BUILDING DEPARTMENT



Town of Chester

Annual Report

7/2011 – 6/2012

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 767-3219

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@

Judge of Probate 860-510-5028

Parks and Recreation extension 223 parkrec@

Police Services

Resident Trooper 526-3605 policeservices@

Emergency 911

Registrar of Voters extension 211 registrar@

Tax Collector extension 513 taxcollector@

Town Clerk extension 511 townclerk@

Treasurer extension 214 treasurer@

Water Pollution Control Auth. extension 230 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 860-526-0015

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, 2011 – June 30, 2012

Selectmen

Edmund Meehan 11/19/13

Lawrence M. Sypher 11/19/13

Tommy Englert 11/19/13

Town Clerk & Registrar of Vital Statistics

Debra Germini Calamari 01/06/14

Asst: Sharon S. Echtman

Town Treasurer

Elizabeth A. Netsch 11/19/13

Julie Netsch, Deputy 11/19/13

Randy Netsch, Deputy 11/19/13

Tax Collector

Madaline A. Meyer 11/19/13

Tax Clerk: Tracey Ohaus

Board of Finance

Virginia Carmany, Chmn. 11/21/17

Bob Gorman 11/21/17

Joyce A. Aley 11/17/15

Jennifer Hummel Rannestad 11/17/15

David W. Cohen 11/19/13

Vacancy 11/19/13

Board of Finance Alternates

Lori Ann Sidoti Clymas 11/21/17

Richard C. Nygard 11/17/15

Richard Christian Nankee 11/19/13

Board of Education

Wendy Calamari King, Chmn. 11/03/15

David Fitzgibbons 11/03/15

Laurie Rubinow 11/03/15

James P. Gordon, Jr. 11/05/13

Ashley Nicole Marsh 11/05/13

Margaret Dupont Reyer 11/05/13

Lianne Elizabeth Rutty 11/05/13

Amy Helland Safran 11/05/13

Nicole P. Sypher 11/05/13

Board of Assessment Appeals

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

Dudley W. Clark, Jr. 11/19/13

Daniel M. Watts 11/19/13

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

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

Elizabeth B. Gourlay 11/19/13

Andrew P. Landsman 11/19/13

Planning and Zoning Commission

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

Doreen Joslow 11/19/13

Henry B. Krempel 11/19/13

Michael A. Sanders 11/19/13

Planning and Zoning Commission Alternates

Robert Bibbiani 11/21/17

Sarah Janson 11/17/15

Melvin F. Seifert 11/19/13

Library Trustees

Margaret A. Carter-Ward 11/21/17

Edith M. Prisloe 11/21/17

Cary S. Hull 11/17/15

Sandra Senior-Dauer 11/17/15

Molly W. Lund 11/19/13

Teresa C. Schreiber, Chmn. 11/19/13

Regional Board of Education

Elaine M. Fitzgibbons 11/07/17

Ann G. Monaghan 11/03/15

Mario S. Gioco 11/05/13

Registrar of Voters

Charlene O. Janecek 01/05/15

Tracey B. Ohaus 01/05/15

Water Pollution Control Authority

Felise T. Cressman 11/17/15

James K. Pease 11/17/15

Albert Arthur Armington, Chmn. 11/19/13

Samuel H. Chorches 11/19/13

Leroy Edward Ward, III 11/19/13

Zoning Board of Appeals

Al Bisacky 12/31/15

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

Caryl Horner 12/31/15

John J. DeLaura, Jr. 12/31/13

Michael Robert Desnoyers 12/31/13

Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates

Brian S. Sakidovitch 12/31/15

Lisa Tollefson 12/31/15

Alexander Charles Stein 12/31/13

Justices of the Peace

Mario Gioco 01/07/13

Margaret E. Gister 01/07/13

Paul R. Hinkel 01/07/13

Christopher Komondy 01/07/13

Marguerite A. Komondy 01/07/13

Carl F. Manning 01/07/13

Emily S. Masters 01/07/13

Elizabeth A. Perreault 01/07/13

Harvey E. Redak 01/07/13

Melvin F. Seifert 01/07/13

Anna Shubik Sweeney 01/07/13

Jerry A. Walden 01/07/13

Whitelaw Wilson 01/07/13

Judge of Probate

Terrance D. Lomme 01/05/15

U.S. Representative – 2nd Congressional District

Joe Courtney 01/03/13

U.S. Senators

Richard Blumenthal 01/04/17

Joseph Lieberman 01/03/13

State Senator – 33rd Senatorial District

Eileen Daily 01/03/13

State Representative – 36th Assembly District

Phil Miller 01/03/13

APPOINTED OFFICIALS

Served Fiscal Year: July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012

Accounts Manager

Peter Evankow

Accounts Clerk

Sharon S. Echtman

Administrative Assistant

Lynne Jacques

Animal Control Officer

Robert Jenkins

Assessor

Loretta Zdanys

Assistant Sheila Ahearn

Auditors

O’Connor Davies, LLP

Board of Fire Commissioners

Richard M. Schreiber 11/17/15

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

John M. Divis 11/19/13

Charlene O. Janecek 11/19/13

Peter J. Zanardi 11/19/13

Ex-officio Members:

Charles F. Greeney, Jr., Fire Chief

Richard Leighton, Fire Marshal

Edmund Meehan, First Selectman

Building Official

Ronald Rose 08/14/12

Building Clerk

Sharon S. Echtman

Cable Television Advisory Council

Vacancy (Town) 07/30/13

Vacancy (School) 07/30/13

Cedar Lake Advisory Committee

Vacancy 07/01/13

Vacancy 07/01/13

Vacancy 07/01/13

Vacancy 07/01/12

Vacancy 07/01/12

Cemetery Association

Robert Klomp, President

Alan Cuneo, Vice President

Janette DeRoo, Secretary

Robert DeRoo, Treasurer

Central Regional Tourism District

Vacancy 07/01/14

Chester Housing Partnership

David Mesite

Vacancies (5)

