CITY OF WORCESTER

JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Esther Howland (South) Chamber

Convened: 6:32 P.M.

Adjourned: 8:22 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 February 25, 2025.

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the following speakers: 1. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #9a CC, #9k CC, #10g CC, and #11b CC 2. John E. Keough, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #7a CC and in favor of item #9a CC 3. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #7a CC and #10m CC 4. Mike Kane, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10f CC 5. David Webb, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #22r CC and in favor of item #9a CC 6. Charles Luster, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #10i CC and #10j CC 7. Gary Hunter, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #9f CC, #11a CC, #11b CC, and #13a CC

Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: PROVIDENCE ST. Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: PROVIDENCE ST.

Joshua Lee Smith on behalf of Wolfe Farms LLC request to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Worcester, as referenced in Article III, Section 2 of the City of Worcester Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning designation of the Properties identified below from the current zoning designation of Residence, Single Family (RS-7) to Residence, Limited (RL-7), as shown on the map attached hereto. The Properties include the properties known and numbered as 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 40, 42, and 44 Malden Street, 1-6 Malden Terrace, 1-3, 5-7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 Reynolds Street, and 885, 915, 919, 921 and 923 West Boylston Street.

Councilor Khrystian E. King request Moreland St. be resurfaced.

Councilor Jenny Pacillo request Brattle St. be resurfaced.

Patrick Campbell request installation of a new street/curbside water catch basin in front of the property at 7 Virginia Rd.

N. Paul TonThat request installation of concrete bollards in front of 149 Belmont St.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of speed humps in the vicinity of 34 and 36 Sherbrook Ave.

Kevin Baldwin request "No Parking Anytime" signage on the south side of Kendig St. be removed.

Laura Robidoux et al. request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage on one (1) side of Arthur St. between Acton St. and Dorchester St.

Brian Dutremble request installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Marcy St. and Wamsutta Ave.

Luis A. Suarez et al. request removal of cones from the shoulder of the street at 1000 Grafton St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report detailing rules used in other municipalities relative to the conduct of its public officials during meetings, as well as after meetings, especially in public settings within City Hall.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report detailing a ten (10) year history relating to time allotted to residents who wish to speak during public participation.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Health and Human Services work with Commissioner of Inspectional Services to understand what Inspectional Services’ policies are relative to home inspections when encountering doubled up families.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Inspectional Services provide City Council with a report detailing strategies related to how residents are made to feel comfortable and safe during home inspections.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager publish information pertaining to tenant rights relative to home inspections on the city’s website.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Health and Human Services work with representatives from Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA) to hold a public forum to discuss tenant rights relative to homelessness and evictions.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Health and Human Services work with representatives from Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA) and Friendly House to establish a pilot program relative to the Access to Counsel Program, specific to the City of Worcester.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request representatives from Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA) provide City Council with a report detailing aggregate data from the last year relating to ethnic and racial backgrounds of Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program applicants. Further, said report should include data specific to each zip code.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the top five (5) landlords who report the most evictions in the city.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Health and Human Services provide City Council with a report detailing the status and projected timelines associated with constructing modular tiny homes on Stafford St.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing any unused or underused parking and vacant lots in the city; specifically for the purpose of establishing permanent supportive housing and deeply affordable housing.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the City of Cambridge’s Affordable Housing Zoning Overlay (AHO) relative to allowing increased, double density zoning.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer provide City Council with a report detailing the timeline associated and staffing needed relative to the Long-range Plan zoning reform be completed in a year.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager request Fire Chief work with the Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to provide City Council with a report detailing how the Summer Impact Program can assist relative to required maintenance to the upkeep fire hydrants’ appearances and surroundings.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to provide City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of repainting and increasing reflective materials on fire hydrants in the city.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the rental agreement relative to the properties at 51 and 61 Sever St. with Clark University and Worcester State University, including information concerning the expenses on said properties.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the zoning for 51 and 61 Sever St. and the allowed usage for said properties.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report concerning the office’s impressions relative to using the 61 Sever St. property for a city archive.

