SEPTEMBER 13, 2005
NORWALK, CONNECTICUT 8:00PM DST, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
ALL COMMON COUNCIL ACTIONS TAKEN AT THIS MEETING TO APPROVE EXPENDITURES AND CONTRACTS OR TO ACCEPT BIDS AND OTHER PROPOSALS REQUIRING THE EXPENDITURE OF CITY FUNDS ARE SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.

The Regular meeting of the Common Council of the City of Norwalk was held on Tuesday, September 13, 2005 in the Common Council Chambers, City Hall, 125 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut. Mayor Alex A. Knopp called the meeting to order at 8:03 p.m. and led the assembly in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

I. ROLL CALL

Ken Baker William Krummel
Fred Bondi Richard McQuaid
Michael Coffey Matthew Miklave
Carvin Hilliard Douglas Sutton
Douglas Hempstead Kevin Poruban
Peter Wien Betsy Bain
Jeannette-Olmstead-Sawyer Lee Levey
Phyllis Bolden

There were fifteen (15) members present at Roll Call.

Mayor Knopp asked to move to Item V.B. 1 and 2 on the agenda.

V. COUNCIL PRESIDENT

B. OTHER GENERAL COUNCIL BUSINESS

1. Pursuant to notice delivered under Section 1-174 of the Charter dated September 2, 2005: Declaration of vacancies in the offices of two (2) elected members of the Common Council, to wit: Bruce Kimmel resignation, District D. Leona Williams resignation, District B

2. Filling of vacancies for the Common Council pursuant to Section 1-174 of the Charter:
Lee Levey – District D
Phyllis Bolden – District B

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO APPROVE ITEM V.B.1, DECLARATION OF RESIGNATION OF BRUCE KIMMEL AND LEONA WILLIAMS; AND ITEM V.B.2, FILLING OF VACANCIES FOR THE COMMON COUNCIL OF LEE LEVEY – DISTRICT D, AND PHYLLIS BOLDEN – DISTRICT B.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mayor Knopp asked Mr. Lee Levey and Ms. Phyllis Bolden to come forward so that he could administer the oath of office to them.

3. Appointment of Councilman Carvin Hilliard to Chair the Finance Committee of the Common Council.

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF COUNCILMAN CARVIN HILLIARD TO CHAIR THE FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

4. Appointment of Councilman Lee Levey to the following committees: Finance, Land Use & Bldg Mgmt, Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness and Public Works

5. Appointment of Councilwoman Phyllis Bolden to the following committees: Personnel, Public Health & Welfare, Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness and Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO APPROVE COUNCILMAN LEE LEVEY TO THE FINANCE, LAND USE & BLDG MGMT, PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEES; AND COUNCILWOMAN PHYLLIS BOLDEN TO THE PERSONNEL, PUBLIC HEALTH & WELFARE, PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEES.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

II. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES

A. REGULAR MEETING – August 9, 2005

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF AUGUST 9, 2005.
** MOTION PASSED WITH TWELVE (12) VOTES IN FAVOR AND THREE (3) ABSTENTIONS (BAIN, LEVEY AND BOLDEN)

III. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Ms. Terri Tylo, 5 Camp, submitted a letter. Some excerpts of it follow: No employees, union or non-union, should be retained or given a raise without review, including the cost of living increase. The ordinance employees should be no exception. A vote across the board without review is a vote for a system open to cronyism and corruption. If you vote against the Personnel regulations and the taxpayers, the taxpayers will revolt.

Mr. Joe Robidoux, 5 Dairy Farm Court, is the President of the Friends of the Norwalk Museum. He is concerned about across the board pay raises without a true evaluation of the individual’s work. He is concerned about the Director of Personnel and the way the situation at the Norwalk Museum has been handled for the last 5 ½ years. That person was hired illegally 5 ½ years ago and did not go through the proper channels. It was a union position, and it should have been done properly. He is concerned when Mr. Bray, who represents the Union as their lawyer, brought a countersuit against the City of Norwalk, and didn’t take action. It has been documented many times that the job by that person has not been performed honestly and correctly. There are 6 charges against the Curator for mail tampering. He spoke on behalf of many Norwalk taxpayers when he asked when the museum situation would be resolved.

