Candidate Bio: Linda Salafia (R) for Common Council & Board of Education

Linda Salafia (R) Common Council & Board of Edication

Candidate Bio: Linda Salafia (R) for Common Council & Board of Education

I am running for election to the Common Council and to the Board of Education.  I previously sat on the Common Council where I worked tirelessly to bring financial stability to our City.  I come from a public school background; both of my parents at one time or other taught school in Portland.  I attended public school in Portland and graduated from the University of Vermont with a B.S. in Elementary Education plus I have a certificate from Morse School of Business in accounting. I have spent most of my working career in downtown Middletown and have lived here for the last 35 plus years.  I started working in the Tax Collector’s Office in 1987 and retired as the Payroll Supervisor in 2012 after 25 years of service.

 During my employment with the City, I worked in various positions in the Finance office and took several courses relevant to those positions.  I was active in the employees’ union, AFSCME Local 466, and participating in several contract negotiations.  At my retirement, I was Vice President of the Local.  I am married to Tom and our daughter, Molly, who attended Middletown Public Schools, is running for re-election the Planning and Zoning Commission.

I look forward to serving the citizens of Middletown again.  I deeply care about the safety, wellbeing, education, economic vitality, and financial stability of the residents of our city.

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I was born in Biddeford, Maine, but grew up in Portland, CT in where my dad taught in the Portland Public School.

I am a graduate of Portland High School and of the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont where I earned a B.S. in education, elementary with a concentration in math.  I’ve also earned a Certificate in Accounting from the Morse School of Business

I’ve worked at local businesses since high school, including Wannerstrom’s in Portland, Mallove’s Jewelers in Middletown, the Institute of Living in Hartford as a Psychiatric Aide, as Bookkeeper for Insurance and Real Estate Center, Inc in Middletown.  I’ve worked for the City of Middletown in the Tax Collector’s and Purchasing Offices.  I’m retired from the City of Middletown, where I was the Payroll/Pension Supervisor in the Finance Office. In my retirement, I have become a small business owner; I started Traditions + Treasures Gift Shop a unique craft and gift line currently located at the Ivoryton Inn's Gift Shop in Essex.

Memberships:

AFSCME Local 466 member for over 25 years, 10 years as an officer, including Vice President

FCRV (Family Campers & RVer’s), since 1993 and past Secretary

Polish Falcons

Middletown Kiwanis current member
Learn more on facebook page: Vote Salafia Women

More info on Middletown Republican candidates can be found at www.middletownctgop.com 

(Accepting ALL Candidate Bios! See format info here!) 

Candidates Kleckowski, Pulino, Wilson, Giuliano, Salafia & Wilson speak out on 'The Edge' Live on Comcast

Jon Pulino and William Wilson interview Councilwomen Deborah Kleckowski and Linda Salafia with calls from former Mayor/current Councilman Sebastian N. Giuliano and the public. Jon Pulino is a candidate for Common Council and William Wilson is a candidate for Board of Education and Planning & Zoning.
Pulino & Wilson host 'The Edge' on Channel 15 Comcast. 

More Images from the Sandra Russo Driska Campaign

(R) Councilwoman & candidate Deborah Kleckowski, Linda Salafia Council &BOE candidate, and Cheryl McClellan BOE member & candidate

Team Sandra in the Saddle

A Reflective Look at the BOE Superintendent's Recommended Budget from You Know Who.

Okay - I've looked at the Superintendent's Recommended Budget by Major Object Categories and have several comments and questions.  I would like to have further information or perhaps the amounts changed prior to the adoption of the budget.

My first problem is with the salaries; there is one line item for all positions under each category that does not indicate the number of bodies.  As a long time union officer, in the past it was difficult to determine the actual number of "legally" hired employees and "temporary" employees.  The line item for Adult Ed Classified salaries shows only $43,760 however there are at least 4 positions listed in the literature from the Adult Ed department so from line item are the positions being paid from?

The line item for Purchased Services has been increased from $893,910 to $3,238,591, an increase of $2,344,681, and according to the Patch article this is for Sodexo for food services management, waste removal and other services.  In the past, I believe that the cafeteria services were under a separate budget and not included in the general BOE budget?? Also, unless these are NEW services, one would expect to see reductions in other lines to offset this increase which I do.  However, the reductions that I see only total $1,647,515 which is $697,166 less than the increase??

I realize that this is the initial request for the coming year but I believe that the BOE needs to do a better job of substantiating their request.  More detail would only reduce the questions and go a long way in gaining support.

Letter to the Editor: Salafia Weighs in on City Overtime

 Below is a letter to the editor published as a courtesy to readers; all opinions expressed are that of the author and not necessarily that of the Insider staff.   

