Common Council

REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMON COUNCIL MIDDLETOWN CONNECTICUT MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2020 7:00 PM MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Common Council of the City of Middletown was held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building on Monday, February 3, 2020, at 7:00 PM. Present: Councilwoman Jeanette White Blackwell Councilman Vincent Loffredo Councilwoman Meghan Carta Councilman Anthony Mangiafico Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Edward McKeon Councilman Darnell Ford Councilman Eugene Nocera Councilman Edward Ford, Jr. Councilwoman Linda Salafia Councilman Anthony Gennaro, Sr. Mayor Benjamin D. Florsheim, Chair Linda Reed, Council Clerk Daniel Ryan, Esq., Corporation Counsel Officer Kurt Scrivo, Middletown Police, Sergeant-at-Arms, Also Present: William Russo, Director – Public Works Joseph Samolis, Director – Planning, Conservation, & Development Faith Jackson, Director Office of Equal Opportunity & Diversity Management Barbara Knoll Peterson, Mayor’s Administrative Assistant Brig Smith, Esq., General Counsel Absent: Councilman Philip Pessina Members of the Public: 20 1. Call to Order Mayor Benjamin Florsheim calls the meeting to order at 7:05 PM. He leads the public in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Clerk reads the Call of the Meeting and the Chair declares the call a legal call and the meeting a legal meeting. The Chair welcomes the public to the regular meeting of the Common Council. The Chair announces that, before beginning this meeting, Corporation Counsel Daniel Ryan, Esq. will address some procedural matters. Corporation Counsel Ryan explains that, now that the Council has been meeting under the new administration for a few months, he would like to offer a few practical tips for meeting procedures. First, before speaking, Councilmembers need to use their lights, which is important for the camera work. Secondly, under Roberts Rules of Order, which were adopted by the Council, everyone may speak once and then speak a second time on any agenda item. That is the limit. If someone is looking to speak a third time, that a Councilmember needs permission of the Chair. Thirdly, Councilmembers cannot all talk at once because that causes a problem for the Council Clerk hearing comments offered in debate, which are to be recorded in the meeting minutes. When speaking, Councilmembers should not speak to one another, but, rather through the Chair. In the past few meeting, individual Councilmembers are conversing with one another at the same time. Lastly, not to make this a Victorian procedure, but it is better to use full names rather than first names so that the public can follow discussion. 2. Accept/Amend the Agenda The Chair asks for any motions to accept or amend the agenda. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to amend the agenda, adding Councilman Philip Pessina as Vice-Chair of the Firing Range Building Committee under the Mayor’s proposed appointments. Councilman Vincent Loffredo seconds the motion.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 2 There being no discussion the Chair calls for a vote. The motion to amend the agenda is unanimously approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, McKeon, Mangiafico, Nocera, and Salafia). The matter is approved. The Chair asks for a motion to accept the agenda, as amended. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to accept the agenda, as amended. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. seconds the motion. There being no discussion the Chair calls for a vote. The motion to accept the agenda, as amended, is unanimously approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, McKeon, Mangiafico, Nocera, and Salafia). The matter is approved. 3. Presentation: Black History Month -- African Americans and the Vote APPROVED RESOLUTION NO: 05-20; K: review/ resolution/ CC BHM – RES 05-20 – 3 February 2020 The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr, for a presentation, commemorating Black History Month. Councilman Faulkner invites his Council colleagues to join him at the podium: Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell, Councilman Darnell Ford, and Councilman Edward Ford, Jr. Councilman Faulkner reads the following resolution: WHEREAS, every President since 1976 has issued a proclamation declaring February as Black History Month in the United States; and WHEREAS, this observance began with Carter G. Woodson in 1926 for the purpose of teaching the history of African Americans and of showing how they are a significant part of American history; and WHEREAS, this observance was created to educate all Americans about the unique history of African- Americans, focusing on and highlighting the culture, contributions, and accomplishments as well as to honor the legacy of Americans of African descent at the local, national, and international level; and WHEREAS, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has chosen AFRICAN AMERICANS AND THE VOTE as the national theme for 2020; and WHEREAS, the eligibility to vote in the United States has been established and maintained in both the U.S. Constitution and constitution-like documents in the Colonies, most began limiting voting rights to property- owning or tax-paying males; and WHEREAS, in 1755, Connecticut participated in the formalized structure known as The Black Governors, candidates were selected among the slaves and the chosen would represent the slaves at major colony governing body meetings regarding general governance and business between the colonies, this lasted for a century succumbing to logistical challenges and the eventual civil war; and WHEREAS, when Northern States began to abolish slavery immediately following the Revolutionary War, Connecticut chose to pass the Gradual Emancipation Act of 1784, granting freedom to Blacks born to slave mothers and reaching the age of 25 for males and 21 for females with one important exception being the Right to Vote; and WHEREAS, between 1866 and 1869, the U.S. Constitution passed the 14 th and 15th Amendments, granting Citizenship to freed slaves and granted Voting Rights to “eligible” African American men, which gave rise to the use of poll taxes, brutality, and intimidation tactics to discourage these men from exercising this Right. Furthermore and compromise allowed greater authority to confederate commanders to control elections in their states; and WHEREAS, the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed voter suppressing acts and literacy tests targeting African Americans, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 provided direct federal oversight of voter registration and procedures, and specifically outlawed southern states from making their own; this Act has been re-issued multiple times even as recent as 2019; and WHEREAS, recently, Middletown elected its 1 st African American State Representative in Quentin Phipps and, on the centennial eve of the adoption of the 19 th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, elected the City’s 1st African American Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell, who joins the City’s historically most  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 3 diverse Common Council, joining three (3) African American Councilmen: Grady Faulkner, Jr., Darnell Ford, and Edward Ford, Jr.; and WHEREAS, with several testimonies submitted by city residents, including youth, and with unanimous affirmative votes by the full Middletown delegation, the State of Connecticut passed the 2019 House Bill 7082 “To include African-American Studies in the social studies component of the public school curriculum” and is now; and WHEREAS, local organizations collaborated to conduct several candidate community forums and the Minority Student Coalition of Middletown High School conducted several school-based Community Conversations, encouraging greater racial understanding; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Middletown supports the active observance of Black History Month and encourages our citizens to embrace this part of American History for the purpose of ensuring that the goals and ideals expressed in our Constitutions may be pursued constructively and collectively and remain attainable to all; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that we ask our communities, institutions, and organizations to work invitingly and closer together to let it be known that WE ARE MIDDLETOWN and Middletown VOTES. We encourage our citizens to register, participate at public Council and Committee meetings, join community conversations, and become an Informed Voters. Our future depends on us and our history challenges us to preserve and defend our Right to VOTE. Fiscal Impact: None Submitted by: Councilman Grady L. Faulkner, Jr. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the City of Middletown Councilmember Co-Sponsors: Jeanette Blackwell, Dated this 3rd day of February, 2020 Meghan Carta, Darnell Ford, Edward Ford, Jr., at the City of Middletown, Connecticut Anthony Gennaro, Sr., Anthony Mangiafico, Edward McKeon, Vincent Loffredo, Eugene Nocera, Attest: Philip Pessina, Linda Salafia Ashley Flynn-Natale, City & Town Clerk Councilman Faulkner notes that every member of this Common Council has co-sponsored this resolution with him. He moves to approve this resolution by acclamation and asks to speak to this resolution, Councilwoman Linda Salafia seconds the motion to approve by acclamation. The Chair states that the resolution is approved by acclamation. The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Faulkner thanks his colleagues for voting and co-sponsoring this resolution commemorating Black History Month for a number of years. This resolution follows the national theme. This year, the theme is elections and the right to vote. He notes that it has been a challenging year with the election, so he has been busy. Some key things came from his research, adding that he always learns something. These are things that we already know, but that we don’t think about. For example, civil rights and voting rights are two different things. When the Civil Rights Act was enacted, we thought that voting was all set, but civil rights did not encompass voting rights. There had to also be a Voting Rights Act. This year is also the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote. It was important, noting that women energize everything. The kit for Black History Month features women. Voting is not a simple as going to the polls and pulling the lever. It is being informed, learning and teaching. He notes that we need to do a better job at that. There were three (3) posters and one that he especially liked featured the first vote by an African American, which was claimed by Perth Amboy, NY is 1870 by Thomas Mundy Peterson. At Keene University, there is a You-Tube video. He acknowledges his colleagues, who have joined the Council this year, noting that they had a tremendous election in the community in terms of diversity. He recognizes Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell on her historic election to the Council. Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell states that she takes this moment to thank everyone on Middletown for having confidence in her. She is proud to be the first African American woman to sit on the City’s Common Council. She implores all Middletown citizens to cast their votes, noting that so many of their ancestors lost their lives so that we have the permission, the opportunity, the privilege, the God given right to vote. She asks people to cast their votes during this election season. Councilman Faulkner states that he mentions Middletown High School because of the Minority Student Coalition. He explains that they will do something for them because they could not be here tonight. They have carried on a number of conversations within their community. He recently attended one and it was quite an event actually saw them how can help teachers and student how can we help you do a better job quite an event. He saw them working with the questions “How can we help you? How can you help us?” Teachers and students were there. It was a good exchange and each came to give. Councilman Faulkner presents Black History Month plaques to Councilman Darnell Ford and Councilman Edward Ford, Jr. He notes that he also has a plaque for State Representative Quentin Phipps, who was unable to attend. Councilman Faulkner presents a plaque to Faith Jackson, Director of the City’s Office of Equal Opportunity & Diversity Management. Councilman Faulkner notes that, in terms of events, on Wednesday night, Keigwin School, will be decorated top to bottom with an exhibit as they have been doing for a number of years. He explains that when that event was revived, the Council started doing these resolutions. There is also an event at the  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 4 library for teenagers on masks. The NAACP Youth Council has an event on February 22nd also at Russell Library. 