2000 April Minutes

TO:     Mayor Gene F. Eriquez and Members of the Common Council

RE:     Minutes of the Common Council Meeting held April 4, 2000

        Mayor Eriquez called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M. The Pledge of Allegiance and Prayer were offered. The members were recorded as:

        PRESENT Levy, McAllister, Smith, Saadi, Buzaid, Dean Esposito, Machado, Shuler, Coco, Arconti, John Esposito, Abrantes, Pascuzzi, Gallagher, Gogliettino, Michael Moore, Martin Moore, Saracino

        ABSENT Scalzo

        20 Present     - 1 Absent

PUBLIC SPEAKING

        1. Father Luke Mihaly, 74 Joes Hill Road spoke in favor of item 38, parking at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church

        2. John Cunningham, 6 Crosby Street spoke in favor of item 4
(At 7:40 P.M. Mr. Scalzo arrived and was marked present)

        3. Russell Lynn, 3 Golden Hill Avenue spoke in favor of item 4

Mayor Eriquez presented his annual Budget Address

        MINUTES Minutes of the Common Council Meeting held March 7, 2000. Mr. Arconti made a motion that the minutes be adopted as presented and the reading waived as all members have copies which are on file in the Office of the City Clerk for public inspection. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Motion carried unanimously.

        CONSENT CALENDAR John Esposito presented the following items for the Consent Calendar:

        7 - Adopt a resolution to apply for and accept funding for the State Local
Capital Improvement Program

16 Approve the appointment of Doris Pietras as an alternate to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities

17 Approve the reappointment of Sally Conroy to the Candlewood Lake Authority

18 Approve the appointment of Arthur Roberts and the reappointment of Jack Green and Art Colley to the Redevelopment Agency

19 Approve the loan of two voting machines to the Western Connecticut State University Student Government Association contingent upon their compliance with the necessary contracts.

20 Approve the appropriation of $47,600 to the Professional Services Fees line item in the Finance Department budget from the State Property in Lieu of Taxes revenue account

21 Approve the reappropriation of $5,000 from the excess State Revenue account to the Ordinances budget line item

22 Approve the transfer of $557 from the Elderly Services Donations Revenue account to the Commission on Aging budget

24 Approve the transfer of $10,500 from the excess State revenues account to the Corporation Counsel Outside Services account

25 Authorize Mayor Eriquez to sign the Memorandum of Agreement among local Chief Elected Officials of the Danbury Torrington Workforce Development Service Delivery Area

31 Receive the correspondence and approve the request to reimburse Edelman Metalworks in the amount of $4,465.34

32 Approve the application for a water extension for the Maple Glen Trailer Park on Blueberry Lane, subject to the normal eight steps and contingent upon Planning Commission approval

33 Accept the roadway at the Spring lot subdivision Ridgeside Road effective upon receipt of documents acceptable to the Office of the Corporation Counsel

35 Approve the extension of time for the sewer extension at 17 Mill Plain Road

36 Receive the report and the recommendations regarding Governmental Entities Review and refer the matter to public hearing

37 Receive the report and approve the recommendations regarding the request for traffic signal at Starr Avenue and Franklin Street

40 Receive the report and approve the recommendation regarding exchange of land on Mountainville Avenue

        Mr. Scalzo made a motion that the Consent Calendar be adopted as presented. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion carried unanimously.

        1 ORDINANCE and RESOLUTION An Ordinance Making Appropriations for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2000 and Ending June 30, 2001 and a Resolution Levying the Property Tax for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2000 and Ending June 30, 2001. Dean Esposito asked that this be deferred to public hearing and the various budget committees. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        2 ORDINANCE An Ordinance Appropriating $500,000 for Public Improvements in the 2000-2001 Capital Budget and Authorizing the Issuance of $500,000 Bonds and Bond Anticipation Notes of the City to meet said Appropriation. Mr. Machado asked that this be deferred to public hearing. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        3 ORDINANCE Amendment of Connecticut Basic Building Code. Mr. McAllister asked that this be deferred to public hearing. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        4 ORDINANCE “Responsible Employer” Codification of Required Contractual Provisions. Michael Moore asked that this be deferred to public hearing. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        5 RESOLUTION Moodry Peak

        RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Danbury:

        WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut “Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition” grant program is offering up to fifty (50%) percent reimbursement to municipalities for the acquisition of environmentally significant properties that are to be preserved as open space; and

        WHEREAS, if received, the grant would be used to purchase the Moodry Peak property adjoining Tarrywile Park; and

        WHEREAS, this acquisition is consistent with the long range goal of expanding Tarrywile Park to provide a linkage to Wooster Mountain State Park; and

        WHEREAS, based on the current assessed value and the projected appraisal value of this site, the grant application would seek grant funds in the approximate amount of $95,000.00; and

        WHEREAS, the direct cost to the City of Danbury for the balance of the acquisition cost is expected, therefore, to be in the range of $97,500.00 to $117,000.00; and

        WHEREAS, said City contribution is incorporated within the City capital budget proposal for FY 2000-2001 as submitted by the Planning Department;

        NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT Gene F. Eriquez, Mayor of the City of Danbury be and hereby is authorized to make application for grant funds providing reimbursement to the City of Danbury for fifty (50%) percent of the agreed acquisition price for the “Moodry Peak” open space property, and for the Mayor to accept such grant funding if awarded and enter into such agreements with the State of Connecticut as may be required in order to accomplish the goals hereof.

        Mr. Saadi made a motion to receive the communication, adopt the resolution and authorize the Mayor to accept such grant funding, if awarded, and enter into such agreements with the State of Connecticut as may be required. Seconded by Mr. Buzaid. Motion carried unanimously.

        6 RESOLUTION Targeted Capacity Expansion Initiative 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 alcohol and other drug dependent people and their families to address gaps in treatment capacity for the period of October 1, 2000 through September 30, 2001; and

        WHEREAS, for Federal Fiscal Year 2000-2001 grant funds not to exceed $500,000 requiring no local match, will be made available to the Danbury Health and Housing Department for the Targeted Capacity Expansion Initiative, upon approval of a grant application therefore; and

        WHEREAS, the Danbury Health and Housing Department will provide these services to alcohol and other drug dependent people and their families, serving both residents and non-residents with no restriction who may be serviced.

        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 the City funds, with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration regarding said grant, and to take all actions necessary to accomplish the purposes of these programs.

        Mrs. Abrantes made a motion that the communication be received, the resolution adopted and the Mayor be authorized to apply for said grant and to accept the grant award on behalf of the City of Danbury if such award is made. Seconded by Mr. Furtado. Motion carried with 20 yes and Martin Moore abstaining.

        7 RESOLUTION Local Capital Improvement Program

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $65,000.00 to cover the cost of Rogers Park Pond Restoration; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

034-88-010                    City Hall Roof Replacement            $ 65,311.00
034-88-020                    Replace Tanks/Boilers - City Bldgs             220,875.00
034-89-010                    Replace Cross Street Bridge              35,775.00
034-89-020                    Repair/Replace Roofs - City Bldgs              176,700.00
034-89-030                    Water Services - Tarrywile             123,668.23
034-89-050                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                         83,617.00
034-89-070                    Replace Cross Street Bridge            234,245.00
034-90-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                         59,945.00
034-90-020                    Downtown Green Design                   35,000.00
034-90-040                    Roof-Fire/Police Maintenance Bldgs        81,971.83
034-91-010                    Rebuild/Repave Roads                  517,828.42
034-92-010                    Downtown Green Construction            114,999.54
034-92-020                    Library Book Security System             39,807.75
034-92-030                    Triangle Street Bridge                109,000.00
034-92-040                    Cross Street Bridge                     94,320.74
034-92-050                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       143,878.00
034-93-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       318,011.52
034-93-020                    Replace Triangle Street Bridge           90,176.83
034-93-030                    Replace/Renovate HVAC-City Hall                  60,000.00
034-94-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       387,682.06
034-94-020                    Library Cooling Tower                   25,127.00
034-94-030                    Tarrywile Park Farmhouse                        28,000.00
034-95-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       449,196.95
034-95-020                    Rogers Park Field Improvements           14,749.00
034-96-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       437,352.68
034-96-020                    Field Improvements- Rogers Park                  19,420.30
034-97-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                       203,533.68
034-97-020                    Renovation Library Tech Center               260,000.00
034-98-010                    Rebuild/Repave Highways                                 434,023.82
034-99-10                     Renovate City Hall                    440,799.00

