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

Todd Berch announces he is not running for ReElection

Westfield - According to those attending tonight's annual Westfield Picnic on the cheaper side of town, Councilman Todd Berch announced to the crowd," I have decided today that I will not be running for re-election."
While some members of the crowd exhaled their disbelief over Berch's announcement others continued to wolf down their bbq chicken and corn on the cob without any worry.  "To be quite honest I wasn't too shocked by this announcement," said J.J.Ramos a resident of East Street. "The Democrats have a nasty habit of tossing off anyone that doesn't kiss their (asks: Can I say that?) asses and Berch did not support their budget vote and was not present during a crucial union vote."  Ramos then went on to add that he has only been to one Common Council meeting about a year and half ago, but does watch them at home when he is babysitting his 2 year old daughter.  It should be noted that Democrats need to announce their slate by August 10th in order to qualify for the 2013 election and it is anyone's guess as to who will replace Berch on the slate.What's happening here? Is two time councilman, James "I keep falling on my sword for the party" Streeto coming back into the fray or could it be the Paul Lynde sounding former mayor for a day (1968?) Vincent Lofreddo returning to the noble and amazing world of M'twn politics.  Keep watching and read more below:

The Democratic Slate 2013 and other facts The ole Middletown Insider has been keeping away from the public like Drew's Chinese itenery and Washington D.C. trip.

1. Todd Berch showed signs of individualized thinking during his term, surely a sore spot with his fellow Democratic councilmen. Only those with tenure and political teeth are allowed to roll the dice in this city and unfortunately for Mr. Berch the Dems couldn't deal, so they the dealt him off. Biggest blunder in the eyes of the D's? Voting against Drew and the Democrat's fiscal budget for 2014 that raises taxes and adds more than $7 million in new spending. Berch and the four Republicans were the only ones looking out for citizens' wallets.  Middletown Insider Rating: Loss for the Dems, Berch was a solid union guy who brought a freshness to the party. With the union person gone, this archetype needs filling. Step forward Labor Lawyer Jamie Mills. Mills was recently appointed to a a variety of committees (to gain name recognition) such as the Riverfront Development Task force for she has nothing logical to offer.

2. BOE member & former Chairman Ted Raczka will  not seeking another terms now that his child has graduated on the city's dime, and after the Frechette Missing Million/Scream Room embarrassment. What do you mean city dime Middletown Insider? Glad you asked, when Raczka was chair of the BOE and Michael "ME" Frechette was in charge of creation, both men formed a gentlmen's agreement with regard to Raczka's son.  Example: I will tell my special education team not to fight in the PPT to send your son on the city's dime to a special education school in Cape Cod. (Coincidentally, The Racka family has a home in the area- quinkiedink..)  Those families who have students with severe disabilities were not able to send their kids to the famous Cape Cod school, it's only good for a fat cat Democrat who wants more of the pie.

3. Ron Klattenberg is vacating his seat on the council without explanation. I see a movie career in his future or more time on the boat.

4. A urban legend is that the queen of Nepotism, Hope Kasper, who is on the Personnel Committee knew all the sorted details about the grievances over at the BOE and the flawed accounting system before shit hit the fan awhile back.Did she accept a deal to lay low until her term is up, vote the party line and keep her mouth shut in exchange for a specially created position tailor made for son-in-law Josh Burger at the BOE Administration? This sounds quite plausible if you ask us.  (Another Democrat fat cat who wants more of the pie)

5. The Democrats advocated for a decrease in treasurer's stipend, shafting Que Phipps. Rumor has it he is not well liked after advocating against increased parking fines downtown, something Mayor Drew and Majority Leader Councilman Tom Serra wanted. It is no secret Phipps covets a council seat, but will the D's give him a chance at council or retaliate and eliminate the treasurer's position all together?  

6. James Streeto vacated his council seat when he was next in line to be the public defender for a high profile home invasion triple homicide case, however was not chosen. Word on the street-O! is that Jim wants back in the game, but do the D's want to play for a THIRD time? You think Street-O would man up and demand that the Dems give him more than friggin Board of Assessment Appeals after everything he has given them over the years. Rumor has it he allows Tom Serra to take his car whenever TS needs to blow off some steam.

7. People-pleaser Vinnie Loffredo strategically stepped down from his council seat to allow Dan Drew to take his place. Why? To pad Drew's swiss cheese resume and give him a first chance at actually holding any public office ever (for 5 months anyway) prior to him becoming mayor. Is it time to call on Cousin Vinnie once again to step in, make nice with the people, and clean up the D's mess? 

Who is left and who is being cannibalized by the D-machine? Keep reading.

Disclaimer: Most of our information is provided by Democrats who want, yep, you guess it... a bigger piece of pie.

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.

Veterans Locally Honored Today & Veteran's Park Project Update

Wreaths laid at Veteran's Cementary today to honor
the fallen.

The Middletown Insider would like to thank all the brave men and women who fought for freedom for this country. Sunday is Veterans’ Day. Today is a day to honor them, their sacrifices, and patriotism in this country. Let us never, ever forget the service of veterans and what that means.

