September 24, 2010
September 17, 2010
September 15, 2010
Democrats Still Aim for Vote on How To Raising Our Taxes - WSJ.com
5 Percent really? 5 Percent really? A pay cut issued by Congress to everyone, after your employer had to reduce your pay so you could keep your job. Do not be fooled. It is not only the top rate, Right. But it is 5% no matter what income level your are at. 35% to 40%, Really? How about the Congress stops spending so much money and then they will not need to raise taxes by 5%. Stop spending, stop bailing out, stop paying off labor and inflating salaries before the mid term elections, then Congress will not even be a debating about taking 5% out of your paycheck.
Democrats Still Aim for Vote on Taxes - WSJ.com: "Democrats have been leery of voting on a partial extension of the Bush tax cuts this year, despite support from President Barack Obama and House and Senate leaders. The president's plan would extend tax cuts indefinitely for families making less than $50,000, while allowing marginal tax rates to rise for income earned above that level. The top rate would return to 40% from 35%."
Democrats Still Aim for Vote on Taxes - WSJ.com: "Democrats have been leery of voting on a partial extension of the Bush tax cuts this year, despite support from President Barack Obama and House and Senate leaders. The president's plan would extend tax cuts indefinitely for families making less than $50,000, while allowing marginal tax rates to rise for income earned above that level. The top rate would return to 40% from 35%."
Close Race Malloy and Foley in governor’s race
Malloy vrs. Foley in governor’s race: "Malloy - Foley in governor’s race
By Ed Jacovino
Journal Inquirer
Published: Wednesday, September 15, 2010 10:17 AM EDT
Democrat Dannel P. Malloy show a close race between Republican Thomas C. Foley in the race for the governor’s seat, the latest Quinnipiac University poll shows."
Read the Poly for yourself:
8 percent are undecided and 26 percent of those who do name a candidate say they could change their mind by Election Day. This is the independent Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pe-ack) University's first general election likely voter survey in Connecticut in this election cycle and can not be compared to earlier surveys of registered voters.
In today's survey, conducted by telephone with live interviewers, Malloy leads 86 - 8 percent among Democrats, while Foley leads 83 - 14 percent among Republicans.
Independent voters split 42 - 42 percent. Malloy leads 53 - 38 percent among women and 48 - 43 percent among men.
Read the Poll yourself. It would seem that if folks don't actually know either candidate. So I would assume that folks will vote, but when folks vote, I would have to say in our current business environment, our economic situation, with a government that is in fiscal crisis, overextended, with no revenue, a time like this”. The questions folks will ask is who doing you want managing your money, your business, and your government, a Republican or a Democrat? If folks don't know either candidates, what the answer.
"The races for Governor and U.S. Senate in Connecticut are both in play, with the Democrats holding on to single-digits leads," said Quinnipiac University Poll Director Douglas Schwartz, PhD. "The big difference between the Governor's race and the Senate race is that the gubernatorial candidates are much less well-known than the Senate candidates. Tom Foley and Dan Malloy will have a tough time competing for attention with Linda McMahon and Attorney General Richard Blumenthal."
By Ed Jacovino
Journal Inquirer
Published: Wednesday, September 15, 2010 10:17 AM EDT
Democrat Dannel P. Malloy show a close race between Republican Thomas C. Foley in the race for the governor’s seat, the latest Quinnipiac University poll shows."
Read the Poly for yourself:
8 percent are undecided and 26 percent of those who do name a candidate say they could change their mind by Election Day. This is the independent Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pe-ack) University's first general election likely voter survey in Connecticut in this election cycle and can not be compared to earlier surveys of registered voters.
In today's survey, conducted by telephone with live interviewers, Malloy leads 86 - 8 percent among Democrats, while Foley leads 83 - 14 percent among Republicans.
Independent voters split 42 - 42 percent. Malloy leads 53 - 38 percent among women and 48 - 43 percent among men.
