Mayor’s Update…
As your Mayor, I will try to provide regular updates on projects, meetings, and that affect the residents of South Windsor.
Find out what's happening in South Windsorfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
AMBULANCE SERVICES IN SOUTH WINDSOR:
Our Town Council unanimously voted to change the town’s ambulance service. This was based on the need to have advanced life support service available in our community. Recognizing the demographic changes and the nature of more complex diseases, the Council decided to change services. The ASM will be present within South Windsor to make sure that the response time is appropriate. A recent presentation made by ASM will be posted on the town’s website. The specifics parameters of our relationship and expectations are being drafted, clarified and will be shared.
Find out what's happening in South Windsorfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
ORIENTATION FOR THE TOWN COUNCIL – PRELUDE TO STRATEGIC PLAN:
Town governance is a complex process. To provide newer council members - like me – to learn about various town departments, we held a long orientation process. During the next few weeks, we will plan to hold meetings of the Strategic Planning Committee, on the Mondays during which we have no regular meeting scheduled. We will use this time to develop short, intermediate and long term strategic plans.
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAMS (CERT)
CERT training has already begun. A group has already started their meetings every Thursday to receive training that will prepare them to respond in an emergency situation. I am pleased that we have moved forward on this important aspect of community preparedness.
MDC (Metropolitan District Commission)
The “General Surcharge “ rate increase, imposed by the MDC, has generated a good deal of concern among residents. These changes will affect over 1800 residents. I spoke at the Board Meeting of the MDC, where I explained the impact these rate changes. I also discussed this issue with some Glastonbury Town Council members and spoke to several State Representatives. Together, we are looking for legislative and legal solutions.
WPCA: (Water Pollution Control Authority)
We had several constructive meetings with chair and members of the WPCA, including Chairman Richard Aries, Town Representative Fred Shaw, the Town Manager, Councilor Wagner, and Councilor Pendleton. As a result, we know that the accounting mechanism for the WPCA will be changed next fiscal year. We have a more comprehensive understanding about the documentation of the Capital funds, reserve funds and current status and sewer charges. There will be a meeting with the WPCA and TC member Committee to discuss rates, in February. WPCA representatives spoke at a Town Council meeting. The presentation will be available on our website.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROPOSAL:
A detailed proposal on the Elementary School project has been presented to the Town Council. The plan is available on Town website. The new school would provide much needed safety and environmental standards. If you have questions, please send them to us. The town council will be planning and voting on the potential uses of the Wapping School. Moving the Parks and Recreation Department to the Wapping School would allow additional space for the community Center. More space for the Senior Center will ensure that excellent services continue to be provided to and to the seniors and the community at-large.
TOWN MEETINGS:
I continue to try to make our town meetings more efficient. We have been trying to complete the “business” segment of the meeting earlier. We are trying to provide a fair opportunity for public comment. It is important for us to hear the opinions and perspectives of our residents. I know all of our council members are accessible via email and do read your concerns.
YOUR IDEAS, CONCERNS AND OTHER ISSUES:
As most of you already know, I continue to hold office hours to discuss the issues of your concern. I understand that sometimes it's important to have a private, in-depth conversation. You can make an appointment to talk with me by calling 860-644-2511 extension 206. Debbie Reed will assist you.
I will continue to keep you updated on our Town Council meetings and the progress we are making. I am hoping to have another update next week. As always, I am anxious to hear your ideas and concerns.
Dr. Saud Anwar,
Mayor, South Windsor
