Jason Zandri Wallingford Town Councilor

Information regarding the Incentive Housing Zone

2012-02-23T08:45:00.000-05:00

From the Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of January 30, 2012

I will be reviewing these minutes from the meeting as well as planning to speak with some of the business owners downtown regarding the Incentive Housing Zone for their input.

At the same time, I welcome anyone that wants to offer their input to me directly – I can be best reached via email – Jason@Zandri.net

14. Incentive Housing Zone (Att. 14A & 14B)
Ms. Bush reviewed the discussion topics (Att. 14B) item by item.

1. Height of Buildings – Ms. Bush stated that the proposed IHZ would allow 4-story buildings to be financially advantageous for developers to build. She stated that if the buildings were limited to 3-stories the plan would still work.

2. Parking Garage – Ms. Bush stated that a parking garage is a better use of the land rather than parking lots. The guidelines within the IHZ would not allow for a New Haven style concrete block parking garage.

3. Commuter Rail Parking – Ms. Bush stated that DOT is looking at the site next to Judd Square and also at the North Cherry Street lot along with a location across the street from that. At the North Cherry Street location there would be a split platform.

4. Required Parking – Ms. Bush provided and reviewed a chart showing proposed IHZ parking, present zoning parking standards and a parking credit schedule chart.

5. Protection of Historic Buildings – Ms. Bush believes that there is only one building in the IHZ that would be considered historical. If that is a concern she suggested that one building footprint be taken out of the IHZ.

6. Width of Sidewalks – Ms. Bush doesn’t believe there is an issue with the existing sidewalk widths. If there is no sidewalk in front of a proposed IHZ the regulations require that the developer put them in as long as it does not make the project financially infeasible.

7. Special Permit vs. Site Plan – Ms. Bush doesn’t know what standards would be used in a Special Permit approval as opposed to Site Plan. She explained that if this approval is made a Special Permit the Town is out of the IHZ program. Connecticut State Law requires site plan only. If it is not part of the IHZ there cannot be design standards. CT State Law does not permit architectural standards under site plan review. If this is not done as part of the IHZ the town loses control over what the buildings look like.

8. State Control over Local Zoning – Ms. Bush pointed out that if the State gives the Town money for a project the Town has to build it to State standards. When the Federal Government gives the Town money for the Linear Trail it has to be done the way the Federal Government wants it done. For this project all the state would care about would be keeping the minimum density under the IHZ and that 20% of the units be affordable. The State does not care what the Town architectural standards or parking standards are. Ms. Bush stated that there are strings attached whenever you are dealing with the State or Federal government.

9. Children in the IHZ – Ms. Bush provided and reviewed a chart she put together with information she got from the Wallingford Transportation Department showing “School Age Children in Selected Multi-family Developments”.

10. Required Infrastructure Improvements – Ms. Bush stated that the regulations say that the sidewalks and streetscapes have to be done as part of development.

11. Traffic – Ms. Bush provided a study showing existing traffic in the IHZ along with calculations on how much traffic would be added in the a.m. and peak hours. These increases would take place very gradually over a fifteen or twenty year period. Every time something is approved the traffic incrementally increases in this area.

12. Density - Ms. Bush provided a density study for the DA developments in town. In the IHZ there would be 20 – 25 units per acre.

13. Taxes – Ms. Bush provided and reviewed “Property Tax Examples”.

14. IHZ Examples using Existing Wallingford Buildings – Ms. Bush provided and reviewed some existing “Mixed Use Examples”.

Chairman Seichter discussed each item with the Commission.

Ms. Baxter and Mr. Matarazzo would be more comfortable with the buildings being 3-story rather than 4-story. All of the other members would find 4-story buildings acceptable.

Chairman Seichter agreed with Ms. Bush that the regulations provide design standards that would not allow a parking garage that the Town would not be happy with. Mr. Birney feels that having a parking garage built with design standards makes sense. No other Members commented.

The issue of Commuter Rail parking still has to be decided by the State.

Ms. Bush reviewed the parking credit system for the Commission.

Regarding the Hall Elton building, Mr. Birney feels that cutting that footprint out of the IHZ would make sense. Ms. Baxter agreed with Mr. Birney and also suggested that Ms. Bush check to be sure that there are no other buildings in the area that would be considered historical. Ms. Bush will look into it. Mr. Fitzsimmons doesn’t want to see the building torn down but he wouldn’t want the Town to limit itself and completely cut out that footprint in case a developer wants to come in an possibly link a few sites and do some improvements to that building.

The Commission had no comments on the sidewalk widths.

Mr. Fitzsimmons would be concerned that if this were to be done as a site plan there would be no requirement for public input. He feels that with a special permit the Commission has a little more flexibility. Ms. Bush stated that the Town would be loosing architectural control if it were to go with a special permit. She discussed the “Village District” concept with the Commission but she doesn’t feel that downtown Wallingford would be considered a “village’. Mr. Fitzsimmons stated that to have architectural control he would support a site plan over a special permit. Ms. Bush stated that if this were to be a special permit the architectural standards and infrastructure improvements could not be included. Chairman Seichter agreed with Mr. Fitzsimmons to support a site plan over a special permit. Mr. Birney feels that the Commission would have to have some real facts and talking points to present to the Town Council regarding this issue. Ms. Bush stated that a special permit is defined as a use that is permitted in a particular zone but may not be appropriate on every single parcel of land. Mr. Birney feels that if it were likened to a special permit process people would feel more comfortable with the discretion that the Commission would still have.

Ms. Bush stated that state law only requires a minimum density of 20. The plan is to have 26 to give developers incentive. If there is a concern with density the town can go down to 20. Mr. Birney is in favor of keeping the density at 26. The Commission agreed to keep the density at 26.

Ms. Bush explained that if the project goes under the IHZ the development is required to have 20% of the units as affordable to people making 80% or less of the median family income.

The Commission reviewed the proposed regulations.

Mr. Fitzsimmons discussed the section on professional consulting review fees. He would like to see this section cleaned up so it is very clear that any fees would be discussed and agreed upon in advance of the application. It should be made clear that if they do not pay it would be grounds for denial. Ms. Bush agreed to look at that section and try to modify the proposed regulations to make that issue clearer.

Ms. Bush agreed to make the suggested changes to the proposed regulations. She suggested that a public hearing could be scheduled for the end of February. The Commission scheduled a meeting for February 27th and will cancel there regular meeting on the 15th.

Mr. Birney made a motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Mr. Fitzsimmons and passed unanimously by a voice vote. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:13 p.m.

This week in Wallingford

2012-02-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Monday February 13, 2012

WALLINGFORD — The Town Council will meet Tuesday night with a light agenda, including discussion and possible action on rules and procedures for its 2012-14 term.

Tuesday : Town Council, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall, Auditorium, 45 S. Main St.

Wednesday : School Roof Building Committee, 6:30 p.m., Sheehan High School, Board of Education Conference Room, 142 Hope Hill Road.

Thursday : Board for Youth, noon, Parks and Recreation Building, Youth and Social Services, Exit 3 Conference Room, 6 Fairfield Blvd.;

Pension Commission, 3 p.m., Town Hall, Room 315, 45 S. Main St.

Friday : Committee on Aging, noon, Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washington St.

(There were no meetings scheduled for Monday the 13th)

AGENDA - REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING–WALLINGFORD

2012-02-13T08:45:00.000-05:00

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

February 14, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

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

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $24,461.27 (#452 - #506)Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $5,000 to Fuel Crisis Program Acct # 10040150-58220 from General Contingency Acct # 10019000-58820 - Mayor

3c. Consider and Approve a Transfer in the Amount of $700 to Gas & Diesel Acct # 10020100-53100 from Operating Expenses Acct # 10020100-58735 - Animal Control

3d. Consider and Approve a Transfer in the Amount of $1,200 to 2-22 Ton Air Jacks Acct # 10030000-57000 from Maintenance of Vehicles Acct # 10030000-54320 - Public Works

3e. Consider and Approve a Budget Amendment in the Amount of $37,500 to Outside Services Employed Acct # 43100923 and to Appropriation from Cash – Water Division

3f. Consider and Approve a Transfer in the Amount of $15,000 to Maintenance of Collection & Impounding Reservoirs Acct # 43100612 from Power Purchased for Pumping Acct # 43100612 – Water Division

3g. Set a Public Hearing for February 28, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. to Amend Chapter 43, Purchasing, the Code of the Town of Wallingford, §43-2.B., §43-11.S, §43-12.A and §43-12B

3h. Acceptance and Appropriation of $700,000 Small Cities Grant 2011 to Revenue-State Grant Acct # 2484002-45100 and to Expenditures: Construction $633,00 Acct # 24880050-54550, $2,000 Program Acct # 24880050-58830 and $65,000 Administration Acct # 24880050-58590 – Program Planning

3i. Consider and Approve Resolution authorizing the Town to enter into and deliver to the State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, including the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security any and all documents which it deems to be necessary or appropriate and authorize the Mayor to execute and deliver any and all documents on behalf of the Town of Wallingford and to do and perform all acts and things which he deems to be necessary or appropriate to carry out the terms of such documents - Mayor

3j. Consider and Approve the Appointment of Robert P. Blanchard to the Pension Commission to fill a vacancy which will expire December 31, 2012 - Mayor

3k. Consider and Approve the Appointment Gary Draghi to the Pension Commission to fill a vacancy which will expire December 31, 2017 - Mayor

3l. Consider and Approve the Appointment of Stacy Voss to the Planning and Zoning Commission as an Alternate for a Term Expiring January 8, 2015 – Chairman Robert F. Parisi

3m. Consider and Approve an extension of a 10-year License Agreement between the Town of Wallingford and Fred M. Valenti regarding encroachment of his building located at 800 South Colony Road on to Town property – Corporation Counsel

3n. Consider and Approve bid waiver request for Hurst Hydraulic Rescue Tool Fittings in the Amount of $4,455 – Fire Chief

3o. Approve Minutes of Town Council meeting of January 24, 2012

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

6. Consider and Approve an Appropriation in the Amount of $15,000 to Maintenance of Signals Acct # 10030050-54305 from General Contingency Acct # 10019000-58820 - Engineering

7. Discussion and Possibly Action on approving the Town Council’s Rules of Procedure for the 2012-2014 Term

8. 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

Councilors seek help with fireworks fundraising

2012-02-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

NOTE: The Wallingford Fireworks Fund will meet at Gaetano's Tavern on Main (40 N Main St Wallingford) on Wednesday February 8th at 7:30PM in the dinning area.

The meeting will be to recruit volunteers to work as part of the fundraising committee for the 2012 fundraising season which will kick off on March 1st.

For more information contact Jason Zandri at 860 614 6069 or via Jason@Zandri.net. You can also contact Craig Fishbein at his law offices - (203) 265-2895

As published in the Record Journal on Tuesday January 31, 2012

By Russell Blair
Record-Journal staff
rblair@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2225

WALLINGFORD — If Jason Zandri has learned one thing in his past two efforts to raise money for the town’s Fourth of July fireworks celebration, it’s that you can never start too early.

Zandri, a Democratic town councilor, has headed the effort to pay for the fireworks since the town dropped the festivities from its budget in 2010. He’s already started a blog to promote this year’s fundraising efforts, and will be holding a meeting soon, looking for people to join a fundraising board to oversee the operations.

“We’re looking this year to get a formal fundraising committee established,”Zandri said. For the past two years, Zandri, his father, Geno, and Republican Town Councilor Craig Fishbein have collected most of the donations. But Jason Zandri said it can’t continue with just the three of them.

“It can’t just be the Jason, Craig and Geno show,” he said. “We lucked out doing it twice like that.”

The first year the money was raised, Jason Zandri worked from his Wallingford home and his flexible schedule allowed him time for fundraising outside Stop & Shop and Dunkin’ Donuts. But last year, Zandri took a job in New York City and had to restrict his efforts to the weekends.

“For 16 weeks that’s all I did on the weekends,” Jason Zandri said.

With his new responsibilities as a councilor, putting in the same effort this year will be “impossible.”

“I’m just too involved,” Jason Zandri said. “I have to tend to my council duties, and the majority of the fundraising comes during budget season.”

Fishbein agreed, noting that he too became busy in 2011 and didn’t help out as much as he did the year before. “We need all the help we can get,” Fishbein said.

Jason Zandri said he hopes more of the people who come out to the show will help pay the costs associated with it. Many of the donations in the past two years have come from large businesses and not individuals.

Fishbein said he was disappointed that two fundraisers scheduled last year — a matinee movie and a concert at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn — drew small numbers of people.

“It was very discouraging,” Fishbein said.

Fundraising efforts at the show last year also didn’t garner as much money as was expected, Fishbein said.

Jason Zandri will once again ask the mayor if the town can pay a portion of the costs, such as the police and public works overtime, but he said he wasn’t optimistic the town would put money toward the project. The fund has about$1,000 left over from last year to put toward the 2012 show.

Last year the $24,150 for the show was raised with little time to spare. Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr. said the check was delivered to the town at 2:30 p.m. on May 27, 2011, only hours before his 5 p.m. deadline.

A $2,500 donation from New Life Church helped the charity reach its goal in 2011. Similarly, a $5,000 gift from Choate Rosemary Hall in 2010 pushed the fund past its $30,000 goal.

For more information on fireworks fundraising, visit http://wallingfordfireworks.blogspot.com.

Wallingford Requests for Tax Hearing

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Anyone who wishes to discuss their property taxes (not Autos) may have a hearing in March by the Board of Assessment Appeals.

