CITY OF WORCESTER | JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL | Tuesday, December 5, 2023 | Esther Howland (South) Chamber | Convened: 6:32 P.M. |
Mayor Joseph M. Petty | www.worcesterma.gov | City Manager Eric D. Batista
City Auditor Robert V. Stearns | Councilors | Morris A. Bergman | Donna M. Colorio | Etel Haxhiaj | Khrystian E. King | Candy Mero-Carlson | Thu Nguyen | City Clerk Nikolin Vangjeli | Sarai Rivera | Sean M. Rose | George J. Russell | Kathleen M. Toomey |
| City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts | |
3. | ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair. | |
4. | PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE | |
5. | APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES | |
| | | | | | | | | 5a. | Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of the City Council Meeting of November 14, 2023. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 6a. | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the following speakers:
1. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #11.11A CM and the lowest residential tax rate
2. Oliver Chadwick, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11.11A CM and #15b CC
3. Robin Rhodes, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to the lowest residential tax rate
4. David Webb, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #13a CC, #13b CC, #13d CC and the lowest residential tax rate
5. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #13d CC
6. Alex Guardiola, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of Tax Levy Line 237 on Alternative 1 or Tax Levy Line 245 on Alternative 2
7. Patricia Hobbs, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition of item #19a CC
8. Annessia Jimenez, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11.4A CM
9. Mark Borenstein, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #15b CC
10. Molly McCullough, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10a CC
11. Maureen Rose, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10a CC
12. Eric Stratton, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11.11A CM and #15b CC
13. Karen Crotty, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10a CC
14. John Nordquist, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition of item #15a CC | | | |
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7. | ELECTION OF TWO RESIDENTS TO THE LIBRARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS | |
| | | | | | | | | 7a. | ELECTION - To fill two (2) vacancies for terms ending December 31, 2029. | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and provided an opening statement, including information from, “Rules Appendix D – Election of the Library Board,” from the Rules of City Council, which outlines the process for electing members of the Library Board of Directors.
Mayor Petty recognized David Filiar, Roseann Fitzgerald, Feanna Jattan-Singh and Laura Miller, who spoke relative to their qualifications to be elected to the Library Board of Directors.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to elect two members for the terms ending on December 31, 2028. Roseann Fitzgerald and Laura Miller, having received the most votes and a majority vote of City Council, were elected on the first roll call for the first terms ending on December 31, 2029. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 8a. | Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: FOX ST.
Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: FOX ST. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to open the hearings. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved a voice vote.
Mayor Petty asked if any abutters wished to be heard on the items. Hearing no speakers, Mayor Petty moved to close the hearing. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a voice vote.
Mayor Petty moved to approve the item. Hearing held and Order adopted. | | | | | |
9. | TAX CLASSIFICATION HEARING | |
| | | | | | | | | 9a. | Hearing: To determine tax rates for residential, commercial, industrial and personal properties for Fiscal Year 2024. | | | | Mayor Petty opened the Tax Classification Hearing at 7:16 P.M.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with Items #9b CC, #9c CC, #11.36b CM and #11.27A CM.
Mayor Petty recognized speakers relative to the Tax Classification Hearing during Public Participation.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to recommend for consideration Line 245 on Alternative #2 – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $14.03 for Residential Property and $28.99 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property (See Item #21a CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman and Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Financial Officer, who responded to questions
raised by Councilor Russell.
Councilor Russell then moved, “That the City Council of the City of Worcester shall hereby use the Alternative #2 Tax Levy Tables to determine the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), which splits new growth over budget between tax relief and support for the City’s long-term capital investment plan in Worcester Fire Department and Worcester Public Schools facilities.” (See Item #21b CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who moved to recommend for consideration Line 255 on Alternative #2 – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $13.90 for Residential Property and $29.47 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property (See Item #21c CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Haxhiaj, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved to recommend for consideration Line 267 on Alternative #2 – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $13.75 for Residential Property and $30.04 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property (See Item #21d CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke in favor of Councilor Rose’s motion for Line 255.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Colorio, who moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report comparing the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Tax Rate for Residential Property and Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property, per $500,000 increments, to the Community Preservation (CPA) Tax.” (See Item #21e CC).