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In the Middletown Press is an article about the high amount of overtime paid over the last 3 years.  I've several comments about the article and statements made in it.  First of all for as long as I can remember, overtime has been an issue for the City; the mantra has been "we need to control our overtime costs."  The Mayor is quoted as now requiring the Directors to control overtime costs; news flash - not new, the Directors have always been cognizant of overtime costs and responsible for their budgets.  The article states that we've a new Chief Management Analyst; I would like to know who this new employee is? when hired? job description?  What department?

 

Also, the article states that of the three years, 2012 was the lowest.  However, not mentioned is the change in scheduling that was supposed to provide better coverage and to lower overtime.  Is that a factor or not?

 

Also, the article states that they are adding 5 new employees from a grant.  Has this grant actually been accepted? The City will have to absorb the cost of these employees after the grant expires; has this cost been compared to the cost of overtime?

 

We've had a couple of really difficult years with storms and have been lucky to have some of our costs reimbursed by FEMA.  Also, we've learned through experience that having a fully staffed department, Central Communications is a prime example, that overtime costs go down. 

 

But from what I'm reading, looks like not much has changed:  overtime is still a problem and nothing has changed.

 

Linda Salafia, Middletown

 

Salafia (R) is a former Common Councilmember,  retired city employee having served as Payroll Supervisor, and former vice president of AFSCME Local 466 Municipal employee union for the City of Middletown

Letter to the Editor: Nonsensical Logic Used to Justify Marijuana Factory in City Building

 Below is a letter to the editor regarding last night's approval of a lease space at the municipality owned Remington Rand Factory Building to Greenbelt Management to manufacture medical marijuana.The views expressed may or may not express those of the Insider Staff. 
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Once again, the Democrats on the council have used irrelevant or nonsense arguments to justify their decision. Why? Because it's a bad decision and there are no valid arguments. Councilman Berch says that this is the same as leasing to a poker chip manufacturer, because gambling is illegal in most states. Sorry. Incorrect. There's no federal law against manufacturing poker chips. After Councilmen Pessina and Bibisi stated that their principles would not allow them to approve the lease, Councilman Berch said that principles were fine, but he was voting in favor of economic development. What? Money trumps principles? 

 That sounds like the guiding light of the Democrats on the current council. Councilman Santangelo says that the difference between a medication and an drug is where it's sold. Sorry, but the difference is whether medical professionals agree that there is a therapeutic benefit to a substance and whether it is used as prescribed. 

When the Connecticut Legislature decided to allow marijuana for medical uses, I don't recall hearing from the American Medical Association, National Institute for Mental Health, Center for Disease Control, or any other competent, recognized medical organization or professional. I do recall hearing about testimony from users of marijuana. Not exactly a fair, unbiased hearing on which to make important decisions. I've also seen a number of studies on the deleterious effects of marijuana use. Haven't found any studies showing a positive benefit. At best, the studies show mixed results, with numerous side effects, including measurable impairment of mental function with short-term use and measurable, non-reversible impairment of mental function with long-term use. And, it's psychologically addictive. One study seemed to show that Tetrahydrocannibinol extracted from the plants can be provided in in measured dosages and produces positive benefits, with few or no side effects. 

Why would you want to smoke it? Doesn't sound like the proponents are after medical treatment. Anyone with information on other studies? Please, let me know and I'll revise my opinion.
Should I even start on the second-hand smoke issue?

The bottom line is that the cultivation of marijuana is illegal under federal law. There is nothing the state of Connecticut or city of Middletown can do to make it legal. As I said last night - If Greenbelt Management plants marijuana in a city-owned building, the common council and city are an accessory to a crime, since the council voted to approve the lease, knowing the purpose to which it will be put is illegal under federal law. Since they did know the ultimate purpose and are assisting by providing space for the illegal activity, wouldn't that also be conspiracy?

Any lawyers in the audience? You’re welcome to comment or correct my interpretation.
By the way - congratulations and thank you to Councilmen Pessina, Bibisi and Councilwoman Salafia. You did the right thing.

Ken McClellan
Middletown Republican Town Committee President

Run Down on Middletown's Common Council Budget Vote

Taxes go up & and Democrats vote to give Mayor Drew  a Raise. The mayor's salary of just over $78,000 will get a raise of $6,667 annually.