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $75,000.00 to cover the cost of exterior skin replacements to Public Works Roof; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $150,799.00 to cover the cost to Rebuild/Replace Highways; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $35,000.00 to cover the cost of the Patriot Garage Structural Improvements; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $11,000.00 to cover the cost of the City Hall Security System; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $30,000.00 to cover the cost of the Community Service Building Roof; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury is eligible to make application for State grant funds through the Office of Policy and Management under the Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) for local programs within the meaning of Section 7-536(a)(4) of the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury desires to make application for a State grant in the amount of $40,000.00 to cover the cost of the Library Technology Center Roof; and

        WHEREAS, said project is consistent with the City of Danburys capital improvement program authorized for a five year period by the Danbury Planning Commission February 3, 1999 and February 6, 2000; and

        WHEREAS, the City will maintain detailed accounting records of said project and make them available to the Office of Policy and Management of the State of Connecticut upon request; and

        WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby approves said project and its financing; and

        WHEREAS, the City of Danbury has received no prior local capital improvements grants under Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-536(a)(4) except for completed and reimbursed project numbers:

Projects-Completed/Reimbursed

Uncompleted Projects

034-98-020                    Renovate Farm Bldg-Tarrywile Park         25,000.00
        NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Mayor of the City of Danbury be and hereby is authorized to make application to the State of Connecticut under its Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP) in the amount of $40,000.00 for the Library Technology Center Roof to execute any contracts or agreements in connection therewith, to accept payments and to do any and all things necessary to effectuate the purposes hereof.

j:/resoluti/lociplibrary

        The communication was received and the resolutions to apply for and accept funding for the State Local Capital Improvement Program were adopted on the Consent Calendar.

        8 COMMUNICATION Donation for Work at Rogers Park

        Letter from Coordinator of Environmental & Occupational Health Services Jack Kozuchowski requesting permission to accept a donation in the amount of $28,554 from the Rotary Club Charitable Trust for subsidizing the work at Rogers Park Pond. Mr. Gogliettino made a motion to accept the communication and handle the donation in the customary and appropriate manner. Seconded by Mrs. Saracino. Motion carried unanimously.

        9 COMMUNICATION Millennium Project

        Letter from Assistant Director of Finance Kimberly Redenz requesting permission to accept donations for the Millennium Project. Mr. Furtado made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donations, credit the proper line item and send letters of thanks. Seconded by Mrs. Abrantes. Motion carried unanimously.

        10 COMMUNICATION Donations to the City Shelter

        Letter from Director of Welfare Deborah MacKenzie requesting permission to accept donations on behalf of the City Shelter. Mrs. Abrantes made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donations, credit the proper line items, and send letters of thanks. Seconded by Mr. McAllister. Motion carried unanimously.

        11 COMMUNICATION Donation to Danbury PAL Cal Ripken Baseball League

        Letter from Director of Parks and Recreation Director Robert Ryerson requesting permission to accept a donation of fencing from the Danbury PAL Cal Ripken Baseball League for Rogers Park fields. Mr. Pascuzzi made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donation and send a letter of thanks. Seconded by Mrs. Basso. Motion carried unanimously.

        12 COMUNICATION Donations to the Department of Elderly Services

        Letter from Director of Elderly Services Leo McIlrath requesting permission to accept donations in the total amount of $200 for the use of the Senior Center. Michael Moore made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donations, credit the proper line items and send letters of thanks. Seconded by Mr. Furtado. Motion carried unanimously.

