City Council

~CITY OF DANBURYCOMMON COUNCIL~ Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 3, 2007 Hon. Mark D. Boughton, Mayor Common Council Members Mayor Mark D. Boughton called the Common Council Meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 3, 2007. Present were Council members: Louise P. McMahon, Shailesh Nagarsheth, James H. Johnson, Charles Trombetta, Michael J. Calandrino, Duane E. Perkins, Fred Visconti, Benjamin Chianese, John J. Esposito, Joseph M. Cavo, Pauline R. Basso, Paul T. Rotello, Jane Diggs, Ted A. Cutsumpas, Robert T. Riley, Mary G. Saracino, Gregg W. Seabury, Colleen A. Stanley, and Lynn H. Taborsak. Absent: Thomas J. Saadi (on Reserve Duty) and Mary Teicholz (recovering from surgery). PRESENT: 19, ABSENT: 2 Also present were Jean Natale, City Clerk; Robert J. Yamin, Corporation Counsel; Laszlo L. Pinter, Deputy Corporation Counsel; Eric L. Gottschalk, Assistant Corporation Counsel; Dan Garrick, Assistant Finance Director; Antonio Iadarola, Director of Public Works; interested citizens; and members of the press. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG & A PRAYER: Corporation Counsel Laszlo L. Pinter lead everyone in the room in the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilman Cutsumpas lead everyone in the room in a prayer. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: Gerard O’Callaghan, 136 Pembroke Road, Unit 43, addressed Item 20, F, Grant Agencies Budget. Mr. O’Callaghan urged the Council not to appropriate funds to the Hispanic Center until proof is obtained that the Center is not assisting illegal immigrants. Felt the citizens of Danbury suffer when financial assistance is given to non-citizens as it hinders the services made available to the citizens of Danbury. Lynn Waller, 83 Highland Avenue, began by thanking Councilwoman Saracino for the transfer of funds to the Red Cross for the Wheels transportation program. She thanked Councilman Riley for the Grant meeting noting the importance of keeping the public updated and informed. She thanked the Council for the funding for Item 25, HART Dial-a-Ride. Ms. Waller took a moment to say that she was impressed with Mr. Iadarola’s performance. With regard to Item 31, she expressed disapproval with the V-Rad boxes installed around the City by AT&T as they are an eyesore and are attracting graffiti artists. She also noted that Danbury is paying the same as three other towns and pointed out that Bridgeport has twice as many boxes installed. She told the Council she appreciated their efforts in trying to have the boxes removed and keeping the City looking nice. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 1 of 17 Page 1 of 17 Elise C. Marciano, 179 Long Ridge Road, addressed Item 20, C, Education Budget. She urged the Council not to fund the education budget as she felt the job the education department has been charged with was not being accomplished. She did not want to see tax dollars going to an education system that was not working for every student. Ms. Marciano addressed Item 20, F, Grant Agencies Budget. She was not in favor of providing funding to the Hispanic Center as agencies such as the Center have other funding means available to them. She asked that the Center be removed from the Budget entirely and the City’s tax dollars be allocated elsewhere. Christine Halfar, 8 Settlers Hill Road, addressed Item 24, VA Grant for Homeless Shelter. She asked for clarification of the request noting the Shelter currently has 20 beds but the request asks to expand the facility to 20 beds. With regard to Item 20, AIDS Project, she asked for clarification as to whether or not the project would be funded. Lastly, Ms. Halfar urged voter involvement with regard to meetings and future budget processes and asked that consideration be given when scheduling meetings to afford the public the opportunity to be present. Michael Finn, 78 Judith Drive, addressed Item 24, VA Grant for Homeless Shelter. He attempted to offer some clarification as to the Shelter’s proposal. The Shelter’s proposal is to enable them to reserve 5 of the 20 beds for veterans and to permanently house 20 beds. The shelter’s focus is to provide veterans with assistance in acclimating to life once they return home from service. Mr. Finn urged the Council accept the proposal and move forward with accepting the grant. Belinda Gardner, 24 Rowan Street, addressed Item 20, F, Grant Agencies Budget. She was not in favor of providing funding to the Hispanic Center as she felt assistance is being given to illegal immigrants and aiding illegal activity with taxpayer dollars which in turn would be a detriment to the way of life in Danbury. Ms. Gardner felt this action sends the wrong message about Danbury and would snowball into increased gang violence, etc. Margaret Mitchell, Main and Park Place, addressed Item 31, Keep Danbury Beautiful. She pointed out that the Ordinance is in two parts—11A, Littering, and 11B, News Racks. While