City Council

JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Norwich was held May 5, 2025 at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. Present: Mayor Nystrom, President Pro Tem DeLucia, Ald. Singh, Ald. Gould, Ald. Bettencourt, Ald. Hayes and Ald. Nash. City Manager John Salomone, Corporation Counsel Michael Driscoll were also in attendance. Mayor Nystrom presided. Please be advised that meetings of the Norwich City Council can be viewed in their entirety on the City of Norwich website “norwichct.org”. Ald. Bettencourt, read the opening prayer and Ald. Hayes, led the members in the Pledge of Allegiance. Upon a motion of Ald. Bettencourt, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to accept the following petition and communication. 1 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 2 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 3 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Hayes, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to accept the following petition and communication. 4 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 5 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 6 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Mayor Nystrom called for the following public hearing on AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $2,000,000 FOR THE COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOW LONG TERM CONTROL PLAN PROJECT IN THE CITY OF NORWICH, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,000,000 REVENUE BONDS OF THE CITY SECURED SOLELY BY SEWER REVENUE TO MEET SAID APPROPRIATION, AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY AND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES TO ENTER INTO GRANT AND LOAN AGREEMENTS AND A JOINT RESOLUTION WITH THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT WITH RESPECT THERETO. There were no speakers. Mayor Nystrom declared the public hearing closed. Mayor Nystrom called for the following public hearing on a resolution relative to participation in a Cost Sharing Program with the City of Norwich to construct concrete sidewalks. There were no speakers. Mayor Nystrom declared the public hearing closed. Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to waive the reading of the full text and incorporate into the minutes this ordinance being given its second reading and action. Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following ordinance introduced by Mayor Nystrom, President Pro Tem DeLucia, and Ald. Gould. AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $2,000,000 FOR THE COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOW LONG TERM CONTROL PLAN PROJECT IN THE CITY OF NORWICH, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,000,000 REVENUE BONDS OF THE CITY SECURED SOLELY BY SEWER REVENUE TO MEET SAID APPROPRIATION, AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY AND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES TO ENTER INTO GRANT AND LOAN AGREEMENTS AND A JOINT RESOLUTION WITH THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT WITH RESPECT THERETO. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH: Section 1. The sum of $2,000,000 is appropriated for a Combined Sewer Overflow (“SCO”) Long Term Control Plan for costs associated with the development of a revised long term control plan outlining the CSO projects and a schedule of implementation for such projects after the deployment of a flow metering program to better understand the effects of sewer collection system improvements constructed since June 2020, the refinement and recalibration of a sewer collection system model based on recent improvements and new data available since June 2020, and updating an alternatives analysis to identify projects that Norwich Public Utilities can implement toward reducing CSO discharges in the City of Norwich, and such additional improvements as may be accomplished within said appropriation provided herein, and including all administration, advertising, printing, legal, and financing costs as more fully set forth in this Ordinance (hereafter the “Project”) as shall be determined by the City of Norwich Department of Public Utilities (the “Department”). Said appropriation shall be inclusive of State and Federal grants in aid thereof. The Department is 7 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 authorized to enter into contracts, expend the appropriation and implement the Project herein authorized. Section 2. The estimated useful life of the Project is 5 years. The total estimated cost of the Project is $2,000,000. $2,000,000 of the total Project cost is estimated to be financed by or through the State of Connecticut pursuant to its Clean Water Fund Program (as hereinafter defined) through a subsidized interest loan and grants, if applicable. The Project is a general benefit to the City of Norwich and its general governmental purposes. Section 3. To meet said appropriation: (i) bonds of the City or so much thereof as shall be necessary for such purpose, shall be issued, maturing not later than the twentieth year after their date (or such longer term as may be authorized). Said bonds may be issued in one or more series as determined by the City Manager, the Comptroller - acting on behalf of the City herein - and General Manager of the City of Norwich Department of Public Utilities - acting on behalf of the Department and the Sewer Authority (hereafter