With the economy continuing to falter and residents angry at the property tax hike proposed by the Board of Finance, Mayor Art Ward said Wednesday that additional cuts will be needed in the proposed spending plan slated for approval in a few weeks.
Ward told department heads they should submit “meaningful reductions” to their budgets by Monday.
The mayor also said he was freezing hiring, travel and overtime as much as possible for the remainder of the current fiscal year, which runs through the end of June.
Calling it “a major reconstruction of the budget,” city Comptroller Glenn Klocko said that the mayor is aiming to cut as much as $2.1 million from the approved spending plan in order to lower the mill rate hike by as much as a third.
To get there, Klocko said, “everyone, including education, has to feel the pain.”
Ward said that he’s heard from many people who are unhappy with the 6 percent property tax hike required to fund the $173 million budget that fiscal overseers approved last week. Combined with revaluation, most homeowners in town would owe an additional $200 or more unless cuts in the spending plan are made.
Ward said that “additional budget cuts are going to be necessary” to bring down the mill rate increase. But it doesn’t appear he would support layoffs or major reductions in services to get there.
It’s not clear whether a majority of the City Council and finance board would even go along with reductions that snatch money from the $101 million currently allocated to the schools for the next fiscal year. Education is in line, at the moment, for a 6.3 percent hike, an amount that educators said is sufficient to keep initiatives moving forward.
But Klocko said that when Ward asked him this week to lay out what it would take to cut enough to lower the tax hike by either .25 or .50 mills, he had no choice but to target the schools as well as the rest of the city government.
Klocko said he’s eyeing everything from putting off the purchase of every recommended police car to snatching extra money out of the Pine Lake ropes course fund.
“The cuts that are happening right now are thoughtless,” Klocko said. “They have no thought behind them.”
Unlike the cuts made during the budget season the past couple of months, there are no solid reasons behind the items that might get sliced away now, Klocko said, except that reductions are needed to lower the mill rate.
“I cut $2 from general government for every dollar from education” in the effort, Klocko said.
However, Ward is angling to have department heads weed through their budgets with more care during the next couple of days to see if there are places that could be cut without doing harm.
Klocko hailed the attempt.
“He is empowering the department heads to manage their budgets,” Klocko said. “I think it’s wonderful.”
Klocko said he’s ready to meet with every department head to go over the details in the hope of finding areas that make more sense to slice.
In addition to cutting allocations for next year, Ward told department heads to try to save every penny possible in this year’s budget.
“Every expense should be evaluated and prioritized, including the need for overtime,” the mayor told city supervisors. He said that except for emergency or contractually required overtime, all overtime “will require written justification to my office.”
The mayor also said that filling vacant positions is on hold pending his own review. He said “no new positions and no upgrades will be considered” at all for the time being.
“In addition, all staff conferences, seminars out-of state travel requiring any expenditure” have to be cancelled if the money can be refunded, Ward told department heads.
The city currently anticipates having about $900,000 left over at the end of this fiscal year, but it plans to use $500,000 of that money for economic development purposes. Bolstering the end-of-the-year surplus would provide more cash to get through next year, officials said.
Klocko said that the cuts are needed given the economic situation.
“We were bloated too long,” he said. “This is a correction and it’s necessary.”
“Things got out of hand and we’re going back. I just need to make sure these departments understand” that next year’s budgets are going to be tight as well, Klocko said.
“All of us need to make a concerted effort to improve the city’s financial position,” Ward said. “I’m optimistic that our efforts now will positively impact our future.”
Here's some more information from Klocko that I couldn't include in the story for the paper:
Klocko said that officials have taken note of the opposition in neighboring towns to proposed budget hikes and heard plenty from residents here who want deeper cuts to keep taxes down.
At the moment, the city’s proposed budget increase may be the highest in Hartford County, Klocko said, so it’s understandable that officials are eyeing reductions.
He said that it takes a $1,050,000 cut in the $173 million spending plan to cut the mill rate by .25. So cutting enough to lower the mill rate hike from 1.5 to 1 mills would require slicing $2.1 million from the budget that the finance board approved last week.
Klocko said that he figures that to cut ¼ of a mill, $300,000 should come from education and $750,000 from the rest of the city government.
To cut twice as much, he’s eyeing a $500,000 cut from the schools.
Of course, Klocko said, it’s not his decision. City councilors, the mayor and the finance board make the final decision.
He said that the millions cut from proposed spending during the preparation of the proposed budget were sliced away with some care to minimize the impact.
But now the cuts are being made simply to lower the bottom line, though he hopes to protect departments as much as possible.
Klocko said that he’s looking at a lower contingency fund, increased use of fund balance, some transfers from special funds, cutting equipment for the fire and public works departments, knocking out the purchase of police cruisers and more.
He called it “the toughest thing” he’s had to do since the 2001 recession, when other hard choices were forced on the city.
Klocko said the mayor sent out a memo by email to the departments about 3 this afternoon and “within five minutes, my phone was ringing off the wall” from department heads looking for help in paring their numbers.
The comptroller said that he plans to work with all of them and go over the ramifications of each cut so that officials can tell the mayor what it means to ax this budget line or reduce that one.
In the end, Klocko said, there will be a sort of “Chinese menu” for the mayor to review that lays out the possible cuts and how much each will save – and at what price to city services.
“It is monumental,” Klocko said.
Here's another copy of the press release from Mayor Ward (the same as the one posted earlier so if you read that you can skip this!):
In a prepared release, Mayor Arthur J. Ward addressed the need for further cuts to the 2008 – 2009 City budget.
“The budget process is always a challenge and this coming year is no exception. Additional budget cuts are going to be necessary for Fiscal Year 2008-2009”, said Mayor Ward.
With the downturn in the economy, prices rising in every sector of business and many Connecticut cities struggling to stay afloat, Mayor Ward is going back to the Department heads for another round of cuts. In a memo to City Department Heads, the Mayor stated, “Because you know what is truly needed to run your departments, I need your recommendations for cuts. Therefore, please provide to me your written recommendations for budget reductions by line item for your department no later than Monday, May 5, 2008. Please bear in mind that if you do not recommend meaningful reductions, reductions may be made for your department without your input.”
Ward went on to say, “I am also directing each of you to review spending for the remainder of this budget year. Every expense should be evaluated and prioritized, including the need for overtime. I recognize that some labor contracts require certain staffing levels, and that we must provide essential services. However, overtime, unless contractually obligated or for emergency operations, will require written justification to my office.”
Ward informed the Department heads that effective immediately, all requests to fill positions are on hold pending his review of the position being requested. Additionally, no new positions and no upgrades will be considered until further notice. In addition, all staff conferences, seminars out-of state travel requiring any expenditure (even if it has been previously approved and funded) must be cancelled if refundable.
In a move to keep spending at a minimum, the Mayor has called for anticipated over-expenditures in this fiscal year’s budget must be immediately communicated to my office and the Board of Finance prior to any overspending.
In conclusion, Mayor Ward said, “Throughout the year, but particularly during the budget process, we, as public employees, are under increased scrutiny. We must all continue to be diligent and professional as we are observed by the public and while we interact with the public; it is critical to the City’s image.
All of us need to make a concerted effort to improve the City’s financial position. I’m optimistic that our efforts now will positively impact our future."
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 30, 2008
Green Party challenger makes congressional race formal
Just in from Green Party congressional contender Steve Fournier:
Hartford attorney and Green Party congressional candidate Stephen Fournier yesterday filed an official Statement of Candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. Fournier is vying for the First District seat now held by John Larson, in a campaign sparked by Larson's refusal to support the impeachment of George Bush.
To appear on the ballot in November, Fournier must collect 2,050 petition signatures from voters in the First District, and he is organizing with that task as the top priority. He has a site on the Internet, www.fournierforcongress.org, that solicits volunteers and cash donations and that features a video clip with two of his grandchildren.
Fournier's campaign is focused on corruption, which he blames for the nation's involvement in war, the collapse of the economy, the pollution of the environment, and the curtailment of constitutional rights. He says cleaning up Congress is "a dirty job that somebody has to do."
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Hartford attorney and Green Party congressional candidate Stephen Fournier yesterday filed an official Statement of Candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. Fournier is vying for the First District seat now held by John Larson, in a campaign sparked by Larson's refusal to support the impeachment of George Bush.
To appear on the ballot in November, Fournier must collect 2,050 petition signatures from voters in the First District, and he is organizing with that task as the top priority. He has a site on the Internet, www.fournierforcongress.org, that solicits volunteers and cash donations and that features a video clip with two of his grandchildren.
Fournier's campaign is focused on corruption, which he blames for the nation's involvement in war, the collapse of the economy, the pollution of the environment, and the curtailment of constitutional rights. He says cleaning up Congress is "a dirty job that somebody has to do."
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Visconti plans "a very, very big grass roots effort"
Two months after declaring his interest in taking on an entrenched Democratic congressman, Republican hopeful Joseph Visconti plans Thursday to make a formal announcement during a tour of the 1st District.
Visconti, a colorful character on the West Hartford town council, aims to knock out 10-year veteran U.S. Rep. John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat who’s among the top leaders of the House.
Visconti said he plans “a very, very big grass roots effort” this year. “It’s about being in touch with the people,” he said Wednesday.
“The answers are going to be found with citizens. I’m going to let them know I’m a career citizen, not a career politician,” Visconti said.
Visconti is delivering his campaign announcement speech in a half dozen towns across the district Thursday, including a 2 p.m. address at Bristol’s City Hall.
When he was still eyeing the contest, Visconti vowed to run a campaign that “will be over the top” in his bid to beat Larson because “I don’t believe that a normal, blue blazer Republican” can pull it off.
His tour is slated to begin at 9 a.m. at Torrington’s City Hall and end with a 7:30 p.m. stop in Manchester. Along with way, he’ll also speak in West Hartford, Barkhamsted and Newington.
Art Mocabee, the GOP’s second vice chair in the district, said that Visconti will have a busy day spreading the word about his campaign to unseat Larson.
Republicans challenging Larson have never garnered more than 41 percent of the vote. He has crushed them all by wide margins.
Also in the running this year is Steve Fournier, a Green Party activist in Hartford.
But Visconti said that after reviewing the numbers for weeks, he’s confident he can make a strong showing. He said he’ll try to win votes in the inner cities, where residents are fed up with crime and other woes.
“Hartford really needs someone to represent it,” Visconti said.
A Hartford native, Visconti is a professional musician and the owner of Joseph Visconti LLC, a general contracting firm specializing in commercial renovations and repairs. He is also an avid boater, and a member of the Patriot Guard Riders, an organization of motorcyclists who tour Connecticut honoring our fallen military personnel.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Visconti, a colorful character on the West Hartford town council, aims to knock out 10-year veteran U.S. Rep. John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat who’s among the top leaders of the House.
Visconti said he plans “a very, very big grass roots effort” this year. “It’s about being in touch with the people,” he said Wednesday.
“The answers are going to be found with citizens. I’m going to let them know I’m a career citizen, not a career politician,” Visconti said.
Visconti is delivering his campaign announcement speech in a half dozen towns across the district Thursday, including a 2 p.m. address at Bristol’s City Hall.
When he was still eyeing the contest, Visconti vowed to run a campaign that “will be over the top” in his bid to beat Larson because “I don’t believe that a normal, blue blazer Republican” can pull it off.
His tour is slated to begin at 9 a.m. at Torrington’s City Hall and end with a 7:30 p.m. stop in Manchester. Along with way, he’ll also speak in West Hartford, Barkhamsted and Newington.
Art Mocabee, the GOP’s second vice chair in the district, said that Visconti will have a busy day spreading the word about his campaign to unseat Larson.
Republicans challenging Larson have never garnered more than 41 percent of the vote. He has crushed them all by wide margins.
Also in the running this year is Steve Fournier, a Green Party activist in Hartford.
But Visconti said that after reviewing the numbers for weeks, he’s confident he can make a strong showing. He said he’ll try to win votes in the inner cities, where residents are fed up with crime and other woes.
“Hartford really needs someone to represent it,” Visconti said.
A Hartford native, Visconti is a professional musician and the owner of Joseph Visconti LLC, a general contracting firm specializing in commercial renovations and repairs. He is also an avid boater, and a member of the Patriot Guard Riders, an organization of motorcyclists who tour Connecticut honoring our fallen military personnel.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
New school business manager hired
Just in from the Board of Education:
Mr. Steven DeVaux has been hired as the Assistant to the Superintendent for Business for the Bristol Public Schools effective July 1, 2008. Mr. DeVaux is replacing Mr. William Smyth who is retiring from the position. Mr. DeVaux is an experienced school business official as well as having an extensive background in business and finance in the private sector. Mr. DeVaux’s current position is the Director of Finance and Management Services for the Monroe Public Schools in Monroe, CT. Prior to that position he was the Business Manager for the Derby Public Schools. Mr. DeVaux also served on the Brookfield Board of Education for a number of years completing his term as the Board chair.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Mr. Steven DeVaux has been hired as the Assistant to the Superintendent for Business for the Bristol Public Schools effective July 1, 2008. Mr. DeVaux is replacing Mr. William Smyth who is retiring from the position. Mr. DeVaux is an experienced school business official as well as having an extensive background in business and finance in the private sector. Mr. DeVaux’s current position is the Director of Finance and Management Services for the Monroe Public Schools in Monroe, CT. Prior to that position he was the Business Manager for the Derby Public Schools. Mr. DeVaux also served on the Brookfield Board of Education for a number of years completing his term as the Board chair.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Ward calls for more budget cuts
Just got this from Mayor Art Ward:
In a prepared release, Mayor Arthur J. Ward addressed the need for further cuts to the 2008 – 2009 City budget.
“The budget process is always a challenge and this coming year is no exception. Additional budget cuts are going to be necessary for Fiscal Year 2008-2009”, said Mayor Ward. With the downturn in the economy, prices rising in every sector of business and many Connecticut cities struggling to stay afloat, Mayor Ward is going back to the Department heads for another round of cuts. In a memo to City Department Heads, the Mayor stated, “Because you know what is truly needed to run your departments, I need your recommendations for cuts. Therefore, please provide to me your written recommendations for budget reductions by line item for your department no later than Monday, May 5, 2008. Please bear in mind that if you do not recommend meaningful reductions, reductions may be made for your department without your input.”
Ward went on to say, “I am also directing each of you to review spending for the remainder of this budget year. Every expense should be evaluated and prioritized, including the need for overtime. I recognize that some labor contracts require certain staffing levels, and that we must provide essential services. However, overtime, unless contractually obligated or for emergency operations, will require written justification to my office.”
