff unanimous
15. Passage of Ordinance
16. Communications and Reports from Town Manager [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed ten (10) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Council.]
Jan 13 and 27 13th - orientation 27 - Strategic Planning WPCA Joint meeting - 21st Wednesday 15th meeting with staff budget process coming up - we are working on that to get notices out to staff. Capital Project EMS - Fiscal year Audit - 14th 7:30 am - will be putting out announcement Management letter Audit Committee has to put out RFP - bottom line did have good year, overe 5M in fund balance. increase to the fund balance was a little over 5M. health insurance in good condition. Opeg in good condition. BOE had good two years and they kept money in there for Town claims. Anwar - with the recent storms, Public Works - rode in snow plow and they put in numerous hours away from their families. I think we ahve used up quite a bit of our salts. what mechanisms are in place Galligan - will be purchasing more - so should have enouigh. we Anwar - discussion on parking lot lights for the Town Garage, 23,000 added to budget for LED lights, seems high Galligan - have to look at payback - CCM - will get report Deolnicki - see that the CERC class starting Janu 23rd? Galligan - I think there will be an announcement. glad you mentioned it. Delnicki - how many slots available? Galligan - 40 to 50 Delnicki - should get number of slots out there. so far 11 inches of snow - we have used 1,021 tons to date which seems high Galligan - we put is out in advance and there are areas that ice up. Delnicki - received grant for brine solution - East hartford and East Windsor Galligan - brine applicator we are getting - will let you know when to expect that. Wagner - always impressed with the complexity that you and staff do. Galligna - one year ago went to -
17. Public Input [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Town Council.]
Kevin McCann, 170 Lisa Drive - I have great expectations for this council. You have already adopted a spending/hiring freeze even though you dong good so far. You have also extended the CT Studios reverter again. Tonight created Economic Development - fired business. The Town Manager has had mixed messages. He is now applying for two STEAP grants - created conflict for TM - need to set priorities. do not undo what prior councils have done. I employ you to build upon what has been done in the past.
18. Communications and Petitions from Council [Per Town Council Rules, this segment of the meeting shall not exceed twenty (20) minutes unless extended by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the Council.]
19. Executive Session
20. Adjournment
Snyder - wondering if you could get information - spending freeze - where are we now compared to where you expect us to be. Galligan - prefer to sit with Finance Director and look at collections. we still monitor equipment - expenditures - prefer to sit with Finance Director and Tax Collector and get report out to Council. Snyder - the agenda meetings. can we set specific dates and times. Anwar - we do - weather - Wednesday at 12:00 p.m. in the afternoon Galligan - we accomodate the Mayor first - can do call in's. Snyder - that is the time it needs to start. Mirek - LoCIP funds and a bridge popped up. trying to find out how much of those funds have been spent, is bridge added to list? Galligan - bridge included. can get you an account of what has been spent for what. Mirek - where are we with this money. Galligna - used to post on website - we can post it again on the website. - will get accounting for you Yagaloff - thanked Matt for the good work doing on budget. The council always wants to take credit but ultimately it comes down to the Town Manager and staff. With the freeze if did not do in December, it would be done in January. Gall
Havens, Snyder, 9:30 p.m. unanimous
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