the “Sewer Authority”) herein - (the “Issuer Officials”) and the amount of bonds of each series to be issued shall be fixed by the Issuer Officials in the amount necessary to meet the Issuer’s share of the cost of the Project determined after considering the estimated amount of the State and Federal grants-in-aid of the Project, or the actual amount thereof if this be ascertainable, and the anticipated times of the receipt of the proceeds thereof, provided that the total amount of bonds to be issued shall not be less than an amount which will provide funds sufficient with other funds available for such purpose to pay the principal of and the interest on all temporary borrowings in anticipation of the receipt of the proceeds of said bonds outstanding at the time of the issuance thereof, and to pay for the administrative, printing and legal costs of issuing the bonds. The bonds shall be in the denomination of $1,000 or a whole multiple thereof, or, be combined with other bonds of the Issuer and such combined issue shall be in the denomination per aggregate maturity of $1,000 or a whole multiple thereof, be issued in bearer form or in fully registered form, be executed in the name and on behalf of the City by the facsimile or manual signatures of the Issuer Officials bear the City seal or a facsimile thereof, be certified by a bank or trust company designated by the Issuer Officials, which bank or trust company may be designated the registrar and transfer agent, be payable at a bank or trust company designated by the Issuer Officials and be approved as to their legality by Bond Counsel. They shall bear such rate or rates of interest as shall be determined by the Issuer Officials. The issuance of such bonds in one or more series, the aggregate principal amount of bonds to be issued, the annual installments of principal, redemption provisions, if any, the date, time of issue and sale and other terms, details and particulars of such bonds shall be determined by the Issuer Officials, in accordance with the Joint Resolution. In the case of Parity Indebtedness as defined in the Joint Resolution between the City of Norwich and the Sewer Authority (as hereinafter defined as the “Joint Resolution”), the Issuer Officials, shall also determine the revenues and property to be pledged for payment of such Parity Indebtedness; or (ii) temporary notes of the City may be issued in one or more series pursuant to Sections 7-264 and 7-264a of the General Statutes of Connecticut, as amended. The amount of such notes to be issued, if any, shall be determined by the Issuer Officials, and they are hereby authorized to determine the date, maturity, interest rate, form and other details and particulars of such notes, and to sell, execute and deliver the same; or 8 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 (iii) sewer assessment notes of the City may be issued in one or more series pursuant to Section 7-269a of the General Statutes of Connecticut, as amended. The amount of such notes to be issued, if any, shall be determined by a majority of the Issuer Officials, and they are hereby authorized to determine the date, maturity, interest rate, form and other details and particulars of such notes, and to sell, execute and deliver the same; or (iv) interim funding obligations and project loan obligations or any other obligations of the City (hereinafter “Clean Water Fund Obligations”) evidencing an obligation to repay any portion of the costs of the Project determined by the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, Public Health or other department as applicable to be eligible for funding under Section 22a-475 et seq. of the Connecticut General Statutes, as the same may be amended from time to time (the “Clean Water Fund Program”). The General Manager of the Department is hereby authorized, on behalf of the City and the Sewer Authority, to enter into any other agreements, instruments, documents and certificates for the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Ordinance. The General Manager of the Department is hereby authorized, on behalf of the City and the Sewer Authority, to apply for and accept any and all Federal and State grants for the Project, to expend said funds in accordance with the terms hereof, and in connection therewith to contract in the name of the Department with engineers, contractors and others. The City may issue Clean Water Fund Obligations in one or more series and in such denominations as the Issuer Officials shall determine, provided that the total of all such Clean Water Fund Obligations, bonds and notes issued and appropriation expended pursuant to this ordinance shall not exceed $2,000,000. The Issuer Officials are hereby authorized to determine the amount, date, maturity, interest rate, form and other details and particulars of such interim funding obligations and project loan obligations, subject to the provisions of the Clean Water Fund Program, and to execute and deliver the same. Clean Water Fund Obligations shall be secured solely from a pledge of sewer system revenues; or (v) promissory notes, bonds or other obligations made payable to the United States of America to meet any portion of the costs of the Project determined by the federal government, including acting through the Rural Utility Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) or other federal program or agency, to be eligible for loan and/or grant