Read the Poll yourself. It would seem that if folks don't actually know either candidate. So I would assume that folks will vote, but when folks vote, I would have to say in our current business environment, our economic situation, with a government that is in fiscal crisis, overextended, with no revenue, a time like this”. The questions folks will ask is who doing you want managing your money, your business, and your government, a Republican or a Democrat? If folks don't know either candidates, what the answer.
"The races for Governor and U.S. Senate in Connecticut are both in play, with the Democrats holding on to single-digits leads," said Quinnipiac University Poll Director Douglas Schwartz, PhD. "The big difference between the Governor's race and the Senate race is that the gubernatorial candidates are much less well-known than the Senate candidates. Tom Foley and Dan Malloy will have a tough time competing for attention with Linda McMahon and Attorney General Richard Blumenthal."
Journal Inquirer Politics & Government Malloy leads Foley in governor’s race
Journal Inquirer Politics & Government Malloy leads Foley in governor’s race
It sounds like The Ambassador needs to keep up the hard work, if this is correct he's on his way to fixing this mess we are in. Wow. The "polls released today also says that 8 percent of likely voters are undecided and 26 percent of those who do name a candidate could change their minds by Election Day on Nov. 2. Independent voters were split, with 42 percent for each candidate."
It sounds like The Ambassador needs to keep up the hard work, if this is correct he's on his way to fixing this mess we are in. Wow. The "polls released today also says that 8 percent of likely voters are undecided and 26 percent of those who do name a candidate could change their minds by Election Day on Nov. 2. Independent voters were split, with 42 percent for each candidate."
September 13, 2010
Governor Christie explains to teacher there's no Money
New Jersey Governor Says No, and why!
Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.8
September 6, 2010
Vernon Connecticut Public Hearing/Town Meeting for Road Repairs Sept 7th, 2010
Public Hearing/Town Meeting for Road Repairs Sept 7th, 2010
Said Public Hearing will take place at 7:10 p.m., and said Special Town Meeting will take place at 7:15 p.m., concerning the above Resolution.
LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF VERNON PUBLIC HEARING AND SPECIAL TOWN MEETING SEPTEMBER 7, 2010
This is to give Notice that on August 3, 2010, in accordance with Chapter XII Section 10F of the Vernon Town Charter, the Vernon Town Council scheduled a Public Hearing and Special Town Meeting to be held September 7, 2010, at the third floor Town Council Chambers in the Town Hall Memorial Building, 14 Park Place, Vernon, Connecticut, to hear comments and take the necessary action relative to the following Resolution recommended by the Mayor:
RESOLUTION REGARDING AN ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION
FOR ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $800,000.00
WHEREAS, in a continuing effort to improve the roadways in the Town of Vernon, and as a complement to the current public bond improvement program, the Department of Public Works has identified roads to repair, reclaim shim, chip and micro-pave, categorized as Groups # I and # II – Skinner Road area; and Groups # III and # IV – Merline Road area.
WHEREAS, Group # I consists of the roads: Barbara Road; Neil Road; Gerald Drive; John; Hany; Edith; and Donnel. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $340,560.00.
WHEREAS, Group # II consists of the roads: Wellwood Circle; Lawler; Hayes; Werner; Wolcott; George; Faith; Olive; Brimwood; Leona; and Bruce. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $138,012.00.
WHEREAS, Group # III consists of the roads: Discovery, Duncaster; Wilshire; and Seneca. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $219,120.00.
WHEREAS, Group # IV consists of the roads: Crest; Patricia; Claire; Forestview; Castlewood; Marjorie; Vernwood; Howard Oakmoor; Vinetta; and Walker Terrace. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $176,958.00.
WHEREAS, pricing may fluctuate due to conditions and the economy, a ten percent contingency of $87,465.00 is included in the total estimated cost.