Mr. Scott Gibson, 5 Camp, would like to address the ordinance raises. He said that Council members make sacrifices, and they should be acknowledged for them. In reviewing the minutes, it appears that matters are taken seriously. He sees little evidence of the strong council form of government lately, relating to the ordinances and statutes. Certain ordinance employees ignore these ordinances and statutes on a daily basis. The Personnel Director being a case in point. The hiring regulations were ignored in the hiring of the Museum Curator staff person to the Norwalk Historical Commission. The Personnel Director colluded with the prior Mayor to evade the existing law, not acknowledging some of the other applicants for the position and by not forwarding the resumes received to the Norwalk Historical Commission as is required for their consideration.

Mr. Jeffrey Spahr, 32 Stonybrook, wanted to indicate to the Common Council that the structure is set up resulting from a resolution passed in 1983 that whenever the NASA contract is concluded, the benefits that NASA has are automatically passed on to the ordinance list. The ordinance list automatically receives reductions in benefits. The ordinance list has had an increase in its contribution for the medical co-pay systems. He said the Law Department has fantastic lawyers. Their salaries are not comparable to Stamford. To those people who are attacking Sara LeTorneau, he said that he has worked with her for a decade and she is a fantastic professional. There is a process involved with contracts. The curator is a member of the Union, and there has to be just cause to discipline her. The City of Norwalk is looking into what they can do. He will vouch for Ms. LeTorneau, and he said that she is a very good worker and is doing the best that she can. He said that the Mayor is aware of the situation.

Ms. Kelly Straniti, 1 Ponus Avenue. She wanted to talk about the ordinance list. She suggested having each employee reviewed individually and didn’t feel it appropriate to give across the board raises.

Emily Ann Koehnlein, 41 Wolfpit Road, said she is a lifelong resident of Norwalk. She found it appalling that things are ignored too long. Taxpayers resent across the board raises when performance does not warrant them.

David Davidson, 16 Betmolia Road, urged the Council members to reject across the board increases. Unions reject merit as a base for compensation. Top managers are the keys to success. He said to reject the proposal and demand the Mayor evaluate individually. He said Dr. Corda revealed in May that he put in $1.4M for health insurance that he did not need. The Board of Education knowingly submitted a false budget. He urged the Council members to table the item.

Diane Lauricella, 39 Seaview Avenue, spoke about the personnel ordinance. She has been following this issue for many years with two different administrations. The cost of living is not mentioned in the wording of the ordinance. She said she was a former public employee and thought it was a great system. She urged the Council members to send this item back to the Committee. She asked to have a timeline developed on the Personnel Director issue. As a taxpayer, she is not pleased that Mr. Jeffrey Spahr, an employee of the City, defends individuals at the podium. She wanted his boss to reprimand him for that as she felt it was highly inappropriate. The City Curator position has taken too long to resolve. She sent a message to the public that in order to assist the Councilmen and the Mayor, if you have any complaints, send a letter to the Mayor and ask for a copy to be filed in the personnel file.

MAYOR

A. RESIGNATIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

Resignation: Leona Williams from the Common Council
Daniel Iacovella from SWRPA
Lee Blair from Fair Rent Commission
Heather Rodin from Fair Housing Advisory Commission

Mayor Knopp thanked all the individuals for their public service.

Reappointment: Patricia Genuario – Fair Rent Commission (Alt)

** MS. BAIN MOVED TO APPOINT MS. PATRICIA GENUARIO TO THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION (ALT).
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Appointments: Patrick Shields – Zoning Commission

Mayor Knopp said that Mr. Shields had served on the PTO of the Marvin School and the Board of the East Norwalk Library.

