ANNUAL REPORT of the TOWN OF SALEM CONNECTICUT 20072008

ANNUAL REPORT of the TOWN OF SALEM CONNECTICUT 2007/2008 Ruth Annabelle Cole-Chu December 1950 January 2009 The Town of Salem 2007/2008 Annual Report is dedicated to Ruth Cole-Chu for her service to Salem and her extended community. This Salem Annual Town Report is dedicated to Ruth Cole-Chu. Ruth lived at 300 Hartford Road, (Route 85) in Salem with her husband Leeland from December of 1984 until her death from cancer on January 7, 2009. Ruth loved the Town of Salem and her many, many friends here. Born in Hweili, China, Ruth was the fourth child of Baptist missionaries, George A. Cole, Jr., and Hannah Hunter Cole. Her mother died when she was six months old. With her three sisters and four brothers, Ruth was raised in New York, Pennsylvania and Oklahoma by her beloved father and stepmother, Winifred Wagner Cole. Ruth graduated from Wheaton College (Illinois) in 1972 with a B.A. in speech communications. She and Leeland Chu were married, and combined their names, in San Francisco, California in 1979. After years in business, she graduated from Golden Gate University School of Law in 1983 and moved to Connecticut, where she practiced law with Pepe & Hazard in Hartford and Cole-Chu & Cipparone in New London. She also worked briefly for Phillips Construction in Salem. Over the years, Ruth was a member of a Salem School Building Committee, the High School Study Committee, a Master Plan Funding Committee, the Library Board, and the Board of Education, which she chaired for about two years. She was a key participant in negotiating the Salem-East Lyme Cooperative Agreement concerning East Lyme High School. She was an area representative on the Board of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education. She also represented Salem on the 22-town Region 3 Forum for Quality and Diversity in Education, co-chairing its Steering Committee and its successful effort to adopt a Regional Plan for Educational Quality and Diversity. In 1995, she left the practice of law to become an education consultant and trainer. She was a Program Development Specialist for the Connecticut Education Association; a diversity trainer for the Connecticut Judicial Branch, the Anti-Defamation League, and the League of Women Voters’ Public Conversations about education projects and she also served as the Project Manager of Connecticut College’s Citizens’ Forum for Achieving Results in New London Public Schools (C-FAR). Ruth was prodigiously diligent and productive. She was a founder and, at the time of her death, Executive Director of one of Connecticut’s first charter schools, the Interdistrict School for Arts And Communication (ISAAC) in New London. In 1997, as consultant to a volunteer Board of Directors, Ruth recruited ISAAC’s faculty, students and staff, found and leased the school’s first site and procured all the necessary books, furnishings, equipment, and supplies to open the school in just five months after the State of Connecticut granted ISAAC its Charter. Ruth was committed and effective as an educator and a citizen, loyal and compassionate as a friend and a wife, and endlessly devoted and proud as a mother to three daughters, Emily, Hannah and Lily. She was as proud of Salem as Salem remains of her. ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE OFFICIALS OF THE TOWN OF SALEM AND Audit of Town Records from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS TOWN GOVERNMENT ELECTED TOWN OFFICIALS PUBLIC OFFICIALS Report of the First Selectman Town Clerk s Report Justices of the Peace Notary Publics Registrar of Vital Statistics Report Dog Fund Account Grant Funds Treasurer s Report Tax Collector s Report Board of Finance Planning and Zoning Commission Registrars of Voters Report Salem Free Public Library Salem Senior Citizens Assessor s Report Building Official s Report Health Director s Report Recreation Commission Report Inland Wetlands and Conservation Commission Report Salem Volunteer Fire Company Gardner Lake Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. Gardner Lake Authority APPENDIX I: Report of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Appendix II: Annual Financial Report for year ended June 30, 2008 1 2 4 7 8 16 17 18 18 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 26 27 27 28 29 29 30 31 32 41 TOWN GOVERNMENT The Salem Town Office Building is located at 270 Hartford Road (Route 85) in Salem. The office hours are: Monday – Wednesday Thursday Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Closed The First Selectman, Town Clerk, Treasurer, Assessor, and Tax Collector are available during regular office hours and at other times by appointment. The Building Department, located within the Town Office Building, maintains the following office hours: Monday Tuesday & Wednesday Thursday Friday 8:30 am to 1:00 pm 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 8:30 am to 1:00 pm 8:30 am to 1:00 pm 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Closed The Building Official, Sanitarians, Public Works Director, Town Planner, and Zoning and Wetlands Enforcement Officer are available during the Monday and Thursday evening hours. Please call the Town Office Building at 859-3873 for the hours of additional departments. The Salem Free Public Library is located at 264 Hartford Road, next to the Town Office Building. The hours of operation are: Monday - Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 12:00 Noon to 8:00 pm 10:00 am to 7:30 pm 12 :00 Noon to 6:00 pm 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Salem operates under a Chartered Selectman/Town Meeting form of government, which permits maximum participation of the registered voters and property owners. Most significant to this form of government is the adoption of the Annual Town Budget by referendum and approval by the Town Meeting of ordinances under which Salem is governed. Salem is your Town. The Town Meeting is the legislative body of the Town and your participation in the governing process is encouraged. 1 ELECTED TOWN OFFICIALS This Town Report covers Fiscal Year 2007/2008, however the following list of officials has been updated to reflect any significant changes that may have occurred prior to printing. Expiration dates of elective terms are noted in parentheses. Reports of Boards and Commissions were in most cases authored by the incumbent chair for FY 07/08. BOARD OF SELECTMEN Robert T. Ross, First Selectman (2009) – 2 yr. term James D. Fogarty (2011) – 4 yr. term Anne M. Krodel (2009) – 4 yr. term Robyn M. McKenney (2009) – 4 yr. term Richard Asafaylo (2011) – 4 yr. term TOWN CLERK AND REGISTRAR OF VITAL STATISTICS Patricia J. Crisanti (2009) TOWN TREASURER Kimberly A. Siebert (2009) TAX COLLECTOR Cheryl A. Philopena (2009) BOARD OF FINANCE William S. Weinschenker, Chairman (2013) Carole A. Eckart (2009) Janet S. Griggs (2009) George Householder (2011) Gregory M. Preston (2013) Georgia Pech, Alt. (2009) Kevin Freiert (2011) Sean Reith, Alt. (2008) Kevin T. Lyden, Alt. (2013) BOARD OF EDUCATION Michael J. Siebert, Chairperson (2009) Robert M. Green, Vice Chairperson & Secretary (2009) Dinis Pimentel, Treasurer (2009) Christopher LaRose (2009) Susan Nikirk (2009) Pamela Munro (2013) Donna Jeanne Sanfilippo (2011) Linda Robson (2013) Daniel Kung (2009) 2 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION Hugh E. McKenney III, Chairman (2009) Gloria Fogarty, Vice Chairperson (2009) Ruth Savalle, (2009) Frank Abetti (2009) Richard Dalkowski (2009) Vacancy, Alt David B. Bingham (2011) Karen H. Buckley (2013) Arthur Winakor, Alt (2009) Vacancy, Alt ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Leeland J. Cole-Chu, Chairperson (2011) Rebecca A. Nortz (2011) Shirley W. Diamond (2009) Gale Balavender, Alt. (2009) Vacancy, Alt Kathryn L. Bellandese (2013) Michael P. Mullin (2009) Sandra K. Kozlowski, Alt. (2009) REGISTRAR OF VOTERS Susan Spang (D - 2010) Kathryn L. Bellandese, Deputy Patricia Rodriquez (R - 2010) Pamela R. Munro, Deputy LIBRARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS Judith A. Rabe, Chairperson (2009) Elizabeth Householder (2011) Michelle Guertin (2009) Roberta M. Ziegra (2013) Phillip G. James, Jr. (2011) Anne W. Bingham (2009) BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS Robert M. Green, Chairperson (2009) Lewis J. Buckley (2009) Terrell Ann Patterson (2011) 3 PUBLIC OFFICIALS Administrative Asst. Finance/Personnel ----------Virginia Casey Finance Assistant------------------------------Susan Spang Administrative Asst. Land Use/Commissions---- Doris A. McTigue Agent for the Elderly ---------------------------------Susan Spang Animal Control Officer ------------------------------ William Martin Assessor ------------------------------------------------Norman Wood Assessor's Clerks --------------------------------------Deborah Copp Johnson -----------------------------------------------------------Dan Killeen Assistant Tax Collector-------------------------------Necia Stevens Assistant Town Clerks-------------------------------- Philip G. James, Jr. -----------------------------------------------------------Lindsey K. Chester Building Department Clerk --------------------------Holli E. Pianka Building Inspector ------------------------------------Vernon D. Vesey II Democratic Town Committee Chairman ---------Leeland J. Cole-Chu Director of Civil Preparedness ----------------------Donald W. Bourdeau, Jr. Fire Inspector------------------------------------------Jeffrey W. Standish Fire Marshal -------------------------------------------Donald W. Bourdeau, Jr. Deputy Fire Marshal-------------------------- Roy E. Shafer, Jr. First Selectman’s Administrative Assistant. -------Doris A. McTigue Health Director----------------------------------------Robert W. Powitz Judge of Probate -------------------------------------- John W. Butts Municipal Historian ----------------------------------- Deanna St. Jean Purchasing Agent--------------------------------------Robert T. Ross Republican Town Committee Chairman ----------Edward Chmielewski Resident State Troopers------------------------------ Kevin Seery -----------------------------------------------------------Jack Samataro Sanitarian -----------------------------------------------N. Reed Gustafson Sanitarian Assistants ----------------------------------Vacancy Superintendent of Schools---------------------------Dr. Donna P. Leake Town Planner------------------------------------------ Mary Ann Chinatti Tree Warden -------------------------------------------Robert T. Ross Zoning and Wetlands Enforcement Officer ------Mary Ann Chinatti 4 APPOINTED TOWN OFFICIALS INLAND WETLANDS & CONSERVATION COMMISSION George A. Ziegra (2011) Chairman William (Eric) Belt (2011) Vice chairman Diba A. Khan-Bureau (2010) Secretary Sally H. Snyder (2012) Linda S. Wildrick (2014) William Leuck (2014) Gale J. Balavender, Alt. (2014) Roger Phillips (2012) Edward Natoli, Jr., Alt. (2013) Vacancy, Alt CIVIL PREPAREDNESS Donald W. Bourdeau, Jr. Director Roy E. (Ed) Shafer, Jr. Ralph Boles Charles (Chip) Weston