At tonight's Special Common Council meeting the budget for the City for fiscal year 2013-2014 was passed which increases the mill rate from 26.9 mills to 27.7 mills.  The final budget approved was reduction of 0.1 mills from the Mayor's proposed budget and was approved by a vote of 6 to 5.  The nay votes came from the four Republican Council members (Philip Pessina,  Joseph Bibisi, Deborah Kleckowski, Linda Salafia) and Democrat Todd Berch.  The approved budget changes from the Mayor's budget were submitted by most of the Democratic caucus with the exception of Councilwoman Mary Bartolotta and Councilman Todd Berch.  Councilman Grady Faulkner was a signatory of the amendment but was absent from the meeting.

A summary of the changes to the Mayor's budget included a raise for the Mayor; a shift of the proposed position of grant writer to a contractural services consultant; a small decrease in the Treasurer's salary; a reduction in the line item for electricity; the funding for the second Deputy City Attorney was removed; court costs were reduced; an increase in the stipend for the Council; increase in funding for parttime Library salaries; conferences in Finance increased; added position for Manager of Senior Center; funding for the   Economic Specialist put back in until his expected retirement; addition to professional development in Personnel for training; funding for Assistant Building Official; funding for hepatitis shots for Emergency Mgt; increase for holiday tree lighting; additional for tree services in public works; increase in tree planting and replacement, urban forestry; funds for the Old Burying Grounds; professional memberships were reduced; funds were moved around for youth services work student work programs from the Chamber of Commerce back to the City's budget; reductions were made to the health insurance benefit funds, property casualty funds, workers compensation funds; and a reduction to the line item for streetlights to reflect a change in how the street lights are acquired and maintained. 

For the education portion of the budget:  this year the BOE is returning to the General Fund $224,000; of this $124,000 is being returned to the BOE.  The Mayor's proposed budget had allocated to the BOE $75,550,000, the adopted budget reduced that amount by $1,168,086.  Per the following statement read by the submitting parties:

Reason:  It has come to the City's attention that the Board of Education's (BOE) Educational Alliance Grant will increase by the amount shown.  These funds will not be credited to the City's General Fund but go directly to the BOE.  This reduction and a corresponding reduction in the revenue line (see Revenues) will properly account for the new funding increase.  Should the amount increase when the legislature passes its budget later this year the corresponding amount will also to to the BOE.  The BOE is still receiving $3,920,639 between the City's allocation and Alliance Grant.  The City's portion is $1,955,914 which is an increase over last year's allocation of $1.9 million."

On the revenue side of the budget, revenue was reduced by the amount of the Alliance Grant that will be going directly to the BOE; Park and Recreation fees for activities and sports will be increased; the amount expected to be realized from building permit fees was increased; the amount expected to be realized from police private duty was increases and the contribution from the General Fund was increased by the contribution from the return of funds by the BOE.

The budgets for the Middletown Fire District, Sanitation Collection District, Water Pollution Control Authority Budget for the Water Department and the Special Business District all passed on votes of 11 to 0.

City Department Merger Passes 10-2 With Bi-Partisan Support

Tonight the Common Council held a special meeting to vote on the merging of a variety of City Departments as outlined in the report by the Mayor's Task Force on Government Efficiency. Part of the merger consolidates the Personnel and Legal departments. Previously this year, Drew proposed  a memorandum of understanding between the city and Board of Education to use city attorneys. The new merger also  calls for the hiring of a third City Attorney.

To change the make-up of City departments, the Middletown Charter calls for a 3/4 majority. To reverse the decision, a 3/4 majority would again be needed. The Council had the option of the adoption of a sunset clause to try the new organization out and have it automatically expire if it did not work and then re-adopt by re-vote should it be successful. The Council, however, did not choose to exercise this option.The Charter also says that the Personnel Director must preside over the meeting of the Personnel Review Committee, how this will be addressed with the supposed elimination of this position has yet to be determined. The former Personnel Director retired this past December, and in order for the newly appointed police chief to be implemented, the assistant Personnel Director was made active in order to hold the Personnel Committee to vet the candidate.

In an article in the Middletown Press by reporter Jim Salemi, Republican Town Committee chairman Ken McClellan was quoted in regards to the merger, he said
“This is not a merger you want to make. The legal and personnel departments should be independent so they can render independent opinions,” he said. “It puts personnel subject to legal department. They are two separate fields of responsibility, they should be independent.” 
The full article can be read here: 

McClellan also provided additional analysis we published here

The special meeting was not televised on cable access like more City Council meetings. Mayor Drew was quoted in the media stating that the merger will save the City money; the Insider has published a variety of opinion pieces and analysis detailing fallacies in this argument. Republican Councilmembers Deborah Kleckowski and Linda Salafia (Salafia wrote a previously published letter to the editor detailing her reasoning) were the two dissenting votes.  Democrat Majority Leader Tom Serra and Republican Minority Leader Phil Pessina each gave speeches endorsing the Mayor's planned merger. 

