GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES

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April 6, 2021 Special Meeting

The special meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by First Selectman B. Scott Kuhnly at 7 p.m.

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann and Edward Ohannessian

Also Present: Kimi Cheng, Administration Finance Officer, William F. Smith, Jr., Interim Town Manager

Appointment of Town Manager

Ballard questioned the details of the agreement between the Town and William Smith and requested a copy of the agreement to review before voting on the motion. Kuhnly shared that a copy would be available after the meeting: however, the agreement was previously discussed in executive session. 

Ballard referenced the town charter and that the First Selectman does not have the authority to appoint the Interim Town Manager before the Board of Selectman votes on the agreement. Kuhnly explained that the circumstances are different in this case and the town attorney agreed. Ballard would not vote to approve the contract since the board did not have the opportunity to review and approve the draft agreement.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (4-1-0) to ratify and approve the agreement dated March 29 between the Town of Granby and William F. Smith, Jr. pursuant to which Smith will serve as the interim town manager. Ballard voted no.

Information and Update on Proposed FY21-22 Budget

Smith provided an update on the approval requirements for the 2022 Budget. It has been determined the Town will be required to hold a Public Hearing on April 12 followed by a referendum machine vote on April 26 unless otherwise specified. In the event the Governor eliminates this process, notifications to the public will be made.

On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to recess the meeting at 7:09 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Betsy Mazzotta Recording Secretary

APRIL 19, 2021

The regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by Vice Chairman Sally King at 7 p.m.

Present: Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, William F. Smith Jr., Town Manager; and John Bell, Student Liaison. Also Present: Sheri Cappa, GAA; Kate Coupe, GAA, Kimi Cheng, Administration Finance Officer; John Horr, Jr., LAFD Fire Chief; Kristine Vincent, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services

Presentation Regarding Radio Communications

LAFD Chief John Horr, Jr. reviewed the emergency communication needs for the Town of Granby and discussed the need to establish a Town of Granby Radio System Committee. All the emergency services for the Town of Granby, which include Police, Fire, Ambulance and Public Works, are coordinated through the 911 Dispatch Center.

The system is 21 years old. It is currently full and no new channels can be added. In addition, the system is incompatible with new equipment and the availability of parts is decreasing. The Granby Police radio equipment is 15 to 20 years old and needs improved reliability and compatibility with other organizations.

The Granby Ambulance Association equipment is also 15 to 20 years old. Its call volume is 1,837 and increasing. In addition, its equipment is incompatible with newer systems and there is a need to have coverage with hospitals in Massachusetts and Connecticut. 

Lost Acres Fire Department mobiles and tower are over 30 years old, and portables are 20 years old. Parts are no longer available for existing equipment and it needs compatibility with mutual aid towns, as well as equipment that allows upgrades and improvements. The department is pursuing a new frequency and an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license is in the process. 

The Public Works radio repeater is over 30 years old and portable/mobiles are over 20 years old. Mobiles have poor coverage in areas of Granby and portable coverage is worse. Mobile communications are needed when operating in adjacent the towns of East Granby, Simsbury and East Hartland and a separate channel for traffic control.

Horr reviewed the Radio Committee and Charter. The committee consists of: Town Manager William F. Smith, Jr.; Chief of Police Carl Rosensweig; Chris Gordon, Granby Ambulance Association; Kirk Severance, Department of Public Works; LAFD Chief John Horr, Jr. (Chairman).

The Charter:

Hire a technical consultant to advise/assist the Radio Committee. A Request for Quote was published and bids are due May 7.

Perform an existing systems analysis and needs assessment.

Review existing technologies/options.

Develop bid specification(s), publish and evaluate bidder responses for potential solutions.

Provide recommendation(s) and cost(s) to implement in time for 2022-2023 Town of Granby Budget submittal.

Monitor the installation and testing of the four selected new systems and ensure the installer and equipment meets all the specified performance criteria.

Provide periodic updates throughout the process to the Board of Selectmen.

Smith noted the first phase is the consultant phase and noted the reserves in the Communication Fund would cover the consultant fee. Once a consultant is found and provides an amount, there will be an analysis of the full cost, which most likely will be a bond amount. The proposals would be for the equipment. The cost and service to the town are the most important considerations. While there may be an expense that goes into the operating budget, ultimately this could be a capital expense that would go to CPPAC.