Ward informed the Department heads that effective immediately, all requests to fill positions are on hold pending his review of the position being requested. Additionally, no new positions and no upgrades will be considered until further notice. In addition, all staff conferences, seminars out-of state travel requiring any expenditure (even if it has been previously approved and funded) must be cancelled if refundable.
In a move to keep spending at a minimum, the Mayor has called for anticipated over-expenditures in this fiscal year’s budget must be immediately communicated to my office and the Board of Finance prior to any overspending.
In conclusion, Mayor Ward said, “Throughout the year, but particularly during the budget process, we, as public employees, are under increased scrutiny. We must all continue to be diligent and professional as we are observed by the public and while we interact with the public; it is critical to the City’s image.
All of us need to make a concerted effort to improve the City’s financial position. I’m optimistic that our efforts now will positively impact our future. “
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
In a prepared release, Mayor Arthur J. Ward addressed the need for further cuts to the 2008 – 2009 City budget.
“The budget process is always a challenge and this coming year is no exception. Additional budget cuts are going to be necessary for Fiscal Year 2008-2009”, said Mayor Ward. With the downturn in the economy, prices rising in every sector of business and many Connecticut cities struggling to stay afloat, Mayor Ward is going back to the Department heads for another round of cuts. In a memo to City Department Heads, the Mayor stated, “Because you know what is truly needed to run your departments, I need your recommendations for cuts. Therefore, please provide to me your written recommendations for budget reductions by line item for your department no later than Monday, May 5, 2008. Please bear in mind that if you do not recommend meaningful reductions, reductions may be made for your department without your input.”
Ward went on to say, “I am also directing each of you to review spending for the remainder of this budget year. Every expense should be evaluated and prioritized, including the need for overtime. I recognize that some labor contracts require certain staffing levels, and that we must provide essential services. However, overtime, unless contractually obligated or for emergency operations, will require written justification to my office.”
Ward informed the Department heads that effective immediately, all requests to fill positions are on hold pending his review of the position being requested. Additionally, no new positions and no upgrades will be considered until further notice. In addition, all staff conferences, seminars out-of state travel requiring any expenditure (even if it has been previously approved and funded) must be cancelled if refundable.
In a move to keep spending at a minimum, the Mayor has called for anticipated over-expenditures in this fiscal year’s budget must be immediately communicated to my office and the Board of Finance prior to any overspending.
In conclusion, Mayor Ward said, “Throughout the year, but particularly during the budget process, we, as public employees, are under increased scrutiny. We must all continue to be diligent and professional as we are observed by the public and while we interact with the public; it is critical to the City’s image.
All of us need to make a concerted effort to improve the City’s financial position. I’m optimistic that our efforts now will positively impact our future. “
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Burns remains undecided on running again
State Rep. Ron Burns said today that he’s not ready to say whether he’ll seek a second term in the 77th District.
“I’m still on the fence,” said the freshman Republican who knocked out veteran Democrat Roger Michele in 2006 to claim the seat.
Burns said he hopes to decide soon, but isn’t sure when he’ll know.
“I’ve got some irons in the fire and I’ve got to wait ‘til those flesh out,” Burns said.
Those irons don’t relate to politics, he said.
Burns is capable of walking away from the seat. He quit the City Council in 2005 after a single term, despite having wide support among Democrats as well as Republicans.
Democrat Christopher Wright is aiming to win the district come November. It doesn't appear there are any other Democrats vying for the opportunity.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
“I’m still on the fence,” said the freshman Republican who knocked out veteran Democrat Roger Michele in 2006 to claim the seat.
Burns said he hopes to decide soon, but isn’t sure when he’ll know.
“I’ve got some irons in the fire and I’ve got to wait ‘til those flesh out,” Burns said.
Those irons don’t relate to politics, he said.
Burns is capable of walking away from the seat. He quit the City Council in 2005 after a single term, despite having wide support among Democrats as well as Republicans.
Democrat Christopher Wright is aiming to win the district come November. It doesn't appear there are any other Democrats vying for the opportunity.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Visconti to make formal congressional announcement on Thursday
Republican West Hartford Town Councilman Joseph Visconti is announcing his candidacy for the First Congressional District in a day-long tour of the district Thursday.
Visconti will start on the west side of the district with a formal announcement ceremony in Torrington at 9 a.m., followed by stops in Hartford, Bristol, Newington and Manchester. Visconti says the multi-stop announcement tour is his way of showing that he will be a representative for all the towns and voters in the district.
Town Committee members, all Republicans and other registered voters are invited to attend the announcement ceremony nearest their community.
The tour schedule is as follows:
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Torrington City Hall
Hosted by Mayor Ryan Bingham
14 Main Street, Torrington
10:00 –11:00 a.m.
Log House Restaurant
110 New Hartford Rd, Barkhamstead
12:00 -1:00 p.m.
The Hartford Golf Club
134 Norwood Road, West Hartford
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Bristol City Hall
Hosted by Councilman Ken Cockayne
111 North Main Street, Bristol
6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Indian Hill Golf Club
Hosted by Mayor Jeff Wright
111 Golf Street, Newington
7:30 -8:00 p.m.
Manchester City Hall
Hosted by Mayor Lou Spadaccini
41 Center Street, Manchester
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Visconti will start on the west side of the district with a formal announcement ceremony in Torrington at 9 a.m., followed by stops in Hartford, Bristol, Newington and Manchester. Visconti says the multi-stop announcement tour is his way of showing that he will be a representative for all the towns and voters in the district.
Town Committee members, all Republicans and other registered voters are invited to attend the announcement ceremony nearest their community.
The tour schedule is as follows:
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Torrington City Hall
Hosted by Mayor Ryan Bingham
14 Main Street, Torrington
10:00 –11:00 a.m.
Log House Restaurant
110 New Hartford Rd, Barkhamstead
12:00 -1:00 p.m.
The Hartford Golf Club
134 Norwood Road, West Hartford
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Bristol City Hall
Hosted by Councilman Ken Cockayne
111 North Main Street, Bristol
6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Indian Hill Golf Club
Hosted by Mayor Jeff Wright
111 Golf Street, Newington
7:30 -8:00 p.m.
Manchester City Hall
Hosted by Mayor Lou Spadaccini
41 Center Street, Manchester
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
A thoroughly ineffective lobbying tactic
Opponents of the proposed chief operating officer for City Hall have been bombarding Mayor Art Ward and City Council members with a generic email. Though many senders hail from Bristol, plenty of others are scattered across the state.
What they have in common is that they're all sending the same message:
The Bristol City Council is considering an ill-advised plan to
create a new chief financial officer position. Bristol has done
well without one for all these years. Another six figure salary
that requires a two-thirds vote to remove is not going to help
move Bristol in the right direction. Taxpayer dollars could best
be spent on projects that would directly benefit city residents.
Right or wrong, anybody who hopes to have any influence ought to put their thoughts in their own words. All this sort of thing does is irritate the officials who receive the notes.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
What they have in common is that they're all sending the same message:
The Bristol City Council is considering an ill-advised plan to
create a new chief financial officer position. Bristol has done
well without one for all these years. Another six figure salary
that requires a two-thirds vote to remove is not going to help
move Bristol in the right direction. Taxpayer dollars could best
be spent on projects that would directly benefit city residents.
Right or wrong, anybody who hopes to have any influence ought to put their thoughts in their own words. All this sort of thing does is irritate the officials who receive the notes.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Visconti creates congressional website
West Hartford Republican Joe Visconti, who is hoping to unseat U.S. Rep. John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat, has a new website here.
Keep an eye on this guy. He's interesting, though the odds against him are, well, daunting for any challenger in the heavily Democratic 1st District.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Keep an eye on this guy. He's interesting, though the odds against him are, well, daunting for any challenger in the heavily Democratic 1st District.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 29, 2008
Dog droppings next on city target list
Scooping up dog droppings may be more than just good manners soon.
City councilors said Tuesday they plan to impose a law that would require pet owners to clean up after their animals.
The existing law in Bristol requires owners to pick up after their pet on school or park property, but that’s it. There’s not even a leash law in town, though pets are supposed to be “under the control” of owners at all times.
But officials are moving to impose tougher rules after hearing complaints from residents who are tired of dog droppings dotting their front lawns.
City Councilor Craig Minor, who heads the Ordinance Committee, said the issue is “pretty straightforward” and unlikely to prove controversial.
City Councilor Kevin McCauley said that “common courtesy and respect” for others should cause dog owners to scoop the poop their animals drop on neighbors’ lawns and walks.
He said, though, that he’s seen an increase in the number of people “allowing their dogs to do their business without picking it up.”
McCauley said that even though it’s a small issue, it’s an important one.
He cited the “broken glass” theory of crime control that basically says that municipalities should focus on smaller issues, such as broken windows, in order to keep larger problems from cropping up.
Other towns have “more of a zero tolerance,” McCauley said, and Bristol should at least take a harder stand.
Dale Clift, a city lawyer, said that he would have something drafted before the May 28 ordinance panel meeting so that councilors can review the tentative text of a statute that could be added to the city’s code this summer.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
City councilors said Tuesday they plan to impose a law that would require pet owners to clean up after their animals.
The existing law in Bristol requires owners to pick up after their pet on school or park property, but that’s it. There’s not even a leash law in town, though pets are supposed to be “under the control” of owners at all times.
But officials are moving to impose tougher rules after hearing complaints from residents who are tired of dog droppings dotting their front lawns.
City Councilor Craig Minor, who heads the Ordinance Committee, said the issue is “pretty straightforward” and unlikely to prove controversial.
City Councilor Kevin McCauley said that “common courtesy and respect” for others should cause dog owners to scoop the poop their animals drop on neighbors’ lawns and walks.
He said, though, that he’s seen an increase in the number of people “allowing their dogs to do their business without picking it up.”
McCauley said that even though it’s a small issue, it’s an important one.
He cited the “broken glass” theory of crime control that basically says that municipalities should focus on smaller issues, such as broken windows, in order to keep larger problems from cropping up.
Other towns have “more of a zero tolerance,” McCauley said, and Bristol should at least take a harder stand.
Dale Clift, a city lawyer, said that he would have something drafted before the May 28 ordinance panel meeting so that councilors can review the tentative text of a statute that could be added to the city’s code this summer.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Taking a hard line on illicit "massage"
Worried that illicit massage parlors – which provide more than a relaxing rubdown – could make inroads in Bristol, city councilors said Tuesday they plan to push through a new law that would impose stiff regulation.
“We’re trying to limit the criminal element,” said Dale Clift, who was recently appointed as city attorney.
City officials privately pointed to activities that internet discussion boards claim are taking place at Star Spa Acupressure on North Street as one of the driving forces for cracking the whip now.
“We’ve got to do something before” more sex-oriented shops open in town, said city Councilor Mike Rimcoski.
Detective Sgt. Christopher Lennon said he proposed the legislation a year ago after a massive crackdown in Waterbury led him to worry that fake massage purveyors might try their luck in Bristol next.
He said his request wasn’t spurred by concern about any shops in Bristol, merely the possibility that some might move to town.
“It was mostly a preemptive issue,” Lennon said.
Nothing much happened on Lennon’s request until Ordinance Committee members took up the measure this spring.
Several city officials said they are aware of rumors of illicit activities taking place at the Star Spa, a shop that an online poster calling himself Sinergy69 said gave him “a rubdown that damn near knocked me out,” followed by significantly more.
He might find it a little harder to pay for less than therapeutic massage if councilors pushi through the statute they’re eyeing.
Clift said the key feature of the ordinance used in Waterbury was a requirement that massage parlors get a permit from the police, which includes fingerprinting employees and taking pictures to make sure they don’t have criminal backgrounds.
The provision makes it much easier to shut someplace down if a crime is committed, Clift said.
The ordinance doesn’t apply to massage therapists who are licensed by the state, medical offices and other clearly reputable establishments, officials said.
“We don’t want to criminalize massage therapy,” said city Councilor Craig Minor, who chairs the Ordinance Committee.
City Councilor Kevin McCauley said that just forcing people who want to open a massage parlor to apply to the police will scare many of them off.
An ordinance could be passed by mid-July.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
“We’re trying to limit the criminal element,” said Dale Clift, who was recently appointed as city attorney.
City officials privately pointed to activities that internet discussion boards claim are taking place at Star Spa Acupressure on North Street as one of the driving forces for cracking the whip now.
“We’ve got to do something before” more sex-oriented shops open in town, said city Councilor Mike Rimcoski.
Detective Sgt. Christopher Lennon said he proposed the legislation a year ago after a massive crackdown in Waterbury led him to worry that fake massage purveyors might try their luck in Bristol next.
He said his request wasn’t spurred by concern about any shops in Bristol, merely the possibility that some might move to town.
“It was mostly a preemptive issue,” Lennon said.
Nothing much happened on Lennon’s request until Ordinance Committee members took up the measure this spring.
Several city officials said they are aware of rumors of illicit activities taking place at the Star Spa, a shop that an online poster calling himself Sinergy69 said gave him “a rubdown that damn near knocked me out,” followed by significantly more.
He might find it a little harder to pay for less than therapeutic massage if councilors pushi through the statute they’re eyeing.
Clift said the key feature of the ordinance used in Waterbury was a requirement that massage parlors get a permit from the police, which includes fingerprinting employees and taking pictures to make sure they don’t have criminal backgrounds.
The provision makes it much easier to shut someplace down if a crime is committed, Clift said.
The ordinance doesn’t apply to massage therapists who are licensed by the state, medical offices and other clearly reputable establishments, officials said.
“We don’t want to criminalize massage therapy,” said city Councilor Craig Minor, who chairs the Ordinance Committee.
City Councilor Kevin McCauley said that just forcing people who want to open a massage parlor to apply to the police will scare many of them off.
An ordinance could be passed by mid-July.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 28, 2008
Questionable spa gets a rise out of city officials
City officials are concerned that massage parlors of “the less legitimate kind” may be operating in Bristol.
City Councilor Craig Minor said there is at least one suspected problem parlor in town, but he didn’t name it.
“I’m not going to touch this,” said city Councilor Mike Rimcoski.
But a website called USASexGuide lists one questionable spa in town that drew high marks from several men who had apparently gotten a good bit more than a relaxing massage.