4. Approval of Minutes: Special Meeting (Questions to Directors) of January 6, 2020 at 6:00 PM The Chair asks for a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting (Questions to Directors) of January 6, 2020 at 6:00 PM. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting (Questions to Directors) of January 6, 2020 at 6:00 PM. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia). Councilman Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 5. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of January 6, 2020 at 7:00 PM The Chair asks for a motion to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 6, 2020 at 7:00 PM. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 6, 2020 at 7:00 PM. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia). Councilman Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 6. Approval of Minutes of Community Meeting of January 9, 2020 at 6:00 PM The Chair asks for a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting (Community Meeting) of January 9, 2020 at 6:00 PM. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting (Community Meeting) of January 9, 2020 at 6:00 PM. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia). Councilman Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 7. Public Hearing – Opens The Chair opens the public hearing on any agenda items at 7:32 PM. He invites anyone wishing to speak to come to podium. He asks that speaks state their name and address for the record and that comments are limited to a five (5) minutes. 8. Public Hearing -- Closes There being no public comment, the Chair closes the public hearing on agenda items is closed at 7:33 PM. 9. Mayor requests Council Clerk to read appropriation requests and the Certificate of Director of Finance Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the Common Council of the City of Middletown will be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building on MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2020, AT 7:00 PM to consider and act upon the following: A. Health: $7,480 – Acct. No: 2070-31000-79592-x-x-2020; appropriation for purchase of premium care warranties for two (2) Ford Fusion S FWD 2020 vehicles Any and all persons interested may appear and be heard. ATTEST: ____________________________ HON. BENJAMIN D. FLORSHEIM, MAYOR Dated at Middletown, Connecticut, 29TH day of January 2020.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 5 A. Health: $7,480 – Acct. No: 2070-31000-79592-x-x-2020; appropriation for purchase of premium care warranties for two (2) Ford Fusion S FWD 2020 vehicles APPROVED Councilman Anthony Mangiafico reads the appropriation and moves for approval. Councilman Vincent Loffredo seconds the motion. There being no discussion the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 11 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilmember Pessina is absent. The matter is approved.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 6 10. Old Business A. RESOLUTION No. 01-20: Approving that $18,000 in funds from the Economic Development Fund Balance be transferred to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line for the Planning, Conservation & Development Department to continue to finalize the concept design for the boathouse project (Tabled: January 6, 2020) Resolution Number: 01-20 Date: December 17, 2019 RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the City of Middletown is on interested and committed to revitalizing the Riverfront, and; WHEREAS, the City of Middletown created a Riverfront Redevelopment Commission to look at ways of connecting people to this vital resources, and; WHEREAS, the Commission hired Projects for Public Spaces, an internationally renowned firm that focuses on creating plans for public spaces, and; WHEREAS, the Project for Public Spaces proposed a plan for creating and improving the Public Spaces along the riverfront, which included the boathouse area along 80 Harbor Drive, and;  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 7 WHEREAS, the City was successful at receiving a grant from the State of Connecticut to develop concept plans for a boathouse and assess and remediate the brownfield or contaminated soils around the current boathouses at 80 Harbor Drive, and; WHEREAS, the City of Middletown wishes to continue the finalized concept designs for the boathouse as one of the key projects in the Projects for Public Spaces plan, and; WHEREAS, the Economic Development Commission at a special meeting of October 23, 2019 unanimously approved the transfer of $18,000 from the Economic Development Fund to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line in order to complete the conceptual design, and; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: Funds from the Economic Development Fund Balance be transferred to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line for the Planning, Conservation and Development Department to continue to finalize the concept design for the Boathouse project. Decrease 4330-00000-30310-0000-00000-0000-9900 Economic Development Fund Balance by $18,000. Increase 4330-xxxxxx-xxxxxx-0000-00000-0000-xxx Economic Development Outreach Initiatives by $18,000 FINANCIAL IMPACT – Decrease in the Economic Development Fund Balance of $18,000 SUBMITTED BY: Councilman Vinnie Loffredo Director of Planning, Conservation & Development Joseph Samolis COMMITTEE REVIEW: Economic Development Commission on October 23, 2019 Status: TABLED by Common Council, City of Middletown at its meeting held on: JANUARY 6, 2020 SUBSTITUTE RESOLUTION: Approving that $30,000 in funds be transferred from the Economic Development Fund Balance to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line for the Planning, Conservation and Development Department to continue to finalize the concept design for the boathouse project. APPROVED RESOLUTION No: 06-20; K: submit/ resolution/ EDC Boathouse RES 06-20 – 3 February 2020 WHEREAS, Resolution 01-20 was voted on and tabled by the Common Council at the January 6, 2020 meeting for further review and consideration by the Economic Development Commission; and, WHEREAS, the City of Middletown is committed to revitalizing the Riverfront, and; WHEREAS, the City of Middletown created a Riverfront Redevelopment Commission to look at ways of connecting people to this vital resources, and; WHEREAS, the Commission hired Projects for Public Spaces, an internationally renowned firm that focuses on creating plans for public spaces, and; WHEREAS, the Project for Public