To have a hearing, you must go to the Assessors Office in the Town Hall (203-294-2001) and fill out a "request" form no later that February 17th.

Motor Vehicles will be September 8th at the Town Hall starting at 9:00 am.

The Week Ahead in Wallingford

2012-02-06T08:15:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Monday February 6, 2012

WALLINGFORD — The Public Utilities Commission will meet Tuesday to discuss modifications to the electric rate discount for Center Street merchants.

Today : Economic Development Commission, 6:30 p.m., Room 315, Town Hall, 45 S. Main St.

Tuesday : Public Utilities Commission, 6:30 p.m., Electric Division, 100 John St.;

Personnel and Pension Appeals Board, 6:30 p.m., Room 315, Town Hall, 45 S. Main St.

Wednesday : Parks and Recreation Commission, 8 a.m., David J.
Doherty Municipal Building, 6 Fairfield Blvd.;

Wallingford Housing Authority, 5:30 p.m., Community Room, South Side Terrace

Thursday : Conservation Commission, 7 p.m., Basement Conference Room, Town Hall, 45 S. Main St.

Friday : No meetings scheduled.

Wallingford Town Council - Swearing in Ceremony

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Electronics recycling for local residents

2012-01-30T08:45:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Thursday January 26, 2012

WALLINGFORD — Town residents can drop off unwanted electronics at the town’s recycling center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of each month at 157 John St.

Accepted items include computers, monitors, printers, TVs, laptops, keyboards, mice, fax machines, stereos, modems, telephones, as well as VCR, DVD and CD players.

There is no charge, but each household is limited to seven items per visit.

For information, call the Program Planning office at (203) 294-2060.

Special movie showing to benefit Tara Monroe

2012-01-27T07:40:00.000-05:00

Saturday January 28 10:00am until 1:00pm

Holiday Cinemas 14 - Wallingford

970 North Colony Road, Wallingford, CT 06492

A special showing of "Batman: The Dark Night" will be held on Saturday January 28, 2012 at Holiday Cinemas 14 located at 970 North Colony Road in Wallingford, CT at 10:00am to benefit Tara Monroe.

Tara was recently in a car accident and due to the high costs of medical bills we will be donating ALL proceeds directly to Tara Monroe and her family.

You may purchase tickets now until the day of the showing either at the theater or through Tricia Estep (203) 901-3581 or Lisa Beichner (203) 687-6681

* Due to the fact that this is a fundraiser ticket purchases may only be made by CASH OR CHECK ONLY! (See below for check info)*

If you wish, we are asking that you write a message to Tara and/or your name on the back of your ticket before handing them in at the theater.

**If you are unable to attend the movie and would still like to make a donation, you may send a check made out to " Tara Ashley Monroe Supplemental Needs Fund" to 57 Tremper Drive Wallingford, CT 06492. You may also give any donation to Lisa or Tricia at anytime. There will be a donation jar set up at Holiday Cinemas for the duration of the movie as well.**

Thank you all for your support and we hope to see you all on January 28th

Relay for Life plans fundraiser Saturday January 28

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Tuesday January 24, 2012

WALLINGFORD — Elks Lodge 1365 will sponsor its annual Relay for Life fundraiser beginning at 6:30 p.m. Saturday January 28 at the lodge, 148 S. Main St.

The menu will consist of chicken parmigiana and a dessert.

Entertainment will be provided by the band Freeplay.

Tickets may be purchased at the lodge. For information, call the lodge at (203) 269-7162.

Wallingford VFW Post 9965 plans Friday dinner

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal Tuesday January 24, 2012

WALLINGFORD — Stanley Budleski VFW Post 9965 men’s auxiliary will sponsor a dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday January 27 at the post home, 424 Church St., Yalesville.

The menu will consist of lasagna, escarole soup and salad.

Admission will be charged. For information or to purchase tickets, call the post home at (203) 269-7110.

Sheehan High School cheerleader fundraiser

2012-01-24T07:59:00.005-05:00

As published in the Record Journal Tuesday January 24, 2012

WALLINGFORD — The Sheehan High School cheerleaders will sponsor a fundraiser from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday January 25 at Burger King, 888 N. Colony Road.

Burger King will donate 20 percent of the evening’s sales to the team.

Also, the team will accept donations from 6 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Dunkin’ Donuts on Main Street in Yalesville.

For information, call Lisa Eroh at (203) 269-6161.

FROM WALLINGFORD – Education is a bargain

2012-01-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

This was originally written by me back in 2009 and published in the Record Journal. I felt it timely to re-publish it with the upcoming budget hearings.

I am also considering writing a letter to the editor to update the numbers a bit.

As that comes out I’ll make sure to post it.

As published online via MyRecordJournal.com Friday August 28, 2009 for Sunday print publication in the Record Journal

I was engaged with someone in conversation recently about the cost of education in Wallingford as a reflection of the taxes we pay. Their chief comments were generically that about 60 percent of our entire budget went to pay for public schooling, and he felt that now that his kids were out of school he should pay a smaller portion of taxes.

I asked how long he owned his home in Wallingford, and he said, "about 30 years now."

When I asked how many kids he put through the school system, he said, "three."

His thoughts piqued my curiosity, so I looked into the details.

Here are the facts:

The FY10 budget for the Town of Wallingford is $140,379,869 and $85,057,113 (basically 60 percent) is for the Board of Education’s portion of the budget.

The expected student enrollment for FY10 is 6,573 for Wallingford public schools.

If you simply divide the budget by the students this comes to just about $12,940.38.

If you were from out of town and wanted to pay to send your child to Wallingford Schools you could apply to do so and pay the per pupil expenditure/applied tuition rate of $9,455 for elementary school enrollment, $9,743.00 for middle school, or $10,604 for high school.

According to the City Data website, the estimated median home value in 2007 in Wallingford was $303,694.

Houses equaled 17,306 (16,697 occupied: 12,132 owner-occupied, 4,565 renter-occupied).

For the sake of the remaining discussion, let’s use the smallest rate I can: the applied tuition rate of $9,455 for elementary school enrollment and the estimated median value for a Wallingford home.

Taxes are assessed at 70 percent of the fair market value of the property at the time of valuation which we do every five years.

The current mill rate is set at 23.2.

70 percent of the estimated median cost of a home in Wallingford would be $212,585.80, and when you apply 23.2 mills you get a tax bill of $4,932 almost on the dot. (I am forgoing car taxes in this discussion.)

If we assume that the cost of taxes on homes would rise equally with the rise in the cost of education then we can just use constant dollars.

We can assume 2 children per household for households with children (and my friends would be quick to point out that my family is skewing that number).

Skipping kindergarten and assuming not repeating a grade, a child is in the public school system for 12 years.

12 years times 2 kids times the applied tuition rate of $9,455 for elementary school enrollment (only) equals $226,920 in total education costs.

Divide $226,920 in total education costs by the annual tax bill of $4,932 means that in basically 46 years the cost of educating two children from the same household is covered in taxes collected.

Only that cost – no consideration for any other town services consumed in those 46 years – just educating those two kids.

I realize there are many variables, but for every pro there’s a con.

Businesses are taxed, but they don’t send kids to school; they may consume a larger portion of other town services.

Not everyone has children; those households pay into a pot they don’t use – many people are renters and the tax offset of the landlord does not equal.

I could go on and offset continually – the main point of the column was to bring the costs to the surface of what we actually get as a community for the taxes paid.

(By the way, 17,306 households times the median tax bill of $4,932 equals $85,353,192.)

Remember, the BOE budget this year was $85,057,113.

It is a community’s responsibility to educate its students – in the classroom and beyond.

You can’t put a price on an education. No matter how one gets it, by my math we are paying a bargain rate in taxes for the privilege.

The Mayor's follow up with the engineering department regarding Wooding-Caplan

2012-01-18T12:32:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone - quick update regarding the Mayor's follow up with the engineering department regarding the Wooding-Caplan property.

As the Mayor promised, he did get in touch with the Engineering Department regarding getting some initial estimates and rough drawings with respect to possible short term work / improvements as originally requested by Councilor Fishbein.

The letter we received today as follow up from that request indicated that there should be something to review by March 20th.

I'll be sure to follow up with anything that is public information on this as I receive it.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr celebration scheduled Monday

2012-01-12T08:45:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Thursday January 12, 2012

WALLINGFORD — A celebration in memory of the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will take place at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16, at the Town Hall, 45 S. Main St.

The program will be presented by the mayor’s office, Public Celebrations Committee and the Board of Education, superintendent’s office.

School Superintendent Salvatore Menzo will offer opening remarks. Students from the Sheehan High School jazz ensemble will perform and students from Lyman Hall High School will read from King’s works.

Wallingford Briefs - As published in the Record Journal

2012-01-11T11:37:00.002-05:00

Editor’s note: If you have an announcement you would like the Record-Journal to publish, you can e-mail it to: newsroom@record-journal.com. Or fax it to (203) 639-0210, or mail it to us at: In Brief, Record-Journal, 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450.

Electronics recycling for local residents

WALLINGFORD — Town residents can drop off unwanted electronics at the town’s recycling center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of each month at 157 John St.

Accepted items include computers, monitors, printers, TVs, laptops, keyboards, mice, fax machines, stereos, modems, telephones, as well as VCR, DVD and CD players.

There is no charge, but each household is limited to seven items per visit. Saturday is the next day to drop off electronics.

For information, call the Program Planning office at (203) 294-2060.

Yalesville LL registration set

WALLINGFORD — Yalesville Little League will accept registration for the 2012 Little League season in the Parker Farms School cafeteria according to the following schedule: 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 18 and 25, and 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 21 and 28.

Registration is open to any child who will be 5 by April 30 and not older than 16 by the same date. Children under 12 are must live west of the Wilbur Cross Parkway, Route 15. All other ages including Challenger players may live anywhere in Wallingford.

For information, call Ray Gomes at (203) 265-7580.

Poetry group to meet Saturdays

WALLINGFORD — The Wallingford Public Library’s poetry-writing group, Saturday Mornings with Poetry, will meet from 9:45 a.m. to noon this Saturday and Jan. 28 in the library board room.

Teen and adult poets and poetry lovers are invited.

At each meeting, participants are welcome to read original poems and share their writing experiences with fellow poets. For information, call the library at (203) 265-6754.

Knights of Columbus sets roast beef dinner

WALLINGFORD — Knights of Columbus Pinta Council 5 will sponsor a roast beef dinner at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 21, at 190 Ward St.

Admission will be charged and the deadline to purchase tickets is Saturday. For information, call Ralph Mingione at (203) 600-8281 or Charlie Lombardi at (203) 793-7369.

Book club meets at library Jan. 19

WALLINGFORD — The Wallingford Public Library’s Thursday Night Book Club will discuss the science fiction novel, “The Sparrow,” by Mary Doria Russell, at 7 p.m. Jan. 19.

“The Sparrow” tells the story of Jesuit priest and linguist Emilio Sandoz, who leads a 21st-century scientific mission to a newly discovered extraterrestrial culture.

All are welcome to read the book and join the discussion.

Books will be available from the library’s information desk. The Thursday Night Book Club is an informal gathering for fans of fiction and popular nonfiction. Each month a book is selected for group discussion and all are welcome to come and share their thoughts about authors, writing styles, plots, and themes.

No registration is necessary. For information, call the library at (203) 265-6754.

SHS cheerleaders’ fundraiser Jan. 25

WALLINGFORD — The Sheehan High School cheerleaders will sponsor a fundraiser from 4 to 8 p.m. Jan. 25 at Burger King, 888 N. Colony Road.

Burger King will donate 20 percent of the evening’s sales to the team.

Also, the team will accept donations from 6 a.m. to noon Jan. 28, at the Dunkin’ Donuts on Main Street in Yalesville. For information, call Lisa Eroh at (203) 269-6161.

Relay for Life fundraiser Jan. 28

WALLINGFORD — Elks Lodge 1365 will sponsor its annual Relay for Life fundraiser beginning at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28, at the lodge, 148 S. Main St.

The menu will consist of chicken parmigiana and a dessert. Entertainment will be provided by the band, Freeplay. Admission will be charged and tickets may be purchased at the lodge. For information, call the lodge at (203) 269-7162.

Library program on headaches set

WALLINGFORD — Neurologist Dr. Justin Montanye will present a program on the common causes and treatment of headaches at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Wallingford Public Library.

The presentation will include a discussion of tension headaches and migraines and the traditional and complementary therapies used to manage headaches at Mid-State Medical Center’s headache center.

The program is part of the “Dessert with a Doc” series and will be cosponsored by Wallingford Public Library and MidState Medical Center. Advance registration is suggested. For information or a reservation, call the library at (203) 265-6754.

BNI Group sets business expo

WALLINGFORD — The Silver Cities Wallingford chapter of Business Networking International will sponsor a visitors’ day and business expo from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Feb. 17, at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn, 1074 S. Colony Road.

Business professionals of all types are encouraged and welcome to attend. For a reservation, call Liz White at (203) 317-2226.

