The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Feb. 16, 2012

A reduction – to zero – of the Tunxis Recycling Operating Committee processing plant in Berlin this July 1 and a reduction in the trash tipping fee at the Bristol Resource Recovery Facility of $2 a ton should be an assist to those whose waste is trekked to these facilities. There’s economics in there somewhere that someone is making money.

Wallingford Mayor Dickinson had it right about the latest (this one in Meriden) apparent suicide along the railroad tracks: “I hate to think that someone is in such despair that they feel the need to do that.” There’s not much anyone can do to stop a determined person.

Meriden Police Chief Jeffry Cossette explained the new encryption system, digitally organized, for sending police messages. It’s a big change, but so long as the system remains transparent and available – something we’ll have to see – it should be an improvement.

So Northeast Utilities and NStar, planning their merger, have agreed to buy the other half of the power to be generated by the wind farm long planned but under-financed in Nantucket sound? As with the merger, one hopes that all the questions are asked and answered.

Legislators are going to tinker with rules regarding electric utilities and imposing penalties for not getting power on quick enough after big storms, which is what consumers surely want. But how about changing the rules so that these giant corporations, which supply power to everyone in Connecticut yet are essentially investment tools, are obliged to cooperate in the public interest as well as shareholders?

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Feb. 15, 2012

Because estimates were so badly wrong, Southington’s town council is considering how to ease impact on property owners along West Street, Williamsburg Drive and some other residential streets. While this may be a good idea, it could also set a precedent for aiding all sewer projects – which is maybe a good idea as well, but is certainly one for discussion.

Wilcox Tech in Meriden is embarking on a “like-new” make-over which will take a good three years plus. We wonder what square footage rules have been applied to Wilcox, considering the issues about Platt’s and Maloney’s auditoriums?

Giorgio Fareira certainly managed to sing for his supper at the right time and place (Wallingford’s Sonic). We hope the Fairfield man’s good luck is amplified into something lasting and good.

Wallingford added $5,000 to its Fuel Crisis Program at Mayor Dickinson’s request, following cuts in federal monies. We hope this will get people through the winter.

Meriden city council’s finance committee has recommended buying and razing two buildings along South Colony St. for the relocation of Harbor Brook in flood control efforts. This would be a sensible step in this long and expensive project.

Connecticut’s Supreme Court has okayed a secret list of UConn donors, in what amounts to a blow at the Freedom of Information Act. This has become standard for the court over the years.

Southington is trying out a Safety Camera Enforcement Pilot Program which will place cameras on school buses to record drivers illegally passing. That should definitely demonstrate whether this is a major problem or not, but it could also be used, one would think, to keep tabs on what goes on inside those school buses, where, from time to time, discipline can be a problem.

Meriden’s new augmented website includes a wealth of information not only about projects in various stages of planning but also with maps and various data sets which can answer just about all your questions.

According to some on the City Council, voting districts in Meriden are to be “slashed,” by which is meant reduced in number from 17 – admittedly a very odd number – to something more in line with what other cities have, with a resulting savings, it is thought, at polling places with election staff. It’s always good to save money, but one does wonder whether such a change would confuse voters and actually save enough to make it worthwhile.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Feb. 14, 2012

Wallingford’s proposed school budget shows part of the difficulty of receiving grants – regardless of source – in one year, then needing to do without the next. It would have been better if the school board had been permitted to split its federal grant, it would appear.

Southington’s panel has decided on going for an artificial turf field, which has a lot of advantages including fewer football injuries and more potential events. It has been suggested, though, that there are some athletes, particularly those who play soccer, who do not feel the artificial turf is beneficial, and this is a point to clear up.

The state is going to begin charging towns (which are already paying salaries) for training given at the Meriden Police Academy. This surely makes sense to state budgeteers, but just as clearly does not do so for municipal budget-makers.

Cheshire Community Pool is back in operation with a new bubble, replacing that which collapsed last year during the heavy snowfall. Let’s all hope for a continuation of our snowless winter.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Feb. 13, 2012

It is strange to make such an observation, but the recent homicide on Olive Street, Meriden, seems to underline the city’s low homicide rate during the last decade and under community policing’s influence. With such small numbers, of course, a single death makes a statistical difference as well as an impact on the community.

Twenty hardy souls accompanied wildlife biologist Peter Picone on a tramp through Quinnipiac River State Park along Route 15 on Sunday afternoon. It was blustery and cold, but nature, walkers could attest, persists.

The fact that more men than women are arrested for using cell-phones or texting while driving in Connecticut doesn’t necessarily mean that more men than women use their phones while driving. Whoever uses them, though, we don’t believe they are not distracted and we wish they’d stop.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Feb. 12, 2012

For someone who spent 20 years in a Connecticut prison for a crime he evidently did not commit in Wallingford, Kenneth Ireland is remarkably calm. It’s hard to understand who the state did not offer him compensation for his wrongful conviction and why he is obliged to sue for his supper.

Meriden councilor Brian Daniels and landlord Ross Gulino make interesting comments on downtown property usage based on census data which reveal that there isn’t enough income among downtown dwellers to support small restaurants and shops. This places proposals by Housing Authority to buy the former “Professional Building” at 137-42 West Main and turn it into permanent housing for the homeless in a different light.

It makes excellent sense that places like the Meriden Humane Society and Best Friends for Life Animal Rescue in Southington ask would-be pet adopters a number of questions. This process can disappoint some people, but shelters need to try and protect the animals in their care from casual adopters who might not treat animals as most of us would like them treated.

Connecticut’s Supreme Court has issued an order adopting congressional redistricting with minor changes from present lines, as Democrats had asked. It is good to get this process done and the state is lucky to have three out of five districts which are potentially competitive.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Feb. 11, 2012

It might be a great fit for a new Board of Education central office in Wallingford, but the school system hasn’t planned on such a move – involving a considerable outlay – in this lean fiscal climate. Now, if the Town Council wanted to buy that property on South Main and turn it over to the school system, it might be a different thing.

