I will be out of Town for my wedding anniversary early next week, so I've rescheduled the Finance Committee that I Chair to Thursday, June 29th, so that I can take part in the presentation and discussion of the ReVal Phase In Presentation from the Town's CAO, Scott Jackson.
I look forward to publicly hearing the Administration's review of this important topic and to publicly discussing it in the Council Chambers.
All residents are welcome to attend and hear the presentation.
Questions? Please e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Monday, June 05, 2006
Phase-In of the Taxes
The flawed Revaluation that was implemented this year has left Hamden taxpayers with an extraordinary tax burden for one year. It isn't fair and, in my opinion, shouldn't have been allowed to burden our residents, making seniors and working families choose between paying their average $1,000 tax increase or paying for their medication or paying for their severely increasing fuel bills.
We had an opportunity this year to implement progressive plans to assist our residents in the forms of the two-tiered tax system (one mill rate for motor vehicles and one mill rate for residences) or a phase-in of the Revaluation. The phase in would have allowed for better planning and less sticker shock from the severe tax increase.
I must make clear that I think the Town and its Administration are working in the right direction to correct serious financial problems that our Town is facing, including:
1) an underfunded pension system;
2) health insurance account deficits and rising costs;
3) other deficit accounts created by the financial mismanagement of previous Administrations.
The only problem that I have is that we should have been looking for ways to make this tax hike more palatable for our residents, even in the face of such serious need.
More to come ....
We had an opportunity this year to implement progressive plans to assist our residents in the forms of the two-tiered tax system (one mill rate for motor vehicles and one mill rate for residences) or a phase-in of the Revaluation. The phase in would have allowed for better planning and less sticker shock from the severe tax increase.
I must make clear that I think the Town and its Administration are working in the right direction to correct serious financial problems that our Town is facing, including:
1) an underfunded pension system;
2) health insurance account deficits and rising costs;
3) other deficit accounts created by the financial mismanagement of previous Administrations.
The only problem that I have is that we should have been looking for ways to make this tax hike more palatable for our residents, even in the face of such serious need.
More to come ....
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Not Hamden's Best Day ....
Not Hamden’s Best Day - Reflections on the Budget 2006/2007
By: Curt Leng, Finance Chairman
Last week, I voted against the 2006-2007 budget. I was one of three Council members to vote against the budget. While there are many reasons that I made the choice to oppose this budget, the main reason is because I think it burdens Hamden residents with a tax rate that they don’t deserve following a flawed Reval.
We worked hard as a Council to cut the Mayor’s initial budget proposal. This became even more difficult once we were informed that there was a $500,000 typographical error in the Finance Department’s budget, followed by the almost impossible exercise of cutting an additional $3,000,000 in revenue as a result of the failed State car tax proposal that was in our original budget proposal and lastly a $600,000 error caught one day before the budget vote. With over $4,000,000 to make up before the tax rate went down a penny – this year was nearly impossible.
After this year’s flawed revaluation of property, where property was overvalued by the tail end of the housing bubble, while most commercial property wasn’t increased to the proper level because the Reval was statistical instead of hands on, we leave our residential property owners to pay for the vast majority of our increase in the Town budget. We could have done better.
I want to make it clear that I am accusing anyone of not trying to improve this year’s situation – the Administration and my fellow Councilmembers - worked very hard and made many tough choices. This was the most difficult budget that I have seen in my decade of service to the Town. We faced incalculable fiscal “messes” that needed to be cleaned in numerous areas of Town government in order to put the Town back on the road to financial recovery. The Administration took the lead on this and the Council backed the plan 100%. All items that our independent auditors recommended for improved financial health were implemented.
Still, I feel we could have done more to help our residents.
Some Council members were exploring the idea of giving residents true relief in this difficult Reval year. Two ideas that I supported were;
1) A phasing in of the Revaluation over a 2-year period. This would have lessened the immediate sticker shock of massively increased taxes in one year and allowed families, especially our seniors and working class families to plan for the increases over a two-year period;
2) The other plan that I strongly advocated for right up until the day we voted on the budget was a progressive plan that would have provided all Town residents with a reduced mill rate. This plan would be implemented with a new and interesting taxation approach of approving two mill rates – one for motor vehicles and one for residential property. This split mill rate would have kept our car taxes the same as they are now – as they do not increase in a Reval year, and would have reduced the residential mill rate by over another mill.
This plan, along with the Council’s hard work, would have resulted in a 2+ mill reduction for all residential property. This is a plan that I would have proudly voted for – been proud to be part of. Unfortunately, we were not given the opportunity to enact it.
We were told on the day that we needed to vote on the budget that the Town was unable, I believe unwilling, to implement the improvements to our financial system for the two-tiered progressive tax – even though improvements to the system were already planned for this summer. There were 4 and ½ months to make the improvements.
Instead we only cut the mill rate by one mill. Because we didn’t implement progressive “outside of the box” plans, because we didn’t make deeper cuts to certain areas of the budget, such as overtime, new positions and some purchases, I voted against this budget.
In my opinion, we failed. We failed despite hard work and effort given by all. But in the end, we failed.
If you have ideas or comments about the budget, please contact me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
(In the coming weeks I will try to elaborate on where I believe we need to go from here. To be continued ….)
Monday, May 08, 2006
Budget Work 2006 ....
The following is a series of budget articles that I've written for the Hamden Daily News that I share with you today on my BLOG. I hope the information is helpful.
Please contact me at any time with questions of ideas, councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Some Inside Information on the 2006-2007
Budget Work by the Legislative Council
By: Curt Leng
Chairman, Finance Committee
April 22, 2006
Council Budget Deliberations -- No Status Quo Here
This week my Republican friend on the Legislative Council, Ron Gambardella, wrote a "Guest Column" regarding the Town Council budget process that begs a response.
He first wrote about an account that supplies clean spring water for the employees of our town, and then compared it to an overall lack of interest in cost savings that the Council is working on for the budget.
I respect Councilman Gambardella's opinion, and in fact agree with him on some of the ways that we should be working to reduce this too-high town budget. However, taking spring water away from the town's employees and citizens that come into departments -- only to save $4,000 in a $160-plus million annual operation -- is not a fair or effective way to balance the budget.The water coolers did become a union issue -- due to the town's ignorance. OSHA violations were filed because the water coming out of many of our older plumbing systems was deemed either contaminated or at the very least quite unpleasant to taste. With the conditions that we make some of our employees work in -- old buildings, mold- and dirt-filled work areas -- the least we can do is offer clean, fresh water.Many times that Mr. Gambardella makes motions to reduce the budget; I carefully listen and sometimes support the ideas. I am one of the budget hawks who try to reduce whatever line item I possibly can from each department's budget. This is why I take exception to Councilman Gambardella's statement that there is a "lack of serious commitment to reduce the budget in any meaningful way."This is simply not true.
The status quo is something that this Council and the council before it have tossed out the window. Here are just a few examples of how we are budgeting in a much more fiscally conservative manner:
1) We have moved the majority of the town's overtime accounts in all of the departments into the Legislative Council's overtime budget so that every request for overtime spending can be carefully reviewed and approved by the 15-member Council. This has resulted in reduced overtime costs.
2) We have instituted new systems of consolidating common purchases that used to be spread throughout every department into a central account in the Purchasing Office, where the purchase of items in bulk has saved the town significant dollars. In past budget cycles, we centralized all printing, office and computer supplies, and this year we intend to do so with the purchasing of replacement or additional office equipment. We have learned that this centralization of purchasing has saved Hamden taxpayers approximately 20 percent in each category.
3) The Council has taken on key matters that have plagued the town's financial status, such as the pension, medical self-insurance and workers' comp funds -- all of which were in trouble -- and have made progress in each area. I'm proud to report that we've gotten on to a real payment plan for the pension fund that will save Hamden millions over the years, and have brought the workers' comp account from the red into the black. Even the medical self-insurance fund is improving!
4) We've also taken difficult steps to leave dozens of positions over the last several years empty that became vacant through retirement and/or other means. These unfilled positions have made departments do more with less, and have saved well over a half-million annually. These are pressing issues facing the town and they have been effectively worked on by the Legislative Council.
I still look forward to working with Mr. Gambardella on this year's budget -- the most difficult budget I have seen over the last decade of my involvement with the town. A more accurate picture of the work that the Council accomplishes needs to be reported to our citizens so that they know we are looking very carefully for any way to save taxpayer dollars and make the hurt of this year's revaluation less painful. This includes considering a phasing in of our revaluation -- which we are awaiting information on. Such a bold move would be looked at favorably by a number of councilmembers, myself included, and would be the kind of bold policy change that would help our residents.
Please feel free to contact me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net to talk about the budget or offer ideas you might have that we should look at in any attempt to reduce the tax burden.
(Democratic Councilman Curt Leng is serving his third term on the Legislative Council, and chairs the Finance and School Building committees.)
April 25, 2006
Word of the Budget Season: Consolidate
This week we will begin to deliberate the larger town departments like Public Works and guardian services -- fire and police. These departments total close to $30 million of the annual operating budget and have hundreds of individual "accounts" to research and make decisions about.
It is in areas such as these where we can find the largest annual increases and also the largest possible savings depending on the changes we consider. I see a few potential areas where we should seriously consider making cuts, such as some new positions, and other areas where we might want to return a position or product the mayor eliminated because the department head has made a good argument for it.
In what I promise will be my last word on spring water, I would like to point out that 10 of the 16 coolers that we supply are located in the following locations: the landfill, Public Works, fire/police training center, the daycare room at the Keefe Center, police headquarters and annex (two coolers in each building), community police, fire headquarters. That means that 10 are not in Government Center with its newer plumbing, but mainly in older buildings or construction trailers.
While it's clear Councilman Gambardella and I will did not see eye to eye on this issue, I am fairly confident that we may be on the same page with other ideas. The word of the week, in my opinion, should be consolidation.
It's a dirty word in some government circles. People think it will cut the service level that we provide our residents or hurt our already short-staffed departments. I disagree. I think there are several ways the town can explore consolidation that could result in significant savings for our taxpayers and the potential for increased services.
The first and potentially most effective effort at consolidating some duplication of service is between the town government and the Board of Education. Discussion started even before the purchase of Government Center that the Board of Education management, finance and personnel staff would share the building. Mayor Henrici has endorsed this idea and I believe that the Board of Education is open to the idea as well.
Not only would it be a good symbolic effort, bringing the town and Board together in the same building, but it would also cause immediate staffing and operating efficiencies.
Speaking of Public Works and Parks & Recreation, I think a comprehensive study should be initiated this year -- and I plan to recommend that it be put into this year's budget -- to see if town services would be more cost- and service-effective if we consolidated those two departments.
Parks & Recreation and Public Works overlap in numerous areas and sometimes even need to buy similar equipment twice -- one for each department -- which is simply crazy. I would like to see Parks & Recreation and Public Works consolidate manpower, equipment, manning for vacations and sick-time and provide the goal of even more efficient services.
In these two areas, Hamden has the opportunity to save hundreds of thousands of dollars over a relatively short time. I also think it would create a team spirit between the departments and between the town and Board of Education that cannot be measured in dollars -- but would be incredibly valuable to our government and our citizens.