Ohannessian inquired what is being asked in the RFQ. Horr noted it is asking for someone to help with the process. Ohannessian also inquired whether it is viable to own our own system or could we share a system with other towns. He would like the consultant to consider the option of a regionalized system versus purchasing our own and felt those options should be part of the analysis. It was noted those options are not the charge of the RFQ. The committee could review this once they have a price. It was noted safety of the town’s citizens and emergency personnel is the most important factor.

Consideration of Resolution for Board of Education Grant Application

The Board of Education is requesting the Board of Selectmen to consider the resolution regarding the Grant Application for Phase I of Alterations at Granby Memorial High School. 

Superintendent Jordan Grossman introduced the process. The alterations in this phase include the cafeteria, the music area and the roof at the high school. An approved resolution is needed relative to the music areas, cafeteria kitchen and high school roof, as well as the approved minutes. Business Manager Anna Robbins explained the process indicating the projects listed are part of the approval of the Bond Resolution. 

The grant application deadline is June 30, 2021 and the anticipated reimbursement rate is 39.64 percent, provided all conditions are met. This is standard practice and they have been working very closely with the State to make sure everything is done properly. King read the resolution:

Resolution for Board of Education grant application for phase 1: alterations at Granby Memorial High School that includes the construction of a kitchen and reconfiguration of the cafeteria, choral and instrument areas and the roof at Granby Memorial High School.

Resolved, that the Town of Granby Board of Selectman authorizes the Granby Board of Education to apply to the Office of School Construction and Grants and to accept or reject a grant for phase 1: alterations at Granby Memorial High School that includes the construction of a kitchen and reconfiguration of the cafeteria, choral and instrument areas as well as the Granby Memorial High School Roof.

Resolved, that the School Project Building Committee is hereby established as the building committee with regard to phase 1: alterations at Granby Memorial High School that includes the construction of a kitchen and reconfiguration of the cafeteria, choral and instrument areas as well as the Granby Memorial High School Roof.

Resolved, that the Town of Granby Board of Selectman hereby authorizes at least the preparation of schematic drawings and outline specifications for phase 1: alterations at Granby Memorial High School that include the construction of a kitchen and reconfiguration of the cafeteria, choral and instrument areas as well as the Granby Memorial High School Roof.

On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted (4-0-0) to approve the resolution for the Board of Education Grant Application for Phase I of Alterations at Granby Memorial High School.

Consideration of Granby Water Pollution Control Authority (GWPCA) Setting Sewer Use Rates for 2021-22

King recessed as the Board of Selectmen and opened as the Granby Water Pollution Control Authority (GWPCA) at 7:56 p.m.

The GWPCA held a Public Hearing earlier this evening to receive comments on the proposed sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2021-22. No verbal or written comments were received.

There was a brief discussion in regard to the established rates and if they would support any expenses that may incur. It was noted unless there is a major incident, the rates are good and they are compatible with other communities.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted (4-0-0) to set sewer rates for residential users at a minimum of $220 for average gallons (55,000 gpy) used per year and $308 per year for commercial/industrial users (100,000 gpy). For all gallon usage (residential and commercial/industrial) above the minimum will be charged $65 per gallon.

King adjourned as GWPCA and reconvened as BOS at 7:58 p.m.

Consideration of Resolution and Compliance Statement Supporting Fair Housing

To reaffirm the Town’s commitment to Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Smith recommended the Board of Selectmen re-adopt the following Fair Housing Resolution, the Fair Housing Policy Statement, and Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. King read the resolution:

Fair Housing Resolution

Whereas, all persons are afforded a right to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice; and

Whereas, Federal fair housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, be given equal access to all housing-related opportunities, including rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and

Whereas, Connecticut fair housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, age, lawful course of income, familial status, learning disability, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression be given equal access to all housing-related opportunities, including rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and Whereas, the Town of Granby is committed to upholding these laws, and realizes that these laws must be supplemented by an Affirmative Statement publicly endorsing the right of all people to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice.

Now Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Town of Granby hereby endorses a Fair Housing Policy to ensure equal opportunity for all persons to rent, purchase, and obtain financing and enjoy all other housing-related services of their choice on a non- discriminatory basis as provided by state and federal law; and

Be It Further Resolved, that the Town Manager of the Town of Granby or his/her designated representative is responsible for responding to and assisting any person who alleges to be the victim of illegal discriminatory housing practices in the Town of Granby and for advising such person of the right to file a complaint with the State of Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or to seek assistance from the CT Fair Housing Center, legal services, or other fair housing organization to protect his or her right to equal housing opportunities.

