Merry Christmas from the Zandris

From the Record Journal Story - Residents asked to respond to hazard survey

On Sunday December 23rd the Record Journal ran a story titled Residents asked to respond to hazard survey written by Record Journal reporter Laurie Rich Salerno

The story indicated “Last week the town put up an online survey on its website asking residents questions about natural hazards” but that link is not easily found unless you are looking for it (it does not stand out from other links on the main page).

In an effort to make sure folks have an opportunity to respond and make the survey a success for the town here is the link:

Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Public Opinion Survey

We Need Your Assistance!

Our community is currently engaged in a planning process to become less vulnerable to disasters caused by natural hazards, and your participation is important to us.

The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) and its municipalities are working together to prepare a Multi-jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan. The purpose of this plan is to identify and assess the Region’s natural hazard risks (such as flooding, winter storms, tornadoes and wildfires) and determine how to best minimize or manage those risks. Upon completion, this plan will be presented to the local governing bodies of participating jurisdictions for adoption and then submitted to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for review and approval.

This survey provides an opportunity for you to share your opinions and participate in the mitigation planning process. The information you provide will help us better understand your hazard concerns and can lead to mitigation activities that should help lessen the impacts of future disasters. Participation in this survey is voluntary and none of the information you provide will be attributed to you directly.

If you have any questions regarding this survey, or would like to learn about more ways you can participate in the development of our Hazard Mitigation Plan, please contact Eugene Livshits at (203) 466-8626 or by e-mail at elivshits@scrcog.org.

REMINDER – WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING (AGENDA)

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

December 18, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

Opening Prayer – Deacon Eugene C. Riotte, Most Holy Trinity Church of Wallingford

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $4,427.27 (#426 - #444)Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $420.00 Youth and Social Services Special Fund Operation Fuel to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3c. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $319,400 to: $309,900 Distribution Expense-Maintenance-Overhead Lines Acct # 593 $ 6,500 Customer Records and Collections Acct # 903 $ 3,000 Administrative and General Wages Acct # 920 from: Retained Earnings – Electric Division

3d. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $500,000 CRRA Special Revenue Fund #200 to CRRA Funds – Revenue Distributed Fund #200 and to New Pumper Fire Truck Fund #200 Line Item to be determined – Fire Chief

3e. Approve minutes of Regular Town Council meeting of November 27, 2012

3f. Consider and Approve Merit Anniversary Increase - Mayor

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

6. 6:45 p.m. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200(b) and §1-200(6)(E) of the Connecticut General Statutes to discuss estimates relative to a prospective public construction contract – Chairman Mike Brodinsky, School Roof Building Committee

7. Conduct a Public Hearing at 7:00 P.M. on December 18, 2012 to consider and act upon the following proposed Ordinance:

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $9,352,000 FOR THE TOWN OF WALLINGFORD 2011 SCHOOL ROOF PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $9,352,000 BONDS OF THE TOWN TO MEET SAID APPROPRIATION AND PENDING THE ISSUANCE THEREOF THE MAKING OF TEMPORARY BORROWINGS FOR SUCH PURPOSE

(The purpose of the amendment is to increase the appropriation and bond authorization by $4,000,000 from $9,352,000 to $13,352,000 and to ratify, confirm and adopt all prior authorizations and ordinances n connection therewith.)

8. Consider and Accept tentative agreements for a successor pension contract to extend the current contracts with no changes from February 4, 2012 to August 31, 2012 for the following units:

UPSEU Local 424-27 (managers)
UPSEU Local 424-18 (school managers)
UPSEU Local 424-18B (school computer technicians)
UPSEU Local 424-30 (school food service workers)
UPSEU Local 424-31 (school secretaries)

9. Consider and Approve IBEW Local 457 Clerical Unit Tentative Agreement from July 1, 2012 to June 20, 2015 - Personnel

10. Consider and Approve a Budget Amendment in the Amount of $175,000 TO Water Treatment Equipment Acct # 46100332 and TO Appropriation from Cash $25,000 and FROM Appropriation from Cash $150,000 - Sewer Division

11. Consider and Approve a Budget Amendment in the Amount of $90,000 to Chemicals Acct # 46100641 and to Appropriation from Cash - Sewer Division

12. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200 (6)(D) of the Connecticut General Statutes with respect to the purchase, sale and/or leasing of property – Mayor

AGENDA – WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

December 18, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

Opening Prayer – Deacon Eugene C. Riotte, Most Holy Trinity Church of Wallingford

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $4,427.27 (#426 - #444)Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $420.00 Youth and Social Services Special Fund Operation Fuel to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3c. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $319,400 to: $309,900 Distribution Expense-Maintenance-Overhead Lines Acct # 593 $ 6,500 Customer Records and Collections Acct # 903 $ 3,000 Administrative and General Wages Acct # 920 from: Retained Earnings – Electric Division

3d. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $500,000 CRRA Special Revenue Fund #200 to CRRA Funds – Revenue Distributed Fund #200 and to New Pumper Fire Truck Fund #200 Line Item to be determined – Fire Chief

3e. Approve minutes of Regular Town Council meeting of November 27, 2012

3f. Consider and Approve Merit Anniversary Increase - Mayor

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

6. 6:45 p.m. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200(b) and §1-200(6)(E) of the Connecticut General Statutes to discuss estimates relative to a prospective public construction contract – Chairman Mike Brodinsky, School Roof Building Committee

7. Conduct a Public Hearing at 7:00 P.M. on December 18, 2012 to consider and act upon the following proposed Ordinance:

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $9,352,000 FOR THE TOWN OF WALLINGFORD 2011 SCHOOL ROOF PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $9,352,000 BONDS OF THE TOWN TO MEET SAID APPROPRIATION AND PENDING THE ISSUANCE THEREOF THE MAKING OF TEMPORARY BORROWINGS FOR SUCH PURPOSE

(The purpose of the amendment is to increase the appropriation and bond authorization by $4,000,000 from $9,352,000 to $13,352,000 and to ratify, confirm and adopt all prior authorizations and ordinances n connection therewith.)