Jeffrey Miller Susan Spang Vivian Miller RECREATION ASSOCIATION Robert Appleby Pamela Henry Alfonso N. Giansanti RECREATION COMMISSION Susan Spang, Chairperson (2011) Richard Cirillo, Secretary (2012) James W. Burke (2010) Alfonso N. Giansanti (2014) Joseph S. Dalton (2010) Peter Lee (2013) Pamela Henry (2013) Robert Appleby (2014) Robert (Kim) Bingham (2014) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION Frank Sroka, Chairperson (2013) Dana Abetti (2013) George Householder, Alt. (2013) David Kennedy (2013) Sean T. Reith (2012) Joe Duncan (2012) Lawrence Stevens, Alt. (2013) 5 FIRE POLICE Salvatore T. Crisanti, Captain Ralph Boles Brian Cinea Antonio (Tony) Crisanti Patricia Crisanti Sean O’Brien SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL PLANNING Richard Dalkowski David Bingham, Alt. SALEM GREEN CEMETERY David Wordell, President Charlene Clancy, Vice President Catherine Teel, Treasurer Pastor Tim Dubeau, Sexton Delaphine Hatch Helen Woronik, Sec. & Historian Gertrude Miller GARDNER LAKE AUTHORITY Lawrence B. Harrington Helen A. Zaleski Robert J. Neddo ROUTE 11 AND GREENWAY POINT PERSONS Peter Sielman Robert Ross SOUTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT WATER ADVISORY BOARD Leeland Cole-Chu, Chairman Larry Reitz EASTERN CONNECTICUT REGIONAL TOURISM BOARD Charles Moran 6 Report of the First Selectman The Town of Salem engaged several strategic planning initiatives and programs to improve public administration from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. Responding to resident concerns for elderly persons living on fixed incomes, the Board of Selectmen appointed a committee to study and propose increases to the local option municipalities have to provide tax relief to elderly residents. The committee’s recommendations were ultimately approved by a Town Meeting and provided additional property tax abatement for eligible residents. At their regular meeting on March 4, 2008, the Board of Selectmen appointed a Town Building Committee to organize a Salem School Renovation project. This committee reviewed the Board of Education studies and is proceeding with a renovation project to be presented to residents in the fall of 2009. The Town hired a Finance Specialist in April to provide more professional oversight of financial matters. This additional expertise along with upgrades to the Town’s integrated financial software will improve finance operations and accountability. The Town successfully negotiated a three-year contract with the Public Works bargaining unit. This contract features an improvement to their retirement plan. It includes an additional 1% match option for employees each year of the contract. This will ultimately create a better retirement plan for all employees in the bargaining unit, based on both employee and Town contributions. The Town was awarded a $250,000 Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant for improvements required at the Transfer Station. This grant will enable the Town to comply with the Department of Environmental Protection regulations. The Town began negotiations with Virtual Town Hall (VTH) to create a new website and e-mail service. The contract with VTH enabled the Town to comply with new state statutes mandating the posting of minutes on municipal websites within seven (7) days. The new e-mail system provides much more capacity than the previous system, allows for remote access and improves online security. The Salem Economic Development Commission began an initiative to revitalize Salem Four Corners by asking the Connecticut Department of Transportation to study a modern roundabout to improve public safety and better manage high traffic volumes created by the delay in completing Route 11. Formal design will precede construction expected to begin in 2012. The EDC is also engaging local businesses to partner with the Town to improve the economic operations of the Four Corners business district. Robert T. Ross, First Selectman 7 Town Clerk’s Report The following monies were received in various receipts by the Town Clerk and turned over to the Town Treasurer on a weekly basis for the Fiscal Year 2007/2008: Funds to the State Historic Pres. Recordings Conveyance Taxes Copies Maps Recorded Map Copies Sports Licenses Miscellaneous Total $31,439.00 $2,168.00 $58,859.39 $6780.00 $550.00 $1542.00 $448.00 $661.11 $100,279.50 Farm Pres.* Town Clerk’s Historic Pres. $1,084.00 Farm Pres.* $1,084.00 Town Farm Pres. Gen Fund.* $2,338.00 $28,184.00 $146,043.00** $9,494.00 **(Includes $17,155.00 in Farm and Forest Penalties (July 31, 2007 Report) *(Public Act 05-228 instituted (October, 2005) a new fee of $30.00 for each document recorded on the Land Records of a municipality. Of this amount, $4.00 is to be retained by the Town or City ($3.00 to the Town and $1.00 to the Clerk) and $26.00 is to be paid to the State Treasurer for the State’s Land Protection, Affordable Housing and Historic Preservation Account. Town Clerks are required to remit the state’s share of the fees collected each month to the State Treasurer by the 15th day of the following month.) Upon comparing receipts for the Fiscal Years 2006/2007 and 2007/2008, there was an overall increase in the amount of $191.13 for this past year. The largest increase was in Conveyance Taxes ($1255.78) followed by Miscellaneous ($387.11). The only other increase was in Maps Recorded ($170.00). The largest decrease in revenues was from Recordings ($1531.00) followed by Copies ($51.51), Sport’s Licenses ($37.00) and Maps Copied ($2.25). Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk 8 Special Town Meeting July 25, 2007 Salem Town Office Building 270 Hartford Road Salem, CT 06420 Meeting called to order at 7:30 P.M. by R. Larry Reitz, First Selectman. Moderator: Atty. John Butts M/S/C (Chip Dye/Sal Crisanti) Clerk: Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk The Clerk read the Posting Notice and Warning and noted that both had been duly posted and published in the Legal Section of The Day newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Salem. • Consider/Act on the formation of a Building Committee for the School Water Project. John Butts took the floor and stated, “The only item then for consideration this evening is nonmonetary so there is no referendum required. We do have a school water improvement project underway that requires an Equipment and Building Committee. Is there someone here to make a motion to authorize the Board of Selectmen to appoint said building committee? M/S/C (Peter Sielman/Sal Crisanti) Mr. Sielman has made a motion to authorize the Board of Selectmen to appoint a building committee for the present Salem School Water Project. There was no discussion on the project as no hands were raised. By a voice vote, the AYES have it. • Consider/Act on other business, which may come before the meeting. There was no other business to come before the meeting. M/S/C (Chip Dye/Sal Crisanti) Motion made to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:35 P.M. 9 Special Town Meeting November 28, 2007 Salem Town Office Building 270 Hartford Road Salem, CT 06420 Meeting called to order at 7:32 P.M. by Robert T. Ross, First Selectman. Moderator: M/S/C (Jim Fogarty/Peter Sielman) Attorney John J. Butts, Esq. Clerk: Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk The clerk read the Posting Notice and Warning and noted that both had been duly posted and published in the Legal Section of The Day newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Salem. John Butts: “There is only one item on the agenda tonight. It is my understanding, which is limited, this involves endorsing an application to the State for a grant which will enable the Council of Governments to view a Geographical Information System which will digitize and provide a data bank on a regional basis considering land use in all the towns in the region. It is my understanding it will not cost the town anything. If the grant is received, the work will be done and all the information will be made available to the participating towns free of charge. I do know that as our Planning and Zoning Commission moves forward with future applications, that much of the information for future land use must come in, in digitized form. So once this data base is prepared future activations will be able to merge seamlessly with the overriding databases. It is a freebie. The catch is the majority of towns that build the council have to endorse the proposal in order for the State to give us the grant. The resolution that is going to ask to be adopted is uniform throughout the region. M/S/C (Peter Sielman/Sal Crisanti) John Butts, “In order to put this on the table for discussion, would someone care to move: “The Town of Salem endorses the application of the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments for a grant to establish a Web Based Regional Geographic Information System, submitted to the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management under the Regional Performance Incentive Program referenced in Section 8 of Public Act 07-239.” Words in support of the motion and any questions or concerns about the motion are requested at this time. Hugh McKenney stated that information from the Town Planner and information from people in the audience was received by the Planning and Zoning Commission and that the P&Z voted last night to support the resolution going forward at the town meeting. Hearing no more questions….the vote proceeded. John noted that all in attendance were qualified voters/electors of the town of Salem. By a show of hands, the vote to endorse the resolution was taken with the following results. There were 27 for and Zero against. The motion was carried. M/S/C (Jim Fogarty/Gloria Fogarty) Motion made to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:39 P.M. 10 Special Town Meeting February 13, 2008 Salem Town Office Building 270 Hartford Road Salem, CT 06420 Meeting called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Robert T. Ross, First Selectman. Moderator: Town Attorney, John Butts M/S/C (Jim Fogarty/Jim Savalle) Clerk: Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk The Clerk read the Posting Notice and Warning and noted that both had been duly posted and published in the Legal Section of THE DAY newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Salem. 1. Consider/Act on the acceptance of Syleo Lane as a Salem town road. (John Butts) “The first item is one that we haven’t had to do for several years being the acceptance of a new town road. It is my understanding that the road is in the New Forsyth Road Subdivision approved by the Salem Planning and Zoning Commission. The procedure is that after the road is approved by the planning and zoning commission, a performance bond is posted with the town. It is constructed according to town standards. The matter is than sent to the Board of Selectmen to be brought to a Town Meeting for a town vote. That being said, would someone care to make a motion to approve Syleo Lane as a town road?” M/S/C (Arlene Winakor/Robyn McKenney) Motion made to accept/approve Syleo Lane as a town road in the Town of Salem. All those in favor of accepting Syleo Lane say aye. All those opposed, say nay. The AYES Have it. The motion passed. 