The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Board of Selectmen
|
www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Board of Selectmen |
|
Disclaimer: While we have attempted to reproduce them accurately, the electronic documents you see here are not the official public documents. Official copies may be obtained on paper from theTown Clerk . Also note that minutes of recent meetings are often not yet approved by the Board, and are subject to correction.
Jump down to: General information about the Board of Selectmen
December 22 •December 8 •November 22 •November 9 •November 1 •October 27 •October 13 •October 6 •September 29 •September 20 •September 15 •September 1 •August 31 •August 24 •August 18 •August 17 •August 10 •August 4 •July 21 •July 13 •July 7 •June 24 •June 23 •June 15 •June 9 •June 2 •May 26 •May 25 •May 17 •May 12 •May 6 •May 5 •April 28 •April 14 •March 31 •March 24 •March 17 •March 3 •February 17 •February 9 •January 20 •January 6 •
Previous years: 2010 • 2009 • 2008 • 2007 • 2006 • 2005 • 2004 • 2003 • 2002
Posted: December 28, 2011 December 22, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen Dick Carey and Susan Jahnke.
Press: Rick Harrison, Jim Shannon – Waterbury Republican; Ann Compton – VOICES>
Public: Tony and Sharon Bedini, Gary Fitzherbert, Tom Osborne, Joan Lodsin, Janet Wildman, Ray Reich, Lillian Lyon, Rod Wyant, Andy Shapiro, Carolyn Setlow, Rocky Tomlinson, Mike Sivick, Leslie Anderson, Frank Adams.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the December 8, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the December 8, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations:
Motion:
To reappoint the following to the Conservation Commission:
Susan Payne and Diane Dupuis as regular members until 1/1/15 and Randolph Bernard as an alternate member until 1/1/15.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.Motion:
To reappoint the following to the Historic District Commission:
William Smith as a regular member until 1/1/17 and George Krimsky as an alternate member until 1/1/15.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.Motion:
To reappoint the following to the Parks and Recreation Commission:
Sheila Anson and Christopher Kersten until 1/1/15.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.Motion: To reappoint the following to the Planning Commission:
Paul Frank as a regular member until 12/31/16 and Dick Carey as an alternate member until 12/31/14.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke. Dick Carey abstained and the motion passed.Motion:
To reappoint the following constables:
Patrick Kessler and Scott Flaton as full time and Thomas Accousti as part time until 12/31/13.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.Motion:
To appoint Anthony Bedini as Selectman until 11/13 to complete the term of Susan Jahnke who resigned.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey.
Discussion: Mark Lyon explained that he and Dick Carey considered a large field of potential candidates, all of who needed to be Democrats, for the Board of Selectmen. They narrowed the list to four candidates and conducted interviews with each. The motion passed unanimously.
The Selectmen thanked and commended Susan.* Resignation of Donald Etherington as Fire Marshall:
The Board of Selectmen received a letter of resignation from Donald Etherington, Fire Marshall, effective January 1, 2012.
Motion:
To accept the resignation of Donald Etherington as Fire Marshall, effective January 1, 2012 with deep gratitude for his decades of service to the Town and for his overseeing the safety of generations of Town of Washington residents.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Acting Fire Marshall:
Mark Lyon explained it is now up to the Board of Selectmen to appoint an Acting Fire Marshall. The Town currently has two Deputy Fire Marshals – Tom Osborne and Brian Ohmen, George Steiner is a Fire Investigator for the Town. Motion: To appoint Thomas Osborne as Acting Fire Marshall.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey.
Discussion: The Selectmen will have 180 days to appoint a Fire Marshall. They will meet with Tom Osborne, Brian Ohmen, George Steiner and Donald Etherington and discuss the appointment further. The position may be opened to other applicants if they see fit to do so.
The motion passed unanimously.* Resignation of Patte Doran from the Housing Commission:
The Board of Selectmen received a letter of resignation from the Housing Commission from Patte Doran, effective immediately.
Motion:
To accept the resignation of Patte Doran from the Housing Commission with gratitude for her years of service.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.
Mark explained that the Housing Commission has had several resignations or requests not to be reappointed. Anyone interested should contact the Selectmen’s Office.
First Selectman’s Report:
First Selectman Mark Lyon reported the following:
* Thank you for all the cookies and goodies that have been received at the Town Hall.* Highway Department update: The Highway crew has been busily patching and paving before the winter weather and storms set in. The severe storms have caused a great deal of road damage and clean up from both major storms continues as well.
* Region #12 Survey is posted on the Town’s website and the public is urged to complete – deadline is early January.
OLD BUSINESS: None.
NEW BUSINESS: None.
Visitors:
* Frank Adams thanked the Highway Department for the excellent job they did cleaning up West Morris Road after Storm Alfred. He also asked the Selectmen and the Highway Department to check on the intersection of West Morris and Romford Road – a constant water problem caused icing at this intersection that can make it impossible to stop when exiting West Morris – a very dangerous situation given the fact that Romford Road is heavily used with Rumsey Hall traffic. Mark Lyon will speak with Kevin Smith, Highway Director. Frank asked that if at the very least, could the intersection be sanded prior to morning Rumsey traffic.* Tony Bedini thanked Mark Lyon and Dick Carey for their vote of confidence and will “do his best” to serve the Town of Washington.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 5:45 p.m. with wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season!
By Dick Carey, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted:
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: December 12, 2011 December 8, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen Dick Carey and Susan Jahnke.
Press: Rick Harrison – Waterbury Republican, Ann Compton – VOICES.
Public: Tony Bedini, Gary Fitzherbert, Leslie Anderson, Joan Lodsin, Lillian Lyon, Janet Wildman, Nick Solley, Ray Reich, Sheila Anson.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the November 22, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter from Highway Director Kevin Smith:
Kevin has written the Board of Selectmen requesting funds to continue cleanup efforts and debris removal as a result of Storm Alfred. For the preliminary kickoff meeting with FEMA, it was projected this cost would be approximately $220,000. A Special Town Meeting is scheduled for this evening to ask for the Town’s approval of an ex-budget appropriation from the Nonrecurring Capital Fund in this amount. Kevin also explained in his letter that the Highway Department has been working diligently with several local contractors to clean up downed trees and limbs within the Town’s right of way – the job is not yet completed. Although the Highway Department would like to aid residents with cleaning up debris from their yards, this additional volume of work cannot be handled. Residents are reminded that fallen limbs, etc from their yards are their responsibility. Debris that has been chipped may be brought to the pile in the parking area at the Washington Primary School. Advanced Construction of New Milford will be taking the chips – the Town will only be billed for trucking. A copy of Kevin’s letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Resignation of Susan Jahnke from the Board of Selectmen:
Mark Lyon reported that he received a letter from Susan Jahnke on December 2, 2011 indicating she would be resigning from the Board “for personal issues”. The two remaining members of the Board of Selectmen, per State Statute, will appoint Susan’s replacement. The Democratic Town Committee has offered to make a recommendation by next week. The Selectmen, however, are free to choose and appoint anyone of their choosing as long as he/she is a Democrat. This appointment is to be made within thirty days. Both Mark and Dick Carey both told Susan they were looking forward to working with her but wished her well in her future endeavors, and thanked her for service.First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* Storm Alfred Cleanup is proceeding slowly. Recent priority has been given to preparing the roads for winter – patching, repairing, etc.* Tompkins Hill Road – culvert work has been completed and the road should be paved this week or next.
* Hurricane Irene FEMA paperwork is ongoing.
* Storm Alfred FEMA kickoff meeting has been held and the Town will have the same representative as for Irene– hopefully simplifying both processes.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Awarding of Bid for Clearing and Grubbing at Town Highway Garage:
Motion:
To award the bid for clearing and grubbing at the Town Highway Garage to A.J. Nordland for $4,200.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey.
Discussion:
This was the low bid - Mark explained to the Selectmen and those present that this work would be entirely separate from his sub-contracted work with the Town.
The motion passed unanimously.* Awarding of Bid for Electrical Work at Town Highway Garage:
Mark explained this work would be to transfer power for the fuel pumps from the lower garage to the upper garage. Wright Electric submitted a bid for the specified work and added an “option” for tying the two garages together with one meter. Following discussion with the Buildings and Properties Commission, it was thought prudent to pursue this option. Eagle Electric was given the opportunity to include a quote for the same option. Because it would be under $6,000 the Town was not obligated to extend another formal invitation to bid. With options included the two bid amounts were:
Wright Electric - $5,675
Eagle Electric - $4,923
Motion:
To award the Bid for Electrical Work at the Town Highway Garage to Eagle Electric for $4,923.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Approval of 2012 Board of Selectmen Meeting Dates:
Motion:
To approve the dates for 2012 for the Board of Selectmen Meetings as submitted (a copy of which is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk)
by Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.* Recommendation of Parks and Recreation Sub-Committee for the new Beach House Tenant/Caretaker:
Parks and Rec Commission member and Sub-committee chairman Ray Reich, explained to those present that several meetings were held to review the six applications received and to interview the four chosen applicants. Following the interviews the sub-committee unanimously recommended two of the candidates (a couple) to the Parks and Rec Commission at their meeting on December 5th and it was agreed to recommend the same to the Board of Selectmen for their final approval. The Selectmen voiced their support of the process and agreement with the selection following discussion of their qualifications, recommendations, references, etc. Motion: To approve the selection of the Beach House Tenant/Caretaker Sub-committee and appoint Christopher Papsin and Leah Massapust as the new Tenant/Caretakers. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke. Discussion: Susan Jahnke voiced her overwhelming support as a member of the Sub-committee. The motion passed unanimously.* Designation of Supervisor of the new Beach House Tenants/Caretakers:
Mark Lyon explained that in the past there have been questions as to whom the tenants/caretakers should report to, contact with concerns, questions, etc. It is his feeling that as the beach and boat launch areas all fall to Parks and Rec Commission for budgeting, etc., supervision should be by the Commission and as Ray Reich has been the member overseeing the beach for the past several years, it should most likely continue to be done by him. Sheila Anson supported this recommendation. Following more discussion, it was decided that Ray would oversee all personnel issues, compliance with lease conditions and performance of duties and responsibilities. Any physical problems, repairs, etc. with the beach, beach house and boat launch area should be referred to the Buildings and Properties Commission.
Visitors:
* Ann Compton, VOICES reporter inquired about the Special Selectmen’s Meeting held earlier today to discuss an AT&T telecommunications tower on Town property. Mark Lyon explained that throughout the negotiations with Verizon, he had been contacted several times by John Lawrence of Centerline Communications (contracted by SAI who is a “Turf vendor” who is contracted by AT&T). Initially AT&T’s interest was to be a co-locator on Verizon’s tower. As Verizon has notified the Town that construction of a tower in Town is no longer in their development budget, Mark contacted Mr. Lawrence to see if AT&T would be interested in constructing their own tower. John came today along with a site engineer to look at the site, maps and to discuss general issues such as set-backs, zoning regulations, access to the site, height of the tower, etc. Mark explained that no formal commitments were made at today’s meeting however it was felt that AT&T may make at least a preliminary proposal within the next 2-3 weeks.
Reminder:
Special Town Meeting this evening at 7:30 p.m. to accept Birch Hill Run and Chestnut Lane as Town Roads and to approve an ex-budget appropriation of $220,000 for clean up and debris removal following Storm Alfred.
One More OLD BUSINESS item:
* Bryan Plaza Tree Planting Project:
Mark Lyon explained that Tom Osborne, Tree Warden, and the Tree Committee submitted a plan for replacing the Norway Maples in Bryan Plaza as well as other plantings along the border with the Texaco Station property. The Board of Selectmen had approved this plan and the Committee secured a grant and raised private funds. Conservation Commission has requested a moratorium on the project until the Texaco Station is sold and asked the Town to consider trimming and cabling to extend the life of the trees. Quotes from Arbor Services and Gary Lord have been received - $3,500 and $2,800 respectively. Mark explained that for the time being a moratorium has been placed on the project because of the time of year. The subject will be re-addressed in the spring. Gary Fitzherbert asked if the remaining trees have been identified as dangerous or have dangerous or dead limbs in them would they be taken care of during this moratorium. Mark stated that anything identified as hazardous would be dealt with.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:18 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen Dick Carey and Susan Jahnke.
Cell Tower Committee Members Diane Dupuis, Phil Markert,
Emergency Management Coordinator Robert Tomlinson.
John Lawrence – Centerline Communications - Site Acquisition Specialist for AT&T, Tom Johnson – ProTerra Design Group – Site Engineer.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 1:02 p.m. introducing those in attendance.
General Discussion
included John Lawrence explaining his relationship with AT&T – contracted through SAI which is a “turf vendor” contracted by AT&T. His services are paid for by AT&T and are outside of any financial negotiations (i.e. lease amounts) that would be agreed upon between the Town and AT&T. Any formal proposal and agreement would be from New Singular Wireless (AT&T) and would be for an AT&T telecommunications tower. John explained that his first contact(s) with the Town of Washington were due to AT&T’s interest in co-locating on Verizon’s tower. As Verizon has stated it “is not in their development budget to continue with this site at this time”, AT&T is now interested in the site for their own tower.Mark Lyon, Phil Markert, Rocky Tomlinson and John Lawrence went to the proposed site at the Town Highway property on Blackville Road and were joined by Tom Johnson, and a construction manager.
Upon their return discussion continued with John Lawrence asking what the Town’s process would be. Mark Lyon explained that following today’s meeting, AT&T could make a proposal, negotiations could begin – any contracts would be reviewed by the Board of Selectmen and the Cell Tower Committee and if/when a lease agreement is arrived at, would be presented to the Town at a Town Meeting for approval by the Legislative Body.
Other points discussed included a request for a balloon float, power access to the site would be underground (AT&T responsible for power to their tower-any co-locators would be responsible for their own power source), tower height, review of setbacks, zoning regulations, etc. It was noted that although Verizon had done a great deal of work, AT&T would need to start from the beginning.
Diane Dupuis suggested that property owners that were within the 750-foot setback should put in writing their “approval” following the RF exposure being addressed. It was also noted that special attention should be given to the view from the Calhoun Street Historic District, as this has been a concern of residents. The projected time frame for construction was discussed – should the Town give it’s approval, all necessary permits applied for and approved, the project would then go before the Connecticut Siting Council which can take some time with required public hearings, time for appeals, etc. If approved by the Siting Council, AT&T estimated 4-6 months to construct the tower.
Mark recommended to John Lawrence that a presentation to the Town should include set-backs, RF exposures, height limit, rental amounts to be paid to the Town, length of lease and subsequent extensions, compensation for long-term, restoration of site and disassembling of the tower, etc. The Town will share any information that was made “public” during communications with Verizon.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 2:36 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved. Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: December 1, 2011 November 22, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen Dick Carey and Susan Jahnke.
Public: Nick Solley, Rod Wyant, Gary Fitzherbert, Rocky Tomlinson, Joan Lodsin, Leslie Anderson.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the November 9, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey. Susan Jahnke abstained. The motion passed.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations:
Resignation of Ted Bent as an alternate member to the Housing Commission:
A letter dated November 20, 2011 from Ted Bent has been received notifying the Board of Selectmen of his resignation as an alternate to the Housing Commission, effective immediately. A copy of the letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.Resignation of Wayne Hileman as a regular member of the Housing Commission:
A letter dated November 18, 2011 from Wayne Hileman has been received notifying the Board of Selectmen of his resignation from the Housing Commission effective December 31, 2011. A copy of the letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.Motion:
To accept the resignations of Ted Bent and Wayne Hileman with gratitude for their respective one year and six years of service to the Town on this Commission.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Susan Jahnke and unanimously approved.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
FEMA Declaration:
The preliminary damage assessment has been performed in the Town of Washington regarding the October 30, 2011 Storm Alfred. The Town will be eligible for 75% reimbursement for qualifying expenses as a result of the storm. A kick-off meeting will be held for area towns, a FEMA representative will be assigned to the Town to review the necessary paperwork – time cards, invoices, emergency operations, etc. This is in addition to the FEMA application for Storm Irene in August.EX-budget appropriation:
Mark explained he has requested an ex-budget appropriation of $220,000 from the Board of Finance for non-budgeted expenses incurred as a result of Storm Alfred.Governor Malloy’s and CCM’s Post Storm Committee Meeting:
Mark attended and testified.Shinar Mountain Road and Mygatt Road plans
have been received from Arthur Howland Associates and WMC Engineers respectively. They will be reviewed at a Special Board of Selectmen’s Meeting to be scheduled.Council of Small Towns Meeting
is scheduled for December 14th for newly elected and veteran municipal officials.
OLD BUSINESS:
Opening of Bids for Clearing and Grubbing at Town Highway Garage property:
The following bids have been received:
The Selectmen will review with Kevin Smith, Highway Director, and award at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting scheduled for December 8, 2011.
1) TMC Excavating, Washington, CT $ 8,250.00 2) A.J. Nordland, Bantam, CT $ 4,200.00 3) FSM Services, New Milford, CT $10,250.00 4) Wyant & Company, Washington, CT $ 8,440.00 5) Oakridge Services, Roxbury, CT $ 6,000.00
Opening of Bids for Electrical Work at Town Highway Garage:
The following bids have been received:
The Selectmen will review with Buildings and Properties Commission and award at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting scheduled for December 8, 2011. Dick Carey asked if the B&P Commission felt the option offered by Wright Electric was worthy of consideration, would Eagle Electric be given the opportunity to submit a quote that would include the option. Mark explained they would and as the total job is under $6,000, would not need to formally be put out to bid.
1) Eagle Electric, Washington Depot, CT $2,121.00 2) Wright Electric, Washington Depot, CT $2,875.00 With suggested option: $5,675.00
Opening of RFQs for Engineering Services for Walker Brook Road Bridge:
Mark explained that a Federal Grant has been received for this project that will cover 80% of the cost to replace the culvert. There are specific guidelines that need to be followed because of the receipt of the grant – one of which – was to seek Requests for Qualifications for Engineering Services. A five-member committee will review the RFQs – once selected, fees will be negotiated. The following RFQs have been received:
1) Milone & MacBroom, Cheshire, CT
2) Weston & Sampson, Rocky Hill, CT
3) Tectonic Engineering & Surveying Consultants, Rocky Hill, CT
4) Lenard Engineering, Winsted, CT
5) WMC Consulting Engineers, Newington, CT
6) Purcell Associates, Glastonbury, CT
7) Stadia Engineering Associates, Southbury, CT
8) Cardinal Engineering Associates, Meriden, CT
9) Jacobson & Associates, Cheshire, CT
10) GMC Associates, Glastonbury, CT
11) Dewberry, New Haven, CT
A meeting will be scheduled with the review committee in the not-too-distant future.Town Meeting Date and Agenda:
At the last Selectmen’s Meeting a Town Meeting was scheduled for December 1, 2011. Since that time the non-budgeted expenditures resulting from Storm Alfred need to be approved by a Town Meeting. In addition, budgeted Legal Litigation Funds have all been used. The Board of Finance has suggested speaking with the Town’s legal firm(s) to try to determine an estimate of how much more may be required for the balance of the year. It has been determined that a Special Town Meeting dealing with just this item be scheduled separately.Motion:
To schedule a Special Town Meeting for December 8, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. to 1) discuss and approve the Town’s accepting of Birch Hill Run and Chestnut Lane Road as Town roads, and 2) to approve an ex-budget appropriation of $220,000 to cover expenditures incurred as a result of Storm Alfred.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS: None.
Visitors:
Rocky Tomlinson inquired as to the status of the proposed cell tower on Town property. Mark Lyon explained that this meeting would be adjourning to Executive Session to discuss this issue as a real estate matter.
Adjournment to EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Motion:
To adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen at 6:19 p.m. to enter into an Executive Session to discuss a real estate matter.
