2026-07-21 - City Council
Summary
Based on the official minutes and the auto-generated captions, which may contain misheard names and figures; speakers' claims on the police, the city's finances and individual incidents are theirs, not verified findings. Vote tallies follow the minutes.
Time on topic (from transcript timestamps; approximate, includes side talk):
| Topic | Minutes | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Police Oversight and Civilian Review Board | 84 | 34% |
| St. Joan of Arc Church Noise and Noise Ordinance and Event Licensing | 27 | 11% |
| Other orders | 25 | 10% |
| Street Resurfacing Capital Loan Program | 22 | 9% |
| Other public comment | 20 | 8% |
| Youth Vaping and Tobacco Regulation | 14 | 6% |
| Finance | 10 | 4% |
| Holden Sewer Lawsuit | 10 | 4% |
| Hope Avenue Speed Limit and Pedestrian Safety | 9 | 4% |
| 4 Brandt Lane and Pine Hill Road | 8 | 3% |
| Declaration of Independence Statue (Isaiah Thomas) | 6 | 3% |
| Other business | 5 | 2% |
| Referrals and routine business | 5 | 2% |
| 321 Greenwood Street Zone Change and 455 Grove Street Zone Change | 1 | 0% |
| Worcester Charter Review | 1 | 0% |
| Civil Immigration Enforcement Signage | 1 | 0% |
| City Council Office Staff and Operations | 0 | 0% |
- Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
- Met 6:08 to 10:17 PM with all eleven members present and Mayor Joseph M. Petty in the chair.
Police Oversight and Civilian Review Board
3:35-5:47, 7:01-13:07, 15:24-17:35, 18:13-1:00:07, 1:04:30-1:06:13, 1:07:45-1:17:28, 1:21:24-1:26:32, 1:29:05-1:34:08, 1:35:54-1:38:14, 1:40:05-1:44:54, 4:04:41-4:07:20
- The night was dominated by public participation on item 10.5A CM, the City Manager's report and recommendation on a municipal civilian review board for the police.
- Petty moved to suspend the rules (11-0) to give public participation an extra hour beyond the usual 30 minutes, and the 50 speakers (in person and by phone) ran from about 3:30 to 1:43 in the recording. All but one or two opposed the recommendation.
- Speakers said Eric D. Batista had recommended on July 17 against creating a board, and argued that this ignored the 2024 Department of Justice report on the Worcester Police Department, the Worcester Regional Research Bureau's October 2025 report favoring a board, the Racial Equity Audit and a Human Rights Commission vote for a board with subpoena power.
- They cited millions of dollars in police misconduct settlements (one speaker said $4 million for 27 suits in 2010-2020 and $2.6 million since; another said $10 million over ten years), said the state POST Commission cannot substitute for local oversight, and noted that Boston, Cambridge, Springfield, Pittsfield and Lowell have boards.
- Former Human Rights Commission leaders (including Randy Feldman as acting chair, and speakers identifying as a former chair, vice chair and a commissioner not renewed) said the commission has been ignored; Margot Barnet said two members had resigned in the previous two days.
- Several speakers described personal encounters with police, and some used harsh language toward the City Manager, the Mayor and the Council (one speaker criticized Petty over the city's response to an ICE incident on Eureka Street).
- Gary Hunter, Idella Hazard, Tom Marino, Etel Haxhiaj and Echo Louissaint-Collins were among the speakers; Haxhiaj, a former District 5 councilor, said twice as many people would come in August.
- A retired court employee spoke against a board as premature, and one speaker urged the Council to keep body cameras on.
- When public participation ended, Khrystian E. King asked to take the item out of order and held it under privilege, calling the recommendation premature and meant to undermine debate; the report itself was not discussed.
- At the end of the meeting Robert A. Bilotta objected that a speaker's remark about August suggested the hold had been coordinated before the extra hour was used, and said he would likely oppose another extension of public participation.
Other public comment
5:48-7:00, 13:08-15:23, 17:36-18:12, 1:00:08-1:04:29, 1:06:14-1:07:44, 1:17:29-1:21:23, 1:26:33-1:29:04, 1:34:09-1:35:53, 1:38:15-1:40:04
- First-time speaker Felicia Campanale asked for one searchable place for residents to find city, state and nonprofit assistance programs.
- Fred Nathan questioned the pace of grant acceptances (he estimated about $12 million in the finance batch).
- Kiara Munz asked the Council to pass the parking-minimums order (item 11a), saying a garage space costs $30,000. See Minimum Parking Requirements Zoning Amendment.
- Canal District resident Tia Christina Kuffour said parking around Polar Park has left residents with thousands in tickets, boots and tows and asked for resident permits. See Canal District Resident Parking (Polar Park).
- Gordon Davis and homeowner Gordon Jon Davis objected to a Department of Public Works enforcement order about a sump pump at 10 Varnum St. See 10 Varnum Street Sump Pump Enforcement.
- Dr. Tasia Cerezo of Meryl's Safe Haven asked for resident permit parking at 5 May St. (13 renovated units). See 5 May Street Resident Permit Parking.
- Jeffrey Killebrew of FamJam backed item 13h. See FamJam Jam Spots Youth Work Permits.
- Wilson Lam spoke about potholes (and sang).
- A District 1 resident said he feared a proposal to block streets off Park Ave. would push traffic onto Sagamore and Monadnock Rds.
- Sean Manson, by phone, said St. Joan of Arc Church had admitted its hall cannot be soundproofed and the city should keep it closed until it is.
Referrals and routine business
1:44:55-1:49:30, 3:53:22-3:53:46
- The Council held the City Manager's three appointments (including Candice Mero-Carlson to the Redevelopment Authority) under privilege at Bilotta's request.
- Voted 10-0 to advertise four salary ordinance amendments (Toomey absent).
- Referred the 128 Providence Street zone map amendment to the Planning Board and the GreenTech Park TIF Zone resolution to Economic Development.
- Referred many Public Works and Traffic and Parking petitions in bulk.
- A petition to establish the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District at 95 Vernon Street went to the Planning Board.
- A set of conduit and pole location hearings were set for August 18.
Finance
1:49:31-1:52:52, 3:55:05-3:58:11, 3:59:25-4:03:11
- The MSBA Stabilization Fund and New High School Fund transfer to the New High School Fund and widening of that fund to cover the Burncoat High and Middle Schools project each passed 10-0 with Luis A. Ojeda recused.
- A 40-plus item batch of grants, donations, year-end transfers and prior-year invoices passed 11-0 on one roll call, including about $4.08 million in Community Development Block Grant funds, a $3.18 million public health preparedness grant and a $505,000 Diversion to Care grant.
- The FY2027 Capital Loan Order of $43,468,416 passed 8-3 (Bilotta, King and Ojeda opposed) after King asked whether its language would let the administration move funds between accounts without Council approval (it is the annual order, but he voted no).
- The fourteen occupational-group salary ordinances and the non-union salary ordinance were ordained 11-0 along with two dozen traffic and parking ordinances.
- Eleven Chairman's Orders were adopted in bulk, including a request for a draft citywide parking-minimums reduction, a Sports Commission feasibility report, lateral police recruiting incentives, a 90-day traffic trial in the Montvale Historic District (Montvale Historic District Traffic Trial) and stepped-up enforcement on Mount Ave. and Hope Ave.
St. Joan of Arc Church Noise and Noise Ordinance and Event Licensing
1:52:53-2:19:29
- Tony Economou said neighbors had been given "lip service" by the church.
- Batista said Inspectional Services had posted a closure notice that came down July 10 after the church promised to control event noise, that the noise returned, and that police asked organizers to lower the volume only to have it come back an hour later, with a cease-and-desist the next step.
- King asked for a timeline report on complaints, enforcement and permits; Satya B. Mitra said his earlier noise-ordinance request in the spring had never been answered.
- The neighborhood-meeting order, the complaint-process report and King's timeline were adopted while the noise ordinance review went to Public Safety.
Hope Avenue Speed Limit and Pedestrian Safety
2:25:19-2:34:20
- Jose A. Rivera's order to rescind the 35 and 30 mph special speed limits after a fatal crash near 137 Hope Ave. passed 11-0.
- Batista explained that rescinding returns the road to the 25 mph statutory limit, but each special regulation has to be rescinded individually, and he did not know whether speed was a factor.
- King added reports on lighting and on traffic patterns near the I-290 ramp, and Kathleen M. Toomey asked for immediate 25 mph signage.
Street Resurfacing Capital Loan Program
2:34:21-2:56:06
- Mitra's order for debt service figures on a $20 million-a-year, five-year, $100 million road and sidewalk loan program.
- The discussion turned on a "$600 million" of available authorization: Batista said that is unborrowed authorization from earlier loan orders, that borrowing $100 million more would exceed current debt capacity, strain the bond rating and could mean higher taxes or layoffs.
- Gary Rosen asked for a roll call and the report passed 7-3 (King abstained) with King's separate strategy report adopted.
Holden Sewer Lawsuit
3:01:36-3:11:31
- Economou asked why the matter was left dormant.
- Batista said the Holden suit is settled but the broader dispute over a new sewer use agreement with the state and the other towns is unresolved and he could not yet brief the Council even in executive session.
- Morris A. Bergman amended the order to ask the City Solicitor about privilege.
Youth Vaping and Tobacco Regulation
3:19:46-3:34:00
- Rosen's order for a Public Health and Human Services hearing on youth tobacco, nicotine and vaping, which he tied to the Board of Health's recent easing of siting rules for a downtown business (Tobacco Regulations Update (2026)).
- Opposed in debate by Bilotta; referred 11-0 with Ojeda adding Worcester Public Schools.
4 Brandt Lane and Pine Hill Road
3:43:47-3:51:58
- John P. Fresolo noted that the development could mean 200 to 400 apartments served by one private road (Pine Hill Rd.).
- His legal-opinion order passed 9-0 as amended with King abstaining.
Declaration of Independence Statue (Isaiah Thomas)
3:13:29-3:19:45
- Bergman called for a statue of Isaiah Thomas reading the Declaration of Independence by the end of the 250th-anniversary year (King's amendment adds refurbishing the plaque meanwhile).
Other orders
2:19:30-2:25:18, 2:56:07-3:01:35, 3:11:32-3:13:28, 3:34:18-3:43:46, 3:51:59-3:52:44, 3:58:12-3:59:24
- A 911 follow-up survey order (adopted, with former-first-responder Charles Hopkins speaking under a suspension of rules).
- A MassDOT meeting on Grove St. crashes.
- A Bigelow Davis Pkwy. and Lake Ave. intersection report.
- A cooling-center resources report.
- A plan to hear from Southbridge St. businesses about illicit activity.
- A conservation land versus housing meeting.
- Economou won adoption of a Proctor St. guardrail petition that the committee had recommended filing.
321 Greenwood Street Zone Change and 455 Grove Street Zone Change
3:53:47-3:54:57
- Planning Board zone-change reports for 321 Greenwood St. and 455 Grove St. were referred to Economic Development after Fresolo asked what the developer intends (he had heard apartments) and moved a project report.
Worcester Charter Review
3:52:45-3:53:21
- Nikolin Vangjeli's communications on Charter change options and an August 17 Municipal and Legislative Operations meeting on the Charter were referred to that committee.
City Council Office Staff and Operations
4:04:18-4:04:40
- King held two City Clerk communications about City Council office staffing and a survey for a second time (10-1, Bilotta opposed).
Civil Immigration Enforcement Signage
4:03:45-4:04:17
- King held both civil-immigration-enforcement signage orders.
Other business
0:00-3:34, 3:54:58-3:55:04, 4:03:12-4:03:44, 4:07:21-4:08:31
- NCAA tournament hosting bid orders were placed on file 10-1 and 9-1 over King's objection.
- Rivera filed his Beaver Brook Dog Park audit order.
- King held Bilotta's Canal District unhoused outreach order.
- Toomey closed by thanking a retiring police lieutenant (name garbled in the captions) for more than 40 years of service.
Issues discussed: Police Oversight and Civilian Review Board, Civil Immigration Enforcement Signage, St. Joan of Arc Church Noise, Noise Ordinance and Event Licensing, Hope Avenue Speed Limit and Pedestrian Safety, Street Resurfacing Capital Loan Program, FY2027 Capital Loan Order, MSBA Stabilization Fund and New High School Fund, Holden Sewer Lawsuit, 321 Greenwood Street Zone Change, 455 Grove Street Zone Change, 95 Vernon Street, 128 Providence Street, GreenTech Park TIF Zone, Minimum Parking Requirements Zoning Amendment, Worcester Charter Review, Worcester Common Safety, 4 Brandt Lane and Pine Hill Road, Youth Vaping and Tobacco Regulation, Tobacco Regulations Update (2026), 10 Varnum Street Sump Pump Enforcement, Canal District Resident Parking (Polar Park), 5 May Street Resident Permit Parking, FamJam Jam Spots Youth Work Permits, Montvale Historic District Traffic Trial, Declaration of Independence Statue (Isaiah Thomas), City Council Office Staff and Operations, Main Street Parking Regulations, Truck Ban - Hamilton Street and Lake Avenue, Street and Sidewalk Rehabilitation Process
Official Minutes
Journal of the City Council, posted on PrimeGov (summary of actions, not verbatim). Page headers and footers removed.
CITY OF WORCESTER
JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Esther Howland (South) Chamber
Convened: 6:08 P.M.
Adjourned: 10:17 P.M.
MAYOR
Joseph M. Petty
AT-LARGE COUNCILORS DISTRICT COUNCILORS
Morris A. Bergman Tony Economou - District 1
Khrystian E. King Robert A. Bilotta - District 2
Satya B. Mitra John P. Fresolo - District 3
Gary Rosen
Luis A. Ojeda - District 4
Kathleen M. Toomey
Jose A. Rivera - District 5
www.worcesterma.gov
CITY CLERK CITY MANAGER CITY AUDITOR
Nikolin Vangjeli Eric D. Batista Robert V. Stearns
City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. STAR SPANGLED BANNER
3. ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair.
4. PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
5a. Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of
the City Council Meeting of June 16, 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt items #5a CC and #5b CC. Order adopted
5b. Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of
the City Council Meeting of June 23, 2026.
Order adopted (See Item #5a CC)
6. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
6a. Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the following Speakers:
1. Mary Sacksteder, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
2. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, neither in favor of nor opposed to items #10.35A
CM through #10.35J CM
3. Tom Marino, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
4. Gary Hunter, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
5. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
6. Felicia Campanale, Worcester resident, spoke concerning an item not listed on the
agenda
7. Abby Mortillaro, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
8. Kiara Munz, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11a CC and spoke in
opposition to item #10.5A CM
9. William Gardner, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
10. Ellen Shemitz, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
11. Elizabeth O’Callahan, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
12. Aretha Kharashquah, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
13. Janet Davis, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
14. Giselle Rivera-Flores, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
15. Roberto Diaz, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
16. Yadania Tino, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
17. Echo Louissaint Collins, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
18. Amy Ebbeson, Rutland resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
19. Margot Barnet, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
20. Sue Mailman, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
21. Andrew Marsh, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
22. Ashley Spring, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
23. Charles Hopkins, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM and
spoke in favor of item #12e CC
24. David Coyne, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
25. Feanna Jattan-Singh, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
26. Amanda Cronin, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
27. Sheila Brenner, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
28. Mystie Greene, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
29. Jermoh Kamara, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
30. Gordon Jon Davis, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #9m CC
31. Gordon Davis, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #9m CC
32. Noah Meister, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
33. Tia Christina Kuffour, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11a CC
34. Maydee Morales, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
35. Terri Kelley, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
36. Sarah Bertrand, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
37. Etel Haxhiaj, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
38. Tom Brenner, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
39. Matthew Mullaney, Worcester resident, spoke concerning an item not listed on the
agenda and spoke in favor of item #10.5A CM
40. Dr. Tasia Cerezo, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #8t CC
41. Randy Feldman, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
42. Deb Powers, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
43. Geoffrey Killebrew, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #13h CC and spoke in
opposition to item #10.5A CM
44. Lynn Key, Millville resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
45. Noah (no last name given), Northampton resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A
CM
46. Wilson Lam, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #7g CC
47. Nelly Medina, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
48. Sean Manson, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor of nor opposed to item #12a
CC
49. Benjamin (no last name given), Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item
#10.5A CM
50. David Webb, West Boylston resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.5A CM
7. PETITIONS - Part I
7a. Lawrence O. Freed request removal of large stone deposits washed into Lake
Quinsigamond from Coal Mine Brook (see attached).
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #7a CC through #7e CC to the Department of
Public Works. Referred to the Department of Public Works.
7b. Lawrence O. Freed request Poor Farm Brook Dam be removed for the purpose of
increasing water flow to the brook and to mitigate the dying fish issue (see attached).
Referred to the Department of Public Works (See Item #7a CC)
7c. Lawrence O. Freed request the stone wall located on Highland St. from Newton Sq. to
Doherty Memorial High School be cleaned and repaired.
Referred to the Department of Public Works (See Item #7a CC)
7d. Lawrence O. Freed request the two (2) stone columns at the entrance of Logan Field,
located at 539 Mill St., be cleaned, repaired, and maintained.
Referred to the Department of Public Works (See Item #7a CC)
7e. Lawrence O. Freed request the stone wall at Logan Field, located at 539 Mill St., along
Mill St. and Airport Dr. be repaired.
Referred to the Department of Public Works (See Item #7a CC)
7f. George Markopoulos on behalf of 95 Vernon Street LLC request the Zoning Map be
amended to establish the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District (AROD) over the property
located at 95 Vernon St. (MBL: 05-38B-U-101), currently located only within the
Business,Office (BO-2.0) zoning district.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the Planning Board. Referred to
Planning Board
7g. Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Michael Brennan request street resurfacing on
Pine View Ave.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #7g CC through #7p CC to Public Works
Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee
7h. Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Bill Metterville request sidewalk repair in front of
Worcester State University, located at 486 Chandler St.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7i. Councilor Jose A. Rivera request sidewalk resurfacing from 31 Mower St. to 67 Mower
St.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7j. Councilor Luis A. Ojeda request sidewalk resurfacing on Boyden St.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7k. Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of streetlights on Wigwam Hill Dr.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7l. Lawrence O. Freed request sidewalk repair on Mill St. from 503-505 Mill St. to Logan
Field, located at 539 Mill St.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7m. Mikeoll Echeverria on behalf of Stockton Street Development, LLC request sanitary
sewer main extension on Stockton St. to serve a proposed two-unit residential
development located on Lot 1 Stockton St. (Parcel ID: 10-007-0936A).
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7n. David F. Dick, Jr. request walking path to Thorndyke Road School from the Lindale Rd.
cul-de-sac to the southwest corner of Thorndyke Street School be repaired.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7o. David F. Dick, Jr. request sidewalks be constructed on the northerly side of Rexhame
Rd. between Burncoat St. and Beverly Rd.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7p. Adela Melendez request existing sidewalk on Ararat St. be extended to include 139
Ararat St. to its intersection with Indian Hill Rd.
Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #7g CC)
7q. Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Caitlyn Austin request installation of resident
permit parking on Beaver Brook Pkwy.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #7q CC through #7z CC to Traffic and
Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee, Traffic and Parking Committee
7r. Councilor John P. Fresolo request installation of a "Go Slow Children" sign on the
portion of Ames St. between Vernon St. and Stockton St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7s. Councilor Luis A. Ojeda on behalf of Brenda Jenkins request installation of a handicap
parking space in front of 11 Benefit St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7t. Councilor Luis A. Ojeda on behalf of Brenda Jenkins request installation of a handicap
parking space in front of 13 Benefit St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7u. Councilor John P. Fresolo request installation of speed humps on Cutler St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7v. Councilor John P. Fresolo request installation of speed humps in the vicinity of 35
Fairfax Rd.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7w. Councilor John P. Fresolo request installation of a truck ban/weight restriction for the
through traffic of trucks on Hamilton St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7x. Councilor John P. Fresolo request installation of a truck ban/weight restriction for the
through traffic of trucks on Lake Ave.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7y. Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of
Grove St. and North St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
7z. Mayor Joseph M. Petty on behalf of Dana Felicitti request installation of Rectangular
Rapid Flashing Beacons at the crosswalk on Grove St. at its intersection with Chadwick
St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #7q CC)
8. PETITIONS - Part II
8a. Mayor Joseph M. Petty on behalf of Dana Felicitti request installation of Rectangular
Rapid Flashing Beacons at the crosswalk on Gold Star Blvd. at its intersection with
Chadwick St.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #8a CC through #8z CC to Traffic and
Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee
8b. Mayor Joseph M. Petty on behalf of Dana Felicitti request installation of Rectangular
Rapid Flashing Beacons at the crosswalk in the vicinity of 60 Gold Star Blvd.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8c. Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of thru way street signage at the northern
corner of Tampa St., in the vicinity of 47 Tampa St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8d. Councilor John P. Fresolo requests establishment of an overnight (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
quiet zone at the railroad crossings at Blackstone River Rd. and McKeon Rd.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8e. Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Nathalie Gibson request installation of warning
signage on Coes St. adjacent to the Stearns Tavern in both directions to alert motorists of
the sharp curve.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8f. Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of crosswalks at appropriate locations on
North Lake Ave. between North Rd. and Belcourt Rd.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8g. Councilor Satya B. Mitra request installation of a crosswalk at the intersection of
Richmond Ave. and Pleasant St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8h. Jarelys Castillo et al. request removal of the handicap parking space at 13 Vesper St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8i. Mariah Murphy request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 200 Fairmont
Ave.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8j. Mari Al-Saad request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 48 Esther St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8k. Sameerah Mohammed request installation of a handicap parking space at 131 Chino Ave.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8l. Patricia and Brian Rivers request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage on the
even side of Arbor Vitae St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8m. Bobbielynn Johnson request installation of speed humps on Canterbury St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8n. Bobbielynn Johnson request installation of speed humps on Southgate St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8o. Dawn Edmonds request Cutler St. be reviewed for the installation of traffic calming
measures, including speed humps.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8p. Dawn Edmonds request Aetna St. be reviewed for the installation of traffic calming
measures, including speed humps.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8q. Raymond Augustine request installation of radar enforced speed limit warning signage
facing both direction in the vicinity of 22 Valmor St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8r. Raymond Augustine request installation of a speed hump in the vicinity of 22 Valmor St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8s. Lee Silverstein request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 4 Hartshorn
Ave.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8t. Tasia Cerezo on behalf of Meryl's Safe Haven, Inc. request installation of resident permit
parking for the area surrounding 5 May St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8u. Alexander Volkov request installation of "Children" signage in front of 457 Granite St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8v. Sheryl Reidy request installation of speed humps on Fales St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8w. Songsong Le request installation of stop signage at the intersection of Newton Ave.
North and Terrace Dr.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8x. Mario Makhluf request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of the
pathway located at 26 King St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8y. Therese Richardson request installation of speed humps on Byron St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
8z. Therese Richardson request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage on one side of
lower Byron St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #8a CC)
9. PETITIONS - Part III
9a. Yamilet Perez Rivera request installation of speed humps on Channing St. between Orne
St. and Forbes St.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #9a CC through #9l CC to Traffic and
Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee
9b. Stephen Poplawski request installation of speed humps on Acton St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9c. Stephen Poplawski request installation of speed humps on Ashwood St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9d. Jillian St. Pierre request removal of "No Parking Anytime" restriction on Theodore
Tonna St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9e. Quoc Le request resident permit parking on Pilgrim Ave. be extended to include 249 to
251 Pilgrim Ave., with existing handicap parking space located in the vicinity of 249 be
removed and said resident permit parking area be installed in its place.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9f. Giuseppa Girardi request the handicap parking space located at 249 Pilgrim Ave. be
relocated to 252 Pilgrim Ave.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9g. Brian DeLac request installation of temporary speed humps on Montague St. between
Baker St. and Autumn St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9h. Janet Moore request installation of right traffic control signals at the intersection of
Mountain St. East and Mountain St. West onto West Boylston St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9i. Rebecca Distefano request removal of handicap parking space in front of 41 Everard St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9j. Rebecca Distefano request removal of handicap parking space in front of 49 Everard St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9k. Nicholas Burnham on behalf of the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA)
request installation of one (1) new inbound bus stop on the western side of Constitution
Ave. in front of the apartment building located at 258-268 Constitution Ave.,
approximately 25 feet west of building driveway, with bus stop signage being installed
on streetlight pole ten (10) in conjunction with existing "No Parking" signage.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9l. Nicholas Burnham on behalf of the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA)
request re-activation of one (1) outbound bus stop on the northern side of Constitution
Ave. opposite from 165-175 Constitution Ave., approximately 118 feet east of
playground driveway, with said bus stop signage being installed on streetlight pole seven
(7).
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9m. Gordon Jon Davis request City Council request City Manager review the attached
requests related to a sump pump at 10 Varnum St. (see attached).
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the City Manager. Referred to the City
Manager
9n. CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: 38-40 SOUTHBRIDGE ST.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to set hearings for items #9n CC through #9r CC for August
18, 2026 at 6 p.m. Hearing set for August 18, 2026 at 6 p.m.
9o. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: FLORENCE ST.
Hearing set for August 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. (See Item #9n CC)
9p. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: GRAFTON ST.
Hearing set for August 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. (See Item #9n CC)
9q. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: GROVE ST.
Hearing set for August 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. (See Item #9n CC)
9r. NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole at:
WEST BOYLSTON ST.
Hearing set for August 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. (See Item #9n CC)
10. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER
10.1 APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation
10.2 APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation
A. Recommending the appointment of Candice Mero-Carlson to the Worcester
Redevelopment Authority.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved to Hold the
Item Under Privilege.
Held Under Privilege - Bilotta
B. Recommending the appointment of Jared Madison to the Trust Funds
Commission.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved to Hold the
Item Under Privilege.
Held Under Privilege - Bilotta
C. Recommending the appointment of Che Anderson to the Civic Center
Commission.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved to Hold the
Item Under Privilege.
Held Under Privilege - Bilotta
10.3 DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
William Bagley, Jr., Esq., Chief Human Resources Officer
A. Recommend adoption of salary ordinance amendments that will bring the
ordinance in compliance with the changes enacted in the Fiscal Year 2026
Budget, as well as current organizational priorities and operational needs.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the four (4)
proposed Ordinances. Voted to advertise four (4) proposed Ordinances on a roll call
vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)
10.4 EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Peter Dunn, Chief Development Officer
A. Recommend adoption of a zoning map amendment relative to 128
Providence St.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Planning Board. Referred
to Planning Board
B. Recommend adoption of a resolution establishing a Tax Increment Financing
Zone for GreenTech Park.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Economic Development
Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee
10.5 EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Kevin Lovaincy, Chief Equity Officer
A. Transmitting informational communication relative to a report and
recommendation regarding a municipal civilian review board.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the
Item Under Privilege.
Held Under Privilege – King
10.6 EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Division of Human Rights and Accessibility
Patricia M. LaFore, Director
10.7 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Administration Division
John K. Westerling, Commissioner
A. Transmitting informational communication relative to an update on the Keep
Worcester Clean Program in quarters 1 and 2 of 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee.
Referred to Public Works Committee
B. Transmitting informational communication relative to utility restoration
warranty periods.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee.
Referred to Public Works Committee
C. Transmitting informational communication relative to June 2026 Bulk Waste
Facility Pilot.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee.
Referred to Public Works Committee
10.8 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
John K. Westerling, Commissioner
10.9 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Operations Division
John K. Westerling, Commissioner
10.10 DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION, AND CEMETERY
Robert C. Antonelli, Jr., Commissioner
10.11 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY
Stephen S. Rolle, P.E., Commissioner
A. Recommend adoption of an ordinance establishing a commercial loading
zone and two-hour metered parking on a portion of Main Street.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Traffic and Parking
Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee
B. Transmitting informational communication relative to the Construction
Progress Report for the month ending June 30, 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning
the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility, who
responded to questions raised by Councilor Bilotta.
Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public
Works Committee
10.12 FIRE DEPARTMENT
Martin Dyer, Fire Chief
10.13 POLICE DEPARTMENT
Paul B. Saucier, Police Chief
10.14 DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Charles R. Goodwin, Commissioner
10.15 LAW DEPARTMENT
Alexandra H. Kalkounis, Esq., City Solicitor
10.16 DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration
Nicholas Antanavica, Commissioner
10.17 DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
David Horne, Deputy Building Commissioner
10.18 DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division
Lee R. Hall, Director
10.19 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration
Seema Dixit, Commissioner
10.20 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs
Amy Vogel Waters, Director
10.21 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services
Alex R. Arriaga, Interim Veterans Services Director
10.22 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Opportunities
Raquel Castro-Corazzini, Director
10.23 WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY
Jason L. Homer, Executive Director
10.24 EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division
Nikolin Vangjeli, City Clerk
10.25 PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Brian Allen, Superintendent
10.26 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Administration
Timothy McGourthy, Chief Financial Officer
A. Recommend approval of the transfer of funding from the Massachusetts
School Building Authority Stabilization Fund to the New High School Fund
and the Closure of the MSBA Stabilization Fund.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Ojeda, who recused himself
from the item and left the room.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call
vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Ojeda recused)
B. Recommend approval of the expansion of the purposes of the New High
School Fund to include the Burncoat High and Middle Schools project.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Ojeda, who moved to recuse
himself from the item and left the room.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call
vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Ojeda recused)
C. Transmitting informational communication relative to the extension of the
time period for repayment of private street conversions.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee.
Referred to Public Works Committee
D. Transmitting informational communication relative to a financial update for
the period ending on May 31, 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Municipal and Legislative
Operations Committee. Referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee
10.27 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division
Samuel E. Konieczny, City Assessor
10.28 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division
Erin E. Taylor, Director
10.29 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division
Christopher Gagliastro, Director
10.30 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division
Francisco Hernandez, Treasurer and Collector of Taxes
10.31 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
James Bedard, Chief of Public Facilities
10.32 DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE
John W. Odell, Chief Sustainability Officer
10.33 DEPARTMENT OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Michael P. Hamel, Chief Information Officer
10.34 FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers
A. Recommend approval of year end capital transfers to make adjustments to
municipal projects accounts as part of Fiscal Year 2026 closing procedures.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt items #10.34A CM,
#10.35A CM through #10.35J CM, #10.36A CM through #10.36F CM, and #10.37A
CM through #10.37I CM. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
10.35 FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations
A. Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept a donation in the amount of
Ten Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($10,000.00) from Mr. Anastasio
Parafestas of the Profesta Foundation, to support the Worcester Fire
Department.
Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item
#10.34A CM)
B. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the
amount of Three Million One Hundred Eighty-Three Thousand Six Hundred
Ninety Dollars and No Cents ($3,183,690.00) from the Massachusetts
Department of Public Health Office of Preparedness and Emergency
Management.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
C. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the
amount of Five Hundred Five Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($505,000.00)
from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance
Addiction Services under the Diversion to Care grant program.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
D. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the
amount of Two Hundred Ninety-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy
Dollars and No Cents ($291,370.00) from the Massachusetts Department of
Secondary and Elementary Education.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
E. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file and accept with gratitude a
donation in the amount of Thirty Thousand Dollars and No Cents
($30,000.00) from the Friends of Worcester’s Senior Center.
Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item
#10.34A CM)
F. Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in
the amount of Four Hundred Dollars ($400.00) in support of the Worcester
Senior Center.
Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item
#10.34A CM)
G. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the
amount of Six Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Dollars and No
cents ($639,200.00) from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging &
Independence FY27 COA Formula Grant.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
H. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the
amount of Seventeen Thousand Two Hundred Thirty Dollars and No Cents
($17,230.00) from the United Way of Central Massachusetts.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
I. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the
amount of Twenty Five Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($25,000.00) from
the Greater Worcester Community Foundation.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
J. Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the
amount of Twelve Thousand Four Hundred Ninety Five Dollars and No
Cents ($12,495.00) from the Office of the Attorney General to support
Summer Youth Employment Programs.
Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
10.36 FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers
A. Recommend that Six Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred
Fifty-Nine Dollars and Three Cents ($624,159.03) be transferred from Cable
Funds and be appropriated to various accounts to provide funding for cable
related expenses, which represents the Fiscal Year 2027 Cable PEG program
allocation.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
B. Recommend that Four Million Seventy Six Thousand Five Hundred Sixty
One Dollars and No Cents ($4,076,561.00) be accepted from the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Year LII Community
Development Block Grant program, and Seventy Five Thousand Dollars And
No Cents ($75,000.00) in anticipated Year LII Program Income, be
appropriated, when and as received, to provide financing for eligible projects
and programs.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
C. Recommend that Three Hundred Eighty Three Thousand Dollars and No
Cents ($383,000.00) be transferred between various CDBG grant accounts.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
D. Recommend Adoption of an Order Amending the FY2027 Table of
Organization for the Executive Office of Economic Development, Division
of MassHire Central Region Workforce Board.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
E. Recommend that Three Hundred Seventy-One Dollars and Ninety Cents
($371.90) be transferred from Fund # FD313, Damage Settlements, and be
appropriated to Cost Center #CC1076-610100, Parks Ordinary Maintenance,
to fund repairs to a Parks vehicle that was damaged in a motor vehicle
accident.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
F. Recommend approval of year end operating transfers to make adjustments to
municipal accounts to balance the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
10.37 FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year
A. Recommend that Eleven Thousand Four Hundred Seventy Seven Dollars and
Twenty Three Cents ($11,477.23) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2027 Cost
Center #CC1061, Budget Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior
year invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
B. Recommend that Eleven Thousand One Hundred Thirty Nine Dollars and
Eleven Cents ($11,139.11) be authorized from Cost Center #CC1081, for the
payment of prior year invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
C. Recommend that Six Thousand Eight Hundred Twelve Dollars and Fifty
Cents ($6,812.50) be authorized from the Fiscal Year 2027 Cost Center
#CC1010, Elections Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior year
invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
D. Recommend that Five Thousand Three Hundred Forty Five Dollars and
Eighteen Cents ($5,345.18) be authorized from the Fiscal Year 2027 Cost
Center #CC1010, Election Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior
year invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
E. Recommend that Nine Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($9,000.00) be
authorized from FY2027 Cost Center #CC1004, Economic Development
Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior year invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
F. Recommend that Four Thousand Twelve Dollars and Fifty Five Cents
($4,012.55) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2027 Cost Center #CC1044, Fire
Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of prior year invoices.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
G. Recommend that One Hundred Nine Dollars and Fifty-Three Cents ($109.53)
be authorized from Fiscal Year 2027 Cost Center #CC1065, Golf Ordinary
Maintenance, for the payment of prior year invoices.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
H. Recommend that Three Thousand Eight Hundred One Dollar and Thirty
Three Cents ($3,801.33) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2027 Cost Center
#CC1014, Unemployment Compensation, for the payment of a prior year
invoice.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
I. Recommend Twenty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Eleven Dollars and
Seventy-Nine Cents ($23,411.79) be authorized from various Fiscal Year
2027 Worcester Police Department cost centers to pay prior year invoices.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.34A CM)
10.38 FINANCE
Loan Orders
10.39 MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS
11. CHAIRMAN'S ORDERS
11a. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Request City
Manager provide City Council with a draft ordinance for a zoning amendment to reduce
the minimum off-street parking requirements throughout the city that is consistent with
testimonies provided by both the public and Standing Committee at the June 25, 2026
Economic Development Committee hearing.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt items #11a CC through #11j CC. Order adopted
11b. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Request City
Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of establishing a
Sports Commission.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11c. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager request
Commissioner of Inspectional Services provide City Council with a report detailing
remedial steps required of food establishments to regain a food license after failing an
inspection.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11d. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager request
Police Chief provide City Council with a report detailing incentives and efforts provided
by other cities and towns relative to recruiting lateral police transfers.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11e. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Auditor provide City
Council with an updated analysis of the Worcester Police Department’s (WPD) Body
Worn Camera (BWC) program performance in two (2) years.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11f. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility paint stop lines at the existing stop
sign controlled approaches of Tallawanda Dr. at Brookline St.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11g. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility work with Rice Square
Elementary School Administration/School Department, Our Lady of Mount Carmel and
Our Lady of Loreto Parish and the surrounding community to address issues related to
parking in the neighborhood.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11h. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Police Chief provide increased traffic enforcement on Mount Ave.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11i. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Police Chief provide increased traffic enforcement on Hope Ave.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
11j. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility conduct a ninety (90) day trial of
treatments to limit traffic in the Montvale Historic District neighborhood. Further,
request a report detailing the findings related to such treatments be provided to City
Council at the conclusion of the trial.
Order adopted (See Item #11a CC)
12. ORDERS - Part I
12a. Request City Manager organize a neighborhood meeting between the leadership of St.
Joan of Arc Church, entertainment/event/function organizers at the church, the Police
Chief, the Commissioner of Inspectional Services, representation from the City
Manager’s Office and membership of the License Commission to resolve outstanding
issues associated with chronic neighborhood noise and loud music coming from the
“function” facility/parking lot of the church. Said neighborhood meeting should be
conducted prior to any additional functions or events occur at the church. (Economou,
Toomey, Rosen, Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
detailing timelines associated with instances of excessive and unreasonable noise stemming from
functions hosted at St. Joan of Arc Church. Said timeline should include efforts to mitigate chronic
neighborhood noise, any reports, correspondence and/or notices received relative to continued
noise violations, the status the church’s event permits, and the rules of engagement around
excessive and unreasonable noise violations.” (See Item #29b CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mitra, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty moved to take the item up collectively with items #13b CC and #13c CC.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta and Councilor Toomey, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Fresolo.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt items #12a CC and #13c CC and refer item #13b CC to Public Safety
Committee. Order adopted
12b. Request City Manager request Police Chief provide increased overnight enforcement of
illicit activities, including public indecency, occurring on Beaver Brook Pkwy. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to, “Request City Manager
provide City Council with a report outlining concerns related to public indecency at all locations
throughout the city.” (See Item #29c CC).
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12c. Request City Manager request Police Chief provide increased speed enforcement on
June St. from May St. to Mill St. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12d. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works review the sidewalk in
front of 618 Pleasant St. for the purpose of completing any necessary emergency repairs
required at the location. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12e. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Emergency Communications and
Management research best practices associated with providing residents with a 911
follow-up survey/post-incident feedback questionnaire for the purposes of implementing
such a program. (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9
Yeas and 0 Nays (Bergman, Economou absent)
12f. That the City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 90 Section 18, does hereby
vote to rescind the posted 35 and 30 mph special speed regulations for Hope Ave. and
return the public way to the statutory speed limit, under M.G.L. Chapter 90 Section 17C.
(Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning efforts to enhance pedestrian safety in the vicinity of 137 Hope Ave., including
increased lighting in the area.” (See Item #29d CC).
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning any issues related to traffic patterns or markings in the vicinity of 137 Hope Ave. that
contributed to the fatal accident at the location, in an effort to ensure said issues are remedied and
not present in other parts of the city.” (See Item #29e CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to, “Request City Manager ensure signage
related to the statutory speed limit of 25 miles per hour be immediately installed following the
rescinding of the special speed limit on Hope Ave. Further, request said statutory 25 mph speed
limit signage be reviewed and installed where appropriate throughout the city.” (See Item #29f
CC).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11
Yeas and 0 Nays
12g. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works review the sidewalk in
front of Worcester State University, located at 486 Chandler St., for the purpose of
completing any emergency sidewalk repairs required at the location. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12h. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the potential annual
debt service payment schedule should the city undertake a loan order of Twenty Million
Dollars ($20,000,000) annually for each of the next five (5) fiscal years, for a total
authorization of One Hundred Million Dollars ($100,000,000.00). Said loan order should
be used for the purpose of a capital investment program dedicated to the resurfacing and
rehabilitation of the city's main street arteries and sidewalks (see attached for
Worcester’s Total Outstanding Long-Term Debt and General Fund Debt Service).
(Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning the strategy and priorities the city intends to follow relative to a capital investment
program for the improvement of street repaving and infrastructure repairs throughout the city.”
(See Item #29g CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, Councilor Toomey and Councilor Rosen, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Rosen.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mitra for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved the question.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 7
Yeas and 3 Nays (Yeas – Bergman, Economou, Fresolo, Mitra, Rivera, Toomey, Petty) (Nays –
Bilotta, Ojeda, Rosen) (King abstained)
12i. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the number of
streetlights out of operation in the city, the length of time said lights have been out of
operation, reasons for maintenance and repairs to take several months to complete, and
timelines associated with completing said maintenance and repairs for the purpose of
informing the residents and business owners when to expect street lights to be back in
operation. (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12j. Request City Manager convene an immediate meeting with the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to identify and implement immediate safety
solutions to address the high number of traffic accidents along Grove St., with particular
focus on the corridor between Drummond Rd. and Nelson Place. (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12k. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing cooling center
operations, including what resources, supplies and staff are provided to cooling center
sites. (Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Bilotta.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12l. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) funding and other project scopes for the Bigelow Davis
Pkwy. and Lake Ave. intersection project. (Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12m. Request Standing Committee on Public Works meet jointly with the Standing Committee
on Traffic and Parking for the purpose of reviewing and discussing the city’s strategic
pavement management plan. Further, request Commissioner of Public Works and
Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility attend the joint committee meeting to
present the city’s 2025 Pavement Management, prepared by Apex Companies, LLC and
Cyvl.ai. (See Attached). (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee and Traffic and Parking
Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee and Traffic and Parking Committee
12n. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report outlining the city's handling of
the Town of Holden sewer use lawsuit. Said report should include a summary of the
city's process and decision-making throughout the case, a timeline of the city’s
communications with the appropriate state officials to resolve the matter, and an
explanation of the legal factors that resulted in the city paying the final settlement.
(Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved to amend the item: Further, request City
Manager request City Solicitor provide in said report details relative to any qualifications and/or
privileges related to conversations had with state officials to resolve the matter.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12o. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works review all street signage
on Kinnicutt Rd. and replace any street signs that are not spelled correctly. (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12p. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works fill all potholes along the
entire length of Westbrook Rd. (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12q. Request City Manager request Police Chief provide speed and traffic enforcement on
Windsor St. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12r. Request City Manager provide City Council with quarterly reports concerning outreach
efforts and police activity in the Canal District regarding unhoused individuals. Said
report should include caseworker and outreach data from service providers, the city’s
Health and Human Services department, and Quality of Life team. Further, said report
should also include police data on service calls and arrests of any unhoused individuals.
(Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved to Hold the Item Under
Privilege.
Held Under Privilege - Bilotta
12s. Request City Clerk work with the Board of Health and the Division of Public Health
Burial Agent to evaluate the city’s death certificate process to provide City Council with
a report detailing ways to improve efficiency and reduce processing times of establishing
said records. (Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12t. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install
temporary bollards to help with illegal parking at O’Connell Field, located at 155 Grove
St., and in the vicinity of 173 Grove St. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12u. Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning a previously
adopted order from February 3, 2026, which read, “Request City Manager, in honor of
our Nation's 250th anniversary and as a permanent gift to the city's residents, consider
finding funding sources for the commission of a statute of the historic reading of the
Declaration of Independence by Isaiah Thomas, to be placed at the proper location in
front of City Hall.” (Bergman, Economou, Rivera, Mitra, Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey and Councilor King, who moved to their names as
sponsors of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to amend the item: “Further, request the existing plaque on the
ground be refurbished until such a new statue be erected.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12v. Request Standing Committee on Public Health and Human Services hold a meeting with
representatives from the Board of Health, selected medical professionals and youth
advocacy agencies to discuss youth exposure and addiction to tobacco, nicotine and
vaping, among others. (Rosen)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rosen, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to add the entire City Council, except for Councilor Bilotta, as sponsors of the
item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta, Councilor Bergman and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Ojeda, who moved to amend the item to include appropriate
representatives from the Worcester Public Schools.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Ojeda.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rosen for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Public Health and Human Services
Committee. Referred to Public Health and Human Services Committee on a roll call vote of 11
Yeas and 0 Nays
12w. Request City Manager work with appropriate parties to create an educational campaign
ensuring the city’s residents are taught how to properly dispose of pet waste. Said
educational campaign should include ensuring residents do not dispose of pet waste in
the city’s storm drains/catch basins. (Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou, who moved to amend the item: “Further, request
City Manager include in any education campaign information relative to fines for improperly
disposing of pet waste.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12x. Request City Manager install a portrait of Esther Howland within the Esther Howland
(South) Chamber in City Hall (see attached for potential portrait location). (Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12y. Request City Manager organize a meeting between appropriate city representatives and
local business owners on Southbridge St. in the vicinity of Guertin Graphics, located at
134 Southbridge St., to discuss ways to remedy concerns around cleanliness and illicit
activities occurring in the area. (Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Ojeda, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12z. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works work with the City
Solicitor to provide City Council with a report concerning the responsibility, available
waivers and possible cost-sharing options available when roots associated with a public
shade tree are documented to have repeatedly damaged or contributed to the failure of a
residential building sewer, including as it relates to the application of Revised
Ordinances Chapter 5, §13; Chapter 12, §28; and Massachusetts General Laws Chapter
87, §3 (see attached). (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Economou.
Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works
Committee
13. ORDERS - Part II
13a. Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer convene a meeting with
appropriate stakeholders to discuss and create a plan related to the appropriate amount of
land being deeded to conservation land, in light of our current housing crisis.
(Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou and Councilor Bilotta, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
13b. Request Standing Committee on Public Safety hold a discussion to review the city’s
ordinance relative to excessive and unreasonable noise. Further, request said discussion
include the feasibility of amending the noise ordinance to allow for the creation of a
special noise variance application for churches, festivals, or organizations holding
certain events (see attached for Worcester noise ordinance, as well as other
municipalities’ processes). (Economou, Rivera, Toomey, Rosen, Bilotta)
Referred to Public Safety Committee (See Item #12a CC)
13c. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the process the city
has in place for residents to report excessive and unreasonable noise in neighborhoods.
(Economou, Rivera, Toomey, Rosen, Bilotta)
Order adopted (See Item #12a CC)
13d. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility ensure the
crosswalk at the intersection of Huntley St. and Pleasant St. that was not repainted
following a recent repaving at the location be replaced as soon as possible, in the interest
of safety for students crossing to attend Midland Street School. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
13e. Request City Manager install signage at appropriate locations throughout the city stating
the property may not be used for civil immigration enforcement activities. Further,
request City Manager create a draft ordinance for City Council consideration related to
the enforcement of such signage (see attached for an image of such signage in the City of
Lynn). (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the Item Under
Privilege.
Held Under Privilege – King
13f. Request City Manager, as part of any draft ordinance related to the prohibition of civil
immigration enforcement activities on certain and appropriate properties, ensure
language be included in said ordinance that requires signage be listed at such properties
in all appropriate languages. (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the Item Under
Privilege.
Held Under Privilege – King
13g. Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion
relative to whether the developers of 4 Brandt Ln. would be prohibited from traversing
and using heavy equipment on Pine Hill Rd. due to the road’s private status. Further,
request said legal opinion also include information concerning whether the city can
require the developers to repave disrupted portions of the private road at the completion
of the project. (Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved amend the item: “Further, request City
Manager request Chief Development Officer include in said report information concerning what
restrictions, if any, are put on the developer at the conclusion of any construction that damages
roadwork.”
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Bilotta absent (King abstained)
13h. Request City Manager work with the Superintendent of Public Schools to explore
working with FamJam to help youth apply for independent contractor work permits that
would provide an opportunity for them to participate in busking and vending at Jam
spots created in the city. (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Education Committee. Referred to Education Committee
14. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY CLERK
14a. Transmitting an informational communication relative to one (1) vacancy within the
support staff of the Office of the City Council.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the Item Under
Privilege.
Held Under Privilege – King
14b. Transmitting an informational communication relative to various options available for
making changes to the City Charter.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Municipal and Legislative Operations
Committee. Referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee
14c. Transmitting an informational communication relative to advertisements for the Standing
Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations meeting on Monday, August 17,
2026 related to a discussion of the City Charter.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Municipal and Legislative Operations
Committee. Referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee
14d. Transmitting an informational quarterly report outlining the various City Council Orders
and Chairman's Orders adopted over the previous three (3) months, for the period of
April 1, 2026 to June 30, 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Municipal and Legislative Operations
Committee. Referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee
15. COMMUNICATION
15a. Communication of Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester
Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Mapping the Next Opportunity: Worcester
County’s OZ Zones.”
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Economic Development Committee.
Referred to Economic Development Committee
16. REPORTS OF THE PLANNING BOARD
16a. REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of George Markopoulos on
behalf of 321 Greenwood Street LLC request to amend the City of Worcester Zoning
Map, as referenced in Article III, Section 2 of the Worcester Zoning Ordinance, by
changing the zoning designation of the portion of 321 Green Wood St. (MBL:
29-043-00003) that is currently within the Manufacturing, Limited (ML-0.5) zoning
district to the Business, Limited (BL-1.0) zoning district as shown on the map attached.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take items #16a CC and #16b CC collectively.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Fresolo, who moved to, “Request City Manager request Chief
Development Officer provide City Council with a detailed report concerning the project
associated with the proposed zone change at 321 Greenwood St.” (See Item #29h CC).
Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic
Development Committee
16b. REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Meletios Chacharone
request to amend the City of Worcester Zoning Map by changing the zoning designation
of the property known as and located at 455 Grove St. (MBL: 20-030-46+47) owned by
CP 58 Gardner Street, LLC from the current split zoning designation of partially RL-7,
Residence, Limited, and partially BG-3.0, Business, General, to be entirely BG-3.0,
Business, General, as shown on the attached plan.
Referred to Economic Development Committee (See Item #16a CC)
17. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
17a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the
Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative
to Tree Canopy Protection: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #17a CC, #17b CC and #17e CC. Accepted
17b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the
Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative
to hosting NCAA events in Worcester: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #17a CC)
17c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Order
of Councilor Khrystian E. King and Councilor Jose A. Rivera - Request Standing
Committee on Economic Development discuss the strengthening any future submission
of a bid by College of the Holy Cross and or the Patriot League to the NCAA in efforts
to host a preliminary round of the Division I Men’s and Women’s March Madness
Tournament. Further, request said discussion also include any bids available related to
the Division II and Division III NCAA Basketball tournaments. Further, request said
discussion also include the potential of hosting NCAA tournaments for additional sports.
Further, request representatives from Discover Central Massachusetts be invited to said
discussion to provide any suggestions related to submitting future bid submissions.
Further, request all requirements relative to bringing the NCAA March Madness
Tournament to the city be outlined. Further, if such NCAA bids are found to be
unfeasible, request the Standing Committee on Economic Development discuss the
process for the city to be a host future National Invitation Tournaments (NIT):
recommend Order be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to accept the item. Accepted on a roll call
vote of 10 Yeas and 1 Nay (Nay - King)
17d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Order
of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request Standing Committee on Economic
Development explore the criteria and deadlines for the city to apply to be a host city for
each sports’ NCAA tournament for the purpose of providing City Council with
timeframes and the process relative to said individual applications: recommend Order be
placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to accept the item. Accepted on a roll call
vote of 9 Yeas and 1 Nay (Nay - King) (Bilotta absent)
17e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon Report of
the Planning Board Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting
informational communication relative to minimum off-street parking requirements:
recommend Report be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #17a CC)
18. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY
18a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of
the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the transition to a
risk based food permitting inspection system for establishments serving food:
recommend Communication be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take items #18a CC through #18c CC collectively.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to accept the items. Accepted
18b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of
the City Auditor transmitting an informational communication relative to a follow-up of
the 2023 investigation into Worcester Police Department’s overtime and details policies
and procedures, as well as a report issued on January 15, 2024, as presented by
CliftonLarsonAllen LLP’s Forensic Services Team: recommend Communication be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #18a CC)
18c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of
the City Auditor transmitting an informational communication of an analysis of the
Worcester Police Department’s (WPD) Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program
Performance by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA): recommend Communication be placed
on file.
Accepted (See Item #18a CC)
19. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS
19a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Tony Economou on behalf of David Reed request the existing sidewalk on the odd side
of Rexhame Rd. be extended to include the Rexhame Rd. side of 205 Burncoat St.:
recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept and adopt items #19a CC through #19m CC.
Accepted and Adopted
19b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Rocco
DeMalia et al. request installation of a sidewalk on Mower St. from the intersection of
Mower St. and Westmorland Dr. to West Tatnuck Elementary School, located at 300
Mower St., in the interest of ensuring safe passage way to students walking to school on
the street: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Kendall
Homes request Myrick Ave. be extended 300-foot with associated sewer service for the
construction of three (3) single-family dwellings located at 0 Myrick Ave.: recommend
adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Candy Mero-Carlson request Oleum Ct. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the
accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Chester
D. DiLeo et al. request street resurfacing from 62 Trinity Ave. to the intersection of
Trinity Ave. and Simmons Ave.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Matthew
Rabasco request Commodore Rd. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the
accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19g. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request the sidewalk on Chrome St. be resurfaced: recommend
adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19h. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request the sidewalk from 264 Shrewsbury St. to 278 Shrewsbury St.
be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19i. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request the sidewalk on Sherburne Ave. be resurfaced: recommend
adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19j. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request sidewalk resurfacing on Hastings Ave.: recommend adoption of
the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19k. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request sidewalk resurfacing on Boyd St. from Huntington Ave. to
Scrimgeour Rd.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19l. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Michael Brennan request sidewalk repair on Pine View Ave.:
recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19m. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Tony Economou request sidewalk repair on Winifred Ave., in the vicinity of Duffy Field:
recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #19a CC)
19n. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta on behalf of James Berthel request installation of a guardrail in front of
43 Proctor St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who moved to amend the
recommendation and to accept and adopt the item.
Mayor Petty moved to accept and adopt the item. Accepted and Adopted
19o. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Order of Councilor
Jenny Pacillo, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Luis A. Ojeda, Councilor
Kathleen M. Toomey, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio and
Mayor Joseph M. Petty - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning the processes in place to hold Public Works Department contractors
responsible to a timeline and their quality of work: recommend Order be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #19o CC through #19v CC. Accepted
19p. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Communication of
the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to general winter
storm operations and DPW's activities related to snowstorm and winter weather
emergency of January 23-26, 2026: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19q. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Communication of
the City Manager transmitting an informational communication concerning the number
of pothole-related calls received by 311 since the beginning of the 311 program:
recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19r. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Communication of
the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to Keep Worcester
Clean: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19s. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Communication of
the City Manager Transmitting informational communication relative to the Construction
Progress Report for the month ending May 31, 2026: recommend Communication be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19t. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Candy Mero-Carlson request the repaving of Vinton St., in consideration of recent utility
infrastructure work: recommend Petition be granted Leave to Withdraw.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19u. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Candy Mero-Carlson request the repaving of Gilman Rd., in consideration of recent
utility infrastructure work: recommend Petition be granted Leave to Withdraw.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19v. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Candy Mero-Carlson request the repaving of Norton St., in consideration of recent utility
infrastructure work: recommend Petition be granted Leave to Withdraw.
Accepted (See Item #19o CC)
19w. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor
Robert A. Bilotta request installation of traffic bollards at 173 Grove St., to the north and
south of driveway to prevent illegal parking and improve driver, cyclist and pedestrian
visibility: recommend refer to Traffic and Parking Committee.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Traffic and Parking Committee.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee
20. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Part I
20a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Luis A. Ojeda request installation of resident permit parking on the entire
length of Lodi St., on both sides, at all times: recommend passage of the accompanying
proposed Ordinance.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinances
associated with items #20a CC through #20m CC. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll
call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
20b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Jane Beahn request removal of a stop sign at the bottom of the hill on Chester St.:
recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Gary P. Peters request the three (3) way stop signs at the intersection of Parkton St. and
Chester St. be replaced with two (2) yield signs and one (1) stop sign as previously
configured: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of the residents of Saxon Rd. request installation of
stop signage at the intersection of Greenbriar Ln. and Saxon Rd.: recommend passage of
the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Brendalee Clander-Soto request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 151
Beacon St. (Amended March 18, 2026): recommend passage of the accompanying
proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Sherri Way request removal of the handicap parking space in front of 19 Kosta St.
(Amended March 18, 2026): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed
Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20g. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Frank Kuffuor request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 188 Austin St.:
recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20h. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
William R. Robbins, Jr. request the handicap parking space in front of 61 Dorchester St.
be relocated to the Arlington St. side of the property near the garage: recommend passage
of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20i. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Manuel Vasquez Rivas request removal of two (2) handicap parking spaces in front of
26A Marjorie St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20j. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Luis A. Ojeda on behalf of Sarai Rivera request removal of the handicap
parking space in front of 7 Lucian St.: recommend passage of the accompanying
proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20k. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Tal Klayman request removal of two (2) handicap parking spaces in the vicinity of 605
Millbury St. at the intersection of Millbury St. and Maxwell St.: recommend passage of
the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20l. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Marilyn Rosa request installation of handicap parking space in front of 20 Shepard St.:
recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20m. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Luis A. Ojeda request Beaver St. from Park Ave. to 575 Park Ave. driveway be
made a two-way street. Further, request installation of stop sign and right turn only sign
on Beaver St. at Park Ave. (Amended March 18, 2026): recommend passage of the
accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained)
(See Item #20a CC)
20n. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Julie Miller request installation of flashing crosswalk signage at the intersection of
Salisbury St. and Monadnock Rd.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept and adopt items #20n CC through #20y CC.
Accepted and Adopted
20o. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of flashing pedestrian crossing signs on
Belmont St./Route 9 at the intersection of Belmont St./Route 9 and Stanton St.:
recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20p. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Christopher J. Shea request installation of enhanced crosswalk signage at the two (2)
existing crosswalks on Salisbury St. in the vicinity of the main campus entrance of
Assumption University, located at 500 Salisbury St.: recommend adoption of the
accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20q. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Catherine Holmes request installation of a
crosswalk at the intersection of Tallawanda Dr. and Brookline St.: recommend adoption
of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20r. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Henry Halpern request installation of a stop line at Indian Hill Rd. and Ararat St.
intersection: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20s. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Suzanne O’Brien request installation of “Not A
Truck Route” signage on Knox St. at its intersection with Webster St.: recommend
adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20t. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Morris A. Bergman on behalf of Paul and Aurora Brule request installation of
25 mph signage on North Pkwy.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20u. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Joyce Thienel request installation of signage
indicating Mapleleaf Rd. is a private road: recommend adoption of the accompanying
Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20v. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Joyce Thienel request installation of signage
indicating Lauf St. is a private road: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20w. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Heather Flavin request installation of 25 mph
speed limit signage on May St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20x. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of a curb bump out in front of 197
Belmont St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20y. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Chad A. Dawkins on behalf of Jesse Burkett Little League request the parking spaces
located on Chandler St. in the vicinity of Coughlin Field, from 542 Chandler St. to the
Worcester State University north entrance, be repainted as diagonal parking spaces:
recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.
Accepted and Adopted (See Item #20n CC)
20z. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Julie Miller request the crosswalk at the intersection of Salisbury St. and Monadnock Rd.
be repainted: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept the item. Accepted
21. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Part II
21a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Tina Langill request the protected pedestrian crossing time at the intersection of Main
St., Pleasant St. and Front St. be extended: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #21a CC through #21z CC. Accepted
21b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Satya B. Mitra on behalf of Darren Lewandowski request removal of the stop
sign on Venus Dr. at its intersection with Green Farms Rd.: recommend Petition be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Morris A. Bergman on behalf of Paul and Aurora Brule request the installation
of a stop sign on North Pkwy. at its intersection with Davidson Rd.: recommend Petition
be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Petition of Nathalie Gibson request solid white line be repainted on Mill St. from Gates
Ln. to 169 Mill St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Anival Correa request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of 21 Lodi
St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Madison Valducci request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of 9
Moore Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21g. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Sonia Rodriguez request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of 8
Englewood Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21h. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Robert A. Bilotta request installation of a Commercial Loading Zone in front
of 62 Green St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21i. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor John P. Fresolo request establishment of a Residential Permit Parking zone on
the west side of Indiana St. from a point 260 ft. north of Batavia St. to Batavia St.
(Amended May 27, 2026): recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21j. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Mayor Joseph M. Petty and Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of Lois Bourget
request increased enforcement of the truck ban/weight restriction on Mount Ave.:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21k. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Joseph DiGregorio request increased speed
enforcement on Hope Ave., in the vicinity of the exit ramp off I-290: recommend Petition
be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21l. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Aitchison St. be reviewed:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21m. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Aitchison St.: recommend Petition be placed on
file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21n. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing in the vicinity of 482 Shrewsbury St. at the entrances to Picadilly Plaza
and McDonalds be reviewed: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21o. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting in
the vicinity of 482 Shrewsbury St. at the entrances to Picadilly Plaza and McDonalds:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21p. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Prentice St. be reviewed:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21q. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Prentice St.: recommend Petition be placed on
file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21r. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Adams St. be reviewed:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21s. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Adams St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21t. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Seward St. be reviewed:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21u. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Seward St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21v. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing in the vicinity of East Park, located at 176 Shrewsbury St., at its
intersection with Fantasia Dr. be reviewed: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21w. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association Request crosswalk repainting in
the vicinity of East Park, located at 176 Shrewsbury St., at its intersection with Fantasia
Dr.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21x. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Lyon St. be reviewed:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21y. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Lyon St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
21z. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Shamrock St. and Cross St. be
reviewed.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #21a CC)
22. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Part III
22a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with Shamrock St. and Cross St.: recommend Petition
be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #22a CC through #22h CC. Accepted
22b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with South Hill St. and Hill St. be
reviewed: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at its intersection with South Hill St. and Hill St.: recommend Petition be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. in the vicinity of 50 Shrewsbury St. and 45 Shrewsbury
St. be reviewed and repaired: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. in the vicinity of 50 Shrewsbury St. and 45 Shrewsbury St.: recommend
Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request the crosswalk traffic
control timing on Shrewsbury St. at Washington Square be reviewed: recommend
Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22g. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Shrewsbury St. at Washington Square: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
22h. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
WPD Officer Sean M. Lovely on behalf of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association
and the Shrewsbury Street Residents Group Association request crosswalk repainting on
Mount Carmel Way at its intersection with Shrewsbury St.: recommend Petition be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #22a CC)
23. LOAN ORDER TO BE ADOPTED
23a. That the sum of Forty Three Million Four Hundred Sixty Eight Thousand Four Hundred
Sixteen Dollars and No Cents ($43,468,416.00) be appropriated to the following
accounts to pay for costs associated with the following capital improvements, planning
and equipment, as well as any related architectural and engineering services in
connection therewith, and including any costs incidental or related thereto; provided
however, that the City of Worcester may change the account numbers listed below and/or
move funds from one account to another for administrative purposes without further
amendment or approval from this Council, provided that such change and/or move does
not alter the project for which the funds are hereby authorized to be expended.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Loan Order adopted on a roll call vote of
8 Yeas and 3 Nays (Yeas – Bergman, Economou, Fresolo, Mitra, Rivera, Rosen, Toomey, Petty)
(Nays – Bilotta, King, Ojeda)
24. TO BE ORDAINED - Part I
24a. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
A Stop Sign Facing June Street At Hadwen Road And Brownell Street.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to ordain items #24a CC through #24z
CC. Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
24b. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
For A No Parking Zone On Ward Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24c. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide 15
Minute Parking On A Portion Of Grand Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24d. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
Handicap Parking On Underwood Road Adjacent To #452 Chandler Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24e. Amending Section One of the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 relative to
Emergency Overtime Pay for Water Filtration Plant Supervisors.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24f. Amending Chapter Five Section Twenty-Six of the Revised Ordinances of 2008 Relative
to Sewer User Charge (FY 2027).
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24g. Amending Section 45 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
For A Passenger Loading Zone On A Portion Of Barclay Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24h. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
For A No Parking Zone On Franklin Street At Kiara Drive.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24i. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
A Stop Sign On Brussels Street At Crompton Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24j. Amending Section 68 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Rescind
One-Way Designations On A Portion Of Elm Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24k. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
Handicap Parking On Illinois Street In Front Of #99 And #101 Illinois Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24l. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
Handicap Parking On Ararat Street Adjacent To #1 Marconi Road.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24m. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
Handicap Parking In Front Of #33 Glen Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24n. Amending Sections 42 And 47 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To
Prohibit Parking On School Days On The North Side Of Thorndyke Road.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24o. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Prohibit
Parking On A Portion Of Cutler Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24p. Amending Section 46 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
The Commercial Loading Zone In Front Of 237 Millbury Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24q. Amending Section 45 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
For A Passenger Loading Zone In Front Of 13 Scott Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24r. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
A Stop Sign On Judson Road At Grove Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24s. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
All Way Stop Signs On Harding Street At Ellsworth Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24t. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
Handicap Parking In Front Of #9 North Ashland Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24u. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
Handicap Parking In The Vicinity Of #65 Eastern Avenue.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24v. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
Handicap Parking In The Vicinity Of #22 Plantation Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24w. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Remove
Handicap Parking In The Vicinity Of #34 Beacon Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24x. Amending Section 42 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 To Provide
Handicap Parking In The Vicinity Of #4 Gage Street.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24y. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
All Way Stop Signs On Westbrook Road At Kinnicutt Road.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
24z. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
A Stop Sign On Saxon Road At Westbrook Road.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #24a CC)
25. TO BE ORDAINED - Part II
25a. Amending Section 29 Of Chapter 13 Of The Revised Ordinances Of 2008 Providing For
All Way Stop Signs On Davenport Street At Dutton Street.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to ordain items #25a CC through #25c
CC. Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
25b. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group A -
Administrative and Supervisory for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group B - General
Administrative for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group C - Information
Services for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group E – Fiscal for
Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group EM - Executive
Management for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group K – Library for
the WPL Communications and Community Engagement Specialist.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group M – Recreation
for the Assistant Head Golf Course Professional.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group N – Police for
the Detention Attendant (Part-Time) Position.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group P - Foreman
And Supervisor for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group Q - Trade
Inspection for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group R – Laborer
and Craftsman for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group S – Custodial
for Multiple Positions.
Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group SA – Security
for Multiple Positions.
Fourteen (14) Ordinances Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #25a CC)
25c. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996, Relative to Non-Bargaining Unit
Employees.
Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #25a CC)
26. HELD UNDER PRIVILEGE
26a. ORDER of Councilor Jose A. Rivera - Request City Auditor provide City Council with a
report detailing a full financial audit and accounting of both the completed and currently
underway work being done at the Beaver Brook Dog Park. (Held Under Privilege -
Rivera June 16, 2026 and June 23, 2026)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to place the item on file. Placed on file
26b. COMMUNICATION of the City Clerk transmitting an annual survey to the City Council
regarding the administration and operations of the City Council Office. (Held Under
Privilege - King June 23, 2026)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with item #26c CC.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the Items Under Privilege for a
second time. Held Under Privilege for a second time on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 1 Nay (Nay –
Bilotta).
Held Under Privilege – King
26c. COMMUNICATION of the City Clerk transmitting an informational communication
concerning the process required for City Council to hire and oversee City Council Office
Staff. (Held Under Privilege - King June 23, 2026)
Held Under Privilege - King (See Item #26b CC)
26d. COMMUNICATION of the City Clerk transmitting an informational communication
regarding the City Council Office staff's implementation of a new employee
mileage-tracking process when conducting official city business. (Held Under Privilege -
King June 23, 2026)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Municipal and Legislative Operations
Committee. Referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee
27. TABLED ITEMS
27a. ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes - Request City Manager request City
Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion regarding the process of instituting a
residential rent control program and the resulting impact of implementing such a
program. (Held Under Privilege - Lukes September 17, 2019 and September 24, 2019
and Tabled - Lukes October 15, 2019)
No action taken
27b. RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King - That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby support Representative Rebecca Rauch and Senator Sonia
Chang-Diaz’s SD 699 HD 1283, An Act effectuating equity in COVID-19 Vaccination
Bill. (Held Under Privilege - Bergman February 9, 2021 and Tabled - Bergman February
23, 2021)
No action taken
27c. ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and Councilor Thu Nguyen - Request City Manager
work with appropriate departments and stakeholders to establish an Office of Housing
Stability in an effort to prevent the involuntary displacement of city residents who are in
the process of being evicted or at the risk of losing their housing, as well as to enact
policies to combat displacement, homelessness and enhance tenants’ rights. (Held Under
Privilege - Haxhiaj July 18, 2023 and Tabled - Haxhiaj August 22, 2023)
No action taken
27d. PETITION of Gordon Davis request City Council request Standing Committee on Public
Safety investigate the issue of systemic racism and public safety with public hearings
included. (Tabled - Toomey May 14, 2024)
No action taken
27e. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request City Manager conduct an equity audit
of all city departments every five (5) years. (Held Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson
December 10, 2024 and Held Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024 and Tabled -
Nguyen January 7, 2025)
No action taken
27f. COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication
relative to how the U.S. Department of Justice's report on the Worcester Police
Department differs from the account of the municipality. (Held Under Privilege - King
April 29, 2025 and May 6, 2025 and Tabled - King May 13, 2025)
No action taken
28. BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under
suspension at the June 23, 2026 City Council meeting.
28a. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager request Police Chief
provide City Council with a report detailing any forms of community policing utilized by
the Worcester Police Department (WPD) on Boylston St. – Item #18a CC Order adopted
on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 3 Nays
29. NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under
suspension at the July 21, 2026 City Council meeting.
29a. Motion Petty @ #6a CC – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby
suspend its rules to allow for the public participation section of the agenda on July 21,
2026 to occur one (1) hour beyond the typically allotted thirty (30) minutes.
Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #6a CC)
29b. Motion King @ #12a CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
detailing timelines associated with instances of excessive and unreasonable noise
stemming from functions hosted at St. Joan of Arc Church. Said timeline should include
efforts to mitigate chronic neighborhood noise, any reports, correspondence and/or
notices received relative to continued noise violations, the status the church’s event
permits, and the rules of engagement around excessive and unreasonable noise
violations.
Order adopted (See Item #12a CC)
29c. Motion King @ #12b CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
outlining concerns related to public indecency at all locations throughout the city.
Order adopted (See Item #12b CC)
29d. Motion King @ #12f CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning efforts to enhance pedestrian safety in the vicinity of 137 Hope Ave.,
including increased lighting in the area.
Order adopted (See Item #12f CC)
29e. Motion King @ #12f CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning any issues related to traffic patterns or markings in the vicinity of 137 Hope
Ave. that contributed to the fatal accident at the location, in an effort to ensure said
issues are remedied and not present in other parts of the city.
Order adopted (See Item #12f CC)
29f. Motion Toomey @ #12f CC – Request City Manager ensure signage related to the
statutory speed limit of 25 miles per hour be immediately installed following the
rescinding of the special speed limit on Hope Ave. Further, request said statutory 25 mph
speed limit signage be reviewed and installed where appropriate throughout the city.
Order adopted (See Item #12f CC)
29g. Motion King @ #12h CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning the strategy and priorities the city intends to follow relative to a capital
investment program for the improvement of street repaving and infrastructure repairs
throughout the city.
Order adopted (See Item #12h CC)
29h. Motion Fresolo @ #16a CC – Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer
provide City Council with a detailed report concerning the project associated with the
proposed zone change at 321 Greenwood St.
Order adopted (See Item #16a CC)
Sources
- Video: https://youtube.com/watch?v=ci726xWsXzY
- Minutes: https://worcesterma.primegov.com/Public/CompiledDocument?meetingTemplateId=75333&compileOutputType=1
Video
Transcript
Auto-generated YouTube captions; names and terms are likely misheard.
Transcript
0:01Okay, good evening everyone. Welcome to
0:03the West City Council meeting. If you
0:05can please stand for the pledge of
0:06allegiance and the Star Spangle Banner.
0:30Say [singing]
0:32[music] you see
0:34by the dawn early [music] light.
0:39What [singing] proudly
0:42we held
0:44at [singing] the twilight
0:47lasting
0:49who brought
0:51and bright stars [singing]
0:54through the perilous
0:59for the
1:01[singing] we
1:04were so gallently [music]
1:07streaming
1:09and the rockets [singing]
1:11red.
1:13The bombs were singing in air
1:18gave proof through [singing] the night
1:21[music]
1:23that our flag was still there.
1:28Oh, [singing] say does that [music] star
1:32spangled
1:36yet [singing]
1:37[music]
1:41for the [singing] land
1:43of the free [music]
1:48and [singing] the home
1:50of the [music]
1:53brave.
2:07Roll call.
2:08>> Councelor Bergman
2:09>> here.
2:10>> Councelor Bada
2:11>> here.
2:11>> Councilor Economo
2:12>> here.
2:13>> Councelor Vizolo
2:14>> here.
2:15>> Councelor King
2:16>> here.
2:16>> Councelor Mitra
2:17>> here. Council
2:18>> here. Councelor Rivera
2:20>> here. Councelor Rosen
2:21>> here. Councelor Tumi
2:22>> here.
2:23>> And mayor Petty
2:24>> here. Uh first is approval of the
2:26minutes of 5A and 5B collectively. Those
2:30in favor
2:32post so ordered.
2:34>> Um public uh u first like to announce
2:37Rob is going to hold items 10 A through
2:3910 C under privilege and we have public
2:43participation. Person may speak for no
2:45more than two minutes on any item
2:47appearing on the agenda. Mr. Clerk.
2:49>> Thank you Mr. Mayor. Rule 39, items of
2:52public interest. At every meeting of the
2:54city council under public participation
2:55portion of the agenda, the chair shall
2:58recognize any person seeking such
2:59recognition for the purpose of
3:00addressing the council on any eligible
3:03item on the agenda for both the meeting
3:04in person and remotely. Any person who
3:08wishes to speak more than one agenda
3:09item shall combine their testimony on
3:11all items to one appearance at the
3:12microphone. The time for speaking shall
3:14not exceed two minutes for any one
3:16speaker or 30 minutes for all speakers.
3:18Rule 40. Petitions. On the first
3:21occasion, any petition appears before
3:23the city council agenda. The primary
3:25petitioner may address the city council
3:26for no more than three minutes on the
3:28subject of their petition.
3:30>> Thank you. Okay. Fro name and city of
3:34residents and item number.
3:35>> Mary Sax, city of Worcester. I'd like to
3:38comment on the long history.
3:39>> You need to speak in the microphone.
3:41>> Might want to use the other microphone.
3:42Maybe that one.
3:45>> Mary Saxter, city of Worcester. I'd like
3:47to comment on the long history of police
3:49corruption in Worcester in reference to
3:50agenda item 10.5. Citizens have been
3:54asking for a civilian review board since
3:56the 1970s. Every time I see a police
3:59cruiser with its blue lights on, I
4:01wonder if the officer driving is one of
4:03the police officers who had sex with
4:05prostitutes in their cruiser wearing
4:07their uniform and gun. Credible reports
4:10according to the Department of Justice.
4:12Or is this the courageous police officer
4:14who hit a mentally ill man in the head
4:16while he was strapped to a gurnie with
4:17his hand zip tied? Or is this the K-9
4:20officer who ordered his dog to attack a
4:22man on the ground surrounded by several
4:24police officers and let the dog nash the
4:27man's leg for several seconds without
4:29calling it off, which he failed to
4:31include in his report on the incident.
4:33The officer was allowed to change his
4:35report four months later when video
4:37surfaced showing his lies. This incident
4:39cost Worcester 375,000 in settlement
4:42fees plus legal fees plus city of
4:44Worcester employees wages. And this was
4:47the second six-f figureure settlement
4:48the city had paid out in recent years to
4:50a man bitten by a police dog. In
4:52November 22, Worcester paid 275,000 to
4:56settle a lawsuit bought by a man who
4:58uncovered video that again exposed false
5:01statements in an officer's narrative of
5:03his arrest. When there then there is the
5:06current settlement from the lawsuit from
5:08the 2020 Floyd protests where in in a
5:11July 8th, 2026 TNG article, city
5:14spokesman Tom Matthews said the two
5:17sides were still working to finalize
5:18paperwork on the settlement which won't
5:20be official until signed. Add whatever
5:23the settlement is to the 10 million paid
5:25out by the city of Worcester to settle
5:27lawsuits against the WPD over the past
5:2910 years. Again, the 10 million doesn't
5:32include legal fees and city employees
5:34wages. Having a civilian review board
5:36would not cost as much as the legal
5:38actions taken against the city. This
5:40completely negates Batista's opinion in
5:42last week's TNG article saying a CRB
5:45would be too costly.
5:47>> Thank you.
6:00uh Fred Nathan Worcester. Uh the mostly
6:02finance items uh 10 point 35 basically a
6:07through know whatever it is here.
6:11Um they're always you're always filing
6:13and accepting um these different grants.
6:18I didn't add them all up, but I just
6:19looked quickly. There's probably about
6:21$12 million.
6:23I would like to see more background
6:25information on uh the specifics as what
6:29the money is going to. I mean, there's
6:31an item in here of like a hund00
6:32million,
6:34which is not part of the one that I
6:36just, you know, mentioned. It's totally
6:38independent. At some point in time,
6:42uh the city is going to run out of
6:44availability to get these different
6:46grants. And then I want to see what's
6:48going to happen with the police, the
6:50fire, the public works, the teachers. I
6:53shall go on and on and on and on, but I
6:56think you get the hint.
6:58>> Thank you.
7:00>> She names your residents.
7:01>> Hi, Tom Marino. Celia Worester on the uh
7:03this report. Uh this report is not just
7:05a rejection of civilian review boards.
7:06Uh it is a true it is a manifesto on
7:09centralized government control. Uh what
7:12we were told in this report is you'll
7:14know what we let you know unless
7:16lawsuits are filed. Uh or you can go
7:18through a public uh you can file for a
7:20public records which will you will
7:22inevitably be jerked around forever on.
7:25Uh
7:27you know I found it an interesting uh
7:29comment by the current president of uh
7:32the uh patrolman's unions who said uh
7:35that this was a a a ploy to quote defund
7:39the police. Of course it is. And uh to
7:42jin up controversy. It's interesting
7:44that the controversy doesn't come from
7:46the actions that lead to the lawsuits,
7:49but by talking about it.
7:52Some members of this council have a
7:53really interesting relationship with
7:54this union. Um you essentially advocate
7:57for no oversight whatsoever. No
7:59independent oversight. Uh just, you
8:01know, an administration that is or a
8:03city manager that's in the chain of
8:05command. So that is not oversight. Uh
8:07that is management. Uh and then so you
8:11but you basically advocate for no
8:12limits. No limits whatsoever. Complete
8:15impunity. When things h when things are
8:17well, you're happy to introduce
8:18resolutions praising the police
8:20department. And when things aren't well,
8:21you're happy to shut up and not say a
8:23word and won't even and some of you
8:25won't even engage with the evidence
8:28related to some of these issues. And
8:29then you go out there and when people
8:30ask you about it, you say, "I've never
8:31seen anything about that." Well, yeah,
8:33because you refuse to read it. Uh and
8:35then so in exchange for that you get
8:38election support.
8:40But when the inevitable lawsuits come
8:42from your actions of enabling this
8:46impunity,
8:47who pays for that? What a wonderfully
8:49corrupt way to finance your campaign
8:51support? Maybe, just maybe, do something
8:55besides be beholden to a special
8:58interest group.