8. Consider and Accept tentative agreements for a successor pension contract to extend the current contracts with no changes from February 4, 2012 to August 31, 2012 for the following units:

UPSEU Local 424-27 (managers)
UPSEU Local 424-18 (school managers)
UPSEU Local 424-18B (school computer technicians)
UPSEU Local 424-30 (school food service workers)
UPSEU Local 424-31 (school secretaries)

9. Consider and Approve IBEW Local 457 Clerical Unit Tentative Agreement from July 1, 2012 to June 20, 2015 - Personnel

10. Consider and Approve a Budget Amendment in the Amount of $175,000 TO Water Treatment Equipment Acct # 46100332 and TO Appropriation from Cash $25,000 and FROM Appropriation from Cash $150,000 - Sewer Division

11. Consider and Approve a Budget Amendment in the Amount of $90,000 to Chemicals Acct # 46100641 and to Appropriation from Cash - Sewer Division

12. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200 (6)(D) of the Connecticut General Statutes with respect to the purchase, sale and/or leasing of property – Mayor

REMINDER - Parsons House open house set for Dec. 1

WALLINGFORD — The Wallingford Historical Society will host a Christmas Open House at the Samuel Parsons House, 180 S. Main St., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, and from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2. Entrance to the house is free. Hosted in conjunction with the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce.

Information: Pat and Ray Chappell at (203) 265-0313.

Season of Celebrations - SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

As originally provided on the Town of Wallingford Website

Saturday, December 1
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

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Wallingford Town Hall
45 South Main Street
Wallingford, CT 06492
› Driving Directions

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Location: Town Hall

Visits with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus
1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Toy Collection by Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Petting Zoo with Adorable Animals
1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hot Cocoa and Cookies
1:30 p.m. (While They Last)

Photo Booth Pictures by Show Stopper Entertainment
Sponsored by Wallingford Center, Inc.
2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Horse and Carriage Rides
Rides originate in front of Town Hall.
2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Yankee Chorus Sings Holiday Carols
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Chestnuts Roasted on an Open Fire
Little Portion Acres
2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Frosty Parade
Led by DJ Lou Ferraro, Frosty and Rudolph, the parade will proceed from Town Hall down Center Street to Johanna Fishbein Park. 5:15 p.m.



SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Location: Johanna Fishbein Park

Holiday Carols at the Gazebo by the Wallingford Chorus

Reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Mayor William Dickinson, Jr. 5:30 p.m.

Lighting of the Tree
Led by Mr. Joseph Archer and Children, generous donors of the tree. 5:50 p.m.

Free to Children of All Ages

Sponsored by Wallingford Public Celebrations Committee and Wallingford Center, Inc.
Thanks to the Department of Police Services, Department of Public Works, Edson Sea Cadets, Lyman Hall High School Key Club, Choate Rosemary Hall School, White Way Laundry, Mark Gingras, McDonald’s Restaurant and our elves and soldiers.

Wallingford Democratic Town Committee Meeting

Wallingford Democratic Town Committee Meeting

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Time: 7:00pm 
350 Center Street
Wallingford, CT

Meeting Agenda Roll Call Acceptance of Meeting Minutes Treasurer's Report Chairman's Report Local Government Reports Announcements / Open Discussion          Jason Zandri will address the DTC Members Adjournment

Parsons House open house set for Dec. 1

WALLINGFORD — The Wallingford Historical Society will host a Christmas Open House at the Samuel Parsons House, 180 S. Main St., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, and from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2. Entrance to the house is free. Hosted in conjunction with the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce.

Information: Pat and Ray Chappell at (203) 265-0313.

AGENDA WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING – NOVEMBER 27, 2012

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

November 27, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

Opening Prayer – Reverend Dean O. Warburton, First Congregational Church of Wallingford

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

Presentation of Certificates to:

Wallingford Nitro U-12 Boys Soccer Team Fall 2012
South Central District Comp “A” League Champions and
Connecticut Cup State Champions

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $15,534.73 (#368 - #425)Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $5.00 (five dollars) for Youth and Social Services Special Fund to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3c. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $2,500 for Youth and Social Services Special Fund to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3d. Acceptance of Town Council Calendar of Meetings for 2013

3e. Approve minutes of Regular Town Council meeting of November 13, 2012

3f. Consider and Approve submission of a grant application for the Department of Justice Grant and appropriate $40,320 to DOJ Grants Acct # 100-002-2002-45214 and to the following: Video Equipment $14,875 Acct to be Established PSDN Router/Switch $5,015 Acct to be Established Firearms $20,430 Acct to be Established - Police Department

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

6. Conduct a Public Hearing on the possible sale of 41 South Main Street

7. Report out on the New Haven Hartford Springfield (NHHS) Commuter Rail Project – Town Engineer

8. Discussion and possible action regarding a formal purchasing procedure and policy to be   created, formed from the Code of Wallingford and the Town Charter of Wallingford – Councilor Jason Zandri

9. Discussion and possible action regarding a formal procedure and project plan to be created regarding the current and future repair and/or replacement of ornamental street lighting in Wallingford Center – Councilor Jason Zandri

10. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200 (6)(D) of the Connecticut General Statutes with respect to the purchase, sale and/or leasing of property – Mayor

11. Executive Session pursuant to §1-225(f) and §1-200(6)(B) of the Connecticut General Statutes regarding strategy and negotiations with respect to the pending tax appeal matter of CHREF v. Town of Wallingford- Law Department

12. Motion to consider and approve the settlement of CHREF v. Town of Wallingford tax appeal matter as discussed in Executive Session – Law Department

Mansion opens doors for Victorian Christmas

As published in the Record Journal Sunday November 25, 2012

By Laurie Rich Salerno
Record-Journal staff
lsalerno@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2235
Twitter:@LaurieSalernoRJ

WALLINGFORD — When MaryLou McNamara dons her mid-19th century costume to walk visitors through the town’s silver museum today, she’ll be thinking about her father.

Her dad, Otello Massoni, was one of many men and women in the area who spent their careers working for the International Silver Co. in a Wallingford plant. He was a die cutter, responsible for the patterns on the end of silverware. He has since passed away, so McNamara and her mother, Carolyn Massoni, feel they’re honoring his memory and many others by promoting the Franklin and Harriet Johnson mansion, which houses the silver museum, with a Victorian Christmas open house today.

