CITY OF WORCESTER

AGENDA OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Esther Howland (South) Chamber

6:30 P.M.

Mayor
Joseph M. Petty

www.worcesterma.gov

City Manager
Eric D. Batista

City Auditor
Robert V. Stearns

Councilors

Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of the City Council Meeting of December 10, 2024.

Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of the City Council Meeting of December 17, 2024.

Pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021 and in order to ensure active, public engagement, the City of Worcester currently allows for both in-person and remote participation at all City Council and Standing Committee meetings. To partake in the "Public Participation" section of the meeting, you may attend the meeting in-person within the meeting location, follow the below link to join via Zoom or dial the direct line as indicated. If you join a Zoom meeting by dialing in with a phone number, you can raise your hand by dialing *9.

City Council Zoom Link: https://worcesterma.zoomgov.com/j/1613631913
City Council Zoom Phone Number: +1 646 828 7666
City Council Zoom Access Code: 161 363 1913

Hearing: NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole at: HUNTINGTON AVE.

Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole at: HUNTINGTON AVE.

Hearing: NATIONAL GRID for a solely-owned pole at: MCCLINTOCK AVE.

Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID for a solely-owned pole at: MCCLINTOCK AVE.

Nastacia Grant request Evelyn St. be made public.

Marisol Acosta et al. request Alden St. be converted from a private street to a public street.

Otto Marchena request installation of a guardrail in front of 586 Grafton St.

Srilata Thirunagari request installation of a streetlight at the end of Genesee St. in the vicinity of 35 Genesee St.

Isaac Dube request trash collection and recycling policies and practices be reviewed and updated as follows: 1) Issue 96 gallon trash and recycling bins to every household in every home with 4 units or less and phase in an automated trash collection program; 2) Establish a system where large bulk items can be scheduled for pick-up 7 days in advance with a fee for mattresses and box springs and; 3) Permit trash and recycling bins to be placed curbside anytime after dusk the day prior to trash collection.

Amy Esposito request the one-way direction on Tyson Rd. be reversed towards West Boylston St. or be reversed back to a two-way street.

Doug Clark request handicap parking space in the vicinity of 8 Ashmont Ave. be extended to include an additional vehicle.

Mary True et al. request installation of speed humps on Winifred Ave.

Bettye Mograss request installation of handicap parking space in front of 13 Shepard St.

Ibtisani Zachi request installation of handicap parking space in front of 30C Mount Ave.

Suhaib Ahmad request installation of speed humps on Dana Ave.

Melissa Duplessie request installation of stop sign on Nelson Park Dr. at the intersection of Nelson Pl.

Brian Major request installation of "No Parking Anytime" on Catharine St. from the corner of Westminster St. west to beginning of the AdCare Hospital (107 Lincoln St.) parking lot.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson on behalf of Maritza Cruz request speeding concerns on Holden St. from Grove St. to Shore Dr. be reviewed for solutions, including the installation of speed humps and the installation of a blinking traffic light at the Holden St. and Grove St. intersection.

Justin Nugent request installation of handicap parking space in front of 57 Paine St.

Justin Nugent request removal of the handicap parking space in front of 25 Arlington St.

Brenda Henderson request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 118 Tower St.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a stop sign on Franklin St. entering the intersection of Plantation St. at the island in front of 267 Plantation St.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a “No Left Turn” sign on Franklin St. entering the intersection of Plantation St. at the island in front of 267 Plantation St.

Patricia Kirkpatrick and Claire Schaeffer-Duffy request City Council adopt the attached Resolution to end the war on Gaza and call on the U.S. government to facilitate and demand: 1) an immediate and permanent ceasefire to end the violence; 2) immediate release of hostages and detainees on all sides; 3) immediate resumption of the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza unhindered; and 4) enforcement of U.S. laws, including the Leahy Law of 1997, the Conventional Arms Transfer Policy, and the Arms Export Control Act, which would halt U.S. weapon sales and transfers to Israel that make the country accomplices to the present mass slaughter of innocents (see attached for full Resolution).

John E. Keough request City Council request City Clerk read the exact wording of Rule 15, "Relinquishing the Chair for Purpose of Expression," whenever the Chairperson wants to respond to a City Councilor who is speaking.