9:13Hello, my name's Gary. I think you know
9:15me. I've been here for weeks talking
9:17about civil review board and uh I don't
9:20think we got anywhere now. um through
9:23the chair and to the uh city manager.
9:26You have these commissions set up to
9:29involve and look into them and then when
9:32they come back from their recommendation
9:33and they say yes, you just say no. Why
9:36do you have these commissions? You're
9:38not listening to them. This is not about
9:42whether the police are bad or good.
9:43There are so many good policemen out
9:46there. It is about accountability. If I
9:50was a police officer on your force and
9:52you were not weeding out the bad ones,
9:55it makes them all look bad. And this is
9:58ridiculous. Um, you got to remember that
10:03you work for us. All of you here, we
10:06elected you to work for us, not the
10:09other way around. We have a bunch of
10:11people here and and you've heard from
10:14them in the past that said we should
10:15have a civilian review board.
10:17>> [snorts]
10:17>> Even the post commission says we had a
10:20meeting with them and they say please
10:22have a we can't handle everything. We
10:25need a civil review board. Why don't you
10:28start listening to some of the people?
10:30What is happening in this current city
10:33council is you're cutting off people's
10:35comments.
10:37It's almost ridiculous. It's almost like
10:38Mr. Trump because you don't care what we
10:41say.
10:43Um, I think maybe there's somebody here
10:45that keeps saying that uh they don't
10:48listen to the people are here. Tell
10:50these people you don't listen to them.
10:52You only listen to people in the grocery
10:54store. Well, maybe we should start
10:56holding our meetings in the grocery
10:57store so we can get through to you.
11:00Thank you.
11:01>> Thank you.
11:06[applause]
11:11Well said.
11:15>> Idela has it. City of Worester.
11:18It seems we're here about every five to
11:22eight years asking for a citizen review
11:25board
11:26for the last 30 or 40 years.
11:30Every single city manager we've had
11:34when there was a police brutality case
11:37in the newspaper
11:39categorically
11:41defended the police officer or officers
11:46and the city was still sued.
11:51And what happens?
11:53We the taxpayers pay for it.
11:59With a city review board, it takes the
12:02heat off the police department.
12:06It takes the heat
12:09off the city manager.
12:11It takes the heat off the city council,
12:14off the city,
12:16and you don't pay out as a rule.
12:21All the other cities, Boston and the
12:24other cities our size and all these
12:26people will tell you the names of the
12:28city cities because they're in the
12:30newspaper who have them and they have
12:34them across the nation. Worester does
12:37not.
12:39What's wrong with Wister? They're
12:42working across the nation.
12:45There's something wrong that Wister is
12:48turning them down. There's something
12:50wrong with all our city managers
12:53categorically
12:55defending guilty police officers. Thank
12:57you.
13:00[applause]
13:08Hello, I am Felicia Campanelli. This is
13:11the first time I've done anything like
13:12this, so I'm a little nervous. Um, thank
13:15you. I appreciate it. Uh, I believe I
13:18live in District 3, but that's actually
13:20one of the reasons I'm here today. I
13:22recently moved back to Worcester after
13:23purchasing a three-eer home in my old
13:25neighborhood.
13:27I [clears throat] struggled with housing
13:28insecurity when I was a child, so this
13:30was one of my goals coming back here to
13:32Worcester. After listening to the
13:34meeting a couple of weeks ago, I called
13:35the Worcester Community Action Council
13:38and I was looking for assistance in
13:40replacing my old oil heat system. My
13:43approach to keeping housing affordable
13:46is to lower my tenants utility costs
13:48whenever I can. And as an owner occupied
13:50landlord, I turned to the city because I
13:52believed you guys wanted to help me do
13:54that. Instead, I was told there was no
13:57funding available and I should call back
13:59in October. They didn't even take my
14:01name or my email to see what the needs
14:03were from the residents of Worcester.
14:06Over the past few months, I've learned
14:08about many incredible programs that our
14:10city has to offer its residents. I even
14:12visited a family resource center on the
14:15other side of the city and discovered
14:16resources that many of my friends and
14:18family had no idea about. The problem
14:21isn't necessarily that these resources
14:24don't exist. It's that the people don't
14:26know where to find them. [snorts] Access
14:28to these resources should not depend on
14:30luck. And right now it feels like people
14:33who receive help are only those who
14:34happen to meet the right person. That is
14:37not fair. It's not a fair system. People
14:40are working full-time, raising children,
14:42helping with homework. We're just simply
14:44trying to make ends meet. We should not
14:46also have to spend hours
14:49making phone calls just to figure out
14:51what kind of help exists. Funding means
14:54nothing. The hundreds of millions of
14:56dollars you guys keep talking about
14:58means nothing if people can't access it.
15:00So, I my question is this. Why isn't
15:03there a place where Worcester residents
15:05can go to find the help they need? one
15:07website, one resource, one searchable
15:09system that helps residents find city,
15:12state, nonprofit, utility, and other
15:14assistant programs that are available to
15:16us. I'd be happy to work with anybody.
15:18Thank you.
15:20[applause]
15:24>> The names of your residents and item
15:25number,
15:26>> Abby Morto, Worcester, resident,
15:29district 4. I'm speaking on item 10.5A
15:35and the importance of a civilian review
15:38board. the importance of accountability.
15:43You know, police need to be held
15:46accountable, you know, and you know,
15:50Batista wants to grip the force, you
15:53know, have more totalitarian
15:56rule
15:58and and a top- down system from the top
16:02down with no accountability,
16:06you know, no civilian oversight.
16:09you know, and you know, there's
16:11excessive use of force, racial bias, you
16:14know, violation of human rights, you
16:17know,
16:18and this is this it's it's affecting
16:22minorities
16:23and you know, we need this
16:26accountability. We need like
16:27independence,
16:29access to data, subpoena power in this
16:33room view board. We need we need
16:36accountability, you know. We need
16:41So, let me ask you, what side of history
16:45are you on? Now,
16:48Mr. Batista is on the wrong side of the
16:50history.
16:52And I know someone only wants to listen
16:55to the people they happen to encounter
16:57on everyday basis and not the people
16:59that come to city council. Well, let me
17:02tell you something. We the people that
17:04come to the council are the people that
17:06are paying attention. The people that
17:08pay attention come here. The people
17:12who are you listening to? People who are
17:14not even paying attention. People who
17:16what do they what do they have to say?
17:17Something about the woo sucks or
17:18something. Come on. We need
17:20accountability. We need accountability
17:22now. Accountability now. Sillian review
17:25board now.
17:26>> Thank you.
17:32>> [applause]
17:36>> Hi, my name is Carara Muns. I'm from
17:38District 2. I will be speaking on item
17:4011A very briefly. It is about uh
17:42reducing parking minimums within the
17:45city. A parking spot in a parking garage
17:47costs $30,000
17:49and that cost is put onto the affordable
17:52housing that we want to build in the
17:54city. So, just a quick note, please pass
17:56that one before the night is up to uh
18:00make it so that our city manager can
18:01draft an ordinance to reduce parking
18:03requirements as uh fewer people in
18:05Worcester have cars than before. Thank
18:07you.
18:08>> Thank you.
18:13>> She names your residence item number.
18:15>> Good evening. William Gardner, city of
18:17Worcester, and I'm speaking in response
18:19to item 105A, I believe. Are there great
18:22police officers in Worcester?
18:24Undoubtedly, I have worked with and met
18:27quite a few, but we are not here to talk
18:29about them tonight. Two and a half years
18:32ago, I stood in this very chamber and
18:34talked about my experiences as a
18:36Worcester police officer on and off the
18:38job. And I was physically assaulted by
18:40three different police officers on my
18:43way out that door. I reported this
18:45behavior in city council months later,
18:47and no one raised an eyebrow or bothered
18:49to reach out to me. stand up, do right.
18:53I asked the question, why doesn't this
18:55and past administrations act on this
18:57issue? And all I can come up with is
18:59either you support this kind of
19:01oppressive behavior or you are afraid of
19:03standing up to the police department and
19:05its unions. I spent 10 years in this
19:08department and with the exception of the
19:10sexual assaults, I witnessed everything
19:12described in the recent DOJ report. To
19:15say the least, it was a hostile work
19:17environment. I was bullied and verbally
19:19assaulted on a regular basis. All
19:21because it was clear, even during the
19:23police academy, that I followed the law
19:25and would treat the public with humanity
19:27and respect, traits not appreciated by a
19:31good portion of the police department.
19:33To this day, I suffer from severe hyper
19:35anxiety and post-traumatic stress as a
19:37result and am forced to live on 25% of
19:40my salary. I was treated so poorly that
19:43I had to leave the job, stand up, do
19:46right. The police union would have you
19:49believe that the entire WPD is above
19:51reproach and that couldn't be farther
19:52from the truth. What is it that you are
19:55afraid of? There are civilian review
19:57boards across the country as well as
19:59departments that have their academy
20:01classes interact with members of the
20:04community before they are allowed to
20:05graduate. And the relationship between
20:07the department and those communities in
20:09those cases is so much better. In
20:12closing, the conversation about a
20:14civilian review board should not be
20:15summarily dismissed and deserves to be
20:18examined by this administration as well
20:19as the public. Stand up. Do right. Thank
20:22you. And I hope I don't get
20:28[applause]
20:30>> and I hope I don't get assaulted leaving
20:32the chamber tonight.
20:36>> Bang. Bang.
20:45your names of your residency.
20:46>> Good evening. My name is Ellen Sheetsz.
20:48I'm a Wista resident and former chair of
20:49the HRC and I'm speaking on item 105A in
20:52objection to the city manager's decision
20:54not to establish an independent civilian
20:56oversight body for the WPD. That
20:59decision ignores years of consistent
21:01recommendations from the Worcester
21:02Research Bureau, the Racial Equity
21:04Audit, the Board of Health, and the HRC,
21:06as well as the investigation of the US
21:08DOJ, which found reasonable cause to
21:10believe that the WPD engaged in a
21:12pattern of excessive force officers
21:14engaged in outrageous sexual misconduct
21:16and raised serious concern about gender
21:18bias and discriminatory policing. The
21:20city manager highlights recent internal
21:22systems change to support his decision,
21:24but such changes fail to address the
21:26fundamental problem. Without independent
21:28oversight, there is no meaningful
21:30accountability. Consider three examples.
21:32First, despite a public commitment made
21:34by the city manager more than a year
21:35ago, the HRC still has not received
21:38police misconduct investigation records
21:40as initially requested more than three
21:42years ago. No access to records, no
21:44accountability. Second, the DOJ found
21:46that inadequate data collection
21:48prevented it from fully evaluating bias
21:50and discrimination. The WPD still does
21:53not collect all recommended traffic suck
21:55data and it's refused to adopt a written
21:57policy on the collection and reporting
21:59of comprehensive disagregated use of
22:01force data. No mandate, no
22:03accountability. Third, DOJ called for
22:06mandatory annual crisis intervention
22:08training for all officers. Current
22:10policy makes that training voluntary. No
22:12mandate means less accountability, less
22:14protection for officers and residents.
22:15There are many other examples. With
22:17limited time, I'll end instead with a
22:19call to adopt best practice protocols as
22:21seen in most major cities in the US and
22:23to create an independent civilian
22:24oversight body that is adequately
22:26funded, representative of our community,
22:27empowered to access records, review
22:29policies, investigate complaints, and
22:31ensure compliance. Current practice
22:34falls far short of those standards.
22:36Worcester residents deserve
22:37transparency, accountability, and public
22:40trust. I urge this council to support
22:43truly independent and empowered civilian
22:46oversight.
22:49[applause]
22:55[applause]
22:59>> Place your names to your residents and
23:00item number.
23:02>> Good evening. My name is Elizabeth O'
23:04Callahan. I'm a resident of Worcester.
23:06I'm the former vice chair of the Wester
23:07Human Rights Commission. I am a mental
23:09health professional and I'm an advocate
23:11for individuals with disabilities. I'd
23:14like to speak tonight on item 10.5A in
23:17opposition to the city manager's
23:18decision not to support the creation of
23:20an independent, empowered and
23:22well-trained civilian oversight entity.
23:25My colleague Ellen Schmez has outlined
23:27the outside experts findings as to the
23:29need for independent oversight based on
23:31deep dives into WP data policy and
23:34practice. I want to focus on two other
23:37points. First, the DOJ and race equity
23:39audit raised concerns about WPD
23:41treatment of individuals with uh
23:43language, mental health, or
23:44environmental limitations
23:47of other kinds. WPD, to my knowledge,
23:50has not implemented nor responded to
23:52HRC's recommendations on policies regard
23:54regarding items such as use of force,
23:57mental health emergency response policy,
23:59K9 policy, sexual assault
24:00investigations, juvenile arrests, police
24:03overtime, and others which were reviewed
24:05at the request of WPD.
24:07Moreover, it has refused to consider the
24:09recommendations of the human rights
24:10commission that it develop and implement
24:12a new policy that specally that
24:15specifically issues guidelines for
24:17treatment of individuals with behavioral
24:19health challenges. Second, I want to
24:21address the assertion that the existence
24:22of the post commission obiates the need
24:24for a civilian review board. This
24:26overlooks the limitations of post as
24:28outlined by representatives from post
24:30itself when it spoke before our
24:32commission in 2024. Post relies on WPD
24:35to first submit and review
24:36investigations. Post does not review
24:38cases where the officer in question
24:40retires. There are many other examples
24:42of this. Finally, residents lack
24:44protections that could be provided by
24:46the Model Cops ordinance first brought
24:48before the council and HRC back in 2018.
24:50This gap underscores an even greater
24:52need for an independent civilian review
24:53board. I implore members of council to
24:56join me in demanding that our city
24:58authorize the creation of an
24:59independent, fully staffed,
25:00well-trained, funded civilian review
25:01board that has unfettered access for
25:03records of personnel together with the
25:04authority and imposed sanctions of
25:05non-compliance. Thank you.
25:08[applause]
25:16>> Good evening. My name is Artha Karashka
25:19Wish resident. I'm here to speak on
25:2210.5A.
25:24I'm from district three, Mr. Fzolo.
25:27So, I didn't I don't work for any
25:30commission or anything. I'm just a
25:32Worester resident. I drive school bus.
25:34You guys have seen me before. I always
25:37take my job and compare it to a lot of
25:40things that other people are doing in
25:42our community.
25:44So, I followed this.
25:47What I'm going to say is that I see and
25:50I have read about the DOJ report. I have
25:54read about the Worcester regional
25:57research commission.
26:00I heard about the meeting with post
26:02um as well as other things and I I look
26:05at these organizations one who Mr.
26:08Batista actually ordered that research
26:12item. But after all of these agencies
26:15who specialize in protecting our
26:19communities and holding our police
26:22accountable
26:24for one person, Mr. Batista, to say,
26:28"No, no, no, no. We don't have to listen
26:29to that. We have uh, you know,
26:32diversity, equity, we have police
26:35cameras. We have this." I'm going to
26:37quote Shakespeare. She does, you know,
26:40she she what is it? she does uh complain
26:44too much or refuse too much, you know. I
26:48think that's how it goes. Something like
26:49that. What are you hiding behind?
26:53What What's to be afraid of for the
26:55community to actually look into the
26:58actions of our police? As a bus driver,
27:00I have a camera in my face and I'm held
27:03accountable to the parents of the
27:05children that I carry. Now, I'm sure all
27:09of you guys have children. Can you
27:11imagine your child coming to you and
27:13saying, "The bus driver has abused me
27:17and the system saying, "But you can't
27:19see what they're doing." They should be
27:21proud to be looked at if they were doing
27:23their job right.
27:24>> He gets paid too much to just protect
27:26the police union. He's supposed to
27:28protect us.
27:31[applause]
27:39>> [applause]
27:43>> Janet Davis, Worcester resident in
27:45district um one. I'm reading a portion
27:47of the letter that uh community
27:49organizations have drafted. We the
27:52undersigned representing neighborhoods
27:53and communities across Worcester stand
27:55in solidarity with the Worcester NAACP
27:57and black families together and join
28:00their call for a civilian review board
28:01with subpoena powers to hold the
28:03Worcester Police Department accountable.
28:05On Friday, July 17th, 2026, city manager
28:08Batista issued recommendations to the
28:10city council, including a recommendation
28:12that the city not create a civilian
28:14review board on police accountability.
28:16This recommendation completely ignores
28:18years of civilian complaints against the
28:19police, lawsuits against the police for
28:21misconduct, which have cost millions of
28:23taxpayer dollars to settle, a yearslong
28:25investigation of WPD by the Department
28:27of Justice, and an independent review of
28:29those DOJ findings by the Worcester
28:31Regional Research Bureau, which the city
28:33manager commissioned himself. We call on
28:36the city council to reject the city
28:37manager's recommendation and create a
28:39civilian review board with full subpoena
28:41powers.
28:51My name is Chaza Flores and I am a
28:54resident of district 5 um and a
28:56supporter of in 2020 in the wake of the
28:59police murders of Bana Taylor and George
29:00Floyd. The double and the NAACP and the
29:03black families together called for
29:05civilian review board to evaluate
29:06civilian complaints against the WPD. In
29:092021, former city manager Ed Augustus
29:11acknowledged structural racism in
29:13Worester as a public health crisis and
29:15outlined several corrective actions to
29:17be taken in order via executive order.
29:21One of these, a racial equity audit
29:23completed in 2024 under city manager
29:26Eric Batista, found that the black and
29:28Latino residents were respectfully 2.17
29:31and 1.84 times more likely to be
29:34arrested than their white counterparts
29:36and that those same populations were
29:38grossly under reppresented among the
29:41Worester police officers.
29:43Also in 2020, a public records request
29:47revealed that we, the city of Worcester,
29:49was found to have paid $4 million to
29:52settle 27 police lawsuits from the years
29:56of 2010 to 2020. In the next six years
29:59since then, we have paid out over $2.6
30:03million in additional taxpayer funds to
30:06settle lawsuits due to police
30:08misconduct. What a waste of money.
30:13>> [applause]
30:18>> Roberto Diaz. I am the executive
30:20director of Worester Interfaith and
30:23resident of District 5. On December 9th,
30:262024, the Department of Justice released
30:28a report indicating that the Worcester
30:30Police Department lacks adequate
30:32internal mechanisms for handling
30:34misconduct. In that report, the DOJ
30:36found that the WPD had engaged in a
30:38years'sl long pattern of civil rights
30:40violations, including but not limited to
30:42excessive force, serious concerns of
30:44sexual assault of women arrested in
30:46custody, and other outrageous abuses of
30:49power. In response, the Worcester City
30:51Manager engaged the Worcester Regional
30:53Research Bureau to conduct research on
30:55policing, specifically regarding
30:57civilian review boards. On October 14th,
30:592025, the the WRB presented a report
31:03advocating for a civilian review board,
31:05an essential step toward ensuring
31:07accountability and transparency. And
31:09this year, the city's human rights
31:10commission, independent body advising
31:12the manager on issues of human rights,
31:14voted in support of resolution that
31:16Worcester City Council pursue the CRB
31:18with full subpoena powers. Our demand
31:21for civilian review board is based on
31:23years of evidence. the recommendations
31:25of the DOJ, the Worcester Regional
31:27Research Bureau, the Worcester Human
31:29Rights Commission, and the millions of
31:31dollars in taxpayer money lost because
31:33of worester police departments had
31:34repeatedly proven incapable of holding
31:37itself accountable. Worcester is also an
31:40outlier among cities and review boards,
31:42and it's time for Worcester to catch up.
31:45The only other avenue to accountability,
31:47the post, the statewide post commission
31:49is underst staff and can only
31:50investigate 3 to 4% of the complaints
31:52they receive. And if WPD was capable of
31:55holding itself accountable, it would
31:57have done so. Millions of lock tax
31:59dollars and several invest in
32:01investigations prove that Worcester's
32:02police department needs independent
32:04oversight to be truly accountable to the
32:06people they are supported to serve.
32:08Thank you.
32:10[applause and cheering]
32:18>> Good evening. My name is Jana Tino and I
32:20am uh from district 4 and also a member
32:22of neighbor to neighbor and I'm here to
32:24express that the city's uh the city's
32:25manager's decision in ignores the mount
32:28the mountains of advice and evidence as
32:30well as the lived reality of his
32:33constituents. His suggestion that body
32:35worn cameras and a diversity officer can
32:38solve the deeply rooted problems
32:40identified by the do DOG and the report
32:43himself commissioned is void of all
32:46reason. By ignoring the evidence and
32:48refusing to recommend a civilian review
32:50board, the city manager has effectively
32:53said that he's willing to shield a small
32:54minority of bad cops from
32:56accountability. In doing so, he has made
32:58a clear choice to perpetuate and
33:00exacerbate the growing mistrust between
33:03the community and the majority of
33:04Worester police who wear the badge with
33:06honor and deserve our trust. The
33:08misdeeds of a handful of officers should
33:11not taint the honorable service of the
33:13majority. But preventing a few bad
33:15apples from real accountability does
33:16just that. We need real We need real
33:19police accountability in Wister. We
33:21continue to demand a civilian review
33:23board with subpoena powers so that cop
33:25so the bad cops can be held accountable
33:27for violating the rights of Worester
33:29residents so that good cops can be can
33:31do the good job we entrust them to do
33:34and so that the community knows their
33:36trust in being placed in officers who
33:38understand and upload and uphold their
33:40duty due to the people
33:43the duty due to pe to the people. Thank
33:45you.
33:46>> Thank you.
33:47[applause]
33:55Is this your name? So your residence and
33:56item number.
33:57>> Echo Louisisant Collins, City of
33:59Worcester, Massachusetts, and I'm
34:00speaking on the um CRB.
34:03My name is Echolant Collins and I'm the
34:06founder and executive director of 508
34:08Cheers, a Worcester youth organization
34:11that serves young people throughout our
34:12city. Every day I teach our youth about
34:15leadership, accountability, advocacy,
34:18and civic engagement. We tell them that
34:20good leaders welcome feedback, that
34:23strong organizations are transparent,
34:25and that accountability is not something
34:27to fear. It is something to value. That
34:30lesson shouldn't stop when our children
34:32become adults, and it should certainly
34:34should not stop at city hall. The
34:36greatest systems in our country all have
34:38checks and balances. Our courts have
34:41appeals. Our businesses have independent
34:43auditors. Our hospitals have
34:45accreditation reviews. Schools undergo
34:48external evaluations. Nonprofits have
34:51board of directors. And even elected
34:53officials answer to voters. None of
34:56these systems exist because we assume
34:58people are failing. They exist because
35:00we recognize that no individual and no
35:03institution is above accountability.
35:06Independent oversight is not a
35:08punishment. It is a best practice. It
35:11protects the public, but it also
35:12protects the integrity of the
35:14institution being reviewed by increasing
35:17transparency, strengthening public
35:19confidence, and ensuring concerns are
35:21evaluated fairly. Our city commissioned
35:24experts to study this issue. Community
35:27members shared their lived experiences,
35:30organizations, advocates, residents, and
35:32leaders participated in that project
35:34process.
35:36When we ask experts and the community
35:38for guidance, we should be willing to
35:40consider what they recommend seriously.
35:43Whether every recommendation is adopted
35:45or not, the voices of the people who
35:47invested their time deserve more to just
35:50be brushed off. Tonight, I simply ask
35:53you to choose transparency, choose
35:55partnership with your community,
35:58choose accountability and strength. And
36:01tonight, I ask you, what type of
36:03leadership are we modeling for them?
36:05Thank you.
36:06>> And if we expect
36:09>> if we expect our leaders to lead with
36:12integrity tomorrow, then we must be
36:14willing to show our youth what integrity
36:16looks like today.
36:18>> Thank you.
36:19[applause]
36:26>> Good evening. Um my name is Amy Ebison.
36:28I live in Rutland, Massachusetts. I'm
36:30here in my capacity as Worcester
36:32addresses childhood trauma. I'm here to
36:35speak about the mental health impact of
36:38citizen review. I think you can see from
36:40this room people don't trust the WPD.
36:44They don't trust the WPD. Today I hosted
36:47a national expert on gender-based police
36:49violence. And she said, "Who do you call
36:53when the people you're supposed to call
36:54are the ones doing the harm?" That's how
36:57we're feeling right now. The victims of
37:00police brutality, of racism, of sexual
37:03assault, the mental health impacts on
37:05them as individuals are enormous. The
37:08mental health individuals on our
37:10community to not feel safe
37:13has a huge impact that can't be
37:15underestimated. I am asking that you
37:18kind of throw us the bone of citizen
37:21review and prioritize the safety, the
37:24felt safety needs of our community, the
37:28trust of our community over the fragile
37:31egos of police officers. These officers
37:35have shown and we've heard they're not
37:37holding each other to account. They're
37:39absolutely not holding each other to
37:41account. They're colluding. And if you
37:43vote against a civilian review board,
37:45you're colluding as well. I implore you
37:47to consider the mental health of
37:49Worcester residents and knock down this
37:52idea that we can't have a civilian
37:54review board. We need civilian review.
37:56Please
37:59[applause]
38:06before we go on, I just want to suspend
38:08the rules, allow people to speak, and do
38:10a roll call.
38:12But now anyways visit
38:16roll call.
38:16>> Councelor Bergman.
38:17>> Yes.
38:18>> Councelor Bada.
38:19>> Yes.
38:19>> Councelor Economo.
38:21>> Yes.
38:21>> Councelor Pilo.
38:22>> Yes.
38:23>> Councelor King. [clears throat]
38:24>> Um just real quick. So the motion is to
38:26suspend the rules. Period.
38:28>> Yeah. For one hour.
38:28>> Yes.
38:30>> Sorry.
38:30>> For one hour then we can revisit and see
38:32where we are. I think we'll get through
38:33this. But
38:37>> yes.
38:38>> Conor Mitra.
38:38>> Yes.
38:39>> Conto.
38:40>> Yes.
38:40>> Conor Vera. Yes.
38:41>> Council Rosen.
38:42>> Yes.
38:42>> Council Tumi.
38:43>> Yes.
38:44>> Mayor Petty.
38:45>> Yes.
38:46>> What's your name? Say your residence and
38:47item number.
38:48>> Good evening. My name is Margot Barnett.
38:50I've been a resident of Worcester for 36
38:54years. I think um when the um agenda for
38:58this meeting came out along with the
39:00attachments, I read the fairly extensive
39:04report
39:06um that the city manager is using as a
39:10basis for not representing a civilian
39:12review board.
39:14I have some comments based on that
39:17report. The report claims that there are
39:20guard rails. It claims that there's been
39:22progress built over the last three
39:23years.
39:25I think there have been ongoing efforts
39:27to improve conditions but there are some
39:31really big gaps and there were some big
39:32problems with the report. So first I've
39:35got three points. First, the internal
39:39system. The report um extensively
39:42describes an internal system which from
39:45what I read sounded like it was entirely
39:46under the opaces of the diversity
39:50um and inclusion equity inclusion
39:52office. I remember when city manager
39:56Augustus called for um uh wrote his
39:59equity his um
40:02uh the order about um
40:06about um racial justice. He called for
40:10an investigative body within city hall.
40:12I'm assuming this is it, but guess what?
40:13You've kept it a really big secret. This
40:16is the first time I heard of his
40:17existence. So it looks like you're
40:18checking a box, not creating something
40:20with transparency that actually works.
40:22The second is the Bureau of Professional
40:24Standards. This is internal to the
40:26police department. It's not an
40:27independent um agency in any way. And
40:30third, the most concerning thing is this
40:33city manager citing the human rights
40:34commission as one of the guardrails that
40:36we can count on for oversight. But we
40:38have ample evidence that the human
40:39rights commission has been
40:40systematically exor ignored,
40:42disrespected, and eventually eviscerated
40:44by removing members who asked for
40:47accountability.
40:48And further evidence of this is the
40:50resignation of two members in the last
40:52two days from the human rights
40:53commission.
40:54>> Thank you.
40:56>> Uh because of this. So this calls into
40:58question the sincerity of the whole
40:59report. We need to follow the com the
41:02recommendations of the worester um
41:04regional research bureau and move
41:06forward in implementation of a civilian
41:09review board with full subpoena powers.
41:14[applause]
41:19My name is Sue Millman, resident school
41:22committee and NAACP member. I'm sure
41:26many here tonight are shocked, saddened,
41:28and now hardened by what has happened in
41:30our country since Trump was elected.
41:33Congressman McGovern regularly calls out
41:35the horrific decisions and impacts of
41:37this war against immigrants and black
41:39and brown communities. Our federal
41:42government is considering taking over
41:43elections. At every turn, our freedom as
41:47individuals are in jeopardy. It is one
41:49of the reasons why I believe that we
41:51need to be more vigilant about our local
41:54government practices and responsiveness
41:56to oppression.
41:59City Manager, you will remember as I do
42:02quite vividly the last meeting of the
42:05official DEI subcommittee when Lee
42:07Woodruff disbanded the subcommittee
42:09because city government under Ed
42:11Augustus was keeping the committee in
42:13the dark. This meeting was a fiery
42:16affair and ironically was somehow never
42:18recorded. This reminds me of the human
42:21rights today. They are not allowed to
42:23act with full authority. You could have
42:25chosen to strengthen our government by
42:27creating a civilian review board for the
42:29next city manager, the next police
42:31chief, and the next generation of
42:33citizens. Your decision does not take
42:35into account the great pitfalls in front
42:39of us as a city, state, and nation.
42:41Mayor Petty, I read with great interest
42:44your strong comments about TPS
42:46protections for our Haitian and Syrian
42:48communities. Where were you when
42:50councelor and other members of our
42:53community showed up on Eureka Street to
42:55protect our residents? Where was your
42:58empathy?
43:00Where was your empathy for the horrors
43:02of ICE and the very real view from
43:04residents that were there that day that
43:06our department was working with ICE?
43:08Your comments today about concern for
43:10immigrant communities ring hollow
43:11because you allowed a police department
43:14to actively pursue a sitting member of
43:16your city council for standing against
43:18ICE. Our policy
43:22[applause]
43:24our policy
43:26our policy actions as a city matter and
43:29they matter in the context of a nation
43:31that is allowing itself to be dismantled
43:33one rule of law at a time. [cheering]
43:40>> [applause]
43:48>> Andrew Marsh, 212 Main Street in
43:50Worcester. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Mr.
43:52Mayor, I rise regarding agenda item
43:5410.5A. Mr. Mayor, despite what the
43:56police unions and some of the members of
43:58this very council would like us to
43:59believe, a civilian review board to
44:01provide municipal oversight over the WPD
44:04is very much needed. When members of law
44:06enforcement are given the green light to
44:08act irresponsibly without local
44:09repercussion, that is exactly what will
44:12happen and exactly what has happened.
44:13Members of law enforcement have
44:15harassed, assaulted, prosecuted, and in
44:17the worst cases killed innocent people
44:19without fear of reprisal. One need only
44:21look at our history of lawsuits to know
44:23that. It is a reality I cannot ignore
44:25while maintaining my integrity. Even if
44:28none of that were true, I would still be
44:30heavily in favor of civilian review
44:32board for one very simple reason.
44:34Nobody, and I mean nobody, should be
44:37allowed to police themselves. It's an
44:39insane conflict of interest, one that
44:41can only be resolved via independent
44:43oversight. And I speak from relative
44:45experience. When I was a teenager, my
44:47mother had to redo over 100 hours of
44:49internship. And her attempts to appeal a
44:51decision predictably fell on deaf ears
44:53because the faculty who sat on the
44:55appeals board were the exact same people
44:57who created the problem in the first
44:58place. A police department is supposed
45:01to be a public service, which means they
45:03serve us. We don't serve them. We should
45:06not simply take their words as gospel,
45:08nor should we have blind faith that
45:10their actions will always be just. We
45:12need meaningful local oversight, and we
45:14cannot simply kick the can down the road
45:17and tell the state and federal
45:18government to do it. We need to handle
45:20the bulk of the work ourselves, and a
45:22civilian review board is one of the
45:24tools in the toolbox we need to provide
45:26it. The city manager should be ashamed
45:28to oppose this and the city council
45:30should enact a civilian review board
45:32with teeth without delay. I yield back
45:35the balance of my time.
45:47>> Your name says
45:48>> good evening council Ashley Spring uh
45:51D2. Um, I'm Ashley Spring and I have
45:55personally been victimized by the Wester
45:58Police Department. Hi, Ashley. Uh, I'd
46:02like to keep it I'd like to keep it
46:04light here with jokes, but the
46:05unfortunate place our city has found
46:07itself in really isn't a laughing
46:09matter. And I wish I was kidding, but I
46:12truly have been victimized personally by
46:13the WPD. I'll spare too many I'll spare
46:16too many of the traumatic details of
46:17that day on Eureka Street and of the
46:19days that followed because we all know
46:21the story that I continue to deal with.
46:23But I thought it was important to come
46:25here and say an absolute confirmation as
46:27a victim of police misconduct that I
46:29support a civilian review board as a
46:31culturally appropriate response to the
46:33abusive situation the community has
46:35found itself in with its police
46:36department. Not only did the police
46:39arrest me as I responded to the needs of
46:41a child in crisis being made worse by
46:43the WPD, they doubled down and lied
46:47about the facts of my arrest so that
46:48they could better manipulate the justice
46:50system and have their needs met. It's
46:52all on video. Go follow the timeline.
46:56But I doubt this is the first time
46:57you've all heard this. It's not a
46:58secret, and it certainly hasn't been.
47:00The council and this mayor and this city
47:02manager have all ignored that
47:03uncomfortable fact completely. But
47:05here's the truth. We have proof the
47:07police lie. We have it on video and
47:09everybody knows. Those who choose to
47:12ignore this, congratulations on your
47:13buyin to this gang behavior. I hope it
47:15serves you well. One last thing. The
47:18officer who tackled this child who was
47:20in distress, Juan Vjo, has an
47:22interesting tattoo on his forearm. It
47:24says Omera. A quick search of this word
47:26says, quote, a strict southern Italian
47:29code of honor and silence that demands
47:31total non-ooperation with authorities.
47:33That is a terrifying thing for a man in
47:36a position to p of power to have on his
47:38body. Thank you.
47:43[applause]
47:49>> Good evening. I'm I'm Charles Hopkins,
47:52District 1, former human rights
47:55commissioner. I was removed because of
47:56my support for a civilian review board
48:00of the police department. I believe that
48:02was why my commission was not uh
48:04renewed. Um I'm also to make it a little
48:07more personal though, I'm also the
48:08oldest member of my family. I have four
48:11kids. I was a single dad for 15 years.
48:13My second wife passed away. It'll be a
48:15year ago tomorrow to make this a little
48:17more human here. She was a warrior for
48:20for for justice and positive change. And
48:24that's one of the reasons I'm here. Had
48:26my own experiences with the police that
48:27I won't get into. Let me get some give
48:29you some quick statistics. Worcester is
48:32the second largest city in the six New
48:33England states. We have 215,000
48:36residents. We're the 114th largest city
48:40in the US. Cities with civilian
48:43oversight um of police, 71% of the
48:47hundred largest cities. We are the 114th
48:51largest city in the country.
48:54In Massachusetts, there are five cities
48:55that have civilian re review boards.
48:58Boston, Cambridge,
49:00Springfield, Pittsfield,
49:04and um Lowel. Why Worcester is not
49:08moving forward with this,
49:10I don't no one understands. Let me give
49:13you an example of why this is so
49:15important. Um, one of the pol it's
49:17around policies, we have a we have a
49:19wellness check policy here in the city
49:21of Worcester where once a once a
49:24wellness check is done. No one can get
49:26any information on that. A friend uh who
49:29lives out of state, her mother required
49:30a wellness check in December of 24 or
49:3323. She died because the Worcester
49:36police did not do a wellness check
49:37properly. She laid on her floor for
49:40three to four days. a neighbor broke
49:42through the front window and and took
49:44her out. She didn't want to sue only
49:47because she believed that the Worcester
49:50will do the right thing and put a review
49:51board in place.
49:55>> Let's do that tonight. Thank you.
50:05>> Hi, my name is David Coin. I live in
50:07district five here in Worcester.
50:09neighbor of Charlie's, neighbor of
50:11Car's. Um, people are upset.
50:16The manager has made a terrible mistake.
50:18The council has the opportunity to
50:20either support his error or to recognize
50:24his error and stop it. If the city of
50:27Worcester makes itself stick out from
50:30other large gateway cities in New
50:31England as a place where police uh
50:35misconduct will likely go unpunished in
50:38terms of the individual officer, we will
50:41attract every bad cop in the country
50:43who's looking for a good safe place to
50:45hang out and to do their bad deeds.
50:49If you guys are serious about this, if
50:50you really believe this is the right way
50:52to act, there's only one way you can
50:54prove that. The manager and every member
50:56of the council who votes for this crap
50:57tonight should have come out of their
50:59payroll, their pay, whatever it costs
51:02for the city to pay off the police
51:04misconduct civil suits that this city
51:07faces all the time.
51:13It's it's not a thin blue line. It's a
51:16corrupt blue line because they stand
51:18behind each other no matter what. No
51:20matter what. No matter what. I know my
51:23uncle was a cop in New York. I know how
51:25this business works. They will protect
51:27each other to the end of the earth.
51:32[applause]
51:36>> Good evening. My name is Fiona Jatan
51:38Singh. I'm a resident of Worcester. I'm
51:39a member of the NAACP. I'm a member of
51:41Neighborto Neighbor. I'm a member of
51:43Maywok. I speak tonight for the same
51:46item that everybody else has been
51:47speaking about. We need to have a
51:49civilian review board. I'm not going to
51:50give you the data and the statistics.
51:52The research bureau has already done
51:53that. The DOJ's already done that. You
51:54guys don't pay attention to the
51:55statistics. So, I'm going to give a
51:57message that I heard today from one of
51:58my good friends. Besides, you've already
52:00heard about Attel and Ashley's police
52:02brutality cases. But one of my friends
52:04told me today, 20 years ago, she was
52:07pushed down a flight of stairs by a
52:09Worester police officer because she was
52:11trying to go back to get her backpack
52:12when she was leaving a bar. And then
52:14after she got outside, he beat her up in
52:16the streets. Was never held accountable.
52:18And then he tried to press charges
52:20against her after he beat her up and
52:21threw her down a flight of stairs. This
52:23is how the worester police officers
52:25operate in this city. And you don't want
52:27to have a civilian review board so that
52:28nobody can hold them accountable. We've
52:30already had meetings as a community with
52:32the um the post. They said most of the
52:34other towns that have civilian review
52:35boards, they weed out the necessary
52:37cases before they get to them because
52:38they don't have the ability to go
52:40through all the cases that get referred
52:41to them. So therefore, you cannot say
52:43that, oh, it's already being taken care
52:44of because of that post. No. There's
52:46over 200 cities in the United States
52:49that have a civilian review board or
52:50something equivalent. 71% of those are
52:53large cities. We are the only large city
52:55in the in Massachusetts. He already
52:57named the other five cities that are
52:58large that have civilian review boards.
53:00There's no reason we don't have one
53:01except that we're being run by the
53:02mafia. Thank you.
53:07[applause]
53:16Good evening. My name is Amanda Cronin.
53:18I live in District 1. This is not the
53:21first time I've been in front of the
53:22city council talking about a civilian
53:24review board. And it's probably not
53:26going to be the last. But a civilian
53:28review board is the right thing to do.
53:30It's the moral thing to do. And those of
53:33you who are considering voting against
53:34it should ask yourselves, what are you
53:36afraid of? What is the Worcester PD
53:39afraid of? What are you as city
53:41councilors and the mayor afraid of? Give
53:43the citizens the right to overview the
53:45people who police them and have power
53:47over them. Thank you.
