BOARD OF FINANCE
SPECIAL MEETING
MAY 8, 2013
Page 1 of 1
Attendance: Chairman Janet Brunwin, Robert Brinton Jr., Chip Spear, Aileen Magda
Visitors: Sharon Huxley, Donald Shea
Chairman Brunwin called the meeting of the Board of Finance to order at 7:03. The meeting was held in the Conference Room of the Bethany Town Hall.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Board of Education reported to Chairman Brunwin that the shortfall in their budget for Special Education will be managed within their operating budget.
PUBLIC WORKS
Chairman Brunwin reviewed a budget report of the budget for Public Works. Due to storm damage from last fall the Chairman estimated that the budget overall for Public Works could be over by $244,000. Discussion followed regarding the approximate deficit to this budget. The Board first estimated $250,000. It was suggested by Robert Brinton Jr. that at least $20,000 of the balance in Road Materials of $70,000 should not be spent and put toward this deficit. The Board members present agreed. The expenses for this storm were mainly charged to Contracted Services for the brush removal. Robert Brinton Jr. moved the motion to add to the Call for the Annual Town Meeting a resolution to authorize the Board of Finance to transfer up to $225,000 from unexpended line item accounts and the General Fund to the Public Works budget. Chip Spear seconded the motion. The vote taken was unanimous.
ADJOURNMENT
Adjournment was called at 7:15 pm after a motion was moved by Chip Spear and seconded by Robert Brinton Jr.
Respectfully submitted,
June G. Riley
Clerk, Board of Finance
Friday, July 26, 2013
BOARD OF FINANCE
APRIL 2, 2013
Page 1 of 3
Attendance: Chairman Janet Brunwin, Sally Huyser, Chip Spear, Robert Brinton Jr., Aileen Magda, John Grabowski, First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski
Visitors: John Barile, members of the Clark Memorial Library Board, Bethany Elementary School staff and parents, Alan Green
Chairman Brunwin called the meeting of the Board of Finance to order at 7:05 pm. The meeting was held in the Conference Room of the Bethany Town Hall.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Brunwin called for approval of the minutes of the meeting of March 26, 2013. The motion was moved by Sally Huyser and seconded by Aileen Magda. The minutes were then amended by Robert Brinton Jr. to read the entire Selectmen’s budget was not approved. The line item for accountant was approved. The minutes were then accepted on a unanimous vote
BUDGET 2013-14
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES SCHOOL
John Barile, Superintendent of Bethany Elementary School, discussed with the Board of Finance members Capital Expenditure requests for the school. The school ‘s request for furniture was discussed. Photos of the furniture presently in use were shown. John explained the three quotations he had received for security cameras and the two types that are available for both outside and inside surveillance cameras. He indicated that if the school maintenance staff were to run the wiring the cost could be reduced. This would also apply to the wireless infrastructure for the computers. He also shared information regarding its installation and costs related to its installation. Quotations for both the wireless connect and the cameras were shared with Board members. The cleaning of the duct work in the rotunda was also discussed.
SCHOOL BUDGET
Chairman Brunwin asked if there were any more questions regarding the Board of Education’s operating budget. Aileen Magda asked if there were any reductions Superintendent Barile could recommend for the Board of Education’s budget. Superintendent Barile indicated that it was the Board of Education’s budget and that any changes would require a vote of that Board.
TOWN HALL
First Selectwoman Gorski explained that the request for the roof replacement on the north side of Town Hall had been submitted as a Capital Expenditure for fiscal year 2013-14, however in looking over the situation Rod White felt that the request could be put off for one more year because the leak had been repaired and First Selectwoman Gorski requested it be officially withdrawn. The replacement cost is $75,000. A discussion followed whether to replace the roof in fiscal year 2013-14 or to withdraw it. The Chairman then called a vote on recommending this expenditure. There were two no votes that of Chairman Brunwin and Chip Spear. There were three yes votes that of John Grabowski, Aileen Magda and Robert Brinton Jr. There was one abstention that of Sally Huyser. The request for the replacement of the kitchen/foyer roof passed. The Board then voted to approve the requests for foyer/kitchen roof replacement $120,000, gym ceiling $20,000, safety lighting gym ceiling $10,000 and fire alarm replacement for $15,00, BCS furniture replacement for $10,000, BCS security cameras $22,000, BCS wireless infrastructure $15,500 and cleaning of the BCS rotunda ducting $7,000.
REVALUATION
The Board approved $35,000 for the second year for the revaluation appropriation on a unanimous vote.
LIBRARY
Members of the Bethany Library Board were present to discuss the budget request of the Library. The on line consortium with Biblimotion was discussed in detail. Board members feel if the Library is to serve the community better this system of getting books on line is very important. The Capital Expenditure request for drainage repair and building repair caused by the storm water was discussed. Alan Green indicated that some of that request could be reduced by the Town crew doing the drainage work. The only request would then be for the building repair. Following discussion the Board of Finance voted unanimously to recommend a Capital Expenditure of $10,000 for this repair.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
The Board discussed the rate of increase for the salary accounts for budget fiscal year 2013-14. Chairman Brunwin indicated that she felt that 3% was a fair increase in this economy. In checking with other indicators this seemed fair. Robert Brinton Jr. and Aileen Magda questioned the amount of the increase. Board members questioned the dollar increase a 3% increase would make to this budget. Chairman Brunwin indicated the impact of a ½ % increase in salaries would be approximately $7,000. The vote was called. The vote was six yes votes for a 3% increase.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Selectmen’s section of the budget for a total of $211,556 (Aileen Magda and Robert Brinton Jr. objected to the Bethany Bulletin expenditure and voted no), the Town Hall Computers for a total of $37,597, Veterans Memorial Park at $44,533, Registrar of voters $13,580, Board of Finance $2,629, Town Audit $28,840, Assessor $75,706, Board of Assessment Appeals $500, Tax Collector $76,887, Town Treasurer $3,559, Town Counsel Retainer $37,200, Town Counsel Legal $25,000, Claims & Judgment $1, Town Clerk $143,166, Land Use $189,588, Operation Town Hall $175,743, Zoning Board of Appeals $3,461, Economic Development $500, Judge of Probate $1,000, Conservation $500, Cost $825, Regional Growth Partnership $1669, COG $1,785, Fire Department Gas & Diesel $11,110, Board of Education Gas & Diesel $36,000, CCM $3,272.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Public Safety portion of the budget as follows: Fire Protection & Equipment $212,550, CMed $15,371, Fire Marshal/Emergency Management $60,000, Police Constables $199,009, Dog Damage $1, District Animal Control $43,000, Fire Hydrant $2,500.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Public Works budget as follows: Road Foreman & Labor $429,525, Major Road Resurfacing/Debt Service $300,000, Snow & Ice $195,000, Road Materials $100,000, Garage Expense $51,700, Repairs & Supplies $128,555, Street Lights $12,500, Contracted Services $28,000, Road Signs $8,000, Consulting Engineer $10,000.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Health portion of the budget as follows: Solid Waste $390,266, Vital Statistics $100, Bethany Summer League $3,500, Park & Recreation $235,366, Domestic Violence $500, Team $5,000, Regional Mental Health $276, QVHD $29,214, EMS Council $488.
The Human Services section of the budget was approved for recommendation to the Budget Hearing at $92,251 (there were 5 yes votes and 1 no votes that of Robert Brinton Jr. who objected to spending for the Bethany Seniority.
The Community Services section of the budget was recommended to the Budget Hearing as follows: Airport $1,400, Care of Cemeteries $8,000, Contingency Fund $50,000, Capital Reserve $550,000, Youth Services $13,631. The Library was recommended at $172,000.
Fixed Charges were recommended as follows for the Budget Hearing. Payroll Taxes $108,291, General Insurance $220,500, Employees Medical $482,632, Town Employees Investment $108,475, Fire Department Retirement $40,000, Debt Service $694,824.
Regional High School budget is listed on the budget at $8,714,313.
The Board recommends to the Budget Hearing a budget of $6,559,417 for the Bethany Elementary School. A vote was called there were 5 yes votes to recommend and 1 no vote, that of Robert Brinton Jr.
The overall increase for this recommended budget is $2.9%. It is the recommendation of the Board that $200,000 to be taken from the General Fund to further reduce the mill rate for next year to 29.16. The vote on total budgeted expenditures of $21,444,264 was 5 yes votes and 1 no vote, that of Robert Brinton Jr.
ADJOURNMENT
Adjournment was called at 10:00 pm after a motion was moved by Chip Spear and seconded by John Grabowski. The vote taken was unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
June G. Riley
Clerk, Board of Finance
APRIL 2, 2013
Page 1 of 3
Attendance: Chairman Janet Brunwin, Sally Huyser, Chip Spear, Robert Brinton Jr., Aileen Magda, John Grabowski, First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski
Visitors: John Barile, members of the Clark Memorial Library Board, Bethany Elementary School staff and parents, Alan Green
Chairman Brunwin called the meeting of the Board of Finance to order at 7:05 pm. The meeting was held in the Conference Room of the Bethany Town Hall.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Brunwin called for approval of the minutes of the meeting of March 26, 2013. The motion was moved by Sally Huyser and seconded by Aileen Magda. The minutes were then amended by Robert Brinton Jr. to read the entire Selectmen’s budget was not approved. The line item for accountant was approved. The minutes were then accepted on a unanimous vote
BUDGET 2013-14
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES SCHOOL
John Barile, Superintendent of Bethany Elementary School, discussed with the Board of Finance members Capital Expenditure requests for the school. The school ‘s request for furniture was discussed. Photos of the furniture presently in use were shown. John explained the three quotations he had received for security cameras and the two types that are available for both outside and inside surveillance cameras. He indicated that if the school maintenance staff were to run the wiring the cost could be reduced. This would also apply to the wireless infrastructure for the computers. He also shared information regarding its installation and costs related to its installation. Quotations for both the wireless connect and the cameras were shared with Board members. The cleaning of the duct work in the rotunda was also discussed.
SCHOOL BUDGET
Chairman Brunwin asked if there were any more questions regarding the Board of Education’s operating budget. Aileen Magda asked if there were any reductions Superintendent Barile could recommend for the Board of Education’s budget. Superintendent Barile indicated that it was the Board of Education’s budget and that any changes would require a vote of that Board.
TOWN HALL
First Selectwoman Gorski explained that the request for the roof replacement on the north side of Town Hall had been submitted as a Capital Expenditure for fiscal year 2013-14, however in looking over the situation Rod White felt that the request could be put off for one more year because the leak had been repaired and First Selectwoman Gorski requested it be officially withdrawn. The replacement cost is $75,000. A discussion followed whether to replace the roof in fiscal year 2013-14 or to withdraw it. The Chairman then called a vote on recommending this expenditure. There were two no votes that of Chairman Brunwin and Chip Spear. There were three yes votes that of John Grabowski, Aileen Magda and Robert Brinton Jr. There was one abstention that of Sally Huyser. The request for the replacement of the kitchen/foyer roof passed. The Board then voted to approve the requests for foyer/kitchen roof replacement $120,000, gym ceiling $20,000, safety lighting gym ceiling $10,000 and fire alarm replacement for $15,00, BCS furniture replacement for $10,000, BCS security cameras $22,000, BCS wireless infrastructure $15,500 and cleaning of the BCS rotunda ducting $7,000.