“They were such artists. They took their time to get things right. They were perfectionists,” McNamara said of the local silver workers on Friday, while on a break from festooning the mansion with period- inspired Christmas decorations that she and her mother either purchased or made.

Carolyn Massoni, a member of the board of the Wallingford Historic Preservation Trust, is officially hosting the event with the help of McNamara and her husband, Thomas, and their two daughters, Carleen and Lauren.

From noon to 5 p.m., the women, in Victorian costume, will show visitors around the building at 153 S. Main St. Their clothing will reflect the period in which the 1866 Italianate building and many of its furnishings were built.

The women will show off the furniture and the decorations they’ve carefully arranged over the last few weeks as a backdrop for the collection of locally made silver items that are in each room. Cider and cookies will be available for guests.

The event is free, and Massoni hopes that showing visitors the building will encourage some to donate to the museum.

“I think they’ll be inspired by it,” she said.

The house underwent a major 2002-04 renovation to return it to the shape the Johnsons knew when they occupied it. In the intervening years, it had served as tenement housing and a medical building.

Since the renovations, volunteers have donated furniture and have been raising funds for projects such as acquiring more period-appropriate decor, such as wallpaper and carpeting, to complete the historic look of the interior.

Massoni, who runs an annual St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser for the trust at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn, would like to see the museum use donations for cabinets that would display more of the silver that the museum owns.

The trust has been increasing events for the building in the last year, with lectures and summer open houses. During the weekend of Celebrate Wallingford, about 500 people toured the building, according to trust President Jerry Farrell Jr.

Farrell said he wasn’t involved in the planning for today’s event — that was solely Massoni and her family — but that he would be bringing his own family.

“It should be nice. It’s a nice kickoff to the season, hopefully something that can become an annual tradition,”Farrell said.

As for the Massoni family, they’re hoping to see a lot of people come through the mansion’s doors today. “The Silver Museum is near and dear to our hearts,” McNamara said. “We really want to see this place take off.”

Fire Marshal Winter Fire Tune-up Reminder Checklist

12-01-12 Season of Celebration Event Schedule

CTDOT Begins Cable Installation for NHHS Rail Program

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has begun the installation of underground signal and communication cables, the first portion of construction for the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield (NHHS) Rail Program. The cable installation is part of the work required to upgrade signals and communications for the NHHS rail corridor. Installing the cables in advance clears the path for subsequent track and infrastructure improvements to re-establish Track 2.

On October 16th, the cable installation work began in Newington, West Hartford and Hartford. Work will begin next month in Hamden and progress north toward Newington.  Work north of Hartford is scheduled to begin in March of next year.  The cable installation work, which is being coordinated by Amtrak, is expected to be completed in the fall of 2014.

CTDOT will post updates on the status and location of the cable installation activities on the NHHS program website at www.nhhsrail.com and by email. To receive email updates, please register on the NHHS program website.

REMINDER - No curb collection for storm debris / information on leaf pickup

WALLINGFORD — The Town of Wallingford will not have a curbside storm debris pickup; residents may bring the tree debris to the compost area. All debris must comply with compost area requirements. Given the storm restoration efforts and the approaching leaf pickup the town does not have the resources to pick up tree debris.

The leaf pickup information is as follows: Residents of Wallingford will have their bagged leaves picked up by the Public Works Department starting Monday, Nov. 19. All leaves to be picked up must be placed at the curb in paper bags, sealed with masking tape only, if needed. Bagged leaves need to be at the curb no later than Sunday, Nov. 18. This is a onetime pickup of leaves only, brush, trash or garden waste will not be accepted.
Residents who miss the pickup can take leaves to the compost area (John Street) at no charge. Do not rake leaves into the gutters per ordinance No. 380.

Compost hours until Nov. 30 are as follows:

Monday to Wednesday, Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Compost hours Dec. 1 to Jan. 15

Monday, Thursday, Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Compost area will be closed Jan. 16 to March 15.

SCOW to sponsor holiday wine tasting

As published in the Record Journal Wednesday November 14, 2012

WALLINGFORD — The Spanish Community of Wallingford will sponsor a holiday wine tasting at the Villa Capri, 906 W. Colony St., Thursday, Nov. 15, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

“Holiday Vinos” will feature high-end boutique wines from various vintage years so the public can see how the wine ages. The wines to be tasted will include sparkling wines, pinot noirs, cabernets, merlots and malbecs, along with some white wines. High-end wines will be featured, along with more affordable wines.

There is a charge to attend. For information, call SCOW at (203) 265-5866.

 

As published  via the Facebook invitation

Join the Spanish Community of Wallingford for our annual wine tasting benefit! Tickets are $25 each. Come and taste an abundance of high quality wines from around the world and receive a commemorative wine glass as our thanks to you for supporting SCoW!

High end wines including Arietta, Corison and El Molino will be featured along with more affordable wines. Guests will be able to order wine at special prices that night, with delivery planned before the holidays.

Additionally, during the event, we will be offering tickets for our 50 50 cash raffle and valuable silent auction items will be available for bid.

Our first wine tasting was a huge success last year! Come out and support our vital organization and enjoy a night of fun, conversation and great wine!

For tickets call SCoW at (203) 265-5866.

