Common Council

REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMON COUNCIL MIDDLETOWN CONNECTICUT MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021 7:00 PM MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Common Council of the City of Middletown was held remotely via WebEx and livestreamed on the City of Middletown’s Facebook page on Monday, November 2, 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. Councilman Philip Pessina Councilman Anthony Gennaro, Sr. Councilwoman Linda Salafia Mayor Benjamin D. Florsheim, Chair Daniel Ryan, Esq., Corporation Counsel, Linda Reed, Clerk of the Common Council Also Present: Carl Erlacher, CPA, Director - Finance Kevin Elak, Acting Director – Health Department Joseph Fazzino, Director – Water & Sewer Ashley Flynn-DiNatale, Town Clerk Chief Robert Kronenberger – Fire & Emergency Management Director Faith Jackson, Director – Equal Opportunity & Diversity Management Cathy Lechowicz, - Director – Recreation & Senior Services Joseph Samolis - Director, Planning, Conservation & Development Brig Smith, Esq. - General Counsel Members of the Public: WebEx (5) and Facebook livestream (unknown number of viewers) 1. Call to Order Mayor Benjamin Florsheim calls the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. He welcomes everyone to the Regular Meeting of the Common Council. The Chair invites the Councilmembers to remain seated, per the accepted rules for remote meetings, and to join in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Call of the Meeting is read and the Chair declares the call a legal call and the meeting a legal meeting. 2. Accept/Amend the Agenda The Chair asks for a motion either to approve the agenda as presented or to amend. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to amend the agenda, modifying Item 11B, where it lists Homeless Prevention Service, changing it to Homeless Emergency Service and Emergency Staff Due to Covid 19 He understands that wording change may allow the City to perhaps capture more funds. Councilman Philip Pessina seconds the motion. Councilwoman Linda Salafia calls for a point of order. She asks if it would not be better to just amend the resolution as it is just changing the wording rather than amending the agenda. Councilman Nocera replies that it can be done both ways when they get to that item. The Chair adds that it will be whatever the pleasure of the Council is. Corporation Counsel Daniel Ryan concurs. Councilman Vincent Loffredo calls for a point of order. On the agenda, the Council calls for amendments, modifying the agenda. This motion that is in order. He asks that, since this motion is made and seconded, at this point it is appropriate to deal with it at this time. He notes that the motion is in order. Councilman Pessina states that he agrees.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 2 Corporation Counsel Daniel Ryan states that it would be cleaner to do it this way as this is how it is usually done, a motion made and seconded. The Chair states that they will follow the Council’s pleasure. There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion to amend the agenda is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. There being no further amendments, the Chair asks if the Council will accept this agenda as amended. Councilman Philip Pessina moves to accept the agenda, as amended. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion to accept the agenda, as amended, is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. 3. Approval of Minutes: None The Chair notes there was a special meeting, delayed last month so minutes are still under preparation, the Council will accept those minutes at the next Council meeting. 4. Public Hearing on Agenda Items -- Opens The Chair opens public hearing at 7:07 PM. The Chair invites any member of the public looking to speak can do so by indicating using the WebEx hand raise function. Comments are limited to items on the agenda. Each speaker will have a maximum of five (5) minutes to speak. Speakers are asked to state their name and address for the record. Speakers in the queue will be unmuted in chronological order. The Council Clerk states that there are no speakers. 5. Public Hearing on Agenda Items -- Closes There being no speakers, the Chair closes the public hearing at 7:08 PM. 6. 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 remotely via WebEx, at Join A Meeting, Event #179 613 7428 on MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021, AT 7:00 PM to consider and act upon the following: Health Department: $3,000 – Acct No. 1000-26500-0726-00000-0000-000 appropriation of funds from General Fund for relocation costs for displaced Middletown residents per the Connecticut Uniform Relocation Act (CGS Sec. 8-26) Any and all persons interested may appear and be heard. ATTEST: HON. BENJAMIN D. FLORSHEIM, MAYOR Dated at Middletown, Connecticut, this 30th day of December 2020.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 3 A. Health Department: $3,000 – Acct No. 1000-26500-0726-00000-0000-000 appropriation of funds from General Fund for relocation costs for displaced Middletown residents per the Connecticut Uniform Relocation Act (CGS Sec. 8-26) APPROVED Councilman Edward McKeon reads the proposed appropriation and moves to approve. Councilman Philip Pessina seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. 7. Department, Committee, Commission Reports and Grant Confirmation Approval Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. moves to approve. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. Councilman Pessina adds that Item C was inadvertently skipped. It is read into the record The Chari calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon notes that these are primarily grants for the attack on Covid and vaccines. He believes that since this meeting is seen by many people on a regular basis, hereon in, the Council ought to be reporting on the plans for vaccination release, any plans for a clinic and how it will be distributed. He believes that this is important. He asks where this information might be presented to the public, suggesting perhaps in the Mayor’s report. It is important to note that the important point is getting the information, making sure thither get as many vaccines into as many arms as possible. Councilman Eugene Nocera echoes those sentiments, adding that, if the Health Director is present, perhaps he can give a brief update on that status. JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 4 Acting Health Director Kevin Elak states that he agrees that they want to be transparent with getting the message out to the public, which is vitally important as the vaccine rolls out, that everyone understand when it will be their turn and how they will do that so it is fair and equitable. Now, the City received its first shipment last Monday, It was rolled out on Wednesday, They began vaccinating medical first responders, City firefighter in all four (4) departments in Town. At the same time, they are also beginning to vaccinate police officers. By Thursday, they will have all firefighters with the exception of Westfield, which will begin in Thursday, vaccinating volunteer firefighters. They have set up a clinic on Thursday and will vaccinate all school nurses for public and private schools in Middletown as well as Wesleyan Health Center, They rely heavily on the Middletown Medical Reserve Corps volunteers to fill the positions as vaccinators and assistants and data entry. They are crucial. We are vaccinating them as well so they may work safely. He will take any questions. Councilman McKeon thanks Acting Director Elak, indicating that they are doing a great job. The Chair calls on Councilwoman Blackwell to be followed by Councilman Loffredo. Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell asks Acting Director Elak, that if someone is skeptical, and they pass when their time comes, what is the process for that person to get back in line. Acting Director Elak states that of a person is eligible in the current phase 1A, and they decide they want to wait to decide, it will be, they will not lose their turn for a clinic moving forward at any time. Councilwoman Blackwell thanks Acting Health Director Elak. Councilman Vincent Loffredo asks Acting Health Director Elak to share when members of the public will begin to receive the vaccine, where and how. Is that in place or yet to be determined? Acting Health Director Elak replies that the next phase, Phase 1B, will start to be the general public. They are waiting for final guidance from the State Department of Public Health, but it looks like, from Federal guidance that has come out, it will be for persons 75 and older, then essential workers, which will be manufacturing, grocery store workers, and teachers. That will be a much bigger population that will be eligible to get the vaccine. Councilman Loffredo asks if it will be determined how folks will, where this will be done, how people will get their place in line. Is that yet to be determined. Acting Health Director Elak replies that they are still working that out those plans. They do have a pretty good plan, but just had an email conversation today with Middlesex Hospital and Community Health Center as to how they are going to collaborate to reach all of the population. Councilman Loffredo asks if Middletown pharmacies will be used. Or not. Acting Health Director Elak replies, “Definitely,’ adding that at some point, but he is not sure when Councilman Loffredo thanks Acting Health Director Elak. The Chair asks if there are any additional questions for Acting Health Director Elak. There being none, the chair asks if there are any questions on any other grant items. Councilman Vincent Loffredo has questions on the fund transfers. He has had some discussion with Finance Director. In particular, he will relate the questions that he had, which were answered by Finance Director Erlacher. In looking over the Water & Sewer various transfers between November 18, of last year to February, he wonders if the Director is available. There are tens of thousands of dollars being transferred throughout that period, from 11/17 and the last one on 12/18, tens of thousands of dollars for various items. He finds it extraordinary at this time for Water & Sewer half way through the fiscal year, the level of transfers reported for this month. He asks for some explanation of these transfers. The Chair asks if Councilman Loffredo is looking to speak with the Director of Water & Sewer or the Director of Finance. Councilman Loffredo replies that he would like the Water & Sewer Director. Water & Sewer Director Joseph Fazzino replies that there were a couple of things that happened, specifically focusing on vehicle maintenance. One of the large tandem trucks blew a turbo charger, which was an unexpected expense. They also had a utility van have a blown engine, which was an additional unexpected expense. The transfer, he believes, were into the vehicle maintenance line item. Some of the other issues, he is not sure of specifically, recently, hey had to do a transfer for temporary employees as two (2) employees are currently out on worker’s compensation so that had to hire temporary people. That was not expected in the budget last year. They try to keep it as low as possible as they could to