In my next piece, I plan to write about the idea of implementing a "phase-in" over a two- or three-year period of the revaluation hit homeowners took this year. From what I have heard so far, and this is unfortunately without hard data, phasing in would ease the burden of the substantial tax increases.
If you have any comments on my thoughts or on any aspect of the budget, please e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
April 27, 2006
Progress Made With a Big 4
During the fourth night of our budget deliberations on Monday, we made some progress when working on the first of the Big 4 budgets: Public Works. The other Big 4 are Fire, Police and the Board of Education.
Carefully and with good friendly debate, we went through each of the Public Works' 70-odd individual accounts or "line-items" and cut over $125,000 from the budget. We did this by carefully reviewing what was asked for in each account, looking at multi-year trends and seeing what the department's current year-to-date budget status was three-quarters of the way through the current fiscal year.
It should be noted that we have not yet looked at any department's personnel. We are saving personnel for the next round of deliberations when we will see where salary cuts can be made. This is the area of our annual deliberations where the most savings can usually be found, with the average salary of one employee being roughly $45,000 plus benefits.
I plan to make the same motion that I did last year with regards to personnel -- a motion to eliminate funding for all current positions that have been made vacant due to a retirement, employees who have left Hamden employment or positions made vacant due to a promotion. This is not to say that I will not support funding some positions -- specifically those in the understaffed Finance Department, which has experienced numerous vacancies.
If this motion passes, it will force us to individually debate each position before it gets funding in the Council budget. Last year this proved to be a very good cost-saving experiment. It isn't easy to vote to put positions in the budget when we know that each position will increase the overall budget by over $50,000. (Traditionally, Police and Fire are not made part of this potion due to public safety and minimum-manning contractual requirements.)
While the overall night was a success, the discussion regarding the Hamden library and the subsequent vote to eliminate Sunday hours from Miller Library was, in my opinion, very unfortunate. Along with four of my fellow councilmembers, I voted against closing our library on Sunday. Sunday hours are very popular and a wonderful service for Hamden students, especially those without computers at home.
I hope we can reconsider this at a later date in the budget process. Sunday hours only cost the town approximately $30,000, plus some additional utilities, and I would have liked to see us remove funding from other accounts to save this $30,000 than to cut Sunday hours. Hopefully, together, we can come up with an alternative.
As always, if anyone has any ideas or suggestions, please feel free to e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Please contact me at any time with questions of ideas, councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Some Inside Information on the 2006-2007
Budget Work by the Legislative Council
By: Curt Leng
Chairman, Finance Committee
April 22, 2006
Council Budget Deliberations -- No Status Quo Here
This week my Republican friend on the Legislative Council, Ron Gambardella, wrote a "Guest Column" regarding the Town Council budget process that begs a response.
He first wrote about an account that supplies clean spring water for the employees of our town, and then compared it to an overall lack of interest in cost savings that the Council is working on for the budget.
I respect Councilman Gambardella's opinion, and in fact agree with him on some of the ways that we should be working to reduce this too-high town budget. However, taking spring water away from the town's employees and citizens that come into departments -- only to save $4,000 in a $160-plus million annual operation -- is not a fair or effective way to balance the budget.The water coolers did become a union issue -- due to the town's ignorance. OSHA violations were filed because the water coming out of many of our older plumbing systems was deemed either contaminated or at the very least quite unpleasant to taste. With the conditions that we make some of our employees work in -- old buildings, mold- and dirt-filled work areas -- the least we can do is offer clean, fresh water.Many times that Mr. Gambardella makes motions to reduce the budget; I carefully listen and sometimes support the ideas. I am one of the budget hawks who try to reduce whatever line item I possibly can from each department's budget. This is why I take exception to Councilman Gambardella's statement that there is a "lack of serious commitment to reduce the budget in any meaningful way."This is simply not true.
The status quo is something that this Council and the council before it have tossed out the window. Here are just a few examples of how we are budgeting in a much more fiscally conservative manner:
1) We have moved the majority of the town's overtime accounts in all of the departments into the Legislative Council's overtime budget so that every request for overtime spending can be carefully reviewed and approved by the 15-member Council. This has resulted in reduced overtime costs.
2) We have instituted new systems of consolidating common purchases that used to be spread throughout every department into a central account in the Purchasing Office, where the purchase of items in bulk has saved the town significant dollars. In past budget cycles, we centralized all printing, office and computer supplies, and this year we intend to do so with the purchasing of replacement or additional office equipment. We have learned that this centralization of purchasing has saved Hamden taxpayers approximately 20 percent in each category.
3) The Council has taken on key matters that have plagued the town's financial status, such as the pension, medical self-insurance and workers' comp funds -- all of which were in trouble -- and have made progress in each area. I'm proud to report that we've gotten on to a real payment plan for the pension fund that will save Hamden millions over the years, and have brought the workers' comp account from the red into the black. Even the medical self-insurance fund is improving!
4) We've also taken difficult steps to leave dozens of positions over the last several years empty that became vacant through retirement and/or other means. These unfilled positions have made departments do more with less, and have saved well over a half-million annually. These are pressing issues facing the town and they have been effectively worked on by the Legislative Council.
I still look forward to working with Mr. Gambardella on this year's budget -- the most difficult budget I have seen over the last decade of my involvement with the town. A more accurate picture of the work that the Council accomplishes needs to be reported to our citizens so that they know we are looking very carefully for any way to save taxpayer dollars and make the hurt of this year's revaluation less painful. This includes considering a phasing in of our revaluation -- which we are awaiting information on. Such a bold move would be looked at favorably by a number of councilmembers, myself included, and would be the kind of bold policy change that would help our residents.
Please feel free to contact me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net to talk about the budget or offer ideas you might have that we should look at in any attempt to reduce the tax burden.
(Democratic Councilman Curt Leng is serving his third term on the Legislative Council, and chairs the Finance and School Building committees.)
April 25, 2006
Word of the Budget Season: Consolidate
This week we will begin to deliberate the larger town departments like Public Works and guardian services -- fire and police. These departments total close to $30 million of the annual operating budget and have hundreds of individual "accounts" to research and make decisions about.
It is in areas such as these where we can find the largest annual increases and also the largest possible savings depending on the changes we consider. I see a few potential areas where we should seriously consider making cuts, such as some new positions, and other areas where we might want to return a position or product the mayor eliminated because the department head has made a good argument for it.
In what I promise will be my last word on spring water, I would like to point out that 10 of the 16 coolers that we supply are located in the following locations: the landfill, Public Works, fire/police training center, the daycare room at the Keefe Center, police headquarters and annex (two coolers in each building), community police, fire headquarters. That means that 10 are not in Government Center with its newer plumbing, but mainly in older buildings or construction trailers.
While it's clear Councilman Gambardella and I will did not see eye to eye on this issue, I am fairly confident that we may be on the same page with other ideas. The word of the week, in my opinion, should be consolidation.
It's a dirty word in some government circles. People think it will cut the service level that we provide our residents or hurt our already short-staffed departments. I disagree. I think there are several ways the town can explore consolidation that could result in significant savings for our taxpayers and the potential for increased services.
The first and potentially most effective effort at consolidating some duplication of service is between the town government and the Board of Education. Discussion started even before the purchase of Government Center that the Board of Education management, finance and personnel staff would share the building. Mayor Henrici has endorsed this idea and I believe that the Board of Education is open to the idea as well.
Not only would it be a good symbolic effort, bringing the town and Board together in the same building, but it would also cause immediate staffing and operating efficiencies.
Speaking of Public Works and Parks & Recreation, I think a comprehensive study should be initiated this year -- and I plan to recommend that it be put into this year's budget -- to see if town services would be more cost- and service-effective if we consolidated those two departments.
Parks & Recreation and Public Works overlap in numerous areas and sometimes even need to buy similar equipment twice -- one for each department -- which is simply crazy. I would like to see Parks & Recreation and Public Works consolidate manpower, equipment, manning for vacations and sick-time and provide the goal of even more efficient services.
In these two areas, Hamden has the opportunity to save hundreds of thousands of dollars over a relatively short time. I also think it would create a team spirit between the departments and between the town and Board of Education that cannot be measured in dollars -- but would be incredibly valuable to our government and our citizens.
In my next piece, I plan to write about the idea of implementing a "phase-in" over a two- or three-year period of the revaluation hit homeowners took this year. From what I have heard so far, and this is unfortunately without hard data, phasing in would ease the burden of the substantial tax increases.
If you have any comments on my thoughts or on any aspect of the budget, please e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
April 27, 2006
Progress Made With a Big 4
During the fourth night of our budget deliberations on Monday, we made some progress when working on the first of the Big 4 budgets: Public Works. The other Big 4 are Fire, Police and the Board of Education.
Carefully and with good friendly debate, we went through each of the Public Works' 70-odd individual accounts or "line-items" and cut over $125,000 from the budget. We did this by carefully reviewing what was asked for in each account, looking at multi-year trends and seeing what the department's current year-to-date budget status was three-quarters of the way through the current fiscal year.
It should be noted that we have not yet looked at any department's personnel. We are saving personnel for the next round of deliberations when we will see where salary cuts can be made. This is the area of our annual deliberations where the most savings can usually be found, with the average salary of one employee being roughly $45,000 plus benefits.
I plan to make the same motion that I did last year with regards to personnel -- a motion to eliminate funding for all current positions that have been made vacant due to a retirement, employees who have left Hamden employment or positions made vacant due to a promotion. This is not to say that I will not support funding some positions -- specifically those in the understaffed Finance Department, which has experienced numerous vacancies.
If this motion passes, it will force us to individually debate each position before it gets funding in the Council budget. Last year this proved to be a very good cost-saving experiment. It isn't easy to vote to put positions in the budget when we know that each position will increase the overall budget by over $50,000. (Traditionally, Police and Fire are not made part of this potion due to public safety and minimum-manning contractual requirements.)
While the overall night was a success, the discussion regarding the Hamden library and the subsequent vote to eliminate Sunday hours from Miller Library was, in my opinion, very unfortunate. Along with four of my fellow councilmembers, I voted against closing our library on Sunday. Sunday hours are very popular and a wonderful service for Hamden students, especially those without computers at home.
I hope we can reconsider this at a later date in the budget process. Sunday hours only cost the town approximately $30,000, plus some additional utilities, and I would have liked to see us remove funding from other accounts to save this $30,000 than to cut Sunday hours. Hopefully, together, we can come up with an alternative.
As always, if anyone has any ideas or suggestions, please feel free to e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Mayor's Budget Address
Hello friends,
I am working on a more comprehensive report on the 2006-2007 Annual Municipal Operating Budget that I'll publish early next week.
My initial reaction after listening to the Mayor's budget address and reading the budget over for the first time, is that while the direction the Administration is heading in is a vast improvement from some past budgets, the Legislative Council still has a lot of work to do to ensure that our residents are not hit with such a massive tax increase in one single budget year.
Every effort needs to be made to reduce the budget recommendation of a 9% increase in spending, while at the same time saving as many of our Town's quality services as possible.
I look forward to interacting with you and getting your ideas on the budget and other areas of the Town government. Please e-mail at anytime - councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net
More to come !
