MINUTES

 

MONDAY, MAY 22, 2023, at 7:00 P.M.

 

The regular monthly meeting of the Cranston City Council was held on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 7:00 PM. in the Cranston City Council Chambers, Cranston City Hall, 869 Park Ave., Cranston, RI  02910 for the purpose of conducting the items of business appearing on the docket.

 

YouTube Live Stream

 

This meeting was live streamed on YouTube. Click the link below to view the recorded meeting.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtE9vwA1B1PQHuftrNPcZjg.

 

I.          CALL TO ORDER

 

The meeting was called to order at 7:09 P.M. by Council President Jessica M. Marino.

 

II.        ROLL CALL

 

The roll was called by the Clerk.  Stated as present:  Councilman Robert J. Ferri, Councilwoman Aniece Germain, Councilman John P. Donegan, Councilman Richard D. Campopiano, Councilman Christopher G. Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Lammis J. Vargas, and Council President Jessica M. Marino.  Absent:  Councilwoman Nicole Renzulli

 

Also present:  Stephen Angell, Legal Counsel; John Verdecchia, Asst. City Solicitor; David DiMaio, Council Internal Auditor/Budget Analyst; Thomas Zidelis, Finance Director; Anthony Moretti, Chief of Staff; and Tracy Nelson, City Clerk  

 

III.       PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by the body.

 

IV.       APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

A.  Minutes of the April 24, 2023 Regular Council Meeting

B.  Minutes of the April 27, 2023 Special Council Meeting

C.  Minutes of the May 1, 2023 Special Council Meeting

D.  Minutes of the May 15, 2023 Special Council Meeting

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Vice-President Vargas to take all the minutes as a block.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous of the members present)

 

MOTION made by Councilman Donegan, SECOND by Councilman Ferri to approve all four sets of minutes as presented.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous of the members present)

 

V.        PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS

            None

 

VI.       PUBLIC HEARINGS AND PUBLIC COMMENT

 

Nick Lima, City Registrar/Director of Elections spoke regarding docket items X, XIII, and XVII.  He has been working on arranging the Special Election to replace Councilman Reilly in Ward 6.  He does not have the date of the election.  There are two bills currently in the legislature that could affect the conduct of the election.  The first would theoretically allow a special primary and special election to be held within 28 or 29 days of one another.  Current law requires 30 days.  Subject to tonight's appointments to the Board of Canvassers, he has scheduled a meeting for May 26 at 3pm to discuss potential dates.  The Board of Elections next meets June 6, and he would like to get on that agenda.  There is also a bill to combine polling locations, subject to new rules and regulations, which would require a public hearing.  While he cannot give specific dates, the timeline is August, September, October, depending on the Board of Elections and the legislation.  Once the dates have been set, they will be posted on the city website and the voters of Ward 6 will receive a postcard mailing.

 

Atty. Robert Murray, 21 Garden City Dr., is in attendance to answer any questions related to Ordinance 3-23-05, zone change for the Knights Corner Development Project.  It was heard by the Ordinance Committee and recommended for approval.  It includes an affordable housing component.

 

Susan Blake, 173 Grand Ave., was a frequent patron of the Budlong Pool.  She wants to stop the "small pool agenda".  She did a review of Saccoccio & Associates website and portfolio.  Their niche seems to be fire stations.  The city's director was previously employed by Providence when they shallowed their pool from 12ft to 4-5ft.  Shallowing is popular.  She spoke with residents at yesterday's Spring Fair.  They agree, size matters. 

 

Karen Rosenburg, 46 Bow St., spoke with people at the Spring Fair.  Almost all were in favor of preserving the current pool.  The sentiment is very strong.  She had a cordial conversation with the Mayor and Anthony Moretti.  They are not wed to the plan to replace the pool with a smaller one.  She has no objection to the other amenities; however, there are a lot of other places they could go.  He indicated if the Council wants to repair the pool rather than replace it, he will do that.  The council passed a resolution unanimously in 2021 recommending to the Mayor that ARPA funds be used to repair the pool.  A whole new project for replacement will take much longer than repair.