Posting last week, someone who posted under the name Sharkman67 said he went to the Bristol spa and got a massage that “went on for some time and I was afraid that there was not going to be a finish. I was wrong.”
“I was more than satisfied,” he reported, adding that he enjoys “the occasional massage with a happy ending.”
Someone posting under the name MrMike1952 claimed to have “visited the same spa in Bristol” that he had once before.
“I was hoping to see Mina, who did such an incredible job the first time. She was busy, so I went with Janie or Jeannie, I'm not sure of her name. She is younger and prettier, and she seems to have as much fun playing with you as Mina,” MrMike1952 said.
“She uses some of the same techniques, but her giggle at seeing how my body reacted to her touch sounded like she was really having fun. The only issue with her is that her English is virtually non-existent,” he continued.“I'm not going to go into so much detail this time, except to say that this girl was even better. Unbelievable. Great table shower. Very nice massage. And the best manual finish I have ever had,” he wrote.
“She has a fabulous knowledge of the male anatomy and a wonderful sensitivity to how you are reacting to what she does,” he said.
Another poster on the site said that he always gets “the same” for his $70 – apparently the same massage that MrMike1952 enjoyed.
Several phone calls to the spa were not answered Monday.
Before exploring the need for a new law to crack down on wayward massage parlors, members of the city’s Ordinance Committee said they would check to see if there’s already a provision in Bristol’s zoning rules governing appropriate massage.
There are no zoning regulations governing massage, Frank Johnson, chairman of the Zoning Commission, said Monday.
He expressed surprise that the issue arose.
“Isn’t that closing the barn door after the horse gets out?” Johnson asked.
Minor, who heads the ordinance panel, said the police could commit “a massive amount of overtime” to investigate the problem to see if criminal laws were violated.
But the ordinance panel may step in with a new statute to lend a hand.
The issue is among those on the panel’s agenda for its 6:30 p.m. meeting tonight at City Hall.
Johnson poked a little fun at the whole notion of cracking the whip on sketchy massage parlors.
“Every town is supposed to have one, for the benefit of the people in the next town over,” Johnson said.
*******
Copyright 2008
All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
City Councilor Craig Minor said there is at least one suspected problem parlor in town, but he didn’t name it.
“I’m not going to touch this,” said city Councilor Mike Rimcoski.
But a website called USASexGuide lists one questionable spa in town that drew high marks from several men who had apparently gotten a good bit more than a relaxing massage.
Posting last week, someone who posted under the name Sharkman67 said he went to the Bristol spa and got a massage that “went on for some time and I was afraid that there was not going to be a finish. I was wrong.”
“I was more than satisfied,” he reported, adding that he enjoys “the occasional massage with a happy ending.”
Someone posting under the name MrMike1952 claimed to have “visited the same spa in Bristol” that he had once before.
“I was hoping to see Mina, who did such an incredible job the first time. She was busy, so I went with Janie or Jeannie, I'm not sure of her name. She is younger and prettier, and she seems to have as much fun playing with you as Mina,” MrMike1952 said.
“She uses some of the same techniques, but her giggle at seeing how my body reacted to her touch sounded like she was really having fun. The only issue with her is that her English is virtually non-existent,” he continued.“I'm not going to go into so much detail this time, except to say that this girl was even better. Unbelievable. Great table shower. Very nice massage. And the best manual finish I have ever had,” he wrote.
“She has a fabulous knowledge of the male anatomy and a wonderful sensitivity to how you are reacting to what she does,” he said.
Another poster on the site said that he always gets “the same” for his $70 – apparently the same massage that MrMike1952 enjoyed.
Several phone calls to the spa were not answered Monday.
Before exploring the need for a new law to crack down on wayward massage parlors, members of the city’s Ordinance Committee said they would check to see if there’s already a provision in Bristol’s zoning rules governing appropriate massage.
There are no zoning regulations governing massage, Frank Johnson, chairman of the Zoning Commission, said Monday.
He expressed surprise that the issue arose.
“Isn’t that closing the barn door after the horse gets out?” Johnson asked.
Minor, who heads the ordinance panel, said the police could commit “a massive amount of overtime” to investigate the problem to see if criminal laws were violated.
But the ordinance panel may step in with a new statute to lend a hand.
The issue is among those on the panel’s agenda for its 6:30 p.m. meeting tonight at City Hall.
Johnson poked a little fun at the whole notion of cracking the whip on sketchy massage parlors.
“Every town is supposed to have one, for the benefit of the people in the next town over,” Johnson said.
*******
Copyright 2008
All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Charter Revision report, with details about chief operating officer position
Here is the draft report, in Word format
Here is a draft report detailing the major proposed changes, also in Word format
Here's a draft detailed "redlining" of the charter to show the exact changes proposed, also in Word format
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Here is a draft report detailing the major proposed changes, also in Word format
Here's a draft detailed "redlining" of the charter to show the exact changes proposed, also in Word format
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 27, 2008
No more unfunded mandates, mayor says
Mayor Art Ward sent this out to many officials this morning:
I just read the article in today's Hartford Courant with regard to the proposed UNFUNDED MANDATE being considered for the school breakfast initiative. While the intent of the legislation is admirable, the fact of the matter is that communities are being deluged with so many of these unfunded mandates that their passage threatens the ability of cities to adequately address the financial stability of their own budgetary process, creates hurdles for any potential for the enhancement of any successful existing programs and in fact places an unjust tax burden on everyone.If the legislature ultimately decides not to increase funding to the communities this fiscal year, as has been reported to be the consideration, then it is imperative that absolutely NO MORE UNFUNDED MANDATES be placed into the laps of local taxpayers.Legislators only need to heed the difficulty of the communities which they represent in arriving at annual budget figures to see the onus that legislation such as the proposed bill would unduly place on their constituents.It is time for everyone to realize the fact that present times call for Realism not Idealism.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
I just read the article in today's Hartford Courant with regard to the proposed UNFUNDED MANDATE being considered for the school breakfast initiative. While the intent of the legislation is admirable, the fact of the matter is that communities are being deluged with so many of these unfunded mandates that their passage threatens the ability of cities to adequately address the financial stability of their own budgetary process, creates hurdles for any potential for the enhancement of any successful existing programs and in fact places an unjust tax burden on everyone.If the legislature ultimately decides not to increase funding to the communities this fiscal year, as has been reported to be the consideration, then it is imperative that absolutely NO MORE UNFUNDED MANDATES be placed into the laps of local taxpayers.Legislators only need to heed the difficulty of the communities which they represent in arriving at annual budget figures to see the onus that legislation such as the proposed bill would unduly place on their constituents.It is time for everyone to realize the fact that present times call for Realism not Idealism.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 25, 2008
Sewer rates rising by 10 percent
Sewer rates are going up again.
After hiking sewer rates by 6.5 percent last year, the city is eyeing a 10 percent increase for the coming fiscal year to help cover the $14 million tab for badly needed improvements in the Forestville section of town.
Brian Fowkes, who heads the sewer division, said Friday that the average quarterly bill will rise by $4.40, or a little less than $18 a year.
Even with the increase, the rate will remain “one of the lowest” rates in the region, Fowkes said.
For taxpayers who are already struggling to cope with soaring energy costs and creeping inflation, along with a property tax hike that will cost most homeowners at least $200 extra this year, the proposed sewer rate may raise more concern among residents than past increases.
A hearing is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 15 at City Hall to consider whether to follow through with the planned hike, which has been built into the municipal budget slated for adoption on May 19.
The city is facing the need to pay for a new sewer main, new pumps and a number of other upgrades to the sewer system that serves eastern Bristol.
The basic goal is to make sure that sewage flows to the treatment plant during heavy rains instead of flowing through the streets and basements of Forestville – and even into the Broad Street pump station itself.
Fowkes said the city has to “address the sewer overflows” that cause manholes to pop open during flooding.
Consultants found that the root cause is a bottleneck in the pipes between the pump station and the treatment plant, a situation that needs a 24-inch pipe to be added for a couple of miles.
A number of upgrades are also in the works for the pump station, including new, energy efficient pumps that should work much better and cut electrical costs.
Fowkes said that he’s not sure what the future holds in terms of more rate hikes.
That will depend on the city’s success in getting federal aid for the project, he said, as well as state environmental decisions that might force an overhaul and perhaps an expansion on the 22-year-old treatment plant, he said.
In addition to the rate hike, the city is increasing the cost of connecting to its sewer system from $850 to $1,000.
Fowkes said the fee is still “on the low side” compared to other communities. The increase reflects the reality that the treatment plant’s capacity can only stretch so far.
The new fees will go into effect on July 1.
The city maintains about 226 miles of sewers, some a century or more old. It also operates the treatment plant, 14 pumping stations and 5,600 manholes in town.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
After hiking sewer rates by 6.5 percent last year, the city is eyeing a 10 percent increase for the coming fiscal year to help cover the $14 million tab for badly needed improvements in the Forestville section of town.
Brian Fowkes, who heads the sewer division, said Friday that the average quarterly bill will rise by $4.40, or a little less than $18 a year.
Even with the increase, the rate will remain “one of the lowest” rates in the region, Fowkes said.
For taxpayers who are already struggling to cope with soaring energy costs and creeping inflation, along with a property tax hike that will cost most homeowners at least $200 extra this year, the proposed sewer rate may raise more concern among residents than past increases.
A hearing is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 15 at City Hall to consider whether to follow through with the planned hike, which has been built into the municipal budget slated for adoption on May 19.
The city is facing the need to pay for a new sewer main, new pumps and a number of other upgrades to the sewer system that serves eastern Bristol.
The basic goal is to make sure that sewage flows to the treatment plant during heavy rains instead of flowing through the streets and basements of Forestville – and even into the Broad Street pump station itself.
Fowkes said the city has to “address the sewer overflows” that cause manholes to pop open during flooding.
Consultants found that the root cause is a bottleneck in the pipes between the pump station and the treatment plant, a situation that needs a 24-inch pipe to be added for a couple of miles.
A number of upgrades are also in the works for the pump station, including new, energy efficient pumps that should work much better and cut electrical costs.
Fowkes said that he’s not sure what the future holds in terms of more rate hikes.
That will depend on the city’s success in getting federal aid for the project, he said, as well as state environmental decisions that might force an overhaul and perhaps an expansion on the 22-year-old treatment plant, he said.
In addition to the rate hike, the city is increasing the cost of connecting to its sewer system from $850 to $1,000.
Fowkes said the fee is still “on the low side” compared to other communities. The increase reflects the reality that the treatment plant’s capacity can only stretch so far.
The new fees will go into effect on July 1.
The city maintains about 226 miles of sewers, some a century or more old. It also operates the treatment plant, 14 pumping stations and 5,600 manholes in town.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 24, 2008
Yarde says to try again to get city manager
Businessman Craig Yarde had this to say today:
I think since Minor, Cockayne, MaCauley, ane Ward have stated publicly that they support a town manager rather than a COO. They would have a majority to pass it on as a referendum next November. Personally I have always preferred a council/ manager form of government rather than the present proposed strong mayor COO council form proposed by the Charter Revision Committee. But I think the committee compromised in order to take a step in the right direction considering the last four Charter Revision Committee proposed some form of a town manager form of government and it always got knocked down by the town council. Last week when I called thirty business leaders and fellow Bristol taxpayers some said the COO didn't go far enough. Others said any change would be better. Yesterday, I called the ICMA which stands for the International City manager Association, which I'm a member of. They indicated they would not support this COO position and would not send anyone from Washington to support it. They only support a town manager council form of government. So the Council, Committee and mayor should get together and make the changes to a Town manager/council so all taxpayers can benefit.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
I think since Minor, Cockayne, MaCauley, ane Ward have stated publicly that they support a town manager rather than a COO. They would have a majority to pass it on as a referendum next November. Personally I have always preferred a council/ manager form of government rather than the present proposed strong mayor COO council form proposed by the Charter Revision Committee. But I think the committee compromised in order to take a step in the right direction considering the last four Charter Revision Committee proposed some form of a town manager form of government and it always got knocked down by the town council. Last week when I called thirty business leaders and fellow Bristol taxpayers some said the COO didn't go far enough. Others said any change would be better. Yesterday, I called the ICMA which stands for the International City manager Association, which I'm a member of. They indicated they would not support this COO position and would not send anyone from Washington to support it. They only support a town manager council form of government. So the Council, Committee and mayor should get together and make the changes to a Town manager/council so all taxpayers can benefit.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Colapietro joins GOP on losing vote on 3 strikes measure
A Republican effort in the state Senate to enact a modified version of a “three strikes and you’re out” measure fell short in the wee hours of Thursday morning, but the changes were enough to convince a Bristol Democrat to buck his party and side with the GOP.
State Sen. Tom Colapietro, whose 31st District includes Bristol, joined the Republicans on the losing side of an 19-16 vote that fell just short of passage.
Shortly afterward, with wide bipartisan support, the state Senate approved a bill that aims to toughen penalties for repeat violent offenders. It heads next to the state House.
The proposed change in state law calls for doubling the mandatory minimum sentences for second offenses and triple those sentences after a third conviction
But Colapietro said he backed an even tougher standard after Republican modified their original “3 strikes and you’re out” proposal to allow some discretion for judges.
“We just couldn’t afford a real three strikes and you’re out,” Colapietro said, because of the increased tab for prisons and the likelihood that many more accused criminals would seek full-blown trials instead of accepting plea deals.
“It would cost us a fortune” to implement the bill that Republicans originally championed, Colapietro said.
The senator said that the proposal “has nothing to do” with the sickening crimes in Cheshire and New Britain that spurred GOP efforts to toughen the law. In neither crime would a three strikes and you’re out law have kept the accused perpetrators behind bars.
Colapietro said that if it were up to him, he’d just “put a bullet” in the men who massacred three members of the Petit family in Cheshire last summer and invaded a home in New Britain recently.
Killers who commit those sorts of crimes deserve the death penalty, Colapietro said.
A section of the proposed legislation approved by the Senate calls for spending $10 million to hire more prosecutors, probation officers and public defenders, and provide more GPS tracking of offenders.
It also would expand a cold case unit, provide additional programs for people leaving prison, and fund a special unit that targets people with outstanding warrants.
Doubling and tripling of minimum and maximum felony sentences; more money for prosecutors, state police, GPS tracking, alternative housing
Hartford - The Democrat-led state Senate early this morning overwhelmingly approved a much tougher version of Connecticut’s existing persistent dangerous felony offender law, doubling and tripling jail sentences for the most violent criminals and giving criminal justice professionals $10 million in new funding for the prosecutors, GPS tracking, state police, parolee supervision, warrant service, parole officers, alternative housing and other tools that they have requested—legislation that state Senator Thomas A. Colapietro (D-Bristol) praised.