Curt
I am working on a more comprehensive report on the 2006-2007 Annual Municipal Operating Budget that I'll publish early next week.
My initial reaction after listening to the Mayor's budget address and reading the budget over for the first time, is that while the direction the Administration is heading in is a vast improvement from some past budgets, the Legislative Council still has a lot of work to do to ensure that our residents are not hit with such a massive tax increase in one single budget year.
Every effort needs to be made to reduce the budget recommendation of a 9% increase in spending, while at the same time saving as many of our Town's quality services as possible.
I look forward to interacting with you and getting your ideas on the budget and other areas of the Town government. Please e-mail at anytime - councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net
More to come !
Curt
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Snow in March
Just a quick post to thank the crews of the Public Works Department for what I think was a pretty good effort with the last snow storm. I went out and toured about two dozen streets in all areas of the 6th District in the evening hours and found most to be cleared well. I would like to see a little more sand and salt, but we can work on that.
If any member of the 6th District had trouble with the snow plowing for this past storm, please give me a call at 288-6258 or e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Best,
Curt
If any member of the 6th District had trouble with the snow plowing for this past storm, please give me a call at 288-6258 or e-mail me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net.
Best,
Curt
Thursday, March 02, 2006
March Legislative Council Agenda
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING -
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
MARCH 6, 2006, 7:00. P.M.
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
6. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
7. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
8. REPORTS OF BOARDS AND DEPARTMENTS
9. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
10. REPORTS OF COUNCIL LIAISONS
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
12. NEW BUSINESS:CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items have been addressed in Committee and will be considered in toto by unanimous consent:
1. REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05(1) totaling $25.0
2. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED AFTER 7/1/05 (4)totaling $2,709.98
3. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OF CORRECTIONISSUED after 7/1/05 (30) totaling $7,276.63
4. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE - $35.OO (Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
5. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE -$300. (Pay Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- FINANCE DEPT.- $15,000.(Prof/Tech Svcs)INTERNAL TRANSFER
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- PURCHASING Dept. -$565.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.-$150,000.(Various Accounts)($100,000. FROM E & C)($50,000. FROM L/C OVERTIME)
9. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ASSESSOR'S OFFICE - $1,500.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
10. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE- $800.(Advertising)FROM E & C ACCOUNT
11. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE - $2,500. (ElectionSupplies) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
12. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE - $150. (Dues)INTERNAL TRANSFER
13. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $4,000.(Armory GeneralSupplies) INTERNAL TRANSFER
14. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT.- $24,000.(Gasoline)INTERNAL TRANSFER
15. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FIRE DEPT. - $15,000.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
16. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TRAFFIC DEPT. - $3,000. (Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
17. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TRAFFIC DEPT. - $10,000.(Electricity)INTERNAL TRANSFER
18. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY- $150.(Clothing Allowance)INTERNAL TRANSFER19. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY - $2,500. (Shift Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
20. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY- $5,500. (Temporary Wages)INTERNAL TRANSFER
21. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PARKS/RECREATIOON - $2,000. (Water)INTERNAL TRANSFER
22. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ENGINEERING DEPT. -$1,600.(Equipment Repairs) INTERNAL TRANSFER
23. APPOINTMENTS TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (James Doherty)(Irving Saslow) for terms ending June 30, 2008
24. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (Stuart Pearl)for a term ending June 30, 200825. APPOINTMENT OF HAMDEN'S REPRESENTATIVE TO THE CITIZENSTELEVISION (Amy Golda) for term ending November 25, 2007
26. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMISSION (Terre Daniels)(Michael Brooks)for terms ending March 31, 2009
27. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (RobertGnida)to fill a vacancy expiring Aprill 30, 2006and for an additional term ending April 30, 2009
28. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Jean-PaulCardichon)for a term ending Nov. 1, 2008
29. APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS COMMISSION (Rachael Pepper)for a term ending May 31, 2007
30. APPOINTMENT TO THE VETERAN'S COMMISSION (Joseph DeLuca)for a term ending October 26, 2008
31. APPOINTMENT TO THE TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION (Chris R.Nelson) for a term ending July 1, 2007
32. APPOINTMENT TO THE TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION (Steven Sohcot)for a term ending July 1, 2008
33. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION (BarryHermann)(Johanna Gurr)(Mary Ann Thomas) for terms endingMarch 1, 2009
34. APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMISSION ON DISABILITY (MichaelVena)(Mary Margaret Mandel) for terms ending Oct. 31, 2007
35. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF AN RFP FOR RENOVATIONSTO THE CHILDREN'S LIBRARY ROOM
36. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFQ FOR ON-CALLSTRUCTURAL BRIDGE ENGINEERING SERVICES
37. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FORTHE BENEFIT OF AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S RELAY FOR LIFEON MARCH 31, 2006
38. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FORTHE BENEFIT OF MADD'S ANNUAL SKATE FOR LEAH ON MARCH18, 2006
39. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ARTS COMMISSION TO ACCEPT &EXPEND A GRANT OF $10,910. FROM THE CT.COMMISSION ONCULTURE AND TOURISM
40. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET(FINANCE DEPARTMENT)
41. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AND SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF CT. DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTALPROTECTION BUREAU OF WATER MANAGEMENT AND AUTHORIZING THEACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS TO UPDATE/DEVELOP A HAZARDOUSMITIGATION PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF HAMDEN
42. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZNG THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN OPENSPACE & WATERSHED LAND ACQUISITION GRANT AGREEMENT ANDCONSERVATION AND PUBLIC RECREATION EASEMENT AND AGREEMENTBETWEEN THE STATE OF CT. AND THE TOWN OF HAMDEN
43. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT #2 TO BL COMPANIES CONTRACT/HAMDENHIGH SCHOOL (Architectural services)
AGENDA:
44. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFQ FOR ON-CALLSTRUCTURAL BRIDGE ENGINEERING SERVICES
45. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER FOR ACTUARIAL SERVICES FOR MEDICAREPART D46. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE OF 277 THORNTON ST. (JOHNSON'S POND)
47. APPROVAL OF RESOLUTIONS AND TEMPORARY RIGHTS AGREEMENTSAUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF HAMDEN TO ACQUIRE CERTAINPROPERTIES BY SALE OR EMINENT DOMAIN IN CONJUNCTION WITHTHE MIDDLE SCHOOL ROAD WIDENING PROJECT
48. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS TO HOGAN ROAD(SCENIC ROAD)PER SECTION 98.04 OF HAMDEN TOWN CODEOF ORDINANCES
49. REQUEST FOR MUNINCIPAL IMPROVEMENTS UNDER SEC. 8-24FOR 5 LOT SUBDIVISION PROJECT IN NORTH HAVEN WHICH WOULDENTAIL CHANGING THE GRADE AND WIDTH OF A PORTION OF HOGANROAD WITHIN HAMDEN AND REMOVAL OF TWO OR THREE TREESLOCATED WITHIN THE RIGHT OF WAY(Rejected by Planning Section of Planning & ZoningCommission)
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS:
1. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET(LIBRARY DEPT.)
2. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF TYLER EQUIPMENTCORPORATION - $24,000. (Purchase of a Volvo Motor)TABLED ITEM
3. APPROVAL OF ABATEMENT OF TAXES FOR DAVENPORT/DUNBARRESIDENCES IN THE AMOUNT OF $104,598.71
REGULAR MEETING -
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
MARCH 6, 2006, 7:00. P.M.
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
6. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
7. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
8. REPORTS OF BOARDS AND DEPARTMENTS
9. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
10. REPORTS OF COUNCIL LIAISONS
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
12. NEW BUSINESS:CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items have been addressed in Committee and will be considered in toto by unanimous consent:
1. REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05(1) totaling $25.0
2. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED AFTER 7/1/05 (4)totaling $2,709.98
3. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OF CORRECTIONISSUED after 7/1/05 (30) totaling $7,276.63
4. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE - $35.OO (Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
5. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE -$300. (Pay Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- FINANCE DEPT.- $15,000.(Prof/Tech Svcs)INTERNAL TRANSFER
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- PURCHASING Dept. -$565.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.-$150,000.(Various Accounts)($100,000. FROM E & C)($50,000. FROM L/C OVERTIME)
9. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ASSESSOR'S OFFICE - $1,500.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
10. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE- $800.(Advertising)FROM E & C ACCOUNT
11. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE - $2,500. (ElectionSupplies) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
12. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE - $150. (Dues)INTERNAL TRANSFER
13. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $4,000.(Armory GeneralSupplies) INTERNAL TRANSFER
14. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT.- $24,000.(Gasoline)INTERNAL TRANSFER
15. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FIRE DEPT. - $15,000.(Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
16. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TRAFFIC DEPT. - $3,000. (Overtime)INTERNAL TRANSFER
17. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TRAFFIC DEPT. - $10,000.(Electricity)INTERNAL TRANSFER
18. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY- $150.(Clothing Allowance)INTERNAL TRANSFER19. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY - $2,500. (Shift Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
20. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY- $5,500. (Temporary Wages)INTERNAL TRANSFER
21. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PARKS/RECREATIOON - $2,000. (Water)INTERNAL TRANSFER
22. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ENGINEERING DEPT. -$1,600.(Equipment Repairs) INTERNAL TRANSFER
23. APPOINTMENTS TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (James Doherty)(Irving Saslow) for terms ending June 30, 2008
24. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (Stuart Pearl)for a term ending June 30, 200825. APPOINTMENT OF HAMDEN'S REPRESENTATIVE TO THE CITIZENSTELEVISION (Amy Golda) for term ending November 25, 2007
26. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMISSION (Terre Daniels)(Michael Brooks)for terms ending March 31, 2009
27. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (RobertGnida)to fill a vacancy expiring Aprill 30, 2006and for an additional term ending April 30, 2009
28. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Jean-PaulCardichon)for a term ending Nov. 1, 2008
29. APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS COMMISSION (Rachael Pepper)for a term ending May 31, 2007
30. APPOINTMENT TO THE VETERAN'S COMMISSION (Joseph DeLuca)for a term ending October 26, 2008
31. APPOINTMENT TO THE TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION (Chris R.Nelson) for a term ending July 1, 2007
32. APPOINTMENT TO THE TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION (Steven Sohcot)for a term ending July 1, 2008
33. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION (BarryHermann)(Johanna Gurr)(Mary Ann Thomas) for terms endingMarch 1, 2009
34. APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMISSION ON DISABILITY (MichaelVena)(Mary Margaret Mandel) for terms ending Oct. 31, 2007
35. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF AN RFP FOR RENOVATIONSTO THE CHILDREN'S LIBRARY ROOM
36. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFQ FOR ON-CALLSTRUCTURAL BRIDGE ENGINEERING SERVICES
37. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FORTHE BENEFIT OF AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S RELAY FOR LIFEON MARCH 31, 2006
38. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FORTHE BENEFIT OF MADD'S ANNUAL SKATE FOR LEAH ON MARCH18, 2006
39. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ARTS COMMISSION TO ACCEPT &EXPEND A GRANT OF $10,910. FROM THE CT.COMMISSION ONCULTURE AND TOURISM
40. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET(FINANCE DEPARTMENT)
41. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AND SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF CT. DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTALPROTECTION BUREAU OF WATER MANAGEMENT AND AUTHORIZING THEACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS TO UPDATE/DEVELOP A HAZARDOUSMITIGATION PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF HAMDEN
42. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZNG THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN OPENSPACE & WATERSHED LAND ACQUISITION GRANT AGREEMENT ANDCONSERVATION AND PUBLIC RECREATION EASEMENT AND AGREEMENTBETWEEN THE STATE OF CT. AND THE TOWN OF HAMDEN
43. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT #2 TO BL COMPANIES CONTRACT/HAMDENHIGH SCHOOL (Architectural services)
AGENDA:
44. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFQ FOR ON-CALLSTRUCTURAL BRIDGE ENGINEERING SERVICES
45. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER FOR ACTUARIAL SERVICES FOR MEDICAREPART D46. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE OF 277 THORNTON ST. (JOHNSON'S POND)
47. APPROVAL OF RESOLUTIONS AND TEMPORARY RIGHTS AGREEMENTSAUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF HAMDEN TO ACQUIRE CERTAINPROPERTIES BY SALE OR EMINENT DOMAIN IN CONJUNCTION WITHTHE MIDDLE SCHOOL ROAD WIDENING PROJECT
48. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS TO HOGAN ROAD(SCENIC ROAD)PER SECTION 98.04 OF HAMDEN TOWN CODEOF ORDINANCES
49. REQUEST FOR MUNINCIPAL IMPROVEMENTS UNDER SEC. 8-24FOR 5 LOT SUBDIVISION PROJECT IN NORTH HAVEN WHICH WOULDENTAIL CHANGING THE GRADE AND WIDTH OF A PORTION OF HOGANROAD WITHIN HAMDEN AND REMOVAL OF TWO OR THREE TREESLOCATED WITHIN THE RIGHT OF WAY(Rejected by Planning Section of Planning & ZoningCommission)
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS:
1. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET(LIBRARY DEPT.)
2. APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF TYLER EQUIPMENTCORPORATION - $24,000. (Purchase of a Volvo Motor)TABLED ITEM
3. APPROVAL OF ABATEMENT OF TAXES FOR DAVENPORT/DUNBARRESIDENCES IN THE AMOUNT OF $104,598.71
Friday, February 10, 2006
Hamden Middle School Update Article from HDN
Middle School Check-In
By Sharon Bass
At last night's School Building Committee meeting, members Chris Daur, Austin Cesare and Gretchen Callahan gave the new middle school consultants a run for their money. Or rather the taxpayers' money.
Reps from Konover, the project's construction company, Turner, the company that oversees Konover, and other contractors gave somewhat less than definitive answers to how much the security system would cost and how the special ed classrooms -- originally designated to windowless rooms -- would be handled. And Daur, Cesare and Callahan were not satisfied.
On the other hand, member John Keegan defended the contractors and school administrators -- who appear to be on the same page -- saying the professionals know best.
There's been ongoing debate about how many security cameras are needed for the new school on Meadowbrook. Originally, Hamden police deemed 100 were needed, although the current middle school has just six, the high school seven. At the Jan. 26 SBC meeting, members talked about paring that number down to 75 or 50.
The rep from Konover told the committee last night that it turns out "only 71" are needed. He said the 75 figure was "based on a very quick meeting with police and the school administration." Upon further study, it was found four could be knocked off.
But that didn't please Cesare any more this time than last. He said he teaches in a high school that has 23 cameras.
"You're putting all those cameras in there and nobody's watching them," he said.
Plans call for two camera monitors -- one in principal Frank Pepe's quarters and the other in the clerical area of the main office. Pepe agreed that most of the time the monitors would not be watched. Cesare suggested having a security guard stationed in a booth with a monitor at the entrance of the school.
"I only have two security guards," the principal said. "They work with the kids, help out in the cafeteria and help with the buses. I don't have a person to be stationary."
"Cameras are not meant to be monitored these days," said Keegan.
Callahan asked Pepe how often children have behavior problems. "How often are nickel bags of pot found? Is there a lot of vandalism?"
He said vandalism occurs on the outside of the building. As discussed at previous meetings, the cameras' main purpose is to supply evidence after the fact rather than catch a crime or other problem in action.
"I'm not getting enough information to approve the $200,000" bill, said Daur clearly annoyed. "I've been asking for six weeks."
Another unknown is the actual cost of the system. The last time the SBC met, Konover gave "loose" estimates: 100 cameras for $290,000; 75 for $236,438; and 50 for $177,698. Those figures don't include the design and wiring of the cameras, the door sensors and other security measures deemed necessary for the 1,100 seventh- and eighth-graders.
"This is no different than any other budget item," said member Michael D'Agostino. "Here's $150,000, $200,000. How many cameras can we have?" $100,000 was originally budgeted for security.
Committee Chair Curt Leng made a motion to approve 48 cameras and 23 door sensors for the "loose" figure of $187,698.
The measure passed with five votes. Callahan voted against it and Leng abstained.
The "infamous special ed rooms," as Leng called them, were also on the agenda. The conversation was lengthy and repetitive.
Since parent Cathy Coughlin, who was at last night's meeting, discovered last year that windowless classrooms were earmarked for special ed children, the plans have been revised. Rooms with windows are being outfitted for special education. Four are to be learning centers, with two having full kitchens. There will also be six resource rooms, said special ed director Bill McGraw.
Callahan said she recently toured the new middle school to see the learning centers. She said the centers, where some children spend the bulk of their day, looked smaller than the windowless ones. "I'm afraid there won't be enough space," she said.
McGraw said 17 special ed seventh-graders are expected next school year, who will spend anywhere from 62 percent to 75 percent of their time in the learning centers and the rest in mainstream classes.
"I understand that," said Callahan. "But I think it's still very tight, very tight."
"We try to limit special ed classrooms to six to seven children," said McGraw. Although, he added, even with six to seven, "it may be tough at times."
Pepe said he's never seen a special education class with more than 10 children.
"What happens when new children come in next year and that number goes from 17 to 22?" said Leng.
Callahan said it would save money and space to just install one kitchen. "To me it makes so much sense than building two complete kitchens. They won't even be cooking every day," she said.
Keegan said two are needed. "I trust the experts."
Parent Coughlin interjected. "You don't need two kitchens."
"I think this has been aired considerably," said Meg Nowacki, a member of the public who regularly attends town meetings. "I hope the committee tonight will not delay in making a decision."
The committee voted 4-3 for two kitchens, not to exceed $32,670. Callahan, Leng and Cesare voted against the item.
The school is now 60 percent completed, according to Konover.
By Sharon Bass
At last night's School Building Committee meeting, members Chris Daur, Austin Cesare and Gretchen Callahan gave the new middle school consultants a run for their money. Or rather the taxpayers' money.
Reps from Konover, the project's construction company, Turner, the company that oversees Konover, and other contractors gave somewhat less than definitive answers to how much the security system would cost and how the special ed classrooms -- originally designated to windowless rooms -- would be handled. And Daur, Cesare and Callahan were not satisfied.
On the other hand, member John Keegan defended the contractors and school administrators -- who appear to be on the same page -- saying the professionals know best.
There's been ongoing debate about how many security cameras are needed for the new school on Meadowbrook. Originally, Hamden police deemed 100 were needed, although the current middle school has just six, the high school seven. At the Jan. 26 SBC meeting, members talked about paring that number down to 75 or 50.
The rep from Konover told the committee last night that it turns out "only 71" are needed. He said the 75 figure was "based on a very quick meeting with police and the school administration." Upon further study, it was found four could be knocked off.
But that didn't please Cesare any more this time than last. He said he teaches in a high school that has 23 cameras.
"You're putting all those cameras in there and nobody's watching them," he said.
Plans call for two camera monitors -- one in principal Frank Pepe's quarters and the other in the clerical area of the main office. Pepe agreed that most of the time the monitors would not be watched. Cesare suggested having a security guard stationed in a booth with a monitor at the entrance of the school.
"I only have two security guards," the principal said. "They work with the kids, help out in the cafeteria and help with the buses. I don't have a person to be stationary."
"Cameras are not meant to be monitored these days," said Keegan.
Callahan asked Pepe how often children have behavior problems. "How often are nickel bags of pot found? Is there a lot of vandalism?"
He said vandalism occurs on the outside of the building. As discussed at previous meetings, the cameras' main purpose is to supply evidence after the fact rather than catch a crime or other problem in action.
"I'm not getting enough information to approve the $200,000" bill, said Daur clearly annoyed. "I've been asking for six weeks."
Another unknown is the actual cost of the system. The last time the SBC met, Konover gave "loose" estimates: 100 cameras for $290,000; 75 for $236,438; and 50 for $177,698. Those figures don't include the design and wiring of the cameras, the door sensors and other security measures deemed necessary for the 1,100 seventh- and eighth-graders.
"This is no different than any other budget item," said member Michael D'Agostino. "Here's $150,000, $200,000. How many cameras can we have?" $100,000 was originally budgeted for security.
Committee Chair Curt Leng made a motion to approve 48 cameras and 23 door sensors for the "loose" figure of $187,698.
The measure passed with five votes. Callahan voted against it and Leng abstained.
The "infamous special ed rooms," as Leng called them, were also on the agenda. The conversation was lengthy and repetitive.
Since parent Cathy Coughlin, who was at last night's meeting, discovered last year that windowless classrooms were earmarked for special ed children, the plans have been revised. Rooms with windows are being outfitted for special education. Four are to be learning centers, with two having full kitchens. There will also be six resource rooms, said special ed director Bill McGraw.
Callahan said she recently toured the new middle school to see the learning centers. She said the centers, where some children spend the bulk of their day, looked smaller than the windowless ones. "I'm afraid there won't be enough space," she said.
McGraw said 17 special ed seventh-graders are expected next school year, who will spend anywhere from 62 percent to 75 percent of their time in the learning centers and the rest in mainstream classes.
"I understand that," said Callahan. "But I think it's still very tight, very tight."
"We try to limit special ed classrooms to six to seven children," said McGraw. Although, he added, even with six to seven, "it may be tough at times."
Pepe said he's never seen a special education class with more than 10 children.
"What happens when new children come in next year and that number goes from 17 to 22?" said Leng.
Callahan said it would save money and space to just install one kitchen. "To me it makes so much sense than building two complete kitchens. They won't even be cooking every day," she said.
Keegan said two are needed. "I trust the experts."
Parent Coughlin interjected. "You don't need two kitchens."
"I think this has been aired considerably," said Meg Nowacki, a member of the public who regularly attends town meetings. "I hope the committee tonight will not delay in making a decision."
The committee voted 4-3 for two kitchens, not to exceed $32,670. Callahan, Leng and Cesare voted against the item.
The school is now 60 percent completed, according to Konover.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Legislative Council Feb. Regular Council Agenda
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING - LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 6, 2006
7:00. P.M.