2. Consider/Act on the adoption of a revised House Numbering Ordinance. (John Butts) “The second item is an amendment to our original house numbering ordinance which I remember was in 1985. Salem originally had RFD #’s and Post Office boxes. With the adoption of 911 as an emergency response system there was a necessity of pinpointing people’s houses and so a particularly charitable group of people put together a list of every property in town by numbering every 25 foot spot on every road in town to come up with street numbers so emergency responders could locate fires. The Ordinance was adopted in 1985 assigning numbers to houses. One area of concern has been shared driveways where, if you turn off a shared road responders need to find the right house. We are proposing an addition to the town ordinance, which will read: Note: “Whenever a driveway leading to a house or building is off a common driveway, the owner or occupant of the numbered house/building shall affix and maintain, in a conspicuous place at the interconnection of the individual driveway with the common driveway, the number that will identify the address as that assigned by the House Numbering System.” M/S/C (Jim Fogarty/Jim Savalle) Motion was made to approve the amendment to the House Numbering Ordinance. All in favor of the amendment please say aye. All those opposed please say nay. The AYES have it. Motion passed. M/S/C (Bob Ross/Arlene Winakor) Motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:41 P.M. 11 Special Town Meeting February 27, 2008 Salem Town Hall 270 Hartford Road Salem, Connecticut 06420 Meeting called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Robert T. Ross, First Selectman. Moderator: Attorney John Butts, Esq. (M/S/C Bill Weinschenker/Georgia Pech) Clerk: Patricia J. Crisanti The Clerk read the Posting Notice and Warning and noted that both had been duly posted and published in the Legal Section of THE DAY newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Salem. John Butts stated, “the charge tonight is to charge a committee to report back to a town meeting one year from now. The reason this has to be brought to a town meeting, is because ultimately, when this gets to the point of requiring bonding, there has to be an underlying action by the legislative body to create the committee in the first place and because the committee may last for a little over a year, we don’t want to have to call a town meeting if someone resigns or in order to keep the committee going. We wish to have a motion out tonight to authorize the Board of Selectmen to appoint a committee. (M/S/C Bob Ross/William Leuck) John read the motion to be voted on at this meeting. As Stated: “We move to authorize the Board of Selectmen to appoint a Building Committee, not to exceed nine members, for Renovations at the Salem School, and to fill any vacancies that may occur on said committee. The Building Committee shall have the following charge: 1. Review all recent ideas, materials and presentations produced by the Board of Education Facilities Committee, (including Architect’s Report and Facilities Study Education Specifications) regarding options and requirements for the renovation of Salem School. Complete this review by March 31, 2008. 2. Present initial Findings and Recommendations to the Boards of Selectmen and Finance. Deliver findings no later than April 30, 2008. 3. Present a project funding and timeline plan of action by October 2008. 4. Solicit and review bids, and develop options and alternatives for presentation to a Town Meeting in April 2009.” There was no discussion as there were no questions asked after invitation. After a voice vote of Ayes and Nays, the vote passed with a majority of Ayes. (M/S/C Jim Fogarty/William Leuck)That being the only business coming before the meeting, a motion was made to adjourn at 7:36 P.M. 12 Town of Salem May 7, 2008 Annual Town Meeting-Budget Gardner Lake Volunteer Fire Co. 429 Old Colchester Road, Salem, Connecticut 06420 Meeting called to order at 7:05 P.M. by Robert T. Ross, First Selectman. Moderator: Leeland Cole-Chu M/S/C (Bob Green/Janet Griggs) Clerk: Patricia J. Crisanti The Clerk read the Posting Notice and Warning and noted that both had been duly posted and published in the Legal Section of The Day newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Salem. Bob Ross made note that the Annual Report which is usually available at the Annual Town Meeting, was still at the printer and was not available. First item of business: 1) Consider/Act on the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2008/2009: General Government Capital Board of Education TOTAL $ 3,177,856 $1,032,719 $10,077,593 $14,288,168 Bill Weinschenker gave an overview/comparison of this year’s and last year’s budgets. The Board of Finance did make some adjustments in the Budget after the Public Hearing. The General Government budget shows a decrease of about $300,000 over last year’s proposal. The Board of Education’s proposal is about $300,000 more over last year. And the Capital budget shows an increase of about $490,000 over last year. That represents a total over last year’s budget of $ 487,000, which are roughly 3 ½ %. The Board of Finance has not yet set a Mill Rate because that cannot be done until after the Referendum. They have discussed what a “target” Mill Rate would be based on this budget if it is approved. The undesignated fund balance over the last few years has continued to grow. The BOF has discussed the use of that undesignated fund balance in this budget year. The amounts they were considering have been around $300,000 or $400,000 coming out of the undesignated fund balance in order to offset some of the increases particularly in the Capital line item. The tax rate would increase about ¼ to ½ Mill. That would mean with a 22.75 Mill Rate, ¼ Mill would mean an increase if 1.1% or ½ Mill would mean like a 2.2% increase. Therefore on a $1000 tax bill last year, if the Mill Rate does go up ½ Mill that would mean an additional $22.00 per every $1000 paid in taxes last year. This year’s collectable Mill is about $415,000. Peter Sielman asked how much the grand list grew from last year. The grand list grew a little less than 1%, per Bill. Last year’s collectable Mill was $412,000 as compared to this year’s. Bruce Kirk stated that if the budget as presented includes a debt of principal and interest paid out in the amount of $423,000. Is it true that if you exclude this non-operating item the town’s actual operating budget went up by 5.4%? Bill W. responded, “Yes, that’s about right.” Jim Fogarty asked the balance of the undesignated fund and how much we could take out without affecting our 13 bond rating. Bill stated that right now the balance is about $1.9M. That is at the high end of what the auditor’s recommend you keep to maintain that bond rating. But they do caution, the Auditor’s don’t like to see large changes in the fund balance in one particular year. If you are going to use the fund balance to the lower end of the rate they recommend you do it over a period of several years. Lee Cole-Chu stated that we would proceed to go through the whole budget document, page by page. There were no questions or comments raised. Sal Crisanti asked if the ground maintenance line item was for the school and the town buildings. Don Bourdeau stated that it was just the Town Hall and all town owned buildings. Peter Sielman wanted to know from Bob Ross if the town was locked into a rate for fuel oil? Bob stated no. Dick Asafaylo asked if the Open Space Acquisition fund could still have a balance of $1.00 to keep the line item open. Bill Weinschenker stated that the line item would stay open for at least 3 years with a zero balance. Sal Crisanti questioned why the school came under the town’s Capitol expenses. Lee stated that it was his understanding that they appeared under this line item repeatedly, it was nothing new. Norman Rabe questioned why the Public school grants line was at zero. Bill stated that the line item was for the School Building fund grant which was paid off. No questions were raised regarding the Capitol Plan. Lee continued on to the Board of Education budget next and proceeded page by page. All parts of the budget were reviewed. M/S/C (Jim Fogarty/Robyn McKenney) Motion was made (though no longer needed due to charter) to adjourn the town meeting to a referendum vote by paper ballot to take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. for a “Yes” or “No” vote on the total budget at the Salem Town Office Building, 270 Hartford Road. M/S/C (Bob Green/Jim Savalle) Motion to approve the Capitol Plan. No questions or comments were raised. Capitol plan approved by Voice Vote. Jim Fogarty praised all involved members with making and putting together the budget. 2) Item #2 Consider/Act on a proposal to conduct at least one (1) but no more than three (3) virtual Town Meetings during the next two (2) fiscal years, to demonstrate the potential of electronic participation in Town Meetings. M/S/C (Robyn McKenney/Anne Krodel) “Whereas the Town of Salem wishes to explore the potential for electronic or “virtual” participation in town meetings, be it resolved that the Town of Salem shall, between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2010, conduct at least one but not more than three town meetings which shall feature electronic participation by electors and citizens qualified to vote in the Salem Town Meeting. The dates, times, locations, agenda items and mode(s) of electronic participation shall be established by the Board of Selectmen.” 