REVALUATION
The Board approved $35,000 for the second year for the revaluation appropriation on a unanimous vote.
LIBRARY
Members of the Bethany Library Board were present to discuss the budget request of the Library. The on line consortium with Biblimotion was discussed in detail. Board members feel if the Library is to serve the community better this system of getting books on line is very important. The Capital Expenditure request for drainage repair and building repair caused by the storm water was discussed. Alan Green indicated that some of that request could be reduced by the Town crew doing the drainage work. The only request would then be for the building repair. Following discussion the Board of Finance voted unanimously to recommend a Capital Expenditure of $10,000 for this repair.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
The Board discussed the rate of increase for the salary accounts for budget fiscal year 2013-14. Chairman Brunwin indicated that she felt that 3% was a fair increase in this economy. In checking with other indicators this seemed fair. Robert Brinton Jr. and Aileen Magda questioned the amount of the increase. Board members questioned the dollar increase a 3% increase would make to this budget. Chairman Brunwin indicated the impact of a ½ % increase in salaries would be approximately $7,000. The vote was called. The vote was six yes votes for a 3% increase.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Selectmen’s section of the budget for a total of $211,556 (Aileen Magda and Robert Brinton Jr. objected to the Bethany Bulletin expenditure and voted no), the Town Hall Computers for a total of $37,597, Veterans Memorial Park at $44,533, Registrar of voters $13,580, Board of Finance $2,629, Town Audit $28,840, Assessor $75,706, Board of Assessment Appeals $500, Tax Collector $76,887, Town Treasurer $3,559, Town Counsel Retainer $37,200, Town Counsel Legal $25,000, Claims & Judgment $1, Town Clerk $143,166, Land Use $189,588, Operation Town Hall $175,743, Zoning Board of Appeals $3,461, Economic Development $500, Judge of Probate $1,000, Conservation $500, Cost $825, Regional Growth Partnership $1669, COG $1,785, Fire Department Gas & Diesel $11,110, Board of Education Gas & Diesel $36,000, CCM $3,272.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Public Safety portion of the budget as follows: Fire Protection & Equipment $212,550, CMed $15,371, Fire Marshal/Emergency Management $60,000, Police Constables $199,009, Dog Damage $1, District Animal Control $43,000, Fire Hydrant $2,500.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Public Works budget as follows: Road Foreman & Labor $429,525, Major Road Resurfacing/Debt Service $300,000, Snow & Ice $195,000, Road Materials $100,000, Garage Expense $51,700, Repairs & Supplies $128,555, Street Lights $12,500, Contracted Services $28,000, Road Signs $8,000, Consulting Engineer $10,000.
The Board voted to approve and recommend to the Budget Hearing the Health portion of the budget as follows: Solid Waste $390,266, Vital Statistics $100, Bethany Summer League $3,500, Park & Recreation $235,366, Domestic Violence $500, Team $5,000, Regional Mental Health $276, QVHD $29,214, EMS Council $488.
The Human Services section of the budget was approved for recommendation to the Budget Hearing at $92,251 (there were 5 yes votes and 1 no votes that of Robert Brinton Jr. who objected to spending for the Bethany Seniority.
The Community Services section of the budget was recommended to the Budget Hearing as follows: Airport $1,400, Care of Cemeteries $8,000, Contingency Fund $50,000, Capital Reserve $550,000, Youth Services $13,631. The Library was recommended at $172,000.
Fixed Charges were recommended as follows for the Budget Hearing. Payroll Taxes $108,291, General Insurance $220,500, Employees Medical $482,632, Town Employees Investment $108,475, Fire Department Retirement $40,000, Debt Service $694,824.
Regional High School budget is listed on the budget at $8,714,313.
The Board recommends to the Budget Hearing a budget of $6,559,417 for the Bethany Elementary School. A vote was called there were 5 yes votes to recommend and 1 no vote, that of Robert Brinton Jr.
The overall increase for this recommended budget is $2.9%. It is the recommendation of the Board that $200,000 to be taken from the General Fund to further reduce the mill rate for next year to 29.16. The vote on total budgeted expenditures of $21,444,264 was 5 yes votes and 1 no vote, that of Robert Brinton Jr.
ADJOURNMENT
Adjournment was called at 10:00 pm after a motion was moved by Chip Spear and seconded by John Grabowski. The vote taken was unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
June G. Riley
Clerk, Board of Finance
The regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room of the Bethany Town Hall, 40 Peck Road, Bethany, Connecticut.
The following Commission Members were present:
Melissa Spear, Chair
Mary Shurtleff, Vice-Chair
Michael Calhoun, Member
Kimberly McClure Brinton, Member
Patricia Winer, Member
Nellie Rabinowitz, Alternate Member
Donna Shea, Alternate Member
Also present were:
Isabel Kearns, Zoning Enforcement Officer
Karen Hubbell, Assistant Zoning Enforcement Officer
Hiram Peck, Planning Consultant
Kevin McSherry, Town Attorney
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. It was moved by Winer and seconded by Brinton to approve the minutes of the April 3, 2013, Regular Meeting with the following correction:
• Page 5, Fourteenth bullet – Move Louise Harter of 64 Meyers Road. (submitted six graphics – Exhibit 25) to paragraph of residents who spoke in favor of the proposed amendment.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve, as submitted, the minutes of the April 17, 2013, Special Meeting/Hearing Continuation.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
BILLS
1. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the payment of $1,000.00 (monthly pro rata basis), for services rendered for April 2013, by Hiram W. Peck III, AICP, Planning Consultant.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Winer to approve the payment of a bill for $95.00, dated April 3, 2013, from Anne Sohon for recording services for the public hearing (Green Haven, Zoning Amendment).
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE
1. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-009, proposed barbershop, 696 Amity Road, Unit A4, with attached letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 12, 2013 to Mirian Echevarria.
2. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-011, proposed automotive repair, 87 Old Amity Road.
3. Memo from Mark Glazer owner of 696 Amity Road, Unit 4B, submitted April 30, 2013, Re: Explanation of business, The Mobile Consignment Shop, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
4. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, dated April 30, 2013, Re: No comment on application for Consignment Shop, ecommerce business, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
5. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Planning Commission, dated April 12, 2013, Re: Review of Town of Prospect: Proposed Zoning Regulation Amendment to Section 2.4.4 – Expansion of Nonconforming Structure.
PUBLICATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
1. Clearscapes, A newsletter of the Center for Land Use Education and Research at the University of Connecticut, Winter 2013.
2. Connecticut Federation of Planning and Zoning Agencies Quarterly Newsletter, Spring 2013.
ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER’S REPORT AND APPROPRIATE COMMISSION ACTION
Isabel Kearns, ZEO. No report at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
1. 696 Amity Road, Unit A-4, Application #2013-009 submitted by Mirian Echerarria for a Change of Use Permit to operate a barbershop –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
The Commission received a letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, denying the application at this time.
Isabel Kearns, ZEO, will speak to Quinnipiack Valley Health District and report back to Commission.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
2. 567 Carrington Road, Application #2013-010 submitted by Carol Lambiase for a Home Occupation Permit to operate an office for an arborist business –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Carol Lambiase, applicant and owner of record.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-010:
Whereas, Carol Lambiase, owner of 567 Carrington Road, applied to the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 1, 2013, for a home occupation permit to operate a home office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road;
Whereas, the Commission, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, considered the statement of use, narrative, testimony and other pertinent application information relating to this home occupation application;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating her approval.
2) Rod White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating his approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Section 4.3.D.4.b. of the Town of Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the application of Carol Lambiase to operate an office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road, as outlined in the Statement of Use.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
3. 87 Old Amity Road, Application #2013-011 submitted by Robert Weidig for an Additional Use Permit and a Site Plan Modification for a Used Car Dealership –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Brinton to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-011:
Whereas, the owner of the property, Claire Jennings, in an e-mail dated April 18, 2013, authorized Robert Weidig to apply to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the necessary land-use permits to allow a used-car dealership and repair facility to operate from 87 Old Amity Road, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign;
Whereas, Robert Weidig applied on May 1, 2013 to the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission for a site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Whereas, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, the Commission considered the plans, testimony, statement of use and other pertinent application information relating to this site plan modification and an additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) The property is not located with a Public Water Supply Watershed Area.
2) The Zoning Board of Appeals issued a Certificate of Approval for Location of a Motor Vehicle Dealer and Repairer at 87 Old Amity Road on April 8, 2013.
3) Roderick White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on May 1, 2013, indicating his approval of this application.
4) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, submitted a letter with comments, dated April 25, 2013, indicating approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Sections 5.2.B.1, 5.3.h.3.b. and 7.3 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road, as presented in the application, statement of use and testimony and as per the plan that was originally approved by the Commission on May 2, 2012, which at that time did not include the parking of cars for sale and with the following conditions:
1) Zoning Board of Appeals approval is for locational approval.
2) Applicant shall follow the comments listed in the letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013.
3) The Zoning Enforcement Officer is authorized to approve the sign in conformance with the Bethany Zoning Regulations.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
4. Discussion with ZEO regarding signage at Airport Property – Tabled.
5. 696 Amity Road, Units 3B, 4B, and 5B, Application #2013-012 submitted by The Mobile Consignment Shop LLC, for a Change of Use to operate an office for an eBay business –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
6. Application #2013-013 submitted by Anthony Esposito for various zoning amendments –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Anthony Esposito.
The Commission would like to review and have Staff review before scheduling a public hearing.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
OLD BUSINESS
1) Green Haven, Inc., Application #2013-007 to amend the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23 titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) –
Member Patricia Winer recused herself. Alternate Member Donna Shea was seated as a voting member.
Hiram Peck, Town Planner, prepared a draft resolution and distributed to Commission members.
Commission members discussed, commented individually and proceeded to deliberate. (Individual comments on clerk’s recording.)