John E. Keough request City Council request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report concerning the purpose and scope of the Standing Committee on Public Safety.

Michael J. Grandone request City Council request City Manager provide City Council with a report reviewing real estate tax exemptions for seniors and update or restructure said policy to take into account the lack of consistent revenue stream because of changes to banking and investment rules.

Patrick Grady request transfer of 23 Indian Hill Rd., (MBL: 37-015-00020), currently held in Tax Title, to the custodianship of the Worcester Conservation Commission.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the appointment of Francisco J. Trapasso as a Constable for Civil and Criminal Business.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the appointment of Lawrence Abramoff to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Recommend adoption of an amendment to the salary ordinance to implement the municipality's recently completed collective bargaining agreement with Local 490- NAGE.

Transmitting informational communication relative to Snowplow Contract Conflict of Interest Forms.

Transmitting informational communication concerning designated on-street parking for residents with disability plates or placards

Recommend Adoption of MGL Chapter 41, Section 41B relative to the use of direct deposit for payments.

Transmitting informational communication relative to expanding street trash and recycling receptacles.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of Seven Hundred Ninety Nine Thousand Five Hundred Eighty Three Dollars and No Cents ($799,583.00) from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Addiction Services Diversion to Care (DivCare).

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of Ninety Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars and No Cents ($97,500.00) through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) under their Recycling Dividend Program for the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of One Hundred Seventy One Thousand Four Hundred Ten Dollars And Thirty Seven Cents ($171,410.37) from MA State 911 Department under the FY25 State 911 Training Grant program.

Recommend that Two Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($200,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1072-610100, City Manager's Contingency, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1044-699399, Fire Capital Outlay, for the purchase of 21 replacement radios.

Recommend that Two Hundred Twenty Six Dollars And Forty Four Cents ($226.44) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2025 Cost Center #CC1007, Public Facilities Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of prior year invoice.

Recommend that One Hundred Forty Five Dollars And Eighty One Cents ($145.81) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2025 Cost Center #CC1002, Mayor's Office Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of prior year invoices.

Recommend that Five Hundred Nine Dollars And Three Cents ($509.03) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2025 Cost Center #CC1044, Fire Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior year invoice.

Recommend that Three Hundred Forty Five Dollars and Eighty Eight Cents ($345.88) be authorized from Fiscal year 2025 Cost Center #CC1062, Treasury Ordinary Maintenance, for payment of a prior year invoice.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks prioritize items related to streetlights based on whether there are or are not existing streetlights in the area.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review the sidewalks on Cambridge St. near Richard St. for trip hazards and make repairs as needed.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager work with CSX Transportation to install additional lighting on the overpass walkway at Cambridge St. near Richard St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Clerk ensure all petitioners who wish to request an honorary street name be provided the City Council Order relative to the Standing Committee on Public Works and Parks holding all future honorary street name petitions until such a time the Standing Committee on Public Works and City Council adopt a new ordinance and policies associated with such a process. Further, request City Clerk include additional language on the city’s website related to said Order.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager provide City Council with cost analysis report relative to rebuilding the tennis courts at the Newton Square Rotary.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks organize and conduct public hearings concerning the installation of an additional basketball court at Logan Field.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager provide outreach to the neighborhood abutting the Beaver Brook Dog Park concerning the installation of lighting at said dog park.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks coordinate with the District Councilor to explore solutions relative to lighting challenges at the Beaver Brook Dog Park.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install lane markings that highlight the statutory No Parking zone approaching the intersection of Harding St. and Winter St. from the west on Water St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility add secondary stop signs on the right side of the intersection of Harding St. and Winter St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install Pedestrian Crossing signs at the intersection of Harding St. and Pond St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install All Way Stop Control plaques at the intersection of Harding St. and Harrison St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility extend the painted stop bar and apply hatched lane markings to delineate the 20 foot statutory No Parking zone approaching the crosswalk on the western approach of the Harding St. and Harrison St. intersection.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility update signage and lane markings to clarify statutory No Parking zones and bus stops in the vicinity of crosswalks at 70 James St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility work with the district councilor and neighborhood to identify potential crosswalk locations to improve pedestrian safety along Leeds St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review the traffic signal at 70 James St. to reduce the minimum time between pedestrian cycles during off-peak hours.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility contact MassDOT to request a review of pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Grove St. and Chester St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review Granite St. for the installation of advisory speed limit signs.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review the island at the intersection of Plantation St. and Natural History Rd. to identify and implement signage and pavement marking changes that increase safety at the location.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request Standing Committee on Public Works review the feasibility of installing a streetlight on the northwestern corner of the intersection of Harding St. and Harrison St., pending funding.