monies; or (vi) any combination of bonds, temporary notes, notes, or obligations as set forth in the preceding subsections may be issued, provided that the total, aggregate principal amount thereof outstanding, and including the amount of grant funding obtained pursuant to a Project Grant and Project Loan Agreement, at any time shall not exceed $2,000,000. Section 4. (i) Bonds, temporary notes, or sewer assessment notes, Clean Water Fund Obligations and federal obligations all as set forth in section 3 are hereafter referred to as “Bonds.” The Bonds shall be sewer revenue bonds of the City, the payment of principal and interest on which shall be secured solely by revenues derived from the operation of the sewer system, including use charges, connection charges, benefit assessments or any combination thereof, investment income derived there from, or 9 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 other property of the sewerage system or revenue derived from the operation of the sewer system in accordance with the Joint Resolution. Each of the Bonds shall recite to the effect that every requirement of law relating to its issue has been duly complied with, that such Bond is within every debt and other limit prescribed by law, that such Bond does not constitute a general obligation of the City for which its full faith and credit is pledged, and that such Bond is payable solely from revenues, assessments, charges or property of the sewer system specifically pledged therefore. (ii) The bonds authorized to be issued by section 3 shall be, issued and secured pursuant to the Joint Resolution approved by the City Council on November 21, 1994, and the Sewer Authority on November 22, 1994, as amended, and as supplemented by various supplemental Resolutions adopted pursuant to the Joint Resolution, and which is hereby ratified, confirmed and approved in its entirety, including without limitation, the rate and revenue covenants therein. The Sewer Authority irrevocably agrees to comply with the provisions of the Joint Resolution, including Supplemental Resolutions, including but not limited to: to set, establish and collect and maintain rates and revenue as necessary to continually comply with the terms, conditions and covenants of the General Resolution. The City irrevocably agrees to comply with the provisions of the General Resolution. In order to implement the provisions of the Joint Resolution the City and the Sewer Authority may enter into an indenture of trust with a bank and trust company which indenture may contain provisions customarily included in revenue bond financings, including provisions of a similar nature to those in the Joint Resolution and which are necessary, convenient or advisable in connection with the issuance of the Bonds and their marketability. The Issuer Officials are hereby authorized to execute and deliver on behalf of the City and the Sewer Authority an indenture in such final form and containing such terms and conditions as they shall approve, and their signatures on any such indenture shall be conclusive evidence of their approval as authorized hereby. (iii) The Issuer Officials on behalf of the City and the Sewer Authority are authorized to agree to additional terms and to delete or change existing terms and otherwise amend the form of Joint Resolution in order to obtain State or Federal funding, provide better security for the bonds, correct any matter, cure any ambiguity or defect or otherwise benefit the Issuer in their judgment. Such additional or different terms may include restrictions on the use of sewer funds or fund balance or sewer operations, coverage ratios, additional or changed reserve requirements, identification and pledge of revenues securing the Bonds, providing for the form of the Bonds, conditions precedent to the issuance of Bonds and additional Bonds, the establishment and maintenance of funds and the use and disposition there from, including but not limited to accounts for the payment of debt service, the payment of operating expenses, debt service reserve and other reserve accounts, providing for the issuance of subordinated indebtedness, defining an event of default and providing for the allocation of revenues in such event, credit enhancement, providing for a pledge and allocation of sewer revenues to pay for obligations issued by third parties, and provisions of a similar and different nature to those in the Joint Resolution and which are necessary, convenient or advisable in connection with the issuance of the Bonds and their marketability, and to obtain the benefits of any State or Federal grant or low interest loan program, including but not limited to the Clean Water Fund and Federal Department of Agriculture Programs. The Issuer Officials are hereby authorized, in addition to the General Resolution, to execute 10 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 and deliver on behalf of the Issuer and the Sewer Authority an indenture of trust in such final form and containing such terms and conditions as they shall approve, and their signatures on any such indenture shall be conclusive evidence of their approval as authorized hereby. Section 5. The issue of the Bonds aforesaid and of all other bonds or notes of the City heretofore authorized but not yet issued, as of the effective date of this Ordinance, would not cause the indebtedness of the City to exceed any debt limit calculated in accordance