BUILDING DEPARTMENT



Town of Chester

Annual Report

7/2013 – 6/2014

Dedication

The Chester Board of Finance honors with gratitude, Elizabeth Netsch. Liz has worked for the Town for the past 25 years, beginning as Parks and Recreation Director and then taking on the role of Town Treasurer, a capacity she has dutifully fulfilled for the past 22 years. Liz also serves as a member of the Workplace Health and Safety Committee.

Liz is a vital component of our Town, ensuring that numerous enrichment opportunities are offered to all of Chester’s residents through the Parks and Recreation Department. Additionally, as Town Treasurer, she is a dedicated professional, carefully managing and accounting for revenues and expenses of the town, and ensuring that investment and disbursement of all funds are conducted properly. Whether organizing summer programs for Chester’s youth, yoga classes or basketball for Chester’s adults, or overseeing the weekly cash inflow and outflow of the Town, Liz works tirelessly on our residents’ behalf.

For these reasons, and for the upstanding citizen she is, we recognize Elizabeth Netsch with the dedication of this annual report and thank her for her past, present and future contributions to the Town of Chester.

TOWN HALL OF CHESTER

Address: 203 Middlesex Avenue

Chester, CT 06412

Telephone: 860-526-0013

Facsimile: 860-526-0004

Official Town Web Site:

TOWN HALL DIRECTORY

Animal Control 860-526-0013

Assessor extension 512 loretazdanys@

Development Office

Building extension 207 bldgofficial@

Fire Marshal extension 212 firemarshal@

Inland Wetlands Officer extension 212 inlandwetlands@

Planning and Zoning extension 208 zoningofficial@

Sanitarian extension 206 sanitarian@

Finance extension 215 finance@

First Selectman extension 202 firstselectman@

Administrative Assistant extension 202 adminasst@

Human Services extension 213 humanservices@

Information extension 202 info@

Parks and Recreation extension 223 parkrec@

Police Services

Resident Trooper 860-526-3605 policeservices@

Emergency 911

Registrars of Voters extension 211 registrar@

Tax Collector extension 513 taxcollector@

Town Clerk extension 511 townclerk@

Treasurer extension 214 treasurer@

Water Pollution Control Authority wpca@

MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS

Chester Elementary School 23 Ridge Road 860-526-5797

Fire Department 6 High Street 860-526-0019

John Winthrop Junior High School Warsaw Street, Deep River 860-526-9546

Meeting House 4 Liberty Street 860-526-0013

Public Library 21 West Main Street 860-526-0018

Public Works Department 16 Grote Road 860-526-0020

Valley Regional High School Kelsey Hill Road, Deep River 860-526-5328

Town Hall 203 Middlesex Avenue 860-526-0013

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Served Fiscal Year: July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014

Selectmen

Edmund Meehan 11/17/15

Lawrence Mirl Sypher 11/17/15

Tommy Englert 11/17/15

Town Clerk & Registrar of Vital Statistics

Debra Germini Calamari 01/01/18

Asst: Sharon S. Echtman

Town Treasurer

Elizabeth A. Netsch 11/21/17

Julie Netsch, Deputy 11/21/17

Randy Netsch, Deputy 11/21/17

Tax Collector

Madaline A. Meyer 11/21/17

Tax Clerk: Tracey Ohaus

Board of Finance

David W. Cohen 11/19/19

Charles T. Park 11/19/19

Virginia Carmany, Chmn. 11/21/17

Bob Gorman 11/21/17

Joyce A. Aley 11/17/15

Jennifer Hummel Rannestad 11/17/15

Board of Finance Alternates

Richard C. Nygard 11/19/19

Lori Ann Sidoti Clymas 11/21/17

Alexander Strekel 11/17/15

Board of Education

Rodney Alston 11/07/17

Robert A. Bibbiani 11/07/17

Arthur R. Henick 11/07/17

Ashley Marsh 11/07/17

Vacancy 11/07/17

Vacancy 11/07/17

Wendy Calamari King, Chmn. 11/03/15

David Fitzgibbons 11/03/15

Vacancy 11/03/15

Board of Assessment Appeals

Dudley W. Clark, Jr. 11/21/17

Daniel M. Watts 11/21/17

Bruce H. Watrous, Chmn. 11/17/15

Inland Wetland Commission

Christine A. Darnell 11/21/17

Eric Davison 11/21/17

Albert G. Bisacky, Chmn. 11/17/15

Sally A. Sanders 11/17/15

Kris Seifert 11/17/15

Kim S. Senay 11/17/15

Vacancy 11/17/15

Planning and Zoning Commission

Doreen Joslow 11/19/19

Henry Benjamin Krempel 11/19/19

Mel Seifert 11/19/19

Peter Kehayias 11/21/17

Jon Mark Lavy, Chmn. 11/21/17

Sally L. Murray 11/21/17

Errol F. Horner 11/17/15

Steven E. Merola 11/17/15

Keith Walter Scherber 11/17/15

Planning and Zoning Commission Alternates

Michael Sanders 11/19/19

Peter J. Zanardi 11/21/17

Sarah Jansen 11/17/15

Library Trustees

Teresa C. Schreiber, Chmn. 11/19/19

Dennis Tovey 11/19/19

Margaret A. Carter-Ward 11/21/17

Edith M. Prisloe 11/21/17

Robert M. Gorman 11/17/15

Sandra Senior-Dauer 11/17/15

Regional Board of Education

Mario S. Gioco 11/05/19

Elaine M. Fitzgibbons 11/07/17

Ann G. Monaghan 11/03/15

Registrar of Voters

Charlene O. Janecek 01/05/15

Tracey B. Ohaus 01/05/15

Water Pollution Control Authority

Albert Arthur Armington, Chmn. 11/21/17

Samuel H. Chorches 11/21/17

Leroy Edward Ward III 11/21/17

Felise T. Cressman 11/17/15

James K. Pease 11/17/15

Zoning Board of Appeals

John J. DeLaura, Jr. 12/31/17

Michael Robert Desnoyers 12/31/17

Al Bisacky 12/31/15

Mark C. Borton, Chmn. 12/31/15

Caryl Horner 12/31/15

Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates

Brian Sakidovitch 12/31/17

Alexander C. Stein 12/31/15

Lisa Tollefson 12/31/15

Justices of the Peace

Shirley Joy Davis 01/02/17

Mario S. Gioco 01/02/17

Margaret E. Gister 01/02/17

Paul R. Hinkel 01/02/17

Jonathan A. Joslow 01/02/17

Carl F. Manning 01/02/17

Emily S. Masters 01/02/17

Harvey E. Redak 01/02/17

Melvin F. Seifert 01/02/17

Anna Shubik Sweeney 01/02/17

Jerry A. Walden 01/02/17

Bruce H. Watrous 01/02/17

Whitelaw Wilson 01/02/17

Judge of Probate

Terrance D. Lomme 01/07/15

U.S. Representative-2nd Congressional District

Joe Courtney 01/07/15

U.S. Senators

Christopher S. Murphy 01/03/19

Richard Blumenthal 01/04/17

State Senator-33rd Senatorial District

Art Linares 01/07/15

State Representative-36th Assembly District

Philip J. Miller 01/07/15

APPOINTED OFFICIALS

Served Fiscal Year: July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014

Accounting Manager

Peter Evankow

Accounts Clerk

Sharon S. Echtman

Administrative Assistant

Lynne Jacques

Animal Control Officer

Robert Jenkins

Assessor

Loreta Zdanys

Asst: Sheila Ahearn

Auditors

O’Connor Davies, LLP

Board of Fire Commissioners

John M. Divis 11/21/17

Charlene O. Janecek 11/21/17

Peter J. Zanardi 11/21/17

Richard M. Schreiber 11/17/15

Joel P. Severance, Chmn. 11/17/15

Ex-officio Members:

Charles F. Greeney, Jr., Fire Chief

Richard Leighton, Fire Marshal

Edmund Meehan, First Selectman

Building Official

Ronald Rose 08/14/16

Building Clerk

Sharon S. Echtman

Cable Television Advisory Council

Vacancy (Town) 07/30/15

Vacancy (School) 07/30/15

Cedar Lake Advisory Committee

Vacancy 07/01/14

Vacancy 07/01/14

Vacancy 07/01/15

Vacancy 07/01/15

Vacancy 07/01/15

Cemetery Association

Robert Klomp, President

Alan Cuneo, Vice President

Janette Deroo, Secretary

Vacancy

Central Regional Tourism District

Vacancy 07/01/14

Chester Housing Partnership Committee

David Mesite

Vacancies (5)

Citation Hearing Officers

Elizabeth A. Perreault, Chmn. 11/17/15

Walter L. Schreiber 11/17/15

Whitelaw Wilson 11/17/15

Vacancy 11/17/15

Vacancy 11/17/15

Community Decommissioning Advisory Committee

Vacancy 11/17/15

Vacancy, Alternate 11/17/15

Compliance Officer

John S. Bennet 11/30/15

Connecticut River Estuary Transit District

Leslie B. Strauss 02/21/17

Connecticut River Gateway Commission

Margaret Wilson 07/01/14

Martha J. Wallace, Alternate 07/01/14

Conservation Commission

Margot D. Burns 11/01/16

Michael P. Prisloe, Jr. 11/01/16

Errol F. Horner 11/01/15

Margaret N.W. Wilson 11/01/15

Patrick L. Woomer 11/01/15

Richard P. Holloway 11/01/14

Vacancy 11/01/14

Director of Health

Konrad Kotrady, M.D. 02/01/16

Emergency Management

Joel P. Severance, Director

Thomas B. Layton, Deputy

Ernest (Cy) M. Libby, Deputy

Bruce H. Watrous, Deputy

EMS South Central CT Emergency Medical Services Council

Emily S. Masters 12/01/14

Energy Task Force

Peter Harding

Richard Holloway

Lynne Jacques

Sandy Prisloe

Patrick Woomer, Chmn.

