The Wrap Up Wraps Up This Sunday at 8:00 PM

Tune in to the Final Wrap Up Show with John Sullivan and Ralph Tomaselli Sunday Night at 8:00. We'll cover this weeks stories in the Record Journal and look back over the past two years. Click the Radio Icon on the right side of the blog to listen.

Old Durham Road Appraisal and possible discontinuance of use information

The direct link to the memo is http://tinyurl.com/kpgtsb

Here are some of the highlights to the document as outlined (and the way I see them):

• Connecticut General Statutes 13a-49 governs the discontinuance of roads
• The Council, by majority vote (and I read that as little as 5 to 4) may vote to discontinue the public use of all or part of a road.
• Connecticut General Statutes 7-163e(a) indicates that a public hearing must be held first.
• Connecticut General Statutes 8-24 indicates that the matter must be referred to Planning and Zoning for a report
• If the PZC disapproves, a two thirds vote by the Council can be made to overturn that decision (not 7 out of 9, but two thirds - 6 out of 9)
• Any person aggrieved by the decision to discontinue public use of a road has the right to appeal within eight months of the discontinuance
• The estimated area of the road is said to be 2.4 acres or about 104,544 square feet
• As of June 19 2009 the estimated market value of that road has been designated at $260,000.00 (Two Hundred Sixty Thousand Dollars)

If we as a Town are to seriously consider discontinuing the public use of the road, I like the idea of getting at least 10 acres of that 262 acre space Choate speaks of specifically set aside for use by the Wallingford Little League since that has been a long and ongoing issue here in town.

Additionally, I don’t know if the ask should only be “the appraised value” of the road in general.

An appraised value of something can be quite relative.

A single plate in an antique set might be worth $100.00 but what is it worth to someone that has the other seven plates and needs only that one to complete the set?

Additionally I would like to see a list of town specific benefits and allowed uses of the Choate facilities that are available to town residents.

I did ask for this once and I did not get a response on this specific item (to be fair - it was one out of three “asks” and I got the other two; it may be an oversight and I’ll need to follow up).

So bloggers – what are your thoughts?

Should the town close the road at all? Why or why not?

Should we decide to go that way, should be ask $260,000.00 or should we ask more?

As a part of this effort or perhaps as an unassociated action – should the Town of Wallingford begin negotiations with Choate about payments to the town in lieu of taxes?

Tell us your opinions, tell us the facts the way you see it – we want to know!

Town seeks to re-argue playscape case

Well, it looks like the decision was made by the town (right before the long holiday weekend – was that intentional?) to re-argue the playscape case.

Here are the highlights (and if you want the details you can review Court rules Mountain Brook condo owners can keep playscapes for the ruling and for the appeal go to Town seeks to re-argue playscape case):

A New Haven Superior Court judge issued a ruling that swing sets, playscapes, sheds and oth­er structures in the backyards of the Mountain Brook condominium de­velopment do not violate any of the town’s zoning regulations, potential­ly ending a contentious legal battle dat­ing from October 2006.

“The court … concludes that the record does not substantiate the (Zon­ing Board of Appeals) vote to uphold the cease and desist order,” Judge William Holden wrote. “Accordingly the plaintiff’s appeal from the Zoning Board of Appeals decision to uphold the decision is sustained.”

The town has decided that because the ruling itself is unclear that they have filed a motion to reargue it. “it is difficult to interpret”, according to Town Attorney Janis Small.

“The motion is to see if we can get some further definition to the decision,” Small said Thursday as reported by Dave Moran in the Record Journal on Friday the 3rd of July. “As it was written, the decision doesn’t put us in a position where we know if the court’s decision was based on just the facts of the case or, more importantly, if the court disagreed with the (Zoning Board of Appeals) interpretation of the regulations. There’s a big difference there.”

For me it’s really not unclear at all.

At the base of the argument – the Mountain Brook complex of 63-units built off North Lane built in 2001 was established BEFORE this set of rules was put into place. These zoning regulations were voted on / enacted in the 2003 / 2004 timeframe.

The part that is maybe a little more arguable is the whole position where the residents there maintain that they should be allowed to do what they want “in their own back­yards,” since they pay taxes on the land. (Each condominium owner pays a percentage of the tax bill as­sessed to the development’s com­mon land.)

I can see where that area is a little on the gray side (but I happen to agree with the residents’ opinions there; the difference is what the legal ruling is on that).

To be fair with Town Attorney Janis Small, she did need to file before the expiration date if she wanted to take any action, including just getting this clarification the way I understand it – I hope that is the genuine reason for it.

I think it makes sense to take this action, to get the clarification so that future decisions by Planning and Zoning and the Zoning Board of Appeals are made more precisely.

If it leads to action on the residents in a formal appeal of the ruling by a higher court I am going to be disappointed.

So bloggers – what do you think?

Is this a smart move for Town Attorney Janis Small to be making?

Should the town simply get a clarification on this or should they go for the appeal?

Tell us what you think – we want to know!

REMINDER - TOWN COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT

Quick reminder for everyone that there is a Wallingford Town Council meeting tonight.

The Agenda of Regular Town Council Meeting - June 23, 2009 is provided from the Town of Wallingford website.

The topics that I see of biggest interest include item 6 which is a Public Hearing scheduled for 7PM regarding Public Hearing Neighborhood Assistance Act.

There is also item 10 Presentation of 2010 Revaluation given by the Comptroller/Assessor.

Item 13 is the Presentation by Choate Rosemary Hall of its plans for development and its request to close Old Durham Road as requested by the Mayor.

Item 16 is going to be a Discussion and action regarding recommendation to Connecticut Department of Transportation to identify the North Cherry Street/Parker Street site as a preferred location for commuter rail platform also requested by the Mayor.

