Journal Inquirer Page One Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
For McMahon, 59 percent view her as conservative, 52 percent think her views are mainstream, and 36 percent think her views are extreme.
Blumenthal and McMahon are vying for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Sen. Christopher J. Dodd. The election is Nov. 2.
August 15, 2010
Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
Journal Inquirer Page One Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
It looks like Linda McMahon is really moving on The senate seat. She has to be the hardest working candidate ever. Linda McMahon is at every event around the state. I don't know how she keeps up the schedule. There is a misconception out there that Mrs. McMahon is just paying for mailings and TV- wrong!! Mrs McMahon is out doing it the old fashion way, she goes to events, she speaks to everyone, it could be an event with 20 people or 200 people. I have had the pleasure of listening to her speak to folks one on one, in Vernon, Canton, Enfield- on several occasions.
Mrs. McMahon campaigns like Scott Brown did in MA. There is no wonder she is moving closer. She has a great message. She embodies the American dream, she understands life from all perspectives. Just like all of us, she is not perfect. From bankruptcy to a billionaire.
"Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
By Journal Inquirer Staff
Published: Saturday, August 14, 2010 9:44 AM EDT
Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
By Journal Inquirer Staff
Linda S. McMahon, the Republican U.S. Senate hopeful, has closed the gap to 7 percentage points against Democratic rival Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, according to the first poll released since ....
Blumenthal would receive 47 percent of the vote and McMahon would earn 40 percent, according to the poll from Rasmussen Reports. Five percent said they prefer another candidate and 7 percent said they’re undecided"
It looks like Linda McMahon is really moving on The senate seat. She has to be the hardest working candidate ever. Linda McMahon is at every event around the state. I don't know how she keeps up the schedule. There is a misconception out there that Mrs. McMahon is just paying for mailings and TV- wrong!! Mrs McMahon is out doing it the old fashion way, she goes to events, she speaks to everyone, it could be an event with 20 people or 200 people. I have had the pleasure of listening to her speak to folks one on one, in Vernon, Canton, Enfield- on several occasions.
Mrs. McMahon campaigns like Scott Brown did in MA. There is no wonder she is moving closer. She has a great message. She embodies the American dream, she understands life from all perspectives. Just like all of us, she is not perfect. From bankruptcy to a billionaire.
"Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
By Journal Inquirer Staff
Published: Saturday, August 14, 2010 9:44 AM EDT
Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
By Journal Inquirer Staff
Linda S. McMahon, the Republican U.S. Senate hopeful, has closed the gap to 7 percentage points against Democratic rival Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, according to the first poll released since ....
Blumenthal would receive 47 percent of the vote and McMahon would earn 40 percent, according to the poll from Rasmussen Reports. Five percent said they prefer another candidate and 7 percent said they’re undecided"
August 12, 2010
JEFF WRIGHT CALLS ON DENISE NAPPIER TO OPPOSE $486 MILLION BOND PROPOSAL
JEFF WRIGHT CALLS ON DENISE NAPPIER TO OPPOSE $486 MILLION BOND PROPOSAL
Newington, CT) – Jeff Wright, candidate for Treasurer, today joined a bi-partisan group of Connecticut legislators in opposition to the issuance of $486 million in state bonding for mass-transportation projects. Wright’s opposition to this proposal is based on the fact that the state’s continued misuse of bond funding to pay for the state’s operating expenses a practice has resulted in the state leading the nation in bonded indebtedness.
“With a massive $4 billion budget deficit, jobs fleeing the state and the ever present threat of increased taxes, Ms. Nappier’s proposal to borrow another $500 million dollars can be best described with one word – ‘reckless’,” said Wright. “This is exactly the kind of irresponsible spending and borrowing that has left our state mired in recession.”
Newington, CT) – Jeff Wright, candidate for Treasurer, today joined a bi-partisan group of Connecticut legislators in opposition to the issuance of $486 million in state bonding for mass-transportation projects. Wright’s opposition to this proposal is based on the fact that the state’s continued misuse of bond funding to pay for the state’s operating expenses a practice has resulted in the state leading the nation in bonded indebtedness.
“With a massive $4 billion budget deficit, jobs fleeing the state and the ever present threat of increased taxes, Ms. Nappier’s proposal to borrow another $500 million dollars can be best described with one word – ‘reckless’,” said Wright. “This is exactly the kind of irresponsible spending and borrowing that has left our state mired in recession.”
August 1, 2010
July 29, 2010
Second Congressional District Primary Debate
Republican Party Debate For Second Congressional District
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Ceremony will honor Frank McCoy 7/31/2010
Journal Inquirer Archives Sports Local Sports Ceremony will honor McCoy
VERNON — Frank McCoy, founder and longtime manager of the Vernon Orioles in the Greater Hartford Twilight League, will be honored with a monument at a dedication ceremony on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Henry Park.
McCoy, who died on April 6 at age 87 at his home in Naples, Fla., was a venerable institution in Vernon.
A World War II veteran, McCoy practiced law in Vernon for 53 years, served as mayor of the town for eight years, and founded and coached the Orioles, beginning in 1967.
McCoy touched thousands of lives through sports and public service in Vernon and throughout the state and town officials are hoping for a big turnout at the dedication ceremony to honor his memory.
The monument will be placed next to McCoy Field, home to the Orioles. Following the ceremony, the Orioles will play host to longtime rival Foss Insurance in a Twilight League game.
All former and present Orioles players who would like to share in this special day should contact Steve Krajewski (860-281-4097). Any Greater Hartford Twilight League players, former players, coaches, and league officers, as well as the general public, are also welcome.
VERNON — Frank McCoy, founder and longtime manager of the Vernon Orioles in the Greater Hartford Twilight League, will be honored with a monument at a dedication ceremony on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Henry Park.
McCoy, who died on April 6 at age 87 at his home in Naples, Fla., was a venerable institution in Vernon.
A World War II veteran, McCoy practiced law in Vernon for 53 years, served as mayor of the town for eight years, and founded and coached the Orioles, beginning in 1967.
McCoy touched thousands of lives through sports and public service in Vernon and throughout the state and town officials are hoping for a big turnout at the dedication ceremony to honor his memory.
The monument will be placed next to McCoy Field, home to the Orioles. Following the ceremony, the Orioles will play host to longtime rival Foss Insurance in a Twilight League game.
All former and present Orioles players who would like to share in this special day should contact Steve Krajewski (860-281-4097). Any Greater Hartford Twilight League players, former players, coaches, and league officers, as well as the general public, are also welcome.
Vernon Connecticut- Bridge construction closes roads
Bridge construction closes roads: "Bridge construction closes roads" Birdge.s are moving ahead towards completion
Vernon CT- Ground broken for in Talcottville historic project
Ground broken for in Talcottville historic project: "Ground broken for in Talcottville historic project"
Rockville Library gets $30,000 grant for new technology - Vernon Connecticut
Library gets $30,000 grant for new technology: "Library gets $30,000 grant for new technology"
July 25, 2010
Politics: Five Rising Stars Aged 25 and Under- Former Vernon CT resident
Politics: Five Rising Stars Aged 25 and Under: "John Kleinhans, 20, Vermont Politics
When John Kleinhans fidgets with his BlackBerry in class, it's possible that he's checking Facebook. But it's more likely that he's texting with Vermont state representatives, some of whom he taught how to text in the first place. Kleinhans is barely an upperclassman at Vermont's Lyndon State College -- he'll be a junior this fall -- but he is already a significant presence in the Vermont Republican Party." Kleinhans is barely an upperclassman at Vermont's Lyndon State College -- he'll be a junior this fall -- but he is already a significant presence in the Vermont Republican Party. He's spending the summer working as the campaign coordinator for Mark Snelling, a candidate for lieutenant governor. In that capacity, Kleinhans is with Snelling around the clock, doing a little of everything -- prepping the candidate for interviews, driving, sitting in on editorial meetings, working on strategy, and more. The two met on the campaign trail last fall, during Kleinhans's unsuccessful run for secretary of the Vermont Republican Party Executive Board.
"I saw him on the campaign trail a bunch and we got to talking," Kleinhans said. "It was a perfect fit. I think he respected my work for the College Republicans, which is how I wound up where I am."
In his freshman year of college, Kleinhans became the country's youngest state chairman of the College Republicans. Under his leadership, the Vermont College Republicans went from a membership of five to around 150 active students, Kleinhans said. He's also been named one of the top 12 college Republicans in the country by the College Republican National Committee, an organization for which he serves as Northeastern regional vice chairman. And in his spare time, Kleinhans is student body president of Lyndon College.
"All young people should be involved in politics because it's our future that people are deciding," Kleinhans said. "It's also a lot of fun. You can connect with leaders across the country, you can go and have conversations with the governor, the lieutenant governor, and they actually listen to you."
What's Next?
"In the direct future, I'm contemplating a run for chairman of the CRNC (College Republican National Committee) -- that's still in the very beginning thinking process, but we're working on it," he said. "I also plan to go to law school. At some point I may try to seek public office, but I love what I'm doing right now. I'm having a lot of fun."
When John Kleinhans fidgets with his BlackBerry in class, it's possible that he's checking Facebook. But it's more likely that he's texting with Vermont state representatives, some of whom he taught how to text in the first place. Kleinhans is barely an upperclassman at Vermont's Lyndon State College -- he'll be a junior this fall -- but he is already a significant presence in the Vermont Republican Party." Kleinhans is barely an upperclassman at Vermont's Lyndon State College -- he'll be a junior this fall -- but he is already a significant presence in the Vermont Republican Party. He's spending the summer working as the campaign coordinator for Mark Snelling, a candidate for lieutenant governor. In that capacity, Kleinhans is with Snelling around the clock, doing a little of everything -- prepping the candidate for interviews, driving, sitting in on editorial meetings, working on strategy, and more. The two met on the campaign trail last fall, during Kleinhans's unsuccessful run for secretary of the Vermont Republican Party Executive Board.
"I saw him on the campaign trail a bunch and we got to talking," Kleinhans said. "It was a perfect fit. I think he respected my work for the College Republicans, which is how I wound up where I am."
In his freshman year of college, Kleinhans became the country's youngest state chairman of the College Republicans. Under his leadership, the Vermont College Republicans went from a membership of five to around 150 active students, Kleinhans said. He's also been named one of the top 12 college Republicans in the country by the College Republican National Committee, an organization for which he serves as Northeastern regional vice chairman. And in his spare time, Kleinhans is student body president of Lyndon College.
"All young people should be involved in politics because it's our future that people are deciding," Kleinhans said. "It's also a lot of fun. You can connect with leaders across the country, you can go and have conversations with the governor, the lieutenant governor, and they actually listen to you."
What's Next?
"In the direct future, I'm contemplating a run for chairman of the CRNC (College Republican National Committee) -- that's still in the very beginning thinking process, but we're working on it," he said. "I also plan to go to law school. At some point I may try to seek public office, but I love what I'm doing right now. I'm having a lot of fun."
July 23, 2010
Teachers Facing Weakest Market in Years
Teachers Facing Weakest Market in Years
By WINNIE HU
Published: May 19, 2010
In a profession long seen as recession-proof, applications far outnumber the jobs available for educators.
The recession seems to have penetrated a profession long seen as recession-proof. Superintendents, education professors and people seeking work say teachers are facing the worst job market since the Great Depression. Amid state and local budget cuts, cash-poor urban districts like New York City and Los Angeles, which once hired thousands of young people every spring, have taken down the help-wanted signs.