It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Shurtleff to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-007:
The Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with all applicable statutes and regulations, held a public hearing which opened on April 3, 2013, and closed on April 17, 2013, and took all testimony as required by law; and
The Planning and Zoning Commission has now considered the above referenced application at its meeting of May 1, 2013, and hereby takes the following action:
WHEREAS, the applicant Green Haven, Inc. has submitted a complete application along with information, and documentation at the Commission’s first public hearing session which included a draft Zoning Regulation amendment for an Open Space Housing District which was proposed to be Section 23 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations; and
WHEREAS, in response to comments made at the first session of the public hearing the applicant made several revisions to the proposed amendment, including revisions to:
1. The number of units per building.
2. The definition of Open Space.
3. The maximum size (number of units) in any single OSHD project.
4. The location of an OSHD to be only in an Housing Opportunity Development Zone.
5. The inclusion of the concept of an overlay zoning district.
6. The average number of bedrooms proposed per unit.
7. The addition that at least 15% of the homes be designed for the elderly.
8. The proposed coverage downward from 15% to 8%.
9. A clarification that lighting intensity be required to be approved by the Commission.
10. A revision to the requirement that all utilities be placed underground.
WHEREAS, the Commission has heard and considered all the testimony at both sessions of the public hearing and has reviewed all materials submitted by all parties; and
WHEREAS, the Commission finds that the application has changed significantly in several ways; it cannot be considered the same regulation that was originally submitted; and
WHEREAS, the Commission does have legislative authority in the matter of a zoning amendment where it can make “reasonable, related modifications to a proposal”, the Commission finds in this case that the revisions are too broad to be considered in such a light; and
WHEREAS, the Commission also notes that the original proposal could have been applied to more than one property in Bethany, while the final form of the proposed amendment could only be adopted for one location and that in itself is a substantial change in the proposed regulation.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that application 2013-007 for an amendment to the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23, titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) as submitted by Green Haven, Inc, is hereby denied without prejudice.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Brinton, Calhoun, Shea.
Unanimous approval.
2) Continue discussion and possible action to set public hearing date regarding proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations on accessory buildings, signage for larger parcels, home occupation permits, etc. - Tabled.
3) Continue discussion on Village Districts – Tabled.
4) Discuss increasing application fees – Tabled.
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by Brinton and seconded by Calhoun to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:50 p.m. Unanimous approval.
Respectfully submitted,
Antonia R. Marek, Clerk
For the Planning and Zoning Commission
The following Commission Members were present:
Melissa Spear, Chair
Mary Shurtleff, Vice-Chair
Michael Calhoun, Member
Kimberly McClure Brinton, Member
Patricia Winer, Member
Nellie Rabinowitz, Alternate Member
Donna Shea, Alternate Member
Also present were:
Isabel Kearns, Zoning Enforcement Officer
Karen Hubbell, Assistant Zoning Enforcement Officer
Hiram Peck, Planning Consultant
Kevin McSherry, Town Attorney
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. It was moved by Winer and seconded by Brinton to approve the minutes of the April 3, 2013, Regular Meeting with the following correction:
• Page 5, Fourteenth bullet – Move Louise Harter of 64 Meyers Road. (submitted six graphics – Exhibit 25) to paragraph of residents who spoke in favor of the proposed amendment.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve, as submitted, the minutes of the April 17, 2013, Special Meeting/Hearing Continuation.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
BILLS
1. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the payment of $1,000.00 (monthly pro rata basis), for services rendered for April 2013, by Hiram W. Peck III, AICP, Planning Consultant.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Winer to approve the payment of a bill for $95.00, dated April 3, 2013, from Anne Sohon for recording services for the public hearing (Green Haven, Zoning Amendment).
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE
1. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-009, proposed barbershop, 696 Amity Road, Unit A4, with attached letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 12, 2013 to Mirian Echevarria.
2. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-011, proposed automotive repair, 87 Old Amity Road.
3. Memo from Mark Glazer owner of 696 Amity Road, Unit 4B, submitted April 30, 2013, Re: Explanation of business, The Mobile Consignment Shop, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
4. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, dated April 30, 2013, Re: No comment on application for Consignment Shop, ecommerce business, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
5. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Planning Commission, dated April 12, 2013, Re: Review of Town of Prospect: Proposed Zoning Regulation Amendment to Section 2.4.4 – Expansion of Nonconforming Structure.
PUBLICATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
1. Clearscapes, A newsletter of the Center for Land Use Education and Research at the University of Connecticut, Winter 2013.
2. Connecticut Federation of Planning and Zoning Agencies Quarterly Newsletter, Spring 2013.
ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER’S REPORT AND APPROPRIATE COMMISSION ACTION
Isabel Kearns, ZEO. No report at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
1. 696 Amity Road, Unit A-4, Application #2013-009 submitted by Mirian Echerarria for a Change of Use Permit to operate a barbershop –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
The Commission received a letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, denying the application at this time.
Isabel Kearns, ZEO, will speak to Quinnipiack Valley Health District and report back to Commission.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
2. 567 Carrington Road, Application #2013-010 submitted by Carol Lambiase for a Home Occupation Permit to operate an office for an arborist business –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Carol Lambiase, applicant and owner of record.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-010:
Whereas, Carol Lambiase, owner of 567 Carrington Road, applied to the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 1, 2013, for a home occupation permit to operate a home office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road;
Whereas, the Commission, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, considered the statement of use, narrative, testimony and other pertinent application information relating to this home occupation application;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating her approval.
2) Rod White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating his approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Section 4.3.D.4.b. of the Town of Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the application of Carol Lambiase to operate an office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road, as outlined in the Statement of Use.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
3. 87 Old Amity Road, Application #2013-011 submitted by Robert Weidig for an Additional Use Permit and a Site Plan Modification for a Used Car Dealership –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Brinton to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-011:
Whereas, the owner of the property, Claire Jennings, in an e-mail dated April 18, 2013, authorized Robert Weidig to apply to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the necessary land-use permits to allow a used-car dealership and repair facility to operate from 87 Old Amity Road, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign;
Whereas, Robert Weidig applied on May 1, 2013 to the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission for a site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Whereas, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, the Commission considered the plans, testimony, statement of use and other pertinent application information relating to this site plan modification and an additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) The property is not located with a Public Water Supply Watershed Area.
2) The Zoning Board of Appeals issued a Certificate of Approval for Location of a Motor Vehicle Dealer and Repairer at 87 Old Amity Road on April 8, 2013.
3) Roderick White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on May 1, 2013, indicating his approval of this application.
4) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, submitted a letter with comments, dated April 25, 2013, indicating approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Sections 5.2.B.1, 5.3.h.3.b. and 7.3 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road, as presented in the application, statement of use and testimony and as per the plan that was originally approved by the Commission on May 2, 2012, which at that time did not include the parking of cars for sale and with the following conditions:
1) Zoning Board of Appeals approval is for locational approval.
2) Applicant shall follow the comments listed in the letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013.
3) The Zoning Enforcement Officer is authorized to approve the sign in conformance with the Bethany Zoning Regulations.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
4. Discussion with ZEO regarding signage at Airport Property – Tabled.
5. 696 Amity Road, Units 3B, 4B, and 5B, Application #2013-012 submitted by The Mobile Consignment Shop LLC, for a Change of Use to operate an office for an eBay business –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
6. Application #2013-013 submitted by Anthony Esposito for various zoning amendments –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Anthony Esposito.
The Commission would like to review and have Staff review before scheduling a public hearing.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
OLD BUSINESS
1) Green Haven, Inc., Application #2013-007 to amend the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23 titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) –
Member Patricia Winer recused herself. Alternate Member Donna Shea was seated as a voting member.
Hiram Peck, Town Planner, prepared a draft resolution and distributed to Commission members.
Commission members discussed, commented individually and proceeded to deliberate. (Individual comments on clerk’s recording.)
It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Shurtleff to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-007:
The Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with all applicable statutes and regulations, held a public hearing which opened on April 3, 2013, and closed on April 17, 2013, and took all testimony as required by law; and
The Planning and Zoning Commission has now considered the above referenced application at its meeting of May 1, 2013, and hereby takes the following action:
WHEREAS, the applicant Green Haven, Inc. has submitted a complete application along with information, and documentation at the Commission’s first public hearing session which included a draft Zoning Regulation amendment for an Open Space Housing District which was proposed to be Section 23 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations; and
WHEREAS, in response to comments made at the first session of the public hearing the applicant made several revisions to the proposed amendment, including revisions to:
1. The number of units per building.
2. The definition of Open Space.
3. The maximum size (number of units) in any single OSHD project.
4. The location of an OSHD to be only in an Housing Opportunity Development Zone.
5. The inclusion of the concept of an overlay zoning district.
6. The average number of bedrooms proposed per unit.
7. The addition that at least 15% of the homes be designed for the elderly.
8. The proposed coverage downward from 15% to 8%.
9. A clarification that lighting intensity be required to be approved by the Commission.
10. A revision to the requirement that all utilities be placed underground.
WHEREAS, the Commission has heard and considered all the testimony at both sessions of the public hearing and has reviewed all materials submitted by all parties; and
WHEREAS, the Commission finds that the application has changed significantly in several ways; it cannot be considered the same regulation that was originally submitted; and
WHEREAS, the Commission does have legislative authority in the matter of a zoning amendment where it can make “reasonable, related modifications to a proposal”, the Commission finds in this case that the revisions are too broad to be considered in such a light; and
WHEREAS, the Commission also notes that the original proposal could have been applied to more than one property in Bethany, while the final form of the proposed amendment could only be adopted for one location and that in itself is a substantial change in the proposed regulation.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that application 2013-007 for an amendment to the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23, titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) as submitted by Green Haven, Inc, is hereby denied without prejudice.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Brinton, Calhoun, Shea.
Unanimous approval.
2) Continue discussion and possible action to set public hearing date regarding proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations on accessory buildings, signage for larger parcels, home occupation permits, etc. - Tabled.
3) Continue discussion on Village Districts – Tabled.
4) Discuss increasing application fees – Tabled.
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by Brinton and seconded by Calhoun to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:50 p.m. Unanimous approval.
Respectfully submitted,
Antonia R. Marek, Clerk
For the Planning and Zoning Commission
Economic Development Commission
Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 29, 2013
Attendees:
Kathy Consoli, Charles Johnson, Derry Gorski, Fran Doba
Absent: William Verab, Tom Cavaliere
The meeting started at 7:07 in the Selectman’s Room. The purpose of the meeting was to document a plan for projects that the EDC could work on that would be viewed as beneficial to the small business community in Bethany.
Kathy presented a folder that is distributed by the county government in South Carolina that contained information about doing business in that county. She informed the group that she met with Tom to discuss a project for this commission.
She said that, as a small business owner, she was completely unaware of the town’s tax incentive when she was expanding Surreybrook. She suggested that any EDC plan we come up with to inform small businesses of the benefits of starting or expanding a business in Bethany, should be understood not only by the EDC members, but also by the various town offices (Land Use, Town Clerk, Assessor, etc.). By training the people who issue building permits or Trade Name forms, the information developed by EDC can be shared at the beginning of the process with the business owner.
The suggestion by our group was to develop a similar folder containing information about state and local tax incentives, benefits and assistance programs to help the business owners navigate through the bureaucracy and understand what programs might be available to him.