Spaces proposed a plan for creating and improving the Public Spaces along the riverfront, which included the boathouse area along 80 Harbor Drive, and; WHEREAS, the City was successful at receiving a grant from the State of Connecticut to develop concept plans for a boathouse and assess and remediate the brownfield or contaminated soils around the current boathouses at 80 Harbor Drive, and; WHEREAS, the City of Middletown wishes to continue the finalized concept designs for the boathouse as one of the key projects in the Projects for Public Spaces plan, and; WHEREAS, the Economic Development Commission at a special meeting of October 23, 2019 unanimously approved the transfer of $18,000 from the Economic Development Fund to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line in order to complete the conceptual design, and; WHEREAS, at the request of the Common Council at the January 6, 2020 Common Council meeting, the request was further reviewed; and, WHEREAS, at the Economic Development Commission meeting on January 14, 2020, the Economic Development Commission authorized a transfer and expenditure of $30,000 from the Economic Development Fund after a review of the economic data submitted by the Boathouse Building Committee and a discussion of how the Committee derived at its request; and, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: Funds from the Economic Development Fund Balance be transferred to the Economic Development Outreach Initiatives line for the Planning, Conservation and Development Department to continue to finalize the concept design for the Boathouse project.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 8 Decrease 4330-00000-30310-0000-00000-0000-9900 Economic Development Fund Balance by $30,000. Increase 4330-xxxxxx-xxxxxx-0000-00000-0000-xxx Economic Development Outreach Initiatives by $30,000 FINANCIAL IMPACT – Decrease in the Economic Development Fund Balance of $30,000 NOTE: Additional documents related to this agenda item are available in electronic online: Placemaking – Project for Public Spaces, January 2014; Middletown Riverfront Redevelopment Commission, June 2014; Market Analysis for Boathouse, August 2016; and Middletown Riverfront Boathouse – 5-Year Financial Forecast, February 2018 Councilman Vincent Loffredo reads the substitute resolution. Councilwoman Meghan Carta seconds the motion.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 9 The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Faulkner asks about substitution, asking if the agenda was changed to remove the $18,000 request. Councilman Loffredo states that the original matter was tabled and he has offered a substitution for $30,000, which was addressed during Questions to Directors. Councilman Loffredo states that, if Councilman Faulkner would like, Planning, Conservation & Development Director Joseph Samolis can come forward and reconfirm. Councilman Faulkner asks if it was changed in when agenda changes were made. Councilman Loffredo replies that the substitute resolution is on the agenda under Old Business. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon states that the Council has to vote on this with the understanding that they are conceptual plans, not architectural drawing. The plan does not commit the Council to spend any money on a boathouse; rather, they are simply conceptual plans, In addition, the Council has spoken at length about the Master Plan. He has been informed that an RFP (Request for Proposal) for a Master Plan is ready and will be going within the next several weeks so that we will have a Master Plan for the riverfront going forward. The Chair calls on Councilman Eugene Nocera. Councilman Nocera states that he will support the substitute resolution. He believes the answers to the questions raised at the last meeting were answered through Committee by Director Samolis’ conversation with the Committee. These are concept drawings and it is important that we move forward with this strategic planning of the harbor, adding that time is of the essence. There being no further discussion the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 10 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia) and one (1) nay vote (Councilmember Mangiafico). Councilmember Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 11. Department, Committee, Commission Reports and Grant Confirmation Approval Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. reads and moves for approval of the Department, Committee, and Commission Reports and Grant Confirmation Approval, agenda items 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D. Councilman Eugene Nocera seconds the motion. There being no discussion the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is approved with 11 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Pessina is absent. The matter is approved  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 10 A. City Clerk’s Certificate APPROVED  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 11 B. Monthly Reports -- Finance Department: Transfer Report to January 22, 2020 APPROVED  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 12 C. Grant Confirmation & Approval – Board of Education – miscellaneous grants: $777,744.75 APPROVED D. Grant Confirmation & Approval – Health Department – grant to provide training and medical supplies to Medical Reserve Corp: $2,500 APPROVED 12. Payment of all City bills when properly approved  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 13 APPROVED Councilman Darnell Ford moves for approval of the payment of all City bills when properly approved. Councilman Vincent Loffredo seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. It is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Pessina is absent. The Chair states the matter passes with 11 affirmative votes. 