The final item on the list is Item 20 Discussion & Possible Action concerning the final draft of the proposed amendments to the Charter of the Town of Wallingford requested by Chairman Mike Brodinsky.

So clearly it is going to be a very full night for the council and the public that might want to attend.

I assume that Choate's request to close Old Durham Road will be one of the more impassioned items discussed.

The Record Journal has reviewed the section of Old Durham Road that Choate wants closed as being poorly maintained, with potholes and uneven pavement and has quoted Town Engineer John Thompson as saying "the road would need a complete reconstruction to be brought up to town standards" with Thompson going on to indicate that he estimated the repair costs at $250,000, with another $6,300 annually for maintenance, repairs and plowing costs.

I have to wonder why we let it get that far out of repair (as with many other things in town) and why we haven't kept the road to standard. To just add that to the argument of why we should sell it doesn't make sense to me.

Cheshire-based Milone & MacBroom was hired to study traffic patterns on the road. I am going to ask (if it is not specified) who hired them; if it was Choate you'd naturally expect that the result of the study would be geared and presented in such a manner to favor the body that is paying the bills. The study also indicated "the closing of Old Durham Road could result in an improvement to public safety."

I don't know what that means. I suppose the closing of Old Durham Road could result in an improvement to public safety if you're talking about the fact that there would never be an accident on the road ever again because it is closed; then I guess I understand the statement but I don't see how that is relevant. That's like saying my grandmother's automotive accident rate has been zero for the past 20 years which is an improvement to public safety. It is a truth. The left out fact is that she hasn't driven a car in 20 years either so it's not at all that her driving has improved but rather the fact that she doesn't drive anymore. So for that comment from Milone & MacBroom I'll need some additional clarification.

Choate Headmaster Edward Shanahan was quoted in the article to say that the closure of the road would amount to a slight inconvenience to many in the area and he admitted to making use of the road as a shortcut himself. He also said the advantages of the environmental center and pledge of 250-plus acres of open space, in perpetuity, far outweigh any potential disadvantages.

"I suspect what the town might be wondering is what are the benefits" to closing that road, Shanahan said. "And I suspect there are many of them."

I am wondering what the benefits would be and if there are "many" I hope they are presented tonight for consideration.

Should the town close Old Durham Road?

If that is the decision, should it be sold to Choate?

Should we instead make the argument that we need to be getting some PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Tax) consideration from Choate going into the future?

Should we sell them the road and ask for PILOT anyway considering the state of the economy?

Should the Council make this decision or should it go straight to the public in a referendum at election time?

What are your thoughts bloggers? We want to know.

A reminder of the “rules of the road” here on the blog

Hi Folks,

I wanted to take a few minutes to remind everyone of the tone that we’d like and need to keep on the blog.

We all realize that we are passionate about what we believe in, otherwise we wouldn’t take the time to express our thoughts here, on other blogs, in the letters to the editor, and elsewhere.

Having said that and knowing that sometimes emotions run high and the fact that postings here are still allowed to be anonymous (which allows for a certain amount of additional courageousness in some) I would like to take the opportunity to remind folks of a few common courtesies and requirements on the blog.

The blog is more or less self policing. If there is something incorrectly posted usually someone more informed or with additional details will come by to post a correction or update with more accurate details. We actually count on all of you to do this. If you know there is a factual error and you don’t want to do this yourself please feel free to email me at Jason@Zandri.net and give me the details and I’ll do it for you.

The blog is a place for opinions. As an example, if you think a certain ordinance was passed that was intended to do one thing but could be leveraged for something else too (good or bad) then you’re free to post your thoughts and point of view. As much as possible, stick to the facts and then understand that someone else is probably not going to share your view and may say so. Feel free to respond but keep it on topic and do not make it personal.

The posts are anonymous. There was a small period of time that John had to stop that practice because of personal attacks on public figures and if I remember correctly it was around the time of the last local election. The reason I mention this is that “tis the season” and in the last few posts some of the commentary input has gone off topic and turned to personal attacks. I’d like to take the time to address it now with a reminder before any other actions have to be taken. If these issues continue we may need to force people to register and sign in before they post in the interest of being able to assign who wrote which comment (and that action is a lot easier for me to do than try to back trace IP addresses through the internet to the originating machines that made the posts).

The bottom line with going off topic – don’t make an anonymous comment of someone else that you wouldn’t sign your name to or say to their face. Yes you have the luxury of making anonymous posts here and that was to encourage people to express themselves without fear of real or assumed repercussions. It was never the intent to allow anonymous posts to let people hide in the obscurity of the internet and randomly make personal attacks. Having said that – the bottom line is it will not be tolerated.

I wanted to offer these reminders to everyone in the interest of fairness and in the hopes of keeping everything civil, above board and on topic as we approach the upcoming local election season.

There is so much to be gained for all in the sharing of information and the fair expression of personal opinion. Let’s try to get the maximum amount of mileage out of that while being as neighborly about it as we can.

Vin Avallone Discusses Mike Brodinsky's Departure Every Weeknight at 7:00 PM

John Sullivan and Ralph Tomaselli interviewed Vin Avallone Sunday Night on the Weekly Wrap Up Show. Discussion included Mike Brodinsky's departure from the ticket, and the advantages and disadvantages of running six candidates. We also discussed Choate Headmaster Ed Shanahan's request that the town close Old Durham Road. Tune in every weeknight at 7:00 PM to the Weekly Wrap Up Show.

Tune in by Clicking on the Radio Icon located on the right side of the blog.

SullivanOneOnOne.com is The Political Pulse of Wallingford.