        13 COMMUNICATION Donation to the SeniorNet Computer Program

        Letter from Director of Elderly Services Leo McIlrath requesting approval of a donation from SeniorNet National of a printer for the SeniorNet Computer program. Mrs. Abrantes made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donation and send a letter of thanks. Seconded by Mrs. Basso. Motion carried unanimously.

        14 COMMUNICATION Donation to the Fire Department

        Letter from Michael A. McLachlan, President of the Kiwanis Club of Danbury offering to donate the sum of $7,000 toward the third Cairns-Iris to be purchased by the City of Danbury Fire Department. Mr. McAllister made a motion that the communication be received, the donation accepted, the proper line item credited and a letter of thanks sent. Seconded by Mrs. Saracino. Motion carried unanimously.

        15 COMMUNICATION Donation for Improvements at Kennedy Park

        Letter from Mayor Gene F. Eriquez requesting permission to accept a donation in the amount of $500 by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks for the purpose of continued improvements to Kennedy Park. Mr. Machado made a motion to receive the communication, accept the donation, credit the proper line item and send a letter of thanks. Seconded by Mr. Shuler. Motion carried unanimously.

        16 COMMUNICATION Appointment as Alternate to the Commission on Persons with Disabilities

        Letter from Mayor Eriquez requesting confirmation of the appointment of Doris Pietras as an Alternate to the Commission on Persons with Disabilities for at term to expire March 1, 2003. The communication was received and the appointment confirmed on the Consent Calendar.

        17 COMMUNICATION Reappointment to the Candlewood Lake Authority

        Letter from Mayor Eriquez requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Sally Conroy to the Candlewood Lake Authority for a term to expire April 1, 2003. The communication was received and the reappointment confirmed on the Consent Calendar.

        18 COMMUNICATION Appointments to the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Danbury

        Letter from Mayor Eriquez requesting confirmation of the appointment of Arthur Roberts to the Redevelopment Agency for a term to expire January 1, 2004 and the reappointments of Jack Green and Art Colley to the Redevelopment Agency. The communication was received and the appointments confirmed on the Consent Calendar.

        19 COMMUNICATION Request for use of Voting Machines

        Request from Common Council Member Martin Moore requesting that the Student Government at Western Connecticut State University be allowed to borrow voting machines for student elections. The loan of two voting machines to the Western Connecticut State University Student Government Association was approved on the Consent Calendar contingent upon their compliance with the necessary contracts.

        20 COMMUNICATION Auditors Fees

        Request from Director of Finance Dominic Setaro that the sum of $47,600 be appropriated to the Professional Services/Fees line item in the Finance Departments budget for auditors to be hired to take over the responsibilities for two vacant positions in his office. The appropriation of $47,600 to the Professional Services Fees line item in the Finance Department budget from the State Property in Lieu of Taxes revenue account was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        21 COMMUNICATION & CERTIFICATION Funds for Ordinance Account

        Request from the City Clerks Office for the sum of $5,000 for the Common Council Ordinance Account for the remainder of the fiscal year. The reappropriation of $5,000 from the excess State Revenue account tot he Ordinances budget line item was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        22 COMMUNICATION Reappropriation of Donated Funds

        Request from Director of Elderly Services Leo McIlrath for a transfer of funds in the amount of $557 from the Elderly Services Account to the Commission on Aging budget. A certification of funds was attached. The transfer of funds in the amount of $557 from the Elderly Services Donations Revenue account to the Commission on Aging budget was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        23 COMMUNICATION Request for Funds for a Regional Safe Home for Children

        Mr. McAllister asked that this be referred to an ad hoc committee, the Director of Finance and the Director of Welfare. Mayor Eriquez so ordered and appointed Council Members Smith, Michael Moore and Saracino to the committee.