“This bill sends a very clear message to criminals who try to take advantage of honest, law-abiding people in our state,” said Senator Colapietro. “This law says that when you commit a second serious crime, you don’t get a third chance. You will face a long time in prison. This law will help us keep violent, dangerous people in prison. It gives prosecutors and judges the tools that they need to get the job done and keep violent felons off the streets.”
The amendment to Senate Bill 671 was passed around 2 a.m. today on a 32-3 bipartisan vote in the Senate. The bill now heads to House of Representatives for consideration.
For criminals who are found to be “persistent dangerous felony offenders,” the bill doubles the minimum and maximum penalties (up to 40 years in prison) that they face upon a second serious felony conviction, and triples the minimum and maximum penalties (up to life in prison) for a third serious felony conviction.
“Dangerous felony” crimes generally include murder, manslaughter, arson, kidnapping, 1st- and 2nd-degree robbery, 1st- and 3rd-degree sexual assault, 1st-degree assault, home invasion, 1st-degree burglary, 2nd-degree burglary with a firearm, or any attempt to commit those crimes. The range of jail sentences for the most serious of these crimes generally ranges from 10 years to life; it is those ranges which will be doubled and tripled under the proposed new law.
The bill requires that prosecutors who do not seek persistent dangerous felony offender status for those who qualify must state on the record why they are not seeking that option.
The bill also provides $9,996,000 over the next year for a variety of law-enforcement tools, including:
$681,000 to the Division of Criminal Justice for enhancing the prosecution of repeat offenders and administrative coordination and information technology capacity.
$512,000 to the Public Defender Services Commission for enhancing the legal defense of indigent defendants and handling increased prosecutions.
$5,232,000 to the Judicial Department from the General Fund for enhancing court operations and probation supervision of sexual offenders, including the use of global positioning system and polygraph technologies, and for increasing the capacity to serve outstanding warrants for violations of probation, providing truancy prevention and establishing a juvenile justice urban cities pilot program.
$514,000 to the Department of Public Safety for hiring additional staff within the State Police Major Crime Squad.
$2,147,000 to the Department of Correction for funding alternative housing, additional correction and parole officers, expansion of the use of global positioning system devices in the supervision of parolees, and additional staff for the Board of Pardons and Paroles to screen parole candidates and process files.
$910,000 to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for enhancing coordination and monitoring of community services for individuals served by the alternative supervision and intervention support teams, providing supportive housing for individuals served in the jail diversion or reentry programs, enhancing the women’s jail diversion program, and hiring an additional clinician to expand the capacity of the alternative drug intervention program.
The 2008 regular legislative session adjourns on May 7.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
State Sen. Tom Colapietro, whose 31st District includes Bristol, joined the Republicans on the losing side of an 19-16 vote that fell just short of passage.
Shortly afterward, with wide bipartisan support, the state Senate approved a bill that aims to toughen penalties for repeat violent offenders. It heads next to the state House.
The proposed change in state law calls for doubling the mandatory minimum sentences for second offenses and triple those sentences after a third conviction
But Colapietro said he backed an even tougher standard after Republican modified their original “3 strikes and you’re out” proposal to allow some discretion for judges.
“We just couldn’t afford a real three strikes and you’re out,” Colapietro said, because of the increased tab for prisons and the likelihood that many more accused criminals would seek full-blown trials instead of accepting plea deals.
“It would cost us a fortune” to implement the bill that Republicans originally championed, Colapietro said.
The senator said that the proposal “has nothing to do” with the sickening crimes in Cheshire and New Britain that spurred GOP efforts to toughen the law. In neither crime would a three strikes and you’re out law have kept the accused perpetrators behind bars.
Colapietro said that if it were up to him, he’d just “put a bullet” in the men who massacred three members of the Petit family in Cheshire last summer and invaded a home in New Britain recently.
Killers who commit those sorts of crimes deserve the death penalty, Colapietro said.
A section of the proposed legislation approved by the Senate calls for spending $10 million to hire more prosecutors, probation officers and public defenders, and provide more GPS tracking of offenders.
It also would expand a cold case unit, provide additional programs for people leaving prison, and fund a special unit that targets people with outstanding warrants.
Here's Sen. Colapietro's press release on the legislation:
SEN. COLAPIETRO: INCREASED SENTENCES SEND CLEAR MESSAGE, LEGISLATION GIVES LAW ENFORCEMENT NEEDED TOOLS
Doubling and tripling of minimum and maximum felony sentences; more money for prosecutors, state police, GPS tracking, alternative housing
Hartford - The Democrat-led state Senate early this morning overwhelmingly approved a much tougher version of Connecticut’s existing persistent dangerous felony offender law, doubling and tripling jail sentences for the most violent criminals and giving criminal justice professionals $10 million in new funding for the prosecutors, GPS tracking, state police, parolee supervision, warrant service, parole officers, alternative housing and other tools that they have requested—legislation that state Senator Thomas A. Colapietro (D-Bristol) praised.
“This bill sends a very clear message to criminals who try to take advantage of honest, law-abiding people in our state,” said Senator Colapietro. “This law says that when you commit a second serious crime, you don’t get a third chance. You will face a long time in prison. This law will help us keep violent, dangerous people in prison. It gives prosecutors and judges the tools that they need to get the job done and keep violent felons off the streets.”
The amendment to Senate Bill 671 was passed around 2 a.m. today on a 32-3 bipartisan vote in the Senate. The bill now heads to House of Representatives for consideration.
For criminals who are found to be “persistent dangerous felony offenders,” the bill doubles the minimum and maximum penalties (up to 40 years in prison) that they face upon a second serious felony conviction, and triples the minimum and maximum penalties (up to life in prison) for a third serious felony conviction.
“Dangerous felony” crimes generally include murder, manslaughter, arson, kidnapping, 1st- and 2nd-degree robbery, 1st- and 3rd-degree sexual assault, 1st-degree assault, home invasion, 1st-degree burglary, 2nd-degree burglary with a firearm, or any attempt to commit those crimes. The range of jail sentences for the most serious of these crimes generally ranges from 10 years to life; it is those ranges which will be doubled and tripled under the proposed new law.
The bill requires that prosecutors who do not seek persistent dangerous felony offender status for those who qualify must state on the record why they are not seeking that option.
The bill also provides $9,996,000 over the next year for a variety of law-enforcement tools, including:
$681,000 to the Division of Criminal Justice for enhancing the prosecution of repeat offenders and administrative coordination and information technology capacity.
$512,000 to the Public Defender Services Commission for enhancing the legal defense of indigent defendants and handling increased prosecutions.
$5,232,000 to the Judicial Department from the General Fund for enhancing court operations and probation supervision of sexual offenders, including the use of global positioning system and polygraph technologies, and for increasing the capacity to serve outstanding warrants for violations of probation, providing truancy prevention and establishing a juvenile justice urban cities pilot program.
$514,000 to the Department of Public Safety for hiring additional staff within the State Police Major Crime Squad.
$2,147,000 to the Department of Correction for funding alternative housing, additional correction and parole officers, expansion of the use of global positioning system devices in the supervision of parolees, and additional staff for the Board of Pardons and Paroles to screen parole candidates and process files.
$910,000 to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for enhancing coordination and monitoring of community services for individuals served by the alternative supervision and intervention support teams, providing supportive housing for individuals served in the jail diversion or reentry programs, enhancing the women’s jail diversion program, and hiring an additional clinician to expand the capacity of the alternative drug intervention program.
The 2008 regular legislative session adjourns on May 7.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Assessment appeals board busy
The city's Board of Assessment Appeals heard 500 requests from property owners hoping for lower assessments in the wake of revaluation.
Dominic Pasquale, one of the panel's members, said the hearings were "really hectic, just so many people" looking to catch a break.
Pasquale said the assessor's office won't know until the end of the month how the adjustments will affect the overall Grand List.
He said that many of the people who came in said they couldn't afford the growing tax burden. They're simply looking for relief, Pasquale said.
After hearing their stories, he said that he's worried that rising tax bills -- and they're heading up this year - are going to start forcing residents to move elsewhere.
Mayor Art Ward said that he's also heard from many people who are concerned about the projected 6 percent mill rate increase coming on top of revaluation, which sent many home values up more than average property in town.
Some people are going to see hefty increases, officials said. But Ward and other Board of Finance members said they did as much as they could to hold down spending without crimping municipal services or the schools.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Dominic Pasquale, one of the panel's members, said the hearings were "really hectic, just so many people" looking to catch a break.
Pasquale said the assessor's office won't know until the end of the month how the adjustments will affect the overall Grand List.
He said that many of the people who came in said they couldn't afford the growing tax burden. They're simply looking for relief, Pasquale said.
After hearing their stories, he said that he's worried that rising tax bills -- and they're heading up this year - are going to start forcing residents to move elsewhere.
Mayor Art Ward said that he's also heard from many people who are concerned about the projected 6 percent mill rate increase coming on top of revaluation, which sent many home values up more than average property in town.
Some people are going to see hefty increases, officials said. But Ward and other Board of Finance members said they did as much as they could to hold down spending without crimping municipal services or the schools.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 23, 2008
Cliff Block, on the spot
Whether a proposal to create a chief operating office at City Hall will die next month may come down to one man: freshman Democratic city Councilor Cliff Block.Though a majority of the council opposes the idea of establishing the full-time manager suggested by the Charter Revision Commission, at least one critic of the idea is willing to let the voters have the final word.
That means that Block, whose views are unknown, could be the swing vote to decide if the plan falters immediately or if proponents will get the opportunity to try convince the public that political leaders are wrong.
As it is, only two of the six council members who have taken a stand back the city manager-lite recommendation of the charter panel. Three councilors and Mayor Art Ward oppose it.
However, Ward said Tuesday that even though the proposed chief operating officer "falls short" of the original idea of creating a city manager, he's willing to let voters decide whether to have it or not.
It isn’t clear whether Councilor Frank Nicastro, who opposes the position, would be willing to put it on the ballot, but two councilors said Tuesday they don’t want to see the proposal on the November general election ballot.
That leaves things in a muddle. What is clear is at least four of the seven councilors oppose the idea and perhaps as few as two members support it. Block could not be reached for comment.
However, one of the supporters of the plan, Republican Councilor Ken Cockayne, said that if the council refuses to endorse putting it on the ballot, he’ll try to gather signatures this summer to force a referendum on it anyway.
"We need someone at the helm who understands the finances," said Cockayne.
Cockayne said the mayor's duties are "so overwhelming that he doesn't have time" to supervise department heads to the degree needed to squeeze out savings for taxpayers by streamlining operations.
He said he's sure that a chief operating officer position would easily pay for itself.Cockayne said that even city councilors who oppose the post ought to be willing to put the measure on the ballot so the public can decide what's best.
"Let's keep our own personal views out of this," said Cockayne.
But second-term Democratic city Councilor Kevin McCauley said he's against the proposal to create a pseudo-city manager.Moreover, McCauley said, he won't support bringing the issue to a public vote.
McCauley said he favored looking into the idea of having a city manager, but isn't satisfied with what the Charter Revision Commission found.
He said that the new post would cost a substantial amount for salary and benefits, plus there would surely be a need for administrative support as well.
McCauley said that he believes the city's current structure, which relies on elected officials to set policy and a Board of Finance to keep a lid on spending, is working well.
McCauley said he's also dissatisfied with the educational and experience requirements the charter panel set for the job. He called them "a little too basic to truly get the qualified individual that the proponents would want."
He said that he likes giving the people the power to pick the city's leaders, or get rid of them.
McCauley said that he doesn't want to send the plan to the ballot because many residents wouldn't vote on it so the decision wouldn't reflect the community's true wishes.
"Right now, I'm probably more apt to vote it down" completely rather than agreeing to put it on the ballot, McCauley said.
City Councilor Craig Minor said he has always favored a town manager, "whatever they want to call it."
Minor said, though, "I am concerned that the qualifications" for the proposed chief operating officer "are lower than I think they should be, and I have asked the Charter Revision Commission to consider beefing them up."
"Regardless of how that turns out, however, I feel that the residents of Bristol should get the chance to vote on this." Minor said.
Ward said he believes the proposed full-time position "only created another level of bureaucracy at an increased cost to the taxpayers."
He said that instead of having a chief operating officer handling day-to-day management of city departments -- a plan motivated in part by concerns that mayors are too busy to do the job adequately - Ward said that giving the mayor an aide might be better.
Ward said that having an aide would give the mayor "the flexibility of deciding the manner of addressing the needs, responsibilities and commitments of the mayor's office."
Having a mayoral aide "has been bantered about in every administration since" Mike Werner, Ward said, but it's only been tried during Gerard Couture's two-year term in office starting in 2003.
Couture hired state Rep. Kosta Diamantis, a Democratic ally, to serve as his $25,000-a-year part-time aide, a move that soured some politicians on the concept.
When Bill Stortz took office after Couture, the part-time aide post vanished. It's no longer in the budget.
Though Ward doesn't want to see a chief operating officer at City Hall, he's ready to approve the Charter Revision Commission's recommendation in order to let voters have the final say.
"I don't have any reservation about this concept going forward in order that the populace has the final decision," Ward said.
City Councilors Mike Rimcoski and Frank Nicastro oppose the idea. Rimcoski doesn’t want to see it come to a vote, but Nicastro hasn’t taken a stand on that issue. Block could not be reached for comment.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
McCauley opposes chief operating officer post
Second-term Democratic city Councilor Kevin McCauley said he's against the proposal to create a pseudo-city manager.Moreover, McCauley said, he won't support bringing the issue to a public vote.
McCauley said he favored looking into the idea of having a city manager, but isn't satisfied with what the Charter Revision Commission found.
He said that the new post would cost a substantial amount for salary and benefits, plus there would surely be a need for administrative support as well.
McCauley said that the chief operating office is largely the same as a city manager. The difference "is pretty much semantics," he said. He said that he believes the city's current structure, which relies on elected officials to set policy and a Board of Finance to keep a lid on spending, is working well.
McCauley said he can see the argument for greater continuity at the helm, but extending the mayor's term from two years to four years would suffice to provide it.
McCauley said he's also dissatisfied with the educational and experience requirements the charter panel set for the job. He called them "a little too basic to truly get the qualified individual that the proponents would want."
