Just Another Tax? State approved home insurance rates skyrocket.

Homeowners Brace For Insurance Spike
by Patricia Daddona - published by The Day - May 17, 2007

More than 4,000 home insurance customers with the Middlesex Mutual Assurance Co. in towns from Old Saybrook to Ledyard will be getting rate increases of 85 percent.

Middlesex is one of four insurance companies for which sizeable rate increases have been approved under new state Insurance Commissioner Thomas Sullivan.

Coastal homeowners typically are charged rates at the high end of a range of increases. At Middlesex, for instance, other homeowners could have a 3 percent decrease or an increase of just 2 or 9 percent, but those in the shoreline towns of Stonington, New London and Old Lyme will have 85 percent hikes.

Kevin Reardon of the Reardon Agency in Waterford and John Scott of the Bailey Agency in Groton said this is just the beginning.

“If every single insurer takes exponential rate increases, where are homeowners going to go?” asked Reardon. “Once one insurance company does it, they're all going to do it. Regrettably, it's going to be a position where the homeowner has no resort.”

“The cost to us increased more than 100 percent” for reinsurance, said Chris Anderson, a spokesman for Middlesex. “We do buy the highest level of reinsurance catastrophic protection because we care about our clients. I think that's reflected in the fact that we are rated by A.M. Best as A+, a superior rating.”

Judy Jackson, chief executive officer of the Norwich-based New London County Mutual Insurance Co., gave reasons why her company will raise its rates as much as 64 percent, with 43 percent the norm in New London County.

“For two years now,” Jackson said, “we've lost money on virtually every coastal policy we write because of the expensive catastrophe

reinsurance. What industry goes forward and continues to lose money? You can't keep doing that. We were forced to either raise rates or shed enormous amounts of business.”

In an interview Wednesday, Sullivan confirmed that those are the types of issues forcing rates up. He pointed out that of the 100 carriers in Connecticut, only Allstate has refused to insure new customers. A healthy market is one that thrives on competition, not government intervention, he said.

“Markets are very cyclical,” Sullivan said. “While these increases may be painful, if markets are open and competitive, you will see cycles of increase but also cycles of stability. As long as we have ... more players, not less, eventually competition will catch up with rate increases.”

Among the reasons his staff is approving high rate increases, he said, are:

• Forecasting models have changed and show New England as overdue for a major hurricane.

• Re-insurers, the companies that insure the insurers, are charging those insurers more to stay in business.

• Credit rating agencies have increased the surplus requirements of all of the companies by as much as 20 or 30 percent or more. In order to maintain their ratings, the companies have to set aside more of their surplus.

Scott, the Groton insurance agent, said coastal homeowners are shopping briskly for better-priced insurance, but agents are getting “heartburn” trying to make the best deal for their customers.

“Each company is defining 'coastal' very differently, and that's where the department did not do a good job” when writing guidelines for coastal insurance last year under former Commissioner Susan Cogswell, said Scott. Cogswell is now a deputy commissioner.

“We do get angry phone calls just about every day from people who justifiably feel they aren't shoreline people. Someone in Ledyard wouldn't expect to get a letter saying they have to have a high deductible,” he said. “We're ending up having to move the business to another insurer, which is what (the insurers) wanted.”

Coastal bands are the distance from bodies of water within which more stringent requirements like hurricane deductibles can be imposed. Under Cogswell's guidelines, coastal bands extend to 2,600 feet from the water, about half a mile.

Sullivan maintains that the guidelines in place are adequate.

“There should be no ambiguity as to what we define as coastal,” he said. “I'm not aware of companies who are not following the guidelines.”

Sullivan also warned against seeking quick fixes to the market fluctuations through lawmakers or statewide policy changes, as Florida, a state more prone to hurricanes than Connecticut, has done. Taxpayers in Florida will pay dearly when the state, acting as a re-insurer, has to cover major losses, he said.

“It's better to have more competitors in your market and let the market determine prices,” he said.

The insurance department has a responsibility to balance the needs of the consumer with the solvency of the market, Sullivan added. For instance, a homeowner with an insurer who goes bankrupt has liability coverage of $400,000 through a “guaranteed fund,” but if that home is worth $500,000 the consumer has to cover the difference, Sullivan said.

Sullivan is using a New York model to develop a new program within the FAIR Plan, a market of last resort, which would give consumers who couldn't find coverage a company that could write policy for them. Details are still being worked out, he said.

Jackson had another suggestion: Homeowners should take measures to protect their property where possible.

“That'll help with future insurance costs,” she said, “and it'll help them have a place to go home to after a hurricane hits.”

Sullivan urged consumers to use the department's hotline for coastal coverage: 866-870-4305.

Middlesex Mutual Assurance: 3 percent decrease to 85 percent increase

Patron's Mutual: 40 percent to 81 percent increase

New London County Mutual: no change to 64 percent increase

The Merit Plan: 17.5 percent increase statewide

Source: Connecticut Insurance Department

Jewett City 'Freeman' pass budget (22-6) while 1400+ voters do not attend

Board Approves Jewett City Budget
by Megan Bard - published by The Day - May 16, 2007

To offset a potentially significant tax increase for borough residents, the Board of Warden and Burgesses decided Tuesday to use more of the borough's surplus to lessen the impact.

The $454,784 Borough of Jewett City budget for 2007-08 was approved Tuesday at the Annual Freeman's Meeting by a 22-6 vote.

The budget, which is a $43,089 increase over the current year, had been proposed to require a 2.25 mill tax rate. With the recent revaluation of all taxable property within the town of Griswold, including the borough, the impact for some could have meant a 50 percent increase in taxes.

For this reason, after the budget was approved, the warden and burgesses agreed to set the new tax rate at 2 mills, using an additional $32,059 from the borough's surplus account.

Burgess Alan Geer expressed some concern about this decision, saying it might leave the borough with too little to pay for significant emergencies. With the transfer, the fund balance is left at $27,197. Nonetheless, the entire board was in favor of the decision.

“It's important. We needed to get it whittled down to where they can handle it,” Geer said of the tax impact on residents living on fixed incomes.

Warden Cynthia Kata, a former town assessor, said the tax increase on a residential property with an average assessment of $112,000 will be $49 for the year.

“This is about the best we can do,” Kata said after announcing the tax rate.

Resident Ron Ward had been planning to ask for the borough utility company — which sets the electrical and sewer rates — to contribute more to the budget to offset the tax increase. Ward did not make the request during the meeting, however.

Instead, Ward said he will ask the utility commissioners directly to contribute more in the future. The company contributed $100,000 to the budget's revenue projections in the approved budget.

The majority of the borough budget's increase is attributed to salaries for borough positions, including extending the hours of the tax collector from part time to full time, and retaining two resident state troopers. It also includes $10,000 more to maintain the borough's fire hydrants.

All aboard -- the bandwagon is rolling!!

On February 4, 2007, the Norwich Bulletin expressed its opinion in an editorial entitled, "Towns Can't Thrive Without Able Leadership." The Norwich Bulletin has missed two recent opportunities to be a "participating citizen" when "able leadership" is needed "as Eastern Connecticut advances into the 21st Century."

Here are a couple quotes from the article:

Some communities have able leaders, and for that they should be grateful. But sometimes local elections are little more than popularity contests, whose outcomes fail to best serve constituents.
Are you satisfied with the people running your town?

No longer is simple tenure good enough to secure another term leading a town. Common sense, due diligence and a plan for the future are needed to make sure there are more towns like Preston and Colchester and fewer like Canterbury and Montville.