Live from the 01/12 Wallingford Town Council Meeting

2012-01-10T18:37:00.001-05:00

If I can and as applicable I’ll tweet things over on my Twitter page:

https://twitter.com/#!/gunderstone

AGENDA–WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

2012-01-04T16:31:00.001-05:00

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Town Council Chambers

TUESDAY

JANUARY 10, 2012

6:30 P.M

AGENDA

Moment of Silence

1. Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

2. Correspondence

3. Consent Agenda

3a. Consider and Approve Tax Refunds totaling $15,332.57 (#384 - #440)Acct. # 001-1000-010-1170 - Tax Collector

3b. Acceptance of a Grant Award from 3M Foundation and Appropriation of $1,000 to Miscellaneous. Revenue Acct # 1009052-47040 and to Operation Expenses Acct # 10020150-58735 – Fire Department

3c. Acceptance of a Grant Award from the Connecticut Fair Plan and Appropriation of $496 to Miscellaneous Revenue Acct # 1009052-47040 and to Operation Expenses Acct # 10020200-58735 – Fire Marshal

3d. Consider and Approve a Transfer in the Amount of $15,000 from Contingency Acct # 10019000-59820 to Professional Services-Lawyers (Workers Compensation legal fees) Acct # 10010300-56710 – Law Department

3e. Reappointment of Matthew J. Furman to Personnel and Pensions Appeal Board for a five-year term effective immediately and expiring December 31, 2016 - Mayor

3f. Set a Public Hearing for January 24, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. with regard to the Repeal of Ordinance #345, “Article V, Insurance Commission.” The Town Council repeals Ordinance No. 345, “Article V. Insurance Commission”, adopted on August 7, 1986, as stated in §8-10 through §8-13 of Chapter 8, Boards, Commissions and Committees, of the Code of the Town of Wallingford

3g. Consider and Approve minutes of Regular Town Council Meeting of December 13, 2011

3h. Consider and Approve minutes of Special Town Council Meeting of December 20, 2011

3i. Consider and Approve minutes of Swearing In Ceremony of January 2, 2012

4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda

5. Executive Session pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes §1-225, §1-200 (6)(E) and §1-210(b)(7) to discuss estimates and evaluations for construction contracts relating to the school roof projects – School Roof Building Committee

6. Consider and Approve a Resolution that the Wallingford Town Council commits to the total funding of the school re-roofing projects upon receipt of public bids and adoption of a funding ordinance as required by the State of Connecticut, Department of Education.

7. Hold a Public Hearing at 7:00 P.M. to Consider and Act upon the following proposed Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $370,000 FOR PLANNING AND DESIGN OF THE TOWN OF WALLINGFORD 2011 SCHOOL ROOF PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUE OF $370,000 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 $7,630,000 from $370,000 to $8,000,000, to provide for construction and roof related energy improvements, and to ratify, confirm and adopt all prior authorizations and ordinances in connection therewith.

8. PUBLIC QUESTION & ANSWER PERIOD

9. Consider and Approve a Resolution adopting the USCM Deferred Comp Program and its group flexible purchase payment deferred variable annuity contract and hereby establishes the Town of Wallingford Deferred Comp Plan for the voluntary participation of all eligible employees belonging to the Managers Union and non-bargaining unit managers and to authorize the Mayor to execute such agreements and contracts as are necessary to implement for the Program - Personnel

10. Discussion and Possible Action regarding the Town owned parcel(s) located to the east of North Main Street, known as the Wooding-Caplan Property – Councilor Craig Fishbein

11. Discussion and Possible Action regarding the property located at 390 Center Street – Councilor Craig Fishbein

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

Swearing in ceremony - Wallingford Town Council Jan 2, 2012

2012-01-03T08:30:00.000-05:00

Pictures from the Swearing in ceremony for the Wallingford Town Council can be seen via my Facebook page as well as publicly over on Live.com on my SkyDrive.

Hope to see you tonight at the Swearing-in Ceremony

2012-01-02T18:05:00.001-05:00

http://jasonzandri.blogspot.com/2012/01/reminder-special-town-council-meeting.html

If you are out and about at 8PM hope to see you at Town Hall.

Town Council auditorium
8 p.m.
Town Hall
45 S. Main Street Wallingford

Thank you for all the support to date with the election but my work is just getting started

REMINDER - Special Town Council Meeting - Swearing In Ceremony

2012-01-02T08:38:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone.

Just a quick reminder that tonight (Monday January 2, 2012) is the Special Town Council Meeting - Swearing In Ceremony.

The full details are in a prior post but the summary information is:

Town Council auditorium
8 p.m.
Town Hall
45 S. Main Street Wallingford

The meeting is a public meeting so all are invited to attend.

Lyman Hall and Sheehan bands still in running for Pepsi grant

2011-12-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Tuesday December 27, 2011

By Melissa Chicker
Record-Journal staff

WALLINGFORD — The marching bands at Sheehan and Lyman Hall high schools have teamed together to encourage the community to vote in a contest that could result in a $50,000 grant for new uniforms.

“Combining our efforts gets more people of the community involved,” Sheehan band director David Giardina said. “We thought if we combine the two schools in this competition, we will get a lot more votes and give us a better chance to win the grant.”

The schools are competing as one against 322 other groups around the country in a contest sponsored by the Pepsi Refresh Project, which gives away millions of dollars each month. The top 10 groups in the competition that ends on Saturday will receive $50,000.

“Grants are for wide-reaching ideas and with groups and organizations putting in significant time and effort,” officials said on the Pepsi Refresh Project website.

The grant would go toward about 125 uniforms for each of the two marching bands. Each new uniform costs at least $500, setting a steep total price of up to $140,000.

Uniforms, said Giardina, typically last 10 to 13 years. Sheehan’s uniforms are between 15 and 17 years old.

The Sheehan and Lyman Hall bands were in second place Monday — they have been among the top five the entire time, including some time at No. 1. Giardina believes the effort to get out the word is the key.

“We spread the word through our band parents’ organization and throughout the schools,” he said. “Word has spread quickly and I think this is why we have been so successful so far.” The competition began Dec. 1, and both band groups have been working since the start to urge people to log onto the site and cast their vote. Supporters have passed out fliers at Stop & Shop on weekends, created a Facebook page and sent emails to family and friends.

“The schools have always been rivals, and while it’s good to have a rivalry, this is a great way to foster the community spirit and work together for a common goal,” said Heidi Belcourt, co-president of the Sheehan Music Parents Association.

Voters can vote up to three times per day until Saturday.

Special Town Council Meeting - Swearing In Ceremony

2011-12-30T08:30:00.001-05:00

Special Town Council Meeting
Swearing In Ceremony
Monday, January 2. 2012 8:00 P.M.

AGENDA

1. Color Guards:
American Legion Shaw-Sinon Post #73
American Legion Siedlicki Post #187
VFW Major Raoul Lufbery #591
YEW Stanley Budleski Post #9965
AMVETS Post #83
Wallingford Elks Lodge #1365
Knights of Columbus
Edison Division Sea Cadet Corps
Dean DellaVecchio and the Lyman Hall High School Jazz Ensemble
Posting Colors — Past Commander Roy Cannon, American Legion Shaw-Sinon Post #73

2. Invocation — Reverend Anne Bracket, Yalesville United Methodist Church

3. Pledge of Allegiance — Lorraine Devaney, Public Celebrations Committee National Anthem - Dean DellaVecchio and the Lyman Hall High School Jazz Ensemble

4. Swearing in of Mayor William W. Dickinson, Jr. by Judge of Probate Phillip A. Wright, Jr.

5. Remarks by Mayor William W. Dickinson, Jr.

6. Swearing in of the Town Council by Judge Wright
Vincent Cervoni
Robert F. Parisi
Nick Economopoulis
Rosemary Rascati
Craig C. Fishbein
John J. Sullivan
Thomas Laffin
Jason Zandri
John LeTourneau

7. Roll Call Mayor William W. Dickinson, Jr.

8. Mayor Dickinson Presiding at Election of Town Council Chairman

9. Remarks by Town Council Chairman

10. Election of Town Council Vice-Chairman

11. Swearing in of the Board of Education by Judge Wright
Michael Brooder
Roxane M. McKay
Kathy Castelli
Chet Miller
John J. Cei, Jr.
Patrick Reynolds
Christine Mansfield
Michael J. Votto
Joseph Marrone

12. Appointment of Town Clerk and Swearing in by Judge Wright

13. Benediction - Reverend Anne Bracket, Yalesville United Methodist Church

14, Prepare to Retire Colors — Past Commander Roy Cannon, American Legion Post #73

15. God Bless America by Junior Vice Commander James Dunn, American Legion Shaw-Sinon Post #73

Councilor-elect Zandri eager to begin his term in Wallingford

2011-12-29T08:30:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday December 11, 2011

By Russell Blair
Record-Journal staffrblair@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2225

WALLINGFORD — After an unsuccessful run for Town Council in 2007 as an independent, Jason Zandri ran as a Democrat this year and won. He’s eager to join the council in January.

Zandri, 42, a computer systems engineer for Bloomberg, said he’s spent the month since the election studying the issues before the council.

“I’ve been attending meetings since then, and getting the information packet that the councilors get,” he said. “I’m going over the rules, the procedural stuff. I’m trying to get in that mode.”

Even before he began campaigning, Zandri had already made himself known to many in town through a number of different efforts. He has maintained two blogs, “Wallingford Politico” and “Jason Zandri for Town Council,” has written “From Wallingford” for the Record-Journal’s opinion pages, and has helped in the fundraising effort for the town’s Fourth of July fireworks celebration.

John Sullivan, a Democratic councilor, closed up his political blog after he was elected, but Zandri said he plans to keep both his blogs up and running as a source of information for residents.

“I look at the blog as an ability to communicate with people,” he said. “On Wallingford Politico, I post stories, with very little editorializing. But on my own blog, I’ll express a little detail, some of my thoughts on an issue. It’s a prudent way to get information out there.”

Zandri has a long lineage in Wallingford, and his four children represent the fifth generation of Zandris living in town. He also has a history of political service in his family. His father, Geno, was a town councilor for 10 years.

Democratic Town Chairman Vincent Avallone Jr. said he hopes Zandri will bring some fresh ideas to the council.

“He’s extremely energetic,” Avallone said. “He’s someone that, when he starts a task, he wants to see it completed.”

A year before his 2007 run as an unaffiliated voter, Zandri left the Democratic Party. After his failed council bid, he took some time to evaluate his options.

“I had to think about whether to try for another shot,” he said.

Zandri was able to work out his differences, get involved with the Democratic Town Committee and eventually got on the Democratic ticket for 2011.

“I sat down with Vinny Avallone and I worked out my differences with the party, and became an active part of the group,” Zandri said.

“I’ve known him since he was young,” Avallone said. “He felt comfortable with me.”

Zandri commutes to his job in New York City, and he acknowledged that balancing work, family life and the council will be a challenge. But he said he can handle the time commitment to the council.

“I think being able to campaign for the fireworks allowed me to see if I could handle the burden of both,” he said.

Zandri said he doesn’t expect to put items on the council agenda right away, and wants to take the first four or five months — most of which will be spent on the budget process — to get his feet wet.

But he added that he has a good working relationship with the eight other councilors and won’t be afraid to engage in debate.

“I don’t feel like I can’t express my thoughts and have a discussion,” he said. “We may not agree all the time, but I don’t think it will be an issue. I want to build bridges and work across the aisle.”

Though he understands that he’ll be a freshman councilor in the minority party, Zandri has already identified a few areas he’d like the council to examine.

Zandri said he hopes to see the council look toward adding voicemail and email to Town Hall and also to see action taken on the Wooding-Caplan property. The town purchased the 3.5-acre parcel for $1.5 million in 1992 and it has remained vacant since. A 2006 referendum overturned a decision to sell it to a developer. Other ideas that have been proposed include a parking lot or a new police station.

“If we’re going to put the police station there, I’d like to see that outlined,” he said. “I’d like to see a plan.”

Republican Town Councilor Craig Fishbein, who worked with Zandri on the fireworks campaign, called him “a go-getter.”

“He’s full of ideas and energy,” Fishbein said. “He’s not afraid to speak his mind, and roll up his sleeves to get the job done.”

Sullivan said that Zandri is “an extremely dedicated person” and he’s looking forward to working with him on the council.

“After the election, the council isn’t Democrats and Republicans, it’s nine people that need to work together,” Sullivan said. “I think Jason can be a bridge builder.”

Zandri said he will bring a “can get done” attitude to the council.

“Of course we should be careful and cautious, but if there’s something we want to try to accomplish, we need to look at how we get it to completion,” he said.

Pepsi Refresh Project: FINAL WEEK - Replace parts of 17 year old band uniforms at 2 Wallingford High Schools

2011-12-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

VOTE VOTE VOTE

http://pep.si/vTCmA8

We slipped to third place this morning (Tuesday December 27th). This is a make or break week.

Not only is it the last week but MANY people who might otherwise vote are not online as much as they might normally be as they are off from work. (Our supporters included).

If we can stay organized, focused and keep getting the word out we can do this!

Vote every day. Email the link to your family and friends.

VOTE NOW WALLINGFORD!

YOU CAN VOTE ONCE EACH DAY!

Editorial Cartoon from the Record Journal, Sunday December 18, 2011.

2011-12-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

This editorial cartoon appeared in the Record Journal on Sunday December 18, 2011.

I have a saying I am fond of “there are only 36 hours in a day to get done what I need to do”; if I could really have that it would be awesome because I could get more done.

POLL RESULTS - How much should the town be responsible for regarding Wallingford Center Parking?

2011-12-19T08:30:00.000-05:00

Sixty votes in total. This is the sentiment of just those 60 respondents for whatever it is worth.

The majority of the respondents in this poll felt that if Wallingford is going to make any type of investment it should be as close to equal as the property owners

Obviously this is not a full representation of the wishes of the voters.

The referendum, just six days after the municipal election, drew 6,888 voters, with 2,768 in favor of the lease and 4,120 against.

There is no way to say just what the nearly 6,900 voters would want unless you could poll them all.