 

Joseph Levine, 16 Glenwood, was approached by many people that saw the sign at the Spring Fair that read "size matters".  250 people signed petitions in support of the current size.  A multi-use project with other amenities is not important.  One resident was unaware the Mayor and Council were supporting a reduced size.  They support Proposal 1, or possibly Proposal 3.

 

Elizabeth Capwell, 41 Bryant Rd., referred to the feasibility study done by the Federal Hill Group.  It says the pool was fixable.  That is the most affordable option at $2.8 million to repair the pool and pool house and make them accessible to the disabled. 

 

Sonya Poydras' home at 190 Aqueduct Rd. overlooks the pool.  She is a season pass holder.  She is against downsizing.  The pool used to reach capacity on hot days.  She understands why the slide and diving board were removed, for safety.  The pool's significant size has allowed for swimmers of all ages and abilities.  The pool provides a dying option for in-person socialization for teenagers.  The pool should be restored because of its historical significance.  It is the largest in RI, and one of the largest in the country.  In response to a Facebook survey conducted by the Cranston Herald in 2015, asking for the top three things that were signs of a Cranston summer, one commentor wrote:  Del's, Rocky Point, and the pool.  She is pleading with Council to return to the option to restore the pool and get it up to code.  This will leave room to consider other amenities.

 

The Council President announced that Councilwoman Renzulli is unable to attend in person this evening but has asked to speak, virtually, as a member of the public. President Marino deferred to Legal Counsel.  Atty. Angell confirmed it is acceptable.  

 

Nicole Renzulli, 54 Massachusetts St., spoke in favor of a few ordinances.  She hopes the ordinance allocating $350,000 in ARPA funds for the pool passes.  She would like this project expedited and the pool opened as soon as possible.  She is in favor of the new police contract.  She supports the Mayor's ordinance for new tax incentives.  She especially supports checking the financial welfare of applicants.  She does not support corporate welfare.  She supports the sale of the Sanders School building.  She appreciates the developer's commitment to affordable housing.  This will be an amazing addition to the revitalization of Knightsville. 

 

VII.     RESOLUTIONS

            None

 

VIII.    REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

 

A.  Report from the Chair, Councilman Donegan, on the FINANCE COMMITTEE meeting held May 11, 2023:

 

3-23-01      ORDINANCE Transferring $350,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act Grant Fund for Engineering Design Development Costs for Construction of a Budlong Pool and Partial Renovation of an Improvement Upon the Property; sponsored by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins

 

Finance Director Zidelis explained this ordinance may not be needed.  This ordinance was proposed prior to the introduction of the Capital Plan.  In the plan is a line item of $4 million for the pool.  The action of the City Council substituted funding from the Capital Plan alone to include allocation of ARPA funds.  The money is available.  Therefore, this ordinance is redundant.  The $350,000 is accounted for as a portion of the $4 million.

 

Council President Marino asked the Administration how they wish to proceed.

 

Asst. Solicitor Verdecchia referenced the last time he was asked by Councilman Donegan about the timing of transferring $350,000 from the Capital Plan.  He opined then that he believes there is no need to wait.  The funds are immediately available.  He has consulted with Atty. Angell and Finance Director Zidelis.  From a legal standpoint, they agree this ordinance is superfluous. 

 

Chief of Staff Moretti indicated the Administration wishes to withdraw the ordinance for the appropriation, given what has been said tonight.

 

4-23-02      ORDINANCE Ratifying the IBPO (International Brotherhood of Police Officers Contract, Local Union 301 (FY 2024-2026); sponsored by Mayor Hopkins

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to approve the Ordinance Ratifying the IBPO contract.

 

Councilwoman Germain is in full support.

 

Councilman Paplauskas is as well.  He appreciates the concessions.  He thanked the Personnel Director for his help.