WHEREAS, the estimated costs of this project is $962,115.00, and is to be included in the six-year capital improvement plan. The funding of $800,000.00 is recommended to come from undesignated fund balance, as of June 30, 2010. The balance of the estimated cost, $162,115.00, is to be derived from grants and other designated sources. If a funding shortfall occurs, the project appropriation will be restricted to available funds, and the road projects will be adjusted accordingly. Work on any of the identified road projects may only commence when funding for that portion of the project is fully designated in relation to the estimated cost.
NOW THEREFORE, Be It Resolved: That the Town Council hereby approves an additional appropriation from the General Fund balance in the amount of $800,000.00 to the fiscal year
2009-2010 Capital Improvement budget, account 10780290-57340, to fund the improvement of the roadways identified as Groups # I, # II, # III, and # IV.
Said Public Hearing will take place at 7:10 p.m., and said Special Town Meeting will take place at 7:15 p.m., concerning the above Resolution.
Said Public Hearing will take place at 7:10 p.m., and said Special Town Meeting will take place at 7:15 p.m., concerning the above Resolution.
LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF VERNON PUBLIC HEARING AND SPECIAL TOWN MEETING SEPTEMBER 7, 2010
This is to give Notice that on August 3, 2010, in accordance with Chapter XII Section 10F of the Vernon Town Charter, the Vernon Town Council scheduled a Public Hearing and Special Town Meeting to be held September 7, 2010, at the third floor Town Council Chambers in the Town Hall Memorial Building, 14 Park Place, Vernon, Connecticut, to hear comments and take the necessary action relative to the following Resolution recommended by the Mayor:
RESOLUTION REGARDING AN ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION
FOR ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $800,000.00
WHEREAS, in a continuing effort to improve the roadways in the Town of Vernon, and as a complement to the current public bond improvement program, the Department of Public Works has identified roads to repair, reclaim shim, chip and micro-pave, categorized as Groups # I and # II – Skinner Road area; and Groups # III and # IV – Merline Road area.
WHEREAS, Group # I consists of the roads: Barbara Road; Neil Road; Gerald Drive; John; Hany; Edith; and Donnel. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $340,560.00.
WHEREAS, Group # II consists of the roads: Wellwood Circle; Lawler; Hayes; Werner; Wolcott; George; Faith; Olive; Brimwood; Leona; and Bruce. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $138,012.00.
WHEREAS, Group # III consists of the roads: Discovery, Duncaster; Wilshire; and Seneca. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $219,120.00.
WHEREAS, Group # IV consists of the roads: Crest; Patricia; Claire; Forestview; Castlewood; Marjorie; Vernwood; Howard Oakmoor; Vinetta; and Walker Terrace. The estimated cost for this group of roads is $176,958.00.
WHEREAS, pricing may fluctuate due to conditions and the economy, a ten percent contingency of $87,465.00 is included in the total estimated cost.
WHEREAS, the estimated costs of this project is $962,115.00, and is to be included in the six-year capital improvement plan. The funding of $800,000.00 is recommended to come from undesignated fund balance, as of June 30, 2010. The balance of the estimated cost, $162,115.00, is to be derived from grants and other designated sources. If a funding shortfall occurs, the project appropriation will be restricted to available funds, and the road projects will be adjusted accordingly. Work on any of the identified road projects may only commence when funding for that portion of the project is fully designated in relation to the estimated cost.
NOW THEREFORE, Be It Resolved: That the Town Council hereby approves an additional appropriation from the General Fund balance in the amount of $800,000.00 to the fiscal year
2009-2010 Capital Improvement budget, account 10780290-57340, to fund the improvement of the roadways identified as Groups # I, # II, # III, and # IV.
Said Public Hearing will take place at 7:10 p.m., and said Special Town Meeting will take place at 7:15 p.m., concerning the above Resolution.