        24 COMMUNICATION Document Storage Microfilming

        Letter from Corporation Counsel Eric Gottschalk requesting the sum of $10,500 for microfilming of stored documents. A certification of funds was attached. The transfer of $10,500 from the excess state revenues account to the Corporation Counsel Outside Services Account was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        25 COMMUNICATION Workforce Investment Act Memorandum of Agreement

        Proposed Memorandum of Agreement among the thirty municipalities currently comprising the Danbury/Torrington Service Delivery Area established under the federal Job Training and Partnership Act. As of July 1, 2000, the federal Workforce Investment Act will supercede the JTPA. The agreement was received and the Mayor authorized to sign the Memorandum of Agreement among local Chief Elected Officials of the Danbury/Torrington Workforce Development Service Delivery Area on the Consent Calendar.

        26 COMMUNICATION Agreement for the Installation of an Automated Flood Warning and Response System

        Agreement from the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) entitled “Agreement for the Installation of an Automated Flood Warning and Response System”. The local share of $17,451 will be provided in the 2000-2001 fiscal year budget. Mr. Levy made a motion to receive the communication, adopt the resolution and authorizing the Mayor to enter into the agreement. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino.

        After discussion, Martin Moore moved that the agreement be amended to allow the City and the State the flexibility to place the local base station at a mutually acceptable location. Seconded by Mrs. Saracino. Motion carried unanimously. The main motion, as amended, carried unanimously.

        27 COMMUNICATION Request for Deferral of Assessment Increase Val-Starr

        Letter from Director of Planning Dennis Elpern submitted the application for a deferral of assessment increases for Val-Starr at 14 Starr Road, Danbury, Connecticut.   Mr. Arconti made a motion that the communication be received and the deferral of assessment increases be approved. Seconded by Mrs. Abrantes. Motion carried unanimously.

        28 COMMUNICATION Request to change name of Bridle Ridge Road to Society Hill.

        Mrs. Abrantes asked that this be referred to an ad hoc committee and the Planning Commission. Mayor Eriquez so ordered and appointed Council Members Abrantes, McAllister and Basso to the committee.

        29 COMMUNICATION Request for Sidewalks on East Hospital Avenue to Osborne Street

        Mr. Arconti asked that this be referred to the Director of Public Works for a report back within thirty days and that he be requested to look into alternatives to increase safety in this area. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        30 COMMUNICATION Ivy Lane Runoff Discharge

        Dean Esposito asked that this be referred to the Director of Public Utilities for a report back within thirty days. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        31 COMMUNICATION Edelman State Street Water Line Repair

        Request from Superintendent of Public Utilities that Edelman Metalworks be reimbursed in the amount of $4,465.34 for work they had done on a water line. The correspondence was received on the Consent Calendar and the request to reimburse Edelman Metalworks in the amount of $4,465.34 approved.

        32 - COMMUNICATION Request for Water Extension Blueberry Lane

        Request from Attorney Gary Michael for an extension of water for Maple Glen Trailer Park, together with a report from Acting Director of Public Works William Buckley and City Engineer Pat Ellsworth stating that the proposed extension is acceptable to them subject to the normal eight steps. The application for a water extension for the Maple Glen Trailer Park on Blueberry Lane subject to the normal eight steps and contingent upon Planning Commission approval was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        33 COMMUNICATION Spring Lot Subdivision Ridgeside Road

        Request from Edward Ogden that Spring Lot Subdivision Ridgeside Road be accepted as a City road. The roadway at the Spring Lot subdivision was accepted on the Consent Calendar effective upon receipt of documents acceptable to the Office of the Corporation Counsel.

        34 COMMUNICATION Request for Sewer Extension 83 Newtown Road

        Mr. Saadi made a motion to refer this to an ad hoc committee, the Planning Commission, the Superintendent of Public Utilities and the City Engineer. Mayor Eriquez so ordered and appointed Council Members Dean Esposito, Saadi and Martin Moore to the committee.

        35 COMMUNICATION Request for Sewer Extension 17 Mill Plain Road

        Letter from William Asmar requesting an eighteen-month extension for a sewer line permit for 17 Mill Plain Road received on April 1, 1997. The extension of time for the sewer extension at 17 Mill Plain Road was approved on the Consent Calendar.

