BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
MINUTES
December 5, 2007

Present: Philip J. Miller, First Selectman

Norman M. Needleman, Selectman

Philip Miller called the meeting to order at 4:35 pm.

Approval of Agenda:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to approve the Agenda. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to approve the November 8, 2007 Regular Meeting Minutes. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Communications and Correspondence:

Philip Miller read into the record the following correspondence:

From the Park and Recreation Commission:

“Dear Selectmen:

The Park and Recreation supports the request made by Dennis Robida's letter of November 27, 2007 concerning the right of way which could connect the proposed Essex Glen development and Cedar Grove Terrace. It is important to note when the Viney Hill Brook Park was being developed, the Park and Recreation Commission's Development Committee, in conjunction with the First Selectman, made it a point to ensure the residents of Cedar Grove Terrace that the Town would do everything possible to minimize the increase in traffic on Cedar Grove Terrace. Therefore, in keeping with the Town's earlier commitment we too would strongly encourage the limitations already offered on the right of way be more formally established to ensure the neighbors' original concerns are properly addressed.

Sincerely,

James W. Carey, Chairman”

From Dennis and Susan Robida:

“Dear Selectmen:

As the reality of the proposed Essex Glen development approaches we feel it is an appropriate time to take a close look at the town's interest in this project concerning the Viney Hill Brook Park and the right of way within it. Of concern to ourselves, the Conservation Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission is the usage of the right of way that goes through our town park to Sharon D. Clark's property.

It is our understanding from what the attorney (Terry Lomme) representing the developers (Landmark Interest LLC) and Herb Clark has stated, the right of way is to be used for emergency purposes only. However upon reviewing the written minutes of these hearings, no information was found within the minutes that addresses this issue. Without proper written language, we may face problems in the future, such as a road connecting Bokum Road with Cedar Grove Terrace. Essex has recently faced issues concerning rights of way and public access rights on town properties.

Of primary concern is the real possibility that Bokum Road could be overdeveloped and unable to handle the increased traffic. It may be suggested at such time, in order to relieve pressure on Bokum Road that the right of way be opened for public use and a road created to connect Bokum Road with Cedar Grove Terrace. This right of way, as you may or may not know, goes directly through a trail on the passive recreation portion of Viney Hill Brook Park. Another concern is the possibility that the right of way could be used for the transportation of heavy equipment during the construction phase of the Glen at Essex. Again, this traverses the passive recreation section of Viney Hill Brook Park.

We believe this should be brought to the attention of the town's attorney and that he should create language that clearly preserves the "emergency only" intention that was stated by Mr. Lomme on behalf of his client. Before it is too late, we now have the opportunity to write such language to protect the town's best interest and our town park.

Dennis and Susan Robida”

From the Essex Conservation Commission:

“To: Essex Board of Selectmen, Planning and Zoning Commissions

Re: 50' access way in favor of Sharon Clark, Trustee

Date: December 3, 2007

As town appointed stewards of Viney Hill Brook Preserve and in an advisory capacity regarding existing open space, the Conservation Commission made the following written recommendation to the Planning Commission at a Public Hearing, (3 Lot Essex Glen Subdivision, Landmark Interests, LLC), June 14, 2007:

That it be stipulated that the 50' access way in favor of Sharon Clark, Trustee, (owned by the town) be used only for emergency purposes (fire, ambulance, state and local police) and that this access way not be used as an egress by developers, builders, contractors or residents of the proposed subdivision now or in the future.

At that meeting a representative for the applicants addressed this issue and stated that the road was intended to be used for emergency purposes only. However, the Minutes of the hearing do not contain this statement of intent. We request that the Planning Commission amend their minutes to reflect the statement by Essex Glen Subdivision, LLC, of their use for the access road and of their definition of emergency purposes.

Additionally, we urge the town to engage legal counsel and take whatever steps are necessary to reacquire the rights to the 50' access road named above. Without question, the town needs an access road to protect its citizens in the event of emergencies. At the same time, the town needs to protect its citizens, now and in the future, by controlling use of an access road which bisects portions of open space in Viney Hill Brook Park.

Thank you for your consideration.