Earlier in the month, Republican Minority Leader endorsed the Mayor's budget which included a 3.3% increase in taxes when he introduced Mayor Drew at the March 28th press conference where he presented the 2013-2014  budget to the public.

During Mayor Drew's first term, taxes went up 3.8%. The 2012-2013 budget passed 10-2 also, with the two dissenting votes being Kleckowski and Salafia. Last year,the Republican Councilmembers drafted and proposed and alternative budget that would have not increased taxes to that degree, which when brought the floor, was voted against by Councilmembers Pessina and  Deputy Minority Leader Joe Bibisi.  The Common Council conducted a public meeting on Tuesday where citizens could comment on Drew's proposed budget.

The Council votes on the proposed budget on meeting May 15. 

The full budget as proposed by Mayor Drew is available for download on the City website in Revenue and Expenditure packages:
http://www.cityofmiddletown.com/filestorage/737/776/2014Budget_Revenue.pdf
http://www.cityofmiddletown.com/filestorage/737/776/2014Budget-Expenditure.pdf
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Editor's note:  Want to know more about the Government ReOrg?
Read the Insider Staff's analysis of the Government ReOrg here: http://www.middletowninsider.com/2012/12/city-governmen-re-org-part-ii.html  
The misleading merge of City Legal & BOE Legal:http://www.middletowninsider.com/2013/01/apple-oranges-boe-budget-hikes.html 
John Milardo spoke of the downsides of the Governmnet ReOrg in a previous Guest Blog piece here:://www.middletowninsider.com/2013/01/guest-blog-his-town.html
Councilmember Linda Salafia also comments on negative aspects here: http://www.middletowninsider.com/2013/01/letter-editor-government-reorg-costly.html
Read the full report for yourself here: http://www.middletowninsider.com/2012/12/mayors-task-force-on-efficiency-report.html

Letter to the Editor: Councilmember Salafia: City Dept. Mergers Don't Save Resources

Below is a essay by Councilmember Linda Salafia. All opinions expressed are that of the author and not necessarily that of the Insider staff. 

The City Reorg will be voted on at a special council meeting open to the public at 6 pm Thursday May 2, 2013 in the Council Chambers.

Salafia previously commented on this re-org in an earlier letter to editor:

Read full article here.

 

The objective of the task force appears to contain a predetermined remedy for what were yet-to-be discovered problems. Salafia points out that many of the positions will still have to be filled and therefore the cost savings is a false assumption. Kleckowski cited departments becoming dysfunctional as a concern. In a previously published letter from the actuaries hired by the City to City Finance Director Carl Erlacher, the actuaries expressed concerns that the pension fund be in trouble as early as 2014. Apparently, Mayor Drew knows better than the professionals.

Editors Note: Background Information and financial breakdowns:

The package is available to read here: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B1OYjxtLEgUwUm9EZ1gzYUdsODQ
The smoking gun letter from the actuary is here:   https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B1OYjxtLEgUwUm9EZ1gzYUdsODQ

 Previously published posts on this subject can be read here:

http://www.middletowninsider.com/2012/12/city-governmen-re-org-part-ii.html

http://www.middletowninsider.com/2012/12/city-government-re-org-part-i.html

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Councilmember Salafia's Letter to the Editor:

I want to respond to John Milardo's newsletter however I don't think the space for comments will allow me room to say what I want.

The vote on the merger of the Personnel Department into the Legal Department is scheduled for May 2, and most assuredly will pass.  However, I plan on voting no to that and to any other resolution presented as a result of the merger.  There are several reasons why I don't agree with this particular merger and don't think that it will either streamline, improve the efficiency of government or save money.

First, I don't agree with the report issued by the Task Force formed by the Mayor to improve efficiency in government shortly after he took office.  I believe that the Mayor gave them the charge to reduce the number of employees that report directly to him; not that the committee did an unbiased assessment of the workings of the city government.  The report stated that 20 employees reported directly to the Mayor, I'm having trouble coming up with those 20.  Also, I understand the concept of having outside eyes look at the procedures; however, they need to have a basic understanding of the current procedures before you make changes.  I had to point out to them that even though only one employee in a truck driver position was retiring that in reality they were losing up to 7 drivers who drive snow plows during storms.

Secondly, I don't agree with the numbers presented on how this merger will save money for the city.  As part of the package given to the Council outlining the savings, as John says, the second Deputy City Attorney position is included in the current funding column and also in the proposed column so that there is no effect on the bottom line.  While this is technically true, since the position of second Deputy Attorney is in the budget now, it was done so on the expectation of the merger happening.  It was not in the budget prior to this year and therefore should be included as a new expense.