Engineer

N. L. Jacobson and Associates 11/17/15

Fields/Grounds Committee for Region District 4

Vacancy 11/17/15

Vacancy 11/17/15

Fire Investigator

David Roberge

Fire Marshal

Richard Leighton

Harbor Management Commission

Robert E. Murac 10/03/19

Joel P. Severance 10/03/19

Gordon W. VanNes 10/03/19

Leroy Edward Ward III 10/03/17

Vacancy 10/03/17

Harbor Management Commission Alternates

Vacancy 10/03/17

James E. Barrington 10/03/15

Harbor Master

George G. Bartlett

Historian

Robert Miceli

Human Services Director

Rose Bininger

Inland Wetland Officer

Anna Shubik Sweeney

Library Director

Linda Fox

Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments

Vacancy – BOS Rep. 12/04/15

Vacancy-P&Z Rep. 12/04/15

Middlesex County Revitalization Commission

Edmund Meehan 11/17/15

Municipal Agent for Children

Tri-Town Youth Service Bureau, Gail Onofrio, Director

Municipal Economic Development Commission

Vacancy 11/01/18

Felise Cressman 11/01/15

Michael A. Sanders 11/01/15

Stephen J. Fleet, Co-Chmn. 11/01/14

Susan Wright, Co-Chmn. 11/01/14

Park and Recreation Commission

Susan G. Hotkowski 11/01/16

Elizabeth Ibby Williams 11/01/16

Ivey W. Gianetti 11/01/15

James L. Ready 11/01/15

Felise T. Cressman 11/01/14

Matthew S. Sanders 11/01/14

John B. Williams, Chmn. 11/01/14

Park and Recreation Director

Elizabeth A. Netsch

Regional Mental Health Board

Vacancy 04/30/16

Resident State Trooper

Trpr. Matthew Ewing, State Police-Troop F

Retirement Board

Lori Ann Sidoti Clymas-BOF Rep. 12/16/16

Van C. Standke, Chmn. 12/16/16

Raymond E. Archambault 12/16/15

Charlene O. Janecek 12/16/15

Vacancy 12/16/14

Sanitarian

Lee Vito

Tree Warden

Scot Mills 11/17/15

Tri-Town Youth Service Bureau Representative

Vacancy 11/17/15

Valley Shore Emergency Communications Board of Directors

John Divis 11/17/15

Charles F. Greeney, Jr. 11/17/15

Zoning Enforcement Officer

Judy Brown

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

BOARD OF SELECTMEN

Edmund J. Meehan, First Selectman

Lawrence M. Sypher, Selectman

Tommy Englert, Selectman

FISCAL YEAR 2013-2014

HIGHLIGHTS OF BOARD OF SELECTMEN ACTIONS AND PROJECTS

July As recommended by the Chester E-Team (Energy Team) the Board of Selectmen endorsed Chester’s participation in the Clean Energy Finance Investment Authority’s (CEFIA) C-Pace program. This program offers low interest loans to private businesses to invest in renewable energy and energy efficient improvements to their property.

On July 23rd, residents unanimously voted at Town Meeting to approve the Chester Village District Master Plan prepared by the Main Street Committee and endorsed by the Board of Selectmen as the long range guide for the implementation of Town Center streetscape projects, grant applications and capital improvements.

First Selectman Ed Meehan reported that renovations to the second floor of Town Hall to create a community meeting room, new office space for land use offices and IT server room are 90 percent complete with minor items remaining.

August Selectmen approved renewal of Chester’s two year service agreement, July 2013 to June 2015, for participation in the Valley Shore Emergency Communication program.

Selectmen approved for public advertisement the Request for Qualifications for Information Technology Services to evaluate our computer system and prepare a three year work plan and budget to update hardware and software programs.

Main Street Project Committee recommended to the Selectmen the first phase of Town Center improvements begin at Laurel Hill Cemetery and extend 1,800 feet east to Middlesex Avenue. This Phase I area is based on the sequence identified in the Village District Master Plan. First Selectman Meehan will coordinate with the Main Street Committee the preparation of a Request for Qualifications for project engineer services to develop reconstruction design and bid documents.

First Selectman Meehan reported roof repairs at Chester Elementary School have been completed and solar photovoltaic system installed for a 9.25 KW system. Also completed at the elementary school was a security audit for safety alert measures. This audit was conducted for all Region 4 schools and will be used to apply for grant funds from the Department of Emergency Service and Public Protection. Chester will request $16,000 for video cameras.

September The State Traffic Commission notified the Board of Selectmen that it approved the Town’s request for reducing the posted speed limit on Route 154 in the vicinity of the Haddam town line to Goose Hill Road, changing the limit from 50 to 40 miles per hour.

Chester Hose Company completed specifications for their new suburban truck funded through the five year capital program and purchase using State bid award process.

The Board of Selectmen interviewed two qualified IT firms interested in preparing a three year computer work plan replacement schedule and budget strategy.

The Main Street Project Committee reported to the Board of Selectmen that following interviews for Phase I project consultant it recommends the team of Kent & Frost and Stadia Engineers as its top choice. Selectmen agreed to review the consultant qualifications and proposed professional fees. This design work will be paid from the $200,000 STEAP Grant award in 2009. First Selectman Meehan has requested the Department of Transportation to allow these grant funds to be used for both design and construction work.

October Following the interviews of two IT consultants the Board of Selectmen selected Connecticut Computer Service, Inc. as the vendor to prepare the three year work plan to replace servers, computers, printers and software at Town Hall and Library.

On October 15th Chester Elementary School held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new solar system.

First Selectman Meehan reported that the new Park and Recreation storage building at Pelletier Park was completed. Brian Buckley’s and Randy Netsch’s generous volunteer assistance was commended and recognized by the Board for their support of the Town’s recreational programs.

The Department of Transportation notified First Selectman Meehan that the 2009 STEAP grant award of $200,000 could be used for both engineering design services and Main Street Phase I road reconstruction expenses.

Board of Selectmen in coordination with the Economic Development Commission, recommended changing the Town Ordinance to reduce EDC membership from 7 to 5 members to facilitate quorums. This recommendation will be presented at the November 20th Town Meeting for decision.

First Selectman Meehan reported that several work items on the Town Engineer’s Jennings Pond Dam inspection report have been addressed by Chester Public Works, but two additional tasks, concrete repairs and sluice gate inspection, will require vendor services. For the sluice gate operation a professional diver will be hired.

Board of Selectmen authorized contracting with the team of Kent & Frost and Stadia Engineers for Main Street Phase I project design and construction bid documents with professional fee paid from 2009 STEAP grant.

Selectmen approved the renewal of the 20 Water Street lease to Pond Side Kitchens for a two year term ending September 30, 2015.

In recognition of the Chester Hose Company’s volunteer service during the past two hurricanes the Board of Selectmen requested the Board of Finance to appropriate $8,000 from the Town’s FEMA payments to the Hose Company to further the completion of the second phase addition to the fire station.

November Following the November 2013 municipal elections the Selectmen made several appointments to boards and commissions and also for the two year term of Town Engineer, Nathan L. Jacobson and Associates; Town Attorney John Bennet, two year appointment; and Scot Mills two year appointment as Tree Warden.

Board of Selectmen were notified of Chester Board of Education’s non-compliance with a State Department of Education mandate prohibiting reduction of school budgets called Minimum Budget Requirement. The State Department of Education contends the Chester Elementary School’s fiscal year 2013-2014 budget is under funded by $41,527. Board of Selectmen called for a joint meeting of the Chester Board of Education and Board of Finance to address the State’s demand to appropriate an additional $41,527 to our local school budget.

December Library Board of Trustees met with Board of Selectmen to request funding for library expansion at the West Main Street location pursuing a schematic design option for an underground addition. Selectmen discussed the benefit of seeking further community comments on the underground design option, the need for soil borings on church owned property and recommended funding allocation for schematic design options be included in the proposed fiscal year 2014-2015 budget.

Board of Selectmen approved the expansion of the Town’s 457 Retirement Plan to add a ROTH IRA investment for employees who wish to use this option.

Following the November 20th Town Meeting discussion of proposed amendments to the 2009 Plan of Conservation and Development petitioned by Aaron Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center seeking to allow expansion of the sanitary sewer system beyond the Village Center the Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to support these amendments finding the Deep River Treatment Plant has adequate capacity to accept addition waste water, the expanded service area will benefit public health and the economy of the Town.

The Board of Selectmen recommended that disbursements from the Town’s Community Fund be limited to $1,000 per family and be coordinated with other assistance programs as determined necessary by the Town Human Services Director.

January Board of Selectmen initiated preparation of the 2014-2015 budget process setting workshop dates coordinated with the Board of Finance, a May 1st budget Public Hearing and May 22nd Annual Town Meeting vote.

Connecticut Computer Service met with Selectmen to present preliminary three year work plan and cost estimates for consideration in fiscal year 2014-2015 operating budget and five year capital improvement plan.

Board of Selectmen and E-Team discussed the cost benefits using the 2 KW free panels awarded from the Chester Solar Challenge program and purchasing 4KW for the first stage of a Town Hall roof solar array system. The estimated savings of a 6.0 KW system is $1,500 per year prior to expected utility rate increases. Selectmen also propose funding in fiscal year 2014-2015 an additional 1.25 KW added to the Chester Elementary School solar system to fully utilize the capacity of the existing inverter.

On January 29th the Main Street Phase I reconstruction concept design options were presented at a well-attended public information meeting.

February On February 12th the E-Team and Economic Development Commission hosted a breakfast for local businesses to learn about the C-Pace’s loan program and the various options available to reduce their energy costs.

Library Board of Trustees met with Selectmen to report community reactions to the option of a below grade building expansion versus the possible option to consider a new library in North Quarter Park. The Selectmen recommended that if pursued the North Quarter Park option should be based on a master plan that addresses the park’s conservation and recreation attributes.

On February 18th the Board of Selectmen approved the Library Trustees’ request for $20,000 to develop a concept building design for a new Library-community center in North Quarter Park. The Selectmen forwarded their recommendation to the Board of Finance and requested these funds be included in the proposed 2014-2015 budget.

Board of Selectmen and Connecticut Computer Service finalized the three year computer replacement work plan and requested the Board of Finance to acquire server and computer equipment by a three year lease with Hewlett Packard fund in the Capital Improvement Program.

March Board of Selectmen presented the North Quarter Park Master Plan Committee with the charge to prepare a long range design to guide and coordinate park uses for a potential library building, conservation purposes and active recreation. This plan should take into account site information prepared in 2004 when the park was considered for a new Town Hall. The Committee will have representation from the Library Trustees, Park and Recreation, Board of Finance, Planning and Zoning, Board of Selectmen and a public member. The Committee’s task will be to complete the Master Plan before the end of July and coordinate with the Library Building Committee the submission of a grant application for construction funds from the State Library Board.

Main Street Committee reported to Selectmen its recommended 30 percent Phase I design should include extensive new drainage, a new box culvert, and construction of a new sidewalk along the north side of Main Street from School Lane to Middlesex Avenue. Main Street and School Lane residents submitted a petition to Selectmen opposing the north side sidewalk because of the removal of three large trees in front of 131 Main Street.

April A second Main Street Phase I public informational meeting held on April 22nd. Several residents continued to express their opposition to tree removal.

Chester awarded a $5,000 Clean Energy Bright Ideas grant in recognition of the successful elementary school and 20 new residential solar photovoltaic installations.

Selectmen make appointments to the Library Building Committee to oversee preparation of the concept design and State Library construction grant application. Four members of the North Quarter Park Master Plan Committee joined the Library Building Committee to insure coordination of both projects.

