TO: Mayor Gene F. Eriquez and Members of the Common Council
RE: Minutes of the Special Meeting held May 15, 2001
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. The Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance were recited. The members were recorded as:
PRESENT
Levy, Scalzo, McAllister, Saadi, Buzaid, Machado, Shuler, David Furtado, Arconti, John Esposito, Abrantes, Pascuzzi, Basso, Manny Furtado, Gallagher, Gogliettino, Martin Moore, Saracino
ABSENT
Smith, Dean Esposito, Michael Moore
18 PRESENT 3 ABSENT
Michael Moore was working
NOTICE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING
There will be a Special Meeting of the Common Council on May 15, 2001 at 7:30 P.M. in the Common Council Chambers in City Hall for the purpose of acting upon the items below. Mr. Levy made a motion to accept the call and the return of the service. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion carried unanimously.
There were no members of the public that requested permission to address the Common Council.
1. ORDINANCE and RESOLUTION An Ordinance Making Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2001 and Ending June 30, 2002 and a Resolution Levying the Property Tax for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2001 and Ending June 30, 2002.
Mr. Levy made a motion to adopt the Ordinance and the Resolution. Seconded by Mr. Buzaid.
a. General Government I Budget Report
Mrs. Smith submitted the following report:
The General Government I Budget Committee met on April 17, 2001 in the Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Mary Smith, Emile Buzaid, David Furtado, Michael Pascuzzi and Mary Saracino. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Probate Judge Dianne Yamin, Library Director Betsy McDonough and Council Members Manny Furtado and Thomas Arconti ex-officio.
Mayors Office Mr. Setaro noted that during this budget year, adjustments are normally made for the next two budgets to the salaries of elected officials. The adjustments were take effect December 3, 2001 at a rate of three percent. The second year increase would be at four percent effective July 1, 2002. (See attachment). Mr. Buzaid made a motion to increase the salaries of elected officials at the rate of 3% for the fiscal year 2001-2002 and at the rate of 4% for the fiscal year 2002-2003. Seconded by Mr. Pascuzzi. Motion carried unanimously.
City Clerks Office Discussion was held concerning the restoration of the Assistant City Clerks position to fulltime. Mr. Setaro suggested amending the Contingency Account by the sum of $19,135.00. Mr. Buzaid made a motion to restore the Assistant City Clerks position to fulltime and adjust the contingency account by the sum of $19,135.00. Seconded by Mr. Pascuzzi. Motion carried unanimously.
Probate Court Judge Yamin asked that the funds cut from her postage line item and her Printing and Binding line item be restored. She explained that due to rising costs and state mandates these funds will be necessary. Mr. Buzaid made a motion that the funds in the amount of $585 be restored to the Probate Court postage account and that funds in the amount of $900 be restored to the Probate Court printing and binding line item. Seconded by Mrs. Saracino. Motion carried unanimously.
Library Ms. McDonough wanted to inform the committee that although she is comfortable with the Books line item she would like to be able to come back to the Common Council during the year if necessary for funds for the Books line item.
Town Clerk The request for a new fulltime position was discussed. Mr. Buzaid made a motion to take no action pending consolidation of present positions. Seconded by Mr. Pascuzzi. Motion carried unanimously.
Planning Mr. Setaro proposed that the Associate Planners position be upgraded to Assistant Planner since they have not be able to fill the associate position. Mr. Pascuzzi made a motion to add $8,768 to the Planning Department Salaries account for the upgraded position. Seconded by Mr. Buzaid. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Buzaid made a motion to recommend adoption of the General Government I Budget with the proposed changes as outlined as per attached. Seconded by David Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
(At 7:50 P.M. Mrs. Smith arrived and was marked present).
Mr. Arconti moved to receive the report. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Levy made a motion to divide the question. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. After much discussion, Mr. Levy withdrew his motion and Mr. McAllister withdrew the second.
Mr. Saadi made a motion to receive the report and adopt the recommendations contained in the General Government I report. Seconded by David Furtado.
Mr. Levy made a motion to divide the question. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion carried unanimously.
Recommendation of the committee to increase the Mayors salary. Recommendation failed with Mrs. Smith and Mr. Pascuzzi voting in the affirmative.
Recommendation of the committee to increase the City Clerks salary. Recommendation failed 7 yes 12 no.
(At 8:30 P.M. Dean Esposito arrived and was marked present)
Recommendation to increase the Town Clerks salary. Recommendation carried with 14 yes 6 no.
Recommendation to change Assistant City Clerks position back to full time. Mr. Saadi made a motion to restore the position to full time and not adjust the contingency account. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried with Mr. Gallagher voting in the negative.
Recommendation on Probate Court budget Recommendation carried with Mr. Scalzo abstaining.
Recommendation regarding Planning Department. Motion carried with Mr. Gallagher and Mr. Scalzo voting in the negative.