Citation Hearing Officers

W. Michael McCulley 11/19/13

Elizabeth A. Perreault 11/19/13

Walter L. Schreiber 11/19/13

Vacancy 11/19/13

Vacancy 11/19/13

Community Decommissioning Advisory Committee

Vacancy 11/19/13

Vacancy, Alternate 11/19/13

Compliance Officer

John S. Bennet 11/30/13

Connecticut River Estuary Regional Planning Agency

Vacancy 12/04/13

Vacancy 12/04/13

Connecticut River Estuary Transit District

Leslie B. Strauss 02/21/13

Connecticut River Gateway Commission

Margaret Wilson 07/01/14

Vacancy, Alternate 07/01/14

Conservation Commission

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

Claudia W. Van Nes 11/01/14

Margot D. Burns 11/01/12

Michael P. Prisloe, Jr.,Chmn 11/01/12

Director of Health

Konrad Kotrady, M.D.

Emergency Management

Joel P. Severance, Director

Bruce H. Watrous, Deputy

Vacancy

EMS South Central CT Emergency Medical Services Council

Emily S. Masters 12/01/12

Energy Task Force

Peter Harding

Richard Holloway

Karen Kari

Roger Koontz

Christine Nelson

Sandy Prisloe

Jennifer Rannestad

Patrick Woomer

E-Team Energy Task Force

Richard Holloway

Lynne Jacques

Roger Koontz, Co-Chmn.

Sandy Prisloe

Patrick Woomer, Co-Chmn.

Engineer

N.L. Jacobson and Associates

Fields /Grounds Committee for Region District 4

Vacancy 11/19/13

Vacancy 11/19/13

Fire Investigator

David Roberge

Fire Marshal

Richard Leighton

Fire Marshal, Deputy

Michael P. Whaples

Harbor Management Commission

Leroy Edward Ward III 10/03/17

Vacancy 10/03/17

Robert L. Bachand 10/03/13

Robert E. Murac 10/03/13

Joel P. Severance 10/03/13

Harbor Management Commission Alternates

Gordon W. VanNes 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

Internet Access Coordinator

Rudy J. Urban, Jr.

Middlesex County Revitalization Commission

Edmund J. Meehan

Municipal Agent for Children

Tri-Town Youth Service Bureau, Gail Onofrio, Director

Municipal Economic Development Commission

Macon C. Toledano 11/01/16

Vacancy 11/01/16

Michael A. Sanders 11/01/15

Vacancy 11/01/15

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

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

Howard K. Haskins 11/01/13

Park and Recreation Commission

Felise T. Cressman 11/01/14

Matthew S. Sanders 11/01/14

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

Susan G. Hotkowski 11/01/13

Sam C. Lindberg 11/01/13

James L. Ready 11/01/12

Vacancy 11/01/12

Park and Recreation Director

Elizabeth A. Netsch

Regional Mental Health Board

Vacancy 04/30/14

Resident State Trooper

Trooper Matthew Ewing, State Police – Troop F

Retirement Board

Vacancy 12/16/14

Robert M. Gorman 12/16/13

Van C. Standke, Chmn. 12/16/13

James P. Gordon, Jr. 12/16/12

Charlene O. Janecek 12/16/12

Sanitarian

Lee Vito

Town Attorney

John S. Bennet 11/30/13

Tree Warden

Scot Mills 11/19/13

Tri-Town Youth Service Bureau Representative

Vacancy 11/19/13

Valley Shore Emergency Communications Board of Directors

John Divis 11/19/13

Charles F. Greeney, Jr. 11/19/13

Zoning Enforcement Officer

Judy Brown

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

BOARD OF SELECTMEN

Edmund J. Meehan, First Selectman

Tommy Englert Selectman

Lawrence M. Sypher, Selectman

Fiscal Year 2011-2012

Highlights of Board of Selectmen Actions and Projects

July Voted to create a Chester Clean Energy Committee to promote the Chester Energy Plan and to join the New England Community Energy Challenge sponsored by the Federal EPA.

Discussed the statutory procedures for choosing a replacement First Selectman for Tom Marsh and the transition necessary to insure good communication and coordination of Town operations.

Mr. Marsh’s resignation became effective August 1, 2011 at 4:00 pm.

August Selectman Tom Englert appointed to serve as First Selectman for remaining term, November 21, 2011.

Main Street Project Committee appointments made to represent Planning and Zoning Commission, WPCA, Public Works Department and architectural and engineering professionals.

Three air conditioning units fail at Town Hall; selectmen quickly move to replace two units and repair the third.

September Peter Zanardi was seated to serve as interim Selectman until November 21, 2011.

September 2 to the 4th, Tropical Storm Irene hits southern Connecticut causing extensive power outages, wind damage and flooding. First Selectman Englert, Chester Public Works, Police and Chester Hose Company do outstanding work to keep residents and businesses safe. Emergency Management Director Joel Severance coordinated storm response and post storm FEMA damage assessment claims, earning $36,000 reimbursement for Chester.

October Chester Fire Marshal issues code deficiencies report for the Chester Meeting House and recommends corrective actions. Board of Selectmen quickly retains contractors to address balcony safety and first floor occupancy and egress requirements.

Main Street Project Committee’s mission statement approved by Selectmen with the directive to manage the design process, select and work with qualified professionals to prepare a Town Center master streetscape plan with public participation.