with law. Section 6. Said Bonds shall be sold by the Issuer Officials in a competitive offering or by negotiation, in their discretion. If sold in a competitive offering, the Bonds shall be sold upon sealed proposals at not less than par and accrued interest on the basis of the lowest not or true interest cost to the City. If the Bonds are sold by negotiation, the Issuer Officials, are authorized to execute a purchase agreement on behalf of the City and Sewer Authority containing such terms and conditions as they deem appropriate and not inconsistent with this Ordinance. Section 7. Resolution of Official Intent to Reimburse Expenditures with Borrowings. The City of Norwich (the “Issuer”) hereby expresses its official intent pursuant to section 1.150- 2 of the Federal Income Tax Regulations, Title 26 (the “Regulations”), to reimburse expenditures paid sixty days prior to and after the date of passage of this Resolution in the maximum amount and for the capital project defined in Section 1 with the proceeds of bonds, notes, or other obligations (“Bonds”) authorized to be issued by the Issuer. The Bonds shall be issued to reimburse such expenditures not later than 18 months after the later of the date of the expenditure or the substantial completion of the project, or such later date the Regulations may authorize. The Issuer hereby certifies that the intention to reimburse as expressed herein is based upon its reasonable expectations as of this date. The Comptroller, and General Manager of the City of Norwich Department of Public Utilities or their designee is authorized to pay project expenses in accordance herewith pending the issuance of reimbursement bonds, and to amend this declaration. Section 8. It is hereby found and determined that it is in the public interest to issue all, or a portion of, the Bonds, Notes or other obligations of the City authorized to be issued herein as qualified private activity bonds, or with interest that is includable in gross income of the holders thereof for purposes of federal income taxation. The Issuer Officials are hereby authorized to issue and utilize without further approval any financing alternative currently or hereafter available to municipal government pursuant to law. Section 9. This Ordinance shall be effective upon adoption by the City Council and its approval by the Sewer Authority. Upon a motion of Ald. Nash, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to accept the minutes of April 7, and April 21, 2025 and Budget Public Hearing of April 16, with continuation date of April 17, 2025. City Managers Report To: Mayor Nystrom and members of the City Council From: John Salomone, City Manager 11 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Subject: City Manager’s Report Date: May 5, 2025 Meetings & Engagements Over the past reporting period, I attended several important meetings, including: • Norwich Waterfront Design and Engineering Meeting • Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) City Coordination Meeting • Collective bargaining sessions for 911 Dispatchers, City Hall workers, and Public Works employees • Meetings with Norwich’s Fire Chiefs and Department Heads I also attended the Norwich Police Department’s promotional ceremony for Sergeant Steve Callender and had the pleasure of joining Governor Lamont at the event recognizing the 4.8 million CIF grant for Fontaine Field and walkway to Senior Center. Public Works Updates • Spring Brush Collection has been successfully completed. Residents are reminded that brush can still be brought to the Transfer Station at no cost. • The Annual Paving Program is underway, beginning with Laura Boulevard. The next areas scheduled are South Thames Street and Lee Avenue. • At the Armstrong Tennis Courts, the restroom structure was delivered in late April. Site work and utility connections are anticipated to be completed by the end of May. Human Services & Youth Programs The Human Services’ Adult and Family Division reminds residents that the Renters’ Rebate Program is now open. Applications are being accepted at City Hall. Youth engagement highlights include: • A group of 8 local teens visited the Capitol for Youth Service Bureau Day, where they met with legislators to discuss youth issues. • Norwich students were honored as Youth Leaders in celebration of National Youth Leadership Day. Transportation & Streetscape Planning City staff will be collaborating with representatives from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SECOG) to address bicycle and pedestrian safety, as well as streetscape improvements. CTDOT is in the process of revising its Active Transportation Plan, and SECOG will be hosting a regional tour on May 5th 12 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 to gather feedback and highlight best practices. The focus will be on state roads, but local perspectives and participation are encouraged. Flood Mitigation & Community Resilience The Resilient Yantic River Community Conversation Open House will be held on May 21, 2025, at Otis Library, starting at 5:00 PM. This event will provide a corridor-wide overview of flood risks, mitigation strategies, and challenges related to the Upper Falls Dam area. Residents from Norwich, Bozrah, and Franklin who have experienced flood impacts are urged to attend and engage in the dialogue on flood risk reduction solutions and trade-offs. Stanton Elementary School Construction