Fran distributed a list of departments that needed to be researched to see if there might be anything of value for small business in Bethany. The group divided up the list and agreed to investigate the possibilities. The team agreed to have the information ready to review at the next meeting.
Next Meeting: Monday, June 3, 2013 at 7:00pm in the Selectmen’s Room.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Doba
Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 29, 2013
Attendees:
Kathy Consoli, Charles Johnson, Derry Gorski, Fran Doba
Absent: William Verab, Tom Cavaliere
The meeting started at 7:07 in the Selectman’s Room. The purpose of the meeting was to document a plan for projects that the EDC could work on that would be viewed as beneficial to the small business community in Bethany.
Kathy presented a folder that is distributed by the county government in South Carolina that contained information about doing business in that county. She informed the group that she met with Tom to discuss a project for this commission.
She said that, as a small business owner, she was completely unaware of the town’s tax incentive when she was expanding Surreybrook. She suggested that any EDC plan we come up with to inform small businesses of the benefits of starting or expanding a business in Bethany, should be understood not only by the EDC members, but also by the various town offices (Land Use, Town Clerk, Assessor, etc.). By training the people who issue building permits or Trade Name forms, the information developed by EDC can be shared at the beginning of the process with the business owner.
The suggestion by our group was to develop a similar folder containing information about state and local tax incentives, benefits and assistance programs to help the business owners navigate through the bureaucracy and understand what programs might be available to him.
Fran distributed a list of departments that needed to be researched to see if there might be anything of value for small business in Bethany. The group divided up the list and agreed to investigate the possibilities. The team agreed to have the information ready to review at the next meeting.
Next Meeting: Monday, June 3, 2013 at 7:00pm in the Selectmen’s Room.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Doba
Economic Development Commission
Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 29, 2013
Attendees:
Kathy Consoli, Charles Johnson, Derry Gorski, Fran Doba
Absent: William Verab, Tom Cavaliere
The meeting started at 7:07 in the Selectman’s Room. The purpose of the meeting was to document a plan for projects that the EDC could work on that would be viewed as beneficial to the small business community in Bethany.
Kathy presented a folder that is distributed by the county government in South Carolina that contained information about doing business in that county. She informed the group that she met with Tom to discuss a project for this commission.
She said that, as a small business owner, she was completely unaware of the town’s tax incentive when she was expanding Surreybrook. She suggested that any EDC plan we come up with to inform small businesses of the benefits of starting or expanding a business in Bethany, should be understood not only by the EDC members, but also by the various town offices (Land Use, Town Clerk, Assessor, etc.). By training the people who issue building permits or Trade Name forms, the information developed by EDC can be shared at the beginning of the process with the business owner.
The suggestion by our group was to develop a similar folder containing information about state and local tax incentives, benefits and assistance programs to help the business owners navigate through the bureaucracy and understand what programs might be available to him.
Fran distributed a list of departments that needed to be researched to see if there might be anything of value for small business in Bethany. The group divided up the list and agreed to investigate the possibilities. The team agreed to have the information ready to review at the next meeting.
Next Meeting: Monday, June 3, 2013 at 7:00pm in the Selectmen’s Room.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Doba
Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 29, 2013
Attendees:
Kathy Consoli, Charles Johnson, Derry Gorski, Fran Doba
Absent: William Verab, Tom Cavaliere
The meeting started at 7:07 in the Selectman’s Room. The purpose of the meeting was to document a plan for projects that the EDC could work on that would be viewed as beneficial to the small business community in Bethany.
Kathy presented a folder that is distributed by the county government in South Carolina that contained information about doing business in that county. She informed the group that she met with Tom to discuss a project for this commission.
She said that, as a small business owner, she was completely unaware of the town’s tax incentive when she was expanding Surreybrook. She suggested that any EDC plan we come up with to inform small businesses of the benefits of starting or expanding a business in Bethany, should be understood not only by the EDC members, but also by the various town offices (Land Use, Town Clerk, Assessor, etc.). By training the people who issue building permits or Trade Name forms, the information developed by EDC can be shared at the beginning of the process with the business owner.
The suggestion by our group was to develop a similar folder containing information about state and local tax incentives, benefits and assistance programs to help the business owners navigate through the bureaucracy and understand what programs might be available to him.
Fran distributed a list of departments that needed to be researched to see if there might be anything of value for small business in Bethany. The group divided up the list and agreed to investigate the possibilities. The team agreed to have the information ready to review at the next meeting.
Next Meeting: Monday, June 3, 2013 at 7:00pm in the Selectmen’s Room.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Doba
Friday, July 12, 2013
MINUTES OF THE BETHANY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING OF WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2013 Page 1 of 7
The regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room of the Bethany Town Hall, 40 Peck Road, Bethany, Connecticut.
The following Commission Members were present:
Melissa Spear, Chair
Mary Shurtleff, Vice-Chair
Michael Calhoun, Member
Kimberly McClure Brinton, Member
Patricia Winer, Member
Nellie Rabinowitz, Alternate Member
Donna Shea, Alternate Member
Also present were:
Isabel Kearns, Zoning Enforcement Officer
Karen Hubbell, Assistant Zoning Enforcement Officer
Hiram Peck, Planning Consultant
Kevin McSherry, Town Attorney
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. It was moved by Winer and seconded by Brinton to approve the minutes of the April 3, 2013, Regular Meeting with the following correction:
• Page 5, Fourteenth bullet – Move Louise Harter of 64 Meyers Road. (submitted six graphics – Exhibit 25) to paragraph of residents who spoke in favor of the proposed amendment.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve, as submitted, the minutes of the April 17, 2013, Special Meeting/Hearing Continuation.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
BILLS
1. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the payment of $1,000.00 (monthly pro rata basis), for services rendered for April 2013, by Hiram W. Peck III, AICP, Planning Consultant.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Winer to approve the payment of a bill for $95.00, dated April 3, 2013, from Anne Sohon for recording services for the public hearing (Green Haven, Zoning Amendment).
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE
1. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-009, proposed barbershop, 696 Amity Road, Unit A4, with attached letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 12, 2013 to Mirian Echevarria.
2. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-011, proposed automotive repair, 87 Old Amity Road.
3. Memo from Mark Glazer owner of 696 Amity Road, Unit 4B, submitted April 30, 2013, Re: Explanation of business, The Mobile Consignment Shop, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
4. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, dated April 30, 2013, Re: No comment on application for Consignment Shop, ecommerce business, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
5. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Planning Commission, dated April 12, 2013, Re: Review of Town of Prospect: Proposed Zoning Regulation Amendment to Section 2.4.4 – Expansion of Nonconforming Structure.
PUBLICATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
1. Clearscapes, A newsletter of the Center for Land Use Education and Research at the University of Connecticut, Winter 2013.
2. Connecticut Federation of Planning and Zoning Agencies Quarterly Newsletter, Spring 2013.
ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER’S REPORT AND APPROPRIATE COMMISSION ACTION
Isabel Kearns, ZEO. No report at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
1. 696 Amity Road, Unit A-4, Application #2013-009 submitted by Mirian Echerarria for a Change of Use Permit to operate a barbershop –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
The Commission received a letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, denying the application at this time.
Isabel Kearns, ZEO, will speak to Quinnipiack Valley Health District and report back to Commission.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
2. 567 Carrington Road, Application #2013-010 submitted by Carol Lambiase for a Home Occupation Permit to operate an office for an arborist business –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Carol Lambiase, applicant and owner of record.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-010:
Whereas, Carol Lambiase, owner of 567 Carrington Road, applied to the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 1, 2013, for a home occupation permit to operate a home office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road;
Whereas, the Commission, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, considered the statement of use, narrative, testimony and other pertinent application information relating to this home occupation application;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating her approval.
2) Rod White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating his approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Section 4.3.D.4.b. of the Town of Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the application of Carol Lambiase to operate an office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road, as outlined in the Statement of Use.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
3. 87 Old Amity Road, Application #2013-011 submitted by Robert Weidig for an Additional Use Permit and a Site Plan Modification for a Used Car Dealership –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Brinton to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-011:
Whereas, the owner of the property, Claire Jennings, in an e-mail dated April 18, 2013, authorized Robert Weidig to apply to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the necessary land-use permits to allow a used-car dealership and repair facility to operate from 87 Old Amity Road, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign;
Whereas, Robert Weidig applied on May 1, 2013 to the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission for a site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Whereas, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, the Commission considered the plans, testimony, statement of use and other pertinent application information relating to this site plan modification and an additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) The property is not located with a Public Water Supply Watershed Area.
2) The Zoning Board of Appeals issued a Certificate of Approval for Location of a Motor Vehicle Dealer and Repairer at 87 Old Amity Road on April 8, 2013.
3) Roderick White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on May 1, 2013, indicating his approval of this application.
4) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, submitted a letter with comments, dated April 25, 2013, indicating approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Sections 5.2.B.1, 5.3.h.3.b. and 7.3 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road, as presented in the application, statement of use and testimony and as per the plan that was originally approved by the Commission on May 2, 2012, which at that time did not include the parking of cars for sale and with the following conditions:
1) Zoning Board of Appeals approval is for locational approval.
2) Applicant shall follow the comments listed in the letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013.
3) The Zoning Enforcement Officer is authorized to approve the sign in conformance with the Bethany Zoning Regulations.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
4. Discussion with ZEO regarding signage at Airport Property – Tabled.
5. 696 Amity Road, Units 3B, 4B, and 5B, Application #2013-012 submitted by The Mobile Consignment Shop LLC, for a Change of Use to operate an office for an eBay business –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
6. Application #2013-013 submitted by Anthony Esposito for various zoning amendments –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Anthony Esposito.
The Commission would like to review and have Staff review before scheduling a public hearing.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
OLD BUSINESS
1) Green Haven, Inc., Application #2013-007 to amend the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23 titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) –
Member Patricia Winer recused herself. Alternate Member Donna Shea was seated as a voting member.
Hiram Peck, Town Planner, prepared a draft resolution and distributed to Commission members.
Commission members discussed, commented individually and proceeded to deliberate. (Individual comments on clerk’s recording.)