November Municipal elections held for two year terms ending November 2013 – Ed Meehan, First Selectman, Larry Sypher and Tom Englert, Selectmen.

December Board of Selectmen approves the appointment of Chester Library Renovations and Expansion Project architect, Drummey Rosane Anderson, Inc., DRA, and authorize acceptance of $20,000 DECD grant for conceptual design plans.

Route 148, Water Street Bridge over Great Brook construction plan finalized by Department of Transportation, Chester WPCA and private property owner at 29 Water Street discuss option of connecting to public sewer system in conjunction with bridge replacement.

Route 154 – Denlar Drive water main extension plan coordinated with Connecticut Water Company and Connecticut Department of Health for STEAP grant funding and project bidding.

Board of Selectmen approves renewal of 15 year solid waste disposal contract, to June 30, 2027, with Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority.

January Board of Selectmen discusses priority “To Do” list for 2012, top three items are renewal of Town’s union contract, Bank of America lease termination and space reuse, and Town web site format revisions and enhancements for public use.

February Draft Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual, including revised Town bidding policy and budget preparation process, prepared by Finance Department Account Manager and reviewed by Board of Selectmen.

Selectmen issue guidelines for Town web site improvements including clearer access to meeting agenda, minutes, public notices and community calendar.

March Board of Selectmen approves resolution supporting the establishment of the Menunketesuck – Cockaponset Regional Greenway, an 18 mile long corridor from Westbrook through Chester to Haddam.

Board of Selectmen approves resolution proposing the consolidation of the Mid State and Connecticut River Estuary Regional Planning Agencies to create the 17 Town Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments and submission to Town Meeting in May for legislative body approval.

April Route 154 – Denlar Drive Water Main extension construction contract approved for STEAP grant funding. Project awarded to B&W Paving and Landscaping of Mystic, estimated completion date second week of July 2012.

Board of Selectmen and Town’s Union, AFSCME, agree on a 5 year contract through June 30, 2017, average wage increase of 2.55 percent.

Meeting House Rental Fees and Use regulations amended to eliminate fees for non-profit organizations hosting non-admission events and increasing fee to $200 from $150 when admission is charged. Other fees for private functions increased. Use of alcohol permitted only when covered by insurance rider obtained by renter. Review by Fire Marshal and Building Inspector for events with tents required.

Selectmen convened a community forum to invite public comments for reuse of the 3,219 square foot Bank of America vacated space seeking options for another bank occupancy, community center use or possible library relocation.

May Fiscal Year 2012-2013 budget approved at May 15 Town Meeting setting mil rate at 22.45, 1.5 percent increase, for a total general government and educational budgets of $12,748,081.

Based on comments received from residents the Board of Selectmen issue a request for proposals for reuse of Bank of America space for bank use with return date of June 22nd for potential occupancy beginning September 1, 2012.

June Draft Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual approved by Board of Selectmen and submitted to Board of Finance for its review and approval.

A draft revised Town Web Site completed and ready for review by Town departments prior to going public.

Essex Savings Bank submits the only response to Request for Proposals for Bank of America space reuse; Selectmen begin evaluation of proposed lease conditions, rental rate and utility costs sharing.

Main Street Project Committee completes its selection process for appointment of design consultant services for Town Center Master Plan and recommend to Selectmen the firm of Kent and Frost, First Selectmen is authorized to contract for these professional services at a cost not to exceed $66,030, project completion date is set for April 2013.

LOWER CONNECTICUT RIVER VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

The Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments – “River COG” – was created by the 17 member Towns that formerly comprised the original Connecticut River Estuary Regional Planning Agency (9 towns) and the Midstate Regional Planning Agency (8 towns).

Chester voted at Town Meeting May 15, 2012, to participate in “River COG”. The mission of this organization is to promote cooperative regionalism through programs that mutually benefits member Towns. “River COG” will continue set priorities for transportation projects and work together on legislation, economic development and environmental issues.

The merger of the Midstate and Estuary towns is the first such joining of regional planning agencies and councils of elected officials in the State of Connecticut. River COG meets monthly at its Essex offices.

REGISTRARS OF VOTERS

Charlene O. Janecek, Democratic

Katherine M. Marsh, Republican

The Office of the Registrar 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 voters 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 Municipal Clerk.

Over the past year, the registrars were involved in a Municipal Election, a Presidential Preference Primary and a Region 4 Referendum.

As of June 30, 2012, Chester had 2,349 active registered voters; 874 democrats, 479 republicans, 977 unaffiliated and 19 to minor parties. Chester is part of the State of Connecticut Voter Registration System. The system allows the towns direct communication via computer with the Secretary of State Office and, indirectly, with other towns and cities that are part of the centralized voter system as required by HAVA.

Although the Registrar of Voters position is an elected position, politics does not have any place in a Registrar’s Office. It is the responsibility of both Registrars to ensure fair and equitable enactment of all election laws.

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 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. Sportsmen licenses are also obtained through this office.

Residents may apply for admission as electors at this office on a daily basis 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

August 30, 2011

VOTED: To authorize the Selectmen to sign a lease agreement with DCS Energy for the acquisition and installation of a ground mounted solar array at the Town Garage property at Grote Road.

November 10, 2011

VOTED: To approve the conveyance of an easement to The Connecticut Light and Power Company for its purposes over and across property of the Town as described in a certain proposed Easement Agreement and shown on a map entitled “Compilation Plan Showing Easement Area to be Granted to the Connecticut Light and Power Company across the Property of the Town of Chester, Middlesex Avenue (Route 154) and Railroad Avenue, Chester, Connecticut” and hereby authorizes the First Selectman to execute such documents, including an Easement Agreement, to convey said easement.