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review the crumbling sidewalk in front of 15 Coombs Rd. caused from tree roots for the purpose of completing any necessary emergency patch-work repairs at the location. (Haxhiaj)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks work with the Superintendent of Public Schools to address the overgrowth along the fence abutting Foley Stadium and Coombs Rd. (Haxhiaj)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility provide City Council with a report concerning the intersection of Lovell St. and Park Ave. that includes the number of crashes that occurred at the location over the past two (2) years, as well as any potential safety measures that could be implemented to reduce the number of crashes at said intersection. (Haxhiaj)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review Heard St., in the vicinity of the Hope Ave. Rotary, for any immediate repairs that can be done to address potholes at the location. (Haxhiaj)

Request City Manager request Police Chief provide increased speed enforcement on Drummond Ave. (Bergman)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the current Prescription Benefit Management (PBM) arrangement and what steps are currently being utilized to review claims to ensure best practices are being taken advantage of to control costs for medication benefits, such as for generics, bulk discounts, etc. (Petty)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning what steps and reforms the city can unilaterally take to rapidly utilize and/or encourage the use of modular housing construction to address the need for additional market rate and affordable housing in the city. Further, request said report include information concerning a potential pilot or demonstration project. (Petty)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the impact the Community Benefits and the Inflation Reduction Act may have on the city. (King)

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning attempts to bring a grocery store back to 545 Lincoln St., the site of the former Stop and Shop. (Pacillo)

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning any outreach attempts to bring a Daily Table grocery store to the city. (Pacillo)

Request City Manager ensure protection plans are in place to provide for the safety and security of a bald eagle family currently occupying a nest on Massachusetts Ave. (Pacillo)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the number of completed inspections that have occurred in correlation with the Rental Registry. Further, request City Manager include in said report information concerning the number of employees that have been hired to complete said inspections. (Mero-Carlson)

That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby amend its meeting schedule to amend its March 25, 2025, City Council meeting to host a special meeting to discuss the 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 and related items. Further, that the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby amend its meeting schedule to make its March 18, 2025, meeting a Joint City Council and City Manager agenda. (Petty)

Request City Manager consider funding private street maintenance as per Chapter 166 of the Acts of 1996, and Chapter 302 of the Acts of 1984, which allow for private street betterment and private way temporary repair petitions, especially the streets that have petitioned per said legislation. (Russell)

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks develop a less expensive private street conversion plan that offers resident the ability to convert their private roads to public roads at a lower cost that includes less expensive options. (Russell)

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning any impact that potential reductions to federal funding and aid may have on the city. (Petty)

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning the status of vehicles within the city’s fleets, including any maintenance requirements associated with said fleet. Said report should include information relative to any replacement plans for Emergency Communications and Management, Police, Fire, Inspectional Services and the Department of Public Works and Parks. (Toomey)

Request City Manager and Mayor organize for the Irish Flag to be raised from before March 17, 2025, through March 18, 2025, in honor of Irish American Heritage Month. (Toomey)

Request City Manager establish a high winds threshold that would initiate recycle pick up delay. (King)

That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support and recognize March of 2025 as Women’s History Month in the city of Worcester and that the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby call upon its public officials, community members and residents to observe in the celebration of Women’s History Month by participating in the various happenings that honor the many achievements of women throughout history. (Mero-Carlson)

That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support and recognize March of 2025 as Irish American Heritage Month in the city of Worcester. (Toomey)

Transmitting an informational communication of a notification from the Worcester Retirement System (WRS) to the City Council to provide a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to its retirees of 3% of the COLA base effective July 1, 2025.

Transmitting an information communication relative to Rule 14 of the City Council, concerning information that any ruling of the chair shall be subject to an appeal by a motion of any city councilor.

Transmitting a request for review and approval to authorize the City Manager to submit the attached statements of interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) that were approved by the Worcester School Committee at their February 6, 2025 meeting.

