TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES — JULY 15, 2019

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Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, James Lofink, Mark Neumann, and Edward Ohannessian

Public Session

Granby resident Elizabeth Hardersen, 41 Twilight Drive, addressed the board with concerns of residents feeding bears in their yards. She presented to the board a proposed ordinance that came from another town, in hopes it could be a guide for Granby. She is hoping to make this a safer town for everyone.

Heather Kelly, 291 Mountain Road, does not have a problem with bears but is aware of others on Mountain Road who are feeding bears.

Karen O’Neill, Salmon Brook Street, sees bears regularly. Just use good common sense.

William Regan, 62 Hungary Road, has previously requested the “Packets” that are distributed to the BOS and are part of the meeting be made available to the public online prior to the meeting. He was not happy with the response that the town did not have the staff necessary for this at this time. He also feels a bear ordinance is just another government intrusion.

Sarah Ryan, 15 Halwood Drive, would like to see bear-proof trash cans.

Daniel Kaizer, 36 Mountain Road, is against bear feeding and baiting.

Ken Santos, 9 Orchard Hill Road, is concerned about small dogs around roaming bears. He sees kids waiting for the school bus and is afraid they may be seen as a source of food.

A resident on Silver Street is in support of an ordinance. School buses dropping off children when there is a bear in sight is a problem.

Susan Regan, 62 Hungary Road, is concerned a no-feeding bear ordinance would not be followed. She stated people don’t follow the dog leash ordinance. Tell neighbors to work it out. Take responsibility.

Another Orchard Hill Road resident has chased bears with his Jeep and shot at them with buckshot to get them to leave, as recommended by DEEP.

It was noted that this problem has been addressed by Animal Control Officer, police, and DEEP and yet, people continue to feed bears. 

First Selectman Kuhnly responded he is not a fan of bears. He personally has had goats killed by bears. He’s not sure what’s the best answer going forward.

Minutes

On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to add agenda item V.B Hartford Foundation (see below).

Approval of Public Hearing Meeting Minutes of June 17 and Regular Meeting Minutes of June 17.

On a motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted 4-0-1 (abstention Selectman Lofink), to approve the minutes of the public hearing of June 17.

On a motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted 4-0-1 (abstention Selectman Lofink), to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of June 17.

Business

Resignations and appointments to be considered

On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to accept, with regret, the resignation of Charles Kraiza from the Planning and Zoning Commission.

On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to approve the appointment of Mark Lockwood (R), 15 Heather Lane, North Granby to fill this vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission through November 19.

Discussion of Hartford Foundation Community Fund Selection Committee

Abby Kenyon, director of community development, addressed the board with information on the establishment of a community fund set up by the Hartford Foundation for each of the 29 communities in the Hartford region. Each community will be given $100,000. Half of this amount, $50,000, will be placed in an endowment and $50,000 will be available for immediate use.

The Hartford Foundation is seeking recommendations for people to serve on the Selection Committee. Any person who serves on the Selection Committee will not be able to serve on the initial advisory committee and elected officials will not be able to serve on the selection or advisory committee. The Hartford Foundation will review all recommendations and will make a list of people to invite to regional meetings this fall in order to establish an advisory committee.

Kenyon -requested the board send her a list of names and she will forward this information to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Names must be submitted to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving by July 24.

Town Manager Reports

First Selectman Kuhnly reported the Town Manager is home resting and will return to the office as soon as he can.

First Selectman Reports, B. Scott Kuhnly

First Selectman Kuhnly reported the Granby Bluegrass Brews and BBQ Festival was a very successful event. Thank you to Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Kristine Vincent and Director of Public Works Kirk Severance and their staffs for all the work they did to make this happen.