CITY OF WORCESTER | JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL | Tuesday, September 8, 2020 | Levi Lincoln (North) Chamber | Convened: 5:07 P.M. |
Mayor
Joseph M. Petty | 
www.worcesterma.gov | City Manager
Edward M. Augustus, Jr.
City Auditor
Robert V. Stearns | Councilors | | Morris A. Bergman | Donna M. Colorio | | Khrystian E. King | Candy Mero-Carlson | | Sarai Rivera | Sean M. Rose | City Clerk
Nikolin Vangjeli | | Gary Rosen | George J. Russell | | Kathleen M. Toomey | Matthew E. Wally |
| | City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts | |
| 3. | ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair, except for Councilors King and Toomey. Councilor King arrived at 5:10 P.M. and Councilor Toomey arrived at 5:17 P.M. | |
| 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 July 21, 2020. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 6a. | Mayor Petty recognized the following speakers:
1. Eliana Stanislawski, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC and #13q CC and in favor of #18h CC
2. Greta Yang, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC, #13q CC, #18l CC and in favor of #18h CC
3. Marie Brouliette, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to items #12a CC through #12d CC and #13d CC
4. Matthew Freimouth, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC and #13q CC and in favor of #18h CC
5. Kevin Ksen, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC and #13q CC
6. Jenny Pacillo, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC and in favor of item #18h CC.
7. Emma Narkowitz, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC and #13q CC and in favor of #18h CC
8. Matt Whitlock, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #13p CC, #13q CC and #18e CC and in favor of #18h CC
9. Nathan Cummings, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #11.10B CC and #15a CC
10. Rose De Caro, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #15a CC through #15c CC, #18c CC and #18i CC and in opposition to #18g CC
11. Kara Brindisi, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to items #18j CC through #18l CC
12. Carly Miller, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #11.35A CM
13. Kathy Roy, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #18h CC and #18i CC
14. Casey Duggan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #15a CC through #15c CC, #18c CC and #18i CC | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 7a. | Hearing: NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: VELANDER ST.
Granting permission to: NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: VELANDER ST. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to take up items #7a CC and #7b CC collectively and open the hearing. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent).
Mayor Petty asked if any abutters wished to be heard on the items. Hearing no speakers, Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to close the hearing. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to approve the items. Hearing held and Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent). | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 7b. | Hearing: NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole location at: PLANTATION ST.
Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole location at: PLANTATION ST. | Attachments | | | Hearing held and Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent) (See Item #7a CC) | | | | | |
| 8. | FIRST ITEM OF BUSINESS - Biannual Economic Development Report - See Item #11.4D | |
| | | | | | | | | 9a. | Nicholas Lewis request three trees be planted on the sidewalk in front of 127 Cambridge St. to make sidewalk in front of the newly renovated building more welcoming to pedestrians and users of the building. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #9a CC through #9c CC collectively to the Department of Public Works and Parks. Referred to the Department of Public Works and Parks on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9b. | Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request the dead tree at the corner of Temple St. and Harding St. be removed, with a new public shade tree being planted in its place. | Attachments | | | Referred to the Department of Public Works and Parks on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9c. | Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a public shade tree at the corner of Winter St. and Harding St. | Attachments | | | Referred to the Department of Public Works and Parks on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9d. | Michael J. Grandone request Brightwood Ave. be renamed to Brightwood St., so as to avoid confusion with Blithewood Ave. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to the Planning Board. Referred to the Planning Board on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9e. | Scott Sinrich, on behalf of Alicia Girardin et. al., request Brookshire Rd. be repaved. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #9e CC through #9w CC collectively to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9f. | Scott Sinrich, on behalf of Alicia Girardin et al., request Santuit Ln. be repaved. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9g. | Jennifer Rajecki, Property Manager of Skymark Tower, request sidewalk repair on the Austin St. side of 600 Main St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9h. | Jennifer Rajecki, Property Manager of Skymark Tower, request a portion of the Murray Ave. sidewalk in the vicinity of 600 Main St. be replaced. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9i. | William Stelmok request the 8" water pipeline at the intersection of Route 20 and Greenwood St. be extended along Route 20 to the Kwik Pik Convenience Store (557 SW Cutoff). | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9j. | William Stelmok request installation of a fire hydrant in the vicinity of 557 SW Cutoff. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9k. | Michael Stuart et. al. request installation of a barrier on the water catch basin in Institute Pond to prevent swans from getting trapped. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9l. | Councilor Matthew E. Wally request sidewalk in front of 34 South Lenox St. be replaced. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9m. | Councilor Matthew E. Wally request Fielding St. be repaved. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9n. | Councilor Matthew E. Wally request Claridge Dr. be repaved. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9o. | Mila and Alex Sapozhnikov request Brantwood Rd. be repaved. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9p. | Brenda Bussey, Director of Procurement and Accounts Payable at Worcester State University, request abatement of street assessment #25618, in the amount of $16,200.00 for Candlewood St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9q. | Naim and Rina Bujupaj request installation of a drainage system on Grafton St. to stop water from overflowing into Nathaniel St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9r. | Peter Magerowski request Baker St. be resurfaced. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9s. | Peter Magerowski request sidewalk repair for Baker St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9t. | Peter Magerowski request Montague St. be resurfaced. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9u. | Peter Magerowski request sidewalk repair for Montague St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9v. | Peter Magerowski request Wayne St. be resurfaced. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9w. | Peter Magerowski request sidewalk repair for Wayne St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9e CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9x. | Peter Magerowski request installation of four-way stop sign at the intersection of Wayne St. and Baker St. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #9x CC through #9z CC collectively to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9y. | Diane and William Kacavich request installation of a handicap parking space large enough for two vehicles in front of 1 Astrid Avenue. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9x CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9z. | Christopher Crowley, Manager of Goodman Property Holdings, LLC., request the commercial loading zone in front of 99 East Central St. be changed to two hour parking zone. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9x CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10a. | Christopher Crowley, Manager of Goodman Property Holdings, LLC., request the existing residential permit parking on East Central St. be extended to include 99 East Central St. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #10a CC through #10r CC collectively to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10b. | Ellen and Laurence Micol request removal of the handicap parking space in front of 53 Plantation St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10c. | Michael Carroll and Ann Marie Mong request the parking meters in front of 237 Park Ave. be removed, with resident permit parking be installed in its place. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10d. | Caroline Repetti request resident permit parking on the corner of Dominion Rd. and Plantation St. be extended to include 388 Plantation St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10e. | Fakhri Khayoon request installation of a handicap parking space in the vicinity of 30 Lakeside Ave. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10f. | Tina Masiello request installation of speed humps on Toronita Ave. from Barry Rd. to Barrett Ave. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10g. | Phil Cournoyer et. al. request installation of a four-way stop sign at the intersection of Victor Ave. and Abington St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10h. | Denis Leary request installation of speed limit signage on Melrose St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10i. | Denis Leary request installation of electronic speed monitor on Melrose St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10j. | Denis Leary request installation of "Thickly Settled" sign on Melrose St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10k. | Lisa and Robert Stake request installation of a stop sign on Quaker Rd. at its intersection with Foxmeadow Dr. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10l. | Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request the solid white, fog lines on the surface of Lincoln St. from I-290 to the intersection of Burncoat St. and Lincoln St. be repainted. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10m. | Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request the sequencing of the existing “Left Turn Only” traffic control signal at the intersection of Plantation St. and Franklin St. coming from Hamilton St. be revised to occur prior to vehicles coming straight in the opposite direction. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10n. | Councilor Donna M. Colorio and Mayor Joseph M. Petty on behalf of Michael Doherty and the the Grove St./Parkton St. neighborhood request installation of a stop sign on the corner of Parkton St. going into Grove St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10o. | Walter Sharkus request installation of children advisory signage on Gifford Dr. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10p. | Anne Nyland et. al. request installation of speed bumps on Shaffner St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10q. | Councilor Sean M. Rose on behalf of Frank Pupillo request installation of a four-way stop sign at the intersection of Fairhaven Rd. and Eunice Ave. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC), Traffic and Parking Committee | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10r. | Councilor Sean M. Rose on behalf of Rosemary Carter request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 149 Institute Rd. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10s. | NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: PLYMOUTH ST., SUMMIT ST. EXT., GOLD ST. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to collectively set hearing for September 15, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. for items #10s CC through #10u CC. Hearing set for September 15, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10t. | NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: CLEMENT ST. | Attachments | | | Hearing set for September 15, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. (See Item #10s CC). | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10u. | CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: MAIN ST. | Attachments | | | Hearing set for September 15, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. (See Item #10s CC). | | | | | |
| 11. | COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER | |
| | | | | 11.1 | APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation | |
| | | | | 11.2 | APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend the appointment of Kayanna James and the reappointment of Casey Thomas to the Advisory Committee on the Status of Women for terms to expire on August 31, 2023. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to confirm the item. Confirmed on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.3 | DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES | |
| | | | | 11.4 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
| |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to outdoor dining. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item collectively with item #18b CC.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Mero-Carlson.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the fiscal impact that waiving fees associated with licensing for outdoor dining has had on the city and the feasibility of continuing to waive fees in the event of permanent outdoor dining regulations.” (See Item #21a CC)
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 the number of businesses that have used the outdoor dining option.” (See Item #21b CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman and Councilor Colorio, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Colorio.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, Councilor Rosen and Councilor Toomey, who all spoke concerning the item.
Councilor Toomey then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning the establishment of a trolley cart system that would provide services and relieve parking concerns in the Downtown and Shrewsbury St. areas.” (See Item #21c CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson for a second time, who moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a previously completed parking study completed in the Shrewsbury St. neighborhood area.”
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who spoke concerning the item. (See Item #21d CC).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Economic Development Committee and to adopt the motions.
Referred to Economic Development Committee on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent). | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend adoption of an order transferring care, custody, management and control of the tax title property located at 14 Farnum Street to the Executive Office of the City Manager for disposition purposes. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer and City Solicitor, who both responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman.