Kay Tucker, Chair”

Philip Miller stated that Lois Ely and Dennis Robida had reviewed the tape. Dennis Robida stated that at the May 10, 2007 meeting Planning Commissioner Tom Danyliw asked if Essex Glen would be able to accommodate emergency vehicles and that it was stated that they did not need the back access and it would be used only as emergency access. Mr. Miller inquired of Planning Commission Chairman Carla Feroni, who was in attendance at the meeting, if the Commission had amended previously accepted minutes in the past. She answered yes that they had. Mr. Robida stated that the tape was not very clear. Ms. Feroni indicated that at the next Planning Commission meeting under Old Business they would include Kay Tucker’s correspondence and that the clerk could be requested to review the tape and document what was actually said at the meeting. Mr. Robida stated that perhaps the Town Attorney should review relative to other situations. Mr. Robida stated that he would like the Town’s interests protected. Mr. Miller clarified that Mr. Robida was requesting that the Town Attorney be engaged to protect the Town’s interests. Mr. Robida answered yes, and that he believes the intent is for emergency only but that it is important to clarify now for the future. Norman Needleman stated that he and Herb Clark are partners, not on this, and further stated that he believed the zoning regulations provided for a second means of egress. Mr. Robida stated his concern with regard to Bokum Road being overburdened in the future.

Public Comment:

There were many residents of the Dennison Road area that were in attendance regarding the proposal of neighbors to the Tiley Pratt Pond to seek authorization to use sonar on the Pond to remedy the invasive plant issue. Philip Miller reviewed the process to date, the neighbors requesting assistance in contacting Connecticut Water to seek authorization, which they (the water company) turned down; that he would be attending the Inland Wetlands meeting next week to ask for authorization to draw the Pond down, which they (Inland Wetlands) previously had turned down; that we continue to ask our citizens to use sustainable practices, such as riparian buffers between manicured lawns and water sources and the reduction and/or elimination of petrochemical fertilizers which create nutrient rich pollutants; and to look to establish a Sinking Fund for low tech remedies for situations such as this in the future.

Residents Dan and Joanne Kotke who live on Dennison Road, stated that they are the second customer on the well head for the Dennison wells. They expressed concern of the use of herbicides 100 yards upstream, that the well is not that deep, and of the path of the water through gravity flow. Mr. Kotke stated that he tried to obtain a list of the water customers on that path, but the request was declined because of confidentiality. Mrs. Kotke is concerned that sonar will not dissipate in 15 days.

Resident Carla Feroni who lives on Dennison Lane, stated that her home is sixth on tap from the well head. Ms. Feroni stated that she works for the Department of Environmental Protection, she is an Environmental Analyst and she holds a Masters in Environmental Management. Ms. Feroni indicated that she only knows through the newspapers what has been proposed by the neighbors of Tiley Pratt Pond. She stated that she believes there has been a lack of communication with the stakeholders. Ms. Feroni addressed her concern that the application of a chemical herbicide, such as sonar and rodeo are being deemed a safe and effective process for the Pond situation, they are not safe to use so close to a public drinking water source. Ms. Feroni stated that at this point both Connecticut Water and the DEP have determined that sonar is not safe. Ms. Feroni requested that the Board of Selectmen accept these decisions. She stated that Rodeo is Roundup for water. Ms. Feroni further stated that we don’t know the hydrology of the well head, how long it takes the surface water to percolate down, no studies have been done and there is a potential to put health at risk. Ms. Feroni would like to see the Town take a more holistic approach to the problem such as developing a pond management plan reviewing water quality and the aquatic plans. She recommends looking at an integrated approach to restore the health of the water, looking at turbidity, available oxygen, identifying the sources of impaired water and the eco system, not just the pond, not just the weeds, and the need to look upstream. She stated there is an educational component such as sustainable lawn care, buffer areas, draw downs and harvesting. She again requested that the Board of Selectmen honor the decision of the Water Company and DEP.

John and Deborah Fuller who live on Dennison Road stated they were present to gather information. They are concerned about potential flooding and run off of the chemicals into the water source.

Norman Needleman stated that at the last meeting with the Tiley Pratt Pond neighbors there was discussion with regard to the plant growth and preventing the Pond from becoming a mud flat. Mr. Needleman further stated that many of the neighbors of the Pond wish the Town to aggressively pursue the use of sonar, even to the extent of threatening legal action which he is concerned about. He indicated that we have heard from a lot of stakeholders with regard to this issue and a determination will need to be made as to what we can do.

Mrs. Fuller stated that she appreciates the Board going slowly, especially before using an herbicide.

Al Wolfgram stated that there are many chemicals that were once thought to be safe only to learn later that they are not.