Thirdly,  I truly believe that the Personnel Department has different duties and functions that although could often use the advise of attorneys, they should remain separate and distinct.  The volume of work needed to handle the hiring process of the city by itself should illustrate the need for a separation of duties.  Now you will be filtering the public and employees through the City's Legal Office.  The Personnel Department was a department of 4 employees and that had been reduced to 3; this merger is proposing 2 for this function.  I find it difficult to believe that 2 people are going to be able to handle the required duties without additional help considering what's on the horizon such as needing to hire a new Fire Chief, and the review and filling of the other positions that are open as a result of the retirement incentive given.  (That's another whole article about why I didn't agree with that either - as far as, I can see, there's been no actual savings with that.)  Paralegal has come up in discussions.

Also, included in this merger may be a change in the council committees which is going to be another problem and will require another whole discussion and I believe that should happen before any merger or change takes place.

Therefore, based on those reasons and more, I will not be voting in favor of this merger.  
 

Sincerely,

Linda Salafia

Councilperson, R

Is Council's Resolution Regarding 2nd Amendment & Sandy Hook Tragedy Political Puffery?

  

This was originally published in January and it being republished in light of the vote taking place today at the state capital to limit 2nd Amendment rights.

Mayor Drew and 5 of the 12 elected Common Councilmembers have drafted a resolution on behalf of the citizens and City of Middletown dedicated to Newtown in the wake of the shooting tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary. In a previous post, reader Paul Dodge responded to Mayor Drew's statements regarding gun control. The letter is posted here:

Imagine you are in the receiving line at a funeral for one of the innocent children or adults who were murdered during the massacre and ask yourself if this is what you would say to their grieving parent or loved one? 

Is this the right message, with tinges of political puffery, or is it better to just say we are sorry for your unfathomable loss when there simply are no adequate words?

Resolution Dedicated to the Citizens of Newtown, CT.
Whereas, the CIty of Middletown joins with the families, friends, and loved ones and residents of Newtown, CT in their suffering and sorrow by the events at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012; and
Whereas, the City of Middletown wishes the residents of Newtown, CT to know that our hearts are broken by the senseless murder of innocent children, teachers and other adults due to a single disturbed individual; and
Whereas, the death of Twenty (20) children: Charlotte Bacon, 6; Daniel Barden,7; Olivia Engel, 6; Josephine Gay, 7; Ana M. Marquez-Greene,6; Dylan Hockley 6, 6; Madeliene F. Hsu, 6; Catherine V. Hubbard, 6; Chase Kowalski, 7; Jesse Lewis, 6; James Mattioloos, Avielle Richman, 6; Benjamin Wheeler, 6; Allison N. Wyatt, 6;and Six (6) adults: Ra, 30; Rachel Davino, 29; Dawn Hochsprung, 47, principal; Anne Marie Murphy, 52; Lauren Rousseau, 30; Mary Sherlach, 56; Victoria Soto, 27 were due to a combination of mental illness, ease of access to guns and ammunition, as well as the availability of high-capacity ammunition feeding devices and assault style weapons; and
Whereas, the statistics of violent and mass killing of children in the United States are staggering including 5,740 children from 2008-2009 or one child or teen every 3 hours or eight (8) per day, or fifty-five (55) per week for this two year period since 1982 there have been at least 62 mass murders with firearms across the United States (Assoc. Press; Canada.com; Mother Jones; Citizens Crime Commission of NYC): and
Whereas,  children ages 5-14 in the United States are 13 times more likely to be killed by guns as children in other industrialized countries (Harvard Injury Control Research Center); and
Whereas, the media, video game industry, gun industry and other corporations profit from a culture of violence in the United States of America and contribute to the desensitizing of our children  and society to violence and murder.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved By The Common Council of the City of Middletown: That we strongly urge our elected officials to change gun regulation laws to require background checks for all purchases of guns including at gun shows; ban on access to assault-style weapons, a ban on large capacity (10 or more) ammunition feeding devices; and
Be It Further Resolved: That we also urge the review of accessibility by minors to online and video games depicting violent and excessive fictional shooting of people and suggest that these types of games be treated in a similar manner as the selling of lottery tickets, alcohol, tobacco, and firearms; and
Be It Further Resolved: That during the deliberation and discussions of these important and contributing issues, that we, as Community Leaders, work in collaboration with our elected officials to take holistic and sensitive approach in addressing the issues centered around the protection, love, and support for all of our children and youth, who look to us for guidance, awareness and protection; and
Be It Further Resolved: That this resolution be sent to Senator Richard Blumenthal, Senator Christopher Murphy, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Congressman Joseph Courtney, Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, COngressman John Larson, Middletown's state delegation and the First Selectwoman of Newtown, CT, and we urge other Connecticut citites , towns and municipalities to adopt similar Resolutions.