Board of Selectmen recommended to the Board of Finance that the proposed fiscal year 2014-2015 budget not increase property taxes.

Board of Selectmen recommend to the Board of Finance approval of Chester Board of Education’s request for appropriation of $41,527 to fund the 2013-2014 elementary school budget to address the State Department of Education’s Minimum Budget Requirement. These additional funds will be appropriated but not expended and returned at end of the fiscal year to the Town’s general fund.

Selectmen endorsed the site plan for construction of 17 additional parking spaces at the Fire Station on High Street. These new spaces will provide needed on-site parking for Hose Company members and for community events.

May Board of Selectmen, after public advertisement for Request for Proposals, appointed the landscape firm of Richter & Cegan to prepare the North Quarter Park Master Plan and complete this assignment by July 15th.

Board of Selectmen accepts Main Street Committee’s recommendation to advance the 30 percent Phase I concept plan to preliminary engineering design. This design will include the north side sidewalk and new concrete box culvert. The Selectmen conditioned their approval based on the need for cost estimates and the design of mitigation measures for 131 and 137 Main Street properties such as replacement landscaping, new fences, and walkways acceptable to the two property owners.

On May 22nd the Town Meeting unanimously voted to adopt the fiscal year 2014-2015 budget of $12,507,736, a 1.45% increase but by using fund balance reserves a “0” increase in tax collection revenues. Following the Town Meeting the Board of Finance voted to set the new tax rate at 24.82 mils.

June Board of Selectmen authorized the hiring of a part-time summer Public Works position funded at 20 hours per week. This new staff person will supplement our three member Town crew and enable vacation breaks and the manpower necessary for the department’s heavy work load.

First Selectman Meehan reported the schedule for summer road projects which includes drainage repairs, new paving and curbing for Highfield Lane, Brooks Lane and Dock Road.

After lengthy discussions and several revisions the Board of Selectmen voted to amend the Town’s Personnel Policies to authorize Town vehicle take home for employees whose job function is primarily related to emergency services or designated for 24 hour on-call status.

LOWER CONNECTICUT RIVER VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (RiverCOG)

RiverCOG is the first re-designated and merged region in the evolving reorganization of Connecticut’s nine Regional Planning Organizations. RiverCOG is governed by the 17 chief elected officials of its member towns: Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Lyme, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook. RiverCOG program focuses on weaving together the goals and programs of the member municipalities within collective guidance provided by the RiverCOG board under the authority of the State Plan of Conservation and Development and Connecticut Statutes. These efforts are supported by RiverCOG staff with extensive knowledge in federal, state, regional, and local land use and transportation planning, environmental stewardship, economic growth, housing, and agriculture, human services, waste management, housing, energy, mapping, and demographics. The following is a quick synopsis of the RiverCOG work program over the last year. Additional details are available at our website: .

RiverCOG provides coordinated local and regional involvement for effective planning practices and land use strategies; assisting member municipalities, as requested, with updates to their Plans of Conservation and Development, regulations, site plan reviews and other land use matters. Under state statute, RiverCOG through its Regional Planning Commission (RPC) reviews proposed zoning text and map changes that affect property within 500 feet of municipal boundaries and subdivisions which touch or cross town lines. The RPC is also working on the outline and outreach methods for the RiverCOG Plan of Conservation and Development. The RPC includes a representative and alternate from each municipal Planning Commission in the region. The RPC meets monthly on the fourth Monday of each month.

RiverCOG also provides inclusive and cohesive transportation planning, through its partner organization, the River Metropolitan Planning Organization (RiverMPO). This year, RiverMPO received its official re-designation from the Governor, making it one of the first MPOs in the United States to formally re-designate and merge two MPO organizations. The responsibility of RiverMPO is to enact and foster the planning requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation; a complex process of public outreach and long range planning for transportation improvements in the region.

RiverCOG works with municipal economic development commissions and coordinators, the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce and other local chambers of commerce, the Connecticut Center for Economic Analysis, as well as state and local business groups to promote strategic and sustainable regional economic growth.

RiverCOG worked over the past year in several key areas in environmental analysis. A strategic planning document in progress is “The Lower CT River and Coastal Region Land Trust Exchange Natural Resource Based Strategic Conservation Plan, A GIS Overlay Analysis”. Over the last year, RiverCOG has been working to collect and catalogue regional datasets: CAMA data, census and other statistical information. RiverCOG has partnered with the University of Connecticut Data Center to gather regional census data and assemble analysis of regional trends and collective statistics.

Household hazardous waste (HHW) collections and recycling programs for the lower nine communities of RiverCOG cooperatively are held at Dump Road in Essex with satellite collections available to the 17 towns in other locations. A total of 2,336 vehicles representing 2,796 households brought in 55,920 pounds of hazardous waste. RiverCOG staff also work with the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority and CTDEEP to organize recycling and paper shredding events. These programs divert household hazardous waste, including paint, pesticides, and other flammable or corrosive materials from the general waste stream, and foster current best practices in recycling.

In the area of emergency management, RiverCOG continues as administrator of state and federal Homeland Security funds for the 30 towns of DEMHS Region 2. As Fiduciary Agent, RiverCOG is responsible for oversight of all Region 2 Homeland Security Grant Program Funds. Over the last year, RiverCOG successfully completed 10 separate Natural Hazard Mitigation Plans (NHMPs) throughout the region; 1 collaborative plan which covers the northern eight towns of the region, and 9 individual plans, 1 for each of the southern towns.

RiverCOG hosts various regional initiatives and commissions through meeting space or staff support including: the Gateway Commission, the Shoreline Basic Needs Task Force, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Regional Agricultural Commission, and other groups as space and time permits. RiverCOG has begun to supplement existing shared service programs by evaluating other opportunities for shared cost savings and services between two or more member towns in the areas of on-line permitting, animal control, pavement management software, cooperative purchasing, energy and other programs. The River COG board continued an annual “dues” schedule at the same rate as last year while programs and opportunities continue to expand for the new organization. RiverCOG staff is attentive to grant opportunities that will benefit the region.

Current officers for River COG are Cathy Iino (Killingworth), serving as Chairperson, Dick Smith (Deep River) as Vice-Chairperson, Susan Bransfield (Portland) as Secretary, and Ed Meehan (Chester) as Treasurer. RiverCOG welcomes Paula Fernald as the new Financial Administrator for RiverCOG. Paula takes over for Dorothy Papp, who is repurposing her time in a new part-time career. Dorothy’s positive and insightful financial skills were a valuable contribution to RiverCOG through a complicated merger process.

The Executive Director is currently vacant due to the unexpected passing of RiverCOG Executive Director, Linda Krause. Linda is greatly missed and her legacy to promote the friendly collaboration between our member towns and the value of our region will continue on through the enthusiastic work of the agency, its staff and the region’s board, and committees.

Jean Davies, Deputy Director is working as Interim Director until the position of Executive Director is filled. As always, we welcome visitors and inquiries about specific topics of regional concern. RiverCOG and RiverMPO meet monthly on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 9AM. Please contact us at (860-581-8554) or e-mail us (info@) if you think we might be able to help you.

REGISTRARS OF VOTERS

Charlene O. Janecek, Democrat

Tracey Ohaus, Republican

 

The Office of the Registrars of Voters is a position governed by the Connecticut General Statutes and financially supported by the municipality in which the Registrars serve. Registrars are responsible for voter education, organizing and conducting the annual canvass of voters, maintaining the accuracy of the registry list, updating voter files, preparing department budgets, training election officials, working town meetings when requested, absentee ballot assistance for convalescent home residents, ensuring the proper maintenance of voting machines in preparation for their use at elections, and filing the election results with the Secretary of State and the Municipal Clerk.

 

Over the past year, the registrars were involved in a Municipal election and a Region 4 referendum. As of June 30, 2014, Chester has 2418 registered voters; 893 Democrats, 456 Republicans, 1041 unaffiliated and 28 minor parties.

 

In 2013 the State enacted EDR legislation. This legislation requires registrars to be in their offices or in a EDR designated area on election day so that unregistered voters can come in, register to vote, and then vote with a special ballot.  This ballot will be counted after it is determined the voter hasn't already voted in another town.

 

Chester and all towns in Connecticut are part of the State of Connecticut Voter Registration System.  This system allows the towns in Connecticut direct communication via computer with the Secretary of State’s Office and indirectly with each other as required by HAVA. This system plays an integral part in helping with EDR legislation.

 

The Registrars of Voters position is an elected position. Politics has no place in the registrars’ office. It is the responsibility of all registrars to ensure fair and equitable enactment of all election laws and to guarantee the accuracy of all elections.

TOWN CLERK

Debra Germini Calamari, Town Clerk

The Town Clerk is known as the “Keeper of the Records.” This office maintains all records that pertain to the purchase and sale of real estate, which includes but is not limited to warranty deeds, mortgages, release of mortgages, liens, etc. You can obtain birth, marriage and death records here as well. If you are a veteran and served during war time, you can file your discharge papers with this office and get a reduced rate on your taxes.

The month of June is the time to renew your dog’s license. Proof of a current rabies vaccination and paperwork is also necessary if your dog has been neutered or spayed. Altering your dog will get you a reduced rate in the licensing fee. Renewals can be done either in person or by mail. All dogs have to be licensed once they turn six months old.

Residents may apply for admission as electors at this office on a daily basis and also with the Registrar of Voters, which has limited hours. Registrars will hold special voting sessions prior to primaries and elections. These sessions are filed with the Town Clerk and are posted on the Town board at the Town Hall.

This office maintains and certifies agendas, meeting times and minutes of various Town boards and commissions. The Town Clerk keeps track of all members of every board and commission and their terms of office. All poll ballots and absentee ballots for referendums, primaries and elections are done by this office. The Town Clerk serves as Clerk to Annual and Special Town Meetings and acts as the Custodian of the Town Seal and Registrar of Vital Statistics Seal. The Town Clerk prepares and administers annual budgets for the office and all duties and responsibilities are prescribed by State Statutes and Town Ordinances.

To save the Town of Chester money, I annually apply for and receive Historic Preservation Grant money which I have used for preservation of old records, back file conversion and file cabinets for the vault, which in turn saves the Town thousands of dollars.

TOWN MEETINGS

July 23, 2013

VOTED: To authorize the Town of Chester’s participation in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (C-PACE) as created by Section 157, Public Act No. 12-2, and to authorize the First Selectman to enter into a written agreement with the Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority (CEFIA) whereby the Town agrees to assess, collect, remit and assign benefit assessments to the Authority in return for energy improvements to commercial and industrial property in Chester and for costs reasonably incurred by the Town in performing these duties.