On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (4-0-0) to re-adopt the following Fair Housing Resolution, Fair Housing Policy Statement, and Compliance with Title VI of the Civil rights Act of 1964, Affirmative Action Policy Statement, Municipal Grievance Procedure and ADA Notice (memo attachments).

Consideration of Town Manager Selection Process

After a brief discussion, it was decided to table this agenda item to the next meeting when the entire board will be present to discuss the Town Manager selection process.

Consideration of Park and Recreation Fund Appropriation

Recreation and Leisure Services Director Kristine Vincent requested permission to appropriate $45,900 from the Parks and Recreation Fund to purchase 2021 summer camp supplies that are in line with COVID safety guidelines. These COVID safety expenditures were not budgeted in the Fiscal Year 2020-21 adopted Parks and Recreation Fund Budget. These funds are intended to be reimbursed by the American Rescue Plan Act to the Parks and Recreation Fund. There are sufficient funds in the Parks and Recreation Fund to cover this appropriation.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (4-0-0) to authorize an additional appropriation of $45,900 from the Parks and Recreation Fund balance to fund the additional 2021 Recreation and Leisure Services summer programs COVID safety related expenditures and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

Town Manager Reports

Ballard inquired about updated information regarding Kearns School, as it is nearing the 120-day milestone. Smith responded he will have an update for the next meeting.

MAY 3, 2021

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by First Selectman B. Scott Kuhnly at 7 p.m.

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, William F. Smith Jr., Town Manager; and John Bell, Student Liaison

Public Session

Granby residents Valerie Eastwood and Bart Cochran, 10 Haven Drive, reported a bear climbed their five-foot chain link fence and attacked their dog last week. The dog received extensive injuries from bites and claws requiring multiple surgeries. They are hopeful the dog will survive. Eastwood admitted she has been feeding the birds and after speaking with Animal Control Officer Jen Abalan, she learned the downfall of bird feeding is it attracts bears. She is asking the Town for an ordinance similar to Simsbury’s restricting bird feeding to certain times of the year.

Jenny Emery, 71 Loomis Street, reported she is familiar with the process of recruiting candidates for high level positions and knows it to be very time consuming, especially if it is to be done in-house as opposed to hiring a consultant. With all due respect, she advises everyone to consider long and hard before they take it on themselves. 

Unfinished Or Tabled Business

Consideration of Town Manager Selection Process

Smith reviewed the selection process he has recommended to the board, and suggests they agree with the concepts in order to begin the search process as soon as possible. The search committee would consist of the First Selectman, one other member from the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, and one other individual should the committee deem it necessary. The Town’s former Director of Human Resources, Kerry Kielbasa, has agreed to assist with the recruitment process. 

Advertising for the position will involve solicitation to the Connecticut Town and City Manager’s Association, the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA), and the Massachusetts Managers Association, as well as other New England associations. The top four or five applications will be provided to the Board of Selectmen for further review. It is expected a new manager would be appointed this summer.

Smith has considered other processes and feels it would be costly and put time constraints on the board and staff. He hopes to move quickly and if he finds it is not working, then they would move to an outside consultant.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted (4-1-0) to adopt the selection process for a Town Manager. Ballard voted no.

After some discussion, the board decided to move ahead with the selection process as presented to them. There will be updates as the process moves forward. If the Board feels things aren’t moving to their satisfaction, the process may be changed.

Business

Resignations and Appointments to be Considered

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the following Democratic Town Committee appointment: Commission on Aging, Ellen A. Thomson (D), 250 Salmon Brook Street

Town Manager Reports

Update on Radio Communications

Smith noted the deadline for bids for the Public Safety Communication Consultant is May 7. The payment for the consultant will come out of the Communication Fund. It was noted the Town system needs to be updated whether or not we regionalize.

Bonding Update

Smith spoke to the advisor and we are in the process of having the remaining balance of the bonds issued.

Kearns School Update

Goman + York, the brokerage service contracted by the Town of Granby to sell Kearns School, has informed the town there is an interested party who may want to purchase the property. The broker has been in communication with the party and a tour was arranged. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

Smith reported that as a requirement of the Fair Housing Plan, the Board of Selectmen will need to select a committee to draft a plan. This will be an agenda item for the next Selectmen meeting.

First Selectman Reports 

Kuhnly reported there will be a Memorial Day parade this year on May 31 beginning at 10 a.m.

Selectman Reports 

King would like to look at a bear ordinance and have it put on the agenda.

Respectfully submitted,

William F. Smith Jr. Town Manager