ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2011

The Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Kaupin in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, February 7, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.

PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Nelson.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilman Bosco, Dumont, Edgar, Hall, Kaupin, Keller, Lee, Mangini and Nelson. Councilman Crowley was absent. Also present were Town Manager, Matthew Coppler, Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Kevin Deneen; Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza; Director of Public Works, Piya Hawkes; Deputy Director of Public Works, Billy Taylor; Assistant Director, William Peluso; Director of Social Services, Pam Brown

FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT

Chairman Kaupin made the fire evacuation announcement.

MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS

MOTION #1193 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the January 18, 2011 Special Meeting.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1193 adopted 7-0-2, with Councilmen Edgar and Lee abstaining.

MOTION #1194 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Nelson to accept the minutes of the January 18, 2011 Regular Meeting.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1194 adopted 7-0-2, with Councilmen Edgar and Lee abstaining.

SPECIAL GUESTS

Voices for Thompsonville

Present from Voices for Thompsonville were Carrie Marek, Wendy LaVoie and Kelly Hemmler.

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Ms. Hemmler stated the day after Christmas a fire broke out on the corner of High and Pearl Streets. She noted 11 people were displaced. She noted her group helped get the word out and a fundraiser took place. Many local businesses contributed to this effort which helped to cover all costs. She noted this event was very heartwarming. She pointed out students at both high schools took it upon themselves to raise money to include with the benefit money. She noted after the event the total was $4,071 dollars, and since then it’s grown to $4,683. She presented the check to Pam Brown, Director of Social Services and to Linda Bridge, Director of the Enfield Food Shelf. She thanked Pam and Linda for helping these neighbors. She also thanked all the businesses, volunteers and the Enfield community.

Ms. Hemmler stated on Thursday, February 17 th at 7:00 p.m. at the Polish Home they will be honoring all the businesses and volunteers with awards. She noted more information can be found on their website, voicesforthompsonville.org.

Ms. Bridge stated the Enfield Food Shelf has been receiving donations on behalf of the people displaced by this fire, and Nathan Hale held a fundraiser as well. She stated at this time, there’s about $9,000 in this account. She noted these monies will be helping these displaced families.

SCHOOL ROOF UDDATE

Deputy Director of Public Works, Billy Taylor, gave an update on the situation concerning snow loads on school roofs.

Mr. Taylor stated they began removing snow from school roofs on January 28 th . He noted they concentrated on those roofs that had larger spans to be sure roof drains were open and functioning as well as clearing channels so that melting snows could reach the roof drains. On February 2 nd , it was decided to remove all the snow and to bring in a licensed structural engineer to advise them in this process. He noted Richard Szewczak is a licensed structural engineer and is familiar with the school roofs. Mr. Szewczak stated his opinion the buildings were safe to occupy at that point. He added they hadn’t gotten very far in the snow removal at that point. He noted this past Friday they began using other divisions of Public Works to help remove snow. He explained up until that time, the work had been primarily performed by the Building and Grounds Division.

Mr. Taylor stated as of Friday, Assistant Director, William Peluso, contacted more than 25 contractors for assistance. He noted so far, they’ve only been able to get one contractor to help them, and they’re on the waiting list of a couple other contractors.

He stated last week Mr. Hawkes spoke with the Connecticut National Guard, however, they’re too busy to help any other towns. Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 3

Mr. Taylor stated workers have been instructed to stay at least four feet away from the edge of the roof for safety reasons. He noted in light of this, people might assume snow is not being removed because they see snow at the edge of the roof.

He stated at this point all the gymnasium and cafeteria roofs have been cleared, except at Barnard, Hale and Hazardville Memorial.

Mr. Taylor stated as of today, they estimate about $23,700 has been spent on this effort. He noted the roofs continue to be monitored and the roof drains checked daily.

He pointed out the staff of Building & Grounds is fully occupied with clearing these roofs, therefore, at this point they’re unable to enforce the sidewalk ordinance. He noted they can’t cite abutting property owners and clear sidewalks that are the responsibility of others at this point. He pointed out school roofs are a higher priority.

Mr. Peluso stated after the first snowstorm, they contacted their roofing contractor to learn the best way to maintain the roofs. He noted from that point, they made sure the drains were cleared, and he believes that helped immensely. He commended the men who are clearing the roofs.

Councilman Lee questioned what the modes of communication have been to parents, and are there any modifications that will be used in going forward to insure good communications. He noted over the last several days, he has heard that although information was getting out through Q-Alert and press releases from the Town, it appears some of that important key information was making its way through to the principals and ultimately to the parents.

Dr. Gallacher stated he communicated to all school users in the school system, which would be all the teachers and anyone who has a computer. He noted he also copied the PTO presidents and the Board of Education. He stated they basically co-authored the same communication that Councilman Lee is referring to and that was placed on the Board’s website as well. He stated his belief Enfield High, JFK, Stowe and Nathan Hale did this. He noted they followed up with Town Directors and the structural engineers to make sure the buildings were safe. He stated he’s sorry to hear people are saying they didn’t hear because they believe they did quite a bit of communication.