A major component of the teacher evaluation reform in Connecticut seems to be some measure of student academic progress. While there’s a good deal of talk, so far no description of how academic progress is to be defined, and if it rests merely on year-to-year scores on standardized tests, that will be an insufficient method.

It is good to read that Meriden Principal Tom Brown has made some progress medically, and we continue to wish him the very best in his recovery process.

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Feb. 10, 2012

It was good to see Governor Malloy paying another visit to Meriden schools on Thursday. There’s a lot of reform work on tap for this session of the legislature, and he’s working hard to present his ideas.

Warm winds have kept January and February dry and definitely snowless (at least until this weekend, maybe), but as we have seen they’ve not been good for those who plow snow or those who sell oil. Now we see that it’s not good for sports equipment stores (yet Play It Again Sports in Southington is selling golfing gear), either, so tonight and tomorrow may indeed produce an ill wind that brings someone good news.

Approval is moving nearer for a construction recycling transfer operation on Gracey Avenue in Meriden. One positive aspect is its activation of a rail spur so that materials may be brought in and taken out by train.

A resolution of Connecticut trooper staffing laws, now under litigation, by a biennial assessment of needs by an independent commission with input from both union and administration, to be approved by the legislature. An arbitrary number of required troopers, as now exists, momentarily too few or too any, is an absurdity.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Feb. 9, 2012

Again, regarding its two high schools (and thank goodness there’s no law which says each municipality must have one school no matter how large), Meriden built its schools at the same time, so their similar needs now is no surprise. No matter when improvements are carried out, people will complain about the price, so it makes sense to pick a course and stick to it.

More money for Meriden and anywhere else, as proposed by Governor Malloy, for schools under the Education Cost Sharing system, is wonderful and welcome. But observe that the $1.78 million suggested must be applied to a gap of $4.5 million.

Northeast Utilities owns nearly 15 square miles of Connecticut, larger than several of the state’s municipalities. We are glad for this and other reasons that the Connecticut Fund for the Environment has asked to intervene in the regulatory review of the proposed purchase by NU of NSTAR, the giant holding company which owns Boston electrical operations.

The homeless woman who enrolled her son in Norwalk schools last year using her babysitter’s address instead of in Bridgeport where she could be said to have “lived,” is going to plead guilty to theft of $15,000 of services and the prosecutor is recommending 5 years in prison. Considering what some bank embezzlers receive, many of them people who might be thought to know better, that recommendation seems cruelly excessive.

It will be interesting to learn how Meriden’s new and functioning police communications system can be made accessible for those who want to listen in. It’s an important capability in keeping police activity transparent to the public it serves.

The Wallingford Education Foundation will give town adults – parents, politicians, teachers, professionals – a chance to demonstrate their spelling skills. Or not. The event, which is designed to be fun rather than competitive, is in aid of the Foundation’s project of upgrading the Mahan Planetarium at Sheehan High School, a project of great vision (what else?).

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Feb. 8, 2012

Concern over the size regulations and reimbursements at Meriden’s high schools is legitimate, especially in regard to costs. Yet it does seem silly if the whole project rises or falls depending on the number of seats in the auditorium, and even sillier that such a standard sets the limit at one-third of the student body: in that regard, note Washington Middle School.

David Ellis, the “barefoot hiker” who is president of Wallingford’s Land Trust, is a great asset to that organization and a devoted hiker, and that’s wonderful. Yet though we are very glad to hear that in a decade of barefooted hiking he has seldom incurred cuts, though our apelike ancestors eschewed shoes, there are articles on even the forest floor we’d not care to step on: he’s welcome to walk au naturel, but we’ll keep our shoes on, thanks.

It would seem that in a terrible economy, the existence of a minimum wage rule might deter some employers from hiring, yet since a minimum already exists, an increase in minimum which amounts to $20 in a 40-hour week wouldn’t seem difficult for a healthy firm. In general, a healthy economy generates jobs, regardless of minimums; minimum wages are but one of a number of costs related to employment in Connecticut's civilized economy.

It is excellent news that the state forensic lab in Meriden has won accreditation back, but of course that hasn’t really helped its caseload. That will take an accretion of trained and experienced workers, a process which Connecticut will accomplish in its own magisterial way.

Southington is changing its report cards again, in response to parental input and anxiety. Sometimes it seems that it would be better to abandon the things altogether, particularly in younger grades where teachers can actually talk with parents and report verbally.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 7, 2012

Southington’s library has digitized old newspapers, and these are now available to the public. This is a fine step for the library to have taken.

Glad to read that councilors and Meriden and Wallingford politicians have taken to Twitter to keep in touch with constituents, with news and with each other. The practice should help keep them out of trouble.

Meriden has decided to bill for water and sewer quarterly instead of every six months. It’s hoped that this change will reduce delinquency and keep city cash flow up.

Cheshire had its discussion about Veterans Day holiday at a board of education meeting last night. Nothing became heated, and we guess the idea is still somewhere near the drawing board.

Although there’s clearly more information to come, initial discussion about charter school siphoning off funds from urban school districts doesn’t sound like much of a plan. We’d like to see this notion worked out better before Connecticut goes off on this sort of tangent.

We guess it’s a good thing for everyone’s snow clearing budgets (Meriden and Wallingford and probably Southington and Cheshire, too) that we’ve been having a mild winter, since costs of Irene and Alfred have accounted for most of that money well before the season began.

The new Bubble is up in Cheshire Community Pool at Bartlem Park. The pool isn’t open yet, but this is very welcome progress.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Feb. 6, 2012

Courts in Connecticut and police departments in Meriden, Southington and no doubt elsewhere, are dealing with the CSI Effect, in which jurors and victims expect regular use of technology to collect evidence. This is actually a good development, though with costs, if you consider earlier expectations of defendant confessions or less reliable evidence.

Colony Street in downtown Meriden needs life and may eventually get it from the revived rail service and the attendant walkways and park. But right now, the key would seem to be to bring in some sort of foot traffic.