AGENDA WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING – NOVEMBER 13, 2012

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

October 23, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

Opening Prayer – Reverend Margaret Jay, First Congregational Church of Wallingford

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $15,120.86 (#294 - #367) Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $516 for Youth and Social Services Special Fund for Soldier Program to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3c. Acceptance of Grant from Liberty Bank Foundation and Appropriation in the Amount of $5,000 for Youth and Social Services Special Fund for WECARE to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3d. Acceptance of Donation and Appropriation in the Amount of $771 for Youth and Social Services Special Fund for Soldier Program to Donations Acct # 2134002-47152 and to Expenditures Acct # 21340100-58830 – Youth and Social Services

3e. Acceptance of Grant and Appropriation of funds in the Amount of $928 to Revenue-Highway Safety Acct 1002001-45208 and to Police-Overtime Acct # 10020050-51400 – Police Department

3f. Acceptance of Grant and Appropriation of funds in the Amount of $1,429 to Revenue-Highway Safety Acct 1002001-45208 and to Police-Overtime Acct # 10020050-51400 – Police Department

3g. Approve minutes of Regular Town Council meeting of October 23, 2012

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

6. Consider and Approve an Appropriation of Funds in the Amount of $90,473 to Special Revenue Fund CRRA Distribution (Fund # 200) to CRRA Distribution – Revenue Acct #200 and to Backhoe-Public Works Acct # New Line to be established – Public Works

7. Discussion and possible actions, totaling $332,564, with respect to the financing of the Architectural Design Services for the North Farms Fire Station project:

7A. Consider and Approve an Appropriation of $252,564 within the CRRA Distribution Fund (#200) to Revenues-CRRA Distribution Acct # 200 0001 and Expenditures – Transfer Out to North Farms Fire Station Project Fund (#306) Acct # 20080350 59220

7B. Consider and Approve a Transfer of $80,000 within the North Farms Fire Station Project Fund from Line Item # 30680350-20048 – Property Acquisition, Demolition Acct # 30680350 20048 to a New Expenditure Line Item in Fund #306 - Architectural Design

7C. Consider and Approve an Appropriation of $252,564 in the North Farms Fire Station Project Fund to Revenues-Transfer in from CRRA Distribution Fund #306 and the New Expenditure Line Item within the North Farms Fire Station Project Fund (#306) – Architectural Design - Fire Department

8. Discussion and Possible Action with regard to the latest bid submission for 41 South Main Street property and the former American Legion Building – Chairman Robert Parisi

9. Discussion regarding Ornamental Street Lamps - Councilor Jason Zandri

10. Discussion regarding Pickett Avenue paving - Councilor Jason Zandri

11. Executive Session pursuant to §1-200 (6)(D) of the Connecticut General Statutes with respect to the purchase, sale and/or leasing of property – Mayor

Wallingford’s Mercier family – owners of the Halloween House / Winter Holiday House –need your help

For those of you that are unaware, the Merciers are the family that lives on the corner of South Elm Street at Pond Hill Road where it heads towards Lyman Hall.

Each year for the past couple of decades, they have been decorating their side yard with seasonal displays; first at Halloween and then again at the end of the year for the Christmas Season.

In 2009 they were featured in the Record Journal article titled Friends, family keep yard display going, where there were some troubles for the family in keeping up with the costs of the lighted displays.

Wallingford stepped up then to help out at that time and unfortunately the family needs help again for a very different reason.

The following information was supplied to me from the Pitt family who own Wallingford Computer Center regarding the current plight of the Mercier Family:

 

Many local residents in the Wallingford area know them as simply, the couple from the Halloween House or The Christmas House, depending on the season.

John and Linda Mercier have built up an abundant supply of holiday yard displays including many inflatables during the last twenty years at their South Elm Street property and openly invite the community to visit.

For many families it has become a yearly tradition to visit John and Linda who are known to joyously greet their visitors with a smile and and candy.

Sadly, last Sunday afternoon, John took what his wife described as a horrific fall off of a ladder when he was taking down some Halloween decorations. He fell some 20 feet which caused multiple injuries to his face, arm and eyes. He will need surgery to repair his arm. His eyes, which already had near blindness in one, have been damaged.

John has been in ICU at Yale, but Linda said once stable, he will probably be moved to a nursing home or rehabilitation center. Due to her own disability, Linda who is wheelchair bound most of the time, would be unable to care for him at home.

The couple has already been having a rough year, financially and now with daily trips for Linda to the hospital, even paying for parking has become a strain.

Linda’s church has pledged to pay for her gas to help her in getting to and from the hospital and eventually when John’s in rehabilitation. Neighbors have helped with household chores and she's getting some assistance for meals.

When the community began to hear about the accident, they were asking what they could do for this couple who has brought so much joy to the community. Friends feel their immediate need is financial.

 

My family has enjoyed, for free, their displays for the past eight years. We never stop in their driveway as so many do; my kids like to drive back and forth past it so we travel the long way home many times just to see it – yet again.

I am putting up this post using Katrina Pitt’s message above (in bold) in the hopes the community can come together a little here and help them out.

I am going to donate a little bit of my own cash to the effort; I hope that if you have the ability to do the same that you will help out.

It’s probably not the biggest tragedy of the year or even the season but as described it is a big impact to this family.

And I can’t think of a better example of an everyday family that personifies “Wallingford”

If you can – please help.

Donations are being collected via the Pitt family at Wallingford Computer; you can make your check out to Linda Mercier and drop it off or mail them c/o Wallingford Computer 428 N. Colony RD Wallingford CT 06492 (rather than mailing them directly to Linda Mercier and having them sit in her mailbox while she is not at home).

For those of you with questions please email me – Jason@Zandri.net and I can follow up with the Pitt family who is organizing the effort. Obviously if you know the Pitts or are customers of Wallingford Computer you can contact them directly.

Most of us are not wealthy and do not have a lot to give. Skipping a week’s worth of coffee or brown bagging a lunch could allow for a small donation.

A little, in abundance, is a lot.

Thank you for the consideration.

Local Veterans Day events

As published in the Record Journal Friday November 9, 2012

Meriden

Temple B’nai Abraham brunch honoring veterans of Israel and U.S. on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. Rabbi Michael Kohn will speak on issues affecting Jews in the military. To make a reservation, call the temple office at (203) 235-2581. Polish League of American Veterans church service at 8 a.m. followed by breakfast at the PLAV Hall, 193 E. Main St., at 9:30 a.m. honoring the veterans. Veterans Day ceremony at Veterans Memorial Boulevard, 485 Broad St., Monday, Nov. 12 at 10:30 a.m.

Wallingford

Veterans Day ceremonies on the parade grounds in front of Town Hall, 45 S. Main St., on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. Veterans Day all-you-can-eat breakfast at Wallingford Elks Lodge 1365, 148 S. Main St., on Sunday, Nov. 11, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Veterans eat free with military identification. Antique Veterans World Post #1 flag presentation at the beginning of services at Heritage Baptist Church on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m.