13. Resolutions, Ordinances, etc. A. Approving 30-days advance of sick leave for Henry Nunes APPROVED RESOLUTION NO: 07-20; K: review / resolution/ GCC Nunes sick time RES 07-20 – 3 February 2020 Whereas, Henry Nunes is currently an Truck Driver who has been employed with the City of Middletown since January 1997; and Whereas, Henry Nunes has been out of work due to an illness and has exhausted all of his accrued sick, vacation, and personal time, and continues to be out of work on an approved Family Medical Leave; and Whereas, Mr. Nunes previously received an advancement of sick time from the Mayor’s Office in 2001, and pursuant to City of Middletown Ordinance §74-3, Mr. Nunes is required to make such additional request of the Common Council; and Be it resolved by the Common Council of the City of Middletown: That Henry Nunes shall be granted up to a 30-days advanced sick leave. Fiscal Impact: None. Employee will pay back said advance in accordance with Chapter 74, Article I, § 74-3 of the Middletown Code of Ordinance. Councilwoman Meghan Carta reads the resolution and moves for approval. Councilman Vincent Loffredo seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. B. Approving that, due to potential liability issues, safety concerns, and the structural report that City has received, $600,000 from the Hubbard Park Improvements line item, 4026-22000-91200- 0320-95760-2016-000 be transferred to the Palmer Field Entry & Bleacher Repair line item, 4026- 22000-91200-0320-95765-2016-000 for the upgrade to the Light Structure System, using Musco Sports Lighting, Total Light Control LED Technology. APPROVED RESOLUTION NO: 08-20; K: review / resolution/ PW Palmer Field lights – RES 08-20 – 3 February 2020 Whereas, it is necessary for the City of Middletown Office of Public Works Department to upgrade Palmer Field to a Musco Sports Lighting, Light Structure System with Total Light Control – TLC for LED Technology, and Whereas, the current Palmer Field Lighting System causes glare and light spill, not sky glow — a prominent aspect of light pollution and viewable from great distances. Currently, Palmer Field uses high intensity discharge (HID) lamps for almost all of their overhead lighting needs. On average, Palmer Field lights have much higher wattage than other outdoor lighting applications such as billboards, roadways, and parking lots; and Whereas, the Musco Sports Lighting system will dramatically reduce carbon footprint, reducing energy consumption by up to 80 percent. Additionally, with the virtual elimination of glare and wasteful light spill into the surrounding area, households will enjoy a welcomed curtain of darkness. The efficiency of the Light-Structure System will be further enhanced with a Control-Link innovative monitoring service that enables the Office of Public Works to schedule and control all lights from a smart phone, web page, or 24/7 call center; and Whereas, it has become the standard for new stadiums and fields to be built with LED lighting systems; the enhanced controllability of the lights is a benefit for these venues to allow for entertaining light shows – whether they be player introductions, scoring celebrations or halftime shows. LED sports lighting can improve their game presentation and enhance their operations with dramatic energy savings and minimal maintenance; and Whereas, due to potential liability issues, safety concerns, and the structural report the city has received, additional funding is needed to be transferred from the Parks Bond to the Palmer Field Line item in order to replace and upgrade the Lighting Structure System as planned. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: That, due to potential liability issues, safety concerns, and the structural report the  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 14 City has received, $600,000 from the Hubbard Park Improvements line item, 4026-22000-91200- 0320-95760-2016-000 be transferred to the Palmer Field Entry & Bleacher Repair line item, 4026- 22000-91200-0320-95765-2016-000 for the upgrade to the Light Structure System, using Musco Sports Lighting, Total Light Control LED Technology. FISCAL IMPACT: None – transfer will be made within bond funds. Councilman Eugene Nocera reads the resolution and moves for approval. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. seconds the motion. Councilman Nocera assures the community and members of the Common Council that, as they as heard during Questions to Directors, improvements to Hubbard park were competed in 2018. He points out that, to date, $15.2M of parks bond has been spent of the total $34M. He has served as Chair of the 21st Century Parks Committee and has been part of the Public Works & facilities Commission for the past two (2) terms. It has been a tremendous renaissance repairing parks, which were in very sad shape. He commends the community for supporting this effort. It is important for people to know that, to date, these projects are fluid: some coast a little more, some coast a little less. It was feasibility study, not a blueprint. They have completed Spear Park under allocation. They completed McDonough School, which was slightly more than expected. They have completed Butternut Park, which is a huge asset for the community, was a little more than anticipated. Pat Kidney Fields was completed significantly under budget, a tremendous project that was projected to cost $12M and then $10M, but was completed at $8.1M. Palmer Field was completed until the engineering report indicated that lighting needed to be addressed. It is an imperative and he supports this resolution. The City has bought a new Showmobile, which is safer for our children. They brought in a skating rink that is now at Veterans’ Park. There are many other projects underway, but this is a staging bond not to be spent all at once. He encourages the Council to understand that lighting at Palmer Field is a safety issue that must be addressed as soon as possible. The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Faulkner states that a lot of money on design. We need to stay alert on safety aspects when we spend this money. He notes that Palmer Field looks great, but safety needs to be high on the agenda. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon reiterates the importance of considering other projects that are in front of the Council and to address this issues. Each has completely different audiences. Veterans’ park gets used by a broad swath of the population, so that needs to be addressed. Secondly, all the money that has been spent on Palmer Field is good and necessary. It does give an admitted advantage to American legion Post 75, which is headquartered there. They use it and enjoy the revenue from that park. He adds that during this month -- Black History Month – we need to be mindful that there is another American Legion Post, who will also be coming to the Council soon with a request. We need to be aware that we pay as much attention to the other Post, in terms of funding, as we do for this Post. Finally, he offers his personal opinion, that, considering that this is somewhat of an emergency expenditure, it behooves the Council to reconsider the fee structure for park use, which was considered last year. Perhaps the idea that