Mr. Arconti made a motion to increase the Registrars of Voters salary by three percent. Seconded by Mrs. Abrantes. Motion carried with Council Members Basso, Gallagher, Martin Moore and Saracino voting in the negative.
b. General Government II Budget Report
Mr. Levy submitted the following report:
The General Government II Budget Committee met at 8:20 P.M. on May 8, 2001 in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Levy, Arconti, Shuler and Basso. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Council Members Scalzo, Manny Furtado and John Esposito, ex-officio and members of the Danbury Animal Welfare Society.
Mr. Arconti made a motion that effective December 1, 2001 and July 1, 2002, the salary for the City Treasurer be increased by 3% for an amount of $420.00. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried with Mrs. Basso voting in the negative.
Mr. Levy stated that the Director of Finance has done an outstanding job keeping the City healthy and consistently winning awards. Mr. Arconti made a motion to increase the Director of Finances salary be an additional three percent (for a total of six percent) increasing the line item by $3,251.00. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried with Mrs. Basso voting in the negative.
Mr. Levy asked Mr. Setaro for an explanation of how the figure for the DAWS grant was arrived at. Mr. Setaro said that the Mayor proposed doubling the allocation. The requested amount was not approved because the 1999 statement showed $75,000 in cash and $60,000 in securities. Ms. Karlyn Sturmer said that in December 2000 DAWS was near to closing. They were back in the black in February 2001 due to a bequest. Mr. Scalzo asked if the other towns served by DAWS are contributing funds. Ms. Sturmer said not at this time. Mr. Arconti said he takes exception with this and if the other towns showed some interest, we would be more apt to participate. Ms. Sturmer said it is the intention to DAWS to seek funding from the other towns.
Mrs. Basso made a motion to grant an additional $1,000 to DAWS. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried unanimously.
Regarding Employee Health and Life Insurance, Mr. Setaro stated that the Mayor had budget for a 12% increase, but after receiving the annual renewal notice, we will need a 17.4% increase. Mr. Levy stated that this would cause a $220,000 shortfall. He inquired as to where we would obtain the funds. Mr. Setaro said that we would get it through the mil rate. Mrs. Basso made a motion to add $220,000 to the Employee Health and Life Insurance line item. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried unanimously.
In the Capital Budget Notes, under Police Headquarters renovations, the sum of $35,000 needs to be shifted to LoCIP and then $35,000 from Fire SCBA LoCIP will be shifted to Capital Notes. Mr. Arconti so moved. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried unanimously,
Mr. Arconti made a motion to adopt the General Government II Budget, as amended. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried with Mrs. Basso voting in the negative.
Mr. McAllister made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by David Furtado.
Mr. Arconti made a motion to revise the Employee Health & Life Insurance line item to $182,000. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Arconti made a motion to increase the City Treasurers salary by four percent in the 2002-2003 budget. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion carried with Council Members Buzaid, Manny Furtado, Gallagher, Martin Moore and Saracino voting in the negative.
Mr. Scalzo made a motion to remove $110,000 from LoCIP funds in the Capital Budget for use of the wastewater funds and add it to the sewer fund. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino. Motion failed 9 yes, 9 no and 2 abstentions, with Council Members Levy, Scalzo, McAllister, Saadi, Shuler, Basso, Gogliettino, Martin Moore and Saracino voting yes and Council Members Smith, Buzaid, Dean Esposito, Machado, Arconti, John Esposito, Abrantes, Pascuzzi, and Gallagher voting in the negative. David Furtado and Manny Furtado abstained.
General Government II Budget report, as amended, carried with Council Members Levy, Scalzo, Pascuzzi, Basso, Martin Moore and Saracino voting in the negative.
c. Education Budget
Mr. Gallagher submitted the following report:
The Common Council Education Budget Committee met on Thursday, April 2, 2001 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fourth Floor conference room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Gallagher, Saracino and Michael Moore. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connors, Assistant Superintendent Robert Dylewski, Board of Education Chairman Bobby Poole, Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Council Members Manny Furtado, John Gogliettino, Mary Smith and Warren Levy, ex-officio and members of the DHS Band Aids.
The meeting began with Mr. Gallagher asking the representatives from the Board of Education to give an update of their proposed budget. Mr. Connors stated that based upon certain updated information, as well as various suggestions from the Citys Finance Department that the Board of Educations budget request had been lowered to a 5.9% increase over last year. The initial increase requested was 11.18%. The revision was based upon certain factors:
The middle school after-school program at a cost of $150,000 would be funded directly by the City if the School system were unable to obtain the necessary funding through a grant.
$282,000 originally budgeted for furniture would be removed from next years budget and instead be part of a bond package.
The Board of Education is requesting that the Common Council pass a Resolution regarding forwarding any additional State funding for education which might be received after passing the budget.
The other major factor in reducing their budget request was a revisiting of their health insurance, which saved nearly $900,000.
Mr. Connors explained that much of the increase was for additional staff to cover increased high school enrollment, bilingual education, overall class size and additional custodial staff.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 P.M.
The committee reconvened on May 2, 2001 at 5:40 P.M. in Conference Room 3C in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Gallagher, Abrantes, Scalzo, Michael Moore and Saracino. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connors, Director of Finance Dominic Setaro and Council President Tom Arconti, ex-officio.
