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| NORWALK HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES |
OCTOBER 23, 2002
ATTENDANCE: Chairperson Diane Rochelle, Deborah Mathies, Betty Booth, Carol Ann
Falasca, Linda Fallon, Ralph Bloom, John Federici, Kathleen Morrow
STAFF: Susan Gunn, Curator
OTHERS: Gabe DiNero, Boy Scouts of America, Richard A. Booth, Pres. Norwalk
Historical Society, Ed Cozzette, Peter Bondi, Marjorie St. Aubyn,
Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum.
The meeting was called to order at 7:34 p.m. by Chairperson Diane Rochelle, who informed the Commission that Glenn Iannaccone would not be in attendance and was excused from the meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The following changes were made to the Minutes of September 23, 2002:
Page 1 – Attendance: Add Betty Booth to attendance list.
Page 1 – Others: Change Scott Gilroy to Scott Gibson.
Page 1 – 2nd paragraph: Change "for purpose of an accurate record" to "assisting the secretary."
Page 1 – Approval of Minutes: Change John Shea to John Cehi.
Page 1 – Approval of Minutes: Bottom paragraph beginning Page 1, delete "Ms. Falasca asked that it be noted that 30 people visited." Change to read "Ms. Falasca asked that the minutes reflect that Ms. Falasca asked Mr. Cehi how many parking spaces would be made in place of the present building and the reply was 30."
Page 3 – 2nd paragraph: Add after last sentence, "Ms. Falasca asked that before Ms. Gunn sends out a letter to the Hospital on behalf of the Commission that the
letter be approved by the Commission or at least by the Chairman Ms. Rochelle."
Page 4 – Gate Lodge: Change Common Council meeting date from "September 29th" to "September 24th."
Page 5 – Selleck Obelisk: 17th line beginning with asked if, change "previously" to "by Mr. Slavid."
Page 5 – Selleck Obelisk: 21st line beginning with plastic cement, change "preserve" to "set."
Page 5 – Selleck Obelisk: 22nd line change "Slavitt" to "Slavid."
Page 6 – Rogers Rich Merritt House: Last line, change "Town Council" to "Common Council."
Page 6 – Mill Hill Buildings: 1st paragraph: add after reseeding:, "Ms. Falasca asked if the termite exterminator had been paid. Ms. Gunn said she did not know."
Page 6 – Oil to Gas Conversion of Town House: Did Ms. Falasca say Alan Lo has been notified?
Page 7 – Hotplate removal and stove replacement: First line, change "Mrs. Booth" to "Mr. Booth"; change Historic to Historical.
Page 7 – Hotplate removal, 5th line: delete balance of sentence after "working well".
Page 12 – 6th line from top: Please correct to read, "Ms. Falasca did not recognize Mr. Bondi the second time, saying that it would create a problem with questions and answers and take up too much meeting time and that others would also like to speak but knew that they could not at this meeting. Ms. Falasca requested that any comments or questions be addressed to her in writing by any of the concerned parties."
Page 12 – 11th line from top, change "her house" to "we could".
Page 12 – Motion to close Norwalk Museum Gift Shop: Add "Motion Against: Mrs. Morrow. Change "Motion Passed Unanimously" to "Motion Passed."
** MRS. BOOTH MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2002 AS CORRECTED.
** MRS. MORROW SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED.
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OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE BOARD
Ms. Rochelle asked if Ms. Gunn had informed City Clerk Pam Stark of the hiring of Linda Hayes to record the minutes of Historical Commission meetings, and indicated that Ms. Gunn should have done so before the September 25th meeting. Ms. Rochelle pointed out that this had been mentioned in a three-page memo she sent to Ms. Gunn. Ms. Rochelle asked who was paying Ms. Hayes to take the Commission’s minutes. Ms. Gunn replied that she was paying Ms. Hayes herself at $10.00 per hour. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn that she had informed Pam Stark herself so that the minutes would not be invalidated. Ms. Rochelle reminded Ms. Gunn that there was no money in the NHC budget to pay for minutes and that no money was to come out of the NHC budgets for minutes because no money existed for that purpose. but that she would request the money as a line item in the 2003 budget to pay Ms. Hayes for doing the minutes. Ms. Rochelle stated that the cost of paying for the minutes must total less than eighty-five dollars per meeting and asked Ms. Hayes what the cost was for the September minutes. Ms. Hayes stated that it was approximately sixty dollars.
Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. Gunn about having Ms. Hayes transcribe the minutes from the April 25, 2001 meeting which Ms. Gunn hoped to have ready for the June meeting per a letter Ms. Gunn had sent to the Commission in May. Ms. Gunn said that she had to find the notes, and that Ms. Hayes may have difficulty transcribing the notes as Ms. Gunn had difficulty participating in that meeting while attempting to take the minutes.
REPORTS – HISTORICAL COMMISSION
LOCKWOOD MATHEWS MANSION
LMMM report
Marjorie St. Aubyn of LMMM spoke about the upcoming Antique Show sponsored by the Junior League of Norwalk/Darien and reminded the Commission that it would be held on Friday, October 25 through Sunday October 27. Ms. St. Aubyn hoped that the Commission would attend the show as the Mansion has never looked better. She stated that this was the LMMM’s most important fundraiser of the year.