By Dick Carey, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.The Selectmen re-entered their Regular Meeting at 6:55 p.m.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:55p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Dick Carey and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: November 11, 2011 November 9, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: Dick Carey, Gary Fitzherbert, Janet Wildman, Leslie Anderson, Joan Lodsin, Linda McGarr, Rocky Tomlinson, Lillian Lyon, Ray Reich, Sheila Anson, Barbara Johnson, Kathy Gollow, Sue and Dave Werkhoven, Phyllis Allen, Debbie Forese.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31p.m.Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the October 27, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the November 1, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter from Addie Troup Mark Lyon and Volunteers:
“I want to thank you and all the good people of Washington who volunteered their time and energy and cheerfulness to take care of those of us who needed heat and shelter and food in this time of crisis. I am so grateful to all of you and proud to be living in this town. In the future if you need volunteers for any reason, you can call on me. Sincerely, Addie Troup”.
The original letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.* Condolences to the Family of Doris Welles:
Jim Brinton, on behalf of the Town expressed sympathy to the family of Doris who served the Town of Washington as Town Clerk for over 35 years. Her contributions to the Town were many!
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* Projects:
Plans for both the Replacement of Shinar Mountain Road Bridge and Mygatt Road Drainage have been received. They will be reviewed and discussed further with the new Board of Selectmen on November 22nd.* THANK YOU to all the citizens, contractors, volunteers, emergency personnel, highway department, police, Emergency Management Director, Town Hall staff, and Board of Selectmen for the countless hours given during the past 12 days at the Town Hall shelter, in the offices, and throughout the entire Town! Many have asked what can be done financially to assist those who may have suffered tremendous losses and may be affected financially. With the support of the Washington Volunteer Fire Department, Auxiliary and Ambulance Association, donations may be made to the Washington Community Fund, Post Office Box 1213, Washington, CT 06793.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Opening of Bids for material storage area at Town Highway Garage:
Motion:
To extend the deadline for the bid to clear and grub approximately ½ acre at the Town Highway Garage until November 22, 2011 at 4:30 p.m.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion: it was felt that many contractors have been too busy this past week with storm clean up, etc. – only one bid was received.
The motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Schedule Special Town Meeting to accept Birch Hill Run & Chestnut Lane Road as Town Roads:
Motion:
To schedule a Special Town Meeting for December 1, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss and approve the Town’s accepting of Birch Hill Run and Chestnut Lane Road as Town Roads.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Mark Lyon.
Discussion: Mr. Pappas has met all the requirements and conditions and the residents of both roads are anxious to have the Town begin maintaining which the Town is obligated to do under Planning subdivision regulations after the subdivision is 50% completed.
The motion passed unanimously.* Extend an Invitation to Bid for electrical work at Town Garage:
Motion:
To extend an invitation to Bid for the transfer of electrical service for fuel pumps from the lower garage to the upper garage at the Town Highway Department property on Blackville Road. Bids will be due by November 22, 2011 at 4:30 p.m. and will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Board of Selectmen Thank you Comments:
Mark thanked Jim and Nick for four years of tremendous service and help to him and the Town, their willingness to share their ideas and opinions and to work together as a Board. “They have set an example for those who follow.” Jim thanked Mark and Nick stating it had been a pleasure to work with them and would “recommend the job to anyone”! He admired the ability of the Board to have one or two members disagree, discuss the matter and work together to do what was best for the Town. He also thanked Kathy Gollow, Phyllis Allen and Mary Anne Greene for their support in the Selectmen’s Office. Nick re-emphasized the good working relationship with Mark and Jim-thanked them for the years of service together and acknowledged that his ten years as a Selectman - serving with three First Selectmen – has been a pleasure that will be missed – along with the “Good Morning Nicky’s”!.
Visitors:
* Sheila Anson spoke for herself and other members of the Town Hall staff saying it had been a privilege to work with the three Selectmen these past four years, stating their service and countless hours of hard work for the Town have not gone unnoticed. She thanked them for listening to concerns and their being appreciative of work – their support in the challenge of dealing with the public and the different personalities that walk through the door! They have brought a “breath of fresh air” to the Town Hall – that will be maintained!* Linda McGarr stated she is proud to be a part of this Town and although concerned that at one point we were losing part of what made Washington such a special home, we have not! She thanked the Board of Selectmen for all they brought to Town stating “they will be a tough act to follow!”
* Gary Fitzherbert stated he always had all the confidence in the work with the Board of Selectmen – they led the Town through some difficult times – last winter, Hurricane Irene, Storm Alfred, tough economic times – doing a phenomenal job!
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 5:48 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved. A standing ovation concluded the meeting!Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: November 5, 2011 November 1, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen
Present: First Selectman Mark Lyon, Selectmen Nicholas N. Solley and James L. Brinton.
Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Motion:
To postpone the start of the meeting and conducting of business until 9:00a.m. due to the Town-wide emergency caused by Storm Alfred.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:02a.m.
Awarding of Bid for Tompkins Hill Road Drainage Project:
Motion:
To award the bid for drainage project on Tompkins Hill Road to FSM Services of New Milford for $47,550.00.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion: Bids have been reviewed by Kevin Smith, FSM was the low bidder and meets all specs. FSM will be requested to include an anti-seep collar on the inlet side.
The motion passed unanimously.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:05a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: November 5, 2011 October 27, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen Nicholas N. Solley and James L. Brinton (6:15p.m.)
Press: Ann Compton-VOICES.
Public: John Meeker, Valerie Friedman, Harry Wyant, Sparky Lowe, Sheila Anson.Call to Order: First Selectman mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:33p.m. Motion:
To add subsequent business not already on the agenda – re: Beach House tenant/caretaker selection procedure brought to the Selectmen by the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Minutes:
Motion:
To approved the minutes of the August 13, 2011 Special Meeting and the August 13, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* US Postal Service Region #4 hired a contractor to work on the handicap ramp that accesses the Depot Post Office, handicapped parking spaces and markings. However, the painting did not line up with the ramp. The contractor has requested the town change the sidewalk and/or curbing to match up with the markings. The Town has offered to put a higher post marking the designated parking space(s) and will continue to work with the Postal Service and contractors. Depot Post Office personnel were not aware of the work being performed.* BRRFOC & Tunxis Executive Committees (of which Mark is a member) are working on the next Interlocal agreement with will take effect in June 2014.
* CT DEEP Department of Forestry has awarded a $5350 grant for tree plantings at the end of Bryan Plaza. Thank you to the “Tree Committee” – Tree Warden Tom Osborne, Sarah Gager, Denise Arturi, Bob Papsin – for their efforts in securing this grant.
OLD BUSINESS: * Invitation to Bid for culvert replacement on Tompkins Hill Road: The following bids were received:
Bids will be reviewed and awarded at a Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen on Tuesday, November 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m.
1) Wyant & Company, Washington, CT $57,865.00 2) Stone Construction, Southbury, CT $55,899.00 3) Towne & Aurell, Bantam, CT $52,478.00 4) Clover Construction, Bristol, CT $55,560.00 5) TMC Excavating, Washington, CT $52,145.00 6) Earth Artists, Roxbury, CT $49,310.00 (less $250-one flared end; $500-no flared ends) 7)FSM Services, New Milford, CT $47,550.00 * DCS Energy – Installation of Solar Panels:
A letter has been received from DCS Energy informing the Town that the DCS Energy Town & Not-For-Profit Program has been cancelled. This is due to DCS ending their agreement with their funding partner because of a complaint filed with the South Carolina Public Service Commission by South Carolina Electric & Gas. DCS will continue to try to find a funding partner and, if successful, will contact the Town to determine it’s interest in receiving solar PV systems as planned. A copy of this letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Invitation to Bid for material storage area at Town Highway Garage:
Motion:
To extend an invitation to bid to clear and grub approximately ½ acre at the Town Highway Garage property at 10 Blackville Road, Washington Depot, CT, in preparation for the construction of a material storage area. Information is available from the Office of the First Selectman at 860-868-2259 or selectmen@washingtonct.org. Sealed bids are due in the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by 4:30 p.m. on November 9, 2011. They will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. on November 9, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: Capital Funds are allocated and approved – this would be the first step in the project.
The motion passed unanimously.* DOT Bridge Grant – Walker Brook Road Bridge:
The Town has been notified that the Federal Bridge Grant it applied for has been approved. A letter of commitment of up to $757,650 has been sent. Because it is a Federal project, there are certain stipulations that need to be followed. i.e. formation of a committee to review qualifications from engineering firms. Presently this committee will be made up of Mark Lyon, Nick Solley, Kevin Smith, Dan Stanton (New Milford Civil Engineer) and one other. Mark has met with DOT Engineer, Joe Scalise, Robert Cosker and Rich Fontaine of Close, Jensen & Miller (Engineering Firm) to review the process. An Invitation to Bid for Engineering services will be put out and the Board of Selectmen is hopeful to have a firm selected by December. Construction may begin Fall 2012 but may be 2013.* Solicit RFQ from Consulting Engineering Firms for design of State Bridge #06103 on Walker Brook Road:
Motion:
The Town of Washington Requests Qualifications for a Consulting Engineering firm to provide engineering services for the preparation of construction contract plans and documents for the rehabilitation/Replacement of Bridge #06103 Walker Brook Road #3 over Walker Brook, Washington, CT. The Consulting Engineer may also be required to provide survey, prepare environmental documents and perform construction inspection. The constructions cost is expected to be in the range of $550,000 to $750,000. Information is available from the Office of the First Selectman at 860-868-2259 or selectmen@washingtonct.org.
Letters of interest are due in the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by 4:30 p.m. on November 22, 2011. They will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. on November 22, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Possible Grant Re: Bryan Plaza:
NWCOG has notified member Towns of DOT Enhancement Funds in the amount of $800,000 available to be used for village center enhancements such as streetscapes, paving, drainage, curbs, etc. Mark suggested the Town of Washington apply for revitalization of Bryan Plaza as a possible project to consider. He will attend November’s Planning Commission meeting to determine their thoughts. If they think applying is +worthwhile, Mark will go to COG with a proposal for Washington. COG member Towns will determine which projects are approved. “Regional projects” may be given more priority.* Beach House Tenant/Caretaker Search Procedure:
At the October 17, 2011 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission, the following motion was made:
The procedure for advertising/applying/approving a new caretaker/tenant for the Town Beach House will be to advertise in VOICES and the Spectrum; form a subcommittee consisting of three members of the Parks and Recreation Commission (Joe Fredlund, Ray Reich and Whitney Ryan), one member of the Buildings and Properties Commission (Nick Solley) and one Selectman (to be determined). Applications will be submitted to the Selectmen’s Office and will be reviewed by the subcommittee, determine who will be interviewed, conduct interviews and recommend selection to the Board of Selectmen for final approval.
By C.J. Kersten, seconded by Ray Reich and unanimously approved.To submit this procedure to the Board of Selectmen for their approval.
By C.J. Kersten, seconded by Ray Reich and unanimously approved.Motion:
To endorse the procedure voted on and approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Further discussion occurred regarding the rental amount and respective duties. Currently the thought is to increase the rent from $500 to $650 a month with a list of duties that would need to be performed by the tenant(s). Nick Solley has spoken again with a realtor who feels $900-$1200 a reasonable fair value monthly rental amount for the property with no care taking duties. John Meeker voiced his opinion that given the Beach House is new, the cost to build, it’s being lakefront, etc., the rent amount should be higher. There has also been discussion of hiring an outside landscaping/gardening service to do the gardening/pruning/weeding etc. The increase in the rent will help to offset the cost of this. The difference will need to be budgeted for in the Town’s General Fund. John and Valerie Friedman also suggested giving some of the “duties” such as raking the beach, cleaning of the bathrooms, etc. to the lifeguards and/or increasing the rent to a level that would cover the total amount the landscaper/gardener would charge for the jobs mentioned above. The Selectmen explained that the “sweat equity lease” has been discussed over the years and it has been the consensus to continue this practice. Jim Brinton suggested that due to the fact that Parks and Rec Commissioners and the Selectmen are comfortable with the procedure, rental amount, etc. and that the lease is for only one year, this could all be re-evaluated at the end of the period. Motion: To set the monthly rent for the Beach House at $650 a month with an $800 security deposit. By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* John Meeker asked if the security deposit would be returned to the tenants who have left the Beach House. Nick Solley explained that they would be charged for the propane delivery to fill the tank. John asked about their being held responsible for “breaking the lease” despite their giving 30 days notice. He suggested not returning the security deposit. Mark Lyon excused himself from the meeting and Nick Solley and Jim Brinton felt that the tenants had given notice, they left the house is very good condition and all other conditions of the lease had been met. The security will be returned less the propane charge.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting as 6:50 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: October 14, 2011 October 13, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:03 a.m.
Executive Session:
Motion:
To enter into Executive Session to discuss two real estate matters at 8:03 a.m.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.The Selectmen re-entered the Regular Meeting at 8:39 a.m. and no action was taken.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 8:39 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: October 7, 2011 October 6, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present:
First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.Executive Session:
Motion:
To enter into Executive Session to discuss a real estate matter at 8:01 a.m.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.The Selectmen re-entered the Regular Meeting at 8:58 a.m.
Adjournment:
the meeting at 8:58 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted
, Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: October 4, 2011 September 29, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Ann Compton-VOICES.
Public: John Meeker, Dick Carey, Lillian Lyon.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:35p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the September 15, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the September 20, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Communications:
* CL&P is in the process of contacting municipalities regarding power outages, restoration of power, etc. during and after Hurricane Irene. Information and feedback will be provided to them as requested.Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* FEMA Kick-Off Meeting:
Mark Lyon, Kevin Smith and Mary Anne Greene met with Gary LeBrecque, the Town of Washington’s FEMA representative, this afternoon. This meeting serves as the Town’s official Kick-Off meeting and the date from which various filing deadlines will be determined. Mr. LeBrecque will be meeting periodically with the Town to inspect damage, work completed and work projected to be done. Residents and businesses can still register by phone, on-line, or in person at the local FEMA office (Torrington Fire Headquarters, Water Street, Torrington) for damages and losses as a result of the Hurricane.* Town Meeting 10/3/11 will include an agenda item regarding the appropriation of funds for repairs necessary following the Hurricane. 75% of these costs will be reimbursed through FEMA.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Awarding of Bid for Backhoe/Loader:
Each of the bidders supplied the Highway Department with a demonstrator. Highway Director, Kevin Smith, on behalf of the Highway Department, wrote a letter stating “after having the opportunity to demo backhoe/loaders from all of the respective bidders, it is the recommendation of the Department that the Case backhoe/loader submitted by F&W Equipment Corp. best suits our needs based on overall performance, visibility, operator comfort, and safety. In addition, Case equipment has a long standing history of providing quality equipment with excellent resale value…” Motion: To award the bid for the purchase of a Case 580 SN backhoe/loader to F&W Equipment of Orange, CT for $80,307, with trade-in allowance of $15,000. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Review of Parks and Recreation Commission recommendations for Beach House Tenant/Caretaker Selection Procedure:
Mark explained that he had asked the Parks and Recreation Commission to begin work on a selection procedure for the tenant/caretaker position at the Town Beach. They discussed it at their September meeting and Ray Reich has forwarded a “draft” to the Selectmen for their input. The proposal suggests advertising in a local paper, on the Town’s web site, at Washington’s schools and the firehouse and town garage. Applications would be submitted to the Selectmen’s office, reviewed and selected candidates would be interviewed by a selectman, two parks and Rec members, Parks and Rec Coordinator. At the Parks and Rec meeting, John Meeker suggested the use of an outside real estate agent. John stated that a point he felt important was a real estate agency would be able to provide the Town with a fair market value for rent and put a fair value on the work that is being asked of the caretaker/tenant. Nick Solley explained that two years ago, he had spoken with an agency that felt that $1000/month was a fair rent for the property and duties were valued at $500/month – therefore the rent was set at $500. Discussion continued as to pros and cons of using an agency, how it could be set up - i.e. “broker protected”, perception of conflict of interest, etc. with Selectmen input as well as input from John Meeker and Dick Carey. It was also suggested that Town Counsel review the process. The interviews and selection would still be conducted by selected members of Parks and Rec and Selectmen as mentioned above. Nick Solley offered to work with Parks and Rec as a member of the Buildings and Properties Commission and will attend their next meeting. John Meeker asked if this was coming about because of a change in the current caretakers/tenants. Mark Lyon stated, “yes”.Visitors:
* John Meeker asked if there was any word on the proposed cell tower at the Highway Department. Mark Lyon explained that he had received an email from the Town’s consultant today and when all parties can agree on a date, a special meeting will be scheduled and will immediately go into Executive Session, as it will be dealing with a real estate matter. John also inquired about the Highway Director operating various pieces of equipment and the prudence of this. Mark explained that he is capable of operating all the equipment and as he is a “working highway director”, if he feels his services are needed to get the work done, he does and that is fine with the Selectmen. John asked about the Highway Director’s having a Town truck, stating it has been explained that this enables him to be out “checking” the roads and work that needs to be done. Mark explained this is the case 24/7.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:08p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: September 21, 2011 September 20, 2011
Emergency Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:02 a.m.
OLD BUSINESS:
To amend the agenda for the October 3, 2011 Town Meeting:
The following two items were discussed at the Board of Finance Meeting on September 19, 2011 and need to be discussed and acted upon at the Town Meeting.
Motion:
To amend the agenda, set at the September 15, 2011 Board of Selectmen’s meeting, to include the following: 1) To approve an expense not to exceed $35,625 which will be offset by a grant for the purchase and installation of a photovoltaic generation array to offset electricity expense generated at Arrow Point. 2) To approve an expenditure from the Nonrecurring Capital Fund not to exceed $589,000 for the repair/replacement of projects due to destruction resulting from the recent Hurricane Irene.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion: Regarding the purchase and installation of the photovoltaic array – although the expense incurred by the Town will be completely offset by a grant applied for by Washington and Warren, the initial expenditure needs to be approved by the Legislative Body. Regarding the expenditure for storm damage, FEMA funds will be forthcoming which will reimburse the Town 75% of approved costs. Some of the initial costs may be taken from Town Aid Road Fund and/or the Town’s Fund Balance. The estimate of $589,000 was arrived at through discussion with Kevin Smith, Highway Director, and felt to be realistic. Kevin will be invited to attend the Town Meeting to answer any questions that may arise.
The motion passed unanimously.Motion:
To amend the agenda, set at the September 15, 2011 Board of Selectmen’s meeting, to delete the following: To discuss and act upon the acceptance of Chestnut Lane and Birch Hill Run.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: Due to the fact that Mr. Pappas has not met all the conditions set forth by the Selectmen to act upon the acceptance of the two roads, i.e. providing an “as built survey”.
The motion passed unanimously.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 8:25 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: September 21, 2011 September 15, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker, Wayne Hileman.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:34p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the September 1, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the minutes of the September 1, 2011 Informational Meeting and Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter from Wayne Hileman, Chairman Washington Housing Commission, requesting revisions to the Housing Commission Ordinance:
“The Housing Commission has spent the last few months reviewing the initial ordinance that formed our commission in 2005. We have unanimously found the language contained therein is not reflective of our perceived mission, and may not be in the best interests of the town. Therefore we have revised the language of the ordinance…..” Mr. Hileman explained that if the Board of Selectmen approved the proposed revisions, the Commission would like them on the agenda for the October Town Meeting. There was further discussion as to the management of monies approved for expenditures from the Town’s Affordable Housing Fund, whether a Housing Authority being established in the future would be appropriate and beneficial for the Town, if it should be managed by a paid entity as opposed to volunteers, etc. The Housing Commission does not have the framework or authority to address some of these questions and all felt should be something involving input from the townspeople. As for the Ordinance revisions, the Selectmen would like to review them further, and follow up with the Town Attorney. Until that happens, it will not be placed on the Agenda.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* FEMA Meeting:
Mark and Mary Anne Greene attended a meeting today regarding the procedures, documentation requirements, etc. that will be necessary to apply for FEMA reimbursement for costs incurred by the Town as a result of Hurricane Irene. Individuals and businesses may also be eligible for reimbursement but will need to file directly.* Beach House Tenant/Caretaker Selection Procedure:
Mark requested that the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss and develop a procedure for advertising, interviewing, etc. for the tenant/caretaker at the Town Beach House. The Board of Selectmen, Buildings & Properties Commission would be involved with Parks and Rec through the process. There was discussion as to whether or not the Beach House could be figured into the Town’s Affordable Housing percentage. Wayne Hileman voiced his opinion that if an ideal candidate was found for the position, but did not meet the affordable housing requirements, they should not be denied the opportunity. John Meeker, at the Parks and Rec meeting, suggested working with an outside real estate agency to find candidates. Nick Solley also suggested taking a look at “work in lieu of rent” vs. hiring an outside landscaper to perform caretaker duties – pros and cons.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Awarding of Bid for Backhoe/Loader:
Motion:
To postpone the awarding of this bid for two weeks.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: as there is one more backhoe/loader the Highway Department would like to “demo” and that could not be delivered prior to this meeting. In fairness to all bidders the awarding should again be postponed.