Southington

Veterans Day ceremonies at American Legion Post 72, 66 Main St., at 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 11. The public is invited. Brunches for local veterans at the Plantsville School and Flanders School cafeterias on Monday, Nov. 12, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Cheshire

Veterans Day public ceremony at the First Congregational Church, 111 Church Drive, on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 3 p.m.

MALLOY RELEASES FACT SHEET ON HOW TO APPLY FOR STORM SANDY DISASTER ASSISTANCE

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today released a useful fact sheet for Connecticut residents seeking information on how to apply for federal disaster assistance resulting from Storm Sandy.  The fact sheet provides step-by-step details on how the FEMA application process works and can be downloaded at www.ct.gov/sandy.

“Right now, one of our top priorities following Storm Sandy is to help individuals and business owners get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible,” Governor Malloy said.  “This fact sheet is a one stop resource for residents – one that will be regularly updated with the latest information.”

The fact sheet will continue to be updated in the coming days as developments are made and additional assistance may become available.

When registering for the assistance, the Governor and FEMA are encouraging residents to utilize the online registration method at www.DisasterAssistance.gov in order to expedite the registration process and avoid potential telephone hold times.

**Download: Fact Sheet on Applying for Storm Sandy Disaster Assistance in Connecticut

WALLINGFORD VOTING LOCATIONS FOR TUESDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2012

As published in the Record Journal Sunday November 4, 2012

Assembly District 85:
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road. District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.

Assembly District 86:
District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.

Assembly District 90:
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Rte. 68). District 8: Senior Center, 238 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.

Assembly District 103:
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.

Voter information: (203) 294-2125

The Benefits of Broadband Internet Access

Jose Juan Gutierrez recently published an article over on Hubpages (called a "hub” on the site) that outlined in everyday terms some of the many benefits of broadband, sometimes referred to as high speed internet, access.

His topics included ease of use, impact of the internet and the high speed connection with respect to education as well as the benefits to small and large businesses alike.

Without a doubt “The Benefits of Broadband Internet Access” hub is a recommended read for people trying to get a high level understanding of the high impact, ease of use, and the positive change the service had brought to it’s users over the past ten years.

HURRICANE SANDY Cleanup–Announcement from the Town of Wallingford

The Town of Wallingford will NOT have a curbside storm debris pickup; residents may bring the tree debris to the Compost area.

 

All debris must comply with the Compost area requirements.

 

Given the storm restoration efforts and the approaching leaf pickup, the Town does not have the resources to pick up tree debris.

As posted via http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/News/newsView.asp?newsID=40968210

HURRICANE SANDY - FEMA Individual Assistance

Registration for FEMA Individual Assistance Programs

can now be done by telephone at

1-800-621-3362

 

For people with speech or hearing disabilities, at

TTY 800-462-7585

 

Registration can also be done on-line at

www.disasterassistance.gov

 

Locations and dates for Disaster Recovery Centers will be announced in the future.

Here's How to Report Price Gouging

Connecticut's price-gouging laws have taken effect because the governor declared a state of emergency.

The following restrictions apply:

• No one shall increase the price of any retail item in a location which is subject to a disaster emergency declaration issued by the Governor. This section shall not prohibit the usual fluctuation in price that occurs during the normal course of business. (Section 42-230)
• If consumers believe a business is charging an unreasonable price, or has raised its price to take advantage of the emergency, they can contact the Department of Consumer Protection at 1-800-842-2649.

Special thanks to State Senator Len Suzio for proactively sending this out.

Keeping posted, post-Sandy, in Wallingford

I am going to do a recap of what I have for news from all the sources as I have them.

Some of this data is from prior posts of mine and a bulk load of the information is from the Record Journal which has adapted quite well in driving real-time, local information for Wallingford.

So here we go:

https://twitter.com/SalMenzo
Dr. Sal Menzo‏@SalMenzo

All Wallingford Public Schools are open 10/31 except for Sheehan High School. Sheehan High School will be closed 10/31 and 11/1. #wpschools

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Portion of roof blown off Sheehan High School in storm

By Laurie Rich Salerno
Record-Journal staff
lsalerno@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2235
Twitter:@LaurieSalernoRJ

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HURRICANE SANDY - Electric Division - System Restoration
http://jasonzandri.blogspot.com/2012/10/hurricane-sandy-electric-division.html

http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/News/newsView.asp?newsID=40968208

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Wallingford Electric Division working on power outages; 3,200 customers or 13 percent

http://www.myrecordjournal.com/wallingford/article_d129ebd6-2296-11e2-9496-0019bb2963f4.html 

By Laurie Rich Salerno
Record-Journal staff
lsalerno@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2235
Twitter:@LaurieSalernoRJ

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WALLINGFORD and CONNECTICUT; Outages by the numbers (as I have them at about 3:00PM 10/30/2012)

http://jasonzandri.blogspot.com/2012/10/wallingford-and-connecticut-outages-by.html 

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Keeping up to date:

I do the best I can keeping my blog up to date at Jason Zandri Wallingford Town Councilor but this is just me and a singular effort that happens as I get the information and as I have the time to post it.

I would recommend MyRecordJournal.com as they have the professional staff doing the digging.

From the social media side of things there are two Facebook groups I would recommend staying plugged into:

Concerned Parents Wallingford CT Board of Educ. Budget for the school related stuff (goes beyond the budget these days but that is how it was originally formed).

Wallingford CT Community Forum for town-wide general stuff.

WALLINGFORD and CONNECTICUT; Outages by the numbers (as I have them at about 3:00PM 10/30/2012)

Total CL&P Customers Served: 1,240,246

Total CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 451,107

% of CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 36%

--------------------------------------------------------

Total UI Customers Served: 320,150

Total UI Customers Reported Affected: 142,761

% of UI Customers Reported Affected: 44.59%

--------------------------------------------------------

Per the Record Journal article that I have cross posted at Wallingford Electric Division working on power outages; 3,200 customers or 13 percent

At the height of outages Monday night, 3,200 customers or 13 percent of the town was without power, but as of 6 a.m. today that number had lowered to 1,270 -- about 5 percent, according to Public Utilities Director George Adair.