As part of the Good Neighbor Policy initiative, Downes Construction Company has distributed over 200 invitations to nearby residents regarding the Stanton Elementary School Project. An informational meeting will be held on Thursday, May 22nd at 6:30 PM, at Stanton School. This event has also been posted on the City’s Facebook page. Topics to be covered include: • Project overview and construction timeline • Work hours and site procedures • Emergency contact information for reporting concerns such as noise, dust, or unauthorized activity Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Singh, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following old business resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould. WHEREAS, the property owners listed below want to participate in a cost sharing program with the City of Norwich to construct concrete sidewalks along their property; and WHEREAS, the City of Norwich wants to improve sidewalks throughout the City. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH that: granite curbing and concrete sidewalks will be constructed at the following locations where the property owners will pay for an assessment for the cost of the sidewalks and the City of Norwich will pay for the cost of the curbing and miscellaneous items. Name Address Estimate Sharina Cluff 248 Laurel Hill Avenue $4,515.00 13 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 JGRL Properties LLC 314-318 Laurel Hill Avenue $14,871.85 Jonalyn Belliveau 26 Providence Street $8,934.25 Richard Lee Chabotte 24 Pratt Street $8,717.35 Beverly J. Evvard 79 Fifth Street $3,180.00 Thomas Griswold Smith 72 Boswell Avenue $2,014.80 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the cost of this project be funded from the existing capital budget line item for sidewalks, Capital Improvement Fund #3602 and the Sidewalk Fund, #2858. The estimated city’s cost for curbing and miscellaneous construction items is $49,575.41 Please be advised that meetings of the Norwich City Council can be viewed in their entirety on the City of Norwich website “norwichct.org”. Mayor Nystrom called for citizen comments on new business resolutions. Don Collins, 14 Stott Ave., spoke on resolution #9 he has been a longtime participant of the stadium and is now employed there. He feels the trend is on the upswing for the stadium. Edwin Alers, 64 Boswell Ave., spoke on resolution #9 as an employee for 13 years is very happy with the Stadium and feels there is nothing better to offer the children here. Kevin Saythany 27 Brook St., spoke on resolution #4 he feels the Board of Education cannot afford the proposed cuts. He feels a flat budget is not a responsible budget and is the wrong decision. Sue Lessard, 90 Town St. Superintendent of Schools, spoke on resolution #4 and acknowledged that we are looking at revenue challenges and is willing to make things work. She is committed to collaborating with the Council. Mark Cook, 62 Gulliver Cir., spoke on resolution #4 stated Norwich Youth deserves every resource available in the 21st century. He also spoke on resolution #9 based on written comments from Glen Carberry, 27 Greenwich Ct., requested a listing with a commercial broker for an RFP and have NCDC handle the process. (complete written comments attached below). Chris Thompson, 14 Stott Ave., spoke on resolution #9 requested that we open conversations pause and do the homework. This isn’t the time to divest it’s time to invest. Richard Denesha, 107 Whipple Ave., spoke on resolution #9 reminisced on his experience with Dodd stadium going back 30 years. He would like to see the stadium grow as a destination. It is gaining traction. Bob Denesha, 107 Whipple Ave., spoke on resolution #9 he also spoke of his long standing relationship he has had with Dodd Stadium. He feels Glenn Carberry gave a fantastic presentation about a year ago on the stadium. He would like to see the people decide if the Stadium should go. 14 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Christopher Green, 14 Stott Ave., spoke on resolution #9 as an employee he urged the need to protect the Stadium it support of jobs and boosting local business. Brendan Green, 14 Stott Ave., spoke on resolution #9 feels the stadium provides for the community. Greg Perry, 33 Mulberry St., spoke on resolution #4 and #9 thanked the Council for what they do the administrative have worked hard at finding cuts in their budget. The cost of education is increasing beyond the rate of inflation. He also is in support of Dodd Stadium. John Iovino, 183 Wightman Ave., spoke on resolution #4 and #9 he is concerned about the budget process. He said that the Adhoc committee hasn’t even met yet to discuss the budget. He also spoke in support of Dodd Stadium as a great entertainment venue asking for a way to make it work Brandon Hyde, 422 Plain Hill Rd., spoke on resolution #4 asked what can we do together? Dodd stadium is the cornerstone of our community. It’s economic value is real and measurable. David Horst, 5 Joseph Perkins Rd., spoke on resolution #4 he is pro Norwich he urges to move proactively forward to a future of growth and stability. A flat budget in effect is a cut. Pulling back in fear is worse than moving forward with confidence and hope. Lee Walter, 14 Stott Ave., spoke on resolution #9 he feels Dodd Stadium is a tourist attraction. He suggested reaching out to Waterbury for ideas, as they seem to be making