Plainfield and Griswold seem to be turning the corner into the 21st century, and kudos to the new leadership for bringing it. To the others from another generation of elected officials, hop on board the bandwagon to the future, or get out of the way.

As for the recent Jewett City Borough election, the Norwich Bulletin did not make an endorsement in the contest for Borough Warden. The only way that towns can have "able leadership" is for the residents to vote. Going to the polls requires taxpayers to make a decision and select a candidate.

If the Norwich Bulletin could not be a "participating citizen" and make a decision on a Warden candidate, then the words of the editorial back on February 4th just simply ring hollow.

Budgets and taxation are two of the most fundamental functions of government. Jewett City residents have direct input on the budget through the Freeman's Meeting. On this topic, the Norwich Bulletin didn't believe that the Tuesday, May 15th meeting was worthy of a news story. In fact, the small notice published did not even correctly publish the proposed mill rate.

Why it is that a proposed 52% increase in total tax collected is not worthy of a news article seems to be inconsistent with the stated position of the Norwich Bulletin back on February 4th. How can residents answer the question, "Are you satisfied with the people running your town?" (as asked by the Norwich Bulletin on February 4th), when the news papers give little to no coverage of the budget meeting to raise awareness so that residents will attend?

Jewett City Party will continue in its efforts to inform residents and encourage their attendance at public meetings. Especially, attendance at meetings where taxpayers can vote. A news article appearing this morning in the local press would have definitely "turned out" a few more attendees at tonight's Jewett City budget meeting. Taxpayers attending the meeting would have an opportunity to watch, participate, and make an independent opinion regarding their "satisfaction" with local leaders.

The Norwich Bulletin encouraged towns to "hop on board the bandwagon to the future, or get out of the way." Advise timely given needs to be advise presently taken. Come on Norwich Bulletin -- the band wagon is rolling, endorse candidates and give advance coverage to meetings where citizens can vote. Just do it -- and get on board!!

Working families need affordable health care

Senate leader: Let state pay for health care
By Julie A. Varughese - published by Norwich Bulletin - May 14 2007

When Lorraine Conderino and her husband retire in a few years, they fully expect to be working part-time jobs just to pay for their health-care coverage.

"They look forward to retirement, whenever that may be, but they can't, because they have to go back to work," said Conderino, 59, about people nearing retirement.

The Colchester resident echoes the worries of many others who say health care in Connecticut needs an overhaul.

And state Senate President Pro Tempore Donald Williams Jr., D-Brooklyn, says he has a plan to fix it.

At 7 tonight, the public is invited to the Rose City Senior Center in Norwich, where Williams will present "HealthFirst Connecticut: A Bold Approach to Fix a Broken System," a plan to reform the state's health-care delivery system.

Williams' proposal includes providing insurance coverage to the uninsured, expanding access to health care and ensuring quality health care throughout Connecticut with what he describes as a single-payer, "Medicare-for-All" plan.

"This is a landmark bill and part of an effort to do what no other state has done -- provide health care to everyone in the state, regardless of age or income," Williams stated in a press release. "While we work to find the best possible way to bring about wholesale reform of the health-care system in our state, Senate bill no. 1 includes immediate action to cover more than 140,000 in the state currently without insurance and measures to ensure access to people who have insurance."

Sylvia Nyszczy, a retiree in Griswold who uses Medicare, said the state's system works only for the poor and the rich.

"The middle class are out," said Nyszczy, who switched to Medicare from a private insurance plan a year ago.

52% Increase in Jewett City Borough Taxes?? Vote NO on Tuesday, May 15th

"Residents and taxpayers cannot afford a 52% increase in taxes paid to the Borough of Jewett City, said Ron Ward, JCP Founder & recent candidate for borough Warden. He continued by stating, "Neither can we afford to eliminate the resident state troopers that patrol our streets."

What's the problem?
Additional revenue is needed to keep our streets safe and provide a tax-break to residents and taxpayers.

What's the solution?
In the past, the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities (Electric & Sewer) has contributed $100,000 to the Jewett City Borough budget. Since the residents of Jewett City own the electric & sewer, it is sorta like shareholders getting paid a dividend when the JCDPU makes its annual contribution to the borough budget.

The residents and taxpayers need a bigger dividend paid to the shareholders for Fiscal Year 2008. By contributing and additional $106k to the borough budget, the JCDPU will enable residents and taxpayers to receive a 4% tax-break and, at the same time, two resident state troopers will stay on the job patrolling our streets.

click here to read the Jewett City Party alternative proposed budget.


5:30 pm on Tuesday, May 15th - Town Hall, 28 Main Street, Jewett City

Vote "NO" on 52% tax increase borough budget

Vote "YES" for 4% tax-break & $106k more from electric and sewer

Non-resident Taxpayers can vote on budget!!


article printed below was reported in The Day on May 12, 2007
Written by Megan Bard

Jewett City Readies To Vote On 2007-08 Borough Budget

Griswold — Although significantly less than the proposed $32 million townwide municipal budget for 2007-08, the Borough of Jewett City spending plan for the next fiscal year still requires borough resident approval.

The Board of Warden and Burgesses will host the borough's Annual Freeman's Meeting on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall first-floor conference room. At that time, residents living within the one-square mile borough will consider and vote on the proposed $454,784 borough budget for 2007-08.

The townwide municipal budget, which also affects borough residents, will be voted on at a referendum scheduled for May 21.

The proposed borough budget is $43,089 more than the current year's financial plan. If approved by voters, the budget will require a tax rate of 2.25 mills. The majority of the borough budget's increase is attributed to salaries for borough positions and retaining two resident state troopers.

The cost for the police coverage next year is proposed as $241,672, a $26,172 increase compared with the current year. The borough pays roughly 70 percent of the cost for the troopers, including office rent and utilities, supplies, training and overtime.

Salaries for other borough employees, including the warden, burgesses, clerk, assessor, treasurer, bookkeeper and tax collector, has increased by $11,917, primarily because the tax collector's position was changed from part time to full time to meet resident demands.

An additional $10,000 has been added to the budget to maintain the fire hydrants.

Ron Ward, JCP Founder, says, "Vote Y-E-S for more classrooms"

Article published May 13, 2007 by Norwich Bulletin

Letter to the editor: New Griswold school is needed

Residents of Griswold are being asked to vote on a $70 million school building project. It is more than obvious the schools are overcrowded and more classrooms are needed to provide a quality education to the children of our community.

In summer 2005, the Space Needs Committee recommended Griswold residents consider several alternatives to meet the growing number of students attending our public school. The next step was to appoint a School Building Committee.

What happened with the recommendation?

The Board of Selectmen that was elected in November 2005 did not act on the recommendation until summer 2006, one full year later. Only the Board of Selectmen can answer as to why it took nine months to appoint a committee to address the needs for the future of our students.

Building classrooms to teach our students is the right choice for Griswold.

RON WARD

Jewett City

Editor's note: Ward is the founder of the Jewett City Party.

$70 million on the line -- Let's Get It Right!

Residents of Griswold are being asked to vote on a $70 million school building project. It is more than obvious that the schools are over crowded and more classrooms are needed to provide a quality education to the children of our community.

Way back in the summer of 2005, the Space Needs committee recommended that Griswold residents consider several alternatives to meet the growing number of students attending our public school. The next step was to appoint a School Building committee.

What happened with the recommendation??

The Board of Selectman that was elected in November 2005 did not act on the recommendation until Summer 2006, one full year later. Only the Board of Selectman can answer as to why it took nine months to appoint a committee to address the needs for the future of our students.

Building classrooms to teach our students is the right choice for Griswold.