        36 REPORT Governmental Entities Review

        Mr. Levy submitted the following report:

        The Committee appointed to review governmental entities met on March 8, 2000 at 7:00 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Levy, Furtado and Martin Moore. Committee Members Hale and LaClair notified the Chairman that they would be out of town and unable to attend. Also in attendance were Dennis Elpern, Executive Director of the RDA, Gerald Daly, Chairman of Tarrywile Park Authority and Sandy Moy, Business Manager.

        Mr. Levy called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. to review the following entities, Flood and Erosion Board, Redevelopment Agency, Tarrywile Park Authority, Housing Site Development Agency.

        Flood and Erosion Control Board

        The Common Council acts as the Flood and Erosion Control Board in accordance with the provisions of Section 25-84 of the Connecticut General Statutes. The Chairman of the Board is the President of the Common Council. The Chairman of the Board responded to the performance audit questionnaire sent out by the committee. The Board meets only when necessary in accordance with State Statute to plan, lay out, acquire, construct, repair, maintain, supervise and manage a flood or erosion control system such as dams. It has the power of condemnation and issuing of bonds. After a review of the questionnaire and the State Statute, Mr. Moore made a motion to re-establish the Flood and Erosion Control Board in accordance with the provisions of section 2-84 for a period of five years. Seconded by Mr. Furtado and passed unanimously.

        Redevelopment Agency

        Mr. Dennis Elpern, Executive Director of the Agency responded to the committees performance audit questionnaire and was in attendance. He explained that the agency has received authorization to expand the redevelopment area at 195-197 Main Street and is preparing a new redevelopment plan for properties north of East Franklin Street. The information that was supplied to the committee indicated that the agency was a benefit to the citizens and should be continued. Mr. Moore made a motion to re-establish that Redevelopment Agency in accordance with the provisions of Section 2-84 for a period of five years. Seconded by Mr. Furtado and passed unanimously.

        Tarrywile Park Authority

        Mr. Gerald Daly, Chairman of the Authority responded to the committees performance audit questionnaire and was in attendance with Ms. Sandy Moy, Business Manager. The committee was supplied with complete documentation on the operation of the authority and how it works for the benefit of the community. Current major projects that will expand and improve public use of the park include establishment of two new gardens, create additional parking areas and update the Master Plan of Development. After a very informative question and answer session, Mr. Furtado made a motion to re-establish the Tarrywile Park Authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 2-84 for a period of five years. Seconded by Mr. Moore and passed unanimously.

        Housing Site Development Agency

        Mr. Bernard Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the agency responded to the committees performance audit questionnaire. The agency operates in close conjunction with the City Housing Authority. Currently, it operates at no cost to the City. All documentation is maintained at the Housing Authority. Section 8-216b of the Connecticut State Statutes gives the agency the authority to enter into contract with the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development. Even though the agency has not been active lately, it might become useful in the future. It could provide financial assistance in the form of a grant or funds as they may become available. For that reason it has been recommended by Mr. Fitzpatrick not to terminate this Agency. Mr. Furtado made a motion to re-establish the Housing Site Development Agency in accordance with the provisions of section 2-84 for a period of five years. Seconded by Mr. Moore and passed unanimously.

        The report and recommendations were received on the Consent Calendar and the matter referred to public hearing.

        37 REPORT Request for Traffic Signal at Starr Avenue and Franklin Street

        Mr. Scalzo submitted the following report:

               The Common Council Committee appointed to review the request for a traffic signal at Starr Avenue and Franklin Street met on March 15, 2000 at 4:00 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Scalzo, Coco and Basso. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Public Works William Buckley, Police Chief Robert Paquette, Traffic Engineer Abdul Mohammed and several residents of the neighborhood.

        Mrs. Basso stated that she submitted the request because a car had hit a pedestrian. Mr. Scalzo referred to reports by the Traffic Engineer and the Police Chief citing the number of accidents and the causes of same. Radar has been put into effect several different times. The report of the Traffic Engineer cited the volume of traffic, evaluation of safety performance and contained some recommendations.

