MAYOR’S UPDATE M. Saud Anwar

MAYOR’S UPDATE

M. Saud Anwar

TOWN BUDGET:  School Superintendent, Dr. Carter, has presented her budget. In it, she requests a 1.29% increase. The budget has been approved by the Board of Education and it is under consideration by the Town Council. The Town Manager Matthew Galligan has proposed his budget, which requests a 3.8% increase. This is a proposal, rather than a final budget.  The Town Council is discussing, asking questions, obtaining details and talking to town departments to determine the viability of this proposal. Both, the town government and Board of Education budgets are scheduled to receive a final decision on May 5th.  Unlike previous years, we are hoping to vote and pass the two budgets together. This will allow the Town Council to hear from residents about the component parts of the budget. With this information, the Council will have a more comprehensive picture of all aspects of town cost and resource allocation.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE: Plans for South Windsor’s First Regional Economic Development Conference have been finalized.  It will be held on May 1, 2014, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. There will be two-panel discussions. Details will be sent soon. We are hoping that people would be able to call-in or watch the conference on local cable television. Space is limited.  The conference focus is to explore ways our town and region can pursue quality economic development.  RSVP to the Chamber at 860-644-9442 or info@southwindsorchamber.org

PROPERTY TAX RELIEF: Home owners, who qualify, can apply for reduced property taxes until May 15th, 2014.  Income limits are $34,100 maximum for an individual and $41,600 for a couple. (Local options allow up to $4000 higher income than regular program.)
Applicants need a signed 1040 Federal Tax Form statement. The Human Services department will require information on other sources of income, as well.  Please call 860-648-6361 for more information or to schedule an appointment. 

ENERGY ASSISSTANCE: Applications are still being accepted for energy assistance for those who heat with gas or electricity, only.  Income guidelines are $32,190.08 for individuals and $42,094.32 for couples.  Assets should not exceed $7000 for renters and $10,000 for home owners. Call for an appointment at 860 - 648 - 6361.

 WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY (WPCA): Since my last update, there have been two meetings of the advisory group and the WPCA.  Council members who are part of this advisory group include Councilors Wagner, Pendleton and Delnicki and me. In our conversations, we have done an extensive assessment of the current status and shared  community perspectives. We are actively pursuing areas of opportunity with the WPCA for a phased plan of implementation.

CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET: As stated, South Windsor ranks last in the State for involvement in the capital projects. This is the result of previous Council decisions.  I am hoping to work with Councilor Snyder and Councilor Pendleton to have a public hearing on this topic. I would also like to create an ordinance to ensure that the Town Council will not be able to remove funds from capital projects without a public hearing. 

SOUTH WINDSOR POETRY DAY: April is National Poetry Month. We are planning a very special celebration of Poetry Month and community. South Windsor Poetry Day on Sunday, April 6, 2014, at 2:00 PM, at the Town library.

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. As always, I am anxious to hear your ideas and concerns. 

Dr. Saud Anwar,
Mayor, South Windsor