Discussion ensued regarding various budget details, including the fact that $282,000 for furniture wad removed from the Education Budget and will be part of the Mayors proposed bond package.
Mrs. Saracino moved to recommend approval of the Mayors proposed Education Budget. Mrs. Abrantes seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mrs. Abrantes moved to recommend to the Common Council appropriation of $150,000 from the Contingency Fund for the Middle School After-School Program in the event that the After-School Program grant does not come to fruition. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Saracino and passed unanimously.
Mrs. Abrantes moved to recommend to the Common Council that if additional State funding for education becomes available, that it be forwarded to the School System pending overall review of revenues. Seconded by Michael Moore and passed unanimously.
Mr. Scalzo made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by Mrs. Abrantes. Mrs. Saracino made a motion to amend the committee report to reflect that the $150,000 for after school care in the Middle Schools be derived from the Internal Services Fund rather than the Contingency Fund, if grant is not received. Seconded by Martin Moore. Motion carried unanimously.
Main Motion, as amended, carried unanimously.
d. Public Works Budget Report
Mr. Machado submitted the following report:
The Public Works Budget Committee met on April 24, 2001 at 7:05 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room. In attendance were committee members Machado, John Esposito, Gogliettino, Shuler and Martin Moore. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Director of Public Works William Buckley, Director of Parks and Recreation Robert Ryerson, Superintendent of Public Utilities Mario Ricozzi and Council Members Manny Furtado, Levy and Scalzo, ex-officio.
Public Buildings Martin Moore asked about the reduction in the Maintain Buildings-Structures account. Would this have an effect on the Volunteer Fire Companies? Mr. Setaro said that the volunteer fire companies come under the Fire Department budget. Mr. Gogliettino asked about the overtime salary account. Mr. Buckley stated that if someone leaves, money could be transferred from the salary line item. John Esposito asked about the garage and shop equipment line item reduction. Mr. Buckley said that he put in for a collection system for sawdust. It would be nice to have but it is not essential.
City Hall Building Mr. Machado asked if the bathrooms are handicapped accessible. Mr. Setaro said that they are code compliant and Mr. Buckley agreed saying that they are ADA compliant.
Senior Center Martin Moore asked if the Maintain Buildings-Structures account still needs to be funded. Mr. Setaro said that the City would still use that building.
Highways John Esposito noted that $36,000 was requested for the road construction and maintenance account, but the allocation was 0. Mr. Setaro said that this would be funded through a new bond issue. Mr. Esposito asked about the deletion of $50,000 from curbs and sidewalks. Mr. Setaro stated that this is contained in the State Aid Highway Projects line item. This hasnt been included in the Mayors budget for the last four or five years.
Recycling and Solid Waste Martin Moore asked about the drop in professional services. Mr. Ricozzi said it was due to the landfill closure.
Engineering A question was asked about the regular salaries account. Mr. Buckley stated that they are budgeted for full staff. However, they are down two engineers.
Parks and Recreation Mr. Ryerson stated that $41,000 has been added for an additional park maintainer due to the Citys investment in open space. Mr. Gogliettino asked about the Citys connection to the Sokol Club. Mr. Ryerson said that the City has purchased it.
Tarrywile Park Mr. Setaro noted that two items have been added; fencing and $2,000 for increased maintenance for the Childrens Garden.
Cultural Commission Martin Moore asked if this commission raises funds on their own. Mr. Setaro said that they do not.
Sewer Fund Martin Moore asked about vehicle replacement. Mr. Ricozzi said they would purchase a low body truck.
Water Fund Mr. Scalzo asked about the status of the administrative managers position. Mr. Buckley said he is reworking the job description. Mr. Ricozzi said it is a Civil Service position and will be advertised. John Esposito asked about the meters. Mr. Buckley said that the meter program began in 1981. Some are now 20 years old and need to be replaced; the equipment that reads the meters is outdated.
John Esposito made a motion to adopt the Public Works Budget as presented by the Mayor. Seconded by John Gogliettino. Under discussion, Martin Moore noted that overall the budget is good, except for the Cultural Commission. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Levy made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by Manny Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
e. Health & Housing, Public Safety and Social Services Report
Dean Esposito submitted the following report:
The Public Safety Budget Committee met on May 2, 2001 at 7:05 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Dean Esposito, Manny Furtado, McAllister, Saadi and Martin Moore. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Chief of Police Robert Paquette, Fire Chief Carmen Oliver, Director of Civil Preparedness Paul Estefan, Building Inspector Leo Null, Director of Health and Housing William Campbell, Director of Welfare Deborah MacKenzie and Council Members Levy, Scalzo, Pascuzzi, Arconti and Gogliettino, ex-officio.