He said that he likes giving the people the power to pick the city's leaders, or get rid of them.
McCauley said that he doesn't want to send the plan to the ballot because many residents wouldn't vote on it so the decision wouldn't reflect the community's true wishes.
"Right now, I'm probably more apt to vote it down" completely rather than agreeing to put it on the ballot, McCauley said.
For those keeping score:
For the chief operating officer - Cockayne, Minor
Opposed, but willing to let public decide - Ward
Opposed - Rimcoski, McCauley
Unknown - Nicastro, Block
It's looking iffier. I'm sure Nicastro will oppose the plan, but might be willing to put it on the ballot. Block could go either way.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Minor favors new management position
City Councilor Craig Minor said he has always favored a town manager, "whatever they want to call it.""This cost me the union endorsement last November," he pointed out.
He said, though, "I am concerned that the qualifications" for the proposed chief operating officer "are lower than I think they should be, and I have asked the Charter Revision Commission to consider beefing them up."
"Regardless of how that turns out, however, I feel that the residents of Bristol should get the chance to vote on this." Minor said.
He added that he was told "this is the fourth time a Charter Revision Commission has recommended some form of town manager. The other three times it was shot down by the City Council and never got onto the ballot."
For those keeping score:
For the chief operating officer - Cockayne, Minor
Opposed, but willing to let public decide - Ward
Opposed - Rimcoski
Unknown - McCauley, Nicastro, Block
I'd be surprised if all three of the unknowns would vote to block the proposal entirely. It looks pretty likely that voters will have the final say.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
City still angling for $4 million for Rockwell Park
Three years ago, the state bonding package approved by the legislature earmarked $4 million for the renovation of Rockwell Park.
But the money has never turned up.
Mayor Art Ward said this week that he’s hoping the allocation will find its way into the budget that state lawmakers have to pass by May 7.
“I’m hoping for Christmas in May,” Ward said.
Though the money has been held up for years, the project itself is well underway.
The city has allocated $4 million of its own money for the overhaul of the historic park, the first phase of which is nearing completion.
Another $2.5 million is needed to complete the final phase, which includes refilling a portion of the long-neglected lagoon.
Ward said that if the state cash is included in the budget, the city will likely take the opportunity to reallocate some of its own money toward other badly needed projects that had to be postponed for lack of funds.
Former Mayor Gerard Couture put the park's rehabilitation on the front burner when he called for a $10 million overhaul of all the city's parks back in 2004.
When ex-state Rep. Kosta Diamantis got legislation passed the following spring to direct $4 million into the Rockwell Park plan, it appeared the project would move along speedily.But Gov. M. Jodi Rell has refused to put the $4 million on the State Bond Commission agenda, and some officials have said they’re not sure it was ever really earmarked.
Rell hasn't specifically said why the Rockwell Park money hasn't had her support, though she has complained that too many projects have been earmarked for state bonding.
In 2007, the city agreed to start the Rockwell Park renovations despite hearing nothing about the $4 million it expected to receive.
Officials said the work has to be done, one way or another, and the lack of state help couldn’t be allowed to delay the project further.
“I'm conservative, not a big spender, but it's time to move forward," Board of Finance Chairman Rich Miecznikowski said last May.
The project’s goal is to pump life back into a dying park, to bring people back into one of the city's crown jewels, an 87-acre park that industrialist Albert Rockwell donated during the Progressive Era.
Here's the 2005 act that includes the Rockwell Park money
And here's an OPM spreadsheet that shows the state hadn't entirely forgotten the money as of Janary 2007
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
But the money has never turned up.
Mayor Art Ward said this week that he’s hoping the allocation will find its way into the budget that state lawmakers have to pass by May 7.
“I’m hoping for Christmas in May,” Ward said.
Though the money has been held up for years, the project itself is well underway.
The city has allocated $4 million of its own money for the overhaul of the historic park, the first phase of which is nearing completion.
Another $2.5 million is needed to complete the final phase, which includes refilling a portion of the long-neglected lagoon.
Ward said that if the state cash is included in the budget, the city will likely take the opportunity to reallocate some of its own money toward other badly needed projects that had to be postponed for lack of funds.
Former Mayor Gerard Couture put the park's rehabilitation on the front burner when he called for a $10 million overhaul of all the city's parks back in 2004.
When ex-state Rep. Kosta Diamantis got legislation passed the following spring to direct $4 million into the Rockwell Park plan, it appeared the project would move along speedily.But Gov. M. Jodi Rell has refused to put the $4 million on the State Bond Commission agenda, and some officials have said they’re not sure it was ever really earmarked.
Rell hasn't specifically said why the Rockwell Park money hasn't had her support, though she has complained that too many projects have been earmarked for state bonding.
In 2007, the city agreed to start the Rockwell Park renovations despite hearing nothing about the $4 million it expected to receive.
Officials said the work has to be done, one way or another, and the lack of state help couldn’t be allowed to delay the project further.
“I'm conservative, not a big spender, but it's time to move forward," Board of Finance Chairman Rich Miecznikowski said last May.
The project’s goal is to pump life back into a dying park, to bring people back into one of the city's crown jewels, an 87-acre park that industrialist Albert Rockwell donated during the Progressive Era.
Here's the 2005 act that includes the Rockwell Park money
And here's an OPM spreadsheet that shows the state hadn't entirely forgotten the money as of Janary 2007
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Cockayne: If council says no, will seek referendum
Freshman city Councilor Ken "Mad Dog" Cockayne said he fully supports the plan to create a chief operating officer to make sure City Hall runs smoothly and efficiently.
"We need someone at the helm who understands the finances," said Cockayne.
Cockayne said the mayor's duties are "so overwhelming that he doesn't have time" to supervise department heads to the degree needed to squeeze out savings for taxpayers by streamlining operations.
He said he's sure that a chief operating officer position would easily pay for itself.
Cockayne said that even city councilors who oppose the post ought to be willing to put the measure on the ballot so the public can decide what's best.
"Let's keep our own personal views out of this," said Cockayne.
He said that if councilors reject the Charter Revision Commission recommendation to create the position, he'll lead an effort to gather the several thousand signatures needed to hold a referendum on the issue.
"I feel very strongly this is an issue that people should get the chance to decide," Cockayne said.
Instead of "the select few of us seven" on the City Council, the choice should be made by city voters come November, he said.
For those keeping score:
For the chief operating officer - Cockayne
Opposed, but willing to let public decide - Ward
Opposed - Rimcoski
Unknown - McCauley, Minor, Nicastro, Block
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
"We need someone at the helm who understands the finances," said Cockayne.
Cockayne said the mayor's duties are "so overwhelming that he doesn't have time" to supervise department heads to the degree needed to squeeze out savings for taxpayers by streamlining operations.
He said he's sure that a chief operating officer position would easily pay for itself.
Cockayne said that even city councilors who oppose the post ought to be willing to put the measure on the ballot so the public can decide what's best.
"Let's keep our own personal views out of this," said Cockayne.
He said that if councilors reject the Charter Revision Commission recommendation to create the position, he'll lead an effort to gather the several thousand signatures needed to hold a referendum on the issue.
"I feel very strongly this is an issue that people should get the chance to decide," Cockayne said.
Instead of "the select few of us seven" on the City Council, the choice should be made by city voters come November, he said.
For those keeping score:
For the chief operating officer - Cockayne
Opposed, but willing to let public decide - Ward
Opposed - Rimcoski
Unknown - McCauley, Minor, Nicastro, Block
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Ward willing to let voters decide
Though Mayor Art Ward says the proposed chief operating officer "falls short" of the idea of creating a city manager, he's willing to let voters decide whether to have it or not.
Ward said he believes the proposed full-time position "only created another level of bureaucracy at an increased cost to the taxpayers."
He said that instead of having a chief operating officer handling day-to-day management of city departments -- a plan motivated in part by concerns that mayors are too busy to do the job adequately - Ward said that giving the mayor an aide might be better.
Ward said that having an aide would give the mayor "the flexibility of deciding the manner of addressing the needs,responsibilities. and commitments of the mayor's office."
Having a mayoral aide "has been bantered about in every administration since" Mike Werner, Ward said, but it's only been tried during Gerard Couture's two-year term in office starting in 2003.
Couture hired state Rep. Kosta Diamantis, a Democratic ally, to serve as his $25,000-a-year part-time aide, a move that soured some politicians on the concept.
When Bill Stortz took office after Couture, the part-time aide post vanished. It's no longer in the budget.
Though Ward doesn't want to see a chief operating officer at City Hall, he's ready to approve the Charter Revision Commission's recommendation in order to let voters have the final say.
"I don't have any reservation about this concept going forward in order that the populace has the final decision," Ward said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Ward said he believes the proposed full-time position "only created another level of bureaucracy at an increased cost to the taxpayers."
He said that instead of having a chief operating officer handling day-to-day management of city departments -- a plan motivated in part by concerns that mayors are too busy to do the job adequately - Ward said that giving the mayor an aide might be better.
Ward said that having an aide would give the mayor "the flexibility of deciding the manner of addressing the needs,responsibilities. and commitments of the mayor's office."
Having a mayoral aide "has been bantered about in every administration since" Mike Werner, Ward said, but it's only been tried during Gerard Couture's two-year term in office starting in 2003.
Couture hired state Rep. Kosta Diamantis, a Democratic ally, to serve as his $25,000-a-year part-time aide, a move that soured some politicians on the concept.
When Bill Stortz took office after Couture, the part-time aide post vanished. It's no longer in the budget.
Though Ward doesn't want to see a chief operating officer at City Hall, he's ready to approve the Charter Revision Commission's recommendation in order to let voters have the final say.
"I don't have any reservation about this concept going forward in order that the populace has the final decision," Ward said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Make the movie at Muzzy, state leaders say
Reporter Jackie Majerus wrote this story:
A plan to make a major Hollywood movie about baseball great Jackie Robinson has growing support at the Capitol from lawmakers who say they'd love to see the stadium scenes filmed at Muzzy Field in Bristol.
House Speaker James Amann said he "absolutely" would want to see historic Muzzy Field used in the film.
"It sounds exciting to me," said Deputy House Speaker Demetrios Giannaros, a Farmington Democrat.
The as-yet-unnamed film, which will tell the story of Robinson, Brooklyn Dodgers manager Branch Rickey and the breaking of baseball's color bar in the late 1940s, is a project of Baldwin Entertainment Group, Andrew Cohen, Tracy Falco, Robert Redford and his production company, Wildwood Enterprises and ESPN Films.
Producers have said Muzzy Field is on the short list of ballparks under consideration for use in the movie, but haven't committed yet.
Lawmakers said the historic Bristol ballpark is a perfect location for the scenes at Ebbett's Field, the home of the Brooklyn Dodgers.
"I think it would be fantastic," said Rep. Bill Hamzy, a Plymouth Republican. "It would be such a home run."
Hamzy said he has the "utmost respect" for Robinson and what he did.
"He had to perform at a very high level under some extremely difficult situations," said Hamzy. "The important thing is not only was he the first African-American to play in the majors, it was very important that he performed at the level he did."
Amann, who has been pushing tax breaks for filmmakers to build the filmmaking industry in Connecticut, has been working with Baldwin's firm for more than a year on the Robinson project.
"It's nice to know that what we talked about a year ago is happening now," Amann said. "We're very excited about it."
Amann said he was glad to see ESPN get involved in the production.
The Bristol-based ESPN announced last week that it would join Redford, Baldwin and the other producers to make the movie.
Besides being a producer, Redford is to play Rickey in the movie. Producers have not yet announced who will play Robinson.
Baldwin Entertainment Group, which recently relocated from California to Waterford, is now working out of the offices of Sonalyst Studios, according to Karen Baldwin, executive vice president of Baldwin Entertainment Group.
Amann said he's happy that there's moviemaking business along the shore in Waterford, but he said other places in Connecticut should see some of the action, too.
"I really want the whole state to benefit," said Amann.
Filming some of the Jackie Robinson movie in Bristol would go a long way towards that goal, according to Amann.
Rep. Zeke Zalaski, a Southington Democrat, said making a movie at Muzzy Field would be "a great thing for the whole area."
Zalaski, who's worked at Associated Spring in Bristol for 30 years, is very familiar with Muzzy Field. He said he even played baseball and football there as a high school student.
"Muzzy Field is probably one of the most hidden gems in the state of Connecticut and probably New England," said Rep. Frank Nicastro, a Bristol Democrat and former longtime city mayor.
"We have a beautiful park," said Rep. Ron Burns, a Bristol Republican who said anytime the city gets that kind of positive exposure, it's a good thing.
Nicastro said the city has been buying up the homes surrounding the historic ballpark and tearing them down to better show off Muzzy Field. Another house is scheduled to come down in about a month.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
A plan to make a major Hollywood movie about baseball great Jackie Robinson has growing support at the Capitol from lawmakers who say they'd love to see the stadium scenes filmed at Muzzy Field in Bristol.
House Speaker James Amann said he "absolutely" would want to see historic Muzzy Field used in the film.
"It sounds exciting to me," said Deputy House Speaker Demetrios Giannaros, a Farmington Democrat.
The as-yet-unnamed film, which will tell the story of Robinson, Brooklyn Dodgers manager Branch Rickey and the breaking of baseball's color bar in the late 1940s, is a project of Baldwin Entertainment Group, Andrew Cohen, Tracy Falco, Robert Redford and his production company, Wildwood Enterprises and ESPN Films.
Producers have said Muzzy Field is on the short list of ballparks under consideration for use in the movie, but haven't committed yet.
Lawmakers said the historic Bristol ballpark is a perfect location for the scenes at Ebbett's Field, the home of the Brooklyn Dodgers.
"I think it would be fantastic," said Rep. Bill Hamzy, a Plymouth Republican. "It would be such a home run."
Hamzy said he has the "utmost respect" for Robinson and what he did.
"He had to perform at a very high level under some extremely difficult situations," said Hamzy. "The important thing is not only was he the first African-American to play in the majors, it was very important that he performed at the level he did."
Amann, who has been pushing tax breaks for filmmakers to build the filmmaking industry in Connecticut, has been working with Baldwin's firm for more than a year on the Robinson project.
"It's nice to know that what we talked about a year ago is happening now," Amann said. "We're very excited about it."
Amann said he was glad to see ESPN get involved in the production.
The Bristol-based ESPN announced last week that it would join Redford, Baldwin and the other producers to make the movie.