53:55>> Hi, my name is Sheila Brener. I live in
53:57Worcester. I've lived here about 12
53:59years now and [clears throat] I'm
54:00speaking about 10.582.
54:03I just want to get these points out
54:04because everybody said them already, but
54:06apparently the council hasn't heard. Key
54:08findings of the DOJ document report
54:12excessive use of force, racial bias,
54:14violate violation of rights. It's in
54:16black and white. You know, I the first
54:18time I came to the city council, it was
54:21during a discussion of the Shot Spotter
54:24uh institution, and I found out that the
54:29city manager
54:31came to get the consent of the city
54:34council for the Shot Spotter after he
54:37had signed a contract with the company
54:39the week before. I thought, "Oh, welcome
54:42to Worcester. I'm from Chicago. I guess
54:43they do things a little bit more quietly
54:45here. I just want to appeal to all of
54:48you to listen to these people. Listen to
54:51the groups who believe that there's
54:54nothing. If you have nothing to hide,
54:56you don't have to hide it. People and
55:00police officers don't have to be
55:03enemies, but the people have to trust
55:05them. And they have to trust their
55:06elected officials.
55:09Do your jobs. I have a 17-year-old
55:12senior in high school who might want to
55:14be a lawyer.
55:16She pays attention. There are a lot of
55:18young people who pay attention who are
55:20going to be voters.
55:21>> The tide is changing. The dinosaurs are
55:25going to be out.
55:27>> There's a new age and we are going to
55:29win. Thank you.
55:41>> So, my name is Missy Green. I was born
55:43and raised in Worcester. I have seen a
55:45lot here in Worcester and I'm holding
55:47all of you accountable. You guys need to
55:50listen to the community and you need to
55:52drop the police and you need to open up
55:55the civilian reboard. When my sister was
55:5716 years old and she used to wait for
55:59the bus at 6:30 in the morning in Maine
56:01South, she used to get solicited by
56:04police officers for sex.
56:06>> Really? When my father was pulling out
56:09of his driveway in Maine South, he hit a
56:11cop car. Serious damage on that cop car.
56:15My father goes over and knocks on the
56:16door and says, "Sorry, officer. I hit
56:18your car. Is everything okay?" Officer's
56:20in my father's driveway, by the way.
56:22Getting a
56:25>> Really? By a prostitute.
56:27Get out of here. It's your lucky day. He
56:29says to my dad, "What the hell?"
56:34Right. So then I call on my father for
56:37domestic abuse. My little brother's
56:39scared to his life. I'm 24 years old. I
56:42call on a pay phone anonymously to go
56:44help my mother. Okay. You know what they
56:47said to me? Oh, go there and give a
56:50testimony so you can we can arrest your
56:52father. What? I'm not going home. My
56:56brother's scared for his life. Go do
56:58your job and protect my mom.
57:01This is on and on. This is me. Three
57:05testimonies and I got more, but I can't
57:08share them. The police department is
57:10corrupted and you are blinded with your
57:13eyes. Fascist bootlickers.
57:28Hi, my name is Gemma Kamar, District 3,
57:30and I'm a member of the Massachusetts
57:33Organization of African Descendants.
57:35It's a sad thing that I had to, you
57:36know, sign on to this thing because
57:37nobody should be standing here and
57:39advocating for basic things. I want to
57:41say shame on all of you. Every one of
57:43you, shame on you. Um it's ridiculous.
57:45It is so ridiculous. Um and I do want to
57:47say I'm speaking in regard to item 10
57:50um.5A and the importance of establishing
57:53a truly independent civil review board.
57:56In 2018, um Aia was arrested, a Ghanaian
57:59man. By the way, many of you out here,
58:00you parade yourselves in the Ghana
58:02community in our African community, our
58:03black community, thinking that you care,
58:04when you don't give a damn about these
58:06communities. He was um violated by a
58:09officer and basically um the officer um
58:12he you know um uh tried to arrest him
58:15and um and he and the officer asked him
58:17for a password to open his phone. the
58:20during the this encounter, an undercover
58:22official um Titan hit the handcuffs
58:25until they caused tight pain um around
58:27um the wrist of um um Amand the Gunan um
58:31man and the officer responded, "Is this
58:34how you monkeys
58:37treat your police officers?" This is in
58:39the report, by the way. It's it's it's
58:40on the newspaper. And this is not the
58:42only case. We have a African um one of
58:44our African leaders in the Liberian
58:46community. You all know him, Amber, the
58:47same thing. They sued the city of
58:49Worcester and got money from this. How
58:50many times are we going to be suing and
58:52getting taking taxpayers dollars to pay
58:55off whatever else you guys are paying
58:56off here? It is so saddening. It is so
58:59wicked. It's dangerous. You guys are
59:00putting all of our lives in danger. It
59:02it has to stop right now.
59:08>> So,
59:09and I want to say that this incident
59:11highlights the multiple incidents in
59:13this report, the DOJ report. And what
59:15are you doing about it? What are you
59:17people doing about it? Shame on all of
59:18you again. Shame on all of you. Um, so
59:22the city manager's recommendation goes
59:23against the best practice, expert
59:25recommendations, and decades of
59:26testimony for residents, especially
59:28black and brown communities members, um,
59:30who have, you know, called meaningful
59:31police accountability. We need police
59:33accountability now. What this is, but we
59:36need it now. And I'm asking that you
59:37all, city council, all of you do your
59:39jobs and get assigned. And one thing
59:41when I leave off of here because
59:42something is happening in the city here
59:44where we have community events at the
59:46city of Worcester watch parties and the
59:47city is fl is flooding money to police
59:51and all this barricading things outside
59:53and making communities feel unsafe.
59:55>> Stop it.
59:56>> Thank you.
59:57>> Do your jobs.
1:00:08>> Good evening, Mr. Chairman, members of
1:00:10the city council, my name is Gordon John
1:00:13Davis and I live in Worcester. I'm
1:00:14speaking on item 9M. I'm here tonight to
1:00:18voice my concern, extreme concern over
1:00:20what appears to be legally flawed code
1:00:23enforcement targeting middle-class
1:00:24homeowners by the Department of Public
1:00:26Works. On July 8th, I received an
1:00:29enforcement order from Department of
1:00:31Public Works engineering uh division
1:00:33stating that my property was violating
1:00:36an ordinance chapter 12 section 24
1:00:40subsection C regarding directing water
1:00:42onto a public street. The letter
1:00:44explicitly orders me to hire and assure
1:00:47and bond contractor pull a DPW permit
1:00:52and connect to the city common sewer
1:00:54within 14 days under threat and fines of
1:00:58other legal actions. The problem is that
1:01:01the ordinance applies exclusively and
1:01:03strictly to water coming from roofs,
1:01:05gutters, conduct conductors or water
1:01:08spouts. My property gutters and
1:01:10structural damage do not flow onto the
1:01:12street. The issue is a sump pump and not
1:01:14rainwater. Dropping a 14-day legal
1:01:17financial
1:01:19under
1:01:21um
1:01:23underminatum on the residents and to
1:01:25serve administrative overreach in bum
1:01:28overreach in boredom. It forces working
1:01:31residents to take thousands of dollars
1:01:32and expensive and many hours of lost
1:01:35times just to defend themselves against
1:01:36vaguely worded claims. This cause causes
1:01:40undue harm and damage. I could not find
1:01:44any city ordinance directly regarding
1:01:46some pumps. The ordinance cited my
1:01:47letter chapter 12 is silent on sump
1:01:49pumps. The sword division gave me
1:01:51implied permission to my sump pump setup
1:01:54in 2012. I had no uh I had no issues
1:01:57with the city for 14 years until early
1:01:59this month. This code enforcement should
1:02:01be voided. Thank you.
1:02:04>> Thank you.
1:02:10Gordon Davis. I live in Worcester.
1:02:14I'm talking on item 9M.
1:02:20This is about the mismanagement
1:02:23of a city department, the Department of
1:02:26Public Works, which is harassing
1:02:29homeowners.
1:02:31It put out a code enforcement letter
1:02:36which was completely false and unlawful.
1:02:40It cited an ordinance that was not
1:02:46related at all to sump pumps.
1:02:52And the issue there was sump pumps. The
1:02:56letter was bullying. It said, it didn't
1:02:59say come in for an appeal. It said
1:03:03we're going to sue you.
1:03:05That's what it said. We had to go and
1:03:08force an appeal. We had to go to this
1:03:11office. We went to the manager's office
1:03:13who has not responded yet. We have done
1:03:17everything. We we want what we want is
1:03:22that there be no more of this bullying,
1:03:27that there be no more of this false code
1:03:30enforcement, that there be no more of
1:03:33this harassment,
1:03:35that the Department of Public Works and
1:03:38the Sewer Department get together and
1:03:41talk because the sewer department has
1:03:44allowed sump pumps to drain into
1:03:49uh the uh the uh the the uh uh the
1:03:53ditches. So I forget the the one that
1:03:55flows out but not the sewer. You cannot
1:03:58put a sump pump in the sewer but you can
1:04:00put it into the drain catch basin and
1:04:03that's what's going on which is entirely
1:04:06legal and which is what has happened to
1:04:09this homeowner. We want this nonsense to
1:04:14end. We want the mismanagement
1:04:17to end and we want the manager to put
1:04:21the Department of Public Works on
1:04:23notice.
1:04:24>> Thank you.
1:04:28[applause and cheering]
1:04:30>> Good evening. My name is Noah Meister.
1:04:32I'm a resident in District 2. I'm here
1:04:34to speak in support of a civilian review
1:04:36board. Um it's embarrassing to me that
1:04:40I've lived for as long as I've lived in
1:04:42this city. I feel like people have come
1:04:43to city council meetings and protested
1:04:46to get some type of oversight of our
1:04:48police department and the city seems
1:04:51just completely unwilling to do anything
1:04:53in response to what those people are
1:04:56asking for. And the city has really low
1:04:59voter turnout. And I can't help but
1:05:01think that people seeing over and over
1:05:03that their efforts to make even the most
1:05:05obvious changes that have been
1:05:06recommended by the federal government,
1:05:08the Worcester Research Bureau, where we
1:05:11spend our own money to advise us on how
1:05:13to plan the city. To see the city
1:05:15manager just completely ignore those
1:05:17recommendations, I feel like must play a
1:05:19big part in why people don't think
1:05:21voting is worth it. Um, and I also do
1:05:24think it's really insulting to the
1:05:25intelligence of the people of the city
1:05:27to have city officials telling us that
1:05:29the Worcester Police Department is just
1:05:31going to oversee themselves. I'm not
1:05:33aware of any other job or profession
1:05:36where people are allowed to just oversee
1:05:38themselves and that's accepted as a
1:05:40normal course of business. Um, and I
1:05:42think it's a fundamental principle of
1:05:44our government that we are a government
1:05:46of the people. And if you're a city
1:05:47councelor who's willing to accept the
1:05:50city manager's logic that we can just
1:05:51let the police department oversee
1:05:53themselves instead of letting the
1:05:55people, your constituents oversee them,
1:05:57then you don't deserve to be sitting in
1:05:59that seat and you should you should be.
1:06:02Thanks.
1:06:05[applause]
1:06:14Good evening. My name is Tia Christina
1:06:16Kor and I am a resident of 153 Green
1:06:19Street in the Canal District. I'm also
1:06:21here with one of our residents in the
1:06:23building. We're here because the parking
1:06:26situation surrounding Polar Park is
1:06:28forcing residents into current debt. We
1:06:31understand the value of Polar Park as
1:06:33well as what it has brought to
1:06:35Worcester. But while the neighborhood
1:06:37has transformed into a sports and
1:06:38entertainment district, no meaningful
1:06:41parking solution has been found for the
1:06:43people who actually live there. Most
1:06:46nearby parking is limited to two hours,
1:06:48as we're all aware, and there are very
1:06:50few legal overnight parking options. The
1:06:53consequences have been severe. One
1:06:55resident in my building has accumulated
1:06:57around 2,000 in parking tickets. Another
1:07:00had to come up with 1,400 in a single
1:07:02day because their car got booted and it
1:07:05would have been towed if otherwise
1:07:07provided. Other residents, including
1:07:09myself, including myself, had had our
1:07:11vehicles towed and many of us continue
1:07:13to receive tickets simply because we
1:07:15have nowhere to park at night. This is
1:07:17not just an inconvenience. It is a
1:07:19financial hardship for the residents of
1:07:21Worcester. And I respectfully ask for
1:07:23the council to consider residential
1:07:25parking permits, designated parking
1:07:27solutions, and any additional long-term
1:07:29parking options that can be available.
1:07:32Worcester's growth should not come at
1:07:33the expense of the people who live here
1:07:35every day. Thank you.
1:07:39[applause]
1:07:45>> Good evening. Mayor, city of Worester
1:07:47resident. I'm here today to talk about
1:07:50the city manager's recommendation
1:07:52regarding a civilian review board. His
1:07:54recommendation goes against best
1:07:56practices, expert guidance, and the
1:07:58decadesl long demands of Worcester
1:08:00residents, especially the black and
1:08:02brown community members who have
1:08:04repeatedly shared their experiences with
1:08:06police misconduct and called for
1:08:08meaningful accountability. By refusing
1:08:11the to recommend a civilian review
1:08:15board, the city manager is choosing to
1:08:17ignore the evidence and shield a small
1:08:20minority of officers from meaningful
1:08:22accountability. In doing so, he also
1:08:24undermines the many Worcester police
1:08:26officers who serve this community with
1:08:29integrity and deserve the public's
1:08:31trust. The evidence is overwhelming. Yet
1:08:34instead of embracing meaningful reform,
1:08:37the city manager suggests that bodywn
1:08:39cameras and diversity officers and aid
1:08:42diversity officer are sufficient to
1:08:44address the systematic problems
1:08:47identified by both the DOJ and the
1:08:49research bureau and I am here to tell
1:08:51you they are not sufficient.
1:08:55The Department of Justice found serious
1:08:57concerns including excessive use of
1:09:00force, racial bias in policing,
1:09:03violations of constitutional right, and
1:09:06yes, rape, sexual assault. Because when
1:09:09women say they were raped and sexually
1:09:12assaulted, I believe them.
1:09:20These findings point to one clear
1:09:22conclusion. Worcester needs independent
1:09:25oversight. Experts consistently agree
1:09:28that effective civilian oversight
1:09:30requires three essential elements.
1:09:31Independence from police department,
1:09:33meaningful access to information and
1:09:35data, subpoena power to obtain testimony
1:09:37and evidence when necessary. I urge the
1:09:40city council to reject the city
1:09:42manager's recommendation and establish a
1:09:44truly independent civilian review board
1:09:47with full subpoena power. Thank you.
1:09:49>> Thank you. [cheering]
1:09:57>> [applause]
1:09:58>> Hi, my name is Terry Kelly Worcester.
1:10:02Um,
1:10:04I just agree with that we should have a
1:10:07committee. Um, unfortunately, um, we
1:10:11need to protect our good police
1:10:13officers. The cameras should be on at
1:10:16all times to protect them, to weed out
1:10:19the bad cops.
1:10:22We can't afford to have these bad cops
1:10:24and they make more bad cops. We need to
1:10:26keep the good ones. We need to protect
1:10:29our good cops. We cannot afford to have
1:10:33this keep on going. And if a person does
1:10:35not have a camera, if officer does not
1:10:38have a camera on, that's that should be
1:10:40automatic termination because they're
1:10:42hiding something. I just walked by a guy
1:10:45that was getting arrested and there's a
1:10:47whole bunch of police officers and not
1:10:49one camcorder was on.
1:10:51There's no body cam on at all on any
1:10:54officer.
1:10:56>> Yeah. So, how how does that happen? So,
1:10:59um honestly to protect the police. If I
1:11:02was a police officer, I would want a
1:11:04camera on me at all times to protect me.
1:11:06My word against jaws.
1:11:09Protect our police officers. Please
1:11:12don't don't let this go. Would you want
1:11:14to be a police officer and not have a
1:11:16camera and my word is against your word
1:11:19and you you're a bigger person than I am
1:11:21for some reason? You want to protect
1:11:24your officers. Thank you.
1:11:32>> Hi, good evening. My name is Sarah
1:11:34Bertrand and I live in district 3 in
1:11:36Worcester and I am also speaking
1:11:39regarding the importance of a civilian
1:11:42review board. Uh the recommendation
1:11:44against a civilian review board um like
1:11:48folks have already said goes against
1:11:49best practices, expert recommendations
1:11:52and decades long demands and testimonies
1:11:55from residents particularly black and
1:11:57brown residents impacted by encounters
1:11:59with police. It also deeply hurts um for
1:12:03people who have already been um
1:12:06inflicted with the the pain by
1:12:08misconduct by police misconduct. It
1:12:10amplifies the mistrust and it deepens
1:12:13the trauma inflicted by harm upon harm.
1:12:17Um, as a civics educator, I work with
1:12:20young people to practice speaking their
1:12:23truth to power and hopefully to instill
1:12:25in them that their voice matters um and
1:12:28that they can promote positive change in
1:12:30their communities. Too often, however,
1:12:33the city seems to dash that hope and
1:12:36instead teach that you can speak your
1:12:39truth and it will be disregarded or
1:12:42ignored.
1:12:44So in this space I want to amplify and
1:12:46reiterate the testimonies of the women
1:12:50who shared experiences of sexual assault
1:12:52documented in the DOJ report. I want to
1:12:56uh center the youth who have been
1:12:57criminalized and harassed by the
1:12:59Worester Police Department. I want to
1:13:00recall the testimonies of black and
1:13:03brown people who have been subject to
1:13:05racial bias on behalf of the Worester
1:13:08Police Department. the people who have
1:13:09been victims of excessive force by the
1:13:11Worester Police Department and people
1:13:13who have faced retribution for speaking
1:13:16out or asking for accountability. I
1:13:19envision a Worcester with a healthy
1:13:22democracy that centers the people most
1:13:24impacted by the issues at hand. A city
1:13:27government who listens to their
1:13:30constituents. and I ask that the city
1:13:33council um serve in the best interest of
1:13:36the community and push back against the
1:13:38recommendation against the civilian
1:13:40review board. Thank you
1:13:48district uh five resident former
1:13:51district 5 counselor. Uh Mr. Mayor, I'm
1:13:54going to direct this comments to you and
1:13:56to the city manager. I had an ounce of
1:13:59faith that at minimum this
1:14:01administration and the leaders of this
1:14:03city would have picked up the phone and
1:14:06called the leaders of NAACP, Black
1:14:09Families Together and countless others
1:14:11who for decades have called for police
1:14:15accountability, transparency and constit
1:14:17constitutionality.
1:14:18That would have been a community process
1:14:21that would have invited the chief of
1:14:23police along to have a meaningful
1:14:25discussion on what police transparency,
1:14:27accountability and constitutionality and
1:14:29an obligation to the residents of the
1:14:31city to have proper mechanisms of
1:14:34independent oversight. Instead, we were
1:14:38given a process that was anything but
1:14:40that. Instead, we were told that we need
1:14:43to trust that body cams are equal to
1:14:46transparency, accountability, and
1:14:48constitutionality. We are told to wait.
1:14:51How long do we have to wait? How long
1:14:54does the city residents need to wait for
1:14:57this city to have proper mechanisms like
1:14:59a civilian review board? Something that
1:15:01has been backed by data, by research,
1:15:04and by models that this city can
1:15:05implement. How long, Mr. Manager? How
1:15:09long, Mr. Mr. Mayor, when you all go out
1:15:11in the community, you shake hands, you
1:15:13cut ribbons, and you pander to black and
1:15:16brown communities, you need to look them
1:15:18in the eye and you need to tell them
1:15:20why, as I predict and as I expect, most
1:15:23of the city councilors will vote to
1:15:26recommend the city manager's
1:15:28recommendation. You need to tell them
1:15:29why you think that the post commission,
1:15:32which is not an independent oversight
1:15:34body, uh, and a substitute for local
1:15:36oversight, is enough. You need to tell
1:15:38them why the work that needed to happen
1:15:41in the years that black, brown,
1:15:43indigenous women, and other low-income
1:15:46communities have asked for transparency,
1:15:48constitutionality, and demanding your
1:15:51honesty. Why you haven't done the
1:15:53meaningful work? And why do you have a
1:15:55police union that targets counselors and
1:15:59other residents for simply protecting
1:16:02our constituents?
1:16:04>> We demand better.
1:16:10And I
1:16:12>> I'm going to I'm I'm going to end with
1:16:14this. What you saw tonight is just the
1:16:17beginning of organizing. There will be
1:16:19twice as many more people here on
1:16:20August.
1:16:23[cheering]
1:16:31>> I'm not sure how to follow up that, but
1:16:33I will say uh I'm Tom Brener. I live in
1:16:36Worcester.
1:16:38I I will have to say that I absolutely
1:16:41support the idea of the civilian review
1:16:44board. It seems like a no-brainer and
1:16:46maybe there's not enough brains in the
1:16:48room, but it needs to be approved.
1:16:51Uh I I myself have not had problems with
1:16:55any police officers, but look at me. I'm
1:16:57a white male. What do I got to worry
1:16:59about?
1:17:01I would urge the council and the city
1:17:04manager to take this up and not rely on
1:17:08mandates from the shadow government of
1:17:10the Worcester consisting of the police
1:17:13union bure the uh chamber of commerce
1:17:17and the developers. Thank you.
1:17:22[applause]
1:17:29Hi, Matthew Matthew Melany. Uh,
1:17:33District 1 Manadnok Road. I came today
1:17:36to speak a little bit or actually to uh
1:17:39listen more um about I think it's an
1:17:41agenda item relating to traffic on
1:17:44Sagamore Road. I live on Manadnok and I
1:17:47understand there's a proposal to put up
1:17:50I think they're roadblocks on uh Park
1:17:52Avenue to prevent traffic from going up
1:17:56Sagamore and the adjo the abuing streets
1:17:59maybe Pratt possibly Wakona and uh this
1:18:03is to uh mitigate the apparently there
1:18:07are maybe as many as 6,000 cars now that
1:18:10travel from Salsbury Street down
1:18:13Sagamore to Park and and possibly also
1:18:15including traffic from Park A going up.
1:18:19Um but as I understand the proposal, it
1:18:22would essentially
1:18:24um close those roads to uh the residents
1:18:29and I'm I'm a resident so I'm in I like
1:18:33the sound of that, but I'm concerned
1:18:35about you know the the consequences.
1:18:37because I live on a side of Manadno
1:18:39that's very quiet and I'm concerned
1:18:41about traffic coming down there to if
1:18:44you will defeat uh the intention to put
1:18:46up these roadblocks
1:18:48so I'm going to listen and follow it and
1:18:51uh uh keep an eye on it. But that said,
1:18:54I I know I've got just a short time. I I
1:18:56did want to say something uh on behalf
1:18:58of the police. I you know spent a career
1:19:01in the courts and I worked very closely
1:19:03with the police for 32 years and 20 or
1:19:06maybe 28 25 years here in the city of
1:19:09Worcester and they do a a standout job.
1:19:12Fabulous. And I I personally believe
1:19:15that the time is not right for any kind
1:19:17of a civilian review board. I did look
1:19:20at Cambridge and these other cities,
1:19:22Hartford, uh they don't have the
1:19:24subpoena power at the moment. The post
1:19:26commission exists and that's a an
1:19:29appropriate place where people the
1:19:30public can make complaints if they have
1:19:33and the public has access to those
1:19:35records as well.
1:19:36>> Thank you. Thank you.
1:19:45>> Good evening. Uh my name is Dr. Tasa
1:19:47Szo. I'm the CEO of Mel Safe Haven. I am
1:19:50a resident uh in the city of Worcester.
1:19:53Um I am here to speak on item 8T uh
1:19:56which is related to the installation of
1:19:58residential parking for the area of uh
1:20:01five May Street. uh Mel Safe Haven
1:20:04recently entered a partnership with
1:20:06Kingston Management to bring the life
1:20:08back on that particular street and I
1:20:11think most of us know the history of
1:20:12that building. Uh it has now been
1:20:15renovated to provide 13 units in the
1:20:18city. Uh and Mural Safe Haven is looking
1:20:20to provide a resource to families in the
1:20:24community uh through that partnership.
1:20:26uh the opportunity for folks to be able
1:20:28to park, to not be towed, to not be
1:20:30ticketed where there is only 15minute
1:20:32parking outside of the building. Uh in
1:20:34the usual hustle and bustle of that
1:20:36particular street would uh add quality
1:20:39of life to to the area and allow
1:20:42residents to peacefully rest in their
1:20:44homes uh without worry about having a
1:20:46ticket or being booted or uh other
1:20:49things that will uh create financial
1:20:52strains on them. As apartments become
1:20:55occupied, we want to make sure that they
1:20:58are able to rely on on street parking uh
1:21:01and parking permits will allow them to
1:21:03do so without also clogging up the
1:21:05streets and creating other challenging
1:21:07situations for maybe the fire department
1:21:09or the police as needed to gain access
1:21:11to the area. Um so I'm asking you to
1:21:14consider parking permits for the
1:21:16residents that will soon reside at five
1:21:17May Street. Thank you.
1:21:24Uh Randy Fel Randy Feldman uh city of
1:21:28Worcester. I am uh the vice chair and
1:21:31the acting chair of the human rights
1:21:32commission. Um we took a vote for an
1:21:36independent review board of police
1:21:39activity. Um is is this on? Is that
1:21:42okay? Can it be here? Okay. Um
1:21:45this is not about whether you're pro
1:21:47police or anti- police. This is not
1:21:51about whether the police department is a
1:21:53good police department or a bad police
1:21:56department. This is not about the
1:21:58post2023
1:22:01new police department where the CNA
1:22:05equity audit report and the department
1:22:08of justice report and the ascent and now
1:22:12the leadership of our new police chief
1:22:14Paul Sauier are doing a good job. He is.
1:22:19It is different but it's not about that
1:22:21either. What this is about is you the
1:22:25government and us the government. When
1:22:30one department and only one department
1:22:33has the ability to surveil you, to
1:22:38follow you, to arrest you, to use
1:22:43violence against you, to detain you, and
1:22:47to kill you legally. That department is
1:22:51not the same as the rest of the
1:22:53government. It is not the rest the same
1:22:55as the rest of the city government. So
1:22:58the hierarchical organization of the
1:23:00government where there are workers,
1:23:03there are supervisors, there are chiefs
1:23:05and department heads and they all rep
1:23:09report to the city manager and if we had
1:23:11a strong mayor government, it would be
1:23:13to the mayor. It doesn't matter the
1:23:15structure. All those people do their
1:23:18reporting to someone above them who they
1:23:21are in some way or another beholden to.
1:23:28Thank you.
1:23:30>> This is different. When you have that
1:23:32kind of authority and power, you need
1:23:35that kind of accountability that matches
1:23:38the power. You need independent.
1:23:42>> Thank you.
1:23:42>> Ensuring that those people are not
1:23:45abusing.
1:23:45>> Thank you.
1:23:46>> The the polity.
1:23:48>> Thank you.
1:23:58Hi, I'm Deb Powers, a resident of
1:24:01Worcester for 48 years. Um, I was not
1:24:05going to speak tonight. I intended to
1:24:07just be here to support, but I've sat
1:24:10here and listened, especially in the
1:24:12last half hour, to people talking about
1:24:15incidents that happened to them 40 years
1:24:17ago, 30 years ago, 20 years ago. And I
1:24:22can tell, I know I would be sitting here
1:24:26thinking to myself, but that was 20
1:24:28years ago. That was 30 years ago. Except
1:24:33in 2021, in in 2001, I sat on front
1:24:38porches and backyards all around
1:24:40Worcester and met with a police chief
1:24:42and residents and an aid and they told
1:24:46these same stories.
1:24:48Every single one of them. terrifying
1:24:50stories. I heard the same stories in
1:24:532014 on City Hall Common. I heard them
1:24:57again in 2019 and again in 2024
1:25:02and I'm hearing them again from my
1:25:05friends today.
1:25:07I recognize that there is a lot of
1:25:10change. I recognize that things have
1:25:15steps have been taken.
1:25:17I also know that many of the officers
1:25:21who committed those crimes against my
1:25:24friends and the people who have talked
1:25:27to me are still on the force
1:25:31and they're still doing it. Do you think
1:25:33they stopped doing it?
1:25:35>> They're doing it to your kids.
1:25:37>> They're doing it to your students. And
1:25:40it's up to you to open your eyes, open
1:25:43your ears, and take it into your heart
1:25:46to listen and realize that people don't
1:25:49make this stuff up. They're not here to
1:25:52attack you. They're here asking you to
1:25:54listen and to act
1:25:57and to provide accountability that
1:25:59protects them and the police. Thank you.
1:26:02>> Thank you.
1:26:26Good evening, council, uh, council
1:26:28president, members of the city council,
1:26:29my, uh, city manager Batista, members of
1:26:31the administration, and members of, uh,
1:26:33the public. My name is Jeffrey Kilibru,
1:26:35president of FAM Jam Event Group. And
1:26:37first, I'd like to thank Councelor King
1:26:38for sponsoring uh item number 13H, and
1:26:42um everyone who has helped move this
1:26:44conversation forward over the past
1:26:45several years regarding um the Worester
1:26:47Renaissance Project uh by Fam Jam.
1:26:50Tonight is isn't simply about busking or
1:26:52street vending. It's about creating
1:26:54opportunity. Talent isn't what a
1:26:56Worcester's shortage is. Opportunity is.
1:26:59Jamspots are a city-wide system of
1:27:02pathways where talent meets opportunity
1:27:04through education, entrepreneurship,
1:27:06workforce development, and the arts. As
1:27:08funding for youth oper employment and
1:27:11continues to become more challenging, we
1:27:13have an opportunity to help young people
1:27:14create work for themselves legally,
1:27:16safely, and with support. Whether they
1:27:19are musicians, artists, dancers, spoken
1:27:21word performers, or young entrepreneurs,
1:27:23they'll gain experience in
1:27:24communication, customer service,
1:27:26financial literacy, marketing,
1:27:27responsibility, and confidence. These
1:27:30aren't just performances or sales, their
1:27:32life skills. Over the past two years,
1:27:34we've worked with Wester public schools,
1:27:36the school committee, and the
1:27:37administration to develop a memorandum
1:27:39of understanding that would have helped
1:27:41connect interested students with work
1:27:43permits, performing arts opportunities,
1:27:46entrepreneurship, outreach, and
1:27:47mentorship. That agreement was drafted
1:27:50and I signed it. Unfortunately, it was
1:27:52not it was never executed uh on behalf
1:27:54of the superintendent and I was never
1:27:57provided an an explanation why. So, my
1:27:59hope tonight is not to revisit the past,
1:28:01but to move forward. I appreciate that
1:28:03this item makes the city manager uh um I
1:28:05I appreciate that this item um and I ask
1:28:09that the city manager work with uh the
1:28:11superintendent to explore this
1:28:12partnership. Once again, I truly believe
1:28:14that together the city of Worcester,
1:28:16Worester public schools and the
1:28:17community organizations, we can create
1:28:20meaningful pathways that prepare our
1:28:21young people not just to find jobs, but
1:28:24to create them. Every professional was
1:28:26once a beginner, and our young people
1:28:28don't just need jobs, they need a place
1:28:30to try. As often I've said, prepare your
1:28:32gift to share. And tonight, I'm asking
1:28:34us to work together. And before I close,
1:28:36I'd like to say this one final thing.
1:28:37While I stand here tonight advocating
1:28:38for Worcester's youth, I didn't come
1:28:40here just to ask for something. I also
1:28:42stand in solidarity with the many
1:28:43residents who came tonight because they
1:28:45are care deeply about the city. I
1:28:47respectfully hope that the city manager
1:28:48will also reconsider his recommendation
1:28:51for regarding the uh civilian review
1:28:53board.
1:28:53>> Appreciate
1:29:05I am incredibly nervous. I don't ever do
1:29:07this. Good evening. My name is Lynn Key.
1:29:10I am a current current resident of
1:29:12Milville. I work here in the city of
1:29:15Worcester trying to start a nonprofit.
1:29:18Um, and I am concerned. I'm speaking on
1:29:23the civilian review board tonight. What
1:29:25I'm about to say is going to sound a bit
1:29:27different because whether you believe it
1:29:28or not, your own interests are at stake
1:29:31tonight. I invite you to read The
1:29:33Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. The
1:29:35events of the last several years and how
1:29:37they were handled have exposed what
1:29:39matters to you, and apparently it isn't
1:29:42the well-being of the city of Worcester.
1:29:44Most of us don't want to believe that,
1:29:46myself included.
1:29:48But those are the optics based on your
1:29:50own actions. I say this as a relative
1:29:53outsider with a family full of public
1:29:55servants. One who's been to two many
1:29:58meetings over the last three years
1:29:59watching this all unfold and scratching
1:30:01my head. You may be representing the
1:30:03interests of your current voters, the
1:30:06police unions, and everyone else
1:30:08mentioned here tonight. They know better
1:30:10than me. But these are the few, and they
1:30:12represent Worers's old power structure,
1:30:15the old guard, if you will. The rest of
1:30:18voters have been largely disengaged and
1:30:20understandably according to Gladwell
1:30:23history and my own experience that won't
1:30:26always be the case.
1:30:29[sighs]
1:30:30Things are changing. This nation is
1:30:32changing and the people are fed up. They
1:30:34may not be able to reach their federal
1:30:36or even their state governments, but
1:30:38they can certainly reach you all here
1:30:40and change things with their vote. I say
1:30:42this as a word of genuine caution. The
1:30:45people of this city want codified,
1:30:48measurable, and enforcable change,
1:30:51independent oversight. And right now,
1:30:54they view the CRB as the only available
1:30:56option short of appointing an IG. I
1:30:59agree with them. I say this because
1:31:01voting against it may well be the vote
1:31:03that ends your political career. Not
1:31:05tonight, obviously, but come next
1:31:08election, the people will remember. The
1:31:10tipping point that pushes disengaged
1:31:12voters to become engaged is fast
1:31:14approaching and it becomes more and more
1:31:16imminent as time goes on, more and more
1:31:18likely with reduction, rejection of
1:31:20truth, transparency, and accountability.
1:31:23When the many show up at the polls, they
1:31:25will outweigh the few. Your current
1:31:27voters will be irrelevant, police union
1:31:30support or not. I urge you, I implore
1:31:33you to consider carefully what your
1:31:34legacy will be tonight. I know many of
1:31:37you are good people. I know most of you
1:31:40do have the city of Worcester at the top
1:31:43of your list of priorities, but I'm
1:31:45telling you, the optics are bad.
1:31:48>> Do something, please.
1:31:59>> So, Mr. Mayor, we're going to go to the
1:32:01online callers. Um the first calling
1:32:04user identify is caller with the
1:32:13>> first u
1:32:14>> do the call and we'll do you next
1:32:15>> first name is no I'm going try to meet
1:32:18the resident now please state your full
1:32:19name city of residence and the item
1:32:22you're calling on.
1:32:28>> Hi my name is Noah currently in
1:32:30Northampton uh through Mr. from Mayor
1:32:32Chairman to Eric in December of 2022.
1:32:35You told Spectrum News, I have a vision
1:32:37of what I want for the city, but then it
1:32:40would become only Eric's vision. It's
1:32:42not the city of Worcester's vision and
1:32:44the residents of this community's
1:32:45vision.
1:32:47So, I want to take time to listen to the
1:32:48residents to hear from them in terms of
1:32:50what the issues that they're facing are
1:32:52that will then start to develop the
1:32:53vision. In June 2023,
1:32:56you also told Spectrum News that you
1:32:57were excited to continue listening to
1:32:59residents about their biggest needs.
1:33:01Then in a TNG article that you wrote in
1:33:03August 2023, you drew on your
1:33:06experiences of attending listening
1:33:08sessions and how invaluable they were.
1:33:09You said, quote, "I look forward to
1:33:11sustaining community engagement and
1:33:13matching that energy energy so that we
1:33:15can turn challenges we face as a city
1:33:18into hope and opportunity through
1:33:19innovative people centered solutions. So
1:33:22I ask you this, do you truly believe
1:33:24your energy matches the idea that
1:33:25Worcester is the community city?" I ask
1:33:28because you have publicly oriented
1:33:29yourself in a way that suggests you
1:33:30believe this city is the wor police
1:33:34department city. You have a long history
1:33:36of doing positive community youth work.
1:33:38Eric, if the people in this room don't
1:33:40convince you that you can make change
1:33:41happen right now, I hope that you can
1:33:43convince yourself. Thank you.
1:33:45>> Thank you.
1:33:51>> Does your name see your residence? Item
1:33:52number.
1:33:53>> Hello, I'm Tona Jiari from Western
1:33:54Massachusetts.
1:33:57Hello, Timmy. Let's go across the
1:33:59street.
1:34:03>> Is that a tire?
1:34:04>> What item?
1:34:06>> There's a pothole.
1:34:06>> What item number you on? I'm sorry.
1:34:08>> 7G.
1:34:09>> 7G. Okay.
1:34:10>> Uh, the street paving.
1:34:12>> There's a pothole. Oh my god, I lose
1:34:14tire. hear me.
1:34:23My name is actually not Tonka Jari. I'm
1:34:26Wilson Lamb.
1:34:28Today I'm going to speak about potholes.
1:34:32Um, so far the DPW actually I do have to
1:34:35commend to you guys. Um, last time I
1:34:39spoke about potholes about a week or two
1:34:41later they were fixed as shown by this
1:34:43picture. They were actually fixed after
1:34:4720 years of my legs being on the street.
1:34:51But the importance of potholes, um, you
1:34:53know, they could be dangerous. Uh, as I
1:34:55just shown you, a mother walking their
1:34:57kid across the street could be hit by a
1:35:00a tire or some sort of object uh that
1:35:03could dismember them. Um, and to commend
1:35:07and protest uh DPW on the potholes, I
1:35:11will now do ac capella.
1:35:16Today is going to be the day that we're
1:35:18going to throw it back to you
1:35:22by now.
1:35:25You got to realize somehow it's got to
1:35:27do.
1:35:29I don't believe that anybody feels the
1:35:32way I do about you now.
1:35:43I forgot the lyrics. Uh, I think I'm
1:35:45done. Oh, wait. And this picture.
1:35:49Pot hole fixed after 24 years.
1:35:54>> Thank you.
1:35:54>> Thank you. God bless.
1:36:02Mr.
1:36:02>> Mayor, we're going to go to the callin
1:36:03users again online. The next speaker is
1:36:05Nelly Medina. I'm trying to meet the
1:36:07resident now. Please say your name
1:36:08instead of your residence.
1:36:11Yep. Nelly Medina, District 5. I want to
1:36:14speak on 105A.
1:36:16The Department of Justice report shows
1:36:18that the police department does not
1:36:19properly track or analyze enforcement
1:36:21data to identify or address potentially
1:36:24discriminatory practices. This makes it
1:36:26harder to protect youth, especially
1:36:28black and brown youth, from unfair
1:36:30treatment and overpolicing. Officers
1:36:33have been found to unreasonably use
1:36:36tasers, police dogs, and head strikes
1:36:39against teenage children, and others
1:36:41experiencing mental health emergencies.
1:36:44These incidents often happen when only
1:36:46minor or no crimes are involved, and
1:36:48youth in crisis or with mental health
1:36:50needs are at higher risk of unnecessary
1:36:52aggression and harm. I speak as a
1:36:55co-founder of the Free Wister Coalition
1:36:57and for every mother of children with
1:36:59special needs or intellectual
1:37:01disabilities who might panic during an
1:37:03unnecessary police encounter. I believe
1:37:06there should be better training,
1:37:07oversight, and accountability for
1:37:09officers. Sadly, our city manager has
1:37:13taken a position, contrary to the
1:37:15Department of Justice findings, to cash
1:37:18big checks and not protect residents
1:37:20from the same community where he grew
1:37:22up. shame. The findings raise serious
1:37:25concerns about discriminatory policing.