Ms. Feroni stated her concern to even use Rodeo, killing one problem spurs others and until we know the percolation rate it is a very questionable practice.

Mr. Kotke stated that we are fortunate for Mr. Miller’s background and that the citizens are relying on him.

There was discussion with regard to granting opportunities. There was no action taken. Mr. Miller will attend the next Inlands Wetlands meeting and report back to the Board of Selectmen.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:

A. Community Member Survey:

Philip Miller informed the Board that beginning today we are implementing a ten-week survey asking our citizens and visitors to the building how we are doing. The survey states:

“This is a Confidential Survey process that will be conducted over the next 10-week period. Your response will be seen only by an outside independent contractor. The results of this survey process will be used to help us in our continuing efforts to improve as well as to demonstrate our commitment to living our values on a day-to-day basis.

We would very much appreciate your feedback concerning your experience at the Essex Town Hall (ETH) so that we may continue in our efforts to improve our level of service to you and the community.

Please feel free to take the accompanying information offered outlining our vision, mission and values.

Please feel free to fill out one survey per department visit each time you visit the ETH.

When your survey is completed, please fold and deposit in the lock boxes provided at the building entrances. Please feel free to keep the copy of the ETH Vision/Mission/Values Statement that is attached.”

The survey also asks for the name of the person completing the form as well as the department(s) they visited.

The feedback solicited is:

1. The ETH employee who assisted you today demonstrated a positive and pleasant attitude. Yes or No

2. You were treated in a respectful manner. Yes or No

3. If you had questions today that could not be answered by the ETH employee(s), were you assured that, if an answer existed, it would be provided for you? Yes or No

4. You were treated fairly in your interaction(s) here today. Yes or No

5. The performance and knowledge base of the person who helped you today in the Department was satisfactory. Yes or No

6. The person who interacted with you today effectively understood your needs and/or problem. Yes or No

7. Would you rate this Department as satisfactory? Yes or No

8. The person who helped you today listened well. Yes or No

9. There appeared to be good coordination between the Departments that I visited today. Yes or No

The responder is also asked to provide any final comments or suggestions for ETH improvements.

Norman Needleman stated that he likes the requirement of the responder to provide their name, in confidence, validating the information and hopefully preventing responses from those who might have “an axe to grind”. Mr. Miller stated that the results will be evaluated by an independent contractor.

B. Grant Funding for Comprehensive DUI Enforcement Program:

Philip Miller reported that the Town of Essex has been approved for a Department of Transportation Highway Safety Project Grant entitled “FY 2007/2008 Comprehensive DUI Enforcement Program”. The grant provides Federal funds in the amount of $56,925 for additional Police coverage that will focus on DUI and Traffic Safety Patrols that began on November 21, 2007 and will continue until September 7, 2008. The grant’s purpose is to decrease the amount of DUI and traffic related fatalities and injuries through high visibility patrols that focus on DUI and Traffic Safety Enforcement. Patrols will be three or four shifts per week, during the evening and late evening hours, on weekends and during all major holidays throughout the year. The grant also includes authorization for three DUI Spot Checks during the same time period. The spot checks will be coordinate with the Connecticut State Police Troop F with the locations, dates and times to be announced by the Connecticut State Police Troop F.

Mr. Miller commended Corporal Patrick Bowers for the writing of this grant application. We received the entire amount requested.

Additional information items:

Essex Land Conservation Trust:

Philip Miller shared with the Board correspondence from the Essex Land Conservation Trust as follows:

“Dear Phil,

I am writing you to request an exemption for the property taxes on the Pond Meadow property (formerly owned by the Platt family) that relate to the Grand List of October 1, 2007.

I/We make this request under Public Act 07-170 (Bill No. 1249) -AN ACT CONCERNING TAX ABATEMENTS FOR PROPERTY CONVEYED TO A NONPROFIT LAND CONSERVATION ORGANIZATION. Section 1 is effective June 29, 2007 and applicable to assessment years commencing on or after October 1, 2007. This new legislation allows any municipality, upon approval of its legislative body, to abate the real or personal property taxes due for any portion of a tax year, or the interest on delinquent taxes, with respect to property that a nonprofit land conservation organization acquires. This abatement provision is applicable to any tax the organization pays, even if the tax is due for a period before the date of the organization's acquisition of the property.

Essex Land Trust closed on this property on November 16, 2007. We have been informed that this new legislation makes such an exemption possible. We would appreciate your bringing this matter to the Board of Selectmen for its approval.