It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Shurtleff to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-007:
The Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with all applicable statutes and regulations, held a public hearing which opened on April 3, 2013, and closed on April 17, 2013, and took all testimony as required by law; and
The Planning and Zoning Commission has now considered the above referenced application at its meeting of May 1, 2013, and hereby takes the following action:
WHEREAS, the applicant Green Haven, Inc. has submitted a complete application along with information, and documentation at the Commission’s first public hearing session which included a draft Zoning Regulation amendment for an Open Space Housing District which was proposed to be Section 23 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations; and
WHEREAS, in response to comments made at the first session of the public hearing the applicant made several revisions to the proposed amendment, including revisions to:
1. The number of units per building.
2. The definition of Open Space.
3. The maximum size (number of units) in any single OSHD project.
4. The location of an OSHD to be only in an Housing Opportunity Development Zone.
5. The inclusion of the concept of an overlay zoning district.
6. The average number of bedrooms proposed per unit.
7. The addition that at least 15% of the homes be designed for the elderly.
8. The proposed coverage downward from 15% to 8%.
9. A clarification that lighting intensity be required to be approved by the Commission.
10. A revision to the requirement that all utilities be placed underground.
WHEREAS, the Commission has heard and considered all the testimony at both sessions of the public hearing and has reviewed all materials submitted by all parties; and
WHEREAS, the Commission finds that the application has changed significantly in several ways; it cannot be considered the same regulation that was originally submitted; and
WHEREAS, the Commission does have legislative authority in the matter of a zoning amendment where it can make “reasonable, related modifications to a proposal”, the Commission finds in this case that the revisions are too broad to be considered in such a light; and
WHEREAS, the Commission also notes that the original proposal could have been applied to more than one property in Bethany, while the final form of the proposed amendment could only be adopted for one location and that in itself is a substantial change in the proposed regulation.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that application 2013-007 for an amendment to the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23, titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) as submitted by Green Haven, Inc, is hereby denied without prejudice.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Brinton, Calhoun, Shea.
Unanimous approval.
2) Continue discussion and possible action to set public hearing date regarding proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations on accessory buildings, signage for larger parcels, home occupation permits, etc. - Tabled.
3) Continue discussion on Village Districts – Tabled.
4) Discuss increasing application fees – Tabled.
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by Brinton and seconded by Calhoun to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:50 p.m. Unanimous approval.
Respectfully submitted,
Antonia R. Marek, Clerk
For the Planning and Zoning Commission
The regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room of the Bethany Town Hall, 40 Peck Road, Bethany, Connecticut.
The following Commission Members were present:
Melissa Spear, Chair
Mary Shurtleff, Vice-Chair
Michael Calhoun, Member
Kimberly McClure Brinton, Member
Patricia Winer, Member
Nellie Rabinowitz, Alternate Member
Donna Shea, Alternate Member
Also present were:
Isabel Kearns, Zoning Enforcement Officer
Karen Hubbell, Assistant Zoning Enforcement Officer
Hiram Peck, Planning Consultant
Kevin McSherry, Town Attorney
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. It was moved by Winer and seconded by Brinton to approve the minutes of the April 3, 2013, Regular Meeting with the following correction:
• Page 5, Fourteenth bullet – Move Louise Harter of 64 Meyers Road. (submitted six graphics – Exhibit 25) to paragraph of residents who spoke in favor of the proposed amendment.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve, as submitted, the minutes of the April 17, 2013, Special Meeting/Hearing Continuation.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
BILLS
1. It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the payment of $1,000.00 (monthly pro rata basis), for services rendered for April 2013, by Hiram W. Peck III, AICP, Planning Consultant.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
2. It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Winer to approve the payment of a bill for $95.00, dated April 3, 2013, from Anne Sohon for recording services for the public hearing (Green Haven, Zoning Amendment).
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Calhoun, Brinton.
Unanimous approval.
GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE
1. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-009, proposed barbershop, 696 Amity Road, Unit A4, with attached letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 12, 2013 to Mirian Echevarria.
2. Letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013, Re: Comments on Application #2013-011, proposed automotive repair, 87 Old Amity Road.
3. Memo from Mark Glazer owner of 696 Amity Road, Unit 4B, submitted April 30, 2013, Re: Explanation of business, The Mobile Consignment Shop, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
4. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, dated April 30, 2013, Re: No comment on application for Consignment Shop, ecommerce business, 696 Amity Road, Units 4B, 5B, and 6B.
5. Letter from South Central Connecticut Regional Planning Commission, dated April 12, 2013, Re: Review of Town of Prospect: Proposed Zoning Regulation Amendment to Section 2.4.4 – Expansion of Nonconforming Structure.
PUBLICATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
1. Clearscapes, A newsletter of the Center for Land Use Education and Research at the University of Connecticut, Winter 2013.
2. Connecticut Federation of Planning and Zoning Agencies Quarterly Newsletter, Spring 2013.
ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER’S REPORT AND APPROPRIATE COMMISSION ACTION
Isabel Kearns, ZEO. No report at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
1. 696 Amity Road, Unit A-4, Application #2013-009 submitted by Mirian Echerarria for a Change of Use Permit to operate a barbershop –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
The Commission received a letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 29, 2013, denying the application at this time.
Isabel Kearns, ZEO, will speak to Quinnipiack Valley Health District and report back to Commission.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
2. 567 Carrington Road, Application #2013-010 submitted by Carol Lambiase for a Home Occupation Permit to operate an office for an arborist business –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Carol Lambiase, applicant and owner of record.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Calhoun to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-010:
Whereas, Carol Lambiase, owner of 567 Carrington Road, applied to the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 1, 2013, for a home occupation permit to operate a home office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road;
Whereas, the Commission, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, considered the statement of use, narrative, testimony and other pertinent application information relating to this home occupation application;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating her approval.
2) Rod White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on April 22, 2013, indicating his approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Section 4.3.D.4.b. of the Town of Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the application of Carol Lambiase to operate an office for an arborist business at 567 Carrington Road, as outlined in the Statement of Use.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
3. 87 Old Amity Road, Application #2013-011 submitted by Robert Weidig for an Additional Use Permit and a Site Plan Modification for a Used Car Dealership –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Commission members reviewed the application file, discussed and proceeded to deliberate.
It was moved by Shurtleff and seconded by Brinton to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-011:
Whereas, the owner of the property, Claire Jennings, in an e-mail dated April 18, 2013, authorized Robert Weidig to apply to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the necessary land-use permits to allow a used-car dealership and repair facility to operate from 87 Old Amity Road, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign;
Whereas, Robert Weidig applied on May 1, 2013 to the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission for a site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Whereas, at its regular meeting of May 1, 2013, the Commission considered the plans, testimony, statement of use and other pertinent application information relating to this site plan modification and an additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road;
Now Therefore, the Commission makes the following findings of fact and decision regarding this application:
1) The property is not located with a Public Water Supply Watershed Area.
2) The Zoning Board of Appeals issued a Certificate of Approval for Location of a Motor Vehicle Dealer and Repairer at 87 Old Amity Road on April 8, 2013.
3) Roderick White, Fire Marshal, signed off on the back of the application form on May 1, 2013, indicating his approval of this application.
4) Lynn Fox, Quinnipiack Valley Health District Representative, submitted a letter with comments, dated April 25, 2013, indicating approval.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that pursuant to Sections 5.2.B.1, 5.3.h.3.b. and 7.3 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations, amended to December 7, 2011, the Bethany Planning and Zoning Commission approves the site plan modification and additional use for a used car dealership (10 cars maximum) and a repair facility, as well as an attached 5-foot by 5-foot sign permit at 87 Old Amity Road, as presented in the application, statement of use and testimony and as per the plan that was originally approved by the Commission on May 2, 2012, which at that time did not include the parking of cars for sale and with the following conditions:
1) Zoning Board of Appeals approval is for locational approval.
2) Applicant shall follow the comments listed in the letter from Quinnipiack Valley Health District, dated April 25, 2013.
3) The Zoning Enforcement Officer is authorized to approve the sign in conformance with the Bethany Zoning Regulations.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Winer, Brinton, Calhoun.
Unanimous approval.
4. Discussion with ZEO regarding signage at Airport Property – Tabled.
5. 696 Amity Road, Units 3B, 4B, and 5B, Application #2013-012 submitted by The Mobile Consignment Shop LLC, for a Change of Use to operate an office for an eBay business –
The Commission formally received the application. No one was present to speak on behalf of this application.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
6. Application #2013-013 submitted by Anthony Esposito for various zoning amendments –
The Commission formally received the application. Present to speak on behalf of this application was Anthony Esposito.
The Commission would like to review and have Staff review before scheduling a public hearing.
Further discussion and appropriate action on the application was deferred until the Commission’s next regular meeting on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. Tabled.
OLD BUSINESS
1) Green Haven, Inc., Application #2013-007 to amend the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23 titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) –
Member Patricia Winer recused herself. Alternate Member Donna Shea was seated as a voting member.
Hiram Peck, Town Planner, prepared a draft resolution and distributed to Commission members.
Commission members discussed, commented individually and proceeded to deliberate. (Individual comments on clerk’s recording.)
It was moved by Calhoun and seconded by Shurtleff to approve the following resolution for Application #2013-007:
The Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with all applicable statutes and regulations, held a public hearing which opened on April 3, 2013, and closed on April 17, 2013, and took all testimony as required by law; and
The Planning and Zoning Commission has now considered the above referenced application at its meeting of May 1, 2013, and hereby takes the following action:
WHEREAS, the applicant Green Haven, Inc. has submitted a complete application along with information, and documentation at the Commission’s first public hearing session which included a draft Zoning Regulation amendment for an Open Space Housing District which was proposed to be Section 23 of the Bethany Zoning Regulations; and
WHEREAS, in response to comments made at the first session of the public hearing the applicant made several revisions to the proposed amendment, including revisions to:
1. The number of units per building.
2. The definition of Open Space.
3. The maximum size (number of units) in any single OSHD project.
4. The location of an OSHD to be only in an Housing Opportunity Development Zone.
5. The inclusion of the concept of an overlay zoning district.
6. The average number of bedrooms proposed per unit.
7. The addition that at least 15% of the homes be designed for the elderly.
8. The proposed coverage downward from 15% to 8%.
9. A clarification that lighting intensity be required to be approved by the Commission.
10. A revision to the requirement that all utilities be placed underground.
WHEREAS, the Commission has heard and considered all the testimony at both sessions of the public hearing and has reviewed all materials submitted by all parties; and
WHEREAS, the Commission finds that the application has changed significantly in several ways; it cannot be considered the same regulation that was originally submitted; and
WHEREAS, the Commission does have legislative authority in the matter of a zoning amendment where it can make “reasonable, related modifications to a proposal”, the Commission finds in this case that the revisions are too broad to be considered in such a light; and
WHEREAS, the Commission also notes that the original proposal could have been applied to more than one property in Bethany, while the final form of the proposed amendment could only be adopted for one location and that in itself is a substantial change in the proposed regulation.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that application 2013-007 for an amendment to the Bethany Zoning Regulations to add a new Section 23, titled Bethany Open Space Housing District (OSHD) as submitted by Green Haven, Inc, is hereby denied without prejudice.
Vote 5 to 0.
Voting for: Spear, Shurtleff, Brinton, Calhoun, Shea.
Unanimous approval.
2) Continue discussion and possible action to set public hearing date regarding proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations on accessory buildings, signage for larger parcels, home occupation permits, etc. - Tabled.
3) Continue discussion on Village Districts – Tabled.
4) Discuss increasing application fees – Tabled.