keep it to zero. They had to transfer funds to cover the temporary employees’ cost. He asks if Councilman Loffredo has any other concerns. Councilman Loffredo replies that a number of these items were taken out of the General Administrative account, money moved out for various items. He asks of there is a current balance. They are half way through JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 5 the fiscal year for General Administrative. He asks if Director Fazzino has any idea if they will be okay budgetary wise. Director Fazzino replies that he believes that they will be okay budgetary wise. What happens is they will be notified by Finance if there is a line that goes negative so they have to do the transfer. Another item that came up was the gas bill. It was not taken into consideration with the new pump station. He adds that gas that they would be using, so that became another item that they had to transfer. Councilman Eugene Nocera speaks as a member of the Water Pollution Control Authority along with Councilman Philip Pessina. He notes that all of these items were vetted by the full Commission and a full explanation was made each month as they work aggressively to keep the budget stable. Behind t is the balloon payment that they had to make to Mattabasset. He commends Director Fazzino for keeping things stable, the ship in the right direction, because it is the next couple of years will be difficult. They do now have a wonderful new facility that treats our sewage and it is the best in the area, in his opinion. It was well worth the investment of the community has made. He cannot say enough about the service that Middletown is getting at this time. Councilman Loffredo states that he is not disputing any of this. He is relatively reinstated Councilmember and looking over these transfer numbers. He appreciates the comments. He is sharing that his understanding is, that in the process of adopting a new budget, he assumes the new budget will reflect. To some degree, these extraordinary charges that will be discussed in the budget down the road. The Chair thanks Director Fazzino. He asks if there is any further discussion. The Chari calls on Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell. Councilwoman Blackwell states that she does not want Acting Health Director Elak to come up now, at the next meeting since vaccinations will be a standing item on the agenda, she would like him to come back at that time and address efforts being made to minorities in the community. That would be beneficial to the people whom she talks to on a daily basis, who are skeptical about taking the vaccination. Any effort to engage the community would be helpful. The Chair states that has been another topic of conversation of the community organizations so they will be certain. If it is the pleasure of the Council, it can be added as a standing item on the agenda and be sure it is part of it. Councilman Eugene Nocera states that he agrees, adding that he time is now to provide the information There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 6 A. Monthly Reports -- Finance Department: Transfer Report to December 22, 2020 APPROVED JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 7 JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 8  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 9 B. 2020-2021 Employment Activity Report – 1st Quarter Report APPROVED Memorandum To: Mayor Benjamin D. Florsheim From: Faith M. Jackson, Director of Equal Opportunity & Diversity Management Date: December 16, 2020 Re: The City of Middletown 2020-2021 Employment Activity Report – 1st Quarter Report Attached is the 2020-2021 first quarter employment activity report for the City of Middletown for your review and approval. For the first quarter, a total of three new people were hired, three White Males. Job opportunities for new hires and promotions for this quarter came under the following categories: EEO2-Professional, EEO3-Technicians, EEO4-Protective Services, EEO5-Paraprofess-ionals, EEO6-Administrative Support, and EEO8-Service Maintenance. Hires and promotions occurred in the following departments: Fire, Finance, Police, Water and Sewer, and Board of Education. Of all new hires, none were from the protected class, nor were any goals achieved from new hires this quarter. During the first quarter, a total of four employees were promoted. Of the promotions, the City achieved one of its set goals: one White Female in EEO3-Technicians. Of the four promotions 50%, two White Female, were from the protected class. While the City does not hire or promote a large number of employees annually, it does strive, in good faith efforts to hire and promote a diverse workforce. If you have any questions or would like further explanation of this report, please call me at extension 4830. Thank you. c: Human Resources Division Common Council Affirmative Action Monitoring Committee Attachments Approve: Signature Date Other: Signature Date Memorandum To: Benjamin Florsheim, Mayor, City of Middletown From: Faith M. Jackson, Director of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management and Affirmative Action Officer Date: December 16, 2020 Re: City of Middletown Affirmative Action 2020-2021 1st Quarter Employment Activity Report Total Goals set for 2020-2021 ~ (46): A1-EEO1 – 1WF, 1BF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM B2-EEO2 – 1BF, 1 BM, 1HM, 1OM, 1TRMM C3-EEO3 – *1WF, 1BM. 1HM, 1OM, 1TRMM D4-EEO4 – 1WF, 2BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OM, 1OF, 1TRMM E5-EEO5 – 1BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OF F6-EEO6 – 1BM, 1BF, 2HF, 1OM, 1OF, 1TRMM G7-EEO7– 1WF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM H8-EEO8 –1WF, 2BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OF, 1OM, 1TRMM 1st Quarter Hires/Promotions/Terminations/Transfers/Other Results July, August, September 2020 Other Male/Other Female White B/AA H/L Asian AI/AN AI/AN NH/OPI NH/OPI Two/ Total White B/AA H/L Asian Two/ More More Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female New 3C Hires 3 Prom. 2C *1 C 4 1 BE Trans. 