Ms. St. Aubyn questioned if the south porch repairs could be expedited, as she was concerned about any delays. Ms. Gunn stated that she thought the contract had gone through per Ms. Rochelle’s memo. Ms. Gunn said that she did not receive the memo herself until the day she left for vacation. Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn needed to review the contract before it could be acted upon. Ms. St. Aubyn reminded the Commission that the porch was in very bad shape and should not go through the winter without repair.
Ms. St. Aubyn addressed Ms. Gunn and Ms. Rochelle regarding Ms. Gunn’s removal of her own personal property from the LMMM. Ms. St. Aubyn said that she had not been notified about Ms. Gunn removing the items and would have appreciated a telephone call from Ms. Gunn prior to the removal of the items. Ms. St. Aubyn also said that the LMMM employee who assisted Ms. Gunn in the removal of her own personal property has been spoken to. Ms. Gunn apologized and replied that she had spoken to Liz Montgomery prior to the items’ removal as she only had a 20-minute window to stop at the LMMM to pick up the items. Ms. St. Aubyn stated that she herself should have received a telephone call from Ms. Gunn and that a list of the items to be removed should have been presented to her. Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. St. Aubyn to present her complaints in written form to the Commission.
Ms. Rochelle asked that the taping and recording of the minutes be stopped at this
point.
(Meeting stopped for approx. 10 minutes.)
LMMM report resumes.
Ms. St. Aubyn reported on the attendance of the 9/11 Quilt Project that had been unveiled at the LMMM on September 29, 2002. The quilts, made by survivors’ families and members of the community, had been displayed on the walls of the grand rotunda. Mr. Bloom asked what would happen to the quilts after their removal from the LMMM. Ms. St. Aubyn stated that the quilts would be travelling around the state and would eventually arrive at the library. Ms. St. Aubyn planned to provide the Commission with a list of other places where the quilts would be on display in her next report. Ms. St. Aubyn reported that the LMMM was given an award by the Family & Children’s Aid for their assistance and support for the survivors and families of 9/11. She also mentioned that the quilt project is seeking a permanent home for the display.
Hoffmann Contract
Ms. Rochelle asked if there has been removal of the $19,200 encumbrance on the capital budget for the roof repair as it was not removed at the time of the last meeting from the million-dollar allocation for the roof repair. The $19,200 was money that was not expended by Hoffman, and the account should be closed out. Ms. Gunn indicated that she has an appointment scheduled with Ann Toomey to discuss the matter and stated that a previous appointment with Ms. Toomey had been cancelled. Ms. Rochelle asked for a full accounting of how much money would be available for the south porch repair, including the $19,200. Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. Gunn to discuss with Ms. Toomey the proper procedure for submitting contract forms to the City so that there is a standing record of every payment that goes to the contract. Ms. Gunn stated that the City told her to use the pink forms instead of the form that Ms. Rochelle indicated should have been used. Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn should find out the proper procedure for future use.
Gate Lodge
Ms. Rochelle indicated that the Historical Commission is waiting for the City’s response on whether they plan to utilize the Gate Lodge before anything else can be done. She reminded the Commission that the City has first right to rent the Gate Lodge and that the LMMM has the second right, but until the City makes a decision, no other action can be taken. Mrs. Booth remarked that the Commission is still paying the electricity on the Gate Lodge while it remains unoccupied, and that the Commission cannot continue to afford to do so. Ms. Rochelle replied that that was something the Commission had no control over.
HISTORICAL CEMETERIES REPORT
Selleck Obelisk
Ms. Gunn reported that she had made another telephone call to Mr. Hayes at Bates Memorials and is still waiting for a response. She said that her being away on vacation had delayed the situation somewhat. Ms. Rochelle asked if Ms. Gunn had considered asking Mr. Slavid for his quote. Ms. Gunn indicated that she had also considered Mr. Slavid but that Edna Miller had recommended Bates Memorials to her and she was still investigating that avenue. Ms. Rochelle reminded Ms. Gunn that this had been on the Commission’s agenda since June and that she thought that Mr. Slavid would have been asked first. Ms. Gunn remarked that she intended to speak with Mr. Slavid but was continuing with Bates as well.
Ms. Rochelle discussed the Selleck Researchers Association donation of one thousand dollars to repair and maintain the Selleck obelisk and plots. The Association had been invited to Norwalk by Mr. Richard Booth of the Norwalk Historical Society, and after viewing the plots and obelisk they decided to assist with the repairs.
Ms. Rochelle stated that the Historic Commission will not be able to move ahead on the stone repairs now due to the arrival of colder weather and that any stone repairs, including those at Pine Island Cemetery, will have to be put aside until warmer weather in the spring.
Ms. Rochelle remarked that the Commission had paid $25,000 for the cemetery assessment and that Mr. Conte or anyone else should follow the assessment plan and present a written estimate to the Commission for approval before proceeding with any work. Ms. Falasca suggested that each estimate should be attached to the assessment. Ms. Gunn stated for the record that it was always her intention that anyone presenting estimates work from the assessment. Ms. Rochelle asked if Mr. Conte had seen the assessment before giving his $900 quote. Ms. Gunn said that he had but that it had not been viewed at length, and that was part of the reason why there was hesitation in the process. Ms. Rochelle said that she just wanted it to be clear that anyone who was giving estimates on Pine Island Cemetery work must view the assessment.