she is all for free speech, she does not approve of the literature boxes being placed along City streets as she felt it was a source for littering. In Section 11A, the City is requiring business owners to keep the area in front of their businesses clean, but in Section 11B, the City is allowing such a potential source for litter. She does not think this is fair and asked the Council to continue their research before making any decision. Patricia Kadet, 19 Lakeview Drive, addressed the various grants being considered for approval. She urged the Council reconsider some of the grants that aide services that provide child care. She felt that the child care responsibility should be re-directed back to the parents and take the burden off the taxpayers. Sunnye Ann Rosasco, 31 Hillside Avenue, addressed Item 20, Section F, Grant Agencies Budget. She objects to her tax dollars being given to agencies with overlapping functions. With regard to Item 20, Section C, Education Budget, Ms. Rosasco felt there was a rubber stamping effect with regard to increases in their budget and objected to the raises being given. As no other member of the public wished to speak, Public Participation was closed at 7:56 p.m. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 2 of 17 Page 2 of 17 Mayor Boughton welcomed back Jean Natale as she had been absent due to surgery. Mayor Boughton recognized the following: Councilman Johnson’s birthday, Councilwoman McMahon’s birthday, Councilman Visconti’s 29th anniversary. Mayor Boughton read the announcements for the month of April. MINUTES: A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilwoman Basso that the Common Council approve the Minutes of the Common Council Meeting of March 6, 2007 as presented and to waive the reading of same as the Council have copies of the Minutes and are available in the City Clerk’s office. The motion carried unanimously. CONSENT CALENDAR: Councilwoman Basso presented the following items for the Consent Calendar: 2. Receive the communication and confirm the re-appointment of Arnold E. Finadi, Jr. to the Planning Commission with a term to expire January 1, 2010. 3. Receive the communication and confirm the appointment of Patricia McCarthy to the Lake Kenosia Commission with a term to expire May 1, 2008. 10. Receive the communication and approve the transfer of $25,000 into the Fire Department Special Services Account #2010.5052. 11. Receive the communication and approve the temporary appointment of Anthony McCloud as counsel. 13. Receive the communication and confirm the appointment of Patrick Johnson to fill a vacancy in the position of alternate to the Zoning Board. 17. Receive the communication and approve the transfer of $340,000 from the General Fund to line item #2000.5030 Police Overtime Salaries. 22. Receive the communication and approve the Resolution to authorize the City of Danbury to acquire utility easements from Interstate Business Center LLC, and Danbury Acquisition Corporation and to authorize the City of Danbury to enter into an agreement with the Maybrook Railroad Company and the Housatonic Railroad Company, Inc. 30. Receive the report and approve the recommendations of the committee. 32. Receive the report and approve the recommendations of the committee. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 3 of 17 Page 3 of 17  A motion was made by Councilman Chianese and seconded by Councilwoman Taborsak to remove Item Nos. 11, 17 and 32 from the Consent Calendar. The motion carried unanimously. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilman Perkins to accept the Consent Calendar with the removal of Item Nos. 11, 17 and 32. The motion carried unanimously. 1. COMMUNICATION—Appointment of Fire Chief: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 26, 2007 from Mayor Mark D. Boughton to the Members of the Common Council. Councilman Cavo and Councilman Johnson recused themselves from the following action. A motion was made by Councilman Visconti and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication and confirm the appointment of Geoffrey R. Herald for the position of Fire Chief of the Danbury Fire Department. Councilman Visconti said he has known Mr. Herald for quite some time and expressed his confidence that Mr. Herald would do a fine job for the citizens of Danbury. The motion carried. Mayor Boughton congratulated Mr. Herald and asked that he introduce his wife, Mimi. {Applause.} Mayor Boughton thanked the firefighters that presented to support Mr. Herald. He advised everyone that a formal swearing in ceremony would take place in May but Mr. Herald would begin his service immediately. 2. COMMUNICATION—Re-appointment to the Planning Commission: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 3. COMMUNICATION—Appointment to the Lake Kenosia Commission: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 4. COMMUNICATION—Amendment to Code of Ordinances Charles Ives Authority for Performing Arts—Alternates: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 26, 2007 from Mayor Mark D. Boughton to the Members of the Common Council. Councilwoman McMahon asked that this item be deferred to a Public Hearing. Mayor Boughton so ordered. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 4 of 17 Page 4 of 17 5. COMMUNICATION—Request for Ad Hoc Committee Halas Farm Market: Councilman Trombetta asked that this be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee along with a representative from the Public Works Department and Corporation Counsel being present. Mayor Boughton so ordered and appointed Council Members Pauline Basso, Colleen Stanley and John Esposito to the Committee. 6. COMMUNICATION—Donation to the Police Department: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 21, 2007 from Alan D. Baker, Chief of Police, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the Members of the Common Council. A motion was made by Councilman Johnson and seconded by Councilman Chianese to receive the communication, accept the donation of $150.00 from Susan and Costas Nioulikos and send the appropriate letter of thanks. The motion carried unanimously. 7. COMMUNICATION—Donation to the Danbury Library: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 27, 2007 from Mark P. Hasskarl, Library Director, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton. A motion was made by Councilman Nagarsheth and seconded by Councilman Cavo to receive the communication, accept the donation of $100.00 from Margaret Hopkinson Mithcell and the family of Sgt. Jonathan E. Lootens, in his memory, and send the appropriate letter of thanks. Said funds are to be deposited into the Library Fund.4651 Donations. The motion carried unanimously. 8. COMMUNICATION—Donation to the Health, Housing & Welfare Department: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 21, 2007 from Scott Leroy, Director of Health, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the Members of the Common Council. A motion was made by Councilman Seabury and seconded by Councilman Cutsumpas to receive the communication, accept the donation of $2,500.00 from the Emerson Charitable Trust to fund the Still River Alliance and send the appropriate letter of thanks. Finance Director Dan Garrick presented to address this item. Councilman Chianese asked Mr. Garrick to explain what the Still River Alliance Account was, what the balance was and who has authorization on the account. Mr. Garrick explained that the Account is a special revenue fund which accepts grants and donations. Authorization on the account goes through the Finance Department. The motion carried unanimously. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 5 of 17 Page 5 of 17 9. COMMUNICATION—Donation to the Fire Department: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 27, 2007 from Philip D. Curran, Fire Chief, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the Members of the Common Council. A motion was made by Councilwoman Stanley and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication, accept the donation of $1,000.00 from the Lowes Charitable & Educational Foundation, and send the appropriate letter of thanks. Said funds are to be deposited into the Fired Department Line Item 2010.5036. The motion carried unanimously. 10. COMMUNICATION—Transfer of Funds ~ Fire Department: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 11. COMMUNICATION—Retention of Special Counsel ~ AT&T V-Rad Boxes: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 27, 2007 from Robert J. Yamin, Corporation Counsel, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the Members of the Common Council. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication, recommend and appoint Attorney Anthony McLoud as temporary Special Counsel for the City of Danbury. Antonio Iadarola, Director of Public Works, was present to address this item. Councilman Chianese asked that this be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee along with a representative from the Public Works Departmen, Corporation Counsel and the Assistant Finance Director being present. Mayor Boughton asked Mr. Iadarola if this was a time- sensitive matter. Mr. Iadarola urged the Council to move the item forward and noted the time and effort that has been spent on this item. Attorney Pinter pointed out that Attorney McLoud has begun moving forward on behalf of Bridgeport and Stamford. Should the Council not approve the item, Danbury will not be able to actively join the litigation in process. Mr. Chianese was prepared to rescind his motion with assurance that Corporation Counsel provide the Council with feedback as to what the Special Counsel’s responsibilities will be and his fee for representation of the City of Danbury. Attorney Pinter explained that Attorney McLoud specializes in representing municipalities and others with regard to matters involving the DPUC. Attorney McLoud has offered to represent the municipalities for $150.00 per hour which does not include filing fees. Attorney McLoud was highly recommended to Danbury’s Corporation Counsel’s office by the City of Bridgeport’s Corporation Counsel. Attorney McLoud will bring an action on behalf of Danbury, Bridgeport and Stamford to the DPUC to address the V-Rad Box placements. Councilman Chianese rescinded his motion. The motion carried with one objection by Councilwoman Taborsak. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 6 of 17 Page 6 of 17 12. COMMUNICATION—Voting Machines: City Clerk Natale read the letter dated March 19, 2007 from Mary Ann Doran, Registrar of Voters, and Margaret Gallo, Registrar of Voters, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the Members of the Common Council. A motion was made by Councilwoman Saracino and seconded by Councilman Trombetta to receive the communication and donate a portion of the old voting machines to the schools for class elections and dispose of the rest. Councilman Rotello desired to see as many of the old voting machines preserved as possible as he felt they would have historical value in the future. The motion carried unanimously. 13. COMMUNICATION—Appointment as Alternate of the Zoning Commission: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 14. COMMUNICATION—Transfer of Funds ~ Public Works ~ Equipment Maintenance: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 26, 2007 from Antonio Iadarola, Director of Public Works, to Dena Diorio, Finance/Personnel Director. A motion was made by Councilman Nagarsheth and seconded by Councilwoman McMahon to receive the communication and approve the transfer of $114,000.00 to Equipment Maintenance/Maintain Automotive Equipment Account No. 3020.5507. The appropriation is to come from the City’s Contingency Account. Dan Garrick, Assistant Finance Director, was present to address this item. Councilman Chianese asked Mr. Garrick to review the Contingency Account as he felt there was a discrepancy in the balance. Mr. Garrick explained that there have been several appropriations with the account throughout the year with some transactions that are not reflected in the March 27th Memorandum. He reviewed the various appropriations and said the account balance is $38,350.00. Alan D. Baker, Chief of Police, was also present to address this item. Councilman Chianese pointed out that his department spent approximately $40,000.00 for police vehicles for body work that was not as a result of normal wear and tear. He asked the Chief what steps would be taken to impress upon the officers the importance of the care of their vehicles to avoid such an expense in the future. Chief Baker explained the training the officers receive as well as the daily discussions on safety that occur during roll call. He attributed the expense primarily to accidents that occur as a result of officers having to simultaneously drive while looking for suspects, communicating with dispatch, etc. Councilwoman Taborsak questioned why the Fire Department had its own line item for vehicle repair/maintenance while the Police Department fell under the Public Works’ line item. Mayor Boughton explained that the fire trucks are made up of complicated equipment that required specialized maintenance and City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 7 of 17 Page 7 of 17 replacement parts whereas the vehicles driven by police officers are standard vehicles that do not require specially trained mechanics or replacement parts. The motion carried unanimously. 15. COMMUNICATION—Request for Funds ~ Public Buildings: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 22, 2007 from Dena Diorio, Finance/Personnel Director, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton. A motion was made by Councilwoman Basso and seconded by Councilman Johnson to receive the communication and approve the transfer of $9,100.00 from Emp. Health & Life Ins./Cont. to Employee Group Ins. Account No. 8006.5233 to Public Buildings Account No. 1340.5502. Antonio Iadarola, Director of Public Works, was present to address this item. Mr. Iadarola advised the Council that he was recently advised that Healing Hearts was in a position to pay for the roof repairs to 73 Stadley Rough Road. Should the Council approve the transfer, he advised the Council the funds would be used for various building that were in need of repair. The motion carried unanimously. 16. COMMUNICATION—Certification of Funds ~ Charles Ives: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 21, 2007 from Dena Diorio, Finance/Personnel Director, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilman Cutsumpas to receive the communication and approve the transfer of $75,000.00 to Ives Authority for the Performing Arts Account No. 7007.5334. The appropriation is to come from the City’s Contingency Account. Councilman Chianese asked that the record reflect a correction: $4,000.00 less which brings the balance in the Contingency Account to $152,300.00 and not $156,350.00 as the March 21st Memorandum reflected. The motion carried with two objections by Councilman Perkins and Councilman Visconti. 