City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with #2b. Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson provided an overview of the item and provided a description of the disturbances occurring at 65 Kenwood Avenue.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized the Commissioner of Inspectional Services, who provided both historical context of actions taken by the city to curb the disturbances, including the initial cease and desist order, as well as a status update concerning 65 Kenwood Avenue.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized the City Solicitor, who elaborated on issues pertaining to the cease and desist order issued by the city and the occupancy regulations enforceable at the property.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized Councilor Bergman, who discussed whether an injunction could be given on the grounds of public safety in order to install sprinklers within the property.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized Councilor Wally, who spoke to what could be expected for residents of the area if the city were to ultimately have the decision rendered in the city’s favor. The City Solicitor and Commissioner of Inspectional Services both provided an overview of expected events.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized Councilor Bergman, who offered the following Chairman’s Order, which Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson approved: Request City Manager request City Solicitor inquire as to whether or not a preliminary injunction could be obtained to prevent occupancy at 65 Kenwood Ave., 17 Germain St. and similar properties until such a time that a sprinkler system is installed on the properties.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized Councilor Rose, who furthered the discussion concerning the cease and desist order brought forth by the city, as well as strategies used at properties with similar situations.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized the following speaker:
1. John Moynihan, Worcester resident, spoke concerning his appreciation for the city’s work to mitigate issues pertaining to 65 Kenwood Ave.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson recognized Mayor Petty, who offered the following Chairman’s Order, which Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson approved: Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning 65 Kenwood Ave. and similar properties, including information regarding taxes collected on the property and a timetable for decisions on any legal proceedings concerning the properties.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson provided a Chairman’s Order, which was approved on a voice vote: Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning how many times public safety officials have had to provide services related to 65 Kenwood Avenue and 17 Germain Street.

Chairperson Councilor Mero-Carlson moved to hold the two items.

Recommend Hold

Request City Manager request City Solicitor inquire as to whether or not a preliminary injunction could be obtained to prevent occupancy at 65 Kenwood Ave., 17 Germain St. and similar properties until such a time that a sprinkler system is installed on the properties.

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning 65 Kenwood Ave. and similar properties, including information regarding taxes collected on the property and a timetable for decisions on any legal proceedings concerning the properties.

Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning how many times public safety officials have had to provide services related to 65 Kenwood Avenue and 17 Germain Street.

Recommend Hold (See Item #2a)