Chairman of the Board of Education, Gregory Stokes, stated he has been watching the workers on the school roofs, and they’ve done a superb job. He also thanked the staff and the fire departments for their help. He suggested perhaps in the emergency management system they can make it known where to go to get information in situations like this. He added the school system also put out press releases. He noted perhaps a press conference with the Mayor would help to get information out to the public. Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 4

Councilman Hall questioned if attention was given to roofs over regular classroom space, and Mr. Peluso stated on some buildings they went to classroom areas. He added it’s their intent to continue and do the classroom areas.

Councilman Hall questioned when roofs will be cleared at Barnard, Hale and Memorial. Mr. Peluso stated he expects they’ll be cleared by the end of this week.

Councilman Hall stated her understanding the fire departments were involved in snow clearing on roofs, and Mr. Peluso stated they brought the snowblowers up to the high roofs, and they’ve been very helpful.

Councilman Mangini questioned the plan going forward. Mr. Peluso stated they plan to continue monitoring and clearing the roofs.

Councilman Keller questioned how close they came to hitting maximum load and Mr. Taylor stated the structural engineer did not feel the roofs were anything close to reaching the load.

Chairman Kaupin stated there was a meeting between Rep. Courtney, DPW, Public Safety, Fire Chiefs and the Town Manager’s Office. He noted Rep. Courtney wanted a snapshot of how things are going in Enfield, as well as the costs involved. Rep. Courtney will take that information back to D.C. and it’s possible some FEMA monies might be available.

Chairman Kaupin thanked all departments involved in this effort and asked residents to “cut them a little slack” during this period if roads aren’t plowed to their full width or sidewalks aren’t cleared. He noted Town workers have been working very hard to make sure roofs are safe.

Mr. Hawkes spoke about the snow budget and removal of snow on the roads. He noted originally the budget was adopted at $284,000, and he had to transfer in another $50,000 on top of that, which brings it up to $525,000 to date. He noted of that they spent $394,000 for overtime and contractor expenses. He stated to date, they’ve had approximately 10 snowstorms, and the one that really impacted the Town was the one that dropped over two feet of snow, and that slowed them down tremendously. He explained they can typically clear snow for a 6” to 8” snowfall in eight to ten hours after the snow stops. He noted after the big snowstorm, they couldn’t push back to the curb, and then a couple days later, there was an ice/rain storm and all the piles were hardened, and they would not be able to move them. He stated the only equipment the Town has that can push the snow to the curb is a wind plow, and the Town has only one of those. He noted the rest are standard plows, which aren’t heavy enough to push the piles back to the curb. He stated they hired more contractors to come in with loaders, and they’ve been Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 5 working seven to eight days with these contractors. He noted today they brought in a big snow thrower, similar to airport equipment. He stated that equipment broke down at the end of the day and needed repairs.

Mr. Hawkes displayed a map showing where roads have been cleared and where roads still need attention.

Councilman Lee questioned how much snow are they pushing back and how much snow are they removing, and Mr. Hawkes stated they’re removing all the snow. He noted if they don’t have trucks available to haul away the snow, they push it onto the snow shelf. He noted snow is hauled to the transfer station.

Councilman Lee stated he heard something about Massachusetts allowing snow to be deposited into the waterways. Mr. Hawkes stated he contacted DEP last Friday, and he was told that typically they don’t allow that practice, however, he saw an e-mail today from DEP saying that can happen, however, all other areas have to be used first.

Councilman Bosco stated something has to be done on the hill on Laughlin Road because it’s only one vehicle wide, and drivers can’t see oncoming traffic.

Councilman Dumont stated she did receive e-mails from some residents, which she will pass on to Mr. Hawkes. She noted one e-mail indicated some roads in the Shaker Pines Lake area were plowed like a one-way street. Mr. Hawkes noted that area was completed today.

Councilman Dumont stated a resident at 20 Cartier Road informed her the plow widened the road and dumped very heavy snow and ice onto the sidewalk near his yard for a length of 20 feet, and he can’t lift it. She questioned if they’re making allowances for these situations so that people won’t be fined. Mr. Hawkes stated the Town will go back and clear this if it was plowed onto the sidewalk.

Councilman Nelson pointed out for years, the Town dumped snow in the dingle at the American Legion. He questioned why that’s not being done now. Mr. Hawkes stated he wasn’t aware of this until recently. He stated his belief the Town Manager is looking into this to determine if the Town can still do this. Mr. Coppler stated it’s planned to do this, however, he wishes to communicate to the American Legion that the Town will be doing this.

Councilman Nelson stated at the point where Laughlin Road connects to the paved portion of Laughlin Road, there’s nothing left where the regrinds were deposited. He noted this is dangerous.

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Councilman Nelson stated his belief Public Works is doing a phenomenal job, and he encouraged them to keep up the good work.

Councilman Mangini stated she has heard from residents that the Town did a great job clearing out the Bass, Colonial and Iroquois area.