14 Peter Sielman was asked to summarize this proposal by Moderator Lee Cole-Chu. “What this means basically is that people in town will be able to participate in town meetings from their homes. They are planning to have several “mock” town meetings before actually going live. If they succeed in doing this, getting more participation from the town’s people, this will basically be a first. If it is successful, other towns may want to follow suit and copy it. The Republican and Democratic town committees have offered to help in the mock town meetings. Greg Preston asked, “What media would be used, whether it is the internet, cable etc.” He also wanted to know what the cost would be to the town. Approximately 60% of the town has cable per Peter. There is no cost for the experiment at this time Peter stated. Motion was made to approve the proposal for virtual Town Meetings. Motion passed by a positive Voice Vote. 3) Item #3 Consider/Act on other business, which may come before the meeting. Cheryl Philopena, Tax Collector, presented tax abatements for 2007-2008 – The Board of Selectmen approved $4980.00 in partial tax abatements for eight residents, due to miscalculations in the Assessor’s office. The miscalculations were associated with elderly tax relief as authorized by state and local option tax relief programs. The miscalculations, and subsequent additional tax bills, were deemed to create a hardship for senior citizens living on fixed incomes, due to no fault of their own. Rich Amato asked, “At one of the last town meetings wasn’t it requested that the Assessor’s salary be cut in half because of the amount of errors that had been found in the office.” Per Bob Ross, “You can’t just go in and cut someone’s salary, there have to be justifications.” There was no other business brought before the meeting. M/S/C (Sal Crisanti/Bobbie Ziegra) Motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:10 P.M. 15 Justices of the Peace The following Justices of the Peace took the Oath of Office and are qualified to serve the term from January 03, 2005 to January 05, 2009: Name Street Phone Party Term Term Begins Ends Alligood, Gary H. 127 Hartford Road 859-1779 R 1-3-05 1-5-09 Balavender, Gale J. 78 Forest Drive 859-2174 R Bingham, Anne Carr 42 Round Hill Road 859-4381 R Bourdeau, Donald W., Jr. 345 Old Colchester Road 859-3189 D Buckley, Karen H. 15 Corrina Lane 859-3705 D Buckley, Lewis J. 15 Corrina Lane 859-3705 D Butcher, Thomas J. 248 Norwich Road 859-1012 D Butts, Betsy B. 376 Hartford Road 859-0788 D Butts, Josiah T. 376 Hartford Road 859-0788 D Carroll, Richard S. 25 Chester Court 859-0272 R Cikatz, Mary N. 29 Corrina Lane 859-3237 D Clancy, Charlene E. 40 Lakeview Drive 859-0339 D Cole-Chu, Leeland J. 300 Hartford Road 859-0059 D Cole-Chu, Ruth 300 Hartford Road 859-0059 D Crisanti, Salvatore T. 195 Old New London Road 859-2158 D Diamond, Shirley W. 249 Darling Road 859-1749 D Dimitri, James R. 131 Skyline Drive 859-1618 D Dye, Charles (Chip) S. 394 Old New London Road 859-1005 D Edwards, Mary J. 410 West Road 859-0611 D Fogarty, James D. 373 Old New London Road 859-0108 D Griggs, Janet S. 122 New London Road 859-2041 D Hatch, Delaphine E. 130 Music Vale Road 859-1753 R Kollman, Mary L. 390 Darling Road 859-3036 D Len, Kristina M. 420 Hartford Road 859-1700 D 6-1-05 Maiorano, Eugene R. 799 West Road 859-0558 D Maiorano, Marcella C. 799 West Road 859-0558 R McKenney, Hugh G. III 33 Woodland Drive 886-7242 D Nikirk, Gerald E. Sr. 30 Morgan Road 887-3114 R Nortz, Michael F. 161 Witter Road 859-2207 D Nortz, Rebecca A. 161 Witter Road 859-2207 D Ploszaj, Joseph J. 33 Rattlesnake Ledge Road 859-0572 D Quatroche, Mary 32 Fawn Run 859-3374 R Rowthorn, Anne 17 Woodland Drive 859-3377 D 5-5-05 Sabowski, MaryAnne 81 Valley Drive 859-3556 D Schroeder, Linda K. 490 East Haddam Road 859-3520 D Shapere, Alfreda B. 170 Darling Road 859-1760 D Sielman, Ann Stoddard 369 West Road 859-3848 D Sielman, Peter F. 369 West Road 859-3848 D Spang, Susan G. 129 Hartford Road 859-2048 D Sroka, Frank P. 232 West Road 859-1577 R Standish, Holly 799 West Road 859-0558 D Standish, Jeffrey W. 799 West Road 859-0558 D Stevens, Lawrence J. 56 Harris Road Extension 859-0876 D Teel, Hugh C. 260 Norwich Road 859-1142 R Thill, Thomas R., Jr. 95 Beckwith Hill Drive 859-7558 R Vasquez, Carol A. 11 Center Street Unit #16 859-2421 D Vesey, Vernon D. II 47 Skyline Drive 859-1249 D 4-29-05 Weinschenker, Denise M. 99 Music Vale Road 859-0441 D Winakor, Sylvia 470 Forsyth Road 859-0471 R Zaleski, Helen A. 350 Old Colchester Road 859-0882 D Ziegra, Roberta M. 9 Shingle Mill Road 859-0609 D Republicans: 13; Democrats: 40; Total: 53 (Salem can have a maximum of 217 Justices of the Peace and a minimum of 15.) 16 Notary Publics Name Alfonso, Diane M. Aube, Real C. Babcock, Dianne T. Benjamin, Theresa Boutin, Elizabeth D. Brick, Marion Butts, Betsy B. Castleberry, Carey R. Champion, Barbara Crisanti, Patricia J. Cuadro, Rosemarie D. Dubois, Sandra J. Dye, Charles (Chip) S. Ferris, Heidi C. Fleming, Elizabeth M. Fradette, Garrett M. Galloway, Joyce E. Gianni, Michelle, M. George, Nancy M. Gray, Jackie Harrington, Lawrence B. Henry, James H. Huhtala, Janet A. Jessop, Robert M. Johnson, Andrew Johnson, Ruth E. Kaika, Valerie A. Kennedy, Lillian Kodym, Patricia L. Lecce, Jody A. Legnos, Jacqueline N. Lindo, Jennifer McTigue, Doris A. (Thompson) Menitz, Constance H. Merriman, Eva M. Moore, Barbara S. Mullin, Donald B. Muratore, April A. Natiello, Deborah Neumann, Lori B. Nortz, Michael F. O’Brien, John J. O’Brien, Rosemary Parrish, Gale A. Pearl, Jennifer, D. Philopena, Cheryl A. Shkutzko, Barbara Simmons, Lyn Singh, Amandeep Slota, Sheila Swider, Sandra D. Taylor, Janet L. Thill, Nancy K. Thomas, Marie A. Address 295 Rattlesnake Ledge Road 90 Way Road 27 Parker Drive, East Lyme 21 Sullivan Road 85F Horse Pond Road 739 Hartford Road 376 Hartford Road 190 Gungy Road (moved) 496 Norwich Road 195 Old New London Road 149 Forsyth Road 97 Mill Lane 394 Old New London Road 15 Fairy Lake Road 715 Old Colchester Road 22 Skyline Drive 306 Old Colchester Road 254 West Road 4 Salem Ridge Drive 235 Buckley Road 306 Old Colchester Road 21 Skyline Drive 245 Buckley Road 262 Norwich Road 50 Sullivan Road 62 Valley Drive 9 Cedar Hill Lane 330 Round Hill Road 113 Sullivan Road 521 Old Colchester Road 101 Witch Meadow Road 37 Forest Drive 131 Latham Drive, Griswold 142 Way Road 106 Witch Meadow Road 62 Forest Drive 46 Skyline Drive 43 Buckley Road 172 Old Colchester Road 519 Norwich Road 161 Witter Road 77 Skyline Drive 77 Skyline Drive 20 Bayberry Place 43 Salem Ridge Drive 309 Rattlesnake Ledge Road PO Box 82, Colchester 336 New London Road` 215 Old Colchester Road 631 West Road 59 Mill Lane 660 Old Colchester Road 95 Beckwith Hill Drive 50 Buckley Road 17 Term 03/01/2005 – 02/28/2010 06/01/2004 – 05/30/2009 08/02/2004 – 08/31/2009 07/06/2006 – 07/31/2011 09/01/2005 – 08/31/2010 09/01/2004 – 08/31/2009 12/01/2004 – 11/30/2009 10/03/2006 – 11/30/2011 10/01/2002 – 09/30/2007 03/17/2004 – 03/31/2009 04/01/2003 – 03/31/2008 05/20/2005 – 05/31/2010 07/06/2004 – 07/31/2009 03/01/2005 – 02/28/2010 01/23/2003 – 03/31/2008 11/30/2005 – 11/30/2010 03/01/2006 – 02/28/2011 05/08/2007 – 05/31/2012 07/01/2006 – 06/30/2011 06/14/2004 – 06/30/2009 08/01/2006 – 07/31/2011 12/01/2004 – 11/30/2009 12/01/2004 – 11/30/2009 01/24/2002 – 01/31/2007 03/02/2007 – 03/31/2012 12/18/2003 – 12/31/2008 08/24/2006 – 08/31/2011 09/08/2005 – 09/30/2010 09/07/2006 – 07/31/2011 11/04/2002 – 11/04/2007 07/22/2003 – 07/31/2008 11/01/2005 – 10/31/2010 02/27/2004 – 08/31/2008 07/01/2003 – 06/30/2008 05/28/2004 – 05/31/2009 04/01/2006 – 03/31/2011 03/01/2002 – 02/28/2007 03/31/2006 – 03/31/2011 01/01/2005 – 12/31/2009 12/01/2003 – 12/31/2008 11/01/2002 – 10/31/2007 06/01/2002 – 05/31/2007 08/02/2002 – 07/31/2007 10/01/2005 – 09/30/2010 06/22/2006 – 06/30/2011 11/05/2004 – 10/31/2009 04/01/2004 – 03/31/2009 05/18/2004 – 05/31/2009 02/08/2008 – 02/28/2013 07/31/2003 – 06/30/2008 06/01/2002 – 05/31/2007 05/23/2003 – 05/31/2008 01/01/2005 – 12/31/2009 07/20/2004 – 07/31/2009 Traggis, Carol J. Turner, Tammie A. Waters, Linda M. Wittig, Vera Ann C. 21 Forsyth Road 185 Old Colchester Road 49 Witter Road 200 West Road 11/01/2004 – 10/31/2009 01/25/2006 – 04/30/2011 10/01/2005 – 09/30/2010 04/01/2004 – 03/31/2009 Registrar of Vital Statistics During the fiscal year 7/01/2007 through 6/30/2008, there were 45 BIRTHS, 18 MARRIAGES, 1 CIVIL UNION, and 21 DEATHS registered in the Vital Statistics Record of the Town of Salem. Funds due the State of Connecticut $372.00 Patricia J. Crisanti, Registrar of Vital Statistics Dog Fund Account Cash receipts and disbursements for fiscal year ending June 30, 2008: Balance July 1, 2007 ------------------------------------------------------ 6421.22 Receipts: Surcharge of Unaltered Dogs Dog License Fees Animal Control Officer’s Fees Town of Salem Allocation Total Receipts Total Receipts Available $1,330.00 $4,713.50 $45.00 $9724.12 $15812.62 $22233.84 Disbursements: Animal Control Officer’s Salary Animal Control Officer’s Expenses Surcharge to State for 7/1/06 to 6/30/07 License Fees to State for 7/1/06 to 6/30/07 Advertising Fees for Dogs Dog Tags, License Forms, Postage and Supplies Pound Rent Paid Veterinarian Fees Total Disbursements $8239.92 $372.56 $1192.00 $3285.50 $48.36 $45.00 $900.00 $201.04 $14,284.38 Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk Grant Funds This year’s grant money check was received on August 4, 2007 in the amount of $7,000. It was used for the second phase process of updating the software and technology in the Town Clerk’s office with the new agent/vendor New Vision Systems, Inc. Many positive comments have been made by a variety of people who use these systems every day. With the much improved, windows-friendly Land Record System and the Dog Licensing System our job is becoming easier. The end result is a much more organized and efficient office. We can now scan the documents as they come in for recording, view the documents on the computer (from February 12, 2007 forward), each document recorded gets a bar code and recording information is included in the printout on the front page of each document. Patricia J. Crisanti, Town Clerk 18 Treasurer’s Report During the fiscal year ending 06/30/08, the Town of Salem generated revenues totaling $13,718,241. Total expenditures were $13,691,175. Consequently, the Town of Salem at year-end experienced an increase, with revenues exceeding expenditures by $ 27,066. Currently, the Town of Salem's Fund Balance is $2,052,282. Of this balance, $535,826 has been designated to balance the budget for the fiscal year of 2008/2009. This leaves the Town of Salem's Undesignated/Unreserved Fund Balance for 06/30/08 at $1,516,456. Investments of Town funds earned a total of $172,912 in interest revenues. A listing of Town funds and interest earned for the fiscal year 07/08 follows: Town Fund General Land Acquisition Town Aid Road Capital Reserve Senior Citizens Baptist Society Morgan Cemetery Tax Exempt Proceeds Bost Rogers Cemetery Harris School Titles Infrastructure E. Urbanik Memorial Open Space Total Balance @ 06/30/08 $2,808,630.51 $14,604.55 $42,117.75 $148,259.96 $28,373.17 $2,351.54 $1,187.59 $9,524.75 $505.95 $2,841.15 $143.68 $10,522.53 $4,791.46 $7,530.38 $280.82 $3,081,665.79 Interest Earned $138,933.64 $230.03 $755.90 $5,248.95 $351.07 $4.79 $2.42 $346.00 $1.02 $13.03 $0.30 N/A $63.58 $90.18 $8.14 $146,049.05 As always it has been a pleasure to serve the Town of Salem. Respectfully submitted, Kimberly A. Siebert, Treasurer 19 Tax Collector’s Report The year July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008 was very busy in the Tax Collector’s office. In July, 7,594 bills were sent to taxpayers. This total included 1,947 Real Estate bills, 4,849 Motor Vehicle bills and 798 Personal Property tax bills. Taxes are due in July and January. All motor vehicle bills are due in July. Along with the second half of Real Estate and Personal Property taxes collected in January, 817 Supplemental Motor Vehicle bills were mailed to taxpayers. From July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008, this office collected and turned over to the Town Treasurer $9,693,462.59. A breakdown of this figure includes $9,629,801.21 in taxes and $63,661.38 in interest and lien fees. In June, 44 Real Estate Tax liens were