** MR. PORUBAN MOVED TO APPOINT MR. PATRICK SHIELDS TO THE ZONING COMMISSION.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Taylor Strubinger – Zoning Board of Appeals

Mayor Knopp said that Mr. Strubinger has a background in construction and most recently served on the Brien McMahon Ad Hoc Committee. Mayor Knopp thanked Ms. Bain for making the suggestion that Mr. Strubinger be recommended.

** MS. BAIN MOVED TO APPOINT MR. TAYLOR STRUBINGER TO THE ZBA (ALT).
** MOTION PASSED WITH TWELVE (12) VOTES IN FAVOR, TWO (2) ABSTENTIONS (MCQUAID AND HEMPSTEAD), AND ONE (1) ABSENT (COFFEY).

Nathan Sumpter – ZBA (Alt.)

Mayor Knopp said that Mr. Sumpter has organized the Norwalk Babe Ruth Little League. He has a background in construction.

** MR. HILLIARD MOVED TO APPOINT MR. NATHAN SUMPTER TO THE ZBA.

Mr. McQuaid said that he found some inaccuracies in his resume. The second page that was attached was not part of Mr. Sumpter’s resume.

Mr. Hilliard said Mr. Sumpter is active in the community and would be a good appointment to the ZBA.

** MOTION PASSED WITH FOURTEEN (14) VOTES IN FAVOR AND ONE (1) ABSENT (COFFEY).
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

John Church – Fair Rent (Alt.)

Mayor Knopp said that this nomination is part of a new youth movement that he’s trying to encourage. Mr. Church is very active in Norwalk, and in non-profit organizations and education.

** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO APPOINT MR. JOHN CHURCH TO THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION (ALT.)

Mr. Bondi said he was pleased to second the nomination. It’s an honor to have young people come forward. Mr. Hempstead said that this would be third generation of the Church family to serve Norwalk. Mr. Miklave is pleased to support this nomination. Mr. Church’s resume is attached. He is a Columbia graduate with a 3.6 grade point average and was on the Dean’s List for 7 of 8 semesters.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Marissa Lilliedahl – Fair Rent (Alt.)
Mayor Knopp said that Ms. Lilliedahl has been involved with the Human Services Council. She is enthusiastic and always willing to help.

** MR. PORUBAN MOVED TO APPOINT MS. MARISSA LILLIEDAHL TO THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION (ALT.)
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Maria Borges Lopes – Fair Rent Commission full member.

** MR. HILLIARD MOVED TO APPOINT MS. MARIA BORGES LOPES TO THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION (FULL MEMBER).

Mayor Knopp said that a person of Hispanic background that can speak Spanish would be a benefit to the Fair Rent Commission. Mr. Hilliard said he was in agreement with the appointment.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Akisha Cassermere – Fair Rent (Alt.)

** MS. BAIN MOVED TO APPOINT MS. AKISHA CASSERMERE TO THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION (ALT.)

Mayor Knopp said that Ms. Cassermere is a participant in the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI). Ms. Bain said it was great to see that alumni of the PLTI are taking an active role in the community.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mr. Robert Hard – Zoning Commission (Alt.)

Mayor Knopp said that Mr. Hard is an Attorney.

** MR. PORUBAN MOVED TO APPOINT MR. ROBERT HARD TO THE ZONING COMMISSION (ALT.)
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

REMARKS

Mayor Knopp addressed the ordinance list issues. There were several issues raised, and he wanted to clear up any confusion. The City does not do evaluations for city employees. He said goals have been set for the following employees on the ordinance list.

Mr. Mocciae, Recreation and Parks Committee
Mr. Thomas Hamilton, Finance Director
Mr. Harold Alvord, Public Works Director
Mr. Tim Callahan, Public Health Director
Ms. Sara LeTorneau, Personnel Director
Mr. Mike Dolhancryk, Emergency Management Director
Corporation Council

Mayor Knopp addressed some of the previous issues of the general public and explained the situations. The ordinance list process should be revised. The raise should be tied to the performance evaluation.