Chairman Kaupin questioned how much of the Town has been completed, and Mr. Hawkes responded approximately one-third. He added there are six loaders plus the big snow thrower on the streets. Chairman Kaupin acknowledged this type of snow clearing is a painstakingly slow process.

PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS

Nikki Price, 1324 Enfield Street Spoke about the decision of Cox Communications moving Channel 16 to digital. She noted she was appalled to learn about this decision. She stated her impression Cox should be making it easy for Enfield residents to have their government channel, but it seems profit means more to them. She thanked the Enfield Town Council for being proactive in this matter.

Andrew Zander, 59A Windsor Street Stated for anyone on the Town Council to say that the move that was made to censor the library and its operating staff from showing the Michael Moore movie, “Sicko” and making the public comments on the Council’s actions after the last Town Council meeting was not a pre-orchestrated move by the Enfield Republican Town Committee would be an out and out lie. He stated research made on public comments posted on Facebook prior to the meeting clearly show that most, if not all members of both the Enfield Republican Town Committee and the Town Council were very much aware of what was about to happen at the meeting of January 18 th . He stated his belief this is beyond any doubt a move by the Republican base in Enfield to dictate what can and can’t be shown or screened at what is suppose to be a public library.

Mr. Zander highly praised Councilman Mangini for being the only one willing to come forth and take a stand against the bullying and direct assault to the constitutional freedoms of the library and citizens of Enfield.

He pointed out Michael Moore’s movies have been shown at the library in the past, as well as other movies and events that were much more controversial without any issues being raised up until now. He suggested the oppression movement in Enfield be stopped now.

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Kevin Fealy, 6 Meadow Lane Stated despite what others may think, he is the person who brought forth the concerns about Michael Moore’s movie. He noted this is not orchestrated. He pointed out he was not requesting censorship. He pointed out the library has this material available so that people can watch whatever they wish, however, he does not believe it should be promoted through public facilities. He stated the library isn’t an institution of higher learning, but rather a library and where things are made available.

He thanked Mr. Coppler for insuring the public library is at least considering the impact of promoting controversial issues. He also thanked the Town Manager and the Town Council for giving serious consideration to his concerns and grievances with showing films like that.

Mr. Fealy stated it would have been more expedient for the Town to just shut it down and let it go. He encouraged further oversight into the library. He feels there are few, if any standards or guidelines that are used in choosing which films or materials to promote. He stated his belief there should be a standard that’s set forth so that everyone can feel their tax dollars are representing their interests. He stated his belief it’s important that there are better checks and balances. He requested in the future, they research films to establish whether or not there’s credibility in the films’ statements, i.e., the billing of Michael Moore’s film as non-fiction.

He stated he has no problem with people checking out materials, but he doesn’t believe the Town should be taking a position or promoting an ideological viewpoint for people to digest when they walk into the library, and that’s were he’s seeking oversight.

Donald Christmas, 25 Lincoln Street Stated he has been coming before the Council for several weeks to talk about DCF. He noted a few Councilmembers and the Town Manager’s Office took his concerns to heart and helped him, and he appreciates that help. He pointed out he was able to return to work and provide for his family.

Mr. Christmas stated his belief DPW did a great job clearing snow in the Thompsonville area.

Buster Young, 32 Laurie Drive Voiced his concern about the loss of Channel 16. He noted he enjoyed watching all the Council meetings. He stated his belief he shouldn’t have to pay more to access this channel.

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Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road Agreed with Kevin Fealy and noted he has no relationship with the Republican Town Committee. He noted he’s proud the Town Council took this stance. He stated “fun flicks” should not be controversial. He stated this film was never banned by the Council or Town Manager, but rather this was a knee jerk reaction by the Director of Libraries. He noted the Director of Libraries called the Library Associations to politicize this issue. He stated the American Library Association made a statement to the newspaper criticizing Enfield for censoring the choices people have or silencing the opposition as an insult or form of government. He stated the library isn’t suppose to be a battleground for ideas, but rather they should have a balanced form of ideas. He pointed out any resident has the freedom to choose any book or CD, but a presentation by the Town could be perceived as the view of Town leaders. He stated he personally believes the library needs to get out of the business of showing movies.

Mr. Sheridan referred to the school budget and stated he was amazed to see another $837,400 for substitute teachers. He noted the substitute teachers who only work two days per week collect unemployment for the other days. He stated the Board of Education stated they took two cases to court and lost. He noted unemployment amounted to $345,000. He referred to a recent article in the Hartford Courant where it stated hourly employees cannot collect unemployment.

Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road Stated there’s a large pothole near the intersection of Weymouth Road and Enfield Street.

Ms. Turner stated she wants her E-TV back. She pointed out she spent $14,125 on Cox Communications since 2004. She noted in December she called Cox about her bill and was told her subscription will run out at the end of January and her bundle will cost more. She suggested her cable contract be extended for two more years, and when her bill arrived, she learned they charged her $7.00 more because her contract was broken in December to start in January. She stated she feels like she’s being swindled. She added her belief Cox has forgotten that E-TV is meant for the public to watch government. She noted she does not want to pay an extra $5.00 to access E-TV.