VOTED: To approve the acceptance of the conveyance from Essex Savings Bank to the Town of Chester of that strip or portion of property known generally as the western end of the northern shoulder of Pine Knoll Drive and shown and described as “Parcel A” and shown on a certain map entitled “Subdivision Plan The Pines Property of Thomas Perry and George Crane, Conn. Route 145 Winthrop Road, Chester, Connecticut dated January 25, 1988 Revised through September 8, 1988, Scale 1” = 100’ Angus McDonald/Gary Sharpe & Associates, Inc., Old Saybrook, Connecticut,” said map being recorded on the Land Records of the Town of Chester, consisting of .029 acres, more or less and designated on Chester Assessor’s Map 12 as Lot 299.

December 20, 2011

VOTED BY PAPER BALLOT: Mario Gioco won the seat on the Region #4 Board of Education with a term ending November 5, 2013 with 28 votes. Ann Monaghan received 18 votes, and Mike Hotkowski received 8 votes.

VOTED BY VOICE VOTE: Ann Monaghan won the seat on the Region #4 Board of Education with a term ending November 3, 2015.

May 8, 2012

VOTED BY REFERENDUM: To approve the Regional School District No. 4 budget of $17,506,213 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012.

Yes: 73 No: 45

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

Yes: 412 No: 207

May 15, 2012

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

a. Real estate taxes due in two halves, first half due July 1, 2012 and the second half due January 1, 2013.

b. All motor vehicle bills due in one payment of July 1, 2012.

c. All motor vehicle supplement bills due in one payment on January 1, 2013.

d. Minimum interest charge of $2.00.

e. Negate all bills under $5.00.

VOTED: To adopt a budget for the Town of Chester for fiscal year July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013 an amount totaling $12,748,081 as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To adopt a five year capital plan to be updated annually as recommended by the Board of Finance.

VOTED: To authorize the Treasurer to post the Capital Fund interest and closed line item balances to the Capital Undesignated line item on a quarterly basis through fiscal year end June 30, 2013.

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 of fiscal year ending June 30, 2013.

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $40,000 from Capital Reserve line item 20-00-31-0000-046 Main Street Project - $40,000.

VOTED: To authorize the expenditure of $110,000 from Capital Reserve line item 20-00-31-0000-446 Road Repairs.

VOTED: To ratify the July 27, 2011, resolution adopted by the Connecticut River Valley Council of Elected Officials, of which Chester is a member, to establish a council of governments called the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments and to formally adopt Section 4-124i through 4-124p of the General Statutes. Adoption of this Ordinance provides for the Town of Chester’s participation in the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments which includes the member Town of the Connecticut River Estuary Regional Planning Agency (CRERPA) and the Midstate Regional Planning Agency (MRPA) consolidated to form the 17 Town Council of Governments.

TOWN WEBSITE

Rudy Urban, Jr., Internet Access Coordinator

This past year has been trying for me on a personal note. I maintained my life as best as I could. Keeping the Town website up to date and doing it timely is always the key. Updates for Bid Notices, Forms and Permits and Department hours of operation are important to keep current. The many changes related to seasonal activities of the Park and Recreation Department must be kept current. Chester Park and Recreation offers a lot, I hope many residents look into their programs and avail themselves.

I am proud to be able to help the town out with what little I do. I take a bit more pride knowing I helped in the birth years of the Town web site. It has now evolved to a better website in presentation, navigation and the like. I must say that as I travel the Town I see that it has aspects that make it unique and generates a good feeling of living here. Thanks to all who make it that way including Mother Nature and the beauty she put here. May you all find that 'Chester feeling' and enjoy your Town and its website. It has so much from A to Z. It is your, our, Town. Check out the website, check out the town. Keep in touch and keep up on its status.

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.

• The Board of Selectmen will present each honoree with a pin and a certificate highlighting their volunteer achievements.

• 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

Sheila and I would like to remind Chester residents that there are a number of state and local programs providing exemptions or tax relief for those who are seniors, veterans, active duty military, blind, totally disabled and emergency ambulance and fire personnel. There is also a renters’ rebate program. 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 4:00 and close for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00. The office is closed on Fridays.

The Assessor’s 2010 Grand List prior to the actions of the Board of Assessment Appeals is $500,981,070. The 2010 Grand List is the list that generates the taxes that provide the primary amount of the revenue that is utilized in running the Town of Chester for the 2011/2012 fiscal period.

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 if 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 in September, annually.

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.

During the 2011 assessment year, a total of twenty one (21) appeals were made. Of the twenty one (21) appeals, thirteen (13) resulted in decreased assessments and eight (8) were denied.

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 12 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 9 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 2011/2012, totaled $9,880. Earnings on other Town accounts were $8,460, excluding retirement funds. This interest and dividend income accumulated from the Treasurer’s office between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012 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 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 totals 6256 individual bills and an additional 579 supplemental MV bills for a grand total of 6835 bills, for the 2010 grand list. Each bill is mailed out of our office and are combined in one envelope as often as possible. This process takes several days and is done with the help of three or four volunteers.

We also are responsible for collecting 43 usage bills for the WPCA and last year, we collected on 54 benefit assessment bills that are for the real estate parcels on the sewer lines. In most cases, when a parcel sells, this benefit assessment bill is usually paid off in full, even though it was set up as a 20 year plan with only a 2% interest rate. Our original list of 79 accounts is reduced to 54, because the owners paid in full, or the property sold and the attorneys did a payoff of this bill at time of closing on the parcel.

Our collections for the fiscal year from July 1st, 2011 thru June 30th, 2011 on the 2010 gl are as follows:

Current taxes collected = $ 10,884,420.12 = 99.76% budgeted collections.