Eric D. Batista, City Manager, transmitting informational communication relative to an open meeting law complaint of the Education Committee.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Order of Councilor Jenny Pacillo and Councilor George J. Russell - Request City Clerk display the City Council rules governing public participation at City Council meetings, including but not limited to speaking time limits, decorum expectations, and any procedures for public comment in the City Council Chambers. Further, request said rules be made available on the City’s website and included in publicly accessible materials to ensure transparency and ease of access for all residents.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Order of Councilor Jenny Pacillo, Councilor George J. Russell and Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey - Request City Clerk install a visible timer in the City Council chambers to ensure speakers can clearly see the amount of time that is allocated to them for speaking.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Order of Mayor Joseph M. Petty - 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, as well as after meetings, especially in public settings within City Hall.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Order of Councilor Donna M. Colorio - Request Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations review the Rules of the City Council Section titled “Conduct of Council Meetings,” including but not limited to Rules 21, 22 and 35, in an effort to determine whether any amendments to the Rules of City Council would better ensure all speaking portions of City Council meetings are done efficiently and in a procedurally accurate manner.: recommend Order be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Petition of James P. Coughlin request City Council amend Rule 39 of the Rules of City Council to extend the amount of time permitted for individuals to speak during the Public Participation portion of the agenda from two (2) minutes to five (5) minutes.: recommend Petition be denied.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational communication on the status of chronically homeless and unsheltered.: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the June 2024 fire at Washington Heights.: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the feasibility of installing pole attachments to fire hydrants in the city.: recommend Communication be placed on file.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Order of Councilor George J. Russell - Request Standing Committee on Public Works hold a meeting to draft a policy relative to the creation of “Honorary Street Names.” Said policy should include, but not be limited to: 1) what or who should be eligible for honorary street names; 2) whether the policy should be limited to Worcester residents/past Worcester residents; 3) whether business names should be included; 4) causes that would justify passage of an honorary street name title; and 5) whether passage should be limited to a certain number of years, decades or centuries that the entity gained notoriety. Further, request City Manager request City Solicitor and Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide guidance and recommendations of best practices used in other Municipalities, at said meeting to aid the Committee in drafting the Honorary Street policy: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a stop sign on Wall St. at its intersection with Chrome St., facing northbound traffic and a stop sign facing Suffolk St. at Wall St. (Amended on April 24, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Mower St. and Olean St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Ed English request installation of All-Way stop sign at the intersection of Grammont Rd. and Gloucester Rd. (Amended on June 12, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Derek Lundstrom request removal of handicap parking space in front of 61 East Central St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Barbara A. Tully request removal of handicap parking space at 28 Proctor St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of John Yanczewski request removal of handicap parking space in front of 83 Richland St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Staci Wehbe request installation of handicap parking space in front of 28 Ledgecrest Dr.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Hoi Nguyen request handicap parking space at 21 Vineyard St. be removed.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Glenda Carabello request installation of handicap parking space in front of 15 Rodney St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Jenny Pacillo request installation of an additional handicap parking space in the vicinity of 364 West Boylston St. (Amended October 16, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Michael Stewart request installation of handicap parking space in front of 11 Columbus St. across from 12 Columbus St. (Amended October 16, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Klara Bueno request installation of handicap parking space in front of 15 Minthorne St. across from 14 Minthorne St. (Amended October 16, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Carlos Santana Jr. request removal of handicap parking space in front of 44 Paradox Dr.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Morris A. Bergman request installation of four-way stop signage at the intersection of Clark St. and St. Nicholas Ave.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of stop signs in both directions of Sherbrook Ave. at its intersection with Lake View St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Jenny Pacillo request installation of a three-way stop sign at the intersection of Parkton Ave. and Chester St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Edgar Cruz request removal of handicap parking space in front of 40 King St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Mateo Caicedo Burgos request removal of handicap parking space in front of 34 Newbury St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request the winter parking ban along the entire length of Lincoln St. be amended from a permanent ban on both sides of the road to only being in effect on both sides when declared: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Joseph Walsh request installation of handicap parking space at 76 West St. opposite of 75 West St. (Amended December 18, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Raymond Eliason request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 5 Shepard St., opposite of 8 Shepard St. (Amended December 18, 2024): recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Rose Marie Parson request installation of handicap parking space in front of 11 Carlstad St.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Jamie Eichelberger request installation of handicap parking space in front of 35 King Philip Rd.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Mirilda Halilaj request removal of handicap parking space in front of 49 Abbott St.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Juana Martinez request installation of an additional handicap parking space in front of 3 Hitchcock Rd.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Kevin Adams request removal of handicap parking space in front of 197 Eastern Ave.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Lewis Gosler et al. request installation of handicap parking space in front of 5 Becket St.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Sherri Ford and Mary Frazier request the winter parking ban on Windsor St. be reversed to have no parking when declared on the odd side of the street: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Bettye Mograss request installation of handicap parking space in front of 13 Shepard St.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Justin Nugent request installation of handicap parking space in front of 57 Paine St.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Michael Monfredo request installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Azalea Dr. and Rainbow Dr.: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Jenny Pacillo request installation of a stop sign at Barry Rd. and Dick Dr.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request installation of a left turn signal at the traffic light at the corner of Park Ave. and Lovell St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey request installation of left turn light at the corner of Heywood St. and Granite St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Pedro R. Rondon request installation of handicap parking space in front of 38 Lakeside Ave.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Luis A. Ojeda request removal of the handicap parking space located in front of 40 King St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to an overview of the process for amending traffic and parking ordinances and a review of roadway construction projects to determine whether necessary amendments have been ordained. (Tabled Under Privilege - Russell March 4, 2025)