 

Council President Marino thanked the Administration and the IBPO leadership.  She appreciates the ability for merit improvements.  It is good for morale.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino.

(unanimous of the members present)

 

 

4-23-03      ORDINANCE In Amendment of Title 3, Revenue and Finance, Chapters 3.84,3.88, 3.92, 3.96 and 3.97 of the City of Cranston, 2005, Entitled "Tax Incentive Programs"; sponsored by Mayor Hopkins

 

MOTION made by Councilman Paplauskas, SECOND by Councilman Campopiano to approve.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous of the members present)

 

B.  Report from the Chair, Councilman Donegan, on the SPECIAL FINANCE COMMITTEE meeting held May 22, 2023:

 

RESOLUTION "Authorizing the sale of property located at 41 Heath Ave., also known as the former Sanders School, to Vicioso Homes for the sum of $261,500.00"; and further authorizing the Purchasing Agent to proceed with said sale; sponsored by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins    

 

Chairman Donegan reiterated that the figure is consistent with the FY2024 budget.

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to approve.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous of the members present)

 

RESOLUTION authorizing Real Estate Tax Abatements

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilwoman Germain to approve the real estate tax abatements as presented.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

RESOLUTION authorizing Motor Vehicle Tax Abatements

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to approve the motor vehicle tax abatements as presented.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

RESOLUTION authorizing Tangible Tax Abatements  

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilwoman Germain to approve the tangible tax abatements as presented.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

Consideration of Tax Interest Waiver APPROVALS for the month of April, 2023 

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilwoman Germain to approve the tax interest waiver approvals as presented.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

Consideration of Tax Interest Waiver DENIALS for the month of April, 2023 

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to approve the tax interest waiver denials as presented.

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

B.  Report from the Chair, Council Vice-President Vargas, on the ORDINANCE COMMITTEE meeting held May 11, 2023:

 

3-23-05      ORDINANCE In Amendment of Chapter 17 of the Code of the City of Cranston, 2005, Entitled 'Zoning' (Change of Zone - 1388 & 1390 Cranston Street) (Knights Corner Development Project); Sponsored by Councilman Paplauskas; As Amended in Committee 5/11/2023

 

Chairwoman Vargas was not at the committee meeting.  This item was amended by the Committee and recommended for approval.

 

MOTION made by Councilman Donegan, SECOND by Councilwoman Germain to

approve.

 

Councilman Donegan feels this is good development.  It includes affordable housing and green building standards.  It ties into the revitalization of Knightsville.

 

Councilman Ferri is also in favor.  He looks forward to the new details and the red light at the fire station.

 

Council President Marino believes, with the affordable housing and green components, this will be a huge improvement to the area.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

C.  Report from the Chair, Councilwoman Germain, on the CLAIMS COMMITTEE:  May, 2023 Claims Settled  (no vote to be taken) 

 

IX.       PUBLIC COMMENT FOR UNDOCKETED ITEMS

None 

 

X.        ELECTION/APPOINTMENT OF CITY OFFICIALS

 

APPOINTMENT of James E. Donahue as Republican Board Member to the Cranston Board of Canvassers for the term March 6, 2023 through March 5, 2029, as nominated by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins, pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws 17-8-1   

 

MOTION made by Councilman Paplauskas, SECOND by Councilman Campopiano to appoint James E. Donahue to the Board of Canvassers as a Republican Member.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

APPOINTMENT of Kirk McDonough as Democratic Board Alternate to the Cranston Board of Canvassers for the term March 6, 2023 through March 5, 2029, as nominated by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins, pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws 17-8-1 

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to appoint Kirk McDonough to the Board of Canvassers as Democratic Alternate.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

APPOINTMENT of Jeffrey P. Barone as Republican Board Alternate to the Cranston Board of Canvassers for the term March 6, 2023 through March 5, 2029, as nominated by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins, pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws 17-8-1   

 

MOTION made by Councilman Campopiano, SECOND by Councilman Paplauskas to appoint Jeffrey P. Barone to the Board of Canvassers as Republican Alternate.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

XI.       REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS

            None

 

XII.     EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

A.  From Planning Director, Jason Pezzullo, update on status of the Comprehensive Plan

 

Council President Marino asked Chief of Staff Moretti if he has spoken with Director Pezzullo and gotten an update on the Comp Plan.