Ms. Rochelle questioned if a cemetery tour of the Mill Hill Cemetery would be done in 2003. Mr. Bloom remarked that plans for such a cemetery tour were already in progress.
MILL HILL CEMETERY report
The Chairperson recognized Mr. Gabe DiNero. Mr. DiNero, an Eagle Scout from the Boy Scouts of America, reported the following:
Mr. DiNero, as part of his Eagle Scout requirements, came to the Historical Commission one year ago to discuss his project for reclamation work at the Mill Hill Cemetery, which was now at completion. He reported that there were 228 gravestones on the property. With the help of the City, Mr. DiNero made a map of the cemetery with all of the stones marked and numbered, took photographs of the headstones, and put the photos and his report on a CD. Ms. Gunn asked if additional CDs could be created for use at the City’s libraries, Norwalk Museum and Mill Hill for research use. Mr. DiNero said that this could be done.
Mr. DiNero discussed how he created the maps with the assistance of the Norwalk Dept. of Public Works using his input and research. He demonstrated how each headstone could be located on the map with his numbering system. Mr. DiNero set up a computerized presentation for the Commission to view. He stated that he could be contacted for additional copies of these maps and CDs but that they cannon run on anything less than Windows 2000 or Windows NT.
Ms. Rochelle requested Ms. Gunn to write a letter to Mr. DiNero to enable him to receive a badge for his efforts on behalf of the Commission. Mr. Bloom asked if Mr. DiNero knew others who might want to work on any of the other cemeteries in Norwalk. Mr. DiNero replied that he knew of several that would be interested. Ms. Gunn inquired as to how many people worked on the project with him. Mr. DiNero indicated "very many people" assisted, including other Scouts and parents of Scouts, approximately twenty-five people. Ms. Gunn asked if Mr. DiNero had alphabetized the listing of the headstones. Mr. DiNero said that he had not had the time but that the alphabetizing of the headstones could be an additional project. Ms. Gunn stated that alphabetizing the headstones was an important project that should be recommended for the future.
Ms. Rochelle asked Mr. DiNero to give his complete address to Ms. Gunn in order for her to write the letter to the BSA Advancement Board. Mr. DiNero replied that his address was 3 Allen Court, Norwalk, CT 06850 and added that his telephone number was 203-846-2931 if anyone needed to contact him in the future.
ROGERS RITCH MERRITT HOUSE report
Ms. Rochelle indicated that there was nothing new to report on the Rogers Rich Merritt House since the last Commission meeting. Ms. Rochelle said that it was going out to bid and that everything has been approved. Ms. Rochelle stated that the documents were ready but the Commission was not releasing the bid documents until early in 2003, partly due to the weather but also partly due to fundraising issues. Ms. Rochelle wants the Commission to be in a better position with funds before the work begins. Mrs. Morrow complemented Ms. Rochelle on her wonderful fundraising and wanted Ms. Rochelle’s efforts noted in the minutes. It has been so noted.
Peter Bondi asked to be recognized. Mr. Bondi asked about the broken lock on the trailer that had been mentioned at the September 25, 2002 Historical Commission meeting. Ms. Rochelle said that Mr. Iannaccone had told her about the broken lock when she saw him at the Oyster Festival and that she herself replaced the lock immediately on the same day. She stated that she had not told Mr. Iannaccone that the lock had been taken care of and that was why he thought it still needed replacement.
MILL HILL BUILDINGS
Mr. Booth distributed his report, which discussed the Selleck Obelisk, the appearance at Mill Hill, and the plans for a new stove in the Town House.
Norwalk Historical Society report
This report was distributed to the members for their reading.
Selleck Obelisk
The Selleck Obelisk in the Pine Island Cemetery was selected as the
most "at-risk" monument there. In September, the Selleck Researchers Association met in New Canaan. The Association had asked the NHS to provide them with historic maps of Norwalk. Mr. Booth was able to meet with the group at that time, and discussed both the Pine Island Cemetery Survey and the headstones of their ancestors’ graves. On October 4, 2002 Mr. Booth and the Association visited Pine Island Cemetery to view the obelisk. On October 5, Mr. Booth, Lynn Friedman and Sharon Soltes met with the Association, and as a result the Association voted to raise funds to help support the needed repairs to the plots surrounding the obelisk.
Mill Hill grounds
The appearance of Mill Hill has been upgraded. The hedged area on the slope of Mill Hill along East Wall Street, which had deteriorated to roots and stumps, debris and poison ivy, has been completely cleared, landscaped and planted with grass by SONICC workers under the direction of NHS Board member Phil Taylor. The cleanup will eliminate the buildup of trash in this area and make maintenance easier.
Hotpoint removal and stove replacement
Mr. Booth reminded the Commission that at the September 25th Commission meeting, he had requested the replacement of a hotplate in the rear of the Town House with the installation of a gas stove. Mr. Booth introduced Mr. Ed Cozzette of Albano Electric, Pound Ridge, NY to discuss stove plans.