Councilor Bergman then moved, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing whether the year of redemption has passed on the 14 Varnum St. property.” (See Item #21e CC)
Councilor Bergman then moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Tabled Under Privilege – Bergman | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend adoption of a Zoning Ordinance Amendment relative to Self-Storage Facilities.
| Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Planning Board. Referred to Planning Board on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (King abstained) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | D. | Transmitting informational communication relative to an update of Economic Development. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.5 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Administration Division | |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to whose liability it is to fix the height of shutoff valves on city sidewalks and what programs are in place to ensure said shutoff valves are the proper height. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by the City Manager.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to, “Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide City Council with a report clarifying how many of the customer service calls relating to shutoff valves were responded to by the Department of Public Works and how many were responded to by utility companies, such as Eversource.” (See Item #21f CC).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the motion and refer the item to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.6 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
| |
| | | | | 11.7 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Operations Division
| |
| | | | | 11.8 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Parks Division
| |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication regarding actions taken as a result of the fireworks tip line. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Toomey and Councilor King, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Public Safety Committee. Referred to Public Safety Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Transmitting informational communication relative to crime statistics and performance measures. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to, “Request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council, during its next City Manager agenda, with an update concerning the last five years of data from the Worcester Police Department’s Human Rights Commission report, which includes data relative to use of force and citizen complaints.” (See Item #21g CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Public Safety Committee. Referred to Public Safety Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt Councilor Toomey’s motion. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.11 | DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS | |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to a legal opinion concerning the terms "residential street" and "institutional effect," as they are utilized in the Residents Permit Parking Program. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Mero-Carlson.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell.
Councilor Russell then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report outlining the steps that would be required, either through an ordinance amendment or administrative change, to make individuals who do not have their vehicles registered in Worcester but are renting in Worcester eligible for resident permit parking stickers.” (See Item #21h CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose and Councilor Bergman, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt Councilor Russell’s motion and to refer the item to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Transmitting informational communication relative to a legal opinion about certain requirements of the Open Meeting Law, as modified by Governor Baker's Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Transmitting informational communication relative to a legal opinion explaining the enabling legislation of Upper Blackstone Clean Water, including information relative to the process for appointing members to the Upper Blackstone Clean Water Board of Directors, how the number of members is determined and whether the appointing process outlined in the city’s charter applies to said appointments. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.14 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration | |
| | | | | 11.15 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
| |
| | | | | 11.16 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division
| |
| | | | | 11.17 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Public Health | |
| | | | | 11.18 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs | |
| | | | | 11.19 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Human Rights and Disabilities | |
| | | | | 11.20 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services | |
| | | | | 11.21 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Services | |
| | | | | 11.22 | WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY | |
| | | | | 11.23 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division | |
| | | | | 11.24 | PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT | |
| | | | | 11.25 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division | |
| | | | | 11.26 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division | |
| | | | | 11.27 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Energy and Asset Management | |
| | | | | 11.28 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division | |
| | | | | 11.29 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division | |
| | | | | 11.30 | DEPARTMENT OF TECHNICAL SERVICES
| |
| | | | | 11.31 | FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend that One Million Fifty Eight Thousand Five Hundred Forty Dollars And No Cents ($1,058,540.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C7134, Water Mains, and be appropriated to DPW Account #45C721, Water Mains, to allow for obligated payments associated with contracted water main construction projects currently underway. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take item up items #11.31A CM through #11.31G CM collectively and to adopt the items. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend that Two Million Dollars And No Cents ($2,000,000.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C7134, Water Mains, and be appropriated to DPW Account #45C722, Water Transmission Mains, to allow for obligated payments associated with the Quinapoxet transfer pipeline and other contracted transmission main improvements. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend that One Million Seven Hundred Seventy Seven Thousand Five Hundred Fifty Seven Dollars And No Cents ($1,777,557.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C745B, Sewer Reconstruction, and be appropriated to DPW Account #44C744, Sewer Construction, to allow for obligated payments associated with contracted sewer rehabilitation projects . | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | D. | Recommend that Eighty Seven Thousand Thirty Three Dollars And No Cents ($87,033.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C7354, Sewer Rehab, and be appropriated to DPW Account #44C707, Sewer Generators Rehab, to allow for obligated commitments for the sewer generator rehabilitation and replacement project as contracted. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | E. | Recommend that Six Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($675,000.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C715A, Dam Improvements, and be appropriated to DPW Account #41C707, Dam Improvements, to allow for obligated commitments for engineering and repairs to various city dams as contracted. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | F. | Recommend that Thirty Six Thousand Five Hundred Fifty Two Dollars And No Cents ($36,552.00) be transferred from Loan Account #91C744B, Off Street Parking Building Rehab, and be appropriated to DPW Account #46C707, Parking Garages Improvements, to allow for obligated commitments for the Pearl Elm Garage improvement project. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | G. | Recommend that Three Million Three Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($3,320,000.00) be transferred as follows: $2,045,000.00 from Loan Account #91C7413A, Streets & Sidewalks; $725,000.00 from Loan Account #91C7413Q, Street Construction; and $550,000.00 from Loan Account #91C741A, Sidewalk Improvements, and all be appropriated to DPW Account #41C741, Resurfacing, to allow for obligated payments associated with the FY21 Resurfacing program. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.31A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.32 | FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($20,000.00) from UMass Medical School under the Worcester Outreach Recovery/Reentry Coach Initiative FY21 - Remillard Family Community Service Fund program. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take item up items #11.32A CM through #11.32E CM, excluding #11.32D CM, collectively and to adopt the items. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Four Thousand One Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($4,100.00) from AARP under the FitLot Program. | Attachments | | | | Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See item #11.32A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in an amount up to Three Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($300,000.00) from the MassDOT through the Shared Streets and Spaces program. | Attachments | | | | Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See item #11.32A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | D. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of Nine Thousand Five Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($9,500.00) from Best Pro Cleaning, for City Hall disinfection due to the COVID-19 pandemic. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Tabled Under Privilege - Petty | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | E. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Two Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($2,600,000.00) from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts under the 2020 MassWorks Infrastructure program. | Attachments | | | | Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See item #11.32A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.33 | FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend that One Hundred Three Thousand Six Hundred Thirty Three Dollars and Seventy Seven Cents ($103,633.77) be transferred from Account #310-92159, Worcester Jobs Fund Training - Certifications, and be appropriated to Account #310-91101, Worcester Jobs Fund Training - Salaries, to cover costs associated with the staff salaries of the Jobs Fund Program Director and the Jobs Fund Assistant to implement the Worcester Jobs Fund Program. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.34 | FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend that Three Thousand Five Hundred Sixty Six Dollars And Ninety Four Cents ($3,566.94) be approved from Account #260-92000, Worcester Fire Department Ordinary Maintenance, for payment of prior year invoices. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take item up items #11.34A CM through #11.34E CM collectively and to adopt the items. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend that Fifty One Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty Nine Dollars And Twenty Seven Cents ($51,789.27) be approved from Account #260-91101, WFD Salaries and Account #260-97201,WFD Overtime, for the purpose of retroactive compensation from the previous fiscal year. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.34A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend that Three Thousand Five Hundred Twelve Dollars And Fifty Cents ($3,512.50) be approved from Account #411004-92142, Snow Equipment Rental, to allow for the payment of prior year invoices. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.34A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | D. | Recommend that Eleven Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($11,000.00), be authorized in Account #670-92177, Assessing Ordinary Maintenance, for payment of a prior year invoice. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.34A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | E. | Recommend that Eighty One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy Seven Dollars And Sixty Four Cents ($81,377.64) be approved from various DPW accounts, to allow for the payment of prior year invoices. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.34A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend the adoption of a Loan Order in the amount of Two Hundred Sixty Six Million Six Hundred Eighty Four Thousand One Hundred Seventy Eight Dollars And No Cents ($266,684,178.00) be appropriated to Account #91C7113T, Doherty High MSBA, for the construction and furnishing of Doherty Memorial High School. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Wally, who recused himself from the item and left the room.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Loan Order. Advertised proposed Loan Order on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Wally recused). | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.36 | MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS | |
| | | | | | | | | 12a. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to consider holding public meetings in each city quadrant relative to potentially initiating a body-worn camera program. Further, request City Manager request Director of Urban Innovation engage with the Worcester Police Department concerning technology that can be used to hold said meetings in a safe manner that considers needs associated with COVID-19. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to take items #12a CC through #12h CC collectively and to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12b. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning the various packages and options body-worn camera companies offer to police departments. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12c. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager provide City Council with a cost benefit analysis report detailing how much the city is currently paying personnel and legal counsel to deal with WPD complaints, lawsuits, legal fees, etc. against potential spending if a permanent body-worn camera program were implemented. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12d. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY - Request City Manager provide City Council with an augmented report detailing aspects of the Body-Worn Cameras Pilot Program, including but not limited to how footage has impacted WPD policy development, whether WPD officers had the ability to review videos before, during or after creating written reports, details concerning budgeting for the purchase of tasers and an action plan for public engagement relating to any potential permanent Body-Worn Camera program. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12e. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion concerning the dimensions for parking and loading zone spaces, and whether the dimensions can have variances. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12f. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager provide the community in Coes Pond area with communication concerning the proposed plans for Hillside Beach and a specific plan for Lakeside Apartments. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12g. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with report concerning the expectations related to the acceptance of the gift of Hillside Beach to the City of Worcester. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12h. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide City Council with a report concerning making safe or safer recreation conditions at Hillside Beach, with or without the creation of a wetland classroom. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13a. | Request City Manager consider repaving the basketball and tennis courts at Blithewood Playground. (Russell) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to add the entire City Council as sponsors of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13b. | Request City Manager entertain hosting a socially distanced charity golf classic event at Green Hill Municipal Golf Course in the fall of 2020, where a district and at large councilor team up together as captains of a "best ball" tournament. All proceeds from said tournament would go to a pre-chosen charity of the winning team. (Rose) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rose, 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 add the entire City Council as sponsors of the item.