 

Mr. Moretti believes the comp plan is close to final.  There has been a monkey wrench.  They were notified of pending legislation in the State House that may require updates every twelve years.  Doing the math, twelve years would be next August or September.  The RFP is for a 2 to 3-year contract with a two-year renewal option.  If the legislation passes, the city will not be compliant. 

 

Councilman Donegan noted that the written report from Director Pezzullo includes the RFP which supposedly went live on May 10, with a pre-bid meeting being held tomorrow, and bids due June 6.  Has the RFP been taken down?

 

Mr. Moretti believes they have proceeded.  He has not been advised of any other update.

 

Councilman Paplauskas pointed out the dates were linked on the docket.

 

Council President Marino reiterated her desire for an expedited plan.   

 

B.  Legal Expense Analysis for the period of July 1, 2022 – May 22, 2023

     

XIII.    COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS

 

A.  May 18, 2023 Letter of Resignation of Matthew Reilly as Councilman, Ward 6, of the City of Cranston effective immediately 

 

Council President Marino wishes Mr. Reilly well in his health and safety.  It is time for the city to move forward.

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Council Vice-President Vargas to receive and accept the resignation of Matthew Reilly as Councilor for Ward 6.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

XIV.    COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS

 

A.  From Council Vice-President Vargas:  Discussion of Knightsville Project on streetscape and gazebo (spending/grants/project update) 

 

Council Vice-President Vargas voted to support the funds.  As she mentioned that evening, she wants to stay up to date.  That is the reason it is on the docket.  She asked Chief of Staff Moretti for an update.  She referenced the various grants received.  She sees construction is taking place.  The repaving, streetscape and sidewalk were part of Phase 2.  Due to the use of Congressional and state funds, as well as the Capital Improvement Plan, she wants to be sure the project is on task.

 

Mr. Moretti explained the total cost was estimated at just over $1.4 million.  We have received grants totaling $560,000, representing about 40% of the cost of the project.  Bonds will finance the rest.  The project is to be delivered by June 30.  It is on target.  They have begun installation of the gazebo.  The hydroseed will take a bit to come in.  Phase 2 is the streetscape (roads).  There will be an RFP in a month or so.  We won't know the cost until we receive the quotes.  The estimate is $2.7-$2.8 million gross.  The city worked with Congressman Langevin to secure a $500,000 grant.  There is another for $300,000 from the RI Infrastructure Bank.  $1.9-$2 million is due to come from city finances.  The Governor has taken an interest in the project.  The Mayor is in discussion with him regarding additional funding for streetlights. 

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked if the $300,000 from the RI Infrastructure Bank is for the bump-outs or lighting.

 

Mr. Moretti replied it is for handicap access and crosswalks.  Once you mess with the sidewalks, you must be ADA compliant.

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked the actual cost, without grants.

 

Mr. Moretti answered $1.4 million.  That is the net of $2.8 million.  They continue to look for additional funding.  If the Governor comes through, it will reduce that amount.

The amounts include contingency.  Quotes are needed for firm numbers. 

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked if the RFP will be for lights and bump-outs only.

 

Mr. Moretti explained it will be for the entire streetscape.  It is all one job to be awarded to a general contractor.

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked if the city will be borrowing for the Capital Improvements.

 

Mr. Moretti replied not necessarily dollar for dollar, but that will largely be the case.

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked the city's current bond rating.