Councilor Colorio then spoke in favor of Councilor Bergman’s motion for Line 267.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King and Councilor Haxhiaj, who spoke in favor of Councilor Bergman’s motion for Line 267.
Councilor Haxhiaj then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the amount of dollars the city lost as a result of not having the Community Preservation Act (CPA) initiated, as well as a breakdown of ways the city can utilize CPA monies.” (See Item #21f CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who moved to amend Councilor Haxhiaj’s motion (Item #21f CC): Further, request said breakdown be presented in five (5) to two (2) year increments over the last ten (10) years.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt item #11.36B CM. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Toomey’s motion for Line 245. Order denied on a roll call vote of 2 Yeas and 9 Nays (Yeas – Toomey, Petty) (Nays – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Rivera, Rose, Russell).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Rose’s motion for Line 255. Order denied on a roll call vote of 4 Yeas and 7 Nays. (Yeas – Rivera, Rose, Toomey, Petty) (Nays – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Russell).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Bergman’s motion for Line 267. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 4 Nays. (Yeas – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Russell) (Nays – Rivera, Rose, Toomey, Petty).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to reconsideration on the items.
Reconsideration denied on a roll call vote of 0 Yeas and 11 Nays.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt item #11.27A CM. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays.
Mayor Petty moved to place items #9b CC and #9c CC on file. Placed on file. | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9b. | COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Fiscal Year 2024 Tax Classification package. (Originally submitted to City Council on November 21, 2023) | Attachments | | | Placed on file (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 9c. | COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to frequently asked questions during the tax rate process. (Originally submitted to City Council on November 21, 2023) | Attachments | | | Placed on file (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10a. | Councilor Sean M. Rose and Councilor George J. Russell request an honorary street name designation on Chadwick St. from Grove St. to Aspinwall Rd. for State Representative, State Senator and District 1 City Councilor Thomas P. White, in honor of his years of service to the city and its constituents. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10b. | Jared and Alicia Wicklund request visibility of school zone signage in the vicinity of Roosevelt Elementary School (1006 Grafton St.) on both Grafton St. and Sunderland Rd. be reviewed for improvements, including the feasibility of installation of solar-powered flashing lights or signs. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #10b CC through #10m CC to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10c. | Stephen Foley request installation of protective elements for cycling lanes leading to and from Union Station. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10d. | Huma Waqar request installation of flashing school signage in front of Al-Huda Academy (248 Mountain St. East). | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10e. | Tina Masiello request repainting of stop lines at the stop signs at Barry Rd. and Lynnwood Ln. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10f. | Tina Masiello request repainting of stop lines at the stop signs at Barry Rd. and Birchwood Rd. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10g. | Tina Masiello request repainting of stop lines at the stop signs at Lynnwood Ln. and Dick Dr. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10h. | Tina Masiello request repainting of stop lines at the stop signs at Toronita Ave. and Barrett Ave. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10i. | Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Mower St. and Olean St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10j. | Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson on behalf of Vincent Pignataro request the two (2) hour parking zone in front of 277 Shrewsbury St. be amended to be a one (1) hour parking zone. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10k. | Yaritza Guerrero request installation of handicap parking space in front of 111 Fairfield St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10l. | Janet Colon request installation of handicap parking space in front of 93 Puritan Ave. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10m. | Allan Kupelnick request removal of handicap parking space in front of 8 Alpine St. | Attachments | | | Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #10b CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 10n. | NATIONAL GRID for a pole location on: SQUANTUM ST. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty moved to set a hearing for the item on December 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. Hearing set for December 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. | | | | | |
11. | COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER | |
| | | | | 11.1 | APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation | |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to the appointment of Stuart Kirshner to the Conservation Commission. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to place the item on file. Placed on file | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Transmitting informational communication relative to the appointment of Victor Rivera to the Worcester Arts Council. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to place the item on file. Placed on file | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.2 | APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend the appointment of Stephen Hill to the Community Development Advisory Committee. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to confirm the appointment. Confirmed on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Haxhiaj absent) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.3 | DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
