(The following is not a verbatim transcript of comments or discussion that occurred during the meeting, but rather a summarization intended for general informational purposes. All motions and votes are the official records).

CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL

Notice of Regular Meeting

JUNE 22, 2020

Regular meeting of the City Council was held on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 via Zoom.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by the Council President.

Roll call showed the following members present: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, McAuley (left meeting at 7:05 p.m.), Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

Also Present: Daniel Parrillo, Director of Administration; Robert Strom, Finance Director; John Verdecchia, Assistant City Solicitor; Evan Kirshenbaum, City Council Legal Counsel; David DiMaio, City Council Budget Analyst.

Councilmember McAuley asked for a point of personal privilege and asked to make a statement. He read a letter for the record in regards to the June 1, 2020 Finance Committee meeting in regards to the two Ordinances regarding the City Council and Mayor Salary Repeal and also stating that if Attorney Kirshenbaum did not give him an apology this evening as to how he was spoken and treated at that meeting, he will resign effective this evening. He also stated that he provided a copy of the letter to the Clerk this morning.

Council President Farina asked Attorney Kirshenbaum if he wished to respond to Councilmember McAuley’s statements and Attorney Kirshenbaum stated, absolutely not.

I. PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS

None.

II. PUBLIC HEARINGS

Christopher Ramos, Ward 3 resident, 107 Calaman Rd., appeared to speak regarding excessive

fireworks discharge in his neighborhood late at night. He stated that these fireworks are not limited to weekends or holidays, they are shot up to 11 p.m. most nights. He asked that the City Council do something about this nuisance.

Jennifer Manzi, 179 Calaman Rd., appeared to speak regarding the fireworks nuisance and stated that they have been going on for weeks and nightly occurrence starting at 8 p.m. and go well after 11 p.m. She stated that there needs to be something put in place to curtail this. It is affecting her daughter who has severe ADHD and also people with PTSD.

Jay Bombardier, Jr., 41 Oak St., appeared to speak and stated that the fireworks are going up nightly and occur all night long even at 1:30 in the morning. It gets to the point of disturbing the public and it is a nuisance. It is also affecting people with PTSD.

Nancy Vitulli, 196 Knollwood Ave., appeared to speak and echoed statements made by prior speakers regarding the fireworks. She is concerned about them being lit in the street and hitting neighbors’ cars and she is concerned about fires.

III. RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF THE MONTH OF JUNE AS PRIDE MONTH

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

IV. REPORT OF COMMITTEES

FINANCE COMMITTEE

(Council Vice-President Michael W. Favicchio, Chair)

4-20-04 ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING LOAN ORDER FOR THE CITY OF CRANSTON TO FINANCE THE RENEWABLE ENERGY CONSERVATION MEASURES IN THE CITY OF CRANSTON BY THE ISSUANCE OF NOT MORE THAN $5,000,000 BONDS AND NOTES THEREFOR

Councilmember Brady asked to be added as co-sponsor.

On motion by Councilmember Paplauskas, seconded by Councilmember Brady, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MOTOR VEHICLE TAX ABATEMENTS

On motion by Councilmember Vargas, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

TAX INTEREST WAIVER APPROVALS

V. PUBLIC HEARINGS

None.

VI. ELECTION OF CITY OFFICIALS

PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES:

· Appointment of Diane Schaefer – filling the un-expired term of Fred Miller for term ending July 27, 2022.

On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, it was voted to appoint Diane Schaefer as a member of the Public Library Board of Trustees to fill the un-expired term to Fred Miller. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

VII. REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS

None.

VIII. EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS

REPORT ON HIRING OF SPECIAL COUNSEL, CONSULTANTS, ETC., PURSUANT TO CHARTER SECTION 15.05.

Councilmember Donegan asked what the status is of the traffic safety litigation case. Director Parrillo stated that it is ongoing and he has not had any updates recently.

Councilmember Brady suggested going into Executive Session at some point when we get back to holding meetings in City Hall.

REQUEST TO BE CONTINUED IN SERVICE FOR ONE YEAR ASSISTANT CHIEF JAMES E. WARREN, CRANSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Director Parrillo appeared to speak.

On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, it was voted to approve the above request. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

IX. COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS

Council President Farina stated that since this is the last regular Council meeting before July 4^th, and wished everyone a Happy and Safe Fourth of July.

X. COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS

COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN:

Fireworks complaints

Councilmember Donegan stated that fireworks is a nightly bombardment, especially in the Stadium neighborhood. Section 8.20.060 of the Code addresses dates and times for shooting fireworks, but what is causing the issues is the fireworks that are being purchased out of State which are prohibited. He does not think we can prohibit something that is already prohibited. It is a matter of enforcement. He questioned what the Council and the City can do to address this. Director Parrillo stated that he spoke to the Colonel today regarding this and the Police Department is experiencing seven times the calls that they have had in the past. There are plenty of people calling, but it is very difficult to address these concerns all at once.

Councilmember Vargas asked what the penalty is for offense if the person is caught. Attorney Kirshenbaum stated that he is not sure. Solicitor stated that State Law makes it a misdemeanor for such items as fireworks. For such things as aerial display, that would be considered a felony.

Councilmember Hopkins stated that dog owners have stated to him that dogs are being affected by the fireworks.