VOTED: To approve the Chester Village and Center District Master Plan recommended by the Main Street Project Committee and endorsed by the Board of Selectmen, April 18, 2013 as the long range guide to promote commercial viability, attract small business, improve street surfaces, drainage, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping and wayfinding within the commercial district. The Master Plan contains recommendations for phasing projects coordinated with the replacement of the Main Street Bridge in 2016 and will be used to seek grant awards including the Main Street Investment Fund and allocations to the Town’s five year capital improvement program.

November 20, 2013

VOTED: To amend Ordinance establishing Municipal Economic Development Commission adopted December 2, 1997 to reduce membership from seven (7) to five (5).

The amended Ordinance to read:

Section (a) The Municipal Economic Development Commission, established by ordinance dated October 5, 1964, created for the Town of Chester, for the exercise of the powers granted under the provisions of Section 7-136 of the Connecticut General Statutes, shall consist of five (5) members who shall be electors of the Town of Chester.

Section (b) The five (5) members of the Municipal Economic Development Commission shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. The members holding office as of the date of this Town Meeting shall continue for their term of office and this amendment shall have no effect upon their term of office. Thereafter, members shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen for five year terms, including those having already been appointed.

The Board of Selectmen convened a Public Hearing to review and comment on the proposed amendments to the 2009 Plan of Conservation and Development Plan that were requested by Aaron Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of 3 South Wig Hill Road.

March 26, 2014

VOTED: To authorize the First Selectman to enter into a three (3) year lease, known as a Tax Exempt Installment Sale, with HP Financial Services for the purpose of acquiring new servers, computers, operating software, firewalls, wireless and switches to implement a comprehensive upgrade of the Town’s technology infrastructure based on the phasing of expenses over a three (3) year period as recommended by the Board of Finance.

May 6, 2014

VOTED BY REFERENDUM: To approve the Regional School District No. 4 budget of $18,377,431 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014.

Yes: 59 No: 37

The total vote from Chester, Deep River and Essex was:

Yes: 319 No: 256

May 22, 2014

VOTED: To appropriate the sum of $350,000 from the unassigned General Fund balance to the Capital non-recurring line item #10-05-62-1000-150, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the following Capital Transfer, as recommended by the Board of Finance:

From 20-00-01-0000-007 Assigned $350,000

To 20-00-31-0000-446 Road/Sidewalk Repairs $300,000

To 20-00-36-0000-065 Town Buildings-Repairs/Code Comp. $ 50,000

VOTED: To appropriate the sum of $41,527 from the unassigned General Fund balance to the Chester Elementary School line item # 10-08-90-1000-902, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To select the method of payment and due date of installments of property taxes in keeping with Connecticut General Statutes 12-143 as follows:

a. Real Estate taxes due in two halves, first half due July 1, 2014 and the second half due January 1, 2015.

b. All motor vehicle bills due in one payment on July 1, 2014.

c. All motor vehicle supplement bills are due in one payment on January 1, 2015.

d. Minimum interest charge of $2.00.

e. Negate all bills under $5.00.

VOTED: To adopt a budget for the Town of Chester General Fund for fiscal year July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 in an amount totaling $12,507,736, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To adopt the five year Capital Plan, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the First Selectman and Treasurer to borrow such sums of money from time to time as may be necessary to defray expenses of the Town in accordance with authorized appropriations for fiscal year ending June 30, 2015.

VOTED: To authorize the following Capital transfer, as recommended by the Board of Finance:

From 20-00-01-0000-007 Assigned $ 4,780

From 20-00-11-0000-010 Revaluation $27,850

From 20-00-36-0000-067 Town Hall Renovation/P&R Storage $18,300

From 20-00-36-0000-094 Town Building Emergency Generator $35,200

To 20-00-31-0000-446 Road/Sidewalk Repairs $86,130

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $30,000 from the Capital Fund-Town Hall-Computer Replacement line item #20-00-01-0000-092, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $275,000 from the Capital Fund-Road/Sidewalk Repairs line item #20-00-31-0000-446, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $50,000 from the Capital Fund-Town Buildings-Repairs/Code Compliance line item #20-00-36-0000-065, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $40,000 from the Capital Fund-Cruiser Replacement line item # 20-00-45-0000-070, as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH PROGRAM

“Volunteer activity has been a mainstay for Chester and should be encouraged,” states the Town’s Vision Report.  Contributions of time, energy, and skills are essential in helping to keep taxes down and promote the social and economic growth of our Town.

  

The Town of Chester survives on its volunteers.  Volunteer possibilities can be found at Chester Hose Company, various boards and commissions, working at the polls, etc. If you have a desire to help people or provide community service, have a sense of public duty, feel a need to reciprocate because you or someone you know has received volunteer services, or just enjoy giving, your help is always needed.

 

How the Volunteer of the Month program works:

 

• Citizens nominate volunteers by letter or by filling out one of the forms available in the Selectman’s Office or online at

• The Board of Selectmen reviews the nominees and selects a Volunteer of the Month.

• A Volunteer Plaque displaying each volunteer’s name and month honored will be displayed in the Town Hall for all to see.

FINANCES

ASSESSOR’S REPORT

Loreta Zdanys, Assessor

Sheila E. Ahearn, Assessor’s Clerk

There are a number of state and local programs providing exemptions or tax relief for those who are seniors, veterans, and active duty military, blind, totally disabled, and emergency ambulance and fire personnel. For information regarding eligibility, income requirements, and filing periods for the programs, please call our office at 860-526-0013 ext.512 or visit our office on the second level of the Town Hall. We are open Monday through Thursday 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00. The office is closed on Friday.

The Assessor’s 2013 grand list prior to the actions of the Board of Assessment Appeals is $442,197,210. The 2013 grand list generates the taxes that provide the primary amount of the revenue that is utilized in running the town for the 2014/2015 fiscal year.

BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS

Bruce H. Watrous, Chairman

The Board of Assessment Appeals is designed to serve as an appeal body for taxpayers who believe the town erred in the valuation of their property or erroneously denied them exemptions.

The Board of Assessment Appeals meets in March for Real Estate and Personal Property each year. To file an appeal the taxpayer must make written application on or before February 20th. They must appear or have their attorney / agent appear, before the Board at one of its meetings and answer all questions concerning his or her taxable property in the town. Application forms are available upon request in the Assessor’s Office or on the town website at permits.

For appeals of Motor Vehicle assessments the Board meets annually in September.

It is the duty of the three elected members of the Board to process each appeal by reviewing the property in question to determine whether the assessment should be reduced, raised or left unchanged. The Board, as required by law, notifies each taxpayer in writing as to the action taken in response to the appeal.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Elizabeth A. Netsch, Treasurer

The Treasurer manages the cash flow, investment, and borrowing of Town funds in the most profitable and safe means available. All Town funds are received and disbursed by the Treasurer, when appropriately authorized.

The Treasurer is responsible for the management of the Town General Fund and Board of Education Accounts, which include all accounts that are the depositories for the budgeted revenues and expenditures. There are 13 separate additional funds for specified programs and retirement plans maintained outside the annual budgeted General Fund. The 13 funds are deposited in 22 different accounts at 8 different institutions. The Town reports all funds on a general ledger system.

In a year of exceptionally low rates, interest earned on the General Fund, for the fiscal year 2013/2014, totaled $8,012. Earnings on other Town accounts were $4,343, excluding retirement funds. This interest and dividend income accumulated from the Treasurer’s office between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014 is revenue available to off-set future taxes or purchase goods and services for each fund.

Outstanding bonds include the 2002 issue for the Town Hall, due to retire in 2018 and the Clean Water debt for the 2009 sewer expansion, which will mature in 2029. In addition, the Town of Chester pays its share, based on its current average daily membership, of the Regional School District 4 bond payments.

Through optimum and safe investments, efficient management of cash flow, and careful review of all orders drawn on the General Government and Board of Education, the Treasurer provides the most effective use of the taxpayers’ money.

TAX COLLECTOR’S REPORT

Madaline A Meyer, Tax Collector

The responsibilities of the Tax Office in Chester include, but are not limited to, the collection of real estate, motor vehicle and personal property taxes, which this year totals 6273 individual bills and an additional 659 supplemental MV bills for a grand total of 6932 bills, for the 2012 grand list. Each bill is mailed out of our office and is combined into one envelope with exact match information, as often as possible. This process takes several days and is done with the help of three or four workers right in our office.

Our collections for the fiscal year from July 1st, 2013 thru June 30th, 2014 on the recent 2012 grand list with the overall budget at $10,956,913.00 are as follows:

Current taxes collected = $10,886,637.19 = 100.45% of budgeted $10,836,913.00

Back taxes collected = $ 90,780.94 = 121.04% of budgeted $ 75,000.00

Interest/fees collected = $ 48,144.59 = 106.98% of budgeted $ 45,000.00

Grand total collected = $11,025,562.72 = 100.62% of budgeted $10,956,913.00

We also are responsible for collecting 43 usage bills for the WPCA and this past year, our WPCA collections had 42 out of the 43 bills paid in full, leaving one bill not paid yet! The Benefit Assessment collection rate was again this year at 100% with only 42 left out of the original 80 to be paid in the future. The other 38 bills have been paid in full and liens have been released and no longer need to be mailed or collected.

One other big responsibility that is handled by our office is the registration of aircraft based at Chester Airport. We registered 108 different aircraft, which means we recorded the owner of the aircraft, type of aircraft, weight of the aircraft, FAA registration number and decal number that we issued. Again this year, the Connecticut department, that handles aircraft registrations, continued their stricter rules and all items had to match completely with the aircraft owner’s current FAA information. Extra time was spent cross referencing this information on the FAA website and the information given to us by the aircraft owner. An aircraft could be a plane, helicopter or even an ultra-light. It continues to be a time consuming process but we meet many new interesting people who might not live in Chester, but who fly out of Chester Airport, and also love Chester!

RETIREMENT BOARD

Van C. Standke, Chairman

The Town of Chester Retirement Board is made up of five Board Members appointed by the Board of Selectmen for a three-year term. Members of the Retirement Board are Van Standke, Chairman, Charlene Janecek, Lori Ann Clymas, and Ray Archambault. There is currently one open position on the Retirement Board. The Retirement Board meets quarterly, and the public is invited to attend. Meeting schedules and agendas are available on the Town web site or from the Town Clerk.

The Retirement Board administers three retirement plans: Town of Chester Retirement Plan for Town employees, the Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan (457) for Town employees, and the Volunteer Service Award Program (VSAP) for Members of the Chester Hose Company. The Board is responsible for plan administration and investments to fund the plans.

The Town retains Milliman and Company as the actuarial firm to provide the necessary reporting and valuations for the Town Retirement Plan and VSAP. Milliman calculates the annual deposits to be made by the Town to provide the future retirement benefits for plan participants. In addition, Milliman assists the Town by providing administrative and consulting assistance.