1:37:27So, what protections do our youth and
1:37:29vulnerable people have, especially since
1:37:31these issues have not been addressed?
1:37:33And sometimes when we call the police,
1:37:35they don't show up. If the city has
1:37:38nothing to hide, wants to improve street
1:37:40safety, protect our officers and
1:37:41civilians. If the city councilors truly
1:37:44work for their constituents, then I
1:37:46expect them to support a civilian review
1:37:48board with subpoena power. constituents
1:37:50are doing our counselor's jobs and
1:37:52risking retaliation for demanding what a
1:37:55detailed report from the Department of
1:37:57Justice and the Whistler Research Bureau
1:37:58says we need. The idea that any
1:38:01counselor may vote against
1:38:03accountability is frightening. I yield
1:38:06my time. Thank you.
1:38:08[applause]
1:38:15>> Next speaker is phone number with the
1:38:17last three digits. 1238. Let me try to
1:38:20mute the resident now on the phone.
1:38:23[snorts]
1:38:31>> Can you please say your name and city of
1:38:33residence?
1:38:34>> Sean Manson, Worcester, District 1.
1:38:37>> I'm calling in regards to topic 12A.
1:38:42I have already sent emails to multiple
1:38:44council members including Mayor Petty's
1:38:46office, the manager's office, and the
1:38:48Worester PD.
1:38:50At this time, I feel it is unnecessary
1:38:52to meet with St. Jon of Arc Church
1:38:54because they have acknowledged the fact
1:38:57that the hall in which they hold events
1:39:00with excessive noise is not able to be
1:39:04soundproofed.
1:39:06They have their own security at these
1:39:08events. And with that said, there
1:39:11there's no reason to meet with them when
1:39:13they already know they're at fault and
1:39:15becoming a nuisance to all the neighbors
1:39:16that live behind them. Inspection of
1:39:19services along with Officer Harrington
1:39:21did an inspection of the property and
1:39:23they acknowledge that the sound that
1:39:26emanates from the inside can be clearly
1:39:28heard on the outside. So there's no need
1:39:31to meet with them and the city just
1:39:34needs to step up, tell them what they
1:39:38have to do and basically keep the
1:39:40building closed until everything is
1:39:43brought up to proper soundproofing
1:39:46coding and from what I understand
1:39:48there's like safety issues with that
1:39:50building. So,
1:39:53I appreciate it being on the agenda, but
1:39:55that is my feeling and
1:39:58thank you very much.
1:40:00>> Thank you,
1:40:05>> Mr. Mayor. The next speaker is the last
1:40:06four 711.
1:40:09Try to meet the resident now. Please
1:40:11state your name instead of your
1:40:12residence.
1:40:14[snorts]
1:40:20Hi, my name is Benjamin. You can hear
1:40:22me? Okay.
1:40:23>> Yep. Go ahead.
1:40:25>> Okay. My name is Benjamin. I'm a
1:40:27resident of district 2 and I'm here to
1:40:29talk about uh 10 five the uh civilian
1:40:34review board. Um, I think a lot of the
1:40:37people that already spoke covered most
1:40:40of what we needed to, but I just wanted
1:40:42to tell everybody a story, which is
1:40:44that, uh, a few weeks ago, my counselor,
1:40:47Robert Bada, and I met up with you, uh,
1:40:51mayor and a few other members of the
1:40:52city to walk around the neighborhood
1:40:54near Waverly Street on Vernon Hill. And
1:40:58there was a point where Robert and I
1:41:00split off and with Eric uh going in a
1:41:04different direction, I think with the
1:41:05mayor and a few police. And Robert and I
1:41:09tried to engage with some uh some
1:41:12citizens of the neighborhood and they
1:41:14were hesitant, but they did respond to
1:41:16us. But when we met back up with Eric,
1:41:18he told me that nobody wanted to speak
1:41:21to him because they were all afraid of
1:41:23the police. and he puffed up his chest
1:41:26and he smiled as if he accomplished
1:41:28something. Eric Batista does not care
1:41:31about the people of Worcester. He cares
1:41:33about the police. They are his friend.
1:41:36He does not want to create public trust.
1:41:40He wants to support the police union. He
1:41:43does not want to
1:41:45he does not want to help the city
1:41:48increase its uh civilian oversight. he
1:41:52wants to diminish it and um I think it's
1:41:55really sad and that's all I have to say.
1:41:57I hope you guys have a good and rest of
1:41:59your meeting.
1:42:07Mr. Mayor, the last call in user is
1:42:08David Webb. Try to meet the resident
1:42:10now.
1:42:13Please state your name, city of
1:42:15residence, and the item you're calling
1:42:16on.
1:42:25Um, David, can you hear us?
1:42:39>> David, can you hear us?
1:42:42>> David Web, currently residing at
1:42:44>> Can you please state your name and city
1:42:46of residence?
1:42:48>> Of course. of Wester city manager is
1:42:49against police accountability. It's
1:42:51consistent with the rest of his
1:42:52Christian conservative values, but also
1:42:54simply the economic decision.
1:42:56Accountability for the racists, rapists,
1:42:59and liars of the Wor Police Department
1:43:01quickly looks like the city paying even
1:43:02more money. And he already has to
1:43:04account for the way they responded to
1:43:06the Black Lives Matter rally six years
1:43:08ago, the way they respond to mental
1:43:09health issues, and knows that's just the
1:43:11tip of the iceberg. I know they're still
1:43:14throwing lawful protesters to the ground
1:43:16and lying in police reports about First
1:43:18Amendment protected behavior, but at
1:43:19least the taxpayer funded rapists have
1:43:21been fired. Right. Right. Oh, yikes.
1:43:25It's obvious the public wants and needs
1:43:27police accountability, but just as
1:43:29apparent that the administration cannot
1:43:31afford it. The law department employees
1:43:33covering up for bad cops should be
1:43:35ashamed of themselves, as should all
1:43:36public employees who only protect and
1:43:38serve themselves. Thanks for nothing. Do
1:43:41your jobs.
1:43:45Okay.
1:43:46Okay. Thank you. I think that brings
1:43:52Okay. It brings us back to the uh the
1:43:54agenda.
1:43:55>> Mr. Chairman,
1:43:56>> we're going to start with petitions just
1:43:57to finish them.
1:43:58>> Yeah. Can we can we suspend the rules
1:43:59just to go to 10 10.5A quickly?
1:44:03>> Some Okay. One. Okay. You want to do
1:44:05that? Okay. So, motions go to 10.5A.
1:44:08You'll have to suspend the rules. I can
1:44:10do that. But go ahead. Council.
1:44:12>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, just wanted
1:44:15to speak briefly on this matter and um,
1:44:18something that we've been discussing for
1:44:20quite some time. Um, I just wanted to
1:44:24speak to this at this point so that
1:44:26folks can go about their way. Um, I'm
1:44:30going to hold under p personal privilege
1:44:33um this premature recommendation
1:44:36um that's intended to undermine city
1:44:38council debate,
1:44:40public discourse, and civic
1:44:42participation. Mr. Chairman, I'm holding
1:44:44this item under personal privilege for
1:44:47further review, deliberation, and
1:44:49consideration. Mr. Chairman, thank you.
1:44:51>> Thank you. So, that's under held under
1:44:54personal privilege. So, we'll go back to
1:44:56the agenda.
1:45:03Next item up is uh we're doing petition
1:45:057A the 7E refer to the Department of
1:45:07Public Works. All those in favor propose
1:45:10so audited. 7F refer to the planning
1:45:14board. All those in favor post so a
1:45:16ordered. 7G to 7P refer to public works
1:45:20committee. All those in favor post so
1:45:22ordered. 7 Q to 7Z refer to traffic and
1:45:25parking. All those in favor opposed. So
1:45:28ordered.
1:45:31Petitions 8A to 8Z refer to traffic and
1:45:34parking.
1:45:37All those in favor oppose. So ordered.
1:45:409A to 9.
1:45:43L refer to traffic and parking. All
1:45:46those in favor oppose. So ordered.
1:45:519M refer to the city manager. All those
1:45:54in favor oppose. So ordered 9N to 9R
1:45:59hearing date for August 18th for condo
1:46:02locations on Southbridge Street uh
1:46:05Forign Street, Grafton Street, Gro
1:46:07Street and also on West Boilston Street
1:46:10for a jointly pole jointly owned pole
1:46:13location. All those in favor opposed so
1:46:15ordered.
1:46:18We are on the 10.2 which has been held
1:46:20under privilege. We're going to 10.3.
1:46:24>> Which one was that Mr. Chairman 10.2 A,
1:46:27B, and C's has been held under
1:46:28privilege.
1:46:32>> Council has held those under privilege.
1:46:36>> What's that?
1:46:37>> 12R2 has been held under privilege.
1:46:39>> 12R.
1:46:40>> Yeah, that's his order. So, okay. So, we
1:46:44are on to 10.3A.
1:46:47Advertise the proposed ordinance. Roll
1:46:50call.
1:46:51>> Councelor Bergman.
1:46:52>> Yes.
1:46:52>> Councelor Bada.
1:46:53>> Yes. Council Conu,
1:46:55>> yes.
1:46:55>> Council Vizolo,
1:46:56>> yes.
1:46:57>> Councelor King,
1:46:58>> yes.
1:46:58>> Council Mitra,
1:46:59>> yes.
1:46:59>> Council,
1:47:00>> yes. [clears throat]
1:47:01>> Council,
1:47:02>> yes.
1:47:02>> Council Rosen,
1:47:03>> yes.
1:47:03>> Council Tumi,
1:47:04>> 58.
1:47:05>> And Mayor Petty,
1:47:06>> yes. Recommend adoption of the zoning
1:47:09map amendment to 128 Pro Street.
1:47:13>> Roll call.
1:47:18>> Mr. Mayor, I think both that is going to
1:47:20planning board 10.4A.
1:47:21>> I'm sorry. Um, I'm sorry, you're right.
1:47:24I missed that. Refer to the planning
1:47:25board. All those in favor, oppose, so
1:47:27ordered. Uh, B, refer to economic
1:47:30development committee rec the resolution
1:47:32with the tax and recommend finance zone
1:47:34for Green Park. All those in favor, so
1:47:36ordered.
1:47:41We are on 10.5A
1:47:44refer to public safety committee. No,
1:47:47we're going to say held under privilege.
1:47:49We are at 10.7A
1:47:52send the public works that's the clean
1:47:55program
1:47:56on B
1:47:58I'm sorry A all those in favor opposed
1:48:01B transformation information
1:48:03communication rel to the utility
1:48:04restoration warrantee periods send the
1:48:07public works all those in favor opposed
1:48:11trans information communication of the
1:48:12June 2026 bulk waste facility pilot
1:48:16interesting send that to public works
1:48:22Okay, we are on transportation mobility.
1:48:26>> Um recommend the adoption of the
1:48:27ordinance for establishing commercial
1:48:29loading zone in the two-hour immediate
1:48:31parking on the portion of Main Street
1:48:33referred at traffic and parking. All
1:48:35those in favor opposed.
1:48:38Transmitting information communication
1:48:40relevant to the construction progress
1:48:41report for the month ending June 30th,
1:48:442026. Send the public works.
1:48:47>> Mr. Chairman,
1:48:48>> uh, Council B,
1:48:49>> I have a question.
1:48:50>> Sure.
1:48:51>> Um, to the chair, to the manager, I just
1:48:52have a question about the construction
1:48:54going on for the, uh, accessible parking
1:48:56spots on Franklin Street. Was just
1:48:58looking for an update.
1:48:59>> On what street was that? I'm sorry.
1:49:01>> The accessible parking spots on Franklin
1:49:02Street. Right.
1:49:03>> Franklin Street. Okay.
1:49:07>> Commissioner.
1:49:15>> Yeah. Thank Thank you, uh, Mr. Chair.
1:49:17through through you to the counselor. So
1:49:19those spaces you may notice if you're
1:49:21out uh there today, they've been marked
1:49:23out now by the contractor. So
1:49:24construction is imminent on those.
1:49:26>> Great. Thank you so much.
1:49:29>> Okay. So send that to public works. All
1:49:31those in favor? So ordered.
1:49:39>> 10.26A.
1:49:41This adoption on the roll call. This is
1:49:43the transfer of funding for the MSBA
1:49:46stabilization fund, the new high school
1:49:48fund, and the closure of the MSBA
1:49:49stabilization fund. Roll call.
1:49:53>> I know, Mr. Chairman. I I lost my space
1:49:55here.
1:49:55>> Okay, we are on uh 10.26A.
1:50:01>> Okay, thanks.
1:50:02>> Y council has recused himself.
1:50:08>> Yeah.
1:50:10>> Okay.
1:50:13was renaming the fund. So, we'll send
1:50:15that to uh
1:50:17>> we're voting on it.
1:50:17>> Yeah. I'll get the big sale or
1:50:21>> is this A and B?
1:50:22>> I'm just doing A right now.
1:50:24>> Okay.
1:50:24>> Those in favor? I'm sorry. Dr. Roll
1:50:27call. Roll call.
1:50:27>> Councelor Bregman.
1:50:28>> Yes.
1:50:28>> Councelor Bada.
1:50:29>> Yes.
1:50:30>> Councelor Econom.
1:50:31>> Yes.
1:50:31>> Councor Zolo.
1:50:32>> Yes.
1:50:33>> Councelor King.
1:50:34>> Yes.
1:50:34>> Councilor Mitra.
1:50:35>> Yes.
1:50:36>> Council recus. Councelor Rivera.
1:50:38>> Yes.
1:50:38>> Councelor Rosen.
1:50:39>> Yes.
1:50:39>> Councelor Tumi.
1:50:41>> Yes. Yes. And Mayor Petty.
1:50:43>> Yes. Uh recommend approval. This is B.
1:50:46Recommend approval the expansion for the
1:50:47purposes of the new high school fund to
1:50:49include code high and middle schools uh
1:50:52project. Motion is adopted in the roll
1:50:54call.
1:50:56Roll call.
1:50:56>> Councelor Bergman.
1:50:57>> Yes.
1:50:58>> Councelor Bada.
1:50:58>> Yes.
1:50:59>> Councelor Cono.
1:51:00>> Yes.
1:51:00>> Councelor Zolo.
1:51:01>> Yes.
1:51:01>> Councelor King.
1:51:02>> Yes.
1:51:03>> Council Mitra.
1:51:04>> Yes.
1:51:04>> Councus himself. Councelor Rivera.
1:51:06>> Yes.
1:51:07>> Councelor Rosen.
1:51:08>> Yes.
1:51:08>> Council Tumi.
1:51:09>> Yes.
1:51:09>> And Mayor Petty. Yes.
1:51:24>> Okay. Hang on for one second. When was
1:51:26that? What?
1:51:3010.118.
1:51:31>> We did send you.
1:51:35>> Okay.
1:51:39Okay.
1:51:42Next is C. Transferring information
1:51:45communication relevant to the extension
1:51:46of the time period for the repayment of
1:51:48the private street conversions. We're
1:51:50going to send that to public works. All
1:51:52those in favor of post. So ordered D.
1:51:54Transferring information communication
1:51:56rel to the financial update for the
1:51:58period ending May 31st, 2026.
1:52:01Send um mful operations.
1:52:04All those in favor? So ordered.
1:52:08We're on finance items [snorts]
1:52:12which is 10.31
1:52:15I'm sorry 10.34A
1:52:1710.35A through J 10.36A through F 10.37A
1:52:23through I. Motion's adopting the roll
1:52:25call.
1:52:27Roll call.
1:52:28>> Councelor Bregman.
1:52:29>> Yes.
1:52:29>> Council.
1:52:30>> Yes.
1:52:30>> Economa.
1:52:31>> Yes.
1:52:32>> Council.
1:52:33>> Yes.
1:52:33>> King.
1:52:34>> Yes.
1:52:35>> Mitra.
1:52:36>> Yes.
1:52:36>> Aita.
1:52:37>> Yes. Councelor Rivera.
1:52:38>> Yes.
1:52:38>> Councelor Rosen.
1:52:39>> Yes.
1:52:39>> Councelor Tumi.
1:52:40>> Yes.
1:52:41>> And mayor Petty.
1:52:42>> Yes.
1:52:43>> We are on chairman's orders 118 to 11J.
1:52:47Motion is to adopt. All those in favor?
1:52:50Oppose? So ordered.
1:52:52We are on orders.
1:52:57First one is
1:52:59>> I request manager organize neighborhood
1:53:00meeting between the leadership of St.
1:53:02Joan Ar church entertainment event
1:53:05function organizers at the church the
1:53:07police chief the commissioner of
1:53:08inspectional services representation
1:53:10from the manager's office and members of
1:53:12the license commission to resolve the
1:53:13outstanding issues associated with
1:53:15chronic neighborhood noise and loud
1:53:17music coming from the function facility
1:53:20parking lot of the church said
1:53:22neighborhood meeting should be conducted
1:53:23prior to the additional functions or
1:53:25events occur at the church council
1:53:27econom
1:53:29>> thank you Mr. Chairman I was just
1:53:34two other items that I had that may
1:53:36relate to this and I just can't find
1:53:38them right now for some I got everything
1:53:41highlighted here and I
1:53:43anyways [clears throat] thank you Mr.
1:53:46Jim, as as we all know and as we've all
1:53:49read um in our emails,
1:53:53the
1:53:54the issues that are being had down in
1:53:56that uh neighborhood.
1:53:58Um
1:54:01and and it's not so much even that the
1:54:02neighbors are against them enjoying
1:54:05whatever they need to enjoy in their
1:54:06halls. It's just the res the lack of
1:54:08respect that has come from the church um
1:54:12as it as it's in regards to noise,
1:54:17base levels
1:54:19um and just the lack of respect for the
1:54:21neighborhood going into all hours of the
1:54:23morning and it's just not right. Um
1:54:27my feeling, as you heard the gentleman
1:54:29speak uh just a short while ago, um is
1:54:32to convene a meeting with the church,
1:54:35with the appropriate parties to see if
1:54:38we can get anywhere any action in a
1:54:42friendly way. Um because if not, I'm all
1:54:45in favor for doing what we have to do to
1:54:47preserve the peace in that neighborhood
1:54:49because right now it's disrespectful.
1:54:51And what's more disrespectful and
1:54:53disrespectful to myself is sitting with
1:54:57members of that church
1:54:59and being given lip service
1:55:03to have this not go um as I was told it
1:55:06would go. That's disrespect not just to
1:55:09me but that entire neighborhood. And
1:55:11they've had to deal with it multiple
1:55:12times. And I think enough's enough. It's
1:55:15time for us to if they're not willing to
1:55:17sit down with us and have a conversation
1:55:18to make changes, then it's time for us
1:55:20to take action to preserve that
1:55:22neighborhood. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
1:55:24>> Thank you. So, we'll send that to the
1:55:26manager, Council King.
1:55:28>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, just a
1:55:31couple of questions before we move this
1:55:33forward. um I have been able to engage
1:55:35with with some of the stakeholders on
1:55:38both sides of the issue that are less um
1:55:42engaged with the city and just wondered
1:55:45if just for public's edification as some
1:55:47of my colleagues say if you could just
1:55:49the city manager can just share some of
1:55:51the efforts um that have occurred with
1:55:53respect to responding to this um the
1:55:56mult multiple departments that have been
1:55:58engaged as well through the chair
1:56:01>> Mr. manager
1:56:03>> uh to the sh to the council. Yeah. Um
1:56:05we're definitely aware of this issue. Um
1:56:07most recently uh there was a public
1:56:09meeting process that the inspectional
1:56:11services department um the the Jon of
1:56:15Arc was actually brought forward because
1:56:16of the enforcement by inspectional
1:56:18services. Um they actually notified them
1:56:21and actually told them that they had to
1:56:24um in some ways vacate uh from
1:56:26continuing doing those events. uh there
1:56:29was signage posted on the location
1:56:31prohibiting them from doing so. Um upon
1:56:35uh I don't remember the time frame I uh
1:56:37there was a period of time frame that
1:56:38went right by uh that actually was the
1:56:41issues were mitigated. Um the indivi the
1:56:45actual church then removed the sign um
1:56:48and then the noise continued again. And
1:56:51so we are uh the the inspectional
1:56:53services commissioner went back uh to uh
1:56:56to discuss with the with the church to
1:56:59try to provide a long-term solution. Um
1:57:02at this point in time that behavior
1:57:04continues then then we would take
1:57:06further action uh uh uh related to those
1:57:09activities in that building
1:57:10>> through the chair. Can you could you
1:57:11give some specifics on the mitigation um
1:57:16success that you referenced?
1:57:17>> Yes. So what we asked them to do is we
1:57:20basically asked them to prohibit that uh
1:57:24uh the use of that space uh for a period
1:57:27of time uh if they were not going to be
1:57:30able to uh lower their actual uh sound
1:57:33the actual uh sound. Um we put a signage
1:57:36and notice on the door um uh that notice
1:57:40came down um I I want to say probably a
1:57:42couple weeks ago and then that's when we
1:57:44started to hear the noise again. Um, and
1:57:46so that's when then the inspectional
1:57:48services re-engage uh with the church uh
1:57:51to try to bring a long-term solution to
1:57:52the issue. And if and if and one of the
1:57:55long-term solutions it it we don't want
1:57:57to get to that place uh but it will have
1:57:59to take uh you know us being uh having
1:58:04them do a cease and desist on actual
1:58:06utilization of that property or renting
1:58:08it out uh for that purpose.
1:58:10>> Could you give some more specifics on
1:58:12the mitigation? So, um it's my
1:58:15understanding that um some of those
1:58:17efforts were taken, the signage was
1:58:18posted and you referenced that there
1:58:21were additional events after the fact.
1:58:23What are they in violation of since the
1:58:26mitigation? Um where is that documented?
1:58:29Um what is the ordinance or the code
1:58:31that they violated post that mitigation?
1:58:35Chair,
1:58:35>> what what what what I have uh I don't
1:58:38have all the details with me now, but
1:58:40the commissioner of inspectional
1:58:41services can speak uh can prepare uh uh
1:58:45uh information that we can bring to the
1:58:46council that uh outlines all the notices
1:58:49that we've received uh complaints that
1:58:51we received related to noise uh in the
1:58:54area. And so when those noises uh uh or
1:58:56those complaints come forward, that's
1:58:58when the city tries to take some action.
1:59:01And we have tried to engage the church
1:59:04in in terms of trying to mitigate the
1:59:07actual issue to provide uh uh uh a a
1:59:11path forward in which allows the church
1:59:12to still rent the facility and the and
1:59:15the users to continue use it but also
1:59:17keep the levels down for the sake of the
1:59:19neighborhood.
1:59:20>> Thank you to the chair. Is there a
1:59:21representative on the line from that
1:59:24department
1:59:25that's making those efforts too chair?
1:59:28>> No.
1:59:31No.
1:59:34>> Okay. Um
1:59:37the other question I have, Mr. Chairman,
1:59:40um is there was a a reference that
1:59:44there's lip service occurring from
1:59:48church folks. And I just want to
1:59:50understand through the chair um if you
1:59:54could um sort of characterize
1:59:58um what that back and forth engagement
2:00:01um has been from the city perspective um
2:00:04with the church and the folks making
2:00:07decisions over there. Um and also um
2:00:11with regards to day permits or or
2:00:14permits for event permits. Um has there
2:00:18been a um pause on those through the
2:00:21chair?
2:00:22>> Mr. Manuel
2:00:24>> uh to the chie council. There was
2:00:26multiple uh times uh where the father
2:00:29has come and spoken to inspectional
2:00:30services. Um we we did have the the
2:00:35actual premises shut down from
2:00:36conducting those services there because
2:00:38of the loud noises. Um and on July 10th
2:00:43is when the actual notices came down
2:00:46because the church uh uh in conversation
2:00:49with the city um uh relayed that they
2:00:52would be able to control that the
2:00:54organization utilizing the space and try
2:00:56to control the actual noise levels. when
2:00:59we heard that the noise levels had
2:01:01continued or came back um the
2:01:04commissioner then re-engaged and right
2:01:07now we're in that re-engagement with the
2:01:09church and I don't have the results in
2:01:11front of me in terms of what that
2:01:12re-engagement has happened since the
2:01:14notice has came down and the activity uh
2:01:17uh began once again and that happens
2:01:19after July 10th.
2:01:20>> Thank you. doing um as an at large
2:01:22counselor. I'm not a district counselor.
2:01:24I'm not as closely engaged, but I I do
2:01:27want to understand um sort of the city
2:01:30responsiveness from some of the emails
2:01:32and some of the communication and the
2:01:33folks I have spoken to. Um you know,
2:01:36there's a perception of a lack of
2:01:39responsiveness on the city side um for
2:01:43oversight of the um what's been
2:01:46described as excessive noise. Um, and I
2:01:50just want to kind of get um as the the
2:01:52manager your perspective on the quality
2:01:56and consistency of responsiveness to
2:01:58this matter through the chair
2:02:02>> uh through the chair to the council. Um
2:02:05we're doing everything we can based on
2:02:08our jurisdiction uh to try to um not
2:02:12only work with the church but also
2:02:14adhere to some of the residents's
2:02:15concerns related to the noise where
2:02:17there is police trying to ask them to
2:02:19lower the the sound. Um there has been
2:02:22time where police have engaged ask them
2:02:23to lower the sound they leave an hour or
2:02:26so later the sound is back up again. So
2:02:28it causes again a repetitive process.
2:02:31That's when the inspectional services
2:02:32office has re-engaged in terms of trying
2:02:35to mitigate this sound as best as
2:02:37possible by providing more enforcement a
2:02:40mechanism enforcement and that's when we
2:02:42then temporarily shut down the actual
2:02:45utilization of that space. Um because of
2:02:47the constant violation of the of the
2:02:49sound ordinance. Um then that's when the
2:02:53church re-engaged the inspectional
2:02:56services department and through that
2:02:57re-engagement we were then released we
2:03:00removed the notices in July 10th and
2:03:02then the noises came back again and then
2:03:04now we have re-engaged with the church
2:03:06but I don't have the outcomes right now
2:03:08of the most recent re-engagement.
2:03:11>> Thank you. through and through the
2:03:12chair. Um was there any realtime
2:03:14shutdowns um in the midst of events
2:03:16based on uh neighborhood concerns or um
2:03:20city responses um where they felt that
2:03:23the situation was untenable and secondly
2:03:25um was there any fines associated with
2:03:27that through the chair
2:03:30>> uh to the chair to the council I don't
2:03:32have those details in front of me um so
2:03:34that's where we would have to provide a
2:03:36report on a timeline of the incidences
2:03:39what our actions has been and what our
2:03:41steps were to mitigate the issue.
2:03:43>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I I would like
2:03:45to to file a motion that we get set
2:03:48timeline um outlining um in in response
2:03:52to the questions that I put forward. Um,
2:03:55I think it's important that we have um
2:03:59some qualitative data um as it relates
2:04:02to this and you know some of what I've
2:04:04read and some of what I heard um that
2:04:07there were concerns once again about
2:04:09responsiveness on the city side. Um I've
2:04:12also heard and have spoken um to folks
2:04:16um on the church side as well um who had
2:04:19a number of questions. So, uh, if we
2:04:21could also just get a report for this is
2:04:23something that's been going on for quite
2:04:24some time. Um, and I think that, uh,
2:04:27documentation and verification will go a
2:04:29long way. Um, and I would like to
2:04:32specifically also be clear uh with folks
2:04:35who are getting reached out to um and
2:04:38whose interventions are sought what
2:04:41exactly the rules of engagement are um
2:04:44as it relates to ordinances as it
2:04:46relates to um how we're measuring um
2:04:50noise levels. Are we measuring noise
2:04:52levels? um and um and also make sure um
2:04:57that we are uh consistent across the
2:05:01board in these sorts of matters. Mr.
2:05:03Chairman, thank you.
2:05:04>> Thank you, Council Mitra.
2:05:07Council Me, what reason do you rise?
2:05:10>> Um yes, uh this just for some
2:05:12clarification uh Mr. Chair through you
2:05:14to city manager. Uh first of all I'd
2:05:17like to thank uh council econom for
2:05:20putting this order and I'd like to sign
2:05:21on this because sometime I believe in
2:05:24March or April I had put a similar order
2:05:26requesting to give us the ordinance of
2:05:28noise ordinance to find out that you
2:05:31know this complaint has come to us for
2:05:33several several times and uh I think
2:05:36it's time for us to take some really
2:05:39stern action to really take care of this
2:05:42issue but I think the reason I want to
2:05:44know that I had requested a report on
2:05:46the noise ordinance. I don't think I've
2:05:49received any response to that, but I'm
2:05:52on this with councelor econom requesting
2:05:55you to really take care of this issue
2:05:57and close this chapter for us because we
2:06:00have been receiving this complaint over
2:06:03and over and over. It looks like that we
2:06:05are not responding to them. So, I
2:06:07request you to take care of it.
2:06:09>> Thank you. Sign on this.
2:06:12>> Councelor Connible.
2:06:14>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. if we could
2:06:15take up uh 13B and 13 C collectively
2:06:18along with this as they all relate and
2:06:21we might as well just have the the
2:06:22entire conversation right now as it
2:06:25stands before us. Um I'm not here to say
2:06:28Mr. Mr. chairman that um
2:06:33it's all one-sided one way or the other,
2:06:35but I do believe that the residents do
2:06:37have the right to peaceful enjoyment of
2:06:40of their property, especially when it's
2:06:43after 11:00 at night or midnight or 1:00
2:06:46in the morning. I think it's
2:06:47unreasonable for any organization
2:06:51uh to impede their
2:06:56or submit their will to the
2:06:57neighborhood. And that's where the
2:06:59problem lies. And constantly being told
2:07:02one thing, constantly being told another
2:07:03thing, police are called, told that
2:07:06police show up, police don't show up.
2:07:08They don't do anything, they don't do
2:07:10anything here, they do do something
2:07:12here. So there needs to be consistency
2:07:14throughout the entire process. In
2:07:17addition to that, we need to look at how
2:07:20our noise ordinance reads,
2:07:23how people are able to access our noise
2:07:26ordinance and file complaints. Um, just
2:07:29doing some research in Boston and
2:07:31Cambridge, they both have different
2:07:33styles, but in um I believe it's in
2:07:36Boston, you can go to their noise
2:07:38ordinance uh site and it's specific. Is
2:07:41it construction noise? Is it festival
2:07:44noise? Is it um there was one other
2:07:47category as well um where people can log
2:07:51their complaints um because if it's not
2:07:54going to get logged when the n when a
2:07:56911 call gets in, it needs to get logged
2:07:59so we can take the appropriate action
2:08:01that needs to be taken. And I just want
2:08:03to thank the city clerk too for some
2:08:05guidance on this as well. Um but these
2:08:08are the things that need to be
2:08:09addressed. And if we need to tighten up
2:08:10our noise ordinance, let's tighten it up
2:08:12because I can tell you this right now.
2:08:15Uh, and I'll speak from my behalf with
2:08:17my church. We have our festival 11:00.
2:08:21Shut down. Done. Music's off. By
2:08:24midnight, everybody's ushered out.
2:08:27Ushered out. Told to leave. You got to
2:08:29go. People, police officers, the
2:08:32security, you got to go.
2:08:35So, if we can do it in some churches, we
2:08:36need to to to bring this across the
2:08:39board, the entire city. And that's all
2:08:41I'm looking for, Mr. Chairman. These
2:08:43people deserve. There's people who are
2:08:45ill who are struggling to get a good
2:08:47night's sleep. There's families with
2:08:49kids trying to get a good night's sleep,
2:08:52and that's all we're asking for. There
2:08:53can be harmony, but both parties need to
2:08:55come to the table to have this
2:08:57discussion to make it work. Thank you,
2:08:59Mr. Chairman.
2:09:01>> Thank you, Council Ba. Yeah, I just want
2:09:03to um kind of echo what councelor Conu
2:09:05was saying. I have constituents in my
2:09:07district as well over on Waverly Street
2:09:09that have uh repeatedly just voiced
2:09:11concerns about um just very loud noise
2:09:15late into the evening. Um you know, I
2:09:17just think it's it's about, you know,
2:09:19trying to bring neighborhoods together
2:09:20and making sure everyone is um you know,
2:09:23being good, courteous neighbors. So that
2:09:25I think that's what this really is
2:09:26about. and just I think making sure that
2:09:29um people when when there are gatherings
2:09:32and things like that happening that that
2:09:34we're doing the same thing across the
2:09:36board. So just appreciate councelor
2:09:37Connor bring this forward. Thank you.
2:09:39>> Thank you. So take 12 A and 12 and 13A
2:09:42will send that to the manager and 13B
2:09:44will send the public safety council to
2:09:47me.
2:09:47>> Sure. I I just wanted to say that um I
2:09:50believe that we've worked very hard to
2:09:53try to uh come up with solutions here.
2:09:56This has been a long-standing issue
2:09:58that's gone they've gone through several
2:10:00pastors. They've gone through several
2:10:01district counselors and we need to uh
2:10:04get this tucked away and I think it's
2:10:07very important perhaps uh not all the
2:10:10counselors have gone to these meetings
2:10:12or have gotten the emails or whatever
2:10:14but um I know that uh it's been talked
2:10:16about for a long time and we really need
2:10:18to move forward on this. Thank you.
2:10:22>> Thank you.
2:10:24Okay. So 12 A to 12 order.
2:10:28>> Um
2:10:30when we vote on this, are we voting that
2:10:32this go to public safety?
2:10:34>> I'm not clear this is a 13B. I'm not
2:10:38>> 13B.
2:10:38>> Clear that that's a public safety
2:10:41>> 13B
2:10:41>> issue. Yeah. 13B.
2:10:44>> Um that's the noise ordinance. Um I'm
2:10:47not sure how that's
2:10:49>> police in the I'm sorry. Okay.
2:10:53>> As part of inspectional services which
2:10:55goes to public safety.
2:10:57>> Okay. All right. Thank you.
2:10:59>> Okay. 13
2:11:01>> 12 A to 13A sent to the manager. Those
2:11:04in favor oppose so audited. 13B refer to
2:11:07the committee. All those in favor oppose
2:11:09so audited. We're back on
2:11:1713C as well to
2:11:22>> see manager
2:11:23>> public safety.
2:11:30>> Oh, the man. Yeah, maybe the manager is
2:11:32a better
2:11:32>> the manager. Okay. Report from the
2:11:34manager.
2:11:34>> Mr. Chairman.
2:11:35>> Yeah. Council King.
2:11:37>> Thank you. Um
2:11:39I I would like to support 13C as well.
2:11:42However, um I do have a couple of
2:11:44questions to the chair to the
2:11:45administration.
2:11:46>> Let me just read it real quick.
2:11:49>> The this particular item calls for um
2:11:54the process in place currently to report
2:11:58excessive and unreasonable unreasonable
2:12:00noise in neighborhoods um through the
2:12:03charity administration. Um, is there um
2:12:08any
2:12:10uh place in those processes
2:12:14that's currently um occurring um that
2:12:17takes into consideration our pocket
2:12:22parks and the like. And I asked that
2:12:24because um we've invested a whole lot in
2:12:29our parks across the city. Um, and some
2:12:33of those parks are deeply embedded in
2:12:37neighborhoods. Mr. Chun, uh, we have
2:12:39places like Elm Park, um, that are
2:12:42somewhat embedded. We have a park near
2:12:44my house, which is less than the stones
2:12:46throw. Uh, we have Crompton Park, um,
2:12:50embedded in the neighborhood. Um, you
2:12:52know, we have the the parks over there,
2:12:55um, behind Foley Stadium, etc. Um and I
2:12:58just want to understand
2:13:01um you know when we have concerns how
2:13:05we're contextualizing it um through the
2:13:08chair to the administration
2:13:12>> Mr. Manager
2:13:14>> uh through the ch to the council um my
2:13:18understanding of the noise ordinance is
2:13:19it's it's it is not just applicable to
2:13:22one entity on its own. It's a it's a
2:13:23it's a combination of uh many different
2:13:26noises all across the city and many
2:13:28different sectors. Um and so we would
2:13:30have to evaluate those including our
2:13:32parks including uh the utilization of
2:13:34the parks uh whether it's businesses I
2:13:37know that the noise ordinance also has a
2:13:39decibel for um uh even vehicles noise on
2:13:44vehicles or motorcycles etc. So we would
2:13:46have to look comprehensively at the
2:13:48actual noise ordinance and see where are
2:13:51the areas that we can make adjustments,
2:13:53modifications, amendments, etc. that we
2:13:55would bring back to the council. There's
2:13:57also mechanisms and processes in terms
2:14:00of the enforcement. The the the other
2:14:01end of the or noise or noise ordinance
2:14:04is the enforcement and those are the
2:14:06areas that the currently the
2:14:07inspectional services department has
2:14:09spent some time reviewing um and trying
2:14:12to enhance that process and engage in uh
2:14:15engagement and collaboration between the
2:14:17police department and inspectional
2:14:19services as well. Um and so that's
2:14:21something that we would have to look at
2:14:23comprehensively when we come back to the
2:14:25council as part of this uh uh these
2:14:27orders.
2:14:29>> True. the administration inspectional
2:14:30services um per the ordinance are they
2:14:34the entity that the ordinance identifies
2:14:37for enforcement through the chair
2:14:39>> Mr. manager
2:14:41>> uh to the chair to the council. They are
2:14:45I can't uh 100% uh uh uh answer whether
2:14:49they it's only solely them. I know it's
2:14:51a combination of different departments
2:14:53that are involved in uh in that process.
2:14:55Um but I can't detail right now whether
2:14:57the ordinance states specifically uh
2:14:59just the inspectional services
2:15:01department.
2:15:02>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um have we had
2:15:04this through the chair to the
2:15:05administration? Have have this
2:15:07particular ordinance come before the
2:15:08council? Have you brought it in as a
2:15:10report or anything yet or is that has
2:15:13happened
2:15:13>> through the chair to the council? Under
2:15:15my administration, we have not. Uh I do
2:15:18I am aware this has been a conversation
2:15:20related to the no noise ordinance that
2:15:23has gone on for probably even two
2:15:26administrations before me has been
2:15:28talked about and I know there was a
2:15:29particular time there was a a big
2:15:31conversation happening on this floor
2:15:33related to shoes and some of the impacts
2:15:35on shoes who shoes related to the or but
2:15:38under my administration we have not
2:15:39brought this ordinance or a report
2:15:42related to the ordinance uh as of yet.
2:15:45>> Thank you Mr. Chairman. I I certainly
2:15:47want to just state for the record that
2:15:50um
2:15:52the term here unreasonable noise um is
2:15:56subject to interpretation and it gives
2:15:59me a little bit of pause. Um I'm going
2:16:01to support this item. I initially stood
2:16:04not sure if I was going to support I'm
2:16:05going to support it. Um, but I certainly
2:16:08want to make sure um, you know, as an
2:16:10atlarge counselor that we are also
2:16:14taking a look at, um,
2:16:18the neighborhoods and both sides of the
2:16:21equation. We've had some concerns um,
2:16:24over at at uh, uh, Beaverbrook area with
2:16:28regards to softball and and all those
2:16:30folks. I've had folks reach out to me on
2:16:32the softball side and other parks. Um,
2:16:36and so I I I I I want to make sure that
2:16:39um governmental overreach is not part of
2:16:42this. Um, and that it's we responding to
2:16:46neighbors um that we're tracking how we
2:16:49respond to these complaints. And with
2:16:51regards to the matter in the church, um
2:16:55would also like to see um again um a
2:16:59delineation and a timeline of um
2:17:02concerns and responses that are tracked.