[Opinion of Ron Ward, Founder of the Jewett City Party]


The following article published by The Day on May 9, 2007

Contract In Limbo For Griswold School Project
by Megan Bard - published by The Day - May 9, 2007

Griswold — With plans for a proposed $69.9 million school project still being finalized one month before a townwide vote, officials and the architectural firm that designed the school project have yet to sign a contract.

As attorneys continue to negotiate, the two sides have decided to put aside their “petty squabbles” for now to see how the $35.9 million new elementary school and $34 million renovated middle school proposals fare with voters.

At issue is a promise made to New Britain-based architectural firm Kaestle Boos Associates Inc. that it would continue working for the town if the projects were approved at the mid-June referendum.

The promise, made during an interview process in January, goes against a town ordinance that requires that most contractual work worth more than $3,000 be put out to bid. It also does not comply with the original request for qualifications the town solicited late last year, which only referred to work done before the referendum.

However, during the interview process, School Building Committee members informed the two finalist firms that the committee had a $29,900 budget, with $25,000 of that to be spent on an architect. At that point, someone — either from Kaestle Boos or from the committee — proposed that if the architect would do the work for that amount, the firm would be guaranteed the job, should the school projects be approved by voters.

Neither side disputes that the proposal was made, but who made the proposal is disputed.

Charles Boos, CEO and chairman of Kaestle Boos, said the committee made the suggestion. Committee Chairman Franklin Everett said it was proposed by the architect. Either way, both men agree that everyone at the meeting that night approved of it.

Within weeks, Kaestle Boos presented the town with a contract reflecting the firm's work from conceptual design to ribbon cutting. Attorneys for the town reviewed the contract, amending one section involving the amount of insurance required. This issue, however, has become nearly irrelevant.

In late March, attorneys again reviewed the contract, this time comparing it to what was required in the original request for qualifications. It was then they discovered the contract had gone beyond the scope of the request and is in violation of a town ordinance.

First Selectwoman Anne P. Hatfield, a member of the committee, said she remembers people discussing the promise but that no formal vote was taken. Based on the town attorney's recommendation, Hatfield has refused to sign the contract.

Hatfield has suggested revising the contract to pay Kaestle Boos for its services up to the referendum. As of Friday, the firm had not been paid for its work.

Charles Boos disagrees, saying he believes his firm has a binding verbal contract with the town and that he has worked in good faith based on this agreement.

In a legal opinion presented to the town by the firm Shipman & Goodwin, which is representing the architect, an attorney wrote that the ordinance does not apply to the work Kaestle Boos is providing the town because that work is considered contractual services. Town Attorney Michael Zizka disagrees with this interpretation.

In a conference call at a meeting on April 20, Zizka said the promise should never have been made. He said if voters approve the projects, the town is required to seek new proposals from architects to complete the job.

However, Zizka said the lowest bidder need not be chosen and that preference could be given to Kaestle Boos based on its involvement.

An alternative to following the ordinance is to include Kaestle Boos in the referendum question, identifying the firm as the chosen architect. Zizka said this is legal because an ordinance can be overridden based on an affirmative town meeting/referendum vote. Zizka did not recommend including the information on the ballot, however, saying that it puts the town at too much risk for litigation. Zizka said if the original request indicated that whichever firm was chosen would see the project through to completion a different group of applicants may have submitted proposals.

At a meeting between selectmen and building committee members Tuesday night with the town's bond counsel, the issue was not considered, according to Hatfield.

A second alternative would be to agree with Kaestle Boos and sign the contract, but to require the architectural firm's lawyers to defend the town against any litigation because of the decision. Zizka said if all firms who bid on the original request knew they would have an opportunity to see the job through to completion, there may have been more bidders.

Comments posted by Readers

Anonymous said...

u r kidding right. u don't have kids or pay taxes and u r tellin us what to do. get a grip.

May 9, 2007 3:12 PM

Borough resident is concerned about tomorrow. You can improve our community by VOTING!

The following comment was posted at the Norwich Bulletin website.


I still to this day do not know who she is.......I only meet one person and I am sorry to say that person did not win.

It is not up to me to seek you out it is up to you to seek me out. and that is why she did not get my vote. I feel bad for all of us that live here in JC, nothing is going to happen, I don't even have a sidewalk in front of my house, But still nothing will be done about that because I don't live on the big city street.

I wonder how many times we all can call her this time to get no answer.

The sewer thing is full of stuff, when it rains it realy does pour, been full forever. Summer is on the way and I can see it already no place for these teenagers to go hangout with out more town problems getting in there way. so they will be on the streets.

Nothing any of us Little people can say that will be heard. So why do we try. At lease this time she got a run for her money. next time I don't think she'll be as lucky.

This time people will remember & the people will see what get done and what stays the same. lets pay attention and find out. Lets watch from the sideline, & see just where her heart lies at night. The end.

Leave me alone there is nothing any of you can say that can make me change my mind or see it your way. Lets all walk a long way to get the bus........

Posted: Tue May 08, 2007 7:51 am
click here to read comment at Norwich Bulletin website.



Commentary by Ron Ward, Founder of the Jewett City Party

May 7th in Jewett City was a great election day! It was the first time in more years than most can remember that the residents had a choice.

The three hundred twenty-nine (329) voters that went to town hall made the decision for the other eleven hundred (1100) voters that stayed home. When it was all said and done, 12% or 165 voters made the decision for the 3000 or so residents that make Jewett City their home.

Jewett City Party is committed to making the issues known to the residents, taxpayers and community members of the borough. Thank you to those that support the goals of the Jewett City Party.

We can improve our quality of life by working together!


Questions? - Comments? or Offers to Volunteer?

Contact Ron Ward --

860-376-3530 = telephone
email = founder@jewettcityparty.com

Democrat Incumbent Kata wins election in Jewett City

Kata Retains Jewett City Seat
by Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - May 8, 2007

JEWETT CITY --Voter turnout in Monday's borough election was seven times greater than the 2005 election, thanks to a spirited three-way race for warden that sparked interest through candidate blogs and door-to-door canvassing.

The publicity even interested a few Griswold residents in voting, but they were turned away after being told it was a borough-only election, election moderator Joe Lussier said.

The election featured the first time in a decade an incumbent warden had been challenged, and it was also the first time an optical scan voting machine was used.

Incumbent Democratic Warden Cynthia Kata won with 165 votes --or 49 percent -- beating Republican candidate Melinda Seaman Brooks, who got 125 votes --or 37 percent. Jewett City Party candidate Ron Ward captured 47 votes -- or 14 percent.

The turnout was 26 percent, compared to 3.73 percent in 2005.

Kata, a four-term incumbent, said she expected to win because of her track record in the borough. She takes credit for keeping the tax rate at 2.5 mills, obtaining grants for a $19 million state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility and improving sidewalks and roads, among other items.

"It's back to business," Kata said about retaining her position.

Normand Foucher, 59, said he voted for Kata because she was recommended.

"Everybody's always saying she's done a good job and she's respectful," he said.

Opponents said during the campaign season Kata did not do enough to prevent a 44-percent sewer-rate increase and a separate water-rate increase or to attract economic development and is not in the borough enough to take care of it.

Brooks, 38, said she planned on running for a town of Griswold office in November.

"I think the fact that it's pretty close, that shows that people are ready for change," she said.

Ward, 43, said his goal was to create enough interest in the race to encourage people to vote.

Timothy Sharkey, a first-time burgess candidate and the only Republican to sit on the new Board of Warden and Burgesses, said he hopes to create better communication between the borough, the town and the fire department.