Thomas Sirard, 32 D’Annunzio Avenue As concerns the movie, “Sicko”, and the library, Mr. Sirard stated this was never an issue of censorship, but it was always the appearance of an endorsement by the Town. He stated they’ve crossed the line the minute they attach the Town of Enfield’s letterhead to anything that involves an endorsement or appears to be an endorsement. He stated no one can say “Sicko” isn’t a political movie, and no one can say that some of the other

Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 9 movies that were chosen are not political movies. He stated he supports the Town Council’s opinion in this matter.

Walter Kruzel, 21 Charnley Road and 5 Peerless Way Stated he purchased a digital television before Christmas and for some reason he’s unable to get E-TV on that television. He stated his understanding this channel can be found on the upper channels. He suggested making it easier to find this channel.

Mr. Kruzel thanked Chairman Kaupin for attending the Four Chaplains Mass yesterday.

Maureen Brennan, 11 Sandpiper Street Expressed her disappointment in the handling of the library issue regarding the screening of the movie, “Sicko”. She noted the library funding was threatened over this issue, and such cuts would hurt the patrons who use the library.

Ms. Brennan stated Henry Dutcher was insinuated to be “stupid” over this issue. She feel that is plain wrong, and it deserves a public apology. She noted Henry Dutcher has been doing more with less at the library for years, and he does a great job of it. She pointed out she knows this is true because she’s a regular patron. She noted without regard to any of the other issues surrounding this, she would appreciate an apology to Henry Dutcher. She stated her belief Enfield’s Public Library is a great place.

Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road Stated her belief Mr. Dutcher has gone above and beyond his job. She noted for about two years, she tried to access a list of school and library books so she could learn what type of books children are reading. She noted she made this attempt to no avail. She feels Mr. Dutcher had a nerve to bring this movie out. She stated anyone who wished to see this movie could have gone to the library and taken out this material. She noted she was disappointed with the newspaper for making a big issue of this. She stated her belief such films shouldn’t be shown on public property.

Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road Stated it’s very important to her that the Cox situation is resolved. She noted when she called about accessing E-TV, it became apparent that it would not be free. She noted she has heard from many people that this service needs to be restored. She pointed out Cox’s action is producing that company an additional revenue stream.

Andrew Zander, 59A Windsor Street Stated he’s in favor of Cox Cable because anyone can have that box for free in order to access E-TV.

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Nikki Price, 1324 Enfield Street Stated she is already receiving digital television, but not on the upper tier where Cox placed E-TV.

Trudy Dorous, 57 Old King Street Stated her belief Henry Dutcher is doing a fantastic job at the library.

COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS

Councilman Mangini commended Rep. Kiner for bringing forth a bill proposing the State pay its full obligation to municipalities for the land used by the prisons. She noted that would net Enfield around $700,000. She noted Rep. Kiner was able to bring on board Senator Kissel, Rep. Tallarita and a couple other people.

Councilman Mangini stated she fully stands behind her position on the library issue. She noted Henry Dutcher is doing a fantastic job. She stated she will always stand up for what she believes to be right and defend the First Amendment of the Constitution.

Councilman Bosco thanked the community for their support after his building collapse. He also thanked Officer Bill Vieweg who literally saved four lives. He noted Officer Vieweg was in the building as it was collapsing, and he made sure everyone got out, and he ran around the building to make sure everyone was out of the other side of the building. He noted this is what makes Enfield a great place to live.

Councilman Bosco questioned if the parking ban is still in effect, and Mr. Coppler responded yes. Councilman Bosco stated he received complaints that the parking ban was not posted anywhere. Mr. Coppler stated his belief it’s on the website and E-TV. Councilman Bosco stated it should be posted on Channel 3 or other available news channels.

Councilman Bosco stated he received a complaint from a resident on Weymouth Road about a big pothole.

Councilman Keller stated he agrees 100% with Messrs. Sheridan, Fealy and Sirard.

Councilman Keller stated awhile back the Council talked about getting a listing of books that could be available for review by townspeople. He noted this came out of the discussion about the bid waiver for textbooks. He questioned if there’s been any progress in getting that list.

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Councilman Lee stated he and Councilman Edgar were not present when the library discussion took place. He noted Councilmembers received hundreds of e-mails regarding this topic. He stated he read the minutes, and it’s his belief there appears to be an honest and urgent need to understand the editorial policy used to guide selection of materials and programming at the Enfield Public Library. He noted he looked around the Town’s website and the library’s website and was unable to find anything specific. He stated he found a trove of information at the American Library Association website, and these are the people that were extremely critical of members of this Council and the municipality for the way they handled the situation. He stated his impression it was a situation that asked for a little clarity and gave a little direction to the Town Manager. He noted the American Library Association lists 13 items that are guidelines for a community when dealing with concerns about library resources. He shared the following:

1. Maintain a material selection policy, keep it in written form, and have it approved by the appropriate governing authority. It should apply to all library materials equally. 2. Maintain a library service policy, which would cover registrations, programming and services in the library that involve access issues (Councilman Lee stated his belief they would also have to factor in the Town’s own facilities usage policy, which was implemented last year, and is it being dealt with equally at the library as it is in other areas of the municipality. He stated he does not think so, and there are other anecdotal complaints he has received over the last couple years to attest to that) 3. Maintain a clearly defined method for handling complaints. 4. Maintain in-service training, conduct periodic in-service training to acquaint staff, the administration and the governing authority with the material selection policy, the library service policy and the procedures for handling complaints (Councilman Lee stated clearly that part never reached the Council, nor does it appear it reached members of the municipal staff) 5. Maintain lines of communication with the civic, religious, educational and political bodies of the community. 6. Maintain a rigorous public information program on behalf of intellectual freedom. Newspapers, radio and television should be informed of the policies governing resources, selection, use and for any special activities pertaining to intellectual freedom. 7. Maintain familiarity with any local, municipal and state legislation pertaining to intellectual freedom and First Amendment rights.

Councilman Lee stated it then talks about how the library should listen calmly and courteously to a complainant, it should notify the administration and its governing authority of a complaint and assure them that library procedures are being followed, present full written information giving the nature of the complaint and identify the Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 12 source. When appropriate, seek the support of the local media. When appropriate, inform local and civic organizations of the facts and enlist their support. Assert the principles of the Library Bill of Rights. Contact the American Library Association for support and advocacy.

Councilman Lee stated in theory, Enfield does have a governing authority for its public library system. He noted the members of the Library Board of Trustees have recently been reappointed, and perhaps that’s the body that the Council should be working through to make sure that they’re following the policies that the American Library Association suggests for a healthy library. He noted they should be looking to the Trustees to come back to the Council with an update to make sure it’s clear what Enfield has in place, and it’s something that they can promote and continue to build on.

He stated personally, he’s not one to say they need to be mandating balance, and he feels that’s something that is obvious and natural and evolves when different organizations are seeking to add different programs to the library. He noted there was a breakdown in understanding policy, but he’s not so sure that those policies are fully implemented today. He asked through the Mayor, the Town Manager and Library Board of Trustees that they start seeing some updates to make sure they don’t go down this path again.

MOTION #1195 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address under Miscellaneous items 14 B1 and B2.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1195 adopted 9-0-0.

Councilman Nelson requested the Town Manager request that a cruiser go down Laughlin Road and send the Town Manager an assessment. He added the urgency in that area should become apparent.

Chairman Kaupin requested they be more descriptive about the parking ban on the Town’s website, E-TV and any other resource they’re using.

Chairman Kaupin stated he recently had the opportunity to do a ride-along with the Connecticut State Police and Enfield Police Department during a joint DUI patrol. He noted this was in reaction to the unfortunate deaths Enfield had in the early morning of January 1 st and then a week later. He noted this was a very positive experience. He thanked the Enfield police staff for supporting this endeavor.

Chairman Kaupin stated he attended the Four Chaplains’ Mass at St. Adalbert’s Church, which was hosted by the Enfield Veterans’ Council and the John Maciolek Post 154. He noted this is always a very moving mass to honor the four chaplains who gave up their Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 13 life vests when the Dorchester was sunk during World War II. He pointed out one of the victims of the High Street fire was the John Maciolek Post 154. He stated this post moved into this space just before the fire and lost a lot of their memorabilia. He noted the post needs to rebuild, and they’ve moved back across the street and will continue to operate out of that area. He pointed out the Maciolek Post supported the ambulance fund for many years and provided free ambulance service to the Town of Enfield. He noted now it’s time for the Town of Enfield to step up and help the Maciolek Post get back on their feet. He stated hopefully they can get more information from the Council and out to the community so that people can show their support to this post.

Chairman Kaupin referred to the Prison Policy Initiative and the redistricting process. He explained about ten years ago, when Enfield redistricted, they did not count the population of the inmates of Enfield into their Council districts, and that’s what the Prison Policy Initiative is asking, which is to remind them that when the new redistricting occurs at the local level, they ask that they not count inmate population into their local Council districts.

Chairman Kaupin stated a couple weeks ago there was a community meeting on the Thompsonville Transit Center, and he received a one-page information sheet from Tony Quinones. He requested this be copied and distributed to the entire Council.

Chairman Kaupin requested the Town Manager provide information and his opinion on the two programs mentioned by the new comptroller, Kevin Lembo, and could those programs be a benefit to the Town of Enfield. He explained one program relates to the municipal prescription drug benefit plans and the second program is Comptroller’s Electronic Fund Transfer EFT Initiative.

Councilman Mangini stated the NLC also has the prescription benefit plan and perhaps the Town Manager could check to see if the NLC program might dovetail with what the State is doing.