The motion passed unanimously.* Awarding of Bid for Engineering Services related to the replacement of Shinar Mountain Road Bridge over Walker Brook:
Mark reported all bids were reviewed and he spoke with the three lowest bidders. Arthur E. Howland & Associates, the lowest bidder, had not listed additional permitting fees. In speaking with them, they felt that if permitting were required with the DEP, Army Corps of Engineers, etc. it might add approximately $4-5,000 +/- to their bid amount. Even with this, they are still the lowest bidder.Motion:
To award the bid for Engineering Services related to the replacement of Shinar Mountain Road Bridge over Walker Brook to Arthur E. Howland & Associates for $6,100 with the knowledge that there may be additional charges/fees in the amount of approximately $5,000.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINIESS:
* Setting Agenda for the October 3, 2011 Town Meeting:
Motion:
To set the agenda for the October 3, 2011 Town Meeting, as follows:
1) To set the dates for the annual Town Budget Hearing and annual Town Budget Meeting in May 2012.
2) To discuss and act upon the discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road.
3) To discuss and act upon the acceptance of Chestnut Lane and Birch Hill Run.
The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Bryan Memorial Town Hall.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
John Meeker asked if the storm damage to the River Walk be temporarily fixed by filling in wash outs with dirt from the old town garage site and back bladed so that the path could be used. Mark explained he had spoken with Parks and Rec and requested they write up what they feel is needed to get the path and area repaired and restored. It is hoped the cost will be under the limit of $6000 so that it will not need to go out to bid – allowing the Town to get a local contractor in to do the work as soon as possible. John also asked if there was any further work on the proposed cell tower at the Town’s Highway Department. The Selectmen have not heard anything further from the consultant or Verizon.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:20 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: September 9, 2011 September 1, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley
Press: Ann Compton – VOICES.
Public: John Meeker.Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To correct the posted Agenda to read “Minutes of the August 24, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Motion:
To approve the minutes of the August 18, 2011 Regular Meeting and the August 24, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
As First Selectman, Mark commended all of the Town’s Emergency Services and employees for their efforts before, during and after Hurricane Irene. Emergency Management Coordinator, Rocky Tomlinson; Resident State Trooper, Steve Sordi; Fire Chief Mark Showalter; Ambulance Crew Chief Susan Wallace-Wyant, Highway Director, Kevin Smith and First Selectman Mark Lyon began meeting Thursday evening to make certain everything was in place. All department personnel – volunteer and employees, worked tirelessly and efforts paid off. The Town Hall was opened as a shelter. No one needed this service but it was in place.Tompkins Hill Road and Spring Hill Road are closed. Many others are requiring a great deal of work but are passable.
CL&P sent a liaison that was present in the Town Hall for two days. Very helpful in prioritizing emergencies, road closures, etc. with CL&P. As of this meeting, there are still multiple outages in Town but we are hopeful they will be restored by the end of the day or by tomorrow.
OLD BUSINESS:
Awarding of Bid for Backhoe/Loader:
Motion:
To postpone awarding of the bid for a Backhoe/Loader until the next Board of Selectmen’s Meeting on September 15, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion:
Demos from two low bidders could not be delivered to the Highway Garage this week due to the hurricane but should be able to be within the next two weeks. Kevin Smith, Highway Director, has reviewed bids.
The motion passed unanimously approved.Opening of Requests for Proposal for Engineering Services related to the replacement of Shinar Mountain Road Bridge over Walker Brook Road: The following were received:
1) Lenard Engineering, Winsted, CT Preliminary Engineering Services $32,900.00 Bidding Services $4,800.00 Construction-Related Services $16,900.00 Time & Materials (Estimate) 2) Land Data Engineers, Waterbury, CT Preliminary Engineering Services $3,600.00 Bidding-Contract Services $3,000.00 Construction-Engineering Services $13,500.00 3) Milone & MacBroom, Cheshire, CT Preliminary Engineering Services $39,985.00 Bidding-Contract Services $2,800.00 Construction-engineering Services $6,500.00 Optional Task-subsurface Exploration $1,500.00 Reimbursable and Direct Expenses $6,000.00 4) Arthur Howland & Associates, New Milford, CT Preliminary Engineering Services $5,400.00 Bidding-Contract Services $500.00 Construction-Engineering Services $200.00 per inspection 5) WMC Consulting Engineers, Newington, CT Preliminary Engineering Services $8,500.00 Bidding-Contract Services $23,700.00 Construction-Engineering Services $8,500.00 Direct Costs (Borings/Reproductions) $4,000.00 Bids will be reviewed and awarded at the September 15, 2011 Board of Selectmen’s meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
Discussion of Hurricane Irene damage and related estimated repair costs:
Mark Lyon, following a review with Kevin Smith, has done a Preliminary Damage Assessment for FEMA. In addition to the obvious and above mentioned road damage, the Town may be able to include such things as the damage done to River Walk, and trees that were damaged that are in the Town’s right-of-way but that did not come down. At present, the estimated cost for debris removal (overtime only) is approximately $2,500; replacement and repair of road systems approximately $471,800. Work needs to be done to the Town’s water control systems – the dam at the fire pond behind Town Hall needs to be restored and streambed work needs to be done in Canoe Brook. The estimated total is $725,000 – this figure may fluctuate depending on the amount of bridgework that will be required. At least three private homes were flooded as well as damage sustained to a private bridge that cannot support vehicular traffic to a home. FEMA information has been passed on to them as well but the extent of their eligibility is not yet known. Mark has also spoken with DEEP and although permitting will still be required for work in watercourses, they will try to keep the process running quickly. Some work, such as the removal of debris from the Town’s streams, will be allowed following notification to the Town’s Inland Wetlands Commission. The Board of Finance has also asked for a preliminary damage figure.September 11th Proclamation:
Motion:
To pass the following Proclamation:
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the terrorist actions in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania of September 11, 2001, will never be forgotten by the citizens of the United States of America; and WHEREAS, the Town of Washington supports the honoring of all lives lost as a result of that tragedy, particularly the members of all emergency services; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Washington recognizes that a free and open society depends upon citizen involvement in caring for the common good; and WHEREAS, the highest form of citizenship is when individuals place the safety and well-being of others above themselves; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Washington deeply appreciates those who so unselfishly serve-the members of our Town Emergency Services; NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed, that we, the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Washington, Connecticut, does hereby declare that Washington will observe September 11, 2011 as Emergency Services Day.
AND FURTHERMORE, be it proclaimed, that the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Washington, Connecticut, invites all citizens to give thanks for and honor all members of our Town Emergency Services.
Signed, this First day of September, 2011 by:
Mark E Lyon, First Selectman
James L Brinton, Selectman
Nicholas N Solley, SelectmanBy Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
John Meeker inquired about the contract between the Town of Washington and Verizon re: telecommunications tower on the Town’s Highway Department property. Mark Lyon explained that he has spoken with the Town’s consultant for lease negotiations who reported not yet hearing back from Verizon. Mark urged him to make contact as soon as possible. John also inquired about damage from Hurricane Irene at the Washington Primary School. Mark reported that Region #12 had hired a company to come in to pump the flooded basement. A lower floor classroom was damaged due to flooding and that class has been temporarily moved the school’s library for the school’s scheduled opening.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:05 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Public Information Meeting and Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: Barbara and Charles Robinson, Anne McFarland, Lori Carusillo.PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING RE:
Discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road:Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the Public Information Meeting to order at 7:09 p.m.Discussion:
Mark explained to those present – all of whom are abutting property owners to the portion of Clark Road under discussion for discontinuance – that they would continue to have access to their properties over a right-of-way, only the Town of Washington will not be responsible for maintenance. Any abutting property owners can use the right-of-way to gain access or to provide utility access to their property. It will become the responsibility of those who use it and it can be developed to a level they choose. If multiple abutting property owners use the right-of-way they will come to an agreement amongst themselves.Mark distributed a handout that had a map of the properties involved and excerpts from the CT State Statutes referring to the discontinuance of highways.
There was general discussion about property values, ability to subdivide, and liability issues. The Selectmen agreed to request Town Attorney David Miles to 1) clarify the liability questions; and 2) clarify the statutes that allows access to the right-of-way by property owners.
Following this evening’s meeting, the Selectmen will refer the discontinuance of this portion of Clark Road to the Planning Commission. If they are in agreement, they will refer it back to the Selectmen for placement on the Town Meeting Agenda for a vote by the townspeople.
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN:
Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen to order at 7:45 p.m.Motion:
To recommend the discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road to the Planning Commission
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion:
the Selectmen will contact one of the abutting property owners who have not yet contacted their office.
The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: Deptember 7, 2011 August 31, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley. Highway Director Kevin Smith.
Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:07 a.m.OLD BUSINESS:
To enter into contract with DCS Energy to install solar panels:
Motion:
To enter into contracts with DCS Energy to install solar panels on Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot Fire House, Washington Senior Center, River Walk Pavilion and at New Preston Fire House, Town Highway Garage.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion:
The Public Information Meeting was held on August 24, 2011. The majority of attendees were in favor of the proposals presented - looking favorably on the Town’s initiative to be energy conscious and pleased with the projected savings. Mark has also spoken to several towns that have worked with DCS, installed their panels and were all very pleased. Today is the deadline for signing the contract.
The motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
Meeting with Highway Director, Kevin Smith, regarding potential emergency road repairs resulting from Hurricane Irene:
Kevin explained that a great deal of the work that will be needed as a result of the recent hurricane will require substantial amounts of material. Spring Hill Road has been shut down as the bridge has been compromised. As it is not a road with any residences, it will not be given a priority at the present time and an engineer will be hired to review. Tompkins Hill Road and Cook Street both suffered structural damage and will be given priority. An engineer will also be needed for both these roads. Senff Road is structurally sound but will need regraveling and the culvert will be looked at for future storms – may be undersized. Many other roads suffered severe washouts along edges and will also be taken care of. Cost estimates will be done for needed repairs and FEMA will also be assessing damages for reimbursement to the Town. Several property owners suffered damage to their homes and/or property and they too will be referred to FEMA and their insurance companies.Orchard Lane and Kinney Hill Road (off Slaughterhouse):
S & S Paving and Seymour Sealing will be starting a project on these two roads using a new method and materials. They will be reclaimed, graded and paved. This new process is being tried on these roads, as they are not heavily traversed. If the material “fails” the companies will redo the roads at no cost to the Town. If it holds up well, the Town may use it on larger, busier roads. This new process/material is less expensive than the traditional paving materials and is “greener”-using recycled asphalt as aggregate.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 10:25 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: August 31, 2011 August 24, 2011
Public Information Meeting
And
Special Meeting of the Board of SelectmenMinutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: Jane and Mike Athas, John Meeker, Tony Mitchell, Jean Waterhouse, Jane and Jack Boyer, Mike Croft, Tony Bedini, Peter Tagley.Mark Lyon opened the Public Information Meeting, welcoming those in attendance, at 7:02 p.m.
Mark presented the history of the possible installation of photovoltaic solar systems on Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot Fire House, Senior Center, River Walk Pavilion, New Preston Fire House and Town Highway Department by DCS Energy. The Town learned of DCS from the Council of Small Towns (COST). He has since spoken with Ray Furse, from Warren who is in the solar energy business; Washington Supply who has installed panels on their buildings, CL&P, and other Towns who have taken advantage of DCS’s proposal.
Surveys of municipal buildings were done, a structural engineer has inspected roofs of possible Town locations (except for the Town Hall which should be done shortly) and all would be able to support the panel installations.
This evening’s meeting was scheduled to give the public the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the aesthetic implications (particularly on the Town Hall), etc. Ray Furse has been recommending installing solar panels on the Town Hall for years, as the southern exposure is ideal.
If the Town enters into the agreement with DCS Energy, they would install the systems on the locations at no cost to the Town. The lease would be for a 5-year period. At the end of the lease, the Town can ask DCS to remove the panels at no cost or can opt to keep them. The energy generated by the panels is credited directly to the Town. David Miles, Town Attorney, has reviewed the lease/contract and sees no problem. The Town would be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits, construction of a shelter for the mechanics if necessary, erection of fencing around the ground mounted systems at the Highway Garage and New Preston Fire House, and insurance.
There were questions and discussion about savings to the Town, maintenance to the panels (Town’s responsibility), re-shingling if and when necessary, budgetary considerations, exposure at all locations, lifespan of converters, meters – day and night rates. The suggestion was made to attempt to get more information (picture) out to the townspeople perhaps by way of the Town’s website. Comments were made in support of the installations and the Town’s initiative to be active in energy conservation. Several attendees at this meeting felt that the effort had been made to present the information to the public and the Town should proceed with the contract.
Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen:
Call to Order:
Mark Lyon called the Special meeting of the Board of Selectmen to order at 7:50 p.m.Discussion of entering into contract with DCS Energy:
Following the Informational Meeting, and in light of suggestions made, the Selectmen agreed to attempt to get a photo on the Town’s website to give the townspeople an opportunity to see what the panels would look like and to vote on entering into a contract with DCS at next Thursday’s Selectmen’s Meeting – September 1, 2011 at 5:30 p.m.\Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 7:54 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: August 23, 2011 August 18, 2011
August 18, 2011Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker, Duncan Woodruff.
Bidders: Jerry DeRubbo-W.I. Clark, Co.; Lee Baldwin-H.O. Penn; David Goulet-F & W Equipment.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the August 4, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the August 10, 2011 and August 17, 2011 Special Meetings of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter from Representative Arthur O’Neil urging residents to take advantage of “Tax Free Week” – August 21 – August 27th. No CT tax will be charged on clothing and footwear.Appointments/Resignations:
* Appointment of Deputy Fire Marshall:
Motion:
To appoint Thomas Osborne as Deputy Fire Marshall. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion:
Mark explained that he had received notification from the State Department of Public Safety that Mr. Osborne had successfully completed the required course and fulfilled all requirements to become a Fire Marshall. John Meeker asked if the position had been posted. Mark stated it had not and further explained that Mr. Osborne had approached him and indicated his interest in the position as Mr. Etherington, the current Fire Marshall for the Town, may be retiring in a couple of years. Mr. Meeker felt there were others in Town who were certified and may be interested as well. Mark stated he had learned of one individual after speaking with Mr. Osborne, who had already started the certification process, and may contact that individual to ascertain his future interest(s). Mark further explained that by State Statute (which he quoted) he and the Board of Selectmen have the authority to appoint the Fire Marshall and/or Deputies. Preference shall be given to members of the local Fire Department.The motion passed unanimously. A tentative meeting with Mr. Etherington, the current appointed Deputies, Mr. Osborne and Mr. Lyon is scheduled for next Wednesday.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported:
* AT&T DSL Service:
AT&T has notified Mark that they have a potential site for installation of an IPDSLAM box (for expansion of DSL service) on Baldwin Hill. Kevin Smith, Highway Director, has reviewed the site and sees not problem with site lines, plowing, or road maintenance. Abutting property owners have also been notified by AT&T.* Tom Osborne, Tree Warden and his committee of Bob Papsin, Sarah Gager and Denise Arturi, are continuing to work on replanting plan of trees in Bryan Plaza. There may be a grant available from the Forestry Department. They will be meeting with the Conservation Commission in September to discuss their plans further.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Opening of Bids for Backhoe/Loader:
The following bids were received:
1) H.O. Penn, Newington, CT Model: CAT 420E Bid: $96,990.00 Options: Trade-In Allowance: $15,000.00 Quick-coupler tool carrier: $ 9,800.00 2) Tyler Equipment, Berlin, CT Model: Volvo VL70 Bid: $95,687.00 Options: Trade-In Allowance: $15,000.00 Quick-coupler tool carrier: $3,699.00 Bid: 3) F & W Equipment, Orange, CT Model: Case 580 SN Bid: $95,307.00 Options: Trade-In Allowance: $15,000.00 Quick-coupler tool carrier: $ 3,250.00 Bid: 4) Liftech, Bloomfield, CT Model: JCB 3CX-14 Bid: $88,400.00 Options: Trade-In Allowance: $19,000.00 Quick-coupler tool carrier: $ 1,785.00 Bid: 5) W.I. Clark, Wallingford, CT Model: John Deere 3102J Bid: $92,880.00 Options: Trade-In Allowance: $17,500.00 Quick-coupler tool carrier: $ 3,150.00 Bids will be reviewed and awarded at the September 1, 2011 meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
* Discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road:
This is scheduled to be on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting in September.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Schedule Public Informational Meeting Special Board of Selectmen Meeting for discontinuing a portion of Clark Road:
An Informational Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 1, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. Abutting property owners will be notified.* Solar Panel Contract with DCS Energy:
Town Attorney, David Miles, has reviewed the contract, sees no problems and recommended the addition of a paragraph that would simply clarify several issues. Roof mounted panels would be installed on Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot Fire House, River Walk Pavilion and the Senior Center. Ground mounts would be installed at the Town Highway Department and the New Preston Fire House. A structural engineer has reviewed all sites except for the Town Hall (Mark has made contact to have this done). The Town would be responsible for building permits, etc. There was discussion as to the age of roof shingles and determining if any would need to be replaced prior to installation. After further discussion noting the possible concern that Town residents may have regarding the aesthetic effect the panels would have – particularly on the Town Hall – a public information meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, August 24, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. A Special Board of Selectmen’s meeting will follow to vote on the signing of the contract with DCS.Visitors: No comments.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:13 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: August 17, 2011 August 17, 2011
Special Meeting
First Selectman, Mark Lyon called the Special Meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Present: Selectmen: Mark Lyon, James Brinton, Nicholas Solley
The Board entered Executive Session at 8:02 a.m. to discuss real estate matters.
The Board re-entered the regular meeting at 8:23 a.m. No further discussion was held.
No vote was taken.
The Board adjourned the meeting at 8:27 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Phyllis Allen
First Selectman’s clerk
Posted: August 8, 2011 August 10, 2011
Board of Selectmen
Special MeetingFirst Selectman Mark Lyon called the Special Meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Present:
Selectmen: Mark Lyon, James Brinton, Nicholas Solley (8:02 a.m.)The Board entered Executive Session at 8:02 a.m. to discuss real estate matters.
The Board re-entered the regular meeting at 8:22 a.m. No further discussion was held. No vote was taken.
The Board adjourned the meeting at 8:23 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathy Gollow
Selectman’s Assistant
Posted: August 8, 2011 August 4, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker, Dick Carey, Lillian Lyon.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the July 21, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
Mark Lyon reported receiving the following:
* Letter from ASAP thanking the Town for its continued support and including a schedule of upcoming events and programs.* Letter from CIRMA that was hand delivered by Colleen White, CIRMA agent for the Town on Tuesday, August 2nd . Because of the Town’s long-standing relationship with CIRMA, the Town received a Members Equity Distribution check in the amount of $5718. The letter states “Your commitment to risk management and focus on loss reduction efforts have contributed to our financial strength. This is an unrestricted distribution, as such, you can determine how and when to use these funds.” The check will be deposited into the General Fund.