From the Wallingford Democrat Town Committee Meeting – Present Town Council Chairman Mike Brodinsky will not seek re-election.

At the Democrat Town Committee meeting tonight the full slate of candidates for Wallingford Town Council were announced for this fall. Incumbents Vinny Testa, Vincenzo DiNatale and Nic Economopoulos all announced as planning to run for office again.

Mike Spiteri had previously announced that he would not seek nomination to run again.

Jesse Reynolds had announced his intentions to seek nomination and just this past week John Sullivan had announced that he too would seek nomination as well.

Donald Harwood announced this evening that he would seek the nomination; that was something of a surprise because other than some commentary this could not be confirmed as a fact until this evening.

The biggest bombshell was the announcement by current town council chairman Mike Brodinsky that he would NOT seek nomination or re-election to council and that he was effectively retiring at the end of his term.

There will certainly be some additional news about this going forward from here and I’ll do my best to post the details as I get them but this is an interesting turn of events to say the least.

One could understand that such a personal decision is not something easily come by in such a critical election year; with just a 5 to 4 margin of majority on the council and with no mayoral candidate in site this could be quite a blow to the Democratic ticket this November.

This blogger thinks that there is still a very strong ticket being presented to the voters in the form of a Testa, DiNatale, Economopoulos incumbent offering with prior nominated candidate from the 2007 election Reynolds in the race again with newcomers Sullivan and Harwood thrown into the mix.

Having said all that – the wild card in all the action is the withdrawal from the race of the lead horse in the announcement of Brodinsky’s decision of not seeking re-election.

Does this all by itself negatively impact the Democrats’ chances at maintaining the majority after all is said and done in the November election?

Is this insult to injury for the Democrats? First they cannot field a candidate for Mayor and now their present chairman decides it is time to retire…

These are the facts – what are your thoughts?

We want to know!

MY TAKE - Court rules Mountain Brook condo owners can keep playscapes

The verdict is in - The playscapes can stay and the lawn mower sheds can remain.

A New Haven Superior Court judge issued a ruling late last week that swing sets, playscapes, sheds and other structures in the backyards of the Mountain Brook condominium development do not violate any of the town’s zoning regulations, potentially ending a contentious legal battle dating from October 2006.

(If you’d like to you can read up on the full story on the Record Journal website in the free article titled Court rules Mountain Brook condo owners can keep playscapes).

The Town Attorney, Janis Small, heard of the judge’s decision at its meeting Monday. Town officials have yet to decide if they will appeal.

“That’s being evaluated” Small said Tuesday. “There are different options that can be pursued. We could ask the Appellate Court for an appeal, we could leave the decision as it stands or we can ask the court for a motion to reargue.”

The Record Journal reported that Small said she had some confusion over the judge’s decision, which was only a paragraph long. Typically, she said, legal decisions run several pages.

I don’t see the problem with a small response by the New Haven Superior Court – I understand that most legal decisions run several pages and that may very well be their problem; that leads to open items that can be interpreted another way and argued in an appeal.

Not much additional interpretation is available when the decision is in one paragraph.

Nice, simple and neat – I like that. Next case!

Attorney Janis Small indicated “we could leave the decision as it stands” – I hope that’s the choice the town ultimately goes with.

I wouldn’t understand the reasons if they chose to fight it.

Why spend the town’s money and resources to do that?

What would be the benefit?

To try to make the argument for the original decision?

To make these people comply?

How DARE they fight city hall and WIN too.

There were 26 of the total 63 unit development owners engaged in this fight and they had to shell out about $1,000.00 each out of their own pockets in legal fees.

They appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals and were shot down 3-2. They then took the town to court and won.

In my mind’s eye they were right in the first place and needed to take the extra step and personal expense to fight the town when they probably shouldn’t have needed to.

There is no monetary benefit to the town to engage in further battle on this; in fact it will COST time, money and resources and for what end game?

Let’s hope the town leaves it alone and that this is the end of the story; a happy end for all 63 unit owners at Mountain Brook due to the willingness of 26 to fight city hall.

You’ve heard my take – what’s yours?

Was the original 3-2 decision by the ZBA right or wrong?

Did the town get a raw deal in New Haven Superior Court?

Should Town Goliath go after unit owner Davids now in an appeal?

We want to hear what you think – bring it on!

MY TAKE - A New Voice Carries On A 3 Year Tradition @ SullivanOneOnOne.com

Thanks for the introduction and warm welcome John as well as the opportunity to temporarily carry on the work here at your blog Sullivan One On One as you begin your campaign efforts for a seat on the Wallingford Town Council.

I’m sure I share many of the same thoughts of the countless readers of your blog when I say we’re all looking forward to this campaign season as it gets underway this summer and the opportunity to hear fresh voices about how all the candidates plan to continue to keep Wallingford as one of the best places in the country to live in.

As mentioned, I am tasked to “play it down the middle” as is the theme on this blog and that the blog itself remains the registered property of Sullivan Broadcasting LLC and I will do my very best to do just that.

Having said all that – I am looking forward to get started!

See you on the virtual airwaves Sunday evening @ 8PM EDT where I will be tuning in to listen to the Weekly Wrap Up Show with you and Ralph.

A New Voice Carries On A 3 Year Tradition @ SullivanOneOnOne.com

A new voice will be heard on our Blog as the Political season gets under way. Jason Zandri now has the keys to the blog and has been entrusted to keep our coverage of Wallingford's Political scene down the middle.

Jason Zandri is a former Council candidate whose voice goes beyond partisan politics in Wallingford. I'm pleased to announce he will be writing all of our blog coverage from this point forward.