Even upscale suburban districts are preparing for huge levels of layoffs. School officials and union leaders estimate that more than 150,000 teachers nationwide could lose their jobs next year, far more than any other time, including the last major financial crisis of the 1970s.
Juliana Pankow, who just graduated from Teachers College at Columbia University, has sent out 40 résumés since January. A few Saturdays ago, she went to a school in Harlem because she heard the principal would be there (she was invited back to teach a demonstration lesson, but it may be for naught since the city has a hiring freeze). Now, Ms. Pankow said she might have to move back in with her parents in Scarsdale, N.Y., and perhaps take up SAT tutoring.
“I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do,” said Ms. Pankow, 23, as she waited outside the principal’s office at Pelham Memorial last week, among 619 people applying for one English position. “Which is a problem, because I might have to do something else.”
At Teachers College, so many students like Ms. Pankow are looking for work that two recent job fairs attracted a record 650 students and alumni, up from 450 last year. Last month, the college added a job fair focusing on schools in Harlem.
But job postings are down by half this year, to one dozen to two dozen a week, mostly in charter schools, said Marianne Tramelli, the college’s director of career services.
Charter schools, which are publicly financed but independently run, are practically the only ones hiring in New York and elsewhere because of growing enrollments amid expanding political and economic support for school choice. Even so, they do not have nearly enough jobs to go around.
In New York, where the Success Charter Network is hiring 135 teachers for its seven schools in Harlem and the Bronx, some of the 8,453 applicants have called the office three times a day to check on their status. Veteran teachers have also offered to work as assistant teachers.
“It’s heartbreaking — there’s much more desperation out there,” said Eva S. Moskowitz, a former councilwoman who is the network’s founder and chief executive.
KIPP, another charter school network with 82 schools nationwide, has received 745 applications since January at its seven schools in the San Francisco Bay Area, compared with 385 last year.
At the University of Pennsylvania, most of the 90 aspiring teachers who graduated last weekend are jobless. Many had counted on offers from the Philadelphia public schools but had their interviews canceled this month after the district announced a hiring freeze.
“We’re trying to encourage everyone to hold on,” said Kathy Schultz, an education professor at Penn. “But that’s very difficult because students have taken out loans and want to be assured of a job.”
Michigan State University has pushed its 500 teaching graduates to look out of state. As local jobs have dried up, it started an internship program in Chicago, a four-hour drive from campus. Professors now go with students to the annual campus job fair to make sure they do not hover around the Michigan tables, but walk over to, say, North Carolina, Texas or Virginia.
“We have a culture of people wanting to stay here and teach where they went to school, but we also want them to get jobs,” said Suzanne Wilson, the chairwoman of the department of teacher education.
Along with five other former teachers, Jade Stier, 27, finally gave up and enrolled in a nursing program last fall, after three years of looking for an elementary school job. She sent out hundreds of résumés, only to land one interview a year. She settled for working as a substitute teacher, earning $85 a day with no benefits.
“Spending $50,000 for an education you can’t use is really frustrating,” Ms. Stier said. “I definitely miss teaching, but I felt like I had no other choice.”
If there is an upside to the shortage of teaching jobs, it is that schools now have their pick of candidates.
Teach for America, which places graduates from some of the nation’s top colleges in poor schools, has seen applications increase by nearly a third this year to 46,000 — for 4,500 slots. From Ivy League colleges alone, there are 1,688 would-be teachers.
Here in Pelham, a well-regarded district where teaching salaries range from $50,000 to $134,000, high school administrators and teachers have spent recent weeks winnowing applicants’ résumés. Candidates with grade point averages below 3.0 were eliminated (3.3 in some departments), as were those who missed the April 30 application deadline. Almost 200 were invited for interviews.
“It’s very difficult,” said Jeannine Clark, the high school principal in Pelham. “More so than in years past because there are so many very qualified candidates.”
While Ms. Clark and the English supervisor were meeting with prospective teachers last week, candidates for the social studies job were down the hallway typing a 40-minute timed essay on the French Revolution. Upstairs, interviews for physics and biology teachers were being conducted.
“People will come in here begging for anything,” said Dennis R. Lauro Jr., the superintendent, who started closing his office door this year because out-of-work teachers would drop in unannounced to hand him résumés. “We’ve never seen these kinds of numbers before.”
Top candidates will be asked to return several more times to meet with Dr. Lauro, parents and students and to teach a demonstration class. Ms. Pankow is hoping she will be among them.
“It would be unbelievable,” she said. “I would love it here, but I’m not necessarily putting all my eggs in this basket.”
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/20/nyregion/20teachers.html
By WINNIE HU
Published: May 19, 2010
In a profession long seen as recession-proof, applications far outnumber the jobs available for educators.
The recession seems to have penetrated a profession long seen as recession-proof. Superintendents, education professors and people seeking work say teachers are facing the worst job market since the Great Depression. Amid state and local budget cuts, cash-poor urban districts like New York City and Los Angeles, which once hired thousands of young people every spring, have taken down the help-wanted signs.
Even upscale suburban districts are preparing for huge levels of layoffs. School officials and union leaders estimate that more than 150,000 teachers nationwide could lose their jobs next year, far more than any other time, including the last major financial crisis of the 1970s.
Juliana Pankow, who just graduated from Teachers College at Columbia University, has sent out 40 résumés since January. A few Saturdays ago, she went to a school in Harlem because she heard the principal would be there (she was invited back to teach a demonstration lesson, but it may be for naught since the city has a hiring freeze). Now, Ms. Pankow said she might have to move back in with her parents in Scarsdale, N.Y., and perhaps take up SAT tutoring.
“I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do,” said Ms. Pankow, 23, as she waited outside the principal’s office at Pelham Memorial last week, among 619 people applying for one English position. “Which is a problem, because I might have to do something else.”
At Teachers College, so many students like Ms. Pankow are looking for work that two recent job fairs attracted a record 650 students and alumni, up from 450 last year. Last month, the college added a job fair focusing on schools in Harlem.
But job postings are down by half this year, to one dozen to two dozen a week, mostly in charter schools, said Marianne Tramelli, the college’s director of career services.
Charter schools, which are publicly financed but independently run, are practically the only ones hiring in New York and elsewhere because of growing enrollments amid expanding political and economic support for school choice. Even so, they do not have nearly enough jobs to go around.
In New York, where the Success Charter Network is hiring 135 teachers for its seven schools in Harlem and the Bronx, some of the 8,453 applicants have called the office three times a day to check on their status. Veteran teachers have also offered to work as assistant teachers.
“It’s heartbreaking — there’s much more desperation out there,” said Eva S. Moskowitz, a former councilwoman who is the network’s founder and chief executive.
KIPP, another charter school network with 82 schools nationwide, has received 745 applications since January at its seven schools in the San Francisco Bay Area, compared with 385 last year.
At the University of Pennsylvania, most of the 90 aspiring teachers who graduated last weekend are jobless. Many had counted on offers from the Philadelphia public schools but had their interviews canceled this month after the district announced a hiring freeze.
“We’re trying to encourage everyone to hold on,” said Kathy Schultz, an education professor at Penn. “But that’s very difficult because students have taken out loans and want to be assured of a job.”
Michigan State University has pushed its 500 teaching graduates to look out of state. As local jobs have dried up, it started an internship program in Chicago, a four-hour drive from campus. Professors now go with students to the annual campus job fair to make sure they do not hover around the Michigan tables, but walk over to, say, North Carolina, Texas or Virginia.
“We have a culture of people wanting to stay here and teach where they went to school, but we also want them to get jobs,” said Suzanne Wilson, the chairwoman of the department of teacher education.
Along with five other former teachers, Jade Stier, 27, finally gave up and enrolled in a nursing program last fall, after three years of looking for an elementary school job. She sent out hundreds of résumés, only to land one interview a year. She settled for working as a substitute teacher, earning $85 a day with no benefits.
“Spending $50,000 for an education you can’t use is really frustrating,” Ms. Stier said. “I definitely miss teaching, but I felt like I had no other choice.”
If there is an upside to the shortage of teaching jobs, it is that schools now have their pick of candidates.
Teach for America, which places graduates from some of the nation’s top colleges in poor schools, has seen applications increase by nearly a third this year to 46,000 — for 4,500 slots. From Ivy League colleges alone, there are 1,688 would-be teachers.
Here in Pelham, a well-regarded district where teaching salaries range from $50,000 to $134,000, high school administrators and teachers have spent recent weeks winnowing applicants’ résumés. Candidates with grade point averages below 3.0 were eliminated (3.3 in some departments), as were those who missed the April 30 application deadline. Almost 200 were invited for interviews.
“It’s very difficult,” said Jeannine Clark, the high school principal in Pelham. “More so than in years past because there are so many very qualified candidates.”
While Ms. Clark and the English supervisor were meeting with prospective teachers last week, candidates for the social studies job were down the hallway typing a 40-minute timed essay on the French Revolution. Upstairs, interviews for physics and biology teachers were being conducted.
“People will come in here begging for anything,” said Dennis R. Lauro Jr., the superintendent, who started closing his office door this year because out-of-work teachers would drop in unannounced to hand him résumés. “We’ve never seen these kinds of numbers before.”
Top candidates will be asked to return several more times to meet with Dr. Lauro, parents and students and to teach a demonstration class. Ms. Pankow is hoping she will be among them.
“It would be unbelievable,” she said. “I would love it here, but I’m not necessarily putting all my eggs in this basket.”
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/20/nyregion/20teachers.html
July 15, 2010
Vernon CT Power Out Today July 15 2010
Power will be out for 400 residents today from 4 to 5 pm in Vernon because of an emergency repair on Talcottville Ave.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.5
July 10, 2010
DPS: State Police Unveil CT Alert Emergency Notification System
DPS: State Police Unveil CT Alert Emergency Notification System: "CT Alert Emergency Notification System
Safeguards Lives and Property throughout Entire State
Connecticut Officials Urge ALL Connecticut Residents to Sign Up for Emergency Alerts; Allowing Urgent Communications with EVERY CONNECTICUT Resident
The State of Connecticut today announced the opening of the registration website for CT Alert (http://www.ctalert.gov/), the nation’s first statewide emergency notification system (ENS) enabling Connecticut authorities to communicate critical information to hundreds of thousands of Connecticut residents and businesses before, during and after emergencies."
Connecticut Public Safety agencies (POLICE, FIRE, HOMELAND SECURITY, PUBLIC HEALTH, STATE & LOCAL OFFICIALS) will use the CT Alert system during hazardous events, such as natural disasters and public health emergencies. The CT Alert system was developed in partnership with state and local officials, as well as the emergency notification company Everbridge.
CT Alert enables state and local officials to provide potentially life-saving information to all Connecticut citizens quickly and efficiently across multiple communication devices, including cell phone, home phone, e-mail, text message, fax, pager, PDA, and more. Connecticut Public Safety agencies (POLICE, FIRE, HOMELAND SECURITY, PUBLIC HEALTH, STATE & LOCAL OFFICIALS) will use the CT Alert system during hazardous events, such as natural disasters and public health emergencies. The CT Alert system was developed in partnership with state and local officials, as well as the emergency notification company Everbridge.