William Bagley, Jr., Esq., Chief Human Resources Officer | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend adoption of an Ordinance relative to vacation, sick, parental, compassionate and holiday leave for unrepresented employees. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance and refer the item to Municipal and Legislative Operations Committee. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance and referred to Municipal and Legislative Operations on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Haxhiaj absent) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend adoption of Salary Ordinance Amendment for Deputy City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Haxhiaj absent) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend adoption of a Salary Ordinance Amendment for the Chief of Staff and Aide to City Council. | 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 advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.4 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Peter Dunn, Chief Development Officer
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| | | | | | | A. | Recommend adoption of an Order regarding the jurisdiction and disposition of real property at 124 Piedmont Street. | 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 | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend adoption of an Order to transfer the jurisdiction of land to the Worcester Conservation Commission. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Haxhiaj, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Haxhiaj.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.5 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Eric D. Batista, City Manager | |
| | | | | 11.6 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Division of Human Rights and Accessibility
Victor Perez, Interim Director
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| | | | | 11.7 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Administration Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner | |
| | | | | 11.8 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner
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| | | | | 11.9 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Operations Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner | |
| | | | | 11.10 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Parks Division
Robert C. Antonelli, Jr., Assistant Commissioner
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| | | | | 11.11 | DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY
Stephen S. Rolle, P.E., Commissioner | |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to adopting a statutory speed limit of 25 mph and the establishment of Safety Zones with 20 mph speed limits. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Tabled Under Privilege - Colorio | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.12 | FIRE DEPARTMENT
Martin Dyer, Fire Chief | |
| | | | | | | A. | Transmitting informational communication relative to a report concerning the ways in which residents can obtain SmartBurner devices. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the Fire Chief, who responded to questions raised by Mayor Petty.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to, “Request City Manager promote ways residents can obtain SmartBurner devices on the city’s social media pages.” (See Item #21g CC).
Councilor Toomey then moved to, “Request City Manager request Fire Chief conduct research on the feasibility of providing residents with towel-type products that can be used to contain and stop kitchen fires.” (See Item #21h CC).
Mayor Petty moved to, “Request City Manager request Fire Chief Initiate providing the city’s housing facilities with SmartBurner devices.” (See Item #21i CC).
Mayor Petty moved to place the item on file. Placed on file | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.13 | POLICE DEPARTMENT
Paul B. Saucier, Interim Police Chief | |
| | | | | 11.14 | DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Charles R. Goodwin, Director | |
| | | | | 11.15 | LAW DEPARTMENT
Michael E. Traynor, Esq., City Solicitor | |
| | | | | 11.16 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration
Christopher P. Spencer, Commissioner | |
| | | | | 11.17 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
David Horne, Deputy Building Commissioner
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| | | | | 11.18 | DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division
Lee R. Hall, Director
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| | | | | 11.19 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration
Dr. Matilde "Mattie" Castiel, M.D., Commissioner | |
| | | | | 11.20 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Public Health
Soloe M. Dennis, MS, MEP, Director
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| | | | | 11.21 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs
Amy Vogel Waters, Director | |
| | | | | 11.22 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services
Dr. Joe Robinson, Veterans' Services Officer/Director | |
| | | | | 11.23 | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Services
Raquel Castro-Corazzini, Director | |
| | | | | 11.24 | WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY
Jason L. Homer, Executive Director | |
| | | | | 11.25 | EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division
Nikolin Vangjeli, City Clerk | |
| | | | | 11.26 | PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Rachel Monarrez, Superintendent | |
| | | | | 11.27 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division
Samuel E. Konieczny, City Assessor | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend adoption of an Order relative to the Senior Double Exemption Clause. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.28 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division
Erin E. Taylor, Director | |
| | | | | 11.29 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division
Christopher Gagliastro, Director | |
| | | | | 11.30 | DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division
Timothy J. McGourthy, Acting Treasurer and Collector of Taxes | |
| | | | | 11.31 | DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
Julie A. Lynch, Chief of Public Facilities | |
| | | | | 11.32 | DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE
John W. Odell, Chief Sustainability Officer | |
| | | | | 11.33 | DEPARTMENT OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Michael P. Hamel, Chief Information Officer
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| | | | | 11.34 | FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers | |
| | | | | 11.35 | FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($10,000.00) from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for improvements to address the safety of students walking, bicycling or using a wheeled mobility device to get to Belmont Street Community School. | Attachments | | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt items #11.35A CM, #11.36A CM and #11.37A CM through #11.37C CM. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.36 | FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend that Three Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($300,000.00) be transferred from Account #CC1010-600508 City Clerk-Elections Miscellaneous Salaries, and be appropriated to Account #CC1010-601101 City Clerk-Elections Overtime, to cover overtime expense through the end of Fiscal Year 2024. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.35A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend approval of Fiscal Year 2024 Budget adjustments related to State Aid and Additional New Growth. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.37 | FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year | |
| | | | | | | A. | Recommend that Seventy Four Dollars And Sixty Seven Cents ($74.67) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2024 Cost Center #CC1004, Economic Development Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of a prior year employee travel reimbursement. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.35A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | B. | Recommend that Eighteen Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Dollars And Forty Five Cents ($18,720.45) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2024 Cost Center #CC1038, Police Department Ordinary Maintenance, for the payment of prior year invoices. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.35A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | C. | Recommend that Six Thousand Twenty Two Dollars and Eighty Two Cents ($6,022.82) be authorized from various Fiscal Year 2024 Department of Public Works and Parks cost centers for the payment of prior year invoices. | Attachments | | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #11.35A CM) | | | | | | |
| | | | | 11.39 | MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS | |
| | | | | | | | | 12a. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review Lovell St. from May St. to Park Ave. for temporary patchwork. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt items #12a CC through #12q CC. Order adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12b. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review the street from 1 Johnathan Cir. to 15 Johnathan Cir. for temporary patchwork. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12c. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review the streetlight infrastructure in the vicinity of 35 Fairfax Rd. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12d. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review Marland Ct. for temporary patchwork. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12e. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks review what can be done for the lip in the walkway of 487 Salisbury St. relative to sidewalk resurfacing in the vicinity of the property. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12f. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility provide City Council with a policy review concerning improving sidewalks abutting or nearby schools. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12g. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report concerning the ability of private street residents to restrict parking on their private streets. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12h. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility design and implement, pending funding, a crosswalk, RRFB, curb extension and related sidewalk and signing improvements at Tiverton Pkwy. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12i. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility relocate the existing crosswalk on Moreland St. to the intersection of Brook Hill Dr. and construct associated curb ramp, sidewalk landing and signage improvements, pending funding. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12j. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Police Chief install a speed monitoring device in the vicinity of the intersection of Spofford Rd. and Broughton Rd. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12k. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility evaluate Spofford Rd. for speed humps and other traffic calming approaches. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12l. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review potential traffic calming approaches for both Monroe St. and Nevada St. in the vicinity of the intersection of Monroe St. and Nevada St. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12m. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility conduct a comprehensive study of intersection safety and operations at the intersection of Salisbury St. and Grove St. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12n. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility coordinate with the District Councilor and impacted residents to complete an on-site evaluation of the intersection of Coolidge St. and Chandler St. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12o. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install an RRFB and new ADA compliant wheelchair ramps in the vicinity of Nelson Place School, Holden St. and Route 122A. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12p. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility conduct a traffic study and prioritize intersection improvements at the intersection of Lake Ave. and Bigelow Davis Pkwy to address safety. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 12q. | FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility work with the City Clerk to determine a process for selecting locations to install speed humps as part of the 2024 Speed Hump Program, including a cut-off date for selecting said locations. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #12a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13a. | Request City Manager work with the City Clerk to determine the feasibility of increasing the stipend pay provided to the city’s Election Day poll workers. (King) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with item #13b CC.