Town Retirement Plan

The Town of Chester Retirement Plan continued to grow as a result of asset allocation and positive performance in the stock and bond accounts. Assets as of June 30, 2014 were $1,165,429, after benefit payments of $24,782 and contributions during the year of $159,578, compared to $886,052 on June 30, 2013. Investments in this plan are managed by ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company, and consist of a money market fund, a stock fund, a bond fund and a balanced fund. Investments during the year are generally made in equal parts to each of the three investment funds, not including money market. However, in 2014, equal deposits of $70,000 were made to the stock and balanced funds, and no deposit was made to the bond fund.

Volunteer Service Award Program (VSAP)

The Volunteer Service Award Program was created to provide a retirement benefit for qualified Members of Chester Hose Company. Assets as of June 30, 2014 were $549,558 after benefit payments of $14,130 and including deposits during the year of $29,344. This compares to a balance on June 30, 2013, of $458,247. The plan assets are invested in mutual funds of the Vanguard Group.

Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan (457)

The Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan provides Town employees the opportunity to contribute to a personal retirement fund on a tax-favored basis. ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company administers the plan. In the last year, a Roth option was added to this plan.

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

ESTUARY COUNCIL OF SENIORS, INC.

Paul J. Doyle, Executive Director

The Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. is a non-profit regional senior center located at 220 Main Street in Old Saybrook with café sites in Clinton, Westbrook, and Old Lyme. Since 1974, the ECSI’s mission has been to promote senior’s quality of life, community involvement, and independent living. Last year the ECSI provided over 72,000 nutritious meals including nearly 56,000 home delivered Meals on Wheels, and over 16,000 congregate meals, 500 rides to medical outpatient appointments outside the nine-town Estuary Region. Also, 650 individuals received free preventative health screenings, and participated in social and exercise programs too numerous to count. We are pleased to have brought back our “Choices” senior counseling position that helps seniors connect with other services available to them in the community as well as navigate the Medicare/Medicaid and Prescription Drug programs.

In addition to our essential senior service, ECSI is a fun place for mature residents to exercise, dance, play cards, go on trips together, get a massage or facial, hear an interesting lecture, attend an art exhibit, get a haircut, take a painting class, join a book club or writers group, volunteer, shop at the Thrift Shop, or just it and enjoy our beautiful view. ECSI has a lovely, large facility that welcomes residents of the Estuary region 50 years old or better. All in all we had over 108,000 visits to our center in the reported time frame for meals, activities, support and fun.

During the reporting period, the Estuary served 51 residents a total of 1765 home delivered meals to and an additional 382 residents join us for congregate meals. Our Emergency Medical Outpatient Transportation provided 5 individuals with 23 rides to medical appointments. We had a total of 3,331 visits by a total of 265 people overall to the center from residents of Chester.

ECSI is funded in part by contributions from the generosity of the nine towns in the Estuary Region, Senior Resources Agency on Aging with Title III funds made available under the Older Americans Act, grants, donations, and fund raising efforts.

HUMAN SERVICES’ REPORT

Rosie Bininger, Director 

“The human contribution is the essential ingredient.

It is only in the giving of oneself to others that we truly live.”

Ethel Percy Andrus

The Director of Human Services administers the Town’s emergency assistance programs and is responsible for planning and implementing social services programs for the adult, disabled and senior residents of the town. Disseminating information regarding the programs is the primary responsibility of the director. Information and referral is then made to the federal, state or local social service program for assistance.

Emergency assistance is provided to residents through several town programs. These programs include the Emergency Assistance Fund, the Chester Community / Fuel Fund, and the Salvation Army Emergency Fund. For this fiscal year, 39 individuals and families received help with medical costs (2), gasoline (3), clothing (4), emergency food vouchers (12), and oil and electricity bills (18). 71 families qualified for the CT Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and 16 families qualified for Operation Fuel. For every Operation Fuel application completed, the town receives a $21.00 reimbursement. This fiscal period $236.00 was collected for the Emergency Fuel Fund. The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries reported 75 Chester families using local food pantries with 123 residents currently receiving SNAP benefits.

As always, the community pulled together throughout the holiday season with generous donations of time, gifts, food, gift certificates and baskets. This year 42 families received Thanksgiving baskets and 55 children received 3 toys for Christmas for a total of 165 presents. 55 children received free winter clothing from the “Warm the Children” program and the Salvation Army provided 25 children with “Payless” back to school shoe vouchers.

As Agent for the Elderly, the Director of Human Services continues to serve the growing population of persons over 65 years of age. Services include referral to social service programs, assistance with processing medical forms and Medicare Part D, obtaining alternate forms of housing and applying for home improvement loans and grants. Chester seniors participate in many of the following programs: ConnPACE, SNAP, QMB, Homeowner’s Tax Credit, Renter’s Rebate, Medical Transportation by the Estuary Council or FISH, Energy Assistance, Operation Fuel, Title XIX, Meals on Wheels, and the Department of Social Services Home Care Program for Elders.

In closing, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to all the organizations, residents, businesses and churches for their generous donations and dedicated help for those in need.

The Human Services Director can be reached on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings 9:00-12:00 or by calling 526-0013 x213 to set up an appointment.

SANITARIAN’S REPORT

Lee Vito, Sanitarian

The Health Department has the responsibility of ensuring compliance with the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health regulations and to enforce local ordinances. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: soil testing for land subdivisions, new septic systems and septic system repairs. The Sanitarian reviews all septic system proposed plans before granting approval and issuing a permit to construct the septic system. All septic systems are then inspected to ensure compliance with the State Public Health Code.

All applications for building additions, decks, pools, etc. are also reviewed as required by State Public Health Code Regulations.

All food service establishments and food vendors are licensed as required by town ordinance and all are inspected regularly for compliance with the State Public Health code regulations. This includes the requirement of a certified “Qualified Food Operator” responsible for the food operations.

The Health Department responds to all complaints in a timely manner, including “anonymous complaints”.

Other Health Department duties and responsibilities include inspection of school cafeterias, daycare facilities, the issuance of water well permits, lead paint investigations, pool inspections, etc. Also, the Sanitarian manages the mandatory septic tank pump out program for the WPCA and assists the WPCA in wastewater issues that affect the Town Municipal Subsurface Sewage Disposal System and water quality.

For the year 2013-2014 the following were performed by the Health Department:

New Septic Systems – 7

Repair of Septic Systems –6

Well Permits – 8

Sub-division – 0

Food licenses issued – 23 (permanent)

Food licenses issued – 23 (temporary)

Food Service Inspections – 65+

Permits for building additions, pools, decks, etc. – 13

Office hours for the Sanitarian are Mondays, 7 am – 8 am, Tuesdays, 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm, Thursdays, 7 am – 8 am. Other hours are available by appointment if necessary by calling 526-0013 ext. 206 and leaving a message. Residents are encouraged to call with any questions or if information is needed.

TRI-TOWN YOUTH SERVICES

Gail M.Onofrio, Executive Director

Since Tri-Town Youth Services’ establishment in 1984, the nonprofit has served youth (birth to 18) and their families who reside in Chester, Deep River, and Essex. The agency works with youth to strengthen connections with family, peers, school, and the community, carefully ensuring our services augment, not duplicate, other programs. On the community level, Tri-Town convenes the local prevention council. The agency continues to lead community mobilization efforts around asset building through Healthy Communities•Healthy Youth of Chester, Deep River, and Essex.

Counseling and crisis intervention were provided to residents for a wide range of issues through day and evening appointments with 24-hour phone availability. Issues addressed include parenting and relationship concerns, depression, suicide ideation, sexual abuse, and substance abuse, with referrals made in some instances. Our early intervention program, the Tri-Town Juvenile Review Board hears cases of youth in trouble with the law as they are referred.

Much of our work is directed to positive youth development, parent education, and building healthy families and communities. With the school social worker, we trained Peer Advocates at Valley Regional; facilitated two youth advisory boards, organized community service activities, facilitated several mentoring programs, offered supervised teen recreation activities, a youth job bank, babysitter training classes, Homework Hangout, a Summer Co-op for middle school youth, and involvement in Safe Grad. In addition to involvement with the Early Childhood Council, parent programs are offered for parents/caregivers and their one-year-olds or two-year-olds, parent consultations, and courses such as “Getting Ready for Change.” We sponsored the twenty-fifth annual substance prevention/awareness week, “High on Life”, successful through support from multiple facets of the community.

The Bureau’s Board of Directors is comprised of three to six members from each of the three towns and a youth representative. Our special thanks to volunteers who have donated time and talent, to local taxpayers who support the bureau by providing the matching funds needed to procure our State Department of Education grant, and to all who have made monetary donations essential for maintaining our operating budget.

VNA OF THE LOWER VALLEY

Susan Maxwell, MSN, RN, CDE

Executive Director

For almost a century, Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley, Inc. has been providing skilled health care services to the Lower Valley community. Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley is a non-profit organization dedicated to home and community-based health care. We are the parent organization of Lower Valley Care Advocates whose staff provides private care services designed to help the frail elderly, terminally ill and disabled remain in the comfort of their own homes. The community response to these services has been very positive. All of the staff are carefully screened, trained and bonded, and are expert at determining just what services are needed to achieve optimum health and safety at home. Please call 767-2695 for further information. Please check our website () or call us at 767-0186 for service information or flu clinic dates and locations. 

WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE

 

The Town of Chester has in effect a Workplace Safety and Health Committee pursuant to State Law.  Representatives from Chester Elementary School, Chester Parks and Recreation Commission, Chester Hose Company, Chester Public Library, the Public Works Department, the Police Department and the Town Hall make up the Committee. Meetings are held quarterly to discuss any safety and health concerns; Workers’ Compensation issues; Prevention and Control measures and conduct Safety and Health Training.  All new Workers’ Compensation claims are reviewed to ensure that any corrective measures are immediately acted upon. As a result of the Workplace Safety and Health Committee, the Town has been successful in reducing claim activity and accidents in the workplace.

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

Jon Lavy, Chairman

During the 2013-2014 fiscal year, the Commission held public hearings and regular monthly meetings to consider Special Exception applications which ultimately contribute to the growth and future of our community.

The Commission worked vigorously on the following as well:

➢ Revising General Principal and Special Principal Uses in both the Research & Light Manufacturing and Controlled Development District Zones.

➢ Development of Village District Signage Regulations.

➢ Outdoor dining approvals within the Village District.

➢ Reviewed Proposal for Modification to Chester’s 2009 Plan of Conservation and Development.

The Commission continues to balance the needs and desires of the business community and the Chester quality of life within the framework of the Zoning Regulations and the Chester Plan of Conservation and Development. The Commission encourages those with a desire to see change within the Regulations to come forward at its monthly meetings to express their thoughts and ideas.