Back taxes were collected = $ 126,104.37 = 210.17% budgeted collections.

Interest/fees collected = $ 67,621.42 = 160.81% budgeted collections.

Overall budget = $11,010,541.00 with $11,078,145.91 collected at 100.61%. Ours numbers this past year are just a little lower than previous years, but still quite good.

Our WPCA collection rate was excellent with all the 2010 GL usage bills paid.

Our Benefit Assessment collection rate was also 100%.

One other big responsibility, that is handled by our office, is the registration of aircraft based at Chester Airport. We registered 112 different aircraft, which records the owner of the aircraft, type of aircraft, FAA registration number and decal number issued. This year, the FAA had stricter rules and all items had to match totally with the current FAA information. Extra time was spent cross referencing information on the FAA website and the information brought or mailed in to us. In some cases, several phone calls and follow up were required to get all the information from the owners to match aircraft FAA registration. An aircraft could be a plane, helicopter or even an ultra light. It was an interesting process and we meet many new people who do not live in Chester but who 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, and Robert Gorman. There are currently two open positions 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 benefitted from asset allocation and a continued strong market to provide positive performance in the stock and bond accounts. Assets as of June 30, 2012 were $689,055, after benefit payments of $282,316 and contributions during the year of $113,466, compared to $835,763 on June 30, 2011. 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, and the year’s final deposit is intended to rebalance the three funds to approximately the same amount.

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, 2012 were $396,779 after benefit payments of $14,130 and including deposits during the year of $20,000. This compares to a balance on June 30, 2011, of $367,802. 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.

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

ESTUARY COUNCIL OF SENIORS, INC.

Paula C. Ferrara, Executive Director

The Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. (ECSI) is a non-profit regional senior center located at 220 Main Street in Old Saybrook with café sites in Clinton, Westbrook, Chester, 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 80,000 nutritious meals including Meals On Wheels, over 1,000 rides to medical outpatient appointments outside the nine-town Estuary Region, 676 free preventative health screenings, and social and exercise programs too numerous to count.

Tropical Storm Irene came through the area in late August, 2011, leaving homes without power for days and even weeks. ECSI was only closed one day and was delivering Meals On Wheels to all of our clients within three days. ECSI welcomed many area residents without power for the comfort of air conditioning, a hot meal, free WiFi, and a place to charge their cell phones.

During the 2011/2012 fiscal year, ECSI provided 73 Chester seniors with 955 congregate meals and 2,488 Meals On Wheels (homebound meals). 5 Chester seniors were provided 32 rides to medical appointments outside the nine-town Estuary Region through the Stan Greimann EMOTS program. In total 180 seniors received 4,082 services through ECSI.

ECSI is funded in part by contributions from the nine towns in the Estuary Region, Senior Resources Agency on Aging with Title III funds made available under the Older Americans Act, other grants, individual donations, and fund raising efforts. Like many other non-profit organizations, ECSI’s funding is being cut due to the state budget cuts to Senior Resources. I would like to thank the Town of Chester for your continued support of our programs.

For information on our lunch program, Meals On Wheels, EMOTS, exercise programs, and social programs please call 388-1611 weekdays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

HUMAN SERVICES’ REPORT

Rosie Bininger, Director

 

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts” Winston Churchill

The Director of Human Services administers the Town’s welfare 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 Welfare Emergency Fund, the Chester Community / Fuel Fund, and the Salvation Army Emergency Fund. For this fiscal year, 58 individuals and families received help with medical costs (3), gasoline (5), clothing (3), food vouchers (31), and oil and electricity bills (16). 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 $336.00 was collected for the Emergency Fuel Fund. Community Renewal Team (CRT) reported assisted services to Chester residents of (7) home safety, (19) energy assistance, (18) WRAP, (7) weatherization and (13) HIS.

As always, the community pulled together throughout the holiday season with generous donations of time, gifts, food, gift certificates and baskets. This year 40 families received Thanksgiving baskets and 52 children received toys for Christmas and free winter clothing from the “Warm the Children” program. The Salvation Army provided 17 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, churches and synagogue for your 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 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 2011-2012 the following were performed by the Health Department:

New Septic Systems – 0

Repair of Septic Systems – 9

Well Permits – 6

Sub-division – 0

Food licenses issued – 20 (permanent)

Food licenses issued – 23 (temporary)

Food Service Inspections 75-100

Permits for building additions, pools, decks, etc. – 21

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 of if information is needed.

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 2011-2012 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 vigorously continues its work in coordination with the Economic Development Commission on updating Zoning Regulations with particular regard to General Principal Uses and Special Principal Uses in both the Research & Light Manufacturing and Controlled Development District Zones. It is also working on updating Sign Regulations.

All those who participate and donate their time in this work in progress should be commended for their dedication to the Town of Chester in knowing they were a part of Chester's future.

BUILDING DEPARTMENT

Ronald Rose, Building Official

From July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012 the value of Building Permits totaled $4,232,000.00

Fee charges for permits total: $36,468.73

Residential: 212 $2,821,000.00

Commercial 20 1,411,000.00

Breakdown:

Building Permits 91

Electrical Permits 64

Plumbing Permits 31

Heating Permits 49

Wood Stove Permits 3

State Education Fees submitted to the State of Connecticut during this time period $1,102.40.

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, commission and officials.