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. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13c. | Request City Manager address flooding issues on Evergreen Lane, which come as a result of catch basins on Massasoit Rd. that are not functioning. (Russell) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, 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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13d. | Request City Manager consider implementing, as part of a body camera program, a mandatory separate bid process that does not include any other equipment not directly used with body cameras, in an effort to encourage multiple competitive bids from various body camera companies. Further, request City Manager consider not using bids previously accepted by other government entities. (Russell) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell and Councilor Toomey, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Toomey.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Russell and Councilor Toomey for second times, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Toomey.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved to remove the word, “mandatory,” from 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 moved for a roll call vote of adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13e. | Request City Manager consider installing new and highly-visible warning signs at the intersection of Gold Star Blvd. and West Boylston Terrace (the short road running between the Price Rite plaza and the DCU Credit Union property). A highly dangerous and potentially deadly situation presently exists because occasionally cars coming from West Boylston St., down West Boylston Terrace toward Panera Bread turn right and drive in the wrong direction on the high-speed Gold Star Blvd. (Rosen) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rosen, 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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13f. | Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks install an improved "Welcome to Worcester" sign on the Worcester/Auburn line on South Ludlow St. (Wally) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Wally, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to amend the item: “Further, request City Manager consider identifying new and updated signage for “Welcome to Worcester” signs in the various corridors entering the city.”
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13g. | Request City Manager provide City Council with a report, as soon as possible, concerning steps taken by the city’s local colleges/universities to control/regulate off-campus social gatherings. (Bergman) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, Councilor Rivera, Councilor Russell and Councilor King, who all spoke concerning the item.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report relative to whether the colleges and universities in the city provide data surrounding their COVID-19 testing to the city and/or Board of Health. Further, request City Manager include in said report information relative to which universities are providing dashboards and readily available information relative to their COVID-19 testing.” (See Item #21i CC).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item and Councilor King’s motion. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13h. | Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning what the city’s responsibility/policy is in regard to clearing/removing fallen trees/branches in the city’s public waterways. (Bergman) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, 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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13i. | Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the advisability/feasibility of making Walnut St. a one-way street throughout and/or adding parking meters where appropriate. (Bergman) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13j. | Request City Manager consider waving all renewal license fees and related charges for any business that remains closed under Governor's orders. (Russell, Mero-Carlson, Rosen, Bergman, Rivera) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to add the entire City Council as sponsors of the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote of adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13k. | Request City Manager request Police Chief provide increased speed enforcement on Lincoln St. (Mero-Carlson) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13l. | Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks fix the blinking light at the crosswalk at 274 Shrewsbury St. in the eastbound lane. (Mero-Carlson) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13m. | Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report concerning the mail-in ballot process for the September 1, 2020 Primary Election, as well as a breakdown of the results for early voting, overseas ballots, mail-in ballots and in person voting. (Colorio) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio, 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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13n. | Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report concerning the age of the voting machines, as well as their hardware and software updates. (Colorio) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio and Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
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. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13o. | Request City Manager consider having public, neighborhood meetings to allow for public input prior to considering new housing proposals, such as the Lewis Street project. (Colorio) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the Lewis Street – Worcester Housing Authority property project.” (See Item #25j CC)
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt Councilor King’s motion. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays.
Tabled Under Privilege – Rivera | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13p. | Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion as to the Board of Health's regulatory responsibilities, including any power over other city departments. (Colorio) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Colorio.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to place the item on file.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Colorio for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13q. | Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the types of training that are provided to the appointed advisory and regulatory committees and commissions. (Colorio) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio and Councilor Rivera, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote of adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13r. | Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide City Council with a report detailing the policies and procedures relating to the Department’s oversight of contractors that are performing street repairs. Further, request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks include in said report best practices used in other communities, which can be considered for implementation within Worcester. (Wally, Russell, Rosen, King, Toomey, Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Rose, Bergman) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Wally, Councilor Mero-Carlson and Councilor Bergman, who all spoke concerning the item.
Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13s. | Request City Manager consider working with the Police Chief and Fire Chief to identify opportunities to attract more linguistically diverse candidates for future classes and identify ways to assist candidates to study for Civil Service Exams. (Toomey) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Toomey, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Councilor Rose then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning any progresses made to providing students with credits for studying for Civil Service exams.” (See Item #25k CC).
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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13t. | Request City Clerk consider promoting civic and voter participation with the city's youth agencies and local nonprofit organizations. (King) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Council King.
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. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13u. | Request City Manager consider working to develop procedures for the 2020 Halloween evening and safe trick-or-treating. (Petty) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Toomey, 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 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13v. | Request City Manager support the (re)opening of the City’s licensed cigar and hookah lounges and for the state to amend the classification of these establishments. These establishments can, and should, fit under the guise and parameters set forth as restaurants as they have or will have a common ViC license. (Mero-Carlson, Toomey, Rose, Bergman, Wally, Russell, Colorio, Rosen) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson, Councilor Toomey and Councilor King, who all 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 request Director of Public Health provide City Council with a report concerning ways to help cigar and hookah lounges be as healthy of environments as possible in the event they are allowed to be reopened during COVID-19.” (See Item #25l CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera and Councilor Russell, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Colorio, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson and Councilor King for second times, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rosen, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson and Councilor Rivera for third times, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Colorio and Councilor Russell for second times, who both spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Tabled Under Privilege – Rivera | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13w. | Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning a previously approved Order on June 30, 2020 relative to looking at the feasibility of providing facilities for the city’s homeless population to shower and have a cooling area. (Rivera) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Rivera.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, Councilor Wally, Mayor Petty and Councilor King who all moved to add their names as sponsors of the item.