Request City Manager provide City Council with information, in a timely manner, regarding Massasoit Rd. that includes but is not limited to: 1) The status of resurfacing plans for the road; 2) Current funding status and proposed changes for the project, if any; 3) Name of contractor; 4) Value of project; 5) Extent of work (from where to where); 6) Detailed description of work; 7) Schedule of work (when will it start/end); 8) Resident Engineer for the project or contact person should abutters or motorists have questions or issues. (Russell)

Request City Manager work with Veterans’ Services Department Officer/Director to ensure recognition is provided to Worcester residents who complete “boot camp,” and/or “basic training.” (King)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review the feasibility of turning the intersection of Merrick St. and Pleasant St. into a Cool Pocket location during the redesign to narrow the intersection. (Ojeda)

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning a previously adopted Order on June 16, 2020, that read as follows: “Request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council with a report relative to creating a Civilian Review Board/Commission with subpoena power to investigate allegations of law enforcement wrongdoing. Said report should include information relative to best practices used in other communities who have implemented such a Board/Commission.” (King)

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning a previously adopted Order on August 11, 2020, that read as follows: “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the Worcester Police Department's field interrogation and observation data. Further, request City Manager include in said report all information on said topics from January 2019 through December 2019. Further, request City Manager include said information on the city’s website. Further, request City Manager provide City Council with said information on an annual basis. Further, request City Manager include in said report information relative to any units that are not required to provide said information to the Worcester Police Department.” (King)

Request City Manager work with the Cultural Development Officer to provide City Council with a report detailing any efforts made to restore “First Night Worcester” since First Night Worcester, Inc. discontinued operations in 2017. Said report should also include an exploration of ways a similar event can be brought back to the city. (King)

Request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council with a report concerning any plans to enforce instances where drivers unlawfully pass a school bus while it is stopped and its stop sign is displayed using newly legalized, “School Bus Traffic Cameras.” (Haxhiaj)

Request Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations review best practices and rules used in other municipalities relative to the conduct of its public officials during meetings. (Petty)

Request Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations hold a public hearing relative to public officials using remote participation at City Council and Standing Committee meetings that includes a review of any potential limitations and/or options associated with participating in meetings in such a manner. (Petty)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report summarizing the city’s partnership with the YMCA to hire and staff city beaches and pools with lifeguards in 2024. Further, request said report includes information relative to the city’s plans for staffing its beaches and pools in 2025. (Pacillo)

In light of the tragic events in New Orleans, LA on New Year's Day and in the interest of public safety, request City Manager perform a security audit similar to the one recently done for City Hall that includes recommendations for crowd and vehicular control to be used at the multitude of large public events in Worcester, including alternate solutions for closing access to streets. (Toomey)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks work with the appropriate parties to ensure the telephone pole on the corner of Plantation St. and Emerson St. is secured. (Mero-Carlson)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of removing responsibilities associated with sidewalk repair and resurfacing from the Department of Transportation and Mobility back to the Department of Public Works and Parks. (Mero-Carlson)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report outlining analytic intelligence software that is available to shorten the amount of time required to review video footage for traffic violations, including any potential new footage created from school bus traffic cameras. (Toomey)

Transmitting an informational communication detailing an inventory of all electric and other motor vehicles, as well as similar equipment such as construction equipment and trucks, as of November 30, 2024, maintained in Workday and validated through department fleet maintenance records and manual confirmations in May 2024.