The Commission worked closely with the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments in updating the Town’s Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan.

A liaison from the Commission was appointed to serve on the North Quarter Park Master Plan Committee to assist in the preparation of the NQP Master Plan.

All those members and citizens who participate and donate their time to this work in progress should be commended for their dedication to the Town of Chester. It takes a community of active volunteers to secure and preserve Chester’s future.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Stephen Flett, Chairperson

The role of the Economic Development Commission (EDC) is to assist existing businesses in their promotional activities, attract new businesses and act as an advocate for Chester business interests.

During the year the commission was actively supporting the promotion and marketing of our local businesses. EDC met with various representatives of the Chester Merchant Association and agreed on a multi-faceted program that includes both financial and manpower support. Included in the program was providing financial support to augment the distribution costs of the 2013/14 Chester Merchant Brochure. It was further agreed that EDC would provide on-going financial support of the development and maintenance of the "new" Visit-Chester website. This website will combine the Chester Merchant website and the Chester Business Listing. This will provide a single source for "all" businesses operating in Chester. It will remain free to all "Chester Business Listing" participants. EDC will remain the point of contact for any new business interested in enrolling or requesting a modification to their listing.

Your commission also partnered with the Chester Energy Task Force to present various subsidy and grant programs which are currently available to business owners interested in reducing their cost of energy consumption. This presentation co-hosted by the Energy Task Force and EDC was delivered by representatives of both CL&P and the State of Connecticut. In preparing for this meeting, EDC developed a geospatial worksheet which identifies business owners and property owners by location, a valuable tool when needing to contact businesses and property owners by location.

EDC also kicked off a two year initiative to provide needed support for businesses preparing for the disruptive impact of the Main Street Bridge Project. This initiative includes communicating construction plans to impacted merchants and businesses. It also includes a broad communication strategy to support visitor awareness that "Chester Is Open for Business" during the construction period.

EDC has also included in its 2014/15 budget funds for the replacement of the "Chester Business District" signs and potentially to provide banner ads over Rt. 154 announcing events in Chester Village.

During the year we had a few personnel changes. After many years of tireless work, Skip Haskins retired from the Commission. Skip was a valued member of our commission and we all want to thank him for his contribution. We also would like to welcome both Felise Cressman and Patricia Bandzes to the commission.

BUILDING DEPARTMENT

Ronald Rose, Building Official

From July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014 the value of Building Permits totaled $6,056,000.00

Fee charges for permits total: $46,996.85

Residential: 265 $5,820,000.00

Commercial 28 236,000.00

Breakdown:

Building Permits 118

Electrical Permits 77

Plumbing Permits 36

Heating Permits 51

Wood Stove Permits 8

State Education Fees submitted to the State of Connecticut during this time period $1,574.56

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Sandy Prisloe, Chairman

The Conservation Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Board of Selectmen.  The commission is required to develop and maintain an inventory of all Chester properties permanently protected as open space; the commission also may inventory and study the town’s natural resources and make recommendations concerning their conservation and best uses to other town boards, commissions and officials. 

During the 2013-2014 fiscal year, the Conservation Commission continued its focus on renewable energy and energy conservation, open space, invasive plants and agriculture.  The Chester Energy Team, E-Team, includes three members of the Conservation Commission who keep the commission advised of town efforts to reduce energy use and to promote use of renewable energy.  Last year, through E-Team efforts, the town added additional solar panels to the system at the elementary school and developed a plan to install a 4 kWh solar PV system at Town Hall. While these two systems will only account for a fraction of the town’s electricity use, they reflect the town’s commitment to support and use renewable energy sources and to increase this usage in the future. The commission hosted an informational table at the Sunday Farmers Market that showcased invasive plants and provided information on how to avoid their use, control their spread and/or remove them from your property. The commission continued to investigate ways the town can support and promote agriculture and hopes to encourage the development of neighborhood gardens in the future. 

Our goal is to promote town policies that will encourage agricultural and preserve components of Chester’s history. Working with Steve Gephard, DEEP supervising fisheries biologist, the commission developed plans for an eel ladder to help juvenile American Eels gain access to suitable upstream habitat in Chester. Hopefully, the construction and operation of this ladder will be accomplished in the coming year.

All commission meetings are open to the public and residents are invited to attend.

PUBLIC SAFETY

CHESTER HOSE COMPANY

Chief Charles F. Greeney, Jr.

Call Volumes and Response Summary

 

From July 1, 2013-June 30, 2014, the Chester Hose Company responded to 571 calls. The Hose Company responded to 28 fire calls, 48 false alarm calls, 472 rescue and medical incidents, 6 service calls, 17 hazardous conditions where no fire was involved and 0 severe weather or natural disaster calls.

Active Membership List

Brian Ahearn

John Ahearn

Michael Ahearn

Allen Alonzo

Benjamin Belisle

William Beni

Merry Berdensey

Rosemary Blair

Sara Blaschik

John Brainard

Kimberly Brainard

Emily Brodzinski

John Brodzinski

Edward Calamari

Susan Currier

David Dengler

John Divis

Julie Anne Divis

Brandon Dole

Brianna Goff

Kevin Goff

Karen Graham

Charles Greeney Sr.

Charles Greeney Jr.

Dylan Grzybowski

Edward Grzybowski

James Grzybowski

James Grzybowski Jr.

Maria Grzybowski

Dennis Jacobs

Gwen Johnson

David Lloyd

Aaron Mangan

David Masters

Emily Masters

Jacob McNally

Greg Merola

Zachary Merola

Ryan Miksa

Sylvia Miksa

Thomas Miksa

W. Scot Mills

David Morrell

Toni Myers

Vito Nanni

Henry Nevins

Julian Norton

Crystal Parmelee

James Pelati

Bruce Rayner

Daniel Roschko

John Saunders

James Schaefer

Stefano Seferlis

Jim Skeffington

Jordann Sullivan

Bruce Sypher

Denise Sypher

Barbara Thomson

Jenna Tiezzi

Kimberly Tiezzi

Peter Tiezzi

Jim Torrenti

Charles Tower

John Vilcheck

Robert Wachtarz

John Waterhouse

Michael Whaples

Jeffery Wickland

Training

Members are required to complete training which includes both firefighting and medical skills. Even though we train as a department weekly, there are many additional outside training opportunities that some responders take advantage of on their own personal time to stay on the cutting edge of technologies and tactics. Many members go on to take State of Connecticut certification tests for enhanced qualifications such as Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Driver/Operator-Pumper, Fire Officer, Fire Instructor, Emergency Medical Responder and Emergency Medical Technician. Having these individuals willing to go above and beyond demonstrates their dedication and leadership which is an asset to the Chester Hose Company and the safety of the Town of Chester. Training leads to proficient, efficient, and safe execution of tasks on emergency scenes. The Hose Company is fortunate to have access to town buildings for training purposes. The Hose Company averages over 200 hours a year of training taking courses to initially certify, annually renewing licenses, and keep current with the mandatory regulations and standards. Below are just a few examples of training topics held on Monday evenings:

 

Ice & Water Rescue                  SCBA

Equipment Training Search & Rescue

Vehicle Extrication Driver Training

Hose line & Pump Operations            Ladder Rescue

Hazardous Materials            Business Walk-throughs

Team Building & Leadership Lifeguard/Beach Training

The Hose Company partnered with the other departments in the Valley Shore Mutual Aid Association to partake in numerous guest speaker opportunities. Members traveled to Essex Fire Department to attend a presentation and equipment showcase for a variety of varied condition water-related rescues. Impressed by the turnout, Chester Hose played host to a Stroke Assessment Lecture led by Middlesex Hospital Paramedic, Brad Fowler on March 10th. Two weeks later, the invitation was again extended to the Mutual Aid Associations to join us in a training seminar taught by Warren Rodgers, Safety Administrator for Connecticut Light & Power who conducted a workshop on scene safety for first responders.

2013 Highlights

 

The Chester Hose Company maintains a strong membership including their junior division.  The Hose Company has an open a recruitment process and brought in new volunteer members this year. The dedication that these volunteers have to the Town and the fire department is greatly appreciated. The leadership of the department encourages anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer with the Hose Company to stop by any Monday night at 1900 (7pm) to introduce yourself, pick up an application and see what we are all about.

 

November 2013 brought a formal dedication ceremony and open house reception showcasing the new addition to the fire station headquarters. Hundreds of volunteer hours from skilled Hose Company members, donations from area contractors, businesses, and residents enabled these improvements to be constructed at about half the cost of comparable private sector building space. The new 3,380 square foot space adds to the original 6,739 square foot station for needed apparatus area, administrative rooms for Company officers, storage space, and a back- up Emergency Operation Center to serve the community.

The holidays came early to the members of Chester Hose Company when the department was presented with a new Stihl chainsaw to be placed on "The Dengler" the department's all-terrain rescue apparatus, along with chaps.  These gifts were from Alan and Karin Blaschik of Alan's Small Engine Repair in Haddam, who generously donated after hearing that the department was looking to make the purchase.

In April 2014 the department participated in the 3rd Annual Fire House Food Drive to benefit the Shoreline Soup Kitchens and Pantries. A total of 6,285 pounds of food was collected and Chester ranked fourth amongst 10 towns, raising 623 pounds and was edged out of third by just 10 pounds. Thank you to everyone who volunteered at all of the sites and to those who generously donated food.

The Hose Company’s website continually updates and can be accessed through visiting . In addition to the website, the Hose Company has joined the social media platform and launched their own Facebook page. Like us at Chester Hose Company Inc.

On behalf of our volunteer department, we continue to stand by - proud and committed - with highly trained personnel willing to help you in your time of need.

CITATION REVIEW BOARD

Bettie Perreault

The Citation Review Board receives requests for review of citations issued for a variety of reasons, from overtime parking, speeding on a local road to failure to obey a stop sign. Petitioners may present their case at a Board meeting; the Board then reviews the matter, decides if a remedy is warranted or if the citation is valid. If a petitioner chooses not to appear, the Board automatically deems the citation valid. There have been few requests for review during the past year although the Board stands ready to meet as needed. The Citation Review Board, formed by a Town Ordinance, is appointed by the Board of Selectmen and currently consists of Bettie Perreault, Walter Schreiber and Whitelaw Wilson.

ANIMAL CONTROL

Robert Jenkins, Animal Control Officer

Redeemed 10

D.O.A. 1

Complaints 189

Summons 5

Sold as Pets 3

Bites 5

Euthanized 2

HARBOR MANAGEMENT COMMISSION

Joel Severance, Chairman

The Chester Harbor Management Plan has now been published and is available online at .

Even though we set a record number of gallons offloaded from our boaters into the Connecticut River Pump-out Boats, our mooring revenues are way down. As a result we have suspended our water quality testing program.