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager consider working with the local colleges and universities involved with social work and mental health counseling as a means of bringing additional evidence based research and/or practices to the city, which could considered and used as part of its outreach work with the homeless population in the city.” (See Item #25m CC).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item and Councilor King’s motion. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 14a. | That the City Council does hereby recognize and commend the Election Commission, the City Clerk and his staff, and all of the volunteers who worked to make sure that our Primary Election Day was run without incident and that every vote was counted. (Petty) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| 15. | REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY | |
| | | | | | | | | 15a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Petition of Nathan Cummings request the most recent report(s) summarizing performance measures and statistics for the Worcester Police Department (WPD), and those same reports for the preceding five (5) years, be made prominently available on the WPD page of the website of the City of Worcester: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council with a report of all appropriate information requested by a Worcester resident, Nathan Cummings, relative to performance measures and statistics for the Worcester Police Department, which would also be released in a user-friendly manner on the city’s website, pending the receipt of a detailed list of questions from said resident. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to accept and adopt the item. Accepted and Adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 15b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to a report regarding information on the Body-Worn Camera Pilot Program: recommend Communication be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with item #15c CC and to accept the item. Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 15c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Worcester Police Department's protocol, regulations and procedures associated with the Body Camera Pilot Program: recommend Communication be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #15b CC) | | | | | |
| 16. | REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING | |
| | | | | | | | | 16a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Mayor Joseph M. Petty on behalf of Jane Richards request the installation of an audio signal at the traffic lights of Main St. and Sylvan St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to take the item collectively with #16b CC and to accept and adopt the items. Accepted and Adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen and Councilor Matthew E. Wally request installation of "Slow, Pedestrians Walking” signs at the beginning of the crosswalks on Salisbury St. between Assumption College and St. Mary's Church.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Caitlin Laplante on behalf of HRI Matheson Apartments request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 87 Murray Ave: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to take items #16c CC through #16i CC collectively and to accept the items. Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16d. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey on behalf of David Lamusta request installation of a handicap parking space in the vicinity of 7 Creston St: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16e. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Samuel Perez request removal of the handicap parking space in front of 51 Perry Ave: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16f. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Migdalia Fairbanks request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 44 Mendon St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16g. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of John Baltus et al request traffic signal include a delayed green light at the intersection of Grandview Ave. crossing over Stafford St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16h. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of John Baltus et al request installation of a left turn signal at the end of James St., turning onto Stafford St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16i. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Sarai Rivera request installation of a blinking pedestrian light at the crosswalk in the vicinity of 86 Austin St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #16c CC) | | | | | |
| 17. | REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIAL, PARKS AND RECREATION | |
| | | | | | | | | 17a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Petition of Shelagh Davenport request the tennis courts at Institute Park be maintained to a reasonable, useable level.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
| Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to take items #17a CC through #17c CC collectively and to accept the items. Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Petition of Councilor Morris A. Bergman request the replacement/restoration of the "Trumbull Square" monument/marker.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
| Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #17a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Order of Councilor Matthew E. Wally and Councilor Gary Rosen - Request Standing Committee on Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation hold a public hearing to discuss the planned improvements relating to the accessible walkway from Coes Park to Circuit Ave. North.: recommend Order be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #17a CC) | | | | | |
| 18. | TABLED UNDER PRIVILEGE | |
| | | | | | | | | 18a. | REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Zachery K. Leighton request Oleum Ct. be named Motley Crew Way. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who moved to take items #18a CC through #18l CC, excluding #18b CC, collectively and to Table the Items Under Privilege for a second time.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Russell’s motion. Tabled Under Privilege on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 1 Nays (Nay – King).