Connecticut’s legislature has a lot on its plate when the session opens Wednesday, but that is pretty standard. There should be some interesting debates and there could be some interesting laws made.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Feb. 5, 2012

It’s interesting to note that the difference between having to fund only an additional $25 million of the cost of the two high school projects which Meriden must complete somehow, and funding an extra $40 million is only about $40 a year per taxpayer. Nobody wants to pay an additional $65 annual or an extra $105 a year, but these are more tolerable costs than one might expect.

Signs of spring include a completed list of performers for Meriden’s Daffodil Festival. It’s great to think of all the music which will greet the crowds who step of the buses.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Feb. 4, 2012

Wallingford Housing Authority has hired a management firm to run its apartments for low income residents. While one can easily see the attraction of such a plan in light of recent experience, it doesn’t sit very well to make such a decision without notice and debate.

The warm weather, relatively speaking, is producing a curious February after an interesting January, almost without snow. What seems to be bad for skaters, especially at the portable skating rink in downtown Meriden is producing fun for city golfers.

Yet another hospital pairing is taking shape, this one between Backus Hospital in Norwich, and Hartford HeathCare, parent of Hartford Hospital, MidState in Meriden and several others. The increasing size of our health care providers – the other large player is Yale and its affiliates – should at least be cause for debate, just as we should be debating whether the merger of CL&P parent NU and the Boston utility is a good idea.

Governor Malloy’s plan to create a school board which will run Connecticut’s vo-tech schools sounds like a good plan. We’ll see how it fares with solons.

FEMA has awarded a grant to Meriden’s Fire Department for half the cost ($600,000) of a new ladder truck. This will replace a 24-year-old truck and will continue the city’s good record of winning grants for important fire equipment.

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Feb. 3, 2012

The predicted shift in Meriden of the tax burden from residential properties to commercial properties merely reverses what has been going on for the last couple of revaluations. This is, as it were, the down side of regular revaluation; if one had a fixed initial property value which never changed actually or relatively, think of the consequences for fossilized municipalities.

Meriden leaders make good points about the need for space in our high schools to serve the community as well as the schools themselves. That’s fine, but it will be better if we actually know our exposure, since hoping for statutory assistance is a little nervous-making.

In this connection, it will be interesting to see how various efforts to secure waivers for Meriden will play out through our delegation in Hartford.

Those familiar with Meriden Family Zone Promise Neighborhood and those who may benefit from it were out this week at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center to give the program and Children First executive David Radcliffe, which won a $465,000 Promise Grant from the US Department of Education. This is a triumph for Meriden and could significantly help kids raise reading skills as they enter the school system.

Connecticut must carefully consider on-line betting and how or whether to work our matters with the state’s tribes and their casinos, which have been contributing a substantial amount to the state for years. It’s important to understand the finances of gambling as well as the interests of all the players.

Governor Malloy is asking $12 million additional for Connecticut pre-school programs, which he is making part of his legislative focus this year. We will be watching eagerly to see how the various reforms fare with legislators.

The paternity case decided by Connecticut’s Supreme Court which allows a husband to dispute his paternity of a daughter now 19 years old. Regardless of DNA, we agree with earlier court rulings which held that it was against public policy to let a father disinherit his putative child.

School-provided desktop computers at Sheehan in Wallingford (and at many other schools there and elsewhere) have issues and can result in much wastage of time and effort when computers won’t boot or crash. It s good that the town has come up with $100,000 to resupply some of those with big problems, but a part of the difficulty is that many of these machines are used by more than one person, creating an endemic problem for everyone.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Feb. 2, 2012

It appears that Meriden’s two high school projects have hit something of a snag regarding reimbursement rates from the state for these $220 million worth of renovations. If the city cannot qualify as a new project – because it isn’t – and cannot qualify as a renovation – because it’s too large, we’d better get ourselves back to the drawing board.

Questions being raised concerning flood control and stream maintenance in downtown Meriden are matters which have had every chance of being raised over the last dozen years. One serious focus of the entire process is and has been to bring the brook out from underground through the Hub and to make an attractive cityscape there

The lateness of Southington’s Grand List is an annoyance or not, depending on one’s point of view, but it’s not cause for serious concern, since there’s quite a while before anyone needs to fix the tax rate. New software is, alas, always a problem.

Chris Donovan’s push for a hike in Connecticut’s minimum wage is something apt to set off shock waves for the Meriden legislator seeking nomination for the 5th Congressional district, particularly if Governor Malloy is less-than-enthusiastic. But the real underlying question is one of cost: how many jobs would such an increase affect and how much would it cost?

It is good to see physical and health education teacher Chris Puzio at Parker Farms School in Wallingford using a Smart Board to good effect. The incorporation of technology into the educational process is essential to health of both gadgets and schooling.

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Feb. 1, 2012

There is a long way to go between the idea of turning the former Professional Building on West Main Street (opposite Cook Avenue, Meriden) into apartments for homeless persons and the reality of such a plan. It’s fair to ask questions and raise issues, so long as such questions include “if not there then where?”

During Super Bowl weekend, Americans will eat 1.25 billion Buffalo wings, a truly mind-boggling statistic. We hope that local patrons at such places as Archie Moore’s in Wallingford, Sliders Sports Bar and Grill, in Plantsville, and all the other places where they’re sold do well by them during this national event.

Another car chase, this one from Hamden into New Haven, resulted in the car being chased winding up on top of a man sleeping in his bedroom, when the vehicle landed up inside. The innocent victim suffered burns and the suspect escaped, raising again a question about when to chase and when not to endanger people’s lives.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 31, 2012

Fireworks for Wallingford’s Fourth of July observance seem a chancy thing. Now with both original organizers on the Town Council and busier than ever, it would be a good time for an official intervention by the town budget, but the chances of that happening seem vanishingly small.

Banning electronic devices in schools, in Southington (where a committee is at work on a rule book) or elsewhere, may work momentarily. It’s a better plan, though, to figure out how to incorporate all these devices in the learning process, where they can become integral parts of the system, not just entertainments.

Connecticut’s Bond Commission has approved $291 million in borrowing over a decade to support Jackson Labs’ research lab at the Connecticut Health Center in Farmington. This is a gamble, and we hope a good one.