17. COMMUNICATION—Appropriation of Fund Balance ~ Police Department: City Clerk Natale read the Memorandum dated March 27, 2007 from Dan Garrick, Assistant Director of Finance, to Mayor Mark D. Boughton. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilman Riley to receive the communication and approve the transfer of $340,000.00 to Police Overtime Salaries Account No. 2000.5030. The appropriation is to come from the City’s General Fund’s Unappropriated Fund Balance. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 8 of 17 Page 8 of 17 Alan D. Baker, Chief of Police, was present to address this item. Councilman Chianese asked Chief Baker to shed some light on why the department’s overtime is above average (25%) for the quarter. He pointed out the importance of maintaining a healthy fund balance. Chief Baker pointed out changes that have occurred to the command structure, high amount of injury and sick time within the department requires the position to be filled through paying out overtime to another officer, increase in training which is a costly process because of the time required, homicides require quite a bit of overtime for investigation. Chief Baker did not feel money was being used frivolously and many issues that have not been addressed within Police Department are now being addressed. The figures are a reflection of increased activity within the Police Department. The motion carried unanimously. 18. COMMUNICATION—Request for Sewer and Water ~ Route 37/Stacey Road: City Clerk Natale read the request. Councilwoman McMahon asked that this be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee along with a representative from the Public Works Department and Corporation Counsel being present. Mayor Boughton so ordered and appointed Council Members James Johnson, Charles Trombetta and Thomas Saadi to the Committee. 19. COMMUNICATION—Estate of Harry R. Hunt ~ 9 Blackberry Road: Councilman Riley asked that this be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee along with the Tax Assessor, a representative from the Public Works Department, Assistant Finance Director and Corporation Counsel being present. Mayor Boughton so ordered and appointed Council Members Michael Calandrino, Shailesh Nagarsheth and Duane Perkins to the Committee The meeting was in recess from 9:11 p.m.—9:20 p.m. 20. ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION: City Clerk Natale read the Ordinance & Resolution. An Ordinance Making Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2007 and Ending June 30, 2008 and a Resolution Levying the Property Tax for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2007 and ending June 30, 2008. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilman Cutsumpas to adopt the Ordinance, appoint the mill rate and Budget for the Fiscal Year 2007/2008 including the Tax Resolution. Councilman Perkins asked the Mayor to explain the process for voting. Mayor Boughton explained that each Budget Committee will read their respective reports, amendments will be entertained followed by a vote to adopt the budget. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 9 of 17 Page 9 of 17 A. General Government 1 Budget Report: Chairman: Gregg Seabury. Committee Members: Joseph Cavo, Ted Cutsumpas, Duane Perkins and Thomas Saadi. Councilman Seabury read the Report, Pages 20A-1 - 20A-2. B. General Government II Budget Report: Chairwoman: Pauline Basso. Committee Members: James Johnson, Paul Rotello and Lynn Taborsak. Charles Trombetta was out of town as his father was ill. Chairwoman Basso read the Report, Pages 20B-1 – 20B-2. C. Education Budget Report: Chairwoman: Mary Saracino. Committee Members: Colleen Stanley, Fred Visconti, Jane Diggs and Robert Riley. Chairwoman Saracino read the Report, Pages 20C – 20C-1. D. Public Works Budget Report: Chairman: Ted Cutsumpas. Committee Members: James Johnson, Shailesh Nagarsheth, Benjamin Chianese and Colleen Stanley. Chairman Cutsumpas read the Report, Pages 20D – 20D-3. E. Health & Housing, Public Safety, Welfare & Social Services Budget Report: Chairwoman: Pauline Basso. Committee Members: Jane Diggs, Louise McMahon and John Esposito. Report: Pages 20E – 20E-1. F. Grant Agencies Budget Report: Chairman: Robert Riley. Committee Members: Joseph Cavo, Shailesh Nagarsheth and Paul Rotello. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 10 of 17 Page 10 of 17 Report: Pages 20F – 20F-5. Mayor Boughton asked that the reading of the remaining reports (E & F) be waived. A motion was made by Councilwoman Basso and seconded by Councilman Cutsumpas to waive the reading of the remaining reports (Health & Housing, Public Safety, Welfare & Social Services Budget Report and Grant Agencies Budget Report). The motion carried unanimously. AMENDMENTS: A motion was made by Councilwoman Saracino and seconded by Councilman Cavo to approve the transfer from Hispanic Center Account No. 5010.6003 in two parts: $20,000.00 to the American Red Cross Account No. 5010.0000 to be used exclusively for the Wheels transportation program for Danbury residents and $5,000.00 to TBICO Account No. 5010.6068. The motion carried with one objection by Councilwoman Taborsak. A motion was made by Councilman Seabury and seconded by Councilman Riley to approve the salary increases for all elected officials in the amount of 3% effective December 1, 2007 and an additional 3% effective December 1, 2008. Mayor Boughton asked Councilman Seabury to specify the offices effected. Councilman Seabury said the City Clerk ,the Town Clerk, the Treasurer and the Mayor. The motion carried unanimously. A motion was made by Councilman Visconti and seconded by Councilman Rotello to make the part-time Assistant Clerk a full-time position and increase the line item from $18,397.00 to $30,000.00 and increase the associated attended costs to be drawn out of Contingency Fund. Councilman Cavo was pleased with the position of Assistant Clerk being a part-time position under Jean Natale’s supervision and saw no need for a full-time position. He noted any glitches in the process were only as a result of Ms. Natale’s unfortunate accident and her absence from City Hall. He expressed every confidence that the responsibilities of the position would be fulfilled now that Ms. Natale has returned. Councilman Rotello disagreed with Councilman Cavo and said he did not approve of a part-time position and desired a full-time position. Councilman Cutsumpas agreed with Councilman Cavo and commended those seeing to it that the responsibilities are met. He urged taking advantage of carrying the expense of a part-time position as opposed to a full-time position and still having the job’s responsibilities met. Councilwoman Basso commended all those that have stepped up to the plate after Ms. Natale’s accident. She did not approve of changing position to full-time. Mr. Visconti said it was his intention to put in place as much help as possible for the City Clerk. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 11 of 17 Page 11 of 17 Mayor Boughton asked the City Clerk to take roll call for the vote: McMahon – No Nagarsheth - No Johnson – No Trombetta – No Calandrino – Yes Perkins – Yes Visconti – Yes Chianese – Yes Esposito – Yes Cavo – No Basso – No Rotello – Yes Diggs – No Cutsumpas – No Riley – No Saracino – Yes Seabury – No Stanley – No Taborsak - Yes No = 11 Yes = 8 The amendment failed. (Yes – 8, No – 11.) The main motion carried unanimously. Councilwoman Taborsak expressed disapproval with the haste at which this year’s Budget process occurred and desired better attendance by the taxpayers and representatives. Councilman Riley felt the Budget was excellent and has never and would never rubber stamp an item. He said the increase in the Budget is less than one mill which equates to approximately $40 per year and the citizens of Danbury are receiving expanded services. He pointed out other towns that were not as fortunate as some are facing increases of approximately $300-$500 per year. Councilman Riley commended the Council for all their efforts on this year’s Budget. Councilman Seabury agreed with Councilman Riley and said this year’s Budget was a good one. Councilman Cavo thanked everyone for their attendance at all the meetings leading up to the Budget. He disagreed with Councilwoman Taborsak in that the Budget process was not rushed. Councilman Chianese congratulated everyone for a job well done. He asked the Mayor what will be done if the Governor does not provide support to the Budget and will the Mayor go into the Fund Balance for any shortfalls. Mayor Boughton explained that there is $23 million in the Fund Balance. In this current fiscal year, the projection is that $3 million will be used for the Operating Budget through June 30, 2007. Based on projections, only approximately $200,000.00-$300,000.00 of the $3 million may be used which means the remaining funds will roll into the next fiscal year. He pointed out that for the fourth year in a row, the surplus funds have gone back into the Fund Balance. Should the Legislature not come through, some funds may need to be moved around to account for any shortfalls with specific line items. Councilman Chianese questioned the fees to enter the City’s parks as a constituent pointed out the difficulty she had with paying the fee because of her financial position and being unable to have her City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 12 of 17 Page 12 of 17 children enjoy the services the parks offer. Nick Kaplan (unsure of spelling as this gentleman spoke from the audience) explained that he is researching the fee schedule for the use of the parks and will provide the Council with a proposal. Councilwoman Basso moved the question. The motion to move the question carried with two objections by Councilman Rotello and Councilman Perkins. The main motion adopting the 2007/2008 Budget carried with three objections by Councilman Rotello, Councilwoman Taborsak and Councilman Perkins. 