Police Chief Robert Paquette stated that the Police Department has outgrown its current building. He said that the technical needs are a new radio system and the telephone recording system is becoming obsolete. Chief Paquette noted that it is his intention to purchase a mobile command post with the money in the forfeitures account. Chief Paquette stated that he has spoke with Paul Estefan regarding a centralized communications system for the Police, Fire and other emergency systems. Mr. Scalzo asked about a pay increase for school crossing guards. Chief Paquette said he had trouble hiring people for these positions and would like to see the pay increased by $1.00 per hour.
Martin Moore stated that he is concerned about the Danbury Animal Welfare Societys impact on our Animal Control operation. Captain Sullo said that in the near future some changes would have to be made.
Director of Welfare Deborah MacKenzie said that she is satisfied with her budget. She explained the programs her department is involved in. Martin Moore asked if her budget included any money for the Needle Exchange Program. Ms. MacKenzie said this is not her department.
Director of Health William Campbell said his department is oriented to enforcement and regulatory activities. He said that the needle exchange program is a grant and there are no City dollars involved. Mr. Saadi asked about the Outside Services account. Mr. Campbell said this is to be used for mosquito control activities.
Building Inspector Leo Null asked that the sum of $15,000 be restored to his budget for a part time services position. This is for a 19 hour per week position, which handles typing, freedom of information issues, record checking, etc. There is a busy year coming up and the paperwork warrants this position. Mr. Furtado made a motion to restore the sum of $15,000 to the Building Department Part Time Services account. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Motion carried unanimously
Director of Civil Preparedness Paul Estefan requested that $50,000 be added to the Capital Budget to be used for a review of the City communications system. Mr. Esposito asked if we could call in individuals to do a study on the system and then come back with a price.
Chief Oliver stated that his is a very workable budget. He said that he is trying to secure State funding for the training facility. Regarding the Volunteers, Mr. Esposito asked about the cost of audits for the individual firehouses. Mr. Setaro said that the cost would be between $10,000 and $20,000, but first the committee would have to agree to the audits. He suggested not doing anything with the line item now and then taking the funds from the Contingency Fund or finding it in the Chiefs budget at the appropriate time.
Mr. Saadi made a motion to adopt the Public Safety Budget, as amended. Seconded by Mr. Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Levy made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino.
Mr. Scalzo made a motion to amend the report by removing the $15,000 from Part Time Services Account in the Building Departments Budget. Seconded by Mr. Levy. Motion failed 12 8 with Council Members Levy, Scalzo, McAllister, Buzaid, Shuler, Arconti, John Esposito and Gallagher voting in the affirmative and Council Members Smith, Saadi, Dean Esposito, Machado, David Furtado, Abrantes, Pascuzzi, Basso, Manny Furtado, Gogliettino, Martin Moore and Saracino voting in the negative.
Main motion carried with Mr. Pascuzzi abstaining.
Mr. Arconti made a motion to adopt the Ordinance Making Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2001 and Ending June 30, 2002 and a Resolution Levying the Property Tax for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2001 and Ending June 30, 2002. Seconded by Dean Esposito.
Mr. Setaro read the following Ordinance and Resolution for the record:
AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2001 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2002.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DANBURY:
SECTION 1.
That the amounts hereinafter set forth aggregating $139,164,016 or so much as may be necessary, are hereby appropriated for the General Fund, from current revenue, for the use of the several departments of the Municipal Government and for the purpose hereinafter mentioned for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2001 and ending June 30, 2002.
MAYORS FINAL
I.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT BUDGET BUDGET
Common Council $ 8,600 $ 8,600
Mayors Office 292,224 292,224
City Clerks Office 72,839 91,974
Ordinances 7,160 7,160
Probate Court 12,765 14,250
Registrars & Elections 121,557 123,877
City Treasurer 24,198 24,618
Director of Finance 734,668 737,919
Data Processing/Info Tech 1,199,842 1,199,842
Independent Audit 38,300 38,300
Bureau of Assessments 331,325 331,325
Board of Assessment & Appeals 4,000 4,000
Tax Collector 486,147 486,147
Purchasing 240,806 240,806
Corporation Counsel 747,338 747,338
Town Clerk 396,180 397,290
Annual Report 5,000 5,000
Planning Department 523,757 532,525
Conservation Commission 9,565 9,565
Personnel Department/Civil Service 311,562 311,562
Mayors Discretionary Fund 10,000 10,000
Fair Rent Commission 1,450 1,450
City Memberships 71,882 71,882
Lake Authority 45,143 45,143
Retirement Administration 91,750 91,750
Labor Negotiations 58,000 58,000
MAYORS FINAL
BUDGET BUDGET
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Public Buildings 823,720 823,720
City Hall Building 286,430 286,430
Library Building 137,226 137,226
Police Station Building 162,770 162,770
Senior Center Building 25,935 25,935
Old Library Building
30,640 30,640
TOTAL GENERAL GOVERNMENT
$ 7,312,779 $ 7,349,268
II.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Police Department $10,758,383 $10,758,383
Animal Control 163,586 163,586
Fire Department 8,076,781 8,076,781
Ambulance Fund 221,705 221,705
Building Inspector 560,540 575,540
Department of Civil Preparedness
4,150 4,150
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY
$19,785,145 $19,800,145
III.