Submitted by Councilman Ronald P. Klattenberg, Deputy Majority Leader, (D)
Councilman Thomas J. Serra, Majority Leader (D)
Councilman Gerald E. Daley (D)
Councilwoman Hope P. Kasper (D)
Councilman Phillip J. Pessina, Minority Leader (R)

Guest Blog: Councilwoman Salafia Weekly Round-up

Councilwoman Linda Salafia provides a summarized view of last week's municipal meetings with her own commentary. A unique viewpoint for our Insider readers- Stay in informed!
If you wish to be a guest blogger and provide your take on daily happenings write us!

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Last year at this time I was attending every event that I could possibly attend, walking
door to door, working full time and was an active union officer (local 466). This year is somewhat
different, after a few months of retirement, I’m basically back to work full time trying
to get a little shop of my craftwork up and running. One of the things that I did as a
union officer was to try to attend as many committee meetings as I could so that the
union would be informed. I have found that now attending the Finance and Government
meetings is a great help in being informed prior to the council meetings. The meetings
are open to the public and I encourage everyone to attend.

  On that note, out of the last meeting, which was Wednesday, there is some exciting news.
The first being that the Common Council Clerk applied and RECEIVED a grant in the
amount of $83,205 to offset the costs of the upgrades to the audiovisual equipment in
the Council Chambers. The grant was available for equipment costs only, which in the
project were $85,000 and we were granted $83,205. Great work by the Clerk.

  Also, other great news from the meeting is that the City will be streaming the council
meetings live via the internet. The City will be contracting with Granicus through their
Legislative Management Suite to broadcast/ stream the council meetings so that those
who are not able view over Comcast will now have a venue. This program has a search
function so that the public will be able to advance to the part of the program that they
are particularly interested in.

   From the point forward that it starts, we will able to search
all meetings for a particular subject. The presentation was very detailed and looked
great. This will able to be used for all meetings that are recorded at some point. It should
be noted that the funding is included in the bond already approved so no additional
appropriation will be needed. Although I’m not able to explain all of the details here I
am excited and pleased with this move and suggest that everyone check out their website
as this company has extensive experience and only works with government entities.
At the Special Council Meeting of August 30, 2012, the ordinance and resolution
were passed regarding the referendum vote at the general election in November for
the bonding of funds for the Senior / Community Center.

 There was a presentation by Councilmen Pessina and Klattenberg and the architects on the project and somecomments from the public. Most of the comments were in favor of the senior center at
this location; however, there were two speakers who were not in favor of the project. The
decision now will be up to the public in November. (I think it’s long overdue and that the
location will work well! I’m personally a firm believer in the need for a strong and active
senior center – it should be a gathering place welcoming to all.)

  Since Labor Day is Monday, the regular monthly meeting of the Common Council will
be held on Tuesday. AT 6:00 p.m. will be a presentation by Waterhouse Development
Company for development/ building an apartment complex at 225 River Road. There is a
resolution on the agenda for the regular meeting for the approval of a 7 year property tax
fixing / abatement agreement and a capping of building permit fees and water and sewer
hook-up charges. One thing to note is that the development of this property is totally
contingent on the City decommissioning the treatment plant on River Road and joining
Mattabassett. This item will probably generate a lot of discussion at the regular meeting
as it involves significant funds being abated over a significant time period.

 However,it involves the development of private property, which is currently not bringing in the
property tax dollars that it could. I’m sure that I’m not stating that very clearly but one of
the questions is: development with concessions better than no development at all??
Also, on the agenda for the meeting is a resolution for the setting up of a CNR line item
for the replacement of fabric chairs at the Russell Library due to the bed-bug infestation.
A no-brainer in my mind.
Linda Salafia

Censorship in the 21st Century: Facebook Style

Our Facebook account has been removed without warning after we  have been posting our views. People may have complained. If we annoy people that much we must being doing something right!  
The truth hurts, but still must get out.
Share our link  your facebook page- Middletown citizens have a right to know what's happening in their government.  Read a summary of recent local politics below-

In 1991, the techno pop group C+C Music Factory released their hit single “Things that make you go Hmmm,” a song about the art of pondering and speculating about the love lives of others.  Five hours ago, the editorial staff of The Middletown Insider pondered the news from the powers that be from Facebook that our Middletown Insider site has been taken down from circulation.  Why would a website that allows groups such as the hateful Ku Klux Klan and the ultra right wing John Birch Society to post their views remain on Facebook and ban the satirical, and at times controversial page of The Middletown Insider? 