Adair said he anticipates that by this afternoon the outage rate will be down to 400 customers and that by midnight Wednesday nearly all customers will be restored.

All Wallingford Public Schools are open 10/31 except for Sheehan High

Dr. Sal Menzo‏@SalMenzo

All Wallingford Public Schools are open 10/31 except for Sheehan High School.

Sheehan High School will be closed 10/31 and 11/1.

Damage to the roof at Sheehan High School

Trying to get more information – the Record Journal is all over it

HURRICANE SANDY - Electric Division - System Restoration

As originally posted via the Town of Wallingford website

Wallingford Electric Division (WED)

Press Release 8:00 AM October 30, 2012

Hurricane Sandy - Wallingford Electric Division (WED) System Restoration

The WED’s line restoration forces, along with crews from the WED’s overhead line contractor and tree contractor, continue work to restore power to our customers. Our efforts today are focused on repairing damage to the WED’s distribution lines in order to provide power to the greatest number of customers as quickly as possible. Once the WED system backbone is fully functional our forces will address the reconnection of individual customer services. Safety remains our primary concern and we will continue to address any hazardous conditions.

We estimate that at the peak of the storm damage last night approximately 3,200, or 13% of the WED’s customers were without power. As of this morning approximately 1,270, or 5% of our customers are without service. We expect that by 5:00 this afternoon we will have reduced the number of customers without service to approximately 400. Weather permitting we are estimating that power will be restored to all customers by midnight tomorrow, October 31. Due to the variety of problems that may affect individual customers’ service wires we are unable to provide a precise time at this point for restoration of service to a given customer.

At this point in the restoration process it is important that all customers who are without power determine whether there is damage to the service connection to their home or business. If any customer-owned facilities are damaged these facilities must be repaired by a licensed electrician before the WED can safely restore power. WED crews can only work on WED equipment. Customers who have questions regarding which components of their electrical service are their responsibility should contact the WED Customer Service Group at (203) 265-5055 or (203) 294-2020. Also, please see the STORM OUTAGES page on the Town’s website at www.wallingfordelectric.com for details regarding overhead facilities responsibilities and for other storm restoration information.

As our crews work to repair services to customers’ homes and businesses they will be addressing a number of cases where service lines are down, but the customers still have power. Our personnel will evaluate the condition of these services and in cases where the customers’ facilities are intact they will re-attach the service wires and customers will not experience an interruption. However, in cases where the customers’ facilities are damaged our crews will disconnect service and will re-connect service only after the customers’ facilities are repaired.

We also ask our customers who have emergency generators to use these devices properly in order to keep our linemen safe as they work to restore power. Please do not connect your home generator directly to your home or business’s wiring. The generator should be connected through an approved cut-off switch that will automatically disconnect the home or business from the power grid when the generator is being used. This work must be done by a licensed electrician.

We thank our customers for their understanding as we work to restore power to our community.

Wallingford Electric Division working on power outages; 3,200 customers or 13 percent

As published online at MyRecordJournal.com

By Laurie Rich Salerno
Record-Journal staff
lsalerno@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2235
Twitter:@LaurieSalernoRJ

WALLINGFORD - At the height of outages Monday night, 3,200 customers or 13 percent of the town was without power, but as of 6 a.m. today that number had lowered to 1,270 -- about 5 percent, according to Public Utilities Director George Adair.

"We feel very fortunate," Adair said of the storm's damage relative to that of the state's shoreline. "We have adequate forces to address what's here."

Adair said he anticipates that by this afternoon the outage rate will be down to 400 customers and that by midnight Wednesday nearly all customers will be restored.

Beyond that, there may be some individual property owners with damaged equipment that cannot be reconnected in that time frame, and may take longer.

The peak outage rate was less than that of each of last year's major storms, with 5,000 outages reported during Hurricane Irene, and 4,000 in the October nor'easter.

On Monday night, Adair said outages were not confined to one area, but were spread throughout town.

"The wind was sporadic and varied tremendously by location. It was just here and there," Adair said.

Chimney Hill Road sustained some of the greatest damage, Adair said, with several large trees down. Line and tree crews will be working today on that section of town.

Monday night Town Hall and the Fire Department in the town center lost power, but were brought up that night.

Adair said his crews -- 6 of the town's regular line crews, three out-of-town line crews, and 6 tree crews from a contractor -- focused more on safety Monday night than restoration, dealing with downed wires. Staff also worked to isolate damages that took down large swaths of customers to bring others back on.

Two crews stayed on overnight, and three more pre-ordered out-of-town crews are expected to arrive Tuesday. The division will not be asking for any mutual aid crews, Adair said.

For customers who haven't yet reported an outage, they should call 203-294-2020 during business hours and 203-265-5055 after hours. Those who can access the internet can look at wallingfordelectric.com for more information on their service.

Outages by the numbers (as I have them at 11:15AM 10/30/2012)

Total CL&P Customers Served: 1,240,246

Total CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 476,380

% of CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 38%

Total UI Customers Served: 320,150

Total UI Customers Reported Affected: 151,407

% of UI Customers Reported Affected: 47.29%

---

The count that I have for Wallingford (second hand) was around 4,000 customers out of power at the height of the storm but because of the second hand nature there is no way to know the totals for sure until the Wallingford Electric Division reports out formally.

I have been reading online via Wallingford CT Community Forum that some folks have been coming online so we might be reducing the numbers.

As I can find out more I’ll follow up; I am not going to place calls myself to the Wallingford Electric Division and tie up a phone line with a question that doesn’t need a detailed answer right now

Outages by the numbers (as I have them at 12:15AM 10/30/2012)

This will be my last update before I head off to bed; the wind is still blowing and these number are very likely to go up some more.

---

Total CL&P Customers Served: 1,240,246

Total CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 494,013

% of CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 39%

Total UI Customers Served: 320,150

Total UI Customers Reported Affected: 143,251

% of UI Customers Reported Affected: 44.74%

---

The counts I have for Wallingford (second hand) were between 2,500 and 3,500 customers out of power but because of the second hand nature there is no way to know the totals for sure until the Wallingford Electric Division reports out formally.