I do expect this issue to come up again so with that I will be trying to solicit the input of the voters and I will be reaching out to try to do that.

For those that would be willing to proactively reach out to me I can be reached at Jason@Zandri.net or by phone at 860 614 6069

Bagged leaf collection to begin in Wallingford

2011-12-16T08:45:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal on Wednesday December 14, 2011

WALLINGFORD — Residents will have their bagged leaves picked up by the town’s Public Works Department starting Monday December 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.

This is a one-time pickup of leaves only; brush, trash and garden waste will not be accepted.

Residents who miss the pickup may take leaves to the compost area on John Street at no charge.

Compost hours until Saturday will be as follows:

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

The compost area will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays through Jan. 15. The area will be closed from Jan. 16 to March 15.

Police to residents: lock car doors

2011-12-16T06:54:00.001-05:00

As published in the Record Journal Friday December 16, 2011

WALLINGFORD — Police are urging residents to lock their car doors in order to avoid becoming victims of theft. Police say car owners reported items missing from their vehicles early Wednesday morning.

Thieves appeared to go from car to car in the downtown area near North Orchard Street, Wallace Row and William Street checking for unlocked doors. When a car was found to be unlocked, the thieves entered to take anything of value, police said.

Police say the thefts remain under investigation.

—Richie Rathsack

Last day for the poll - How much should the town be responsible for regarding Wallingford Center Parking?

2011-12-15T12:30:00.000-05:00

Cast your vote at http://wallingfordpolitico.blogspot.com/

100 percent of the cost
75 percent / 25 percent should come from the property owner
50 percent / 50 percent should come from the property owner
25 percent / 75 percent should come from the property owner
zero; all of the costs should come from the property owner. It is their property

Pepsi Refresh Challenge: we are back in first place. HELP KEEP US THERE.

2011-12-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

We slipped last night to 2^nd place but as of this morning (12/15) we are back to first.

Help keep us there! VOTE EACH DAY!

http://www.refresheverything.com/wallingfordbands

This week in Wallingford

2011-12-12T08:15:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Monday December 12, 2011

WALLINGFORD — The Board of Education will meet today and recognize departing board members Valerie Ford and Thomas Hennessey. Hennessey, the Republican chairman, leaves the board after more than a decade of service. Ford, a Democrat, has served on and off the board since 1991.

Monday: Board of Education, 6 p.m., Mark T. Sheehan High School, Drama/Lecture Room, 142 Hope Hill Road; Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Auditorium, 45 S. Main St.

Tuesday: Town Council, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall, Auditorium, 45 S. Main St.

Wednesday: Parks and Recreation Commission, 5:30 p.m., David J. Doherty Municipal Building, 6 Fairfield Blvd.

Thursday: No meetings scheduled.

Friday: Committee on Aging, 12 p.m., Senior Center, 238 Washington St.

Pepsi Refresh – Let’s keep Wallingford’s schools at the top through 12/31

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

You can vote daily. Let’s all try to do this and get this money for Wallingford’s high schools and their bands!

We are in first place – c’mon Wallingford; let’s keep us there!

VOTE! http://pep.si/vTCmA8 VOTE!

Pepsi Refresh Project - Replace parts of 17 year old band uniforms at 2 Wallingford High Schools – HELP KEEP US IN FIRST PLACE!

2011-12-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

VOTE NOW WALLINGFORD!

YOU CAN VOTE ONCE EACH DAY!

Open Mike with Michael Cuomo Wednesday November 30, 2011 (TONIGHT).

2011-11-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

From the Open Mike with Michael Cuomo promo: “A very special reminder ladies and gentlemen, that this Wednesday’s guest on "Open Mike" with Michael Cuomo will be Jason Zandri! The show starts at 8PM Live on Comcast Ch18 and AT&T Uverse channel 99 and live on the web at wpaa.tv. Call in (203) 265-6310 to talk to myself and Jason Zandri! Thanks everybody.”

Wallingford board seeks parent input on school budget

2011-11-25T08:31:00.001-05:00

By Russell Blair

Record-Journal staff

rblair@record-journal.com

(203) 317-2225

WALLINGFORD - Parents who want their voices to be heard as theschool budget is built for 2012-13 are encouraged to attend a forumnext week.

On Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., a parent budget forum will be held atthe Lyman Hall High School's vo-ag community room. Board ofEducation member Chet Miller said it's important to get parentinput as the school board prepares its budget.

"They're more in touch with specific problems and issues they feelare in danger than we are at the board level," said Miller, aRepublican. "We see things on a broader spectrum, whereas theymight be in touch with a sport or an activity."

Miller said that parent input is crucial because the budget processwill be beginning shortly.

"We like to know going in if there are areas that need attention,"he said. "It's harder to change things after the fact."

School Superintendent Salvatore Menzo said he hopes to hearspecific areas of the budget that parents would like to beexamined.

"We want them to share with us areas they'd like us to consider inthe process," he said.

Menzo said that the district uses its strategic plan to help buildthe budget. The six areas covered by the Wallingford plan includecommunity outreach, curriculum and instruction, district climate,facilities, finance and technology.

"We're taking each one, and want to see things that they wantcontinued and possible changes," he said. "We use that as anotherpiece of information."

Menzo said last year's budget forum for parents was the first, andwhile only about a dozen parents attended they all came with ideasand questions.

"It's so important to hear from parents," Menzo said. "This is notmy budget, it's not the Board of Education's budget, it's thetown's budget for the children."

The 2011-12 education budget was $4,779,296 less than the$91,573,029 the board had proposed to the mayor. Mayor William W.Dickinson Jr.'s budget represented a 0.42 percent increase over the2010-11 budget; the board has sought a 5.95 percent increase.

School officials have said that if the district receives noincrease in its budget for the next year, it could face a shortfallof several million dollars.

3rd Annual Wallingford Emergency Shelter FUNraising Banquet

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

Dear friends of the Shelter,

Since this time last year, the Shelter Board and various committees have been working non-stop toward making the dream of emergency housing for families a reality.

We are preparing to break ground this November on the Martin B. Rubin Family Center

Please consider joining us on November 18th for our third annual “fun” raising event at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn, located at 1074 South Colony Road from 6PM to 10PM

This year’s program will be more relaxed and casual and will include a wide variety of activities including a DJ for great music and dancing, fun and exciting games, a tea cup raffle and silent auction. And of course there is the full dinner at Zandri’s which is guaranteed to be great.

Tickets are $45.00 each.

Checks should be made out to Wallingford Emergency Shelter Inc.

Additional information is available online via http://www.wallingfordshelter.org

You can also email for more details to matt@wallingfordshelter.org

Thoughts, input–my letter to the editor, as published in the Record Journal

2011-11-15T06:26:00.001-05:00

Editor: I wanted to thank everyone who came out to vote on Election Day, first and foremost. Whether you supported me or not, you decided it was important enough to invest the time to come out and be part of the process — and it is very important. I want to thank everyone who offered their encouragement, support and who gave me their vote.

Those votes I received, 5,537 in all, landed me in the #2 spot within my party, just 31 votes behind #1 John Sullivan and 5th out of all 12 who ran for seats on the council.

Those votes were based entirely on faith and goodwill, as I have no formal prior record of service to the Town of Wallingford. I will spend the next few weeks further preparing to take office and serve the town and all her people to the best of my ability – just as I had promised prior as part of my campaign.

I want to offer up as much information, communication and transparency as time and money permit. I will continue writing on my two Wallingford centric blogs. Wallingford Politico will remain a source of “news and information” with limited editorial commentary and “Jason Zandri for Wallingford Town Council” will become “Jason Zandri Wallingford Town Councilor,” where I will interject more of my thoughts and opinions into much of what is going on, politically and otherwise, in our town.

I cannot serve effectively without your thoughts and input. Let me know when I am on the mark and call me out when I need it. Help keep me honest and grounded. My first pledge, as your Wallingford Town Councilor (elect), will be to work hard enough to have earned each of those votes I received in advance this past November 8th. Thank you, again.

JASON ZANDRI, WALLINGFORD

WALLINGFORD NOTICE OF REFERENDUM

2011-11-14T09:30:00.000-05:00

http://town.wallingford.ct.us/images/customer-files//RefPollPlaces111411.pdf

OFFICIAL BALLOT Referendum WALLINGFORD, Connecticut November 14, 2011

2011-11-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

http://town.wallingford.ct.us/images/customer-files//RefBallot111411.pdf

Wallingford votes today on 30-year lease agreements

2011-11-14T08:15:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Monday November 14, 2011

By Robert Cyr
Record-Journal staff
rcyr@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2224

WALLINGFORD — As voters head to the polls today to decide whether or not to support the town’s 30-year lease agreements for a municipal parking area behind Simpson Court, groups that back either side of the issue will make their final push to sway residents to cast their ballots in favor of their viewpoint.

The Town Council in August approved the lease agreements, which say the town will supply up to $500,000 in upgrades and maintenance to the parking area owned by four building owners in exchange for municipal use of the lot. A successful petition drive forced today’s referendum.

The Simpson Court parking deal has been a hot-button issue since the council’s action, and signs from two political action committees far outnumbered campaign signs for candidates in last week’s municipal elections.

Republican Councilor Craig Fishbein, one of two councilors who voted against the lease, said he would be handing out leaflets to encourage people to vote “yes,” which would repeal the lease agreements.

“I’ll be out there telling people what they need to know about this — there seems to be a lot of confusion,” he said.

Christopher Diorio, vice chairman of the Republican Town Committee and head of the political action committee Support Our Downtown, said more than 400 signs have gone up at homes and businesses and a staff of a half-dozen volunteers would spend the last days calling up registered voters. Support Our Downtown is in favor of the 30-year lease and improvements to the parking area. A final effort will be made today to hand out flyers at post offices and grocery stores, in addition to ads in local newspapers, Diorio said Friday.

“It’s certainly been a challenge because people are very confused, and they want to know why it’s not on Election Day, and they’re confused about the yes and no situation,” he said. “It’s less of a challenge than a process.”

A “No” vote keeps the leases in place.

Council members voted to hold the referendum on a separate day after the Republican Registrar of Voters Chester Miller told them it would be a strain on the voting system due to the limited number of ballot machines and minimum space needed.

Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum November 14, 2011 VOTING LOCATIONS

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Wallingford Final election results as published in the Record Journal

2011-11-13T12:56:00.001-05:00

Click on the image to enlarge

Thank you again for the support!

VOTING LOCATIONS listed incorrectly in the Sunday Edition of the Record Journal

2011-11-13T12:41:00.001-05:00

The polling locations as listed in the Sunday edition of the paper were incorrectly listed.

The proper locations can be found via http://wallingfordpolitico.blogspot.com/2011/11/wallingford-parking-lot-referendum.html and / or http://www.500kparkingdeal.com/html/voting_locations.html

The PAC for the “NO” vote is leveraging the Mayor.

2011-11-12T12:20:00.001-05:00

Just got a robo call recorded by the Mayor regarding the NO vote on the Parking Referendum for Monday; must be [THIS] close for the PAC to have to leverage the Mayor on this.

If this is such as great deal for the town and the property owners then the benefits AND the cost burden should be shared and NOT 100% input from the town's budgeted monies for the fiscal year.

Whatever happened to that fiscal conservativeness of the Mayor and the Republicans (who are the majority of the "NO" supporters)? I guess as long as the conservativeness is on the "little guy" only it works.

I support the YES vote but I encourage everyone to get the facts on their own and get out and vote.

Don't forget to vote! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wallingford-Parking-Lot-Referendum-November-14-2011/107225926053398

Vote YES!
NOVEMBER 14, 2011
$$$ STOP PRIVATE PARKING DEAL $$$

http://www.500kparkingdeal.com/

Thank you

2011-11-09T08:10:00.003-05:00

I wanted to thank everyone who came out to vote yesterday, first and foremost. Whether you supported me or not, you decided it was important enough to invest the time to come out and be part of the process.

And it is very important.

Beyond that, I want to thank everyone who offered their encouragement, support and who gave me their vote.

Those votes I received, unofficially 5,542 in all, landed me in the #2 spot within my party, just 29 votes behind #1 John Sullivan and and 5th overall.

Those votes were based entirely on faith and goodwill as I have no formal prior record of service to the Town of Wallingford.

Now that the campaigning is over, I will spend the next few weeks prior to being sworn in further preparing to take office and serve the town and all her people to the best of my ability – just as I had promised prior as part of my campaign.

My first pledge now formally as a Wallingford Town Councilor (elect) will be to work hard enough to earn each of those votes I received this past November 8th.

Thank you again.

2011 Election Results from Wallingford

2011-11-09T07:58:00.001-05:00

Click on the image to enlarge.

Winners are highlighted in yellow.

Totals at this point are unconfirmed.

The unofficial counts from Democrat Headquarters

2011-11-08T20:47:00.001-05:00

BOLD denotes the winner

MAYOR
Dickinson (R) 6,213
Testa (D) 3,558

TOWN COUNCIL
DEMOCRAT
Sullivan              5,571
Hettrick                      4,095
Harwood                    4,878
Zandri                  5,542
Reynolds                    4,687
Eco                      5,370

REPUBLICAN
Fishbein             5,642
LeTourneau       5,728
Parisi                  5,809
Rascati               5,270
Cervoni              5,531
Laffin                  5,195

BOARD OF EDUCATION
DEMOCRAT
Cei                      5,632
Castelli               4,985
Reynolds           4,790
Leonardo                  4,304
Ford                           4,667
Votto                   5,277

REPUBLICAN
Bachand                    4,600
Miller                   5,094
Brooder              5,094
Mansfield            5,297
Mckay                  5,237
Marrone               5,065

Election totals are coming in…

2011-11-08T20:20:00.001-05:00

I am at headquarters and collecting totals on the fly.

