City of Central Falls

Special City Council Meeting

Wednesday May 29, 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 Kevin Kazarian, Councilperson Meaghan Levasseur, Councilperson Rafael Peguero, Council President Pro Temp Franklin Solano, and Council President Robert Ferri. Councilperson Tatiana Baena arrived at 6:02 pm and Councilperson Laurilim Rosado-Martinez arrived at 6:011 pm. 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 22, 2024, Special Council Meeting

Council President Ferrin called for a motion to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2024, Council Meeting.  Councilperson Solano proposed a motion to approve; Seconded by Councilperson Peguero.  Councilperson Levasseur abstained from voting on the grounds of not being present at the May 29 Special Council Meeting.  The motion passed 5/0. 

 

     V.            New Business

a.      Discussion with Department Directors regarding FY 25 Proposed Budget

                                                              i.      Central Falls Fire Department

Central Falls Fire Department Chief Scott Mello presented to the council, providing a comprehensive overview of the Fire Department's activities and accomplishments in FY24. He detailed various initiatives, emergency responses, and community engagement efforts undertaken by the department throughout the year. Chief Mello also addressed the council, responding to inquiries about staffing levels and budgetary requirements, highlighting the department's current needs and future plans to ensure continued efficiency and effectiveness. The council expressed their gratitude and admiration for the Fire Department, commending Chief Mello and his team for their ongoing dedication and exemplary service to the community.

 

 

                                                           ii.      Central Falls Police Department

Colonel Anthony Roberson, Chief of the Central Falls Police Department, addressed the Council to provide a detailed overview of his department’s achievements and challenges during FY24. He highlighted key successes in crime reduction and community policing initiatives. He answered the Council’s questions regarding the budget and staffing, outlining the department’s financial needs and personnel requirements to maintain and improve public safety. The Council expressed their gratitude and praise for the outstanding work that the police continue to do in Central Falls, commending Chief Roberson and his team for their dedication and service to the community.

 

                                                         iii.      Department of Public Works and Code Enforcement

Jean Barros, Director of the Department of Public Works and Code Enforcement, addressed the Council to discuss the department’s budget and pressing needs. He provided a thorough analysis of the current financial situation, emphasizing the challenges posed by outdated vehicles in the DPW fleet. Mr. Barros detailed how these aging vehicles impact operational efficiency and increase maintenance costs. Mr. Barros answered a range of questions from Councilmembers about the budget. The Council expressed their gratitude and admiration for Mr. Barros and his team, commending their unwavering dedication and hard work in maintaining and improving the city's infrastructure and services.

 

   VI.            Adjournment

A motion to adjourn was posed by Councilperson Kazarian and Seconded by Councilperson Solano.  The meeting adjourned at 7:06pm.

 

Approved by City Council on June 5^th, 2024, Council Meeting

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