Besides being a producer, Redford is to play Rickey in the movie. Producers have not yet announced who will play Robinson.
Baldwin Entertainment Group, which recently relocated from California to Waterford, is now working out of the offices of Sonalyst Studios, according to Karen Baldwin, executive vice president of Baldwin Entertainment Group.
Amann said he's happy that there's moviemaking business along the shore in Waterford, but he said other places in Connecticut should see some of the action, too.
"I really want the whole state to benefit," said Amann.
Filming some of the Jackie Robinson movie in Bristol would go a long way towards that goal, according to Amann.
Rep. Zeke Zalaski, a Southington Democrat, said making a movie at Muzzy Field would be "a great thing for the whole area."
Zalaski, who's worked at Associated Spring in Bristol for 30 years, is very familiar with Muzzy Field. He said he even played baseball and football there as a high school student.
"Muzzy Field is probably one of the most hidden gems in the state of Connecticut and probably New England," said Rep. Frank Nicastro, a Bristol Democrat and former longtime city mayor.
"We have a beautiful park," said Rep. Ron Burns, a Bristol Republican who said anytime the city gets that kind of positive exposure, it's a good thing.
Nicastro said the city has been buying up the homes surrounding the historic ballpark and tearing them down to better show off Muzzy Field. Another house is scheduled to come down in about a month.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 22, 2008
Property taxes going up, perhaps a lot
With gas prices on the rise, grocery tabs soaring and costs outrunning paychecks, residents may have to brace themselves when their property tax bills arrive this summer.
The $173 million budget unanimously approved by the Board of Finance Tuesday will sock the average homeowner for at least $200 extra this year.
And many homeowners – particularly those who own condominiums and multi-family units – are going to see even larger increases since revaluation pumped up housing faster than the overall increase in property values.
“It’s not utopia,” said Mayor Art Ward, “but I think it’s responsible.”
The mill rate, in real terms, is rising 6 percent in order to bring in the revenue the city needs to fund its roads, libraries, parks, schools and more.
The education budget got a last-minute boost to $101 million, 6.3 percent more than the schools got for this fiscal year.
“We do think the schools will be fine,” said Superintendent Philip Streifer.
He said there may be some staff cuts by attrition to pare some areas enough to ensure that there is no impact on the education program for students, but there won’t be any layoffs. He said he’s also angling to make sure that major initiatives to bolster academics stay on track.
There’s still a chance the budget will be revised again before a joint session of the finance board and the City Council adopt a final spending plan in mid-May.
City Comptroller Glenn Klocko said it appears likely that Bristol will get at least $300,000 in state aid that’s not currently in the budget.
Finance Chairman Rich Miecznikowski said that if any extra cash comes in from the state budget that’s slated for adoption on May 7, “hopefully, we can use it to get even a better rate for the taxpayers.”
Miecznikowski, a longtime finance commissioner, called this year’s spending plan “one of the most difficult budgets” he’s worked on.
“I couldn’t go any lower” on the mill rate without cutting essential services, he said.
“This was a tough budget year,” Ward said, but with plenty of cooperation from everyone involved, an acceptable bottom line was reached.
John Smith, a finance board member, said that the cooperation between city leaders and school officials was crucial, and rare among Connecticut municipalities.
“That’s what makes it work,” Smith said. “I would hope we never lose this type of discourse.”
Janet Moylan said she’d like to see officials pay as much attention to public works and other large departments as they do to the school budget.
Because almost all the property in Bristol is worth more than it was in 2002, up an average of 42 percent, the mill rate could drop from today’s 34.71 to 24.95 to bring in the same amount of money to city coffers.But the budget calls for a mill rate of 26.45 in order to bring in the necessary revenue to balance the spending that officials approved Tuesday.
Housing generally rose about 46 percent during revaluation, though some homes went up much more and others less. That means that it won’t be uncommon for homeowners to face property tax hikes this year of 10 percent or more.
The budget takes effect on July 1,when a new municipal fiscal year begins.
Click here for a PDF outlining the budget adopted by the Board of Finance
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
The $173 million budget unanimously approved by the Board of Finance Tuesday will sock the average homeowner for at least $200 extra this year.
And many homeowners – particularly those who own condominiums and multi-family units – are going to see even larger increases since revaluation pumped up housing faster than the overall increase in property values.
“It’s not utopia,” said Mayor Art Ward, “but I think it’s responsible.”
The mill rate, in real terms, is rising 6 percent in order to bring in the revenue the city needs to fund its roads, libraries, parks, schools and more.
The education budget got a last-minute boost to $101 million, 6.3 percent more than the schools got for this fiscal year.
“We do think the schools will be fine,” said Superintendent Philip Streifer.
He said there may be some staff cuts by attrition to pare some areas enough to ensure that there is no impact on the education program for students, but there won’t be any layoffs. He said he’s also angling to make sure that major initiatives to bolster academics stay on track.
There’s still a chance the budget will be revised again before a joint session of the finance board and the City Council adopt a final spending plan in mid-May.
City Comptroller Glenn Klocko said it appears likely that Bristol will get at least $300,000 in state aid that’s not currently in the budget.
Finance Chairman Rich Miecznikowski said that if any extra cash comes in from the state budget that’s slated for adoption on May 7, “hopefully, we can use it to get even a better rate for the taxpayers.”
Miecznikowski, a longtime finance commissioner, called this year’s spending plan “one of the most difficult budgets” he’s worked on.
“I couldn’t go any lower” on the mill rate without cutting essential services, he said.
“This was a tough budget year,” Ward said, but with plenty of cooperation from everyone involved, an acceptable bottom line was reached.
John Smith, a finance board member, said that the cooperation between city leaders and school officials was crucial, and rare among Connecticut municipalities.
“That’s what makes it work,” Smith said. “I would hope we never lose this type of discourse.”
Janet Moylan said she’d like to see officials pay as much attention to public works and other large departments as they do to the school budget.
Because almost all the property in Bristol is worth more than it was in 2002, up an average of 42 percent, the mill rate could drop from today’s 34.71 to 24.95 to bring in the same amount of money to city coffers.But the budget calls for a mill rate of 26.45 in order to bring in the necessary revenue to balance the spending that officials approved Tuesday.
Housing generally rose about 46 percent during revaluation, though some homes went up much more and others less. That means that it won’t be uncommon for homeowners to face property tax hikes this year of 10 percent or more.
The budget takes effect on July 1,when a new municipal fiscal year begins.
Click here for a PDF outlining the budget adopted by the Board of Finance
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
No to chief operating officer, says Rimcoski
Veteran Republican city Councilor Mike Rimcoski said Tuesday he won’t support the proposal to create a chief operating officer at City Hall.
Rimcoski said he didn’t like the idea of a city manager and by opting instead for a junior version of the job “they haven’t done anything to change my mind.”
After weighing arguments made by businessman Craig Yarde in favor of a charter change to allow the new full-time position, Rimcoski said he’s simply not convinced.
He said he respects Yarde as a businessman, but can’t forget that Yarde moved his metal distribution company to Southington.
“The guy moved out of town,” said Rimcoski, one of two GOP council members.
Rimcoski said he was particularly unconvinced with Yarde’s defense of Jonathan Rosenthal, the city’s economic development director, whom Yarde has praised often.
Yarde “moved out of Bristol because of a failure” of the Bristol Development Authority, Rimcoski said. He called Rosenthal’s handling of the effort to build a new industrial park “a fiasco.”
The industrial park beside the former Superior Electric on Middle Street was originally envisioned, in part, as a possible location for Yarde Metals to expand.
But when an eminent domain legal case involving the Bugryn family got tied up in court for years, Yarde moved out of town rather than wait.
Rimcoski said that when the case dragged out, “we never had a plan B” to keep Yarde Metals.
“Only later did I realize we never had a plan A either,” Rimcoski said.
But the industrial park that’s under construction now is essentially the same one that former Mayor Frank Nicastro declared essential more than a decade ago. Officials said the city needed prime industrial lots in order to lure new factories to town.
Yarde said recently that a good argument for creating a chief operating officer is to make sure department heads such as Rosenthal are closely supervised.
Yarde said that Rosenthal did well working with him and he’s been impressed with the development director’s efforts over the years.
“If Mr. Yarde is so enthralled with Mr. Rosenthal, I think he should try to hire him,” Rimcoski said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Rimcoski said he didn’t like the idea of a city manager and by opting instead for a junior version of the job “they haven’t done anything to change my mind.”
After weighing arguments made by businessman Craig Yarde in favor of a charter change to allow the new full-time position, Rimcoski said he’s simply not convinced.
He said he respects Yarde as a businessman, but can’t forget that Yarde moved his metal distribution company to Southington.
“The guy moved out of town,” said Rimcoski, one of two GOP council members.
Rimcoski said he was particularly unconvinced with Yarde’s defense of Jonathan Rosenthal, the city’s economic development director, whom Yarde has praised often.
Yarde “moved out of Bristol because of a failure” of the Bristol Development Authority, Rimcoski said. He called Rosenthal’s handling of the effort to build a new industrial park “a fiasco.”
The industrial park beside the former Superior Electric on Middle Street was originally envisioned, in part, as a possible location for Yarde Metals to expand.
But when an eminent domain legal case involving the Bugryn family got tied up in court for years, Yarde moved out of town rather than wait.
Rimcoski said that when the case dragged out, “we never had a plan B” to keep Yarde Metals.
“Only later did I realize we never had a plan A either,” Rimcoski said.
But the industrial park that’s under construction now is essentially the same one that former Mayor Frank Nicastro declared essential more than a decade ago. Officials said the city needed prime industrial lots in order to lure new factories to town.
Yarde said recently that a good argument for creating a chief operating officer is to make sure department heads such as Rosenthal are closely supervised.
Yarde said that Rosenthal did well working with him and he’s been impressed with the development director’s efforts over the years.
“If Mr. Yarde is so enthralled with Mr. Rosenthal, I think he should try to hire him,” Rimcoski said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 18, 2008
Vandalism must be stopped; reward offered
Unless the city can stifle a vandalism spree that has ransacked parts of its parks, it’s possible the damage could delay the opening of the Rockwell Park pool and the completion of a new skatepark at the historic park.
Park Director Ed Swicklas said Friday that dealing with the ongoing vandalism is “leading toward park delays” that could make it difficult for crews to get the necessary work done on time.
Meanwhile, city Councilor Ken Cockayne said Friday that he’s putting up a $250 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the vandals who spray painted the inside walls of the swimming pool at Rockwell Park recently.
Cockayne said he took a look at the damage and “it really upset me.”
“We’re spending millions and millions of dollars to clean up our parks and we have these punks trying to defeat exactly what we’re trying to do,” Cockayne said.
Cockayne said that the city Republican Party is likely chipping in another $250 toward a reward.
Mayor Art Ward said he doesn’t know any details about how much reward money has been offered, but cautioned that it might not be a good idea.
He said it might be impossible for the city to implement a reward that pays out the money to an informer while maintaining the whistleblower’s confidentiality.
In addition, Ward said, he’s not sure that a councilor can legally offer a reward, however admirable the intent.
He said he’s asked the city attorney’s office to look into it.
Ward said that Cockayne initially asked the mayor to have the city offer up to $1,000 in reward money, but questions about protecting the identity of a tipster derailed the idea.
Cockayne said he doesn’t need the mayor’s approval to offer his own money.
“I was so upset I figured I’d put my money where my mouth is,” Cockayne said, adding that he’d like to see the rest of the council do the same.
City officials complained this week that vandals have caused thousands of dollars worth of damage at Rockwell Park – and lesser damage at other parks – and that the spree hasn’t shown signs of slacking.
Police officers are trying to keep a closer eye on the parks, officials said, in the hope of catching the culprits in the act.
Cockayne said that if anybody’s nabbed “I want to see them prosecuted to the full extent of the law” and would like to see punishment include a requirement that the vandals clean up graffiti as part of their sentence.
The freshman GOP councilor also said he believes that parents deserve part of the blame, too.
“They should start holding the parents accountable for the actions of their children. If the parents were watching their kids, this wouldn’t be happening,” Cockayne said.
This isn’t the first time that Cockayne has dipped into his $10,000 part-time salary to offer cash to the community.
He contributed $100 to last month’s library contest to name the failed mall property.
“I have no problem putting back some of the money I earn” in order to benefit the people who elected him, Cockayne said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Park Director Ed Swicklas said Friday that dealing with the ongoing vandalism is “leading toward park delays” that could make it difficult for crews to get the necessary work done on time.
Meanwhile, city Councilor Ken Cockayne said Friday that he’s putting up a $250 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the vandals who spray painted the inside walls of the swimming pool at Rockwell Park recently.
Cockayne said he took a look at the damage and “it really upset me.”
“We’re spending millions and millions of dollars to clean up our parks and we have these punks trying to defeat exactly what we’re trying to do,” Cockayne said.
Cockayne said that the city Republican Party is likely chipping in another $250 toward a reward.
Mayor Art Ward said he doesn’t know any details about how much reward money has been offered, but cautioned that it might not be a good idea.
He said it might be impossible for the city to implement a reward that pays out the money to an informer while maintaining the whistleblower’s confidentiality.
In addition, Ward said, he’s not sure that a councilor can legally offer a reward, however admirable the intent.
He said he’s asked the city attorney’s office to look into it.
Ward said that Cockayne initially asked the mayor to have the city offer up to $1,000 in reward money, but questions about protecting the identity of a tipster derailed the idea.
Cockayne said he doesn’t need the mayor’s approval to offer his own money.
“I was so upset I figured I’d put my money where my mouth is,” Cockayne said, adding that he’d like to see the rest of the council do the same.
City officials complained this week that vandals have caused thousands of dollars worth of damage at Rockwell Park – and lesser damage at other parks – and that the spree hasn’t shown signs of slacking.
Police officers are trying to keep a closer eye on the parks, officials said, in the hope of catching the culprits in the act.
Cockayne said that if anybody’s nabbed “I want to see them prosecuted to the full extent of the law” and would like to see punishment include a requirement that the vandals clean up graffiti as part of their sentence.
The freshman GOP councilor also said he believes that parents deserve part of the blame, too.
“They should start holding the parents accountable for the actions of their children. If the parents were watching their kids, this wouldn’t be happening,” Cockayne said.
This isn’t the first time that Cockayne has dipped into his $10,000 part-time salary to offer cash to the community.
He contributed $100 to last month’s library contest to name the failed mall property.
“I have no problem putting back some of the money I earn” in order to benefit the people who elected him, Cockayne said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Scoop the poop?