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by Brinton and seconded by Calhoun to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:50 p.m. Unanimous approval.
Respectfully submitted,
Antonia R. Marek, Clerk
For the Planning and Zoning Commission
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING & ANNUAL BUDGET MEETING
MAY 20, 2013
First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski called the Annual Town Meeting & Annual Budget Meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. There were approximately 150 in attendance.
The meeting was then opened with the First Selectwoman asking everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
The First Selectwoman asked the Chairman of the Conservation Commission, Bruce Loomis, to come forward to present their Conservationist of the Year Award. This year the award was given to Peter and Diana Cooper who have spent their adult lives pursuing conservation and environmental advancement. The Coopers granted a Conservation Easement on 18 acres of their land in Bethany this past year and 29 acres in Woodbridge the year before – totaling 47 acres of contiguous protected land to the Bethany Land Trust. Peter Cooper is an attorney, past chairman of the CT Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, a former director of the Woodbridge Land Trust and a past member of the New England Advisory Council of the Trust for Public Land. Diana Cooper was the first female graduate of the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies. She is a writer whose work lead to land preservation supporting ecology of the Branford Supply Ponds Preserve.
The First Selectwoman called for nominations from the floor for a Moderator. There was a motion by Dave Forman, seconded by Carol Goldberg to nominate Charles Oman. A second motion was made by Aileen Magda, duly seconded to nominate Paul Manger. The registrars were called on to take a hand count. Oman - 73; Manger - 77. Manger was nominated.
**First Selectwoman Gorski stated that there is a typographical error on Item #20 that will be amended. Selectman Shea requested that this amendment be voted on first. The Moderator stated that it could be voted on out of sequence. Selectman Shea then made a motion, duly seconded by Aileen Magda to amend the wording from “on behalf of” to “with the approval of”… Town Counsel McSherry stated that the wording will be amended to say with the approval of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany rather than on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. The Moderator commented that this is so the First Selectwoman can sign contracts on behalf of the Town.
Aileen Magda, 28 Deerfield La - Why is the Bethany Bulletin version of the call different from the online version? The First Selectwoman said it is because it is edited by a volunteer and an error was made.
Will Brinton, 168 Sperry Rd – Why is there a need for this resolution? It hasn’t been done in the past.
Town Counsel McSherry stated that there has become more of a need for this resolution to allow the First Selectwoman to sign contracts on behalf of the Town. For example, a contract with AT&T which requires additional language and this takes care of that. In case law, if you don’t take those steps the contracts are not binding and can be voidable. This is for the protection of the Town and those who want to contract with the Town.
Steven Thornquist, 25 Oak Ridge Dr - It is not an unusual request to allow the First Selectwoman to be that person. They are reviewed when they come up before the Board of Selectmen.
A. Magda -The way the resolution is written is very broad. The Selectmen have cell phones if there is an emergency contract. But without approval of the Board, the First Selectwoman is solely making the decision.
Audrey Eisenstadt, 35 Rainbow Rd – the resolution says with the approval of the Board. How much more simple can it be?
There were no further comments. The vote taken was unanimous to approve amended Resolution #20. Approved.
Item (1) on call – RESOLVED: That the recommendations of the Board of Finance upon the Budget for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013 amounting to $21,882,854 be, and hereby are accepted and approved. Motion made by Pittenger, duly seconded.
Marsha Sawdon, 164 Hilldale Rd - why is this year’s budget going up almost 14 %? The year before was 6% and the year before that was 1%. I think this is a huge increase. Asked if all Selectmen get a salary – yes; First Selectwoman for the upcoming fiscal year will be paid $73,784. The two Selectmen receive stipends of $1,758 each.
Chairman Brunwin said that the salary increase is 3%. Sawdon - I think the increase is out of line. The line item increase this year is $26,000. Last year it was $11,000. Brunwin stated that this line item includes salary, as well as expenses.
Chairman Brunwin began her presentation for the budget by first introducing the Board of Finance. For 2012, we have a $343,000 surplus due to revenue items coming in better than budgeted and expenditures coming in less than budgeted. Prior year tax collections and FEMA storm reimbursement, building permits are some of the items that contributed. Public works spent more than expected due to the storms. Bd. of Ed. came in a little over due to an accounting issue. We are spending more mainly due to storm expenses. All of the reimbursements will cover the expenditures. The Amity budget for the Town of Bethany was reduced to .9% from 1.4% from the original proposal. There is an increase in spending on roads from $117,000 to $600,000 excluding debt service. This can be budgeted down as the townspeople feel comfortable with; an additional $100,000 from the General Fund to balance the budget (total of $300,000). The total budget increase is 5.0%. The Board of Finance felt very strongly that the Town needs a professional accountant. It is necessary so that during the year we have all the information we need to make the best decisions we can. The budgeted cost is $24,000. Bethany Bulletin is now used to reach residents with information – cost of $11,460. Some budgets have been decreased to help pay for the Bulletin. The library has requested an additional $24,000 in part to help fund a technology upgrade including participation in an online library consortium. The large item on the budget is road repairs. A study was done on the roads and was presented at the Budget Hearing. 35% of our roads need major work. Based on the study, to keep the current rating of 63 for the town, we would have to spend $330,000 per year. To improve slightly, a rating of 64, we would have to spend $600,000. The rating of 63 is typical for a town our size – small, rural and in the Northeast. The average range is 55 – 68. The roads need to be safe and passable but not perfect. The town needs a maintenance program that will keep them in good shape over time. In the budget, we went for the high end - $600,000 for major road repairs – a big increase to the budget with a mill rate increase of 3.70%. Two proposals were offered -Proposal A, being more conservative at $330,000, a 2.7% increase to budget and $200 estimated tax increase. Proposal B, $600,000, a 5% increase to budget and a $286 estimated tax increase.
Jaime Stirling, 20 Miller Rd – Would the increase for a part time accountant be included in the selectmen salary & expenses? Yes.
Heather Chometa, 54 Gaylord Mtn Rd – We need to vote on the budget now. These items have already been discussed at the hearing.
Allene Kelly, 208 Schaffer Rd – Either last year or year before we received a $750,000 grant towards remodeling the airport recreation center? Why is it not on the budget? First Selectwoman Gorski - We do not have the money yet but the promise of the money. We will be moving forward with that shortly.
Bruce Hescock, 160 Humiston Dr – What will the $750,000 cover? Derry - $200,000 for demolition of existing hangar; $500,000 to erect the shell and then we will apply for an additional $500,000 for interior work.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming Yeas. Approved.
Item (2) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $210,000 for the lease purchase of a dump truck, the first of three payments to be $72,053 to be made in fiscal year 2013-14 by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. Duly moved and seconded.
Sue Corrone, 35 Russell Rd – No dump truck is worth that much money. Foreman Alan Green stated that the new ten wheeler, with a plow came to $210,000.
Lisa Amadeo, 25 Amadeo Dr – if it’s already been approved why is there discussion? Foreman Green - It is to vote on the payment. The Highway department already has the vehicle. The resolutions for payment were approved. The Moderator indicated that the residents could still vote no.
A. Kelley – Are the two new dump trucks replacing the two old dumps trucks? Foreman Green stated that we will have the same amount of trucks as before. Two were replaced and four are being refurbished.
A. Magda – how much money do you get for the old trucks? About $1,000.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (3) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $65,683 for the second of three payments of a lease purchase for a 5 yard dump truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made and duly seconded.
There were no comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Chris Pittenger, Farm View Rd – could we take the school portion of the budget out of order so young children can go home? The Moderator agreed to do the school items at this time.
David Forman, 329 Downs Rd - Tax Collector – Point of order. Bus for Park & Recreation – Resolution #14 should also be done at this time.
Item (4) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $46,678 for the second of three payments of a lease purchase for a back hoe by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made and duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (5) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $12,000 for the refurbishment of a body on the 2005 Sterling Dump Truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made by Thornquist, duly seconded by Spagnolo.
Russ von Beren, 134 Wooding Hill Rd – Most of these items are maintenance items that should be in the regular budget. What exactly are you going to do to the truck for $12,000? Foreman Green answered that the dump body will be repaired and undercoated, as well as sand blasted and rust proofed. We are hoping to get another ten years out of the truck. The Moderator also stated that they should be considered capitol reserve.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (6) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $8,000 for the refurbishment of the 2003 Ford F550 mason dump truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
R von Beren – What will be done to this truck? Foreman Green answered the body is deteriorated. We are trying to extend the life. Von Beren reiterated that maintenance items should be in the regular budget. It is up to the Board of Finance.
A. Kelly – repairs add up to $26,000. Who is handling the repairs? First Selectman Gorski - We go out to bid for any item over $5,000. The appropriations must be approved to go out to bid. Foreman Green received quotes from Universal Welding, W. H. Rose and O & G Industries. Green will also get a quote from Eagle Auto Body.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas, two Nays. Approved.
Item (7) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $6,000 for the refurbishment of the 1994 544G John Deere pay loader by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Majority yeas, one nay. Approved.
Item (8) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $75,000 for the replacement of the north side roof on the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (9) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $120,000 for the replacement of the kitchen/foyer roof and front entrance on the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved by Thonrquist, duly seconded by Eisenstadt.
Dennis. Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd – For Items (8) & (9) why are they not put together and get roof done all at once instead of separately? It should all be done at the same time.
Rod White, 24 Peck Rd – Building Maintenance - I was asked to put it in the 5-year plan. We had estimates on both parts of the roof. The Board of Finance opted to put both out to bid now. In effect we would like to do them at the same time. They happened to fall into two separate line items.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item 10) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $20,000 for the replacement of the gym ceiling in the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (11) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 for the replacement of safety light fixtures in the gym of the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (12) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,000 for the replacement of the fire alarm system in the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (13) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 to repair water damage at the Clark Memorial Library. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
Barbara Murphy-Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd – I think it’s great that the Public Works is going to work on this. I want to be sure it is being done the right way so that we don’t have additional problems with water damage and especially mold remediation. I think it is really important.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (14) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,000 for the purchase of a small school bus/van for the Park and Recreation Commission. The motion was duly moved and seconded.
A. Kelley – At first glance I believed the purchase of the school bus/van was a good idea. I did further investigation. Facts - cost of school bus is $350. After calling area towns to inquire about the same, Cheshire – we do not provide buses for any reason. Parents take care of all transportation; Orange – we have 3 separate camps and rent from B & B for $12,000 per year. Woodbridge - 300 students in summer program and spend about $8,000 on buses. Beacon Falls – 75 students and we spend $800 on buses. I called B & B to inquire about prices - $350 for their 65 passenger bus based on long trips. It’s a Bethany company and give a discount to the Bethany Recreation Dept. They charge $40.00 per hour for all trips within the town. After breaking it down, for the P & R programs (delightful and entertaining as they may be) – 29 – maximum that they pay is 3 hours per bus trip - $120 per trip. Problems with a second hand bus/van – it’s a state law that you cannot carry school children in a 15 passenger van; drivers on vans with school children must have a commercial license, be vetted, have a physical. There would have to be a Rider to the town insurance for $5,000,000. The Town will be responsible for any accidents. No mention has been made of the cost of running a bus/van. None of the other towns have found it cost effective to own a vehicle. I applaud the program but think it is a big mistake to buy a bus/van.