2:17:04So um through the chair administration
2:17:06if if the the 311 or if the police are
2:17:10being asked to respond how is that being
2:17:14tracked because we have reports as the
2:17:16count the district counselor says
2:17:17sometimes there's a response sometimes
2:17:18there's not how is that tracked
2:17:21>> Mr. manager
2:17:23>> through CH to the council. Our systems
2:17:24track that anytime an officer is to be
2:17:28um it's deployed to a particular
2:17:30incident, there's an incident number,
2:17:31there's actually tracked in our CAD
2:17:33system and any 311 log is also tracked
2:17:36in that. So, we can do a a a data dump
2:17:40of all those areas that we've received
2:17:42any noise or uh noise complaints whether
2:17:44it's to this particular site or even
2:17:46across the city and be able to pull out
2:17:48where we've had. So all of that is
2:17:50tracked in our data in our [snorts]
2:17:52infrastructure that we currently have.
2:17:54>> So it's twofold. 311 and if an officer
2:17:57is asked to respond, those are two
2:17:59instances.
2:18:00>> And if there's a contact to the 860
2:18:03number and there's not a response that's
2:18:05not 311. Um how is that tracked?
2:18:09>> Oftent times the department themselves
2:18:11are tracking any engagement with
2:18:13residents. uh anytime they're being
2:18:15asked or deployed to attend somewhere or
2:18:18go somewhere an inspector etc. they have
2:18:20to document those things. So that's part
2:18:22of the reporting that we would bring
2:18:24back to the council on the timeline and
2:18:25our in our data rel uh uh that supports
2:18:28that.
2:18:28>> Thank you Mr. Chairman.
2:18:30>> Thank you councel Fizola.
2:18:34>> Mr. Chairman through you one quick
2:18:35question. Um Mr. manager, is is there a
2:18:40line that uh a telephone um line you can
2:18:43call 77 7998606
2:18:46to get a hold of somebody uh
2:18:48>> and reports through the police
2:18:49department? That's non through the uh
2:18:52sorry uh through the chair to the
2:18:54council. That is a non-emergency line
2:18:56that any resident can call the police
2:18:58department for non-emergencies to get
2:19:00access to a police officer or or issues
2:19:03related to for example like noise
2:19:04ordinance or things like that. Um it's
2:19:07uh it's a general line that uh the
2:19:09dispatchers in the the police department
2:19:11answer uh at any hour.
2:19:14>> Okay. So that that is one route to tell
2:19:16constituents that they can go in case of
2:19:18uh
2:19:19>> for non-emergency calls. That's correct.
2:19:21>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
2:19:22>> Thank you.
2:19:22>> And those for the outside of like uh 311
2:19:25requests, they're more uh public safety
2:19:27related.
2:19:28>> We send that to the manager. All those
2:19:30in favor opposed.
2:19:33We are on
2:19:3512B. Request the manager request the
2:19:37police chief provide increased overnight
2:19:39enforcement
2:19:41uh of illicit activities including
2:19:43public indecency occurring at Bever
2:19:45Parkway. Council Rivera
2:19:47>> as a read.
2:19:48>> So that's a manager. Council King
2:19:52>> 12B
2:19:53>> 12B.
2:20:03>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would just
2:20:04like a report back regarding um public
2:20:08indecency. I'm not aware of the
2:20:10situation. Um, I'm going to vote in the
2:20:12affirmative, but um it's it's tough to
2:20:15to read something like that um and not
2:20:19know the details. Mr. Chairman, I'm sure
2:20:21the district counselor has the
2:20:22information, but was not shared tonight.
2:20:25Um, so my initial uh reaction is is is
2:20:29um, you know, one of pause, but I'm
2:20:32going to support it, but I would like a
2:20:34report um outlining uh those concerns
2:20:37regarding public indecency and illicit
2:20:39activities. Thank you. Okay.
2:20:42>> Send that to the administration as
2:20:43amended. All those in favor opposed.
2:20:46Request the man to request police chief
2:20:48provide increased speed enforcement on
2:20:50June Street from Main Street to Mil
2:20:52Street. Council Rivera
2:20:53>> as it reads.
2:20:54>> Senator the manager. All those in favor
2:20:56post. So ordered. 12D. Request the city
2:20:59manager request public works review the
2:21:02sidewalk in front of 618 Pleasant
2:21:04Street. the purpose of completing any
2:21:07necessary emergency repairs required at
2:21:10that location. Council Rivera
2:21:11>> as it reads.
2:21:12>> That's the manager. All those in favor?
2:21:14Oppose. So ordered.
2:21:17>> Okay. E request to see manage request
2:21:19commission emergency communications and
2:21:21management uh research best practices
2:21:24with providing residents with a 911
2:21:26follow-up survey post incident feedback
2:21:28questionnaire for the purposes of
2:21:30implementing such a program. Council
2:21:32King.
2:21:35I think I think this gentleman uh wants
2:21:37to speak. Motion to suspend the rules.
2:21:39Mr. Chairman.
2:21:42Yes. Again, I'm Charles Hopkins. I'm um
2:21:45live here in Worcester. I'm also a first
2:21:47responder. I was lucky enough to be in
2:21:50Colorado about a month ago. Someone was
2:21:53having a medical emergency in a park. I
2:21:54was driving down the street and I
2:21:56noticed someone had fallen in an awkward
2:21:58position and I turned around and
2:21:59responded and found out that they
2:22:01recognized they were having a um an
2:22:03overdose. And um in the process I of
2:22:06treating that person or trying to I
2:22:08called 911
2:22:11um and u and to my amazement the next
2:22:15day
2:22:17um the city of Boulder sent me a survey
2:22:21asking me about the 911 operator, asking
2:22:25me about the f the first responders
2:22:27response,
2:22:28um how the whole process
2:22:33there there's such tight-knit um
2:22:36coordination with uh the community
2:22:39around uh 911 and getting feedback. I
2:22:42thought to myself, Worcester could
2:22:44really use something like this. So, they
2:22:47asked my, you know, my name, my age, the
2:22:51ethnicity questions. Um the the the loop
2:22:54that they have in place to make sure
2:22:56that the city is doing the right thing
2:22:58for its constituencies blew me away.
2:23:02Um, we don't have that here. Um, even
2:23:05the questions you were asking a moment
2:23:07ago about the logging of calls, the
2:23:09calls coming in are logged, but there's
2:23:12no way for someone to really um, provide
2:23:15some feedback to those calls. And I
2:23:18mentioned earlier Sandra Burns passed
2:23:20away three years ago. And um on in
2:23:25December, a few days before uh
2:23:28Christmas, a police officer responded,
2:23:30thought that uh made the assumption that
2:23:32she had gone away for the holidays, did
2:23:34not gain entry, even though it was
2:23:35public housing and there was easily a
2:23:37key available for access to that home.
2:23:40His uh logic, from what I understand,
2:23:43was that forcing entry would have left
2:23:45that person's valuables vulnerable to
2:23:47theft and vandalism.
2:23:50Um a neighbor event the the the family
2:23:54um tried calling to get a respon called
2:23:56many times to get feedback on the the
2:23:59wellness check call that went in was
2:24:01unable to get that because our city
2:24:03policies the police department will not
2:24:06provide any information on wellness
2:24:09checks. That's a huge concern for me as
2:24:12an elder who lives alone and my children
2:24:14live out of state. um it's a huge
2:24:17concern for me that if they call the
2:24:19wellness check-in. So my my my having
2:24:22something in place at least to give some
2:24:23feedback around calls would be
2:24:27incredibly valuable to the citizens of
2:24:29this city and it's a shame that we don't
2:24:32have something like that in place.
2:24:33>> Thank you.
2:24:34>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This is simply
2:24:36an act to improve public health and
2:24:38public safety here in the city um in a
2:24:41way that um serves both the both the
2:24:45public servant and the public at large.
2:24:47Mr. Chairman, so um I like a roll call
2:24:51on this. Thank you,
2:24:52>> Council Rivera.
2:24:54>> Uh yeah, I agree. I want to sign on to
2:24:56it.
2:24:56>> Okay.
2:24:59Okay. Roll call.
2:25:00>> Councelor Bergman.
2:25:03>> Councelor Bada. Yes.
2:25:05>> Councelor
2:25:05>> Economizo.
2:25:10>> Yes.
2:25:10>> Councelor King.
2:25:11>> Yes.
2:25:11>> Council Mitra.
2:25:12>> Yes.
2:25:13>> Council.
2:25:13>> Yes.
2:25:14>> Councor Rivera.
2:25:15>> Yes.
2:25:15>> Council Rosen.
2:25:16>> Yes.
2:25:16>> Council Tumi.
2:25:17>> Yes.
2:25:18>> And mayor Petty.
2:25:19>> Yes. that city council corners of
2:25:20Massachusetts Jire Chapter 90 section 18
2:25:23does hereby
2:25:25vote to resend the post to 35 and 30 mph
2:25:29speed uh regulations for hope and return
2:25:32the public way to statuto speed limit
2:25:34under Massachusett 90 section 17C
2:25:38uh council rivera
2:25:40>> yeah this one's a little more it's
2:25:42unfortunate that we are being reactive
2:25:46on certain situations where person
2:25:48passed away a couple months ago and hope
2:25:50have we're just trying to uh we
2:25:53understand enforcement's kind of been
2:25:55hard. Um so I'm hoping that we can get
2:25:58this this taken care of, you know, just
2:26:00>> he went to go to 25 miles an hour.
2:26:02>> Yeah. And that's actually the hope of I
2:26:04mean
2:26:05>> Okay.
2:26:06>> It's uh we got to slow the traffic down
2:26:09in that area really bad.
2:26:12>> Okay. Okay. So vote of the city council
2:26:15to change the speed to 25 miles an hour.
2:26:17Council K.
2:26:18>> It's a point of clarification. Um if
2:26:21just clarify through the administration
2:26:25um the 35 and 30 mph
2:26:30special speed regulation for hope a if
2:26:32you could just explain that to me. Um
2:26:36given the 25 mile per hour
2:26:39um citywide and and what your
2:26:41understanding of is why that's currently
2:26:43in place. In addition to that, um the
2:26:46speed factor and the tragic event that
2:26:49occurred through the chair,
2:26:50>> Mr. Manager.
2:26:52>> Yeah. Through CH the council, there are
2:26:54certain roads in the city that are even
2:26:56though we statutoily voted to reduce the
2:26:59speed limit to 25 mph, there are roads
2:27:01in the city that are still under a 30
2:27:04mile or 35 depending on the state
2:27:06statutory uh regulations. We have the
2:27:09ability as con uh uh as as
2:27:11administration to recommend or the
2:27:13council has the ability to to petition
2:27:15uh the rescending of those which would
2:27:17then be converted to a 25 mar zone to
2:27:20adhere to the statutory that we voted I
2:27:23mean that you all voted collectively as
2:27:26a body um but we would have to be
2:27:28specific. So we we wouldn't be able to
2:27:31do a general resend of 30 and 35 across
2:27:34the aboard in in terms of the entire
2:27:37city. Um and so the areas that have
2:27:40specific 30 to 35 mph zones, we have to
2:27:43specifically uh resend those. So then it
2:27:46will convert to our current statutory 25
2:27:49mph zones that we that the council
2:27:51voted.
2:27:52>> And through the chair, if you could
2:27:53speak to the
2:27:55speed factor and the tragic event that
2:27:57occurred.
2:27:59>> Yeah. Through uh through the chole, this
2:28:01is a an area that it's um it's highly
2:28:04traveled. Um, one of the biggest
2:28:06challenges is you come off right off the
2:28:08ramp uh off the highway ramp into uh
2:28:11Hope A. There's big stretches of space
2:28:14in that. It also converts into two lanes
2:28:16and that creates a lot of ability for
2:28:18people to go pretty fast in that area.
2:28:21Um, and so right now it's an area that
2:28:23the Department of Transportation
2:28:25Mobility is reviewing in terms of what
2:28:28enhancements we can do, whether
2:28:30short-term or long-term to kind of
2:28:32reduce the speeds in that area. One of
2:28:34them uh uh my understanding and what the
2:28:37council is trying to do here is this is
2:28:39just one tool is to try to reduce that
2:28:41speed limit to try to prevent folks from
2:28:44going uh 35 or 45 miles an hour in that
2:28:47area.
2:28:48>> Mr. chairman. Um
2:28:51I've happened to be contacted and
2:28:54familiar with family members um of the
2:28:59individual
2:29:00who struck
2:29:02the deceased and um there's trauma on
2:29:07all sides of this issue and part of my
2:29:11understanding is that there's lighting
2:29:12issues there. There's a host of of
2:29:16matters as you come off of that off-ramp
2:29:18or or whatever the case might be. Um,
2:29:21and I haven't heard from the city
2:29:23suggestions related to that. Apparently
2:29:25the district counselor um has, but I
2:29:28have not and I'm also um have folks that
2:29:32I represent as an atlarge counselor
2:29:34there. So, I would like a report back on
2:29:37those efforts. Um, I think enhanced
2:29:40lighting should be an immediate uh
2:29:42response um to that tragedy. Um, and I'd
2:29:47like to to to make a motion to to do
2:29:50exactly that. But um, this is the first
2:29:53I've heard about the reduction in speed
2:29:56and um, through the chair. Is is this
2:29:59for the entirety of hope a um, what what
2:30:02section? Um
2:30:04just want some clarification on this
2:30:07particular thing. As you understand, it
2:30:08sounds like there was some communication
2:30:11from your department with regards to I
2:30:14don't know if he's still here. He must
2:30:15have left. Um but if you could speak to
2:30:17that through the chair,
2:30:18>> Mr. Manra
2:30:21through the chair to the council. Um so
2:30:23it would be for the entire hope a um any
2:30:26areas that there's 30 or 35 from the
2:30:28beginning to the end of hope a pave have
2:30:29that would uh address uh that this order
2:30:32will address the entirety of that road
2:30:35>> and through the chair was it determined
2:30:36that speed was a factor
2:30:40>> to the chief council I don't have that
2:30:41answer in front of me in terms of
2:30:42whether that was a terminating factor um
2:30:45>> um again I I I don't have those details
2:30:48in front of me
2:30:48>> and lastly Mr. Sharon for clarification.
2:30:51Um to reduce that speed limit, what has
2:30:54to happen?
2:30:56So so for this to happen, what what what
2:30:59are the exa exact steps? Is there
2:31:01anything required of the council moving
2:31:03forward? Um this particular order says
2:31:06vote a vote to resend. Um do we have the
2:31:10authority to do so through the chair to
2:31:13resend? Does the council have the
2:31:15>> authority to do so?
2:31:17>> Yeah, through the chair to the council.
2:31:18My understanding is you do. Um and then
2:31:20we would then uh work with the council
2:31:23uh we we would work as a as an
2:31:25administration to make sure all the
2:31:27proper signage uh indicate the 25 mile
2:31:29zone and changes to that
2:31:31>> and on the state level what has to occur
2:31:33to the chair
2:31:35>> Mr. Manager
2:31:36>> uh to the chair to the council. I don't
2:31:38know the details of what the next steps
2:31:40with the state level would be. Uh the
2:31:41commissioner of transportation could
2:31:43probably provide more details to that.
2:31:45Um but I do know that there is a a an
2:31:48effort of notification to either mass
2:31:50DOT or the state level in in in these
2:31:52changes. Any changes that we made that
2:31:54are regulatory changes uh impact uh our
2:31:57ability uh to uh enforce. So then we
2:32:00notify the state agencies that are
2:32:02responsible uh in this matter.
2:32:04>> And Mr. Shimman for further
2:32:06clarification on this particular matter.
2:32:09Um
2:32:10the crossing markings um in that area um
2:32:16were they at issue as well through the
2:32:18chair
2:32:19>> Mr. Manager
2:32:20>> uh through the chair through the
2:32:21council. I don't know I don't know uh if
2:32:22that is a one of the issues is part of
2:32:24the uh of spar I don't know if you're
2:32:27asking as part of the accident. I don't
2:32:28know if that was part of the issue. Um,
2:32:31I don't have the full investigative read
2:32:33report in front of me to determine what
2:32:34are the areas or that impacted that
2:32:37potential uh accident.
2:32:38>> Mr. Chairman, I I would like to make a
2:32:40motion we get that full report. Um, so
2:32:42we're not operating in the dark here.
2:32:44Um, as a council um certainly I'm going
2:32:47to support this, but would like the
2:32:49additional information. Um,
2:32:51[clears throat] just a tragic tragic
2:32:53event. I I really um, you know, feel for
2:32:56the family who lost their loved ones and
2:32:58friends. Um and the individual that um
2:33:03was was driving and and the folks in
2:33:06that car also has lifelong implications.
2:33:08Um so we have to do better um with
2:33:11regards to our streets and our
2:33:12pedestrians. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
2:33:15>> Thank you,
2:33:17Council Tumi. What purpose you chair?
2:33:20rise to [clears throat]
2:33:21um either amend or um to have a separate
2:33:25uh order uh to ensure that uh when uh
2:33:29something happens that the signs go up
2:33:32right away. Um as a matter of fact, also
2:33:35request that we we continue to place the
2:33:39signs out throughout the city because
2:33:40it's really creating a lot of issues.
2:33:43Thank you.
2:33:44>> Thank you.
2:33:47>> Okay.
2:33:50So we'll take first we'll take uh a vote
2:33:53on the item. Roll call.
2:33:57>> Councelor Bergman.
2:33:58>> Yes.
2:33:58>> Councor Bada.
2:33:59>> Yes.
2:33:59>> Counc.
2:34:01>> Yes.
2:34:01>> Counc.
2:34:02>> Yes.
2:34:02>> Councor King.
2:34:03>> Yes.
2:34:04>> Mitra.
2:34:05>> Yes.
2:34:05>> Aita.
2:34:06>> Yes.
2:34:06>> Councora.
2:34:07>> Yes.
2:34:07>> Councor Rosen.
2:34:08>> Yes.
2:34:09>> Council Tumi.
2:34:10>> Yes.
2:34:10>> Mayor [clears throat] Petty.
2:34:11>> Yes. And for additional information.
2:34:13Those in favor post. So audited. Okay.
2:34:16Next item. Request city manager request
2:34:18commission of public works review the
2:34:19sidewalk in front of West State
2:34:21University located at 486 Chiller Street
2:34:24for the purpose of completing any
2:34:25emergency sidewalk repairs received at
2:34:27that location. Council Rivera
2:34:29>> as it reads.
2:34:30>> Those in favor opposed. Next item is uh
2:34:33request for management by city council
2:34:35report detailing the potential annual
2:34:37debt service payment scheduled should be
2:34:40should city undertake a loan order of
2:34:42$20 million annually for each of the
2:34:45next five years for a total of
2:34:46authorization of $100 million said the
2:34:49loan which would be used for the purpose
2:34:50of a capital investment program
2:34:52dedicated into the resurfacing and
2:34:54rehabilitation to the city's main street
2:34:57arteries and sidewalks. Um, Council
2:35:01Mitra,
2:35:02>> thank you, Mr. Chair. [clears throat] I
2:35:04could probably say as it reads, but just
2:35:06to kind of my intention here is just to
2:35:09kind of have an idea of if we take that
2:35:12loan uh about $20 million per year for
2:35:14five years, about $100 million, what
2:35:17would be the cost of payment? Uh, I know
2:35:20last time when I requested that, uh,
2:35:22city manager had mentioned that it would
2:35:24be going out of the budget. it will be
2:35:26an additional expense to pay the loan
2:35:29with the interest. So just wanted to
2:35:31find out a report that how much would it
2:35:34be if we take this loan not necessarily
2:35:37I'm I'm requesting the loan but I just
2:35:38want to know what could it be the
2:35:41consequences if we do so and then we can
2:35:43think about it in the future about using
2:35:46my main goal is to see that major
2:35:48arteries per year if we can do even two
2:35:51or three complete arteries those are
2:35:53important can be taken care of with this
2:35:55loan system and if this is not a too
2:35:57much of a burden on us financially then
2:36:00I'd like to explore that possibility.
2:36:02But this order is mainly to find out
2:36:05what would be that extra cost that the
2:36:08city will bear if we take it as a loan
2:36:11for 5 years $100 million. I saw that we
2:36:14still have about $600 million uh loan
2:36:17approved that we can take from. But
2:36:19that's not what I'm saying that uh I'm
2:36:21not going after something that we don't
2:36:23have. But there is $600 million
2:36:26available. Uh, but I want to know how
2:36:29much the cost would be if we take that
2:36:30loan. That's the request.
2:36:33Thank you.
2:36:36Council King,
2:36:41I do not stand in support of this at
2:36:43this time. Mr. Chairman, u I do have
2:36:45some questions to the administration. It
2:36:46was just a statement made that there's
2:36:48$600 million available
2:36:51um
2:36:54to access
2:36:57um with regards to this particular
2:37:01order. Um it's like a response from the
2:37:04administration as it relates to that.
2:37:07>> Mr. Manager,
2:37:08>> uh through the shift to the council, I I
2:37:10don't know what 600 million he's
2:37:12referring to. The only thing that I can
2:37:14assume he may be referring to is the
2:37:18authorizations that we have in the city.
2:37:20We have x amount of millions almost a
2:37:22billion dollars of authorization uh that
2:37:24we can borrow against for different
2:37:26projects. Many of them are in place
2:37:29either in place now or being contracted
2:37:30or have been contracted etc. And so
2:37:33there could be a a gap of certain amount
2:37:35of monies that are authorized, but yet
2:37:37we have not borrowed or scheduled the
2:37:39borrowing because we have to then
2:37:41account for the debt service on an
2:37:42annual basis. Um and so if we were to
2:37:45borrow $600 million, we would have to
2:37:48factor that debt service on an annual
2:37:50basis and that could be, you know, tens
2:37:52of millions of dollars that we would
2:37:53annually be contributing as payments for
2:37:56the potential of $600 million borrowing.
2:37:58And so I don't know if that's what he's
2:38:00alluding to. That's what my assumption
2:38:01is. Um, but again, it's something that
2:38:03the council could probably uh more
2:38:05specifically speak about, but that's
2:38:07just my assumption based on on on the
2:38:10loan loan loan authorization that we
2:38:12currently have as a city.
2:38:15>> Jim, you want clarification?
2:38:18>> Sure.
2:38:19>> Council me?
2:38:20>> Yeah. Well, my intention here was to
2:38:24really find out how much it would cost
2:38:25if we get the loan, but at the same
2:38:27time, I wanted to kind of give an
2:38:29attestation. And I'm not asking for
2:38:30something that's not available. I'm just
2:38:32referring that there is availability of
2:38:35the fund. If I say I would like to have
2:38:37a $20 million loan order and then you
2:38:40say that we don't have any place to get
2:38:42it. I'm just saying that we do have an
2:38:45opportunity here. But now that I'm
2:38:47requesting that I'll get that. Now
2:38:48mainly I'm looking for what will be the
2:38:50cost to have the $20 million loan order
2:38:53for next five years paying back in 30
2:38:56years loan. what will be the cost of the
2:38:58interest and everything that will pay.
2:39:00Okay, so that's the report I want. But
2:39:02this is just a reference that we have
2:39:04availability.
2:39:05>> That's the question. What's that from?
2:39:08>> What's the question is what you what's
2:39:09the $600 million from? That's the
2:39:11question.
2:39:12>> This is the loan approved for us. Out of
2:39:15that we have been using every year
2:39:17taking and now 2025 we have about this
2:39:19much. So the manager was correct.
2:39:22>> That does that make it clear?
2:39:24>> Yeah.
2:39:25>> Yeah. Thank you.
2:39:25>> Thank you.
2:39:27So, thank you, Mr. Chair. I I I again,
2:39:30I'm I'm a bit confused here. Um and I
2:39:33understand the authorization, my
2:39:35understanding, you know, I brought some
2:39:36of these issues forward during budget
2:39:38hearings as relates to um monies
2:39:41borrowed and not used. Um I know there's
2:39:43a process in place that they're looking
2:39:45at that. Um you know, we we have some
2:39:48some budgetary constraints potentially
2:39:51moving forward. Um, in addition to that,
2:39:54um, you know, there's monies that we
2:39:56have not, um, exercised the option, I
2:39:59guess, for lack of a better term. Um, as
2:40:01well, um, we have, you know, concerns
2:40:05regarding bond ratings, etc. Um, we have
2:40:08a lot of competing priorities. Um, I
2:40:10certainly agree, um, the capital
2:40:13investments, improvement. We're talking
2:40:14about 20 million a year. Um, and I'm not
2:40:17sure where that fits in with priorities.
2:40:20So for me to kind of vote for this on
2:40:21its face is challenging. Um and I would
2:40:24just ask the administration to the chair
2:40:26um to respond to the $600 million
2:40:29number. I mean the the the
2:40:32average citizens that's watching this um
2:40:35may feel as though the city's hiding 600
2:40:38million. Um and I'm not sure that's the
2:40:40case and I'm sure it's not the intention
2:40:42of my colleague. Um, but we have the
2:40:44general public that's watching and it
2:40:46needs an explanation before there's some
2:40:49interpretation that we've voted uh for
2:40:52$100 million or $20 million or that
2:40:54there's $600 million, you know, that
2:40:57we're we're we're having the ability to
2:40:59access that we're not being transparent
2:41:01about through the chair.
2:41:03>> Manager.
2:41:04>> Yeah. through the sh to the council of
2:41:06the $600 million in terms of
2:41:08availability. It means that there's a
2:41:10number of projects that has been
2:41:12presented to the council over number of
2:41:14years whether it's most recently on the
2:41:16last three years under my administration
2:41:17or previous administration of projects
2:41:19that are either ongoing or projects that
2:41:21we're initiating uh that you have to
2:41:23authorize the you have to authorize the
2:41:26actual loan order uh for that amount to
2:41:29be able to be contracted. The city then
2:41:31starts to borrow against that
2:41:33authorization to pay the contractors and
2:41:36the work to be able to be done. It could
2:41:38be an opportunity where at the end of
2:41:41the of the project there is a gap
2:41:43between what was authorized and what was
2:41:45actually borrowed and that gap uh oftent
2:41:48times remains in the books um as a gap
2:41:52as what we as a city can continue to to
2:41:54borrow against. However, we myself and
2:41:57the CFO were very careful on that
2:42:00because there's a certain limit of what
2:42:01we can borrow on an annual basis based
2:42:04on what we can afford. If I try to uh
2:42:07compare to an individual, a personal
2:42:09individual that has a credit card, you
2:42:11have a credit card limit, but you don't
2:42:13try to borrow against that entire limit
2:42:16all at once because on a monthly
2:42:18payments, you can't pay those monthly
2:42:19payments. So you borrow against that a
2:42:22credit card based on what you can afford
2:42:25on a monthly basis. And so that's kind
2:42:27of how this works. So there is um you
2:42:29know there's things like for example uh
2:42:32the fire station we borrowed over $40
2:42:34million uh and we've that work has
2:42:36started to begun. The construction we
2:42:38did the groundbreaking but we had to
2:42:40authorize the over $40 million for that
2:42:42south division fire station. But we
2:42:45haven't borrowed against the full amount
2:42:46yet. Every year we're going to be
2:42:49borrowing as the project continues to
2:42:51happen. We will borrow until eventually
2:42:53we will close the books. This also
2:42:55includes our high schools. Any
2:42:57improvements to the high school, any
2:42:58building of new high schools, we are
2:43:00authorized uh a certain amount and we
2:43:02borrow against it year-over-year based
2:43:05on our ability to pay that debt service
2:43:07annually, year-over-year. And so in what
2:43:10we have talked about in this council
2:43:11floor and part of our recommendation is
2:43:13that any times we bring in new
2:43:16authorizations for loan orders outside
2:43:18of the budget process, we will then
2:43:20bring forward a rescending uh or an item
2:43:23that would resend a current
2:43:25authorizations to try to uh uh keep the
2:43:28authorizations lower. In addition to
2:43:30that, this year as part of our water and
2:43:33sewer budget, we had enough of our
2:43:35authorization that I didn't extend that
2:43:38authorization further. What I asked the
2:43:40departments to do is to borrow against
2:43:43the current uh authorization that we
2:43:45have already in the books instead of
2:43:47extending that authorization a little
2:43:48bit further. Um, so that's typically how
2:43:51the uh we uh how we manage the budget
2:43:54and how we manage on an annual basis our
2:43:56spending.
2:43:57>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, you know, I
2:43:59don't want the public to misunderstand.
2:44:00I certainly support um a capital
2:44:03investment program dedicated to
2:44:05resurfacing and rehabilitating our
2:44:07streets, arteries, and sidewalks. Um,
2:44:10however, um, you know, based on what's
2:44:15being explained here, I I do have some
2:44:17concerns with the numbers that are being
2:44:19associated here. and through the charity
2:44:22administration. Just a quick
2:44:23clarification, when there's the
2:44:25authorization,
2:44:27um can you go outside of the um intent
2:44:30and purpose of said authorization? Um so
2:44:33if you have authorization for a certain
2:44:35amount, we've used a percentage of that,
2:44:37can you just apply it um willy-nilly
2:44:40through the chair,
2:44:42>> Mr. Manager?
2:44:43>> Uh through the ch the council, no, we
2:44:45cannot do that. we have to bring it
2:44:46before the council to reappropriate that
2:44:48authorization for another project or
2:44:50another. Unless is if unless we have an
2:44:52authorization for for example sewer
2:44:55restorations. It's a very blanket sewer
2:44:58restorations. Then we would borrow based
2:45:00on on that for sewer restorations again.
2:45:03But any any utilization of that
2:45:06authorization for any other purposes has
2:45:08to come before the council. And any new
2:45:10authorizations that we want to add to
2:45:12the books also has to come before the
2:45:14council for uh council approval. and
2:45:16through the chair to administration. Is
2:45:17there a capital investment master plan
2:45:19currently in place um as relates to such
2:45:23funding and and um and strategy and
2:45:26priority through the chair
2:45:29>> uh through the chair council? We do we
2:45:31actually work with all departments. We
2:45:33actually have a capital committee as
2:45:35part of our department heads where they
2:45:37also range and rank the capital needs
2:45:40that are submitted on an annual basis
2:45:42and they all as a collective provide
2:45:45feedback to one another and then also we
2:45:47receive the feedback from the council
2:45:48and the public in terms of what are some
2:45:50of the priorities. We understand schools
2:45:52are priority. We understand our roads is
2:45:53a priority and so that's why as part of
2:45:55the discussion that happens with
2:45:57internally with our departments this
2:45:59year we were able to expand our
2:46:01investments into road infrastructure
2:46:03because of the uh feedback that we've
2:46:06gotten and then the uh capital committee
2:46:08of all cabinet members then uh evaluate
2:46:12each request and determine which one
2:46:14should receive priority based on the
2:46:16recommendations from the council and the
2:46:17administration. Um so outside of the
2:46:20budget process, is there communication
2:46:22of that capital investment
2:46:25um strategy and um risk assessment or
2:46:29not sorry um uh priority assessment?
2:46:34>> Chair, Mr. Manager,
2:46:35>> to the council, the only time we
2:46:37communicate those priorities and
2:46:38investments is through the budget
2:46:39process.
2:46:40>> Mr. Chairman, I'd like to get a report
2:46:42um back to the council um that we have
2:46:45exactly that um strategy, the priorities
2:46:50um of a capital investment program um so
2:46:53that we don't necessarily have to sort
2:46:56of um for lack of a better term, nickel
2:46:58and dime certain projects. We know that
2:47:02um you know the the main artery,
2:47:04sidewalks, etc. are an a major issue,
2:47:07but we do have competing priorities. So,
2:47:10like that, see that report back. Um, I'm
2:47:13going to abstain from this vote. Um, I'm
2:47:16not clear with the numbers. I'm sure
2:47:18it'll go forward and when it comes back,
2:47:19I'm sure we'll have some specification
2:47:21that I can vote upon. Thank you, Mr.
2:47:23Chairman.
2:47:24>> Okay, Council Rivera,
2:47:27>> just for clarification, he's only asking
2:47:30for report on if we was to borrow
2:47:33certain amount of money for five. Yeah,
2:47:35definitely for road projects.
2:47:37Absolutely. I'm in
2:47:39>> council Tumi
2:47:41>> to you, Mr. Chair, I was going to say
2:47:42the same thing is only asking for report
2:47:46service.
2:47:47>> So maybe we can maybe just amend this to
2:47:48say for illustration purposes. Would
2:47:50that be better? So councelor Rosen
2:47:53>> through the chair to the manager. Mr.
2:47:56Manager, if we did have a $20 million
2:47:58loan order over five years each, $100
2:48:01million,
2:48:03how might that affect our bond rating in
2:48:05the future?
2:48:06>> Mr.
2:48:08uh to do chairs to the council. Um if we
2:48:12if I take this order by face uh value
2:48:15and adopt it next budget cycle, uh it
2:48:19would have a significant impact because
2:48:21it would go above and beyond what our
2:48:23current capacity
2:48:25to pay debt service on an annual basis
2:48:27would be. Uh and we would have to
2:48:30explore other avenues uh to raise that
2:48:33capacity um to be able to have that
2:48:36ability to the ability to have monies
2:48:40available on an annual basis to pay that
2:48:42debt service. Um so the debt service of
2:48:45this for a period of time um is
2:48:48significant. I haven't done the
2:48:49calculations but it is significant. Um
2:48:52and so that would impact on an annual
2:48:54basis our debt service which would have
2:48:56our an impact on the actual bond rating
2:48:59and that's what they evaluate. The two
2:49:01things that the bond rating agencies
2:49:02evaluate is our ability to borrow what
2:49:04is our ability to borrow? How much are
2:49:06we borrowing? What's our capacity there?
2:49:08Uh and that and there and there's two
2:49:10areas that they are every year uh they
2:49:13have concerns. One is our borrowing
2:49:15capacity and two is the the wealth of
2:49:18the community overall. And those two
2:49:21things that the that the bond rating
2:49:23agencies uh often uh review and provide
2:49:26feedback to us of of concern that they
2:49:28have in our ability uh to manage uh and
2:49:31keep our stabled uh bond rating numbers.
2:49:34>> And if through the chair to the manager,
2:49:37if we did this, I assume in the future
2:49:40this would cause us to raise residential
2:49:45and business taxes. Am I correct,
2:49:49>> Mr. manager.
2:49:50>> Uh so through the chit to the council
2:49:51there is possibility um we would have to
2:49:54do an analysis but there is possibility
2:49:56that we would have to come back to the
2:49:57council to do two things. One either
2:49:59raise taxes and and and and use some of
2:50:02the tax unused tax levy capacity uh use
2:50:05some of those dollars and which then
2:50:06that would raise taxes in the city or
2:50:08second we would have to consider
2:50:10potential layoffs or things like that.
2:50:12Um again it it all it's all related to
2:50:16the financial integrity plan and our
2:50:17ability on an annual basis. Uh how much
2:50:20percentage of borrowing can can we in
2:50:23terms of based on our limits can we
2:50:26borrow on an annual basis? If we surpass
2:50:28that capacity, then we have to look for
2:50:31other revenue sources. And the revenue
2:50:33sources right now, the only way for us
2:50:35to increase that that revenue source
2:50:37would be increasing taxes or impacting
2:50:40operations by having to lay people off.
2:50:43>> Okay. Uh Mr. Chairman, I know it's only
2:50:47asking for a report here. Uh when I look
2:50:51at the ramifications of maybe raising
2:50:53taxes and really harming our bond
2:50:55reading, you know, even with a report, I
2:50:58just couldn't support asking for $20
2:51:01million loan order for 5 years, each for
2:51:04five years for $100 million. And yeah,
2:51:06we all want better streets and
2:51:07sidewalks. And the reason why some of
2:51:09them are in deplorable condition is
2:51:12because we can't afford to do what we
2:51:14should have been doing for the last few
2:51:16decades. We can't afford it. uh
2:51:18borrowing the $und00 million doesn't
2:51:20necessarily mean we can't afford it. So
2:51:22I would like to ask for a roll call on
2:51:23this, Mr. Chairman. Thank you.
2:51:26>> Um
2:51:28council council metro for
2:51:31I think
2:51:32>> my order is just to get a report of
2:51:35payment plan. If I order the loan order,
2:51:38I'll go back to the council again and
2:51:40then we can talk about bond rating and
2:51:42all those. I'm just trying to find out
2:51:44what would be the cost and I'm wise
2:51:47enough to know whether that would be a
2:51:48high cost that we shouldn't go for it or
2:51:51we should we can think about it but my
2:51:54my request here is not to borrow the
2:51:57money. I'm just asking what would be the
2:51:58payment plan. I don't know why all these
2:52:02questions are coming because that's not
2:52:03my order. my order is just to give me
2:52:06how much could be the payment that if we
2:52:08do this and then if I come back and say
2:52:10I would like to borrow $20 million then
2:52:12the council has all these questions to
2:52:14ask and deny or approve or vote against
2:52:17it. So I think right now all I'm looking
2:52:19for what could be the payment if this
2:52:22happens
2:52:23>> council
2:52:23>> for that.
2:52:25>> Thank you. I'm
2:52:27>> going to say to council me welcome
2:52:29aboard as far as experiencing
2:52:31mischaracterization of orders. It's your
2:52:34first time. It won't be your last. I can
2:52:36promise you that. I can't promise much,
2:52:38but I can promise you that. Um, let me
2:52:40just say that I don't have any issue uh
2:52:43with the report. I just want to be
2:52:45clear. Um, voting for the lowest
2:52:47residential tax rate has historically
2:52:49been my vote. I'm not looking to spend
2:52:51more of the taxpayers money. Um, but I
2:52:54am curious that, you know, at some point
2:52:57if we keep peacemealing our road
2:52:59improvements, we're never going to get
2:53:00caught up. So, it's a worth it's a
2:53:03worthwhile question to ask and I don't
2:53:05have any issue. Uh, I'll support getting
2:53:07the report and we'll see what the cost
2:53:10is and we'll go from there. But I I rose
2:53:13because I want to be clear on two
2:53:16points. One is I'm supporting the
2:53:17report. That's what I view this as
2:53:19asking for. And number two, I don't view
2:53:22this as supporting a tax increase for
2:53:25the residents. I view this as the
2:53:27question of what would be the
2:53:28ramifications to the residents if we
2:53:30were to go ahead and do something like
2:53:32that. And I certainly, and I'm sure
2:53:34others on the council feel the same way,
2:53:35are very mindful of the taxpayers's
2:53:38pocketbooks and and wallets. And um I
2:53:41wouldn't move ahead on anything like
2:53:43this unless I was confident it was in
2:53:44the taxpayers's best interest. So I
2:53:46welcome the report. Thank you, Mr.
2:53:47Chairman.
2:53:48>> Mr. Chairman, can we move to question?
2:53:51>> What's that?
2:53:52>> Can we move to question? Yeah, we're
2:53:54ready to uh vote right now. Okay.
2:53:58>> Doing so
2:53:59>> for clarification purposes, I just want
2:54:01to know if the city manager can put all
2:54:03that all these questions about the death
2:54:06of services, you know, all that. But in
2:54:08the report, I think it answers
2:54:09everything.
2:54:10>> A detailed report. Okay. Okay. Roll
2:54:13call.
2:54:14>> Councelor Bergman,
2:54:15>> yes.
2:54:15>> Councelor Bada,
2:54:16>> no.
2:54:17>> Councelor Cono,
2:54:19>> yes.
2:54:20>> Councelor Wolo,
2:54:21>> yes. Councelor King,
2:54:23>> abstain.