Please let me know if I can provide additional information. I can be contacted at ……

Sincerely,

Carol MacElwee, Treasurer”

Mr. Miller reported that this exemption would require Town Meeting approval. We will research the actual amounts and further information for the next Board of Selectmen meeting.

St. Louis Missouri Post Dispatch:

Mr. Miller shared with the Board and article written about the Connecticut River Valley that included information about Essex.

Cable TV Advisory Committee:

There is vacancy on the Advisory Council that we need to fill.

United Way—211 Info Line:

Mr. Miller reported that this service will be a permanent full page ad in the quarterly Essex Events. There were 13 calls requesting food assistance from Essex residents in FY 2006-2007.

Eddy Shelter:

Mr. Miller shared correspondence with the Board with regard to the services they provide. Essex individuals (those indicate Essex is their Town of origin) used 506 nights of shelter at a cost to the Eddy Shelter of $82 per night, for a total of $41,492. There was discussion as to how many people that represented. Mr. Needleman stated that the number of different people aided would be helpful.

OLD BUSINESS:

A. Health Director Update:

Philip Miller provided a recap of the new Health District and the public hearing held quite some time ago with regard to the Town joining a Health District. Mr. Miller stated that James Francis the Chairman of the Board of Finance, Carol Lord the Sanitarian and Cindy Varricchio were working to assemble comprehensive information regarding the costs of a full time Health Director as well as the Health District. Norman Needleman stated that Mr. Francis felt that another public hearing was critical before we take the next step of hiring a full-time Health Director and that all the information and costs were presented to the public one more time.

Al Wolfgram a member of the Sanitary Waste Commission and Water Pollution Control Authority stated that both commissions had passed a resolution against the Health District. Mr. Wolfgram suggested that we may be over the minimum of what is required by the State. Mr. Wolfgram stated he believes the bare minimum required would be a full time Director of Health and a part time Sanitarian. Mr. Wolfgram expressed his concerns regarding the Health District and the timing for permits. He also suggested that when the information is evaluated that we take into consideration those tasks and responsibilities that are not Health related. Cindy Varricchio stated that they are working together to analyze the various issues and costs to provide comprehensive information to the citizens.

NEW BUSINESS:

A. Presentation by Eddy Shelter:

This will be scheduled for another Board of Selectmen meeting.

B. Waiver of Permit Fees for Essex Court Project:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to waive the permit fees for the Essex Court project. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

C. Traffic Authority:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to enter Traffic Authority. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Philip Miller reviewed a request from Victor and Janet Sherman with regard to the replacement of pebbles to their driveway that they had replaced at a cost of $900 and that they were seeking reimbursement. There was discussion that this was not an appropriate reimbursement.

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to not reimburse the Shermans in the amount of $900. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

There was discussion with regard to the previous request for a crosswalk at the Lutheran Church in Centerbrook. It was the consensus of the Board that Mr. Miller would get in touch with the Pastor to enlist assistance in the crossing of the street.

Charlie Avena was in attendance with regard to his request for street lighting near the bottom of Ebony Lane. Mr. Avena indicated that it is dark area and is potentially unsafe for those walking. It was the consensus of the Board that Mr. Miller would contact Northeast Utilities to determine their lighting recommendation.

Norman Needleman inquired as to the status of Lynn Road traffic study. Mr. Miller is working on retaining a traffic consultant to evaluate and make recommendations.

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to exit Traffic Authority. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

D. Proposed Resolution of the Town of Essex Board of Selectmen in Support of Voluntary Non-use of Pesticides and Synthetic Fertilizers on lawns and Gardens by the Citizens of Essex:

Philip Miller stated that this is a values statement and is a continuum of what we have been encouraging our citizens to do.

Motion was made by Philip Miller to approve the Resolution (printed below). Norman Needleman seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF ESSEX BOARD OF SELECTMEN IN SUPPORT OF VOLUNTARY NON-USE OF PESTICIDES AND SYNTHETIC FERTILIZERS ON LAWNS AND GARDENS BY THE CITIZENS OF ESSEX

WHEREAS, Children, pets and the unborn child are particularly vulnerable to adverse health effects of synthetic lawn pesticides such as cancer, asthma, and neurodevelopmental disorders. And

WHEREAS, Lawn pesticides are known to contaminate groundwater and wells. And

WHEREAS, Federal registration of pesticides is no guarantee of safety. And

WHEREAS, Essex borders the Connecticut River with a significant potential for non-point source pollution to Long Island Sound, And