Appointments/Resignations:
None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* Meeting with AT&T representatives:
AT&T will begin to expand DSL service in the Town of Washington by installing four or five IPDSLAM boxes that will replace obsolete equipment. When the locations are determined the Town and abutting property owners will be notified and asked for input within 30 days.* Meeting with Gary Fitzherbert:
Gary will be the Board of Finance representative on the Region #12 Long Range Planning Committee. Others representatives from the Town will be asked to join the Committee prior to the September Board of Education meeting. The Long Range Planning Committee will work on developing a plan from September through January or February and then report back to the Board of Education. Some individuals have expressed interest and Mark will follow up with them.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road:
Abutting property owners of the portion of Clark Road under discussion for discontinuance have been contacted by letter and all have responded except for one. At this point, no one has voiced any objection. The process for discontinuance has been explained. The Selectmen had some discussion regarding the upkeep, right to travel, etc. The abutting property owners would continue to have a “right-of-way” even if the Town has no obligation to maintain, etc. Town Attorney David Miles will be contacted to provide clarification, and a public information will be scheduled at the next Board of Selectmen’s meeting. The recommendation to discontinue the portion would then go to the Planning Commission and then to a vote at a Town Meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Extend an Invitation to Bid for a Backhoe/Loader:
Motion:
To extend an Invitation to Bid for an all-wheel drive diesel powered backhoe/loader, minimum 90 hp, minimum 1.2 cubic yard 4 in 1 bucket, extendable dipper equipped with Wain-Roy Quick Change Tool Hitch Swinger Coupler System or equivalent. Specifications are available from the Office of the First Selectman at 860-868-2259 or selectmen@washingtonct.org. Sealed bids will be accepted until 4:30p.m. on August 18, 2011 at the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, Post Office Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794. Bids will be opened at 5:30p.m. on August 18, 2011 at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* RFP for replacement of culvert at Shinar Mountain and Walker Brook Road:
Motion:
To extend a Request for Proposal for Engineering Services related to the replacement of Shinar Mountain Road Bridge over Walker Brook at Walker Brook Road. Quotations should include preliminary engineering services, bidding/contract services and construction (design/contract) services. Specifications are available from the Office of the First Selectman at 860-868-2259 or selectmen@washingtonct.org. Sealed Proposals are due in the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by 4:30 p.m. on September 1, 2011. They will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. on September 1, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* John Meeker asked about the status of the parking issue on Wilbur Road by Community Table employees and patrons. Mark explained that it had been discussed at the last Zoning Meeting but he had not yet heard of any determination and/or action. John asked about the status of the construction of a cell tower on Town property. Mark explained that a proposed lease agreement had been sent to Verizon but there had not been any word back as of this meeting. John asked if the Shepaug Youth Work Force was up and running. Mark explained that thanks to fundraising efforts by Denise Arturi, this program had begun with two young high school students who are working at the Judea Garden, and various other locations around Town.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 5:53 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: July 26, 2011 July 21, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Ann Compton – VOICES
Public: Tony Bedini.Call to Order:
Selectman Nicholas Solley called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the July 7, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen with the correction to add: “The Selectmen may now look at a generator….” under the Visitor section of the minutes and to approve the minutes of the July 13, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter to the Board of Selectmen from the Historic District Commission re: improvements to curb and walkways at the First Congregational Church:
HDC Chairman Alison Gilchrist wrote to the Board of Selectmen (letter dated July6, 2011) regarding the Town’s proposed improvements to the curb and walkways beside the Congregational Church as the property lies within the Green Historic District. On July 13, 2011 First Selectmen Lyon replied by letter stating that he and Highway Director Kevin Smith reviewed and approved plans that had been prepared by the Church for work in the Town’s right of way in conjunction with the Church’s proposed installation of handicap access – “Uplift Project”. These plans were submitted to the HDC and approved at the April 2011 meeting. No other work, other than that presented, is planned.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
Selectmen’s Report:
Nick Solley reported:
* Chipsealing has been completed on the following roads:
Popple Swamp, Curtis, Painter Ridge, Plumb Hill, Loomarwick, Tinker Hill, Shearer, Revere and Sandstrom. A press release had been sent to the local papers.
OLD BUSINESS: None.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Resolution authorizing the First Selectman to execute a contract with the CT State Library:
Motion:
Be it resolved that Mark E. Lyon, First Selectman, is empowered to execute and deliver in the name and on behalf of this municipality (Town of Washington) a contract with the Connecticut State Library for an Historic Documents Preservation Grant.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion:
The Selectmen explained that the Town Clerk applies for this grant annually.
The motion passed unanimously.* Request for a flagpole at the Town Beach by Joe Mustich:
Joe Mustich sent an email to the Board of Selectmen regarding the placement of a flagpole at the Town Beach that may be paid for by the Rotary Club of Washington. Parks and Recreation discussed this at their meeting and had no objection. The Selectmen had no objection but felt a few details needed to be worked out, such as lighting the flag if it were to stay up 24 hours a day, if it is only up during daylight hours, who will be responsible for raising and lowering it. They will refer the matter back to Parks and Rec with the hope of working out these details.
Visitors:
* Joe Mustich or Ken Cornet:
1) threat against Ken Cornet;
2) police response:
Joe Mustich has contacted the Selectmen’s Office personally and by email and requested to be on this meeting’s agenda regarding a threat made against Ken Cornet at a Washington Art Association event. Neither Joe nor Ken attended this meeting. The Selectmen are aware of the incident and Masseurs Mustich and Cornet’s concerns. As the matter is currently being investigated by the Connecticut State Police, the Selectmen felt they should not comment at this time.* Ann Compton, VOICES, re: Plaza Trees:
As a follow-up to Tom Osborne’s attendance at the June 23, 2011 Board of Selectmen’s, Ann inquired about the cutting down and replacing of deteriorating trees in Bryan Plaza. The Selectmen thought this was going to be a project for the fall, notices would need to be placed on the trees prior to their being taken down, and a public information meeting could be scheduled as well. They will follow up with Tom.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 5:46 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: July 13, 2011 July 13, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:10 a.m.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Awarding of bid for Road Repairs on Winston Drive and Findley Road:
Motion:
To award the bid for Road Repairs to Winston Drive and Findley Road to S & S Asphalt Paving, Inc. of Southbury for $20,407 plus $1,200 +/- for key cuts at $10/foot = $21,607.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion:
The Selectmen reviewed the bids received, as did Kevin Smith, Highway Director, who also discussed the submitted bid with S & S. It was his opinion that it was in the best interest of the Town to award to S & S.
The motion passed unanimously.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meting at 8:20 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: July 13, 2011 July 7, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the June 23, 2011 Regular Meeting and the June 24, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Letter from Attorney James Kelly who represents Keith Anderson, owner of the Community Table Restaurant. Attorney Kelly is requesting that he and/or his client be advised prior to any action that may be taken in regard to the employee parking issue behind the restaurant on Wilber Road. Mark Lyon explained that Zoning has done a site visit and did discuss the parking issue at their last meeting. The Selectmen are not aware of any decision or action to be taken by Zoning at this time. He also stated that Mr. Anderson would be invited to a Board of Selectmen’s meeting prior to any action being taken. A copy of Attorney Kelly’s letter is attached with these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported on the following:
* Leo Pickett, Jr. former Selectman, First Selectman, Highway Department employee, Senior Bus Driver and long time member of the Washington Volunteer Fire Department passed away. He made many contributions to the Town. The Board of Selectmen, on behalf of the Town, extends condolences to the family.* FEMA Reimbursement:
The reimbursement in the amount of $22,629.56 has been received. This amount represents 75% of the cost for a 48-hour period in the January 11-13, 2011 snowstorm. Mark expressed gratitude to Kevin Smith and Mary Anne Greene for their work on the application.* HVA, Shepaug River Alliance, Roxbury Conservation Commission and the Washington Environmental Council will have volunteers surveying stream characteristics of Battle Swamp this summer.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Opening of Bids for Road Repairs on Winston Drive and Findley Road:
The following bids were received:
1. Crestwood Paving, Woodbury, CT: Winston Drive $19,575 Findley Road $10,650 TOTAL: $30,225 2. Advanced Asphalt Recycling, Seymour, CT: Winston Drive $16,490 Findley Road $13,800 TOTAL: $30,290 3. S& S Asphalt Paving, Inc., Southbury, CT Winston Drive $11,482 Findley Road $8,925 TOTAL: $20,407 Plus $1200 +/- for key cuts at $10/foot = $21,607 The Selectmen will hold a Special Meeting on June 13, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. to award the bid.
* Discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road: Mark reported that the procedure for discontinuing has been started by sending a letter to abutting property owners on Clark Road south of the Transfer Station to the intersection of Wykeham Road. These property owners have been asked to respond with any questions and/or concerns by July 28th. A Special Selectmen’s Meeting may then be scheduled for public comment prior to referring to the Planning Commission for the August meeting.
NEW BUSINESS: None.
Visitors:
* John Meeker asked about the status of the generator for the Highway Garage(s). Mark explained that the estimated costs received far exceeded what was budgeted. The amount of wiring required has contributed to the high cost. May now look at a generator that would handle just one of the buildings and the fuel pumps.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 5:46 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: July 1, 2011 June 24, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley, Highway Director Kevin Smith. Seasonal Highway department worker applicants.
Call to Order: First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Motion:
To adjourn to Executive Session to conduct interviews for seasonal highway department worker.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Executive Session was adjourned at 9:47 a.m. and the Selectmen re-entered their Special Meeting.
Motion:
To hire Trevor Stuart for the position of seasonal highway department worker.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:50 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 28, 2011 June 23, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Ann Compton – VOICES
Public: Clifford Woodruff, Tom Osborne, Bob Papsin, Denise Arturi, Lori Carusillo, John Meeker, Carolyn Hyde.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.MOTION:
To add subsequent business not already on the agenda.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion: Additional agenda items needed to be discussed are an appointment to the NW CT Convention Visitors Bureau and discussion of discontinuing a portion of Clark Road.
The motion passed unanimously.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the June 9, 2011 Regular Meeting and the June 23, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications: None.
Appointments and Resignations:
* Resignation of Louis Magnoli from the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Motion:
At the request of Lou Magnoli, to approve his resignation from the Parks and Recreation Commission with gratitude for his twelve years of service.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.* Reappointment of Nicholas Solley to the Building and Property Commission; of Charles LaMuniere, Anthony Bedini and Anthony Martino to the Inland Wetlands Commission; Georgia Whitney to the Judea Cemetery Commission; and Sandy Papsin to the Lake Waramaug Authority:
Motion:
To reappoint Nicholas Solley (D) to the Building Property Commission until 7/1/14; Charles LaMuniere (D), Anthony Bedini (U) and Anthony Martino ® to the Inland Wetlands Commission until 6/30/14; Georgia Whitney ® to the Judea Cemetery Commission until 6/30/16 and Sandy Papsin (U) to the Lake Waramaug Authority until 6/30/14.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Patte Doran as an alternate to the Housing Commission:
Ms. Doran has expressed her interest and submitted a letter to this effect. She has been the Commission’s secretary since it’s inception. She has the endorsement of Wayne Hileman, Chairman.
Motion:
To appoint Patte Doran (U) as an alternate to the Housing Commission until 1/1/14.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Whitney Ryan and Laura Eanes Martin to the Parks and Recreation Commission:
Both Whitney and Laura have expressed their interest, submitted letters to this effect and have the endorsement of the entire Parks and Recreation Commission.
Motion:
To appoint Laura Eanes Martin (D) to the Parks and Recreation Commission until 1/1/13 and Whitney Ryan ® until 1/1/14.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* Marble Dale Cell Tower:
The CT Siting Council has heard and approved the petition to add 10 feet to the existing telecommunications tower in the Marble Dale section of Washington.* Pond at 154 Shearer Road:
Mark has met with Curt Smith, who has also been working with Fire Chief Mark Showalter, regarding the creation of a second pond at 154 Shearer Road. The existing pond and the new pond would both be used for fire ponds. Property owner would provide a permanent easement to the Town for use of the ponds for fire protection. The project is in it’s early stages – The Army Corps of Engineers will be involved, the Town’s permitting process will need to be done, etc.* Wilber Road Parking:
The Town’s Zoning Commission scheduled a site visit for today and will be working on answering questions and concerns of the Wilber Road residents regarding the parking of Community Table employees on Wilber Road as well as the owner and general manager of the restaurant who did go through the proper permitting process. Carolyn Hyde, Wilber Road resident asked if the Selectmen had come to a conclusion about installing No Parking signs. Mark explained that at the present time he and the Board were hesitant to take this step siting the fact that the official border of the Commercial District (in which the restaurant is located) goes to the center of Wilber Road. The employees are not parking in the travel portion of the road.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road:
At the request of Lori Carusillo, the Board of Selectmen has begun to research the possibility of discontinuing a portion of Clark Road. Abutting land owners will need to be contacted as discontinuing would affect their ability to further sub-divide. If these property owners wish to discuss further they will be invited to a Special Selectmen’s meeting. The Town Attorney has also been contacted. If the adjoining property owners were in agreement, the matter would be referred to the Planning Commission and if they approve, the discontinuance would need to be voted on at a Town Meeting.
Motion:
To begin the process of discontinuing a portion of Clark Road.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Tom Osborne, Tree Warden, re: cutting trees in Depot:
Tom attended this evenings meeting to report that four crimson king maple trees in the Plaza – along sidewalk abutting the old Texaco Station – are deteriorating and need to be taken down. Possible ideas for replacement trees would be flowering crab apple or dogwood. Grass would be planted and perhaps mountain laurel and/or rhododendron near the Routes 47 & 109 wall. All plantings would be done keeping in mind that at some future time the parking pattern in the Depot may be changed. Tom estimates the cost of materials to be $2500-$3000. Realizing this has not been budgeted for, he would attempt to raise the money privately. Tom also thanked his “committee” of Bob Papsin, Denise Arturi and Sarah Gager for assisting him. All of this would take place in the fall. The public is invited to give opinions/ideas or ask questions. A public information meeting could also be scheduled.* Invitation to Bid for Road Repairs:
As a result of the heavy damage done this spring many Town roads are in need of repair – some more than others.
Motion:
To extend an Invitation to bid for the replacement of undermined pavement and curb on a section of Winston Drive and Findley Road. Bids will be received until 4:00p.m. on July 7, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* Bob Papsin, Mygatt Road inquired as to the work that is being planned for Mygatt Road. Mark explained that WMC Engineering has been awarded the bid and their work will begin in the not-too-distant future. Bob also asked if the water run-off Scofield Hill Road would be addressed. Mark explained the drainage in the Mygatt Road right-of-way would be addressed but that Scofield Hill was not in the scope. Highway Director Kevin Smith and the Highway Department will work on the Scofield drainage issue and maintenance..* Clifford Woodruff asked that the following letter become a written part of these minutes:
June 23, 2011 – Washington Board of Selectmen
Dear Sirs:
At the Selectmen’s meeting on March 31, 2011, I brought to your attention that Michael Ajello, the Town of Washington Wetlands and Zoning Enforcement Officer was treating me and the legitimate zoning and wetlands violations, which I had reported to his office with negligence, skullduggery and malfeasance. I then asked you to permanently recuse Michael Ajello from any and all of his official Town duties including wetlands, zoning and zoning board of appeals. You requested that I furnish supporting documents, which I did at our meeting on April 12, 2011. I supplied further communications on May 9, 2011 and asked that they be read aloud at the May 12, 2011 selectmen’s meeting. Subsequently, I received a telephone call from Mr. Lyon informing me that the selectmen had met and discussed the merits of my complaint and had ordered the permanent recusal of Michael Ajello from all of his official town duties with regards to any of my property or any of the properties of Roberta Smith of 31 and 35 East Shore Road, New Preston. I was also informed that Janet Hill would handle any current or future zoning, wetlands or z.b.a. duties of the aforementioned properties thereby permanently replacing Mr. Ajello.I take this opportunity to thank and laud your selectmen for your decisiveness and steadfast resolve in this matter. Let this serve as a reassuring example to the Town of Washington taxpayers that their selectmen represent them with concern, compassion and diligence. I also thank Janet Hill for her willingness to add to her already overwhelming workload.
Sincerely,
Clifford G. Woodruff
3 West Shore Road
New Preston, CT 06777
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:15 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion. And…Enjoy the Washington Volunteer Fire Department Carnival!
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 18, 2011 June 15, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m.
Awarding of RFP for Engineering Services for Findlay and Mygatt Roads:
Mark explained that all proposals have been reviewed and that he has spoken with the DOT regarding the Mygatt Road project (STEAP Grant funds involved). The principles of Tectonic Engineering and WMC Consulting Engineers (two lowest bidders) have been contacted and have answered any questions and concerns. Mark and Nick discussed the fact that although Tectonic was the lowest bidder, upon the above reviews, WMC included many services that would be added on with Tectonic such as bidding services, review of bids, inspection of work, filing for state permits, etc., making the total fees from both companies comparable. Motion:
To award Engineering Services for Findlay Road and Mygatt Road to WMC Consulting Engineers of Newington Connecticut for $11,000 and $30,500 respectively.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:38 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved. Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 18, 2011 June 9, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman James L. Brinton.
Public: John Meeker, Jason Hyde, Jack and Jane Boyer, Chris Charles.Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the May 26, 2011 Regular Meeting and the June 2, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: Appointment of Ulrich Vilbois as an alternate member of the Conservation Commission until 1/1/13.
Susan Payne, Chairman of the Conservation Commission has recommended Mr. Vilbois’s appointment to the Commission. He has written to Mark Lyon confirming his willingness to serve. Mr. Vilbois is not a registered voter and is in the process of becoming a United States citizen. In checking both the Town Ordinance and State statute, there is nothing stated that would prevent his appointment except that the Town seeks to maintain a minority representation on its Commissions. The Town Clerk is checking further with the Secretary of State’s office. Motion:
To table this appointment until the next Board of Selectmen’s meeting on June 23rd.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion: Jim Brinton stated that after reading Mr. Vilbois’s “bio” he had some reservations regarding his objectivity in regard to cell towers in the Town; did not support anyone being involved in government if not a US citizen; and, therefore, urged tabling.
The motion passed unanimously.First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported on the following:
Road Work:
Mark has met with Kevin Smith, Highway Director. A list of roads needing work is in the process of being prepared as well as the scope of work required for each of the roads. Comparisons will be completed regarding hiring work out or hiring “assistance” to our highway department.Stormwater permits:
There are new DEP regulations regarding these permits, which are required at the Town’s Town Garage and Transfer Station. The Transfer Station is slightly more complicated than the garage due to it’s previously being a landfill. Mark has begun soliciting proposals from engineering companies to assist the Town in meeting the necessary requirements.STEAP grant for Transfer Station:
Funds may be available through a STEAP grant for reconfiguration work at the Transfer Station. Some of the infrastructure is beginning to deteriorate and before repairs are done, this may be a good time to look into a new design because of the added services such as recycling trailers, e-waste, etc. Submission for this grant would need to be done by the end of June. Mark is currently working on this.OLD BUSINIESS:
Awarding of RFP for Engineering Services for Findlay and Mygatt Roads:
Five proposals were received. Mark, Nick Solley and Kevin Smith have individually reviewed. Since STEAP Grant funds are involved in the Mygatt Road project, there are certain DOT requirements that are not necessarily addressed in all the bids – particularly the two lowest. Mark also expressed his thought that the DOT should review. Motion: To reschedule awarding of the RFP at a Special Selectmen’s Meeting on Wednesday, June 15th. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.NEW BUSINESS: None.