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
6. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
7. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
8. REPORTS OF BOARDS AND DEPARTMENTS
9. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
10. REPORTS OF COUNCIL LIAISONS
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
12. NEW BUSINESS:
CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items have been addressed in Committee and will be considered in toto by unanimous consent:
1. REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05
(2) totaling $2,757.02
2.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED AFTER 7/1/05 (2)
totaling $2,309.26
3.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OF CORRECTION
ISSUED after 7/1/05 (47) totaling $17,669.07
4.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR COURT JUDGMENTS (1) totaling
$12,842.87
5. APPROVAL OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS - $28,941.54 (Joe Velardi)
(Public Works Dept.)
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FROM E & C ACCOUNT to ACCRUED BENEFITS/
RETIREMENT - L/C BUDGET - $29,000.
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PLANNING & ZONING - $16,000. (Overtime)
FROM L/C OVERTIME ACCOUNT
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE -$5000.
(Professional Services) INTERNAL TRANSFER
9. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- FINANCE DEPT.- $15,000.(Insurance Mgmt)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
10. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- L/C OFFICE-$10,000.(Prof/Tech Svcs)
FROM E & C ACCOUNT
11. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.-$90,000.(Various
Accounts) INTERNAL TRANSFER
12. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.- $20,000.(Overtime)
FROM L/C OVERTIME ACCOUNT
13. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE- $13,944.84
(Salaries) FROM RESERVE FOR NEGOTIATIONS
14. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $1,500.(Computer
Maintenance) INTERNAL TRANSFER
15. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT.- $50,000.(Overtime)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
16. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $1,500.(Uniform
Cleaning) INTERNAL TRANSFER
17. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - BUILDING DEPT. - $250. (Temp.Wages)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
18. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PERSONNEL DEPT. - $5,000. (Physical
Exams) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
19. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FIRE DEPT.- $100,000.(Sub/Straight
Time) INTERNAL TRANSFER
20. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY - $2,500. (Shift Differential)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
21. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FINANCE DEPT.- $8,600. (Pay
Differential) INTERNAL TRANSFER
22. APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION (Peter
Reynolds)(Edward Grant) for terms ending Jan. 31, 2009
23. RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE PLANNING &
ZONING COMMISSION (Leonard Grabowski) for a term ending
January 31, 2009
24. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE PLANNING & ZONING
COMMISSION ( Elizabeth Youngerman) for term ending
January 31, 2007
25. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS AS A FULL
MEMBER (Jeffrey Vita) and ALTERNATE MEMBER (Kevin Bohan)
for terms ending January 31, 2011
26. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS (Elaine Dove) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2008
27. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS (William Reynold) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2007
28. APPOINTMENT TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITIZENS
ADVISORY COMMISSION ( Kurt Bauknecht) for a term ending
March 31, 2007
29. APPOINTMENT TO THE BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS (Kristin
Larson) for a term ending December 31, 2010
30. APPOINTMENT TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
(Richard Baltimore) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2009
31. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
(Steven Rolnick)(Robert Zambrano) for terms ending
January 31, 2011
32. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION
(Johanna Becker)(Peter Haller)(Campbell Stubbs) for
terms ending Dec. 31, 2008
33. APPOINTMENT TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION (Steve
Humes) for a term ending Dec. 31, 2008
34. APPOINTMENT TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION (Barbara
Gigliotti) for a term ending December 31, 2006
35. APPOINTMENT TO THE ENERGY USE & CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION
(Christopher Marchand) for a term ending July 31, 2007
36. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (William
J. Tito) to fill a vacancy expiring April 30, 2006, and
for an additional term ending April 30, 2009
37. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (Debra
Sharkey) to fill a vacancy expiring April 30, 2005 and
for an additional term ending April 30, 2008
38. APPOINTMENT TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Edward Kennedy) for a term ending Feb. 1, 2008
39. APPOINTMENTS TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Peter DeLeonardo) for term ending Feb. l, 2009
40. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Gwen Emery)(William Doheny)(Aris Stalis)
for terms ending Feb. 1, 2009
41. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Connie
Vereen) for term ending November 1, 2008
42. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Sandra Brown)
for term ending Nov. 1, 2007
43. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION ( Justin Pawluk)
for a term ending Nov. 1, 2006
44. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Marietta Mattei)
for a term ending Nov. 1, 2008
45. APPOINTMENT TO THE ETHICS BOARD (Wayne Thomas Spies) for
a term ending Jan. 31, 2011
46. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ETHICS BOARD
(Albert May) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2011
47. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (Louise Pilon)
for a term ending June 30, 2008
48. APPOINTMENT TO THE PERSONNEL APPEALS BOARD (Andrea Lobo-
Wadle) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2010
49.APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS COMMISSION (Sarah Heath) to fill
a vacancy in a term ending May 31, 2006 and for an
additional term ending May 31, 2009
50.RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE HISTORIC PROPERTIES COMMISSION
(Ellen Highkin) for a term ending Sept. 30, 2010
51.RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE HISTORIC
PROPERTIES COMMISSION (Daniel Ioime) for a term ending
September 30, 2008
52.RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE HISTORIC
PROPERTIES COMMISSION (Martha Becker) for a term
ending September 30, 2008
53.APPOINTMENT TO THE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
(Richard Leonardo) for a term ending January 31, 2011
54.RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE VETERANS COMMISSION (Pasquale
Corso) for a term ending Oct. 26, 2008
55.RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMISSION ON DISABILITY RIGHTS
& OPPORTUNITIES (Joseph Petrini)(Alycia Clune)(Eileen
Denny) for terms ending October 31, 2008
56.APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF MUHAMMED ISLAMIC
CENTER FOR PURCHASE OF PROPERTY AT 16 EASTON ST.
57.APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFP FOR ON-CALL TRAFFIC
ENGINEERING & ON-CALL TECHNICAL ASSISTANT SERVICES
58.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT
& EXPEND A GRANT FROM THE STATE OF CT. CITIZEN CORPS
COUNCIL ADVISORY COMMITTEE IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,125. FOR
CERT TRAINING.
59.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN TO ACCEPT A DONATION OF
TWO POLICE DEPARTMENT BICYCLES.
60.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT & EXPEND A
GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500. FROM THE STATE OF CT.
OFFICE OF POLICY & MANAGEMENT
61.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOT TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT &
EXPEND FUNDING UP TO $15,000. IN STATE OF CT. LOCIP FUNDS
FOR FINAL DESIGN AND MAPPING COSTS RELATIVE TO PHASE III
OF THE FARMINGTON CANAL GREENWAY PROJECT
62.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT & EXPEND A
GRANT TO HIRE AN URBAN FORESTRY CONSULTANT TO INVENTORY
TREES & DEVELOP A MAINTENANCE AND COMPREHENSIVE FOREST
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TOWN GREEN DISTRICT
63.RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET
(TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE)
64.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FOR
THE HAMDEN HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY ALUMNI BENEFIT GAME FOR
PARKINSON'S DISEASE RESEARCH
65.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN TO ACCEPT & EXPEND FUNDS
IN THE AMOUNT OF $18,594. FROM FEMA TO MEET THE SHELTER
NEEDS OF HAMDEN RESIDENTS IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
66.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT $2,000. IN GIFT
CARDS FROM HOME DEPOT FOR USE BY THE COMMUNITY SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
REGULAR AGENDA:
1.APPOINTMENT OF JOHN BUSCA AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
2.APPOINTMENT TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Mary Grace Larke) for a term ending
February 1, 2009
3. APPROVAL OF 3 YEAR CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR DEDICATED CENTRAL
OFFICE SWITCHED SERVICES(DCOSS)
4. APPROVAL OF RENEWAL OF ANTHEM 2005 ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES ONLY AGREEMENT
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS:
1.TRANSFER OF FUNDS - COMMUNITY SERVICES - $14,000.(Family
Relocations) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
REGULAR MEETING - LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 6, 2006
7:00. P.M.
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
6. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
7. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
8. REPORTS OF BOARDS AND DEPARTMENTS
9. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
10. REPORTS OF COUNCIL LIAISONS
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
12. NEW BUSINESS:
CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items have been addressed in Committee and will be considered in toto by unanimous consent:
1. REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05
(2) totaling $2,757.02
2.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED AFTER 7/1/05 (2)
totaling $2,309.26
3.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OF CORRECTION
ISSUED after 7/1/05 (47) totaling $17,669.07
4.REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR COURT JUDGMENTS (1) totaling
$12,842.87
5. APPROVAL OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS - $28,941.54 (Joe Velardi)
(Public Works Dept.)
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FROM E & C ACCOUNT to ACCRUED BENEFITS/
RETIREMENT - L/C BUDGET - $29,000.
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PLANNING & ZONING - $16,000. (Overtime)
FROM L/C OVERTIME ACCOUNT
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE -$5000.
(Professional Services) INTERNAL TRANSFER
9. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- FINANCE DEPT.- $15,000.(Insurance Mgmt)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
10. TRANSFER OF FUNDS- L/C OFFICE-$10,000.(Prof/Tech Svcs)
FROM E & C ACCOUNT
11. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.-$90,000.(Various
Accounts) INTERNAL TRANSFER
12. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.- $20,000.(Overtime)
FROM L/C OVERTIME ACCOUNT
13. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE- $13,944.84
(Salaries) FROM RESERVE FOR NEGOTIATIONS
14. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $1,500.(Computer
Maintenance) INTERNAL TRANSFER
15. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT.- $50,000.(Overtime)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
16. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - POLICE DEPT. - $1,500.(Uniform
Cleaning) INTERNAL TRANSFER
17. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - BUILDING DEPT. - $250. (Temp.Wages)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
18. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - PERSONNEL DEPT. - $5,000. (Physical
Exams) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
19. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FIRE DEPT.- $100,000.(Sub/Straight
Time) INTERNAL TRANSFER
20. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - LIBRARY - $2,500. (Shift Differential)
INTERNAL TRANSFER
21. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - FINANCE DEPT.- $8,600. (Pay
Differential) INTERNAL TRANSFER
22. APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION (Peter
Reynolds)(Edward Grant) for terms ending Jan. 31, 2009
23. RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE PLANNING &
ZONING COMMISSION (Leonard Grabowski) for a term ending
January 31, 2009
24. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE PLANNING & ZONING
COMMISSION ( Elizabeth Youngerman) for term ending
January 31, 2007
25. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS AS A FULL
MEMBER (Jeffrey Vita) and ALTERNATE MEMBER (Kevin Bohan)
for terms ending January 31, 2011
26. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS (Elaine Dove) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2008
27. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS (William Reynold) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2007
28. APPOINTMENT TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITIZENS
ADVISORY COMMISSION ( Kurt Bauknecht) for a term ending
March 31, 2007
29. APPOINTMENT TO THE BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS (Kristin
Larson) for a term ending December 31, 2010
30. APPOINTMENT TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
(Richard Baltimore) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2009
31. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
(Steven Rolnick)(Robert Zambrano) for terms ending
January 31, 2011
32. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION
(Johanna Becker)(Peter Haller)(Campbell Stubbs) for
terms ending Dec. 31, 2008
33. APPOINTMENT TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION (Steve
Humes) for a term ending Dec. 31, 2008
34. APPOINTMENT TO THE FARMINGTON CANAL COMMISSION (Barbara
Gigliotti) for a term ending December 31, 2006
35. APPOINTMENT TO THE ENERGY USE & CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION
(Christopher Marchand) for a term ending July 31, 2007
36. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (William
J. Tito) to fill a vacancy expiring April 30, 2006, and
for an additional term ending April 30, 2009
37. APPOINTMENT TO THE INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION (Debra
Sharkey) to fill a vacancy expiring April 30, 2005 and
for an additional term ending April 30, 2008
38. APPOINTMENT TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Edward Kennedy) for a term ending Feb. 1, 2008
39. APPOINTMENTS TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Peter DeLeonardo) for term ending Feb. l, 2009
40. RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Gwen Emery)(William Doheny)(Aris Stalis)
for terms ending Feb. 1, 2009
41. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Connie
Vereen) for term ending November 1, 2008
42. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Sandra Brown)
for term ending Nov. 1, 2007
43. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION ( Justin Pawluk)
for a term ending Nov. 1, 2006
44. APPOINTMENT TO THE CLEAN & GREEN COMMISSION (Marietta Mattei)
for a term ending Nov. 1, 2008
45. APPOINTMENT TO THE ETHICS BOARD (Wayne Thomas Spies) for
a term ending Jan. 31, 2011
46. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE ETHICS BOARD
(Albert May) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2011
47. RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE RETIREMENT BOARD (Louise Pilon)
for a term ending June 30, 2008
48. APPOINTMENT TO THE PERSONNEL APPEALS BOARD (Andrea Lobo-
Wadle) for a term ending Jan. 31, 2010
49.APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS COMMISSION (Sarah Heath) to fill
a vacancy in a term ending May 31, 2006 and for an
additional term ending May 31, 2009
50.RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE HISTORIC PROPERTIES COMMISSION
(Ellen Highkin) for a term ending Sept. 30, 2010
51.RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE HISTORIC
PROPERTIES COMMISSION (Daniel Ioime) for a term ending
September 30, 2008
52.RE-APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE HISTORIC
PROPERTIES COMMISSION (Martha Becker) for a term
ending September 30, 2008
53.APPOINTMENT TO THE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
(Richard Leonardo) for a term ending January 31, 2011
54.RE-APPOINTMENT TO THE VETERANS COMMISSION (Pasquale
Corso) for a term ending Oct. 26, 2008
55.RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMISSION ON DISABILITY RIGHTS
& OPPORTUNITIES (Joseph Petrini)(Alycia Clune)(Eileen
Denny) for terms ending October 31, 2008
56.APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF MUHAMMED ISLAMIC
CENTER FOR PURCHASE OF PROPERTY AT 16 EASTON ST.
