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FINANCE / CLAIMS
COMMITTEE ACTIONS
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ATTENDANCE: Carvin Hillard, Chairman; Gwen Briggs, Mathew Miklave,
Douglas Sutton, Kelly Straniti
STAFF: Frederic Gilden, Comptroller, Thomas Hamilton, Director of Finance
OTHERS: Lisa Biagiarelli, Tax Collector; Susan Gunn Bromley,
Norwalk
Museum Curator; Walter Briggs, Planning Commission Chairman;
Michael Greene, Planning and Zoning Director
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Hillard called the meeting to order at 8:12 p.m.
1. Claims Committee: receive the monthly Claims report; review and approve claims as required for Claims Report dated: June 14, 2006
** MS. STRANITI MOVED TO RECEIVE THE CLAIMS COMMITTEE’S MONTHLY CLAIMS REPORT AND APPROVE CLAIMS AS REQUIRED FOR CLAIMS REPORT DATED JUNE 14, 2006 AS PRESENTED.
Mr. Miklave stated for the record that he was not recusing himself from the issue. Ms. Biagiarelli reviewed the report for the Committee.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. Narrative on Tax Collections dated June 14, 2006 - Receive Report and discuss.
** MS. STRANITI MOVED TO RECEIVE THE TAX COLLECTIONS REPORT DATED JUNE 14, 2006.
Ms. Biagiarelli presented her report to the Committee and stated that the tax collection was where it should be for this period of the year. She stated that the tax bills would be mailed in the near future and requested that the Committee members notify her via email when they receive their bills. This, she explained, helps her check for mailing and other problems.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
3. Monthly Tax Collector’s Report dated May 31, 2006 - Receive Report and discuss
** MS. STRANITI MOVED TO RECEIVE THE TAX COLLECTIONS REPORT DATED MAY 31, 2006.
Ms. Biagiarelli presented her report to the Committee and reviewed the keynotes.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
4. Authorize the Mayor, Richard A. Moccia, to execute general
liability insurance placements for the FY 2006-07 fiscal year with the Connecticut
Interlocal Risk Management Agency (CIRMA) for an amount not-to-exceed $627,155.
Account #168510-5418
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE PLACEMENTS FOR THE FY 2006-07 FISCAL YEAR WITH THE CONNECTICUT INTERLOCAL RISK MANAGEMENT AGENCY (CIRMA) FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $627,155. ACCOUNT #168510-5418
Mr. Hamilton presented the report to the Committee and explained
that he had not received the final numbers until earlier in the day. He stated
that a full Request for Qualifications (RFQ) has been done last year and informed
the Committee that this was the second years
of the contract. He also reviewed the terms for the Connecticut Interlocal
Risk Management (CIRMA) coverage for the Committee. One change was a decision
to keep the Flood Coverage the same and reducing the Earth Movement coverage.
Other factors include the upcoming change as construction at Brien McMahon
is completed and other renovations begin at other school facilities. Site
assessments will be performed at the various locations to insure proper coverage.
A discussion regarding the policy changes followed. Mr. Hamilton stated that
the Risk Manager was recommending that coverage be continued.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. Authorize the Mayor, Richard A. Moccia, to execute property insurance placement for the FY 2006-07 fiscal year with the HD Segur Insurance Agency in an amount not-to-exceed $209,338.. Account #168510-5418
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE PROPERTY INSURANCE PLACEMENT FOR THE FY 2006-07 FISCAL YEAR WITH THE HD SEGUR INSURANCE AGENCY IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $209,338. ACCOUNT #168510-5418
Mr. Hamilton reviewed the aspects of this particular coverage and stated that the Risk Manager was recommending that coverage be approved.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
6. Authorize the Mayor, Richard A. Moccia, to execute contract changes with the HD Segur Insurance Agency relative to property insurance placement in an amount not-to-exceed $50,000. (25% of contract total). Account #168510-5418
** MS. BRIGGS MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE CONTRACT CHANGES WITH THE HD SEGUR INSURANCE AGENCY RELATIVE TO PROPERTY INSURANCE PLACEMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $50,000. (25% OF CONTRACT TOTAL). ACCOUNT #168510-5418
Mr. Hamilton reviewed the aspects of this particular coverage and stated that the Risk Manager was recommending that coverage be approved.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
7. Receive Board of Estimate and Taxation Special Appropriations from June 5, 2006 meeting.
MS. STRANITI MOVED TO RECEIVE THE SPECIAL APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE JUNE 5, 2006 MEETING OF THE BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2005-2006:
1. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $17,996 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM INCREASED ESTIMATED REVENUES TO THE RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT TO PAY FOR LABOR AND MATERIALS TO COMPLETE DEVON’S PLAYGROUND. (ACCOUNT NUMBERS VARY.)
2. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $62,000 BE AND THE SAME
IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM CONTINGENCY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS TO
PAY FOR A SHORTFALL IN CLEANING SERVICES.
(ACCOUNT NUMBERS VARY.)
3. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $20,000 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM CONTINGENCY TO THE PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT TO PAY FOR A SHORTFALL IN LEGAL SERVICES FOR CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS AND ARBITRATION (ACCOUNT NO. 01-0700-5458).
4. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $17,939 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM CONTINGENCY TO THE COMBINED DISPATCH AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLANNING DEPARTMENT TO PAY FOR A NEW STANDBY TRANSMITTER. (ACCOUNT NO. 01-3620-5743).
5. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $13,100 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM CONTINGENCY TO THE HISTORICAL COMMISSION TO PAY FOR COMMON AREA MAINTENANCE CHARGES FOR THE NORWALK MUSEUM AND THE BALANCE OF THE LEASE PAYMENT FOR THE BUILDINGS AT MILL HILL PARK (ACCOUNT NO. 01-6300-5620).
6. RESOLVED, THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $13,100 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM CONTINGENCY TO THE PARKING AUTHORITY TO PAY FOR A SHORTFALL IN REVENUES TO COVER OPERATING EXPENSES ( ACCOUNT NO. 01-4095-5650).
Mr. Miklave had several questions about the amount being transferred to the Personnel Department and also suggested that perhaps the City might wish to consider bringing the labor negotiations inhouse. Mr. Hamilton stated that this had been considered before. He also indicated that the revised budget included the special allocation of $60,000 from February.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
9. Other Post Employment Presentation and discussion.
Mr. Hamilton explained that his presentation would take about an hour to give the plans the attention and detail needed.
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO TABLE THE ITEM UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. Receive Board of Estimate and Taxation Fee in Lieu of Parking Fund Appropriation from June 5, 2006 meeting.
Mr. Hamilton reviewed the report which involves use of $199,823 from the Fee in Lieu of Parking Fund to be applied towards the principle Maritime Garage debt. Mr. Hamilton was promptly asked if he had checked with Corporation Counsel regarding this matter. Mr. Hamilton replied that he had done so and that Corporation Counsel felt this was an appropriate use of the funds. It has also been approved by the BET and Planning Commission.
Mr. Miklave stated that the goal of the Parking Authority was to be self sustaining and he felt that taking the money from Fees In Lieu would defeat that purpose. Mr. Hamilton reminded everyone that Mr. Alvord and the Parking Authority had made some difficult decisions in order to bring their budget closer to a balanced situation. He explained that this would be a one time shortfall payment. Mr. Miklave stated that it would be a mistake to look at this in isolation and that public policy needed to be considered. He also stated that he would like to meet with the Parking Authority and Mr. Alvord on this matter.
At this time, it was decided that this issue would be temporarily tabled until later in the meeting.
10. Sent From Council
a. Approve the amendment to the contract with Chan Krieger &
Associates to complete the Plan of Conservation and Development for a sum
not to exceed $64,900 (including a 10% contingency)
b. Authorize the Mayor to sign the contract with Chan Krieger & Associates
After the Committee reviewed the Planning Commission document, Mr. Miklave stated that he had several strong concerns regarding the report. He asked if Corporation Counsel had reviewed the document because the specific contract was not named. He also asked if the Commission has the authority to amend the Contract. Mr. Briggs stated that he had received permission from Mr. Foley in Purchasing to proceed with the project.
Mr. Miklave stated that he was not comfortable with amending an unrelated contract and expanding it. He reiterated that he would feel more comfortable if Corporation Counsel had reviewed the document. He also stated that he was concerned about the selection of Chan Krieger for the project. Mr. Briggs replied that he had discussed this with Mr. Foley and that he had been told to proceed. A discussion of the contractor’s negotiations followed.
Mr. Miklave reiterated that he was uncomfortable with the selection process. Mr. Greene asked Mr. Miklave for clarification on his priorities. Mr. Miklave replied that he wished there was competitive bidding, and had serious questions about the appropriateness and legality of the project.
Chairman Hillard stated that he was not comfortable with the issue because it was not originally on the agenda and stated that he would like the Corporation Counsel’s opinion, also before the next meeting. Ms. Straniti commented that while she had concerns about the selection process and believes that competitive bidding is healthy, she did not wish to re-invent the contract , which could take months. At this point in time, Ms. Straniti stated she prefers to move the project forward. Mr. Sutton agreed with Ms.. Straniti about the length of time involved and wished to see the project move forward. Ms. Briggs stated that she would like to have Corporation Counsel’s opinion on the issue.
Chairman Hillard stated that he would recommend sending this item to the full Council with the condition that it receives the approval from Corporation Counsel.