2:54:23>> Council Mitra,
2:54:24>> yes.
2:54:25>> Councelor Ha,
2:54:26>> no.
2:54:26>> Councilor Rivera,
2:54:27>> yes.
2:54:28>> Councelor Rosen,
2:54:29>> no.
2:54:30>> Councilor Tumi,
2:54:31>> yes.
2:54:31>> And mayor Petty,
2:54:32>> yes.
2:54:33>> Okay, we are on 12. I request that the
2:54:37man provide council with a report
2:54:39detailing the number of I think I think
2:54:42I wrote on it. street lights out of the
2:54:44operation of the city and the length of
2:54:45time and the lights that have been out
2:54:48of operation for maintenance and repairs
2:54:50to take several months to complete
2:54:52complete and timelines associated with
2:54:55uh completing said maintenance and
2:54:57repairs for the purposes of informing
2:54:59the residents and business owners when
2:55:01to expect street lights to be back on
2:55:03operation. Council
2:55:04>> Okconor. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. real
2:55:06quick. Um,
2:55:09it's not so much, this doesn't have to
2:55:11do so much with what the city side is
2:55:14responsible for because I feel we we
2:55:16activate our vendor and get things done.
2:55:19It's more so keeping a tab on the
2:55:21national grid end of things. There are
2:55:22two streets right now, Montlair Drive
2:55:24and Devon Road, uh that have uh Devon
2:55:29Road has all their lights out, street
2:55:31lights, and it's been for months. And
2:55:33Montlair has uh five of I think seven
2:55:39lights out. Um
2:55:42and they're all underground national
2:55:44grid issues. And Commissioner Wesling
2:55:47was kind enough to let me know where
2:55:48things are with all these. and I
2:55:50appreciate all that, but it's it just
2:55:52further tells me that we need to keep a
2:55:55closer tab with National Grid on getting
2:55:59these done in a more timely fashion. So
2:56:01that's that's what I'm bringing forth,
2:56:03Mr. Chairman. Thank you.
2:56:04>> Okay. All those in favor opposed.
2:56:07Next item request the manager convene an
2:56:09immediate meeting with the Massachusett
2:56:11Department of Transportation to identify
2:56:12and permit immediate safety solutions to
2:56:14address the high number of traffic
2:56:16accidents along Grove Street with a
2:56:18particular focus on the corridor between
2:56:20Drummond and Nelson Place.
2:56:23>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. You're familiar
2:56:24with this um as many here in um on the
2:56:28council are
2:56:30between Drummond Drummond Road and
2:56:32Nelson Place, Chester Street, Parkton,
2:56:35Lancing.
2:56:38Terrible areas. There's always a crash,
2:56:41significant crashes, not just fender
2:56:42benders. These are significant crashes
2:56:45that are causing injury to people. Um,
2:56:48we need to get the state to the table
2:56:51and come up with plans um to further
2:56:54create safety measures along this
2:56:56stretch of corridor. Um, I asked the
2:56:58city manager if he could work to get
2:57:00that together. Um, I think it's urgent
2:57:03that it be done sooner rather than later
2:57:06because just I think it was about a week
2:57:08ago there was another crash there um
2:57:10where there was injury. So, um, that's
2:57:13where I stand on that and I know the
2:57:15residents of the neighbor neighborhood
2:57:17would be, uh, very responsive to it.
2:57:18Thank you.
2:57:19>> Okay, send that to the man.
2:57:22Council like to sign on. We'll send that
2:57:23to the manager. All those in favor of
2:57:25post so audited 12K request management
2:57:27by council to report detailing cooling
2:57:29center operations including the
2:57:30resources, supplies, and staff to
2:57:32provide to cooling center sites. Council
2:57:34B.
2:57:34>> Yeah, thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, with
2:57:37the summer weather, it was great that,
2:57:38you know, the city is rolling out these
2:57:40cooling centers. It's been done twice so
2:57:41far this season. U be great to have a
2:57:44better understanding of what resources
2:57:47we're putting towards these cooling
2:57:48centers. Uh especially at locations like
2:57:50the library that we know are already um
2:57:54buildings and you know departments that
2:57:57that are wear many hats. So I'd like to
2:58:00have a better understanding of what are
2:58:02we doing to support um the staff that
2:58:04are at these sites. Are we providing
2:58:07extra staff? for we providing um you
2:58:10know water things like that. So I would
2:58:11like to just through the chair to the to
2:58:13the manager just curious if you could
2:58:16provide just with a short answer what
2:58:18type of resource are we bringing to the
2:58:21cooling centers or are we just providing
2:58:23these spaces?
2:58:25>> Uh Mr. manager.
2:58:29>> Uh to the to the council, what we
2:58:31do is we provide the spaces. Um oftent
2:58:34times we also provide water uh in those
2:58:36in those uh cooling centers. Um again
2:58:40this something that we continue to
2:58:41explore not only adding more spaces but
2:58:43also uh what other resources we can have
2:58:47there. depending on what the cooling or
2:58:49warming center may be and depending the
2:58:51longevity of that uh we then have to
2:58:54reconsider the resources and add more
2:58:57whether we need to have Red Cross or
2:59:00other partners involved in that process
2:59:02whether we need to provide food if
2:59:03people are there for a long period of
2:59:04time. Um but oftent times uh oftent
2:59:08times the the cooling sensors or warming
2:59:10sensors are really short period of time.
2:59:12Um, so we just provide the spaces and if
2:59:14it is pretty hot out or whatnot, we try
2:59:16to uh sometimes provide some water.
2:59:18>> Okay. No, I just Yeah, it would be great
2:59:20to know and maybe perhaps this order
2:59:22could be an opportunity to explore how
2:59:23could how we could bolster um these
2:59:27areas when they are designated as
2:59:28heating or cooling centers. Thank you.
2:59:31>> Send the manager. All those in favor so
2:59:33ordered. requesting management by
2:59:35council to report concerning
2:59:36transportation improvement funding and
2:59:38other uh project uh scopes for the big
2:59:41old Davis Parkway in Lake Gav
2:59:43intersection project. Council Potter,
2:59:45>> thank you. Yeah. Um I it's my
2:59:47understanding that the plan for this
2:59:49intersection is is going to be a rotary.
2:59:51I want to be clear. I'm not against
2:59:52that. My only concern is that the
2:59:55timeline of this and how uh long this
2:59:58intersection has how long people in the
3:00:01neighborhood and and frankly across the
3:00:02city have been calling for some type of
3:00:05stoplight here. So I'd like to have an
3:00:07understanding of um what's going on here
3:00:10and are there opportunities
3:00:13to fasttrack anything in this just to
3:00:14see I know or are we more or less locked
3:00:16in with the tip funding. So, I'd like to
3:00:17have a to it would be great to have this
3:00:19as part of a neighborhood meeting for so
3:00:21folks can understand what the city's
3:00:23planning to do with this intersection
3:00:24and what type of traffic mitigation we
3:00:26have planned. So, thank you.
3:00:27>> Okay, I'll send that to the man.
3:00:29>> Chairman, what what what item was that?
3:00:33>> 12
3:00:35L.
3:00:42>> Okay, thank you.
3:00:43>> Okay, man. Those in favor oppose so
3:00:46ordered. Uh M request standing committee
3:00:49on public works meet Troy with standing
3:00:50committee on traffic and parking for the
3:00:52purpose of review and discussing city
3:00:54strategic pay pavement management plan
3:00:57for a request to manage public works and
3:00:58commission of transportation mobility.
3:01:00Attend a joint meeting relating to the
3:01:02present the key city's 2025 payment
3:01:05management prepared by Apex Companies
3:01:07LLC. Uh council conal.
3:01:10>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We're looking
3:01:11to have this meeting uh with com um
3:01:15chairperson Rivera's committee in
3:01:17traffic and parking hopefully in uh
3:01:19later August. I think it'll just be good
3:01:21information for all of us to have a
3:01:23refresh on some of this information,
3:01:25what the plans are, what the options
3:01:27are, and how we go about things to get
3:01:30our streets um in better condition. So,
3:01:33thank you.
3:01:34>> Okay. All those in favor of post. Audit
3:01:36request city manager provide council
3:01:37with report outline the city's handling
3:01:39of the town of Holy news lawsuits. That
3:01:42report should include a summary of the
3:01:43city's process and decision making
3:01:44throughout the case, a timeline of the
3:01:46city's communications with the
3:01:47appropriate state officials to resolve
3:01:49the matter and the explanation of the
3:01:50legal factors that result in the cities
3:01:52paying the final settlement. Council,
3:01:55>> thank you, Mr. Chairman. It this is I've
3:01:58heard from a number of residents just
3:01:59asking about this how how it all went
3:02:02down. if we can get information as to
3:02:05how this transpired, when it started
3:02:07even, and why it's been why it was left
3:02:10dormant for so long. Um, and then here
3:02:14at the end, we're scrambling to to
3:02:18make restitution, I guess, to the town
3:02:20of Holden. Um, especially when we don't
3:02:23have when our state partners DCR
3:02:28um weren't really part, we didn't get
3:02:30much information from them. So, how how
3:02:32did this all come about? Why it all came
3:02:35about and what's being done moving
3:02:37forward um to rectify the situation?
3:02:41Because um there are two other towns out
3:02:44there uh West Boston and Rutland that
3:02:47participate in this and it's important
3:02:50for us to stay vigilant and keep the
3:02:53state and DCR's feet to the fire.
3:03:00Thank you, M.
3:03:03Council King, what purpose do you rise?
3:03:06>> Mr. Chairman, um I'd like to um support
3:03:10this. Um however, I'm not at this
3:03:12particular point. I can't until I have
3:03:14some questions answered. Um to the
3:03:17chair, to the administration, um are all
3:03:20legalities [snorts] as it relates to
3:03:24this matter um with the hold and sewer
3:03:29situation. my lawsuit situation
3:03:32been resolved. Um there's a number of um
3:03:39matters that have not
3:03:42been addressed. We have a number of
3:03:44concerns um moving forward as relates to
3:03:48the condition of some of the apparatus
3:03:51and the pipes and what have you that are
3:03:53aging. Um, and I I just want to know um
3:03:58are there any indication that there's
3:04:01legalities and potential legalities have
3:04:04been completely resolved? The reason I
3:04:06asked, Mr. Chairman, is um in our
3:04:08executive sessions, we took votes um and
3:04:11we asked certain things to occur um at
3:04:14the direction of um directing and
3:04:18advising advising the city manager. And
3:04:21I'm not sure if those things occurred or
3:04:22not. Um but um I'm wondering if
3:04:26executive session is a place to do this
3:04:29u versus a report. Um I I have concerns
3:04:33about um moving forward um this matter
3:04:38being resolved um in a way that's as
3:04:42beneficial as possible through the city.
3:04:44So through the charity administration,
3:04:46the first question is uh where we at
3:04:48with the consultation uh or the
3:04:50consultant um in resolving this mess of
3:04:54a matter. Um and the second question is
3:04:58um are all legalities and potential
3:05:02legalities
3:05:04um a non-factor
3:05:08in this sewer matter overall, not just
3:05:11pertaining to Holden. Um, Mr. Chairman,
3:05:15um, we have a couple other towns
3:05:17involved here. Um, I believe it's West
3:05:21Boilston and Rutland maybe. Um, and some
3:05:25of us on the council feel that we may
3:05:27have perhaps been stiffed
3:05:30by those folks.
3:05:33Zero payments, nothing. Regardless if
3:05:36you think it's fair or not, nothing.
3:05:39um and until recently very a very small
3:05:42contribution um West Boilston in
3:05:45particular as well. So um I just want to
3:05:49make sure that this isn't held up and we
3:05:52don't get this 10 months from now this
3:05:54request. I think it's important what
3:05:55councelor Econom is bringing forward. Um
3:05:58but I'm wondering if those two questions
3:06:00can be answered. And then third um is an
3:06:04executive session relative to um legal
3:06:07strategies in order moving forward
3:06:09through the chair.
3:06:11>> Uh Mr. Manager.
3:06:14>> Oh, there was a lot there. Um through
3:06:16the chancel, the in regards to the
3:06:19situation, it's not over. It's not
3:06:21resolved. I mean there is ongoing
3:06:24conversations with the state and the
3:06:26other towns on discussing matters
3:06:29related to a new sewer use agreement and
3:06:32using a consultation uh not only from
3:06:35the state and consultants and number of
3:06:38attorneys involved in the process of
3:06:40negotiating for a new sewer use
3:06:41agreement for uh the future. That's all
3:06:45involved right now. the the and that's
3:06:49actually happening in real time uh uh
3:06:51right now with regards to the so Holden
3:06:55uh uh litigation that has come to a
3:06:58resolution and there's an agreement in
3:06:59the settlement and that has come to a
3:07:01resolution. Um uh however what you were
3:07:05stating is the the issue as a whole
3:07:07we're still working moving forward.
3:07:09We're still working through that. Um
3:07:11could there be potential for further
3:07:13litigation perhaps? I don't know. I
3:07:15can't uh I can't speak to that directly.
3:07:18Um but um but they're still ongoing. Uh
3:07:22we have drafted we have a draft. We've
3:07:24been working on a draft to that we feel
3:07:27as though we could pretend we could give
3:07:29enough information to the public in
3:07:32terms of providing some background what
3:07:34happened with sewer the current issue
3:07:36what was the resolve but related to the
3:07:38current holding uh sewer situation. Um
3:07:42but there's matters there that we we
3:07:45cannot disclose at this time because of
3:07:48negotiations uh for future purposes. Um
3:07:51but there there is a level of
3:07:53information that we could provide as a
3:07:55historical background in terms of what
3:07:57happened what what was dealt with what
3:07:59we did and what was the resolve related
3:08:01to the Holden uh particular only
3:08:04lawsuit. We can do something like that.
3:08:06But in regards to the other elements to
3:08:08re to bring forward a new negotiated
3:08:10agreement that requires further
3:08:12conversation and that I'd be a little
3:08:14bit hesitant uh to provide information
3:08:16and details on that.
3:08:17>> Thank you administration. Part of this
3:08:19order is related to state officials um
3:08:24communications. Um
3:08:27my concern is that we're still in
3:08:30communication with state officials um as
3:08:33it relates to moving forward with this
3:08:35particular man. I know we had a city
3:08:36solicitor, a deputy or someone here
3:08:38early. I don't know if they're around or
3:08:41not. Um
3:08:43I'm just wondering, I mean, are we going
3:08:45to get an executive session pertaining
3:08:47to that? Like what is it going to be a
3:08:50one-off for each particular counselor if
3:08:52you happen to ask? Um, you know, I I I
3:08:55certainly think this is something that
3:08:57obviously um, you know, with that I
3:08:59wasn't going to support this on its
3:09:00face, but with this explanation, I'm
3:09:02going to sign on to it. Um, but um, so
3:09:05I'm going to sign on to this, but I I I
3:09:07do um have some hesitation as it relates
3:09:12to that. If you could just respond to
3:09:14the chair,
3:09:15>> the manager.
3:09:15>> Yeah. To the ch the council. Um, right
3:09:17now there's there's not enough
3:09:19information that I would be able to
3:09:21provide in executive session to give
3:09:24enough uh to the council. Um, that's why
3:09:27I haven't requested an executive session
3:09:30to give uh an updates uh in terms of
3:09:32where we're at uh with uh with to the
3:09:36council. Um but again we would we can as
3:09:38part of our memo try to provide some
3:09:40information given so that we would be
3:09:43limited in providing as much information
3:09:46based on the current discussions that
3:09:48are happening right now with state
3:09:49officials.
3:09:49>> Thank you Mr. Chair.
3:09:52>> Council Bergman.
3:09:54>> Thank you Mr. Chairman. Can I rise just
3:09:56for a know if it's an amendment or a or
3:10:00a question of clarification which I
3:10:02don't think I'll be able to get answered
3:10:04uh through the chair of the city
3:10:06manager. Is the city solicer unavailable
3:10:08tonight?
3:10:09>> Yes, she's not available.
3:10:10>> So I I just I just had a question and we
3:10:13can get a report back because this is
3:10:15going to this going to require report.
3:10:16So perhaps we could amend this just uh
3:10:18to get information back from slicer as
3:10:22to whether or not there are any um
3:10:25qualifications or privileges with
3:10:28respect to uh conversations with state
3:10:31officials to resolve the matter. I
3:10:33personally don't think there is. It's
3:10:34not my role to make that decision. I
3:10:37think we may get some sticky points when
3:10:40we're talking about decision making on a
3:10:41case especially if there's future
3:10:43litigation. But I don't think any
3:10:45conversations with state officials and
3:10:47other parties uh politically trying to
3:10:49resolve this case is privileged. But
3:10:51maybe we can get that answer from the
3:10:53city solicitor when you get the report
3:10:54back. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
3:10:56>> So Senate to manager has amended the
3:10:58reports as requested. Those in favor
3:11:01opposed
3:11:03request manager requests commission
3:11:04public works review all street signs on
3:11:06Kenny cut and replace any street signs
3:11:09that are not spelled correctly.
3:11:10Councelor Econom
3:11:11>> as it reads, Mr. Chairman. Senator
3:11:13Manager. All those in favor opposed.
3:11:16Request city manager requests the police
3:11:18chief provide speed and traffic
3:11:19enforcement on Winster Street. Council
3:11:22Vera,
3:11:23>> you missed one.
3:11:28>> I missed I just skip one. Go ahead.
3:11:29Councelor Va go back there.
3:11:30>> Aar.
3:11:31>> Okay. All those in favor post. So going
3:11:34back to 12p request city manager request
3:11:36commissioner of public works fill
3:11:38potholes along the entire length of
3:11:40Westbrook road. Council call
3:11:41>> a read.
3:11:43>> Those in favor? Oppos? So ordered. 12R.
3:11:46We're going to hold on the privilege.
3:11:49Okay.
3:11:5012.
3:11:51>> I'm sorry. What happened with 12 R?
3:11:53>> It's held under the privilege?
3:11:54>> By whom?
3:11:55>> Council Bada.
3:11:56>> Okay. Thank you. Of course, city clerk
3:11:59worked with the board of health and
3:12:00division of public health um agent to
3:12:03evaluate the city's death certificate
3:12:05process to provide city council with a
3:12:06report detailing ways to improve
3:12:09efficiency and reduce processing times
3:12:10of establishing said records. Council
3:12:12Bada,
3:12:13>> thank you. Yeah, I just know it seems
3:12:15like a bit of an obscure order, but um
3:12:18in conversations with folks in the
3:12:19Lincoln Street corridor had an
3:12:21opportunity to uh talk with the folks
3:12:23that run uh Nordrren Funeral Home and
3:12:26they mentioned that just the amount of
3:12:28time uh it takes compared to other
3:12:30larger municipalities in the state to
3:12:33process this and was hoping we could
3:12:35maybe figure out a way to improve
3:12:36efficiency to make sure that we're uh
3:12:39you know basically improving efficiency
3:12:40and reducing processing times. uh to
3:12:43really help you know families and loved
3:12:45ones in a in a very challenging time. We
3:12:47all unfortunately know that sometimes
3:12:48after someone's death there can be a lot
3:12:50of legal and and financial challenges.
3:12:52So um just really hoping we can figure
3:12:54out a way to make this as easy as
3:12:56possible for residents when they're
3:12:58going through a very challenging time.
3:12:59So thank you.
3:13:01>> Thank you. All those in favor post. So
3:13:03ordered. Request city management request
3:13:04commission transportation mobility
3:13:06install temporary boards to help with
3:13:09the illegal parking on Okonnell field
3:13:11located at 155 G Street and in the
3:13:13vicinity of 173 Gro Street. Council
3:13:16>> Rivera as it reads
3:13:18>> it was yeah it was accidentally sent to
3:13:20uh the wrong public works and back to
3:13:23transportation mobility. So yeah
3:13:25>> those in favor oppose so ordered. Next
3:13:27item, request city manager provide
3:13:29council with a report update concerning
3:13:30the previously adopted order from
3:13:33February 3rd, 2026, which reads,
3:13:35"Requesting manager in honor of the
3:13:37nation's 250 anniversary as of a
3:13:39permanent gift to the city's residents
3:13:41consider uh finding funding sources for
3:13:44the commission of a statue of the
3:13:46historic reading of the Declaration of
3:13:47Independence by Isaiah Thomas be placed
3:13:49in the proper location in front of city
3:13:51hall."
3:13:52>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'll be
3:13:54relatively brief. the um
3:13:58the items come around a few times. I
3:14:00think the first time I put on was maybe
3:14:01three years ago. Uh I stood with a
3:14:04number of my colleagues, many of my
3:14:06colleagues uh last week for an
3:14:09interesting and I thought enjoyable
3:14:11event where we took part in reading
3:14:15different parts of the Declaration of
3:14:16Independence. And um I think many of us
3:14:19felt the pride in knowing that Wor was
3:14:21one of the first locations um to have it
3:14:24read. But I've got to be honest, some of
3:14:28the emotion was mixed with a little bit
3:14:31of embarrassment that the way we
3:14:34represent the historic event is by a
3:14:37plaque that's difficult to find to begin
3:14:40with, never mind in bad weather, snow,
3:14:43ice rice, you would never see it. But
3:14:45assuming it's good weather, you
3:14:47literally have to kind of walk on it or
3:14:49trip over it, so to speak, um to find
3:14:52it. And it's just, you know, this is one
3:14:54of the things in the time I've been on
3:14:56the council, and this predates the
3:14:57current city manager, so it's not about
3:15:00our current city manager. I know he's
3:15:02enthusiastic about doing something, but
3:15:04one of the things that frustrates me is
3:15:06I look at cities like Boston and they
3:15:08they grasp at the opportunity to
3:15:12celebrate their history by basically
3:15:15fighting each other over what monument
3:15:17or statue or or way we're going to
3:15:19celebrate this. And in Worester, we we
3:15:22we kind of say it's good enough. And
3:15:24that's been, I think, in a lot of ways
3:15:27not the way we should be handling our
3:15:29history. You know, those of us that
3:15:31appreciate it, and I think all of us do
3:15:32to a large degree, understand that toeto
3:15:35toe, Worcester history is as is as
3:15:37significant as Boston's, whether we're
3:15:39talking about the American Revolution,
3:15:41Civil War, so on and so forth. But we
3:15:43continue not to celebrate it. And you
3:15:46know, it should be something we have to
3:15:48avoid seeing instead of having to have
3:15:51to find. And you know, it's the nation's
3:15:53250th anniversary. And to me, it's it's
3:15:57like a simple
3:15:59project, although there is a cost. And
3:16:01maybe we can get some of our nonprofits
3:16:03excited about this because it does bring
3:16:06students that are in the city downtown.
3:16:09It also makes them proud. Hey, I go to a
3:16:11college that was in the city where
3:16:12Declaration of Independence was read
3:16:14early on, so on so forth. But we've, my
3:16:17opinion, we've got to find a way to do
3:16:19better um in celebrating our history
3:16:21instead of kind of being, you know,
3:16:24nonchalant about it. And this to me is a
3:16:26great way to start. And I just encourage
3:16:29the city manager by the end of the
3:16:32nation's 250th anniversary, which is the
3:16:34end of this year, 2026, let's at least
3:16:37have a plan in place so that next year
3:16:40we can start an annual tradition of
3:16:42reading the Declaration of Independence.
3:16:44uh with a a proper statute or monument.
3:16:48Um not want I literally had to show
3:16:50people where it was and I couldn't
3:16:52orient myself to find it. Usually I can.
3:16:55This time I couldn't. And to me that's
3:16:58embarrassing. So we can do better. We
3:17:00should do better. No pointing fingers.
3:17:03Um, I just think that whatever the cost
3:17:05is can be absorbed by um some of our
3:17:08nonprofits or some of our um financial
3:17:12um business owners that are in the city
3:17:14that also take pride in locating their
3:17:17businesses here. But I think we could do
3:17:19much better and we should. Thank you,
3:17:20Mr. Chairman.
3:17:22>> Mr. Chairman,
3:17:23>> Council Tumi
3:17:25Chair, I just rise to ask I I didn't see
3:17:28this, so I'd like to be added on.
3:17:30>> Okay. Councelor King.
3:17:32>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman just uh
3:17:35uh before I support this would like to
3:17:37know about the refurbishing process
3:17:41um for such monuments and and and and uh
3:17:45recognition. I know a couple years ago I
3:17:47had filed that the um the plaque that's
3:17:52associated with Bob Koozie Court um be
3:17:55and I don't know if the correct word is
3:17:56refurbished but whatever it's called um
3:17:59and updated um when we were um creating
3:18:03that that basketball court um dedication
3:18:06and it's still an outstanding concern.
3:18:08So, uh just through the charity
3:18:10administration, what is there a process
3:18:12by which um those sorts of things are um
3:18:16are looked at? Um you know,
3:18:20I'm I'm certainly going to sign on to
3:18:21this. um this is something that's right
3:18:24here um in our backyard or front yard
3:18:28and um wondering who's responsible
3:18:32um for those things on city property um
3:18:36to make sure that we're paying proper
3:18:39homage to uh folks through the chair
3:18:42>> the manager
3:18:43>> uh yeah through the chair to the council
3:18:45the parks department has a maintenance
3:18:46schedule on these things uh it's through
3:18:48the parks commissioner Robin Tanelli and
3:18:51Um and then it it again it's all subject
3:18:53to funding. So you have you can have a
3:18:56small plaque of refurbishing from you
3:18:58know recent I know a few years back we
3:19:00did the Civil War memorial that we
3:19:02refurbished and brought back. Um so
3:19:04there's a there's a schedule that the
3:19:06that he has and and it is all subject to
3:19:08the availability of funding that year
3:19:10based on our recommendations to the
3:19:12council. So that's something that the
3:19:13that the parks department manages and
3:19:15handles uh on a day-to-day basis.
3:19:17>> Thank you. I I would just hopefully
3:19:19accept this friendly amendment that in
3:19:21addition to this process that while
3:19:23that's in play or that's in in process
3:19:27um for lack of a better word that um we
3:19:29take a look at refurbishing that um
3:19:32until this right here comes to full
3:19:34realization. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
3:19:36>> Okay, we'll send that to the U
3:19:39manager.
3:19:41All those in favor opposed.
3:19:44The question committee of public health
3:19:46and human services will meet with
3:19:47representatives from the board of health
3:19:49selected medical professionals and youth
3:19:50advocacy agencies to discuss youth
3:19:52exposure and addiction to tobacco
3:19:54nicotine and vaping among others.
3:19:56Council Rosen.
3:19:58>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. chairman.
3:20:00Uh, prior to serving on the city council
3:20:03this year, I served on the worester
3:20:05board of health for four years and we
3:20:08had a a lot of discussions about our
3:20:10tobacco regulations and maybe, you know,
3:20:14we can protect the public by them and
3:20:16that's our main mission, but we also
3:20:18maybe could look at small businesses and
3:20:20help them out too, especially those
3:20:22that, you know, deal with tech, tobacco,
3:20:24nicotine products and so on.
3:20:26And recently the board of health did
3:20:29meet the new board of health and they
3:20:31met and they did relax some of the
3:20:34regulations
3:20:35uh that were I think overall you know
3:20:38hurting a few of our small businesses
3:20:40and I don't want to go through the whole
3:20:42you know story again but I did bring up
3:20:45early in this term the plight of no noco
3:20:51uh that entertainment center uh on lower
3:20:56Pleasant Street right next to Creed. And
3:20:58Creed, I guess, has a smoking bar there.
3:21:02And Noah Meco owned, minority owned,
3:21:04female owned, did invest about $60,000
3:21:08into a ventilation system that they
3:21:10thought would help them also put a
3:21:12smoking bar in there. So, we would have
3:21:14two next to each other, too close to
3:21:15each other, according to the rules of
3:21:17the board of health. And uh this the
3:21:21board of health and the department of
3:21:23public health soon after told them sorry
3:21:25you invested all that money but you
3:21:27can't use the equipment noco because
3:21:30you're too close to creed but if you
3:21:31move up maybe the most one/tenth of a
3:21:34mile up the street or down the street or
3:21:36away from creed you can do it. I mean
3:21:37tenth of a mile isn't very much. So, uh,
3:21:41we tried a year or two ago to get Noah
3:21:44Meco the, uh, permission from the board
3:21:47of health to open a smoking bar. It
3:21:50didn't work. But this latest board of
3:21:52health, just a few weeks ago, I was at
3:21:53the meeting. Big crowd there. And they
3:21:56did uh uh lessen up on some of the
3:22:00restrictions and it worked out well for
3:22:01Noameco. And I'm thrilled too because
3:22:03it's a downtown business. It's minority
3:22:07owned, female owned. It was a very good
3:22:09decision by the board of health. But
3:22:10what surprised me at that meeting was
3:22:13the number of youth agencies
3:22:15representatives who showed up and also
3:22:18doctors and they showed up and they all
3:22:21said border health don't lessen don't
3:22:25ease up on these restrictions because
3:22:28it's going to hurt our youth. And we
3:22:30have problems in the city of Worcester
3:22:32with youth getting involved in nicotine
3:22:35and tobacco substances and vaping. And
3:22:39if you allow say creed to open up so
3:22:42close to to uh I mean uh Noah Mexico
3:22:46open so close to Creed, you're going to
3:22:48hurt our youth. And I I was listening to
3:22:50this and as a the chair of the board of
3:22:52the chair of our council's public health
3:22:55committee and a former board of health
3:22:56member, I just didn't agree with the
3:22:58doctors and the youth organizations that
3:23:01less, you know, easing up on the
3:23:03restrictions would harm our youth. I
3:23:05would never support anything like that
3:23:07and I don't think anyone in this council
3:23:08would. But then it got me thinking
3:23:10listening to these youth organizations,
3:23:12the representatives and the doctors that
3:23:14spoke that maybe our youth in in
3:23:17Worcester are, you know, uh, threatened
3:23:20by the use of vaping products, nicotine
3:23:23and tobacco. So I think it's a topic
3:23:26that our public health committee chaired
3:23:29by me with councelor Tumi, councelor
3:23:33King as the members, we should take a
3:23:34look at this because the doctors are
3:23:36probably right. our youth are being
3:23:38threatened by these products. Uh Noah
3:23:42Meesco and Creed, that's age 21 and up.
3:23:46So, there were two different
3:23:47discussions, but I picked up on the one
3:23:50that I didn't think applied to the
3:23:52easing up on the restrictions of tobacco
3:23:54use in Worcester, but I do care about
3:23:56our youth. My whole life has been with
3:23:58youth as far as teaching and so on. Um,
3:24:02so I hope we can vote to send this to
3:24:04the committee on public health and we
3:24:06can have a few hearings with those in
3:24:07the no, some doctors, some of the youth
3:24:10organizations. What can we do as a city
3:24:12to keep our youth away from tobacco and
3:24:16nicotine and vaping? I'd like to keep
3:24:18everyone away if we could. We wish no
3:24:20one would smoke. No one would use
3:24:22tobacco, but you know, it's a legal
3:24:23product. But can we do something to have
3:24:26our youth avoid these products? Yes, I
3:24:29think we can. If we understand the
3:24:31problem, we know how big the problem is.
3:24:34So, I think the public health committee,
3:24:36you know, sometime by the fall can
3:24:38handle this and bring back some good
3:24:39recommendations to our city council.
3:24:41Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
3:24:43>> Thank you. We'll send that to the
3:24:44committee.
3:24:45>> Sign on. Okay, everybody. Mr.
3:24:47>> Chairman, I'd like to speak in
3:24:49opposition to this item. Um,
3:24:51>> okay.
3:24:52>> Doesn't quite make sense to me that we,
3:24:54this council voted to ease up
3:24:56restrictions for tobacco. it it for a
3:24:59tobacco business. And now we're
3:25:01concerned about youth using tobacco. We
3:25:04don't think kids have fake IDs that can
3:25:06get in. No offense, but I I I mean, we
3:25:09on the one hand, we want to make it
3:25:10easier for businesses to sell tobacco.
3:25:13And now on the other hand, we want to
3:25:15explore youth exposure, which we all
3:25:17know is a long-term issue and has been
3:25:19in the city and across the country. So,
3:25:21I just don't understand this order, and
3:25:23I and I'm opposed to it. So, thank you.
3:25:25>> Thank you, C. Uh, councelor uh, Bergman
3:25:29Fen.
3:25:31>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. [clears throat]
3:25:32I'll I'll support at the moment, but I
3:25:35want I want to be clear that yeah, I'm
3:25:37sure if we talk to medical
3:25:38professionals, but a lot of habits um,
3:25:41youth and adults, they're going to have
3:25:43a lot of suggestions about things we're
3:25:44doing wrong, including, and I've said
3:25:46this before, my love of chocolate. Um,
3:25:48but I don't want any uh, subcommittee
3:25:51meeting talking about limiting my
3:25:53ability to make my own adult decision.
3:25:55So, I'm not opposed to sending it to
3:25:57committee, but I am concerned about the
3:26:00slippery slope uh of trying to manage uh
3:26:03adult behavior. And as far as, you know,
3:26:06the youth, well, I just remind everybody
3:26:08the age that we allow people to buy and
3:26:10smoke marijuana uh at at an age where
3:26:13all medical uh legitimate medical
3:26:16professionals tend to say the brain
3:26:18isn't fully developed. So, I have some
3:26:21inconsistencies there, too, where the
3:26:23brain isn't fully developed till you're
3:26:2525 and you can buy marijuana at 21. I I
3:26:28I think there's a lot of problems with
3:26:31how a lot of things are handled. I think
3:26:33unfortunately we don't always do it the
3:26:35medical way. We do it often times the
3:26:37political way and and I have issues with
3:26:39those inconsistencies, but for the
3:26:41moment, I'll be happy to support it
3:26:42going to committee.
3:26:44>> Okay. Council Kate,
3:26:47>> Mr. Chimman. Um,
3:26:51I think I just heard a concern about
3:26:55marijuana use, the brain not fully
3:26:57developed at age 25. Um, this is my
3:27:01professional
3:27:03um, area of expertise as relates to
3:27:05mental health and brain development,
3:27:07etc. Um, and I can certainly understand
3:27:11from whence it comes. Uh, we also have
3:27:14laws here that allow folks to drink
3:27:16alcohol at age 21. And I'm hoping that
3:27:19there's not an implication or inference
3:27:22um or anything of the like um where uh
3:27:26folks might be looking to increase that
3:27:28age to 25. I'm not quite sure what the
3:27:30comments were intended for. If it's
3:27:33that, I I I I don't stand by that. Um
3:27:36that being said, Mr. Chairman, um I will
3:27:39say this. Um on other matters before
3:27:42this council this term and in previous
3:27:44terms um I've asked for uh the division
3:27:48of youth services or operations to work
3:27:51um through recor with um young folks
3:27:54regarding vaping. Um, prior to that, I
3:27:57asked the city administration to do an
3:28:00educational um uh um campaign uh
3:28:06curriculum um with respect to vaping and
3:28:09young people um in the summertime
3:28:11through Rec Worester. Um this
3:28:13administration actually has done that
3:28:15and has implemented that. Um, and you
3:28:18know, meeting with folks from Grove
3:28:20Street, uh, sorry, sorry, Forest Grove,
3:28:23uh, a couple of years ago, the middle
3:28:24school folks, they had asked, and I
3:28:25brought to this council floor, um, a
3:28:28request for, uh, vaping alarms in our
3:28:31middle schools, vaping detectors or
3:28:33sensors, I'm sorry. Um, and, um, there
3:28:37was discussion on the and that was
3:28:38brought to from this body to the school
3:28:41body, um, where they determined that it
3:28:44was too costly. And um I do know for a
3:28:47fact that that youth vaping and
3:28:50exposures is is significant. Um I'm
3:28:53going to continue to sign on to this.
3:28:55That's a discussion worth having. Um and
3:28:59you know, anything we can do um as
3:29:02relates to educating young people. Um we
3:29:05should absolutely do that. And that's
3:29:06that's sort of how how I see this uh Mr.
3:29:10Chairman. So I look forward to the
3:29:11discussion. Thank you.
3:29:14Councelor
3:29:19Rosen, I'm sorry. Oh, councelor.
3:29:22>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh, just two
3:29:25two questions. Um, one, if it's
3:29:28possible, um, I think this is a good
3:29:30idea. It's something I talked about
3:29:32before. Um, but I think it's important
3:29:35to find a way to include in this uh
3:29:38meeting during these conversations uh
3:29:40someone from the W public schools
3:29:42personnel because they deal directly
3:29:44with this on a on a daily basis as well.
3:29:46So if we can include them that would be
3:29:47good and um through the chair to the
3:29:51city manager when he's available. Um
3:29:55so is this saying or maybe uh uh
3:29:58councelor Rosen can answer this. So, is
3:29:59this saying that as of right now we
3:30:02don't have
3:30:05um these type of discussions going on or
3:30:08is this something that I'm pretty sure
3:30:10we do have data from the department? Um
3:30:14and if we do, how just I guess during
3:30:17that meeting, can you just make sure
3:30:18it's it's shared as well. So, the
3:30:20question was to to the city manager, um
3:30:24we we currently aren't having
3:30:26conversations like this at all. Is is
3:30:27that fair to say?
3:30:30Mr. Manager,
3:30:31>> no. Through the chair to the council,
3:30:33the department of public health and our
3:30:34youth office are constantly having
3:30:37conversations with partners in providing
3:30:39information and resources to the young
3:30:41people in our city with either through
3:30:42the request program. We alo as a summit
3:30:45that we do with our young people.
3:30:46There's significant amount of work
3:30:48happening by both the public health
3:30:50office and also the youth office in
3:30:54relationship in partnership with the
3:30:55public schools in providing uh uh
3:30:57conversations and resources around this
3:30:59topic.
3:31:00>> Okay. Thank you.
3:31:03>> Okay. Council Rosen.
3:31:05>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Mr.
3:31:07Chairman and my colleagues, the the
3:31:10restrictions that were eased up by the
3:31:12board of health recently were basically
3:31:15citing restrictions, sighting of
3:31:18businesses, retail outlets, smoking
3:31:20bars, you know, vape shops or whatever
3:31:23they're called. Uh, and that's what the
3:31:26discussion was all about. But the people
3:31:30who were in opposition that night a few
3:31:33weeks ago at the board of health
3:31:34meeting, the ones in opposition kept
3:31:36bringing up the youth issue. Why? Why
3:31:39did they do that? One, I think two were
3:31:41pediatricians, a couple who represented
3:31:44youth organizations, maybe I think
3:31:47someone was from the Worcester public
3:31:48schools, but they all kept speaking
3:31:50about the problems we have with youth
3:31:54interested in addiction of tobacco,
3:31:56nicotine, and vaping.
3:31:59and you know what could we do about
3:32:01that? But they did associate that issue
3:32:04with the sighting of these tobacco and
3:32:07nicotine outlets. And I think they're
3:32:10two different things. But I didn't want
3:32:12to walk away from the meeting even
3:32:13though I thought they were, you know,
3:32:15clouding the issue of citing. I didn't
3:32:17want to walk away and say, well, we
3:32:19don't really know what's going on with
3:32:21the students or the children in the city
3:32:23of Worcester and maybe we don't care
3:32:25about them. I think we'd be derelict in
3:32:27our duties not to take a look. Now,
3:32:29council O'Hita said he basically was
3:32:32asking, you know, are we doing anything
3:32:33now? He asked the manager, what are we
3:32:35doing? And I have the same question. I'm
3:32:37not sure. And he's not sure. And it
3:32:41would be good, I think, on our part to
3:32:42take a look. What are we doing? Are we
3:32:45doing enough? If we are, that's
3:32:47wonderful. But according to the people
3:32:49who spoke at the sighting of these pl
3:32:53these businesses, we're not doing
3:32:55enough. And they kept making it clear.