57.APPROVAL OF BID WAIVER IN FAVOR OF RFP FOR ON-CALL TRAFFIC
ENGINEERING & ON-CALL TECHNICAL ASSISTANT SERVICES
58.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT
& EXPEND A GRANT FROM THE STATE OF CT. CITIZEN CORPS
COUNCIL ADVISORY COMMITTEE IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,125. FOR
CERT TRAINING.
59.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN TO ACCEPT A DONATION OF
TWO POLICE DEPARTMENT BICYCLES.
60.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT & EXPEND A
GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500. FROM THE STATE OF CT.
OFFICE OF POLICY & MANAGEMENT
61.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOT TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT &
EXPEND FUNDING UP TO $15,000. IN STATE OF CT. LOCIP FUNDS
FOR FINAL DESIGN AND MAPPING COSTS RELATIVE TO PHASE III
OF THE FARMINGTON CANAL GREENWAY PROJECT
62.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT & EXPEND A
GRANT TO HIRE AN URBAN FORESTRY CONSULTANT TO INVENTORY
TREES & DEVELOP A MAINTENANCE AND COMPREHENSIVE FOREST
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TOWN GREEN DISTRICT
63.RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET
(TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE)
64.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF ICE RINK FEES FOR
THE HAMDEN HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY ALUMNI BENEFIT GAME FOR
PARKINSON'S DISEASE RESEARCH
65.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN TO ACCEPT & EXPEND FUNDS
IN THE AMOUNT OF $18,594. FROM FEMA TO MEET THE SHELTER
NEEDS OF HAMDEN RESIDENTS IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
66.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT $2,000. IN GIFT
CARDS FROM HOME DEPOT FOR USE BY THE COMMUNITY SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
REGULAR AGENDA:
1.APPOINTMENT OF JOHN BUSCA AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
2.APPOINTMENT TO THE NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE
COMMISSION (Mary Grace Larke) for a term ending
February 1, 2009
3. APPROVAL OF 3 YEAR CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR DEDICATED CENTRAL
OFFICE SWITCHED SERVICES(DCOSS)
4. APPROVAL OF RENEWAL OF ANTHEM 2005 ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES ONLY AGREEMENT
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS:
1.TRANSFER OF FUNDS - COMMUNITY SERVICES - $14,000.(Family
Relocations) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
Saturday, January 28, 2006
UNDERSTANDING THE BUDGET PROCESS
Board of Education
Town of Hamden
State of Connecticut
Do you want to know how decisions are made with your tax dollars?
Do you want to participate in the process, but don’t know when or where to have the most impact?
Hamden PTA Council is sponsoring an informational forum to help us learn about the hows, wheres, and whens of developing state, town, and education budgets and how we can get involved.
Featured panelists:
Michael D’Agostino, Hamden Board of Education
Mayor Craig Henrici
Brendan Sharkey, 88th District, Connecticut General Assembly
Join us: Thursday, February 2, 2006
Hamden High School, room C-107
7:00 p.m.
Ask questions, be informed, get involved!
Questions? Contact Tim Nottoli, Hamden PTA Council,
at timothy.nottoli@yale.edu or 287-8740
Board of Education
Town of Hamden
State of Connecticut
Do you want to know how decisions are made with your tax dollars?
Do you want to participate in the process, but don’t know when or where to have the most impact?
Hamden PTA Council is sponsoring an informational forum to help us learn about the hows, wheres, and whens of developing state, town, and education budgets and how we can get involved.
Featured panelists:
Michael D’Agostino, Hamden Board of Education
Mayor Craig Henrici
Brendan Sharkey, 88th District, Connecticut General Assembly
Join us: Thursday, February 2, 2006
Hamden High School, room C-107
7:00 p.m.
Ask questions, be informed, get involved!
Questions? Contact Tim Nottoli, Hamden PTA Council,
at timothy.nottoli@yale.edu or 287-8740
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Hello Friends
As you may have read in the various newspapers over the last week, I am currently engaged in an Administrative Hearing with the City of Bridgeport Labor Department.
Because of a "media black-out" agreed upon between my Supervisor's Union lawyer and the City Department of Labor Relations, I cannot say very much about the situation, not nearly as much as I would like. For now, all I can say is that I completely disagree with all of the charges leveled against me.
Believe me, I would love to comment in more detail, but on the advice of my Attorney who was assigned to me by my Supervisor's Association Union, I cannot at this time.
I would like to sincerely thank the many Hamden residents, fellow Councilmembers, Mayor Henrici and my wife and family for all of the support and words of encouragement you have given me personally, by phone and by e-mail.
As always, I look forward to working with you today and in the year's ahead.
Curt Leng, Councilman, 6th District
Chair, Finance Committee
Chair, School Building Committee
Because of a "media black-out" agreed upon between my Supervisor's Union lawyer and the City Department of Labor Relations, I cannot say very much about the situation, not nearly as much as I would like. For now, all I can say is that I completely disagree with all of the charges leveled against me.
Believe me, I would love to comment in more detail, but on the advice of my Attorney who was assigned to me by my Supervisor's Association Union, I cannot at this time.
I would like to sincerely thank the many Hamden residents, fellow Councilmembers, Mayor Henrici and my wife and family for all of the support and words of encouragement you have given me personally, by phone and by e-mail.
As always, I look forward to working with you today and in the year's ahead.
Curt Leng, Councilman, 6th District
Chair, Finance Committee
Chair, School Building Committee
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
New Year - 2006
Best Wishes and Looking Ahead to 2006
I am writing this letter to wish you, your family and loved ones all the best that life has to offer in 2006.
Hamden has a lot to look forward to next year:
- the completion of many municipal and school projects;
- the cooperation between our branches of government;
- work on a balanced budget with no major tax increase;
- the implementation of the “Help Desk” the Administration is preparing to help residents get quick and efficient answers to their questions in a simple and effective manner.
Personally, I am really looking forward to 2006. I give thanks to God for blessing my family, friends, you and I each day. For Hamden, I hope to work with my fellow elected officials to accomplish some important initiatives and projects in the New Year.
I look forward to the completion of the new Hamden Middle School, the development of a new Hamden Ethics Ordinance, careful and detailed work on the annual budget with focused attention paid to how the revaluation is affecting homeowners, improvements in the areas of economic development and traffic/public safety concerns in the 6th District and two issues important to me – the creation of a Hamden Public Works Commission and a Hamden Clean Air Diesel Fuel Reduction Resolution.
I hope that you can take a step back in this fast paced, schedule driven world and be thankful, pray for peace and health for your friends and neighbors and prepare for a good New Year.
I look forward to working with you in 2006 and going forward.
Sincerely,
CURT
Councilman Curt Leng, 6th District
Chair, Finance Committee
Chair, School Building Committee
I am writing this letter to wish you, your family and loved ones all the best that life has to offer in 2006.
Hamden has a lot to look forward to next year:
- the completion of many municipal and school projects;
- the cooperation between our branches of government;
- work on a balanced budget with no major tax increase;
- the implementation of the “Help Desk” the Administration is preparing to help residents get quick and efficient answers to their questions in a simple and effective manner.
Personally, I am really looking forward to 2006. I give thanks to God for blessing my family, friends, you and I each day. For Hamden, I hope to work with my fellow elected officials to accomplish some important initiatives and projects in the New Year.
I look forward to the completion of the new Hamden Middle School, the development of a new Hamden Ethics Ordinance, careful and detailed work on the annual budget with focused attention paid to how the revaluation is affecting homeowners, improvements in the areas of economic development and traffic/public safety concerns in the 6th District and two issues important to me – the creation of a Hamden Public Works Commission and a Hamden Clean Air Diesel Fuel Reduction Resolution.
I hope that you can take a step back in this fast paced, schedule driven world and be thankful, pray for peace and health for your friends and neighbors and prepare for a good New Year.
I look forward to working with you in 2006 and going forward.
Sincerely,
CURT
Councilman Curt Leng, 6th District
Chair, Finance Committee
Chair, School Building Committee
Monday, December 26, 2005
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah
A very Merry Christmas from my family to yours or a very Happy Hanukkah. Enjoy this time of the season to appreciate the things that God has given to us and spend time with family and loved ones that you might not normally have the time to relax with. All the best in 2006 !
Sincerely,
The Lengs
Sincerely,
The Lengs
Saturday, December 10, 2005
First Meeting and School Building Committee
First Meeting and Info on the New School Building Committee
Season’s Greetings from the Leng Family!
I thought I would take a few moments to write about the first Council meetings of the new session for the 2005-2007 term.