CT Alert enables state and local officials to provide potentially life-saving information to all Connecticut citizens quickly and efficiently across multiple communication devices, including cell phone, home phone, e-mail, text message, fax, pager, PDA, and more.
For this system to be effective, it is vital for Connecticut residents to register on the site www.ctalert.gov to receive emergency alerts.
“We are proud that Connecticut is the first State in the nation to implement a statewide emergency notification system to protect the lives and property of all of our citizens,” said Lt. Governor Michael Fedele and Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas . “The State is committed to ensuring public safety, but we can’t alert you if we can’t reach you. We’ve signed up our families for CT Alert and urge all Connecticut residents and businesses to do the same.”
Some of Connecticut’s 169 towns, including Stonington, Mystic, and Pawcatuck have already utilized this CT ALERT system during the spring storms that left many residents stranded and in need of help.
“Having the emergency notification system in place allowed Connecticut to have a clearly defined and effective process to communicate everything from notifying volunteer and paid first responders and officials, to providing evacuation information to our citizens. We also can keep the public informed following any storms for recovery purposes,” said, Lt Governor Michael Fedele. “Communications tools and technology have made it easier for us to ensure the safety of our citizens at all times, but we urge our residents to do their part as well and sign up.”
For Connecticut citizens to sign up your cell phone, fax, home phone or any mobile device to the CT Alert EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM, you must visit the www.ctalert.gov website. The sign up is easy but necessary so you can be notified in the event of any emergency that affects our State.
Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas, Homeland Security Commissioner Peter Boynton, State Police Colonel Thomas Davoren, Ct Police Chiefs Association President Police Chief Lisa Maruzo-Buldec, Fire Chief Heather Burford, Public Health Operations Chief-E.M.S. Coordinator Leonard Guercia, and local And state government officials strongly encourage Connecticut residents To register so in an emergency you can be informed.
All contact information will only be used for emergency purposes, will be kept strictly confidential and will not be provided to any vendor or third-party organization.
For this system to be effective, it is vital for Connecticut residents to register on the site www.ctalert.gov to receive emergency alerts.
Safeguards Lives and Property throughout Entire State
Connecticut Officials Urge ALL Connecticut Residents to Sign Up for Emergency Alerts; Allowing Urgent Communications with EVERY CONNECTICUT Resident
The State of Connecticut today announced the opening of the registration website for CT Alert (http://www.ctalert.gov/), the nation’s first statewide emergency notification system (ENS) enabling Connecticut authorities to communicate critical information to hundreds of thousands of Connecticut residents and businesses before, during and after emergencies."
Connecticut Public Safety agencies (POLICE, FIRE, HOMELAND SECURITY, PUBLIC HEALTH, STATE & LOCAL OFFICIALS) will use the CT Alert system during hazardous events, such as natural disasters and public health emergencies. The CT Alert system was developed in partnership with state and local officials, as well as the emergency notification company Everbridge.
CT Alert enables state and local officials to provide potentially life-saving information to all Connecticut citizens quickly and efficiently across multiple communication devices, including cell phone, home phone, e-mail, text message, fax, pager, PDA, and more. Connecticut Public Safety agencies (POLICE, FIRE, HOMELAND SECURITY, PUBLIC HEALTH, STATE & LOCAL OFFICIALS) will use the CT Alert system during hazardous events, such as natural disasters and public health emergencies. The CT Alert system was developed in partnership with state and local officials, as well as the emergency notification company Everbridge.
CT Alert enables state and local officials to provide potentially life-saving information to all Connecticut citizens quickly and efficiently across multiple communication devices, including cell phone, home phone, e-mail, text message, fax, pager, PDA, and more.
For this system to be effective, it is vital for Connecticut residents to register on the site www.ctalert.gov to receive emergency alerts.
“We are proud that Connecticut is the first State in the nation to implement a statewide emergency notification system to protect the lives and property of all of our citizens,” said Lt. Governor Michael Fedele and Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas . “The State is committed to ensuring public safety, but we can’t alert you if we can’t reach you. We’ve signed up our families for CT Alert and urge all Connecticut residents and businesses to do the same.”
Some of Connecticut’s 169 towns, including Stonington, Mystic, and Pawcatuck have already utilized this CT ALERT system during the spring storms that left many residents stranded and in need of help.
“Having the emergency notification system in place allowed Connecticut to have a clearly defined and effective process to communicate everything from notifying volunteer and paid first responders and officials, to providing evacuation information to our citizens. We also can keep the public informed following any storms for recovery purposes,” said, Lt Governor Michael Fedele. “Communications tools and technology have made it easier for us to ensure the safety of our citizens at all times, but we urge our residents to do their part as well and sign up.”
For Connecticut citizens to sign up your cell phone, fax, home phone or any mobile device to the CT Alert EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM, you must visit the www.ctalert.gov website. The sign up is easy but necessary so you can be notified in the event of any emergency that affects our State.
Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas, Homeland Security Commissioner Peter Boynton, State Police Colonel Thomas Davoren, Ct Police Chiefs Association President Police Chief Lisa Maruzo-Buldec, Fire Chief Heather Burford, Public Health Operations Chief-E.M.S. Coordinator Leonard Guercia, and local And state government officials strongly encourage Connecticut residents To register so in an emergency you can be informed.
All contact information will only be used for emergency purposes, will be kept strictly confidential and will not be provided to any vendor or third-party organization.
For this system to be effective, it is vital for Connecticut residents to register on the site www.ctalert.gov to receive emergency alerts.
Vernon Blueberry Fest
The weather missed The Vernon Blueberry Fest. It's packed. Great rides and food.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.3.6
Vernon School Readiness Collaborative Receives Grant Award
Your Reader-Submitted Articles - Courant.com: "Vernon School Readiness Collaborative Receives Grant Award
Government Announcements
Mayor Jason L. McCoy is pleased to announce that the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative was recently awarded $15,500 by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund to undertake a community planning process for Vernon children aged birth to eight."
Vernon
Vernon School Readiness Collaborative Receives Grant Award
Government Announcements
Mayor Jason L. McCoy is pleased to announce that the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative was recently awarded $15,500 by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund to undertake a community planning process for Vernon children aged birth to eight.
This project will connect The School Readiness Collaborative and the Vernon Community Network, who is currently drafting a community plan for children, aged birth to 18. Vernon is one of 19 area communities undertaking community blueprints for early childhood.
In conjunction with this funding, several Vernon educators will be attending a Healthy, Safe and Ready to Learn! conference on July 19, 2010 featuring Dr. Joan Lombardi, Deputy Assistant Secretary & Interdepartmental Liaison for Early Childhood Development, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Lombardi will give an overview of early childhood development initiatives at the federal level and the importance of community planning.
For more information on this award, or the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative, please contact Alan Slobodien, Director of Youth Services at 860-870-3557.
Government Announcements
Mayor Jason L. McCoy is pleased to announce that the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative was recently awarded $15,500 by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund to undertake a community planning process for Vernon children aged birth to eight."
Vernon
Vernon School Readiness Collaborative Receives Grant Award
Government Announcements
Mayor Jason L. McCoy is pleased to announce that the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative was recently awarded $15,500 by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund to undertake a community planning process for Vernon children aged birth to eight.
This project will connect The School Readiness Collaborative and the Vernon Community Network, who is currently drafting a community plan for children, aged birth to 18. Vernon is one of 19 area communities undertaking community blueprints for early childhood.
In conjunction with this funding, several Vernon educators will be attending a Healthy, Safe and Ready to Learn! conference on July 19, 2010 featuring Dr. Joan Lombardi, Deputy Assistant Secretary & Interdepartmental Liaison for Early Childhood Development, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Lombardi will give an overview of early childhood development initiatives at the federal level and the importance of community planning.
For more information on this award, or the Vernon School Readiness Collaborative, please contact Alan Slobodien, Director of Youth Services at 860-870-3557.
July 7, 2010
Journal Inquirer > Letters To The Editor > July 6 Backing Mark Boughton for Connecticut
Journal Inquirer > Letters To The Editor > July 6: "Backing Boughton"
Backing Boughton
I want to tell you why I support Mark Boughton for lieutenant governor. Boughton is one of the great mayors in Connecticut. What makes Boughton a great chief executive officer has a lot to do with the fact that he has led the way to fundamental change in governmental management in Connecticut. Boughton’s record in Danbury of lower taxes, safer streets, responsibility in government, and the more efficient delivery of services speaks for itself.
Boughton has been solution-oriented through such innovations as being the leader in implementation of response-management solutions like q-send and the 311 program, where his city tracks request and complaints which hold city employees responsible and ensures timely responses to the public. The mayor’s city has turned around fiscal problems in the area of debt service, increased revenue without raising taxes on homeowners while actually improving services by attracting business and redevelopment. Boughton’s city has the lowest crime rate in Connecticut.
Boughton’s resume is full of those qualifications that are essential for the next lieutenant governor. Boughton has that understanding of making payroll every week as a small-business owner; he has the experience of running the city of Danbury; he has the communication skills and tolerance of a teacher because he was one once; he has fought labor during contract negotiations, while working with labor to get the citizens what they need.
Boughton has the knowledge of handling legislation, it impact on business, the fiscal costs of overregulation and impact on the public because he was a former legislator, as well as acting as the presiding officer over his City Council.
Boughton has the experience Connecticut needs right now. No matter who the next governor is, Boughton is the right choice for lieutenant governor.
Jason L. McCoy
Vernon-Rockville
www.boughtonforct.com/get_involved.php
The writer is the mayor of Vernon.
Backing Boughton
I want to tell you why I support Mark Boughton for lieutenant governor. Boughton is one of the great mayors in Connecticut. What makes Boughton a great chief executive officer has a lot to do with the fact that he has led the way to fundamental change in governmental management in Connecticut. Boughton’s record in Danbury of lower taxes, safer streets, responsibility in government, and the more efficient delivery of services speaks for itself.
Boughton has been solution-oriented through such innovations as being the leader in implementation of response-management solutions like q-send and the 311 program, where his city tracks request and complaints which hold city employees responsible and ensures timely responses to the public. The mayor’s city has turned around fiscal problems in the area of debt service, increased revenue without raising taxes on homeowners while actually improving services by attracting business and redevelopment. Boughton’s city has the lowest crime rate in Connecticut.
Boughton’s resume is full of those qualifications that are essential for the next lieutenant governor. Boughton has that understanding of making payroll every week as a small-business owner; he has the experience of running the city of Danbury; he has the communication skills and tolerance of a teacher because he was one once; he has fought labor during contract negotiations, while working with labor to get the citizens what they need.
Boughton has the knowledge of handling legislation, it impact on business, the fiscal costs of overregulation and impact on the public because he was a former legislator, as well as acting as the presiding officer over his City Council.
Boughton has the experience Connecticut needs right now. No matter who the next governor is, Boughton is the right choice for lieutenant governor.
Jason L. McCoy
Vernon-Rockville
www.boughtonforct.com/get_involved.php
The writer is the mayor of Vernon.
June 26, 2010
Prescott Bush, Jr. Dies At 87; Son Of U.S. Senator, Brother Of American President, And Uncle To Another President
Capitol Watch Blog - Connecticut Politics, Political News and Legislation
Connecticut are mourning the death of Prescott Bush, Jr. - the son of a U.S. Senator, brother of an American president, and uncle to another President.