Chairman Kaupin referred to the library issue. He noted he has been contacted by many people, and most of them are very positive. He stated he can’t say that’s true for people across the country that really didn’t define or understand the issue. He noted this Council has always been for public dialog and discussion, and that’s why they have two public communications at every Council meeting, and that is why they have quarterly public meetings across the community. He added that is why he responds to every e-mail whether it’s an e-mail, a Facebook posting or a phone call. He noted he was criticized for addressing a comment that came to him via Facebook. He pointed out social media is the next way to go. He went on to state he feels very good about what they did as a Council. He noted in the end there could have been things that he said differently. He added he knows what his intent was, which was never to censor the library. He noted he is one Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 14

Councilmember who has fought for additional library funding all the time, and he respects the programming done at the library. He stated in the end, the library has to be a reflection of the community. He noted no one wants to censor, and no one supports censorship.

Councilman Hall stated things need to be fair and balanced because otherwise they are censoring. She feels a good compromise came out of that meeting because they re-looked at the program and it was a good fix. She stated her belief the solutions that the Town Manager worked on with Mr. Dutcher are good ones. She noted it’s important everyone’s views are fair and balanced. She stated of any of the Council’s she’s sat on, she can’t say the majority of this Council would even imagine strong-arming anyone.

Councilman Nelson congratulated Officer Warden and Falco, the new police dog. He noted they made their first successful track down.

Chairman Kaupin stated Rep. Kiner texted him saying he has some legal researchers looking into whether the Town can save money with pooling bills, and he will pass that information onto the Town Council as soon as it is received.

TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Cox Cable – Peter Talbot, Connecticut Government Affairs Manager

Mr. Talbot stated he is present to clear up some of the misconceptions that surround the transition of the public and government access channels on positions 15 and 16 from analog to a digital delivery. He noted an article in last Thursday’s Enfield Press mentioned, “Cox’s recent decision to move two community channels to digital and charge a monthly fee to subscribers.” He pointed out this is not accurate.

He explained Cox opted to transition Channels 15 and 16 from analog to digital delivery in order to free up bandwidth so that they can offer additional HDTV channels to their customers.

Mr. Talbot stated digital customers never lost the ability to see Channels 15 and 16 on their primary TV set and any other TV set with a digital receiver in their home. He noted these channels remain on the limited basic level of service. He pointed out the only instance in which a customer would incur an additional charge to view those channels is if they wish to acquire a second or third digital receiver for additional TV sets in their home. Additionally, any TV set manufactured after March 1, 2007 would not require a converter to continue to receive those two channels.

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He stated Cox delivers a public and government access viewing experience that is superior to what people can get from other video competitors in Enfield. He noted neither Dish nor Direct TV even offer community access programming. He stated their most direct competitor – AT&T U-verse requires a digital box on every TV set in order to view Channel 15, and they do not yet carry Enfield’s government channel in part because AT&T has refused to provide maintenance, repair or replacement cost for the equipment necessary to provide that channel. He emphasized that Cox’s decision to transmit access channels in digital is part of a broader industry shift away from analog transmission toward digital delivery. He stated virtually every other video provider from Comcast, Cablevision, AT&T, Direct TV and Dish have moved away from analog broadcasts and now require a converter on every television in the house in order to see any level of programming.

Councilman Hall referred to the free box being offered to customers and questioned if they have cable boxes on their main television and they have a television in another room, will they have to pay additional dollars to get E-TV on the other television. Mr. Talbot responded that’s correct and explained they have two different types of customers – one is an analog customer and the other is a digital customer. He noted within those two groups of customers, there are different levels of services that can be offered. He stated the analog customers were able to receive Channels 15 and 16 on their TV without the use of a converter box. He noted through this change, a converter box is now required to still receive those channels. He stated for those customers alone, they offered a free digital converter box and a free install for those customers so they wouldn’t incur any charges to continue the level of service they had previously. He referred to the digital subscriber base, which is the majority of the customer base, and noted they never lost access to Channels 15 and 16, however, they did lose the ability to see those channels on additional sets in their home other than their primary television that has the cable box. He reiterated if a person has a television manufactured after March 1, 2007, they can still channel up to 117.217 or 218 and still receive that programming.

Councilman Lee questioned what level of service do analog customers have, and Mr. Talbot responded Channels 2 through anything below 100. He noted Limited Basic is Channels 2 through 25. Councilman Lee questioned if these are the people entitled to the complimentary box, and Mr. Talbot responded yes, as well as Expanded Basic Customers that have Channels 2 through anything below 100.

Councilman Hall stated a lot of people fought really hard for this channel. She questioned if there’s something Cox can offer without charging for that box. She pointed out people are paying for premium channels. She noted she’s paying $250 per month. Mr. Talbot pointed out the free box given to the analog customers is to keep them receiving the level of service they were provided before. He added an analog customer would incur a charge for any additional sets. Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 16

Councilman Hall questioned if Cox is willing to step up and give these boxes to everyone if they want to hook it up to an older television in another room. Mr. Talbot responded no, not at this time. He reiterated the analog-only customers would have completely lost the ability to see this programming if they didn’t provide that free digital converter and free install. He pointed out this offer was originally a 60-day offer, and they extended that offer to 90-days.