If the Record Journal has them first I’ll let you know.

You can check in there via http://www.myrecordjournal.com/election/2011/wallingford/

Vinnie Testa Candidate for Mayor of Wallingford

2011-11-08T16:00:00.000-05:00

VOTE TODAY – TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2011

About Vinnie Testa

Vinnie Testa for Mayor - http://videoalive.com/vinnietesta/
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Vinnie-Testa-for-Mayor/118934548181765
vtesta@comcast.net

Born in Wallingford; / Wallingford Public Schools;
B.S. Fairfield University;
1 son in college, 1 teaching in Washington, D.C.
Current Minority Leader, Wallingford Town Council
Wallingford Town Council – 8 years, 1 term as Vice-Chairman
Wallingford Board of Education – 8 years
Wallingford Wetlands Commission – 2 years
CCD Teacher and Lector Most Holy Trinity Church
Wallingford Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors
Child Guidance Clinic Board of Directors
Yalesville Little League Executive Board
Baseball, basketball, soccer coach, founding coach of Wallingford Lacrosse
Cub Scout Leader
Wallingford Dream Foundation (Founding member)
Wallingford Education Foundation
Golf Tournament Committee
Business Network International Development Ambassador

Modernizing Government

With 20 years experience in local government, Vinnie knows how we can save money by:

Reducing costs and creating efficiencies through the smart use of technology
Sharing services between Town and the Board of Education
Eliminating wasteful spending to ease the burden on taxpayers

Leading Economic Development and Creating Jobs

Based on 25 years of success in corporate business development, Vinnie has a specific plan for bringing new businesses to Wallingford by:

Establishing our industrial parks as a clean energy research and development hub
Recruiting new corporate taxpayers that are essential to rebuilding our diminishing grand list

Ensuring Public Safety

Restoring critical paramedic services
Strengthening our police force by retaining those we train

Providing a Great Education for Our Kids

Vinnie served on the Board of Education, helped develop the long-term strategic plan for our schools, and he teaches in the Wallingford school system. He understands the challenges we face in preparing our children for success in the 21st Century.

“I am proud of my service and commitment to our community. It would be an honor to serve you further as your mayor. It’s time we moved forward, together, to make this town we love an even better place to live and raise our families.

Sincerely,
Vinnie Testa

Jason Zandri Candidate for Wallingford Town Council

2011-11-08T15:00:00.000-05:00

VOTE TODAY – TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2011

Goals as your Town Councilor:

If elected, I will listen to town residents first before I make a decision and I will execute to the best of my ability the responsibilities of the office for the good of Wallingford and her citizens.

Background:
- Born and raised in Wallingford; attended Pond Hill Elementary, Moran Middle School and Mark T. Sheehan High School
- Married father of four children; two are in the public school system
- President of the Wallingford Fireworks Fund
- Auction Manager for Wallingford’s annual MDA Party for a Cure
- Information Technology Professional - Senior Systems Engineer with 13 years experience in the field; responsible for operational support, service management, and technical planning
- Avid writer, wrote the FROM WALLINGFORD column for the Record Journal for three years through spring of 2011
- Involved with the local political scene since the late 1980s
- District 4 leader, Wallingford Democratic Town Committee

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

2011-11-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal, Sunday October 30,2011

WALLINGFORD — Here is the list of polling places for the Nov. 8 election.

District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Hammarskjold Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road.
District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.

Voter information: (203) 294-2125

ELECTION DAY Locations to vote in Wallingford

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District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
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.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.

If you need additional information:

Registrar of Voters

45 South Main Street, Room #211
(203) 294-2125

Registrars:
Samuel Carmody
Chester Miller

http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/Content/Registrar_of_Voters.asp

FROM WALLINGFORD – Hey kids, it’s time to show up

2011-11-08T07:30:00.000-05:00

As originally published in the Record Journal Sunday, September 27th, 2009

It was also cross posted to my personal blog – From the Mind of Jason Zandri

The item regarding the Charter Revision vote is out of date and no longer relevant but the rest of it as timely as it ever was.

According to some research I have done recently, in the 2008 Presidential election the number of Wallingford people registered to vote aged 18 to 30 that came out and voted was about 2,800.

For people aged 60 to 72 that number was a little more than 4,000.

Both age sets encompass a span of 12 years.

In 2008, 22,000 of the nearly 26,000 registered voters in Wallingford generated an 85 percent voter turnout rate.

In the 2007 local election the number of people aged 18 to 30 that came out to vote in Wallingford was about 500.

Of the nearly 4,200 people aged 18 to 30 that were registered to vote only 500 showed up—that is a paltry 12 percent.

For people aged 60 to 72 that number was about 2,800 out of 4,700 or 60 percent.

When we talk about the impact for better or worse of the largest voting block the discussion always focuses around the older folks but it is not just because they are larger in size (as they are so by only about 500 voters) but rather due to the fact that they show up in greater numbers. In order to get to 2,800 voters showing up in a voter block for the 2007 local election you have to include everyone aged 18 to 47 — a bracket of 29 years.

That is a total of 11,400 registered voters to yield the same 2,800 turnouts.

Let me say it again— you have to leverage 11,400 registered voters from the 18 to 47 demographic to get the same turn out number of people aged 60 to 72 where 2,800 out of 4,700 showed up.

2,800 people aged 60 to 72 out of 4,700 is 60 percent.

2,800 people aged 18 to 47 out of 11,400 is 25 percent.

I understand that the numbers in total drop below 50 percent for local elections; in 2007 voter turnout was 46 percent.

The reason for this is mainly due to the younger generation of people not showing up.

This is especially concerning tome as a parent of four little children. At 40 years old I am in with a group of people that seem not to be willing to take control of their own destiny for themselves or their families.

Say whatever you want about how you can’t change things, politics is all dirty and it caters only to this group or that group or whatever— it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy when you don’t show up to vote.

I feel that local elections impact you more than any other election you could participate in. All the voters are from Wallingford, there is no other election that you could have a greater impact on by just voting.

In a Presidential election you are casting your important vote among millions of others; in Wallingford it is one vote of about 12,000 or so.

Your locally elected officials directly affect everything from what you are charged in taxes by way of the budget and what allocations get handed off to support the schools that your children are attending and so on. They provide the platform and funding for or removing it from all the local services you may use.

There are many changes offered to the voters in the 2009 election from the incumbents that are running for office again to all the newcomers throwing their hats into the ring.

There are changes being proposed to the Town Charter. This document dictates the guidelines of how elected officials are to discharge their duties in service to you and the town and it is the first time any changes are being offered in 18 years.

You as a voter directly get your say as you get the opportunity to vote “yes” or “no” to each of the proposed changes.

Democracy at its best— all you need to do is show up.

From the Editorial Page of the Record Journal: Vote with confidence

2011-11-08T06:15:00.000-05:00

As published in the Record Journal on Election Day, Tuesday November 8, 2011

Voting is Democracy’s bedrock — a truly American activity which should not be taken for granted.

Elsewhere on this planet other societies don’t have it so well. In recent Arab Spring uprisings, thousands risked lives to demonstrate in favor of ballot-based elections, rather than further remain subjects beneath despotic leaders who abuse authority and employ violence to retain power. For centuries we have enjoyed what these modern protestors fight for. Today we can celebrate their efforts, and our first-world freedoms, by exercising one of a U.S. citizen’s most important rights — voting.

At last, Election Day has dawned. Local political clamor will soon yield to results. In copious political opinion letters to the Record-Journal, readers have expressed preferences for individual candidates and thoughts on pertinent issues in oft-times unequivocal terms. But mistake not the numerous political-letter- writers as enough interested individuals to decide an election. Every vote counts, and it is your responsibility — not someone else’s — to register your opinion.

As our country continues preparations for next year’s presidential race, municipal voting comes to have its own unique flavor in comparison. People familiar with one another in the same community get to express support, or lack thereof, for local candidates who are neighbors, and not TV personalities or names in a newspaper. It’s a chance for civic leaders to see what sits well with voters — issues and allegiances come into political alignment.

Campaign season is a long haul, and even though many candidates enjoy getting out and meeting people, it’s just possible some have rung enough doorbells by now. Nevertheless, let’s not forget that extensive efforts by political hopefuls and their supporters add impetus to the fullness of Election Day’s turnout and significance. Underscore this point: voting — it’s part of a great American tradition and the exercise of a powerful right in democracy — a freedom not to be wasted or squandered.

And before exercising such rights, residents should fulfill their responsibility to make informed, confident decisions. Do research. Learn not only about candidates as community members but also where they stand on important issues. For instance: in today’s entrenched fiscal stagnation, those running for municipal office have by now expounded personal financial and economic development policies of all sorts. Citizens should identify which proposed monetary measures they believe as best suited to propel more expeditious economic recovery, and vote accordingly.

In coming days, supportive signs will swiftly dwindle from front lawns and political ads will disappear from television air time. Election Day will fade into tomorrow. But the results — candidates authorized to take office, some replacing incumbents while others gaining additional terms — will last for two or more years. Thus, we hope that all voters participating in today’s election have done reasonable, if not thorough, homework. Make that vote count — know your mind. Vote with pride.

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

2011-11-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Tuesday November 8, 2011 is Election Day

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It’s not often that you get your chance to have your say, really have the opportunity to voice your mind and thoughts.

You do get an optimum chance on Election Day more so than any other time of the year.

There is no body of government that can affect you as much and that you have as much effect on as your municipal government.

Your municipal leaders regulate your ordinances, set the local budget for the town and the schools, as well as maintain and manage the tax base of the town.

If you voted in the federal election in 2008 you were one voice in 169 million registered. (About 133 million showed up to cast a vote).

86 million democrat - 55 million republican - 28 million others registered.

Of those voters there were 132,645,504 total voters out of an eligible voting age population of 212,702,354, which gives you a 62.4% participation rate.

For the elections held at the state level here in Connecticut as of 2010 the total number of registered voters is a hair over 2 million.

The largest group of registered voters in Connecticut is unaffiliated, accounting for 831,962 voters. There are 743,580 registered Democrats and 413,854 registered Republicans.

So when 73 percent of the state voters turnout, your voice is one in 1.46 million.

You as the voter in Wallingford during a municipal election are one of about 25,000 registered. During our last municipal election only 35.6 percent of the registered voters turned out.

Your voice there is one of about 8,900.

Where do you think your voice is the loudest?

Where do you think your voice is best heard among all the noise?

Wallingford is your town – get informed, get involved and VOTE on Tuesday November 8th

Town of Wallingford – Historic Election results

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Let’s make 2011 the year of 50.1 percent turnout.

In 2009 the number dropped to 36% (and I have been telling people incorrectly 37%)

Vote November 8th

Malloy extends voter registration deadline for the local elections to Monday, Nov. 7.

2011-11-07T08:15:00.000-05:00

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed an executive order extending the registration deadline for the local elections to Monday, Nov. 7.

In his order, Malloy notes that the storm's aftermath has caused widespread transportation problems and forced many town halls to close.

The majority of the state's 169 cities and towns will hold municipal elections on Nov. 8

Public Information Meeting PROJECT 148-202 Design Plans and Improvements to Route 68 at Route 150

2011-11-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

There will be a meeting on Wednesday November 9th, 2011 regarding planned design improvements to Route 68 where it intersects with Route 150.

The meeting is to be held in an open forum for individual discussions with Department of Transportation officials at 6:30 in room 315 at the Wallingford Town Hall

There will be a formal presentation beginning at 7PM in room 315.

The general public is encouraged and invited to attend.

Written questions or comments can be submitted to:

Mr. Timothy M. Wilson
Manager of State Design
PO BOX 317546
Newington, CT 06131-7546

Email communications are also welcome via timothy.wilson@ct.gov

Plans are available for viewing at the Wallingford Town Hall in the Town Clerk’s office.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Jay Cei

2011-11-06T14:00:00.000-05:00

Age: 57

Address: 15 Blossom Lane.

Occupation: Chief financial officer and president, Ulbrich Stainless Steel & Special Metals Inc.

Education: B.S., business administration and accounting, Boston College.

Platform: Prepare students for 21st century challenges by developing critical thinking and math, science and communication skills; implement five-year strategic plan; oppose multi-year financial commitments that lack funding, without cutting services or compromising strategic plan; support pupil personnel programs; implement a state-of-the-art guidance and career planning program for all grade 6-12 students.

Misc.: Seeking third term after being appointed to board in 2006; chairs Curriculum/Instruction Committee; co-chair of School to Career Committee; board liaison and member Strategic Planning Committee; helped create high school financial planning course and internship program and reactivate Big Brothers-Big Sisters program; board member Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, Blue Cross-Constitution Healthcare Division and Ulbrich Stainless Steel; United Way divisional chair; former youth basketball and baseball coach.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Jason M. Zandri

2011-11-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

Age: 42.

Address: 35 Lincoln Drive

Occupation: Computer systems administrator, Bloomberg LP

Education: Mark T. Sheehan High School

Platform: Raise new revenue sources for town beyond raising taxes; more efficient use of town capital and resources; proactive and strategic multi-year planning for town operations and growth; solicit input from residents and business professionals regarding town decisions.

Misc.: Helps lead annual fundraising for town's fireworks display as president of the non-profit Wallingford Fireworks Fund; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2007 as an independent.