Bush lived for decades in Greenwich and was a longtime attendee at the annual Prescott Bush Award Dinner - the chief fundraising event for the Connecticut Republican Party.
A well-known figure in Greenwich CT, Bush worked with candidates through the years.
"Connecticut and the Republican Party have lost a great American from a great American family whose hallmark has been public service for over 60 years,'' said Christopher Healy, the state GOP chairman. "Prescott Bush came from a generation that kept America strong, quietly serving their neighbors and was always ready to help anyone in their path. He was a successful businessman, patron of his party, loyal family man and public servant. Prescott Bush was a class act and our nation, state and party will miss him."
Connecticut are mourning the death of Prescott Bush, Jr. - the son of a U.S. Senator, brother of an American president, and uncle to another President.
Bush lived for decades in Greenwich and was a longtime attendee at the annual Prescott Bush Award Dinner - the chief fundraising event for the Connecticut Republican Party.
A well-known figure in Greenwich CT, Bush worked with candidates through the years.
"Connecticut and the Republican Party have lost a great American from a great American family whose hallmark has been public service for over 60 years,'' said Christopher Healy, the state GOP chairman. "Prescott Bush came from a generation that kept America strong, quietly serving their neighbors and was always ready to help anyone in their path. He was a successful businessman, patron of his party, loyal family man and public servant. Prescott Bush was a class act and our nation, state and party will miss him."
June 25, 2010
Towns Vernon Rockville High graduates drenched during ceremony
It was a great Graduation, the sun came out in time for the Students' Speeches, which were great. But the really cool thing is the rainbow that appeared over the Students just before the speeches started. So just over the Rainbow you will find the RHS Class of 2010. Take a look at this photo!
June 20, 2010
June 4, 2010
Mayor and Council Person Marching in 2010 Memorial Day Parade Vernon Connecticut
Vernon Council Person Mark Etre, Mayor Jason McCoy and Board of Education Memebr Laura Bush March in the 2010 Memorial Day Parade Vernon Connecticut
Vernon Connecticut Offers Renter's Rebate Program - Courant.com
Vernon Offers Renter's Rebate Program - Courant.com
VERNON – — The town's department of social services is advising low-income seniors and disabled residents of the state's offer of a one-time payment of up to $900 of their rent and utility expenses.
The yearly renter's rebate program, administered by the state Office of Policy and Management, uses income level and rent and utility costs to determine eligibility and the amount of the rebates, which range from $50 to $900.
The income limit for a single individual is $32,300 and for a couple is $39,500, annually. Also, 35 percent of what is paid on rent and utilities must be greater than 5 percent of the applicant's gross income. Applicants must be 65 or older or be disabled as outlined by Social Security guidelines.
The filling period is May 15 through Sept. 15 with the rebates being sent out after Nov. 1.
Last year, the town received 600 applications from residents who received a total of $265,800 in rebates. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Vernon social services department.
VERNON – — The town's department of social services is advising low-income seniors and disabled residents of the state's offer of a one-time payment of up to $900 of their rent and utility expenses.
The yearly renter's rebate program, administered by the state Office of Policy and Management, uses income level and rent and utility costs to determine eligibility and the amount of the rebates, which range from $50 to $900.
The income limit for a single individual is $32,300 and for a couple is $39,500, annually. Also, 35 percent of what is paid on rent and utilities must be greater than 5 percent of the applicant's gross income. Applicants must be 65 or older or be disabled as outlined by Social Security guidelines.
The filling period is May 15 through Sept. 15 with the rebates being sent out after Nov. 1.
Last year, the town received 600 applications from residents who received a total of $265,800 in rebates. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Vernon social services department.
Selfless couple, Town of Vernon Receptionist Honored Article | ReminderNews
Article ReminderNews:
"Selfless couple, And Town of Vernon receptionist honored
BY STEVE SMITH Staff Writer
Rockville — 06/01/2010
Trudy Roberts is well-known as the “face of the Vernon Town Hall,” as she has worked the front desk there for 22 years."
Outgoing Rotary President Randy Anagnostis called her an “unsung hero,” as he presented Roberts with the President’s Community Service Award at the Rotary Club of Rockville’s Awards and Installation Dinner Banquet on May 25 at Georgina’s in Bolton.
Mayor Jason McCoy (in photo to the left) presents an award to long time Town of Vernon employee Trudy Roberts for her dedication and services to Vernon residents.
“She always has a smile and a warm welcome,” Anagnostis said. “She has information that has gathered over the years that none of us could retain. She could direct you to any department, any agency in town – the right person, the right individual.”
Roberts also brings flowers from her home garden to decorate downtown Rockville.
Humble while explaining her efforts, Roberts said, “I just help people.”
Roberts received a proclamation from Rep. Claire Janowski, a certificate of appreciation from the Town of Vernon, and a citation from Gov. M. Jodi Rell.
Stephen Bazzano and Director Risa Filkoff presented the Outstanding Citizens of the Year Award to Mark and Jamie Summers of Tolland.
The Summers’ corporation, CNC Software, Inc., employs 125 people and distributes CAD/CAM software to more than 135 locations in 50 countries.
Their facilities in Tolland are committed to the environment, and have been cooled and heated by geo-thermal and solar power for more than a decade, as evidenced by the behemoth array of solar panels visible near the building’s front parking lot. CNC Software also uses hybrid company cars, and encourages employees to contribute to, and harvest from, the company community garden.
Mark is also Chairman of the Tolland Energy Task Force. Filkoff said the couple supports more than two dozen local charitable organizations . “During these economic times, when many people are saying no to community organizations,” Filkoff said, “Mark and Jamie have been fortunate enough to say yes.”
Filkoff added the the Summerses also frequently lend “hands-on” involvement to the charities, including serving pancakes at the YMCA’s Breakfast with Santa to opening their company’s facilities for a phone-a-thon , while allowing a community band to rehearse in the building’s cellar.
“They are caring, humble, responsive to needs, pro-active and generous people who we treasure having in our community ,” Filkoff said. A check for $250 was also presented by the Rockville Rotary to the Summers’ charity of choice, Roots of Development .
Recipients of the Paul Harris Awards, for exceptional service by a Rotarian, included Filkoff, Past Presidents Steve Leibowitz, Jim Paganetti, and Dan Keune, as well as Keune’s father, Edward Keune.
The Rotary Club also installed its new officers for 2010-2011 , including President Liane Lombardi, Vice-President Thora Cowperthwaite, Treasurer Angela Atwater, Secretary Richard Slutsky, Sergeant at Arms Gene Skladnowski , and Directors Randy Anagnostis , Risa Filkoff, and Ben Hardy.
The Rotary Rose Sale, benefiting scholarships at three local high schools, is Friday, June 11, from 10-6 at the Vernon Circle Shopping Center. The Rotary Club is also preparing for its 12th annual Golf Tournament benefiting KidsSafe CT and other charities, on June 28, at the Elmcrest Country Club in East Longmeadow, Mass.
For more information, visit http://www.rotaryrockvillect.com/.
May 28, 2010
Volunteers Needed For Memorial Day Observance - Courant.com
Volunteers Needed For Memorial Day Observance - Courant.com
VERNON –Volunteers Needed For Holiday Observance
Volunteers are needed for a few hours on Memorial Day to help with the town's observance that honors those killed in defense of the nation.
Volunteers are needed for a few hours on Memorial Day to help with the town's observance that honors those killed in defense of the nation.
Anyone wishing to volunteer or any local organizations interested in setting up a booth to sell drinks or snacks this coming Monday, Memorial Day, should contact Mayor Jason L. McCoy's office at 860-870-3601.
This year's parade will form on Kingsbury Avenue at 9:15 a.m. and step off at 10 a.m. following a ceremony at St. Bernard Cemetery. The parade will conclude in Rockville center with a wreath laying at the Central Park war memorials.
Brad Davis of WDRC-AM will be broadcasting live from the mayor's office from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.
VERNON –Volunteers Needed For Holiday Observance
Volunteers are needed for a few hours on Memorial Day to help with the town's observance that honors those killed in defense of the nation.
Volunteers are needed for a few hours on Memorial Day to help with the town's observance that honors those killed in defense of the nation.
Anyone wishing to volunteer or any local organizations interested in setting up a booth to sell drinks or snacks this coming Monday, Memorial Day, should contact Mayor Jason L. McCoy's office at 860-870-3601.
This year's parade will form on Kingsbury Avenue at 9:15 a.m. and step off at 10 a.m. following a ceremony at St. Bernard Cemetery. The parade will conclude in Rockville center with a wreath laying at the Central Park war memorials.
Brad Davis of WDRC-AM will be broadcasting live from the mayor's office from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.
May 27, 2010
May 24, 2010
May 1, 2010
Article | ReminderNews
Article ReminderNews: "Towns put heads together in Vernon
BY STEVE SMITH Staff Writer
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy chaired a round table discussion last week, with leaders of several Tolland County towns, to discuss ways to deal with difficult issues, including unfunded mandates, labor negotiations, health insurance costs, and declining state revenues."
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy chaired a round table discussion last week, with leaders of several Tolland County towns, to discuss ways to deal with difficult issues, including unfunded mandates, labor negotiations, health insurance costs, and declining state revenues.
Click the thumbnails above to see the full size pictures.State Sen. Tony Guglielmo was on hand, to provide insight into the state end of the issues. Also present was attorney Edward O’Connell , who represents Vernon in its labor negotiations.
McCoy said one way he has dealt with unfunded mandates is to combine attrition with technology, in the form of “electronic government.”
“You have to start looking at these things to help out your town,” McCoy said, adding that Vernon uses software to track complaints and response time, and to store documents.
McCoy said Vernon is looking into more ways that small investments in software can perform tasks, such as issuing building permits.
“Basically, it’s centralizing all of your data, so you can move things faster,” he said.
Health insurance costs went up almost across the board, and negotiating with the insurance companies has been difficult, but perhaps unecessarily so.
Somers First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini said one issue is employees in her town have a total of 14 plans, and she hopes to push toward consolidation .
“The school [system] has 12 different plans,” she said. “One teacher has their own plan. They’re so similar, so you just have to get it back together.”
Sick days and overtime of municipal employees, as they affect pensions in some towns, are things that are causing major budget headaches, since unused sick time and pension increases are not usually accounted for in the budget processes .
McCoy and others said they are under the impression that few taxpayers are aware of how these things drive up town costs.
He said that studies have shown the average employee uses 2.1 sick days in 5 years. Under current accounting practices , employees are allowed to accrue their sick time over years, and then receive large payouts upon retirement.
“This is also pushing up pensions in the end,” McCoy said. “Nobody’s aware of sick days. I thought sick days were a nice thing to have for people. I didn’t realize it was something you get when you retire – half a year’s salary all at once and you drive up your pension by 50 percent.”
Columbia First Selectman said the state has mandated that towns cannot give their Boards of Education a budget that is less than the previous year’s .
“We cut the Board of Ed. budget,” she said. “We actually cut it by about $110,000... Next, we were informed by the state ‘you can’t do that.’ We can’t go below what you’ve given them in the past. So now we’re asked to give them back that $110,000, which makes no financial sense.”
There is a bill on the table that credits school systems for having fewer students , she said, but it’s only about 20 percent of the difference.
The answers to these problems, it seems, is to change the rules.