1 BE 1 BE 1C 3 Reclass . Dem. 1 BE 1 1 RC Sep. 5 RC 2 RC 1 / 17 1 6 RC Oth QBE RBE er: 1  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 10 other C (med. sep.) Definitions: L - Layoffs EEO Key: EEO1 (A-1) - Officials/Administrators Ethnic Codes: Two/More Races LA - Leave of Absence EEO2 (B-2) - Professionals Asian O - Other EEO3 (C-3) - Technicians B/AA – Black/African American Q - Quit EEO4 (D-4) - Protective Service H/L – Hispanic/Latino R - Retired EEO5 (E-5) - Para-Professionals AI/AN – American Indian/Alaskan Native C - City EEO6 (F-6) - Administrative Support NH/OPI – Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander BE - Board of Education EEO7 (G-7) - Skilled Craft White T- Terminated EEO8 (H-8) - Service/Maintenance *Achieved Established Goal **Achieved a Minority Hire c: Affirmative Action Monitoring Committee, Common Council, and Human Resources Division Affirmative Action Recruitment Goals 2020-2021 1st Quarter New Hires & Promotions July, August, September 2020 Position(s) Available Number of Available Goal(s) Achieved EEO Category/Number of Goals (46) Y/N Position(s) Y/N New Hires/Promotions EEO1 – Officials/Administrator (5) N 1WF, 1BF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM EEO2 – Professional (5) Y 1 N 1BF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM, 1TRMM 1WM EEO3 – Technician (5) Y 2 Y *1WF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM, 1TRMM 1WM, *1WF EEO4 – Protective Services (8) Y 3 N 1WF, 2BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OM, 1OF, 1TRMM 3WM EEO5 – Paraprofessionals (4) N 1BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OF EEO6 – Administrative Support (7) Y 1 N 1BM, 1BF, 2HF, 1OM, 1OF, 1TRMM 1WF EEO7 – Skilled Craft (4) N 1WF, 1BM, 1HM, 1OM EEO8 – Service Maintenance (8) N 1WF, 2BM, 1BF, 1HM, 1OF, 1OM, 1TRMM Total 7 Rev. 11/16 *Achieved Established Goal **Achieved a Minority Hire Race/Ethnicity Codes: BM: Black /African American Male BF: Black/African American Female HM: Hispanic/Latino Male HF: Hispanic/Latino Female OM: Other Male, which includes the following: Asian Male, American Indian/Alaskan Native Male, and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander Male OF: Other Female, which includes the following: Asian Female, American Indian/Alaskan Native Female, and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander Female T/MM: Two or More Races Male T/MF: Two or More Races Female WM: White Male JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 11 WF: White Female The following report reflects the 2020-2021 first quarter recruitment activities results for new hires and promotions. During this quarter, the City hired three new employees and promoted four employees. The City achieved one of its set goals within the promotions: one White Female promoted in EEO3, Technician. Of all new hires none were from the protected class. Of the four promotions, 50% were from the protected class: two White Females. For this quarter, hires and promotions occurred in the following departments: Fire, Police, Finance, Water and Sewer, and Board of Ed. Respectfully submitted by, Faith M. Jackson, Director of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management and Affirmative Action Officer  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 12 C. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Board of Education - miscellaneous grants: $4,064,424.38 APPROVED (Note: identical grant confirmation request appeared on December 17, 2020 agenda and was approved)  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 13 D. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Planning, Conservation & Development – Farmer’s Market Grant: $1,670 APPROVED  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 14 E. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Health Department – State Department of Public Health reimbursement for items/supplies for COVID- 19 vaccination clinic: $7,400 APPROVED  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 15 F. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Health Department – Public Health Emergency Preparedness: ($1,800.03) APPROVED  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 16 G. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Health Department – Preventative Health Care Block Grant – smoking cessation: $14,003 APPROVED  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 17 H. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Planning, Conservation & Development: CARES Act Grant – to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, meeting HUD national objective: $328,072 APPROVED (Note: identical grant confirmation request appeared on December 17, 2020 agenda and was approved)  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 18 I. Grant Confirmation & Approval: Recreation & Community Services – to help senior centers serve older adults during the pandemic, purchasing supplies to prevent coronavirus spread, prepare for safe reopening, and respond to COVID-19 related issues: $2,500 APPROVED 8. Mayor’s Update Report: Arrigoni Bridge Project The Chair states that there are not a huge number of update since they met a few weeks ago. As of a couple of days ago, there are some delays getting the new traffic signals wired and installed due to some issues. It is in Eversource’s hands at this point to get those wired. They have been backed up due to inclement weather over the past month or so. They are hoping to have that taken care of soon It will go back to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the City to take down the old traffic signal. The lane change on the bridge has been on for a number of weeks. They are alternating lanes for users for the next several months. As a quick update to Councilman McKeon’s question on Spring Street traffic change, it was inspired by the progress of the DOT project. That is something they hope to start as soon as possible, the proposal by the City was to change Spring Street from the bridge and Route 9 past McDonough School, to change it to a one way street going eastbound. That would mean no westbound traffic coming off the bridge from Route 9, speeding down Spring Street tough a neighborhood that is home to a neighborhood school, with a lot of parents and students walking It has been a consistent problem in that neighborhood. For many years, it was raised by the community because of this project. We decided to raise a local solution. The proposal by the City with the new streetscape has not yet started as some of our City commissions, including Complete Streets, and residents have had thoughts and  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 19 suggestions – all constructive – as to how to improve this proposed improvement. The proposed changes are now with the City’s Engineering Detriment. They hope to get that underway this month. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon states that he assumes that the walk signals are a matter of Eversource wiring them. He urges that if there is anything that we can do as a City. The intersection at St. John’s Square is a bit like the Wild West if you are trying to cross as a pedestrian People are taking advantage that he lanes are not there, the lights are not there and turn their autos in a line of direction that is not intended. Anything that can be done to encourage Eversource to get those lights in place to prevent an accident would be helpful. That Chair replies that they will look into that. They will follow up on the walk signal. 9. Payment of all City bills when properly approved APPROVED Councilman Darnell Ford moves to approve. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. 10. Resolutions, Ordinances, etc. A. Approving the allocation of the CARES ACT CDBG Funding to the following Middletown Small Businesses: Tropical Sun, LLC -- $5,000.00; Two Sabos, LLC (Conspiracy) - $5,000.00; Emanuel's Salon, LLC - $5,000.00; Tschudin Chocolates, LLC - $5,000.00; Cigar Social, LLC (dba Man Cave) -- $5,000.00; Middletown Massage Therapy -- $5,000.00; and that the Mayor is hereby authorized to execute all contractual paperwork necessary to facilitate the allocation of these Grants, subject to review and approval by the office of General Counsel as to form and content. APPROVED RESOLUTION No. 01-21; K: review/resolution/ PCD Cares Act grant - RES 01-21 – 4 Jan 2021 WHEREAS, the City of Middletown Common Council adopted Resolution No. 28-20 on May 4, 2020; and WHEREAS, the resolution allowed the City of Middletown to reprogram and program additional Community development Block Grant (CDBG) during the COVID-19 epidemic; and WHEREAS, the allocated funding was appropriated to develop small-business economic relief grants for businesses within the City of Middletown; and WHEREAS, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development has approved of the use of the funding for this purpose; and WHEREAS, the City Department of Planning, Conservation and Development has opened the application process for these grant funds starting on June 8, 2020; and WHEREAS, the Department of Planning, Conservation and Development has been assisting small businesses in the application process to ensure eligibility for the CDBG funding; and WHEREAS, the Economic Development Commission met on December 8, 2020 to review completed applications and has approved to move forward those that have qualified; and NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: The Common Council hereby approves the allocation of the CARES ACT CDBG Funding to the following Middletown Small Business; Tropical Sun, LLC $5,000.00 Two Sabos, LLC (Conspiracy) $5,000.00 Emanuel’s Salon, LLC $5,000.00 Tschudin Chocolates, LLC $5,000.00 Cigar Social, LLC (dba Man Cave) $5,000.00 Middletown Massage Therapy $5,000.00 And that the Mayor is hereby authorized to execute all contractual paperwork necessary to facilitate the allocation of these Grants, subject to review and approval by the office of General Counsel as to form and content. FINANCIAL IMPACT: These grants are funded through CARES-ACT funding and re-allocated previous year entitlement grants. Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell reads the resolution and moves to approve. Councilman Edward Ford, Jr. seconds the motion. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 20 Councilman McKeon states that, as of last week, there were still grants available to business, so anyone who knows a small business or is small business person, there are still grants available. The Chair encourages people to reach out to the City to apply. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. states that in reading the document, it says something about reallocation from a previous year. HE asks what that means. Councilwoman Blackwell replies that here were funds that were reallocated from a separate economic development fund, it was moved over – she does not recall the exact amount – but it was moved over and, if Planning, Conservation & Development Director Joseph Samolis is present, he can answer the question. Director Samolis states that Councilwoman Blackwell is correct. Early on, funds available from completed projects, or projects that did not move forward from CDBG allocations, were reprogrammed along with CARES Act money that they did received from HUD to create this program. It has been going very successfully. He reiterates that, if any Councilmembers, know of any businesses, ask them to reach out. They get two or three new inquiries each day, so the sooner the better from the previous Councilwoman Blackwell thanks Director Samolis. There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. B. Approving the following CARES ACT Community Development Block Grant allocations and that the Mayor, as Chief Executive Officer of the City of Middletown, is hereby authorized to submit the amendments to the 2019 Annual Action Plan to access the $328,072 in CDBG entitlement funding to prevent, prepare for or respond to the coronavirus impact on the community APPROVED, AS AMENDED RESOLUTION No. 02-21; K: review/ resolution/ PCD CARES Act RES 02-21 – 4 Jan 2021 WHEREAS, the City of Middletown receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development as an entitlement community, 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, and any amendments to the 2019 Annual Action Plan, have been properly drafted and have been subject to due review by the public and by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee pursuant to the HUD final rule; and, WHEREAS, the City of Middletown received an additional $328,072 in a second round of CARES Act allocations to prepare, prevent and respond to the COVID-19 Pandemic; and, WHEREAS, the Citizens’ Advisory Committee is recommending the allocation of this funding be used as follows: $249,246 to provide COVID 19 related health services including the purchase of necessary equipment to permit screening and vaccine distribution administration. $78,826 to fund services to prevent homelessness and its impacts through the provision of direct assistance, housing support, and emergency services, and, WHEREAS, the City will utilize the funding in a consistent manner with the City’s Five Year Consolidated Plan of providing essential services to low and moderate income households, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: That the CARES ACT CDBG Allocation be approved. 2019-CARES ACT COVID Funding Emergency Management/Health Department $249,246 Homeless Prevention Services and Emergency Staffing Due to COVID 19 $ 78,826 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the Mayor, as Chief Executive Officer of the City of Middletown, is hereby authorized to submit the amendments to the 2019 Annual Action Plan to access the $328,072 in CDBG entitlement funding to prevent, prepare for or respond to the coronavirus impact on the community FINANCIAL IMPACT: Funding from HUD The Chair calls on Councilwoman Linda Salafia for this item. Councilwoman Salafia states that she defers to Councilman Eugene Nocera for this resolution since he amended the language at the beginning of this meeting, so she does not have that precise language.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 21 Councilman Eugene Nocera thanks Councilwoman Salafia, adding that the City wants try to capture as much as possible. He reads the resolution and moves for approval. Councilman Philip Pessina seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. C. Approving endorsement of the draft "Plan of Conservation and Development: Middletown 2030" and recommending its adoption by the Planning and Zoning Commission after any and all questions or comments from the Common Council are considered prior to its adoption on January 13, 2021. APPROVED RESOLUTION No. 03-21; K: review/ resolution/ PCD 2030 POCD - RES 03-21 – 4 Jan 2021 WHEREAS, per Connecticut General Statue section 8-23, the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission is required to develop/update a municipal Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD); and, WHEREAS, the City of Middletown’s last POCD was adopted by the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 12, 2010; and, WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission sought to create a new POCD starting in the spring of 2019 to replace the 2010 POCD; and, WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission created a Steering Committee to help facilitate an open and community driven process in the creation of a draft POCD; and, WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Committee has held two community-wide charrettes, three public gathering workshops, and numerous public hearings on the draft chapters and document; and, WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission is looking to adopt the draft “Plan of Conservation and Development: Middletown 2030” at their regularly scheduled meeting January 13, 2021; and, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: that the City of Middletown’s legislative body endorse the draft “Plan of Conservation and Development: Middletown 2030” and recommends its adoption by the Planning and Zoning Commission after any and all questions or comments from the Common Council are considered prior to its adoption on January 13, 2021. Financial Impact: None Councilman Vincent Loffredo reads this resolution and moves to approve. Councilman Philip Pessina seconds the motion. The Chair calls on Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. Councilman Faulkner notes that he spoke on this item when it last