people will be using the City parks for free must be considered when we are spending almost three- quarters of a million dollars ($0.75M), which will have an effect on the mill rate. He plans to vote in favor of this item as it is important for safety and use. There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. C. ORDINANCE: Approving creation of a temporary committee, the Complete Count Committee (CCC) related to increase awareness and motivate residents to respond to the 2020 Census, by amending Chapter 14 (“Boards, Committees and Commissions”) of the City of Middletown Code of Ordinances, adding Article XVII (“Complete Count Committee”), Sections 14-54 through14-56, inclusive. APPROVED ORDINANCE 01-20; K: review/ ordinance/ Complete Count Committee – ORD 01-20 – 3 Feb 2020 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: that Chapter 14, Article XVII, Sections 14-54 through 14-56 of the Middletown Code of Ordinances state as follows: Chapter 14 Boards, Committees and Commissions ARTICLE XVII: Complete Count Committee § 14-54. Purpose. There shall be a temporary committee known as the Complete Count Committee (“CCC”) intended to increase awareness and motivate residents to respond to the 2020 Census, which is a count mandated by our Constitution that takes place every ten years. This CCC shall serve as a local “census ambassador” group and will play an integral part in ensuring participation of underrepresented populations as well as a complete and accurate count of the community in the 2020 Census. An accurate census count is critically important to our future because it:  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 15 1. Determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives; 2. Defines congressional and state legislative districts, school districts, and voting precincts; 3. Determines the annual allocation of $675 billion dollars in federal funding; 4. Determined that Connecticut received $10,726,609,429 in FY 2016 in federal funding guided by the 2010 Census and failure to accurately count a person would cost our state $2,900 per person per year; 5. Determines Connecticut’s funding for Medicaid, SNAP, Highway Planning, Section 8 Housing, Special Education Grants, S-CHIP, Title I Grants, National School Lunch Program, WIC, Head Start, Foster Care, and Health Center Programs; 6. Provides insight to governments, business, and community planning groups for planning purposes; and 7. Provides population benchmarks for nearly every other United States survey. § 14-55. Membership. The CCC shall consist of not fewer than 11, nor more than 15 members. The members shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council. The CCC shall terminate upon completion of its duties as more fully set forth in Section 14-56. The CCC shall elect a Chairperson at the first meeting of the new Committee. § 14-56. Duties. The CCC’s role will be to utilize local knowledge, influence, and resources to educate the community and promote the census through locally based, targeted outreach efforts. To that end, it will provide a vehicle for coordinating and nurturing cooperative efforts among tribal, state, and local governments, communities, and the Census Bureau and will help the Census Bureau obtain a complete count in 2020 through important local partnerships and community education. The CCC will provide updates to the Mayor and the Common Council, when requested, and a final report upon completion of its duties. The CCC may establish one or more subcommittees to fulfill its duties and responsibilities upon an affirmative vote by its members. Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell reads the ordinance and moves for approval. Councilman Edward Ford, Jr. seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. D. Approving that the following Regional Performance Incentive Program (RPIP) grant applications be submitted to the State’s Office of Policy and Management for funding in 2020 pursuant to Connecticut General Statues Section 4-124s: (1) Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments Regional Parcel Service and Update; (2) State of Connecticut Municipal Boundaries Survey; (3) Emergency Radio System Enhancement Project for Valley Shore PSAP and the Lower River Valley Council of Governments; (4) Chester, Deep River and Essex Radio System Upgrades; and (5) Regional Building Department Feasibility Study and Building Department Record Digitization Project; and that Mayor Benjamin Florsheim is authorized to act on this endorsement by signing all necessary agreements, and to take all necessary actions, related to these RPIP grant applications subject to review of said documents by the Office of General Counsel as to content and form. APPROVED RESOLUTION NO: 09-20; K: review/resolution/EDC RPIP grant application RES 09-20 – 3 February 2020 WHEREAS, on December 31, 2019 RiverCOG submitted five applications to the Office of Policy and Management’s Regional Performance Incentive Program for funding in 2020. WHEREAS, a requirement of these grant applications is a resolution of endorsement and authorization from each RiverCOG municipality for the submitted applications. WHEREAS, the RiverCOG is requesting that each municipality endorse five applications, all with equal preference. WHEREAS, the applications include the following: 1. Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments Regional Parcel Service and Update - Update of digital parcel maps in the 17-member municipalities of RiverCOG 2. State of Connecticut Municipal Boundaries Survey - Statewide project being led by WestCOG to survey the state’s municipal boundaries to create better digital maps statewide 3. Emergency Radio System Enhancement Project for Valley Shore PSAP and the Lower River Valley Council of Governments - Upgrades to regional emergency communication system to benefit all RiverCOG municipalities and Colchester and Marlborough 4. Chester, Deep River and Essex Radio System Upgrades - New radios for emergency responders in Chester, Deep River, and Essex which are compatible with the state emergency radio system 5. Regional Building Department Feasibility Study and Building Department Record Digitization Project - Feasibility study for setting up a shared multi-town building department in the  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 16 Lower Connecticut River Valley Region and digitalization of building department records in Chester and Killingworth NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: approves that following Regional Performance Incentive