Councilman Nelson agreed with Councilman Hall. He noted he also pays about $250 per month, and one of the reasons he stayed with Cox was because they offered a channel no one else offered. He stated Cox is not offering that channel any longer, and he will be charged more for it. He noted he has been a loyal Cox customer since 1990, and he’s very seriously considering leaving this company, and that also includes his business in Enfield. He stated his belief the $7 per month Cox is going to charge residents to get this channel in other rooms is a very poor management decision. He stated Cox has something that puts them ahead of everyone else, and they just took that out of play. He noted Cox is no different than AT&T since AT&T offers the same programs as Cox, and AT&T has boxes in every room. He pointed out between his business and his house, he pays Cox about $650 per month, and he feels he should get a free box in a room because he already rents five boxes from Cox, and he feels to be charged for a sixth box is ridiculous.

Councilman Mangini stated she and Councilman Lee served on the first cable committee, and the whole intent of that committee was to bring these meetings live to the people at home. She stated she’s convinced there is a solution to this problem, and she believes there has to be a way Cox can reach out a little better to the residents. She suggested perhaps Cox can work with Town staff to come up with some plan to make this more palatable for the people.

Councilman Bosco stated he also pays a big cable bill. He feels because he buys the premium, which includes the internet, phone and cable, Cox is now punishing him. He pointed out if people start leaving Cox, that will eat into Cox’s profit.

Councilman Dumont stated her understanding if a person has a second television that was purchased after 2007, a person can still watch Channel 16 without the box or fee. She questioned how that is done. Mr. Talbot explained any television manufactured after March 1, 2007 has a QUAM tuner, which allows the television to receive the digital signal without the use of a converter box. He noted Channel 15 appears on 117.217 and E-TV appears on 117.218. Councilman Dumont questioned if a person has a television manufactured before 2007, are they just in analog. Mr. Talbot explained that would be an analog television set, which would then require a digital converter to still receive those signals. Councilman Dumont questioned whether Cox could consider providing a free

Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 17 digital box if a person’s other television was manufactured before 2007. Councilman Hall pointed out she already raised this question, and the answer was “no”.

Chairman Kaupin stated his belief half the problem has to do with communications from Cox to the residents, which would explain how they find channels if they have a television manufactured after March, 2007. He requested Cox do a better public relations campaign. He questioned whether there’s any way they can get those channels off the high numbers and place it elsewhere. Mr. Talbot stated there are other numbers that could be used, but town channels are in the 100’s.

Chairman Kaupin requested Cox reconsider its policy even if it’s restricted to one additional box. He noted from a customer service perspective, it may prove beneficial. He urged Cox to consider what they’ve heard from the public and the Town Council and see if there’s a compromise possible.

Chairman Kaupin questioned what’s the future of cable if other channels will be moving off analog. Mr. Talbot stated at this time, Cox has no plans to go all digital, however, that’s not to say it won’t happen sometime in the future.

Chairman Kaupin questioned what it would mean if Cox went all digital, and Mr. Talbot stated in order to receive any program on any television set, a converter box would be required.

Mr. Coppler suggested perhaps the Town Council can look at the snow removal code for sidewalks. He noted at this time the code doesn’t allow any waiver. He stated this would be something to consider for larger snow events. He noted staff can put together some language for future consideration.

Mr. Coppler stated he spoke with some residents as well as developers regarding streets and subdivisions that haven’t been accepted by the Town as yet. He noted currently they require developers maintain a road until the Town has accepted that road, and this includes the salting/sanding/snow removal. He questioned if there’s any interest in looking at this again. Chairman Kaupin stated if anyone on the Council is interested in looking into this, they should let him know and he can provide an answer to the Town Manager.

As concerns a list of books from the Board of Education, Mr. Coppler stated they did reach out to Dr. Gallacher, and he assigned this to someone within the school system. He noted he will follow up tomorrow to see where this stands.

Mr. Coppler stated the Board of Education did submit their budget to the Council.

Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 18

TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS

Attorney Deneen stated they signed off on the ambulance agreement with the Maciolek Post. He noted that was fully executed, and they received back a copy from the Post. He stated they are in the process of setting up the accounts in order to receive those funds. He added there will be a future presentation ceremony.

Attorney Deneen stated he received an e-mail concerning the library interaction. He noted Council members, under the Charter, are required to work through the Town Manager in order to have contact with members of staff. He stated that is exactly what occurred in this situation.

Councilman Mangini stated she received an e-mail from a resident, which she passed onto the Town Attorney, and she was unsure as to how that was addressed. Attorney Deneen stated typically, they don’t respond to e-mails from citizens because citizens have their own attorneys. He noted the charge of his office is to represent the Town.

REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL

Councilman Mangini stated CIRMA had their annual meeting last week. She noted CIRMA handles insurance for the Town of Enfield. She stated due to a profit, Enfield will be the recipient of a dividend. Mr. Coppler noted they will know more about the amount in April. Councilman Mangini stated this means the Town is doing a good job mitigating its claims, negotiating claims and staying on top of those claims.