City leaders are pondering whether to try do anything about dog droppings.
“I guess it’s a health issue,” said Dale Clift, the soon-to-be city attorney.
Spurred by a complaint from resident Tom Zipp, the Ordinance Committee is considering whether to pursue a new statute that would require dog owners to pick up after their pets.
Many municipalities across the country have pooper scooper laws on the books that mandate that dog owners clean up after their animals rather than walking away from the piles of excrement.
Though Bristol doesn’t have a generally applicable regulation that forces pet owners to be responsible, it does have a law requiring dog owners to scoop the poop in parks and on school property.
Clift said it is a policy choice that officials can make about whether to extend the protection given city-owned property more generally.
It’s possible that letting a dog leave its droppings on someone’s lawn is already trespassing and perhaps it could open the dog owner up to a civil court claim, officials said.
But few expect complaints to reach that level often.
Councilor Craig Minor, who heads the ordinance panel, said the real answer is that “sometimes neighbors need to suck it up and confront their neighbor” if they’re unhappy about dog droppings.
But another member of the panel, Councilor Kevin McCauley, said that it can be awfully difficult to approach some dog owners.
He said that he believes there would be a lot of interest in adopting the law.
“I don’t like coming out and seeing excrement,” McCauley added.
“Try going over it with a lawnmower,” Councilor Mike Rimcoski interjected, with a look that made it clear he had some unhappy memories.
Even so, Rimcoski expressed skepticism about cracking down on dog owners.
“What about cats? What about monkeys? What about humans?” Rimcoski asked.
Zipp said that he was spurred to ask the city to take action after he confronted a woman walking two dogs on his property.
He said that after both animals left some droppings on his lawn he asked the woman if she planned to pick it up.
The unknown dog owner responded by asking whether she was supposed to put the poop in her pocket.
The existing city law requires that pets be “under control” of owners at all times, though it doesn’t even specifically mandate that they be on a leash.
Ignoring the pooper scooper laws in the parks and on school property, imposed in 1995, can lead to $90 fines.
The city considered extending its poop-scooping law to include the property along sidewalks a decade ago, but dropped the idea because councilors thought the problem was minimal and enforcement unlikely.
There are more than 2,500 registered dogs in the city, with hundreds more unlicensed.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
“I guess it’s a health issue,” said Dale Clift, the soon-to-be city attorney.
Spurred by a complaint from resident Tom Zipp, the Ordinance Committee is considering whether to pursue a new statute that would require dog owners to pick up after their pets.
Many municipalities across the country have pooper scooper laws on the books that mandate that dog owners clean up after their animals rather than walking away from the piles of excrement.
Though Bristol doesn’t have a generally applicable regulation that forces pet owners to be responsible, it does have a law requiring dog owners to scoop the poop in parks and on school property.
Clift said it is a policy choice that officials can make about whether to extend the protection given city-owned property more generally.
It’s possible that letting a dog leave its droppings on someone’s lawn is already trespassing and perhaps it could open the dog owner up to a civil court claim, officials said.
But few expect complaints to reach that level often.
Councilor Craig Minor, who heads the ordinance panel, said the real answer is that “sometimes neighbors need to suck it up and confront their neighbor” if they’re unhappy about dog droppings.
But another member of the panel, Councilor Kevin McCauley, said that it can be awfully difficult to approach some dog owners.
He said that he believes there would be a lot of interest in adopting the law.
“I don’t like coming out and seeing excrement,” McCauley added.
“Try going over it with a lawnmower,” Councilor Mike Rimcoski interjected, with a look that made it clear he had some unhappy memories.
Even so, Rimcoski expressed skepticism about cracking down on dog owners.
“What about cats? What about monkeys? What about humans?” Rimcoski asked.
Zipp said that he was spurred to ask the city to take action after he confronted a woman walking two dogs on his property.
He said that after both animals left some droppings on his lawn he asked the woman if she planned to pick it up.
The unknown dog owner responded by asking whether she was supposed to put the poop in her pocket.
The existing city law requires that pets be “under control” of owners at all times, though it doesn’t even specifically mandate that they be on a leash.
Ignoring the pooper scooper laws in the parks and on school property, imposed in 1995, can lead to $90 fines.
The city considered extending its poop-scooping law to include the property along sidewalks a decade ago, but dropped the idea because councilors thought the problem was minimal and enforcement unlikely.
There are more than 2,500 registered dogs in the city, with hundreds more unlicensed.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Read details of Battle of Seicheprey
Back in 1990, a graduate student at Central Connecticut State University, Francis Coan, wrote a thesis that told the story of the Bristol men who headed off to the trenches in France as part of the legendary Yankee Division.
Now a history professor at Tunxis Community College, Coan generously agreed to let me post here the section of his thesis that told the story of the battle of Seicheprey in April 1918, where eight Bristol soldiers died and many others were injured.
Thanks to some sort of glitch with my fax machine, it comes in two PDFs, which you can read online or print off (FYI: the cover page repeats at the beginning of part 2, but it is, in fact, the second half of the Seicheprey section of the paper).
Here's Part 1 of the story of the battle of Seicheprey and
Here's Part 2 of the story of the battle of Seicheprey
There's a ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday at the World War I memorial on Memorial Boulevard to honor the Bristol troops who lost their lives in that bloody battle. Try to go if you can. There's also a display at the Bristol Historical Society afterward that's well worth seeing.
By the way, if there's an interest, I'll try to post the rest of the thesis another time.
Thank you to Fran for his willingness to share the paper with everyone and to Jack Denehy at the Bristol Military Museum for letting me borrow his copy.
I should also mention that Lori DeFillippi deserves much of the credit for pulling together the ceremony to honor the 90th anniversary of that terrible battle. She's got a passion for history and for honoring the men and women who devoted so much for their country.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Now a history professor at Tunxis Community College, Coan generously agreed to let me post here the section of his thesis that told the story of the battle of Seicheprey in April 1918, where eight Bristol soldiers died and many others were injured.
Thanks to some sort of glitch with my fax machine, it comes in two PDFs, which you can read online or print off (FYI: the cover page repeats at the beginning of part 2, but it is, in fact, the second half of the Seicheprey section of the paper).
Here's Part 1 of the story of the battle of Seicheprey and
Here's Part 2 of the story of the battle of Seicheprey
There's a ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday at the World War I memorial on Memorial Boulevard to honor the Bristol troops who lost their lives in that bloody battle. Try to go if you can. There's also a display at the Bristol Historical Society afterward that's well worth seeing.
By the way, if there's an interest, I'll try to post the rest of the thesis another time.
Thank you to Fran for his willingness to share the paper with everyone and to Jack Denehy at the Bristol Military Museum for letting me borrow his copy.
I should also mention that Lori DeFillippi deserves much of the credit for pulling together the ceremony to honor the 90th anniversary of that terrible battle. She's got a passion for history and for honoring the men and women who devoted so much for their country.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 17, 2008
Cold words from McCain ancestor
On the evening of May 2, 1918, a distant uncle of today's Republican presidential candidate John McCain sent a telegram from the nation's capital to Bristol builder Michael O'Sullivan.The telegram, from Major Gen. Henry Pickney McCain, the adjutant general of the Army, didn't say a whole lot and yet it said entirely too much.
"Deeply regret to inform you that Private William O'Sullivan, infantry, is officially reported as killed in action April twentieth," it said. The military didn't even pay the few cents to put the sender's full name. It just said "McCain, adjutant."
For the 26-year-old soldier's family, the cold, impersonal news came as a shock, though by then they knew that O'Sullivan's unit in the Yankee Division had been in the thick of a terrible battle at the village of Seicheprey in France.
The following day, The Bristol Press reported that O'Sullivan was "killed in action" along with other city soldiers from Company D of the 1st Connecticut National Guard Regiment.
The funeral mass was held at St. Matthew's Church for the deceased soldier and the city slowly came to learn the somber news that eight Bristol military men had perished at Seicheprey, one of the first battles between Americans and the Germans along the bloody trench lines that separated the competing armies in northern France.
Men in O'Sullivan's unit assumed he was dead, said Bob Kelly, whose grandmother was O'Sullivan's sister, because they found the lower half a body wearing his hip waders on the battlefield.
What nobody in O'Sullivan's family knew is that he wasn't really dead. He was, instead, sitting in a prisoner of war camp in Germany, destined to return home and live another 18 years in Bristol.
He had loaned his unique clothing to someone else that morning, Kelly said, but nobody knew that until he returned to tell the story.
In June, O'Sullivan sent a postcard home with "a few lines to let you know that I am allright" through the Red Cross. He asked his family to send him a lockable box, rice, beans, cheese and crackers.
But it took time for the postcard to find its way across the war-torn continent and the Atlantic Ocean to reach its destination.
One of O'Sullivan's cousins, Bill Haller of Unionville, who was also fighting in France, sent a letter to the family in Bristol in August telling them that "Bill is not dead" and was actually taken prisoner.
He said in the letter that the chaplain who buried the American dead at Seicheprey knew "every man killed in that battle" and was certain O'Sullivan was not among the corpses he helped put in the ground after the fighting ceased.
That letter, too, took a long time to reach Bristol.
It wasn't until October, just a month before the war ended and six months after Seicheprey, that the family received Haller's letter stating that O'Sullivan was alive, the first indication that their mourning had been unnecessary..
In short order, they also got O'Sullivan's postcards and a formal note from the French government informing them that O'Sullivan was listed among the prisoners held by the Germans.
One can only imagine the jubilation in the O'Sullivan home at the news.
There is a ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday at the World War I memorial on Memorial Boulevard to honor the eight city soldiers who died at Seicheprey, the most deadly battle for Bristol's military in any war.
Following the ceremony, the Bristol Military Museum, now housed with the Bristol Historical Society on Summer Street, will be open. It has uniforms, weapons, pictures, letters and much more that showcase the sacrifices made by the men who fought at Seicheprey.
Thanks to the generosity of Kelly, a retired teacher, the telegram, postcards, letters and pictures about O'Sullivan will also be on display.
Check back later Friday for a complete account of the battle of Seicheprey from a Tunxis Community College history professor's thesis.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Charter hearing on May 5
City councilors have slated a hearing on the Charter Revision Commission for 6 p.m., Monday, May 5 at City Hall. The focus is on the possibility of creating a chief operating officer position.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 16, 2008
Yarde weighs in on city management problems
Businessman Craig Yarde weighed in recently with a couple of interesting comments on another post. I want to make sure everyone sees them, so here they are:
First time to the Bristol Blog.
I wish everyone would use their real names rather than anonymous. I tried to post a comment a few days ago using my name Craig Yarde but it never went through. Maybe because I didn't know my URL, whatever that is. So I'll try anonymous and see if it makes it.
My main reason I like a city manager or COO is because I feel the last four Mayors who I know personally did not manage their twenty one direct reports. One Mayor told me he spent half his week hearing citizens complaints. We all know the ceremonial responsibilities and meetings the Mayor has to perform under the city charter. I would say a Mayor has a sixty hour plus week without ever managing his twenty one direct reports. Having running Yarde Metals for over 30 years, managing my direct reports was the hardest thing I had to do. It's a tough job to review everyone twice a year and have meetings with each one every few weeks to see how he/she is performing the goals and objectives
for each department. I had six associates reporting to me. I can't imagine what would happen if I had twenty one associates reporting to me and not meeting with them at all. Let me give you an example what happens when you don't manage your people. Under Mayor Stortz, it well documented in the Bristol Press about his issues with the BDA department head Jonathan Rosenthal.
There was also concerns about Jonathan's performance with the previous two administrations. Personally, I think he did a good job, but i was the customer not the boss. Well, Mayor Stortz bypassed the BDA and formed another committee to handle the mall project. Jonathan had already did the RFQ for the new mall project. Jonathan who makes about $100,000 per year job was in limbo for these two years as they bypassed him. The mayor asked me to be on this committee which I agreed until I found out he was bypassing the BDA. I respectfully told him I didn't agree with what he was doing and refused to be on the new mall committee. They have budgeted three hundred and fifty thousand dollars
for legal fees to set this committee up along with other expenses. Since the pass four mayors have not at all managed their twenty one direct reports their was nothing in Jonathans personnel file. No reviews, no verbal warnings, no written warnings, nothing at all. So there was no valid argument to dismiss him. Knowing the laws, I would guess it will cost the city anywhere from $500,000 to a million dollars to dismiss Jonathan Rosenthal. The main reason is he was managed so poorly. My question to fellow bloggers is what do you think the mayor should do at this
point to handle this individual. A very difficult situation. Can you see the legal difficulty by not managing you direct reports. There was a recent department head that sued the city for $250,000 dollars for the same reason. All I want is to protect the city and prevent our tax dollars from getting wasted for lack of management. We are talking some very serious money here that gets wasted. Your tax dollars.If know of any other areas were money has been squandered. Please email me at hirecoo@gmail.com Thank you.
And there's this one, too:
I did not include Leone in my remarks and by the way he is a strong supporter of the Charter Revision Committee to create a COO position. I know Artie has recently put some warnings in Jonathan's file but the horse is out of the barn. Because Frank, Couture and Bill has never given any reviews, no verbal and no written warnings and have given very little direction to department heads, the stage is already set. I have heard rumors of antisemitic remarks and one mayor grabbing Jonathan's ass but it's only hearsay at this stage. It will all come out in the wash when Bristol decides to do something with his employment. What we have here is lifetime employment in the city unless we decide to pay him to leave and that will be big bucks. I didn't say anything about public impute to the mall or nothing being accomplished. What I'm saying is we are not managing the people side of the city business which will get the city in big law suits in the future unless we let everyone have lifetime employment. Is that what we want?
Craig Yarde
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
First time to the Bristol Blog.
I wish everyone would use their real names rather than anonymous. I tried to post a comment a few days ago using my name Craig Yarde but it never went through. Maybe because I didn't know my URL, whatever that is. So I'll try anonymous and see if it makes it.
My main reason I like a city manager or COO is because I feel the last four Mayors who I know personally did not manage their twenty one direct reports. One Mayor told me he spent half his week hearing citizens complaints. We all know the ceremonial responsibilities and meetings the Mayor has to perform under the city charter. I would say a Mayor has a sixty hour plus week without ever managing his twenty one direct reports. Having running Yarde Metals for over 30 years, managing my direct reports was the hardest thing I had to do. It's a tough job to review everyone twice a year and have meetings with each one every few weeks to see how he/she is performing the goals and objectives
for each department. I had six associates reporting to me. I can't imagine what would happen if I had twenty one associates reporting to me and not meeting with them at all. Let me give you an example what happens when you don't manage your people. Under Mayor Stortz, it well documented in the Bristol Press about his issues with the BDA department head Jonathan Rosenthal.