Mr. Booth reminded the Commission that the stove would be used for covered dish suppers, possibly for food for the Annual Meeting, and for events that may be held in relation to the erection of the Rogers Rich Merritt House. Mr. Booth stated that the purchase of warming ovens that the Commission had previously suggested were proved more costly than the installation of a gas stove. Bartoli Electric’s estimated cost of rewiring the wing of the Town House for an electric stove was $1500-$2000. This estimate was for wiring alone, and has also been deemed too costly.
Mr. Cozzette’s plans for the installation of a gas stove in the Town House were distributed to the members for their viewing.
Mr. Booth stated that Mr. Cozzette’s plans, if approved by the Commission, would be funded by the NHS and will meet all City codes. Mr. Booth felt that the changes the NHS are seeking to add the gas stove will not compromise any plans the Commission has for future installation of handicapped ramps and bathrooms at the Town House.
Ms. Fallon requested that the decision regarding installation of a gas stove at the Town House be tabled until Glenn Iannaccone, a City Fire Inspector, could be involved in the discussion. Ms. Falasca asked why a gas stove was such an issue, since other City buildings have gas stoves installed. Ms. Falasca also suggested that the NHS speak with both Aitoro Appliances or REO Appliances to see if they could get a discounted or possibly slightly damaged stove to cut down costs. Mr. Booth stated that he will not purchase a damaged stove, and remarked that if the NHS was going to install a stove, it would be a top-of-the-line stove. Mrs. Booth remarked that the NHS has made many improvements at Mill Hill at their own expense and that they are proud of the buildings there, and that the NHS needs encouragement, not discouragement. Mr. Bloom stated that he would vote to approve the gas stove if Mr. Iannaccone approved the installation.
** MR. BLOOM MOTIONED TO ACCEPT THE INSTALLATION OF THE GAS STOVE RE: THE PLANS AS SHOWN.
** MRS. MORROW SECONDED.
Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn will approach Alan Lo regarding the stove installation to determine if there are any more approvals necessary before proceeding with the installation of the stove, stating that if there were, the issue may have to come up before the November 20 Land Use meeting. Mr. Booth asked if he could attend that meeting. Ms. Gunn questioned if there was a brochure on the cabinetry for the Commission’s files. Mr. Cozzette said he did not have one on hand but can send one to her. Ms. Rochelle asked that a report be given to the Commission after the project is completed so that there was a record. Ms. Gunn asked where the fan vent would exit the building. Mr. Cozzette indicated that it would exit the building at the back, near the rear entrance in a 3 1/2x10x10 rectangle through the brick of the wall. Ms. Gunn questioned that since most people enter the Town House through the back, the fan vent would be visible and she wondered if there was any other possible place to vent the fan where it would be less noticeable. It was determined through discussion that this was the best place for the vent.
** MOTION PASSED.
Antiques and Appraisal Day report
The NHS Antiques and Appraisal Day was held on September 29. The event was well attended, having received excellent coverage in local newspapers. The NHS Board has voted to repeat the program on Sunday, March 30, 2003.
Conclusion
Mr. Booth reminded the Commission of the upcoming "Taste of Thanksgiving" scheduled for Sunday, November 3rd from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The event will include open-hearth cooking demonstrations and the public will be allowed to sample the food. Mr. Booth stated that this is the NHS’s most popular events and is always well attended. Mr. Booth closed with a mention of an article which appeared in The Hour Newspaper on October 21, 2002 in which a Norwalk elementary school teacher reminisced about a visit to the Little Red Schoolhouse on Mill Hill with the 3rd grade class she was teaching. Mr. Booth reminded the Commission that the NHS will soon be scheduling school visits for 2003 and hoped that it would be possible to have the promised gas water heater for the Town House installed well before these tours begin.
** MRS. MORROW MOTIONED THE COMMISSION SPONSOR A MILL HILL CEMETERY TOUR IN FALL, 2003.
** MS. FALASCA SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED.
Town House Bell Tower
Ms. Rochelle stated that there was no new information regarding the bell tower repair. Ms. Gunn has many quotes but has not reviewed them recently. Ms. Rochelle said that a contractor and method of repair must be chosen and the matter go to Land Use. Ms. Rochelle declared the bell tower repair matter tabled until the next Commission meeting.
Ms. Rochelle requested that Ms. Gunn receive two specific quotes for the next Commission meeting that fit the budget and will be accepted by Land Use for the December Land Use meeting. Ms. Rochelle suggested that Ms. Gunn might work with Mr. Booth within the next two weeks to decide if they should do a full repair or a smaller amount of repair. Mr. Booth said that he has no idea what needs to be done or how much it should cost and that professionals should be brought in. Mr. Booth asked if Mike Sgobbo could offer a quote. Ms. Gunn stated that work could be done as soon as weather permits once all approvals are obtained. Ms. Rochelle said that work could begin within two months of approval, once the contract goes through the Law Dept. and is approved by the Commission.
Gas Water Heater
Ms. Rochelle asked for the status of the gas water heater situation. Mrs. Booth said that there was no hot water as yet. Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. Gunn to speak with Eddie Pascal of George Ellis to obtain a quote to present to Alan Lo and then Alan Lo could move ahead with the water heater. Ms. Gunn said she would do so.
Smith Street apartment lease renewals
Ms. Gunn reported that one tenant has signed a lease and that the other
tenant has been experiencing eye problems and was expected to be signing the lease by the end of the week.