21. ORDINANCE: City Clerk Natale read the Ordinance. An Ordinance Appropriating $500,000.00 for Public Improvements in the 2007-2008 Capital Budget and Authorizing the Issuance of $500,000.00 Bonds and Bond Anticipation Notes of the City to Meet said Appropriation. A motion was made by Councilman Cutsumpas and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to adopt the Ordinance and approve $500,000.00 worth of notes to fund the various Capital projects outlined in the Resolution, The motion carried unanimously. 22. RESOLUTION—West Side Sewer Interceptor ~ Phase I Easements: Resolution to authorize the City of Danbury to acquire utility easements from Interstate Business Center LLC, and Danbury Acquisition Corporation and to authorize the City of Danbury to enter into an agreement with the Maybrook Railroad Company and the Housatonic Railroad Company, Inc. The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 23. RESOLUTION—Literacy Grant: City Clerk Natale read the Resolution. A motion was made by Councilman Seabury and seconded by Councilwoman Saracino to receive the communication and adopt the Resolution authorizing the City of Danbury Public Library to apply for and accept funding in the amount of $24,482.60 from the Connecticut State Library, The motion carried unanimously. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 13 of 17 Page 13 of 17 24. RESOLUTION—VA Grant for Homeless Shelter: City Clerk Natale read the Resolution. A motion was made by Councilman Calandrino and seconded by Councilman Visconti to receive the communication and adopt the Resolution authorizing the City of Danbury Health, Housing and Welfare Department to apply for and accept funding from the Veterans Affairs Administration for use in the City’s Homeless Shelter, Aimee Budnik was present to address this item. Councilman Rotello asked if the beds reserved for veterans could be used by non-veterans if they were empty and were needed. Ms. Budnik said if a bed is available and not being used by a veteran, anyone can use the bed. People would not be turned away. Ms. Taborsak asked if it was transitional housing to include Osborne Street and Germantown Road. Ms. Budnik said New Street and explained that the desire was to have the beds be transitional to eliminate the 30- day limit and the possibility of having to turn someone out onto the streets before they are ready. The motion carried unanimously. 25. RESOLUTION—HART ~ Dial-a-Ride: City Clerk Natale read the Resolution. A motion was made by Councilwoman Trombetta and seconded by Councilman Johnson to receive the communication and adopt the Resolution authorizing the Housatonic Area Regional Transit, Richard Schreiner, to negotiate and execute all necessary Agreement/Contract documents on behalf of the City of Danbury with the Department of Transportation of the State of Connecticut for the Elderly and Disabled Demand Responsive Transportation Expanded Program, Dan Garrick, Assistant Finance Director, was present to address this item. Councilman Perkins asked how much the grant was worth and Councilwoman Taborsak said $67,134.00, $5,000.00 of which is applied toward the Wheels Program. The motion carried unanimously. 26. REPORT—Impact Statements: A motion was made by Councilman Chianese and seconded by Councilman Perkins to waive the reading of the Report Regarding Impact Statements as the Council have copies of the Statements and are available in the City Clerk’s office. The motion carried unanimously. A motion was made by Councilman Nagarsheth and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication and take no action, Dennis I. Elpern, Planning & Zoning Department, was present to address this item. Councilman Chianese pointed out that the purpose of the statements were for informational purposes for the Council to keep them apprised of the goings on in the City of Danbury. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 14 of 17 Page 14 of 17  The motion carried with three objections by Councilman Perkins, Councilman Chianese and Councilwoman Taborsak. 27. REPORT—Stricter Traffic Controls: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. Councilwoman McMahon asked that this be referred back to the existing Ad Hoc Committee. Mayor Boughton so ordered and restated the Council Members Joseph Cavo, Nagarsheth and Fred Visconti. 