There was also concerns about Jonathan's performance with the previous two administrations. Personally, I think he did a good job, but i was the customer not the boss. Well, Mayor Stortz bypassed the BDA and formed another committee to handle the mall project. Jonathan had already did the RFQ for the new mall project. Jonathan who makes about $100,000 per year job was in limbo for these two years as they bypassed him. The mayor asked me to be on this committee which I agreed until I found out he was bypassing the BDA. I respectfully told him I didn't agree with what he was doing and refused to be on the new mall committee. They have budgeted three hundred and fifty thousand dollars
for legal fees to set this committee up along with other expenses. Since the pass four mayors have not at all managed their twenty one direct reports their was nothing in Jonathans personnel file. No reviews, no verbal warnings, no written warnings, nothing at all. So there was no valid argument to dismiss him. Knowing the laws, I would guess it will cost the city anywhere from $500,000 to a million dollars to dismiss Jonathan Rosenthal. The main reason is he was managed so poorly. My question to fellow bloggers is what do you think the mayor should do at this
point to handle this individual. A very difficult situation. Can you see the legal difficulty by not managing you direct reports. There was a recent department head that sued the city for $250,000 dollars for the same reason. All I want is to protect the city and prevent our tax dollars from getting wasted for lack of management. We are talking some very serious money here that gets wasted. Your tax dollars.If know of any other areas were money has been squandered. Please email me at hirecoo@gmail.com Thank you.
And there's this one, too:
I did not include Leone in my remarks and by the way he is a strong supporter of the Charter Revision Committee to create a COO position. I know Artie has recently put some warnings in Jonathan's file but the horse is out of the barn. Because Frank, Couture and Bill has never given any reviews, no verbal and no written warnings and have given very little direction to department heads, the stage is already set. I have heard rumors of antisemitic remarks and one mayor grabbing Jonathan's ass but it's only hearsay at this stage. It will all come out in the wash when Bristol decides to do something with his employment. What we have here is lifetime employment in the city unless we decide to pay him to leave and that will be big bucks. I didn't say anything about public impute to the mall or nothing being accomplished. What I'm saying is we are not managing the people side of the city business which will get the city in big law suits in the future unless we let everyone have lifetime employment. Is that what we want?
Craig Yarde
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Tougher property maintenance codes to come?
City leaders are eyeing the possibility of adopting a new property maintenance law that’s being used by cities across the world.
Building Official Guy Morin, who is urging passage of the “international property maintenance code,” said its terms would “fill in all the holes” in Bristol’s current rules.
“It’s very well thought out and put together,” Morin said. “They seem to have taken everything into account.”
The city’s Ordinance Committee is reviewing the idea, but is a long way from adopting the proposed change.
This month, the city wiped out its Blight Committee, folding it into a new Code Enforcement Committee that will have the power to enforce laws governing both the outside appearance and inside structure of buildings in Bristol. The new law takes effect soon.
But the measure sought by Morin would give the city even more clout.
“It just enhances our ability to enforce” the rules, said city Councilor Kevin McCauley. “I’m quite comfortable with this.”
“It adds another tool in our toolbox,” said Police Officer Tom Lavigne, who is assigned full-time to code enforcement issues.
Lavigne said the proposed code would “standardize the inspection process” and ensure fairness for everyone.
“We want it to be equal among all the homeowners” in town, Lavigne said.
Dale Clift, the newly appointed city attorney, said he would want to make sure that if the new code is adopted, lawyers need to make sure it doesn’t conflict with existing statutes. He said it’s important to dump outdated sections of the ordinance book that might not fit the terms of what’s called for in the new code urged by Morin.
“We don’t want to get into a tax code situation,” Clift said, in which it’s hard to know what the law requires because sections don’t mesh with one another.
Clift said that city lawyers will have to work on the issue.
Morin said he’s glad that the idea is going forward.
He said there are “big voids” in the current laws laying out how officials carry out inspections and enforce regulations.
The proposed code, Morin said, is very clear about penalties, the notice that must be given to property owners and who carries out the enforcement.
“It covers everything we do and standardizes the process,” Lavigne said.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 14, 2008
Trudon property decision needed, mayor says
Five years after the city bought the former Trudon & Platt Trucking property on Downs Street, officials may be ready to decide its fate.
“The time has come to make a decision” about what to do with the decrepit former trucking terminal near the eastern end of Memorial Boulevard, said Mayor Art Ward.
Ward said the site, which borders the Pequabuck River, has “a lot of potential.”
When the city bought the former blight target in 2003, officials had no solid plan for the site. They talked, though, about the possibility of handing it over to the park department and creating a fishing area for handicapped people on the property. A farmer’s market might also find a home on the site, they said at the time.
But since then, the city has done little with the site. It’s long-term project list includes nothing for the future there, either.
Park Director Ed Swicklas said recently that it will probably remain as it is for the time being.
Ward said, though, that it’s a visible and interesting piece of property that shouldn’t just languish.
He said it needs to be cleaned up completely in order to make it look enticing. Returning it to its natural state is a likely option.
Ward said that he is anxious to hear ideas and suggestions from the public about how best to utilize the property.
“It might require a public-private partnership,” the mayor said, to get the massive concrete trucking platforms demolished.
Last year’s Pequabuck River Watershed Management Plan said the city could create a trout park near Downs Street and make a handicapped fishing area from the former trucking company site.
The Trudon & Platt Trucking firm operated on the site from the 1920s until a Teamsters strike put the independent trucking company out of business in the mid-1970s.
The trucking property was the soon-to-be-defunct Blight Committee’s top target a decade ago.
It forced the owner to clean up rusting trailers, graffiti-covered walls and much more, after socking him with more than $6,000 worth of fines that were ultimately waived.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 13, 2008
Press release from the public works department:
The City of Bristol is scheduled to begin crack sealing the following City streets on Monday April 14, 2008.
Hart Street
Woodbridge Road
Boy Street
Elaine Drive
Maxine Road
El Toro Drive
Del Prado Drive
Additional streets may be added. It is anticipated that this project will continue for approximately 3 weeks, weather permitting.
The sealing of roadway cracks will protect them from future water or frost damage and extend the life of the roads. After sealant is applied to cracks on the surface of roads, sand will be applied to protect the sealant while it cures. Affected streets will be swept within 3 days after the sealant is applied to remove sand.
There will be no street closures as a result of this project. Some lane closures or minor traffic delays may occur during sealing.
Please contact Adam Feldman (584-6142) or Assistant City Engineer Ray Rogozinski (584-6113) in the Public Works Department with any questions or concerns.
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Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
The City of Bristol is scheduled to begin crack sealing the following City streets on Monday April 14, 2008.
Hart Street
Woodbridge Road
Boy Street
Elaine Drive
Maxine Road
El Toro Drive
Del Prado Drive
Additional streets may be added. It is anticipated that this project will continue for approximately 3 weeks, weather permitting.
The sealing of roadway cracks will protect them from future water or frost damage and extend the life of the roads. After sealant is applied to cracks on the surface of roads, sand will be applied to protect the sealant while it cures. Affected streets will be swept within 3 days after the sealant is applied to remove sand.
There will be no street closures as a result of this project. Some lane closures or minor traffic delays may occur during sealing.
Please contact Adam Feldman (584-6142) or Assistant City Engineer Ray Rogozinski (584-6113) in the Public Works Department with any questions or concerns.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 11, 2008
90 years later, honoring the dead
“A hellish rain of steel” fell on the 26th “Yankee” Division of raw soldiers from New England holding the line at Seicheprey, according to German newspapers at the time.
The bodies of the dead, including eight men from Bristol, were so thick that they barricaded the way for the advancing enemy “who had to drive the Americans from houses, gardens and cellars,” a Berlin newspaper reported.
“But even then Americans continued to fight so tenaciously that they were nearly all killed,” the paper said.
“Brave troops were annihilated almost to the last,” the Cologne Gazette reported.
One of the units that took the brunt of the April 20, 1918 fighting was Bristol’s Company D of the 102nd Infantry, a National Guard outfit that hadn’t been on the lines in France long before elite German units targeted the 1.5-mile long, American-held sector of the front at Seichepry.
Aiming to teach the Americans a lesson, and perhaps send them scurrying back across the ocean, the Germans advanced through the shattered landscape, but counterattacks quickly pushed them back.
It was, in the big picture, just another meaningless bloodbath in one of history’s most gruesome wars – “the war to end all wars,” as President Woodrow Wilson once proclaimed.
Though accounts vary, it appears that at least 81 Americans were killed in the two-day battle, 401 were wounded and 187 went missing or were captured. The Germans lost even more.
It proved the most deadly battle for Bristol troops in the city’s history, claiming eight men who hailed from this small manufacturing town, then home to about 20,000 people, a terrible toll by any measure.
Today, Seicheprey is “a tiny rural village, a farming community, very pretty and very quiet on a Sunday morning,” according to Farmington resident Jill Knight Weinberger, who visited the town recently while touring the battlefields where her grandfather fought.
Set among the rolling hills of northern France, about 20 miles from the birthplace of Joan of Arc, there’s not much to indicate why men poured death onto one another to possess it.
But its name still conjures up the ghosts of heroes.
The American Legion post on Hooker Court is known formally as the Seicheprey Post #2 to honor those who fell in defense of their country at that awful battle.
There is a marker in the village, Weinberger said in a recent note to city veterans, that the state of Connecticut sent in 1923 to commemorate the fighting “in the firm belief that the friendship of Frenchmen and Americans sealed in this place in battle shall serve the cause of peace among all nations.”
Though peace remains all too elusive, the hope for a better world that sent Theon Davis, J. Driscoll, Eric G. Hedquist, Damase J. LaFlame, William Lagasse, Elmer G. Linden, Joseph V. Pratt and William J. Schaeffer to die at Seicheprey also remains.
Perhaps someday, through the tangled web of memory and shifting tides of history, their sacrifices will, finally, help to bring the peace they died to achieve.
In the meantime, an hour-long ceremony is planned for 11 a.m., Saturday, April 19 at the World War I monument on Memorial Boulevard to mark the anniversary of the battle. In case of rain, the ceremony will be held at the Legion post at 22 Hooker Court.
The Bristol men who died at Seichepry were:
Theon Davis
Timothy J. Driscoll
Eric G. Hedquist
Damase J. LaFlame
William Lagasse
Elmer G. Linden
Joseph V. Pratt
William J. Schaefer
This is a drawing of the trenches at Seicheprey in 1918 by Cyrus Leroy Baldridge, a soldier who published the pictures he drew after the war.
PS: If you click on the pictures, you can see larger versions of them.
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Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
April 10, 2008
Mall site may be used by nonprofits, for now
With the downtown mall now merely a pile of rubble, city leaders are looking ahead at what do with the 17-acre site now that it’s nearly cleared.
Mayor Art Ward said he anticipates that it will be available to nonprofit groups to use for festivals, car shows, farmers’ markets and the like.
“It makes sense,” the mayor said.
Groups that are interested in using the paved site should submit requests to the city’s Real Estate Committee, Ward said, which will review them and make recommendations to the City Council.
The former mall site, now tagged “Depot Square” in the wake a library naming competition, is the focus of revitalization efforts that officials hope will lead to new stores, offices, housing and perhaps more.
The Bristol Downtown Development Corp., the nonprofit created by the city to oversee the effort, has asked potential developers to submit proposals for the site by the end of May. A preferred developer will likely be picked in mid-summer to begin preparing detailed plans, officials said.
“There’s a potential for something positive to go up there,” Ward said.
The City Council cleared the way to eliminate one potential roadblock recently when it backed a new lease with Discount Food Outlet, the grocery store that rents space from the city.
The store had a lease in place that matched the one held by Ocean State Job Lot, officials said.
But the city and the store’s owners were able to agree recently on a new lease that provides that the store will get at least 90 days notice when the city wants it to move out.
City leaders have said they’re in no hurry to oust the grocer because it serves the central area of town effectively and has been cooperative with city efforts all along.
The new lease, however, removes any doubt that the store could remain for long once the city tells it to get out.
Another city-owned structure on the 17 acres, the former movie theater that most recently housed a Sherwin-Williams paint store, is going to be demolished soon. Officials are putting the final touches on a contract to have it torn down.
Ward said that he became interested in the use of the property during the interim period before a developer steps in to do anything after Pumpkin Festival organizers asked him about using the mall area this fall.
He said he couldn’t see a reason to say no as long as the group had the proper insurance and other routine measures the city requires.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Mayor Art Ward said he anticipates that it will be available to nonprofit groups to use for festivals, car shows, farmers’ markets and the like.
“It makes sense,” the mayor said.
Groups that are interested in using the paved site should submit requests to the city’s Real Estate Committee, Ward said, which will review them and make recommendations to the City Council.
The former mall site, now tagged “Depot Square” in the wake a library naming competition, is the focus of revitalization efforts that officials hope will lead to new stores, offices, housing and perhaps more.
The Bristol Downtown Development Corp., the nonprofit created by the city to oversee the effort, has asked potential developers to submit proposals for the site by the end of May. A preferred developer will likely be picked in mid-summer to begin preparing detailed plans, officials said.
“There’s a potential for something positive to go up there,” Ward said.
The City Council cleared the way to eliminate one potential roadblock recently when it backed a new lease with Discount Food Outlet, the grocery store that rents space from the city.
The store had a lease in place that matched the one held by Ocean State Job Lot, officials said.
But the city and the store’s owners were able to agree recently on a new lease that provides that the store will get at least 90 days notice when the city wants it to move out.
City leaders have said they’re in no hurry to oust the grocer because it serves the central area of town effectively and has been cooperative with city efforts all along.
The new lease, however, removes any doubt that the store could remain for long once the city tells it to get out.
Another city-owned structure on the 17 acres, the former movie theater that most recently housed a Sherwin-Williams paint store, is going to be demolished soon. Officials are putting the final touches on a contract to have it torn down.
Ward said that he became interested in the use of the property during the interim period before a developer steps in to do anything after Pumpkin Festival organizers asked him about using the mall area this fall.
He said he couldn’t see a reason to say no as long as the group had the proper insurance and other routine measures the city requires.
*******
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
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