September 5, 2010
Journal Inquirer Towns Bolton and Vernon Connecticut Work Together to fix Bolton Lake Weed Problem
Journal Inquirer Towns Bolton Consultant to study Bolton Lake weed removal options
By Kym Soper Journal Inquirer
Published: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:34 AM EDT
The town of Vernon has appropriated $6,000 for a consultant to determine how best to eradicate the weed that has choked Bolton Lake this season. Mayor McCoy said that “it was his recommendation that the appropriation be made to protect this valuable resource, these are the things that the Government needs to do, this is an asset of the Town of Vernon and its citizens”. Mayor McCoy went on say that “this is the second appropriation that the Town of Vernon Has made to protect the lake against the invasive weeds, even though this is occurring in the lower portion of the Lake it could migrate in to the larger portion of the Lake having a much worse impact on the Lake and its users.”
Officials in Bolton and Vernon are hoping to salvage next summer for swimmers and boaters.
“This is the first time we’ve been faced with this, and we’re trying to find out what we should do next,” Bolton Town Administrator Joyce Stille said, noting that “the weather this year couldn’t be more perfect” for the spread of the invasive weed known as slender water nymph.
The Vernon Town Council appropriated the funds this month, and officials hope a consultant can be hired and start work in the next few weeks.
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy said that he and Bolton First Selectman Robert A. Morra are working together on the issue.
“We are moving on this issue as a team on behalf of our citizens to protect this very important resource,” McCoy said in a statement. “This is an environmental need as well as a recreational need. This should be resolved soon.”
Rep. Pamela Z. Sawyer, R-Bolton, isn’t so sure, as experts have said it could take three years before the weed is gone for good.
“This stuff is like tumbleweeds — after it had seeded and grown, it floated to the top and it didn’t take much for the wind to move it down,” Sawyer said of the weed’s migration through the lake system.
The floating, hay-like plant chokes boat propellers, ensnares paddles, and could drag down a swimmer.
Residents have been pulling out the weed all summer, but now they’re finding more sprouts shooting up from the sand under the floating clumps, Sawyer said.
“I would really like an expert to tell me if these are new sprouts coming from seeds from the weeds in the water or some other source,” Sawyer added.
Waterfowl and geese likely introduced the weed to Bolton Lake by carrying the seeds from another infected pond, the state Department of Environmental Protection says.
A large draw down is a possibility this fall, and residents must still decide whether to use chemicals to kill the invasive plant, Sawyer said.
Diquat, a herbicide, would need to be applied for three consecutive years, DEP officials say.
For now, residents and officials want a consultant to tell them the best way to clean the lake, Stille said.
DEP says it could cost $20,000 this year, and $10,000 to $15,000 in each of the following two years.
Sawyer is trying to get state funds to help with the clean up effort. Bolton, so far, has not contributed financially, Stille said.
This is not the first time Bolton Lake has battled invasive weeds. A few years back milfoil was the problem, and officials believe the town’s effectiveness in battling that weed may have allowed the slender water nymph to take hold.
By Kym Soper Journal Inquirer
Published: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:34 AM EDT
The town of Vernon has appropriated $6,000 for a consultant to determine how best to eradicate the weed that has choked Bolton Lake this season. Mayor McCoy said that “it was his recommendation that the appropriation be made to protect this valuable resource, these are the things that the Government needs to do, this is an asset of the Town of Vernon and its citizens”. Mayor McCoy went on say that “this is the second appropriation that the Town of Vernon Has made to protect the lake against the invasive weeds, even though this is occurring in the lower portion of the Lake it could migrate in to the larger portion of the Lake having a much worse impact on the Lake and its users.”
Officials in Bolton and Vernon are hoping to salvage next summer for swimmers and boaters.
“This is the first time we’ve been faced with this, and we’re trying to find out what we should do next,” Bolton Town Administrator Joyce Stille said, noting that “the weather this year couldn’t be more perfect” for the spread of the invasive weed known as slender water nymph.
The Vernon Town Council appropriated the funds this month, and officials hope a consultant can be hired and start work in the next few weeks.