Website: www.jasonzandri.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/gunderstone

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/gunderstone

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education David Leonardo

2011-11-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

Age: 24.

Address: 388 Church St., Yalesville.

Occupation: Intern, Rep. John Larson's campaign.

Education: B.A., history, UConn.

Platform: Ensuring financial literacy for students, early education and college preparation, including skills to thrive in the global economy.

Misc.: Raised by a single mother; attended town schools; volunteers with Dan Drew's mayoral campaign in Middletown.

Facebook:www.facebook.com/pages/David-for-Board-of-Education

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Valerie N. Ford

2011-11-05T13:59:00.001-04:00

Age: 61.

Address: Judd Square, South Cherry Street

Occupation: Individual medical underwriter, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Education: B.A., liberal studies, Quinnipiac University.

Platform: the best possible education for each student; a safe and healthy environment in each school; cooperation between the board, school staff and parents; sound fiscal management; looking out for the best interests of students, challenging them and district personnel.

Misc.: Seeking 9th term; first elected in 1991; board secretary and former chair of various committees; member and board liaison for Vo-Ag Building Committee; board representative in last three teacher contract negotiations; married to Brian Ford; mother of three graduates of town schools.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Michael Votto

2011-11-05T13:24:00.001-04:00

Age: 61.

Address: 377 N. Elm St.

Occupation: Principal, St. Aedan/St. Brendan School, New Haven.

Education: B.S., education, Southern Connecticut State University; M.S. plus 30 credits, education, Southern Connecticut State University and University of New England.

Platform: Continue initiatives of new superintendent, including middle school team changes and stronger foreign language program; hire and work with new Pupil Services director, which supervises special education; advocate for parents of special needs kids.

Misc.: Board member since 1999; board secretary; former board chairman; taught middle school for 36 years in North Branford; teaches history/social studies in Choate's summer program.

Wallingford Ballot for the November 8th municipal election

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For the office of Mayor you may choose only one of the two candidates.
For the seats on Town Council you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.
For the seats on the Board of Education you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.

The Secretary of the State website contains additional information which will provide you with important election details.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Robin M. Hettrick

2011-11-05T07:48:00.001-04:00

Age: 45.

Address: 4 Blossom Lane.

Occupation: Corporate controller /Assistant treasurer, Tomra of North America, Inc.

Education: B.S., accounting, M.B.A., Quinnipiac University.

Platform: Fiscal responsibility, efficient government and economic development.

Misc.: Democratic Town Committee vice chair; former Zoning Board of Appeals member; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2005; former PTO Treasurer.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Patrick Reynolds

2011-11-04T13:30:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 58.

Address: 844 Old Durham Road.

Occupation: Teacher, New Britain High School, Central Connecticut State University and Tunxis Community College.

Education: B.S., earth science, Central Connecticut State University; M.S., atmospheric science, University of Michigan.

Platform: Promote participation from parents, students, teachers, administrators and the board; spend money efficiently; make school maintenance an on-going process, not merely large-scale projects; accountability.

Misc.: Former board member; lost reelection bid in 2009; town native and Lyman Hall High School graduate; married to council candidate Debi Reynolds; father of three with two grandsons; former computer programmer for United Technologies and Stanley corporations

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Debi Reynolds

2011-11-04T12:30:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 59.

Address: 844 Old Durham Road.

Occupation: Business analyst, The Hartford.

Education: Maloney High School, Meriden.

Platform: Grow businesses to ease the tax burden on residents; address constituent questions and concerns with diligence and from the perspective of a hardworking resident.

Misc.: Married to Board of Education candidate Patrick Reynolds; mother of three and grandmother of two; former Wallingford Youth Soccer League coach, former group coordinator for Autism Speaks and former member Wallingford Land Trust.

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

2011-11-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

Video - Jason M. Zandri (D) – Candidate for Wallingford Town Council

2011-11-04T08:45:00.000-04:00

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Jason M. Zandri (D) – Candidate for Wallingford Town Council

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Kathy Castelli

2011-11-03T14:00:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 61.

Address: 9 Ashford Court.

Occupation: Retired.

Education: B.S., special education, Southern Connecticut State College.

Platform: Keep improving education in midst of funding limitations through creative solutions and close monitoring of the budget; increased use of technology to prepare students for global workforce.

Misc.: Seeking third term; former senior business analyst and senior quality assurance advisor at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield; mother of five children that attended town schools; local resident since 1979.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Donald Harwood

2011-11-03T13:00:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 56.

Address: 14 Taylor Lane.

Occupation: Owner-operator, AMB Associates.

Education: A.S., criminology and marketing, Middlesex Community College; B.S., industrial technology, Central Connecticut State University.

Platform: Better strategic planning to contain costs and improve education, public safety, economic development, real estate and property management and town government efficiency.

Misc.: Member Strategic Planning Committee of Board of Education; was School Building Committee chairman during major district-wide renovations; past chief Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department; former Wallingford deputy fire marshal; 26-year member state building Codes and Standards Commission; member state fire training and prevention boards; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2009.

Record Journal - Area races: 2011

2011-11-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal, Thursday November 3, 2011

Local mayoral races in Wallingford and Meriden are high profile and will be discussed in an editorial devoted to this subject and these candidates.
Meanwhile, though, local voters have to cope and sift through a welter of candidates for other offices, notably town and city councils and school boards. Many of these races do not pit individual candidates against each other but invite voters to choose 6 of 9, or 4 of 5, or some similar arrangement. We try, today, therefore, to select some candidates who appear vote-worthy or who might add particular skills to the body to which they seek election.

Cheshire — Democrats on this Town Council are presently there by virtue of minority representation rules, since Republicans won impressively two years ago; hence, 7 of the 8 GOP council candidates are incumbents. Two major issues have arisen and will go forward: that artificial turf field for Cheshire High School and a replacement bubble for the Community Pool. On both issues, there was some division, but as much among Republicans as between them and Democrats. Board of Education contests this year are low key, and voters may choose any 4 of 5 candidates.

The most interesting outcome will be on a ballot question approving a $30 million bond authorization for a water treatment plant upgrade. This is a non-optional project, ultimately, but questions have been raised by Democrats about what level of state contribution can be expected, and lack of answers here could affect the outcome.

Southington — On the council, 8 of 9 members are seeking reelection, among them John Barry (who has not been afraid to speak out on difficult issues), Christopher Palmieri (who has successfully combined two leadership jobs in town) and Edward Pocock III (who has emerged as a strong leader). Among those who would be valuable assets on the council are Cheryl Lounsbury, a well-known and veteran player in Southington public life, and John Moise, who has worked hard for a number of years on town fiscal integrity.

Similarly, 7 of 9 incumbents are seeking new terms on the Board of Education, among them David Derynoski and Pat Johnson (who both have impressive veteran status on the board with an invaluable leadership and institutional memory), and Jill Notar-Francesco, Brian Goralski and Terri Carmody who has demonstrated solid guidance during this term. More important than individual members, who have generally proceeded with unity, will be voter choice on an $85 million bond authorization (less state contributions) for improvements to both middle schools. This work, virtually everyone in town agrees, is long overdue, so the question will be whether the commitment is too fiscally frightening to pass. We hope not, as it needs to be done.

Wallingford — Wallingford’s council election of nine members allows voters to choose any nine of the 12 running. Of nine incumbents, eight are seeking reelection: six Republicans and two Democrats, and they’ve been a reliable crowd. With Bob Parisi and Rosemary Rascati there is strong continuity, and with Craig Fishbein and Nick Economopoulos there is generally strong controversy, as both men are willing to stand up and be counted for their principles. Among those challenging incumbents this year are Don Harwood, a veteran public servant who did yeoman work as chairman of the School Building Committee during the extensive remodeling district-wide a few years ago, and Jason Zandri, whose enduring commitment to the community has led him to establish the “save the fireworks” fund with Fishbein, and to offer his commentary on these editorial pages for several years until his decision to run for council.

Wallingford’s Board of Education needs few words. The last two years have seen a strongly supportive group behind several major changes in the school system made by Superintendent Salvatore Menzo. Any of these changes could easily have proved damagingly controversial and divisive; that none did is due to Menzo’s abilities, of course, but also to the steadiness of board members. It’s significant that none of those challenging currently attack these changes, and so, in choosing which 9 of the 12 candidates to choose, we’d go strongly with incumbents.

Meriden — City Council elections offer a variety of candidates this year with three-way contests in three of the four council areas.
Highlights would be in Area 1, where Steve Iovanna has a lot to offer to Meriden. He is fully supportive of the new high school project, which needs to be supported strongly, and he is committed to improving downtown. Iovanna and Al Pronovost are vying for the seat being left by George McGoldrick. In Area 2, Matthew Dominello, a nineterm veteran on the council, is a man who knows how Meriden works and easily merits another four years in preference to his opposition, Josh Broekstra and Darnell Moss. In Area 3, incumbent Brian Daniels has done excellent work during his four-year term, especially in controlling the budget and committing to actions which improve Meriden’s financial position. In Area 4, Catharine Battista has excellent credentials to serve on the council which should make her a choice over her rivals Liz Whitney and Larry Kibner.

There are four candidates for the two at-large seats, foremost among them Kevin Scarpati, whose candidacy we are happy to support. He has youth going for him, of course, but he has done well in his two years on the Board of Education and his ideas will enliven the city council. The other three candidates are incumbents John Thorp and Walter Shamock and electoral newcomer David Lowell Meriden’s school board will elect four of five candidates, three of five incumbents: from the quality of them, the city cannot lose.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Nicholas Economopoulos

2011-11-02T17:22:00.001-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 62.

Address: 3 Woodmans Hill Road

Occupation: Retired.

Education: B.S., education, M.S., business education, Central Connecticut State University; M.S., educational administration, Southern Connecticut State University.

Platform: Develop goals for and improve management of town properties, including the creation of a buildings committee; conduct an efficiency study of town departments to find savings; do what's right above party and self.

Misc.: Seeking third council term; former business and accounting teacher at Lyman Hall High School; longtime high school girls' basketball coach; former Board of Education member.

FACEBOOK - Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum - November 14, 2011

2011-11-02T08:45:00.000-04:00

Question: Why should Wallingford spend upwards of $500,000.00 to improve private property at your expense? Answer: IT SHOULDN'T! On November 14th, Vote "YES" to Repeal the one-sided deal!

It’s your town – get informed, get involved and VOTE on November 14th

For more information see the Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum Facebook page or go to the 500K Private Parking Deal site.

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council John Sullivan

2011-11-01T17:40:00.001-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Age: 52.

Address: 62 Dutton St.

Occupation: AT&T Chief of Staff Connecticut/Columbus-Dayton, Ohio.

Education: Attended Middlesex Community College and the University of New Haven.

Platform: Maintain tax rate; support public safety and economic development; develop a five- to 10-year downtown revitalization plan; make local government more efficient and user-friendly through technology; ensure adequate funding for school board's strategic plan; work in a bipartisan manner to benefit the town.

Misc.: Seeking second council term; hosted One on One political talk show on cable TV. Produced local sports programming.

Website:http://re-electcouncilorsullivan.blogspot.com/

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Mayor Vincent Testa

2011-10-31T13:00:00.000-04:00

As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011

Vincent F. Testa (D)
Age: 51 Address: 15 East St.
Occupation: Mortgage broker.
Education: B.S., biology, Fairfield University.

Platform: Specific plan to target and recruit new businesses, including creation of clean energy research and development hub in industrial parks; improve technology and business operations in town government; restore paramedics and improve retention of police officers; share services between town and schools and improve public building maintenance to cut spending and ease tax burden; support schools' strategic plan.

Misc.: Town Council incumbent (fourth term) and minority leader; former Board of Education member; former substitute teacher at Dag Hammarskjold Middle School; pursuing teacher certification; board member Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Child Guidance Clinic and Yalesville Little League; Wallingford Education Foundation golf tournament committee member; Business Network International development ambassador.

Website: www.vinnietestaformayor.com
Facebook:www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Vinnie-Testa-for-Mayor/118934548181765
Email: vtesta@comcast.net

Walllingford - Final voter registration session set

2011-10-31T09:00:00.001-04:00

WALLINGFORD - Registrars of voters will conduct a final voter registration session from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday in Room 211 at the Town Hall.

After 5 p.m., voters are asked to enter the building by the automatic door at the rear left corner of the Town Hall and take the elevator to the second floor.

Registrants are required to appear in person. Voters wishing an absentee ballot are asked to contact the town clerk’s office for an application.

Completed forms are to be returned to the town clerk’s office.

“Even though I’m a Republican” Jason “has my 100% support”

2011-10-31T08:45:00.000-04:00

“I don’t always vote for the party – I always vote for the person”

Thanks for the support Kim – you rock.

(Tell your friends )

The Simpson Court Referendum - The difference between misinformation and outright lying

2011-10-27T21:34:00.001-04:00

Let’s first define “public parking”.

Public parking means using the lots to park your car where you do not patronize any of the adjoining businesses. You park your car in the lot and walk away from all the businesses in the area. You park and leave your car and carpool with someone else to go somewhere. That is public parking.

Parking in the lots and then going into one of the businesses – that is customer parking.

When you go to Target and park in the lot to go into the business you are leveraging customer parking. If you leave your car in the Target parking lot and go with someone into their car elsewhere you are leveraging that parking lot as if it were public parking and you could be towed in theory if they were enforcing that.

We are not discussing customer parking; that is not at issue. For these property owners to lease their spaces for people to establish businesses there they must provide some minimum level of owner, leaser, and / or customer parking.