Their main job right now is to keep their crews safe and working as they are able, in an effort to restore the power and that’s what I am sure they’ll be doing overnight and into the morning.

Outages by the numbers (as I have them at 9:45PM 10/29/2012)

Total CL&P Customers Served: 1,240,246

Total CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 475,839

% of CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 38%

---

Total UI Customers Served: 320,150

Total UI Customers Reported Affected: 119,310

% of UI Customers Reported Affected: 37.27%

 

Not sure what the Wallingford numbers look like as they do not have an online report system but in order for them to be at the same percentage (about 37%) there would need to be about 9,000 customers out of the 24,000 serviced down. I doubt it was that many but we'll see

Wallingford Electric is living up to its reputation of being the best utility provider on Planet Earth

Total CL&P Customers Served: 1,240,246
Total CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 185,730
% of CL&P Customers Reported Affected: 14%
----
Total UI Customers Served: 320,150
Total UI Customers Reported Affected: 10,218
% of UI Customers Reported Affected: 3.19%
---
Total Wallingford Electric Customers Served: about 24,000
Total Wallingford Electric Customers Reported Affected: around 50
% of Wallingford Electric Customers Reported Affected: <1%

(As of 5:30PM 10/29/2012)

Storm Safety Information as shared to me by Elizabeth Esty

Dear Jason,

I hope that you, your family, friends, and loved ones are staying safe, staying home, and keeping prepared during the storm. I want to pass along information Congressman Murphy recently sent out related to storm preparedness and response. You have likely already received this information, but in emergency situations like we’re experiencing, I believe it doesn’t hurt to be extra certain.

If you haven’t already, I want to encourage you to please sign up for Connecticut’s emergency notification system by going to http://ct.gov/ctalert/site/default.asp.

Governor Malloy has also set up a website to provide the latest announcements and preparedness information on Hurricane Sandy at http://ct.gov/sandy.

Also, here’s a state government website with how to information on creating an emergency supply kit - http://www.governor.ct.gov/malloy/cwp/view.asp?Q=512922&A=4010.

If you need help finding an emergency shelter, please call 2-1-1.

And go to http://www.ct.gov/demhs/cwp/view.asp?a=1933&q=463414&demhsNav_GID=1996, for more information including insurance questions, disaster planning, and debris maintenance.

Sandy Now Largest Atlantic Storm Ever on Northeast Path

Winds picked up a little (above)

Video stream from Fairfield as of 10:43AM 10/29/2012

Sandy Now Largest Atlantic Storm Ever on Northeast Path

Connecticut Light and Power Outage Map

http://www.cl-p.com/outage/outagemap.aspx

This obviously does not indicate our power situation but it will give you an indication on what is going on around us.

Information is updated every 15 minutes.

Wallingford Public Schools are closed Monday, October 29 and Tuesday, October 30

Wallingford Public Schools are closed Monday, October 29 and Tuesday, October 30 due to the impending storm. #wpschools

https://www.facebook.com/wallingfordschools

WALLINGFORD: STORM and NATURAL DISASTER INFORMATION

As posted on the Town of Wallingford Website:

Wallingford Police Department Storm and Natural Disaster Information

“In our constant concern for the safety and welfare of the community, the Wallingford Police request that you take note of the hurricane preparation information provided in this document.”

Emergency Calls 9-1-1
Reporting of Routine Power Outages: (203) 265-5055
Routine Police and Fire Department Services: (203) 294-2800

Know the Difference

Hurricane Watch
Hurricane conditions are a threat within 36 hours. Review your hurricane plans, keep informed and be ready to act if a warning is issued.

Hurricane Warning
Hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours. Complete your storm preparations and leave the area if directed to do so by authorities.

Preparation Tips

• In advance of the storm, if you have catch basins located near your home make sure they are clear of leaves/sand/debris.

• If you are on well water, store at least one gallon of water per person for 3 days.

Preparation Recommendations

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service.
• Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).
• Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Fill your car’s gas tank
• Create an evacuation plan
• Plan routes to local shelters
• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days  -- non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices, foods for infants or the elderly, snack foods, non-electric can opener, cooking tools / fuel, paper plates / plastic utensils
• First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
• Flashlight / Batteries
• Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery
• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards- Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
• Keys
• Documents – put in a waterproof container or watertight re-sealable plastic bag and keep in a safe place (insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc).
  • Social security cards
  • Proof of residence (deed or lease)
  • Insurance policies
  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Stocks, bonds, and other negotiable certificates
  • Wills, deeds, copies of recent tax returns
• Pet care items for home and evacuation to a shelter. Proper identification / immunization records / medications ample supply of food and water a carrier or cage, muzzle and leash

Shelter Information

The shelter, if and when declared open, will be The Emergency Management Shelter, 37 Hall Road (off Cook Hill Road), Wallingford, CT 06492.

WHAT TO BRING TO A SHELTER

• Photo identification (Driver's License)
• Baby food/formula, diapers, wipes, teething gel, ointment
• Change of clothing
• Blankets
• Food & snacks, non-perishable, 3 day supply
• Sleeping bags
• Cell phone
• Pillows
• Flashlight & extra batteries
• Hygiene or sanitary products
• Battery powered radio & extra batteries
• Medications, prescription & over-the-counter
• Eyeglasses
• Entertainment (toys, books, games, etc.)
• Dentures
• Cash, checkbook, credit cards

Other Information

Flood Prone Areas
This storm is forecasted to produce a large amount of rainfall. This may cause extensive flooding of streams and rivers that will quickly overrun their banks. This causes an extremely dangerous situation for residents as well as public safety workers. Plans should be made to voluntarily evacuate these flood prone areas.

Vehicles Crossing Moving Water
Most cars will float (and be swept away) in 18-24 inches of moving water. Trucks and SUVs are not much better with only 6-12 more inches of clearance. Creeks and rivers can rise very rapidly and the road bottoms can also wash away making the water much deeper than it appears.

Traffic Control
Power outages mean traffic lights will be out!
Police officers will not be able respond to every intersection. Motorist must stop at all intersections that have inoperable traffic lights to make sure that it is safe to proceed.

Down Utilities Wires
Any down utility wires should be considered live. Live utility wires will cause catastrophic injury. Stay clear and notify Wallingford Public Utilities at (203) 265-5055.