Vernon Mayor Jason McCoy said that he and Bolton First Selectman Robert A. Morra are working together on the issue.
“We are moving on this issue as a team on behalf of our citizens to protect this very important resource,” McCoy said in a statement. “This is an environmental need as well as a recreational need. This should be resolved soon.”
Rep. Pamela Z. Sawyer, R-Bolton, isn’t so sure, as experts have said it could take three years before the weed is gone for good.
“This stuff is like tumbleweeds — after it had seeded and grown, it floated to the top and it didn’t take much for the wind to move it down,” Sawyer said of the weed’s migration through the lake system.
The floating, hay-like plant chokes boat propellers, ensnares paddles, and could drag down a swimmer.
Residents have been pulling out the weed all summer, but now they’re finding more sprouts shooting up from the sand under the floating clumps, Sawyer said.
“I would really like an expert to tell me if these are new sprouts coming from seeds from the weeds in the water or some other source,” Sawyer added.
Waterfowl and geese likely introduced the weed to Bolton Lake by carrying the seeds from another infected pond, the state Department of Environmental Protection says.
A large draw down is a possibility this fall, and residents must still decide whether to use chemicals to kill the invasive plant, Sawyer said.
Diquat, a herbicide, would need to be applied for three consecutive years, DEP officials say.
For now, residents and officials want a consultant to tell them the best way to clean the lake, Stille said.
DEP says it could cost $20,000 this year, and $10,000 to $15,000 in each of the following two years.
Sawyer is trying to get state funds to help with the clean up effort. Bolton, so far, has not contributed financially, Stille said.
This is not the first time Bolton Lake has battled invasive weeds. A few years back milfoil was the problem, and officials believe the town’s effectiveness in battling that weed may have allowed the slender water nymph to take hold.
Connecticut's Cash Cop Mayor Jeff Wright The Day - Connecticut needs the 'cash cop' | News from southeastern Connecticut
The Day - Connecticut needs the 'cash cop' | News from southeastern Connecticut
You really need to read this article to get the full understanding of the situation that Connecticut is in and why this election is so important.
Please read it then come and meet Mayor Wright on Sept. 13th 2010.
You really need to read this article to get the full understanding of the situation that Connecticut is in and why this election is so important.
Please read it then come and meet Mayor Wright on Sept. 13th 2010.
September 4, 2010
New Proposal on Mortgages
Mortgages and new plans by the govt
Congress needs to bring back the cram-down rule in the bankruptcy code for residential mortgages to allow values to correct the market.
One of the biggest legal devices dealing with mortgages, that was removed from the bankruptcy code around 1998 or 1999 was the cram-down provision in chapter 13. I also practice law. This was a market driven device that worked during the last real estate crash. You used to seen it used in condo situations. However once the market got stronger it was taken out of the code. It was also used less once values caught up throughh the market process. It is really a strange situation that now the banks end up being in a situation were they are the in between, especially because this is essentially an adversarial process. It also seems to cost more rather than re-establish real values. The values we see are essentially based upon people buying payments because there was no money down at the time of purchase. Overall it drove the cost up. Low rates and no money down. Values were based upon purchase prices. Indexing values to interest rates going back to 1997 or 1998 will show the incremental cost increase, coupled with the decrease in interest rates (based upon the bond rates) and no money down purchases, sightly hire rates for non-conventional mortgages with out mortgage insurance. Meaning 2003 with the 5 to 6 percent rates, no money down, yield spreads at 1 to 1 1/2 percent from bonds which is were the funding for the loans came from.
Cram-downs in BK Ch 13 would reset values and move the market. It would also allow people to catch up on arrears over 4 years. Once the market caught up to the overvaluation the cram down would not be used or could not be used.
They still have values up there because there are no real comparable and realistic sales but now the down payments are at 20 percent. So 20 percent is actually much more.
The code still allows cram downs in most chapter 11 situations.
Congress needs to bring back the cram-down rule in the bankruptcy code for residential mortgages to allow values to correct the market.