WHEREAS, Lawn and garden fertilizers contribute 11%! of the nitrate found in the non-point source runoff, and increased nitrate in the waters of Long Island Sound can cause hypoxia (absence of oxygen) resulting in stress and death to fish and plant life And

WHEREAS, The synthesis of nitrogen-based fertilizers release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere contributing to global warming. And

WHEREAS, Regular use of pesticides upsets nature's balance by killing beneficial soil organisms that, when left alone, will take care of many unwanted pests. And

WHEREAS, Maintaining an organic lawn and garden by adding compost to improve the soil, conserve moisture; and encourage a deeper root system, will require less care and less water. And

WHEREAS, While we recognize that human activities may involve hazards, we must proceed more carefully than has been the case in recent history. We believe it is prudent to adopt a precautionary approach, so that when an activity raises threats of harm to human health or the environment, precautionary measures should be taken even if some cause and effect relationships are not fully established." (This is known as the Precautionary Principal2). And

WHEREAS, The Town of Essex has incorporated organic lawn and turf care managing pest and weed problems with the least possible hazard to people, property and the environment.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT since the health of the children and citizens of Essex, their water, the environment and Long Island Sound will all benefit from the decreased use of chemical fertilizers and lawn pesticides, the Board of Selectman urges all citizens to voluntarily refrain from the use of chemical fertilizers and lawn pesticides and encourages the use of organic lawn care.

1 Mark Tedesco, Director of Long Island Sound Study gave 11% (phone quote).

2 Wingspread Statement, published in Sandra Steingraber's book, "LivingDownstream", page284.

E. Proposed Ordinance Regarding Property Tax Exemption for Hybrid Passenger Cars:

Frank Hall reported that the Clean Energy Committee is looking support for this Ordinance which was modeled after a proposed Town of Manchester Ordinance. Norman Needleman would like more information as to whether the Ordinance passed in Manchester, the number of vehicles that would be affected in Essex, and would like Town Counsel to review. The proposed Ordinance is printed below:

PROPOSED ORDINANCE

PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR HYBRID PASSENGER CARS

Be it enacted by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Essex, that Pursuant to § 19 of Public Act 07-242, the Town of Essex hereby authorizes a property tax exemption for hybrid passenger cars defined in Connecticut General Statutes Section 12-412 (115). The exemption shall be in an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) of the hybrid passenger car's assessed value for a period not to exceed five full assessment years following the assessment year in which the vehicle is first registered as a new motor vehicle. This ordinance shall take effect on January 1, 2008 and shall be applicable to the 2008 assessment year and all subsequent assessment years.

F. Proposed Town of Essex Energy Policy:

Frank Hall and Claire Tiernan of the Clean Energy Committee provided a brief overview of the proposed policy. Ms. Tiernan stated that they worked to ensure compatibility with the Plan of Conservation and Development. Norman Needleman expressed his concern of the overall impact of such a policy. It was the consensus of the Board that the proposed policy would be forwarded to the various land use commissions for their review and feedback. The proposed policy is printed below:

I. The purpose of the Town of Essex Energy Policy is:


· To promote a sustainable future that meets today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.


· To increase the utilization of clean energy initiatives by the citizens of Essex by reducing harmful air emissions.


· To promote programs which reduce greenhouse gas emissions.


· To identify strategies that increases the use of alternative methods of transportation.


· To implement a public education curriculum that focuses on the elements and importance of utilizing clean renewable energy resources.



II. The Core Values and Vision

A. Core Values

1. To promote a stable, diverse and equitable economy.

2. To protect the quality of air, water, land and other natural resources.

3. To conserve the earth's natural resources.

4. To conserve the earth's vegetation, fish, wildlife habitat and other ecosystems.

5. To minimize human impacts on local and worldwide ecosystems.


B. Vision

A comprehensive energy plan that identifies the initiatives necessary to achieve the reduction in the use of fossil fuels by 10% by 2010. This will be accomplished through the promotion of conservation and the use of renewable clean energy sources.

III. Action Plans to Increase Energy Efficiency

A. Essex municipal facilities and vehicles

1) Short Term (Less than two years)

a) Baseline data will be identified for current energy use and costs for municipal facilities.

b) A tracking system will be implemented to identify the costs and utilization of energy use in municipal facilities on an ongoing basis.

c) Energy saving measures will be utilized including use of renewable resources.

d) Opportunities for funding will be explored.

e) A fund will be established to be used specifically for funding energy efficiency projects impacting on municipal facilities.

f) Energy efficient lighting systems including but not limited to the use of compact fluorescent bulbs will be designed and utilized.

g) Education related to energy efficiency will be provided to all Essex town employees.