It makes a certain amount of sense to hold school on some holidays, such as Veterans’ Day, as Cheshire is at least going to consider. It depends whether people, in particular students, see such occasions as vacations or days of remembrance, celebration or whatever.

Wallingford’s Electric Division is considering expanding its incentive program of lowered rates for businesses which locate to Center Street, which costs the town $3,617. This is a fine idea but one does wonder how it differs from the rejected Simpson Court parking plan in its direct aid to businesses.

The mentoring program at Israel Putnam school in Meriden, with one mentor remaining with a student for years. This is a fine way of providing something extra for kids.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Jan. 30, 2012

Who knew that replacing a traffic light at an intersection where one has been familiar for decades could be so complicated? Yet check out the issues at Pratt and Center Streets in Meriden, where, after a vehicle hit its pole, the sagging equipment was removed and it will take a good nine months to go through approvals, funding, bids and construction to get a new one in place.

The latest talk about downtown development in Meriden includes a good deal of housing to make the city a point of origin rather than a destination. That’s all well and good, but we’d guess that inordinately high buildings might take some selling, since not too many will want such a structure to stand out as does the Middlesex Mutual building in downtown Middletown.

Southington schools are taking on bullying, a persistent issue with children (and adults) everywhere. We hope that serious focus on this behavior will help remediate it.

It was running weather “like Florida” for the Bernard Jurale Memorial Tradition Run Sunday morning in Hubbard Park, Meriden. Good exercise, too, if you’re hardy enough to attempt the uphill endeavor and in good health.

It is sad to read of the financial cares of the group which built the replica of the Amistad, Amistad America. Its vessel, in need of some minor but expensive repairs, is stranded at Mystic and trying to figure out how to find the necessary cash.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Jan. 29, 2012

Disappearance of men’s clothing stores not only in Southington but most everyplace. Our emphasis on informality, hard to resist, makes it a tough sell for high-end suits and sport jackets.

Towns – Southington, Wallingford, Meriden, Cheshire, or anywhere else – have no business complaining that the state wants us all to remove phosphorus and other substances from waste water to avoid turning Long Island Sound into a dead sea zone. But, while it is highly annoying and expensive to have to face first one nutrient issue and then another and devise separate mediation, that is the nature of how pollutants’ effects have been discovered and that is, after all, how we put pollutants into the water system, one after another.

The Second Chance Ranch program, run by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Correction at Niantic, seems to work both for animals (some of whom were former Meriden “residents”) and for prisoners. As with pets for seniors, animals create valuable bonds for and with human beings, especially those who are in serious need of this sort of companionship.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Jan 28, 2012

It is a great relief that the Komisarjevsky trial (Cheshire Home Invasion case) has at last been completed and led to the imposition of sentence. Appeals will take the proverbial forever, and no one should expect any rapid conclusion.

A Wallingford property owner’s decision to end public parking on his lot following rejection of an arrangement approved by the council is having an effect upon those who need to reach Holy Trinity School. This is not a good situation.

Fox-a-thon at Plantsville School, Southington, in aid of the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. The $2,359.60 raised by the kids is a tribute to the organization of students, their teacher, and a UConn student.

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Jan. 27, 2012

Reading the comments of Sgt. Wuterich’s parents it is clear that the last six years have been an immense burden on both him and his Meriden family as it has coped with the intensity of a high-profile criminal case. We are glad for them that it is now over.

People will be able to draw their own conclusions from the status of Meriden mayoral candidates’ financial status 2 and a half months after the election. Look at the money and where it came from.

Wallingford Housing Authority members should be extra careful in dotting all I’s and crossing all T’s as it proceeds. Perhaps it would be better, given practices concerning plumbing contractors, to go forward with that full audit so that there are no questions.

The story involving East Haven’s mayor is pretty incredible. That his comment about tacos could be offered by an elected official is a sign of how far our culture has to go.

Meriden Housing Authority’s idea of turning the former “Professional Building” at 137 West Main Street into housing for the homeless makes a good deal of sense. It will take a whole lot of grant money though (around $7 million) so no one’s counting rooms until they’re ready for occupancy.

One has a feeling that the New Haven man who stole $700 worth of baby formula from Target store in Meriden may have acted out of need. We hope that all the facts will e carefully sorted and that we are not witnessing a page out of Les Miserables.

It certainly makes sense for Southington to undertake a study of its sewer system. When it comes to fixing it to whatever standards are set, though, there’s not really much choice for the town.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Jan. 26, 2012

We are concerned for the illness of Principal Tom Brown of Meriden’s Pulaski School and we wish him and his family the very best. He’s been a very strong member of the school system for two decades.

Wallingford wound up the last fiscal year with a surplus, due to leaving positions unfilled. This holds the budget line, and is probably what taxpayers want, but it’s hard on those who need services as well as on employees who often must cover for unfilled jobs.

Renovation of Southington’s middle schools, a job long in the decision, is clearly not going to be short in the execution, either. But the process is underway and will eventually produce two up-to-date schools.

Possible revival of the Learning Academy in Southington, a program at the high school aimed at freshmen and sophomores who are failing courses at the end of their school year. After school programs, twice a week, may not be everyone’s dream come true, but it offers second chances for some who take advantage of the program.

Meriden looks forward to a concert February 11 from its newly formed Pops Orchestra, which will play at the Curtis Cultural Center. We are very glad to see the return of orchestral music to the community and we wish the group a good success.

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Jan. 25, 2012

That marijuana incident at Hanover School, Meriden, involving a 4-year-old who arrived with packets of the stuff is really unfortunate. It’s too bad when a small child becomes the center of a situation with such characteristics.

Southington is already engaged in a typical budget dilemma: cut sports or teachers. It’s not really a good plan, long run, when one program is pitted against another.

Wallingford is again discussing its long-dormant insurance commission. While it is certainly good to make sure all decisions are made transparently, it is hard to figure why decisions made by a committee of five would be any better than decisions made by one professional employee.

It sounds like a really good idea to switch Meriden water and sewer bills to a quarterly payment basis. Maybe folks could also pay on-line, if that can be done without extra cost, to save postage.