One of the biggest legal devices dealing with mortgages, that was removed from the bankruptcy code around 1998 or 1999 was the cram-down provision in chapter 13. I also practice law. This was a market driven device that worked during the last real estate crash. You used to seen it used in condo situations. However once the market got stronger it was taken out of the code. It was also used less once values caught up throughh the market process. It is really a strange situation that now the banks end up being in a situation were they are the in between, especially because this is essentially an adversarial process. It also seems to cost more rather than re-establish real values. The values we see are essentially based upon people buying payments because there was no money down at the time of purchase. Overall it drove the cost up. Low rates and no money down. Values were based upon purchase prices. Indexing values to interest rates going back to 1997 or 1998 will show the incremental cost increase, coupled with the decrease in interest rates (based upon the bond rates) and no money down purchases, sightly hire rates for non-conventional mortgages with out mortgage insurance. Meaning 2003 with the 5 to 6 percent rates, no money down, yield spreads at 1 to 1 1/2 percent from bonds which is were the funding for the loans came from.
Cram-downs in BK Ch 13 would reset values and move the market. It would also allow people to catch up on arrears over 4 years. Once the market caught up to the overvaluation the cram down would not be used or could not be used.
They still have values up there because there are no real comparable and realistic sales but now the down payments are at 20 percent. So 20 percent is actually much more.
The code still allows cram downs in most chapter 11 situations.
September 3, 2010
Journal Inquirer Towns Vernon One-way street changes Maple Street School pattern
Journal Inquirer Towns Vernon One-way street changes Maple Street School pattern
VERNON — Groggy parents beware; when dropping your children off at the first day of school at Maple Street Elementary on Thursday, remember that the formerly two-way, congested section of Maple Street in front of the school is now a one-way street.
The change came after decades of debate over how to make the area in front of Maple Street school safer for students, especially during busy drop-off and pickup times when dozens of vehicles rush the school entrance.
The section of Maple Street between Union Street and West Main Street is now designated one-way, and cars must enter from the West Main Street side to avoid collisions.
Police spokesman Officer Daniel Champagne said there will likely be an officer stationed at Maple Street on the first day of school to help make the transition smoother and prevent possible accidents. He said he’s already seen a number of people attempt to turn onto Maple Street from the Union Street end, not realizing the traffic pattern has changed.
Public Works employees implemented the “traffic calming” measure last week by installing parking stall lines and adding signs, according to Mayor Jason L. McCoy.
The transition to one-way also allowed for the creation of 32 new parking spaces for teachers and parents, effectively resolving two longstanding concerns for commuters to the school — congestion and a lack of parking.
The oldest operating school in town, Maple Street opened its doors on Jan. 2, 1924, at a time when most students simply walked to school.
Then, not only was the town’s population far smaller, but there was no need for city planners to factor in large amounts of space to park vehicles that were not yet common, resulting in narrow streets and tightly spaced buildings with little room to squeeze a car.
But 86 years later, the school’s teachers, like many in the Rockville section of town, have struggled to find adequate parking in the area.
At a Town Council meeting on January 5, council member Mark Etre brought the issue up again after receiving a letter from Grant Street resident James Smith, describing the deterioration of the area around his home and the school.
Etre said recently that he is “pleased with the result of our collective efforts. Our Police Department, Traffic Authority, Board of Education, and residents worked together to find a workable solution.”
VERNON — Groggy parents beware; when dropping your children off at the first day of school at Maple Street Elementary on Thursday, remember that the formerly two-way, congested section of Maple Street in front of the school is now a one-way street.
The change came after decades of debate over how to make the area in front of Maple Street school safer for students, especially during busy drop-off and pickup times when dozens of vehicles rush the school entrance.
The section of Maple Street between Union Street and West Main Street is now designated one-way, and cars must enter from the West Main Street side to avoid collisions.