The answer: The Insider, in it’s short life span has had over 3,254 hits in 4 weeks and has asked the local political questions that our beloved publications such as The Middletown Patch, The Middletown Press and The Middletown Eye have not.

Things that make you go Hmmm:

Issue 1: The Senior Center- After the city bought, under the leadership of then Mayor Sebastian N. Giuliano, the old Eckersley Hall/St. Sebastian building last fall for $800,000 with approximately $900,000 put aside for renovations with the intent of turning the building into a senior center and military museum for the community, the project was put in a turn around by new Mayor Daniel Drew who throw a wrench into the project by proposing a plan to expand city hall and make room for the ever patient seniors.  According to Friday’s edition of The Middletown Press, Senior Services Commission Chairman Ed Dypa “expressed shock and dismay after learning that Mayor Dan Drew hired an architect to look at the possibility of expanding city hall and including space for a senior center there.”  (Doesn’t address the Military Museum issue).    
The Insiders’ Verdict: If they do add onto city hall, keep an eye out for the name of  the building company.  Is it a donor to the Drew campaign? Does their name rhyme with ______________?

Things that make you go Hmmm

Issue 2: Dan’s trip to China- A trip to China in the middle of the night without word to certain common council members. That would be the GOP side if anybody cares.  I heard he brought back Pessina a fortune cookie.

The first issue Middletown citizens should have with Dan's midnight travel plans: Are you really leaving Bob Santangelo in charge of Middletown?  That’s like Joe Biden in charge of the country. With Santangelo in charge of Middletown he may try to invade Portland or rename  Lyman’s Orchids to Zippy's Apples or something nutty. He may even get his wife a job at the registrar of voters. (Too late- we're screwed!) Drew traveled to China in secret in order to protect his wife and children from the evildoers of Wesleyan Hills. (He’s a Dem, why is he worried. They don't even have their walking paths done yet). The trip wasn’t even voted on until the Monday of his return by the Common Council where Zippy Santangelo chewed out Councilwoman Salafia who had the gall to, get this: Question the Mayor! Yep, Councilwoman Salafia questioned the Mayor in public! Do not do this! You will get the Dem patrol after you with variations of, “How dare you,” or “He is bringing jobs to Middletown” or “We should reopen Valentino’s” (Not true, but it’s something John Robinson would have said).  Oh by the way, Dan’s trip cost the taxpayers $5,200 and he claims he will be bringing in jobs.  Mmmm, Let’s see, I own the Macintosh Computer Factory  and I can set up workers at a plant in China for $1.66 an hour or come to CT for minimum $12.33 an hour.. Stop  it! 
Verdict: Stay Home and show us the receipts!

Things that make you go Hmmm

Issue 3: Dan’s Trip to Washington D.C.-  Under the guise of getting the land from the Nike missile site on Mile Lane from the Feds, Dan Drew ventured to D.C. by plane on our Dime. (Spend spend spend)The guy has a phone or a computer.  Hell, even a telegram would have worked.  Why a meeting? Just reach out and call somebody and phone a friend.  Stop wasting our money on these antics.

  Everybody knows we can’t get the land from the feds until they decide to clean it up.  Can he send an e-mail to Rosa DeLauro or is she auditioning for the part of the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz remake by Tim Burton? Does that even make sense?
Okay, little known fact:  DD has family in the Virginia area so he decided to drop in on the big boys and girls and then pay the family a vist. On your DOLLAR!!  

The Verdict: Thank the Wesleyan voters who usually don't give two shits about Middletown who voted DD into the offices on DeKoven Drive.  Good job guys! What's next sue me for writing this column! You can bet your bottom dollar that my name won't be put on this thing.

Things that make you go Hmmm

Issue 4: - Dan’s Budget-  Drew budget includes 3.5 million cuts for education. (He criticized Giuliano on the same issue) and a small cut towards the town’s art programs.  If Dan were a member of the Republican Party he would labeled as someone that is anti-education or worse, some one that is anti-education.
Verdict: I guess we have to let our children suffer since Dan is a Dem.  "You are going to cut teachers in your budget proposal," was what candidate Drew said to then Mayor Giuliano last fall at the debate at Wesleyan University.  Mmm, cutting  3.5 million dollars to the education budget is a helluva lot of teachers and paraprofessionals who will more than likely lose their jobs. Right, you and Governor Malloy seem to have that covered with the Teacher Reform (aka Spend Money Committee). I guess it's okay for you to do it because you are a Democrat.   


Thanks For Listening!