It doesn’t look as if the Gura Building in Southington will be disappearing any time soon. The panel to plan its future met for the first time and talk was not of removal but of finding new uses, public or private.

The Wuterich case is concluded, and the Meriden soldier can go on with his life. International chips will fall where they may.

Let’s keep things in perspective: it was widely reported that state workers filed fraudulent claims for food stamps after Hurricane Irene. As facts emerge, it appears 686 of 800 workers who applied did so eligibly (what does that say about state wages?) and 98 have been forwarded for fraud review, of which 4 have retired and 4 have been fired, hardly a huge scandal when dealing with aid of between $200 and $1,200.

Platt Senior Sammi Barillaro’s efforts to raise money in Meriden for Special Olympics through a Polar Bear Plunge at Hammonnasset on February 11. You don’t have to jump in to help this effort, just pledge.

It’s probably good that Southington schools review homework policy – as in how long per day – since all kids have busy schedules and folks should know what to expect. On the other hand it does reduce the process to a sort of accounting exercise rather than a learning experience, since homework, ideally, helps kids learn something, not just occupy their time.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 24, 2012

It is good that Sgt. Wuterich and his attorneys have managed to bring these protracted hearings to an end. We hope the Meriden native may now proceed to whatever is next for him in life, and that the nation can put this incident aside and that harm done to civilians on the other side in that war can be peacefully remedied.

Wild fluctuations in the price of gasoline would be troubling, and it has always been a wonder how events across the world can cause prices to rise at the pump on gas which has already been purchased by retailers or by distributing companies. That said, a 30-cent difference in the price of a gallon amounts to only 10 percent or so and makes little long-range difference to anyone, and as for any windfall to Connecticut coffers, that’s all to the good, considering how desperate the straits it is in.

The Meriden Housing Authority will work with a residents’ committee on issues about affordable housing and the future of public housing, which makes sense to do on several grounds. We hope a way is found to process and respond to input developed by this committee or it will be somewhat pointless.

Lots of people can accept the notion that there will be parking arranged at the Wooding-Caplan property in Wallingford, about which the town is preparing a report for the Council. It is the word “temporary” which causes some concern, as once it’s there, it seems unlikely anyone will continue to find alternative parking, an issue which has left burn marks on many political skins.

It seems that “bait and switch” is a little tough to use on the fact that estimates for sewer installations in Southington were badly off. Sewers are necessary, really, and they’re going to cost what they cost.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Jan. 23, 2012

So Democrats who want to vote in a Republican primary in Connecticut may do so, and the GOP primary is April 24, 90 days from now. But that’s presidential; voters planning interparty strategy should whether if, by changing affiliations, they could switch back for a Democratic Senatorial primary.

Interesting listing of stipends for various jobs coaching or supervising extracurricular activities in Wallingford schools. The cash is minor, but the principle is of greater concern.

Less evidence makes sense in dealing with Connecticut's forensic lab. Clearly, not every case needs forensic treatment, but we do hope that by setting limits cases which need examination will not have lab work done.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Jan. 22, 2012

Seems to us that if folks begin comparing Connecticut’s legislative expenses with other states’ (which is essentially comparing apples to oranges) we’re asking for trouble. That notion floated by Sen. Gary LeBeau of eliminating a chamber is worth looking at as long as it’s not merely done to save money, which is merely a way of ensuring we get what we pay for.

Our pat of Connecticut got off easy in Saturday’s storm. We hope that Meriden, Wallingford, Cheshire and Southington have it just as easy in the precipitation set for tonight and tomorrow.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Jan 21, 2012

Mayor Dickinson delivered his state of the town speech (Wallingford) this week, punctuating his approach with his usual aplomb and drama. Despite the economy, Wallingford, he feels, has “a lot to feel good about” though there’s “no time to relax.”

Meriden’s approach to “time-out” rooms seems sane and measured. Under this system we can see how and why it needs to be.

Following rejection by New London voters of a deal to sell part of an adjacent park to the US Coast Guard Academy, the academy is now attracting offers from neighboring towns who would like to offer a new home.

Moody’s has downgraded Connecticut bonds. Nice of them to do so.

This business of “tuition” wars to lure NY state students to Western or other Connecticut college graduate programs seems a really silly policy to embark upon. Ideally, states should come up with agreements so that tuitions are the same and kids don’t need to go shopping for educational “deals.”

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Jan. 20, 2012

Meriden schools will see some administrative shifts as retirements open opportunities for savings. It won’t be that $4.75 million needed, but everything helps.

Southington Town Councilors, speaking at a “state of the town” meeting are relatively happy with how the town is situated. Despite a weak economy, economic development is being pursued, there is a solid reserve fund, and town assets are in good shape.

In Wallingford, there is less of a parking lot serving Simpson Court's needs. As promised, one of the owners of the land which would have become town-maintained under an agreement passed by the council and then rejected by voters, the owner has exercised his options.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Jan. 19, 2012

In Southington, it appears there could be a bitter dispute with a long-serving former town employee over his severance. We are sorry for this state of affairs and wish it were not so.

Residential usage was one area discussed during Wednesday’s meeting on Meriden’s downtown transit district. It’s good to get all the issues out on the table for discussion.

It is good that the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority will review Northeast Utilities merger with NStar which provides electricity for the Boston area. There ought to be some reason for merger which benefits the consumers and customers of this giant utility rather than merely the shareholders.

Southington school buses may be equipped with cameras to catch motorists who ignore the stop signs, eventually resulting in a ticket. Is disregarding bus signals a sufficient problem to call for treatment of this kind?

Another accident – this time a roll-over of a stone-carrying truck – closed I-91 in Wallingford for 5 hours. These highways continue to be traps for unwary motorists.

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Jan. 18, 2012

Meriden schools face a $4.76 million gap, which the board has voted to seek from the city. It’s kind of a pipe dream, but where are the choices?

Different groups are giving input to Meriden’s Downtown plan, which is taking firmer shape. A lot of valid concerns were voiced and several interesting ideas at meetings with officials beginning yesterday and continuing.