We have taken a position on the proposed Main Street Bridge. Commissioner Barrington is leading the effort to construct the underside of the bridge in such a way that pigeons are unable to roost there. They have been identified as the leading cause of pollution in that section of Pattaconk Brook.

We received a Certificate of Permission from a consultant for one of our waterfront residents. A COP notifies the DEEP what structures the applicant has “in” the water. A requirement on the Application is that the applicant notifies the local Harbor Management Commission of the intention to submit the request. And the Application itself has a section for the HMC’s comments. The applicant did not comply with this requirement, nor did the DEEP. The HMC filed a complaint with the DEEP and Connecticut Harbor Management Association.

Our Harbormaster, Gil Bartlett, has relocated his business out of town and requested he become the Deputy Harbormaster. Harbormasters are appointed by the Governor. Commissioner Libby’s name has been submitted to the Governor for appointment and Gil’s status be changed to DHM

Commission members are Jeb Barrington, Joel Severance, Robert Murac, Gordon Van Ness, Ed Ward, Richard Thiel (alt), Cy Libby (alt), Gil Bartlett, Harbormaster (ex-officio member).

FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE

Richard “Dick” E. Leighton, Fire Marshal

David Roberge, Fire Investigator

The Fire Marshal’s Office is being covered by Richard E. Leighton and David Roberge, on a part time, “as needed” basis. Through the Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 541, Section 29-291 gives the statutory authority to the Office of the State Fire Marshal as well as to the local Fire Marshals, Deputy Fire Marshals, and/or Fire Investigators. The State of Connecticut State Fire Safety Code, with its referenced standards provides the Fire Marshal’s Office the life safety requirements for all existing commercial occupancies except one and two family dwellings.

In accordance with Section 29-292-7e of the Connecticut General Statutes, the local fire marshal and/or their respective designees are responsible for conducting inspections as prescribed within Sections 29-292 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies within their jurisdiction. Such inspections include most commercial and business occupancies including residential (except one-two family dwellings), assemblies, restaurants, theaters, taverns / bars, churches, educational including primary, secondary, private & public, including daycares, institutional, mercantile, storage groups, high hazard groups, and factory/industrials, to name a few. Such inspection frequencies are so prescribed within Connecticut General Statutes Section 29-292-7e(c).

In addition, the Fire Marshal’s Office is responsible for issuance of blasting permits, burning permits, and also the investigation of any fire or any hazardous materials incident, for determining origin and cause. The Fire Marshal’s Office issues a report to the Board of Fire Commissioners, as the appointing authority, monthly detailing the various activities of the Office as mandated by the Connecticut General Statutes.

Statistics: Approximate activities relating to Liquor Licensing 25 hrs; Mandated Training 35.0 hrs; Commercial Inspections 107 hrs; Burning Permits 2.0 hrs; Fire / Hazardous Material / Emergency Investigations 63.0 hrs.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

Joel Severance, Chairman

The Board thanked retiring Fire Chief Charley Greeney for his years of service and monthly reporting to the Commission. We welcomed James Grzybowski as the new Chief and James Schaefer as the new Deputy Chief.

Fire inspections by our Fire Marshals have continued and we are now current with past due inspections. Several sites do have minor violations that are in the process of being corrected.

The Fire House expansion is now complete. It should be noted that the significant funding for this project (with the exception of the relatively small amount in the Capital Accouont) was covered by volunteer contributions.

 

Commission Members:

            John Divis                   

            Rick Schreiber             

Peter Zanardi               

Joel Severance

Charlene Janecek

Ex-officio Members

Fire Chief, James Grzbowski.

Fire Marshal, Permitting, Dick Leighton

Fire Marshal, Investigations, Dave Roberge

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Joel Severance, Emergency Management Director

We continue to play a role in regional planning with the Division of Emergency Management, and Homeland Security. We are a part of Region 2 which encompasses thirty municipalities from the Housatonic to the Connecticut Rivers and up to, but not including, Middletown. The CT-REPTs receive funds from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enable local municipalities to enhance their emergency management planning.

We are also engaged with the U.S.C.G. Sector Long Island Sound, Port Security Working Group. This funding, from the DoD, is earmarked for enhancing coastal emergency response units.

On a local level, we enjoy the benefits of local Emergency Management Planning Grants. These funds (DHS) are provided to local Offices of Emergency Management to improve/upgrade (overall, local) emergency preparedness efforts.

We also continue in involvement with the CT Community Emergency Response Teams. These volunteers are trained through funding from the Citizens Corps Advisory Committee. The mission is to support local responders in back-up support roles.

We have been working with CL&P on identifying essential facilities for the purpose of first power restorations. We were also able to include people with functional needs clusters in our Plan.

We also manage the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). This is a State mandated working group made up of a representative from each responder agency. We all prepped for and participated in, a statewide exercise on the notification, evacuation and mass care of those with functional needs.

PUBLIC WORKS

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

John Divis, Foreman

The Public Works Department is staffed by two full time maintenance employees and John Divis, Foreman.  The First Selectman is the Director of Public Works in title only. Outside contractors are utilized throughout the year to supplement our limited staff. Even though staff is limited the list of functions handled by Public Works is extensive. The Public Works Department performs outstanding service during major storm events. Working in collaboration with Chester Hose Company and CL&P they clear trees and make Town roads safe for utility restoration. Public Works is perhaps the most visible service to the majority of Chester residents. Department functions include:

• road and drainage repairs

• building maintenance - Meeting House, Public Library, Public Works Garage,Town Hall

• vehicles and heavy equipment maintenance

• monthly brush pick up

• mowing and trimming of Town properties, parks and roadside rights of way

• park maintenance

• catch basin cleaning in spring and fall

• leaf removal from town properties

• winter road maintenance

• roadside tree trimming

• street sweeping

• maintenance of municipal parking lots at Maple Street, Water Street and Laurel Hill

• refuse collection of Town Center street receptacles.

DEEP RIVER TRANSFER STATION BULKY WASTE AND RECYCLING INFORMATION

Chester residents may dispose of certain materials at the Deep River Transfer Station on Route 80 in Deep River, subject to the following regulations:

No household garbage will be accepted. By Town Ordinance residents are required to have a private hauler. Private haulers will also pick up recyclables. Any violation of this provision shall immediately terminate privileges afforded by the permit.

Recyclables: By Town Ordinance residents are required to have a private hauler. Any violation of this provision shall immediately terminate privileges afforded by the permit.

Permit Required: Chester residents must display a “Town of Chester Access To Public Services” permit on the windshield of their vehicle to gain access to these facilities. These stickers must be placed on the passenger side of the front windshield and may be obtained at the Selectman’s Office with proof of residence and vehicle license plate number.

Hours of Operation: Deep River Transfer Station

Wednesday & Friday 8:00 AM through 4:00 PM

Saturday & Sunday 8:00 AM through 4:00 PM

Regulations:

1) All users shall separate loads and place in proper containers under direction of attendant(s), who will be on duty during regularly scheduled hours.

2) Attendant(s) has the right to refuse entry to anyone not having proper identification or whose load does not comply with these regulations.

3) As provided in current Chester bulky waste regulations, the Town of Deep River will accept only household bulky waste under this contract; waste originating from business or commercial sources or from households under construction, demolition or landscaping contracts will not be accepted.

4) Residents may use passenger cars, small trailers and pick-up trucks, each of which must display the required permit.

5) All items and material must be transported in containers.

6) No hazardous materials, paper goods or commercial waste will be permitted.

7) Do not combine materials in containers meant for specific items.

ESTUARY REGION HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE FACILITY

The Estuary Region Household Hazardous Waste Facility opened on selected Saturdays between May through October. The Estuary Region HHW facility will be closed November-April. The facility is located off Route 9, exit 4. Go straight off exit ramp, cross over RR tracks, and pass CRRA Transfer Station and the HHW facility is on the left. For more information contact 860-388-3497.

Acceptable Materials:

Household:

Drain cleaners

Metal polish

Oven cleaners

Floor cleaners

Mothballs

Photo chemicals

Full/partially-full aerosols

Arts & crafts supplies

Household batteries

Asbestos-containing floor tiles

Water-reactive materials (such as peroxides and metallic sodium)

Mercury Thermometers (A free digital thermometer will be given in exchange.)

Garage:

Fire starters including hand-held propane torch cylinders

Old chemistry kits

Transmission fluid, gasoline, kerosene

Waxes and polishes

Brake fluid

Rust preventatives

Workshop:

Rust preventatives

Wood preservatives

Wood strippers

Oil-based paint

Lead-based paint

Paint thinner and degreasers

Solvents and Sealants

Yard/Garden:

Weed killer

Insect sprays

Rodent poison

Muriatic acid/pool chemicals

Cesspool cleaners

Unacceptable Materials:

Latex paint (This can be air-dried or dried with sawdust or kitty litter and disposed in the garbage.)

Explosives, fireworks, ammunition

BBQ Propane tanks

Fire extinguishers (Your fire department may accept these.)

Empty aerosol cans

Radioactive material

Medications

Infectious or biologically active materials

Dioxin and unknown materials

Waste Oil

Vehicle Batteries

Any commercial hazardous waste

WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

Albert A. Armington, Chairman

Chester’s WPCA continues to address issues of cost control in its operations. Once again, for the third year, we have been able to reduce the EDU rate charged to our users. This rate compares favorably to other Connecticut towns with small sewer systems. Some of this cost reduction is attributable to using local maintenance service providers rather than relying on larger businesses out of the area.

The continued use of our sewer system requires that we don’t take a “flush it and forget it” attitude. A small system like ours is sensitive to small amounts of grease, chemicals and objects such as “flushable” wipes and diapers. These must be kept out of the sanitary sewer system, and vigilance is the responsibility of each of us. If grease or chemicals are allowed into the system, they have to be removed. This costs money; money that comes out of taxpayer pockets. Following Connecticut DEEP regulations, WPCA has a rigorous program of inspecting all restaurants in the sewer service area to assure that all steps are being taken to keep grease and oil out of our system.

There isn’t much that changes from year to year in the affairs of sewers, but we do need to remind users that sump pumps, diverted ground water and roof drains are not to be connected to the sanitary sewer system. These connections are in violation of Chester Town regulations and CT state statute. As we are charged for every gallon of water processed through our system, such connections add considerable unnecessary costs, which have to be passed on to users.

Finally, as an incentive to residents affected by the proposed improvements to Main Street, WPCA voted to reduce connection fees in the construction area by $750, making the application fee $1250 during the main Street reconstruction. This would be a good time to connect, and would avoid digging up Main Street after completion of the work there.

CHESTER CEMETERY ASSOCIATION, INC.