Its should be a very exciting year in local politcs for both republicans and democrats. Both parties have taken steps to push their platforms to the next level by bringing in younger candidates that have fresh idea's. Jason will have his work cut out for him to keep up.

Just as a point of information, Jason has been given free reign of the blog with only one catch. he plays it down the middle and reports it fairly. The Blog remains the registered property of Sullivan Broadcasting LLC.

Thank you Jason for stepping in as my replacement. I wish you well.

RTC Pressure Thrusts LeTourneau Back On Bus

Pressured by the possibility that incumbent councilor John LeTourneau might petition his way on to the republican slate, committee members did an about face Wednesday evening and decided seven names on the ballot may not be so bad after all.

It was just a month ago that the freshman councilor declared he was in shock over the results of the republican committee vote that kicked him to the curb, nominating instead three newcomers in Craig Fishbein, Vin Cervoni, and Tom Laffin.

Republican Chair Bob Prentice broke executive session protocol when he informed the R-J's Dave Moran "John made a statement to the executive board that he is going to run on the ballot whether its by selection at the caucus or a petition to get on the ballot" This proved to be enough of a threat that the committee approved by a majority vote LeTourneau's candidacy.

Does LeTourneau's spot on the slate strengthen or weaken the republican ticket. Long time republican and former Councilor Dave Gessert felt the ticket was stronger with LeTourneau and six other candidates. But if that's the case, why would the republicans initially deny LeTourneau? The jury's still out on that question.

If we had to guess we would say it was LeTourneau's voting record on key issues that initially cost him. LeTourneau broke with the republican minority on several votes including the American Legion, Animal Shelter, and Fireworks. LeTourneau also recommended furloughs over contractual wage freezes and layoffs which ran contrary to the mayors across the board wage freezes. Going against the mayor is taboo in the republican world.

If your a republican there is a positive side, a month from now at the republican caucus this will all be forgotten and seven republican council candidates will stroll into Moran Middle School arm in arm to the tune of "we are family, I got all my brothers with me" Tongue in cheek aside, this was probably the best course correction the republicans could make. Its always best to be unified at caucus time, but like a bad burn this will always leave a scar on John LeTourneau. It's doubtful he'll have the same trust he once had with his party. What was it an aging Vito Corleone told his youngest son Michael "Keep your friends close, your enemies closer"

I wish you well John, but remember, even if you didn't get the nomination and you needed to petition your way on, Eco had your back.

I Will Seek The Nomination of My Party For Town Council

It was a decision that took me months to make and it wasn't easy, but after weighing personal responsibilities to my family and my employer, I have decided the time is right to seek my party's nomination for Town Council.

I want to thank those of you that have approached me and urged me to run. I appreciate your support and kind words.

Republicans Throw Letourneau Under The Bus...Not Nominated For Second Term

In what can only be described as a "shocker" the Republicans failed to endorse freshman Councilor John Letourneau for a second term. On Wednesday night the Republicans nominated a six candidate slate that included Robert Parisi, Vin Cervoni, Tom Laffin, Rosemary Rascati, Craig Fishbein, and Jerry Farrell. Long time Councilor Robert Parisi garnered the most votes, while Jerry Farrell received the least. Farrell was the top republican vote getter in the 2007 election.

In a Town Committee meeting which drew about seventy committee members, the committee nominated newcomer Craig Fishbein and Board of Education member Tom Laffin. Also on the slate will be Vin Cervoni. Cervoni ran unsuccessfully for Council in 2007. Cervoni has served on the P&Z Board of appeals and the Charter Commission. We feel good about a Cervoni candidacy.

Tom Laffin who has served two terms on the Board of Education was well supported in his first attempt at securing a nomination. Craig Fishbein gained notoriety while rallying Leigus Road residents in a successful P&Z Mosque battle over Edible Arrangement owner Tarik Farid. As a follower of local politics, it was evident Fishbein was setting his sites on a run for council run in 2009 as you couldn't turn on a Council or Charter meeting without him showing up on the screen.

Letourneau's fate may have been sealed when he voted with the Democrats on cutting the animal shelters budget, something the Mayor advised against. Letourneau also proposed furloughs for municipal employees while the mayor pushed for wage freezes. It became more and more evident over the course of Letourneau's term that he wasn't playing ball with the Mayor. That all caught up to him Wednesday night.

There's no doubt that the Republicans want control of the council at all costs. Exiling one of the more honest members of the party should send a signal to voters this year. The republicans would rather nominate more rubber stamps for the Mayor than free thinking, bipartisan candidates who are looking out for you and me and willing to reach across party lines.

Letourneau does have the option of petitioning his way on to the 2009 Republican slate, similar to what democrat Nick Eco did in 2007. Its somewhat ironic that two years ago Letourneau was riding high on the Republican bus, this year he was tossed under it. We have yet to identify the driver of the bus that hit Letourneau, but we'll keep our ear to the rail and report what we find.

Was Letourneau penalized for being a bipartisan, open minded, forward thinking Councilor who refused to be a Dickinson lackey? We think he was. Let us know what you think.

VNA CUT MY BE RESTORED....MAYOR & UNION STALEMATE

SullivanOneOnOone.com was first to report that the Council would overturn their initial decision to cut $18,600 from the Animal Shelter budget.

The Visiting Nurses may also find themselves on the receiving end of the next council meeting. Confidential sources have indicated that the VNA cuts may be restored for budget year 2009/2010.

In other news it appears talks between the Administration and local unions are not going well. The Dickinson administration is seeking concessions in the way of wage freezes and has not included contractual wage increase dollars in the 2009/2010 budget.

If the Administration fails to negotiate concessions with the unions Dickinson would likely have one of two options he could exercise, pay the contractual increases or initiate layoffs.