Veterans’ organizations of Middletown held at commemorative ceremonies Sunday, November 11, and at the State Veterans Cemetery on Bow Lane at 2pm.

Local and state dignitaries gave blessings and speeches about the meaning of commemorating veterans.
The Middletown Corale sang the National Anthem and later in the ceremony fallen heroes were commemorated by the playing of Taps. 

Veterans gathered today at the ceremony.

State Veteran's Affairs Commissioner Linda Swartz gave powerful speech asking those present to not only remember the soldiers who had fallen in battle, but those who were plagued by disability both in the form of physical handicaps, mental trauma such as PTSD, and the lasting effects of Agent Orange exposure after combat as well. Swartz asked the crowd to also include in their personal reflections and prayers all soldiers missing in action, and those who had taken their own lives because of trauma experienced as a result their military service.
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Middletown currently has a project in the works to overhaul Veteran's Park. The project will include the Trees of Honor Memorial project which will honor fallen Connecticut soldiers who had lost their lives in the recent Wars on Terror.  This tribute project is being funded by Trees of Honor Incorporated. Councilman Todd Berch (D) who had originally proposed a dog park at Tynan Park in Middletown,which was voted down by the Planning and Zoning Commission, is advocating for the theoretical project's proposed relocation to Veteran's Park. Ultimately, the Common Council will have the final say as to if and where a dog park will be created. A dog park is not in the City's budgeted plan,according to Berch's previous statements to media and before the P&Z Commission, the dog park would be funded by donations. 
The Veteran's Museum temporarily housed at The City of Middletown has plans to build a new Veteran's Museum to replace the annex modular building currently located on the Eckersley Hall property (which just passed referendum to become the new & long awaited Senior Center) to be located at Veteran's Park. The Veteran's Museum temporarily housed in the annex modular building on the Eckersley Hall property will be moved to a new facility to be built at Vet's Park according to the landscape plan done showing the Trees of Honor Memorial.

Brave New Hope and Pension Thoughts!

April 17- Did you see Councilwoman Hope Kasper at last week’s budget hearing with the Mayor Tuesday night?  Well if you did, you sure missed one hell of a battle as Ms. Kasper took the bull by the horns and asked Mayor Daniel T. Drew question after question about the pension fund that Drew’s budget proposal has reduced the amount of funding that will be proposed to be paid into the pension fund.   Kasper was frustrated at times when Deputy Mayor Robert Santangelo called on new Councilman Todd Berch to give his input about Drew’s proposed city pension plan.   Kasper attempted to speak her words of wisdom about the pension plan and became quite upset when Santangelo called her speech, “out of line,” and continued to hear Councilman Berch’s take on the pension situation. 

“Oh, you listen to his point a view about the pension and not mine,” Kasper said harshly to the deputy mayor. “Is it because he is a man?” she asked as she shrugged in her chair.  It is the opinion of this writer that (seriously) Councilwoman Kasper showed courage and confidence at challenging the status quo of her party.  Good for you Hope, keep up the good fight.  One should recall a few years ago the plight of Democrat Debbie Kleckowski whose unpopular views on the Planning and Zoning Committee made her a Democrat target: thus she was quickly outed from the party. (I.e. Had independent views and is a woman??? Mmm, Hope is quite independent and is a woman. See a pattern?) In a strange twist of fate and karma, Kleckowsk swapped her party affiliation from DEM to GOP and was successfully was elected to an office on Middletown's Common Council.  Will  history repeat itself?

The Insider predicts:  Hope Kasper will not be running for Common Council or any other office on the Democrat ticket in 2013.  Don't get it? They will kick her off for having the goNads to stand her ground and speak her mind.   If you don’t agree to go with the Dem flow, (I.e. keep your mouth shut) then you pay the price, and in this case it’s Kasper’s political future.  Will she pull a Christine Bourne and run for mayor against her party? Will she change parties and  primary Earl V. Roberts (Note: Earl's orange vest jacket may be running on the Green Party Ticket) on the GOP side and hope to take the mayor’s office from that angle?   Here are some more predictions about some hopeful Mayoral candidates for 2013:

1)   Barbara Plum- Wants to run for Mayor but spends too much time in Middletown.

2)   Roy Krieger- Would force the city to buy two Mayor mobiles, which would drive the conservatives nutty?

3)   Shannon Blair- Could be a great mayor due to his high connections with city hall.

4)   Ralph Nader- Has to run for something

5)   Mayor McCheese- Has previous executive experience at McDonaldLand; was able to bring the budget in under a billion burgers.

6)   The Cantina- According to the charter, a building is not allowed to run for office. Note: They can have members of The Working Families Party sign their petition.

7)   Michael Johnson- Started as a Working Families party candidate and lost and then when he was appointed to replace a member of the P and Z commission became a Democrat quite quickly.  Hater? Nope, how was he able to change his party that quickly?

8)   Earl V. Roberts: Trust me he wants it so badly! He works on Roberts for Mayor signs in his barn. “Got Taxes?”

9)   Any Republican with the initials S.G. (It's worked three times so far)

10) Sal  C.– Would go to war with Portland and Cromwell and if he won would demand that his seat is next to T.S. and B.S.  “Nuff Said.”