Wallingford Superintendent of Schools Menzo has put forth a sabbatical plan to create solutions for school areas of need, and enlisting the business community. It’s not your typical sabbatical, since it’s no vacation, but it could have excellent results.

Another shoe has dropped with planned increases in tuitions and fees at the Connecticut State Universities and Community Colleges system, needed to compensate for about a 9 percent reduction in state support. And the board of regents will approve the measure, just as UConn’s board did, you may be sure.

Congratulations to Lisa Pippa, named as permanent Health Director for the city of Meriden. Serving as interim during the snow storm made a strong favorable impression on her own behalf.

In Norwalk, the federal government is proposing to close a Social Security office because its lease has expired, meaning folks with business would have to travel to Stamford or Bridgeport. If Social Security were willing to move to more computerized communication, this could make sense, but a huge amount of business takes place with people needing to be present.

A truck driver in Meriden displayed good sense when his load of garbage caught fire by stopping, calling for help and dumping the smoldering load. It was fortunate, too, that Les’ Dairy Bar had closed for the winter and that a snowy lot was available.

Connecticut will apply for a waiver of certain as yet unidentified portions of the No Child Left Behind law, since it is effectively impossible to meet deadlines. Frankly, the whole law is a sham and should be scrapped – which is not at all to say that schools should not be reformed.

It should be no surprise that at Lake Compounce in Southington/Bristol, people are busy during the winter season cleaning, fixing, checking and improving all aspects of the park, especially those which operate 10 hours a day during warm weather. This is a chance to make all the checks which can mean a successful and a safe season later in the year.

Controversy over Connecticut state police staffing, based on a 1998 law requiring 1,248 troopers, which the governor is fighting (present staffing is 1,080) and police union is supporting, demonstrates futility of such a law. What earthly good does passing such a mandate do without the legislature simultaneously passing a law funding such positions?

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 17, 2012

Blockbuster closings in Southington and Meriden is yet another sign of change in entertainment market as new types of electronic providers take advantage of technology. One thing remains clear: there’s a huge hunger for entertainment of all types.

Meriden Family Zone project, organized and run by Meriden Children First, is helping families in the Roger Sherman school district improving children’s literacy rates, ensuring school readiness, making health care accessible and connecting families. This is a valuable service not only to individual families but also to the community.

Governor Malloy and Secretary of the State Merrill want to make access to ballots easier in Connecticut. This is a voting rights move we appreciate, considering the negative directions some states are taking, and in the absence of voter fraud in this state seems highly justified.

It is good news for Connecticut coffers that revenues at both casinos were up somewhat in December. This reverses a trend downwards which had been noted for some time.

Superintendent Erardi is pleased with progress Southington Schools are making and he has promulgated goals for the year ahead.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Jan. 16, 2012

Southington School Superintendent Joseph V. Erardi Jr.’s administrator aspirant program, enrolling teachers who want to look for administrative posts and become qualified in a program to move them in that direction. It’s a sensible approach to filling this personnel need.

Meriden City Councilor Brian Daniels is acting on his campaign promise to seek funding for replacing Mills Memorial Apartments with something better for tenants and better for the city. It’s a competitive grant issue, there are – as always – flood plain issues, there must be replacement housing in place; but there has to be an answer.

Republicans vying for Connecticut Senate candidacy this year are going to be having an interesting battle with at least two, so far, McMahon and Shays, getting personal. On the other hand, there seems to be interesting discussion in the Democratic Party as well, so this will be a free-for-all.

Reading what Meriden superintendent of Schools Mark Benigni does during his long days is illuminating. Anyone who thinks that his position is a cushy one has another think coming.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Jan. 15, 2012

Our sympathy to Melissa Goduti of Wallingford, who won a Mediterranean cruise from her employers and wound up shivering on a small island off Tuscany waiting to come home after the ship gouged a hole in her bottom and heeled over to about 80 degrees. Is it a function of our vastly shrunk world that so many times there’s a major event elsewhere in the world there’s a local connection?

In Southington, it would seem that Town Councilors are getting what they asked for in Town Manager Garry Brumback. If they wanted everything to continue as it had been, they’d have told the new man when he started.

Members of Meriden's Silver City Cadet Squadron, 13 youths from 12 to 21, were out participating in a search and rescue mission in Hurd State Park yesterday morning. It wasn’t a real mission, but it was a function of the Civil Air Patrol to help young people train for real emergencies – such as Hurricane Irene.

Former City Councilor David Salafia is now serving as family-schools liaison for Meriden schools, dealing with attendance and truancy issues. It sounds as if this would be a good role for this popular citizen.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Jan 14, 2012

Meriden’s YMCA has bought Lil’ Rascals Preschool and Day Care Center on Swain Ave. and expanded its operations in this area of endeavor. Here is an interesting development in the delivery of day care, with the Y becoming a licensing agency for multiple sites.

The special master has submitted his plan for redistricting to the Connecticut Supreme Court, which is said to resemble the Democratic plan and shifting no more voters than necessary. “The Republican proposal shifts more population, land and towns than is reasonably necessary to comply with one person one vote,” said Nathaniel Persily, and that seems to sum it up.

Governor Malloy’s decision to endorse seven-day openings of liquor stores in Connecticut is right and proper, given that we live in so determinedly a 24/7 society. Liquor is one of the last holdouts in this state for Sunday closings, and it’s time to end it.

It was really poor procedure for Friendly’s to lay off folks at its Wallingford store via email. Really, the least any firm can do is give those about to be unemployed a little notice and a little face-to-face interaction.

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Jan. 13, 2012

A review of police pursuit policies is well-worth reading, and not just for officers. It is good to know that state police in situations like that which occurred in Southington on Meriden Waterbury road at the end of December and which resulted in a crash and fire with a tanker, are subject to some careful – if necessarily quick – supervision.

Southington has been setting its school calendar for next year and, because Veteran’s Day is a Sunday, there will be school on the Monday but not on subsequent years, a decision reflecting veterans’ wishes. But Superintendent Irardi’s suggestion, a month or so ago, that kids be in school on that day, actually studying the sacrifices veterans made, makes more sense than staying home in front of the TV.

The Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington has received a grant from the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain to enable it to remain in operation for the remainder of this year. We hope some other funding sources can be discovered.

Foreclosure rate in Connecticut and elsewhere seems to be easing, suggesting a turnaround in the economy. We hope this is reason for quiet optimism.

There’s more to be said, one suspects, about “scream rooms” as revealed in a story today from Middletown Public Schools. It is a disturbing concept, but one which may have a place in a student’s Individualized Education Program, which is arrived at by parents, teachers, social workers and other school professionals.

It was a good decision of Meriden’s Public Works and Parks and Recreation Committee to recommend spending $28,000 to restore the path to Nathan Hale School to usable quality. This is a sensible course and we hope the full council approves it.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Jan. 12, 2012

Wallingford’s Housing Authority is crafting new job descriptions as a step in avoiding any repeats of last year’s employment difficulties with its important employees. We’re not sure it job descriptions were part cause of those issues, but to the extent they were, craft away!

Postal workers and supporters, including members of Congress, turned out to find out the details of a proposed distribution center closing in Wallingford, which would cost, among other things, 281 jobs at least. We hope the effort does some good.

Troubles within the We The People Party can only help the other two Meriden party organizations. One suspects that this type of difficulty is fairly endemic with third parties in American politics.

Meriden’s two new public information officers on the police force seem to be enjoying their jobs and hoping to make a difference through police work. We wish them great success in their new jobs.

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Jan. 11, 2012

Meriden residents now have cause to appreciate traffic lights, since a collision ended the useful life of the one at Center and Pratt Streets. Stop signs have their places, and we hope drivers will remember theirs until a new light, for over $150,000, can be erected.

It’s no surprise that after that 2006 referendum undoing the Wallingford Council’s decision about Wooding-Caplan that today’s Council is wary of proceeding. It’s only been 19 years, after all, so there’s no sense hurrying into anything precipitate.

Meriden’s school board finance committee is starting high with hopes for a 4.78 percent increase next year. This is sure to be modified before it becomes a budget.

Members of CT Finest Riderz who constructed a ramp for a little Meriden girl who needed one for her wheel chair access to her home’s front door. Such acts of kindness help more than anyone can imagine.

We hope the problems over a culvert which needs to be built for Spoon Shop Brook on East Main Street in Meriden at a business there can be resolved. No doubt the economy has played a role in delays, but there has to be a way to resolve the issue.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 10, 2012

Apparent success of Connecticut’s Safe Haven law, when a newborn girl was dropped off at MidState Medical Center in Meriden, Monday morning. With the city still remembering a baby boy abandoned 24 years ago early in January to die, this law takes on additional meaning.

A nine percent increase in Wallingford’s education budget seems reasonably unlikely, but one never knows. Superintendent Menzo has done things well during his tenure, and if anyone can convince a town council to open its wallet, it is he.

Further descent of Friendly’s into economic oblivion with the closing of restaurants in Wallingford, Middletown and North Haven, ending a long tradition of familiar foods. Friendly’s will join Howard Johnsons of a former generation, and be in good company.

Southington will be investing its funds with an investment in hopes of increasing yield while the money remains inactive for the town. This bit-by-bit approach seems like the right way to go about accomplishing this.

We are interested and concerned that an alleged “toxic” labor-management relationship at NU/CL&P is in part responsible for how responses lagged in Connecticut during Irene and Alfred. We are more concerned at how such toxicity may be eliminated.

Hunter Ambulance’s move to 1324 East Main for its ambulance storage area has plenty of issues, which developers are working through. Apart from those difficulties, it seems a good move for the Meriden company.

Cytec, as reported by EPA, remains an emitter of a lot of toxic waste. But it needs to be stated that this company, operating in Wallingford since 1941, operates within its permitted boundaries and has greatly reduced emissions over the years, which makes EPA’s release somewhat puzzling.

A dispute in Meriden between Christmas Tree-wielding neighbors over the weekend is one of the stranger arguments we’ve heard of, or at least one of the stranger contexts. We hope to learn more about it as facts develop.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Jan. 9, 2012

There would seem to be no serious question that turning Meriden's downtown Hub into a park permanently is a good plan. If it is something other than the best, then someone should step forward with something to which it could be compared.

That malpractice restriction law passed in Connecticut in 2005 slipped by a lot of people as a way of protecting doctors and hospitals, which seemed to be suffering from high insurance premiums. While the newly required rule that a medical opinion be obtained would seem sensible (who would file a suit without getting an opinion?) it is being used as a barrier to legal redress.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Jan. 8, 2012

Apparently, a good argument for maintaining the postal distribution center in Wallingford open exists. It has to do with a huge volume of advertising items sent out by local companies, which would definitely take longer without that center’s work.

It would seem that the Taser is a vast improvement over shooting someone in an appropriate situation in Meriden or anywhere else. It is naturally going to be an issue to what extent police should use Tasers to obtain compliance rather than in self-defense, and training is certainly good – but there will continue to be some gray areas of usage.

Commissioner of Children and Families Joette Katz seems to be doing her best to solve problems at her agency, but still has a long way to go. One suspects that there is a huge systemic problem as yet unidentified or that people cannot deal with at all; one suspects it has something to do with money Connecticut allocates, too.

Beaton & Corbin site in Southington is being evaluated again for clean-up of its long –standing pollution. This is an example of how long this process can take.

The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Jan 7, 2012

It would certainly be possible to be critical of the manner in which Southington Town Engineer Tranquillo was retired. We shall wait more details of the circumstances before doing so, however.

There really isn’t much choice about fixing roof on Wallingford’s schools. While there may be some discussion over how much reimbursement may be received from the state, it should certainly be possible to work out how much that would be before any decisions have been cast in concrete.

The story of an ambulance rape of a Hamden woman who was unconscious following a fall at a Christmas party is thoroughly inexcusable on the part of the ambulance company. What sort of procedure would leave a single person in the business end of a vehicle with a single unconscious person?