During the 2011-2012 fiscal year, the Conservation Commission focused on several topics including energy, open space, invasive plants and sustainability. During the previous year the commission had guided a task force of commission members and volunteers in drafting the Chester Energy Roadmap: Comprehensive Energy Plan for the Town of Chester which was adopted by the Board of Selectmen in August 2011. The Plan established broad energy policies and goals aimed at reducing the Town’s use of electricity, oil and water and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Also recommended was the creation of a Chester Energy Team (E-Team) with members from the Conservation Commission, town staff and the public to guide implementation of the Plan. The Board of Selectmen appointed members to the E-Team which was very active during the remainder of the year. The Conservation Commission also investigated open space needs and opportunities and plans to continue to work on identifying where and how the town could acquire valuable lands for ecosystem enhancement and preservation. Several commission members identified sites in town where Japanese Stiltgrass, a non-native invasive plant had become established and manually removed it and made recommendations to the Department of Public Works to mow it at appropriate times. The commission also began the process of reviewing conservation-related sustainability action items in the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development. Each of these focus areas will continue to be pursued in the coming year.

PUBLIC SAFETY

CITATION REVIEW BOARD

Bettie Perreault

The Citation Review Board was formed by adoption of an Ordinance to allow people who had been issued a Citation by the Town of Chester the opportunity to have the matter reviewed and to seek relief. A hearing is scheduled for each person filing for a review. The citation could have been for anything from not stopping at a stop sign to parking at the Town boat launch without a Town permit. A petitioner may appear before the Board to present their case; the Board takes the matter under consideration and decides if a remedy is warranted or if the citation is valid. Regrettably, many chose not to attend. The Board is served by volunteers appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Currently serving are Michael McCulley, Bettie Perreault and Walter Schreiber.

ANIMAL CONTROL

Robert Jenkins, Animal Control Officer

Redeemed 12

D.O.A. 1

Complaints 149

Summons 4

Sold as Pets 4

Euthanized 1

Bites 1

Another year has come and gone. I believe that people are taking better care of their pets and are using more caution, as complaints are down from the past year. I would like everyone to use caution because the wildlife in other towns is having problems. Be sure to check your pet’s rabies shots and make sure they are up to date, just in case they have an encounter with wildlife. To the people who own livestock, take a little time and check the area they are kept for any breaks in the fencing, as you know all animals are known as personal property and you are responsible for all their actions and damages they may cause.

HARBOR MANAGEMENT COMMISSION

Joel Severance, Chairman

FY 2011/2012 has been relatively quiet on the Chester waterfront. Mooring fees are being collected and the funding goes to our water quality testing program.

There are specific environmental constraints with water quality testing. As we learned several years ago, tests results are skewed way out due to non-point source pollution from rain storms. We plan on publishing a water quality comparison report (with the past) as soon as we have valid current data.

With the resignation of valuable member Bruce Coderre we were able to elevate Jeb Barrington to full membership. The Commission is now made up of:

Jeb Barrington Robert Bachand

Robert Murac Joel Severance

Ed Ward Gordon Van Ness (alt)

Gil Bartlett, Harbormaster (ex-officio member)

FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE

Richard “Dick” E. Leighton, Fire Marshal

David Roberge, Fire Investigator

Michael Whaples, Trainee

The Fire Marshal’s Office is being covered by David Roberge and Richard E. Leighton. This coverage will continue until the selected Candidate Michael Whaples, has completed the required administrative training and has sufficient experience to serve the Town of Chester. In the interim, we have taken on the responsibilities of the Office to insure the various occupancies which require licensing by the State of Connecticut receive the required annual inspections and approvals on a timely basis. This Office is concentrating on the occupancies including education, daycare, assemblies, and life care facilities, to insure compliance with the established Codes adopted by the State of Connecticut. This Office is readily available to answer questions or follow-up on problems which commercial occupancies have or assist the residents with problems which may fall within our realm of responsibilities. Burning Permits for the residents will still be available through this Office, for weekends, only. Since taking over the responsibilities on 4/15/2011, this Office has made 95 inspections related to State Licensing requirements, issued 2 blasting permits, 8 burning permits, and also 14 fire investigations.. As you can readily determine the majority of the responsibilities of this Office are in other areas than simply fire investigations.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

Joel Severance, Chairman

Congratulations to the volunteers of the Chester Hose Company for their continuation of the 100 years of emergency services and other contributions to the community of Chester its residents, visitors and neighboring municipalities.

The Board commended the members of the Hose Company for their herculean efforts in the preparation for, response to and recovery from Tropical Storm Irene. It was clear the hours of training, drills and exercises paid off.

The Board completed its search for a permanent Fire Marshal. We are proud to welcome one of our firemen, Mike Whaples to the position. Current Fire Marshal Dick Leighton and Dave Roberge, Fire Inspector will provide the on the job training for Mike.

Commission Members:

John Divis Charlene Janecek

Rick Schreiber Joel Severance

Peter Zanardi Chief Greeney (ex-officio)

Dick Leighton, Fire Marshal, Permitting

Dave Roberge, Fire Investigations

Mike Whales,Deputy Fire marshal (in training)

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Joel Severance, Director

This fiscal year turned out to be a major challenge for emergency services in Chester. The state was “hit” by two major storms: Tropical Storm Irene and Winter Storm Alfred. The good news is the damage from Irene left little for Alfred to “take down”. Some areas of Town were without power for seven days. Public works employees and the fire department volunteers (including the Ladies Auxiliary) worked around the clock for several days supporting the response and recovery operations. Our Emergency Operations Center was opened and the Fire House was used as a temporary shelter. John Winthrop was opened as a regional overnight shelter. Because we declared an emergency and sustained significant damage from Irene we were able to recoup our financial costs. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursed us 75% of our direct costs. Our volunteer contributions made up the 25% balance.

With additional funding from FEMA we were able to complete our local public safety communications conversion to UHF frequencies. This provides us with better coverage throughout Town. We were also able to fund acquisition of a Satellite phone for a communications back-up should our phone and cell phone services go down.