PUBLIC WORKS
Highways $ 1,934,492 $ 1,934,492
State Aid Highways 475,128 475,128
Snow and Ice Removal 358,500 358,500
Street Lighting 407,000 407,000
Public Building Maintenance and Repair 443,955 443,955
Equipment Maintenance 743,812 743,812
Recycling/Solid Waste 279,500 279,500
Engineering Department
988,194 988,194
TOTAL PUBLIC WORKS
$ 5,630,581 $ 5,630,581
IV.
HEALTH & HOUSING DEPARTMENT
Health & Housing
$ 836,276 $ 836,276
TOTAL HEALTH & HOUSING
$ 836,276 $ 836,276
MAYORS FINAL
BUDGET BUDGET
V.
PUBLIC WELFARE, SOCIAL AGENCIES
Welfare Department $ 297,114 $ 297,114
Veterans Advisory Center 52,816 52,816
Commission on Aging 253,783 253,783
Elderly Transportation 12,000 12,000
Grants Human Services
1,234,677 1,235,677
TOTAL PUBLIC WELFARE, SOCIAL AGENCIES
$1,850,390 $1,851,390
VI.
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Schools, Regular $76,786,234 $76,786,234
Schools, Health & Welfare
250,000 250,000
TOTAL SCHOOL BUDGET
$77,036,234 $77,036,234
VII.
LIBRARIES
Danbury Public Library $ 1,765,523 $ 1,765,523
Long Ridge Library
6,250 6,250
Total libraries
$ 1,771,773 $ 1,771,773
VIII.
PARKS & RECREATION
Parks & Recreation/Forestry $ 1,644,031 $ 1,644,031
Tarrywile Park Authority 232,594 232,594
Cultural Commission 65,000 65,000
Lake Kenosia Commission
2,500 2,500
TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION
$ 1,944,125 $ 1,944,125
IX.
RECURRENT COSTS
FICA
$ 1,163,445 $ 1,163,445
Pension Expense
3,247,000 3,247,000
Employee Service Benefit
182,603 182,603
Workers Compensation
467,752 467,752
State Unemployment Compensation
20,000 20,000
Employee Health & Life Insurance
6,156,772 6,338,772
Union Welfare
564,408 564,408
MAYORS FINAL
BUDGET BUDGET
RECURRENT COSTS
Insurance & Official Bond Premium
1,877,003 1,877,003
TOTAL RECURRENT COSTS
$13,678,983 $13,860,983
X.
DEBT SERVICE
Interest on Debt
$ 1,456,354 $ 1,456,354
Interest on Debt School
1,229,745 1,229,745
Redemption of Debt
2,947,112 2,947,112
Redemption of Debt School
2,025,000 2,025,000
TOTAL DEBT SERVICE
$7,658,211 $7,658,211
XI.
CAPITAL PROGRAM
0 0
TOTAL CAPITAL PROGRAM
0 0
XII.
TRANSPORTATION
Danbury Airport
$ 303,413 $ 303,413
H.A.R.T.
631,617 631,617
TOTAL TRANSPORTATION
$ 935,030 $ 935,030
XIII.
CONTINGENCY
$ 490,000 $ 490,000
TOTAL CONTINGENCY
$ 490,000 $ 490,000
TOTAL BUDGET
$138,929,527 $139,164,016
SECTION 2
. That the amount of $176,086 is appropriated to the ANIMAL CONTROL FUND in the same manner as set forth in Section 1 hereof.
SECTION 3
. That the amount of $5,222,750 is appropriated to the WATER FUND in the same manner as set forth in Section 1 hereof.
SECTION 4
. That the amount of $7,797,000 is appropriated to the SEWER FUND in the same manner as set forth in Section 1 hereof.
SECTION 5
. That the amount of $1,310,800 is appropriated to the AMBULANCE FUND in the same manner as set forth in Section 1 hereof.
SECTION 6
. That the amount of $11,072,022 is appropriated to the STATE AND FEDERAL SCHOOLS PROJECTS in the same manner as set forth in Section 1 hereof.
SECTION 7
. That a provision for uncollectible taxes reserve is established in the amount of 0-.
A RESOLUTION LEVYING THE PROPERTY TAX FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING JULY 1, 2001 and ENDING JUNE 30, 2002
SECTION 1. The sum of $108,576,595 representing the gross appropriation for the City of Danbury of $138,929,527 for the fiscal year of July 1, 2001 and ending June 30, 2002, minus Indirect Revenue of $30,352,932 plus uncollectible taxes reserve in the amount of $-0- is hereby levied and assessed on all taxable property in the City of Danbury as set forth on the annual Grand List as of October 1, 2000.
