City of Central Falls

Special City Council Meeting

Wednesday May 22, 2024

Second Floor Council Chambers

580 Broad Street,

Central Falls, RI 02863

6:00 p.m.

 

Minutes

 

Council President Ferri opened the meeting at 6:00 pm

 

I.          Roll Call

City Clerk Alberto de Burgo conducted the roll call, which included Councilperson Tatiana Baena, Councilperson Kevin Kazarian, Councilperson Rafael Peguero, Council President Pro Temp Franklin Solano, and Council President Robert Ferri. Councilperson Laurilim Rosado-Martinez arrived at 6:05 pm and Councilperson Meaghan Levasseur was absent from the meeting. The meeting achieved the necessary quorum.

 

 

II.        Pledge of Allegiance

Council President Ferri Led Council in Pledge of Allegiance

 

III.       Public Comment

 

None

 

IV.       Approval of Records

a.      Meeting minutes from May 20, 2024, Special Council Meeting

A motion to approve the minutes of the May 20, 2024, meeting was made by Councilperson Solano and seconded by Councilperson Peguero. Councilperson Baena abstained from voting as she was not present at the May 20th meeting. Councilperson Rosado Martinez had not yet arrived and therefore did not cast a vote. The motion Carried 4 to 0.

 

V.        New Business

 

a.      Discussion with Department Directors regarding FY 25 Proposed Budget

                                                              i.      Planning and Economic Development

City Clerk Alberto De Burgo requested that the Planning Department's presentation be moved to the end of the agenda. Council President Ferri agreed to the change, and there were no objections from the other Council members.

 

                                                           ii.      Fnance Department

Mary Signer, the Finance Director, provided an in-depth overview of the budget, detailing various financial aspects and projections for the upcoming fiscal year. She highlighted key areas of expenditure, and revenue streams. Following her presentation, she addressed numerous questions from the Council, offering clarifications and further insights into the budgetary allocations and financial strategies of her department and the City.

                                                         iii.      Parks and Recreation

Alberto Rivas presented to the Council, emphasizing the Parks and Recreation Department's achievements and outlining their goals and objectives for the fiscal year 2025. He showcased notable accomplishments such as the completion of several community park projects, successful recreational programs, and improvements in park facilities. Mr. Rivas also detailed the department's future plans, including expanding recreational offerings, and increasing community engagement. Following his presentation, he responded to budgetary questions from the City Council, providing detailed explanations and justifications for the department's financial needs and priorities.

Councilperson Rosado-Martines excused herself at 7:19 pm from the meeting due to a work emergency

                                                          iv.      Office on Constituent Services

Zuleyma Gomez addressed the Council regarding the activities and achievements of the Office on Constituent Services. She detailed the various partnerships and programs she has successfully established, emphasizing their positive impact on the community. Ms. Gomez provided an update on the progress at El Centro, highlighting key milestones and ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing constituent services and support. She concluded her presentation by answering questions from the Council, offering further insights and clarifications on her office's efforts and future plans.

 

 

VI.       Adjournment

 

Motion to adjourn was made by Councilperson Solano and Seconded By Councilperson Peguero the Meeting adjourned at 7;38pm.

 

Approved by City Council on May 29, 2024

Alberto M. de Burgo

City Clerk

 

 

 

Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws § 42-46-4, the City Council reserves the right to convene in executive session on any of the aforementioned items for one or more of the purposes listed in Rhode Island General Laws § 42-46-5(1)-(10)

 

To view an electronic version of the agenda with supporting documentation, click on link: https://clerkshq.com/default.ashx?clientsite=centralfalls-ri

 

City of Central Falls is an equal opportunity employer ADA/EOE. TDD/TTY 401-727-7450. This notice is posted in City Hall, Police Department, Department of Public Works, on www.centralfallsri.us and with the Office of the Secretary of State pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws. To review Notice of Citizen’s Rights, visit the Attorney General’s webpage at www.riag.ri.gov