BOE Special Meeting Tonight to consider Buy-out of Superintendent Frechette's Contract

Mikey, Nancy, and Barb Senges in
 The Insider's version of a "Scream Room" 

The Hartford Courant broke the story his morning that the Middletown Board of Education is set to hold a special meeting tonight to consider the possible buy-out of Superintendent Michael Frechette's contract. The Insider would like to know if the BOE can and will consider a firing of the Superintendent. As reported here, Councilwoman Debra Kleckowki called for the termination of Michael Frechette and  Business Manager extraordinaire Nancy Haynes long before this, and so far has been the only Councilperson to do so.Newly elected Councilwoman Linda Salafia has also made statements regarding actions by Haynes joined in supporting Kleckowski.
The Courant reports:" An agenda for the Wednesday meeting states that the board will meet at 6 p.m. in the central office at 311 Hunting Hill Ave. for a "Discussion and Possible Action on Personnel Matter" in executive session."
 Mayor Drew has not made any statements to the media thus far, we are unclear if the Mayor is in Middletown today or at the State Legislative where his  second office is located.

 Courant article contains the specifics on what is known so far.

http://www.courant.com/community/middletown/hc-middletown-superintendent-buyout-0307-20120306,0,4290473.story

UPDATE: A letter Sent by Councilwoman Kleckowski to BOE elected members
Board of Education members:

I want to express my concern to you prior to tonight's Board meeting. First, there is no doubt that the meeting is going to be difficult, as working with serious personnel matters in not a pleasant experience. I understand that Dr. Frechette may be leaving due to family concerns, which is sad for his daughter. 

Nonetheless, his performance and leadership have been less than optimal and his contract should be terminated. There is no doubt that Dr. Frechette's contract should be terminate immediately. Unfortunately, his administrative decisions have put children and staff in harm's way as has been demonstrated several times with school administrators not calling 911 for gas leaks, fires and severe temperature decreases. 

Additionally, and perhaps most egregious, was the lack of cooperation from the Superintendent to ensure there was proper heat in the Middletown High School shelter during storm Alfred. If you are not aware, the temperature was 50 degrees in the evening putting residents, especially the medically vulnerable and infants, at risk. 

Of course, there is the perpetual labor issues that continue to plague the city and to cost the taxpayers. To date, the business manager remains in her position even though the Department of Labor decided that the position "belonged" to Union 466. When there was an alleged physical altercation between the business manager and another employee the employee was moved, and the business manager remained with no administrative leave. 

Thus, the BOE not adhering to the zero tolerance policy. To add insult to injury, the attorney's fees for this incident are being paid for by taxpayers! I contend that the payment of the business manager's legal fees for the above mentioned matter is a miss use of public funds and the practice should be terminated immediately and fees already paid to the attorney be repaid to the city of  Middletown. 

The list of grievances not reconciled is long. However, I bring to your attention to specific instances that demonstrate cause for an ineffective superintendent and require immediate dismissal. 

First, two years ago, 466 offered to donate sick days to a cafe worker who was seriously ill. Upon receiving a requested MOU from the business manager, Nancy Haynes, the business manager and Dr. Michael Frechette decided not to honor the MOU and declined the sick day donation. This action was reprehensible. 

It was inhumane! Finally, the worker received the donated time, the city had to take the matter to court, but in typical BOE form, many fees were taken from the donation leaving the worker a few hundreds dollars short of the expected amount. The city stepped up and the Common Council voted for an appropriation to make the employee whole. 

Are these the type of people we ant leading our schools? And, now, Josh Berger, son in-law ofCouncilwoman Hope Kasper, is working at the BOE beyond the 90 day allowance. 

And, remember his initial hire where he was offered "teacher benefits"? The  BOE Administration hires inappropriately, they decline certified candidates without cause, they maneuver and manipulate like trained reconnaissance soldiers hiding under the protection of State Stature 10-220. One Million dollars has been overspent. 

Seems as if there has been no accountability from the BOE administration. "Scream Rooms" — I agree time-out/calming room are needed.  But really, open electrical boxes, no padding? 

The mismanagement and ineffective management and continued poor administrative performance, unfortunately determines only one conclusion, Dr. Frechette's contract must be terminated immediately by "mutual consent," as stated under section 6.

Termination section a, contract (6/28/11), signed by Corrine Gill. According the the 2011 contract (original 5-19-05) there is no obligation for a "buyout." This entire ordeal has been difficult on employees, I am sure Dr. Frechette's family and the entire community. 

I urge you to mutually sever the contract only granting sick and vacation time.  There is no reason to provide any additional financial compensation. I wish you the best this evening as I am sure the meeting will be emotionally charged.  Lastly, thank you for your service to the community! 

Deborah Kleckowski
Middletown Common Council Member