SECTION 2. Accordingly, the General Fund Tax Rate for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2001 and ending June 30, 2002 shall be as follows:
TAX RATE: 24.30 MILLS
SECTION 3. The taxes levied and assessed as hereinafter provided shall be payable in quarterly installments on July 1, 2001, October 1, 200l, January 1, 2002 and April 1, 2002 except for taxes levied and assessed on mobile homes, motor vehicles and where not in excess of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00), which taxes shall be paid on July 1, 2001, in accordance with the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut, unless said dates shall have lapsed before the effective date of this resolution, in which case the Tax Collector shall fix the dates and installments as if said dates had not been fixed herein as provided by law.
SECTION 4. The Tax Collector shall cause the said taxes above levied and assessed to be inserted on the tax rolls for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2001 and ending June 30, 2002.
Motion carried with Council Members Basso, Martin Moore and Saracino voting in the negative.
2 ORDINANCE An Ordinance Appropriating $500,000 For Public Improvements in the 2001-2002 Capital Budget And Authorizing the Issuance of $500,000 Bond of the City to Meet Said Appropriation and Pending the Issuance Thereof The Making of Temporary Borrowings For Such Purposes. WITHDRAWN
3 ORDINANCE & RESOLUTIONS Health and Housing
Be it Ordained by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
THAT Subsection (a) of Section 9-8 of the Code of Ordinances of Danbury, Connecticut is hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 9-8. Subsurface sewage disposal system permit.
(a) No subsurface sewage disposal system permit shall be issued by the health department of the City of Danbury until the applicant has paid the required permit fee of one hundred dollars ($100.). No subsurface sewage disposal system shall be repaired until a permit authorizing said repair has been issued by the health department of the City of Danbury and the applicant has paid the required permit fee of seventy-five dollars ($75.00).
RESOLUTION
RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has enacted a food service establishment ordinance designated as Chapter 8A of the Danbury Code of Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, Section 8A-6 of said ordinance provides for the establishment of an annual schedule of fees to be collected to defray the expense of food service establishment licensing,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DANBURY, THAT:
The Director of Health is hereby authorized and empowered to impose the following fees for all licenses issued from July 1 through June 30 of each fiscal year.
1. All food service establishments, except food stores and markets, having a seating capacity of from zero (0) to fifty (50) seats shall pay an annual fee of seventy-five dollars ($75.00).
2. All food service establishments, except food stores and markets, having a seating capacity of from fifty-one (51) to one hundred (100) seats shall pay an annual fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00)
3. All food service establishments, except food stores and markets, having a seating capacity of more than one hundred (100) seats shall pay an annual fee of one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
4. All food stores and markets having a (retail) area of fifteen hundred (1500) square feet or less shall pay an annual fee of fifty dollars ($50.00).
5. All food stores and markets having a (retail) area of from fifteen hundred and one (1501) to three thousand (3,000) square feet shall pay an annual fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00).
6. All food stores and markets having a (retail) area of over three thousand (3000) square feet shall pay an annual fee of one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
7. Any food service establishment that fails to renew its license in accordance with the provisions of Section 8A-7 of the Danbury Code of Ordinances on or before August 1 of the applicable fiscal year shall be subjected to a late payment fee of fifty dollars ($50.00).
8. The fees established in paragraphs 1 through 6 hereof are intended to defray the costs associated with routine periodic inspections of food service establishments. All such establishments requiring additional inspections due to the existence of conditions observed during routine inspections, which require correction and therefore reinspection, shall pay a fee of fifty ($50.00) dollars for the first such reinspection and a fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00) per reinspection for every subsequent reinspection.
9. Any plan review and inspection required pursuant to Section 8A-2 and 8A-3 of the Danbury Code of Ordinances in connection with the construction alteration or remodeling of food service establishments shall be performed by the Director of Health or his designee upon payment of a fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00).
10. All food service establishments requiring more than one pre-operational inspection pursuant to Section 8A-3 of the Danbury Code of Ordinances due to the existence of conditions observed during the first pre-operational inspection which require correction and therefore reinspection, shall pay a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first such reinspection and a fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00) per reinspection for every subsequent reinspection.
11. Any temporary food service establishment may obtain a license for its operations pursuant to Section 8A-8 of the Danbury Code of Ordinances upon payment of a twenty dollar ($20.00) license fee.
12. No license fee shall be required of a not for profit entity operating a food service establishment where no fee is charged for the food.
RESOLUTION
RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has enacted an ordinance designated as section 10-11 of the Danbury Code of Ordinances concerning, among other things, the licensing of rooming houses and hotels; and
WHEREAS, paragraphs (e) of subsection 10-11(1) provides for the establishment of a reasonable schedule of annual fees to be collected to defray the expense of licensing rooming houses and hotels.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DANBURY, THAT:
The director of health is hereby authorized and empowered to impose a licensing fee of four dollars ($4.00) per room for each habitable room in each such rooming house or hotel. Said fee shall be imposed for all such licenses issued from July 1 through June 30 of each fiscal year.
Mr. Arconti made a motion that the Ordinance and Resolutions be adopted. Seconded by Manny Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
4 ORDINANCE Building Department Permit Fees
Be it Ordained by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
THAT Subsection 6-02(a) and 6-02(b) of the Code of Ordinances of Danbury, Connecticut are hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 6-02. Amendment of Connecticut Basic Building Code.