The new voting system required voters to fill in circles on the ballot next to the names of desired candidates within a booth, then slip it into an optical scan voting machine.

Lussier said there was little confusion Monday on how to use it. Election workers helped voters through the steps.

"We have very few problems," he said at 2 p.m. "People have been mystified by it, and many people say they like it."

Election Results

Warden:
165 - Cynthia Kata, Democrat (Winner)
125 - Melinda Seaman Brooks, Republican
47 - Ron Ward, Jewett City Party

Burgess:
225 - Alan D. Geer, incumbent Democrat (Winner)
198 - Patrick Sullivan, incumbent Democrat (Winner)
197 - Stanley Drobiak, incumbent Democrat (Winner)
128 - Timothy P. Sharkey, Republican (Winner)

95 - Joseph David Lobe Jr., Republican

68 - Alan Aho, Republican

59 - Angela K. Adams, Jewett City Party

33 - Katrease Gerace, Jewett City Party

Bailiff:
183 - William J. Czmyr, Democrat (Winner)
75 - Benjamin E. Hull, Republican

52 - James L. Couillard, Jewett City Party

Clerk:
294 - Valerie A. Pudvah,
endorsed by Democrats and Republicans (Winner)

Tax collector:
274 - Leona Sharkey,
endorsed by Democrats and Republicans (Winner)

Treasurer:
252 - Linda Cote, Democrat (Winner)

Ward says, "Get our fair share of taxes paid to Town of Griswold to repair our roads and sidewalks. We deserve better!"

[click here to read "Council for Economic and Community Development to Support Jewett City Merchants and Stimulate Job Growth" - February 27, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]

[click here to read "Commission on Housing and Neighborhood Development: Improving our community by supporting renters and owners" - April 18, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]

[click here to read "Can't Tell You, It's a Suprise" a proposal to create a Consumer Board of Utility Control - January 17, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]


This Year, Jewett City election A Real Contest
by Megan Bard, published by The Day - April 20, 2007

Griswold — For 10 years, the Borough of Jewett City election has gone unnoticed and uncontested.

Not this year.

On May 7 , two challengers will join four-term incumbent Democratic Warden Cynthia Kata on the ballot. Republican Melinda Seaman Brooks, a political novice, and Ron D. Ward, a registered Democrat and founder of the independent Jewett City Party, will be her challengers.

Kata and Brooks are lifelong residents of Griswold and Jewett City. Both graduated from Griswold High School and have raised their families here. Ward moved to Connecticut in 1990 from Illinois. He's lived in various towns throughout southeastern Connecticut before moving to Jewett City a year ago.

All three candidates say they intend to address concerns about rising utilities rates, among other issues, but they do not agree on how or whether there really is a problem.

Kata, 68, said after more than 30 years of public service to the borough and the town, as tax assessor, treasurer and warden, she stands by her record. Kata said throughout the years she and the incumbent burgesses have been able to keep borough taxes low — this year's projected tax rate is 2 mills — build new sidewalks, and institute the Resident State Trooper program. She lists her greatest accomplishment as the completion two years ago of the $18 million waste water treatment plant, primarily paid for with state grants.

The plant, and the rates associated with running it, is one of the primary issues that infuriates borough property owners, renters and businesses.

Last July the borough's Department of Public Utilities increased sewer rates by nearly 44 percent, retroactive to January 2006. Utilities officials said the plant was operating at a deficit. Kata, who does not have direct authority over the department, said it calculated its rates on receiving a set amount of sewage and on the lowest cost presumed necessary to run the plant. The calculations were wrong.

The plant was built to hold 1.1 million gallons to accommodate the next 25 years worth of development. As of now it is only processing roughly 350,000 gallons, 150,000 gallons less than previous years, meaning fewer people are paying to run the plant.

Kata says once the Route 164 corridor in the town is developed and the multiple condominum projects throughout the borough are completed, more waste water will be processed at the plant and the burden will be shared by more rate payers.

Brooks, 38, a new borough resident, said she will educate the public on the department's community service based initiatives, in addition to working with Director Kenneth Sullivan to determine the best way to handle the increasing rates. Brooks said until she learns more about the process she will not make any promises.

The CEO and sales director of Stratilis LLC of Willimantic, Brooks said her experience in real estate will help attract business to the borough and could assist in the town's economic development initiatives. If successful, Brooks said it will not only help revitalize the borough's downtown but also possibly alleviate some of the burden of paying for the new treatment plant.

Ward, 43, said one way to help lessen the sting of the rate increases is for people to have more input in the utilities department. To “restore confidence” in the department, Ward wants to disband the current Board of Public Utilities Commissioners and replace it with a consumer-based commission. The commission would oversee a utilities board of directors that would work directly with employees of the utility department.

Ward, a law school graduate who has worked in various appointed state positions, as a dealer at Foxwoods Resort Casino and is currently a teacher for Mad Science, has set ambitious goals for himself. On his Jewett City Party Internet blog, Ward regularly posts information about various initiatives, such as restoring defunct borough boards and commissions and creating new ones. Ward wants to increase the involvement of residents who rent in shaping borough policy.

Brooks sees it as the warden's job to advocate for this one-square mile area along the Quinebaug and Pachaug rivers. In addition to focusing on bringing small business to the borough and addressing concerns about blighted property, she wants to enhance recreational activies for youth and seniors.

Although she said she doesn't dwell on the recent town trend to oust incumbents, Kata said in the back of her mind she's concerned the borough “won't get what it needs” if she is not re-elected.

Kata said she's confident that her plans to build sidewalks along North Main Street and finish sidewalks along Carley Avenue will be accomplished along with having her proposal considered to build a new, stand-alone ambulance facility where the Jewett City fire department is now housed.

The projects will be funded by the next round of federal grants the borough is expected to receive later this year. The year after that, Kata intends to concentrate on improving the facades along Main Street and supporting the small businesses along the stretch.

For the most part, in public, the race has been civil. Much of the spiteful banter has involved Ward's and Brooks' internet campaign sites and blogs and a state election's complaint Ward filed against Brooks, which was dismissed.

The only consistent complaint about Kata is that she is in California more than she is in the borough. Kata denies this, saying that her companion Walter Sawicki sold his Golden State residence in 2005 and that the couple has not returned since.

Jewett City Party Candidates Bring Choice to Ballot: Vote on May 7th

Eight Candidates Are Seeking Four Burgess Seats
by Megan Bard, published by The Day - April 30, 2007

Griswold — Like the race for warden, the Borough of Jewett City race for burgess and bailiff are contested for the first time in nearly a decade.

Eight people will run for four burgess seats on the May 7. The candidates include three incumbent Democrats Stanley Drobiak, Alan D. Geer and Patrick Sullivan, all lifelong residents of the borough. Their Republican challengers are Alan D. Aho, Timothy P. Sharkey and Joseph David Lobe Jr. The two independent candidates representing the newly created Jewett City Party are Angela K. Adams and Katrease Gerace. The other burgess seat has been vacant for the past year following the death of Republican Larry Pudvah.

For Drobiak, 78, running for election is something he's done since 1969. Drobiak, who has been a burgess and warden as well Griswold's first selectman, said he enjoys serving the borough.

His goal is to keep taxes down so residents on fixed incomes can enjoy a good quality of life. He also hopes to install new lights at Veterans' Memorial Park on Ashland Street to enable summer activities to last later into the evening.