The first meeting set-up the leadership - returning were the entire team from last term:
Al Gorman – Council President
Carol Noble – President Pro Tem
Matt Fitch – Majority Leader
Betty Wetmore – Minority Leader
The team is a good one, with dedicated, hard working council members and I think they will be great for the new Administration to work with.
At this meeting, President Gorman announced that he was appointing me as the School Building Committee Chairman. I was honored to be placed in such an important role of responsibility and look forward to working with school, Town and construction professionals to make sure that our School Building improvements occur on-time and on-budget. I am very much looking forward to this new assignment.
At the second meeting we got down to regular business and tackled the agenda that I posted here earlier. Nearly all the items passed, with the exception of a request for a large financial transfer for a “change order” payment for Center One construction that was approved for way more than it should have been by a previous Administration individual. The Council tabled this item pending some additional back-up.
We saw some significant comings and goings at the meeting, as well.
Longtime Traffic Director Lee Davies and Police Chief Robert Nolan, both excellent Department Heads, retired and collected their accrued benefits. I decided to abstain from the vote because there were some questions about the Comp Time policy that I don’t think the Town was able to answer clearly. Though I abstained, I think both of these men, along with the rest of the retirement group, Skip Dunham and others, were terrific Town workers and I hope they enjoy their retirement.
Coming onboard on the new team was Mike Betz, our new Finance Director, and Leslie Creane, the Assistant Town Planner who was promoted to Town Planner.
I look forward to working with both of them. They each have serious challenges to face in their respective Departments and I think they are up to the task. It was certainly nice to have a Finance Director with over a decade of municipal Finance Experience being recommended for assignment at our first meeting. This was an impressive beginning to the Henrici Administration.
In my next posting I will talk about my other Committee assignments so that you know what I will be working on and where I might be most helpful working with you.
As always, please continue to call and write – councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net .
Enjoy and be careful with the snow,
Curt
Season’s Greetings from the Leng Family!
I thought I would take a few moments to write about the first Council meetings of the new session for the 2005-2007 term.
The first meeting set-up the leadership - returning were the entire team from last term:
Al Gorman – Council President
Carol Noble – President Pro Tem
Matt Fitch – Majority Leader
Betty Wetmore – Minority Leader
The team is a good one, with dedicated, hard working council members and I think they will be great for the new Administration to work with.
At this meeting, President Gorman announced that he was appointing me as the School Building Committee Chairman. I was honored to be placed in such an important role of responsibility and look forward to working with school, Town and construction professionals to make sure that our School Building improvements occur on-time and on-budget. I am very much looking forward to this new assignment.
At the second meeting we got down to regular business and tackled the agenda that I posted here earlier. Nearly all the items passed, with the exception of a request for a large financial transfer for a “change order” payment for Center One construction that was approved for way more than it should have been by a previous Administration individual. The Council tabled this item pending some additional back-up.
We saw some significant comings and goings at the meeting, as well.
Longtime Traffic Director Lee Davies and Police Chief Robert Nolan, both excellent Department Heads, retired and collected their accrued benefits. I decided to abstain from the vote because there were some questions about the Comp Time policy that I don’t think the Town was able to answer clearly. Though I abstained, I think both of these men, along with the rest of the retirement group, Skip Dunham and others, were terrific Town workers and I hope they enjoy their retirement.
Coming onboard on the new team was Mike Betz, our new Finance Director, and Leslie Creane, the Assistant Town Planner who was promoted to Town Planner.
I look forward to working with both of them. They each have serious challenges to face in their respective Departments and I think they are up to the task. It was certainly nice to have a Finance Director with over a decade of municipal Finance Experience being recommended for assignment at our first meeting. This was an impressive beginning to the Henrici Administration.
In my next posting I will talk about my other Committee assignments so that you know what I will be working on and where I might be most helpful working with you.
As always, please continue to call and write – councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net .
Enjoy and be careful with the snow,
Curt
Friday, December 02, 2005
Council Agenda - December 5th
AGENDA
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
COMMITTEE-OF-THE-WHOLE
DECEMBER 5, 2005
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
6. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
7. NEW BUSINESS:
1. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05 (2)TOTALLING $173.86
2. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OFCORRECTION ISSUED AFTER 7/1/05 (74) TOTALLING $22,630.94
3. APPROVAL OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS:Lee Davies (Traffic Dept.) $34,810.96Robert Nolan (Police Dept.) $75,759.63Richard Dunham (Police Dept.) $35,009.86Gustav Gertz (Police Dept.) $47,669.96James Kalkowski (Police Dept.)$14,878.01Frank Critchett (Fire Dept.) $20,970.48William Coppola (Fire Dept.) $44,632.56Robert Anthony (Fire Dept.) $38,142.72
4. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - L/C OFFICE - $312,000. (AccruedBenefits/Retirement) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
5. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - COMMUNITY SERVICES - $6,000.(Family Relocations) FROM E & C
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE - $550.(Pay Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - BUILDING DEPT. - $500. (Temp.Wages)INTERNAL TRANSFER
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - L/C OFFICE - $65,184.35 (SpecialProjects) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
9. APPOINTMENT TO THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION (CathrynReynolds) for term ending August 31, 2011
10. APPOINTMENT OF J. MICHAEL BETZ AS FINANCE DIRECTOR
11. APPOINTMENT OF LESLIE CREANE AS TOWN PLANNER
12. APPROVAL OF MODIFIED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITHANTHONY F. CIVITELLO AS THE TOWN'S CONSTRUCTIONMANAGER
13. APPROVAL OF BUSINESS INCENTIVE AGREEMENTS:(International Realty, d/b/a International Provisions(Food Manufacturing)(2373-2375 Whitney Ave., LLC - Renovations)(Karl Kieslich - Kieslich Realty - addition & siteimprov! ements)(Caring Bear Nursery LLC/Lenox Builders - Day Care)
14. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED ILLUMINATINGCO. AND THE TOWN OF HAMDEN FOR INCENTIVES TO BE PAIDTO THE TOWN FOR ENERGY EFFICIENT MEASURES
15. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR,ACCEPT & EXPEND FUNDING UP TO $8,500. IN STATEOF CT. LOCIP FUNDS FOR BROOKSVALE PARK IMPROVEMENTS
16. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO BORROWUP TO $44,148. FROM THE GENERAL FUND FOR ADVANCEMENT OFOPERATIONAL EXPENSES FOR SLEEPING GIANT DAY CARE,PENDING RECEIPT OF STATE FUNDING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006
17. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, THROUGH SLEEPING GIANTDAY CARE, INC TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT & EXPEND A GRANT INTHE AMOUNT OF $176,592. FROM THE STATE OF CT. DEPT. OFSOCIAL SERVICES AND TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR ACHILD DAY CARE PROGRAM FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2006TO DECEMBER 31, 2006
18. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT AND EXPENDA GRANT FROM HOUSEHOLD HAZWASTE CENTRAL, A JOINT PROJECTOF THE REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY AND THE SOUTH CENTRALREGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.FOR A COMMUNITY EDUCATION PILOT PROJECT
19. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPTAND EXPEND A GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,000. FROM THESTATE OF CT. OFFICE OF POLICY & MANAGEMENT
20 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTOA CONTRACT WITH THE STATE DEPT. OF MENTAL HEALTH &ADDICTION FOR ADULT MENTAL HEALTH
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
COMMITTEE-OF-THE-WHOLE
DECEMBER 5, 2005
1. CALL OF THE MEETING & TAKING OF THE ROLL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
6. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT
7. NEW BUSINESS:
1. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES PAID PRIOR TO 7/1/05 (2)TOTALLING $173.86
2. REFUND OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR CERTIFICATES OFCORRECTION ISSUED AFTER 7/1/05 (74) TOTALLING $22,630.94
3. APPROVAL OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS:Lee Davies (Traffic Dept.) $34,810.96Robert Nolan (Police Dept.) $75,759.63Richard Dunham (Police Dept.) $35,009.86Gustav Gertz (Police Dept.) $47,669.96James Kalkowski (Police Dept.)$14,878.01Frank Critchett (Fire Dept.) $20,970.48William Coppola (Fire Dept.) $44,632.56Robert Anthony (Fire Dept.) $38,142.72
4. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - L/C OFFICE - $312,000. (AccruedBenefits/Retirement) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
5. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - COMMUNITY SERVICES - $6,000.(Family Relocations) FROM E & C
6. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - TAX OFFICE - $550.(Pay Differential)INTERNAL TRANSFER
7. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - BUILDING DEPT. - $500. (Temp.Wages)INTERNAL TRANSFER
8. TRANSFER OF FUNDS - L/C OFFICE - $65,184.35 (SpecialProjects) FROM E & C ACCOUNT
9. APPOINTMENT TO THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION (CathrynReynolds) for term ending August 31, 2011
10. APPOINTMENT OF J. MICHAEL BETZ AS FINANCE DIRECTOR
11. APPOINTMENT OF LESLIE CREANE AS TOWN PLANNER
12. APPROVAL OF MODIFIED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITHANTHONY F. CIVITELLO AS THE TOWN'S CONSTRUCTIONMANAGER
13. APPROVAL OF BUSINESS INCENTIVE AGREEMENTS:(International Realty, d/b/a International Provisions(Food Manufacturing)(2373-2375 Whitney Ave., LLC - Renovations)(Karl Kieslich - Kieslich Realty - addition & siteimprov! ements)(Caring Bear Nursery LLC/Lenox Builders - Day Care)
14. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED ILLUMINATINGCO. AND THE TOWN OF HAMDEN FOR INCENTIVES TO BE PAIDTO THE TOWN FOR ENERGY EFFICIENT MEASURES
15. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR,ACCEPT & EXPEND FUNDING UP TO $8,500. IN STATEOF CT. LOCIP FUNDS FOR BROOKSVALE PARK IMPROVEMENTS
16. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO BORROWUP TO $44,148. FROM THE GENERAL FUND FOR ADVANCEMENT OFOPERATIONAL EXPENSES FOR SLEEPING GIANT DAY CARE,PENDING RECEIPT OF STATE FUNDING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006
17. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, THROUGH SLEEPING GIANTDAY CARE, INC TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPT & EXPEND A GRANT INTHE AMOUNT OF $176,592. FROM THE STATE OF CT. DEPT. OFSOCIAL SERVICES AND TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR ACHILD DAY CARE PROGRAM FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2006TO DECEMBER 31, 2006
18. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT AND EXPENDA GRANT FROM HOUSEHOLD HAZWASTE CENTRAL, A JOINT PROJECTOF THE REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY AND THE SOUTH CENTRALREGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.FOR A COMMUNITY EDUCATION PILOT PROJECT
19. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR, ACCEPTAND EXPEND A GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,000. FROM THESTATE OF CT. OFFICE OF POLICY & MANAGEMENT
20 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTOA CONTRACT WITH THE STATE DEPT. OF MENTAL HEALTH &ADDICTION FOR ADULT MENTAL HEALTH
Thursday, December 01, 2005
From the NH Register
Betz tapped for Hamden finance director
Michael Gannon, Register Staff
12/01/2005
HAMDEN — Mayor Craig Henrici is calling on an ally from his days as Legislative Council president to help whip Hamden’s finance office back into shape.