Visitors:
Jane and Jack Boyer inquired why the Town’s income is not reported to the public at the Town’s Annual Budget Meeting. Jane specifically mentioned the income from Selectmen’s Receipts which includes transfer station fees, land use and building fees, beach and boat launch permits, police services, pistol permits, etc. and Town Clerk which amounted to over one million dollars. There is also the income from property taxes. Mark and Jim explained that the vote by the Legislative Body at the Town Meeting is only for the proposed expenditures for the General and Non-recurring Budgets. The Board of Finance has full knowledge and understanding of the Town’s annual income and takes all this into consideration when setting the mill rate. Jack felt that in the interest of “full disclosure” the income should also be presented. Mark explained that although budgeted income has never been presented as part of the budget, he saw no reason why the information could not be made available.Jason Hyde asked if there was any progress made on the parking issue on Wilber Road. His concern centers on the fact that employees of the Community Table park on the shoulder of the road, turn in resident’s driveways, come and go and odd times, etc. He feels that zoning regulations have not been adhered to if parking for a commercial establishment is allowed on a residential road. He has not gotten any satisfaction from the Zoning Enforcement officer and has requested the Selectmen, as the Town’s Traffic Authority, install no parking signs. The Selectmen have reviewed this with Mr. Hyde previously and have spoken to the manager of the restaurant in hopes of working out a plan that would be satisfactory to all parties. The owner of the abutting property has allowed for overflow parking for patrons and Mark will pursue allowing of employees as well. Mr. Hyde presented a letter, which is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Chris Charles stated that Mark Lyon and the Selectmen had expressed their opinion that CGS 8-24 did not require the alternate bridge plan to go before the Planning Commission. Town Attorney David Miles, Planning Commission member Paul Frank also agreed with this opinion. The Planning Commission also agreed at its meeting. Chris had disagreed and admitted his error but felt there is sometimes “the letter of the law vs. the spirit of the law”. Chris again stated his opinion that the bridge that will now be built in Hidden Valley does not address the safety issues that began the whole discussion of having a pedestrian bridge adjacent to the new DOT traffic bridge. He also advised the Town have David Miles write a letter to Steep Rock and that there should be a legal document stating that the park could never be closed to the public since public funds are being used for construction of the bridge. He also suggested that there be strict enforcement of the speed limit along Route 47 once the new bridge is completed. Jim Brinton stated that whether one agrees with the new bridge or not, the vote for the alternate bridge has been taken and received overwhelming support - the matter is over.
Adjournment: Motion: To adjourn the meeting at 6:21 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 6, 2011 June 2, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present:
First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m.Highway Department Employment Discussion:
At the request of Kevin Smith, Highway Director, the Selectmen met to discuss the need to hire a full time driver/road maintainer and seasonal worker.Motion:
To place a Classified Ad in VOICES and to post on the Town’s website the following ad for employment:POSITIONS AVAILABLE
TOWN OF WASHINGTON, CT
FULL-TIME HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT DRIVER/ROAD MAINTAINER
&
SEASONAL HIGHWAY WORKERThe Town of Washington is seeking a seasonal worker starting immediately for landscaping duties, including mowing and general maintenance of Town properties, some lifting involved. Current driver’s license required.
The Town is also seeking a responsible person for the full-time maintenance of roads and streets, to perform manual labor, truck driving, and a variety of construction, maintenance and repair tasks on roads, bridges and other town properties. Qualifications: Current Commercial Driver’s license, good driving record, experience in operating dump truck, snowplow and sander, tractor/mower and similar equipment.
Applications may be obtained at the Selectman’s Office or by calling 860-868-2259. Completed applications for the seasonal position should be returned to the Selectman’s Office, Town of Washington, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by June 15, 2011 at noon. Completed applications for the full-time position are due by June 23, 2011 at noon. By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:08 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 2, 2011 May 26, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio – Litchfield County Times.
Public: Harry Wyant, Ed White, Steve Law, Phil Markert, Tony Bedini, Chris Charles.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the May 12, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the May 17, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
Purple Boxes have been hung in trees by the UCONN Cooperative Extension to trap Emerald Ash Borers to determine if they are in this area. They have been found in the Kingston, NY area and can have a devastating effect on ash trees.Memorial Day Parades will be held on Monday, May 30the – 1:15p.m. in New Preston and 2:30 p.m. in Washington Depot. The annual Memorial Day Ceremony and awarding of the Stephen Reich Award for Exceptional Citizenship will be immediately following the Depot parade in front of Bryan Memorial Town Hall.
Washington Community Day, sponsored by the Washington Business Association will be held Saturday, May 28, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There will be displays, events, entertainment, food, etc. throughout the Depot at local businesses and in front of the Town Hall and Pantry.
Road Work: Mark and Kevin Smith, Highway Director, have taken a tour of the Town’s roads, particularly those damaged by the severe winter and heavy spring rains. The Selectmen will try to meet with Kevin next week to review the situation and determine if our Highway Department can accomplish the large amount of work that needs to be done or if it would be more financially and time prudent to do the majority of the repair work and hire a paving company to assist. Nick Solley inquired about delaying the approved purchase of used paving equipment and/or suggested purchasing it and to hire a paving company to instruct our employees to assist with the learning curve time. All options will be considered.
OLD BUSINESS:
Opening of Requests for Proposal for Engineering Services on Findley Road and Mygatt Road:
The following Requests were received:
1) Tectonic Engineering & Surveying Consultants, PC Rocky Hill, CT For Findley and Mygatt Roads: Base Fee: $30,000.00
2) Milone & MacBroom Cheshire, CT Mygatt Road: Base Fee: $41,035.00 Findley Road: Base Fee: $4,900.00
3) BETA Group, Inc. Hartford, CT Mygatt Road: $37,250.00 Findley Road: $7,500.00 Plus anticipated direct expenses: $250.00 Total Lump Sum Fee: $45,000.00
4) Lenard Engineering, Inc. Winsted, CT Mygatt Road: Base Fee: $52,500.00 Findley Road: Base Fee: $7,750.00
5) WMC Consulting Engineers Newington, CT Mygatt Road: Base Fee: $30,500.00 Findley Road: Base Fee: $11,000.00 The Board of Selectmen and Highway Director will review, compare and award at the June 9, 2011 Board of Selectmen’s Meeting.
Update on proposed cell tower on Town Property:
Phil Markert reported that points have been outlined for inclusion/negotiation for the lease agreement with Verizon for the proposed telecommunications tower on town property. These include: 1)height – no more than 130 feet; 2) monitoring of emissions – by an independent company and would be done at the start of operation and any time changes were made in the equipment of any carrier on the tower; 3) maximum permissible exposure – not to exceed 2% of what the FCC considers to be the MPE; 4) stealth features – tree or monopole. Discussion followed regarding these points, dismantling and restoration if tower should be taken out of service, health issues and monitoring of emissions. Jim Brinton, in the interest of the Town doing its “due diligence”, inquired about available evidence that emissions from telecommunication towers may be harmful to one’s health. Phil explained that there are many articles about “possible” health effects but nothing that has proven this. This would be a reason for limiting the emissions to as low as the Town is requesting. By having the tower placed on Town property, the Town can have input on this – if, however, a tower were to be placed on private land, it would not. Phil also brought up the point that if the Town does not get a tower, businesses and economic development could be hindered. Phil will discuss these points further with Diane Dupuis and Susan Payne, Cell Tower Committee, and get back to Mark to schedule an appointment with consultant Dick Comi to fine tune and begin the lease negotiations with Verizon.
NEW BUSINESS:
Setting date and agenda for Special Town Meeting re: STEAP Grant:
Motion:
To schedule a Special Town Meeting on Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Bryan Memorial Town Hall to approve an expenditure of a $150,000 STEAP Grant awarded to the Town of Washington for construction of a pedestrian crossing for individuals using Bee Brook Road and the Hidden Valley Preserve.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion:
Chris Charles asked several questions of the Board of Selectmen and Ed White and Steve Law of Steep Rock Association regarding last possible date of notifying DOT that the original pedestrian bridge as part of the traffic bridge would not be constructed, assurances from Steep Rock, his feeling that Steep Rock should have provided more information to the townspeople earlier, gone to Planning, Conservation, Inland Wetlands, etc. Following input from the Selectmen and Steep Rock representatives, the motion passed unanimously.Region #12 Long-range planning:
Mark reported meeting with First Selectmen Barbara Henry and Bill Stuart regarding Region #12’s developing a long-range plan. All three are in favor of this and want to be involved in the process and have agreed to back to their respective Boards of Selectmen and request their support and allocation of funds for a consultant. They have spoken with Education Connection for their input and to find out what is involved in developing such a plan. A consultant could be hired to work with the Towns, the Board of Ed and Region #12 Administration for an estimated $15,000. Each Town would be responsible for $5,000.Motion:
To endorse the involvement of the three Towns in Shepaug Valley Regional School District #12 development of a long-range plan and to request an approval by the Board of Finance for an expenditure of $5,000 for the hiring of a consultant.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Board of Education member, Tony Bedini, thanked the Board!
Visitors: No further comments presented.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:28p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 2, 2011 May 25, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and explained that this meeting was cancelled at the request of the invited participants.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting, that never entered into Executive Session, at 9:02 a.m.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 2, 2011 May 17, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m.Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting, that never entered into Executive Session, at 9:17 a.m. as invited participants did not attend.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 6, 2011 May 12, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: Dick Carey, John Meeker, Chris Collum, Wayne Hileman, Chris Charles.Call to Order:
First Selectman Mark Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.MOTION:
To add subsequent business not already on the agenda.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion –
additional business would be:
1) to possibly make an appointment to the Planning Commission;
2) read a letter received from David Plourde – at his request.
The motion passed unanimously.Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the April 28, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the minutes of the May 5, 2011 and May 6, 2011 Special Meetings of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
Letter from Lori Carusillo re: discontinuance of a portion of Clark Road:
Mrs. Carusillo has written the Board of Selectmen to request the Town “change the classification of Clark Road from a public road to a discontinued road”. She explained that her late husband accepted responsibility for the road when a two-lot subdivision was created. An abutting property owner is interested in purchasing the lower lot on Clark Road if it is classified as discontinued. Nick Solley explained that he met with the neighbor, Linda Allard, and her attorney who will be discussing the matter further with Town Attorney, David Miles. As there is an interior lot, discontinuance may not be feasible. Mark Lyon explained that although a portion of Clark Road had been abandoned, it was not discontinued and Mr. Carusillo signed an agreement that he would be responsible for improving the road and he, in turn, could use the right-of-way. Should it be determined that the portion of Clark Road in question could be discontinued, it would need to go to Planning and then Town Meeting.Letter from Clifford Woodruff re: Land Use matters:
Mr. Woodruff delivered a letter to the Selectmen’s Office and requested it be read into the minutes. A copy of his letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk. After reading the letter, Mark Lyon explained that he has spoken with Mr. Woodruff and subsequently met with Mike Ajello and Janet Hill from the Land Use office regarding Mr. Woodruff’s concerns, dealings (particularly with Mike Ajello) and statements made in his letter. Mike and Janet reported and explained actions taken by their office. It was determined that all further dealings with Mr. Woodruff and issues regarding his property and the property of Roberta Smith be handled by Janet.Letter from David Plourde re: Land Use matters:
Mr. Plourde emailed a letter to the Selectmen’s Office and requested it be read into the minutes. A copy of his letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk. He raises similar concerns and statements similar to those of Mr. Woodruff regarding his dealings with the Land Use Office, particularly with Mike Ajello. Mark will follow up with Mr. Plourde.
Appointments and Resignations:
Appointment to the Planning Commission:
Daryl Wright and Thomas Osborne had both indicated an interest in serving in the Planning Commission – they were asked to submit this in writing. Tom has written. The Planning Commission is in favor of appointing him at this time.Motion:
To appoint Thomas Osborne as an alternate to the Planning Commission until 12/31/13.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
Conservation Commission has had volunteers working on the Moore Property on New Milford Turnpike to eradicate invasives. This is a continuation of work done by the Town’s Highway Department. Thank you to those who have given their time.Birch Hill Run/Peter Pappas:
as a follow up – one of the conditions requested by the Selectmen in order for the Town to accept Birch Hill Run as a town road was to install “monuments” to mark the boundaries of the road. Mr. Pappas has requested permission to install iron pins instead of cement monuments. As this is an accepted practice, the Selectmen agreed. Nick Solley also stated that in addition to accepting the road at a Town Meeting, once all conditions are met, Mr. Pappas would also need to deed over the right-of-way to the Town. Mark agreed to communicate this to Mr. Pappas.
OLD BUSINESS: None.
NEW BUSINESS:
Setting the Agenda for the May 19, 2011 Annual Town Meeting:
Following discussion, it was determined that the subject of putting to vote at the November 2011 General Election changing the terms of the Board of Selectmen, Tax Collector and Town Treasurer from two years to four, would not be on the agenda for this meeting as the Board of Selectmen can request it to be put on a ballot without Town Meeting approval. In the meantime, both the Republican and Democratic Town Committees will be asked to discuss further and give their feedback. The Selectmen discussed the transfer of funds to cover the overage in the Winter Maintenance budget line and what they will recommend to the Board of Finance – a combination of Town Aid Road funds and Fund Balance. There was lengthy discussion about the approval of STEAP Grant funds for an alternative pedestrian bridge in Hidden Valley. The Grant has been awarded but the spending of the funds (designated solely for the fabrication of the alternative pedestrian bridge) needs Town Meeting approval. Chris Charles strongly urged the Selectmen to give the townspeople an opportunity to review the information on the proposed DOT pedestrian bridge, which would be completely funded by State DOT funds vs. the alternative bridge which would be funded by the STEAP grant and a private foundation – not Steep Rock or Town funds. He also felt that the Town should receive some assurances from Steep Rock that if the Legislative Body does not vote in favor of the STEAP Grant expenditure, that the balance of the cost of the alternative bridge will not be borne by the Town. In addition to the funding questions the pros and cons of both bridges – their placement, aesthetics, etc., should be discussed at a public forum. There is also the question as to whether or not the alternative bridge would require Planning Commission approval. There is then the need for IW approval. Mark Lyon explained that as of the present time the DOT pedestrian bridge is still part of the project and will not be removed until a change order is given. Following this discussion it was determined to “discuss” the bridge at the Town Meeting and not vote on the spending of the STEAP Grant.Motion:
To set the agenda for the May 19, 2011 Annual Town Meeting as follows:
TOWN OF WASHINGTON, CONNECTICUT
ANNUAL TOWN BUDGET MEETING
The voters and electors of the Town of Washington are hereby warned that the Annual Town Budget Meeting will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut to consider and act upon the following:
1. To consider and act upon the proposed General Fund Expenses and Transfers for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
2. To consider and act upon the proposed Nonrecurring Capital Expenses for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
3. To consider and act upon the transfer of funds to cover the overage in the Winter Maintenance budget line of the 2010-2011 Budget.
4. To nominate and elect two representatives to the Shepaug Regional School District Board of Education.
5. Discussion of STEAP Grant funds for an alternative pedestrian bridge in Hidden Valley.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.RFP for Engineering for Mygatt Road and Findley Road:
Motion:
To extend the following Requests for Proposal:
1) The Town of Washington requests Proposals for engineering services of a drainage plan for 1.03 miles of Findley Road from the intersection of Route 202 (New Milford Turnpike) to the intersection of New Preston Hill Road located in the Marble Dale section of the Town of Washington. The proposal shall include locations of potential easements for piping and storm water retention systems required for discharge of roadway runoff into adjacent watercourses.To schedule a site visit or for more information, please contact the First Selectman’s Office at 860-868-2259 or Kevin Smith, Highway Director, at 860-868-7986.
Sealed Proposals are due in the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by 4:30 p.m. on May 26, 2011. They will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. on May 26, 2011.2) The Town of Washington requests Proposals for engineering services of a drainage plan for .64 mile of Mygatt Road from the intersection of Route 202 (New Milford Turnpike) to the intersection of Scofield Hill Road and engineering and survey for potential realignment of the intersection of Mygatt Road with Scofield Hill Road and Sunset Lane. The proposal shall include locations of potential easements for piping and storm water retention systems required for discharge of roadway runoff and any land acquisition required for the realignment of the intersection at Scofield Hill Road.
To schedule a site visit or for more information, please contact the First Selectman’s Office at 860-868-2259 or Kevin Smith, Highway Director, at 860-868-7986.
Sealed Proposals are due in the Office of the First Selectman, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, P.O. Box 383, Washington Depot, CT 06794 by 4:30 p.m. on May 26, 2011. They will be opened at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. on May 26, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
Chris Collum expressed his opinion that monies for the Gunn Library,
Open Space, and Housing should not be built into the Town’s budget and paid for by the taxpayers.Wayne Hileman inquired about the agenda for the Special Selectmen’s Meeting on May 6th. It was explained that that meeting went directly into Executive Session to discuss a real estate matter and no action was taken.
Adjournment:
Motion: To adjourn the meeting at 7:03 p.m. as there was no further
business for discussion. By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: May 14, 2011 May 6, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:39 a.m.
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 8:39 a.m. to enter into Executive Session to discuss a real estate transaction.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Executive Session was adjourned at 9:05 a.m. and the Selectmen re-entered their Special Meeting.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:05 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion. By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: June 18, 2011 May 5, 2011
Town of Washington Annual Budget Public Hearing
7:30 p.m.First Selectman Mark Lyon opened the hearing with explanation of handouts available and expressed special thanks to Bryon Memorial Hall Trustees for the new sound system and lighting. The hearing proceeded with a brief overview and then questions and answers.
Mark Lyon: Our cover sheet gives brief review of our budget. We worked with the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance to put together what we thought would be a responsible budget. It includes 1% for full-time employees and a 2% for our part-time employees. Our full-time employees will continue to receive their health benefit. We did raise the deductible, but that is covered by the town. We have adjusted those line items in the health insurance line, but the overall impact on budget due to reduced premiums and the fact that ... we are insuring fewer employees is only $350 increase.
We have adjusted upwards for fuel oil and heating. We increased our contribution to the Gunn Memorial Library by a considerable amount to help keep them as a viable asset to our community. Our capital budget is our biggest percentage increase in any given line item, but that includes some capital purchases of highway equipment that help to improve the efficiency of our highway department and allow them to take on more of the work that normally would be contracted out. We have found over the last few years that we have not increased our cost line items for our paving and drainage and major road maintenance. Because of escalating costs, we are doing less and less of it. This is equipment is purchased to allow our highway department to take on more of that work in house which on the few occasions where we've tackled projects, we've found that to be very cost effective. It also will address a lot of issues that we have so far as paving and drainage. With a lot of our smaller work, we end up paying a premium because of the lack of volume when we hire an outside contractor to that work.
There were some decreased line items in our budget. One was our fire house debt service which continues to be paid down. Our pension fund contribution was decreased by a considerable amount due to largely the work our Finance Board subcommittee did with Union Savings Bank to get a better return. We also realized probably about a 50% reduction in the cost to process our recyclables. It now leaves our recyclables expense at about a third of the cost of our solid waste expense. Every pound we put into recycling saves about 40% on overall cost of disposal.
We did make some big reductions in two of our funds that we set aside, open space and housing fund. Both were cut by approximately 60%. We felt that that was the best thing to do for the short term. It helps control our overall increase. I don't think it diminishes the value we put on those two items, but we cut the funding level to control our overall costs.
That’s my brief explanation. The bottom line, our overall increase only went up 0.6%. That is due in large the work that our departments did and our employees did to contain costs for the coming year. They are the ones that are managing to do more with less. They should be commended.
Peter Tagley: For the last ten years I've been temporarily living on off Mygatt Road. Dick Sears had budgeted about $200,000 to repair that road. Do you know what ever happened to that? Is that still in the works? He budgeted that a long time ago. Mygatt Road is in pretty bad shape.
Mark Lyon: That’s one of our projects to address this year. That went on hold pending potential development there which hasn't come about so it's time to go ahead and hire an engineer to do the work that's needed
Pete Tagley: I have another question ... Has the town ever pursued the concept of separating the food that's thrown away into a recyclable product that the town can sell?
Mark Lyon: No.
Mark Lyon: Any other questions or comments, arguments?
Valerie Friedman: I'm aware that the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Finance had some issues with the Region 12 school budget which for the town is 65% of the total budget. I'm curious why you didn't go public with that with enough notice so that taxpayers had a chance to see those positions in writing in advance of the vote? If all you do is speak to each other, it really doesn't accomplish the objective of making the point to the community ... Don't you think it would have been more effective if you made that public disclosure earlier?
Mark Lyon: Whenever I was asked by members of the press, I expressed the same opinion. I understand what you're saying. I know there were some FOI issues how you go about presenting vote for or against. I did on any occasion that I was asked express my concern.
Michael Jackson: [Board of Finance] We're not allowed to use town funds to advocate any position on any issue.
Valerie Friedman: But you can use the media effectively? ...
Michael Jackson: There was a lot of conversation to be had so that we could all agree as to where we were.
Valerie Friedman: The timing did not work out. In the future ... planning in advance.