Sullivan, 70, has served as a burgess for nearly 20 years. If elected to another term he said he will concentrate on building more sidewalks and helping current Democratic Warden Cynthia Kata in her effort to build a new ambulance garage. Sullivan said his understanding of borough history and awareness of what residents need and want make him a good candidate. Although he's accustomed to running unopposed, he said having eight people vying for four seats will hopefully bring voters back to the polls and make them more aware of borough issues.

Geer, 61, a former borough police officer who has been a member of the Jewett City Fire Department for more than 30 years, said he will continue to concentrate on public safety issues. Geer, currently a judicial marshal in Norwich, said he also intends to concentrate on building new sidewalks and beautifying Main Street by use of façade grants for property owners and planting small trees. As a member of the park commission, Geer said he intends to increase activities at the park this summer.

Drobiak, Sullivan and Geer all said as a group they've done well by borough residents and business owners.

Their challengers are not so sure.

When the privately owned Jewett City Water Company notified its customers that it intended to signficantly raise its rates, Lobe, 25, a financial analyst at Foxwoods Resort Casino, said he began to research why. Although he knows the company is not owned by the borough utilities department, he considers part of the warden and burgesses job to be an advocate for borough rate payers who should force state regulators to review the rates and make the company justify the increase. In his opinion, this wasn't being done.

“I thought rather than complain about this I would contribute,” said Lobe, who his in his second year of law school.

Aho, who declined to reveal his age, fully blamed the increasing water, sewer and electrical rates on the borough owned ulitity company — which controls electrical and sewer utilities — and the incumbents. Aho said the utilities department, with the incumbents' knowledge, is balancing the costs of running the new $18 million sewage treatment plant on the backs of borough residents. Aho wants to be elected to make changes in the department by replacing the utilities board's membership and altering how the department is opperated.

Jewett City Party candidate Adams, 42, said she is neither a public speaker nor is she in the race for the politics. Adams, the mother of a special needs child, said she is running to provide activities in the borough for children with regular and special needs. Fellow independent party candidate Gerace declined to comment for the story when reached Sunday.

Sharkey could not be reached for comment.

The remaining contested race on the ballot is for bailiff. The candidates include Democrat William J. Czmyr, who was chosen last week to run in the place of William P.L. Maynard who died on April 20, Republican Benjamin E. Hull and Jewett City Party candidate James L. Couillard.

Candidates in the uncontested races include incumbent Democrats Valerie A. Pudvah for clerk and Linda Cote for treasurer. Assistant Tax Collector Leona C. Sharkey, a Democrat, will run for the tax collector's position.

French Club holding Food Drive in Jewett City

Food drive to benefit Jewett City
By Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - April 30, 2007

JEWETT CITY -- The Jacques Cartier Club will hold its annual "555 Challenge" Saturday.

The three 5s in the name of the event stand for the 5,000 pounds of food the club hopes to collect that day to give to the Jewett City Pantry housed in St. Mary's Church.

Forty percent of the borough's population lives under the federal poverty level.

The pantry helps feed more than 150 families -- 500 people who eat 9,500 meals per month -- in Jewett City, Griswold and Preston, according to club President Jeff Raymond.

This is the club's first food drive, but it hopes to establish it as an annual tradition, said bar manager Kelly Hulse.

"A lot of people, they'll donate food during the holidays, but sometimes (needy) people are forgotten about during the year," she said.

The drive will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and donors are invited to contribute non-perishable goods. Cash and toiletries will be accepted, as well as items for infants and the elderly.

Local businesses can help by having the club place a drop box in their establishment, which will be collected later.

The challenge will be held rain or shine and live entertainment will be provided.

Jewett City Party candidate for Warden has a Plan to 'Get the Job Done'

[click here to read "Council for Economic and Community Development to Support Jewett City Merchants and Stimulate Job Growth" - February 27, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]

[click here to read "Commission on Housing and Neighborhood Development: Improving our community by supporting renters and owners" - April 18, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]

[click here to read "Can't Tell You, It's a Suprise" a proposal to create a Consumer Board of Utility Control - January 17, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post by Ron Ward]


Ward's goal is economic development
by Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - April 29, 2007

JEWETT CITY -- Ron Ward moved to Jewett City.

He soon discovered economic development was hindered by the lack of parking for businesses and last year's 44 percent sewer-rate increase.

Ward founded the Jewett City Party and is making an independent bid to be borough warden in a place that typically votes Democratic, if it votes at all. The 2005 borough election drew a 3.73 percent voter turnout.

"I'm running a campaign that offers choice," said Ward, who teaches at Mad Science. "What I have to offer is the ability to welcome all individuals to the table. I understand that 40 percent who live in the borough live below the federal poverty level."

Ward, 43, has run on a platform focusing on economic development and bringing small shops into downtown.

Duke Arndt said Ward motivated her and her husband, Duane, to open their own businesses on School Street. Duane sells skateboards and Duke sells clothes for teenagers.

"I feel that Ron is a doer," said Duke, who worked with Ward at Mad Science. "He's very, very knowledgeable about the kids and what's going on. Jewett City has had a children's problem for as long as it existed."

Peter Reynolds, owner of Cutz by Roc, a barber shop on North Main Street, said none of the candidates has visited his shop.

"I'm sure they're not too concerned about everybody's opinion. They probably target certain people and that's it," said Reynolds, who said his biggest concern is the lack of parking downtown.

Ward has said he is interested in keeping children off the streets.

Despite Ward's claims that he doesn't want to run a divisive campaign, he has rubbed some people the wrong way.

In February, he filed a complaint with the state Elections Enforcement Commission against Republican candidate Melinda Seaman Brooks, accusing her of using borough and town of Griswold seals, and town data, from the town's Web site on her Web site.

The commission ruled this month that the claim is unfounded.

Brooks said Ward's campaign tactic is to make others look bad.

Ward also cited Griswold First Selectman Anne Hatfield in the complaint, accusing her of allowing Brooks to use the seals and information, giving the appearance the town government endorsed Brooks.

Hatfield said she has complied with numerous Freedom of Information requests from Ward, but she said he had bothered her to the point that it felt like harassment.

"There are a tremendous number of issues that need to be dealt with in town," Hatfield said. "It's really got to stop. We've got to take that out of local politics."

[click here to read "Incumbent Kata says she has done much for the borough" by Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - April 29, 2007]

[click here to read "Brooks: It's time for a changing of the guard" by Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - April 29, 2007]

Jewett City Party gives Borough residents more choice on ballot

[click here to read January 21, 2007 Norwich Bulletin editorial: Our View More Choice on Ballot]

Jewett City ballot offers choice: 3 candidates running for warden
by Julie A. Varughese, published by Norwich Bulletin - April 29, 2007

Ah, Jewett City.

Home to Slater Mill Mall, Veterans Memorial Park and probably the quietest elections around.

The last borough election, in 2005, attracted only 3.73 percent of the electorate.

Some complain the high number of renters is the reason so few turn out at the polls. Others blame the unconventional time of year -- May rather than November -- the borough elections are held.

The prevailing argument, though, is usually there's little choice on the ballot. Most candidates in recent years have run unopposed.

Not so this year. And some officials and residents hope that means a larger interest in voting.

The Democrats have re-nominated four-term incumbent Warden Cynthia Kata. The Republican candidate is Melinda Seaman Brooks, a lifelong Griswold resident. And there's even a third choice: Newcomer Ron Ward is running as the Jewett City Party candidate.

Renter Ken Miller said he doesn't plan to vote May 7 and isn't aware of the issues that anger some residents, such as the increased cost of utilities, lack of parking and the suspicion among some borough tax dollars aren't spent wisely.

"I'm just a temporary resident," he said. "So I don't pay attention to what's going on in the local political scene."