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 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 and Tabled - Nguyen January 7, 2025)

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 and Tabled Under Privilege - Nguyen January 7, 2025 and Tabled - Russell January 14, 2025)

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager recommend adoption of MGL Ch 148, Section 26I, which mandates the installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems in residential buildings with four or more dwelling units. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson February 4, 2025, Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson and Haxhiaj February 11, 2025 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson February 25, 2025)

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to an update on the U.S. Department of Justice's pattern-or-practice report on the municipality and Worcester Police Department. (Tabled - Petty March 4, 2025)

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer provide City Council with a report detailing any plans the city has to save the forty-two (42) subsidized housing units set to expire in 2025 that includes a list of where each property is located. – Item #14a CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning ways to gauge the impact other towns’ lack of affordable housing production has on the city. – Item #14b CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer explore Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) when working through current and upcoming TIF and TIE projects, to increase and enhance community involvement. – Item #14c CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager provide City Council with very simple, and easy to share monthly reports relative to anticipated revenues and shortfalls associated with the city’s monies. – Item #14d CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning whether properties that have increased value due to being listed as waterfront properties have offset negative value if they are also listed in a flood zone on the FEMA Map. – Item #14e CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager include which properties are included on the FEMA Map flood zones on the property information of the city’s website. – Item #14f 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 a 2015 contract between the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) and Spatial Focus, Inc., which reviewed the city’s existing policies and processes for addressing and made recommendations to align with national best practices. – Item #14g CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Jenny Pacillo – Request City Manager consider opening spray parks at earlier times during the summer to allow for children to take their afternoon naps. – Item #14h CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager reach out to Umass Medical School to determine whether a program to provide free sunscreen to residents at water events during the summer can be realized. – Item #14i CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager request Chief Financial Officer include a notation on any vacant position in the city’s Budget Books beginning in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). – Item #14j 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 report concerning the feasibility of employing recruiters to increase interest and hiring power for the Worcester Police Department (WPD), Worcester Fire Department (WFD) and other departments, including the Department of Public Works and Parks (DPWP). – Item #14k CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the amount of monies the public has saved through the city not charging a fee for using public electric vehicle charging stations. – Item #14l CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager provide City Council with the final Municipal Broadband Task Force Recommendations Report. – Item #14m CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager provide City Council with report concerning Verizon’s progress concerning installing Fios throughout the city. – Item #14n CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager provide City Council with a list of all internet providers available in the city on the city’s website. – Item #14o 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 report concerning guidance on appropriate instances for executive session that includes any responded to frequently asked questions on M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21 (a) (1). – Item #14p CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 3 Nays

ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj – Request City Manager provide City Council with report detailing examples of cities and towns that have established a Codes of Conduct for their body, for the purpose of adopting a Code of Conduct for the Worcester City Council. – Item 14q CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 3 Nays

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager work with City Solicitor and City Clerk to provide City Council with report concerning what kind of political signage and messaging are allowed to be displayed at public meetings. – Item #14r CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays

Motion Haxhiaj @ #10g CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning whether any zone changes may be required to accommodate modular homes in all areas of the city.

Motion King @ #18a CC – Request City Clerk provide City Council with a physical copy of the proposed ordinance amendment concerning the Honorary Street Name Program prior to the next City Council meeting.