“Everybody has to rethink the model ,” said Andover First Selectman Robert Burbank. “It’s not about trying to hurt people. You have to get employees on board. You have to take a hard look at some issues.”
O’Donnell said the unions are willing to discuss difficult issues, but many towns are afraid of going to binding arbitration .
“The more you [towns] are prepared to, the more union reps will negotiate more seriously with you,” he said.
State-level reform was also called for. “It’s probably the time for the state to say: ‘we’re just going to fight over every one of these things,” McCoy said,
Guglielmo said the state has at least $51 billion in unfunded and under-funded liabilities, largely due to the pensions over the next several years. “The truth is that we [the state legislature ] haven’t done nearly the job that you have on the local level,” he said, adding that things, indeed, must change. Guglielmo said towns and residents should keep their representatives in Hartford in check. “Hold us accountable,” he said. Contact Steve Smith at
BY STEVE SMITH Staff Writer
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy chaired a round table discussion last week, with leaders of several Tolland County towns, to discuss ways to deal with difficult issues, including unfunded mandates, labor negotiations, health insurance costs, and declining state revenues."
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy chaired a round table discussion last week, with leaders of several Tolland County towns, to discuss ways to deal with difficult issues, including unfunded mandates, labor negotiations, health insurance costs, and declining state revenues.
Click the thumbnails above to see the full size pictures.State Sen. Tony Guglielmo was on hand, to provide insight into the state end of the issues. Also present was attorney Edward O’Connell , who represents Vernon in its labor negotiations.
McCoy said one way he has dealt with unfunded mandates is to combine attrition with technology, in the form of “electronic government.”
“You have to start looking at these things to help out your town,” McCoy said, adding that Vernon uses software to track complaints and response time, and to store documents.
McCoy said Vernon is looking into more ways that small investments in software can perform tasks, such as issuing building permits.
“Basically, it’s centralizing all of your data, so you can move things faster,” he said.
Health insurance costs went up almost across the board, and negotiating with the insurance companies has been difficult, but perhaps unecessarily so.
Somers First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini said one issue is employees in her town have a total of 14 plans, and she hopes to push toward consolidation .
“The school [system] has 12 different plans,” she said. “One teacher has their own plan. They’re so similar, so you just have to get it back together.”
Sick days and overtime of municipal employees, as they affect pensions in some towns, are things that are causing major budget headaches, since unused sick time and pension increases are not usually accounted for in the budget processes .
McCoy and others said they are under the impression that few taxpayers are aware of how these things drive up town costs.
He said that studies have shown the average employee uses 2.1 sick days in 5 years. Under current accounting practices , employees are allowed to accrue their sick time over years, and then receive large payouts upon retirement.
“This is also pushing up pensions in the end,” McCoy said. “Nobody’s aware of sick days. I thought sick days were a nice thing to have for people. I didn’t realize it was something you get when you retire – half a year’s salary all at once and you drive up your pension by 50 percent.”
Columbia First Selectman said the state has mandated that towns cannot give their Boards of Education a budget that is less than the previous year’s .
“We cut the Board of Ed. budget,” she said. “We actually cut it by about $110,000... Next, we were informed by the state ‘you can’t do that.’ We can’t go below what you’ve given them in the past. So now we’re asked to give them back that $110,000, which makes no financial sense.”
There is a bill on the table that credits school systems for having fewer students , she said, but it’s only about 20 percent of the difference.
The answers to these problems, it seems, is to change the rules.
“Everybody has to rethink the model ,” said Andover First Selectman Robert Burbank. “It’s not about trying to hurt people. You have to get employees on board. You have to take a hard look at some issues.”
O’Donnell said the unions are willing to discuss difficult issues, but many towns are afraid of going to binding arbitration .
“The more you [towns] are prepared to, the more union reps will negotiate more seriously with you,” he said.
State-level reform was also called for. “It’s probably the time for the state to say: ‘we’re just going to fight over every one of these things,” McCoy said,
Guglielmo said the state has at least $51 billion in unfunded and under-funded liabilities, largely due to the pensions over the next several years. “The truth is that we [the state legislature ] haven’t done nearly the job that you have on the local level,” he said, adding that things, indeed, must change. Guglielmo said towns and residents should keep their representatives in Hartford in check. “Hold us accountable,” he said. Contact Steve Smith at
April 30, 2010
Hotel Tax Increase Approved By House - Courant.com
Hotel Tax Increase Approved By House - Courant.com: "The state hotel tax would rise from 12 percent to 15 percent under a bill that passed the state House of Representatives by an 88-50 vote late Thursday and is headed for action in the Senate.
One-third of the 3 percentage point increase would go to the cities or towns where the hotels that collected the money are located; two-thirds would go to the regional planning organizations on a pro rata basis."
One-third of the 3 percentage point increase would go to the cities or towns where the hotels that collected the money are located; two-thirds would go to the regional planning organizations on a pro rata basis."
Vernon Town Council Approves Spending For Herbicide
By JOSEPH A. O'BRIEN JR.
Special to The Courant
April 21, 2010
The town council has approved spending $16,625 on herbicides to battle the invasive plants that have taken hold in Valley Falls Pond and Walker's Reservoir.
Members of the conservation commission agreed in March to follow the recommendation of George W. Knoecklein of Northeast Aquatic Research in Mansfield, who urged the town take action against the variable-leaf milfoil that's thriving in Valley Falls Pond and the milfoil and fanwort that have infested Walker's Reservoir East.
"These plants," the commission wrote in a memorandum to Mayor Jason L McCoy, "if left unchecked, can potentially degrade natural habitat and disrupt or eliminate native plant and animal species, including the wild trout population, in the Tankerhoosen River, in Tankerhoosen, Dobsonville and Talcottville ponds and potentially in the Hockanum River."
The town council this week voted to spend $3,350 to treat Valley Falls Pond and $13,275 to treat Walker's Reservoir East.
The town has applied to the state Department of Environmental Protection for the necessary permits to apply the herbicides. Public notices will have to be published and signs posted at both locations informing people about the intended pesticide use.
The commissioners had considered other eradication methods but concluded that the herbicides would likely be the most effective one.
Mechanical harvesting would make the problem worse because both species spread and propagate through fragmentation that would occur during harvesting. Also, harvesting is good for only one growing season. Officials considered introducing sterile grass carp to dine on the invading plants but were concerned that these fish would get into the river ecosystem and raise havoc with the trout.
Suction harvesting, in which a diver uses an underwater, venturi vacuum to remove the plants, was deemed too slow and too expensive. Vacuuming the 6 acres of Walker Reservoir would probably take 12 weeks and cost about $108,000.
The commissioners acknowledged that there would probably be concerns about the herbicides' effect on the environment and "that citizens may question their use." The herbicides "can be expected to eliminate fanwort and milfoil from the ponds for a period of three to five years," the commission said.
The commissioners also urged that the town develop a long-term, comprehensive management plan to control invasive species. "We specifically recommend that in the intervening years before these plants return to their present density, the town consider planning and budgeting for the future use of suction harvesting, which we understand may become more cost-effective."
Special to The Courant
April 21, 2010
The town council has approved spending $16,625 on herbicides to battle the invasive plants that have taken hold in Valley Falls Pond and Walker's Reservoir.
Members of the conservation commission agreed in March to follow the recommendation of George W. Knoecklein of Northeast Aquatic Research in Mansfield, who urged the town take action against the variable-leaf milfoil that's thriving in Valley Falls Pond and the milfoil and fanwort that have infested Walker's Reservoir East.
"These plants," the commission wrote in a memorandum to Mayor Jason L McCoy, "if left unchecked, can potentially degrade natural habitat and disrupt or eliminate native plant and animal species, including the wild trout population, in the Tankerhoosen River, in Tankerhoosen, Dobsonville and Talcottville ponds and potentially in the Hockanum River."
The town council this week voted to spend $3,350 to treat Valley Falls Pond and $13,275 to treat Walker's Reservoir East.
The town has applied to the state Department of Environmental Protection for the necessary permits to apply the herbicides. Public notices will have to be published and signs posted at both locations informing people about the intended pesticide use.
The commissioners had considered other eradication methods but concluded that the herbicides would likely be the most effective one.
Mechanical harvesting would make the problem worse because both species spread and propagate through fragmentation that would occur during harvesting. Also, harvesting is good for only one growing season. Officials considered introducing sterile grass carp to dine on the invading plants but were concerned that these fish would get into the river ecosystem and raise havoc with the trout.
Suction harvesting, in which a diver uses an underwater, venturi vacuum to remove the plants, was deemed too slow and too expensive. Vacuuming the 6 acres of Walker Reservoir would probably take 12 weeks and cost about $108,000.
The commissioners acknowledged that there would probably be concerns about the herbicides' effect on the environment and "that citizens may question their use." The herbicides "can be expected to eliminate fanwort and milfoil from the ponds for a period of three to five years," the commission said.
The commissioners also urged that the town develop a long-term, comprehensive management plan to control invasive species. "We specifically recommend that in the intervening years before these plants return to their present density, the town consider planning and budgeting for the future use of suction harvesting, which we understand may become more cost-effective."
Groundbreaking For Mill Project Slated April 28 - Courant.com
Groundbreaking For Mill Project Slated April 28 - Courant.com: "Groundbreaking For Mill Project Slated April 28"
The groundbreaking ceremony that will mark the transformation of the former Roosevelt Mills sweater factory into residential and commercial space will take place April 28, according to Mayor Jason L. McCoy.
The ceremony, which will take place at 2 p.m. on the site of the once busy factory at 215 East Main St., had been set for March 30 but had to be rescheduled due to inclement weather.
The development, to be known as Loom City Lofts, will include 68 one-bedroom apartments on the upper floors and roughly 10,000 square feet of retail and office space on the first floor. The project is supported by state funding through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.
Roosevelt Mills has been vacant since 1998. Before anything could be done with the site it had to be cleaned up. Tests showed it was polluted with chlorinated solvents including tetrachloroethene, a cancer-causing chemical that was used to dry-clean sweaters. Another chemical, sodium persulfate, was used to destroy the tetrachloroethene and itself will breakdown into sodium and sulfate, two elements found naturally in the soil that are not harmful.
The mill was built in 1906 and was one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the country. It was the last textile factory in Rockville, once known as the Loom City, to go out of business.
— Joseph A. O'Brien Jr.
The groundbreaking ceremony that will mark the transformation of the former Roosevelt Mills sweater factory into residential and commercial space will take place April 28, according to Mayor Jason L. McCoy.
The ceremony, which will take place at 2 p.m. on the site of the once busy factory at 215 East Main St., had been set for March 30 but had to be rescheduled due to inclement weather.
The development, to be known as Loom City Lofts, will include 68 one-bedroom apartments on the upper floors and roughly 10,000 square feet of retail and office space on the first floor. The project is supported by state funding through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.
Roosevelt Mills has been vacant since 1998. Before anything could be done with the site it had to be cleaned up. Tests showed it was polluted with chlorinated solvents including tetrachloroethene, a cancer-causing chemical that was used to dry-clean sweaters. Another chemical, sodium persulfate, was used to destroy the tetrachloroethene and itself will breakdown into sodium and sulfate, two elements found naturally in the soil that are not harmful.
The mill was built in 1906 and was one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the country. It was the last textile factory in Rockville, once known as the Loom City, to go out of business.
— Joseph A. O'Brien Jr.