** MS. BRIGGS MOVED TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT
WITH CHAN KRIEGER & ASSOCIATES TO COMPLETE THE PLAN OF CONSERVATION AND
DEVELOPMENT FOR A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $64,900 (INCLUDING A 10% CONTINGENCY)
UPON APPROVAL FROM CORPORATION COUNSEL.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
** MS. BRIGGS MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT
WITH CHAN KRIEGER & ASSOCIATES) UPON APPROVAL FROM CORPORATION COUNSEL.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
c. Approve increase of application fees for Zoning Board of
Appeals as follows:
i. 1 & 2 Family, increase to $200
ii. Multi-Family, increase to $500
iii. Commercial, increase to $500
iv. Special Exception, increase to $500
v. Appeals, increase to $200
vi. MV license, increase to $450
vii. Extension of time, increase to $450
Mr. Greene was asked when the last time an increase had been
enacted and also what former rates had been. Mr. Greene replied that he would
check on the date when the application fees were raised. He reviewed the increases
for the Committee:
i. 1 & 2 Family, from $115, increased to $200
ii. Multi-Family, from $190, increased to $500
iii. Commercial, from $390, increased to $500
iv. Special Exception, from $115, increased to $500
v. Appeals, from $115, increased to $200
Mr. Greene said that he was not sure about the MV license, increase to $450 and commented that a new application was $500. Therefore, it would be cheaper to apply for an extension of time. Mr. Miklave stated that while he was in favor of making various resources self sufficient, this was part of the municipality and he was not necessarily in favor of making it self sufficient. Mr. Greene replied that in regards to the Multi-Family fee increases. this was primarily aimed at developers. Chairman Hillard stated that he was not sure if the Committee had the authority to change the amounts and that he was not comfortable with the commercial increase.
Mr. Greene distributed copies of the Application Fees from neighboring municipalities and stated that he would have answers to the Committee’s questions.
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO TABLE THE ITEM UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
11. Discussion of Human Relations/Fair Rent
Chairman Hillard stated that the Committee had already discussed this issue at a previous meeting. Mr. Hamilton briefly reviewed the situation and stated that the two Commission wanted their own budgets. He stated that he needs direction from the two Chairmen as to how they want the budgets allocated, but had yet to receive an answer. He also commented that the combined budget was $200,000. There was a discussion of the appropriate procedure. Chairman Hillard stated that he would speak to the Chairs for the two Commissions about this.
Approve the Minutes of the following Finance Committee Meeting: May 11, 2006
** MS. BRIGGS MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING
FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING FOR MAY 11, 2006.
** THE MOTION PASSED WITH THREE IN FAVOR (SUTTON, HILLARD AND BRIGGS) AND
TWO ABSTENTIONS ( MIKLAVE AND STRANITI).
RECESS
The Committee called a recess at 10:08 p.m. and reconvened at 10:18 p.m.
8. Receive Board of Estimate and Taxation Fee in Lieu of Parking Fund Appropriation from June 5, 2006 meeting CONT’D
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO TABLE THE BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION FEE IN LIEU OF PARKING FUND APPROPRIATION FROM JUNE 5, 2006 MEETING UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING.
Mr. Hamilton was asked what would happen if this item was held over until the next fiscal year. Mr. Hamilton replied that it would appear on the City Audit, he would be asked to explain it and that it could conceivably impact the City’s rating.
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO WITHDRAW HIS MOTION OF TABLING THE BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION FEE IN LIEU OF PARKING FUND APPROPRIATION FROM JUNE 5, 2006 MEETING UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING.
A discussion followed regarding the upcoming meeting dates for the Commission, the City Council and the various caucuses. Chairman Hillard then announced that there would be a Special Meeting of the Finance/Claims Committee on June 26th at 7:30 p.m. to obtain further information and for further discussion on this matter. Mr. Hamilton was asked to request that Mr. Alvord be present to answer any questions the Committee may have on the issue.
** CHAIRMAN HILLARD STATED IT WAS HIS PREROGATIVE TO SCHEDULE A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE FINANCE/CLAIMS COMMITTEE ON JUNE 26TH AT 7:30 P.M. TO OBTAIN FURTHER INFORMATION AND FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION ON THE BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION FEE IN LIEU OF PARKING FUND APPROPRIATION FROM JUNE 5, 2006 MEETING.
** CHAIRMAN HILLARD STATED IT WAS HIS PREROGATIVE TO APPROVE THE BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION FEE IN LIEU OF PARKING FUND APPROPRIATION FROM JUNE 5, 2006 MEETING BE SENT TO THE FULL COUNCIL FOR CONSIDERATION ON JUNE 27TH.
ADJOURNMENT
** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO ADJOURN.
** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
The meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon L. Soltes
Telesco Secretarial Services
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