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the items. Order adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13b. | Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report concerning the challenges and successes associated with the November 7, 2023 Municipal Election. Further, request City Clerk include in said report information concerning strategies implored to increase voter turnout. (King) | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #13a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13c. | Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks repaint the existing crosswalk lines on Mower St. at Olean St. and South Olean St. (Haxhiaj) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 13d. | In an effort to make Worcester cleaner, request City Manager provide City Council with a report considering the option of removing all fees and the requirement to purchase yellow city bags from the City Trash Pick Up Program. Said report should outline how trash pick-up works in cities like Boston, Providence, RI, Hartford, CT, Somerville, New Bedford, Fitchburg, Fall River, Quincy and other cities who do not charge for such a service. (Russell) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to add her name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Russell for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 14a. | Joseph M. Petty, Mayor, submitting for approval by the City Council the City Council Meeting Schedule for the calendar year 2024. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept the item. Accepted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 14b. | Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Brief on Worcester’s Urban Forest Master Plan." | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 14c. | Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Environmental (In)Justice: An evaluation of climate impacts on Worcester neighborhoods." | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Urban Technologies, Innovation and Environment Committee. Referred to Urban Technologies, Innovation and Environment Committee | | | | | |
15. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | |
| | | | | | | | | 15a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Petition of Mark A. Borenstein and Katherine Garrahan, on behalf of Colony Retirement Homes, Inc. and Colony Retirement Homes III, Inc, request Zoning Map be amended by changing the zoning designation of the properties located at 485 Grove St. along with 41 and 101 Chadwick St. from RL-7 and RS-10 to BG-3.0: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 15b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Communication of the City Manager Recommend Approval of a Zoning Ordinance Amendment Relative to Accessory Dwelling Units: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege.
Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 15c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational Communication Relative to the Worcester Now | Next Plan: recommend Communication be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty moved to accept the item. Accepted | | | | | |
16. | REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS | |
| | | | | | | | | 16a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Donna Bunker-Swanstrom request street resurfacing on Lovell St. from May St. to Park Ave.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept and adopt items #16a CC through #16l CC. Accepted and adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Ahsan Aadil Shaikh request the street from 1 Jonathan Cir. to 15 Jonathan Cir. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor Sean M. Rose request the entirety of Southwood Rd. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16d. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Asad Ali request the street in the vicinity of 22 Indian Hill Rd. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to add Indian Hill from Cheyenne Rd. to the east end of the road to the Master Street Resurfacing List.
| Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16e. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor George Russell request Fairfax Rd. be repaved. Further, request installation of a streetlight in the vicinity of 35 Fairfax Rd. occur during the repaving process: recommend adoption of the two (2) accompanying Orders. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16f. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Linda Campaniello et al. request Marland Ct. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16g. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Rodney Moore request sidewalk resurfacing in front of 117 Farrar Ave.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16h. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor Khrystian E. King on behalf of Michael Richardson request sidewalk resurfacing on the even side of Victoria Ave.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16i. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Constance Simonian request sidewalk in the vicinity of 40 Marland Rd. be resurfaced: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16j. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Mayor Joseph M. Petty request sidewalk resurfacing in front of 101 Randolph Rd.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16k. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Donald J. O'Neil on behalf of 1059 Grafton Street, LLC request to extend the sanitary sewer main located in Grafton St. from its current terminus in the vicinity of 1099 Grafton St. northerly approximately 110 feet along Grafton St. to provide public sanitary service to a portion of the property located at 1059 Grafton St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to extend the sanitary sewer main in the vicinity of 1099 Grafton St. northerly approximately 110 feet along Grafton St. in accordance with City standards at applicant’s cost. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16l. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Ben Naim and Zac Couture request extension of sewer and drain line from Ingleside Ave. to Plantation St. for the purposes of servicing two proposed duplexes at 2 Lapierre St. and part of 149 Plantation St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to extend the sanitary sewer main from Ingleside Ave. to Plantation St. for the purposes of servicing two proposed duplexes at 2 Lapierre St. and part of 149 Plantation St. in accordance with City standards at applicants’ cost. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #16a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16m. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Stephanie Velez request Johnson St. be resurfaced: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #16m CC through #16s CC. Accepted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16n. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor Sean M. Rose request Ellis Dr. from Winifred Rd. to Chippewa Rd. be resurfaced: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16o. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Miguel Villega request the street in front of 56 Acton St. be resurfaced: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16p. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Baxter Irwin request College St. be repaved: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16q. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Baxter Irwin request Park Ave. be repaved: recommend Petition be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16r. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Jacob Tanoglu request sidewalk resurfacing in the vicinity of 487 Salisbury St.: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16s. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Ben Naim and Zac Couture request sewer and drainage extension from Ingleside Ave. to Plantation St.: recommend Petitioner be given leave to withdraw. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #16m CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 16t. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Petition of Councilor Khrystian E. King on behalf of Michael Richardson request installation of a wheelchair accessible sidewalk cutout on Victoria Ave. at the entrance of Greenwood Park: recommend Petition be referred to the Department of Public Works and Parks for immediate completion of the installation of a wheelchair accessible sidewalk cutout on Victoria Ave. at the entrance of Greenwood Park. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the Department of Public Works and Parks. Referred to the Department of Public Works and Parks | | | | | |
17. | REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING | |
| | | | | | | | | 17a. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Patrick Sargent request installation of crosswalk signage on both sides of the existing crosswalk on Coburn Ave. at the corner of Touraine St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept and adopt items #17a CC through #17c CC. Accepted and Adopted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17b. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Pastor Andrew Borden and Jennifer Schanck-Bolwell request installation of crosswalks at the intersection of Whitmarsh Ave. and Leeds St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to install a crosswalk at the intersection of Whitmarsh Ave. and Leeds St., pending funding and the completion of ADA ramps at the associated location. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #17a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17c. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request flashing stop signs be installed in place of the existing stop signs at the intersection of Coburn Ave. and Lakeview St.: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. | Attachments | | | Accepted and Adopted (See Item #17a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17d. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request installation of a flashing pedestrian lighted crosswalk on Pleasant St. in the vicinity of the Charlotte Klein Dance Centers, located at 1122 Pleasant St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and and moved to accept items #17d CC through #17bb CC. Accepted | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17e. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Roxas Joshua Angell-Clune request installation of blinking crosswalk warning signage at the intersection of Francis J. McGrath Blvd. and Southbridge St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17f. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Kristen Milliken request installation of flashing crosswalk lights at the intersection of Moreland St. and Brook Hill Dr.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17g. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Rajeev Tirur request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of 17-23 Chandler St. in the vicinity of the dumpster: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17h. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Tarek Yatim, Manager of TK Quinsigamond LLC, request Arwick Ave. between Quinsigamond Ave. and Harding St. be converted into a two way street: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17i. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Patricia Groccia request installation of stop sign at the intersection of Spofford Rd. and Broughton Rd.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17j. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Anita and Paul Scheipers request installation of stop sign on Barrett Ave. at the intersection of West Chester St. and other intersections in the area be evaluated for traffic control signage: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17k. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Thomas Coyle request existing two-way stop signs be increased to create a four-way stop at the intersection of Monroe Ave. and Nevada St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17l. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Robert Prytko request installation of Left Turn Only signal on Salisbury St. at the intersection of Salisbury St. and Grove St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17m. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj, on behalf of Maria Kaplanes, request installation of a traffic light at the intersection of Coolidge Rd. and Chandler St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17n. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Jeffrey Melville request installation of four-way stop sign at the intersection of Fruit St. and William St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17o. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Khrystian E. King on behalf of representatives from Nelson Place School request a traffic study be conducted in the vicinity of Nelson Place School, Holden St. and Route 22: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17p. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj on behalf of Nathalie Gibson request installation of a weight restriction/truck ban on Fourth St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17q. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Debra Comtois Davis request installation of roundabout at the intersection of Lake Ave. and Bigelow Davis Pkwy.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17r. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Daniel O'Connor request installation of speed dips or speed humps on Vega Lane: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17s. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Daniel O'Connor request installation of speed dips or speed humps in Leslie Rd.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17t. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed on Harrington Way: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17u. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed on Ingleside Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17v. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed at the intersection of Benson Ave. and Knight St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17w. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed on Orient St. between March St. and Plantation St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17x. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Brayan Gerrard request installation of two (2) speed humps on Catharine St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17y. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed on North Parkway: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17z. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request speed humps be installed on Northboro St.: recommend Petition be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17aa. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting Informational Communication Relative to Integrating safety and complete streets improvements into the annual street resurfacing and reconstruction program: recommend Communication be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 17bb. | REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Speed Hump Program: recommend Communication be placed on file. | Attachments | | | Accepted (See Item #17d CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 18a. | Recommend Adoption of a Responsible Development Ordinance Relative for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Projects | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to ordain the item. Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
19. | TABLED UNDER PRIVILEGE | |
| | | | | | | | | 19a. | PETITION of Donald J. O'Neil request Zoning Map be amended to include the property located at 10 Grosvenor St. within the Commercial Corridors Overlay Canal District Subarea. (Tabled Under Privilege - Rivera November 14, 2023 and November 21, 2023) | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to place the item on file.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Rivera’s motion to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20a. | 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 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20b. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20c. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20d. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20e. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20f. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20g. | 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) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 20h. | Hearing: NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole location on: APRICOT ST.
Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned pole location on: APRICOT ST. (Tabled Under Privilege - Haxhiaj October 17, 2023 and October 24, 2023 and Tabled - Petty November 14, 2023) | Attachments | | | No action taken | | | | | |
21. | NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the December 5, 2023 City Council meeting | |
| | | | | | | | | 21a. | Motion Toomey @ #9a CC – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $14.03 for Residential Property and $28.99 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property from the Tax Levy Table associated with Alternative #2. | Attachments | | | Order denied on a roll call vote of 2 Yeas and 9 Nays (Yeas – Toomey, Petty) (Nays – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Rivera, Rose, Russell). (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21b. | Motion Russell @ #9a CC – That the City Council of the City of Worcester shall hereby use the Alternative #2 Tax Levy Tables to determine the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), which splits new growth over budget between tax relief and support for the City’s long-term capital investment plan in Worcester Fire Department and Worcester Public Schools facilities. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21c. | Motion Rose @ #9a CC – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $13.90 for Residential Property and $29.47 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property from the Tax Levy Table associated with Alternative #2. | Attachments | | | Order denied on a roll call vote of 4 Yeas and 7 Nays. (Yeas – Rivera, Rose, Toomey, Petty) (Nays – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Russell) (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21d. | Motion Bergman @ #9a CC – That the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2024 be set at $13.75 for Residential Property and $30.04 for Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property from the Tax Levy Table associated with Alternative #2. | Attachments | | | Order adopted on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 4 Nays. (Yeas – Bergman, Colorio, Haxhiaj, King, Mero-Carlson, Nguyen, Russell) (Nays – Rivera, Rose, Toomey, Petty) (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21e. | Motion Colorio @ #9a CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report comparing the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Tax Rate for Residential Property and Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property, per $500,000 increments, to the Community Preservation (CPA) Tax. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #9a CC) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21f. | Motion Haxhiaj @ #9a CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the amount of dollars the city lost as a result of not having the Community Preservation Act (CPA) initiated, as well as a breakdown of ways the city can utilize CPA monies. | Attachments | | | Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Haxhiaj, who presented with the motion.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to amend the item: Further, request said breakdown be presented in five (5) to two (2) year increments over the last ten (10) years.
Order adopted as amended | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21g. | Motion Toomey @ #11.12A CM – Request City Manager promote ways residents can obtain SmartBurner devices on the city’s social media pages. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #11.12A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21h. | Motion Toomey @ #11.12A CM – Request City Manager request Fire Chief conduct research on the feasibility of providing residents with towel-type products that can be used to contain and stop kitchen fires. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #11.12A CM) | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | 21i. | Motion Petty @ #11.12A CM – Request City Manager request Fire Chief Initiate providing the city’s housing facilities with SmartBurner devices. | Attachments | | | Order adopted (See Item #11.12A CM) | | | | | |
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