Robert P. Klomp, President

The Chester Cemetery Association looks after the general maintenance of the town’s cemeteries at Cedar Lake, Laurel Hill and the two old cemeteries on Cemetery Hill near the Town Green. The headstones and markers at Cedar Lake (west) Cemetery and the upper and lower cemeteries on Goose Hill are to be inventoried thanks to a project of young workers under the guidance of the Chester Historical Society and the funding by a state grant. There is a map in the Town Clerk’s Office which shows all the lots in the Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Our cemeteries are open sun up to sun down and visitors are welcome to enjoy the settings. Each cemetery has a trustee who inspects it. We do not have any full plots in our inventory. However, there are cremation plots at Laurel Hill currently priced at $250. As always, we need officers and we would welcome new members and volunteers for the board.

RECREATIONAL / CULTURAL / HISTORICAL

PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION

Elizabeth A. Netsch, Director

Members of the Chester Park and Recreation Commission seek to promote healthy lifestyles through recreation, by providing parks and programs that meet the needs of all town residents, while maintaining a fiscally responsible operation. Most of the budget net expenditures are for park maintenance, while programs are self-funded. In addition, contributions from groups and individuals in the community have helped finance various activities.

The Commission is responsible for the maintenance and renovation of 7 facilities in Chester. They are North Quarter Park, the Chester Creek Overlook at the Town dock, Pelletier Park on Cedar Lake, Lake View Park on Cedar Lake Road, Parkers Point boat launch on the Connecticut River, L’hommideau Park on the Pattaconk Brook, and the baseball fields at Chester Elementary School.

Chairman John Williams, former Chairman J. Brian Buckley, and Randolph Netsch donated extensive time to add a storage shed and complete renovations to Pelletier Park. Labor and materials were donated by Rudolph Netsch Construction Company, Inc.

The department sold 176 non-resident park passes during the summer of 2013. Income to the Town’s General Fund, from the sale of non-resident park passes for fiscal year 2013/2014 was $12,951. Fees collected for the Children’s Summer Program, Future Leaders of Recreational Activities for teens, and Introduction to Camp for preschool children, swimming lessons, and cancellation fees contributed $21,752 to the General Fund. Donations from the Chester Rotary Club and local citizens Justin Kronholm and Beverly Moshier provided camp scholarships. Canoes were donated to the camp by Patricia and Paul Petrus and Kristina and David Finnerty. School bus weather shelter and transportation from Cedar Lake to Chester Elementary School was donated by First Student, Inc. The balance of the fees collected was used to operate the Summer Camp programs.

Self-funded programs included 138 participants in the Children’s Summer Program Camp, filling 316 spaces. There were 34 enrollments in swimming lessons. Other self-funded programs registrations were 68 youth basketball players, 24 adult basketball members, and 40 students in American Red Cross courses including Community CPR/AED, First Aid, Babysitter’s Training, and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer. The department ran programs for 138 children during days off of school and after school, throughout the academic year, including School Vacation Camp, Lacrosse, Basketball clinics, and Karate. Over 250 people attended our “March Madness” basketball event.

We ended the year and began the summer of 2014 by hosting the Chester Public Library’s Einsteins’s Favorite Fairy Tales summer reading program. In addition, we expanded our Summer Camp program, adding two additional weeks. All 8 weeks of camp were full in April of 2014.

The purpose of the activities and facilities operated by the Chester Park and Recreation Commission is to improve the quality of life for all citizens by “Celebrating Community through People, Parks, and Programs”. We are fortunate to have the resources of several beautiful park facilities and over 50 exceptional employees and volunteers.

CHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY

Linda Fox, Library Director

During the past year, Chester Library has continued its focus on providing access to informational and recreational reading, and listening and viewing materials, as well as offering opportunities for Chester residents to gather, create and share. A statistical summary of the year reveals:

o Total circulation: 32,206 items

o Items borrowed from other libraries: 1471

o Items loaned to other libraries: 1071

o Items checked out to out- of-town visitors: 2587

o Items borrowed on Chester Library cards at other libraries: 13,343

o Reference queries: 2368

o New library cards issued: 193

o Attendance at programs: 1593

o Programs offered: 111

o Hours open weekly: 40 (36 in July and August)

o Staff: 1 full-time and 3 part-time librarians

o Volunteer hours: 386.8

o Fines collected: $2109.64 (turned over to the town’s general fund)

Beyond access to materials and information, the library offers opportunities for community members of all ages to participate in a variety of programs. Sixty-two children decided to “Dig into Reading” last summer. Among the 50 children’s programs offered during the year were story and craft times, visits from a veterinarian and a local author, Howl-oween fun, gingerbread decorating, and fishing. Chester Elementary School 6th graders visited to learn more about their library and be sure they each have a library card. As summer began, Park and Recreation and the library teamed up to bring a minstrel storyteller to town. Teenagers met to discuss summer reading assignments, responding so enthusiastically that an additional session was scheduled. Summer brought the library’s first ever online reading program, Groundbreaking Reads, which attracted 40 adult participants. Throughout the year adults gathered to discuss literature, knit, appreciate poetry, and learn from and share with local authors and personalities. Collaborating with area libraries, Chester hosted a multi-community program on the Affordable Care Act.

The library’s long-term direction and goals are determined by the Board of Library Trustees, whose members this year were Peggy Carter-Ward, Deedee Prisloe, Terry Schreiber, Sandy Senior-Dauer, and Denny Tovey. Robert Gorman was elected in November and took the seat of outgoing Trustee, Cary Hull. The Trustees reviewed and updated the library’s Long Term Plan and developed its first Technology Plan. At the urging of the Selectmen, the Trustees voted to set aside expansion of the current library building and support exploration of NQP as a site for a new library. They requested the appointment of a Library Building Committee and by late spring that committee was working on a concept for a new library building and preparing to submit an application for a $1 million state library construction grant.

The Friends of Chester Public Library support the library in countless ways, not the least of which is through the fundraising that pays for library programs and collections that aren’t funded in the town budget. Included among these is the library’s movie collection to which 116 movies and TV series were added this year. The Friends provided memberships to museums and other attractions, paid for a Netflix membership, and funded book discussions and children’s programs. Three annual used book sales provide much of the income and this year’s successful raffle of Sally Murray’s quilt “Fair Skies,” along with membership donations, augmented the fundraising. In a new undertaking, the Friends offered “Pop-Up” programs, the first of which saw Dominic Bosco grilling pizza on the library lawn. The 2013-14 Friends Board included Cary Hull, President; Tammy Negralle, Treasurer; Diane Lindsay, Book Sales; Lisa Tollefson, Membership; and Mary Harrall, Corresponding Secretary.

CHESTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Skip Hubbard, President

We’re pleased to share the news of closing another successful and eventful year with eyes focused on the future. With all the activity that goes on, it’s appropriate to reflect that the spring of 2014 marked the 44th anniversary of our incorporation in 1970, the 14th year since we purchased the Griswold Mill site building and the start of the 5th season since we opened Chester Museum at The Mill.

There was certainly no letup in the number of visitors and guests that we welcomed to our museum, programs and events. In the 12 months ending June 2014, nearly 2200 people came to Society-sponsored activities. Almost 900 visited our museum during the season and an additional 350 visited on a single day in February during Chester’s Winter Carnivale!

Our non-museum event schedule was full, attractive and well-attended. Four free public offerings included programs titled Steamboats on the River, Early Local Wooden Tools, Chester Food Memories and Connecticut Cycling Origins. Peter Walker led a Christmas program at the Mill. Two fundraisers, our annual Antiques & Jewelry Appraisal Day and Unearthed in Chester, a silent auction of art using discovered items, provided significant income to our annual operating budget.

The opening of our two-year (2013-14) museum exhibit, Over the River & through the Woods, was the highlight on the exhibition front. Occupying the entire ground floor and focusing on early Chester transportation, the exhibit featured Train, Trolley, Steamboat and Ferryboat travel using artifacts, storyboards, audio, video, visitor pamphlets, plus a wall mural depicting the growth of Chester’s road network.

We attained the rights to republish Ferryboat, a colorful and popular children’s book originally published in 1986, but out-of-print for many years. The book’s publication was well received; copies were purchased in multiples; local museums and attractions were included in the distribution; and, perhaps best of all, memories of childhood river crossings floated to the surface.

With so much to offer, we have undertaken low-cost initiatives to further market our museum and programs. The Society’s monthly booth at the Chester Sunday Market provided added visibility, pointing visitors to the museum as well as providing a venue to sell Ferryboat and other Society publications. Our exhibit in our Chester Fair building welcomed 600 visitors.

Our communications avenues now also include a monthly e-newsletter sent to our membership and beyond. The Society now has an active Facebook presence and is launching an enhanced website.

While not as visible or exciting, we have also been busy in administrative areas. In June 2014, we were one of 25 organizations that completed a two-year program sponsored by Connecticut Humanities. The program leads to attaining Standards of Excellence certificates in six specific areas: Mission / Vision / Governance; Audience; Interpretation; Steward of Collections; Stewardship of Historical Structures; Management. The Board of Trustees have since updated and approved some policies. Our next steps include developing a Strategic Plan for going forward.

Although based in history, “Going Forward” is always our focus: new exhibits, new programs, new ways to explore and share history, and many, many new friends along the way. To do so we rely on the broad support of the Chester community to attend our programs, to become members, to donate or loan us a piece of town history.

Longtime resident or newcomer, we invite everyone to join with us in discovering and sharing the history of Chester.

CHESTER WAR MEMORIAL

Years ago, a group of veterans had a vision to expand upon the existing war memorial to honor the service men and women of Chester who served in the military. Through their efforts and the generous support of local residents and businesses, their dreams have been realized and the Bronze Eagle has been installed and the lighting has been updated.

Wikipedia defines a war memorial as a building, monument, statue or other edifice to celebrate a war or victory, or (predominating in modern times) to commemorate those who died or were injured in war. The Chester War Memorial is indeed these things, but it also is a place where one can take time out to quietly sit and reflect upon the sacrifice that military men and women make and about the freedoms that they set out to protect.

The memorial is funded by private donations from individuals, companies, and corporations.  The committee would like to thank everyone for their support and thank Chester’s military heroes for their patriotism, valor and commitment to defending freedom.

ROBBIE COLLOMORE MUSIC SERIES

The Robbie Collomore Music Series features world class musicians in four live concerts per season. The concerts cover music in the classical, jazz, folk, bluegrass, and world music genres. The performances take place at the beautiful and intimate Chester Meeting House on Sunday afternoons in the fall and spring. Season subscriptions are available as well as individual tickets.

AUDIT

A copy of the Town of Chester Financial Statements, Internal Control Reports and Compliance Reports for the Year Ending June 30, 2014 can be obtained at the Town Clerk’s Office or on the following link:



TOWN PROFILE

The 2014 Town of Chester’s Profile, provided by CERC, is available on the following link: [pic]

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