Submitted by Ed Munster
(January 11, 2021) This meeting of the BOS was conducted as a virtual meeting using the GoToMeting App. All members of the BOS were present (Bob McGarry, Kate Anderson, and Sean Moriarty) as well as the Administrative Assistant Joanne Ricciardelli.
The minutes of two previous meetings on December 14, 2020 and December 30, 2020 were approved with minor changes. There were no comments during the public comment period.
During the Selectman’s update Bob McGarry reported that Covid cases continue to increase. 51 cases in November 2020. 61 in December 202 and 31 cases in January 2021 as of January 11. Haddam has had 215 total cases since pandemic began. Complaints of speeding, running stop signs and other traffic violations were reported to the BOS who have requested increased patrols by the state troopers. All departments were sent requests for their operating budget which is the start of the budget making process.
Jen Favalora reported from the Board of Education that the state gave the school districts the option to use remote teaching on snow days if they choose. Superintendent Hageman has decided to declare the usual snow days for the first four situations to be made up as in-person learning in June because the board feels that in-person learning is ideal for our students. If there are more than four weather emergencies the superintendent will consider using the flexibility offered by the state. Favalora in speaking of BOE finances, stated that the BOE received two Covid related grants: the CARES Relief Fund for $219,740 and the Elementary and Secondary Emergency Relief Fund for $45,545. There are both Covid related expenses and savings and for the moment the savings plus the grants have exceeded the expenses. Regarding non-Covid expenses, the BOE Finance committee reported that the Special Education and the Health Insurance lines were over budget. Because the town is using a different surface treatment program the BOE has decided to build a sand shed of their own and not participate with the town in the purchase of sand. When the shed is not being used for sand it will be used to house equipment.
On behalf of CRADH Sherry Carlson reported that Covid hospitalization statewide has been dropping off. Vaccinations for Phase 1A are finishing up. All nursing home residents received their first dose by last Friday. 900 healthcare and first responders all received vaccinations via the health district drive-through vaccination site. There will be an online meeting this Thursday to discuss Phase 1b for individuals 75 and older. People over 65 account for 90% of total deaths statewide.
Six automotive tax refunds totaling $1,099.22 were approved.
Kate Wessling was appointed as Democratic Registrar of Voters to replace Sarah Toomey who resigned because she moved out of Haddam.
BOS accepted Harlan Frederickson’s resignation from the Board of Finance because he has moved to Waterford. The members of the BOS acknowledged that Harlan’s contributions to the Town of Haddam over his years of service on the BOF were outstanding.
An application from Trinity solar for peddler permit to sell solar panels was denied because the BOS felt not be wise because of the Covid-19 situation.