        Mrs. Basso and the residents stated that many more accidents occur annually than are stated in the report. Mrs. Basso submitted a letter from Gerasimos Alysandratos who is the owner of Keanes Liquor Store. The letter stated that he witnesses many accidents at the intersection of Starr Avenue and Franklin Street and that five years ago he called the Mayors Office to ask that a light be installed and he was told that he had to wait until there were two fatalities. Chief Paquette said that a four way stop was installed several years ago. He does not know why it was reversed.

        Problems contributing to the traffic conditions such as a school bus parked on the street and site line problems were discussed. Mr. Coco stated that the report shows 13,000 trips daily. In trying to take a left, the traffic is unrelenting. There is more than site line and parking problems here. Mr. Buckley stated that existing parking bans should be enforced prior to expanding no parking zones, then a four way stop should be considered. The Police Chief should take a closer look before the drastic measure of a light is considered. Mr. Scalzo stated that he was broadsided at Kennedy Avenue and Elm Street where there are numerous traffic lights.
Chief Paquette stated that it all boils down to the driving public.

        Mr. Buckley referred to page 5 of the report stating that as part of the I-84 Expressway and Interchange Improvements Study some changes that will affect traffic conditions on Starr Avenue are being considered. For this reason it is recommended that any major roadway/traffic investment not be implemented at the intersection of Franklin Street and Starr Avenue at this time. Mr. Mohammed explained the proposed changes. Mrs. Basso stated that the I-84 improvements might not start for five years and would not be finished for ten.

        Mrs. Betty Ireland requested that a crosswalk be put in because she observes many school children trying to cross this intersection. Mr. Buckley stated that perhaps there should be a crossing guard at this intersection. Mr. Scalzo said this was a good idea. Mr. Mohammed stated that crosswalks are installed upon demand. He had never had a request for one at this intersection. Depending on the conditions, a crosswalk might not work. You would need a crosswalk and a four way stop. A crosswalk by itself can be dangerous.

        Mr. Scalzo read the following recommendations contained in the report:

        *enforcement of no parking zones
        *reduce and enforce speed limit
        *upgrade and post appropriate warning signs
        *monitor traffic accident records for three years

        Mr. Coco asked if accident patters remain the same would the recommendations change. Chief Paquette said that the State has to put in lights and the State has strict guidelines. Mr. Mohammed said that the State requires a traffic volume of 30,000 cars as well as experience of significant delays.

        Mrs. Basso made a motion that the speed limit be reduced from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour east on Franklin Street to the I84 bridge and from the bridge down to Main Street and that a traffic light be installed at the intersection of Starr Avenue and Franklin Street. Seconded by Mr. Coco.

        Mr. Scalzo asked if the State had to be petitioned to reduce the speed. Mr. Buckley said it did and he would begin the paperwork after approval by the Common Council. He would then come back to the Common Council for the necessary funds if they were not in his budget. Chief Paquette stated that the Common Council couldnt request a traffic light. Only the traffic authority can do so. It would be foolhardy to make this request. Mrs. Basso withdrew her motion and Mr. Coco withdrew his second.

        Mrs. Basso made a motion to recommend that the Common Council request an updated study on traffic conditions on Starr Avenue and Franklin Street and request the Police Chief to look into reducing the speed limit from 30 miles to 25 miles per hour. Seconded by Mr. Coco. Motion carried unanimously.

        The report was received and the recommendations approved on the Consent Calendar.

        38 REPORT Parking at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church

        Mr. McAllister submitted the following report:

        The Common Council Committee appointed to review the parking problem at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church met at 6:30 P.M. In attendance were committee members McAllister, John Esposito and Martin Moore. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Public Utilities William Buckley and Corporation Counsel Eric Gottschalk, as well as the petitioners, Father Luke Mihaly and Elaine Trainor and several concerned citizens.