Transmitting an informational communication listing all city vehicles acquired since 2022, for the period of July 1, 2021, through November 30, 2024.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Communication of the City Manager recommend adoption of a resolution to file an application to designate 57 Exchange St. as a Certified Project under the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) and approve a Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement for the property: recommend adoption of the accompanying Resolution.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Ayodele Talabi request Grand St. be resurfaced.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Ayodele Talabi request Armory St. be resurfaced.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Kathy Hagan request street resurfacing on Moreland St. from 277 Moreland St. to 281 Moreland St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Evan C. Corrigan request replacement of streetlights on West Mountain St. at the intersections of Frontage Rd. and Brooks St. due to the limited visibility when viewing at an angle (see attached map).: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Barbara Strogoff request installation of streetlight to the telephone pole in front of 6 Virginia Rd.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of John Yanczewski request installation of a light fixture on pole #6 at 83 Richland St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Carl Almonor and Thalya Cortes request installation of streetlight on Pearson St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Katherine Sakaloglou request installation of a streetlight on Santuit Ln.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Chad LaBove request installation of a streetlight at 33 Beeching St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Andrea Joinville request installation of streetlights on Officer Many Familia Way from the intersection of Belmont St. to Worcester Technical High School.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Klajdi Kosovrasti and David Holden request installation of street light across from 36 Lanesboro Rd.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Gianna Carlson request installation of streetlight in the vicinity of the crosswalk in front of 157 Mountain St. West.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Sheila Bilotta et al. request installation of additional street lights on Dallas St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Daniel Rubino and Jamie Epstein request the resurfacing relative to the damage on Chevy Chase Rd. from construction rerouting be prioritized following completion of the construction on Brattle St.: recommend Petitioner be granted Leave to Withdraw.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Dianne Sanderson et al. request installation of street light at the intersection of Newbury St. and Pleasant St.: recommend Petitioner be granted Leave to Withdraw.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Caitlin R. Doyle request installation of solar-powered pedestrian crossing signage at the existing crosswalk at the intersection of Harding St. and Pond St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Lynnel Reed-Powell request crosswalks be painted at the intersection of Woodbine St. and Beaver St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Luca Nova Webb request installation of flashing crosswalk signage on Lancaster St. at the Worcester Art Museum (55 Salisbury St.) crosswalk: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Joseph Corazzini, on behalf of Clark University, request installation of crosswalk on Woodland St. at the intersection of Charlotte St. and Woodland St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Lynnel Reed-Powell request installation of No Parking From Here to Corner signage on Birch St. at the intersection of Birch St. and Beaver St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Rakesh Bhaskar et al. request installation of "Stop for Pedestrians" signage at all crosswalks in the vicinity of the Worcester Wire Works building at 70 James St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational communication relative to 2024 Pedestrian Crashes on Lake Avenue, Lincoln Street, and Shrewsbury Street: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Felicia Martinez request installation of handicap parking space in front of 46 Richards St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Ivette Navarro request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 31 Oxford St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Kevin T. Baldwin request removal of handicap parking space in the vicinity of 100 Kendig St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor George J. Russell on behalf of Michael Carbonneau request the existing bus stop at the corner of Greenwood St. and Ekman St. be relocated back to its original location in front of 16 Greenwood St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Caitlin R. Doyle request installation of solar-powered pedestrian crossing signage at the existing crosswalk at the intersection of Harding St. and Winter St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Caitlin R. Doyle request installation of solar-powered pedestrian crossing signage at the existing crosswalk at the intersection of Harding St. and Harrison St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Matthew N. Noe request the pedestrian crossing signal timing at the intersection of Front St. and Foster St. be reconfigured to be at least 45 seconds, ideally up to 60 seconds: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Jenny Pacillo request installation of a high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) at the median in the vicinity of 570 Lincoln St. and 591 Boylston St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Rakesh Bhaskar et al. request installation of No Parking Anytime zone and pavement markings 30 ft. in advance of crosswalks of traffic signals at 70 James St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Abdulrhman Abouali request installation of residential permit parking on Portland St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Sherri Ford and Mary Frazier request installation of residential permit parking on Windsor St. from McKinley Rd. to Sturgis St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Robert Bilotta request installation of four way stop sign at the intersection of Anna St. and Coburn Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Rakesh Bhaskar et al. request review of the traffic signal at 70 James St. to allow for instant change to the walk signal when pushing the pedestrian button or for said traffic signal to be changed to stop sign with flashing light: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Debra Abbott request signage at the Grove St. and Chester St. intersection be reviewed and updated accordingly: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Donna A. Pellerin request installation of speed limit signage on Granite St. in the vicinity of the intersection of Granite St. and Cliff St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Colleen Kushlis request installation of safer curbing and marking of island at the intersection of Plantation St. and Natural History Rd.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Public Par(king): Worcester’s Past, Present, and Future of Parking.”: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Feeding the Meter: Public Parking Usage in Worcester.”: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Toward Safer Streets: Identifying Risk Factors for Non-Motorists in Worcester.": recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational communication concerning enforcement statistics for residential permit parking violations: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to an update on the Urban Forest Master Plan: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative the 1st Annual Veterans Health Clinic: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to an update on Elm Park: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Order of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and Councilor Jenny Pacillo - Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide City Council with an update concerning any planned improvements to the tennis courts at the Newton Square Rotary: recommend Order be placed on file.