3:32:57They just were confusing, I think, two
3:33:00different issues. But, you know, I
3:33:03walked away, even though I was
3:33:04supporting the citing changes. I walked
3:33:06away and said, "Yeah, we have a
3:33:08responsibility as a city of Worcester,
3:33:10as a city council, as a uh a committee
3:33:14on public health. We have responsibility
3:33:16to our youth. If things are all perfect
3:33:18with them and there's nothing we can do,
3:33:20I'll come back and I'll say that. Our
3:33:22committee will will discuss it and I'll
3:33:24come back and say, "Gee, it's too bad.
3:33:26We have so many addicted youth here in
3:33:28the city addicted to nicotine and
3:33:30tobacco and vaping and the problems
3:33:32getting worse, but there's nothing we
3:33:34can do." You know, you know me. I won't
3:33:37come back and say that. I'm never like
3:33:38that. I never take that attitude. So,
3:33:41we'd be derelict in our duties if we
3:33:43just say, "I don't support this. I don't
3:33:46think the public health committee should
3:33:47take a look at this. Are you kidding me?
3:33:50You bet. We should take a look at it and
3:33:52we should take a look at it soon. Thank
3:33:54you, Mr. Chairman.
3:33:55>> Thank you. So, we'll do a roll call vote
3:33:58on this roll call.
3:34:00>> Councilor Bregman,
3:34:02>> yes.
3:34:03>> Council Mau,
3:34:04>> yes.
3:34:05>> Council Cono,
3:34:06>> yes.
3:34:06>> Council Zolo,
3:34:07>> yes.
3:34:08>> Councelor King,
3:34:09>> yes.
3:34:10>> Council Mitra,
3:34:11>> yes.
3:34:11>> Council,
3:34:12>> yes.
3:34:12>> Council Rivera,
3:34:14>> yes. Councelor Rosen,
3:34:15>> yes.
3:34:15>> Councilor Tumi,
3:34:16>> yes.
3:34:17>> And Mayor Penny,
3:34:18>> yes. 12 W requests the city manager work
3:34:21with the appropriate pies to create
3:34:22educational campaign ensuring the city
3:34:24residents are taught how to properly
3:34:25dispose of pet waste. Said educational
3:34:27campaign could include ensuring
3:34:29residents do not dispose of pet waste in
3:34:31the in the city's storm drains catch
3:34:34basins. Council Mitra,
3:34:36>> thank you Mr. Chair through you to the
3:34:38manager. Mr. manager. This is u this
3:34:41order is placed because uh I think
3:34:43constantly resident from Cardinal Road
3:34:47has been writing to us not only to me
3:34:49but to many other city councilors also
3:34:52about the uh disposal of the pet west in
3:34:56the storm water and the catch basin and
3:35:00the stone drains and that's kind of
3:35:02illegal. He has been sending us the
3:35:04videos sending us the photographs. So I
3:35:06thought it would be better if we can
3:35:08send some flyers or something to educate
3:35:10people that how to really dispose of the
3:35:13pet pest and not really uh do illegal
3:35:16things that that kind of become harmful
3:35:18and also the residents are disturbed
3:35:20with it. So I'd request you to kind of
3:35:22take some action to educate our
3:35:25community uh what should be done to
3:35:28right way to dispose of the pet bust.
3:35:31Thank you.
3:35:31>> Okay. So we'll send that to the mayor.
3:35:33>> Mr. May uh Mr. Mayor Tasha,
3:35:35>> can I add for an amendment?
3:35:37>> If we can just add on to two if there's
3:35:39any fines uh if caught doing so, I think
3:35:42that would be helpful. Thank you.
3:35:44>> Okay.
3:35:45>> As amended to the manager, all those in
3:35:47favor of post ordered request manager
3:35:49install a portrait of Esther Howen
3:35:50within Esta Howen South Chamber and City
3:35:53Hall. Council Mitra.
3:35:56>> Yes. Uh Mr. Chair, thank you so much. uh
3:35:59you know I kind of come to the city hall
3:36:01going to the third floor and all our
3:36:03hallways full of so many different
3:36:05portraits which are for those people who
3:36:07have done good job and good deeds uh I
3:36:10think but this hall chamber where we
3:36:13meet is named after Esther Howland and
3:36:16uh she who has been very inspirational
3:36:19if you read back what she has been in
3:36:221880s when she started her business when
3:36:25the women didn't get much opportunity or
3:36:28had business of the Valentine car. She's
3:36:30known as the American Valentine lady.
3:36:33And I I I think it it is worth having a
3:36:36portrait where we have her her port, you
3:36:40know, the u Valentine card which was
3:36:43which I have the picture attached. Maybe
3:36:45next to it we can have a portrait of her
3:36:48just to honor her just like we have many
3:36:50other portraits in the hallway. So
3:36:52that's my request to see it will just
3:36:54add more to this hall as well.
3:36:57>> Okay. Send that to the manager. All
3:36:58those in favor oppose so audited. Press
3:37:01the manager provided a meeting between
3:37:02appropriate uh representatives and local
3:37:04business owners on social street in the
3:37:06vicinity of Gen's graphic located 134 S
3:37:09Street to discuss ways to remedy
3:37:11concerns around cloniness and elicited
3:37:13activities occurring in the area.
3:37:15Council Mitra.
3:37:17>> Thank you, Mr. Chair. This also is an
3:37:19order that comes from an email that I
3:37:23received from Gutton and Graphics. I
3:37:26think I've given that email to everyone.
3:37:29Uh they're a little bit disturbed. Coney
3:37:31Allen Gen Graphics because the new
3:37:34business that started there, the um the
3:37:38cannib shop there and they're not
3:37:40following the orders or the laws uh the
3:37:43way it should be happening there. So
3:37:45they are a little bit concerned about
3:37:47the way things are going and they would
3:37:49like that. I would request that city
3:37:51manager if we can meet with those
3:37:53business owners around uh garden
3:37:55graphics in that area probably we can
3:37:58hear them what they have and they need
3:38:00to see that uh the order and the
3:38:04discipline is maintained a lot of uh
3:38:06unhouse people are going there drug
3:38:08addicts are going there and they are not
3:38:10disposing out properly a lot of wasted a
3:38:13lot of illicit activities are going on
3:38:15according to John Girtton Gertin
3:38:18graphics and sent very detailed email.
3:38:20I'll forward you that email. So, I
3:38:22thought maybe it'll be a good idea to
3:38:24sit or gather together with all the
3:38:26business owners in that area and see how
3:38:29we can help them to uh combat or kind of
3:38:32bring a solution to this issue that
3:38:34they're facing.
3:38:38>> Thank you.
3:38:41>> Thank you,
3:38:44>> Council.
3:38:46>> Thank you. Yeah, this was something that
3:38:47I I signed on to. Um, and if Dr. Meer
3:38:50doesn't mind, I think um one of our
3:38:53maybe one of the better ways or easier
3:38:55way is for him and I to get together
3:38:58with those business owners in the
3:38:59residents in that area, have our meeting
3:39:01first with them, and then based on those
3:39:03findings, we can go to the city manager
3:39:05and tell him these are the things that
3:39:06we're looking for. Um, so he can help us
3:39:09versus um having meeting after meeting
3:39:12after meeting. Um, I think this will
3:39:13just it'll be dragged out too long. So I
3:39:16think um schedule the meeting together
3:39:18with with all the uh people involved
3:39:20here and then like I said come up with
3:39:23an outline and then present it to the
3:39:24city manager from there either at your
3:39:26meeting or our meeting and we can do it
3:39:27that way.
3:39:28>> Thank you.
3:39:29>> No problem.
3:39:29>> Thank you.
3:39:31>> Okay. All set. We send that to U city
3:39:35manager. All those in favor opposed.
3:39:38Z request manage request the commission
3:39:40of public works with the city solicited
3:39:41to provide council to report concerning
3:39:43the responsibility available waiverss
3:39:44and possible cost sharing options
3:39:46available when associated with the
3:39:48public shade trees that document or have
3:39:50repeatedly damaged or contributed to the
3:39:52failure of residential building sore uh
3:39:55including it how it relates to the
3:39:57application of revised ordinances. Uh,
3:39:59Council Conno,
3:40:02>> Mr. Chairman, thank you. Um, would this
3:40:05go to through the chair to the clerk? Is
3:40:08public works the right spot for this?
3:40:11>> Mr. Clerk?
3:40:13>> Yeah, I through the chair to the
3:40:14council. I believe uh public works as
3:40:16well, but
3:40:17>> Okay. Uh, as it reads, Mr. Chairman, we
3:40:20can uh debate this in uh subcommittee.
3:40:22Thank you.
3:40:22>> Those in favor post so we are 13D.
3:40:25[clears throat]
3:40:28Uh request to see and manage request to
3:40:30commission transportation mobility
3:40:31ensure that the crosswalks at the
3:40:33intersection of Huntley Street and
3:40:35Pleasant Street that was not uh
3:40:37repainted following a recent repaving of
3:40:40location as soon as possible in the
3:40:42interest of safety for students crossing
3:40:45to attend Middle Street School.
3:40:46Councelor Rivera.
3:40:48>> Um I see I would like to say you know as
3:40:52it reads but I just want to make sure
3:40:53that it's important that we know that
3:40:57any of this issues that we have in the
3:40:59schools whether it's sidewalk stuff like
3:41:01that. I'm hoping that we can take care
3:41:03of it right away. Um and uh yeah.
3:41:09>> Okay.
3:41:10>> The manager was in favor of postal
3:41:12audit.
3:41:12>> Mr. Chairman.
3:41:15Excuse me. Go ahead,
3:41:16>> council block.
3:41:17>> Just had a question. 13A. Did we already
3:41:20>> We already did A, B, and C. Yep.
3:41:22>> We did.
3:41:23>> Yeah.
3:41:23>> Is there any way to revisit A or No.
3:41:25>> No, we didn't.
3:41:26>> I don't think so. A
3:41:28>> no. It went from Z to 13 D.
3:41:31>> Okay. Thank you.
3:41:33>> Order. So, we need 13 A, 13 B, and 13 C.
3:41:36>> Okay. We did B and C.
3:41:38>> Thank you.
3:41:38>> My fault. Okay. We'll go back to the
3:41:40minute, but we're on councelor
3:41:41>> River.
3:41:44>> 13D. We did.
3:41:46>> We just finished it.
3:41:49>> 13D
3:41:51is the one you just held. We're going to
3:41:53send that to the uh Commissioner
3:41:55Transportation Mobility. Correct.
3:41:57>> Correct.
3:41:57>> All those in favor of postal audit. 13A.
3:42:00I thought we did it, but I guess I
3:42:01missed it. requests
3:42:04uh
3:42:06chief development officer convene a
3:42:07meeting with the appropriate
3:42:08stakeholders discuss and create a plan
3:42:10related to the appropriate amount of
3:42:12land being idea to conservation land in
3:42:15light of the current housing crisis.
3:42:17Council econom thank you Mr. Chairman,
3:42:19I'm just bringing this forward just
3:42:21excuse [clears throat] me. It's great
3:42:23that we're um
3:42:26putting all this land into conservation
3:42:28and making connections around the city
3:42:31uh with all these land masses. I was
3:42:33just looking for an idea uh if economic
3:42:36development um has ever worked on it.
3:42:40Just a report to see how that's
3:42:42balancing out with our need for housing,
3:42:45all types of housing. Um, that's really
3:42:47what I'm looking for, Mr. Chairman.
3:42:49Thank you.
3:42:49>> Okay.
3:42:49>> Send that to the manager,
3:42:51>> Council Bl.
3:42:52>> Yeah, I'm I appreciate Councelor Econ
3:42:55who's like in in time with this, but I
3:42:58concerned about it only because I feel
3:43:00like it kind of pits one one need
3:43:01against another. Um I think you know
3:43:03we're fortunate to have a lot of green
3:43:05space in the city and whether it's um
3:43:08you know Lake Park or Hadwin Park or um
3:43:12you know the Cascades I think I just
3:43:15worry about you know kind of pitting two
3:43:17things against each other when I think
3:43:18we we can better resolve the housing
3:43:20crisis not by chipping away at our green
3:43:22space but by you know doing more zoning
3:43:26density infilling downtown like we
3:43:27talked about the u and other
3:43:30initiatives. So, um
3:43:33I I'll be voting in the negative on
3:43:35this, but just just just a concern that
3:43:37I have. So,
3:43:39>> okay. So, send that to the mana manager.
3:43:42Those in favor of postal ordered. We did
3:43:44B, we did C, we did D. Council King has
3:43:47held 13 E
3:43:51and F
3:43:52>> and 13 F. So, we're on 13G.
3:43:56request manager request city to provide
3:43:59city council with the legal opinion rel
3:44:00to whether the developers of four green
3:44:02lane will be prohibited from tra
3:44:04traversing and using
3:44:06heavy equipment on Pineh Hill Road due
3:44:08to the road's private status for
3:44:10requested the legal opinion also include
3:44:12information concerning whether the city
3:44:13can require the repaved disrupted
3:44:17portions of the private road at the
3:44:18completion of the project council for
3:44:21>> through [snorts] you Mr. chairman uh
3:44:25and my colleagues, I I want you to know
3:44:28that this development here at for Brandt
3:44:31Lane is uh one that
3:44:36if completed would
3:44:40create hundreds of apartments
3:44:43and in doing so, if it happens,
3:44:46heavy equipment and
3:44:50usage of a private road that abuts the
3:44:55property, Pineh Hill Road,
3:44:58would happen and has started to happen.
3:45:01[snorts] And Pineh [clears throat] Hill
3:45:02Road
3:45:04is a private road, but it's a road, a
3:45:06private road that I would think is
3:45:08unlike many private roads in the city of
3:45:11Worester. is there's only one way in and
3:45:14one way out and it leads you to four or
3:45:18five other private roads off of Pine
3:45:21Hill. And again, uh the only way you get
3:45:25into those four or five streets are
3:45:27through Pineh Hill Road. So, especially
3:45:30I'd like to alert my uh colleagues that
3:45:32are at large councils, the six atlarge
3:45:34counselors, that your constituents on
3:45:37these private roads and back are uh
3:45:41adversely affected if something ever was
3:45:45to happen to Pineh Hill Road
3:45:48with this heavy equipment that might uh
3:45:51you know, use that road uh if this
3:45:55project ever uh takes place. Now what
3:45:59has happened is uh the trees
3:46:02uh on the lot where the apartments uh
3:46:06would go would be developed uh has
3:46:09started and uh I'm told there's a respit
3:46:14now there because uh
3:46:17uh due to conservation commission
3:46:19concerns so uh that project is stopped
3:46:23uh right now but uh I wrote this order
3:46:27in um
3:46:30in attempts to uh help the people that
3:46:34pay a lot of money each and every year
3:46:36to uh try to keep Pine Hill Road. um
3:46:42uh you know the ability to drive over it
3:46:46with uh using uh collecting funds to
3:46:50fill the potholes and do the things that
3:46:53every private uh street
3:46:56uh you know people that live on private
3:46:58streets not every but many here in the
3:47:01city do so uh that's why I have asked
3:47:05the uh city solicitor to look into um
3:47:10the ability to keep that heavy equipment
3:47:13off the road. And one other factor I'd
3:47:17like to bring to my colleagues
3:47:18attention, especially the six atlarge
3:47:21counselors that represent those people
3:47:24on those streets, is that if this
3:47:28project is completed, a good portion of
3:47:31Pineh Hill Road is
3:47:35uh this project would be a budding uh
3:47:38Pineh Hill Road. So, if Pine Hill Road
3:47:41was ever to be
3:47:45uh reconstructed or or u you know turned
3:47:49into turned into a a uh public road,
3:47:53they would have a good portion of Pineh
3:47:55Hill Road uh to uh have to pay in that
3:48:01instance. Now, uh that's been the
3:48:04problem uh for years that uh
3:48:10the abuters and the the uh pe people
3:48:13that live on Pineh Hill Road uh cannot
3:48:17agree all to um you know put out a
3:48:21petition to make it public and pay that
3:48:24expense. So, we're having a developer
3:48:28that is
3:48:30um has been in front of planning and
3:48:32zoning board and uh couple hundred maybe
3:48:37as much as 400 apartments could be
3:48:39there. And in my
3:48:42humble opinion,
3:48:44uh I think we should ask as part of uh
3:48:49their ability to put those apartments up
3:48:52to develop that land that they uh pay
3:48:55for the uh
3:48:59the the resurfacing of of Pineh Hill
3:49:02Road as part of that development. I
3:49:04don't know if we can do it. That's why
3:49:05I'm asking the city solicitor to get
3:49:08involved and give us an opin give me an
3:49:10opinion, give this council an opinion.
3:49:12But uh that's uh why I again filed the
3:49:17order uh after being uh called by many
3:49:21uh dozen uh
3:49:24residents that live off off those side
3:49:27streets and those private roads and
3:49:29back. Again, if anything was ha to
3:49:31happen to that road, whether it be a
3:49:33tree come down and you couldn't get uh
3:49:35over it or anything to do the heavy
3:49:38equipment, there's a brook that runs
3:49:40under there. O'Hara Brook runs under
3:49:42Pine Hill Road. if the if the weight of
3:49:44the equipment was I'm just saying it's
3:49:46uh you know uh hypothetical but if if
3:49:50the weight of uh the equipment had ever
3:49:53done any harm to that road and and
3:49:55people couldn't pass out it'd be a huge
3:49:57public safety issue where all those
3:49:59streets in the back come in and leave by
3:50:03one road Pine Hill Road. So uh
3:50:08Mr. Mr. Uh, chairman. Uh,
3:50:13I'll I'll end there, but if, uh, the
3:50:16city manager and the city solicitor
3:50:18could get back to us on this, I
3:50:20appreciate it. Thank you.
3:50:21>> Thank you, Council Bergman. What
3:50:24reasons?
3:50:25>> Uh, I I just want to uh, if I may, a
3:50:27friendly amendment on this. I've seen
3:50:29this situation play out before. Um and
3:50:35situation was very similar years later
3:50:37when the developer had long left. Um
3:50:40there were deficiencies found on the
3:50:41work that was done and it was too late
3:50:43to go back after the developer and the
3:50:47residents of the private street uh to
3:50:50this day um come before us from time to
3:50:54time wanting the street to be fixed and
3:50:56we no longer have we never had the
3:50:58authority to fix it. So, my friendly
3:50:59amendment, if it's accepted by um my
3:51:02colleague, councelor Friselo, and I hope
3:51:04it would be, would be in addition to
3:51:06asking the law department's opinion,
3:51:08also ask uh for information from
3:51:10planning board on what if any uh
3:51:13conditions and or restrictions are put
3:51:14on the developer post construction for
3:51:17the maintenance of any uh road work
3:51:19that's done there. That's acceptable.
3:51:22That's why I rise.
3:51:23>> Okay. So, we'll send that to the manager
3:51:25as amended.
3:51:27of those in favor post order. Mr.
3:51:29>> Chairman,
3:51:31>> um I I um on that particular item is
3:51:3313G.
3:51:36>> Yes.
3:51:36>> Yeah. I I want to abstain from that
3:51:38vote, please.
3:51:39>> Okay. Roll call.
3:51:44>> Councelor Bergman.
3:51:45>> Yes.
3:51:45>> Councelor Bada. Councelor Cono.
3:51:47>> Yes.
3:51:48>> Councelor Rolo.
3:51:49>> Yes.
3:51:49>> Councelor King.
3:51:50>> Abstain.
3:51:51>> Council Mitra.
3:51:52>> Yes.
3:51:53>> Council.
3:51:54>> Yes.
3:51:54>> Councelor Rivera.
3:51:55>> Yes.
3:51:55>> Council Rosen.
3:51:56>> Yes. Yes. Tumi.
3:51:57>> Yes.
3:51:57>> And Mayor Petty.
3:51:59>> Yes. 13H request a manager over the
3:52:01Super Public Schools for working with
3:52:04Fan Jam to help youth apply to
3:52:06independent contractor work permits that
3:52:08will provide an opportunity for them to
3:52:10participate in in busking and vending
3:52:13that the jam spots created in the city.
3:52:16Council King.
3:52:17>> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Basically, as it
3:52:19reads, I just the question I have is is
3:52:21there a way to to get this also to the
3:52:23education committee? Um, so can the item
3:52:27go to the committee while we waiting for
3:52:30um the manager to potentially work with
3:52:33these folks?
3:52:36>> Possible.
3:52:37>> How about we just send your committee
3:52:38have them come in?
3:52:39>> Okay, cool.
3:52:40>> Thank you.
3:52:41>> Okay, those in favor post. So a ordered.
3:52:45>> Okay. 14A held by council king.
3:52:48>> 14B transferring information
3:52:49communication rel to the various options
3:52:51available to make it changes city
3:52:52charter. That will go to MO.
3:52:56Those in favor of postal audit 14 C
3:52:58transformation communication relative
3:53:00advertisement for standing committee on
3:53:01municipal legislative operations meeting
3:53:03on Monday August 17 2026 related to the
3:53:07discussion of the city charter.
3:53:11Okay.
3:53:13This just advertising the meeting.
3:53:18Okay. Those in favor post. So ordered.
3:53:2214D transary information quarterly
3:53:24report outlining the various city
3:53:25council orders and chairman's orders uh
3:53:28adopted over the previous three months
3:53:29for the period of April 1st 2026 to June
3:53:3230th 2026
3:53:34okay Senator Mo all those in favor of
3:53:36post soal audited communication refer to
3:53:39economic development committee the
3:53:41research bureau report all those in
3:53:42favor post so a ordered
3:53:45>> what number was that
3:53:47>> that was the uh
3:53:48>> okay thank you
3:53:50>> 15day So on 16 A B 16
3:53:54>> 16 A
3:53:55>> B and 16A council FO
3:53:58>> Mr. Chairman through you to the manager
3:54:00uh manager I know
3:54:05one here from economic development but
3:54:07do you have any knowledge on this? Do
3:54:09you know what the zoning change would
3:54:11do? Uh I was told maybe uh
3:54:15the developer would like to put
3:54:17apartments in there. Do you are you
3:54:19aware of that?
3:54:21Well, that's that's what I'm that's what
3:54:23I've heard and I just wanted to clarify
3:54:25that. So, I don't know why we're making
3:54:28the zoning change, but
3:54:31>> it's going to go to the ED for a hearing
3:54:33anyway. So,
3:54:34>> it's going to committee. I know that,
3:54:35but
3:54:38>> we'll get you want detailed report on
3:54:40it. You'd like to see a detailed report,
3:54:42council?
3:54:43>> Yeah. I just I I wanted to see if the
3:54:45manager or someone here could alert me
3:54:47to what it might be, but that's fine.
3:54:49We'll just let it go to committee. I'll
3:54:51get a report.
3:54:52>> Okay.
3:54:52>> Perfect. Thank you.
3:54:54>> Okay. 16A and 6B referred to the
3:54:56economic development committee. All
3:54:58those in favor of postal audit 17 A to
3:55:0017 E. Motion to accept. Mr.
3:55:02>> Chairman, we could take out 17 C and D
3:55:05separately, please.
3:55:06>> 17 C
3:55:07>> and D separately.
3:55:09>> Yep.
3:55:09>> Could take them concurrently if you
3:55:11choose the C and D if you want.
3:55:13>> Okay. So we have 17 A to 17
3:55:1717 A to 17 E minus 17 C and 17 D. Uh
3:55:22motion to accept. All those in favor of
3:55:24postal audit 17 Council.
3:55:27>> No, just opposed.
3:55:29>> What's that?
3:55:29>> Just I want to be opposed on C and D. I
3:55:32have nothing to say.
3:55:32>> I want to take a vote. Yeah.
3:55:34>> I can't hear you.
3:55:35>> Yes. I just want to be marked as
3:55:37opposed.
3:55:38>> Okay.
3:55:38>> Not speaking on them at this time.
3:55:41>> Okay. Roll call.
3:55:44Councelor Bergman,
3:55:46>> yes. Council
3:55:47>> Bada,
3:55:49>> yes.
3:55:50>> Councilor Economo,
3:55:51>> yes.
3:55:51>> Council Rolo,
3:55:52>> yes.
3:55:53>> Council King,
3:55:53>> opposed. Council Mitra,
3:55:56>> yes.
3:55:56>> Council,
3:55:57>> yes.
3:55:57>> Council Rivera,
3:55:58>> yes.
3:55:59>> Councelor Rosen,
3:55:59>> yes.
3:56:00>> Council Tumi,
3:56:01>> yes.
3:56:01>> And Mayor Petty,
3:56:02>> yes. Dro roll call.
3:56:08>> Councelor Bergman,
3:56:09>> yes. Council bottle.
3:56:18>> Councelor Econom.
3:56:19>> Yes.
3:56:19>> Councelor Zolo.
3:56:20>> Yes.
3:56:21>> Councelor King.
3:56:22>> 17D. Opposed.
3:56:25>> Council Mitra.
3:56:26>> Yes.
3:56:26>> Council.
3:56:27>> Yes.
3:56:27>> Councelor Rivera.
3:56:28>> Yes.
3:56:28>> Council Rosen.
3:56:29>> Yes.
3:56:30>> Council Tumi.
3:56:30>> Yes.
3:56:31>> Mayor Petty.
3:56:32>> Yes. Uh 1881 18C. Motions to accept.
3:56:36>> Mr. Chairman.
3:56:39just had a question here clarification
3:56:42um
3:56:44just trying to get an understanding
3:56:46um through the chair
3:56:49um as to
3:56:51food permits and the like um how that's
3:56:53not a public health issue through the
3:56:56chair because under public safety
3:56:58>> which was good and fine uh 18A it's good
3:57:01and fine I just wanted an explanation as
3:57:04to why that's not a public health matter
3:57:07through the chair.
3:57:11I know inspectional services under
3:57:12public health public safety maybe that's
3:57:14the reason but I'm just trying to
3:57:15understand you know this is these are
3:57:17public health issues and I'm wondering
3:57:19how it's falling under
3:57:21>> that was sent to public safety and and
3:57:24uh please the same manager transmitting
3:57:26information communication rel to the
3:57:27transition to risk
3:57:29>> I withdraw the question Mr. Chairman,
3:57:30I'm good. We're good.
3:57:31>> Okay.
3:57:32>> Yep.
3:57:33>> 18 A to 18 C. Motion to accept. All
3:57:35those in favor of postal ordered. 19 A
3:57:38to 19
3:57:40M. Motion was accept. All those in favor
3:57:43postal ordered.
3:57:45>> 19 to 19 V.
3:57:47>> Mr. Chairman.
3:57:49>> Council. Oh, it was you council. I
3:57:51thought it was council river. Okay.
3:57:53>> No. If we can um if we can omit 19N for
3:57:57now and come back to us.
3:57:58>> Say it again. If we can omit
3:58:00>> 19
3:58:02N. Okay.
3:58:05>> 190 O to 19V. Motions to accept. All
3:58:08those in favor of postal audit. 19N.
3:58:10Councelor Okconom.
3:58:12>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh, this came
3:58:14out of committee um
3:58:17with the recommendation to file. But
3:58:19since since our
3:58:22committee meeting, the uh petitioner
3:58:25brought forward
3:58:28plenty of evidence to support the need
3:58:30for a God wheel. Um video evidence,
3:58:34photo evidence,
3:58:35um
3:58:37accident reports of cars coming into his
3:58:40property. Um, so
3:58:44in speaking with the clerk, we have the
3:58:47ability of this committee of this
3:58:49council right now to approve this uh
3:58:53this item tonight instead of sending it
3:58:56back to committee to go through the
3:58:58process
3:58:59um
3:59:01of looking at all the video, looking at
3:59:03all the pictures, looking at all the
3:59:04police reports of all the accidents. Um,
3:59:07so I would make the motion that we move
3:59:10forward on this and uh accept
3:59:15the guardrail
3:59:18to accept. All those in favor post so
3:59:22Mr. Clerk.
3:59:25Okay, we are on W. Refer to traffic and
3:59:28parking 19 W. Those in favor oppose. So
3:59:32ordered. Uh 28 to 20M advertise proposed
3:59:36ordinances from traffic and parking. Um
3:59:39roll call.
3:59:41>> Councelor Bergman.
3:59:43>> Yes.
3:59:43>> Councelor Bada.
3:59:44>> Yes.
3:59:45>> Councilor Econom.
3:59:46>> Yes.
3:59:46>> Councelor Vizolo.
3:59:47>> Yes.
3:59:48>> Councelor King.
3:59:51Council Mitra.
3:59:52>> Yes.
3:59:52>> Council.
3:59:53>> Yes.
3:59:54>> Council Rivera.
3:59:55>> Yes.
3:59:55>> Council Rosen.
3:59:56>> Yes.
3:59:56>> Council Tumi.
3:59:58>> Yes.
3:59:58>> And Mayor Petty.
3:59:59>> Yes. 20 N to 20 Y motion accept and to
4:00:02adopt. All those in favor post so
4:00:04awarded.
4:00:06Uh 20 Z motion accept. All those in
4:00:08favor opposed.
4:00:11Traffic and parking. 20 A to 21Z motions
4:00:14to accept. Those in favor oppose. So
4:00:17ordered.
4:00:20Okay.
4:00:24Z.
4:00:27Okay. Report of the traffic and parking.
4:00:33We got 22 A2 H motions to accept. All
4:00:37those in favor oppose. So ordered.
4:00:43>> Let's see. Loan order.
4:00:45Motion is adopted. The roll call. Roll
4:00:48call.
4:00:52>> Councelor Bergman.
4:00:53>> Yes.
4:00:53>> Councelor Bada.
4:00:54>> Yes.
4:00:54>> Councor Economo.
4:00:55>> Yes.
4:00:56>> Council. Yes, councelor King.
4:00:59>> Um, Mr. Chairman, uh, I just got a
4:01:01clarification here if I may on this
4:01:04item. Um, it indicates that, um, it
4:01:08eliminates the need for the council to
4:01:10vote on moving funds from one account to
4:01:13another. Is that right? Is that your
4:01:14understanding, Mr. Chairman? What I'm
4:01:15voting on?
4:01:17>> It's the same one we vote on, I think,
4:01:18every year. Is that right, Mr. Manager?
4:01:22We're done with the lawn
4:01:23>> 23A
4:01:26>> to move funds from one county
4:01:30another for administrative purposes.
4:01:32It's eliminating the requirement for
4:01:34amendment approval from the council.
4:01:35Just want to make sure that's that my
4:01:37understanding before I vote on it is
4:01:39accurate.
4:01:50understand.
4:01:51>> So this a vote yes would would take away
4:01:54the ability for the council or the
4:01:56necessity of the council to approve an
4:01:58amendal amendment
4:02:00um for moving of funds. Mr. Chairman, my
4:02:02vote my vote is no.
4:02:05>> Okay.
4:02:07Roll call.
4:02:10>> Councelor Bergman.
4:02:10>> Yes.
4:02:11>> Council Bada.
4:02:13>> No.
4:02:14>> Councilor Economo.
4:02:15>> Yes.
4:02:16>> Councelor Vo.
4:02:17>> Yes.
4:02:17>> Councilor King.
4:02:18>> No. Council Mitra,
4:02:20>> yes.
4:02:20>> Council Ha,
4:02:22>> no.
4:02:22>> Councelor Rivera,
4:02:25>> yes.
4:02:26>> Councelor Rosen,
4:02:27>> yes.
4:02:27>> Council Tumi,
4:02:28>> yes.
4:02:29>> And Mayor Penny,
4:02:30>> yes.
4:02:31>> 248 to 24Z. Motion was on the roll call.
4:02:34Roll call.
4:02:36>> Councilor Bergman.
4:02:37>> Yes.
4:02:37>> Council Bada.
4:02:39>> Yes.
4:02:39>> Councilor Economo.
4:02:40>> Yes.
4:02:40>> Counc.
4:02:41>> Yes.
4:02:42>> Council King.
4:02:43>> Yes.
4:02:43>> Demetra.
4:02:44>> Yes.
4:02:44>> Council.
4:02:45>> Yes.
4:02:46>> Council Rivera.
4:02:47>> Yes.
4:02:47>> Council Rosen.
4:02:48>> Yes. Council Tumi,
4:02:49>> yes.
4:02:49>> And Mayor Petty,
4:02:51>> yes.
4:02:52>> 25 A to 25 C. Motion was named on the
4:02:55roll call.
4:02:57>> Councelor Bergman,
4:02:58>> yes.
4:02:58>> Bada,
4:02:59>> yes.
4:03:00>> Counc,
4:03:00>> yes.
4:03:01>> Rolo,
4:03:02>> yes.
4:03:02>> Councelor King,
4:03:03>> yes.
4:03:04>> Mitra,
4:03:05>> yes.
4:03:05>> Oh,
4:03:06>> yes.
4:03:06>> Rivera,
4:03:07>> yes.
4:03:08>> Rosen,
4:03:08>> yes.
4:03:09>> Tumi,
4:03:10>> yes.
4:03:10>> And Mayor Petty,
4:03:12>> yes. 26A order of councelor Jose Rivera
4:03:16request city audit to provide council
4:03:18with a report detailing full financial
4:03:20audit and accounting of both the
4:03:22completed and currently underway work
4:03:24being done at Beaverbrook Dog Park.
4:03:27>> Motion to adopt. Councelor Rivera.
4:03:29>> Yeah, I'm just I'm actually going to
4:03:31file this because uh we're already
4:03:33moving forward with the work on there.
4:03:36>> So motion's adopt.
4:03:37>> Motion to file.
4:03:38>> Motion file.
4:03:39>> File. Okay.
4:03:41Uh all those in favor opposed.
4:03:45>> Mr. Chairman 26 B and C I'm awaiting
4:03:47some additional information. Just like
4:03:49to hold those.
4:03:50>> So we need a vote to hold those under
4:03:52privilege. You need four votes.
4:03:54Roll call.
4:03:55>> Councelor Bergman.
4:03:56>> Yes.
4:03:56>> Councelor Bada.
4:03:58>> No.
4:04:00>> Councelor Econom.
4:04:01>> Yes.
4:04:01>> Councelor Vizolo.
4:04:02>> Yes.
4:04:03>> Councelor King.
4:04:04>> Yes.
4:04:05>> Council Mitra.
4:04:06>> Yes.
4:04:06>> Council Aa.
4:04:07>> Yes.
4:04:07>> Councelor Rivera.
4:04:08>> Yes.
4:04:09>> Councor Rosa.
4:04:09>> Yes. Yes. Tumi.
4:04:11>> Yes.
4:04:11>> Hey, Mayor Petty.
4:04:12>> Yes. That was B and C. Yes, sir.
4:04:18This is the D. Communication city clerk
4:04:20information communication regarding city
4:04:21the council's office staff
4:04:23implementation of a new employee mileage
4:04:25tracking process after conducting
4:04:27official city business. Uh we uh fer
4:04:31that to mo. All set. All those in favor
4:04:35post. So ordered. That brings us to the
4:04:37end of the business motion. Excuse.
4:04:40What's that?
4:04:41>> I just ask one under privilege.
4:04:43>> I can't hear you.
4:04:44>> Under privilege. Can I
4:04:45>> You want to suspend the rules?
4:04:47>> Yeah. I have a question about next
4:04:48meeting, but I didn't reasonably.
4:04:50>> So, so suspend the rules. Roll call.
4:04:55>> Councelor Bergman.
4:04:56>> Yes.
4:04:56>> Councelor Bada.
4:04:57>> Yes.
4:04:58>> Councor Economo.
4:04:59>> Yes.
4:05:00>> Yes.
4:05:00>> Councilor Vo.
4:05:01>> Yes.
4:05:01>> Councor King.
4:05:03>> Yes.
4:05:03>> Mitra.
4:05:04>> Yes.
4:05:04>> Oh, yes.
4:05:06>> Rivera.
4:05:06>> Yes.
4:05:07>> Rosa.
4:05:07>> Yes.
4:05:08>> Tumi. Yes,
4:05:09>> Mayor Petty. Yes, Council B. Mr.
4:05:11>> Chairman, I just have a question on the
4:05:14procedure for the next meeting regarding
4:05:16the item that was held tonight involving
4:05:18the civilian review board. I don't know
4:05:20how many of my colleagues um interpreted
4:05:24what occurred tonight as I did. Uh rule
4:05:2729, I'm not sure if rule 29 allowed the
4:05:30item to be held. It was held. You know,
4:05:33that ship has sailed. But about an hour
4:05:36into the public testimony, and I think
4:05:37this is important for my colleagues to
4:05:39to try to recall, but an I wasn't timing
4:05:42it, but it seemed like about an hour
4:05:43into the two hours of public testimony,
4:05:45there was a comment from one of the
4:05:47speakers, uh, next time in August, I'll
4:05:49bring twice as many people, which is
4:05:51fine. It's democracy. But it implied to
4:05:54me that there was a coordinating effort
4:05:55to hold the item already in place an
4:05:58hour before the item was actually held.
4:06:00And I don't know about my other
4:06:01colleagues, but I think all of us, while
4:06:04we appreciate public discourse, we don't
4:06:06want to hear it twice if it's avoidable.
4:06:09And now we're going to hear it twice.
4:06:10So, Mr. Chairman, I'm just going to
4:06:12suggest to you that the next meeting
4:06:14since this, in my opinion, this was a
4:06:16matter that was already held before the
4:06:18public participation event concluded.
4:06:21Um, that if you intend to go above the
4:06:23hour, uh, I will likely oppose it
4:06:26because that will be the third hour of
4:06:27hearing the same testimony. So again,
4:06:29I'm going to repeat an hour or so into
4:06:32the public testimony, there was a
4:06:33comment made. When I come back in
4:06:35August, there'll be twice as many
4:06:36people. Perfectly fine comment. I don't
4:06:38disrespect the comment. I'd like to see
4:06:40the chambers overflowing. That's
4:06:42democracy and access. What I take issue
4:06:44with is if there's the only way that
4:06:46person could have made that comment is
4:06:48it had been a coordinated effort one
4:06:49with one of the counselors to already
4:06:51have determined the item was going to be
4:06:53held. Then why do we go into an extra
4:06:55hour of discussion just to have that
4:06:58hour repeated in August? I I just find
4:07:00that to be pushing the rule to a point
4:07:04of abuse. That's just my opinion. I I
4:07:07respect the rules. I'm not saying
4:07:08anything was done wrong. I'm just saying
4:07:10that if people want additional time next
4:07:13uh meeting, I'm going to have an issue
4:07:14with it. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
4:07:18>> Council Tumi,
4:07:20>> are we still under suspension? Yes.
4:07:23>> Thank you. Um I just wanted I don't know
4:07:25if Lieutenant Lraange is here, but I
4:07:27just wanted to state that um tonight is
4:07:29uh the last city council meeting for
4:07:31him. Uh uh he has spent 40 years and
4:07:36four months as a Wester police officer
4:07:38and um I would hope that this body could
4:07:41say thank you for his years of service.
4:07:43Is he still here?
4:07:47>> Yeah.
4:07:54Officer Range, are you out there?
4:07:58>> He's He's just retiring after 40.
4:08:02>> He's retiring after over 41 years of
4:08:04service. That's all.
4:08:13>> He's gone. Okay.
4:08:15Good point there, counselor. So, thank
4:08:18he's gone.
4:08:18>> Oh, he's gone. whatever. So,
4:08:20congratulations.
4:08:22It's on public record now that we're
4:08:24thanking you for your 40 years and four
4:08:25months of service and uh hope you have a
4:08:27great great retirement. Okay.
4:08:30>> So, motion is to adjourn. All those in
4:08:31favor opposed.