Join us this Sunday night at 8:00 PM for another LIVE Edition of the the Wrap Up. Click on the Radio icon on the right side of the Blog to listen

Council Goes to the Dogs to Squeeze More From The Mayors Proposed Budget

The Council went to the Dogs to find more than eighteen thousand dollars to put back in the town coffers by tapping into the interest of one residents generosity. The estate of local resident Susan Juul bequeathed almost $691,000 dollars to the Animal shelter with the stipulation that the money be used for the purpose of improving and maintaining the health and well being of the animals sheltered at the Pent road facility. This would include improvements to the facility.

Chairman Brodinsky made a motion to reduce the Animal Shelters budget Tuesday night by $18,600 and apply the interest earned from the Juul account to make up the difference. A brilliant maneuver by the Council Chair, but one that ignited debate between the Mayor and Chair. Brodinsky added that the reduction in the Animal Shelter budget could possibly be used to fund the towns fourth of July fireworks or the Wallingford Symphony Orchestras outdoor concert. While we feel there may be other more pressing municipal uses for the money, we agree that funding these public events could be an option.

Brodinskys motion passed by a 7-2 margin with only Councilors Parisi and Rascati voting against the motion. Dickinson countered the motion stating he did not agree with the Chair's motion and that the town is not using the money within the overall harmony of Susan Juuls gift. The Mayor further stated that the gift was not meant to be used towards operating costs. The Chair dispatched the Mayors comments quickly by thanking him and moving on.

While the Mayor stipulated that he did not feel the town should use the funds for supplementing operating costs, Animal Control Officer Lisa Seyler stated she wanted to use a portion of the funds to renovate older sections of the pound trumping the Mayors concern.

Brodinsky's out of the box thinking in harsh economic times is refreshing. It demonstrates the inside out manner in which Brodinsky is seeking to surgically find more dollars in the Mayors already pared down budget proposal. This is how government should work. We applaud Brodinskys forward thinking and hope he continues to dissect each and every line item.

While the Mayors protest was noted, it was quickly dispatched by the Council chair. This is something that never happened in a Republican Council majority. The Mayor knew he was outgunned on this one and fell silent on the issue. This is a great example of a government in balance and proves the Mayor is not always the final word on any one topic.

It is an election year, and those current Councilors that may be seeking re-election know chopping the Mayors proposed budget could be their "Golden Ticket" back in November's election . It could be the perfect storm for taxpayers and politicians alike, we win with little or no increase in taxes and they win with our confidence for another term in office.

Was reducing the Animals Shelters budget the right decision? We want to know.

Mayors Budget Secures Another Term 7 Months Before Election

Mayor Dickinson's current budget was described as "austere" by the Record-Journal in Thursdays morning edition. I looked up the word austere in Webster's on-line dictionary and found that its an adjective meaning "stern and cold in appearance or manner" That's not the meaning I had in mind when I read Dave Moran's top of the fold headline which should have read "Dickinson Wins Another Term in April" Austere in Dickinsons Dictionary translates to "re-elected" In Sullivan's Dictionary Austere means "outstanding"

Now I know both Ralph and I have been critical in the past on some of the Mayors decision, but we always try to give credit where its due. On this years proposed budget Bill Dickinson has hit a home run one week before the baseball season starts, and at least three months before the 2009 political season. We salute his efforts at this point in the budget process and hope he's got enough to go all the way to zero.

This years proposed budget sits at just a little over a half million more than last years. That dollar amount could certainly be down to zero with some surgical cuts, possibly on the school budget. Unfortunately the proposed budget removes this years fourth of July fireworks and the WSO Concert. Perhaps we can find corporate sponsors to fill that shortfall on this years budget. Hello corporate Wallingford are you listening?

We'll talk about the Mayors proposed budget this Sunday on the Wrap Up Show. Tune in by clicking the Radio icon on our blog. The show is LIVE at 8:00 PM.

Councilor Letourneau Weighs In On Charter Violation On-Demand at SullivanOneOnOne.com

Councilor John Letourneau weighed in on Town Attorney Janice Small's recent opinion on Financial Charter Violation on this weeks Wrap Up Internet Radio Show. You can hear the program ON-DEMAND by logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ At the Home Page Click on our Audio On-Demand icon and click on this weeks show.

Wrap Up On Hiatus, Will Return To The Airwaves March 1st

Ralph and John are on vacation for the next two weeks but will return on Sunday, March 1st at 8:00 PM.

Local High School Hoops Can Be Found On SullivanOneOnOne.com

Jimmy Eco and the Lyman Hall Trojans host Joe Gaetano's Sheehan Titans in a Crosstown Housatonic Division Clash this Tuesday Night at the Fred Schipke Gymnasium. Game Time is set for 7:30 PM following the Varsity Girls Tilt at 6:00 PM.

You can check out our Game Day Broadcast of the first meeting of these teams this weekend on WPS Cable Channel 19. Game Day Wide Screen High Quality DVD's of Tuesdays game and the first meeting between these two Housy Powerhouses are available "Only" at Http://SullivanOneOnOne.com Click our Link to check out "Game Day" highlights of all our broadcasts. You can also check out our Video Library for more selections.

Controversial Councilor John LeTourneau Is On-Demand Now

Even if "You Live Under A Bridge" you can still Tune in to the Wrap Up Show to hear Republican Councilor John LeTourneau on Sand for Seniors, At Large Councilors, Minutes on the Town Website, and the 2009/2010 budget. You'll find Councilor John LeTourneau and the rest of your legislators only at http://sullivanoneonone.com/

We are the Political Pulse of Wallingford.