 

Mr. Moretti stated AA+ with Fitch.  That has held the last two years.  Fitch has been complimentary to the city because our fiscal responsibility has improved.  We have shown we are not afraid to take action.

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked the current interest rate.

 

Mr. Moretti explained the difference between bands and bonds.  Bands work like construction loans.  Bonds are for a 20-year cycle.  The Finance Director is keenly aware of current interest rates. 

 

B.  From Councilman Paplauskas:  Discussion on New Business submission deadline

 

Councilman Paplauskas requested this item in consideration of the Clerk.  The second set of committee meetings were held May 11.  That is a quick turnaround time.

 

Council President Marino noted the rules were voted on by the full Council.  The clerk has a hard deadline for posting.  There is flexibility.  If there is time, items can be put on.  

 

C.  From Councilman Paplauskas:  Discussion on "No Vote Taken"

 

D.  From Councilwoman Germain:  Details of Budlong Pool Project Plan - Repair current pool/construct smaller pool/if yes, size/timeline for start of the project?  

 

Councilwoman Germain reiterated the concerns of her residents.  She referred to the Mayor's public statements.  So that there is no misunderstanding, she wants to be clear, they want the pool re-opened.  They are frustrated it has not happened.  She is increasingly concerned the Mayor is not doing his due diligence.  She questioned the statements of the pool's condition.  Former Parks & Rec Director Anthony Liberatore disagrees with them.  She does not believe the Mayor has been transparent with the Council or the public.  She feels it is fiscally irresponsible to replace the pool unnecessarily.  What is the plan?  Is it to replace the pool?  If so, with what size?  She's heard 1/3 or 2/3.  What is the timeline?

 

Chief of Staff Moretti responded to Councilwoman Germain's strong statements and accusations of fiscal irresponsibility, lack of transparency, and questioning the integrity of the Mayor.  Mr. Liberatore has not stepped foot on the pool site for years.  The Mayor has heard so much in the last two years.  He doesn't know what the Council wants.  The administration needs a clear statement from the Council.  The Mayor is concerned with throwing money at band-aid fixes and the ability to sufficiently staff the pool.  Everyone seemed to agree with a smaller size.  As of this evening, the Administration will stop moving forward.  He referred to the video of the first meeting between the Mayor and the Council.  From that point, the Administration has been willing to move forward.  The Mayor is willing to do whatever the people want.  He has received mixed signals.  The Mayor is willing to accommodate whatever the Council's recommendation is.  He will wait to hear what that is.

 

Councilman Ferri has felt the same since the beginning.  A "pool person" has never been sent to see if the pool is fixable.  His constituents are not in favor of a downsized pool.  The consensus is that even $4 million is too much to spend.

 

Councilman Campopiano would like the city to dream higher than just fixing the old pool.  He referenced the Chafee complex.  It is beautiful.  The purpose of the ARPA money is to heal.  He supports a multi-use complex.  He has no idea of the size because it hasn't been designed yet.  He mentioned Pawtucket's new facility.  Many of the pool patrons do not drive.  It is in a walkable neighborhood.  He looks forward to seeing plans.

 

Council President Marino said in 2021 the goal was to have a pool open and operational; whatever that means.  We are at the mercy of the skill of the experts selected at the sole discretion of the Administration.  That is why, in 2021-2022, questions arose about the study done by the Federal Hill Group and their qualifications.  Council has authorized

$4 million in ARPA funds to be expended.  The Council and Administration have appropriated funds for the project.  It needs to happen.

 

E.  From Councilwoman Germain:  Update on the city's ruling effort on Air B&B/VRBO

 

Councilwoman Germain stated residents want to know what the process is to establish an Air B&B or VRBO. 

 

Chief of Staff Moretti apologized on behalf of the Administration.  He asked Solicitor Millea to attend and speak tonight.  He asked for this item to be continued to next month or to a committee meeting so he can get answers.

 

It was decided to place this item on the next Ordinance Committee agenda.