Ms. Gunn reported that she has purchased the backflow valve and has a call in to have the company come back to do the inspection. Ms. Gunn will have the valve installed as soon as possible.
Smith Street repairs
Ms. Gunn questioned Ms. Rochelle as to which budget the $75.00 bill for the inspection should come out of. Ms. Rochelle designated the Buildings budget, #5266. Ms. Rochelle thought that there was still $2000 in the account and asked Ms. Gunn to call her with the correct figure. Ms. Rochelle said that the cost of extermination will come out of the same budget. Ms. Gunn reported that the backflow valve cost $16 and the funds had been appropriated from the building account, but that it might be possible to have the funds taken from the water account instead since the valve was required by the First Water District. Ms. Rochelle wondered how much money was left in the water budget, but said to leave the item in repairs and the budgets would be adjusted at the end of the year.
Mrs. Morrow asked about the cost of stoves and sinks. Ms. Gunn stated that Grubb & Ellis and Aitoro Appliances keep trading phone messages, and now Mike Sgobbo has exited completely from the situation. Ms. Gunn is now working directly with Aitoro Appliances because when Mike Sgobbo and Aitoro were speaking, they changed the number of the unit. Ms. Gunn stated that the Commission still did not have a solid quote from REO Appliances that was comparable to the Aitoro quote obtained by Mike Sgobbo. Ms. Gunn said that the electric units should be installed by Monday or Tuesday of next week, she is still waiting to get the schedule for repair of the stairs, saddle and woodworking.
Ms. Rochelle stated for the record that as she read the minutes of the last meeting, she had never been in the Smith Street apartments and that her words were taken out of context. Ms. Rochelle stated she said that whatever is done is fine by her, but she was not comfortable with the way they are handling the plumbing in the basement ceiling. Ms. Rochelle said that the tenant Val Dowd said specifically that the water damage came from his bathtub, not the toilet. Ms. Rochelle said that she has no problem with what was currently being done, but she was not comfortable that a plumber had not been called in to check the plumbing. Ms. Rochelle said that the tenant should have appeared before the Commission before proceeding with the repairs himself and she was not happy with the fact that the tenant did his own repairs.
Ms. Gunn stated that she had spoken with Mike Sgobbo and both Aitoro Appliances and REO Appliances because she had had problems getting a plumber to come out and look at the plumbing. Ms. Falasca told Ms. Gunn that she needs to talk to a plumber, not an appliance salesperson. Ms. Gunn said that that was what she herself would have done, but that the Finance Dept. and Board of Estimate would not look at the situation without specific quotes. Ms. Gunn stated that, as a new City employee, she has experienced difficulty with getting things through the City. Ms. Falasca replied that she herself would have asked a plumber to come out, explain to him that there would be no payment at that time, and that payment would come later from the City.
Ms. Gunn stated that there was no access to the building’s plumbing because the kitchen cabinets were in the way. Ms. Gunn asked Ms. Falasca if she could recommend a plumber who would come out. Mr. Bloom said that he was sure there were many plumbers who must have worked for the City at one time or another. Ms. Gunn asked if she and Ms. Rochelle would go to view the ceiling together. Ms. Rochelle said that if they don’t bring a professional to view the ceiling, it would be an exercise in futility.
Ms. Rochelle stated that her intent in bringing up the subject of the plumber was to protect the Commission and that this may be a situation that could come back to haunt the Commission. Ms. Rochelle said that it may only be a matter of re-grouting a bathtub, it may not be a pipe situation but that the plumbing situation and basement ceiling has not properly been addressed. Ms. Gunn said that there was a small area with no wallboard. Ms. Falasca asked if it had a waterspout. Ms. Gunn said no. Ms. Falasca said that maybe it wasn’t a water leak. Ms. Gunn said that that was exactly what she had been trying to imply.
Ms. Rochelle distributed copies of Ms. Gunn’s job description to the Commission and asked Ms. Gunn to read the first line of the description aloud. Ms. Gunn did so. Ms. Rochelle stated that her reason for doing this was to clarify that this was the approved job description by which Ms. Gunn was hired as a union employee, that was posted for all applicants, and that it can not be changed without union negotiation. Ms. Rochelle stated that the very first sentence of the job description stated that Ms. Gunn "plans, organizes and manages the properties and services of the Historical Commission", and Ms. Rochelle emphasized "manages the properties."
Ms. Rochelle continued with "under supervision Ms. Gunn receives general policy from the Chairperson of the Historical Commission" and that there was another line which says "receives oral or written policy direction from the Historical Commission" which was the first line under General Duties of the job description. Ms. Rochelle stated that it was not the job of the Chairperson to manage the properties, that it was the job of the staff person to plan and organize for the properties of the Historical Commission. Ms. Rochelle stated that Historical Commission work should take precedence over any other work, including Museum work.
Ms. Rochelle stated that she understood that there were mitigating circumstances for everything, but if Ms. Gunn wanted something in black and white and in writing, she should refer to her job description. Ms. Rochelle said that far too many things are tabled or not accomplished because Commission work is not getting done. Ms. Rochelle stated that there should be communication and information as to why it is not getting done.