The Bulletin today profiles the three candidates for borough warden. Each offers a different outlook. Voters get to make their choice May 7.

Proclaim July 18th Jewett City Charter Day: Laser Light Show Celebration at Veteran's Park

Jewett City Party Founder and candidate for Borough Warden, Ron Ward, is committed to celebrating the day that the Borough of Jewett City adopted its Charter. On July 18, 1895, the residents of the Borough voted to make Jewett City a community within a community and organize a government independent from the Town of Griswold.

A March 21, 2004 article in the New York Times explained a borough by stating:

There are nine boroughs left, down from 15 in 1950 and 23 in 1900, according to state records, though the number could dwindle even more. Every now and then, a faction of anti-borough residents will gain momentum and try to dissolve or consolidate their borough status. But for the most part, borough residents are proud of their political distinction and are determined to maintain it.

[click here to read the January 20, 2007 JCP-eBlog! posting of the New York Times article.]

Ron Ward, stated, "As Warden, I will oppose adopting any measure that will dissolve borough services." He continued, "I will defend the Borough Charter against any effort that takes away our right as residents of Jewett City to have a self-regulated and autonomous government." [click here to read the January 25, 2007 JCP-eBlog! post.]

Pride in our Community & Respect for our Traditions
"Signing a proclamation to declare July 18th as 'Charter Day in the Borough of Jewett City' will be the first official act of my administration," said Ward. "A generation of hard-working and industrious residents made the effort to create the borough over one hundred and eleven years ago. It is our responsibility to respect our traditions and celebrate the future of Jewett City," he concluded.

Laser Light Shows are a fantastic way for a community to celebrate a special event. During the month of July, many communities host fireworks displays. A laser light show will distinguish Jewett City and provide an opportunity for area residents to visit our community. A Jewett City Charter Day committee will be appointed to organize the event to be held at the Veteran's Memorial Park located at Ashland Lake in the borough.

Former Jewett City Fire Chief, James Couillard, is JCP Candidate for Bailiff

Democrats Endorse Czmyr for Borough Bailiff
by Megan Bard - published by The Day - April 27, 2007

The Democratic Town Committee has unanimously endorsed William J. Czmyr for bailiff in the Borough of Jewett City.

The endorsement at a special meeting Wednesday comes less than two weeks before the borough's May 7 election.

Czmyr was endorsed for the office previously occupied by longtime borough resident and community activist William P.L. Maynard Sr., who died April 20.

Republican Benjamin E. Hull and Jewett City Party candidate James L. Couillard will challenge Czmyr.

The bailiff primarily acts as the sergeant at arms at borough meetings.

Residents & Taxpayers have Opportunity to Build the Future of Our Community

'The Math' at 73.5% State Reimbursement

Local Cost ~ State Paid Cost ~ Total Cost
$9,010,000 ~ $24,990,000 ~ $34,000,000
$9,513,500 ~ $26,386,500 ~ $35,900,000

$18,523,500 ~ $51,376,500 ~ $69,900,000



Panel Gets Estimate on School Construction
by Megan Bard - published by The Day - April 26, 2007

Griswold — It could cost up to $70 million to build a new elementary school and to renovate and add onto the existing middle school.

The cost estimates for the projects — $35.9 million for the new school and $34 million for the middle school work — were revealed Wednesday night during a special School Building Committee meeting. The estimates include everything associated with the projects.

Vice Chairman John Taylor said he really hadn't known what to expect.

First Selectwoman Anne P. Hatfield, a committee member, said she was surprised.

“It is much more than I expected, but I'm not familiar with the cost of construction,” Hatfield said, adding, “it's really up to the townspeople to determine whether they agree.”

The committee will host the first of two public hearings on the projects at 7 p.m. on May 3 in the middle school auditorium. A second hearing is tentatively scheduled for May 18. Taxpayers will vote on the proposal at a referendum tentatively scheduled for June 12.

The building committee has worked for months to create conceptual design plans for the two schools, which have become overburdened by an increasing student enrollment and aged facilities. New Britain-based architectural firm Kaestle Boos Associates Inc. has worked with the committee to complete the designs.

Originally the committee thought it would be more cost-efficient to thoroughly renovate the elementary school and build two new academic wings. Last week, Charles W. Boos, chairman and CEO of the firm, said it would be less expensive to demolish the existing school in phases and build a new facility on the site.

On Wednesday night, Boos provided committee members with information showing that to renovate the elementary school could cost $38.3 million, or 6 percent more than building a new school. The higher costs are associated with the amount of work needed to renovate the school; Boos said only the frame is salvageable.

In addition to being more expensive, Boos said it was almost assured that if the town decided to go with the more pricy option, the state would not reimburse the cost.

As of now, if taxpayers approve the projects prior to June 30, Griswold is eligible to reimbursed by the state for up to 73.5 percent of the project cost. There is a possibility that as of July 1 the reimbursement rate would decrease, as proposed by Gov. M. Jodi Rell. Local legislators have told finance board officials that this may not be the case, however.

Boos said that if the projects are approved at referendum, construction on the middle school could start in April 2008 and be completed by August 2010. Construction on the new elementary school would be done in phases, with the first beginning in April 2009 with the demolition of a portion of the building and the entire project completed by August 2011.

During construction at the elementary school, the fourth grade would be temporarily relocated to the middle school.

Stand Up for Jewett City

[This article was originally published on January 25, 2007.]

The Charter of the Borough of Jewett City was adopted by the people on July 18, 1895. The Connecticut General Assembly created a community within a community by granting the residents of Jewett City the authority to have a self-regulated government which is independent from the dictates of the town portion of Griswold.

A Jewett City resident appeared before the Griswold Board of Selectman on Tuesday, January 23, 2007 seeking to dissolve borough services and consolidate Jewett City and the town portion of Griswold under one government -- the Griswold Board of Selectman.

Ron Ward, has made a pledged to "Stand-up for Jewett City" as Warden of the Borough. Ward is the Jewett City Party (JCP) candidate for Warden in the upcoming May 7, 2007 municipal election.

"As Warden, I will oppose adopting any measure that will dissolve borough services," he explained. He continued by stating, "I will defend the Borough Charter against any effort that takes away our right as residents of Jewett City to have a self-regulated and autonomous government."

Taxes in the borough and economic development in the town are the reasons given to do away with the Jewett City Charter. In May of each year, Borough residents and taxpayers vote on the referendum which establishes the budget and mill rate for Jewett City.

As for economic development in the town, Ward stated, "Under my administration, the Jewett City owned sewer authority will be a willing partner in efforts to promote commercial development so that we can increase the grand list and lower the property tax burden for all residents -- those living in the borough, as well as, those living in the town."

Ward made the following comparison, "Loyal fans of a baseball team unhappy with a lack-luster season would not dissolve the franchise and bulldoze the stadium. Instead, they would work together and develop a winning approach."

In contrast to his pledge to "Stand-up for Jewett City," the position of the other two candidates for Borough Warden has not been made known or has been flip-flopping.

The incumbent Democratic Party candidate for Warden has changed her position twice.

• ''I think a lot of people don't know what's here,'' said Ms. Kata of Jewett City, which is part of the town of Griswold. ''All of sudden they find out they're paying extra taxes, and they say, 'What for?' But then you have people like me who've been here for 50 years who like it.'' (quote from New York Times, March 21, 2004).
  

• Jewett City Borough Warden Cynthia Kata said she also favors "dissolving the borough services," and having one government run both municipalities. She said that would streamline the process for businesses to move into the Borough. "It was presented to the people for a vote, and four times the town of Griswold people turned it down," she said of the referendums on the issue in the last 20 years. (quote from Norwich Bulletin, August 21, 2006).