April 11, 2010
In Loving Memory Frank J. McCoy Former Mayor of Vernon Connecticut
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. April 24, 2010
at the Sacred Heart Church, 550 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon Connecticut 06066
The Life and Time of Frank J. McCoy December 21, 1922 - April 6, 2010
The Life of Frank J. McCoy December 21, 1922 to April 6, 2010
Former Mayor Frank J. McCOY, Esq.
McCOY, Frank J. Frank J. McCoy of Vernon, CT, passed away on April 6, 2010 and joins his wife Jeanette McCoy. He was surrounded by his family. He was born on December 21, 1922 in New Haven, CT and graduated from Milford High School in 1940 before serving as a Sergeant in the United States Army for three years in the European theater during World War II. He graduated from Yale University in 1949 and the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1956. He practiced law for 54 years and served as attorney for the Vernon Fire District during its consolidation with the City of Rockville in forming the Town of Vernon. He served two terms with the Vernon Town Council and Mayor of Vernon for four terms in the 70's and 80's. He served as President of the Connecticut Conference of Mayors and served for over 30 years as Attorney representative on the advisory review board for the Whiting Forensic Institute. He was the service officer for the Soldier Sailors Marine Fund for over 40 years helping war time veterans who were in need of financial assistance. In 1960, he formed the Vernon Midget Football League, which was the impetus for football being brought to Rockville High School. He was a coach in Vernon sports for over 40 years, coaching recreation basketball, baseball and football. In 1965, he formed and sponsored the Vernon Orioles baseball team who continue to play in the Hartford Twilight League until today. He is survived by his five children: Jack McCoy (June), Wayne McCoy (Laura), Karen McCoy (Gary Blinn), Dennis McCoy (Diana) and Attorney Frank McCoy, Jr. (Jane); his four grandchildren, Jason, Kevin, Jennifer and Kathleen; his brother John McCoy and sister Helen McCoy (deceased).
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. April 24, 2010 at the Sacred Heart Church, 550 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon, CT 06066.
For online condolences, visit www.fullerfuneralhome.com.
Former Mayor Frank J. McCOY, Esq.
McCOY, Frank J. Frank J. McCoy of Vernon, CT, passed away on April 6, 2010 and joins his wife Jeanette McCoy. He was surrounded by his family. He was born on December 21, 1922 in New Haven, CT and graduated from Milford High School in 1940 before serving as a Sergeant in the United States Army for three years in the European theater during World War II. He graduated from Yale University in 1949 and the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1956. He practiced law for 54 years and served as attorney for the Vernon Fire District during its consolidation with the City of Rockville in forming the Town of Vernon. He served two terms with the Vernon Town Council and Mayor of Vernon for four terms in the 70's and 80's. He served as President of the Connecticut Conference of Mayors and served for over 30 years as Attorney representative on the advisory review board for the Whiting Forensic Institute. He was the service officer for the Soldier Sailors Marine Fund for over 40 years helping war time veterans who were in need of financial assistance. In 1960, he formed the Vernon Midget Football League, which was the impetus for football being brought to Rockville High School. He was a coach in Vernon sports for over 40 years, coaching recreation basketball, baseball and football. In 1965, he formed and sponsored the Vernon Orioles baseball team who continue to play in the Hartford Twilight League until today. He is survived by his five children: Jack McCoy (June), Wayne McCoy (Laura), Karen McCoy (Gary Blinn), Dennis McCoy (Diana) and Attorney Frank McCoy, Jr. (Jane); his four grandchildren, Jason, Kevin, Jennifer and Kathleen; his brother John McCoy and sister Helen McCoy (deceased).
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. April 24, 2010 at the Sacred Heart Church, 550 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon, CT 06066.
For online condolences, visit www.fullerfuneralhome.com.
March 28, 2010
Rockville Landlord Accused Of Fire-Code Violations - Hartford Courant
Rockville Landlord Accused Of Fire-Code Violations - Hartford Courant: "Rockville Landlord Accused Of Fire-Code Violations March 26, 2010By DAVID OWENS, The Hartford CourantVERNON — — A 27-year veteran of Bristol's fire department is in trouble in Vernon, accused of not fixing fire-code violations at a rental property he owns in the Rockville section. Stephen Sanders, 54, of New Britain, was charged Wednesday with eight counts of violating state fire safety codes. His arrest followed several months of prodding by Vernon Fire Marshal Raymond A. Walker Jr. to repair a three-family home at 108-110 W. Main St., police and Walker said.
Sanders was released without having to post bail and is due in court April 6."
Sanders offers a different view of the situation. He said his arrest was prompted by complaints from a vengeful tenant he's been trying to evict since last summer for not paying rent. To make matters worse, Sanders said, he hasn't been able to make repairs in that tenant's apartment because he has been refused access.
"I can't just break into his apartment to fix fire-code violations," said Sanders, a lieutenant with the Bristol Fire Department.
Sanders also said the tenant, Corey Ouimette, 33, has threatened him.
Ouimette, a tenant for six years, agreed that problems began in July. He said Sanders fell behind on repairs, so he began withholding rent. He said Sanders didn't deal with issues and didn't respond to requests for repairs.
Another tenant, Ben Nicholoy, said he, too, complained to the local building department when problems were not corrected. The problems include what he described as dangerous spikes in water temperature. He has been a tenant since November.
The first-floor tenant, April Devaux, who has lived in her apartment for 14 years, said Sanders is a good landlord who makes needed repairs when asked.
Devaux said his problems with Ouimette relate to the eviction proceedings. "There were no issues until recently, when Corey started getting evicted," she said.
Walker said his request that Sanders be prosecuted is the first time he's taken that step since he arrived in Vernon during the summer of 2008.
"The goal is to seek compliance by a reasonable schedule," he said Thursday. "In this case, that broke down. The effort to reach compliance stopped occurring in any reasonable manner."
Sanders said he asked for reasonable extensions so he could to line up contractors and because some work couldn't be done in winter, such as pouring new concrete steps. Those requests were refused, he said.
The code violations that prompted the charges include obstructions in the rear hallway, missing or inoperable smoke detectors, an improperly vented clothes dryer, improper wiring of a gas heater, tripping hazards at exits, broken windows and missing covers on electrical panels, Vernon police Capt. Stephen Clark said.
Sanders said the smoke detectors had been removed by someone. He said he was trying to line up an electrician to make repairs, and was planning to take care of broken glass in two doors by installing new doors.
Sanders was released without having to post bail and is due in court April 6."
Sanders offers a different view of the situation. He said his arrest was prompted by complaints from a vengeful tenant he's been trying to evict since last summer for not paying rent. To make matters worse, Sanders said, he hasn't been able to make repairs in that tenant's apartment because he has been refused access.
"I can't just break into his apartment to fix fire-code violations," said Sanders, a lieutenant with the Bristol Fire Department.
Sanders also said the tenant, Corey Ouimette, 33, has threatened him.
Ouimette, a tenant for six years, agreed that problems began in July. He said Sanders fell behind on repairs, so he began withholding rent. He said Sanders didn't deal with issues and didn't respond to requests for repairs.
Another tenant, Ben Nicholoy, said he, too, complained to the local building department when problems were not corrected. The problems include what he described as dangerous spikes in water temperature. He has been a tenant since November.
The first-floor tenant, April Devaux, who has lived in her apartment for 14 years, said Sanders is a good landlord who makes needed repairs when asked.
Devaux said his problems with Ouimette relate to the eviction proceedings. "There were no issues until recently, when Corey started getting evicted," she said.
Walker said his request that Sanders be prosecuted is the first time he's taken that step since he arrived in Vernon during the summer of 2008.
"The goal is to seek compliance by a reasonable schedule," he said Thursday. "In this case, that broke down. The effort to reach compliance stopped occurring in any reasonable manner."
Sanders said he asked for reasonable extensions so he could to line up contractors and because some work couldn't be done in winter, such as pouring new concrete steps. Those requests were refused, he said.
The code violations that prompted the charges include obstructions in the rear hallway, missing or inoperable smoke detectors, an improperly vented clothes dryer, improper wiring of a gas heater, tripping hazards at exits, broken windows and missing covers on electrical panels, Vernon police Capt. Stephen Clark said.
Sanders said the smoke detectors had been removed by someone. He said he was trying to line up an electrician to make repairs, and was planning to take care of broken glass in two doors by installing new doors.
Vernon Connecticut FY 2010-11 Budget Deliberation and Annual Meeting dates
FY 2010-11 Budget Deliberation and Annual Meeting dates
TOWN OF VERNON
THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO ATTEND THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:
MARCH 2010 22 – Budget Deliberations – *Public Hearing
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
7:05 pm – Public Hearing
24 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
25 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
27 ‐ Budget Deliberations – *Public Hearing
10:00 am – Town Council Chambers 14 Park Place
Public Hearing and Budget Deliberations
31 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
APRIL 2010
7 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
27 – Annual Town Meeting – *Public Hearing
7:00 pm – Rockville High School Auditorium, 70 Loveland Hill Road
7:05 pm – Public Hearing
Please read my Mayor's message online. You can also read the budget by going to http://www.vernon-ct.gov/budgets.html . We look forward to seeing you.
Mayor JASON L. McCOY, ESQ.
14 PARK PLACE, VERNON, CT 06066
Tel: (860) 870-3600
Fax: (860) 870-3580
E-mail: jmccoy@vernon-ct.gov
apple 
economy
TOWN OF VERNON
THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO ATTEND THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:
MARCH 2010 22 – Budget Deliberations – *Public Hearing
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
7:05 pm – Public Hearing
24 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
25 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
27 ‐ Budget Deliberations – *Public Hearing
10:00 am – Town Council Chambers 14 Park Place
Public Hearing and Budget Deliberations
31 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
APRIL 2010
7 ‐ Budget Deliberations
7:00 pm – Town Council Chambers, 14 Park Place
27 – Annual Town Meeting – *Public Hearing
7:00 pm – Rockville High School Auditorium, 70 Loveland Hill Road
7:05 pm – Public Hearing
Please read my Mayor's message online. You can also read the budget by going to http://www.vernon-ct.gov/budgets.html . We look forward to seeing you.
Mayor JASON L. McCOY, ESQ.
14 PARK PLACE, VERNON, CT 06066
Tel: (860) 870-3600
Fax: (860) 870-3580
E-mail: jmccoy@vernon-ct.gov
apple economy
GOP Mayors To Offer Reform Ideas
2nd District Tea Party Blog: "GOP Mayors To Offer Reform Ideas
Republican Mayors and First Selectmen met at Republican State Party headquarters Saturday to exchange ideas and to brain-storm on ways to meet the state budget crisis and to prepare for the 2010 Election.
'Republicans are the party of ideas and solutions and we will make our case to people who are tired of the same old failed leadership,' said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy Saturday. 'The quicker we put the facts on the table and show we have the answers.'"
GOP Mayors To Offer Reform Ideas
Republican Mayors and First Selectmen met at Republican State Party headquarters Saturday to exchange ideas and to brain-storm on ways to meet the state budget crisis and to prepare for the 2010 Election.
"Republicans are the party of ideas and solutions and we will make our case to people who are tired of the same old failed leadership," said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy Saturday. "The quicker we put the facts on the table and show we have the answers."