Michael Jackson: We're also trying to do one other thing which I think is very important for the relationship between the Board of Education and the Board of Finance and the Board of Selectmen. We had no interest in starting a public fight early about the size of the budget so what we did was work with them on the budget. We asked questions. We got some information ... but at least we had a dialogue. That's the first time we've had that in a long time. … We have a very severe problem in the region. If it was a business problem it would be the functional equivalent of a disaster, because in five years you're going to have a 50% reduction in student population.
Valerie Friedman: And higher costs.
Michael Jackson: The Board of Education has got to come to grips with how they're going to restructure the overhead and teaching code ... Whatever you're going to do ... you have to do in the next three to six months.
Valerie Friedman: I think ... sense that people outside the Board feel the disaster more than some of the Board members unfortunately.
Michael Jackson: Well, let's be fair. The Board of Education members work tirelessly. Some of them, all of them collectively may not have the same background and may not have a feel for the planning issue confronting it. We're trying to point it out and ask them to focus on it and we'd be glad to help in any way we can. They're elected. We're elected. Under the state law we don't have any influence on their budget. It's just by future of our charm.
Valerie Friedman: Thank you.
Mark Lyon: Other comments or questions?
Dan Couglin: I live over in New Preston on Findley Road. I was just wondering about drainage and repairs. Is there a schedule published what roads are being taken care of?
Mark Lyon: We usually have some advance. We don’t have a schedule at this point. As we do, we will communicate that.
Dan Coughlin: Would that be put online?
Mark Lyon: It could be put online. A couple of times we also used our phone alert system. Findley Road is another road that took a beating and is one of our priorities.
Dan Couglin: Great, thanks.
Mark Lyon: If that's it, I'd say we could close the public hearing if there are no other comments.
Male: I would just like to say that I appreciate your efforts and Michael's efforts, the Board of Finance. It's a smart, intelligent representation of what's going on and I appreciate it.
Mark Lyon: Thank you.
Mark Lyon: Thank you for your time. Thank you for coming out. It's good to see so many people are interested. See you here in two weeks.
Hearing adjourned at approximately 7:46 p.m.
............................................
I, Sheila R. Silvernail, do certify that the foregoing pages are a true and accurate summary to the best of my ability of the Public Hearing of the Town of Washington, CT held on May 5, 2011 and represent a synopsis of questions and comments and not a verbatim transcript.
Dated at Washington, CT this 7th day of May 2011
Posted: May 14, 2011 May 5, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: John Meeker, Wayne Hileman.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:24 a.m.Discussion on and action to take on a February 3, 2011 Motion made by the Board of Selectmen:
Mark explained that at the April 28, 2011 meeting of the Board of Selectmen, John Meeker inquired about a Motion he believed was made at the February 3, 2011 meeting and the action voted on was never taken. The motion was made and approved and read as follows: “To continue the process of nominating Board of Election candidates at a Town Meeting in March or April, and to place the candidates on the ballot for election at the May School Budget Referendum.”The Selectmen further explained that the Special Town Meeting in fact never did take place, largely due to a lack of interest - the fact that no one, other than the two candidates who are up for re-election for the Board of Ed, came forward nor were any possible names submitted. Therefore, the process of electing the two candidates for the two positions, is a simple matter and there would be no need to go to a machine vote. They will be nominated and elected at the Annual Town Meeting on May 19th. Two years ago, there were six candidates for four positions – creating a different scenario.
Mark Lyon has spoken with Town Attorney David Miles who advised the Selectmen to make a motion indicating the process that will be taken.
Discussion took place regarding the process that has been in place for many years, the process that took place two years ago, and the process that should be taken in the future. If at the Town Meeting, more than the two candidates are nominated, the Selectmen can make the decision to go to a machine vote on a future date.
Motion:
To rescind the Motion of February 3, 2011: “To continue the process of nominating Board of Election candidates at a Town Meeting in March or April, and to place the candidates on the ballot for election at the May Referendum.”
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Motion:
To place on the agenda for the May 19, 2011 Annual Town Meeting:
Nominations and election of two Board of Education members for a four-year term.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Visitors:
Wayne Hileman felt that townspeople were happy with the process two years ago and in fairness to the people whose election had to be determined by a machine vote, it should be that way again.John Meeker voiced his belief that if the meeting had been “recorded” and transcribed this problem may not have occurred. Mark Lyon stated that immediately following the meeting, the written minutes of the February 3, 2011 meeting were checked and it was found Mr. Meeker was correct – Mary Anne Greene concurred and explained, in her opinion, that a recording of the minutes may not have brought the matter to the attention of the Selectmen any more than the written copy. Nick Solley suggested that a list of Motions needing future action be created as a reminder. Mary Anne Greene agreed to manage this.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 8:41a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: May 9, 2011 April 28, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Public: Jason & Carolyn Hyde, John Meeker, Chris Collum.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:29 p.m.MOTION:
To add subsequent business not already on the Agenda.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: this business would be a discussion of agenda items for the May 19, 2011 Annual Town Meeting.
The motion passed unanimously.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the April 14, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Email/letter from Chris Charles re: Pedestrian Bridge on Route 47
as a follow up to his letter of April 8, 2011 that became part of the minutes of the April 14, 2011 meeting of the Board of Selectmen. In this letter, Chris makes additional observations, comments and suggestions including the cost of the alternate bridge vs. the proposed DOT bridge; working with DOT regarding alternate railing installation on their bridge that would satisfy DOT’s requirements and Steep Rock’s concern about the view of the river being obscured; the need for an Inland Wetlands permit and the importance of hiring a consultant and engineer at the applicant’s (Steep Rock) expense. A copy of the original letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Appointment of Robert Tomlinson as the Town of Washington’s representative to Litchfield County Dispatch Board of Directors. Mark has spoken with the Chief of the Washington Volunteer Fire Department and the Chief of the Washington Ambulance Association both of whom endorsed Robert “Rocky” Tomlinson’s appointment.Motion:
To appoint Robert Tomlinson as the Town of Washington’s representative to the Board of Directors of Litchfield County Dispatch.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported on the following:
* Wilbur Road Parking:
Nick Solley attended the last Zoning Commission meeting to discuss the issue of employees of the Community Table restaurant parking on Wilbur Road that was brought to the attention of the Selectmen at the last meeting. Nick reported that Zoning was willing to work with the Board of Selectmen to resolve the problem. Mark has also spoken with the architect for the restaurant about parking plans and is waiting for a call from the proprietor to discuss alternate plans further. Carolyn and Jason Hyde thanked the Selectmen and asked if there was an idea of how long it would take to resolve this. Mark assured them that although he could not give a “date”, the Selectmen would be persistent and continue to work on it.* Letter from Conservation Commission re: decommissioning of street lights:
The CC recently took an inventory of street lights on Town roads with the thought of identifying some that could be decommissioned as they “do not provide a clear or compelling public benefit relative to their energy consumption, cost of operation and light pollution impacts”. Mark explained that streetlights cost the Town approximately $28,000 a year and felt the proposal of the CC may have merit. Residents in the areas of possible “decommissioning” would be consulted, possibly a public meeting held, etc.* Route 45 Road Project is progressing and at the last meeting with the State inspector, appears to be on scheduled for completion by Memorial Day Weekend.
* Route 47/Hidden Valley Bridge:
Mark attended a pre-construction meeting – work on the traffic bridge may begin as early as this week with tree work. He advised there might be some disruption to vehicular traffic until the one lane bypass bridge is set up. It will be the responsibility of the contractors to provide traffic control. Steve Law, Executive Director of Steep Rock, also attended the meeting and was assured that access to Hidden Valley would not be interrupted.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Board of Selectmen letter to Region #12:
As approved at the last meeting of the Board of Selectmen, a letter signed by the three Selectmen will be mailed to Region #12 Board of Education and Administration expressing disappointment in the Regions 2.23% increase in the proposed budget.
NEW BUSINESS: * Report on 2011-2012 Proposed Budget:
Mark reported the numbers are finalized for the 2011-2012 proposed budget with a 1.5% overall increase. The Town’s Annual Budget Hearing is scheduled for Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. Town residents can vote on the proposed budget at the Town’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Bryan Memorial Town Hall.* Discussion of Town Meeting Agenda:
The agenda for the May 19th Town Meeting will need to be set at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting on May 12. Discussed agenda items today included: 1) voting on the proposed General Fund Budget and Nonrecurring Capital Fund Budget. 2) Nomination and Election of two Board of Education members. 3) Discussion of four-year terms for the Board of Selectmen, Treasurer and Tax Collector. Mark explained it was his feeling that the decision as to whether or not to go to a four-year term should be decided by a ballot vote as opposed to a Town Meeting vote as occasionally turn out for Town Meetings is very low – referendums and general elections usually have a much higher turn out. If at a Town Meeting, the legislative body agreed to put the question of a four-year term on the ballot it would be done in November 2011 and, if approved, become effective November 2013. Jim Brinton asked if there was a small turnout (10-15 people) at the Town Meeting and they did not wish the question to go on the ballot in November would that end further discussion. Mark explained that the Board of Selectmen could override that decision and request that it be placed on the ballot in November. Chris Collum stated he felt items approved/disapproved at Town Meetings should be by a quorum of the voters rather than 10-15 people making decisions for the entire Town. Mark explained he would again check into this but felt there were statutes governing this and the number of attendees at the Town meetings that would be required for a quorum may further complicate the voting process. John Meeker asked Jim Brinton his feeling on the formation of an Ethics Committee if four-year terms were approved, as Jim had previously stated he did not feel such a committee necessary with two-year terms. Jim stated he was and is opposed to four-year terms. Nick Solley remembered the question being put to the townspeople at an information meeting several years ago and the majority was opposed to the four-year term change. However, the Selectmen felt that it is a different time and should be a discussion for the public again. 4) Possible action needed to transfer funds to cover the overage in the Winter Maintenance budget line item. 5) A STEAP Grant has been awarded to the Town, specifically to fund the alternate pedestrian bridge in Hidden Valley (as opposed to the proposed DOT pedestrian bridge). Should it be determined this project will be done – other funding and permits in place, etc. the Town Legislative Body will need to approve the spending of the grant funds. Most likely, a Special Town Meeting will need to be held for this vote.
Visitors:
* Chris Collum inquired about employees of the Town using the Town’s gasoline pumps to fill their private vehicles and the use of Town-owned trucks by the Highway Director and Road Foreman for personal use. The Selectmen explained that the employees should not be filling their vehicles with Town gas, and explained the use of the trucks as part of the Director’s and Foreman’s employment package.* John Meeker referred to the latest Town Newsletter indicating that the Board of Education nominations and elections would take place at the May 19th meeting and inquired about the action he believed the Selectmen took at a February Selectmen’s Meeting to have a Special Town Meeting in March or April to nominate Board of Education candidates and place their names on the ballot for election at the May Referendum. The Selectmen acknowledged having this discussion and agreed to check the minutes regarding the action they took. John also inquired about the status of funding from the State – what income to the Town may be cut. The Selectmen explained this is a difficult area when planning the next budget, as the amount of the State grants that will be received by the Town are not yet confirmed. The current State budget proposals maintain current grant funding levels.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:12 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: April 22, 2011 April 14, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio – Litchfield County Times.
Public: Joan Lodsin, Todd Peterson, Jason & Carolyn Hyde, John Meeker.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the March 31, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen with the following correction under “Route 45 Update”: the signs had not been received.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Motion:
To approve the minutes of the March 31, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen with the following correction under “Present, Press”: Ann Compton – VOICES.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications:
* Gunn Memorial Library Invitation to the Board of Selectmen to attend and speak at the opening of the Civil War Exhibit Ceremony on May 1, 2011 at 12:00 Noon. Mark is hoping to attend.* Email/Letter from Chris Charles re:
Pedestrian Bridge on Route 47 outlines and explains his concerns regarding the proposed bridge that will not be adjacent to the traffic bridge and, therefore, in his opinion, would not provide the pedestrian access along Route 47 or for the parking lot on the North side of the Shepaug River. Mr. Charles makes suggestions as to steps that could/should be taken prior to final approval of the alternate bridge. A copy of his letter is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Resignation of Kelly Boling from the Conservation Commission:
Mr. Boling has moved to New York State and submitted his resignation by way of email to Susan Payne, Chairman of the Conservation Commission.
Motion:
To accept the resignation of Kelly Boling from the Conservation with gratitude for his years of service to the Town of Washington.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Philip Dutton as a Regular Member of the Conservation Commission:
Mr. Dutton has been an alternate on the Commission and Susan Payne has requested, with his permission, his appointment as a Regular Member.
Motion:
To appoint Philip Dutton as a Regular Member of the Conservation Commission until 1/1/13.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Bradley D. Dutcher to the Parks and Recreation Commission:
Mr. Dutcher has written to the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Board of Selectmen expressing his interest in serving on this Commission. The member of the Commission discussed this appointment at their April 11th meeting and unanimously endorsed it.
Motion:
To appoint Bradley D. Dutcher to the Parks and Recreation Commission until 1/1/14.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported on the following:
* Region #12 Facilities Committee, of which Mark is a member, has been working on the list of repairs needed to be addressed at the Region’s three Primary Schools. The Committee will do a final list for approval. Repairs will be paid for from Primary School Capital Repairs Fund.* FEMA/Flooding:
No FEMA funds will be received for the rain/flood event March 7-March 11.* FEMA/Snow:
Connecticut was approved for FEMA funding for the snow event in January and Washington has submitted the preliminary paperwork. Bruce McLane, FEMA Project Specialist, met with Mark and Mary Anne Greene to review the additional information required. They, along with Kevin Smith, are compiling the figures and back-up material needed to receive reimbursement funds for a 48-hour period January 11-January 13.* Town Road Repairs:
The annual grading of dirt roads has begun. There are still some trouble spots from the heavy rains – these are being prioritized and repaired.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Discussion of Region #12 proposed budget:
There is a 2.23 increase in the Region #12 proposed budget. The First Selectman and Boards of Finance of the three towns had urged a 1% increase. The question was posed as to whether or not the Boards of Selectmen and Finance wanted to make a collective statement regarding the disappointment in this proposed increase. Roxbury Selectmen have opted not to. Mark has been attempting to contact Bill Stuart re: Bridgewater. Washington’s Selectmen discussed their position, noting that making a statement may not make a difference but felt that Washington has been extremely responsible in keeping any increase in their proposed budget to 1 to 1 ½ %. Motion: To have First Selectman Lyon draft a letter to the Region #12 Board of Education and Administration stating their disappointment in the 2.23% increase in their proposed budget, and, requesting again, that the Region attempt to keep their increase to under 2%. By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.* Connecticut State Police contract Certification:
This has been discussed several times at past meetings, the Selectmen have agreed to sign the contract although disagreeing with the benefit/overtime charges to the Towns.
Motion:
To pass a Resolution that Mark E. Lyon, the First Selectman, be and herewith authorized to execute a contract on behalf of the Town of Washington with the Connecticut Department of Public Safety, Division of State Police for the services of one (1) Resident Trooper for the period of July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2011.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Renewal of lease for Town Beach House tenants and Old Firehouse tenant:
Both parties - the Town and the tenants - wish to continue their leases.
Motion:
To execute a new lease for the Town Beach House for an 11-month period commencing from May 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012 with the current tenants for the current rent. All subsequent lease(s) will be for a 12-month period commencing April 1 through March 31 to coincide with the beach season.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Motion:
To renew the current lease for the Upper Floor of the Old Firehouse for a two and a half month period commencing from April 15, 2011 through June 30, 2011. All subsequent lease(s) will be for a 12-month period commencing July 1 through June 30 to coincide with the fiscal year of the Town of Washington.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton.
Discussion:
the current lease was an “open extension lease”. The Selectmen felt better to have a beginning and ending date.
The motion passed unanimously.* Passing of a Civil War Resolution:
As a follow-up to Edwin Matthews attendance at the last Board of Selectmen’s meeting regarding the placing of a Memorial Monument to honor those who served/perished in the Civil War:
Motion:
To pass the following Resolution:
CIVIL WAR RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, April 12-13, 2011 marks the 150th anniversary of the bombardment by South Carolina of Fort Sumter and the forced surrender of that fort by the United States Army which began our great Civil War; andWHEREAS, this war opposed the States of the Confederacy and those of the Union which included the State of Connecticut and the Town of Washington; and
WHEREAS, thousands of citizens of our state contributed to the cause of the Union and remarkable sacrifices were made by citizens of our town, Washington, on behalf of the cause of the Union; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that over one hundred residents of Washington served in this war on behalf of the Union and approximately thirty Washington citizens have been identified who paid with their lives in the Civil War and many descendants of those who served and who died in the Civil War still reside in our town; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that we remember the sacrifice of those who gave so much for our country and for us; and
WHEREAS, the Selectmen of the Town of Washington,
RESOLVE, that the Town of Washington honor the service and sacrifice of those who served on behalf of the Union in the Civil War and especially the men who died in that War; and
RESOLVE, that a public subscription be launched to erect a suitable memorial to those from the Town of Washington who served and perished in the war. Said memorial to be placed at an appropriate place to be selected in the Town of Washington and to be dedicated on the 150th Anniversary of the signing of the surrender at Appomattox, Virginia which occurred on Palm Sunday, April 9, 1865, which signing brought an end to this War; and
RESOLVE, the Town of Washington congratulates the Gunn Memorial Library and Museum on the opening on May 1, 2011 of an exhibit remembering the contributions of citizens of the Town of Washington to the Union cause in the Civil War, which exhibit has been made possible by the preservation in our town of documents and artifacts of the Civil War;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Washington honor the sacrifices made by its citizens in the Civil War which helped save our country from itself and preserve the United States of America for all who follow.
ADOPTED this 14th day of April 2011 by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Washington.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* Jason and Carolyn Hyde:
Came to today’s meeting to discuss parking issues on Wilbur Road (see letter attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk). The presented pictures and maps indicating where the employees of the Community Table are parking along Wilbur Road. The Zoning Enforcement Office has advised the Hyde’s that this is a Town issue as opposed to a zoning issue as the vehicles are being parked in the Town’s right-of-way and not on the restaurant property. Mark explained that when this issue was first brought to his attention he spoke with the manager of the restaurant who widened the shoulder at his request. The vehicles are no longer parking on the road itself. In addition to the parking issue, cars are speeding, turning in private driveways, etc. There was lengthy discussion about whether or not a permeable parking area could be constructed behind the restaurant, if a letter from the Town’s attorney to the restaurant could be written, if No Parking signs could be installed, if additional parking could be available at an adjacent commercial property (with that owner’s permission). The Selectmen were understanding of the resident’s concerns and the changes this brought to their “residential” road. The Board of Selectmen, as the Town’s traffic authority, agreed to discuss further, to contact the Town Attorney, and to look into possible legal solutions hopefully by the next Selectmen’s meeting on April 28th.
Adjournment:
Motion: To adjourn the meeting at 6:34 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion. By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: April 10, 2011 March 31, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Ann Compton – Litchfield County Times.
Public: David Plourde, Clifford Woodruff, Michael Cruse, Valerie Friedman, Denise Arturi, Steven Law, Edwin Matthews, Tammy Sherman, Rocky Tomlinson, Linda McGarr, Duncan Woodruff, Chris Charles, Sheila Anson, Tim and Andrea Coakley.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.Motion:
To add subsequent business not already on the agenda.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: this business would be to discuss the Boards of Selectmen and Finance sending a letter to the Region #12 Board of Education regarding their proposed budget increases.