placed on property in the Town of Salem. The total dollar value of these liens was $126,543.94. During the year 63 back tax liens were collected and released. The principal amount of these liens was $92,734.16 Once again it has been a productive year in the tax office. Cheryl A. Philopena C.C.M.C. Tax Collector Necia Stevens Assistant Tax Collector 20 Board of Finance The 2007-2008 fiscal year began with the adoption, by Town referendum, of the Town’s budget in the amount of $13,800,719. The proposed expenditures were as follows: General Government Board of Education Capital Improvements $3,481,700 $9,774,641 $ 543,378 In accordance with the Town Charter The Board of Selectmen approved a mil rate of 22.75 mils to provide Town funding prior to approval of the Town budget. The use of $115,419 from the Town’s fund balance is anticipated to balance the 2007/2008 budget. The undesignated fund balance as of July 1, 2007 was $1,930,416. The 2007 municipal elections resulted in new members to the Board. G. Preston was elected to a six year term, C. Eckart was elected to a two-year term, and K. Lyden was elected to a six-year term as an Alternate. K. Dolan, J. Miller and B. Kirk (Alternate) left the Board and were thanked for their service. In January 2008 the Board of Selectman appointed, in accordance with the Town charter, G. Pech and S. Reith to serve as Alternates Board of Finance until the next municipal election. The 2008/2009 fiscal year budget in the amount of $14,288,168 was presented to the Town for adoption at referendum. The proposed expenditures were as follows: General Government Board of Education Capital Improvements $ 3,177,856 $10,077,593 $ 1,032,719 The proposed budget was ADOPTED at referendum on May 14, 2008 by a vote of: 230-YES 142-NO The Board of Finance approved a mil rate of 23 mils to provide funding for the 2008-2009 budget. It is anticipated that $535,827 will be required from the undesignated fund in order to balance the 2008-2009 budget. The undesignated fund balance as of July 1, 2008 was $1,189,078. William Weinschenker, Chairman 21 Salem Planning and Zoning Commission The Planning and Zoning Commission processed 27 applications for the year ending June 30, 2008. Not all applications were decided by fiscal year-end. The breakdown is as follows: __1___Subdivision totaling _2__ lots __4__ Site Plans __5__ Regulation Amendments __2__ CGS §8-24 Referrals __1_ • Change of Use _ 5__ Resubdivisions totaling _7__ lots __5__ Special Exceptions __0__ Accessory Apartments __3_ __1_ Lot Development Plans Commission issued Zoning Permit One of the Plan of Conservation and Development recommendations is to create a Town Center Zoning District. The Commission created the Town Center Committee, which is charged with providing the Commission with recommendations regarding proposed boundaries, permitted uses, and draft regulations for the zone. The Committee continued work on creation of draft Zoning Regulations and a proposed boundary for the District. It held charrettes, attended by municipal officials, stakeholders, owners of property within the proposed district, and interested parties to ensure that all opinions were taken into consideration during creation of the draft regulations and delineation of the zone boundary. Progress continues. • • The Commission continued to work on the seasonal/year round issue. Extensive research and field work was completed, with resolution to the issue anticipated for late 2008. A total of $8,685.47 (96.5%) of the Commission’s Engineering line item was expended for the purpose of application plan reviews, engineering inspections, and in support of ongoing litigation relative to violations at a local quarry. Of the Commission’s Legal Service line item, $18,859.88 (67.4%) was expended from the FY 07-08 budget. The majority of that expenditure was for legal opinions of proposed regulation changes and legal fees associated with the aforementioned litigation. An additional $20,000 was encumbered from the FY 06-07 budget for anticipated costs moving forward regarding the pending litigation. A total of 85% of that encumbrance has been expended: $1,836.40 for engineering and $15,175.38 for legal fees, leaving a remainder of $2,988.22. At the beginning of the fiscal year, revenue in the amount of $3,000 was anticipated from collection of various Planning and Zoning Commission fees. A total of $5,547.00 was actually collected, equaling a surplus of $2,547.00. The Zoning Enforcement Officer approved 67 zoning permits for total revenue of $1,875.00, $2,125 less than the anticipated $4,000 revenue. • • • • 22 • All Planning and Zoning Commission meetings are open to the public, and regular meetings are held the 3rd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. We encourage your participation. Members of the FY 07-08 Commission included: Regular Members Hugh E. McKenney, Chairman Gloria Fogarty, Vice Chairman Michael Makowski Christopher Ryley (resigned 11/07) David Bingham, Secretary Karen Buckley James Mulholland (resigned 6/08) Alternates Richard Dalkowski (appointed Regular Member 12/07) Frank Abetti Roland Trailor (resigned 8/07) Ruth Savalle (appointed 10/07) Respectfully submitted, Hugh E. McKenney, Chairman Planning and Zoning Commission 23 Registrars of Voters Report for 7/01/2007 - 6/30/2008 Voter registration statistics indicate the total number of registered voters as of June 30th was 2859. This was an increase of 409 voters in this year. We were very pleased with the increase in voters and hope that this trend continues into 2009. We also would like to see more voters voting in the budget referendum and other pertinent referendums in town. These types of elections are important to every voter in Salem and we look forward to a larger turn out in 2009. Active List Party Democratic Republican Unaffiliated Other Total on Active List Party Democratic Republican Unaffiliated Other Total on Inactive List Number of Voters 892 608 1244 4 2748 Number of Voters 19 29 61 2 111 Inactive List If you have changed your address and have not changed your registration, we need to know. Please contact us or stop in and fill out a new registration form. Forms are also available at the Town Clerk’s Office or we can mail you one if requested. We are always looking for people willing to work the polls during elections. If you would be interested in working the polls please contact us at the Town Office Building at 860-859-3873 ext. 230. Those willing to work the polls are paid a stipend for their time. For the positions that require training, training is free to the applicant. Sue Spang Pat Rodriguez Registrars of Voters 24 Salem Free Public Library LIBRARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS July 1, 2007 – November 2007 Janet Nelson-Smith, Chairperson (2007) Elizabeth Householder (2011) Denise Weinschenker Judith Rabe (2009) Philip G. James (2011) Anne W. Bingham (2009) November 2007 – June 30, 2008 Judith Rabe, Chairperson (2009) Elizabeth Householder (2011) Mary Ryley (2013) Roberta Ziegra (2013) Philip G. James (2011) Anne W. Bingham (2009) The mission of the Salem Free Public Library is to provide a highly responsible and caring service to its patrons. The library strives to provide easy access to ideas and information, supports lifelong learning and enjoyment and a love of reading, movies, and a community meeting space. The Library Board of Directors met monthly the second Tuesday of each month at 7 P.M. at the library: • A major accomplishment in the past year was the hiring of a new head librarian, Jackie Hemond M.L.S. ( Master of Library Science), who brings a wealth of experience and ideas. Although we had staff changes, high quality service was maintained. The circulation is up in all categories and the collection continues to be updated. • Salem School and Salem Library have increased communication. Friends of the Library volunteers have given tours to second and third graders and all received library cards. Pat Aldrich serves as the liaison to the Salem School. • An agreement was signed for the Town of Bozrah to use Salem as its home library. It will start July 1, 2008. Summer was busy with multiple programs for summer reading. • Co-operative story hour attendance increased dramatically with an average attendance of 1216 children and parents. Library staff coordinates a story and craft with parents assisting. Many families remain to choose books and then spend time in the children’s playroom. • The Young Adult section has been re-organized and enhanced to meet this group’s needs and wishes. • The program room and the small meeting room are in constant use by various groups. The Friends of the Library continue to be active and supportive. Their annual book sale provided approximately $10,000.00 and they used these funds for many projects, programs and collection purchases for the library. The Friends and community members have volunteered approximately 2,000 hours in projects and activities directed by the library staff, which enhances library function. The library could not function at its present level without this contribution of this time and money. Salem Free Public Library has become an active and vibrant center of our community for all age groups under Jackie Hemond’s guidance. The library is an enormous asset to Salem. Prepared by Roberta Ziegra, Library Board Secretary 25 Salem Senior Citizens The Salem Seniors Group consists of members from Salem and surrounding towns. They meet on the second Tuesday of every month at 10:30 pm (except January and February). The meeting takes place at the Salem Volunteer Fire Department in the rear meeting room. The fee for membership is $5.00. At every meeting, a nurse from the VNA is in attendance to take blood pressure readings. Flu shots are offered in the fall. The meetings include discussions of new and old business, speakers, bingo, and a potluck lunch. The Seniors Group offers bus trips throughout the year. They also hold an annual summer picnic and holiday lunch for their December meeting. For more information call: Dot Mrowka, President (2007) at 537-3640 or Sue Spang, Municipal Agent for the Elderly at 859-3873, ext 115. Submitted by Sue Spang Assessor’s Report The October 1, 2008 Grand List increased by $1,824,985. This is an increase amounting to 0.0042% over the previous year. Comparison of the 2007 and 2008 Grand Lists before the Board of Assessment Appeals: Real Estate Personal Property Motor Vehicle Total 2007 385,113,870 12,783,608 30,255,129 428,152,607 2008 388,410,880 13, 038,622 28,528,095 429,977,597 The following programs are administered by the Assessor’s Office: Disabled, Elderly Homeowners & Freeze Programs Local Option Homeowners applications Elderly Renters Additional Veterans February 1 – May 15. February 1 – May 15. May 15 – September 15 2009 February 1 – October 1 2009 The following exemptions are administered by the Assessor’s Office: Blind Persons – A Certificate of Blindness from the State of Connecticut and application must be filed with the Assessor’s Office. Veterans – A veteran must meet qualifications and have filed his/her DD214 or Honorable Discharge with the Town Clerk. Veterans with Disabilities – Veterans with a degree of disability must file their disability statement fron the Veteran’s Administration with the Assessor’s Office annually in order to receive their benefit. Federal Soldier’s and Sailor’s Civil Relief Act (SSMRA) – Non Resident servicemen on active duty in Connecticut. Connecticut Servicemen “PA 738” - with one Connecticut-registered car garaged out of state. Continuing Service – Active duty military forms must be filed each year prior to October 1st with the Assessor’s Office. Personal Property Declarations - for businesses, farms and non-registered motor vehicles are required to be filed annually prior to November 1st to avoid a 25% penalty. Applications for Farm & Forest Land Classifications “PA 490” - must be filed no later than thirty (30) days after October 1st with the Assessor’s Office. 