Old Saybrook Michael Pace said Republicans must come up with an honest plan to control spending and to reach out to all groups for support, even those who have traditionally not supported Republican candidates.
"There is no money, the state is bankrupt," said Pace. "We need to get down to basics. If we do that, our state will be a better place."
Other Mayors who participated included: Mayor Tim Stewart of New Britain, Mayor Jeff Wright of Newington, Mayor Ryan Bingham of Torrington, Mayor Mark Boughton of Danbury, Mayor Scott Kaupin of Enfield, First Selectman Tim Herbst of Trumbull, First Select Laura Francis of Durham, First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini of Somers, First Selectman Daniel Steward of Waterford, First Selectman Paul Formica of East Lyme, First Selectman John Adams of Granby, Pace and McCoy.
Leaders were briefed by State Central member Rebecca Adams briefed leaders on the Freedom of Information Act and the use of social networking tools to build public support for thier programs and policies.
Republican Mayors and First Selectmen met at Republican State Party headquarters Saturday to exchange ideas and to brain-storm on ways to meet the state budget crisis and to prepare for the 2010 Election.
'Republicans are the party of ideas and solutions and we will make our case to people who are tired of the same old failed leadership,' said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy Saturday. 'The quicker we put the facts on the table and show we have the answers.'"
GOP Mayors To Offer Reform Ideas
Republican Mayors and First Selectmen met at Republican State Party headquarters Saturday to exchange ideas and to brain-storm on ways to meet the state budget crisis and to prepare for the 2010 Election.
"Republicans are the party of ideas and solutions and we will make our case to people who are tired of the same old failed leadership," said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy Saturday. "The quicker we put the facts on the table and show we have the answers."
Old Saybrook Michael Pace said Republicans must come up with an honest plan to control spending and to reach out to all groups for support, even those who have traditionally not supported Republican candidates.
"There is no money, the state is bankrupt," said Pace. "We need to get down to basics. If we do that, our state will be a better place."
Other Mayors who participated included: Mayor Tim Stewart of New Britain, Mayor Jeff Wright of Newington, Mayor Ryan Bingham of Torrington, Mayor Mark Boughton of Danbury, Mayor Scott Kaupin of Enfield, First Selectman Tim Herbst of Trumbull, First Select Laura Francis of Durham, First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini of Somers, First Selectman Daniel Steward of Waterford, First Selectman Paul Formica of East Lyme, First Selectman John Adams of Granby, Pace and McCoy.
Leaders were briefed by State Central member Rebecca Adams briefed leaders on the Freedom of Information Act and the use of social networking tools to build public support for thier programs and policies.
March 25, 2010
Vernon Connecticut 2010- 2011 Budget Article | ReminderNews
Article ReminderNews: "Vernon — 03/23/2010
Budget owes increase to healthcare"
BY STEVE SMITH Staff Writer
We’re in a situation where there is going to be no more state money,” said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy, as he began the presentation of his budget for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. “The state doesn’t have any money. They’re broke,” he said, at the Town Council meeting last Tuesday .
Click the thumbnails above to see the full size pictures.McCoy said the budget of $78.7 million has an increase of $787,000 from debt service due to bonding that was done in 2004 and 2005 for road and school building improvements.
An increase in health insurance premiums for all town and Board of Ed. employees adds about $2.29 million – most of the total increase of $2.66 million from the current year’s budget.
The increase is divided between the $229,000 for town operations and $1.7 million for the Board of Education.
“The budget that I’m presenting,” McCoy said, “keeps the same level of services to Vernon citizens and taxpayers that they’ve received over the last 10 years.”
McCoy said this year has been one of looking at ways of reducing spending without a reduction in services. The budget would seem to reflect a commitment to education.
“This year’s proposed budget supports good quality education for our children,” McCoy said, “with no pay-toplay programs, along with no cuts of extra-curricular activities. The budget requires no layoffs of town employees, no layoffs of teachers, and no layoffs of school administrators.”
Labor costs, which have been an issue of contention for critics of McCoy’s administration, are decreased overall. McCoy said they have been mitigated through several negotiations with employees , both union and non-union , over the past year.
The health insurance premiums from Aetna had been at a fixed rate until this year. After sending the plans out for bids, the average increase from insurance companies was about 47 percent.
“The lowest ones were about 31 percent ,” McCoy said. “I hate to say it was a successful negotiation when someone tells you it’s [still] going up 20 percent.”
McCoy said there are areas of the town budget that reflect investments that will save the town money in the long run. Recycling, and the new compacting system that reduces tipping fees for the town’s refuse are some examples. “The use of trucks with automatic arms will reduce labor costs and workers’ compensation costs, and speed up delivery and services,” he said, adding that the savings is already about $300,000.
Fiber-optic systems that connect town offices and emergency services are also reducing phone bills.
McCoy did not miss the opportunity to push again for an energy commission , which would save the town money with new, green technologies and grants that are available for them, and help attract new businesses to town.
“Most importantly,” McCoy said, “is retaining existing employers. There’s a heck of a lot more that goes on in this town than government. There’s a lot of people that are unemployed. We have a real problem.”
The grand list, which has only grown by .36 percent, is the big problem, the mayor said, adding that the efforts to market the community to developers and investors is very important.
“We need jobs in this community, and we need to grow our grand list,” he said, “Otherwise, we can’t provide the services anymore.”
The budget deliberations and will continue on March 24 and 25. The Board of Education is expected to present its itemized budget to the Town Council at the March 24 meeting. A public hearing will also take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 27.
Further deliberations will take place on March 31 and April 7. The final town meeting on the budget is April 27 at 7 p.m. in the Rockville High School auditorium .
The mayor’s budget message is available on the town’s Web site, www.vernon-ct.gov.
Budget owes increase to healthcare"
BY STEVE SMITH Staff Writer
We’re in a situation where there is going to be no more state money,” said Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy, as he began the presentation of his budget for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. “The state doesn’t have any money. They’re broke,” he said, at the Town Council meeting last Tuesday .
Click the thumbnails above to see the full size pictures.McCoy said the budget of $78.7 million has an increase of $787,000 from debt service due to bonding that was done in 2004 and 2005 for road and school building improvements.
An increase in health insurance premiums for all town and Board of Ed. employees adds about $2.29 million – most of the total increase of $2.66 million from the current year’s budget.
The increase is divided between the $229,000 for town operations and $1.7 million for the Board of Education.
“The budget that I’m presenting,” McCoy said, “keeps the same level of services to Vernon citizens and taxpayers that they’ve received over the last 10 years.”
McCoy said this year has been one of looking at ways of reducing spending without a reduction in services. The budget would seem to reflect a commitment to education.
“This year’s proposed budget supports good quality education for our children,” McCoy said, “with no pay-toplay programs, along with no cuts of extra-curricular activities. The budget requires no layoffs of town employees, no layoffs of teachers, and no layoffs of school administrators.”
Labor costs, which have been an issue of contention for critics of McCoy’s administration, are decreased overall. McCoy said they have been mitigated through several negotiations with employees , both union and non-union , over the past year.
The health insurance premiums from Aetna had been at a fixed rate until this year. After sending the plans out for bids, the average increase from insurance companies was about 47 percent.
“The lowest ones were about 31 percent ,” McCoy said. “I hate to say it was a successful negotiation when someone tells you it’s [still] going up 20 percent.”
McCoy said there are areas of the town budget that reflect investments that will save the town money in the long run. Recycling, and the new compacting system that reduces tipping fees for the town’s refuse are some examples. “The use of trucks with automatic arms will reduce labor costs and workers’ compensation costs, and speed up delivery and services,” he said, adding that the savings is already about $300,000.
Fiber-optic systems that connect town offices and emergency services are also reducing phone bills.
McCoy did not miss the opportunity to push again for an energy commission , which would save the town money with new, green technologies and grants that are available for them, and help attract new businesses to town.
“Most importantly,” McCoy said, “is retaining existing employers. There’s a heck of a lot more that goes on in this town than government. There’s a lot of people that are unemployed. We have a real problem.”
The grand list, which has only grown by .36 percent, is the big problem, the mayor said, adding that the efforts to market the community to developers and investors is very important.
“We need jobs in this community, and we need to grow our grand list,” he said, “Otherwise, we can’t provide the services anymore.”
The budget deliberations and will continue on March 24 and 25. The Board of Education is expected to present its itemized budget to the Town Council at the March 24 meeting. A public hearing will also take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 27.
Further deliberations will take place on March 31 and April 7. The final town meeting on the budget is April 27 at 7 p.m. in the Rockville High School auditorium .
The mayor’s budget message is available on the town’s Web site, www.vernon-ct.gov.
Vernon To Begin Automating Trash, Recyclables Collection - Courant.com
Vernon To Begin Automating Trash, Recyclables Collection - Courant.com: "Vernon To Begin Automating Trash, Recyclables Collection"
VERNON — - Automation is about to change the way trash and recyclable items are collected in town.
Starting in May, the department of public works will begin using automated equipment instead of brute strength to collect trash and recyclables at curbside.
Mayor Jason McCoy said the changes will begin with a new automated recycling program that will affect 4,000 residential homes. The program is being designed around the current collection schedule.
The town has acquired a truck equipped with a mechanical arm that lifts and dumps special containers into the truck without the driver's having to leave the truck's cab.
The containers, one for refuse and the other for recyclables, have lids to reduce the likelihood of refuse falling out and blowing around. The automatic equipment is expected to reduce the potential for injuries to workers.
The larger recycling containers enable single-stream recycling, which should make recycling easier and save money by reducing the amount of waste the town must dispose of at waste processing facilities like the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority incinerator in Hartford's South Meadows.
Each residence selected for the first phase of automation will receive at no cost, a 64- or 96-gallon blue recycling container. Containers are available for inspection at the public works facility at 375 Hartford Turnpike. Recycling personnel will be available to help residents decide which size best suits their needs.
The new containers will be delivered in April and left in the suggested weekly pickup location. The containers should be put out, if possible, only when they are full.
The program ultimately will be expanded to the entire town, McCoy said.
For more information, residents may call the public works department at 860-870-3500.
VERNON — - Automation is about to change the way trash and recyclable items are collected in town.
Starting in May, the department of public works will begin using automated equipment instead of brute strength to collect trash and recyclables at curbside.
Mayor Jason McCoy said the changes will begin with a new automated recycling program that will affect 4,000 residential homes. The program is being designed around the current collection schedule.
The town has acquired a truck equipped with a mechanical arm that lifts and dumps special containers into the truck without the driver's having to leave the truck's cab.
The containers, one for refuse and the other for recyclables, have lids to reduce the likelihood of refuse falling out and blowing around. The automatic equipment is expected to reduce the potential for injuries to workers.
The larger recycling containers enable single-stream recycling, which should make recycling easier and save money by reducing the amount of waste the town must dispose of at waste processing facilities like the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority incinerator in Hartford's South Meadows.
Each residence selected for the first phase of automation will receive at no cost, a 64- or 96-gallon blue recycling container. Containers are available for inspection at the public works facility at 375 Hartford Turnpike. Recycling personnel will be available to help residents decide which size best suits their needs.
The new containers will be delivered in April and left in the suggested weekly pickup location. The containers should be put out, if possible, only when they are full.
The program ultimately will be expanded to the entire town, McCoy said.
For more information, residents may call the public works department at 860-870-3500.