V. COUNCIL PRESIDENT (CONT’D)

A. CONSENT CALENDAR

** MR. BONDI MOVED THE FOLLOWING CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS

REPORTS: DEPARTMENTS, BOARD AND COMMISSIONS

A. BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION

3. RESOLVED, that a sum not to exceed $120,000 be and the same is hereby transferred from Contingency to the Department of Public Works to pay for a general drainage study. Acct. #01-4027-5258.

B. NORWALK FACILITIES CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION

2a. Authorize to increase the contingency allowance for DJ Contracting Inc. (abatement contractor for Brien McMahon High School/Center for Global Studies Project) in the amount of $10,000.00. Acct #0902/03/04 5010 5777 C0237.

2b. Authorize the NFCC to issue change orders on contract for a total not to exceed the contingency amount.

3. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an amendment to Fletcher Thompson’s architectural and engineering design services contract for the Norwalk High School Project, for additional compensation for architectural services for the development of alternate Plans B and C, for an amount not-to-exceed $106,000.00. #09045010 5777 B0310.

4a. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue Purchase Order (s) to Tucker Library Interiors, LLC for the supply and installation of furniture for the South Norwalk Library Improvement Project for a total not to exceed $57,816.00. Acct #09056210 5777 C0153

4b. Authorize the NFCC to issue increases to the Purchase Order(s) for a total not to exceed $5,800.00.

VI. COMMON COUNCIL COMMITTEES

A. FINANCE COMMITTEE

1a. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue purchase orders to HP for a server per MUNIS consistent with City IT technical standards, final configuration and HP quotation still under refinement, for an amount not to exceed $20,000.00. Acct #09050600-C0286 (IT Capital) (MUNIS software upgrade server)

1b. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue purchase orders to Tyler Technologies for the purchase of Informix Licenses and for professional services to build, plan, provide training and execute the MUNIS Software Upgrade from version 2003 to version 2004 per Tyler Technologies quotation dated 9/2/2005 for an amount not to exceed $23,998.00. Acct. #09050600-5777-C0286 (IT) Capital) (MUNIS software upgrade)

4. For information purposes only Monthly Tax Collector’s Reports dated June 30, 2005 and August 31, 2005.

B. PUBLIC HEALTH & WELFARE COMMITTEE

1a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents necessary to apply for and accept grant funds from the Southwestern Connecticut Area Agency on Aging for the Community Case Manager for the Elderly Program for the period October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006.

1b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all agreements, documents, instruments or amendments as may be necessary to implement the Community Case Manager for the Elderly Program for the period October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006.

2a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents necessary to apply for and accept grant funds from the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health for the HIV/AIDS Prevention Program for the period July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007.

2b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all agreements, documents, instruments or amendments as may be necessary to implement the HIV/AIDS Prevention Program for the period July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007.

3a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents necessary to apply for and accept grant funds from the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health for the Bioterrorism Program for the period August 31, 2005 to August 30, 2006.

3b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all agreements, documents, instruments or amendments as may be necessary to implement the Bioterrorism Program for the period August 31, 2005 to August 30, 2006.

4a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents necessary to apply for and accept grant funds from the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health for the Preventive Health Block Grant for the period July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006.

4b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all agreements, documents, instruments or amendments as may be necessary to implement the Preventive Health Block Grant for the period July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006.

5. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents with LabOne for the purpose of collection of specimens.

C. LAND USE AND BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

1. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents necessary to accept the conveyance of land and permanent easement from 142-144 East Avenue LLC, for the future development of public access along Norwalk River.

Consent to return to Committee.

3. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute a five-year agreement with Yankee Gas Services Company for the installation of a new gas service and gas usage for the Lockwood House.

Consent to table.