(a) Fees Generally
(1) In accordance with the provisions of Section 29-252-112.3.1 of the Connecticut Basic Building Code, before receiving a building permit the owner or his agent shall pay a fee in accordance with the following schedule and based on the value of the work to be performed:
Valuation of Work Fee
For single and multi-family residential
Structures below one thousand dollars
($1,000.00) in value Twenty Dollars ($20.00)
One thousand dollars ($1,000) and above Twenty Dollars ($20.00) for
The first one thousand
Dollars ($1,000.00) in value
Plus ten dollars ($10.00) for
Each additional one
Thousand dollars ($1,000)
Or part thereof
For commercial and industrial structures Sixteen dollars ($16.00) per
One Thousand dollars
($1,000.00) or part thereof.
For separate permits, available at the option Four dollars ($4.00) for each
Of the owner, covering mechanicals, electrical one hundred dollars ($100)
Plumbing, heating and air conditioning, sprinklers in value up to one thousand
Chimneys and fireplaces dollars ($1,000.00) plus ten
Dollars ($10.00) for each
Additional one thousand
Dollars ($1,000.00)
No application for a building permit shall be processed without payment of the foregoing fees. If after the filing of an application for a building permit a change is made to the scope of the work to be performed which affects the value of the work, a new fee shall be calculated. Any increase in fee shall be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit unless a building permit has already been issued, in which case said increased fee shall be paid prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Any decrease in fee resulting from a change in the work shall be refunded in accordance with the provisions of subsection (e) hereof.
(2) The fee established in paragraph 6-02(a)(1) shall cover the eight (8) inspections specified herein or so many thereof, as are required or applied for on any particular project. Required inspections to the extent applicable, include:
a. Soil conditions
b. Footing drains and waterproofing
c. Rough electrical
d. Rough plumbing
e. Framing
f. Insulation
g. Gas or oil burner
h. Final; including, but not limited to, electrical, plumbing, fire divisions and exits.
Additional inspections shall be performed for an additional fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per inspection. Each separate trip to the site shall be deemed to be a separate inspection. Such additional fees shall be due and payable prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. The holder of a valid building permit may request that some or all of the foregoing inspections be performed outside of normal business hours. The Danbury building official may authorize performance of such inspections outside of normal business hours if appropriate personnel are available to provide such service. No certificate of occupancy shall be issued to any permit holder for whom inspections have been performed outside of normal business hours until the permit holder has paid a fee to cover the additional expense incurred by the city in connection with such inspections. All such fees shall be in an amount equal to the wages paid to personnel performing said inspections.
(b) Additional fees. Before receiving a permit or certificate for the following uses or for the conduct of any of the following activities, the owner or his agent shall pay the fee prescribed below:
Type of Permit or Certificate Fee
(1) Demolition permits Three percent (3%) of the actual
cost of demolition
(2) Permits for the moving of buildings Two hundred and fifty dollars
($250.00) per building
(3) Permits for wood stoves Fifty dollars ($50.00) each
(4) Permits for tanks
a. with a capacity of six hundred and sixty Fifty dollars ($50.00) each
(660) gallons or less
b. with a capacity of more than six hundred
and sixty (660) gallons but less than two Seventy five dollars ($75) each
thousand (2000) gallons
c. with a capacity of two thousand (2000)
gallons or more One hundred dollars ($100.00) each
(5) Permits for signs
a. If ten (10) square feet or less Ten dollars ($10.00)
b. If in excess or ten (10) square feet Ten dollars ($10.00) for the first ten
(10) square feet plus fifty cents
for each additional square foot or
part thereof
(6) Certificate of Occupancy Twenty Five Dollars ($25.00) each
(7) Pools Fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first
one thousand dollars ($1,000.00)
in value plus ten dollars ($10.00)
for additional one thousand dollars
($1,000) or part thereof
Dean Esposito made a motion to adopt the Ordinance. Seconded by Manny Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
5 RESOLUTION Neighborhood Assistance Act
Mr. Arconti requested that this be deferred to Public Hearing. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.
6 RESOLUTION Mental Health Grant
RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
WHEREAS, the Department of Health and Human Services, through the Public Health Service, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has made grant funds available to local government to provide additional services to improve the mental health of children and their families for the period of October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002; and
WHEREAS, for the time period of October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002, grant funds not to exceed $664,642 requiring no local match, will be made available to the Danbury Health and Housing Department for the Building Mentally Healthy Communities Initiative, upon approval of a grant application therefore; and
WHEREAS, the Danbury Health and Housing Department will provide these services to children and their families, serving both residents and non-residents with no restrictions on whom may be served.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT Gene F. Eriquez, Mayor of the City of Danbury or William J. Campbell, Director of Health, as his designee, is authorized to apply for said grant and to accept the grant award on behalf of the City of Danbury, if such award is made. Any prior actions of the Mayor or the Director of Health regarding this application are hereby ratified.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Mayor Gene F. Eriquez is hereby authorized to make, execute and approve on behalf of the City of Danbury all contracts/agreements or amendments thereof, which do not require expenditure of City funds with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration regarding said grant, and to take all actions necessary to accomplish the purpose of these programs.