Amending the Salary Ordinance Relative to the Salary of the City Manager.

PETITION of Richard Cipro, Anthony Petrone and Thomas Duffy on behalf of the International Brotherhood of Police Officials Local 504 and New England Police Benevolent Association Local 911 request City Council request City Manager request the Department of Justice release and present in a public forum the full investigatory report, specifically to what the DOJ states are "creditable allegations" of criminal sexual misconduct alleged to be committed by members of the Worcester Police Department. Further, request City Council request City Manager request the Department of Justice include the dates, times and names of all individuals alleged to have committed the stated misconduct and/or potential criminal activity. (Tabled Under Privilege - King December 17, 2024)

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby amend the Petition brought forth by Richard Cipro, Anthony Petrone and Thomas Duffy as Item #7w CC on the December 17, 2024 City Council Agenda to include the following language: “Further, that under no circumstances, will the City Council do anything to violate the confidentiality of people who reported their experiences.” (Tabled Under Privilege - Russell December 17, 2024)

RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support the establishment of a homeless shelter dedicated to women. (Tabled Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024)

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work with the Interim Police Chief and various Worcester Police Department Union leadership to inform and educate all law enforcement officials regarding the facts outlined in the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. (Tabled Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024)

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work to provide City Council with a thorough review of the summary of facts outlined in the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. (Tabled Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024)

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to private street maintenance. (Tabled Under Privilege - Russell December 17, 2024)

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request City Manager conduct an equity audit of all city departments every five (5) years. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson December 10, 2024 and Tabled Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024)

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. (Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes September 17, 2019 and September 24, 2019 and Tabled - Lukes October 15, 2019)

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. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman February 9, 2021 and Tabled - Bergman February 23, 2021)

ORDER of Councilor Sarai Rivera - Request City Manager consider prioritizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for REC Worcester’s capital project involving the development of the new REC Worcester headquarters and Center for Food Justice and Urban Agriculture (for Worcester and Central Massachusetts), in an effort to support community food security, as well as youth development and employment. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson October 26, 2021 and Tabled Under Privilege - Petty November 9, 2021 and Tabled - Rivera November 16, 2021)

CHAIRMAN'S ORDER FROM THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION - Request City Council work to ensure City Council and School Committee districts are parallel, so as to ensure public clarity. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson May 24, 2022 and June 7, 2022 and Tabled - Petty June 14, 2022)

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION Upon the Order of Councilor Morris A. Bergman and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request Standing Committee on Public Service and Transportation Committee hold a public discussion with the WRTA Administrator relative to the removal of a bus route that passes the EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way: recommend Communication be placed on file. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman January 17, 2023 and Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson January 24, 2023 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson January 31, 2023)

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION Upon the Order of Councilor Sarai Rivera and Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request Standing Committee on Public Service and Transportation meet with the WRTA Administrator to provide City Council with a report concerning the WRTA’s winter weather plan, especially including information as to how snow will be removed at each of the bus stops: recommend Order be placed on file. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman January 17, 2023 and Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson January 24, 2023 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson January 31, 2023)