• "You can't get rid of something and give it to the town," said Kata, who did not say whether she supported or opposed the idea. Kata said since she began working for the Borough in 1983, she has served on at least four committees to study the idea. All four times, the idea flopped at the polls. (quote from Norwich Bulletin, January 9, 2007).

Even though the Republican Party candidate for Warden has not made her position known, the First Selectman of the Town of Griswold, who is the top-elected official of the Republican Party, is an advocate for putting an end to the right of the people of Jewett City to self-govern their own affairs.

• Griswold First Selectman, Anne Hatfield, who has no jurisdiction over Jewett City's government, said she is very interested in revitalizing the borough. "I'm fully in favor -- it's a question of how far my authority can go," Hatfield said, saying she advocates a consolidation of the borough of Jewett City and the town of Griswold. (quote from Norwich Bulletin, August 21, 2006).

• In a December 7, 2006 letter addressed to the chief-elected official of Colchester, our local First Selectman requested and received a blue print on how to dissolve the borough and put Jewett City under one town-wide government.

Residents, taxpayers and community members are encouraged to contact Ron Ward with questions or comments on this issue.

JCP Candidate for Warden "Opposes" disolving Jewett City borough services

[This article was originally published on January 29, 2007.]

Jewett City Party candidate for Borough Warden in the upcoming May 7, 2007 election has made a pledge to "Stand-up for Jewett City."

Ron Ward, stated, "As Warden, I will oppose adopting any measure that will dissolve borough services." He continued by stating, "I will defend the Borough Charter against any effort that takes away our right as residents of Jewett City to have a self-regulated and autonomous government."

The Norwich Bulletin made a mistake when it published an article on Sunday, January 28, 2007 using the word "supports" instead of the word "opposes."

The Norwich Bulletin acknowledged the mistake by publishing on Monday, January 29, 2007 on page A2 the following correction:

• Ron Ward, candidate for borough warden and founder of the jewett city party, opposes consolidation of the borough of jewett city and the town of griswold. His position was reported incorrectly in a brief on page B2 in the Sunday Bulletin.

Norwich Bulletin publishes column written by Incumbent Borough Warden

Column: Jewett City borough is run well
By CYNTHIA KATA - published April 24, 2007

I, Cynthia Kata, as warden of the borough of Jewett City am beginning to wonder whether any of the people running against me know anything at all about the borough. I am all for an open election, but learn about the job before you apply.

Residents are upset about the increase in the water bill. Guess what, the water company is private. We have absolutely nothing to say about its budget. The officials in Hartford set the rate. I spent many hours with attorney Richard Duda trying to change the minds of the people at the Department of Public Utilities in Hartford, but because we have the fire hydrants in the borough, we fall into what they call a fire district and the fee is set.

There were letters about the electric rates in the borough. In case you missed it, we have the lowest rates around. This is because the residents in the borough own the electric utility. If you save $15 per month on your electric bill, that comes to $180 per year. For an average homeowner, that pays your borough tax bill.

Because we have the hydrants in the borough, your home owners insurance is reduced based on how close you are to a hydrant. Believe me, you are closer to a hydrant than people out in the town. That alone should save you $100 per year or more.

Now onto the sewer authority. Does anyone remember when were had a moratorium on building by the state. Then it was going to make us update our old sewer plant. This was going to cost the people in the borough $7 million. Through the town officials at that time and Joe Dudek and his commissioners, we applied for grants. The state told us if we could make the project a tri-town job (covering three towns), it would fund us almost $18 million. The borough would still own the plant, but we had to service three towns.

This went through. Lisbon paid any expense incurred to tie in and now it pays for any dumping into our plant. Same thing with Griswold.

When we first went on-line running the plant, we were told it would cost between $5 and $9 per cube. We decided to go with the $5, but after the first year, we found out it should have been the $7.

Once the new commercial projects go in on Route 164 and the houses on Pleasant View, it will be more money coming in.

I have one more thing to say. Since I have been warden, the mill rate has gone from 3.5 to 2.5 and held for eight years. No other municipality I know can say that.

"Can't tell you. It's a surprise!"

[This article was originally published on January 17, 2007]

When the Publisher's Clearing House is on the way to your home with that "big check" and a bouquet of roses, it's ok for your in-the-know neighbor to keep the arrival a surprise. But, if what is headed to your home is another rate hike in your electric bill, then forget about the "surprise" and let's have community involvement in the decision making process.

Ron Ward, Jewett City Party candidate for Warden of the Borough of Jewett City, has a plan that gives consumers served by the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities (JCDPU) a seat at the table where the decisions are made. Ward stated, "By creating the JCDPU Consumer Board of Utility Control, rate payers will have a role to play in the management and performance of the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities."

As a candidate for Borough Warden, Ron Ward emphasized, "Introducing and passing an ordinance creating the Consumer Board of Utility Control will be a priority for my administration." The Board of Warden and Burgesses will immediately address how best to lower both the electric and sewer rates.

The JCDPU is publicly owned by the residents of Jewett City. It is governed by a three member Board of Commissioners. These commissioners are appointed by the elected Board of Warden and Burgesses of Jewett City. State of Connecticut statutes and regulations that created Citizen Advisory Councils for Cable Television providers will serve as a model for the proposed Consumer Board of Utility Control.

There is a good reason that the fox isn't put in the hen house to keep a watchful eye on the hens.

Jewett City Public Utility hikes sewer rate by 77%

[This article was originally published on January 7, 2007]

While Jewett City residents and small business owners have been digging in their pockets to pay sewer rate increases, the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities (JCDPU) has been accumulating cash-on-hand exceeding $5,000,000 (five million) dollars. Audited financial statements for the JCDPU Sewer Division for the period ending June 30, 2006 indicate that cash and cash equivalents totaling $5,687,334 were being held on deposit.

On June 30, 2006, JCDPU commissioners imposed a 44% retroactive sewer rate hike and re-calculated consumer bills going back to January 1, 2006. When added to the rate hike of 23% imposed three years ago, the previous rate of $3.08 per hundred cubic feet of water has increased $2.38 to put the current rate at $5.46 per hundred cubic feet.

Back in June 2006, the Norwich Bulletin reported that rate payers speculated that the JCDPU set the June 30th meeting on the Friday before the July 4th holiday to keep attendance low. Jewett City Party Founder, Ron Ward, believes that the June 30th meeting date was timed to coincide with the last day of the JCDPU fiscal year.

Because the rate hike was retroactive, Jewett City Public Utilities was permitted to reflect the "new" revenue on their balance sheet for the 2005-2006 fiscal year. JCP Founder Ron Ward, stated, "Once again, the consumer's pocket has been picked by the hand of the corporate balance sheet. This time around, the flagrant deed was exceptional because the "pick pocket" is publicly owned by the residents of Jewett City!"

Public Accountability

The Jewett City Department of Public Utilities is governed by a three member Board of Commissioners. The Commissioners are charged with the public responsibility to be the overseers for both divisions of the JCDPU: Electric Power and Sewerage. These Commissioners are appointed to their positions of public trust by the Board of Warden and Burgesses of Jewett City.

The wallets of Jewett City residents and taxpayers are not well-springs from which to quench the Board of Commissioner's thirst to increase the Jewett City Public Utilities balance sheet. Elected officials of the Borough of Jewett City have cast aside the needs of Jewett City residents by "turning a blind eye" to the actions of their appointees that serve as Commissioners of the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities.