came to the Council. He notices there have been some changes to the document, he is concerned that some things are addresses and put into the Plan he read the history in the document and it talked about suburbanization, consuming farm land, which required expanding City services, It went on to say an increase in the number of racial and ethnic minorities and the City culture, but that the residential experience discrimination. Adoption of the restrictive single family zone code and discrimination against African American, and more recently, Hispanic immigrants, led to economic and social inequality. At the end, it says how the City will build on this address and more recent challenges in the coming decade. In particular, with social and economic inequality, the Martin Luther King corridor seems like a good solution. Director Samolis informed him that is done by a State organization, so not the City’s thing. He impresses upon them to at least mention some sort of initiative in that area of the plan. What happens in that they identify things and talk about them, but, if they don’t have it in front of them, they don’t approach it, they forget about it. He knows that they seem to have some plans, some ideas. He also mentions leveraging things like Side Street to Main Street program, which the Chamber has been doing for over two (2) decades. That is something that can be leveraged to initiate some other projects and give minority owed businesses into that thoroughfare. He also points out that they still have the Keating Building, adding that at the next Citizens Advisory meeting, he will be requesting that they get an update on how that operation is going. He knows that they started for one reason – trying to sell the building – but ended up not being able to do that. As a result, it started as an incubator and he wants to know if it is still the same program focus. It could help with rent for minority owned businesses. The other thing that he wants to mention is possibly leveraging the cultural part with the Middle Passage marker and the Historical Society is ramping up more things with that. There are also some Freedom Trail corridors that come through the City and, with Beman School coming up, they can start leveraging the cultural aspects. He wants to put that out as they go forward. It would be nice to see something there. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman Edward McKeon states that, having talked to members of the Planning & Zoning Commission, he knows that this is a difficult job that they have taken seriously. He commends the Commission and everyone involved in the charrettes for getting involved in the input process because it is a document which will guide the City development for the next 10 years. They did a fine job and deserve the Council’s thanks and credit for putting this document together.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 22 The Chair calls on Councilwoman Linda Salafia. Councilwoman Salafia asks if Councilman Faulkner is moving to add to this resolution or, once approved, is it done. She asked how the Council will deal with Councilman Faulkner’s suggestions. The Chair calls on Councilman Vincent Loffredo. Councilman Loffredo states that is the purpose of the resolution. All of the comments made this evening by Councilmembers will be presented to Planning and Zoning through Director Samolis. If there is specific wording, that language would be forwarded to Planning & Zoning to be considered to modify the plan before they adopt it. These comments will be taken into account. Director Samolis states that the public hearing is still open for the Plan of Conservation and Development and they are gathering comments that the Council has tonight for the Commission as the resolution indicates. Hopefully, that document will be approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission, but they do need as consult the Council as the legislative body. He will be sure to share the Councilman Faulkner’s comments to the Commission for consideration prior to the adoption of the Plan of Conservation & Development. Councilman Nocera reemphasizes what Councilman Loffredo indicated. Tonight’s wording includes all questions and comments from the Common Council will be considered in the adoption, noting that is the purpose of it being here tonight. He is glad that here additional thoughts for the Planning & Zoning Commission to consider. The Chair calls on Councilman Edward McKeon. Councilman McKeon states that he has one more thought. He wants to thank the Planning & Zoning office staff: Director Samolis, the Town Planner (Marek Kozikowski), and all of the people, who handled the background work, as well. The Chair adds that there were many volunteers, who participated in the charrettes, many volunteer Commissioners and participants. The final consideration will be January 13th by the Planning & Zoning Commission and all of the comment s on the record will be shared with the, for consideration. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. D. Approving that Tami Kapaczewski is appointed as a regular member of the Board of Assessment Appeals to a term ending November 14, 2023, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Leslie Spatola as a regular member of said Board. APPROVED RESOLUTION No. 04-21; K: review/ resolution/ CC Kapaczewski Bd Assess Appeals RES 04-21 – 4 Jan 2021 WHEREAS, the Charter of the City of Middletown provides at Chapter II, Section 8, “Vacancy in Office”, subparagraph D that for vacancies in office other than the offices of Mayor and Deputy Mayor, at a regular or special meeting duly warned for that purpose and next following a Declaration of Permanent Vacancy in an Elective Office, the Common Council shall by majority vote fill such vacancy and such appointee shall be a member of the same political party as the predecessor in said office and shall be appointed for the remainder of the term of office whose position he/she has been appointed to fill; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN: that Tami Kapaczewski is appointed as a regular member of the Board of Assessment Appeals to a term ending November 14, 2023, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Leslie Spatola as a regular member of said Board. Fiscal Impact: None Councilman Philip Pessina reads this resolution and moves to approve. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. seconds the motion. Councilman Pessina states that, first and foremost, he thanks Leslie Spatola in her involvement of this Board. She will be missed. He is happy to bring forward the proposed appointment of Tami Kapaczewski, a 23-year City resident. She has a background in accounting and has served as a Deputy Treasurer for the Republican Town Committee for several years and also as a Treasurer for a candidate in a local 2020 election. She is very involved in the community and it is nice to see someone step up and volunteer for an opening. She will do a great job. The Chair calls on Councilwoman Linda Salafia. Councilwoman Salafia states that Tami Kapaczewski is on the meeting, if anyone has any questions. Councilwoman Jeannette Blackwell extends congratulations and thanks to the nominee.  JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 23 There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote, adding that, following the vote, Tami Kapaczewski is invited to speak. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia.) The matter is approved. The Chair invites Tami Kapaczewski to speak Tami Kapaczewski thanks the Common Council for the opportunity to serve the community in a completely different capacity. She looks forward to working with more members of the community and this new adventure. The Chair thanks her for her service and for stepping up. 11. Mayor's Appointments The Chair offers his appointments: Clean Energy Task Force  Raymond Lumpkin (U): appoint to the balance of 2-year term to July 31, 2021, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Jeffrey Hush (R) Standardization Committee  Bryan Skowera (D): appoint to the balance of 2-year term to January 31, 2021, filling the seat formerly held by Geen Thazhampallath (D), and to a new 2-year term to January 31, 2023 Human Relations Commission  Paige Petit (U): appoint to the balance of 3-year term to January 31, 2023, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Precious Price (U) Municipal Historian  Deborah Shapiro (D): re-nomination to appoint as the City’s Municipal Historian, continuing in that role, pursuant to Section 7-148(c)(5) (D) of the Connecticut General Statutes Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to approve the proposed appointments. Councilman Philip Pessina seconds the motion. The Chair calls on Councilman Philip Pessina. Councilman Pessina states that, having known Deborah Shapiro for several years, he thinks that, by appointing her as the City Historian is one of the greatest moves that Middletown has done over the years. As President of the Middlesex Historical Society, she has been the impetus of several, several historical markers in the City from the Freedom Trail, which she did early on, to the monument that we have honoring the trades and the Freedom Trail. She is also been instrumental in the beginning where we were directed, as we should, for the naming for the Beman Family, the new Woodrow Wilson Junior High School, naming it after the Beman family. She is a very great person with a lot of historical knowledge. He thanks the Mayor for picking somebody who really exemplifies the history of the City. As a side note, he states that he worked closely with Deborah Shapiro on the City’s 350th anniversary and that she educated him on different segments of the City, on different monuments and so forth. Again, thank you for bringing her name forward. He gives one hundred present approval. The Chair states that he appreciates those comments. He recalls a few weeks ago when he first heard that Deborah Shapiro was being put into be re-nominated, he said immediately, of course. She is instrumental in bringing the City to life, especially in the past couple of years. Councilman Grady Faulkner, Jr. thanks Councilman Pessina for clarifying because he assumed that she was always the City historian. There being no further discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote. The Chair states that the motion is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes. (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico, McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia) The Chair states the matter is approved 12. Adjournment There being no further business, the Chair calls for motion to adjourn. Councilman Eugene Nocera moves to adjourn. Councilman Edward McKeon seconds the motion. There being no discussion, the Chair calls for a voice vote on the motion to adjourn. The Chair states that the motion to adjourn is approved unanimously with 12 aye votes (Councilmembers Blackwell, Carta, Faulkner, D. Ford, E. Ford, Gennaro, Loffredo, Mangiafico McKeon, Nocera, Pessina, and Salafia) The Chair states the matter is approved. The meeting is adjourned at 7:54 PM. JANUARY 4, 2021 REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING Page 24 ATTEST: LINDA S.K. REED, COMMON COUNCIL CLERK K: review/ minutes/ 2021 January 04 – minutes – 04 January 2021