In a collaboration effort with other local River towns, the Coast Guard, State Police, DEEP and Valley Shore Communications; we developed a protocol for an emergency response to a large scale boating accident on the River. It’s under the federal guidelines called Unified Command (UC).

In the event of a large scale emergency in Town, when multiple agencies respond the incident falls under the unified command protocols. The Emergency Management Director manages the Unified Command in support of the fire officer who manages the incident. We are looking for one or more volunteers to join us in emergency management.

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. During this past fiscal year the Public Works crew was the Town’s “go to” team during Tropical Storm Irene. Working in collaboration with Chester Hose Company and CL&P they cleared trees and made safe Town roads 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

o Meeting House, Public Library, Public Works Garage and 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

TREE WARDEN

Scot Mills

As tree warden for the Town of Chester my first goal was to further my education in tree biology, insects, diseases, the decay of trees, and tree law to properly maintain and care for town trees. My second goal was to become a certified tree warden to gain a clear understanding of policies, procedures, and state statutes surrounding the care and maintenance of town trees. My third goal was to get my arborist license. My forth goal was to start an aggressive proactive forestry management program to evaluate and grade risk trees.

To date I have completed an advanced arboriculture class and have taken the written part of my arborist exam for my arborist license. I became a certified tree warden as of January 2012. I have started the first steps of a forest management program that is including an evaluation of town trees.

The following are my goals for the next year:

Due to the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) being found in New Haven County, I will be locating all our roadside and public land white ash trees so that they can be mapped and compiled into a GIS database. This will help in maintaining visual inspection and cost projections for removal of white ash trees when the EAB arrives in Chester.

I will continue with my education in tree biology, GIS mapping, finish the last portion of my arborist exam, and begin forest management classes in the fall.

WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

Albert A. Armington, Chairman

The focus of Chester’s WPCA this year has been to improve operation and maintenance of our equipment. We began 2012 by adding a safety catwalk to the pump station so that there is now safe access to our generator. At the same time, we solved a problem at the 4 Water Street parking area by turning our stair unit by 90°. Volunteer labor also addressed the appearance of our pump station by revising the plantings around the unit. Within a short time our pump station will be less obvious to visitors and residents, thanks to new trees and shrubs.

The sewer system has added two new users this year, Organon on Middlesex Avenue and Six Main Restaurant in the village. The expansion of our services helps us avoid raising costs by spreading the expense among more users. Unfortunately, our disposal fees have continued to increase, but we have been able to maintain our EDU rate for a second year. This rate compares favorably to other Connecticut towns with small sewer systems. Sewer users need to remember that they can help control their EDU rate by careful use of the sewer. Nothing should go down your drains which could cause clogs or grease build-up. Every time we clean the system, it represents at least a one thousand dollar additional cost.

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. The mowing is contracted under the direction of Vice President Alan Cuneo. The Treasurer is Lee Foster. We do not have any full plots in our inventory; however, there are cremation plots at Laurel Hill priced at $250. As always, we welcome new members and volunteers.

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. Renovations to the parks this year included a boardwalk and new grills at Pelletier Park, playground surfacing material at North Quarter Park, and fence repairs at the baseball fields.

Income to the Town’s General Fund, from the sale of non-resident park passes for fiscal year 2011/2012 was $12,946, 161% of the budgeted amount, as facility improvements and a warm summer attracted more patrons. Fees collected for the Children’s Summer Program, swimming lessons, cancellation fees and miscellaneous program registration fees contributed $16,224 to the General Fund. Donations from the Chester Rotary Club, the staff members and PTO of Chester Elementary School, and local citizens provided camp scholarships.

Self-funded programs included 142 participants in the Children’s Summer Program Camp, 72 youth basketball players, and 24 students in American Red Cross courses including Community CPR/AED, First Aid, Babysitter’s Training, and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer. There were 51 enrollments in swimming lessons. The department ran programs for 150 children during days off of school and after school, throughout the academic year, including field trips to the Mystic Aquarium and AMF Saybrook Lanes and Children’s Dance, Lacrosse, Karate, Volleyball, Roller Rink and Theatre Workshops. Over 250 people attended our “March Madness” basketball event. We presented our new family project, “I Spy Chester….More than Meets the Eye” with the Chester Public Library. Morning “Stretch and Tone” classes were offered at Cedar Lake during the summer and “ZUMBA” was held at the Town Hall throughout the year.

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. 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

Chester Library offers all Chester residents resources and opportunities for both education and entertainment. With a staff of three part-time and one full-time librarians, the library is open 40 hours per week during most of the year. This year, 1698 Chester residents holding current library cards and 476 residents of other towns who are registered here borrowed 32,720 items from the library. This circulation figure includes 524 downloaded audio and ebooks, a service new to Chester library users in 2011. Library staff responded to 2173 requests for information and the single public access computer was used 842 times during the year. The Connecticut Education Network extended fiber-optic service to include the Chester Library, greatly increasing internet speeds and the library continued to offer Wi-Fi access.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL), Connecticard and Connecticar work together to support sharing of materials among our state’s libraries. Such sharing is essential for a small library such as Chester’s. Through Interlibrary Loan (ILL), 1469 items were borrowed for Chester library users. The library loaned 1088 items to other libraries as well. The Connecticard program allows Connecticut residents to use their hometown library cards at other public libraries in the state. During the last reporting year (March 2011 - February 2012), Chester loaned 2,542 items to cardholders from 31 other libraries in Connecticut. During the same period, Chester library cardholders borrowed 19,247 items from 78 other libraries. Chester Library returned about 6% of these items to the lending libraries via Connecticar, the state transportation system that moves materials between libraries.