E. PLANNING COMMITTEE

1a. Approve the proposed Amendment #2 language to the Fred F. French LDA resulting from the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency’s approval of a Transfer Request by French of all the obligations, rights and real property associated with LDA to 95/7 Ventures LLC on May 4, 2005.

1b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute the Amendment #2 to the Fred F. French LDA.

2. Approve the POKO Partners, LLC as the preferred developer for Wall Street Redevelopment Parcel 2A in general accordance with the proposal entitled “POKO” Norwalk Ventures LLC response to the City of Norwalk RFP for the redevelopment of Site 2A”, dated April 1, 2004.

F. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

3. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute any and all documents with the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation in connection with a Maintenance Agreement for the installation and maintenance of the lighting under the North Water Street Bridge, Ann Street Bridge and Marshall Street Bridge.

4. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an Agreement with Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc., (VHB, Inc.) to provide Pavement Engineering Services in connection with the Pavement Management Program for a sum not to exceed $150,000. Acct. #0906 4021 5777 C0021.

6. Authorize the Chairman of the Public works Committee, Kevin Poruban, to forward proposed changes to Chapters 44 and 90 of the Norwalk City Code to the Ordinance Committee for consideration, public hearing and forwarding to the Common Council.

Consent to table.

7. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to purchase PECO Automatic Manhole Cutter and Extractor from Voelker Equipment Co., Inc. Sole source procurement, for an amount of $15,442.30. Acct. #0905 4031 5777 C0313.

8a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an agreement with Advanced Corp. for ON-Site Armor Cast Tank Repair at the Public Works Center, for a sum not to exceed $78,000.00.

8b. Authorize the Director of Public Works to issue Orders on Contract with Advanced Corp. for On-Site Armor Cast Tank Repair at the Public Works Center, for a sum not to exceed $7,800.00. Acct. # 0140 44 5269 (pending special appropriation funding)

G. PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

1. Authorize the Police Department to contract with Industrial Organizational Solutions, Inc., to develop and provide a Patrol Officer Entrance Examination. Said cost for development not to exceed $22,925 and to be partially or fully recouped by fees charged to examinees.

2. Authorize the Mayor to issue a Resolution stating and outlining the City Norwalk official acceptance and support of the National Incident Management System.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

V. COUNCIL PRESIDENT

C. OTHER GENERAL COUNCIL BUSINESS

6. Nominations to the Governor for the Five Mile River Commission: John de Regt, Wendell Anderson and Mathew Marion

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO SEND THE GOVERNOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE FIVE MILE RIVER COMMISSION; JOHN DE REGT, WENDELL ANDERSON, AND MATHEW MARION.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mr. Bondi thanked Ms. Williams for her 10 years as Councilwoman and wished her well in her move to Bridgeport.

A. BOARD OF ESTIMATE AND TAXATION

1. RESOLVED, that a sum not to exceed $550,000 be and the same is hereby transferred from Fund Balance to the Board of Education to support the FY 2005-06 Operating Costs for Education. Acct. #01-5050-5050.

** MR. HILLIARD MOVED TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $550,000 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM FUND BALANCE TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO SUPPORT THE FY 2005-06 OPERATING COSTS FOR EDUCATION. ACCT. #01-5050-5050.

Mr. Hamilton said the appropriation was part of the adopted budget for 05-06, expecting to end the year with a surplus of $550,000.00. The budget that was set for 05-06 took into account that the $550,000 would be available to support the budget going forward.

Mr. Hempstead said that in the prior fiscal year the BED had a surplus. $1.2 of the surplus was put into the textbook program. The budget adopted by the BET had a number reduced in anticipation of the $550,000 being available.

Mr. McQuaid asked who was in charge of the Board of Education budget. He asked how the money would be returned. He said he feels that a CFO is needed at the Board of Education.

Mr. Hempstead disagreed, respectively so. He thinks the prudent thing to do is to table it and hold it until they need it.

Mayor Knopp replied that these are budgeted funds. The concern is that if they don’t keep the agreement, there would be a large amount of adjustments to be made. So far it has been to the benefit of the taxpayers and the city. He feels it would be unwise and shortsighted to table the item.