Program (RPIP) grant applications be submitted to the State’s Office of Policy and Management for funding in 2020 pursuant to Connecticut General Statues Section 4-124s: (1) Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments Regional Parcel Service and Update; (2) State of Connecticut Municipal Boundaries Survey; (3) Emergency Radio System Enhancement Project for Valley Shore PSAP and the Lower River Valley Council of Governments; (4) Chester, Deep River and Essex Radio System Upgrades; and (5) Regional Building Department Feasibility Study and Building Department Record Digitization Project; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE COMMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: that Mayor Benjamin Florsheim is authorized to act on this endorsement by signing authorized to sign all necessary agreements, and to take all necessary actions, related to these RPIP grant applications subject to review of said documents by the Office of General Counsel as to content and form. FINANCIAL IMPACT – None, Endorsement Resolution for RiverCOG Councilman Edward McKeon reads the resolution and moves for approval. Councilman Vincent Loffredo seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. E. Approving that the 2018 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement appropriation be reallocated as follows: Decrease Entitlement -- Futures Energy Efficiency Project (3211-14000- 57030-0000-03744-2018-0000) by $5,695.00 and increase New 2018 Entitlement -- City of Middletown Public Works Department -- Tree Planting (3211-14000-57030-0000-XXXXX-2018-0000) by $5,695.00. APPROVED RESOLUTION NO: 10-20; K: review / resolution/ PCD CDBG trees RES 10-20 – 3 February 2020 WHEREAS, the City of Middletown receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the US Department of Housing & Urban Development as an entitlement community, and WHEREAS, the final rule was published on January 5, 1995 in the Federal Register for the Consolidated Submission for Community Planning & Development Programs; and, WHEREAS, the ongoing receipt of CDBG funds is conditioned upon the drafting and adoption of a Five Year Consolidated Plan of Housing and Community Development under federal regulations [24 CFR 91.1(a)(2)], and the drafting and adoption of an Annual Action Plan; and, WHEREAS, such a Consolidated Plan amendment and 2018 Annual Action Plan have been properly drafted and subject to review by the public and by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee pursuant to the HUD final rule; and, WHEREAS, the Citizens’ Advisory Committee is recommending the reallocation of 2018 CDBG Funds in the amount of $5,695.00 from the Future’s Energy Efficiency Project to City of Middletown Public Works Department for the replacement of 17 trees that were affected by the Emerald Ashe Borer Disease. These trees will be planted in low to moderate income areas; and, WHEREAS, the $5,695.00 is available from a completed project and improvements to public property is an eligible expense under the CDBG Grant; and, WHEREAS, the proposed activity is consistent with the City’s Five Year Consolidated Plan Strategy. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: That the 2018 CDBG Entitlement appropriation be approved and reallocated as follows: DECREASE 2018 Entitlement -- Futures Energy Efficiency Project: 3211-14000-57030-0000-03744-2018-0000 $5,695.00 INCREASE New 2018 Entitlement -- City of Middletown Public Works Dept-Tree Planting 3211-14000-57030-0000-XXXXX-2018-0000 $5,695.00 FINANCIAL IMPACT: None - Reallocation of funding from a completed project. Councilman Grady L. Faulkner, Jr. reads the resolution and moves for approval. Councilwoman Linda Salafia seconds the motion.  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 17 The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon states that, while he is favor of tree planting, he objected to this in the committee meeting because of the process. It is being considered in the future, that, when Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money is repurposed, then consideration goes to agencies that did not received funding in the first round, noting that was not the case here. While the funds are going for a good purpose, he believes that the general purpose of CDBG money is to help the neediest among us, so we need to consider that. The Chair calls on Councilman Vincent Loffredo. Councilman Loffredo states that, as a point of information, so that he does not understand, Planning, Conservation & Development Director Samolis should come forward to answer a question regarding the CDBG allocation. Director Samolis steps to the podium. Councilman Loffredo states that he attended the last CDBG meeting, noting that there was some discussion about reallocation. With this money that is being reallocated, money that could be used by those agencies that qualify for the fifteen percent (15%) allocation. Could this money have been allocated to them or could . . . Director Samolis replies that, once we hit that cap, very little money gets returned to the fund balance, the CDBG money that the City gets from the Federal government. Usually, all of that money gets utilized by the agencies that are assigned those dollars through the grant process. This money, as the previous allocation, is for infrastructure, so it would have to allocate for either economic development, infrastructure, blight, or something of that nature, not for public service. If the money was allocated for public service, it would jeopardize the fifteen percent (15%) cap, which we are already at. Councilman Loffredo replies that, to be clear, this has been an issue discussed. For clarification, this is coming from the Futures Energy Efficiency project. Director Samolis replies, “Correct.” Councilman Loffredo asks what the reason is why that the money is available to decrease that entitlement by that amount. Director Samolis replies that they completed the project under budget and no longer need the remaining funds. Councilman Loffredo states that this money can then go back to the infrastructure projects like tree planting. Director Samolis replies, “Correct.” The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon asks if the tree planting grant was one of the original grants. Director Samolis replies, “No, it was not.” Councilman McKeon asks if there were any other infrastructure projects that were not funded. Director Samolis replies, “Yes.” Councilman Loffredo interjects saying that this goes back to his comments, asking the Chair for a