Mr. Gogliettino made a motion to receive the communication to adopt the Resolution. Seconded by Mr. Gallagher. Motion carried with Council Members Levy, Scalzo and McAllister voting in the negative.
7 RESOLUTION Safe Summer Youth Program
RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management will be providing funds for a Summer Youth Recreation program for at risk youth; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the Summer Youth Recreation Program is to provide structured recreational activities directed toward youth which will combat idleness and promote positive development, self esteem and social skills; and
WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to receive a maximum grant of $45,000 for expanded or new summer youth recreation programs for the period of July 1, 2001 through the start of the school year; and
WHEREAS, the acceptance of said funds is deemed to be in the best interest of the City of Danbury with no local cash match required.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, Mayor Gene F. Eriquez, or his designee Robert Ryerson, Director of Parks and Recreation be and hereby are authorized to apply for said grant and to execute any necessary contracts or amendments thereto should said grant be awarded to the City, and to execute any other required documents or take any other action to effectuate the purposes hereof.
Mr. Saadi made a motion to receive the communication and adopt the Resolution. Seconded by David Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.
8 RESOLUTION Driving Under the Influence Safety Grant
RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:
WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation Division of Highway Safety has made a grant available in the amount of $4,400 for the Driving Under the Influence Enforcement Program; and
WHEREAS, a 50% local cash match is required.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, Mayor Gene F. Eriquez is hereby authorized to apply for said grant and to accept grant funds if approved, and Mayor Gene F. Eriquez is authorized to sign all contracts necessary to effectuate the purposes of said grant. Any prior acts of the Mayor in applying for such grant funds are hereby ratified.
Dean Esposito made a motion to receive the communication and adopt the resolution. Seconded by Mrs. Abrantes. Motion carried unanimously.
9 RESOLUTION Preventive Health Care Block Grant
WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health has notified the City of Danbury Health and Housing Department that it is eligible to apply for a Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant in an amount not to exceed $13,006.00; and
WHEREAS, the grant will cover the period of September 1, 2001 through June 30, 2002 with no local in kind match; and
WHEREAS, the funding will be used for a Youth Violence Prevention program in conjunction with the School Based Health Centers located at Danbury High School and Broadview Middle School.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT Gene F. Eriquez, Mayor of the City of Danbury is hereby authorized to apply for said funds from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and to accept the grant, if awarded;
AND, FURTHER, Mayor Gene F. Eriquez is hereby authorized to execute all contracts/agreements in connection therewith and to do all things necessary to effectuate the purposes of said grant.
Mrs. Abrantes made a motion to receive the communication and adopt the Resolution. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Motion carried unanimously.
10 REPORT Local Capital Improvement Program
Mr. Arconti submitted the following report:
The Common Council Committee appointed to review the Local Capital Improvement Program Resolution met on May 8, 2001 at 6:35 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Arconti, John Esposito and Basso. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dominic Setaro, Corporation Counsel Eric Gottschalk, Director of Public Works William Buckley, Assistant Corporation Counsel Dan Casagrande, Council Members Warren Levy, Michael Pascuzzi and Helena Abrantes, ex-officio and Lynn Waller.
Mr. Levy expressed concern about including the two sewer items in the LoCIP package. Mr. Setaro stated that the items would have to go into the sewer fund and that would likely cause the rates to go up. It could be included in the bond package that will be proposed in the Fall. This would probably not affect sewer rates. Mr. Buckley stated that both items are components of the sewer plant and it does benefit septic users as well as sewer users.
Mr. Gottschalk reviewed the Charter language. He believes that language is meant to include “net cost” of the improvements. We are not prevented from including this in LoCIP. Mr. Setaro explained that this is not different from accepting grants from the State to accomplish similar projects. He said the assets will be part of the sewer enterprise.
John Esposito moved to recommend that the Common Council approve the LoCIP package and attached resolutions as presented. Seconded by Mrs. Basso. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Gallagher made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Mr. Levy made a motion to amend the report to delete $110,000 from LoCIP. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion failed 7 yes, 11 no and two abstentions.
Main motion carried with Council Members Levy, Scalzo and McAllister voting in the negative.
11 RESOLUTION Fire Department Grant
Mr. McAllister asked that this be referred to the existing 911 Emergency System committee. Mayor Eriquez so ordered and noted that the committee consists of Council Members Manny Furtado, Abrantes and Saracino, the Fire and Police Chiefs, the Director of Finance, the 9ll Supervisors, the Corporation Counsel and the Director of Civil Preparedness.
The Mayor extended all committees.
There being no further business to come before the Common Council a motion was made at 10:48 P.M. by Mr. Gallagher for the meeting to be adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
______________________________
JIMMETTA L. SAMAHA
Assistant City Clerk
ATTEST: _______________________________
Elizabeth Crudginton, City Clerk