The motion passed unanimously.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the March 17, 2011 Regular Meeting and the March 24, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported the following:
* FEMA Meeting:
Meeting on April 7th is scheduled to review paperwork, any additional required information etc. for the 48 hour time period in January for road snow removal.* Department of Public Safety Grant:
A grant for CMED services will be awarded to Litchfield County Dispatch.* DCS Energy:
performed a site inspection on March 29th of the municipal buildings that are being considered for solar panels.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Denise Arturi re: Greenhouse placement for Judea Garden:
Denise explained that Aimee Cowan as part of her Shepaug Senior Project purchased a greenhouse to start tree seedlings that she would like to donate to Steep Rock and Judea Garden. The thought was to install it at the Garden location at the Macricostas Preserve however a conservation easement with the DEP prevents its installation at the present time. Steep Rock is hopeful this can be resolved. In the meantime Denise is requesting it be placed at the old town garage site so that it could be utilized for this growing season. Mark voiced concern about the lack of security and Nick suggested Denise check with Land Use Enforcement Officer, Mike Ajello. Motion: To approve the placement of the greenhouse temporarily at the old town garage site on Titus Road if Land Use regulations do not prevent this from occurring. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Edwin Matthews re: Civil War Memorial Monument:
Edwin explained this year marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War. 2015 would mark the 150th anniversary of Appomattox. Edwin has done research that indicates 30 residents of the Town of Washington lost their lives serving in this War (possibly over 100 served) and he is proposing a Monument be erected to honor them. Funding would be raised privately and if the Board of Selectmen is in favor of pursuing this, a committee would be formed to investigate a spot on public property for its placement and the Selectmen would have the final approval on the site and design in time for the 2015 anniversary. Mark and Nick expressed their approval of moving this project further. Edwin also requested the Town pass a Resolution honoring those who served at the next Board of Selectmen’s Meeting. This too was approved. Rocky Tomlinson voiced his support and also asked that memorials be considered for the wars currently being fought in Iraq and Afghanistan.* Steven Law, Executive Director Steep Rock – Pedestrian Bridge Update:
Steve explained the history of this proposed alternate pedestrian bridge – to take the place of the planned DOT pedestrian bridge attached to the traffic bridge on Bee Brook Road at Hidden Valley – Steep Rock trustees concerned about the aesthetics, flow between parking lots, work with the trail system and be ADA compliant. Funds have been approved by a private foundation and there will be not cost to Steep Rock or the Town. A preliminary design has been done with consultants/engineers examining alternate sites, spans, etc. DOT and DEP have been involved in this work. A cost estimate is due in approximately two weeks. If the plans are approved DOT would not transfer the funds that would have been used for their initial pedestrian bridge to this alternate bridge, however, a STEAP grant has been made available to the Town for it. Once the cost is arrived at, it will then be determined if it is feasible given the amount of the Foundation and STEAP grants. If it is, permits will be applied for, informational meetings held for the public and a Town Meeting to gain final approval of the townspeople. If the cost exceeds the monies available, the original DOT pedestrian bridge will be constructed as part of the traffic bridge. Chris Charles voiced concern that the alternate bridge plan does not meet all the needs of serving both parking lots, etc. and voiced his opinion that the townspeople have the opportunity to participate in any final decision.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Speed bumps Flirtation Avenue:
The request for installation of speed bumps has come as a result of increased traffic on Flirtation Ave because of the road construction on Route 45 in New Preston. This has been looked into previously for other roads and it has been determined that in reality more problems are caused as a result and they are in fact a municipal liability – hazard to motorcyclists, bicyclists, damage to cars, etc. The Selectmen determined not to install them at this time. Police coverage has been increased and will continue to be. Site lines are being improved at Sandstrom Road by the Highway Department and “flashing speed limit signs” will be put in place at different time periods.* Letter to Shepaug Regional School District #12 Board of Education:
Mark explained that the First Selectmen of Bridgewater, Roxbury and Washington, along with their Board of Finance Chairmen, met with the Board of Education and requested that their proposed budget for next year not be increased more than 1 to 1 ½ percent, not the 2.43% increase presented. A letter from Washington’s Board of Selectmen, along with the Board of Finance would re-iterate this request. Motion: To send a letter to the Region #12 Board of Education from Washington’s Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance requesting that the Region’s budget not be increase more than 1 to 1 ½%. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* Clifford Woodruff attended this meeting to bring concerns he has with the Town’s Land Use Commissions and some personnel to the attention of the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Woodruff maintains that Roberta Smith, an adjoining property owner to him, was not required to get all the necessary permits, and that he has brought issues that he feels threaten the environment and public health to the attention of Zoning and the Enforcement Officer and he feels that he has not received answers and has not been treated equally. David Plourde, another adjoining property owner who had to leave this meeting, asked Clifford to read a note that stated that he was denied a permit and not given equal treatment and that it was suggested “he sell his property to Mrs. Smith as it was useless to him”. Clifford read sections of emails between Michael Ajello and Janet Hill and asked that they become part of this record. Michael Curse confirmed Clifford’s account of a Zoning meeting at which he was asked not to attend. The Selectmen asked Clifford to supply the documentation he has, a summary of what has transpired and with whom, and it will be reviewed.* Tim Coakley inquired about the 6 Mountain Road cell tower and the application before the Siting Council for an extension on it by AT&T. Mark explained he had expressed to the Siting Council the Town’s concerns with appearance, antenna configuration and inspection of ability to carry load. Tim asked, if AT&T is approved and is placed on the tower, if the Town would be active in confirming that they are putting out the full signal so that more towers will not need to be constructed. Mark explained that if an application for another tower came through that would be the time to consider testing AT&T’s output but there are not plans to do that now. Tim requested that the Town be pro-active and measure Verizon’s signal and then measure AT&T’s should they be placed on the tower.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 7:16 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: March 25, 2011 March 24, 2011
Special Meeting
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley, Dick Carey, Peter Pappas, John Meeker.
Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 8:38 a.m.
Discussion of the Town’s acceptance of Birch Hill Run:
The Selectmen, Mr. Pappas and Mr. Carey (representing the Planning Commission) reviewed the history, file, correspondence, maps, etc. of the Birch Hill Run subdivision and subsequent acceptance of the road by the Town of Washington as 50% build out has occurred.Following discussion, explanations, review of conditions required when the Birch Hill Run subdivision was approved, the Selectmen and Mr. Pappas agreed to the following in the interest of moving forward:
* Mr. Pappas will provide an as-built survey of the existing road system.
* Mr. Pappas will place markers indicating property lines, right-of-ways, etc.
* Once these are submitted to the Board of Selectmen, they will confirm in writing to Mr. Pappas that the required conditions have been met and proceed with scheduling a Town Meeting to gain approval of the townspeople to accept the road into the Town’s road system. If this cannot be accomplished by the May Town Meeting, a Special Town Meeting may be scheduled in the summer.Mr. Meeker asked about the appropriateness of having the road inspected by an engineer prior to the Town’s acceptance. Mark Lyon explained that would not be required and the road met engineering specs and was originally built to Town standards. Now it would be up to the Town to appraise the condition. Mark will request Kevin Smith, Highway Director, to inspect and then discuss further if necessary.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 9:27 a.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: March 24, 2011 March 17, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio – Litchfield County Times.
Public: John Meeker, Valerie Friedman, Tim Coakley, Robert Tomlinson, Linda McGarr, Pat Devlin, Sheila Anson, Christine Afiouni.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the March 3, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: Mary Anne Greene indicated that the name Pauline Stack (under Resident State Trooper Contract) should be changed to Kathleen.
The motion passed unanimously.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Resignation of Holly Haas from the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Mark Lyon received a letter from Holly Haas indicating she has “decided to forego her reappointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission for the 2011-2014 term. She urged the Selectmen to fill the position “with a parent of young children that might provide input into new and vital programs…”Motion:
To accept the resignation of Holly Haas from the Parks and Recreation Commission with sincere gratitude for her 17 years of service to the Commission and Town!
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Mark also explained that he has notified the Webmaster of vacancies on Parks and Rec, Housing, etc. in the hopes of generating interest.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported:
* Denise Arturi-Greenhouse:
As part of a Shepaug High School senior project, funds have been received for the purchase of a greenhouse that could be used for Judea Garden. Denise is inquiring if it could be placed on Town property – Titus Road? The Selectmen felt there may be some issues with security but would discuss further. They also inquired as to why it could not be placed at Macricostas where the garden is. This will be looked into further and if necessary, invite Denise to the next meeting of the Board of Selectmen.* Edwin Matthews-Civil War Monument:
Edwin has done research as this April marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War. A number of Washington residents fought in the War and 23 lost their lives. He would like a monument erected in Town (purchased with private fund) similar to those on the Town Hall lawn. Edwin will be invited to the next meeting of the Board of Selectmen to discuss possibly sites.* Tony Bedini-Utility Consultants:
Tony attended a meeting of the Torrington Board of Education at which information was received from Troy & Bank Utility Consultants. They offer a program that would audit energy expenses and utility accounts. If the client (in this case the Town) receives a reduction or refund as a result of this audit, Troy & Banks would receive a percentage of the savings generated. If not, there is no fee. The Selectmen felt it would be beneficial to investigate this further.* Wayne Hileman/Housing Commission letter:
The Housing Commission would like to examine the possibility of adding the Town’s Beach House apartment to the Town’s affordable housing inventory. Wayne’s letter explains the process involved and the need to have an Affordability Administrator designated. Should all the criteria be met, a deed restriction must be filed with the Town Clerk attesting that this property is an affordable dwelling for a set period of time – 12 months would be the minimum time period. The Housing Commission would recommend the 12-month restriction to coincide with the term of the lease. The Selectmen felt this should be explored further as the lease is up for renewal May 1st. Mary Anne Greene will inquire whom the Washington Community Housing Trust uses as their Affordability Administrator.* Flood and storm update:
As a result of the heavy rains and flooding, a culvert was washed out on Shinar Mountain at Walker Brook. The property owner was able to receive an emergency Inland Wetlands permit to have work done to repair his retaining wall. Work was done by the Town on the gravel road that washed out around the culvert. The road is passable for now – will reassess when water level decreases. Other dirt roads experienced washouts – emergency repairs have been done – all roads passable but further work will be required to bring them back to standard. Getting materials proved difficult however, Stone Construction was able to deliver. The total cost of this emergency roadwork has not yet been finalized.
OLD BUSINIESS:
* Town employee termination:
Mark Lyon explained that due to the issues that have been brought up with the Executive Session (FOI complaint) held March 3, if there were to be any question as to the validity of the meeting, it would be with the business conducted as a result of the Executive Session. Therefore, at the advise of Thomas Hennick of the State of Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission, because of the complaint file with the FOI Commission following the March 3, 2011 meeting of the Board of Selectmen, the following motion is being made at this meeting.Motion:
To terminate the employment of a Town employee who was suspended without pay on February 24, 2011, as of March 3, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Follow up meeting with Mr. Peter Pappas/Birch Hill Run:
Due to scheduling issues a meeting could not be held with Mr. Pappas prior to this meeting. A Special Board of Selectmen’s Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 8:30 a.m. in the Selectmen’s Office. Agenda: Town acceptance of Birch Hill Run.* Resident State Trooper contract:
Mark has received information from Kathleen Stack of the CT Department of Public Safety explaining that the charge to the Town for overtime of 53% is 70% of the fringe benefit expense.Motion:
As all questions have been answered in regard to the overtime and fringe benefit charges on the Resident State Trooper billing, although not in agreement with the calculation, the Selectmen will sign the contract covering the period July 2, 2009 to June 30, 2011.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.* Winter Maintenance Budget Update:
With one more pay period and outstanding bills for materials and contracted services, the Town is 104% over budget in Winter Maintenance. This could amount to $40,000 - $50,000. This does not include expenses incurred with the flooding issues of last week, which may be taken, in part, from General Maintenance. The Selectmen discussed how this may be addressed – transfer of funds? (requiring an approval at a Town Meeting, use of Town Road Aid money? Will discuss further with the Board of Finance on March 21st. Mark will be attending a meeting on March 24th regarding the FEMA funds that were applied for covering a 48-hour period for snow removal in January.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Solar panel grant availability:
Mark attended a meeting at which DCS Energy gave a presentation on the installation of solar panels on municipal buildings. There would be no fee – DCS would receive all tax credits, rebates, etc. There can be one installation per meter. Mark completed the first step by sending an inventory of the Town buildings and the Gunn Library. All sites were initially approved through satellite surveys. The Town would be responsible for any permitting necessary, net meter installation by CL&P. The next step would be to sign an agreement with DCS – they would then send a team to survey the sites, examine them and put together a proposal. A structural engineer would be hired to make sure structures strong enough. Estimated savings $80-$180 month for each system. The final step would be to sign a contract for a five-year lease. DCS is approved with the Clean Energy Fund, and has been advertised through COST. The towns of Lebanon and Salem have done the installation with DCS. Motion: To pursue the next step with DCS Energy to do an inventory of Town buildings for potential installation of solar panels. By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.* FOI Complaint filed by John Meeker:
Mark Lyon explained that on March 3, 2011 the Board of Selectmen called their meeting to order and immediately adjourned into Executive Session in a location other than where the meeting was noticed. Thomas Hennick of the State FOI Commission has explained that the Selectmen were in violation because of this difference of location. Mary Anne Greene, Selectmen’s Secretary, was asked to go to the Land Use Room and inform those present that the Executive Session was being held in the Selectmen’s Office and that the regular meeting would be resumed in the Land Use Room as soon as possible. No one in attendance raised any objection. Mark further explained that the employee that was going to be discussed in the Executive Session was given the opportunity to meet in public. He declined asking that the meeting be held in private. Out of respect for him and for the large number of attendees for the Selectmen’s meeting who would have been asked to exit, the Executive Session was held upstairs. The Selectmen now realize this was procedurally incorrect. John Meeker filed his FOI complaint. John stated he is waiting to hear from FOI.
Visitors:
* Tim Coakley spoke to the Selectmen about AT&T’s request for an extension on the telecommunications tower in Marble Dale. If it is determined that AT&T’s coverage is equal to Verizon’s once on the tower, would this negate the need for more towers in the Route 202 corridor. The Selectmen explained that it was their opinion that it may suggest other towers might not be necessary if large numbers of the population are reached. The FCC does not mandate seamless coverage although carriers have the ability to pursue it. Part of the application process is to show the need for a tower in a particular location. Tim voiced his concern that the independent coverage testing should be done. Mark explained that he believes that type of testing is available.* Pat Devlin recommended a web site that addresses the question of burden of proof in coverage and advises residents to do their own testing. She also suggests and requests that Town funds be used to hire an attorney in these matters instead of a testing consultant.
* John Meeker asked how many homes on Birch Hill Run are occupied fulltime. Nick Solley said he believed two were part time or seasonal.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: March 9, 2011 March 3, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Office of the First Selectman.
Motion:
To adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen at 5:30 p.m. to enter into Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: Mr. Lyon explained the Executive Session would be held in the Office of the First Selectman out of respect for the privacy of, and at the request, of the employee being discussed.
v The motion passed unanimously.Executive Session was adjourned at 5:55 p.m. and the Selectmen moved to the Land Use Room to conduct the Regular Meeting.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio - Litchfield County Times.
Public: John Meeker, Charles LaMuniere, Tony Bedini, Peter Pappas, Christine and Imad Afiouni, Louise Churyk, Peter Talbot, Meg Morrow, Brad Harding, Valerie Friedman, Frank Adams, Andrea Coakley, Tim Coakley, Pat Devlin, Dick Carey.Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. thanking the public for their patience.
Motion:
To terminate the employment of the employee discussed in Executive Session.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the February 17, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen with the following corrections: Under "FEMA Funds" the minutes should read forty-eight hour period.
Communications:
* Letter from Bob Mandel re: dog park:
Mr. Mandel inquired what would be involved in creating a dog park in the Town of Washington siting the advantage of having a location where dogs and owners could gather without leashes and socialize without worry about traffic. Jim Brinton explained that several years ago the subject had been brought up - possibly at the old Town Garage site. Materials for the Town's Highway Department are still being stored there. Jim had also looked into parks in other Towns and found that the biggest "complaint" was the inability to keep them seeded and grassed and they became muddy. The Selectmen said no further action or discussion has occurred in Washington but would not rule it out for the future.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Resignation of Scott Tilden from the Historic District Commission:
The Board of Selectmen has received a letter from Scott Tilden notifying them of his resignation from the Historic District Commission. Motion: To accept the resignation of Scott Tilden from the Historic District Commission, effective immediately, with gratitude for his years of service. By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.* Appointment of Jane Boyer as a Regular Member of the Historic District Commission until 1/1/13:
Motion:
To appoint Jane Boyer as a Regular Member of the Historic District Commission (moving up from an Alternate) until 1/1/13.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: HDC Chairman Alison Gilchrist recommended this appointment.
The motion passed unanimously.* Appointment of George A. Krimsky as an Alternate Member of the Historic District Commission until 1/1/12 and Thomas H. Hollinger as an Alternate Member of the Historic District Commission until 1/1/13.
Motion:
To appoint George A. Krimsky (U) and Thomas H. Hollinger (r) as Alternates to the Historic District Commission until 1/1/12 and 1/1/13 respectively.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion: HDC Chairman Alison Gilchrist suggested these two candidates - they have been contacted and are in agreement.
The motion passed unanimously.
First Selectman's Report:
First Selectman Lyon reported on the following:
* Phil Markert, Cell Tower Committee member, has been working with Dick Comi and Walter Cooper re: possible points for inclusion in the lease agreement between the Town and Verizon for the proposed telecommunications tower on Blackville Road (Town Highway Department property). A meeting will then be held with the Selectmen and the Cell Tower Committee. A public information meeting will be held prior to a Town Meeting that would be required to approve a lease. Selectman Jim Brinton suggested that a time line be created with the upcoming steps necessary for negotiations and possible approval of the tower.* AT&T has petitioned the Siting Council for a 10-foot extension of the Verizon tower in Marbledale. T-Mobile Northeast has filed a Tower Share Request with the Siting Council for a 3-panel type antenna to be mounted at the 127-foot centerline, which is below the existing Verizon array on the Marbledale tower. Mark has forwarded information on to the Conservation Commission. The public may attend any informational meetings that may be held.
* Tower Generator Services met with Mark and Kevin Smith at the Highway Department complex to assess the needs and will submit a budget proposal with several alternatives.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Resident State Trooper contract:
Mark has received information from Pauline Stack of the CT Department of Public Safety in which she forwards information from the Attorney General's office, the State Comptroller and Director of Public Safety explaining the addition of fringe benefit costs added to Resident Trooper overtime billing. There is still question regarding the percentage used in calculation of the fringe benefit cost that is billed to the Town. Mark will again contact Ms. Stack.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Birch Hill Run Discussion:
Nick Solley explained that, by Town Ordinance, once an approved subdivision reaches 50% development, the developer is required to petition the Town to have the road become part of the Town road system. Birch Hill Run met this percentage several years ago. At that time, Mr. Pappas (developer) was contacted and advised of improvements that needed to be made by him prior to the Town's accepting the road at a Town Meeting - these improvements were not completed. Mr. Pappas explained that he had contacted the Town on several occasions, that the Town did not accept the road and that the subdivision has in fact expired. Mr. Pappas also expressed his distress at not being contacted prior to the last Planning Commission meeting or this meeting of the Board of Selectmen. Following more discussion, it was agreed by the Selectmen and Mr. Pappas to hold a Special Board of Selectmen's meeting the week of March 14th.* IW Shoreline Protection Policy Draft:
Tony Bedini, IW Chairman, explained that the Commission has been working on a policy for Lake Waramaug and other large water bodies in Town. The draft is referred to as an "ordinance" but the Commission has not yet determined whether it would be most effective as a Town ordinance or as a revision to the IW regulations. The draft has been sent to the Board of Selectmen, Conservation Commission, Planning Commission and Zoning Commission for review, and comments. Once the language is finalized it will be reviewed by the Land Use Attorney, and the DEP. A public hearing will be held prior to final approval.
Visitors:
* Pat Devlin introduced Meg Morrow and Brad Harding of Progressive Medicine who spoke of closing their clinic in Kent due to their experiencing debilitating health effects from working within 900 feet of a telecommunications monopole. They have relocated in Litchfield. According to them, they began noticing cognitive and physical changes that they believed were a result of their closeness to the tower and high frequency emitted. Their research with experts validated their claims. Both spoke of the reality of cell towers being placed in communities but urged that locations be found that are not in residential or highly populated areas and especially not close to schools. They maintain that their symptoms have improved 80% since their move.
Adjournment:
Motion:
o adjourn the meeting at 7:12 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen's Secretary
Posted: February 24, 2011 February 17, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley. First Selectman Lyon is currently on vacation and will return in time for the next meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
Press: Jack Coraggio - Litchfield County Times.