 

XV.     COUNCIL BUSINESS MATTERS CARRIED OVER

            None

 

XVI.    INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS

 

5-23-01      ORDINANCE In Amendment of Title 2, Administration and Personnel, Chapter 2.16.010 of the City of Cranston, 2005, Entitled "Police Department Composition"; sponsored by Mayor Hopkins; to be referred Ordinance Committee meeting of June 15, 2023

 

5-23-02      ORDINANCE In Amendment of Title 17, Chapter 17.109 of the City of Cranston, 2005, Entitled "Plan Commission"; Sponsored by Council President Marino and Councilwoman Renzulli; to be referred to the Ordinance Committee Meeting of June 15, 2023

 

5-23-03      ORDINANCE In Amendment of Title 6 of the Code of the city of Cranston, 2005, Entitled "Animals" (Roosters); sponsored by Councilwoman Renzulli; to be referred to the Ordinance Committee meeting of June 15, 2023

 

RESOLUTION "To participate in the RI Infrastructure Bank's Community Septic System Loan Program"; sponsored by Council President Marino; to be referred to Finance Committee meeting of June 5, 2023  

 

RESOLUTION "Support for Grant Funding of CLCF Youth Sports; sponsored by Council President Marino; to be referred to the Finance Committee meeting of June 5, 2023

 

PETITION of Narragansett Electric and Verizon New England Inc., to install new pole on Budlong Rd.; to be referred to the Public Works Committee meeting of June 15, 2023

 

PETITION of Narragansett Electric and Verizon New England Inc., to install new pole on Pippin Orchard Rd.; to be referred to the Public Works Committee meeting of June 15, 2023

 

PETITION of Narragansett Electric to install new pole on Dyer Ave.; to be referred to the Public Works Committee meeting of June 15, 2023 

 

CLAIMS to be referred to the Claims Committee meeting of June 5, 2023 as follows:

(vote may be taken)

 

TYPE OF CLAIM	CLAIMANT	DATE OF ALLEGED INCIDENT
Personal Injury	Estate of Jill Mansolillo	November 5, 2021
Property Damage	Sonya Poydras	August 30, 2022
Property Damage	John C. Campellone	January 23, 2023
Property Damage	Ed Brady	February 25, 2023
Property Damage	Raymond L. Simmons IV	March 29, 2023
Property Damage	Bernard Fournier	March 29, 2023
Property Damage	Park Avenue Realty	April 19, 2023
Property Damage	Ryan Behm	April 30, 2023
Property Damage	Donna Bouthillette	April 30, 2023

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilman Campopiano to consider all the New Business items as a block.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Councilwoman Germain to refer all New Business items to the appropriate committee.

 

VOTE:  Ayes - Ferri, Germain, Donegan, Campopiano, Paplauskas, Vargas, and Marino

(unanimous by the members present)

 

XVII.  ITEMS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY

 

A.  From the City Clerk to the Board of Canvassers, Notice of Vacancy for Council Ward 6, and request for special election pursuant to Section 2.06 of the City Charter  

 

Council Vice-President Vargas asked the Director of Elections if an update on the Special Election can be shared, through the Clerk, following the meeting at 3pm on Friday.

 

Director Lima confirmed he will provide an update to the Council and the party chairs.

 

Councilwoman Germain acknowledged May is Mental Health Awareness Month and urged individuals to seek the help of resources available.

 

Council President Marino thanked the members of the community and the Police Department for their efforts to hold the Spring Fair.  It was a well-run event.

 

Councilman Donegan thanked his ailing grandfather for watching this evening, in absence of a Yankees' game, and for his continued support.

 

XVII.   ADJOURNMENT

 

MOTION made by Councilman Ferri, SECOND by Council Vice-President Vargas to adjourn at 8:39 P.M.            All Ayes

 

 

 

Minutes approved as written June 26, 2023

 

Attest:  ____________________________

                  Tracy A. Nelson, City Clerk