26 Building Official’s Report Value 4,249,378 0 278,876 659,189 562,059 101,101 212,067 89,098 68,361 0 0 0 190,100 5,130 0 1,000 700 0 Residential: Foundation New Home Manufactured Home Sheds/Barns Additions Alterations Decks Trades Garage Pools Commercial: Foundation Only New Commercial Additions Alterations Trades Extension Other: Demo Tents Membrane Structure 2006/2007 Units 3 14 0 23 13 82 10 206 2 8 0 0 0 6 10 0 2 1 0 Value 1,990,586 0 88,390 941,758 575,328 105,911 796,807 138,268 115,848 0 0 0 28,801 35,045 0 0 10,700 0 2007/2008 Units 2 7 0 15 12 88 11 266 3 12 0 0 0 6 6 0 1 3 0 Vernon C. Vesey II, Building Official Holli Pianka, Clerk Total Permits Issued: 432 Total Construction Value: $4,827,442.00 Total Permit Fees Collected: $35,241.00 Health Director’s Report The responsibilities of the Public Health Director include: 1. Environmental Health (water quality, sewage disposal, restaurant inspections). 2. Communicable Disease Surveillance (reportable illnesses such as Lyme Disease, tuberculosis, rabies, and sexually transmitted diseases are reported to and monitored by the Health Director.) In addition, other medical diseases such as lead toxicity are also reportable to the State of Connecticut. 3. Maternal and Child Health (the town of Salem contracts with the Southeastern Visiting Nurse Association to provide Well Child services for physicals and immunizations from birth to age 5). 4. Coordination with the State Health Department regarding the variety of health issues which affect the Town of Salem. 5. Attending the biannual Health Directors Conferences, sponsored by the State Department of Health. 6. Communication to town officials on all public health matters. Salem is a small semi-rural, middle to upper-middle class community with modest industry and farming. The town’s Building Department serves as the point of coordination for all health and environmental issues. The First Selectman consults the Health Director for any issue that requires his/her expertise. 27 Health and environmental issues that were a concern for 2007-2008 were: 1. Sewage Disposal/Septic Problems a. Subsurface lots tested – 29 b. Failed systems – 5 c. Repair permits issued – 6 d. New permits issued – 12 2. Private well permits issued – 21 3. Food sanitation inspections – 37 Robert W. Powitz, PhD, MPH, DLAAS, RS, Salem Director of Health Recreation Commission Report The Salem Recreation Commission has taken some big leaps and some baby steps, all forward. The conversion of a rookie field to a regulation softball field was accomplished by opening day in April of 2008. The field is a skinned field with a red infield mix. It looks great and we would like to think it contributed to a winning season and championship for the girl’s softball team. The Commission received funding for two tennis courts and a basketball court. This will complete the Round Hill Road Lou Ulffers Recreation Complex. The basketball court will be the first fullsized public basketball court in Salem and is much anticipated by all age groups. The tennis courts replace the ones that were taken out five years ago to make room for a Babe Ruth field and soccer field. We hope to have both completed by the spring of 2009. The Recreation Commission also has a new edition to our team, Diane Weston , who was hired in May, 2008 to be the Commission’s Recording Secretary and Recreation Clerk. Diane will be responsible for implementing programs that serve the whole community. Up until now, the Commission has provided great opportunities for children ages 5-16 to participate in baseball, soccer, and basketball. In 2007, we decided to expand our programs to better serve the whole community. We are looking forward to doing just that. Our Youth Sports Leagues are our pride and joy and our kids excel as always. Both baseball and soccer continue to win regionally and they are exceptional feeder leagues to the high school teams. Recreational basketball expanded in the winter of 2007 and joined the Nutmeg League, which gives them more playing time and competition. Our programs serve hundreds of Salem youth in our leagues and dozens of adults in our adult volleyball, softball, and basketball pickup programs. As always, we thank the hundreds of volunteers that make our programs possible for the residents of Salem. The members of the Salem Recreation Commission volunteer many hours of their time and energy. Many thanks go out to members Bob Appleby, Jim Burke, Kim Bingham, Rich Cirillo, Joe Dalton, Al Giansanti, Pam Henry, and Peter Lee. This year we would like to dedicate our report to Nancy Sekinger. Nancy dedicated many years to the Recreation Commission and youth sports. She was the driving force that started the Girl’s Softball League back in the early 90’s. She coached, managed, and fought for her “girls”. While on the Commission, she was a voice of reason and a good friend to all. She is greatly missed and we wish her well in her new state. Respectfully Submitted, Sue Spang, Chairperson 28 Inland Wetlands and Conservation Commission Report Pursuant to Section 22a-36 through 22a-45, inclusive, of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, the Salem Inland Wetlands and Conservation Commission (IWCC) shall enforce the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act and shall issue, with conditions, limitations or modifications, or deny permits for all Regulated Activities within Wetlands and Upland Review Areas (75 ft. adjacent to a wetland). These activities require a permit from the IWCC prior to initiation of the activity. The Commission has authorized its Agent to approve permits within the 75 ft. Upland Review Area of such wetlands. The IWCC also functions as the Conservation Commission for the Town of Salem pursuant with Section 7-131a of the Connecticut General Statutes for the development, conservation, supervision, and regulation of natural resources, including watercourses within the Town. During the Fiscal Year 2007/2008, the IWCC held twelve Regular monthly meetings, and four Special meetings of which two were Show/Cause hearings and two were site walks. One public hearing was conducted prior to revising Salem’s Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulations. The IWCC and its Agent (Wetlands Enforcement Officer) addressed thirty-three applications of which six were for subdivisions or resubdivisions. Thirty-one applications were approved; two applications were withdrawn. Six permits for work in wetlands were granted with conditions; one non-jurisdictional ruling, eight As-Of-Right Permits, and eleven Buffer Permits were approved. The Ad hoc Conservation Committee met periodically throughout the year with basic emphasis on preparing an updated Salem Resource Inventory. The Ad hoc Open Space Committee was formed, and is cataloging all parcels within Salem that are at least 10 acres in size together with their current uses. The Ad hoc Educational Outreach Committee was formed to provide awareness of conservation issues and possible solutions, helpful hints and available resources to residents. An article appears in every issue of Our Town – Salem. Submitted: George Ziegra, Chairman Salem Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. The Salem Volunteer Fire Company, Inc., currently operates six pieces of fire fighting equipment: a 1985 Chevy 4X4 brush truck, a 1986 GMC 4-wheel drive backup medical truck and utility vehicle, a 1987 Pierce 50ft. Telesquirt Pumper Ladder Truck, a 1991 Pierce Attach Pumper, a 1999 Freightliner Tanker, a 2001 Ford F350 4X4 R-1 Vehicle (Medical Truck), a 1999 Ford Expedition used as a personnel and sign carrier for Fire Police, and a Cub Cadet ATV for off-road emergencies. The Fire Company continues to support local organizations such as the VFW, the Salem Youth Baseball League, the Salem Soccer League, the Lions Club, the Salem Soccer Club, and the Senior Citizens. We have also supported, over the years, the CT Burns Care Foundation. Volunteering in a town the size of Salem helps offset the budget by not having to have a paid staff on duty 24 hours a day. We are in need of members for all aspects of the fire service, such as firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Fire Police, who are willing to keep up-to-date with the OSHA training requirements. Members must be 18 years or older. We also have a junior membership starting at age 13. In August 2007, the Town voted to purchase a new 75ft. Ladder/ Pumper Truck that will be delivered sometime in August or September of 2008. It will replace our 1987 Ladder Truck. This vehicle will be a great asset to the Town and its volunteers. We have our company meetings on the first Thursday of each month with trainings and other functions being held on the following Thursdays of the month. Anyone interested in joining or 29 wanting additional information may stop in or phone the Firehouse at 859-0942. Chief – Eugene R. Maiorano Deputy Chief – Jeffrey W. Standish Assistant Chief – Charles (Chip) Weston Fire Captain – Al Wlodarczyk Safety Officer – Ryan Teixeira Rescue Captain – Deborah Cadwell Fire Police Captain – Sal Crisanti Fire Police Lieutenant – Tony Crisanti Secretary – Wesley Roman Treasurer – Marcella C. Maiorano Appropriated Treasurer – Lieutenants – Rick Martin, Cheryl Teixeira, Bob Pokrinchak, Brian Whitlatch, Jeff Martin, and Ron Przech Jr, Respectively Submitted: Eugene R. Maiorano, Chief Gardner Lake Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. Each and every taxpayer deserves a pat on the back for supporting the Town of Salem Heart saver Program. With your support we were able to provide defibrillators in each area of assembly in Salem. We will be advertising and providing training for the public and the Salem School System throughout the coming years. This fiscal year we were able to train over 60 students and faculty at the Salem School. The Safety Committee requested that we train the employees in the town hall and library; in addition our public works crew has been trained and carries a defibrillator in the crew leader’s truck, PW 1. The Heart Saver Program was made successful only by the support of: Gardner Lake Fire Co. Inc., Salem Vol. Fire Co. Inc. Board of Education, First Selectman Robert Ross, Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, Safety Committee Chairperson Cheryl Philopena, and Lead Instructor Susanne Leuck. We will be posting upcoming classes in CPR/AED including annual refreshers. If you are Interested in becoming an instructor or a member of a fire company, to obtain additional information or to schedule a class; please contact the Salem or Gardner Lake Fire Company @ 859-1743 or 859-0942. 