Public: Andrea Coakley, Louise Churyk, Imad Afiouni, Ulrich Vilbois, Vince Casey.Call to Order:
Selectman Solley called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m.Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the February 3, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
Communications:
* Article "Fair Tax Group Lining up to File Lawsuit" submitted by Ken Cornet and Joe Mustich:
Ken and Joe write:
"While Washington's property reval is over, Princeton is challenging their reval as the larger property owners are taxed less than the smaller property owners, proportionally, just like in out town of Washington, CT, which is why many of us raised a stink, as the land values were inflated and the house values deflated, etc. in many cases, just as the real estate market crashed."
A copy of the article regarding this Princeton, NJ Fair Tax Revaluation Commission, is attached to these minutes filed with the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Resignations:
* Appointment of Vincent Belanger to the Building & Property Commission:
Nick Solley explained this Commission oversees the maintenance, upkeep, construction, etc. of all the Town-owned buildings and properties. The death of Charles Boucher was a loss to the Commission and the Town. Vincent Belanger has expressed his willingness to fill this vacancy and the Board of Selectmen feel he will be an asset to the Town.Motion:
To appoint Vincent Belanger to the Building and Property Commission until January 1, 2012.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
First Selectman's Report:
Nick Solley reported in Mark Lyon's absence on the following:
* New Highway Department Pick-up Truck:
has been received and has the capability of having a plow installed.* FEMA Funds:
As a result of the storms to hit Connecticut in January, the State, and Towns, may be eligible to receive funding from FEMA to recoup the higher than expected expenses associated with the storm(s). A forty-eight period on January 11-13 resulted in overtime hours, equipment hours and extensive materials (salt, sand) use. The preliminary reports have been filed by the Selectmen's Office indicating a cost of approximately $34,000 for that time period.* Winter Maintenance Budget:
The "Winter Maintenance" section of the Highway Department budget covers the months of December, January, February, March. At 66% of the way through that period, 80% of the budgeted funds have been spent.
OLD BUSINESS:
none.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Girl Scout Week Proclamation:
This year marks the 99th anniversary of Girl Scouts of the USA. Over 55,000 girls and 18,000 adults around the State of CT participate in the Girl Scouts of Connecticut program.Motion:
To adopt the following Girl Scout Week Proclamation.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.GIRL SCOUT WEEK
PROCLAMATIONWHEREAS, March 12, marks the 99th anniversary of Girl Scouts of the USA, founded by Juliette Gordon Low in 1912 in Savannah, Georgia; and,
WHEREAS, throughout its distinguished history, Girl Scouting has inspired millions of girls and women with the highest ideals of courage, confidence, and character; and,
WHEREAS, through the Girl Scout leadership experience girls develop the skills and lessons that will serve them a lifetime so that they may contribute to their communities; and,
WHEREAS, Girl Scouting takes an active role in increasing girls' awareness of the opportunities available to them today in math, science, sports, technology and other fields that can expand their horizons; and,
WHEREAS, more than 3 million current Girl Scout members nationwide will be celebrating 99 years of this American tradition, with nearly 50 million women who are former Girl Scouts and living proof of the impact of this amazing Movement;
NOW, THEREFORE, We, Mark E. Lyon, James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley, by virtue of the authority vested in us as Selectmen of the Town of Washington, Connecticut, do hereby applaud the commitment Girl Scouting has made to support the leadership development of America's girls and proudly proclaim the week of March 6, 2011, as Girl Scout Week.
Visitors:
* Andrea Coakley thanked the Board of Selectmen for hosting the Public Informational Meeting regarding the proposed AT&T cell tower at 17 Warren Road on January 29, 2011 and read the following statement:Statement of Opposition to Proposed Alternative Sites to 17 Warren Road
On January 29, 2011, AT&T held an informational meeting with the Town of Washington, its residents, and members of the Washington Montessori School for the proposed cell tower at 17 Warren Road in Washington, Connecticut. We appreciate the role of the Washington Montessori School throughout this process. We do not, however, support their legal counsel's nomination of three alternative sites for the tower.We, the undersigned, unequivocally oppose the 17 Warren Road site, those alternative sites proposed on January 29, and any effort to relocate the proposed tower to an area that would compromise other residents or harm the environmentally sensitive Route 202 corridor.
Sincerely,
William Ahearn, Sheila Sullivan, Tim Coakley, Andrea Coakley, Imad Afiouni, Christine Afiouni, Patricia Devlin, Joslyn Pollock, Bill Pollock, Stefan Churyk, Carole Churyk, Louise Churyk, Wayne Churyk, Ulrich Vilbois, Ingrid Salcedo, Janice Smith, Eleza Paul, Christina Paul, Vince Casey, Toby Casey, Laura Levinstein, Susan Loyd, Rob Odom, Simone Odom, Ene Riisna, Jim Greenfield, John Hart, Sandra Canning, and Diana Hardee. (Names updated February 17, 2011.)Discussion continued with questions as to whether the Selectmen had received notification from AT&T that they have investigated any other suggestions presented - i.e. Waterbury Reservoir, Mashapaug Preserve. Nick Solley stated he only knew of their investigating extending the height of the Marbledale tower by 10 feet. Other points discussed included the Town's involvement in alternate site suggestions - being pro-active early in the process, the Siting Council's authority in regard to Town regulations, permits, etc. Jim Brinton suggested that the Board of Selectmen and the Conservation Commission's Cell Tower Committee meet to converse about what is best for the Town of Washington.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:14p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen's Secretary
Posted: February 9, 2011 February 3, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio
Public: John Meeker, Wayne Hileman, Erhard Werner, Pat Werner.Call to Order: First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m.
Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the January 20, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
Mark Lyon reported on the following:
* Winter Maintenance Budget:
Approximately 60% of the winter maintenance budget has been used to this point – however there is approximately $20,000-$25,000 in outstanding bills for material and equipment repair. If costs for the season go over budget (bad weather continuing) the Selectmen may need to request an ex-budget appropriation or transfer funds from another area in the budget. Biggest problem has been getting materials (salt/sand/magic salt). John Meeker asked if the Town had used any sub-contractors to assist with snow clean up and/or snow removal. Mark explained that Pete Bennett and Towne & Aurell had been used for a cost of approximately $4500. May need to use them, or others, again this season.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Resident State Trooper Contract:
Mark Lyon reported he has again spoken with the Department of Public Safety’s Kathleen Stack regarding the overtime charge in the Resident State Trooper’s Contract. Washington has not yet signed the contract (that was to cover the period July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011) due to concerns over the section dealing with overtime charges, and not getting what the Selectmen feel, is a compelling explanation. Ms. Stack will send a more concise explanation from the State Comptroller’s Office. There was discussion that the services for the Town have not been affected by not signing; limiting the overtime hours of the Resident Trooper would possibly keep the charges in question in line. John Meeker affirmed the fact that the Town would continue to be covered by the barracks even without our own Resident Trooper. Jim Brinton suggested speaking with the Town of Kent that no longer has a Resident Trooper. Nick Solley asked if there were other Towns that had not signed. Mark explained there were several Town that had also spoken with their State legislators with the same concern as Washington. He did not know if they still had not signed. Following discussion, the Board agreed to wait to receive the information from the Comptroller before agreeing to sign the contract.* Continued discussion of Blackville Road cell tower lease:
RF Engineer Walter Cooper is continuing to work on the technical aspects of monitoring. Once this information is received the Selectmen and the Cell Tower Committee will get together and communication thoughts and ideas with Dick Comi. The Selectmen would like to have this information by the end of February.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Board of Education Election process:
Mark explained that two of Washington’s representatives, Michelle Gorra and Tony Bedini, terms will be expiring. For the last Board of Education election, candidates were nominated at a Town Meeting in March and April and placed on the ballot for voting at the Referendum in May. This proved to work well – giving the public time to learn more about the candidates, generate interest, etc.Motion:
To continue the process of nominating Board of Election candidates at a Town Meeting in March or April, and to place the candidates on the ballot for election at the May Referendum.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* John Meeker asked it there had been any progress on obtaining a generator for the Highway Department. Mark explained there had been no action on this.
* Pat Werner thanked the Board of Selectmen for their presence at the Public Information Meeting regarding the AT&T cell tower proposal for 17 Warren Road. And explained it was her understanding that for the present time, AT&T would not be proceeding with its application. Other solutions such as co-locating on the Marbledale tower, alternate locations, etc may be explored. Ms. Werner asked the Town to be pro-active for future proposals, discussions, etc. Washington Montessori has been criticized for the position it took in making alternate suggestions. Discussion continued as to how much the Town can or should get involved in commercial ventures, the costs in hiring attorneys, engineers, consultants, zoning regulations, etc. Jim Brinton felt that the Town could request that telecommunication companies work with the Town by notifying it at the beginning of the process of identifying possible sites.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:20 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: January 28, 2011 January 20, 2011
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectman Nicholas N. Solley
Public: Ed & Pat Werner, J. Meeker, Wayne Hileman, Kerry Dorton, Diane Dupuis, Tim Coakley, Andrea Coakley, Pat Devlin, Janelle Pollack, Joslyn Pollack, Bill Pollock, Jack Conygio, Matthew DeGruttola, Briana DeGruttola, Ulrich Vilbois, Imad Afiouni, Christine Afiouni, Robert Odom, Simone Odom (names taken from sign in sheet)First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:37pm.
Motion:
Mark E. Lyon, First Selectman made a motion to accept the minutes of the January 6, 2011 Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the minutes of the January 6, 2011 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen, as submitted. Nicholas N. Solley, Selectman seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.Communications: None
Appointments/Resignations: None
First Selectman’s Report:
Mr. Lyon reported that because of recent snowstorms there has been a lot of overtime and the town hired several private contractors to assist with clean up efforts. He noted that the highway crew has done an excellent job.The First Selectman went on to say that Route 45 through New Preston center would be closed starting January 24th for road repair. There will be extra signage installed to ensure that the public is aware that the New Preston Business District will remain open. Mark Lyon reported on the recent press release concerning at least six burglaries in town since September of last year. Mr. Lyon described these burglaries as “quick” crimes of opportunity and encouraged the public to be on the look out for strange cars, lock their doors and report suspicious activity to the Resident State Trooper office or call 911.
Old Business
Discussion of lease for proposed cell tower on Highway Department property continued.
First Selectman Lyon confirmed, in conversations with the CT Siting Council, that any modification/additions to an application is done through the siting council, that local regulations are given serious consideration and other than a building permit no other town permits are required. The siting council is not required to abide by the town’s planning/zoning regulations but must consider them; the town needs to have justification for their regulations. Mr. Lyon went on to say that if the town is seeking any limits or monitoring of emissions for the proposed cell tower these should be worked out before the application to the siting council is done. Selectman Nicholas Solley noted the next step would be another meeting with the Cell Tower Committee.Public Information Meeting scheduled for 1/29/11 with AT&T representatives re: proposed cell tower at 17 Warren Road.
Mark Lyon, First Selectman stated that the meeting has been set for Saturday January 29, 2011 at 10:00am at the Town Hall. AT&T will attempt another balloon float for January 27th, if not January 29th. AT&T attorneys, engineers and specialists will be present; this will be a public information meeting (questions and answers) the town is providing the space and introduction. Mr. Lyon hopes it will be kept as an exchange of information. Diane Dupuis asked to have the Land Use Commissions give input on this application; Mark Lyon will speak with Land Use Coordinator Janet Hill. Selectman Nicholas Solley stated that the town would provide a PA system for this meeting. This public meeting is for both Washington and Warren residents. Pat Werner asked if after the January 29th public meeting residents could attend the next selectmen’s meeting to discuss the cell tower application. Mr. Solley encouraged residents to due so to discuss possible concerns such as height of the proposed tower, access to the tower, proximity to the school etc. Several members of the public expressed concerns with the effect on the neighborhood i.e. the hardship on property values and asked the town to hire representation to help the taxpayers. A letter was submitted dated March 26, 2003 signed by Elaine C. Luckey, First Selectman, and Nicholas N. Solley and Harry H. Wyant, Selectman Re: Proposed AT&T cell tower at 911 Rabbit Hill Road, Warren, CT. The public asked for the same representation/support from the town as was given on prior cell tower applications. Selectman Solley said they would take it into consideration.
New Business: None
Visitors: None
Motion:
Nicholas N. Solley, Selectman made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:25pm. Mark E. Lyon, First Selectman seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Acting Secretary
Posted: January 13, 2011 January 6, 2011
SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley, Consultant Dick Comi (Municipal Solutions),
Cell Tower Committee members Susan Payne, Diane Dupuis, Phil Markert.
Public: Erhard Werner, Tim and Andrea Coakley, Nora Connelly, Robert Tomlinson.
Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 2:05 p.m.Introduction:
Mark Lyon introduced Dick Comi, Consultant, Municipal Solutions, explaining that he had been hired to work on the lease negotiations with Verizon for the proposed telecommunications tower on Town’s Highway Department property. If/when the lease is agreed upon by Verizon and the Town, a Town Meeting will need to be held to give final approval.Discussion with Dick Comi:
Dick has reviewed the draft lease provided by Verizon and has spoken with Town Attorney David Miles. They had no points of disagreement and agreed to discuss further as there may be some points that will need to be addressed from the legal standpoint prior to finalizing the lease.Dick further explained that Verizon may be willing to change, include or delete various items but may have an effect on how much they may be willing to pay in rent. Dick and those in attendance discussed the following items as needing to be included in the lease and/or clarified or discussed further:
* The term “personal” should be taken out of the lease, as it is not relating to personal property, but rather Town property.
* Issues relevant to “non-compliance” need to be simplified i.e. late charges, casualty losses, etc.
* Limiting the height of the tower to 130 feet should be specified clearly. Although Verizon has specified they would require a height of 100-110 feet, the higher limit would allow for co-locators to be placed on the tower at heights they would require. Therefore it needs to be constructed strong enough to accept the other companies. Verizon would take the top spot and other company’s antennas would be placed below.
* Verizon would need to acquire FCC licensing prior to construction and therefore does not need to be specified in the lease. Town codes and regulations may cover matters dealing with co-locating or modifications made to the original tower.
* Although other telecommunication companies have expressed interest in co-locating on this tower, there is no legal commitment for them to do so at the present time. The Siting Council approves the application made by Verizon only.
* Considerations dealing with aesthetics, emissions, structure, etc. may be dealt with through the Town’s zoning regulations and/or building codes.
* Detailed drawings of equipment placed at the site are provided in accordance with the Town’s regulations and do not need to be specified in the lease.
* The lease should state that if Verizon wish to “sell” the tower, the Town needs to be given notification and must give written approval to do so. The Town has the right of first refusal.
* The appearance of the tower should be specified in the lease (monopine).
* Monitoring of emissions, MPEs, etc on a yearly basis must be specified. Should modifications, changes, additional locators placed on the tower, etc. monitoring would be required at that time as well and then done on a regular basis.
* The cost of monitoring by an independent company should be covered by Verizon and specified – possibly putting money in escrow.
* Limiting the number of co-locators in the lease may not be as important as stating the tower should be constructed strong enough to accommodate up to 4-5 additional carriers.
* A “removal bond” should be required if the tower is no longer in use and it should be stated the area must be restored to it’s original condition.
* Terms of compensation – monthly or yearly rental amount – should be in the lease as well as a percentage of income from additional carriers – should they locate on the tower.
* The lease should be reviewed at the end of its 25-year term – not automatically renewed.
* An “Up-front bonus” can be specified in the lease that would allow the Town to recover costs incurred for consultant and legal fees, etc. or could be negotiated as an option.
* Allowing of emergency communication equipment on the tower should be specified at a cost of $1 year.
* Washington’s zoning regulations in regard to cell towers should be compared to the lease document.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen at 4:10 p.m. to Executive Session to discuss financial considerations that should be part of the lease.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.Executive Session ended at 4:45 p.m.
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 4:46 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Nick Solley, seconded by Mark Lyon and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Posted: January 12, 2011 January 6, 2011
Minutes are subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
Present: First Selectman Mark E. Lyon, Selectmen James L. Brinton and Nicholas N. Solley.
Press: Jack Coraggio – Litchfield County Times.
Public: Tim and Andrea Coakley, Bill Ahearn, Pat Devlin, Kerry Dorton, Robert and Simone Odom, Christine and Idam Afiouni, Ulrich Vilbois, Rocky Tomlinson, Chris Charles, John Meeker, Bill, Joslyn, & Danielle Pollock, Pat and Ed Werner, and possibly several other residents of Washington and Warren who did not sign the attendance sheet.Call to Order:
First Selectman Lyon called the meeting to order at 5:29 p.m.
Motion:
To add subsequent business not already on the agenda.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion – this additional item is to appoint a representative to the Region #12 primary school maintenance committee.
The motion passed unanimously.Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the December 22, 2010 Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Jim Brinton and unanimously approved.
Communications: None.
Appointments/Resignations: None.
First Selectman’s Report:
First Selectman Lyon reported on the following:
The Special Selectmen’s Meeting with Consultant Dick Comi of Municipal Solutions, was held earlier this afternoon to discuss, along with members of the Cell Tower Committee, items of importance to be included in lease negotiations with Verizon for the proposed telecommunications tower on the Town’s Highway Department property. Those present will be meeting again to prioritize issues discussed.Blizzard snow removal and cleanup went well during and after the storm that hit the area December 26th.
OLD BUSINESS:
Scheduling of Public Information Meeting re: proposed AT&T cell tower at 17 Warren Road:
First Selectman Lyon again explained he would recuse himself from discussions and votes on the subject of this proposed cell tower as he is an abutting property owner.
Motion:
To schedule a Public Information Meeting, at which AT&T representatives and attorney will be present, for Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:00 a.m.
By Jim Brinton, seconded by Nick Solley.
Discussion – AT&T will be making their application to the CT Siting Council in February. The Selectmen felt that more concerned residents of Washington and Warren would be able to attend a Saturday meeting as opposed to an evening meeting.
The motion passed unanimously.Region #12 Primary School Maintenance Committee:
As part of the primary school lease agreement between the Towns and Region #12, a committee made up of representatives of the Facilities Committee, a representative from each Town’s Board of Selectmen and Region #12’s Facilities Manager, is to be formed to review the primary school repair and maintenance needs. It was unanimously decided that Mark Lyon would be Washington’s representative.
NEW BUSINESS: None.
Visitors:
17 Warren Road Proposed Cell Tower was the subject of a lengthy discussion by many Washington and Warren residents. Pat Werner, Head of School for Washington Montessori, began by explaining that Montessori property is abutting the property where the AT&T tower is proposed and is within 1200 feet of the school. Although health concerns may not be proven, the perception of possible health issues, what might not be known, is a real concern. If the tower is constructed she feels some parents may take their children out of the school and perspective parents may no longer consider sending their children. This creates a large economic concern, in addition to the other concerns. She and as discussion continued, others present asked the Board of Selectmen to take a public stand against construction of the tower. Many expressed the opinion that they are not against cell towers but are strongly against this site. Other key points discussed:
o this proposed tower does not comply with many of the Town’s zoning regulations;
o health concerns – proven and perceived;
o there are environmental concerns in an area that the State has deemed sensitive to wildlife and eco systems;
o decreased property values;
o visually offensive & destroying rural character;
o use of existing towers in the area on which to co-locate;
o public safety;
o ability of emergency vehicles and personnel to access the site;
o etc.
Selectmen Brinton and Solley both explained the Selectmen’s historical stand on cell towers on private land, expressed their understanding of all the concerns voiced by those present and the Siting Council’s ability to approve the application regardless of zoning regulations or public sentiment/statements by the Town and it’s Selectmen or money spent on engineers, lawyers, etc. Both offered to continue to listen, to gather more information from AT&T and others and the importance of working together and to continue this discussion at the January 20th Selectmen’s Meeting.Chris Charles expressed his opinion that the Town should develop a comprehensive plan for telecommunication towers rather than reacting to each application that is made - as has been the case over the past 12 years.
Adjournment:
Motion:
To adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
By Mark Lyon, seconded by Nick Solley and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Selectmen’s Secretary
Meetings in 2010