Election Day - May 7th 2007 - is "eye doctor" day for elected officials. Voter's will have the opportunity to prescribe a new set of eyeglasses for Jewett City.

Double-standard? Although Brooks owed car taxes, her campaign critized her opponent

"For months, contributors on Melinda Seaman Brooks' campaign Web site have been critical of fellow warden candidate Ron D. Ward's tax delinquency, questioning whether someone who owes money to the town should be allowed to run for the borough's highest office." [quote from article published by The Day - April 19, 2007]


On April 19th in a post on her campaign website, Brooks stated:

I think drug testing would be an excellent idea.

In response to today's article. I have to thank Megan for letting me know. I absolutely will take care of it.

It is just a residual from a divorce. It is really a non issue.

I do plan on going to the town hall to settle up on Fri am.

Ok, lets focus on the issues.

I want to get some of feedback from you on what you want to see done in town.

On Friday, April 20th, the comment had been deleted from Brooks election campaign website.



[The two articles printed below were published by The Day]

Delinquent Jewett City Candidates Pay Taxes
by Megan Bard - published by The Day - April 20, 2007

The two candidates for Jewett City warden who owed back taxes to the town have paid all or some of their respective bills, according to the tax collector's office.

Republican candidate Melinda Seaman Brooks paid in full Thursday the $1,037.21 she owed on three vehicles listed in her name. She said Wednesday that she was unaware she owed the money on a 2006 Mazda 5, a 1999 Nissan Maxima and a 2004 Toyota Sequoia. She said she no longer owns the Nissan. She said her former husband kept the Toyota after a divorce last year and is responsible for the payments.

Jewett City Party candidate Ron D. Ward also made a payment to the tax office Thursday. Ward paid part of his debt, $201.76, and is disputing a portion of the balance of $174.45. Ward said he ceased to own a 2002 Pontiac Sunfire in December 2005 and will provide the town office with the appropriate paperwork to prove his claim.

Ward said once the issue is settled he will pay the rest of what he owes, which he estimates is $41.42.


Griswold Candidates In Arrears
by Megan Bard, published by The Day - April 19, 2007

Griswold — Of the 11 people vying for a seat in the upcoming Borough of Jewett City election, four owe back taxes on a variety of motor vehicles, according to a review of town tax records.

Of the four, two are candidates for warden, the top office in the borough.

None of the candidates has scheduled a payment plan with the municipal tax collector's office.

For months, contributors on Melinda Seaman Brooks' campaign Web site have been critical of fellow warden candidate Ron D. Ward's tax delinquency, questioning whether someone who owes money to the town should be allowed to run for the borough's highest office.

On Wednesday, Ward said he has not owned the vehicle he owes taxes on, a 2002 Pontiac Sunfire, since late 2005 and expects to dispute at least a portion of what is owed.

“I am not trying to escape my financial responsibilities and am not trying to hide that I owe some or all of it,” Ward said.

Seaman Brooks was surprised to hear she owed back taxes and said they would be paid in full by Friday afternoon.

When asked about the three vehicles — a 2006 Mazda 5, a 1999 Nissan Maxima, and a 2004 Toyota Sequoia — Seaman Brooks said she no longer owns the Nissan. She also said her former husband kept the Toyota and is responsible for the payments.

Neither Ward nor Seaman Brooks thinks their delinquency is a reason for voters to be concerned about whether they can perform the job of borough warden, if elected.

Seaman Brooks said she truly was unaware of the outstanding bill, adding that she is not a “chronic non-bill payer.”

Ward said he sees the situation as one that “a lot of other residents of the borough” are facing and that he has first-hand knowledge of their struggles.

When reached Wednesday evening, Angela K. Adams, Jewett City Park candidate for burgress, said she did not want to comment on the issue. Alan D. Aho, Republican candidate for burgess, could not be reached for comment.

Warden:
Jewett City Party candidate Ron D. Ward owes
$376.21 in delinquent motor vehicle taxes since July 2005.

Republican candidate Melinda Seaman Brooks owes
$1,037.21 on three vehicles listed in her name since July 2006.

Burgess:
Republican candidate Alan D. Aho owes
$284 on a vehicle since July 2006.

Jewett City Party candidate Angela K. Adams owes
$1,177 on motor vehicles since July 2005.

Source: Tax Collector's office.

Commission on Housing and Neighborhood Development: Improving our Community by Supporting Renters and Owners

Jewett City Party founder and candidate for Borough Warden, Ron Ward, is proposing that the Jewett City Board of Warden and Burgess create a "Commission on Housing and Neighborhood Development." Ward said, "With over 60% of the 1500+ Jewett City housing units occupied by renters, a public commission dedicated to housing and neighborhood development would provide benefits to both renters and property owners."

The Connecticut Judicial branch has published, "Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants in Connecticut." This official publication is a resource which gives general information regarding the business relationship between the tenant and the landlord.

A local commission dedicated to housing and neighborhood could serve as a resource for tenants and landlords to get information on ways to resolve disputes that arise regarding rental housing. The housing and neighborhood commission would be a local organization committed to publicizing information on state and federal programs which make funds available for energy conservation improvements; tax credits for seniors, disabled & veterans; and, neighborhood improvement projects.

Ward said, "A housing and neighborhood development commission would take the initiative to organize neighborhood projects such as block watch, street beautification, as well as, social and cultural events." He continued by stating, "As economic development continues, it is necessary to maintain housing opportunities within the borough that are affordable to those that have all ready made the decision for Jewett City to be their home."


[click here to view: "Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants in Connecticut."]

click here - Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance (www.secha.org)

click here - HomeConnecticut (www.homeconnecticut.org)



The article which appears below was published by The Day on April 17, 2007


Affordable Housing Leadership
Opinion of The Day published April 17, 2007

Promoting the creation of affordable, working-class housing is vitally important to the region, which is why a proposal to place that job into the organization most responsible for steering regional development makes a lot of sense.

The nonprofit Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance was created last year after repeated studies demonstrated a major gap between the cost of housing in the region, particularly rental housing, and the ability of many working people to afford it.

If not addressed, this affordability gap will have many negative implications. It will continue to create economic hardships for many. It will hinder the ability for economic growth since employees need a place to live. And it will force many workers to travel greater distances from places where they can find housing, adding more traffic to highways and more pollution to the air.

Using state grants and private donations, the alliance created the job of executive director, putting one person in charge of pushing for policies that would encourage affordable housing development.

Those efforts would include working to amend restrictive-zoning regulations that now prohibit the kind of dense, multifamily development needed to build affordable apartments and homes. The director's job also would include lobbying state lawmakers to address the financial disincentives — chiefly higher education costs when young families move into towns — that discourage communities from welcoming affordable-housing construction.

But the fledgling alliance has had difficulty filling the job. Its first director stayed only a short time. Several new, quality candidates have been identified, but the alliance's inability to afford a health insurance and fringe benefit package has stalled the process.

The proposed solution has been to make the director part of the planning staff at the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments, the group chiefly responsible for regional transportation and development issues. The COG would include the affordable housing director in its benefits package, costing about $20,000 annually. The alliance would provide the roughly $80,000 salary.

Policy direction for the affordable housing director would be provided by the alliance. The COG's executive director would provide day-to-day supervision.

While the motivation for the proposal was financial, it makes sense in other ways. Promoting affordable housing is a key development issue, so why not include it as part of COG's function? It was the council of governments, after all, which conducted the original blue ribbon study that identified the looming affordable housing crisis. And by sharing in the cost of funding the position, the towns that make up the COG will have a stake in seeing that the affordable housing effort is successful.

The local elected leaders should approve the proposal.