2) Long Term (more than two years)

a) Municipal energy efficiency will be increased by 10% by the year 2010 through the reduction of total energy utilization in all Municipal facilities and vehicles.

b) The use of artificial lighting will be reduced and the use of day lighting in the construction of new town owned buildings or remodeling of older buildings owned by the town.

B. Residential Facilities

1) Short Term

a) Recruit Essex residents to sign up for renewable clean energy.

b) Ensure that information on managing energy costs, energy assistance programs and energy efficiency improvements is available to all residents,

c) Promote the use of compact fluorescent bulbs for area homes.

d) Encourage the development of effective programs that provide affordable, cost effective energy efficiency and weatherization programs that encourage conservation.

2) Long Term

a) Promote energy efficient new construction by actively supporting the inclusion of cost effective residential energy saving measures included in the state building code.

b) Support the development of a uniform home energy rating system to provide information on the energy performance of new and existing homes.

C. Commercial and Industrial Facilities

1) Short Term

a) Provide information to local businesses that enables them to access existing utility, state and federal financial and technical assistance programs.

b) Actively support utility programs for commercial and industrial energy conservation.

2) Long Term

a) Provide pertinent information to developers, architects, builders and others to assist in improving energy efficiency in new construction.

b) Help schools and other public and non-profit groups to participate in state, federal and utility sponsored energy efficiency programs.

c) Facilitate the development of training programs for businesses, schools and institutions that focus on operation and maintenance, energy accounting, life cycle costing and other energy efficient management strategies. Target small and medium sized businesses and major energy using buildings.

d) Study the impact of reducing the property tax for businesses that invest in energy efficient equipment.

D. Land Use Regulations

1) Short Term

a) Promote land use patterns that increase efficiency in buildings by making energy efficiency a critical element when developing new zoning regulations and modifying old regulations.

2) Long Term

a) Acquire and protect open space properties for conservation.

E. Transportation

1) Short Term

a) Promote opportunities for non-auto use by providing additional strategically placed bikeways and walkways.

b) Promote the reduction of gasoline and diesel use by conventional buses, autos and trucks by promoting the use of alternate fuels

2) Long Term

a) Consider lowering property taxes for residents who purchase energy efficiency autos.

b) Create incentives for the introduction of a light rail commuter train.

G. Resignations Boards and Commissions:

Motion was made by Philip Miller to accept the resignation of Robert Graulich from the Inland Wetlands and Conservation Commissions with thanks and regret. Norman Needleman seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

H. Appointments Boards and Commissions:

Philip Miller reported that he had appointed David Gephard to the Essex Housing Authority.

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to appoint Paul Samoza as an alternate to the Zoning Commission and Barbara Zernicke as an alternate to the Inland Wetlands Commission. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to schedule a Town Meeting for January 2, 2008 at 6 pm for the purpose of these two appointments. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

I. Non-Discrimination Certification—Marine Sewage Disposal Facility Contract:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to approve the Nondiscrimination Certification for the Marine Sewage Disposal Facility Contract (printed below). Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

I, Philip J. Miller, First Selectman, Town of Essex, an entity lawfully organized and existing under the laws of name of the State of Connecticut, do hereby certify that the following is a true and correct copy of a resolution adopted on the 5th day of December by the governing body of name of the Town of Essex, in accordance with all of its documents of governance and management and the laws of Connecticut, and further certify that such resolution has not been modified, rescinded or revoked, and is, at present, in full force and effect.

RESOLVED: That name of entity hereby adopts as its policy to support the nondiscrimination agreements and warranties required under Connecticut General Statutes § 4a-60(a)(l) and § 4a-60a(a)(l), as amended in State of Connecticut Public Act 07-245 and sections 9(a)(l) and 10(a)(l) of Public Act 07-142.

J. Banner Requests:

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to approve the Connecticut River Museum Banner Request from December 10, 2007 to January 21, 2008 on the front side and from January 21, 2008 to February 18, 2008 on the backside. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved.

SELECTMEN GENERAL DISCUSSION: None

Motion was made by Norman Needleman to adjourn at 6:28 pm. Philip Miller seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Cindy Varricchio

Board Clerk