follow- up. He states that, to be clear, we are asking that, if it is under infrastructure or under City agencies or community agencies, non-profits, that this did not get funded, and if there is money such as this, almost $6,000, everyone would have been made aware of it and they could have solicited from unallocated or new allocated money. He asks is that is what we are talking about here. Director Samolis replies that to answer the questions, Councilman McKeon is correct, adding that, ideally, what would be nice is going back to all of the submitting agencies and application to see if there is a need for that type of funding for their proposed application. In this case, as has happened previously in other City things, this money has been allocated, or residual funding has been allocated for other projects, projects that were not necessarily ascribed during the application process for that program year, 2018. Councilman Loffredo replies that he just wants to get clear because Director Samolis mentioned several times that there are caps so he would not want agencies applying for monies that frankly cannot be allocated to them, if they are capped out. Director Samolis replies that we could not allocated from money for program services. It could be allocated from programs, for applications that are infrastructure related. Councilman Loffredo replies that an agency that has a structure need could apply for these monies. Director Samolis replies, “Correct.”  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 18 The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Faulkner states that the discussion in committee, adding that the committee makes that decision, he understands that their conversation was more along the lines of we understood that there was an issue with trees in Middletown, which would be affected. We were going to lose a number of them, so this would be a goof use of those funds. He notes that this was their decision to make. Director Samolis offers more information for consideration. Councilman McKeon has a good point, which is something to look at in terms of policies moving forward. That being said, with funding, there is a statutory timeframe within which we have to spend the money, so if some of the other entities, that originally applied for grant funding in 2018, did not accomplish what they had proposed by this time, and have not secured architectural plans and it take them say, another year to get that together, it would jeopardize this funding. When they reprogram, they look to reprogram on a consistent basis so that. in the coming year when we look at the annual allocation at CDBG, you will see programming in that . Typically, in this case where there is a project midstream or mid-program year that is completed and there is residual funding, we look to spend that money as quickly as possible. He reiterates that they are under a statutory timeframe of 1.5% of the annual allocation to be sure that we are spending that money. Otherwise, that funding is reduced in upcoming years. This project, even though it is small amounts of money, could actually be expended in the next few months, which is a good thing in terms of expending CDBG dollars. There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 10 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, Nocera, and Salafia) and one (1) nay vote (Councilman McKeon). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 14. Mayor’s Appointments The Mayor reads the proposed list of appointments from the substitute list: Long Hill Estate Authority:  Nicholas Borasi (U): appoint as regular member, filling the balance of a 3-year term to August 31, 2002 created by the resignation of Adam Fleming (D) Technology Advisory Committee:  Brian Robillard (U): appoint as regular member, filling seat as City Employee for balance of 4-year term to December 1, 2022, seat formerly held by Nelson Rivera (U)  Lauren Middleton (D): reappoint as regular member, filling seat as Member of the Public for balance of 4-year term to December 1, 2022  Roger Palmer (D): reappoint as regular member, filling seat as City Employee for balance of 4-year term to December 1, 2022 Conservation & Agriculture Commission:  Ellen Lukens (D): reappoint as alternate member to 3-year term to February 15, 2023  Brian Gartner (D): reappoint as regular member to 3-year term to February 15, 2023  Elisabeth Holder (D): reappoint as regular member to balance of 3-year term to February 15, 2022  Michael Thomas (U): appoint as regular member to balance of 3-year term to February 15, 2020, vacancy created by resignation of Jonathan Morris (D) Sanitary Disposal District Commission:  Sebastian Santacroce (D): reappoint as regular member, filling the balance of a 5-year term to October 31, 2024 Recreation & Senior Services Commission:  Kristen Jensen (D): appoint as regular member, filling balance of 3-year term to December 31, 2020, to 3-year term to , filling vacancy created by resignation of Susan Laribee (D)  Daniel DiConte (U): appoint as regular member, filling balance of 3-year term to December 31, 2021, vacancy created by resignation of Lucy Bettencourt (D) Zoning Board of Appeals:  Steven Kovach (D): appoint as regular member, filling the balance of a 5-year term to November 30, 2020, vacancy created by resignation of Judith Pehota (D) Firing Range Building Committee:  Councilman Vincent Loffredo (D): appoint as regular member and Committee Chair, filling the seat formerly held by Councilman Carl Chisem  Councilman Darnell Ford (D): appoint as regular member, filling seat formerly held by Councilman Robert Santangelo  Councilman Philip Pessina (R): a sitting member of this committee, appoint as Vice-Chair  FEBRUARY 3, 2020 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 19 Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to approve the Mayor’s proposed appointments. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for the vote. The matter is approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The matter is approved. 15. Meeting Adjourned There being no further business, Councilman Vincent Loffredo moves to adjourn. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a vote. The motion is unanimously approved with 11 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, and Salafia). Councilman Philip Pessina is absent. The motion to adjourn is approved. The Chair declares that the meeting is adjourned at 8:01 PM. ATTEST: LINDA S.K. REED, COMMON COUNCIL CLERK K; review/ minutes/ 20 February 03 – Regular Meeting minutes – 3 February 2020