The library offered programs for children, teens and adults. Attendance at Monday story times, musical programs, trick-or-treating, a gingerbread workshop, and more totaled 621 young people and an additional 70 young readers participated in the summer reading program. Twenty teens gathered for a book discussion that earned them credit as a summer reading project. Weekly ‘In Stitches’ gatherings, a spring poetry program featuring five local poets, and a four-part discussion series on the Greek tragedies attracted 361 adult attendees. There were more requests for tutoring space than could be comfortably accommodated, due to space constraints and availability of electric outlets.

In an effort to address the shortcomings of the library’s historic building, an RFP for architectural services to explore the feasibility of creating a fully accessible and somewhat expanded library in the current location was issued by the Town in July 2011. The firm of Drummey, Rosane, Anderson, Inc. was selected for the project in November. Fall also brought news that the project was approved for a $20,000 historic preservation grant. Throughout the winter and spring the building was evaluated, hazardous materials surveyed, and conceptual proposals developed. As summer rolled around the feasibility study was wrapping up with hopes of presenting the results to the Library Board of Trustees in September 2012.

Through the year, nature brought wonder and challenge; a monarch butterfly emerged from its chrysalis in the main reading room, separate storms took down both of the venerable flowering crabapple trees in front of the library and lack of power kept the library closed for five days after Tropical Storm Irene. Readers were kept supplied via a carton of books on the front step that was replenished daily.

Chester Library is fortunate to be supported by a dedicated group of community volunteers who, whether by time spent in the library tending to ongoing tasks, work with the Friends of Chester Public Library, presentation of programs, or monetary contributions, make possible the level and variety of service provided by the library.

The Friends of Chester Public Library continued their used book sales as the primary fundraiser that allows purchase of movies, and pays for programs. This year, long-time Treasurer, Kathy Marsh, left the group, her many years of service gratefully appreciated. President, Tracy Quale, was assisted by Anne Winslow, Treasurer; Mary Harrall, Membership; Lisa Tollefson, Secretary; and Diane Lindsay, Book Sales.

The Library Trustees continued to guide the library with thoughtful commitment. The Trustees included Terry Schreiber, Chair; Sandy Senior-Dauer, Vice Chair; Deedee Prisloe, Treasurer; Peggy Carter-Ward, Cary Hull, and Molly Lund.

CHESTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Skip Hubbard, President

It’s hard to believe the third season for Chester Museum at The Mill is upon us. The last two years have flown by as exhibits, programs and events have taken center stage. There are many positives when reflecting on the 2011-12 Society year.

Our exhibits and public programs continued to raise the bar. A Civil War re-enactment on the Town Green led to opening a memorable 2011 Chester Voices of the Civil War exhibit at the museum. A record-attendance of 150 people gathered in February for Chester Characters, the latest in a series of profiles and stories of people who have made our town special.

On the outreach front, we expanded our Day at the Museum offerings to included custom programs created for both the 3rd and 6th grades at Chester Elementary School.

Cary Hull chaired a very successful and over-booked Antiques Appraisal Day in November at Chester Village West. The event, which netted over $1,600 to the Society, encouraged a repeat and expanded event in March at St. Joseph’s Parish Center. Nine appraisers were on hand, resulting in $2,200 for our operations and activities.

In addition to very positive visitor reactions, opening the museum has translated in other benefits. We are experiencing an up-tick in donations of artifacts to our collection as well as donations to the Annual Appeal. This year’s Annual Appeal realized $7,000, an increase of more than $2,000 from just two years ago. More significantly is the level of participation, with 90 responses in 2011 vs. only 42 from two years earlier.

Our spring fundraiser, Square Roots, featured a Champagne Reception and Silent Auction at the Meetinghouse on May 19th. More than 30 artists participated in creating unique works based on a simple square knitting gauge manufactured in the 1950s by the former C.J. Bates & Son. The successful event raised nearly $2,400.

We did a good job containing fixed and operating expenses to insure exhibits, public programs and outreach programs could continue to grow. When one of our four zoned HVAC units went down, Mother Nature cooperated with moderate winter temperatures and virtually no snow.

With two years of history at the museum, we are turning more attention to marketing.

To be honest, more people should be enjoying our award-winning exhibits.

In the course receiving a Leadership in History Award of Merit at a national convention last September in Richmond, VA, we began to explore the merits of moving to a free admission policy. We found many museums of all sizes have benefited with such a policy. In many cases, the amount of visitor donations exceeded the prior admission revenues. Plus, museums were able to increase visibility in the community, which often translated into more members and volunteers. Accordingly, in March the Trustees voted to introduce a policy of free admission to Chester Museum at The Mill.

At the same time, under the direction of Vice President Donna Carlson, Chester chaired a group of six area historical societies to produce a brochure promoting the combined museums and historical homes in Middletown, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River and Old Saybrook. The brochure, Get Lost in Heritage, was first distributed in June 2012 at locations targeting both tourists and local residents and was funded by a grant from the Connecticut Humanities Council.

We invite all Chester residents to visit their admission-free museum and expand their knowledge of Chester’s story. We value your input and can’t wait to create the next chapter.

Lastly, we again extend a loud ‘Thank You’ to our membership, friends of the Society and the entire Chester community for the continuing support that has brought the Society and its museum to this point.

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.  We would like to especially thank James and Martha Beaudoin who have made a monthly donation for many years now no matter how difficult the economy has been. 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.

AUDIT

A copy of the Town of Chester Financial Statements, Internal Control Reports and Compliance Reports for the Year Ending June 30, 2012 can be obtained at the Town Clerk’s Office or on the following link:

TOWN PROFILE

The 2012 Town of Chester’s Profile, provided by CERC, is available on the following link: [pic]

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