2008 157 Fire Emergencies 279 Medical Emergencies Information provided by Colchester Emergency Communications Center Gardner Lake Officers: Chief James Savalle Deputy Chief Asst. Chief Ray Vasquez Asst. Chief Captain Joe Cunningham Captain Captain Rick Amato Safety Safety John Cunningham Lieutenant Lieutenant William Leuck Instructor Public Education President Secretary Director Respectfully, James Savalle, Chief 30 Heather Mislivets Jeff Miller Jeff Savalle Mike Healy Herb Zickwolf Susanne Leuck Board of Directors: John Cunningham Treasurer Katrina Zickwolf Director Joe Cunningham Director Chief James Savalle Christine Lindo Steve Philopena Cheryl Philopena Gardner Lake Authority The Gardner Lake Authority, for the past 33 years, has pledged to oversee one of our area’s best natural multi-recreational resources, Gardner Lake. To ensure that Gardner Lake is environmentally sound and equally safe and accessible to all citizens’ activities, which includes, but is not limited to, swimming, boating, sailing, canoeing, fishing, water and jet skiing, and just general enjoyment, the Authority, during the past season, has: 1. Hired Ecosystem Consulting Service, Inc. to continue the lake sampling and look at the aquatic plant distribution. The results of this study are on record at the Town Halls of Bozrah, Montville, and Salem. 2. Had the Town of Montville and the DEP patrolled the lake with emphasis on weekends, evenings, and holidays this year. The cost was $13,605.20. 3. Worked as a liaison between citizen inquiries, Town officials, and the DEP. 4. Established direct contacts with the State DEP and DOT personnel to meet the needs of lowering of the lake for the winter months to help control the invasive weed population at a cost of $1220.74. This will meet the needs of the citizens and requirements of the DEP to accommodate dock removal and lake wall and shore repair. 5. Conducted coliform and pH tests at a cost of $693.00 prior to each holiday during swimming season. Results are on file with the Town Clerk and Sanitarian. 6. Sponsored a very successful boating course where 55 people took the test at the Gardner Lake Fire House. 7. Continuously worked with committees such as Patrol, Boat, Restricted Area, Finance, Environmental, Educational, and Citizen Awareness programs. The Gardner Lake Authority meets on the second Thursday of every month (except December, January and February) on a rotating town basis, beginning in March in Bozrah, April in Montville, May in Salem, etc. The public is invited to attend the 7:00 pm meetings. Please check with your local Town Clerk for postings of meeting places. This year the State DEP enlarged and built a dock with two access points at the State Boat Launch, which calls for a six foot winter drawdown for this year. The Department expects to gain significant knowledge for future drawdowns through this six foot drawdown. Gardner Lake Authority Board Members are as follows: BOZRAH: SALEM: MONTVILLE: Henry Granger, Chairman, Jim McArdle, and Scott Soderberg Larry Harrington, Treasurer; Helen Ann Zaleski, and Robert Neddo Edward Socha, Sandra Tryon, and William Wrobel, Secretary 31 Appendix I REPORT OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS 32 SALEM SCHOOL SYSTEM SALEM, CONNECTICUT REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS and Board of Education 2007 - 2008 33 SALEM SCHOOL SYSTEM SALEM CONNECTICUT REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS FOR 2007 - 2008 AND The Board of Education: Michael Siebert was elected Chairperson 12/3/07; Robert Green was elected Vice-Chair/Secretary on 12/3/07; Kimberly Dye was elected Treasurer on 12/3/07; Christopher LaRose; Edward Chmielewski’s term expired 11/07 and he did not run for re-election; Doreen Piper was appointed to a 6-yr term 11/07; Pamela Munro; Elizabeth Nelson resigned 10/4/07; Dinis Pimentel was appointed 12/19/07 (Elizabeth’s seat); Donna Sanfilippo; Linda Robson The Statutes of the State of Connecticut, particularly Section 10-157 and Section 10-224 of the laws relating to education, prescribe that the Superintendent of Schools shall report annually on the condition of the district’s schools to both the local and state Boards of Education. The following data and comments are considered pertinent to the annual report as required: A. Salem School Staff 1. Administrative Personnel: a. Superintendent ................................................... Donna P. Leake, Ph.D. b. Director of Special Programs .........................…. Fayne Molloy c. Middle School Principal ...................................... Nikki Gullickson d. Elementary School Principal……………………..Doug Hammel 2. Instructional Specialists and Student Support Personnel: Art ............................................…………...........Diane Remetta Art Technology…………………………………Erica Udoff (Resigned 2/1/08) Elaine Hornby (Hired 3/28/08) c. Instructional Technology……………………….Scott Gordon d. Computer Technology……………………….. ..Robert McLaughlin e. Elementary Guidance Counselor…………….…Elizabeth Bartron f. Middle School Guidance Counselor……………Jim Guarino g. Health/PE………………………………..……...Barbara Bashelor h. Librarian/Media Specialist ................………..…Joyce Rak i. Math Specialist…….……………………….…...Gretchen Leming j. Music ....................................................…….….Christopher Hebert k. Music/Band ..........................................…….….David Brush l. Physical Education ..........................……………James Robinson m. Physical Education ..........................………..….Amy Beardsley n. LA Curriculum Support Teacher........……..……Nicole Hecklinger o. Math Curriculum Support Teacher……………..Maryssa Reed p. School Psychologist ………….........................…Donna Zuber q. Special Education .............................………..… Jennifer Werb r. Special Education …................................ ……. Michelle Gada s. Special Education ...............................…..……..Cheryl Carroll t. Special Education………………………………Judith Staub u. Special Education………………………..……..Melissa Quinn v. Speech Language Pathologist……………….….Lori Brehler 34 a. b. w. Speech Language Pathologist……………….…Catherine Conover x. World Language – French……….………….….Christie Borelli y. World Language – Spanish…………………..…Marcelo Guinez 3. Teachers - Certified, Full Time Class Size (as of Oct. 1) Pre-School.............................................…….. (13) Betty Marr Kindergarten (AM) (PM) ……..………(20) (18) Carla Oscarson Grade One…………………………………...(17) Mary Barone Grade One …………………………………. (18) Judy Butterworth Grade One .................................................... (17) Dale Mainville Grade Two .................................................... (16) Pamela Berardino Grade Two ………………………………….(17) Gretchen Leming Grade Two ………………………………… (15) Barbara Leyden Grade Two .................................................... (18) Diane St. Laurent Grade Three .................................................. (19) Allison Corraro Grade Three .................................................. (21) Dawn Cwirka Grade Four .................................................... (19) Gayle Booth Grade Four ………………………………….(19) Jill MacLachlan Grade Four .................................................... (20) Cynthia Puhlick Grade Five…………………………………...(15) Susan Buck Grade Five…………………………………...(14) Janlyn Neri Grade Five.......................................................(15) Joan Phillips Grade Five ..................................................…(15) Frank Dion Grade Six…………………………………….(17) Lisa Champagne Grade Six ....................................................…(17) Barbara James Grade Six .... ...............................................…(17) Christina Holth Grade Six…….………………………………(17) Elaine Meisenzahl Grade Seven…………………………….……(16) June Dion Grade Seven ........................................…....…(17) Brian Fleming Grade Seven………………………………….(16) Laura Runkle Grade Seven …………………………………(17) Michael Sweeney Grade Eight…………………………………..(16) Alison Cochrane Grade Eight ……………………………….…(16) David Dander Grade Eight ...............................................…..(15) Hazel Gorman 4. Office and School Health Personnel: a. Business Office Manager......................…………Kim Gadaree b. Executive Assistant to the Supt........…….…..….Jennifer Kayser c. Principal’s Secretary..........................……...……Rachel Popkowski d. Administrative Assistant ..................……....…… Catherine Wayne e. School Secretary….…….……………………….. Laurie Barberi f. Library Assistant ................................……..……. Carol Harkness (Resigned 12/28/07) Susan Wyand – 2/11/08 g. School Nurse ...............................….....……...…. Mary Myers, RN (Resigned 2/29/08) Lisa Gardiner, RN – 3/17/08 h. Computer Technician…………………..…….…. Ruben Perez 5. Support Personnel: a. Tutor……………………………………………Palma Canniff b. Tutor (.65)……………………………………. Ginni Cronin c. Tutor……………………………………………. Cathy Freiert d. Tutor……………………………………………. Ellen Javor e. Tutor……………………………………………. Barbara Leen f. Tutor……………………………………………. Christine Medbery (Resigned 2/29/08) g. Tutor……………………………….……….….. Dawn Podziewski 35 h. i. j. k. l. (Deceased 11/16/07) Tutor………………………………………..….. Nancy Senkewitcz Tutor………………………………………….…Darra Ryan Tutor………………………………………..….. Mary Sturgeon Tutor…………………………………………… Jennifer Wojcik Tutor…………….……………………………...Susan Evanson 6. Lunch Aides: a. Lunch Aide.................................………….……. Barbara Beckwith b. Lunch Aide………………………………….….. Rhea Fowler c. Lunch Aide………………………………………Andrea Tancredi 7. Custodial Staff: a. Maintenance Supervisor...…………......................Glen Coutu b. Custodian (full-time) .......…………...................... Richard Blackburn c. Custodian (full-time)......................……….......…. Dominic Cappabianca d. Custodian (full-time) ..........................………...... Sebastian Tuchito e. Custodian (full-time) ........……….....................