Now onto the heart of the matter – public parking.

“135 Free PARKING SPACES”

Let’s all forget about the $500,000.00 the town is talking about investing into these private owners’ properties over the next 30 years for a moment.

On a year to year basis for DECADES the Town of Wallingford has been putting tax dollars into these properties and other private lots downtown on behalf of the tax payers in exchange for public parking use.

This has been mainly in the form of man hours from public works; plowing and sanding in the winter and other work throughout the year.

These actions and efforts have resulted in the expenditures of tax dollars.

That means these parking spaces have not been “FREE”.

With the decision as it currently rests from the vote of the Town Council, we are planning to enter into a 30 year lease with these private property owners where Wallingford will STILL be expending monies for regular maintenance and upkeep.

In addition to that, Wallingford will be investing, solely, up to $500,000.00 into period lighting, lot resurfacing, line repainting, other structural and integrity repairs without a single dime coming from any one of the four property owners.

How is this “135 Free PARKING SPACES”?

It is coming at the cost of tax dollars expended annually and other monies in lieu of taxes for capital expenditures.

How is this “135 Free PARKING SPACES”?

How is it that the main drivers of this and the Support Our Downtown movement are (primarily) our conservative leaders in town? The ones that will generally claim that they are fiscally responsible with our tax dollars. Where we cannot raise taxes to spend on this and that in this economy. They are the same ones that say that everyone is struggling and where the elderly who have gone without cost of living adjustments over the past couple of years cannot bare the burden of any higher taxes.

Where are all those fiscal conservatives these days?

That’s right – many of them are out there telling you to vote no and support the council’s decision to spend your tax dollars on this benefit. A benefit that the property owners will enjoy as equally as Downtown Wallingford will.

Without those property owners investing a single dime to the effort.

So you see folks the “FREE” in “135 Free PARKING SPACES” is just that for those four property owners in that all of this benefit they are getting for free.

Think about that before you go out to vote on election day Tuesday November 8th for who will represent you over the next two years

You will also need to think about whether the council decision should stand at referendum on Monday November 13th.

If you support the town investing the tax dollars in this manner then you will vote NO to maintain the Council’s decision to move forward.

If you are against this expenditure, where Wallingford foots the entire bill and the property owners spend nothing then you would need to vote YES to repeal the Council’s decision.

It’s your town – get informed and get involved.

One Week to Register to Vote for Municipal Elections on November 8th

2011-10-25T13:30:00.002-04:00

Press release from Secretary of the State Denise Merrill:

For Immediate Release: For more information:

October 25, 2011 Av Harris: (860) 509-6255

Cell: (860) 463-5939

-Press Release-

Merrill: One Week to Register to Vote for Municipal Elections on November 8^th

Secretary of the State Reminds Voters Registration forms Must be Postmarked by Today, In-Person Registration Deadline is 8:00 P.M. Tuesday November 1^st

Hartford: Secretary of the State Denise Merrill today is reminding Connecticut voters who wish to register by mail that voter registration forms must be postmarked no later than today in order to cast a ballot in the upcoming municipal elections on Tuesday November 8, 2011. Eligible voters who wish to register in-person may do so at their Registrar of Voters office until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 1^st to qualify for the Municipal Elections.

“The municipal elections to decide who will serve in some key decision making roles in your community are approaching very fast, so I urge adult citizens of Connecticut to make sure they are registered now,” said Secretary Merrill, Connecticut’s chief election official. “Crucial decisions on town and city budgets, schools, infrastructure and environmental policy are facing many towns in our state. Make sure you have a voice by registering to vote by next Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.”

Polls will open statewide from 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 8, 2011, when the majority of Connecticut’s municipalities will hold a General Election for municipal candidates. Absentee ballots are also available, voters can go online to www.sots.ct.gov to download an application for an absentee ballot or a voter registration card, see if they are registered and where their polling place is located and see the ballot for their town and city. Today is also the last day write-in candidates wishing to run in the Municipal elections can register with the Secretary of the State’s office. Registration forms for write-in candidates must be received by the Secretary of the State by 4:00 p.m. today.

Av Harris

Director of Communications

Connecticut Secretary of the State Denise Merrill

(860) 509-6255 ofc

(860) 463-5939 cell

av.harris@ct.gov

North Farms Co 7 Volunteer Fire Dept. Open House October 22nd

2011-10-21T08:30:00.001-04:00

North Farms Co 7 Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating 65 Years of Service at their Open House on October 22nd from 3pm to 6pm

Wallingford 2011 Elections - Q&A for candidates set at two forums this week

2011-10-19T08:30:00.001-04:00

This story originally ran in the Record Journal on Wednesday October 12, 2011 under the title “Q&A for candidates set at two forums next week”

In the instances where the article reads “next week” please remember that it will be referring to THIS WEEK Wednesday October 19 and Thursday October 20.

By Russell Blair
Record-Journal staff
rblair@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2225

WALLINGFORD — Voters will have a chance to hear candidates for mayor, Town Council and Board of Education at two candidate forums next week.

On Wednesday, council candidates will answer questions from students from Sheehan and Lyman Hall high schools and local reporters, with a similar forum Thursday for the mayoral and school board candidates. Both are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers.

The forums are being sponsored by the Wallingford Community Women.

“This gives people an opportunity to learn more about candidates,” member Jeanne McFarland said. “This is a chance to ask specific questions. It’s a more informal opportunity to get information.”

Republican Town Committee Chairman Robert Prentice said the forums are a valuable opportunity for candidates, too.

“This is a chance for everybody to say what they have to say,” Prentice said. “All the signs in the world don’t tell anybody about the candidates.”

The forums will be taped and broadcast on WPAA-TV in the weeks before the election.

Democratic Town Chairman Vincent Avallone said forums are good for newer candidates who aren’t familiar with the political process.

“For newer candidates, this makes a big difference,” he said.

Avallone said some candidates are nervous about being on television, but are excited to get their message across.

Prentice said he expects the entire Republican slate to be present both nights. Avallone said the only absence he was expecting was Valerie Ford, a school board candidate who has a work commitment.

McFarland said her organization — formerly the Wallingford Junior Woman’s Club — has helped run the event with the League of Women Voters before, but this year’s forum is the first time it has sponsored the event alone.

Candidates will be allowed two minutes to respond to questions from the panel. Each candidate will answer eight to 10 questions. At the end, each candidate will be allowed three minutes to summarize their platform.

The council forum is divided into segments, with Democratic candidates Nick Economopoulos, Don Harwood and Robin Hettrick and Republican candidates Vincent Cervoni, Craig Fishbein and Tom Laffin answering questions beginning at 7 p.m., and Democrats Debi Reynolds, John Sullivan and Jason Zandri joining Republicans John Le-Tourneau, Robert Parisi and Rosemary Rascati at 8 p.m.

Thursday’s forum will begin with school board Democrats Kathy Castelli and Jay Cei pairing up with Republicans Tanya Bachand, Michael Brooder and Christine Mansfield at 7 p.m., followed by David Leonardo, Patrick Reynolds and Michael Votto representing the Democrats, joined by Republicans Joe Marrone, Roxane McKay and Chet Miller at 8 p.m. The mayoral forum will follow at 9 p.m. with Democrat Vincent Testa Jr. and Republican Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr.

FROM WALLINGFORD – Hey kids, it’s time to show up

2011-10-19T08:30:00.000-04:00

As originally published in the Record Journal Sunday, September 27th, 2009

It was also cross posted to my personal blog – From the Mind of Jason Zandri

The item regarding the Charter Revision vote is out of date and no longer relevant but the rest of it as timely as it ever was.

According to some research I have done recently, in the 2008 Presidential election the number of Wallingford people registered to vote aged 18 to 30 that came out and voted was about 2,800.

For people aged 60 to 72 that number was a little more than 4,000.

Both age sets encompass a span of 12 years.

In 2008, 22,000 of the nearly 26,000 registered voters in Wallingford generated an 85 percent voter turnout rate.

In the 2007 local election the number of people aged 18 to 30 that came out to vote in Wallingford was about 500.

Of the nearly 4,200 people aged 18 to 30 that were registered to vote only 500 showed up—that is a paltry 12 percent.

For people aged 60 to 72 that number was about 2,800 out of 4,700 or 60 percent.

That is a total of 11,400 registered voters to yield the same 2,800 turnouts.

Let me say it again— you have to leverage 11,400 registered voters from the 18 to 47 demographic to get the same turn out number of people aged 60 to 72 where 2,800 out of 4,700 showed up.

2,800 people aged 60 to 72 out of 4,700 is 60 percent.

2,800 people aged 18 to 47 out of 11,400 is 25 percent.

I understand that the numbers in total drop below 50 percent for local elections; in 2007 voter turnout was 46 percent.

The reason for this is mainly due to the younger generation of people not showing up.

In a Presidential election you are casting your important vote among millions of others; in Wallingford it is one vote of about 12,000 or so.

There are many changes offered to the voters in the 2009 election from the incumbents that are running for office again to all the newcomers throwing their hats into the ring.

You as a voter directly get your say as you get the opportunity to vote “yes” or “no” to each of the proposed changes.

Democracy at its best— all you need to do is show up.

Article posted on Examiner.com

2011-10-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

Maggie DellaRocco - Griffin

Hartford Business Networking Examiner

Wallingford Resident Jason Zandri is running for Wallingford Town Council – 2011

Continue reading on Examiner.com

Wallingford Resident Jason Zandri is running for Wallingford Town Council - 2011 - Hartford business networking | Examiner.com

http://www.examiner.com/business-networking-in-hartford/wallingford-resident-jason-zandri-is-running-for-wallingford-town-council-2011#ixzz1abdYRlCV

Vinnie Testa for Mayor - Family Pasta Dinner and Campaign Rally

2011-10-13T08:29:00.001-04:00

Vinnie Testa for Mayor
Family Pasta Dinner and Campaign Rally

Thursday, October 13, 5:00-9:00

VFW Hall 23 Prince Street

$20 / $30 per couple

**Kids eat free! Bring the whole family. No need to cook. **

Please R.S.V.P. vtesta@comcast.net or 203-675-4079

I am planning to be there as well after 6PM – hope to see you there!

MY TAKE - Letter to the editor - A few facts

2011-10-11T08:30:00.000-04:00

Current Town Councilor Rosemary Rascati sent a letter to the editor of the Record Journal and it was published on Saturday October 8. The full letter is available on my Wallingford Politico blog.

Political letters to the editor after Labor Day are supposed to be limited to 100 words or less. By the paper’s own admission, an error was made allowing Rosemary’s piece to run at the 300 word standard limit.

I wrote a full reply to this submission that the paper will not publish; they admit the error and take full responsibility but they are going to continue to re-enforce the standard of 100 words or less for political letters and letters from candidates.

While I think an equal response is fair and warranted given the fact that an error was made on one side of the argument, I understand the paper’s position on trying to maintain the original intent of the directive of limiting political letters to 100 words or less.

I am going to work on my 100 word response but in the meantime my full response to this is posted below and an expanded version will be online at The Post-Chronicle as they allow for 500 word submission.

There have been numerous letters to the editor regarding the Simpson Court public parking situation downtown.

Over 3,000 people lent their signatures to the petition to force the referendum.

In order to make the referendum binding, yes or no, 20 percent of the registered voters need to vote. That would be 5,000 plus registered voters.

While it may be a minority it is not small; in the last local election only 37 percent of the registered voters showed up to vote.

Recently one writer to the paper indicated that the petitioners and subsequently the voters “forced a referendum on the Wooding/Caplan property” and, “Now they advocate that Wooding/Caplan be used for parking. Isn’t this a bit short-sighted since we may need it for a new police station? Or perhaps they will then suggest that the Town buy another lot.”
The voters “stopped” only the proposed plan at the time; the Council could have revisited and come up with another option that the public might have liked better but they chose instead to take no action.

If we are talking about “short-sighted since we may need it for a new police station” – the Council voted to sell it – if the referendum failed where would we be? The Council’s decision would have been done and Wallingford would be buying another lot.

Other comments were “In its present condition, should someone fall and be hurt (behind Simpson Court), the Town of Wallingford could be held liable” – this can also be applied to the Wooding-Caplan property where the town is the sole owner.

Get the facts; make up your own mind and then vote.

Vote for your representation on Tuesday November 8^th and then vote your option on the parking matter on Monday November 14^th

It’s your town – get informed, get involved and vote.

Celebrate Wallingford 2011 / Wallingford Fireworks Fund

2011-09-30T10:01:00.000-04:00

Celebrate Wallingford 2011 will be taking place TOMORROW Saturday October 1st -- 11AM – 7PM and Sunday October 2nd -- 12PM - 6PM at the Wallingford Railroad Station Green and along Hall Ave.

I know there will be some candidates there campaigning but I will not be one of them. I will be there both days collecting for the Wallingford Fireworks Fund and that will be it.

Democrat Headquarters at 62 Center Street will be open and I may stop there for a little while as I might have some help at the fund-raising booth for a brief period of time in the afternoon.

There might be the time for both but for me it is more important to get the needed jump start on the 2012 celebration as opposed to adding more juice to my campaign. As I need to, I can meet with people individually and in small groups in their neighborhoods; there are very few opportunities for me to reach this many Wallingford residents all in one shot for the Fireworks Fund.

Besides, if at this point I would think that the voters are well on their way to forming their opinions about me, how I might serve the town, and what my goals and aspirations for the town are. If I need to reinforce anything or further clarify for them I can always do this on a one to one basis.