J. Michael Betz, who served as finance director from 1987 to 1990, has been serving as interim finance director this week, and his nomination will be sent to the council for confirmation Monday. He is coming from North Branford, where he had been serving as manager of purchasing, central services and risk management.
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"He has extensive experience and a distinguished career in municipal finance," Henrici said. "I first met him when he was finance director and I was president of the council. We became close friends and we stayed in touch. When he heard that I was running (for mayor), we began talking more and more. He’s very competent; he’s a good friend and he already has the department humming."Betz, 59, is an Ohio native who was raised in Hartford. He has lived in the New Haven region for the last 35 years. His other posts include that of deputy comptroller in New Haven from 1990 to 1995.The finance office has been subject to turmoil, having eight separate interim, acting or permanent finance directors since December 2003.Along with the revolving door Betz has staff vacancies that are not budgeted to be filled until at least January; an outstanding audit report that will be submitted beyond its Dec. 31 deadline, and a council that by some accounts could not be counted on to support the office in tough times."I didn’t think I was walking into a situation where these things couldn’t be solved," Betz said.He said the audit of the 2004-05 budget, which former director Don Gray said in the fall could take until June to finish, is on track to be done by the end of January.Henrici said part of the solution to the staffing and audit troubles has been the addition of Robert Tait. Tait, currently the comptroller for Fairfield, has been working on the audit after hours and on weekends on a contractual basis since October. He added that Tom Pesce, Board of Education business manager, has been lending a hand on the town’s side of the books.
Michael Gannon, Register Staff
12/01/2005
HAMDEN — Mayor Craig Henrici is calling on an ally from his days as Legislative Council president to help whip Hamden’s finance office back into shape.
J. Michael Betz, who served as finance director from 1987 to 1990, has been serving as interim finance director this week, and his nomination will be sent to the council for confirmation Monday. He is coming from North Branford, where he had been serving as manager of purchasing, central services and risk management.
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"He has extensive experience and a distinguished career in municipal finance," Henrici said. "I first met him when he was finance director and I was president of the council. We became close friends and we stayed in touch. When he heard that I was running (for mayor), we began talking more and more. He’s very competent; he’s a good friend and he already has the department humming."Betz, 59, is an Ohio native who was raised in Hartford. He has lived in the New Haven region for the last 35 years. His other posts include that of deputy comptroller in New Haven from 1990 to 1995.The finance office has been subject to turmoil, having eight separate interim, acting or permanent finance directors since December 2003.Along with the revolving door Betz has staff vacancies that are not budgeted to be filled until at least January; an outstanding audit report that will be submitted beyond its Dec. 31 deadline, and a council that by some accounts could not be counted on to support the office in tough times."I didn’t think I was walking into a situation where these things couldn’t be solved," Betz said.He said the audit of the 2004-05 budget, which former director Don Gray said in the fall could take until June to finish, is on track to be done by the end of January.Henrici said part of the solution to the staffing and audit troubles has been the addition of Robert Tait. Tait, currently the comptroller for Fairfield, has been working on the audit after hours and on weekends on a contractual basis since October. He added that Tom Pesce, Board of Education business manager, has been lending a hand on the town’s side of the books.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Oath of Office
Oath of Office
Today I had the honor, along with all of elected officials chosen to serve as our representatives within Hamden Town Government, to take the oath of office and officially become your 6th District Councilman.
I was humbled by the amount of support that you showed me on Election Day and throughout my career in government and as I accepted the responsibilities of the office with pride. I found myself thinking already about what we can accomplish together for our District in the years ahead.
As we’ve discussed during the campaign, I am looking forward to working for and accomplishing goals in the following areas:
- responsible financial management of our Town finances and construction projects
- 6th District commercial district improvements
- the creation of the first State Street Business Association
- the creation of Neighborhood Block Watch Groups where needed
- advocate for increased sidewalk and road improvements throughout our Town
- safety improvements throughout the District, especially regarding traffic calming
- being as accessible to you, my constituents, at public meetings, via e-mail and through this
BLOG and website
I take the oath of office very seriously. I understand what a responsibility it entails and am glad to accept it. I hope that I can work successfully to your expectation as I represent our District on the Legislative Council.
As always, please contact me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net if you need anything or would like to discuss an issue. I enjoy hearing from you and appreciate the feedback.
All the Best,
Curt Leng
Councilman, 6th District
Today I had the honor, along with all of elected officials chosen to serve as our representatives within Hamden Town Government, to take the oath of office and officially become your 6th District Councilman.
I was humbled by the amount of support that you showed me on Election Day and throughout my career in government and as I accepted the responsibilities of the office with pride. I found myself thinking already about what we can accomplish together for our District in the years ahead.
As we’ve discussed during the campaign, I am looking forward to working for and accomplishing goals in the following areas:
- responsible financial management of our Town finances and construction projects
- 6th District commercial district improvements
- the creation of the first State Street Business Association
- the creation of Neighborhood Block Watch Groups where needed
- advocate for increased sidewalk and road improvements throughout our Town
- safety improvements throughout the District, especially regarding traffic calming
- being as accessible to you, my constituents, at public meetings, via e-mail and through this
BLOG and website
I take the oath of office very seriously. I understand what a responsibility it entails and am glad to accept it. I hope that I can work successfully to your expectation as I represent our District on the Legislative Council.
As always, please contact me at councilmancurtleng@sbcglobal.net if you need anything or would like to discuss an issue. I enjoy hearing from you and appreciate the feedback.
All the Best,
Curt Leng
Councilman, 6th District
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Thanksgiving
Just a quick note to everyone who reads this site. I wish you and your family the best on Thanksgiving Day, a day when we should truly step back and reflect on the things we have to be thankful for. I'm sure that we all have a great number of things to be thankful for on this beautiful day.
I hope that everyone enjoys time with their family and friends over a nicely prepared meal. Take the time to relax. Way too many people, myself included at times, rush through everything so quickly that we hardly have a chance to realize its happening.
Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving to all and I would like to say thank you to all of the wonderful people in the 6th District who put their faith in me this fall. I look forward to working with you.
Best Regards,
Curt
I hope that everyone enjoys time with their family and friends over a nicely prepared meal. Take the time to relax. Way too many people, myself included at times, rush through everything so quickly that we hardly have a chance to realize its happening.
Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving to all and I would like to say thank you to all of the wonderful people in the 6th District who put their faith in me this fall. I look forward to working with you.
Best Regards,
Curt
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Ankles and Economic Development
Well, I reinjured my ankle, the one that I hurt last year attending the opening of the new Nation's Market on State Street near the corner of State and Ride. X-Rays done, MRI to follow. Fun, fun.
This made me think of the Nation's Market and I thought that I would give you an update from what I know about the situation.
Nation's Market was doing very well and just didn't quite have the resources to make it to the point of profit that they needed to be at for a successful business plan. It has been said that the owner was only a month or two away, but it didn't work out.
Luckily, when the Town contracted with the landowner for the major improvements conducted with State Economic Development Grant funds, we included language that requires the owner to give the community a grocery store at this location for at least 5 years or risk having to pay the Town a portion of the funds back.
From what I know, the owner is working with our Economic Development Coordinator, Dale Kroop, in an effort to talk to several potential grocers. I will keep you posted here as soon as I hear of anything definitive.
In other Economic Development News, it was great news to hear that Panera Bread and Strawberries Record Store will be opening in the addition being constructed on the Hamden Plaza. Is the Magic Mile is showing glimmers of its old magic ....
This made me think of the Nation's Market and I thought that I would give you an update from what I know about the situation.
Nation's Market was doing very well and just didn't quite have the resources to make it to the point of profit that they needed to be at for a successful business plan. It has been said that the owner was only a month or two away, but it didn't work out.
Luckily, when the Town contracted with the landowner for the major improvements conducted with State Economic Development Grant funds, we included language that requires the owner to give the community a grocery store at this location for at least 5 years or risk having to pay the Town a portion of the funds back.
From what I know, the owner is working with our Economic Development Coordinator, Dale Kroop, in an effort to talk to several potential grocers. I will keep you posted here as soon as I hear of anything definitive.
In other Economic Development News, it was great news to hear that Panera Bread and Strawberries Record Store will be opening in the addition being constructed on the Hamden Plaza. Is the Magic Mile is showing glimmers of its old magic ....
Thursday, November 10, 2005
A Special Thanks !!
A Special Thanks !!
I write today to say thank you. To all of the 6th District residents who put their trust in me as your District Representative, to the people of Hamden who helped me campaign and raise funds to discuss my message, to my extraordinary campaign team who were not only hard working, but true friends, to the Hamden Democratic Party who supported my candidacy and most of all to my family, who’s support and encouragement has been invaluable over the years.
Now that I have been involved in 7 elections, have worked in Town government and served Hamden for a decade, I have gained key experience and learned important lessons that will help me to work for the improvements that our Town and our District sorely need.I sincerely look forward to working with our new Mayor, Democrat Craig Henrici, an honorable man, who is set to start fixing our Town's financial and management problems. It will be a great change of pace to work in cooperation with an Administration, instead of having to fight, for the changes our Town needs.
As I've told you throughout my campaign - at your doors, at events or on my website - please call or e-mail me with questions, concerns, ideas and/or complaints. I am available to you. I want to hear from you because I will represent your voice on the Hamden Legislative Council.
In an effort to better inform citizens of our Town on Hamden government, I will be writing on a BLOG on my website, http://www.curtleng.com/, throughout the next two years and beyond. This is an attempt to do my part to inform constituents about all of the important issues we face.Again, thank you, sincerely, for all that you have done.
Please keep in touch and let’s continue our discussion on how we can improve Hamden throughout the 2005-2007 municipal term.
Working for a Better Hamden,
Curt Leng
Councilman-At-Large
Councilman-elect, 6th District
I write today to say thank you. To all of the 6th District residents who put their trust in me as your District Representative, to the people of Hamden who helped me campaign and raise funds to discuss my message, to my extraordinary campaign team who were not only hard working, but true friends, to the Hamden Democratic Party who supported my candidacy and most of all to my family, who’s support and encouragement has been invaluable over the years.
Now that I have been involved in 7 elections, have worked in Town government and served Hamden for a decade, I have gained key experience and learned important lessons that will help me to work for the improvements that our Town and our District sorely need.I sincerely look forward to working with our new Mayor, Democrat Craig Henrici, an honorable man, who is set to start fixing our Town's financial and management problems. It will be a great change of pace to work in cooperation with an Administration, instead of having to fight, for the changes our Town needs.
As I've told you throughout my campaign - at your doors, at events or on my website - please call or e-mail me with questions, concerns, ideas and/or complaints. I am available to you. I want to hear from you because I will represent your voice on the Hamden Legislative Council.
In an effort to better inform citizens of our Town on Hamden government, I will be writing on a BLOG on my website, http://www.curtleng.com/, throughout the next two years and beyond. This is an attempt to do my part to inform constituents about all of the important issues we face.Again, thank you, sincerely, for all that you have done.
Please keep in touch and let’s continue our discussion on how we can improve Hamden throughout the 2005-2007 municipal term.
Working for a Better Hamden,
Curt Leng
Councilman-At-Large
Councilman-elect, 6th District
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