** MR. HEMPSTEAD MOVED TO TABLE THE ITEM.
** MOTION DEFEATED WITH TWO (2) VOTES IN FAVOR (MCQUAID AND HEMPSTEAD) AND THIRTEEN (13) VOTES OPPOSED.

Ms. Bain said she agrees with the position of Mayor Knopp. She said the Board of Education does not have a contingency budget in which to meet unexpected expenditures. Mr. Bondi said that he agrees with Mr. McQuaid that the Board of Education needs a CFO.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Ms. Stark read the roll call.

BAKER, Yes
COFFEY, Yes
MIKLAVE, Yes
OLMSTEAD SAWYER, Yes
SUTTON, Yes
MCQUAID, Opposed
WIEN, Yes
HILLIARD, Yes
BOLDEN, Abstained
BONDI, Yes
PORUBAN, Yes
HEMPSTEAD, No
LEVEY, Yes
BAIN, Yes
KRUMMEL, Yes

** RESOLUTION APPROVED WITH TWELVE (12) VOTES IN FAVOR, TWO (2) OPPOSED (HEMPSTEAD, MCQUAID), AND ONE (1) ABSTENTION (BOLDEN).

2. RESOLVED, that a sum not to exceed $303,369 be and the same is hereby transferred from Fund Balance to the City Services for Education account to pay for School Resource Officers. Acct. #01-7053-5110.

** MR. HILLIARD MOVED TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION THAT A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $303,369 BE AND THE SAME IS HEREBY TRANSFERRED FROM FUND BALANCE TO THE CITY SERVICES FOR EDUCATION ACCOUNT TO PAY FOR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS. ACCT. # 01-7053-5110.

Mr. Hamilton said this appropriation from the operating budget of 04-05 funds a major new initiative in the City school system through the Police Department. It provides funding for a School Resource Officer program to put School Resource Officers in the city’s three high schools and the feeder middle schools. The cost of the program is $303,000. It will have three additional police officers effective in December, when the next available academy graduates are in place. Three officers will be assigned to these duties in September, and then three officers will transfer in. The program will be initiated as soon as possible after approval by Council. The program includes several other elements under review, including a middle school gang curriculum. Truancy officer duties may be included also. The Board of Education will contribute to the program as well.

Police Chief Rilling pointed out that there was a pending grant application with the U.S. Department of Justice for three School Resource Officers for a period of three years. The request was not funded, but they were told not to reapply. The SRO would be used a resource for parents and teachers, and also to develop relationships with the middle feeder schools. They would be trained to teach conflict resolution skills. They would teach the curriculum called Gang Resistance Education and Training, which helps avoid peer pressure and gangs.

Mr. Bondi asked if the officers can be used in the Parks Programs when not in the schools during the summer. There are vacation schedules to adhere by. Mr. Bondi asked Chief Rilling to take this into consideration. Mr. McQuaid said the officers might be helpful during the summer school program.

Mr. Hempstead asked about the creation of the three positions and if they were being added to the police force. Chief Rilling said they will appoint three School Resource Officers from the contingent. They will replace the officers on street with overtime. They will then hire three officers to replace those officers. There are 173 officers now on the police force, and there will be 176.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

B. NORWALK FACILITIES CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION

1. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an amendment to Special Testing Laboratories contract for additional materials testing and inspections at Brien McMahon High School/Center for Global Studies project in the amount of $30,000.00. Acct # 0902/03/04 5010 5777 C0237.

** MR. KRUMMEL MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE AN AMENDMENT TO SPECIAL TESTING LABORATORIES CONTRACT FOR ADDITIONAL MATERIALS TESTING AND INSECTIONS AT BRIEN MCMAHON HIGH SCHOOL/CENTER FOR GLOBAL STUDIES PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,000.00. ACCT. # 0902/03/04 5010 5777 C0237.