Police spokesman Officer Daniel Champagne said there will likely be an officer stationed at Maple Street on the first day of school to help make the transition smoother and prevent possible accidents. He said he’s already seen a number of people attempt to turn onto Maple Street from the Union Street end, not realizing the traffic pattern has changed.
Public Works employees implemented the “traffic calming” measure last week by installing parking stall lines and adding signs, according to Mayor Jason L. McCoy.
The transition to one-way also allowed for the creation of 32 new parking spaces for teachers and parents, effectively resolving two longstanding concerns for commuters to the school — congestion and a lack of parking.
The oldest operating school in town, Maple Street opened its doors on Jan. 2, 1924, at a time when most students simply walked to school.
Then, not only was the town’s population far smaller, but there was no need for city planners to factor in large amounts of space to park vehicles that were not yet common, resulting in narrow streets and tightly spaced buildings with little room to squeeze a car.
But 86 years later, the school’s teachers, like many in the Rockville section of town, have struggled to find adequate parking in the area.
At a Town Council meeting on January 5, council member Mark Etre brought the issue up again after receiving a letter from Grant Street resident James Smith, describing the deterioration of the area around his home and the school.
Etre said recently that he is “pleased with the result of our collective efforts. Our Police Department, Traffic Authority, Board of Education, and residents worked together to find a workable solution.”
August 20, 2010
Hartford Courant- Articles about Jason Mccoy
Articles about Jason Mccoy - Hartford Courant: "IN THE NEWS Jason Mccoy"
August 18, 2010
Vernon Connectcut Gets New Superintendent Courant.com
Vernon Gets New Superintendent Courant.com
We are pleased to announce that the Board of Education has hired our new superintend of schools Doctor Mary Conway.
We are pleased to announce that the Board of Education has hired our new superintend of schools Doctor Mary Conway.
August 17, 2010
Etre Vernon Rockville 2010: Vernon Traffic Calming Measures Announced
Etre Vernon Rockville 2010: Vernon Traffic Calming Measures Announced: "Vernon Traffic Calming Measures Announced Government Announcements Submitted by Leslie S. Campolongo, Town of Vernon, on 2010-08-16. M..."
August 16, 2010
Vernon Plans Road Work - Courant.com
Vernon Plans Road Work - Courant.com
These funds were from the 2009-2010 budget savings. The 2010-2011 budget has be reduced by those savings. The plan is to repair, set overlays and seal the roads in Vernon. The recommendation is based upon condition and cost. This appropriation will covers most roads in Town that were not in the 2004 bond project and the roads that were not repaired this year. This will allow the Town to use State TAR funds to upgrade the remaining roads in 2011 and 2012. A large portion of these roads will be underway this year before the close of the construction season. The remainder will begin in 2011 after the plants re-open.
These funds were from the 2009-2010 budget savings. The 2010-2011 budget has be reduced by those savings. The plan is to repair, set overlays and seal the roads in Vernon. The recommendation is based upon condition and cost. This appropriation will covers most roads in Town that were not in the 2004 bond project and the roads that were not repaired this year. This will allow the Town to use State TAR funds to upgrade the remaining roads in 2011 and 2012. A large portion of these roads will be underway this year before the close of the construction season. The remainder will begin in 2011 after the plants re-open.
Vernon Plans Road Work - Courant.com
Vernon Plans Road Work - Courant.com
A Special Town Meeting will be held on an appropriation for road repairs from surplus funds from the 2009-2010 budget. The hearing will be held at the Vernon Town Hall 14 Park Place at 7 pm on Tuesday Sept. 7.
A Special Town Meeting will be held on an appropriation for road repairs from surplus funds from the 2009-2010 budget. The hearing will be held at the Vernon Town Hall 14 Park Place at 7 pm on Tuesday Sept. 7.
August 15, 2010
Journal Inquirer Page One Poll: McMahon gains on Blumenthal
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.
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.
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
Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.5
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
View Mayor Jason L. McCoy's profile
Posts