To listen click on this link http://sullivanoneonone.com/ at our Home page click on our On-Demand Audio Link.

John and Ralph Select This Years Top Stories

WOW! What a year 2008 has been in Wallingford. We've seen residents organize to defeat a Mosque proposal and others collect hundreds of signatures to re-examine the town charter. We watched as 390 Center Street came tumbling down while just around the corner the former Legion Building sits, possibly awaiting a similar fate after sales options fell short.

Teachers, PTO, PTA, Paraprofessionals, school Administrators Union officials, and BOE members stormed town hall in June effectively ending the Councils budget cut bid. Paraprofessionals demonstrated on Main and Center voicing opposition over failing to gain much needed medical benefits.

A Fish Ladder was approved to be built on the Quinnipiac River, the same river Cytec had requested to dump 500,000 gallons of treated waste into.

The Mayor gave us the quote of the year when responding to Council Chair Mike Brodinskys line of questioning on Veteran Center hiring practices. (You can hear that quote to the right of the Blogs main page)

In sports we cheered for the might Trojans in the SCC Championship Boys Basketball game at Gampel Pavilion. We also lost good friends in Kenneth Robinson and Town Council Watchdog Pat Melillo.

The newly formed Ethics Commission also came under scrutiny for not finding probable cause to open an investigation on forming an Insurance Commission. These are just a few of the Wallingford stories we covered on this weeks wrap up show.

Tune in On-Demand Right now to hear John and Ralph cover all the stories that made the headlines in Wallingford and announce their top 3 stories of 2008.
Click this link http://sullivanoneonone.com/ once there click our On-Demand Audio icon. When the Player appears click on the Wallingford Top Stories 2008 file. See if your picks match ours.

What do you feel were the top three Wallingford stories in 2008? We want to know.

Comerford Resigns Prior to Council Approval

Outspoken Town resident Bill Comerford has withdrawn his name from Council consideration for a position on the Housing Authority Board. Comerford, an outspoken resident who has taken the Mayor to task on the failure to appoint an insurance commission, withdrew his name quietly through an email to Council Chair Michael Brodinsky.

Mr. Comerford defeated long time democrat and former councilor Tom Zappala in a November Democrat Committee vote to secure the nomination. Comerford at the time brought pictures of some of the issues confronting residents living in subsidized housing.

While we do not know the exact reason for Mr. Comerford's decision not to go before the council for appointment, we do know that his representation on the Housing Authority would have certainly benefited current residents.

We'll keep you posted and attempt to contact Mr. Comerford for more information. It will be back to the drawing board for the democrats who will not meet again until January 2009.

What do you think about Mr. Comerford withdrawing his bid to serve on the Housing Authority Board? We want to know.

Meet The Titans..The 2008 Samaha Bowl

Meet the Mark T. Sheehan Titans as they prepare for Wednesday's 37th Annual Samaha Bowl. You can pick up a Game Day Video of this game for only $22.95 by sending a check to John Sullivan, 62 Dutton Street Wallingford Connecticut 06492. Our Game Day DVD is filmed in High Quality 16x9 Wide-Screen by Videographer Bud Bassoli. Plus, you'll get play by play and analysis by John Sullivan and Ed McCarver. Our High Quality DVD's make great Christmas gifts and will be a lasting memory of the 37th Annual Samaha Bowl. We also have available last years Samaha and Carini Bowls for the same low price of $22.95.

Meet The Trojan Players...The 2008 Samaha Bowl

Meet the Lyman Hall Trojan Powder Puff Squad that will travel to Riccitelli Field Wednesday to do battle with crosstown rival the Sheehan Titans in the 2008 Samaha Bowl. Check out the highlights at Http://SullivanOneOnOne.com You can also purchase a Game Day Video of this annual event for only $22.95. Mail your check to John Sullivan, 62 Dutton Street Wallingford Connecticut and your High Quality Wide-Screen DVD will arrive at your home via First Class Mail. Its a perfect Christmas gift or a memorable keepsake of "your game" Filmed by videographer Bud Bassoli, the 2008 Samaha Bowl will feature John Sullivan and Ed McCarver behind the mic's calling all the action. Our Broadcast team has over ten years of experience covering the statewide and local sports scene. We also offer the 2007 Samaha and Carini Bowls on High Quality Wide-Screen DVD. (Sullivan Broadcasting LLC is a Connecticut registered business)

Sheehan Girls Receive Their Shirts

Exclusive Video of the Sheehan Titan Girls receiving their Game Day Shirts from Head Coach Cheryl Colwick. Keep it here for Game Day Coverage of the 2008 Samaha Bowl from John J. Riccitelli Field.

Dont forget to get your very own High Quality Wide-Screen DVD of this historic local event. For only $22.95 you'll have a High Quality DVD that you'll treasure for years to come. Filmed by Videographer Bud Bassoli, you'll get all the play by play action from Wallingfords favorite Sports Team of John Sullivan and Ed McCarver. Our team has over ten years of experience in broadcasting local sports. To get your copy of the 2008 Samaha Bowl delivered to your home via U.S. First class mail, send a check in the amount of $22.95 to: John Sullivan, 62 Dutton Street Wallingford Connecticut 06492. (Sullivan Broadcasting LLC is registered with the State of Connecticut)

We also have availble High Quality Copies of the 2007 Samaha and Carini Bowls. Pick up your copy for only $22.95 while they last.