        The petitioners spoke of the parking problems facing them because of Western Connecticut State University students parking in the area, disregard of parking regulations and sporadic enforcement of the parking regulations. In addition to parking on Sunday they are looking for a few parking spaces during the daytime and several for weeknight activities. They are interested in using a piece of City owned land across the street to relieve their problem.

        Mr. Buckley stated that he was asked to look into the cost of converting a portion of the City land for parking use. It would cost approximately $10,000. Attorney Gottschalk stated that using City land for the exclusive use of this church or any church would be a violation of the separation of church and state provisions of the United States Constitution. If a secular use could be found there would be no violation. At this time, none could be found. It was noted that the piece of City land has been, and still is, being used by Roberts Avenue School for various recreational activities.

        Letters from Marie Langdon, Principal of Roberts Avenue School and Frances Evans, Physical Education Coordinator opposing the use of the land for parking were read into the record. It was also suggested that the Church make contact with Mrs. Langdon and Mr. Reily at A.C.E for use of their parking lots when school is not in session.

        The committee felt that suggestion of taking City land and using it for parking was beyond its scope. There was discussion that some parking be changed in the area of the Church and enforcement of the changes be done.

        Mr. Esposito made a motion to recommend to the local traffic authority that it change the parking on Roberts Avenue from 8^th Avenue to 9^th Avenue to one hour parking and that two of those spaces adjacent to the Church be handicapped spaces. Seconded by Mr. Moore. Motion carried unanimously.

        Mr. Levy made a motion to receive the report and adopt its recommendations. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Motion carried unanimously.

        39 DEPARTMENT REPORTS Fire Chief, Fire Marshall, Health and Housing, Public Works, Welfare. Mr. Arconti made a motion to approve the department reports as submitted and waive the reading as all members have copies which are on file in the Office of the City Clerk for public inspection. Seconded by Dean Esposito. Motion carried unanimously.

        40 REPORT Exchange of Land on Mountainville Avenue

        Mr. Buzaid submitted the following report:

        The Common Council Committee appointed to review the request for an exchange of land on Mountainville Avenue met on March 7, 2000 at 7:00 P.M. in the Third Floor Caucus Room in City Hall. In attendance were committee members Buzaid and Basso. Dean Esposito was absent. Also in attendance were Ed and Maureen Jencik.

        Mr. Buzaid read a letter from James Arconti, President of the Board of Trustees of the Danbury Museum and Historical Society, Inc. stating that the Executive Committee wished to decline the offer by the Jencik family to exchange 4 acres of land on Mountainville Avenue.

        Mrs. Basso made a motion to take no action. Seconded by Mr. Buzaid. Motion carried unanimously.

        The report was received and the recommendations approved on the Consent Calendar.

        41 COMMUNICATION Request for Surveillance Cameras in Downtown area

        Dean Esposito asked that this be referred to the Chief of Police for a report back within thirty days. Mayor Eriquez so ordered.

        Mayor Eriquez extended all committees.

        Mr. Arconti made a motion to reconsider item 8. Seconded by Mr. Gogliettino. Motion carried unanimously.

        Mr. Furtado made a motion to accept the sum of $18,554 from the Rotary Club of Danbury at this time. Seconded by Mrs. Saracino. Motion carried unanimously.

        Mayor Eriquez appointed the following budget committees:

        Government I Levy, Coco, Gogliettino, Michael Moore, Martin Moore
        Government II Smith, Buzaid, Abrantes, Arconti, Basso

        Public Safety Dean Esposito, Furtado, McAllister, Buzaid, Saracino

        Public Works Machado, John Esposito, Saadi, Pascuzzi, Martin Moore

        Education Gallagher, Scalzo, Abrantes, Shuler, Saracino

        There being no further business to come before the Common Council a motion was made by Mr. Gallagher for the meeting to be adjourned at 9:10 P.M.

                                           Respectfully submitted,

                                           ________________________________
                                           JIMMETTA L. SAMAHA
                                           Assistant City Clerk

                             ATTEST:        __________________________________
                                           Elizabeth Crudginton
                                           City Clerk