NORWALK MUSEUM REPORT
Ms. Gunn reported that attendance at the Museum continues to grow. Ms. Gunn said that while she was away on vacation that her assistants, Ms. Soltes and Ms. Hayes, did an excellent job running the Museum in her absence. Ms. Gunn reported that Ms. Hayes and Ms. Soltes handled reference questions, had the museum open on its designated hours, they have been handling emails through their home computers after hours, and that with Ms. Soltes being at the museum there has been a very nice cooperation and sharing of information regarding the many research requests and genealogy questions. Ms. Gunn said that requests were being responded to in a prompt manner, and mentioned that the Museum has improved its request turnaround time with response letters to inquirers.
Ms. Gunn reported that the Fairfield County Board of Realtors held a breakfast meeting at the Museum today and the SoNo Business Association held an afternoon meeting, both of which went very well. Ms. Gunn stated that she attends those meetings to keep abreast of what goes on in this area of the City. Ms. Gunn said that the topic of the SoNo Business Association was banners, and passed around examples of the projected banners which are to be hung only on metal poles. Ms. Falasca asked if the banners would include advertising. Ms. Gunn answered yes, that was how the banners would be paid for. Ms. Gunn said that previously the City did not receive any money for banners but that now they are negotiating for payment for the banners. Ms. Gunn explained about the type of banner used in Wilton that was easier to read than the banners now currently hanging in Norwalk. Ms. Gunn asked the Commission for any comments or suggestions that she could bring up before the Banner Committee of the SoNo Business Association at the next meeting.
Ms. Gunn described the Museum’s new exhibit consisting of photographs of headstone art from the four historic cemeteries photographed by Dan Lenore, entitled "Flying Moments" which was tentatively scheduled to open on Friday, October 8th from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Ms. Falasca asked if the exhibit title came from the angels carved on the headstones. Ms. Gunn explained that the title of the exhibit came from a poem found on a Mill Hill Cemetery headstone. Ms. Falasca worried if the showing of the photographs would lead to future vandalism of the headstones, and was concerned that all the photographs would say which cemetery the stones were in. Ms. Gunn said that there would be statements within the exhibit discussing how stone rubbings are discouraged, a PR statement encouraging donations for restoring stones, and something stated about the risk management study that was done. Ms. Falasca questioned again whether naming the cemeteries used in the exhibit would promote ideas in people who might turn to vandalizing the cemeteries. Ms. Rochelle replied that the Commission can’t live in a vacuum. Ms. Gunn stated that she would be talking more about the art of the headstones as opposed to the stones themselves.
Ms. Rochelle asked if the discussion could move along. Ms. Gunn spoke about the Museum’s art talks, which are scheduled, for 3:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month, open to all, where artists of all types will discuss related topics.
Mr. Federici inquired about the status of the flagpole light that he had proposed at the Commission’s September meeting. Ms. Gunn said that it was still in the works. Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. Gunn to follow up on the flagpole lights and the issue of turning on outdoor lights for the next meeting. Mr. Bloom stated that it wasn’t just a subject of timing the lights, that there were also lights where the bulbs were out. Ms. Gunn said that she had spoken with Edgar at Plaza Management and that Edgar says he does not have a ladder that will reach high enough to fix the lights. Ms. Rochelle asked Ms. Gunn to follow up on the lights situation. Ms. Gunn stated that she also has been discussing the cleaning of the rug with Plaza Management.
Ms. Rochelle stated that she saw from the minutes of the last meeting that there was an extensive discussion about emergency contact information. Ms. Rochelle stated that she has the necessary information and she asked Ms. Gunn if the Fire Department had been given the information. Ms. Gunn replied that she had done so.
Ms. Rochelle asked if Ms. Gunn had closed the Museum Gift Shop as requested by the Commission at the September meeting. Ms. Gunn stated that she had closed the shop, but had sold some Raggedy Ann dolls from the shop when museum visitors from out of town requested to purchase them. Ms. Rochelle stated that Ms. Gunn had been specifically told not to sell anything from the Shop. Ms. Rochelle stated that the Gift Shop has not been running legally and that if Ms. Gunn persisted in selling items she must get her own sales tax registration number. Ms. Gunn said that she had a tax number posted in the shop. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn that that particular tax number was site specific and that she would know that if she ever bothered to read it. Ms. Rochelle remarked that the tax number pertains to the address listed on the registration and that the address listed on that registration is 125 East Avenue. Ms. Rochelle stated that the Museum Gift Shop was not located at 125 East Avenue. Ms. Rochelle said that by Ms. Gunn selling items she was in further violation of the sales tax regulations.
Ms. Rochelle asked if Ms. Gunn had filled a request by Charles and Barbara Adams for 10 slipware books. Ms. Gunn said she had not, that it was a wholesale request. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn to give the request to the Friends of the Norwalk Museums and that Ms. Gunn was not permitted to sell anything without a sales tax number.
Ms. Rochelle stated that she would like to clarify a point. Ms. Rochelle stated that she has spoken with the Dept. of Revenue Services herself and that Norwalk, as a municipality was not exempt from adhering to state or federal tax regulations; that they must collect sales tax on everything they sell unless they are selling for retail. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn that the tax number she has posted is a resale or registration number for the Controller’s office or the Purchasing office and has nothing to do with retail sales. The Museum Gift Shop must have a sales tax return filed. The Friends of the Norwalk Museum are exempt from collecting sales tax on retail sales because they exist to benefit museums. Once a year they file a return with the same exemption of their total sales. They do file a return and do have a sales tax number. Ms. Rochelle said that the Museum Gift Shop is exempt from paying sales tax as a City museum on things that are purchased for use within the Museum but if inventory is purchased, sales tax must be paid on the purchased inventory because there is no tax registration. If there was tax registration, inventory could be purchased without paying sales tax because tax would be paid on the other end.