We Remember Pasquale Melillo....Council Watchdog

Pasquale "Pat" Melillo a local fixture at Town Council Meetings passed away Wednesday at 83 years old. Seated front right at most council meetings, Pat was known to wear a paperbag hat with a fork and spoon in it. During an appearance on one of my early television shows, I asked Pat what the hat signified, he stated that he put it on when he felt Councilors were speaking with a "forked tongue"

Pat also found most local, state, and federal problems were due to apathy. Pat made Council meetings almost entertaining with his questions, comments, observations, and antics. He alone turned Tuesday night Council meetings into "must see" TV on WGTV Channel 20. Scott Hanley of Channel 20 must have some clips of classic exchanges between Pat and than Council Chair Robert Parisi. When Pat went on a tangent his voice rose three octaves, which raised the ears of every neighborhood dog. I came home after one Council meeting only to find my electric garage door going up and down. Only Pat spoke at that specific frequency.

I'm going to miss the humorous introductions, Pat "Luigi Linguini" Pat "Spaghetti Bender" and so many others. Here's to you Pat. When you get to Heaven, l hope the Public Question and Answer period is more than 30 minutes long. Rest in Peace my friend.

Dems Nominate Bill Comerford To Fill Housing Authority Posiiton

William Comerford was nominated by the Democrat Town Committee on Wednesday evening to fill a position on the Housing Authority Commission. The opening became available when Commissioner Thomas Mezzei decided not to seek another term.

Mr. Comerford has been outspoken on Charter Reform and the Mayors decision not to form an insurance commission. Mr. Comerford brought this same issue before the newly formed Ethics Commission by filing a complaint against the Mayor along with local resident Wes Lubee. The Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint.

To some, Bill Comerford is a loose cannon. A resident that seems hung up on details and accountability, freely voiceing his opinions at Council meetings. To others, Bill Comerford is a patriot of the democratic process. Maintaing checks in our local government by asking questions and taking on Wallingford's elected officials.

During the Committees nomination process Wednesday evening, Mr. Comerford came prepared with photo's depicting deplorable conditions at several of the subsidized housing complexes. Peeling paint, missing ceiling tiles and rusty baseboard heaters were just some of the pictures Mr. Comerford brought with him Wednesday evening. An obvious harbinger that Bill Comerford will take the job seriously.

Committe Chair Vin Avallone stated he felt the nomination of Mr. Comerford would certainly benefit the Housing Authority.

Former Town Councilor Tom Zappala was also nominated for the Housing Authority position Wednesday evening. When the votes were tallied Comerford secured the nomination 31-17.

The Housing Authority Board has had its share of contentious moments in the past, including the salary and benefits package afforded its Director Stephen Nere. Will Comerfords nomination to the Authority be good news for the residents currently living in subsidized housing? We think it might.

Mr. Comerford's nomination will now go before the Town Council for appointment.

What do you think? We want to know.

Para Union President Ann McDonald Discusses Para Benefits and Arbitration

Sunday on the Wrap Up Show we discussed the Jacunski-Humes Police Study that was released this week. Plus, Para-Professional Union President Ann McDonald was our on-air guest and discussed the Para's contract and their fight to get health benefits. Finally, we discussed the closing of Bolio's Sporting Goods. I urge you to check out the Space Needs Assessment on MyRecordjournal.com

Listen to this weeks Wrap Up Show by logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ click the AUDIO ON-DEMAND ICON. When the Player appears click on "Paraprofessional"

Coalition for Unity President Robby Robinson on the Election, and Ralph Explodes Over Para-Professionals Lack of Benefits. It's ON-DEMAND Now!

This Sunday on the Wrap Up Show we discussed Tuesday's Historic Election with Wallingfords Coalition for Unity President Robby Robinson. Mr. Robinson spoke on how it feels to be an African American during what can only be described as the countrys most historic election ever. We also discussed Para Professional benefits and the Trash to Energy Plant. We also took all the credit for Elizabeth Estys victory over Al Adinolfi in the 103rd district. Tune in ON-DEMAND by logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ On our Homepage click on the ON-DEMAND AUDIO Symbol, once the player comes up click on Robby Robinson interview 11-9-08

Listen To Councilor Nick Eco on the Legion Sale Plus P & Z's Patrick Birney on the Mosque On-Demand

Now Playing On-Demand hear Town Councilor Nick Eco discuss the Councils decison not to sell the American Legion, plus Planning and Zoning member Patrick Birney on the denial of the Mosque proposal.

The Movers and Shakers of Wallingford Politics can be found only on SullivanOneOnOne.com.

Listen to this weeks show ON-DEMAND by Logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ and click on our ON-DEMAND Audio icon. When the Player appears click on the Eco & Patrick Birney audio file.

SullivanOneOnOne.com...We are the "Political Pulse" of Wallingford

Council Sentences Legion Hall To A Slow Deteriorating Death....

The Council's decision not to sell the former Legion Hall to Investor Joseph Gouveia is a death sentence for the deteriorating building. Gouveia's offer of $65,000 dollars and a promise to restore the building to its former glory failed to garner enough votes from the council to sign the title over to the winery owner.

The Councils collective failure to sell the property plays to the Mayors hand of razing the former Legion home. A lawsuit brought forward by Attorney General Blumenthal is the only obstacle currently standing in Dickinsons way.

While some Councilors may have felt the $65,000 dollar bid was too low, wait until the bill arrives for the litigation the town will pay to bring Blumenthals suit to conclusion, should the administration go that route. Tack on to that the cost of razing the building and carting it away.

The town has three options at this point. The first is to list the property again and see if a better offer comes before the Council. The second option is to go on the offense and take Blumenthal on through the courts. The final option is to do nothing and wait until the building actually falls in to itself. A plan the Mayor and some Councilors would likely approve of.

The Legion Hall is just one more example of how bad our local government manages its real estate. We consistently buy high and sell low. The reason we sell low is due to rotting condition we usually leave the property in. Examples? Simpson School. LaRosa Construction got it for a bargain price, and why not? We left it to rot for almost twenty years before we finally sold it. Thank you for taking it off our hands Mr. DeRosa.