Janice Howard, 15 Dayton Rd – P & R Director. There is a one-time fee for the license. This year to date we have spent $6,075. We go to a variety of places – horse barn, bowling, golfing and to the park every Thursday. We are charged between $40 & $50 and an additional hour for driver to arrive and leave. In addition, we go on field trips. We do not typically fill a bus and it would be next to impossible for the parents to pay the additional fee for empty seats. We are trying to provide a service to the Town. In addition to that, there are ways we are trying to bring in more money such as local field trips which the parents would pay for and help to alleviate some of the costs. We try to alleviate some of the financial burden. I believe our department gave back $47,000 last year. We feel it would still cost less and that is why we are asking for it.
D. Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd - $15,000 is not the problem. The liability and insurance is the major issue. We already have a local bus company that provides good service and we should continue that way.
Lisa Amadeo, 25 Amadeo Dr – B & B does not charge to come back and forth to the Town Hall. He does his best to keep the cost down because he appreciates the town’s business. He has the insurance - $10,000,000. P & R does a tremendous job and they do right by the kids but they are not a bus company. A license takes 13 weeks, fingerprinting, 10 weeks, license updated every year and training at least every other year. I don’t think the town should take on the expense, maintenance and liability.
A. Magda – asked the First Selectwoman about the coverage. At the Board of Finance meeting you made it clear that there would be no additional cost to the town, that it would be covered under the town’s insurance. First Selectwoman said it would be covered under the town’s insurance policy. There would be an additional $850 charge per year, similar to the Senior bus.
There were no further comments. Majority of nays. Denied.
Item (15) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 for the first of two payments of a lease purchase for the replacement of school furniture for the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made by Eisenstadt, duly seconded by Thornquist.
There were no comments – overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (16) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $22,000 for the first of three payments of a lease purchase for security cameras for the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made, duly seconded.
Dick Van Horn, 86 Crestwood Rd – It is my understanding that these cameras are not monitored in real time. Then what is the value for security?
Brian Fournier, 21 Rainbow Rd - It is possible to use them in real time. The State Trooper will have the opportunity to do that. Van Horn – does this resolution cover that cost? Fournier – no.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (17) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $7,000 for the cleaning of the duct work in the rotunda at the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
A. Kelly – The Board of Education budget should be listed in its proper location. Moderator stated that it is in the proper place.
Item (18) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,500 for the first of three payments of a lease purchase for wireless infrastructure at the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made by Thornquist, duly seconded by Pittenger.
There were no comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (19) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized and empowered to enter into agreements with the Commissioner of State Police of the State of Connecticut authorizing the regular assignment to the Town of Bethany for (1) one Resident State Trooper for the period July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2015, and First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski is hereby authorized to solely execute such agreement on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
D Finneran –In the contract that the First Selectman negotiates I ask that we have an accurate listing of burglaries in town on a monthly basis. In similar towns they are published online and in town publications. In the last several years, there has been a significant increase in break-ins. First Selectwoman Gorski stated that she would address this.
Kim McClure-Brinton, 168 Sperry Rd – There is an email list that I got on that lists the break-ins.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
**Item (20) on call – RESOLVED: that First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski be authorized to solely execute all agreements on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. **See amended above**.
Item (21) on call – RESOLVED: to authorize the Board of Finance to transfer up to $225,000 from unexpended line item accounts and the General Fund to the Public Works budget. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
A. Kelly – Is that to cover the cost of this past winter’s plowing? It is for storm damage.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (22) on call – RESOLVED: to authorize the transfer of $25,000 from the General Fund to the Land Acquisition Fund. The motion was moved by Eisenstadt, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (23) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized and empowered to enter into agreements on behalf and in the name of the Town of Bethany with the Department of Transportation of the State of Connecticut for the expenditure of funds available to the Town of Bethany during the 2013-14 fiscal year for the maintenance, repair and the building of roads. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (24) on call - RESOLVED: that the reports of the Town Officers, Boards and Commissions for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2012 as contained in the printed 2011-12Annual Town Report to be accepted and ordered filed. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (25) on call – Other matters proper to come before the meeting.
Barry Collins, 339 Brooks Rd – Janet Brunwin deserves a thank you for the tremendous job she has done as Chairman of the Board of Finance. (Standing ovation and applause)
A. Kelly – I move that the Board of Finance be required to present at its public hearing a line item budget of the budget. When all items are lumped together it is difficult to understand what the money is being spent on.
J. Brunwin – The Board of Finance has followed the Office of Policy & Management procedure. All of this information is public records and if any individual is interested in any detail come to Town Hall and it will be provided.
D. Finneran – As to Item (13) I suggest that the First Selectwoman with support of the Selectmen issue a proclamation of thanks to those who are putting in both time and money for the repairs to Clark Memorial Library.
There were no further comments. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy A. McCarthy, CMC
Bethany Town Clerk
MAY 20, 2013
First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski called the Annual Town Meeting & Annual Budget Meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. There were approximately 150 in attendance.
The meeting was then opened with the First Selectwoman asking everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
The First Selectwoman asked the Chairman of the Conservation Commission, Bruce Loomis, to come forward to present their Conservationist of the Year Award. This year the award was given to Peter and Diana Cooper who have spent their adult lives pursuing conservation and environmental advancement. The Coopers granted a Conservation Easement on 18 acres of their land in Bethany this past year and 29 acres in Woodbridge the year before – totaling 47 acres of contiguous protected land to the Bethany Land Trust. Peter Cooper is an attorney, past chairman of the CT Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, a former director of the Woodbridge Land Trust and a past member of the New England Advisory Council of the Trust for Public Land. Diana Cooper was the first female graduate of the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies. She is a writer whose work lead to land preservation supporting ecology of the Branford Supply Ponds Preserve.
The First Selectwoman called for nominations from the floor for a Moderator. There was a motion by Dave Forman, seconded by Carol Goldberg to nominate Charles Oman. A second motion was made by Aileen Magda, duly seconded to nominate Paul Manger. The registrars were called on to take a hand count. Oman - 73; Manger - 77. Manger was nominated.
**First Selectwoman Gorski stated that there is a typographical error on Item #20 that will be amended. Selectman Shea requested that this amendment be voted on first. The Moderator stated that it could be voted on out of sequence. Selectman Shea then made a motion, duly seconded by Aileen Magda to amend the wording from “on behalf of” to “with the approval of”… Town Counsel McSherry stated that the wording will be amended to say with the approval of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany rather than on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. The Moderator commented that this is so the First Selectwoman can sign contracts on behalf of the Town.
Aileen Magda, 28 Deerfield La - Why is the Bethany Bulletin version of the call different from the online version? The First Selectwoman said it is because it is edited by a volunteer and an error was made.
Will Brinton, 168 Sperry Rd – Why is there a need for this resolution? It hasn’t been done in the past.
Town Counsel McSherry stated that there has become more of a need for this resolution to allow the First Selectwoman to sign contracts on behalf of the Town. For example, a contract with AT&T which requires additional language and this takes care of that. In case law, if you don’t take those steps the contracts are not binding and can be voidable. This is for the protection of the Town and those who want to contract with the Town.
Steven Thornquist, 25 Oak Ridge Dr - It is not an unusual request to allow the First Selectwoman to be that person. They are reviewed when they come up before the Board of Selectmen.
A. Magda -The way the resolution is written is very broad. The Selectmen have cell phones if there is an emergency contract. But without approval of the Board, the First Selectwoman is solely making the decision.
Audrey Eisenstadt, 35 Rainbow Rd – the resolution says with the approval of the Board. How much more simple can it be?
There were no further comments. The vote taken was unanimous to approve amended Resolution #20. Approved.
Item (1) on call – RESOLVED: That the recommendations of the Board of Finance upon the Budget for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013 amounting to $21,882,854 be, and hereby are accepted and approved. Motion made by Pittenger, duly seconded.
Marsha Sawdon, 164 Hilldale Rd - why is this year’s budget going up almost 14 %? The year before was 6% and the year before that was 1%. I think this is a huge increase. Asked if all Selectmen get a salary – yes; First Selectwoman for the upcoming fiscal year will be paid $73,784. The two Selectmen receive stipends of $1,758 each.
Chairman Brunwin said that the salary increase is 3%. Sawdon - I think the increase is out of line. The line item increase this year is $26,000. Last year it was $11,000. Brunwin stated that this line item includes salary, as well as expenses.
Chairman Brunwin began her presentation for the budget by first introducing the Board of Finance. For 2012, we have a $343,000 surplus due to revenue items coming in better than budgeted and expenditures coming in less than budgeted. Prior year tax collections and FEMA storm reimbursement, building permits are some of the items that contributed. Public works spent more than expected due to the storms. Bd. of Ed. came in a little over due to an accounting issue. We are spending more mainly due to storm expenses. All of the reimbursements will cover the expenditures. The Amity budget for the Town of Bethany was reduced to .9% from 1.4% from the original proposal. There is an increase in spending on roads from $117,000 to $600,000 excluding debt service. This can be budgeted down as the townspeople feel comfortable with; an additional $100,000 from the General Fund to balance the budget (total of $300,000). The total budget increase is 5.0%. The Board of Finance felt very strongly that the Town needs a professional accountant. It is necessary so that during the year we have all the information we need to make the best decisions we can. The budgeted cost is $24,000. Bethany Bulletin is now used to reach residents with information – cost of $11,460. Some budgets have been decreased to help pay for the Bulletin. The library has requested an additional $24,000 in part to help fund a technology upgrade including participation in an online library consortium. The large item on the budget is road repairs. A study was done on the roads and was presented at the Budget Hearing. 35% of our roads need major work. Based on the study, to keep the current rating of 63 for the town, we would have to spend $330,000 per year. To improve slightly, a rating of 64, we would have to spend $600,000. The rating of 63 is typical for a town our size – small, rural and in the Northeast. The average range is 55 – 68. The roads need to be safe and passable but not perfect. The town needs a maintenance program that will keep them in good shape over time. In the budget, we went for the high end - $600,000 for major road repairs – a big increase to the budget with a mill rate increase of 3.70%. Two proposals were offered -Proposal A, being more conservative at $330,000, a 2.7% increase to budget and $200 estimated tax increase. Proposal B, $600,000, a 5% increase to budget and a $286 estimated tax increase.
Jaime Stirling, 20 Miller Rd – Would the increase for a part time accountant be included in the selectmen salary & expenses? Yes.