Ms. Rochelle stated that the FNM has not been running the Museum Gift Shop for over a year and that Ms. Gunn should not be using the FNM tax number. Ms. Gunn said that she is not using the FNM tax number. Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn had been asked to close the shop and that Ms. Gunn had defied the Commission by selling items after she had been asked to stop. Ms. Gunn remarked that she had sold two books to a Norwalk Councilman. Ms. Rochelle said that was pathetic and ridiculous, and that selling those books could take away the City’s registration number and puts the liability on the City and the Commission and would cause great embarrassment to the Commissioners and the City. Ms. Rochelle said that she is trying to protect Ms. Gunn from herself which should not be the case, and that Ms. Gunn should be growing in her job and enjoying her work and that she should be learning something, which she is not.
Ms. Gunn stated that she has raised these questions with the Legal Dept. and the Controller, and the Controller has told her that she was covered by the City. Ms. Rochelle wanted to know who gave Ms. Gunn the tax certificate she has posted. Ms. Gunn stated that Mr. Gilden had given it to her. Ms. Rochelle said that in her discussions with the Controller, she has determined that the Controller does not know very much about retail sales because the City does not do it and does not have any interest in gift shops which is why the FNM have managed the gift shop. Ms. Rochelle stated that the City would lose more money than it would gain by running the shop and that is why they do not. Ms. Rochelle stated that it was not her job to educate Ms. Gunn as to the correct way to run the gift shop. Ms. Rochelle stated that if Ms. Gunn had called or written to her she would have been happy to research the situation for her.
Ms. Rochelle said that the shop is locked and will stay locked and Ms. Gunn is not to take any more money in as there is a whole year of violations now. Ms. Gunn stated that she didn’t start selling anything in the shop until January of this year, and since a sales tax form can be filed once each year, she has all the shop records and that she can go back and file all the information properly. Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn was absolutely correct and she has no problem with that, that the point of her complaint was that it has to be done properly. Ms. Rochelle stated that she believed that Ms. Gunn had been selling items previously to January 2002 and that the exact date of the FNM withdrawal from the shop must be determined.
Ms. Gunn replied that the Friends of the Norwalk Museums have never given her a formal statement withdrawing themselves from the Gift Shop; that the FNM had continued to allow the Museum staff to sell its inventory, that they have come in and taken away money made in the shop, and that they continued to file any and all tax forms with the State. Ms. Rochelle asked for all receipts of the shop as soon as possible before the next Commission meeting, and again said that the exact date of the FNM withdrawal from the shop must be determined. Ms. Gunn agreed that that would be a good idea. Ms. Rochelle stated that it was a necessity, and that the gift shop cannot be reopened until that is done.
Ms. Gunn said that the Friends were welcome to come in and run the shop, she has never told them that they could not. Ms. Gunn stated that she has asked the FNM many times for more inventory which was not provided. Ms. Gunn questioned that, if the inventory has been purchased by the FNM, why can’t the Museum continue to sell the FNM’s inventory to people who want it since all the money goes back to the FNM. Mr. Bloom suggested that the matter be decided once and for all by the City as to whomever is allowed to run the retail operation of the Museum. Ms. Rochelle ended the discussion by suggesting the question be brought up at the next meeting. Ms. Rochelle stated that the shop stays closed until the resolution is decided.
Ms. Rochelle asked if Ms. Gunn had been able to break into the vault yet and wondered if the police dept. could get into the vault. Mr. Bloom stated that it was not a vault, it was a safe. Mr. Bloom stated that he gave the combination to Ms. Gunn when she took over the Museum on a typed index card. Ms. Rochelle stated that her point in bringing this up was not to open old wounds but to state for the record that for two years Ms. Gunn has not been able to access the safe and that was inexcusable. Ms. Rochelle stated that the issue should have been resolved within the first two months of Ms. Gunn’s tenure as Curator. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn to call every lock shop in the phone book to get someone to open the safe. Ms. Gunn stated that she has partially solved the problem. Ms. Rochelle told Ms. Gunn to enlighten the Commission. Ms. Gunn stated that she has raised money by private donations to have Cross River Lock come in and open the safe. Ms. Rochelle said that there was no reason why it should have taken this long and told Ms. Gunn to notify the Commission when the safe is open.
Mrs. Booth asked what was going to happen with the Commission’s recommendations for the Norwalk Museum. Ms. Rochelle said that the recommendations from the September 25th meeting are to be tabled until the Historical Commission hears from the City. The Historical Commission has no power to enforce any recommendations and where there is not favorable reception to the recommendations, the matter must be brought to Land Use and the Common Council and ask for their approval. Ms. Rochelle said that it was lucky that so far the matter has not gotten into the newspapers. Ms. Rochelle said that the Commission has to wait to see what the other committees will determine, which may make the whole subject moot, but that was the way it was. Ms. Rochelle said that basically the Commission had no power to implement the recommendations if they were not met with favorably, and obviously they were not met with favorably although it was the most logical and objective recommendations.