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. (Tabled Under Privilege - Haxhiaj July 18, 2023 and Tabled - Haxhiaj August 22, 2023)

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)

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell and Councilor Morris A. Bergman - Request City Manager install metal detector safety equipment at City Hall whenever open, similar to the equipment used at Polar Park, the Worcester District Court and other public places, on or before December 31, 2024. (Tabled Under Privilege - Russell September 24, 2024 and October 1, 2024 and Tabled - Russell October 8, 2024)

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to a report detailing a United States Department of Justice Investigation of the Worcester Police Department and the City of Worcester. (Tabled - Petty December 17, 2024)

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – That the City Council does hereby suspend its rules to allow for the public participation section of the agenda on December 17, 2024, to occur beyond the typically allotted thirty (30) minutes. – Item #13a CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – Request City Manager provide City Council with a thorough response to the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts within the next thirty (30) days, if practical, that includes a response to each of the nineteen (19) recommendations provided to the City that notes: a) whether the city has already addressed the specific recommendation and any pertinent data to support the claim; b) whether the City believes the recommendation has merit; c) whether the recommendation is one of policy, practice, or procedure and d) how the city plans to address each recommendation. Further, said response should include any notations if the city believes any of the recommendations do not have merit, or is a miscommunication, with the City’s belief being detailed accordingly. Further, if the DOJ releases the identities of the officers who allegedly abused their powers and took advantage of vulnerable populations, including those victimized by commercial sex trade and sex workers, said response should include an adequate roadmap for holding WPD officers accountable. Further, said report should include whether the DOJ has any further qualitative or quantitative data concerning their findings. Further, request City Manager explore the feasibility of including the DOJ Report on the city’s online dashboard, if possible. – Item #13b CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

RESOLUTION of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby commit to holding five (5) Special City Council Meetings to discuss and hear community input regarding the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. – Item #13c CC Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Auditor organize and conduct a performance audit relative to the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts that includes a review of WPD body camera footage and reconciles any disparities provided in the DOJ report. Further, request City Auditor include in said performance audit whether oversight occurred and whether any subsequent disciplinary action took place. – Item #13d CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager include timelines and timeframes for any immediate action steps applicable to the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. Further, request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the DOJ’s position relative to how the city is prioritizing the recommendations provided in their report. – Item #13e CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Thu Nguyen – Request City Manager support and provide transparency around the work the Human Rights Commission is doing by ensuring their agendas and minutes are online and accessible to the public. Further, request City Manager honor the priorities of the Human Rights Commission, such as investigating the Worcester Police Department (WPD). – Item #13f CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager consider revisiting the decision to discontinue the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee, in an effort to decouple the duties of the Human Rights Commission and ensure their workload capacity is not strained. – Item #13g CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby amend the Petition brought forth by Richard Cipro, Anthony Petrone and Thomas Duffy as Item #7w CC on the December 17, 2024 City Council Agenda to include the following language: “Further, that under no circumstances, will the City Council do anything to violate the confidentiality of people who reported their experiences.” – Item #13h CC Tabled Under Privilege

RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support the establishment of a homeless shelter dedicated to women. – Item #13i CC Tabled Under Privilege

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work with the Interim Police Chief and various Worcester Police Department Union leadership to inform and educate all law enforcement officials regarding the facts outlined in the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. – Item #13j CC Tabled Under Privilege

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work to provide City Council with a thorough review of the summary of facts outlined in the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Investigation of the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. – Item #13k CC Tabled Under Privilege

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing financial options available relative to installing automatic sprinkler systems in buildings rehabilitated or substantially renovated. – Item #13l CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning any financial assistance available to individuals installing sprinkler alarm systems in their properties when starting a business. – Item #13m CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing any and all options that were considered as uses for the 51 and 61 Sever St. property. – Item #13n CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

Scheduled Meetings of the Standing Committees

Esther Howland (South) Chamber

Levi Lincoln (North) Chamber

Contact Info: Worcester City Clerk City Hall Room 206 455 Main Street Worcester, MA 01608 Phone: 508-799-1124 clerk@worcesterma.gov