Mr. McQuaid asked that this item be removed from the agenda as no one from the Board of Education was present.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

VII.COMMON COUNCIL COMMITTEES

A. FINANCE COMMITTEE

2. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute a contract with AIG to underwrite the City’s Life insurance program for City and Board of Education employees at rates determined through a competitive bidding process with the Connecticut Public Sector Purchasing Coalition.

** MR. SUTTON MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH AIG TO UNDERWIRTE THE CITY’S LIFE INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR CITY AND BOARD OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES AT RATES DETERMINED THROUGH A COMPETITIVE BIDDING PROCESS WITH THE CONNECTICUT PUBLIC SECTOR PURCHASING COALITION.

Mr. Hamilton said they had great success with the plan last year when the prescription drugs went out to bid. As a result of the joint bidding, the life insurance costs were reduced by 56% or $258,000 a year.

** MOTION PASSED WITH TEN (10) VOTES IN FAVOR AND 5 RECUSED (HILLIARD, COFFEY, MIKLAVE, HEMPSTEAD, AND MCQUAID).

3. Accept the Report of the Claims Committee Dated September 8, 2005 (Since all claims are under $5,000, no claims need to be approved).

** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO ACCEPT THE REPORT OF THE CLAIMS COMMITTEE DAED SEPTEMBER 8, 2005.
** MOTION PASSED WITH FOURTEEN (14) VOTES IN FAVOR AND ONE (1) OPPOSED (MCQUAID)

C. LAND USE AND BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

2a. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute a contract with Northeast Generator Co., Inc. for the installation of an emergency generator at the Norwalk Health Department Building for a total not to exceed $74,900.00. Acct. # to be provided.

2b. Authorize the Director of the Health Department to issue change orders on contract for a total not to exceed $7,490.00.

** MR. KRUMMEL MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH NORTHEST GENERATOR CO., INC. FOR THE INSTALLATION OF AN EMERGENCY GENERATOR AT THE NORWALK HEALTH DEPARTMENT BUILDING FOR A TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $74,900.00. ACCT. # TO BE PROVIDED;

** MR. KRUMMEL MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO ISSUE CHANGE ORDERS ON CONTRACT FOR A TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $7,490.00.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

E. PLANNING COMMITTEE

3a. Approve the award of the contractor for Planning and Design Services for Oyster Shell Park to BSC Group for a sum not to exceed $45,000. Funds are available in the DECD Reed Putnam Urban Special Act Grant. Acct. #09020901-5777-C0241.

3b. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute all documents necessary for the implementation of the contract.

** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO APPROVE THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACTOR FOR PLANNING AND DESIGN SERVICES FOR OYSTER SHELL PARK TO BSC GROUP FOR A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $45,000. FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE DECD REED PUTNAM URBAN SPECIAL ACT GRANT. ACCT. #09020901-5777-C0241.

** MR. MIKLAVE MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONTRACT.

** MOTION PASSED WITH FOURTEEN (14) VOTES IN FAVOR AND ONE (1) AGAINST (HEMPSTEAD)

F. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

1. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute a License Agreement with Anthony N. Tscocanos and AMS Pizza, LLC in connection with encroaching into the City of Norwalk’s air space for the purposes of providing access to the duct vent, for a term of five years.

** MR. PORUBAN MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE A LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH ANTHONY N. TSCOCANOS AND AMS PIZZA, LLC IN CONNECTION WITH ENCROACHING INTO THE CITY OF NORWALK’S AIR SPACE FOR THE PURPOSES OF PROVIDING ACCESS TO THE DUCT VENT, FOR A TERM OF FIVE YEARS.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

2. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an Agreement with Nxegen, Inc., to replace the lighting at the Public Works Center with Energy Efficient Lighting at no capital cost to the City of Norwalk. This project will yield an estimate annual electric usage cost savings of $22,348 to be used to pay for the capital costs $223,490 principal only) of the installation for a 6-year term.