Other Important Links

www.ready.gov
www.ct.gov
www.redcross.org
www.nhc.noaa.gov

WALLINGFORD: STORM OUTAGES - How to Prepare and Manage

From the Town of Wallingford Website

Extended Outage Information

• Down or Sagging Wires Safety
• Medical Exemption Status
• Generator Safety
• Tips for Staying in Your Home During Extended Power Outages
• Tree Trimming and Debris Removal
• Overhead Facilities Responsibilities

Wallingford CT Community Forum

If you live in Wallingford CT, Wayne Harriman has started a community group to help keep you up to speed on Hurricane Sandy, and where you can post info, tips, links, or anything else that may be of help to Wallingford residents over the next few days.

Feel free to join the group, we have 59 members already and would love to see more come and join us and interact in the group. When the storm is over, we'll maintain the group as a place where Wallingford residents can come and talk about local events and news of importance to them. Here's the link:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/335396073224324/

Following up regarding Scrapping light poles

There was a story in the Wednesday October 24th edition of the Record Journal titled Scrapping light poles: Is it such a bright idea? which I have cross posted to my Wallingford Politico blog.

I started the follow up yesterday with my “MY TAKE - Scrapping light poles: Is it such a bright idea?” post and it seems there’s more to discuss.

I followed up this morning again with Purchasing Agent Sal Amadeo by phone to formally let him know that Public Utilities Director George Adair indicated to me that he is scrapping all the fixtures working or not. As he indicated to me and to the Record Journal:

“We (the Wallingford Electric Division) don’t consider them suitable. We (the Wallingford Electric Division) do not want to perpetuate the use of them. We (the Wallingford Electric Division) consider them truly to be scrap.”

I then asked Purchasing Agent Sal Amadeo should that assessment, that the ornamental fixtures being taken down were of no value, been made by the Public Utilities Director or by the town’s Purchasing Agent.

He indicated that normally as part of his duties as the Purchasing Agent that he would otherwise handle “surplus property disposition” whether the decision be to recycle the materials or to try to sell them. He also indicated that to find out any further, specific details around the present situation that I should follow up with Mayor Dickinson.

I placed a call to Mayor Dickinson and he pretty much concurred with Public Utilities Director George Adair that the ornamental fixtures being taken down were of no value.

I countered asking, “perhaps no value to us as we did not have any desire to use them anywhere in town (and whether we could or not is in dispute; they do function but they are difficult to maintain) but beyond that, how could we automatically assume that no one anywhere couldn’t?

While I didn’t use this example in my conversation with the Mayor, I have sold many of my old computers after I was finished with them. They were no longer of any use to me as I had reached a point of doing more with them than those systems could handle. Having said that, for someone that wanted to use them for just email and some word processing, those “no value to me” as a high, power user, systems had value to those users and I often could resell an $800.00 system for $150.00 to $200.00.

So I am still following up.

To me, I do not understand how Wallingford reached a decision that these ornamental fixtures being taken down were of no value because the person that normally handles this work, the town Purchasing Agent, did not perform their responsibility as it was not requested of him.

I do not know how the Public Utilities Director reached his decision and based on what practice and whether or nor decisions like this were done in the past.

At this point I need more information to understand why this occurred the way it did and I will need to continue to ask and follow up.

I expect more to come. Stay tuned.

MY TAKE - Scrapping light poles: Is it such a bright idea?

There was a story in the Wednesday October 24th edition of the Record Journal titled Scrapping light poles: Is it such a bright idea? which I have cross posted to my Wallingford Politico blog.

I have followed up on this because I feel there may be some miscommunication or a misunderstanding regarding these fixtures; perhaps mine, perhaps others’ understanding, but some clarification is needed.

So to begin with let’s look at the fixtures. I do not disagree with Public Utilities Director George Adair’s assessment of the fixtures – they are very old, they are of non-standard design and as such (regarding both age and design), more difficult to continue to use and maintain. Replacing them is the right thing to do as a part of the natural progression and upkeep program.

What I would say however is they might be of use elsewhere in Wallingford. I understand Public Utilities Director George Adair’s position that “We (the Wallingford Electric Division) don’t consider them suitable. We (the Wallingford Electric Division) do not want to perpetuate the use of them. We (the Wallingford Electric Division) consider them truly to be scrap.”

These lights, I believe, belong to the Town of Wallingford, as they were purchased with funds we provided to the Wallingford Electric Division as part of their budget and in the end, the Town of Wallingford owns the Wallingford Electric Division.

If a light being taken down is truly broken and otherwise unusable I understand the desire to recycle / scrap it.

Having said that, if the fixture is working, the Town of Wallingford may wish to deploy it elsewhere and save $3,000.00 for brand new units in an area that could leverage them. As Town Councilor Fishbein keenly pointed out – we are presently creating a “temporary” parking area at the Wooding Caplan site; isn’t it logical to re-use some of those fixtures there even if just temporarily rather than spending for brand new lighting fixtures? If we need ten of them there that saves $30,000.00.

Also, I believe the purview of getting rid of WORKING fixtures falls to the Purchasing Agent Sal Amadeo. One of that department’s responsibilities as outlined at http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/Content/Purchasing.asp is to be responsible for “surplus property disposition”

I called Purchasing Agent Sal Amadeo today to let him know that I spoke with Public Utilities Director George Adair and that Mr. Adair indicated to me that he is scrapping all the fixtures working or not. I believe that Mr. Adair is executing his responsibly the way he feels he should be (without malice) but I feel that these light fixtures have more than scrap metal value to the Town of Wallingford and as the owners of the fixtures I believe the Town of Wallingford should either re-use them suitably or try to sell them to another entity that might want them.

Ten cents on the dollar selling them to an entity that wants them is better than pennies on the dollar as scrap metal.

I’ll let you know what I find out regarding my calls into Town Hall in the AM. I have to follow up with new calls as I missed getting in touch with people at the end of the day while my cell service was down in the tunnels under New York City on the train ride home at 4:50PM.

As we all know, it’s not like I can follow up by email and get an answer early in the AM; that would be way too efficient.