Tabled Under Privilege - Russell | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18b. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King and Councilor Sean M. Rose - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report relative to actions required to permanently allow for the easing of outdoor dining restrictions in the city after COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. (Tabled Under Privilege - King August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent) (See Item #11.4A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18c. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to restrict the use of chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact weapons. (Tabled Under Privilege - King August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18d. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King and Councilor Sarai Rivera - Request City Manager amend the hiring processes associated with civil service requirements in promotional exams of public safety officers, in an attempt to further diversify the positions. (Tabled Under Privilege - King August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18e. | ORDER of Councilor Sarai Rivera - Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to provide City Council with a report relative to actions necessary to require all police officers take out liability insurance throughout their employment. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18f. | ORDER of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report as to when district City Councilors will be able to select the streets where speed humps will be installed in their district as part of the previously approved Speed Hump Pilot Program. Further, request City Manager include in said report a date for when the Speed Hump Pilot Program will be initiated. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18g. | ORDER of Councilor Donna M. Colorio - Request City Manager set an executive session for the City Council, along with the Chief of Police, to discuss public safety. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18h. | RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King and Councilor Sean M. Rose - That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby commend the Worcester delegation for taking action to address racial inequity and police brutality. Further, that the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support continuing to direct resources to combat racism as a public health and public safety emergency. (Tabled Under Privilege - Toomey August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18i. | RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King - That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support H.R. 7120, George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020, co-sponsored by Massachusetts Representatives Katherine M. Clark, Joseph P. Kennedy, III., Stephen F. Lynch, James P. McGovern, Richard E. Neal, Lori Trahan, Seth Moulton, Ayanna Pressley and William R. Keating, along with the companion bill S. 3912, the Justice in Policing Act 2020 co-sponsored by Massachusetts Senators Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth A. Warren. (Tabled Under Privilege - Colorio August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18j. | ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – That Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Councilor Sarai Rivera's Order relative to initiating a permanent body camera program be adopted as amended by removing the words, “including new growth monies.” (Tabled Under Privilege - Russell August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18k. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Councilor Sarai Rivera’s Order relative to initiating a permanent body camera program be adopted as amended to read as follows: “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the city’s ability to initiate a permanent body camera program for the Worcester Police Department to be put in place by January 1, 2021. Funding for said program should be prioritized and consider all funding mechanisms.” (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18l. | ORDER of Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Councilor Sarai Rivera - Request City Manager initiate a permanent body camera program for the Worcester Police Department to be put in place by January 1, 2021. Funding for said program should be prioritized and consider all funding mechanisms, including new growth monies. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty August 11, 2020) | Attachments | | | Tabled Under Privilege - Russell (See Item #18a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19a. | RESOLUTION of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – That the City Council go on record in favor of supporting the Worcester Bravehearts as they plan for the future. (Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes August 21, 2018 and Tabled Under Privilege - Petty September 12, 2018 and Tabled - Lukes September 25, 2018) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19b. | ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Sarai Rivera, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes, Councilor Khrystian E. King and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request City Council have the City Council Standing Committees on Public Works and Municipal Operations conduct a joint meeting about the future recommended staffing of the City Council office as well as logistics for office space for staff and City Council. Further, request the joint committee discuss potential recommendations regarding the job description and role of the City Council staff persons and further, encourage other City Councilors who are not members of the joint committee to attend and be included in the conversation. (Tabled - Petty February 26, 2019) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19c. | COMMUNICATION of the City Manger transmitting informational communication relative to a legal opinion as to the jurisdiction of office space and facilities within City Hall. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson March 12, 2019; Tabled Under Privilege - Petty March 19, 2019 and Tabled - Petty March 26, 2019) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19d. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19e. | ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey - In light of recent events, request City Manager consider establishing a process to inspect rental apartments, which would help to confirm structural changes are done to the standards set by Inspectional Services, in the interest of public service. Further, request City Manager provide City Council with a recommendation as to how often these inspections should take place. (Tabled - King December 17, 2019) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19f. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request restoration and relocation of the Sullivan Memorial located in Melrose St. to a location approximately 50 feet north of its current location: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson April 21, 2020 and April 28, 2020 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson May 5, 2020) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19g. | RESOLUTION of Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Sean M. Rose and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - That the Worcester City Council urges our State Delegation and others to pursue the naming in 2020 of the Worcester District Courthouse the “Sarah E. Wall Courthouse”. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman June 2, 2020 and June 9, 2020 - Petty and Tabled - Russell June 16, 2020) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 19h. | COMMUNICATION of Stephen Herzog, Project Manager at Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc., on behalf of CSX Transportation, Inc. transmitting an informational communication relative to the application of herbicide on the railroad. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty June 9, 2020 and Tabled - Russell June 16, 2020) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| 20. | BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the August 11, 2020 City Council meeting. | |
| | | | | | | | | 20a. | ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council, at its next meeting, with a legal opinion relative to #8p CC on August 11, 2020’s City Council meeting regarding City Council members keeping their cameras turned on, not holding side conversations and unmuting their microphones. – Item #25a CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20b. | ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager request Director of Public Health review CSX’s Vegetation Management Yearly Operational Plan and provide City Council with a report relative to the herbicide being used by the company. – Item #25b CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20c. | ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – Request City Manager consider advertising on the city’s website the information relative to the city’s celebration of the centennial anniversary of the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment. – Item #25c CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20d. | ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report relative to the history and purpose of why Oleum Court was given such a name. – Item #25d CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20e. | ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager consider opening up to more creative opportunities for outdoor dining, such as utilizing sidewalks, while still allowing for handicap accessibility and ADA compliance. – Item #25e CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20f. | ORDER of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the feedback and recommendations given to the License Commission as it relates to any potential changes to ease outdoor dining restrictions on a permanent basis. – Item #25f CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20g. | ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager provide City Council with a follow up report after the winter of 2020-2021 as it relates to any potential eased outdoor dining restrictions, as circumstances may change. – Item #25g CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20h. | ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to provide City Council with a report concerning the city’s current policy around using chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact weapons. Further request Police Chief provide in said report if there are any restrictions on using said crowd control tactics. Further, request City Manager provide City Council with a report defining chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact weapons. – Item #25h CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20i. | ORDER of Councilor Sean M. Rose – Request City Manager consider working with the Superintendent of Public Schools to discuss with the School Committee the potential for offering, through virtual learning, students the ability to earn credit or extra credit for creating a study guide relating to the civil service exam. – Item #25i CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20j. | ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report clarifying who is responsible for rules and regulations of civil service requirements. – Item #25j CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20k. | ORDER of Councilor Donna M. Colorio – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning definitions for an Alternative Deployment Policy and Transparency Improvement Plan. Further, request City Manager include in said report what would be involved in said policies and plans and what the cost of said plans would be. – Item #25k CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20l. | ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the reasoning for potential increased personnel within the Worcester Police Department to be used for completing technical needs associated with implementing a permanent body camera program, as opposed to increasing personnel within the Technical Services Department or a separate vendor. – Item #25l CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20m. | ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning all programs performed by the city and its partners around leadership and business development. – Item #25m CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20n. | ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion as to whether district City Councilors have the authority to select which streets speed humps would be installed on as part of a Speed Hump Pilot Program according to the City Charter. – Item #25n CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20o. | ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the impact eligible Worcester Police Department officers may have on the city’s retirement funds. – Item #25o CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20p. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report as to whether the Financial Integrity Plan will revert back to its previous version following the vote to amend such a plan in FY21. – Item #25p CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20q. | ORDER of Councilor Donna M. Colorio – Request City Manager provide City Council, as part of the city’s yearly budget, with a yearly recommendation concerning how to allocate access new growth monies associated with the Financial Integrity Plan to allow for City Council’s review of the policy each fiscal year. – Item #25q CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20r. | ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – That Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Councilor Sarai Rivera's Order relative to initiating a permanent body camera program be adopted as amended by removing the words, “including new growth monies.” – Item #25r CC Tabled Under Privilege – King | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20s. | ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Councilor Sarai Rivera’s Order relative to initiating a permanent body camera program be adopted as amended to read as follows: “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the city’s ability to initiate a permanent body camera program for the Worcester Police Department to be put in place by January 1, 2021. Funding for said program should be prioritized and consider all funding mechanisms.” – Item #25s CC Tabled Under Privilege – Petty | | | |
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| | | | | | | | | 20t. | ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – That the City Council does hereby amend its meeting schedule to begin the September 8, 2020 City Council Meeting at 5 p.m. – Item #25t CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | |
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| 21. | NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the September 8, 2020 City Council meeting. | |
| | | | | | | | | 21a. | Motion King @ #11.4A CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the fiscal impact that waiving fees associated with licensing for outdoor dining has had on the city and the feasibility of continuing to waive fees in the event of permanent outdoor dining regulations. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent) (See Item #11.4A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21b. | Motion King @ #11.4A CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the number of businesses that have used the outdoor dining option. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent) (See Item #11.4A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21c. | Motion Toomey @ #11.4A CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning the establishment of a trolley cart system that would provide services and relieve parking concerns in the Downtown and Shrewsbury St. areas. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent) (See Item #11.4A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21d. | Motion Mero-Carlson @ #11.4A CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a previously completed parking study completed in the Shrewsbury St. neighborhood area. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Rosen absent) (See Item #11.4A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21e. | Motion Bergman @ #11.4B CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing whether the year of redemption has passed on the 14 Varnum St. property. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.4B CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21f. | Motion King @ #11.5A CM – Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks provide City Council with a report clarifying how many of the customer service calls relating to shutoff valves were responded to by the Department of Public Works and how many were responded to by utility companies, such as Eversource. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.5A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21g. | Motion Toomey @ #11.10B CM – Request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council, during its next City Manager agenda, with an update concerning the last five years of data from the Worcester Police Department’s Human Rights Commission report, which includes data relative to use of force and citizen complaints. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.10B CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21h. | Motion Russell @ #11.13A CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report outlining the steps that would be required, either through an ordinance amendment or administrative change, to make individuals who do not have their vehicles registered in Worcester but are renting in Worcester eligible for resident permit parking stickers. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.13A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21i. | Motion King @ #13g CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report relative to whether the colleges and universities in the city provide data surrounding their COVID-19 testing to the city and/or Board of Health. Further, request City Manager include in said report information relative to which universities are providing dashboards and readily available information relative to their COVID-19 testing. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #13g CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21j. | Motion King @ #13o CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the Lewis Street – Worcester Housing Authority property project. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #13o CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21k. | Motion Rose @ #13s CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning any progresses made to providing students with credits for studying for Civil Service exams. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #13s CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21l. | Motion King @ #13v CC – Request City Manager request Director of Public Health provide City Council with a report concerning ways to help cigar and hookah lounges be as healthy of environments as possible in the event they are allowed to be reopened during COVID-19. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #13v CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21m. | Motion King @ #13w CC – Request City Manager consider working with the local colleges and universities involved with social work and mental health counseling as a means of bringing additional evidence based research and/or practices to the city, which could considered and used as part of its outreach work with the homeless population in the city. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #13w CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21n. | Motion Petty – Suspension of Rules – That the City Council set an Executive Session for the September 15, 2020 meeting for the purpose of discussing strategy with respect to contract negotiations with I.B.P.O. Local 504, Worcester's Police Officials. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
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