Councilman Nelson requested the Town Manager schedule a Public Safety Committee Meeting and a Public Works Committee Meeting for budget discussions.

Councilman Lee requested the Town Manager check into a meeting of the Development Services Committee for the second half of February.

Councilman Keller requested the Town Manager schedule a Social Services Committee meeting for early to mid March.

OLD BUSINESS

All Old Business items remained tabled.

NEW BUSINESS

There were no Consent Agenda items or appointments under New Business. Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 19

DISCUSSION RE: SOUTH MAPLE STREET BRIDGE STOP SIGNS

Present for this discussion were Director of Public Works, Piya Hawkes; Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza and Jeff Scalia, Engineer

Mr. Scalia stated he submitted a letter to Mr. Hawkes which explains the history behind the stop signs. He referred to the stop sign at the mid-block location, which is just north of the bridge in the southbound direction. He noted this stop sign was put in at the request of the DOT because they believed there was a potential safety problem. He explained mid-block locations for crosswalks is rather unusual, and DOT felt from a safety standpoint they wanted that sign in that location. He stated from a professional standpoint he did not feel this sign was warranted based on the high visibility coming down the hill because drivers can see the location easily. He noted since DOT is a primary client, and it was their money, they defaulted to DOT’s opinion. He added this area is also lighted, site lines are very good and speeds are not that high.

Mr. Scalia stated the second set of stops were installed because the intersection south of the bridge is designed as an intersection. He noted there’s a sharp hairpin turn heading south to west or west to north. He stated he was asked to look at whether they could take that stop sign out in both directions. He noted as concerns turning radiuses of vehicles, specifically an SUV vehicle, which would be an oil-type truck or box truck, they can make the corner at low speeds, i.e., approximately 10 mph. He noted the posted speed limit in this area is 25 mph, and the road is designed for 30 mph. He stated his belief asking a vehicle to slow down to 10 mph, which is 60% slower than the posted speed limit, is a safety issue. He added the intersection was not designed to handle tractor trailer vehicles to go around that corner without crossing over the center line of the road. He noted the question was raised as to why this intersection was designed in this way. He explained there’s a trade-off between cost and practicality. He noted based on their analysis, truck traffic in this area is fairly low, but they still need to make accommodations for that occasional tractor trailer truck coming through that intersection to insure the safety of the public.

Mr. Scalia stated his opinion they can eliminate the mid-block stop sign, as long as they add additional signs to make sure the traveling public is well aware of the state law in that they are supposed to stop for pedestrians. He recommended the stop signs at the corner of the intersection remain in place.

Chief Sferrazza stated Sgt. Santanella, the Traffic Safety Officer, looked at this. He noted he looked at the same areas as Mr. Scalia did, and it’s their belief they don’t need the north stop sign because they believe they can achieve pedestrian safety by erecting other kinds of signs recommended by Tectonic Engineering. He noted they agreed the

Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 20 second stop sign has to stay in place because of what Mr. Scalia stated and what Sgt. Santanella found. He noted they are comfortable with the consultant’s findings.

Councilman Mangini agreed with Chief Sferrazza. She questioned whether they will jeopardize any funding if they remove a stop sign. Mr. Scalia stated he did not believe the Town would be in any jeopardy of losing the money if they remove that one stop sign.

It was the general consensus to go forward with these recommendations.

MISCELLANEOUS

NOMINATION #1196 by Councilman Nelson to appoint Laurie Longhi (D) to the Alternate position for the CRCOG Regional Planning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/2011.

MOTION #1197 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1197 adopted 9-0-0.

Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Laurie Longhi appointed, as an Alternate, to the CRCOG Regional Planning Commission by a 9-0-0 vote.

NOMINATION #1198 by Councilman Nelson to appoint Michael Dumont (R) to the CRCOG Regional Planning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/2011.

MOTION #1199 by Councilman Nelson, seconded by Councilman Keller to close nominations.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1199 adopted 9-0-0.

Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Michael Dumont appointed to the CRCOG Regional Planning Commission by a 9-0-0 vote.

PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS

There were no public comments.

Regular Meeting 02/07/2011 Page 21

COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS

Councilman Lee stated there’s an effort underway to start a series of profiles of each of the residents of Enfield that were killed in action. He noted he will work with some people to get that started. He stated the Enfield Press has signed on to be a partner in this effort. He noted the Enfield Press will publish these profiles when they’re completed. He stated the first profile should be completed and published in early April.

Councilman Lee stated Cub Scout Pack 819 held its first Pinewood Derby last weekend, and Michael Alaimo was the Pack champion, and he goes onto the regionals.

Councilman Mangini stated she received a text this evening from a resident asking if the public can get contact information for Peter Talbot from Cox Communications so that residents can have on-going communications.

Chairman Kaupin stated the Fourth of July Town Celebration Committee is holding their annual winter dinner dance on February 12 th at the Elks Hall.

ADJOURNMENT

MOTION #1200 by Councilman Bosco, seconded by Councilman Hall to adjourn.

Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #1200 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:00 p.m.