Indications are, from the court, that congressional districts need to be as similar in population and contiguous and that Democrats in Connecticut are within reason in refusing to modify existing shapes to accomplish anything but that. Republicans want changes to make at least on district more competitive, but that doesn’t seem a requirement.

The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Jan. 6, 2012

It seems a rather sad end to a long employment for Southington’s head of Public Works and Engineering, leaving after nearly 40 years. Sometimes this is the only way.

That credit card abuse, source still unidentified, which has left innocent Wallingford customers and merchants as victims is as nasty as any we’ve heard. We hope the perps are apprehended soon.

And so with Cheshire schools’ 2012 budget requests of a 3 percent increase, we’re off and running on another year of this process. We hope it will not be as difficult in the new year as it was in the present year, but we’re not holding our breath.

Architectural plans are being discussed by planners and committees for Platt, and there seem to be some discussions over concept. One item to note is that plans for parking evidently include using the present Meriden skateboard park for parking, and we trust, if such a use transpires, that an alternate location for this well-used facility is in the planning.

No one seems to know why the FBI is investigating Meriden properties owned by Chief Cossette’s wife and son. This is a fairly typical process and probably we shall all know in the fullness of time.

It does appear that many members of Congress, both in House and Senate, are far from indigent. On the other hand, such things as average net worth of around a quarter of a million (as reported for members) should be compared to annual compensation of, say, the CEO of Northeast Utilities in Connecticut, who earned over $8 million in a single year.

Recess Rocks at Strong School, Southington, keeps elementary age kids moving and active when it’s not possible to go outdoors. Community Health Center of Middletown offered a fitness program which fit the needs.

Approval of a space in the former Napier factory by Meriden’s Zoning Board of Appeals for the Victorious House of Prayer, a church with need of larger quarters. This seems to be an appropriate place to authorize a use exception, and the church will join other tenants which include CEI Investment Corp. and New Opportunities for Greater Meriden, a warehouse for Tomassetti Distributors and a fitness and exercise studio.

The Editor's Notepod, Thur., Jan. 5, 2012

Community reaction to the request to use the Lewis mansion on East Main as a mosque is mild and generally favorable. We hope this smoothness continues; it’s good for Meriden.

Meriden-Markham Airport is without a management company after the city terminated its contract with Meriden Aviators that had been inked in June of 2010. It’ll be difficult to find the right mix for running an airport and a business correctly.

Cheshire is expecting to receive the new bubble for the Community Pool which has been shipped from its manufacturer. With good weather conditions (keep your fingers crossed), the construction job could be complete by the end of February.

Connecticut is going to begin serious enforcement of the anti-profiling law. This is something which should have been done years ago.

Perhaps sometime Congress will bury its axes (in something other than in each other) and pass a jobs bill which will help fund school renovations for Meriden’s Casimir Pulaski and so many other schools in need of modernization and serious renovation. It’s scandalous that the process has become so polarized.

Southington schools are getting an anonymous tip line for people in the community to report issues. We hope it works as intended and doesn’t become a sort of while line for angry people.

The Editor's Notepod, Wed., Jan. 4, 2012

Linda Bush has announced her retirement as town planner of Wallingford after 28 years, which has to be some sort of record, and perhaps the only Wallingford employee with more seniority than the mayor. We thank her for solid accomplishments and professionalism in her job and wish her the best in retirement.

Meriden’s Zoning Board of Appeals has voted 4-0 to approve turning the main floor of 19th century mayor Isaac Lewis’ home into a mosque. This seems a perfectly fine use for this old city residence.

Meriden’s City Council voted, properly, to accept a grant of $25,000 for improvements at City Park at its meeting Tuesday night. It does not make sense during a tough economy to stop spending on things which enrich community life – such as parks – but this is when little things tend to make more of a difference.

We guess it makes sense to commission a study to see if closing a Meriden elementary school would save enough money to close a budget gap, but it is hard to understand why members of the board or of the administration can’t figure such a plan out. Perhaps sending such work “outside” de-politicizes it.

It’s a pity that band uniforms are so expensive and so low priority. Congratulations to Wallingford’s schools which have won a $50,000 grant from Pepsi Refresh Project, which they’ll share and meanwhile Meriden’s Maloney has raised $50,000 – but all will keep on fundraising, because there’s a long way to go.

Connecticut’s teachers union, the CEA, has proposed some interesting education reforms, following an earlier set of ideas produced by superintendents. It was disappointing to read that Connecticut Coalition for Achievement Now, or ConnCAN, continues to believe that improving test scores is the basic element in school reform.

The Editor's Notepod, Tues., Jan. 3, 2012

Rising costs at UConn and other state universities. We all know the economy is terrible, so how does raising tuitions help kids attend college and how does bringing in a lot of teachers to beef up faculty (who probably don’t teach entry level courses), accomplish that end?

A new fish ladder at the Wallace Dam in Wallingford should help the Quinnipiac. It will be good to have a diversity of wildlife in the river again.

The Editor's Notepod, Mon., Jan. 2, 2012

Indications that Connecticut high school graduation rates and college attendance rates, as heretofore largely self-reported, are not as good as they might be. The new board of regents is interested in correcting these numbers.

It’s 2012 and time for the Wallingford Town Council to discuss Wooding-Caplan once again. We hope something comes of it.

Wallingford’s West Dayton Hill Property. This town-owned land is 33 acres of solitude, complete with trails.

The Editor's Notepod, Sun., Jan. 1, 2012

New Connecticut laws include required paid sick time for employees of firms with over 50 workers (many definitions apply) and on-line reporting for thousands of corporations, saving reams of paper. There are no doubts some laws which make no sense at all, too, and they’ll be repealed soon enough.

Who knew, as members of Southington High School Class of 2006 have found, that Facebook is ruining class reunions. People who are interested tend to follow each other on the social network and can’t be bothered with meeting them face-to-face.

Southington now has a temporary ice-rink in Memorial Park, arranged by Town Councilor Dawn Miceli and water board Commissioner Mike Domian. Now all we need is a little cold weather.