Vernon Connecticut Roosevelt Mills Groundbreaking Slated For March 30 - Courant.com
Roosevelt Mills Groundbreaking Slated For March 30 - Courant.com: "Roosevelt Mills Groundbreaking Slated For March 30"
The long awaited groundbreaking for the anticipated transformation of the former Roosevelt Mills into an apartment and commercial center will take place March 30.
Mayor Jason McCoy and Joan McDonald, commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, will be on hand for the 1 p.m. ceremony.
The Roosevelt Mills, where textiles were once manufactured, has been vacant since 1998 when it was designated a Brownfield site by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. Before anything could be done with the 5.9-acre site at 215 East Main St. , which was contaminated with chlorinated solvents including tetrachloroethene, a cancer-causing chemical that was used to dry-clean sweaters.
The mill was built in 1906 and was one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the country. It was the last of the 14 textile factories in Rockville, once known as the Loom City, to go out of business.
Joseph Vallone, a Westport architect and principal of Loom City Lofts LLC, plans to convert the complex into 68 apartments and 10,000 square feet of commercial space that will be known as the Loom City Lofts.
Loom City Lofts took ownership of the mill complex in October 2007.
Vallone has estimated the project's cost to be in the neighborhood of $12 million.
— Joseph A. O'Brien Jr.
The long awaited groundbreaking for the anticipated transformation of the former Roosevelt Mills into an apartment and commercial center will take place March 30.
Mayor Jason McCoy and Joan McDonald, commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, will be on hand for the 1 p.m. ceremony.
The Roosevelt Mills, where textiles were once manufactured, has been vacant since 1998 when it was designated a Brownfield site by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. Before anything could be done with the 5.9-acre site at 215 East Main St. , which was contaminated with chlorinated solvents including tetrachloroethene, a cancer-causing chemical that was used to dry-clean sweaters.
The mill was built in 1906 and was one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the country. It was the last of the 14 textile factories in Rockville, once known as the Loom City, to go out of business.
Joseph Vallone, a Westport architect and principal of Loom City Lofts LLC, plans to convert the complex into 68 apartments and 10,000 square feet of commercial space that will be known as the Loom City Lofts.
Loom City Lofts took ownership of the mill complex in October 2007.
Vallone has estimated the project's cost to be in the neighborhood of $12 million.
— Joseph A. O'Brien Jr.
Vernon- Connecticut Based TicketNetwork Weighs Its Future In Town - Courant.com
Vernon-Based TicketNetwork Weighs Its Future In Town - Courant.com: "Vernon-Based TicketNetwork Weighs Its Future In Town"
VERNON— - The businessman who recently lost a bid to open a seasonal concert venue in town said he has big decisions to make — not only about a possible appeal, but also about the future of his Vernon-based ticket broker and software company.
Don Vaccaro, CEO of TicketNetwork, said Wednesday that he must expand the corporate headquarters of the fast-growing company, which was launched eight years ago with two employees and is now an international business with 240 employees. The expansion, however, might not happen in Vernon, Vaccaro said, because he cannot get fair treatment for any development plan from the current planning and zoning commission.
"We think the likelihood of us being able to expand has greatly diminished in Vernon," he said. A neighboring town — which he would not name — has tried to woo him to move his corporate headquarters there, Vaccaro said.
On March 11, the planning board rejected TicketNetwork's application for an outdoor amphitheater off South Frontage Road, on the same large parcel as the company's headquarters. The commission cited problems with noise and traffic and dangers posed by crowds of concertgoers.
But Vaccaro said the panel accepted inaccurate testimony from opponents while challenging anyone who spoke in favor of the proposal. Asked if he would submit an alternative plan or appeal in Superior Court, Vaccaro said he was considering several options and will decide sometime next month.
As for the future of TicketNetwork in Vernon, Vaccaro said the decision on when and where to expand will be made by the end of June.
"We like Vernon; we want to stay in Vernon," he said. At the same time, however, Vaccaro said he is concerned that the planning board will shoot down any expansion plans he submits.
Neither the town planner nor the chairman of the planning board could be reached Wednesday.
Mayor Jason McCoy said he did not want to comment in detail about the panel's decision.
"I think they did the best they could do, based on what they had in front of them," he said of the board.
As for Vaccaro's comments about expansion, McCoy said that TicketNetwork is a valued business and that he hoped the company would stay and grow in town. Expanding the tax base is vital, McCoy said, citing weak growth in the most recent grand list and soaring costs, especially for public employees' health insurance.
But it is inaccurate to say that the planning board is anti-business, the mayor said. While hearings for the concert venue were being held, the panel approved applications for a propane distribution facility near TicketNetwork's property and a 140-room Marriott Hotel off Hartford Turnpike, he said.
Mark Boyer, an opponent of the concert venue application who lives near the proposed site, said he did not think anyone was against development on the parcel, but the noise and traffic that an amphitheater would bring were not welcome in the rural area.
"It just doesn't fit," Boyer said.
VERNON— - The businessman who recently lost a bid to open a seasonal concert venue in town said he has big decisions to make — not only about a possible appeal, but also about the future of his Vernon-based ticket broker and software company.
Don Vaccaro, CEO of TicketNetwork, said Wednesday that he must expand the corporate headquarters of the fast-growing company, which was launched eight years ago with two employees and is now an international business with 240 employees. The expansion, however, might not happen in Vernon, Vaccaro said, because he cannot get fair treatment for any development plan from the current planning and zoning commission.
"We think the likelihood of us being able to expand has greatly diminished in Vernon," he said. A neighboring town — which he would not name — has tried to woo him to move his corporate headquarters there, Vaccaro said.
On March 11, the planning board rejected TicketNetwork's application for an outdoor amphitheater off South Frontage Road, on the same large parcel as the company's headquarters. The commission cited problems with noise and traffic and dangers posed by crowds of concertgoers.
But Vaccaro said the panel accepted inaccurate testimony from opponents while challenging anyone who spoke in favor of the proposal. Asked if he would submit an alternative plan or appeal in Superior Court, Vaccaro said he was considering several options and will decide sometime next month.
As for the future of TicketNetwork in Vernon, Vaccaro said the decision on when and where to expand will be made by the end of June.
"We like Vernon; we want to stay in Vernon," he said. At the same time, however, Vaccaro said he is concerned that the planning board will shoot down any expansion plans he submits.
Neither the town planner nor the chairman of the planning board could be reached Wednesday.
Mayor Jason McCoy said he did not want to comment in detail about the panel's decision.
"I think they did the best they could do, based on what they had in front of them," he said of the board.
As for Vaccaro's comments about expansion, McCoy said that TicketNetwork is a valued business and that he hoped the company would stay and grow in town. Expanding the tax base is vital, McCoy said, citing weak growth in the most recent grand list and soaring costs, especially for public employees' health insurance.
But it is inaccurate to say that the planning board is anti-business, the mayor said. While hearings for the concert venue were being held, the panel approved applications for a propane distribution facility near TicketNetwork's property and a 140-room Marriott Hotel off Hartford Turnpike, he said.
Mark Boyer, an opponent of the concert venue application who lives near the proposed site, said he did not think anyone was against development on the parcel, but the noise and traffic that an amphitheater would bring were not welcome in the rural area.
"It just doesn't fit," Boyer said.
March 17, 2010
McCoy proposes $78.8 million plan for 2010-11 Journal Inquirer > Towns > Vernon > McCoy proposes $78.8 million plan for 2010-11
Journal Inquirer > Towns > Vernon > McCoy proposes $78.8 million plan for 2010-11:
"McCoy proposes $78.8 million plan for 2010-11"
VERNON — Mayor Jason L. McCoy has proposed a $78.8 million budget for the 2010-11 fiscal year that he said will handle increased labor costs and maintain essential services while leaving room for further reductions in energy expenditures.
In a presentation to the Town Council on Tuesday night, McCoy said the $2.7 million increase, which represents an increase of 3.5 percent over the current year, is driven mainly by a 20 percent rise in health insurance premiums.
Some $2.03 million is for additional health care funds and accounts for 76 percent of the total budget increase over the current year.
Health insurance contract negotiations reduced costs by 10 percent.
......
He highlighted several other money-saving programs in a statement to the council, including the installation of fiber optic cables between town buildings, a reduction in the school board’s electricity costs by $85,000 thanks to energy-saving software, and a move to automated trash and recycling pickup, which took advantage of public works retirements and will save the town costs on tipping fees.
The generation of revenue also was a key part of the mayor’s statement, and McCoy made it clear that he feels attracting businesses will be the key to Vernon’s future success.
“The major issue that this community is confronted with is that it has had very little economic development. Our grand list has only grown by 0.36 percent,” McCoy said.
“The grand list isn’t going up, so the choice is to either pay higher taxes or be more receptive to commercial development,” he added today.
He highlighted current projects such as a $15 million dollar development for apartments and retail space at Roosevelt Mills, another $15 million building project at the Marriott Springhill Suites hotel on Hartford Turnpike, the potential for an equestrian center, and the expected end of the long-running Home Depot legal battle that would result in a new store at the former SportsPlex location.
Additional revenue would make budgeting town expenses easier, but for now, McCoy warned that further reductions could harm essential services, which, he said, have been unaffected by the current proposal for the next fiscal year.
“We have a decent budget. I wish it could be a flat-line budget, but the increase is almost entirely attributed to health insurance. The other portion is debt service, but people in this town chose to bond debt, so now we have to pay it back,” McCoy said.
"McCoy proposes $78.8 million plan for 2010-11"
VERNON — Mayor Jason L. McCoy has proposed a $78.8 million budget for the 2010-11 fiscal year that he said will handle increased labor costs and maintain essential services while leaving room for further reductions in energy expenditures.
In a presentation to the Town Council on Tuesday night, McCoy said the $2.7 million increase, which represents an increase of 3.5 percent over the current year, is driven mainly by a 20 percent rise in health insurance premiums.
Some $2.03 million is for additional health care funds and accounts for 76 percent of the total budget increase over the current year.
Health insurance contract negotiations reduced costs by 10 percent.
......
He highlighted several other money-saving programs in a statement to the council, including the installation of fiber optic cables between town buildings, a reduction in the school board’s electricity costs by $85,000 thanks to energy-saving software, and a move to automated trash and recycling pickup, which took advantage of public works retirements and will save the town costs on tipping fees.
The generation of revenue also was a key part of the mayor’s statement, and McCoy made it clear that he feels attracting businesses will be the key to Vernon’s future success.
“The major issue that this community is confronted with is that it has had very little economic development. Our grand list has only grown by 0.36 percent,” McCoy said.
“The grand list isn’t going up, so the choice is to either pay higher taxes or be more receptive to commercial development,” he added today.
He highlighted current projects such as a $15 million dollar development for apartments and retail space at Roosevelt Mills, another $15 million building project at the Marriott Springhill Suites hotel on Hartford Turnpike, the potential for an equestrian center, and the expected end of the long-running Home Depot legal battle that would result in a new store at the former SportsPlex location.
Additional revenue would make budgeting town expenses easier, but for now, McCoy warned that further reductions could harm essential services, which, he said, have been unaffected by the current proposal for the next fiscal year.
“We have a decent budget. I wish it could be a flat-line budget, but the increase is almost entirely attributed to health insurance. The other portion is debt service, but people in this town chose to bond debt, so now we have to pay it back,” McCoy said.
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