Council President Farina stated that he thinks it is important that we step up enforcement.

Councilmember Hopkins stated that he thinks this is the worst day in Cranston politics. Councilmember McAuley was disrespected and the way he was treated. He plans to get a letter to the Clerk’s Office tomorrow to hold an Executive Session because he thinks it is extremely reprehensible how he was treated and he plans to have this discussed in Executive Session.

Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that Councilmember McAuley has been a tremendous asset to the City and hopes he comes back and finishes his term.

Councilmember Stycos stated that Councilmember McAuley is a hard worker and he will be missed.

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that there is a big hole on the City Council tonight in Ward 2. Councilmember McAuley will be missed by all and really hopes he reconsiders and comes back to finish off his term. He already misses him.

Councilmember Vargas stated that Councilmember McAuley loves the City as much as everyone else and she will be reaching out to him and if this is his last meeting, she thanked him for his public service and hopefully he will stay civically active in the City in some way.

Councilmember Brady stated that Councilmember McAuley is a man of integrity and he would never question his character and appreciates him as a mentor and a friend and hopefully will remain friends for the rest of his life.

Council President Farina stated that Councilmember McAuley is still a member of the City Council until he submits a letter of resignation to him or the City Clerk. Hopefully, he will reconsider his decision of resignation.

COUNCILMEMBER MCAULEY:

Question regarding Ordinance

No discussion.

COUNCILMEMBER STYCOS:

Tree Planting Program Celebration of 200^th Planting

Councilmember Stycos stated that the Tree Council contacted him and suggested some sort of commemoration of the 200^th Tree Planting. This would be a way of celebrating this and also publicize the program. He will look into scheduling this event and advise everyone of details.

COUNCILMEMBER VARGAS:

Free Meals

Councilmember Vargas reminded everyone that free meals are still being provided for kids

at all five sites Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays.

XI. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XII. INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS

*(for informational purposes. All new business is referred to Committee for public hearing)

6-20-01 ORDINANCE RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING THE LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF CRANSTON AND THE RENAISSANCE DEVELOPMENT CORP. Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio. Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

6-20-02 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 8.08 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘FIRE PREVENTION CODE’ (Permits for Hazardous Substances). Sponsored by Councilmember Stycos.
Referred to Ordinance Committee July 16, 2020.

6-20-03 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 5.04.100 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘LICENSES GENERALLY’ (Mooring Fees). Sponsored by Councilmember Stycos.
Referred to Finance Committee July 6, 2020.

6-20-04 ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO UTILIZE EASTERN CRANSTON RECREATIONAL IMPACT FEES TO BUILD A SPLASH PAD IN WARD 3. Sponsored by Councilmember Donegan.
Referred to Finance Committee July 6, 2020.

6-20-05 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 12 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES’ (Synthetic Herbicide Use). Sponsored by Councilmembers Donegan, Stycos and Paplauskas.
Referred to Ordinance Committee July 16, 2020.

6-20-06 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 5 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘Business Licenses and Regulations’ (Third Party Delivery Services). Sponsored by Councilmember Donegan.
Referred to Ordinance Committee July 16, 2020.

6-20-07 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF RULE 36 OF THE CITY COUNCIL RULES OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2019-2021 TERM. Sponsored by Councilmember Vargas.
Referred to Rules Committee July 16, 2020.

6-20-08 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF TITLE 10 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC’ (Harrison Avenue at Vinton Avenue Stop). Sponsored by Councilmember Brady and Council President Farina.
Referred to Ordinance Committee July 16, 2020.

RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CRANSTON TO INTRODUCE AND URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING $2 MILLION IN BONDS OF THE CITY AND TO AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM TO BE HELD THEREON (Parks and Recreation). Sponsored by Council Five-President Favicchio, Councilmembers Hopkins and Paplauskas.
Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

RESOLUTION OFFERING FREE CHILD CARE AT CITY COUNCIL AND CITY COMMITTEE MEETINGS. Sponsored by Councilmembers Stycos, Donegan and Vargas.
Referred to Finance Committee July 6, 2020.

RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CRANSTON TO INTRODUCE AND URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING $5,000,000 IN BONDS OF THE CITY AND TO AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM TO BE HELD THEREON (Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Conservation Measures). Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio.
Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CRANSTON TO INTRODUCE AND URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING $2,000,000 IN BONDS OF THE CITY AND TO AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM TO BE HELD THEREON (Fire and Public Safety Equipment). Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio.
Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CRANSTON TO INTRODUCE AND URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING $10,000,000 IN BONDS OF THE CITY AND TO AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM TO BE HELD THEREON (Highway Roads and Equipment). Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio.
Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CRANSTON TO INTRODUCE AND URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING $1,000,000 IN BONDS OF THE CITY AND TO AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM TO BE HELD THEREON (Public Buildings). Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio.
Referred to Special Finance Committee June 25, 2020.

On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, it was voted to refer the above new business to the respective Committees. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

XIII. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS ON CLERK’S DESK

The meeting adjourned at 8:00 P.M.

/s/ Leanne Zarrella, JD

City Clerk

/s/ Rosalba Zanni

Assistant City Clerk/Clerk of Committees

(See Stenographic Notes of Ron Ronzio, Stenotypist)