Mrs. Morrow asked if the FNM would refuse to work in the back shop. Mr. Bloom replied that it would be impossible to raise the kind of money needed in the smaller space. Ms. Mathies stated that the FNM needed to do whatever it takes to raise the money. Ms. Rochelle stated that the front shop would allow storage which the back shop would not, that the front space could be operated separately from the Museum and have its own security and that the front shop would have no impact on the Museum or its collections, allow a more efficient use of space and be the most non-intrusive on Museum operations.
Mrs. Booth asked if Ms. Gunn would accept a Museum Shop which would be under her total control and accept all the profits herself for the museum. Ms. Gunn replied that she would love to. Ms. Rochelle stated that it would not have anything to do with the Historic Commission budget or the Commission as a whole and that it would have to be operated with strict accounting principals. Ms. Gunn stated that she was definitely interested in such a proposal. Mrs. Booth asked how many people would it take to run such a shop. Mr. Bloom replied that it took two or three people when he ran the shop. Mrs. Booth said that Ms. Gunn would have to have more employees or volunteers in order to run a shop. Ms. Rochelle said that the Commission would have to see what the City thought of such an idea but that in her opinion Ms. Gunn would not be someone she would recommend. Ms. Rochelle said that Ms. Gunn’s time
would be better spent with Commission work, running the Museum, receiving donations and planning exhibits.
NORWALK HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY (NHRI)
93 East Avenue
Ms. Rochelle did not know why this was on the agenda and wanted to know if there was anything new. Ms. Gunn said that there was nothing new to report, but that the Commission should not let it fall off their radar as the attempt by the Norwalk Inn to demolish the building still stands.
Request for Demolitions
5 Elmcrest Terrace
Ms. Rochelle asked if there was a letter for the Commission to review. Ms. Gunn said there was not. Ms. Rochelle tabled the discussion until the next meeting. Ms. Gunn asked if she could review the letter with Ms. Rochelle before the meeting. Ms. Rochelle agreed.
142 Main Street
Ms. Rochelle asked if there was a demolition permit for 142 Main Street. Ms. Gunn stated that the permit was taken by the owner from the last meeting and that the owner is on vacation this week. Ms. Rochelle asked if there was any objection to removing the item from the list. Mr. Bloom stated that there was a lot of mid-19th Century glass in the building that should be saved and wondered if they should ask for the glass to be donated to the Rogers Rich Merritt house to replace those windows.
** MR. BLOOM MOTIONED TO REMOVE 142 MAIN AVENUE FROM NHRI.
** MRS. BOOTH SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED.
REPORTS - COMMITTEES
LMMM Restoration Committee
Ms. Rochelle remarked that the Committee currently does not meet.
Mathews Park Committee
Ms. Falasca distributed minutes of the October 16th meeting to the Commission for their reading.
Gate House
Use of the Gatehouse by the City is on hold, again due to lack of funds. It has been suggested that Mayor Knopp would like to set up his Art Council there but there is no money in the budget to do so at this time.
OLD BUSINESS
Carriage House repairs
Ms. Rochelle asked if there were any quotes for tarping the roof. Ms. Gunn said that there were no quotes. Ms. Rochelle asked if quotes could be obtained. Ms. Gunn said that she has spoken with Connecticut Graphics and that they were more interested in having the roof repaired instead of tarping it. Mrs. Booth asked if the Commission had determined last spring that the roof could not be repaired. Ms. Gunn said that it couldn’t be replaced but could be patched, but was like throwing money away as patching did not solve the problem.
Ms. Rochelle said that it had been discussed last month that if the Carriage House roof was added to the Capital Budget, the budget could be beefed up the amount of money to include the façade or socket work or other restoration issues as well. The other choice was to go for a special appropriation but with things in the City the way they were now, an appropriation didn’t look promising. If Connecticut Graphics could find the money to replace the roof between now and next July, they can do it. Ms. Rochelle and Ms. Gunn have been trying to clarify this with their new fundraising person.
Laundry/Summer Kitchen
Ms. Rochelle said that there were no estimates for tarping the roof. Ms. Rochelle thought that there was at least a $12,000 allocation left in an old budget that could be used for this purpose. If the tarping money could be taken from this allocation, the Commission should use it to prevent further deterioration of the building. Ms. Gunn asked if the Commission wanted to make a motion that she get the tarp. Ms. Rochelle said that no action was necessary. Ms. Gunn said that she did not want to go out to purchase a tarp without the Commission voting on it. Ms. Rochelle said that someone has to be hired to put it up, so it will come back before the Commission anyway.
Operating & Capital Budgets/Recommendations for 2003-2004 Operating Budget
Ms. Rochelle requested that the budget be tabled, as Ms. Gunn was not ready with her information. Ms. Falasca requested that a separate meeting to plan the budget be held. Mr. Bloom suggested a workshop session. An additional budget meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. at the Museum.
NEW BUSINESS
Ms. Rochelle stated that there was no new business.
Any other business to come before the Commission
There was no other business.
** MR. FEDERICI MOVED THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED.
** MR. BLOOM SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda J. Hayes
Assistant to the Curator
Norwalk Museum
Historical Commission
October 23, 2002