things work with there stadium. Joanne Philbrick, 10 Elm Ave., spoke on resolutions #7 she expressed her situation of being tired physically, mentally and financially. What we give the Board of Education will just be a baseline for next year. She feels that everyone is concerned about the children but reminded everyone that the Seniors are entitled as well. Derek Pietruczuk, 9 Bailey Hghts., spoke on resolution #9 spoke in support of Dodd Stadium. He has experienced great memories there. We lost the YMCA. Please give us something by keeping the stadium. Beryl Fishbone, 19 Bliss Pl., spoke on resolution #9 admitted she is not the biggest sports fan but suggested that we reach out to other towns who are getting rebates to take care of their stadium. We should see how they are making it work. She offered to make the calls if the Council wanted her to. Cindy Beauregard, 120 Hunters Rd., spoke on resolution #9 spoke in full support of the stadium. She feels it is great for the kids and families. Logan Gustafson, 14 Yantic St., spoke on resolution #9 recently moved here and feels Dodd Stadium is an asset and not necessarily the reason he came here but it was a definite plus in his decision to move to Norwich. Angela Adams, 187 Main St., spoke on resolution #9 has been coaching for many years. Dodd Stadium hosted several concerts during the pandemic. She feels the stadium has a lot of potential. Enock Petit-Homme, 128 Oakridge St., spoke on resolution #4 education is our passport to the future. As the Rose City we must be a beacon of hope. 15 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Marianne McNallen, 6 Washington Pl., spoke about some misinformation being circulated about the Norwich Public Schools. She agreed with the previous speaker. Logan Rourke, 97 Preston Rd., Griswold, spoke on resolution #9 said children struggle with social and life experiences. The stadium provides great social experiences for these people that are struggling. Jill Zucarrdy, 213 W. Town St., spoke on resolution #9 she feels the resolution needs to be looked at closer and needs to be tabled for reexamination. Pietro “Rocky” Camardella, 79 Lambert Dr., spoke on resolution #9 he knows that baseball in a big part of the American culture and wants the resolution tabled and go for a referendum or something to get the will of the people before a decision is made. Rodney Bowie, 62 Roosevelt Ave., spoke on resolution #4 and #9 he is in agreement with the proposed budget cut to the Board of Education. Keep the taxes down so we can give our kids a place to live. Evan Blum, 387 N Main St., spoke on resolution #7 suggested making Dodd Stadium into a soccer arena. He suggested appealing the Spanish community in Norwich. Jennifer Baukus, 155 Sandy Ln., spoke on resolution #7 expressed her strong affection for Dodd Stadium and has been a season ticket holder for a long time. Do not sell it, as it is an asset and it brings great pride and joy. Written and emailed comments below. 16 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 There being no further speakers, Mayor Nystrom declared citizen comment closed. Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Hayes, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by City Manager Salomone. Relative to an amendment to the 2025-26 budget to adjust revenue estimates. RESOLVED, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by the adjustments as listed herein. Description Page Org Obj Fund Change in Revenues Increase in Cell Tower lease 49 10043000 47203 GF 16,733 revenue Increase in Town Aid Road grant 49 10043000 43320 GF 164,921 Increase in GF motor vehicle tax 49 10040000 41103 GF 409,632 revenue Increase in revenue for janitorial 49 10043000 48967 GF 30,000 services to NPU Increase in CCD motor vehicle tax 119 28354200 41103 CCD 1,549 revenue Increase in TCD motor vehicle tax 121 28304292 41103 TCD 2,281 revenue Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by City Manager Salomone. Relative to corrections to the 2025-26 proposed budget. WHEREAS, during the budget deliberation process, the Comptroller was made aware of some corrections needed to the proposed budget. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by the adjustments as listed herein. Description Page (s) Department Org Obj Expenditure Impact Correct formula carrying Public Works budget totals 42/93 Public Works ($20,000) to summary Increase funding of Demonstrators from 1 to 7 at 70 Registrar of Voters 10419700 51620 1,650 $275 each Correct salaries for Retirement Plan 64 Human Resources 10414100 51610 10,815 Administrator and HR Generalists 17 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Correct Fringe for HR 64 Human Resources 10414100 52000 827 positions Total ($6,708) Upon a motion of Ald. Nash, seconded by Ald. Hayes, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by City Manager Salomone. Relative to amendments to the 2025-26 capital budget. WHEREAS, during the budget deliberation process, departments indicated a shift in priorities for their capital budget requests. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by the adjustments listed herein. Page Expenditure Description Department (s) Impact Add funding for replacement of two P&NS Planning & Neighborhood 115 $50,000 vehicles Services Planning & Neighborhood Reduce funding for Demolition 115 (100,000) Services Decrease funding for SCBA cascade system Taftville Volunteer Fire 116 (105,000) compressor Department Taftville Volunteer Fire Add funding for roof replacement 116 155,000 Department Total $0 Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, the following resolution introduced by, Mayor Nystrom, and Ald. Gould was put on the floor. Ald. Gould withdrew the following resolution. Relative to reducing the appropriation for Norwich Public Schools in the 2025-26 proposed budget. RESOLVED, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by reducing the appropriation for Norwich Public Schools by $956,809. Upon a motion of Ald. Nash, seconded by Ald. Gould, the following resolution introduced by, Mayor Nystrom, and Ald. Gould was put on the floor. Upon a motion of Ald. Nash, seconded by Ald. Gould, the following resolution was adopted on a 6 to 1 vote with Ald. Hayes voting in opposition. 18 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Relative to adding funding for the Senior Center Receptionist in the 2025-26 proposed budget from the General Fund and Opioid Settlement Funds. RESOLVED, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by the adjustments as listed herein. General Fund Description Page (s) Department Org Obj Expenditure Impact Add 50% funding for Senior 100 Human Services 10441700 51610 $20,229 Center Receptionist Add 50% fringe for Senior 100 Human Services 10441700 52000 14,041 Center Receptionist Total $34,270 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the resolution approved at the April 7, 2025 meeting of the Council of the City of Norwich appropriating unexpended and unencumbered opioid settlement funds be amended by the adjustments as listed herein. Opi Description Department Org Obj Expenditure Impact oid Set tle Add 50% funding for Senior Human Services 10441700 51610 $20,228 me Center Receptionist nt Fu Add 50% fringe for Senior Human Services 10441700 52000 14,042 nd Center Receptionist s Total $34,270 Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Nash, the following resolution introduced by, Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould was put on the floor. Mayor Nystrom asked for the resolution to be divided to have a separate vote on the “Cuts to the Volunteer Fire Department line items”. 19 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Nash, on a roll call vote the following portion of the resolution failed on a 2 to 5 vote with Ald. Nash, Ald. Hayes, Ald. Bettencourt, Ald. Singh and Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia voting in opposition. Relative to cut the Public Works, Police, and Fire departments in the 2025-26 proposed budget. RESOLVED, that the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as proposed on April 7, 2025, be amended by the adjustments as listed herein. General Fund Description Page (s) Department Org Obj Expenditure Impact Cut five vacant Police Officer 73 Police 10420100 51610 $315,500 positions Cut Police fringe benefits 73 Police 10420100 52000 129,575 Cut three vacant Laborer 94 Public Works 10430300 51610 161,286 positions Cut PW fringe benefits 94 Public Works 10430300 52000 87,290 Total $663,651 City Consolidation District Description Page (s) Department Org Obj Expenditure Impact Cut Overtime 120 Norwich Fire 28354202 51630 $10,000 Cut Replacement Cost 120 Norwich Fire 28354202 51631 20,000 Cut CCD fringe benefits 120 Norwich Fire 28354202 52000 435 Total $30,435 20 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Nash, on a roll call vote the following second portion of the resolution failed unanimously. Cut volunteer 83-91 East Great various various 30,000 fire Plain, Laurel department Hill, Occum, line items Taftville, and Yantic Upon a motion of Ald. Bettencourt, seconded by Ald. Hayes, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould. Relative to tentative adoption of the preliminary budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. RESOLVED, that the proposed preliminary budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, as amended on May 5, 2025, be tentatively adopted, with a public hearing scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall. Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould. Relative to authorizing and directing City Manager John Salomone to enter a new lease for the cell tower located at 50 Clinton Avenue with CCTMO LLC. WHEREAS, the City of Norwich currently has a lease agreement with CCTMO LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, for the cell tower at Public Works’ 50 Clinton Avenue facility which began on November 21, 2000 and expires November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City of Norwich sought proposals in advance of the lease expiration with RFP 25-53; and WHEREAS, CCTMO LLC submitted the sole proposal with lease revenue of $130,000 during the first year of the lease (November 21, 2025 – November 20, 2026); and WHEREAS, the new lease agreement will increase revenue from the cell tower lease to the City by 16% in Fiscal Year 2025-26 and provides for 3% increases in each subsequent year for the next 9 years of the first term and for the two optional 10-year term extensions. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH, that City Manager John Salomone be and hereby is authorized and directed to enter into an agreement consistent to the terms herein. Upon a motion of Ald. Hayes, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to put the following resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould on the floor. 