Selling the legion property to Mr. Gouveia was the right thing to do. The town would have collected $65,000 dollars, avoided the cost's of litigating the states case, and spared the cost of razing the building. The town would also have added another property to the tax rolls, and have a period restoration where a decaying building once existed. Keep in mind the town owns the Parade Ground in front of the property. Mr. Gouveia would own the actual building and the footprint it sits on. That's it.

The Council on Tuesday night handed the Mayor the keys to the wrecking ball. Democrats and Republicans.

The Legion now sits on death row, only death will not come quickly to the legion, it will be a long and drawn out affair until it eventually falls into itself. It's inevitable. Its also the standard way we handle Real Estate in Wallingford. No surprise on the outcome here.

Charter Reform Commission Member Vin Cervoni Is Now On-Demand

Republican Charter Commission member Vin Cervoni was our guest this Sunday (10-12-08) on the Wrap Up Show. You can hear the interview now ON-DEMAND

Tune in by logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ and click on our On-Demand Icon. When the Player appears click on Vin Cervoni.

Democrat "Maverick" Nick Economopoulos & Bob Parisi Talk About Charter Revision on The Weekly Wrap Up Show

Councilors Nick Economopoulos and Bob Parisi were this weeks Guest on the Wrap-Up Show with John Sullivan and Ralph Tomaselli. Economopoulos, the Maverick of the Democrats Council Majority and Republican Councilor Parisi defended their positions on Charter Reform . Find out why Eco was against appointing a Charter Commission and how he rates his first two months on the council, plus Councilor Parisi speaks out about the Commuter Railroad Line and what we must do for downtown success.

Tune in logging on to http://sullivanoneonone.com/ and clicking ON-DEMAND AUDIO. Once the player appears click on Weekly Wrap Up Show Nick Economopoulos and Bob Parisi.

SullivanOneOnOne.com We are the Political Pulse of Wallingford

Charter Revision: Is It All About The Mayors Power? You Bet It Is.

The Push by democrats for Charter Revision hit a stonewall at last weeks Council meeting. Chairman Mike Brodinsky, according to the Record-Journal initiated discussion on forming a Charter Revision Committee to address arcane and outdated sections of the Charter.

The discussions failed to produce any forward movement on Charter reform for several reasons. The first and most important reason is that the democrats failed to pursuade their own majority into thinking this was a good idea. Democrat Nick Economopoulos stated he failed to see the need to form a commission and felt the Council had too many other important projects to deal with. Six of nine votes are needed for approval which translates to the dems finding one Republican to swing vote on the issue, if you think thats possible I have a bridge to sell you.

The "fireworks" finale was when former Republican Councilor Steve Knight took to the public microphone and made it clear that what Charter Revision actually gets down to is the democrats inability to unseat 13 term Republican William Dickinson. "Now it may be the elephant in the room, but its real" stated Knight.

Mr. Knights point is well taken. It is crucial for the democrats to legitimize their majority on the council if they are to maintain control for consecutive terms. Weakening the Republican stronghold, the Mayors office, and the Mayors power, would have been a home run for the dems majority led Town Council. Unfortunately, their position failed to be supported within their own party.

The Democrats would have been wiser to cultivate a new candidate and run a positive campaign to unseat Mayor Bill Dickinson. Charter Revision might than not be needed as a tool to combat what dems failed to do in the November election, knock off Bill Dickinson.

The democrats Council majority may be running with their shoelaces tied together right now, but we can all hope that one day they may lay aside the ax they continue to grind for Bill Dickinson and the Republicans, and work for the betterment of the town.

What is boils down to is power. The Mayors Office holds it and everyone else wants it.

What do you think? We want to know.

MyRecordJournal.Com "Tomorrows Headlines Today" With Ralph Tomaselli

He's turning into a bigger Media Ham than Porky Pig, and SullivanOneOnOne.com will take some of the credit, or most of the blame. Check out my Weekly Wrap Up partner Ralph Tomaselli everyday at 1:00 PM at MyRecordJournal.com to see what stories the R-J is covering in Tomorrow paper.

You can watch Ralphs Video update daily at 1:00 PM by clicking on this link Http://Myrecordjournal.com and "Catch Tomorrows Headlines Today" with Ralph Tomaselli.

Don't forget to join us LIVE in the studio every Sunday at 8:00 PM for the Weekly Wrap Up Show. This Sunday (2-10-08) we'll discuss Charter Revision and find out why all the Democrats were not on board with appointing a Charter Revision Committee.

Gessert Predicts Lower Electric Rates / John Letourneau-Shocked By Bids To Raze 390 Center Street

Do not miss this weeks Wrap Up Show which was taped on Saturday 2-2-08 and is now available via our ON-DEMAND AUDIO link. Just click on our website http://sullivanoneonone.com/ and choose Wrap Up 2-2-08 Gessert-Letourneau.

Dave Gessert discussed the possibility of lower electrical rates should a new plan to purchase several smaller power companies by our current grid provider move forward . Gessert also discussed Cytecs waste-water request to pump approximately 500,000 gallons per day thru Wallingfords Treatment plant, this on the heels of Cytecs recent fine and contribution to an environmental group.

Republican Councilor John Letourneau stated he was shocked when he read the Record-Journals article on solicitation of bids to raise 390 Center Street. Letourneau, a preservationalist, made it clear the Mayor never discussed the topic with the Council prior to the article.

Tune in and listen ON-DEMAND. http://sullivanoneonone.com/

We are the Political Pulse of Wallingford!