… Brenda Van Dyne f. Custodian (full-time)……………………………...Roscoe Van Dyne 36 B. GRADUATES - JUNE 2008 1. Salem School Kyle Ruttkamp Alexandra Leen Gabrielld Green Cameron Litwin Morgan O’Toole Allyssa Skelton Matthew Kittleman Holly Disch Vanessa Johns Conrad Clewell Allyson LaRose Jacqueline DuBois Sean Chmielewski Trini Gao Breanna Lack Troy Sanfilippo Daniel Rancourt Shaan Kamal William Damberg Meredith Walker Sarah Frick Ricky Perron Kelsie Lane Kathleen Loubier Stavros Ghirardi Clarissa Verish Anika Pallan Parker Preston Kara Sinko Avery Whittaker Dylan Dukette Johanna Boggs Katherine Cummins John Clark Lilimarie Subiono Ashly Lacerte Emmitt Clark Amber Kirchner Micaela LaBonte Damien Gagliano Kirsten Whitlatch Madeline Hebbel Dominic Dilizia Morgan Sankow Elizabeth Miller Michael Burke 2. East Lyme High School: Danny Abdeen David Cannamela Chris Clark Courteney Delgiudice Stefanie DuBois Marcus Giansanti Andrew Hill Alex Johnson Leslie Kirschblum Trevor Korb Maura Lasky Thomas Lincoln Elizabeth Lyden Caitlin Miller Riva Pallan Amber Pero Christine Salvatore Shenelle Stanavage Alexis Tavares Xueyun Xu Kevin Anthony Rachel Carroll Lily Cole-Chu Sean Donatello Ben Fontneau Collin Good Constance Hillyer Candace Jones Tyler Kittleman Matthew Lacerte Jillian Legnos Siyao Liu Carmel Lynn Chelsey Miller Jessica Paradis Laura Platz Garrett Siebert Kelly Stannard Kelset Venekamp Naomi Yousey Tiffani Brooks Felicia Casciano Emily Cordero Michelle Dube Anna Frausini Bernadette Hebbel Kyle Hoyt George Kang Alexander Kopcyk Emily Larcombe Eric Libby Christopher Loso Leigha Magro Christina Nixon Joshua Petterson John Quatroche Cody Skodinski Nicholas Sullivan Alyssa Woronik II. FISCAL DATA A. Budget Management 1. The Executive Assistant to the Superintendent managed the Student Activity Account and prepared a yearend report for the Board of Education. She also applied for the school hot lunch program funds and maintained the accounts. The Board of Education continued to review and revise its 10-year Capital Improvement Plan with all efforts to reduce the effects of over burdening the town's debt service. 2. 37 3. The budget expenditures and receipts are recorded in a modified accrual system of accounting licensed by Unifund, LLC. Cost analysis and sound fiscal practices have been consistently applied and participation in cooperative purchasing programs with other towns and agencies remain in place in order to contain costs. B. Current Receipts Support for education received into the town's general fund for the fiscal year 2007 – 2008 included the following state and federal funding: • • • • • • • • • Education Equalization Transportation Public School Building Grant Adult Education School-wide Entitlement (ESEA/REAP) Services for the Blind Excess Cost (Special Ed.) Special Education Grants (IDEA, etc.) Tuition from another district $2,973,294 101,441 254,715 3,635 47,249 6,400 138,878 104,942 0 $3,630,554 Total Education receipts: B. Current Expenditures Board of Education expenditures for 2007 - 2008, as reported on the State Department of Education ED-001, were $9,772,692 and distributed as follows: • • • • • • • Debt Service East Lyme Salaries Benefits Purchased Services Tuition Supplies/Property Adult Education 92,353 4,235,480 750,631 1,258,564 2,856,669 571,863 7,132 $9,772,692 $ Total Expenditures: Broken down in another manner, expenditures, less non-reimbursed costs, were made as follows: • • • Elementary School High School Special Education 5,770,402 2,595,504 1,406,786 $9,772,692 • • • Central Administration East Lyme H.S. (9-12) Out placements (preK-12) 38 646,282 3,017,839 379,622 • Salem School (preK-8) 5,728,949 $9,772,692 $2,949 was returned to the town as unexpended. PROGRAMS AND SUPPORT ACTIVITIES Policy: The Policy Subcommittee of the Salem Board of Education, under the co-chairmanship of Pamela Munro and Linda Robson, remained diligent in keeping Salem in the forefront of the changes in state and national legislation that created need for new and/or revised policies. The Policy Subcommittee of the Salem Board of Education primarily focused its energies reviewing the 5000 Series (student–related policies) of the Policy Manual. Curriculum: The Curriculum Subcommittee of the Salem Board of Education, under the chairmanship of Pamela Munro, had a very productive year. The Board of Education was very supportive of the new programs that were implemented and the on-going curriculum work that is in progress at Salem School. Pre-School: The first year implementation of our extended pre-school program was very successful. Under the direction of Fayne Molloy the program was revamped to provide a longer day and more cohesive programming for students with special needs, ages 3-4. Mathematics: Through careful data analyses, discussions with teachers and walk-through observations of classrooms, the School and District Administration, continued to monitor the implementation of the Mathematics curriculum in Grades K-8. We also continued to administer trimester district assessments of students’ progress in Mathematics. We were pleased to offer these district assessments online to our students. Online assessments provide teachers with more timely access to the students’ results they can use to assist with unit and lesson planning. Our students’ performance on the Connecticut State Mastery Test continued to show improvement and in many grades our performance places us within the top districts in the state. Science: Working together, the staff and the administration completed the core curriculum units for Salem’s K-8 Science program. The District Science Committee, comprised of administrators, teachers and parents monitored the implementation of the program and addressed questions and concerns throughout the year. The administration will continue to assess the implementation of the program in 2008-2009. Our students’ performance on the Connecticut State Mastery Tests, given for the first time this year in Grades 5 and 8 indicated more than 80% of students were at or above goal range in both grades. Language Arts: Revision of the Language Arts curriculum continued to be a work in progress. The two-fold focus this year was on developing a reading program that assesses and addresses students’ individual needs, and on developing a systematic, cohesive writing program for all students, Grades K-8. Our teachers received professional development support in these areas. As in Mathematics, except for the writing component, we were able to offer district assessments in Language Arts online to our students. Although, our students’ performance on the Connecticut State Mastery Tests indicated a few areas of need, there were several areas where we showed evidence of notable accomplishments and continued growth. 39 Social Studies: We were very pleased with the two innovative Social Studies units, developed by teams of 2nd and 3rd Grade teachers, which initiated the curriculum revision process in Social Studies. Through these units, students and staff explored the rich heritage and resources of our town and State and had the opportunity to visit important places from the past and interact with our current town leaders. Other Curriculum Initiatives: In addition to all of the above, we extended Spanish language instruction to students beginning in Grade 2 and introduced an Instrumental Strings Program for students beginning in 3rd Grade. Public Relations: The Public Relations Subcommittee of the Salem Board of Education, under the chairmanship of Kimberly Dye (Donna Sanfillipo and Linda Robson were elected to co-chair 6/18/08 after Kimberly Dye resigned from this committee) continued to produce several communication initiatives. The community coffees with the BOE and the Administration continued throughout the year. The coffees that focused on particular grade level audiences proved to be the most popular. The School Administration will continue these grade level coffees in 2008-09. The first town-school employee coffee was held and very well received. The Salem Web Page continues to provide timely information concerning important dates and meetings. The Superintendent’s Office issued two Updates from Donna per school month. The BOE has submitted articles to the Our Town newspaper, which is mailed directly to Salem residents. The senior citizens group continued to hold meetings at the school, attended school concerts, plays and special assemblies such as the Veteran’s Day program. Facilities: The Facilities Subcommittee of the Salem Board of Education, under the chairmanship of Robert Green, with the support of the whole BOE and the Administration, brought the school renovation project recommendations to the point at which it became the domain of a town appointed building committee. This town building committee, chaired by Dinis Pimentel, a BOE member, began the process of reviewing the BOE recommendations, with the goal of bringing a revised set of recommendations to the town people in the 2008-09 school year. In the area of technology, there were exciting developments to our infrastructure. Over the summer of 2008, Salem School became a wireless facility. This will allow our students easy access to technology as a meaningful component their classroom instruction. 40 Appendix 2 ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT OF THE TOWN OF SALEM, CONNECTICUT FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2008 41 The First Town Meeting in the Town of Salem, Connecticut At a Town Meeting held at the Presbyterian Meeting House in Salem on the 15th Day June 1819 the third Tuesday Warning The Inhabitants living within the antient limits of the Society of New Salem that are legal Voters are hereby warned to meet at the Presbyterian Meeting House in (the) T Society on the Third Tuesday of June 1819 for the purpose of Organizing them Selves into a Town by Choosing all the officers required by Law to be chosen in other Towns in this State Agreeable to the Directions in a Bill in form of the General Assembly of this State at their Session at Hartford in May 1819 Upon the petition of (the)T Inhabitants to (the)T Assembly praying to be Incorporated into a Town. Mumford Dolbeare, Moderator Dated at Salem this 28th Day of May 1819 Mumford Dolbeare Esq-Moderator Appointed by the General Assembly At T (the) meeting, Elijah Treadway was Chosen Clerk Voted Henry Perkins Esq. Joseph Morgan Esq. George Minard Select Men Seth Lathrop Esq. And Daniel Jones Voted that John Billings be Treasurer Voted that Mark Dodge be Head Constable Voted Amasa Rathbun Charles Tiffany Constables And Avery Morgan Voted that Schubel Parks, Amasa Rathbun, Avery Morgan, Charlot Chapel, Joseph Powrs, Thomas Bradford, Russel Williams, Seth Tiffany, Mark Dodge, and Christopher Minard be Surveyors Voted that David Patten be Surveyor Voted that Thomas Bradford, Elijah Loomis, John Billings, John S Ransom, and David Patten be Listers Voted that Gurdon Hamilton and Hallam Latimore be Fence Viewers Voted Samuel Holmes be Leather Sealer Voted Thomas Miller, Joseph Powrs, and Ebenezer Tiffany be Grand Jurors Voted Joshua Pratt be Sealer of Weights and Measures Voted Asa Rathbun and Guy Loomis be Tything men Voted George Minard, John Billings, Seth Tiffany, and Avery Morgan be Pound keepers and furnish pound Voted the fence viewers move Encroachments off the Highway Voted Joseph Hilliard, William Fitch, William Hamman, Ephraim D. Woolf, and Christopher Minard be Haywards* Voted that the Town Clerk Keep Records so far as Respects Town business and Charge no fee. Vote that the Select Men Charge no pay for time or Horse ride Voted that this meeting be Disolved Attest Elijah Treadway Reg. *An officer formerly charged with the repair of cattle fences and the retention of cattle in the town common