21 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Upon a motion of Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to postpone the following resolution to the second meeting in June being June 16, 2025. Relative to the disposition of Dodd Stadium through use of a commercial real estate broker. WHEREAS, the City of Norwich is the owner of property commonly known as “Dodd Stadium” located at 14 Stott Avenue in the Stanley Israelite Business Park (“Business Park”); and WHEREAS, the lease of Dodd Stadium between the City of Norwich and the Oneonta Athletic Corporation expires on October 31, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Norwich desires to transfer the title of the Dodd Stadium property to a tax-paying entity, for a new use or for continued use as a stadium, shortly after the expiration of this lease; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Norwich wants to maximize the economic return on this Business Park property, in terms of proceeds from the sale, property taxes, utilities, and jobs while minimizing impact on municipal services; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Norwich has determined it to be in the best interest of the City of Norwich to attempt to dispose of this property by a negotiated sale using the services of a commercial real estate broker; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH, that City Manager John Salomone be and hereby is authorized and directed on behalf of the City of Norwich to select a qualified and experienced commercial real estate broker through a request for proposals process; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH, that, upon receipt of a Purchase and Sales Agreement from a prospective purchaser containing the proposed sales price recommended by the commercial real estate broker and containing such terms and conditions as are satisfactory to City Manager John Salomone shall be and hereby is authorized and directed to notify the Council of the City of Norwich of the proposed Purchase and Sales Agreement, which the Council may then approve by a resolution authorizing City Manager John Salomone to enter into a Purchase and Sales Agreement as presented for the subject property on behalf of the City of Norwich and, upon timely tender of the purchase price subject to standard adjustments, to execute and deliver a deed of conveyance for said property and to execute, receive and deliver such other documents as are necessary to complete the transfer of title in keeping with the terms and conditions of the Purchase and Sales Agreement. Upon a motion of Ald. Nash, seconded by Ald. Gould, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould. Relative to the acceptance of a Federal 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for the Norwich Police Department. WHEREAS, the Norwich Police Department applied for and was awarded 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant 15PBJA-23-GG-03213-JAGX (“2023 JAG”) from the Federal 22 JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH May 5, 2025 Department of Justice in the amount of $26,744 to purchase new computers for the implementation of a new CAD/RMS system for dispatch as well as reporting procedures; and WHEREAS, the 2023 JAG requires no local match; and WHEREAS, the items and activities to be funded by the 2023 JAG should not give rise to an increase in ongoing annual operating costs. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH that the City Manager, Police Chief, and Comptroller be, and hereby are authorized and directed to execute and deliver any and all documents necessary to accept the 2023 JAG award on behalf of the City of Norwich and to do and perform all acts and things which he deems to be necessary or appropriate to carry out the terms of such documents, including, but not limited to, executing and delivering all agreements and documents contemplated by such documents. Upon a motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Nash, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adopt the following resolution introduced by Mayor Nystrom, Pres. Pro Tem DeLucia and Ald. Gould. Relative to the acceptance of a Federal 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for the Norwich Police Department. WHEREAS, the Norwich Police Department applied for and was awarded 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant 15PBJA-24-GG-04667-JAGX (“2024 JAG”) from the Federal Department of Justice in the amount of $22,064 to purchase new less lethal electronic defense items; and WHEREAS, the 2024 JAG requires no local match; and WHEREAS, the items and activities to be funded by the 2024 JAG should not give rise to an increase in ongoing annual operating costs. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORWICH that the City Manager, Police Chief, and Comptroller be, and hereby are authorized and directed to execute and deliver any and all documents necessary to accept the 2024 JAG award on behalf of the City of Norwich and to do and perform all acts and things which he deems to be necessary or appropriate to carry out the terms of such documents, including, but not limited to, executing and delivering all agreements and documents contemplated by such documents. Upon motion of Ald. Gould, seconded by Ald. Nash, on a roll call vote it was unanimously voted to adjourn at 11:08 pm. City Clerk 23