Mr. Hempstead said he had concerns with the project being done without a competitive bid. Mr. Lo said that there was a three year contract. Mr. Alvord clarified that the contract dating back to 2003 was for them to provide a series of proposals. All of them were in the CL&P area. The current three proposals are not in the CL&P area, but in the 2nd & 3rd Taxing District.

** MOTION PASSED WITH THIRTEEN (13) VOTES IN FAVOR AND TWO (2) AGAINST (HEMPSTEAD AND MCQUAID).

5. Authorize the Mayor, Alex A. Knopp, to execute an agreement with DW Transport and Leasing, Inc., for Project No. 229, to provide Road Sand, Street Sweepings and Catchbasin Grit Transport and Disposal for a sum not to exceed $30.48/ton for FY 2005-06 and adjusted annually by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for FY 2006-07 and FY 2007-08.

** MR. PORUBAN MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, ALEX A. KNOPP, TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH DW TRANSPORT AND LEASING, INC., FOR PROJECT NO. 229, TO PROVIDE ROAD SAND, STREET SWEEPINGS AND CATCHBASIN GRIT TRANSPORT AND DISPOSAL FOR A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $30.48/TON FOR FY 2005-06 AND ADJUSTED ANNUALLY BY THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (CPI) FOR FY 2006-07 AND FY 2007-08.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

VIII. RESOLUTION FROM COMMON COUNCIL

1. A resolution presented by Councilmen Hempstead and McQuaid.

NOW, THEREFORE: Let it be resolved that the power of Norwalk’s government and its law enforcement agencies provide assistance to its citizens to assure slow down days have an impact in Norwalk. That the City of Norwalk request state law enforcement agencies to provide selective enforcement on state roads that pass through our local community.

NOW, THEREFORE: We encourage all the citizens, parents ad grandparents and children and local organizations to participate in Slow Down Days. By asking them to place signs along curbs in a safe manner requesting drivers to slow down and to actively participate in the process to raise awareness in our community of the dangers of unsafe driving.

** MR. HEMPSTEAD MOVED TO RESOLVE THAT THE POWER OF NORWALK’S GOVERNMENT AND ITS LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO ITS CITIZENS TO ASSURE SLOW DOWN DAYS HAVE AN IMPACT IN NORWALK, THAT THE CITY OF NORWALK REQUEST STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT ON STATE ROADS THAT PASS THROUGH OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY.

** MR. HEMPSTEAD MOVED TO ENCOURAGE ALL THE CITIZENS, PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS AND CHILDREN AND LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS TO PARTICIPATE IN SLOW DOWN DAYS. BY ASKING THEM TO PLACE SIGNS ALONG CURBS IN A SAFE MANNER REQUESTING DRIVERS TO SLOW DOWN AND TO ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN THE PROCESS TO RAISE AWARENESS IN OUR COMMUNITY OF THE DANGERS OF UNSAFE DRIVING.

Mayor Knopp said that this was an excellent idea and a great proposal.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

1. Approve the Salaries for Ordinance List.

** MR. SUTTON MOVED TO APPROVE THE SALARIES FOR ORDINANCE LIST.

** MR. BONDI MOVED TO REFER BACK TO THE COMMITTEE, WITH THE INTENT TO GET GOALS IN WRITTEN FORM AND EVALUATIONS IN WRITTEN FORM.

** MOTION PASSED WITH NINE (9) VOTES IN FAVOR, FOUR (4) VOTES OPPOSED (MCQUAID, BAKER, BAIN, MIKLAVE) AND TWO (2) ABSTENTIONS (BOLDEN AND PORUBAN)

IX. MOTIONS POSTPONED TO A SPECIFIC DATE

X. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES

Mr. Bondi said the Common Council will have their picture taken at the next meeting.

XI. ADJOURNMENT

** MS. BAIN MOVED TO ADJOURN.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,

Carolyn Marr
Telesco Secretarial Services

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