Hope to see you at Celebrate Wallingford - thank you for the support over the past two years and I hope we can count on it again going forward.

MY TAKE - Citizens Against Private Parking Deal in Wallingford

2011-09-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

There is a new website at http://www.500kparkingdeal.com/ set up by the organizers of the petition drive.

On the site they have a lot of pertinent information, they cross post to the Wallingford Referendum Facts blog (which may or may not be their blog – I am not sure of the identity of the actual owners) and they have PDFs for the four lease proposals.

(I was going to post these myself but now that they are here I will simply cross reference. I will still put up the original lease since it appears to not be online there).

They also have a page there as to how you can help if that is something you wish to do.

I am in favor of overturning the decision of the Council on this and I will be voting “YES” on Monday November 14, 2011.

Bottom line and whatever your thoughts – it’s your town, get informed, get involved and VOTE at the local election on Tuesday November 8, 2011 and at the referendum on Monday November 14, 2011.

For or against the Council’s decision and the parking deal – make sure your voice is heard.

Wallingford Referendum Facts

2011-09-27T08:45:00.000-04:00

As provided on the Wallingford Referendum Facts blog, which “has been created so as to give the residents of the Town of Wallingford a fair and unbiased account of the facts behind the referendum taking place on November 14, 2011. Whatever your position, please take the time to vote on that day.”

This is NOT my own blog; as you may know I have four (two concerning Wallingford directly, one personal blog and a technology blog).

Bottom line – these are some great facts that will allow you to review the information and make up your mind between now and the November 14th referendum vote.

Over the next week I will be posting online all the leases, prior and proposed, so that people might get informed and make up their own mind.

Having said that as well, I am fully on the side to repeal the Council’s decision, but whatever your thoughts I agree with the blog creators:

”Whatever your position, please take the time to vote on that day” (November 14, 2011).

ELECTION 2011, IN THEIR OWN WORDS: Jason Zandri, Democrat for Wallingford Town Council

2011-09-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

As published in the Post-Chronicle on Tuesday September 20, 2011

By Jason Zandri

Wallingford has an envious track record over the past 25 years of both fiscal conservancy and better than average growth.

Both, together, have been a recipe for success. Each alone would have provided Wallingford for the ability to have some success but together they have allowed for us to be in the best possible scenario.

The problem is – those days are gone and doing “business” is no longer the same. It is coming under a whole new set of rules we are not prepared for.

“We can keep cutting services” and “people and businesses will always flock to Wallingford for the low electricity rates and the low taxes” doesn’t work anymore.

We are paying less than CL&P and UI customers but we are catching up to them. Since 2005 our electricity rates have doubled and they are going up even more; CL&P and UI have gone up as well but not by 100% as ours have.

At one point in time, electricity was a new technology coming onto the map; if the current administration was in place at the time the investment in the “fad” probably would have never taken place. We wouldn’t have our own electric division and the subsidized rates that we pay today.

That’s called spending to seek a positive return on investment - something we do not do today for the most part.

Our grand list fell last year. Yes there was a recession ending but every other surrounding town grew theirs even if just marginally.

We have no plan set as to how to address this other than more service cuts, belt tightening, shrinking subsidies and higher taxes – reactive efforts all.

We need to be more proactive.

I am running for Wallingford Town Council in November.

I plan to leverage what has worked well in the past – conservative, responsible and calculated spending of our tax dollars, and combine it in what must be done to succeed in the future; having a plan for operational maintenance and future growth and stability.

We must have new sources of revenue for the town beyond simply raising taxes. We have to go out to businesses and find out what is important to their success and figure out how we can help them meet their goals here in Wallingford.

We need to have a plan for proactive / strategic actions for the next 5, 10 and 20 years regarding operations and growth; not just what we are going to do for the next couple of years. We also need to actually execute on those plans.

I am available at Jason@Zandri.net for your questions and ideas and I want to hear from you. I have skill and experience on some things, everything else is going to come by leveraging what other people know better than me. That is important partnering with our skilled populace and another strength I feel I bring to the table.

Thank you for the consideration.

Please vote in November; it’s your town – get informed and get involved.

Celebrate Wallingford 2011 / Wallingford Fireworks Fund

2011-09-26T08:12:00.002-04:00

Celebrate Wallingford 2011 will be taking place Saturday October 1st -- 11AM – 7PM and Sunday October 2nd -- 12PM - 6PM at the Wallingford Railroad Station Green and along Hall Ave.

I know there will be some candidates there campaigning but I will not be one of them. I will be there both days collecting for the Wallingford Fireworks Fund and that will be it.

There might be the time for both but for me it is more important to get the needed jump start on the 2012 celebration as opposed to adding more juice to my campaign. As I need to, I can meet with people individually and in small groups in their neighborhoods; there are very few opportunities for me to reach this many Wallingford residents all in one shot for the Fireworks Fund.

Besides, if at this point I would think that the voters are well on their way to forming their opinions about me, how I might serve the town, and what my goals and aspirations for the town are. If I need to reinforce anything or further clarify for them I can always do this on a one to one basis.

Hope to see you at Celebrate Wallingford - thank you for the support over the past two years and I hope we can count on it again going forward.

Out putting up campaign signs

2011-09-25T18:07:00.001-04:00

It’s Sunday evening on the 25th and I am headed out for a ride with my kids to put up some lawn signs.

If you are willing to lend me a little bit of your front / side lawn please drop me a note Jason@Zandri.net or give me a call – (860) 614-6069.

Wallingford Democrat Town Committee meeting to be held TONIGHT Wednesday September 21, 2011 at 7:30PM

2011-09-21T07:30:00.000-04:00

The Wallingford Democrat Town Committee meeting is going to be held TONIGHT Wednesday September 21, 2011 at 7:30PM at Democratic Campaign Headquarters at 62 Center Street

This is the formal “grand opening” and the public is invited and welcome to attend.

Most of your Democrat candidates are expected to be on hand this evening.

Here is my flyer handout

2011-09-20T23:29:00.001-04:00

This is what I am going to be using as a hand out as I meet the voters in and around town.

Thoughts on the content and design?

If you don’t want to register to comment feel free to drop me a message at Jason@Zandri.net

Lawn signs are ready

2011-09-20T22:11:00.001-04:00

If anyone wants to lend the real estate in front of their home or business, I am looking for places to put up my signs as I run for a seat on the Wallingford Town Council.

Over the next few weeks I plan to do what I can to get out to talk to the voters.

I’ll be trying to go door to door as much as possible and do meet and greets when there are forums for it.

In the meantime, if you’d like to help out please feel free to drop me a note via email at Jason@Zandri.net or you can give me a call at 860 614 6069. Email is always going to be better – I have a computer nearby more often than my phone believe it or not.

‘Citizen Mike’ to host local candidates for the upcoming November election

2011-09-20T08:45:00.000-04:00

In the upcoming weeks on the public access Citizen Mike Show Mike Brodinsky will be interviewing candidates for the Town Council and Board of Education.

Brodinsky and Record-Journal Executive Editor Ralph Tomaselli also discuss the Simpson Court parking plan.

The show airs on cable Channel 18 at 9 p.m. every night, except Sunday. It can also be viewed on demand at wpaa.tv. Comments or suggestions can be sent to citizenmiketv@gmail.com.

If you can’t catch the show on TV you can catch it online on their Video On Demand page.

WALLINGFORD Ballot order released for November election

2011-09-15T16:45:00.001-04:00

The Registrar of Voters drew the names for placement on the November ballot today (September 15, 2011).

They are, as listed in order:

LINE ONE – DEMOCRAT – MAYOR / TOWN COUNCIL

Testa / Sullivan, Hettrick, Harwood, Zandri, D. Reynolds, Economopoulus

LINE ONE – DEMOCRAT – BOARD OF EDUCATION

Cei, Castelli, P. Reynolds, Leonardo, Ford, Votto

On line two are all the Republican Candidates:

LINE TWO – REPUBLICAN – MAYOR / TOWN COUNCIL

Dickinson / Fishbein, LeTourneau, Parisi, Rascati, Cervoni, Laffin

LINE TWO – REPUBLICAN – BOARD OF EDUCATION

Bachand, Miller, Brooder, Mansfield, McKay, Marrone

The only heads up race is for the office of Mayor; you can only choose one candidate from that column – Testa or Dickinson.

As far as the other groups – Town Council and Board of Education – you are permitted to vote for up to nine candidates for Town Council and up to nine candidates for Board of Education. It doesn’t matter who is above or below whom; all candidates are “at large” and serve the entire town so you can vote for as many or few as you like, regardless of position on the ballot (up to nine in total per group).

REMINDER–WALLINGFORD TOWN COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT

2011-09-13T16:30:00.000-04:00

Just a quick reminder that there is a town council meeting this evening.

I have the agenda posted in an earlier blog post.

There are a couple of important agenda items with respect to the downtown parking situation and the referendum:

10. Discussion and Possible Action on the Repeal of the Town Council’s resolution of August 9, 2011, approving Lease Agreements of the parking lots at 2-26 North Main Street, 36-40 North Main Street, 60 North Main Street and 48-50 North Main Street - Councilor Nick Economopoulos

11. Discussion and Possible Action on setting a date for a referendum vote on the repeal of the Town Council’s resolution of August 9, 2011, approving Lease Agreements of the parking lots at 2-26 North Main Street, 36-40 North Main Street, 60 North Main Street and 48-50 North Main Street – Councilor Nick Economopoulos

Barbara Thompson, Wallingford Town Clerk, has certified that there are enough signatures for force the referendum if the council doesn’t repeal their decision.

The letter went out to Town Council Chairman Parisi yesterday and can be found via this link.

Jason Zandri Wallingford Town Councilor

Information regarding the Incentive Housing Zone

This week in Wallingford

AGENDA - REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING–WALLINGFORD

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY

February 14, 2012

Councilors seek help with fireworks fundraising

Wallingford Requests for Tax Hearing

The Week Ahead in Wallingford

Wallingford Town Council - Swearing in Ceremony

Electronics recycling for local residents

Special movie showing to benefit Tara Monroe

Relay for Life plans fundraiser Saturday January 28

Wallingford VFW Post 9965 plans Friday dinner

Sheehan High School cheerleader fundraiser

FROM WALLINGFORD – Education is a bargain

The Mayor's follow up with the engineering department regarding Wooding-Caplan

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr celebration scheduled Monday

Wallingford Briefs - As published in the Record Journal

Live from the 01/12 Wallingford Town Council Meeting

AGENDA–WALLINGFORD REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

TOWN OF WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY

JANUARY 10, 2012

Swearing in ceremony - Wallingford Town Council Jan 2, 2012

Hope to see you tonight at the Swearing-in Ceremony

REMINDER - Special Town Council Meeting - Swearing In Ceremony

Lyman Hall and Sheehan bands still in running for Pepsi grant

Special Town Council Meeting - Swearing In Ceremony

Councilor-elect Zandri eager to begin his term in Wallingford

Pepsi Refresh Project: FINAL WEEK - Replace parts of 17 year old band uniforms at 2 Wallingford High Schools

Editorial Cartoon from the Record Journal, Sunday December 18, 2011.

POLL RESULTS - How much should the town be responsible for regarding Wallingford Center Parking?

Bagged leaf collection to begin in Wallingford

Police to residents: lock car doors

Last day for the poll - How much should the town be responsible for regarding Wallingford Center Parking?

Pepsi Refresh Challenge: we are back in first place. HELP KEEP US THERE.

This week in Wallingford

Pepsi Refresh – Let’s keep Wallingford’s schools at the top through 12/31

Pepsi Refresh Project - Replace parts of 17 year old band uniforms at 2 Wallingford High Schools – HELP KEEP US IN FIRST PLACE!

Open Mike with Michael Cuomo Wednesday November 30, 2011 (TONIGHT).

Wallingford board seeks parent input on school budget

3rd Annual Wallingford Emergency Shelter FUNraising Banquet

Thoughts, input–my letter to the editor, as published in the Record Journal

WALLINGFORD NOTICE OF REFERENDUM

OFFICIAL BALLOT Referendum WALLINGFORD, Connecticut November 14, 2011

Wallingford votes today on 30-year lease agreements

Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum November 14, 2011 VOTING LOCATIONS

Wallingford Final election results as published in the Record Journal

VOTING LOCATIONS listed incorrectly in the Sunday Edition of the Record Journal

The PAC for the “NO” vote is leveraging the Mayor.

Vote YES!NOVEMBER 14, 2011$$$ STOP PRIVATE PARKING DEAL $$$

Thank you

2011 Election Results from Wallingford

The unofficial counts from Democrat Headquarters

Election totals are coming in…

Vinnie Testa Candidate for Mayor of Wallingford

Jason Zandri Candidate for Wallingford Town Council

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

ELECTION DAY Locations to vote in Wallingford

FROM WALLINGFORD – Hey kids, it’s time to show up

From the Editorial Page of the Record Journal: Vote with confidence

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

Tomorrow, Tuesday November 8, 2011 is Election Day

Town of Wallingford – Historic Election results

Malloy extends voter registration deadline for the local elections to Monday, Nov. 7.

Public Information Meeting PROJECT 148-202 Design Plans and Improvements to Route 68 at Route 150

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Jay Cei

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Jason M. Zandri

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education David Leonardo

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Valerie N. Ford

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Michael Votto

Wallingford Ballot for the November 8th municipal election

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Robin M. Hettrick

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Patrick Reynolds

Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Debi Reynolds

Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places

Vote YES!
NOVEMBER 14, 2011
$$$ STOP PRIVATE PARKING DEAL $$$