Heather Chometa, 54 Gaylord Mtn Rd – We need to vote on the budget now. These items have already been discussed at the hearing.
Allene Kelly, 208 Schaffer Rd – Either last year or year before we received a $750,000 grant towards remodeling the airport recreation center? Why is it not on the budget? First Selectwoman Gorski - We do not have the money yet but the promise of the money. We will be moving forward with that shortly.
Bruce Hescock, 160 Humiston Dr – What will the $750,000 cover? Derry - $200,000 for demolition of existing hangar; $500,000 to erect the shell and then we will apply for an additional $500,000 for interior work.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming Yeas. Approved.
Item (2) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $210,000 for the lease purchase of a dump truck, the first of three payments to be $72,053 to be made in fiscal year 2013-14 by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. Duly moved and seconded.
Sue Corrone, 35 Russell Rd – No dump truck is worth that much money. Foreman Alan Green stated that the new ten wheeler, with a plow came to $210,000.
Lisa Amadeo, 25 Amadeo Dr – if it’s already been approved why is there discussion? Foreman Green - It is to vote on the payment. The Highway department already has the vehicle. The resolutions for payment were approved. The Moderator indicated that the residents could still vote no.
A. Kelley – Are the two new dump trucks replacing the two old dumps trucks? Foreman Green stated that we will have the same amount of trucks as before. Two were replaced and four are being refurbished.
A. Magda – how much money do you get for the old trucks? About $1,000.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (3) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $65,683 for the second of three payments of a lease purchase for a 5 yard dump truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made and duly seconded.
There were no comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Chris Pittenger, Farm View Rd – could we take the school portion of the budget out of order so young children can go home? The Moderator agreed to do the school items at this time.
David Forman, 329 Downs Rd - Tax Collector – Point of order. Bus for Park & Recreation – Resolution #14 should also be done at this time.
Item (4) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $46,678 for the second of three payments of a lease purchase for a back hoe by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made and duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (5) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $12,000 for the refurbishment of a body on the 2005 Sterling Dump Truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. A motion was made by Thornquist, duly seconded by Spagnolo.
Russ von Beren, 134 Wooding Hill Rd – Most of these items are maintenance items that should be in the regular budget. What exactly are you going to do to the truck for $12,000? Foreman Green answered that the dump body will be repaired and undercoated, as well as sand blasted and rust proofed. We are hoping to get another ten years out of the truck. The Moderator also stated that they should be considered capitol reserve.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (6) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $8,000 for the refurbishment of the 2003 Ford F550 mason dump truck by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
R von Beren – What will be done to this truck? Foreman Green answered the body is deteriorated. We are trying to extend the life. Von Beren reiterated that maintenance items should be in the regular budget. It is up to the Board of Finance.
A. Kelly – repairs add up to $26,000. Who is handling the repairs? First Selectman Gorski - We go out to bid for any item over $5,000. The appropriations must be approved to go out to bid. Foreman Green received quotes from Universal Welding, W. H. Rose and O & G Industries. Green will also get a quote from Eagle Auto Body.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas, two Nays. Approved.
Item (7) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $6,000 for the refurbishment of the 1994 544G John Deere pay loader by the Board of Selectmen for the Highway Department. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Majority yeas, one nay. Approved.
Item (8) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $75,000 for the replacement of the north side roof on the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (9) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $120,000 for the replacement of the kitchen/foyer roof and front entrance on the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved by Thonrquist, duly seconded by Eisenstadt.
Dennis. Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd – For Items (8) & (9) why are they not put together and get roof done all at once instead of separately? It should all be done at the same time.
Rod White, 24 Peck Rd – Building Maintenance - I was asked to put it in the 5-year plan. We had estimates on both parts of the roof. The Board of Finance opted to put both out to bid now. In effect we would like to do them at the same time. They happened to fall into two separate line items.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item 10) on call – RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $20,000 for the replacement of the gym ceiling in the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (11) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 for the replacement of safety light fixtures in the gym of the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (12) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,000 for the replacement of the fire alarm system in the Bethany Town Hall by the Board of Selectmen. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (13) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 to repair water damage at the Clark Memorial Library. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
Barbara Murphy-Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd – I think it’s great that the Public Works is going to work on this. I want to be sure it is being done the right way so that we don’t have additional problems with water damage and especially mold remediation. I think it is really important.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (14) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,000 for the purchase of a small school bus/van for the Park and Recreation Commission. The motion was duly moved and seconded.
A. Kelley – At first glance I believed the purchase of the school bus/van was a good idea. I did further investigation. Facts - cost of school bus is $350. After calling area towns to inquire about the same, Cheshire – we do not provide buses for any reason. Parents take care of all transportation; Orange – we have 3 separate camps and rent from B & B for $12,000 per year. Woodbridge - 300 students in summer program and spend about $8,000 on buses. Beacon Falls – 75 students and we spend $800 on buses. I called B & B to inquire about prices - $350 for their 65 passenger bus based on long trips. It’s a Bethany company and give a discount to the Bethany Recreation Dept. They charge $40.00 per hour for all trips within the town. After breaking it down, for the P & R programs (delightful and entertaining as they may be) – 29 – maximum that they pay is 3 hours per bus trip - $120 per trip. Problems with a second hand bus/van – it’s a state law that you cannot carry school children in a 15 passenger van; drivers on vans with school children must have a commercial license, be vetted, have a physical. There would have to be a Rider to the town insurance for $5,000,000. The Town will be responsible for any accidents. No mention has been made of the cost of running a bus/van. None of the other towns have found it cost effective to own a vehicle. I applaud the program but think it is a big mistake to buy a bus/van.
Janice Howard, 15 Dayton Rd – P & R Director. There is a one-time fee for the license. This year to date we have spent $6,075. We go to a variety of places – horse barn, bowling, golfing and to the park every Thursday. We are charged between $40 & $50 and an additional hour for driver to arrive and leave. In addition, we go on field trips. We do not typically fill a bus and it would be next to impossible for the parents to pay the additional fee for empty seats. We are trying to provide a service to the Town. In addition to that, there are ways we are trying to bring in more money such as local field trips which the parents would pay for and help to alleviate some of the costs. We try to alleviate some of the financial burden. I believe our department gave back $47,000 last year. We feel it would still cost less and that is why we are asking for it.
D. Finneran, 28 Ralph Rd - $15,000 is not the problem. The liability and insurance is the major issue. We already have a local bus company that provides good service and we should continue that way.
Lisa Amadeo, 25 Amadeo Dr – B & B does not charge to come back and forth to the Town Hall. He does his best to keep the cost down because he appreciates the town’s business. He has the insurance - $10,000,000. P & R does a tremendous job and they do right by the kids but they are not a bus company. A license takes 13 weeks, fingerprinting, 10 weeks, license updated every year and training at least every other year. I don’t think the town should take on the expense, maintenance and liability.
A. Magda – asked the First Selectwoman about the coverage. At the Board of Finance meeting you made it clear that there would be no additional cost to the town, that it would be covered under the town’s insurance. First Selectwoman said it would be covered under the town’s insurance policy. There would be an additional $850 charge per year, similar to the Senior bus.
There were no further comments. Majority of nays. Denied.
Item (15) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $10,000 for the first of two payments of a lease purchase for the replacement of school furniture for the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made by Eisenstadt, duly seconded by Thornquist.
There were no comments – overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (16) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $22,000 for the first of three payments of a lease purchase for security cameras for the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made, duly seconded.
Dick Van Horn, 86 Crestwood Rd – It is my understanding that these cameras are not monitored in real time. Then what is the value for security?
Brian Fournier, 21 Rainbow Rd - It is possible to use them in real time. The State Trooper will have the opportunity to do that. Van Horn – does this resolution cover that cost? Fournier – no.
There were no further comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (17) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $7,000 for the cleaning of the duct work in the rotunda at the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
A. Kelly – The Board of Education budget should be listed in its proper location. Moderator stated that it is in the proper place.
Item (18) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized to expend from the Reserve Fund for Capital and Non-recurring Expenditures an amount up to the sum of $15,500 for the first of three payments of a lease purchase for wireless infrastructure at the Bethany Community School by the Board of Education. Motion made by Thornquist, duly seconded by Pittenger.
There were no comments. Overwhelming yeas. Approved.
Item (19) on call – RESOLVED: that the Board of Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized and empowered to enter into agreements with the Commissioner of State Police of the State of Connecticut authorizing the regular assignment to the Town of Bethany for (1) one Resident State Trooper for the period July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2015, and First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski is hereby authorized to solely execute such agreement on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
D Finneran –In the contract that the First Selectman negotiates I ask that we have an accurate listing of burglaries in town on a monthly basis. In similar towns they are published online and in town publications. In the last several years, there has been a significant increase in break-ins. First Selectwoman Gorski stated that she would address this.
Kim McClure-Brinton, 168 Sperry Rd – There is an email list that I got on that lists the break-ins.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
**Item (20) on call – RESOLVED: that First Selectwoman Derrylyn Gorski be authorized to solely execute all agreements on behalf of the Board of Selectmen and on behalf of the Town of Bethany. **See amended above**.
Item (21) on call – RESOLVED: to authorize the Board of Finance to transfer up to $225,000 from unexpended line item accounts and the General Fund to the Public Works budget. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
A. Kelly – Is that to cover the cost of this past winter’s plowing? It is for storm damage.
There were no further comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (22) on call – RESOLVED: to authorize the transfer of $25,000 from the General Fund to the Land Acquisition Fund. The motion was moved by Eisenstadt, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (23) on call - RESOLVED: that the Selectmen be, and hereby are authorized and empowered to enter into agreements on behalf and in the name of the Town of Bethany with the Department of Transportation of the State of Connecticut for the expenditure of funds available to the Town of Bethany during the 2013-14 fiscal year for the maintenance, repair and the building of roads. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (24) on call - RESOLVED: that the reports of the Town Officers, Boards and Commissions for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2012 as contained in the printed 2011-12Annual Town Report to be accepted and ordered filed. The motion was moved, duly seconded.
There were no comments. Unanimous. Approved.
Item (25) on call – Other matters proper to come before the meeting.
Barry Collins, 339 Brooks Rd – Janet Brunwin deserves a thank you for the tremendous job she has done as Chairman of the Board of Finance. (Standing ovation and applause)
A. Kelly – I move that the Board of Finance be required to present at its public hearing a line item budget of the budget. When all items are lumped together it is difficult to understand what the money is being spent on.
J. Brunwin – The Board of Finance has followed the Office of Policy & Management procedure. All of this information is public records and if any individual is interested in any detail come to Town Hall and it will be provided.
D. Finneran – As to Item (13) I suggest that the First Selectwoman with support of the Selectmen issue a proclamation of thanks to those who are putting in both time and money for the repairs to Clark Memorial Library.
There were no further comments. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy A. McCarthy, CMC
Bethany Town Clerk
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)