28. REPORT—Sanitary Sewer Assessment Project ~ Rolf’s Drive, Greta Drive, Cel Bret Drive and Briar Ridge Road: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication and take no action. Antonio Iadarola, Director of Public Works, was present to address this item. Councilman Chianese questioned why taxpayers are being made to wait15 years for sewers. Mr. Iadarola explained that he continues to research this issue and is dedicated to finding a more expeditious process. He advised the Council that one person will be assigned to this issue on a full-time basis. He agreed that improvements are gravely needed. Mayor Boughton pointed out the complex projects that are being undertaken and attributes the continued delay in addressing sewers to such lengthy, time-consuming projects. The motion carried unanimously. 29. REPORT—Cell Phone Use by City Bus Drivers: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. A motion was made by Councilwoman Stanley and seconded by Councilman Seabury to receive the communication and take no action. Councilman Rotello requested this matter be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee. Mayor Boughton so ordered and appointed Council Members Pauline Basso, Colleen Stanley and Duane Perkins to the Committee. 30. AD HOC REPORT—Grenier ~ Airport Property Acquisition: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 31. AD HOC REPORT—Keep Danbury Beautiful: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. Councilwoman Diggs requested that this item be deferred to a Public Hearing. Maryor Boughton so ordered. City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 15 of 17 Page 15 of 17 32. AD HOC REPORT—Add Charles Ives Authority to the Government Entities: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. Councilman Cavo requested that this item be deferred to a Public Hearing. Maryor Boughton so ordered. 33. AD HOC REPORT—First Night Danbury: At the request of Councilman Perkins, Councilwoman Diggs read the report. A motion was made by Councilwoman Saracino and seconded by Councilman Cutsumpas to receive the communication and approve the recommendations of the Committee. Councilman Perkins said the issues are complex as it concerns the quality of life, family traditions and community heritage. He is still not satisfied with the outcome of the Committee’s Meeting as the failure of First Night was being attributed to lack of volunteers and lack of funding sources. Through his own research, Councilman Perkins advised the Council this was not the case. His desire was to “buy some time” in order to afford another group to be formed and attempt to continue the First Night tradition. Councilwoman Saracino pointed out that the Board of Directors for First Night did not need the City’s approval to take any action, they could have voted to stay in existence, provide a new Board of Directors to provide new ideas for the event and seek volunteers. She did not understand why Councilman Perkins felt action by the City was needed. The motion carried with four objections by Councilman Rotello, Councilman Visconti, Councilman Chianese and Councilman Perkins. 34. AD HOC REPORT—Certification of Funds for Dream Homes: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. A motion was made by Councilman Johnson and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication and approve the recommendations of the Committee. Councilwoman Taborsak was not in favor of providing funding to Dream Homes. Councilman Perkins was not in favor of providing funding to Dream Homes as not enough documentation has been provided to the Council. The motion carried with three objections by Councilman Perkins, Councilman Visconti and Councilwoman Taborsak. 35. AD HOC REPORT—10-Year Plan to End Homelessness: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the report. A motion was made by Councilman Johnson and seconded by Councilman Cavo to receive the communication and approve the recommendations of the Committee. The motion carried with three City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 16 of 17 Page 16 of 17  objections by Councilman Perkins, Councilman Visconti and Councilwoman Taborsak. 36. AD HOC REPORT—Sewer and Water Connection Fees: The communication was received on the consent calendar and approved. 37. DEPARTMENT REPORTS—Police, Fire, Fire Marshall, Elderly Services, Health- Housing & Welfare, Dream Homes, Public Works, Unit, Library: It was the consensus of the Council to waive the reading of the reports. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilwoman Basso to receive the communication and accept the Department Reports as presented. The motion carried unanimously. Prior to adjourning the evening’s meeting, Mayor Boughton thanked everyone on the Common Council for their hard work and commended the passion they expressed for the various meetings conducted and the subject matters at hand. He encouraged everyone to continue their good work. Mayor Boughton extended all committees. A motion was made by Councilman Cavo and seconded by Councilman Perkins that the Common Council Meeting be adjourned. The motion carried unanimously at 11:42 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Amy Holding Recording Secretary Attest, Mark D. Boughton, Mayor City of Danbury Common Council Meeting—Tuesday, April 3, 2007—Page 17 of 17 Page 17 of 17