CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
RHODE ISLAND
JOURNAL OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The City Council meets in the Council Chamber on Tuesday, October 5, 1999 and is called to order at 7:35 P.M. by Mayor Joseph S. Larisa, Jr.
Present: Mayor Joseph S. Larisa, Jr. ) Council Members
Rolland R. Grant )
Peter F. Midgley )
Norman J. Miranda )
Patrick A. Rogers )
William J. Conley, Jr. ) City Solicitor
Valerie A. Perry ) City Clerk
The Invocation is led by Councilman Rogers.
The Salute to the Flag is led by Councilman Miranda.
Lori Merolla, Merandi Reporting, is present to record the proceedings of the public hearings.
1. Approval of Council Journals
September 21, 1999 - Regular Meeting
September 21, 1999 - Closed Session - Negotiations
2. Cancellations/Abatements - City Assessor requesting cancellation of taxes as follows:
Year Amount
1999 $33.473.20
3. Town of Cumberland - Requesting support for Resolution in support of a timely intervention by a United Nations Peacekeeping Force in East Timor
4. Alcoholic Beverage - Class F - October 3, 1999
Sacred Heart Church - 118 Taunton Avenue
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, and on a roll call vote, it is unanimously VOTED to remove the minutes of the September 21, 1999 closed session and to approve the Consent Calendar as amended.
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to keep the minutes of the September 21, 1999 Closed Session regarding Negotiations closed.
United Nations Month
Audrey Partridge of the League of Women Voters accepts the Proclamation from Mayor Larisa.
Alcoholic Beverage - Class B Ltd - Transfer - (Advertised E.P. Post 9/16 & 9/23, 1999)
From: Tennis Rhode Island, Inc., dba Tennis Rhode Island
To: JPCT Sports, LLC, dba Tennis Rhode Island - 70 Boyd Avenue
John Palermo, 21 Dartmoor Drive, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is present and sworn.
There are no persons from the public wishing to be heard.
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Midgley, and on a roll call vote, it is unanimously VOTED to approve, subject to approvals from the Department of Health and Building Inspector.
Victualing - Class 3 - Not over 25- Transfer
From: Tennis Rhode Island, Inc., dba Tennis Rhode Island
To: JPCT Sports, LLC, dba Tennis Rhode Island - 70 Boyd Avenue
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, it is unanimously VOTED to approve, subject to approvals from the Department of Health and Building Inspector.
Alcoholic Beverage - Cl B Full Privilege - Transfer
(Advertised E.P. Post 9/16 & 9/23, 1999)
From: Brownie's Bar & Grille, Inc.,
To: Little Lucy's Lunch, Inc., dba Red Bridge Tavern - 22 Waterman Avenue
Victualing - Cl 1 - 50 & Over - Transfer
From: Brownie's Bar & Grille, Inc.,
To: Little Lucy's Lunch, Inc., dba Red Bridge Tavern - 22 Waterman Avenue
Dance/Entertainment - Transfer
(Amplified music to cease at midnight - Carex music shall be no louder than a reasonable decibel level approved by the E.P.P.D.)
From: Brownie's Bar & Grille, Inc.,
To: Little Lucy's Lunch, Inc., dba Red Bridge Tavern - 22 Waterman Avenue
Subject to approval from Chief of Police and Building Inspector
Video Game - (including Sunday) - Transfer
From: Brownie's Bar & Grille, Inc.,
To: Little Lucy's Lunch, Inc., dba Red Bridge Tavern - 22 Waterman Avenue
Pool Table - (including Sunday)- Transfer
From: Brownie's Bar & Grille, Inc.,
To: Little Lucy's Lunch, Inc., dba Red Bridge Tavern - 22 Waterman Avenue
____________
Manuel Sousa, 130 Arlington Street, East Providence, Rhode Island is present and sworn.
Mr. Sousa states that he wants to focus on food and has no plans for Karoake or a D.J. The Council question him at length about the operation of his business.
Mr. Rogers suggests Mr. Sousa meet with the Community Police and the neighbors. Mayor Larisa makes a suggestion that there be no music after 9 p.m.
Mr. Miranda states that he does not want to see the same problems as with the former owner, and agrees there has to be a meeting with Mr. Sousa and the neighbors.
After further discussion, a motion is made by Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Midgley, to approve the Alcoholic Beverage license. At the suggestion of Mr. Rogers, the motion is withdrawn.
After further discussion, motion is made by Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Rogers, and unanimously VOTED on a roll call vote to defer all licenses and to authorize the Police Department to set up a community meeting with the neighbors and Mr. Sousa. The licenses will be deferred to the next meeting. The City Clerk will send letters to neighbors and will notify Mr. Sousa of the date and time.
(It is then noted that many of the neighbors are present, and they agree to go into Conference Room A at this time to meet with Mr. Sousa).
LICENSING COMMISSIONERS RESUME SITTING AS CITY COUNCIL
(The following ordinances were given first passage September 21, 1999) Advertised - Providence Journal - September 27, 1999
AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 11 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "PERSONNEL.", which amends: SEC I. In accordance with Sec 11-111 entitled "Adoption", of Chapter 11 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island, 1998, as amended, entitled "Personnel.", the attached pay plans designated as Exhibit C is hereby adopted as the official pay plan for the International Association of Firefighters, Local 850 (AFL-CIO); and said exhibit shall be placed on file in the City Clerk's Office CHAPTER NO. 88
Mr. Conley explains that this ordinance ratifies the pay plan for the Firefighters.
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, and on a roll call vote, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for Final Passage.
Continuation of 1999-2000 Budget Public Hearing
Mr. Lemont gives a presentation on the budget.
Mr. Miranda questions Mr. McDonald about the Fire Department budget and is told that the increase is due to the additional rescue truck and eight new positions.
A lengthy discussion is held regarding the sewer use fee. Mr. McDonald states that Camp Dresser McKee determined that $1.90 would be needed. He also responds to a question from Mayor Larisa by stating that very few complaints from businesses have been made.
Mr. Rogers asks if the City can subsidize deduct meters and is told that the cost of purchase and cost of installation is quite high. At the suggestion of Mr. Rogers, the Finance Department will include a flyer with information on the deduct meters when the bills are mailed out.
Mayor Larisa asks for a report to the Council in the next 30-45 days on the issue.
Bruce Chick, 65 Pleasant Street, Rumford, Rhode Island is present and sworn. Mr. Chick states that some cities have taken the six months of winter and multiplied them by 2 to get the annual rate.
It is also noted that the School Department increase is the largest in ten years.
The meeting recesses at 9:50 p.m. and reconvenes at 10:00 p.m.
Mr. Grant suggests an alternate proposal to the sewer use fee. He proposes the creation of an enterprise account with revenue from the general fund dedicated to the wastewater fund.
Mr. Grant makes a motion to take out of the general revenue whatever money is needed to support the Wastewater Fund. A roll call vote is taken on the motion:
Mr. Grant Aye
Mr. Midgley Nay
Mr. Miranda Nay
Mr. Rogers Nay
Mayor Larisa Nay
The motion is defeated 4-1.
Mr. McDonald states his concern about dismantling the $3.7 million in sewer use revenue, saying that it will put the tax rate increase over the state's 5.5% cap.
After further discussion, a motion is made by Mr. Midgley, seconded by Mr. Miranda, to approve the sewer use fee as recommended in the budget by the City Manager. A roll call vote is taken on the motion:
Mr. Grant Aye
Mr. Midgley Aye
Mr. Miranda Aye
Mr. Rogers Aye
Mayor Larisa Aye
Motion passes 5-0.
The Council speak on the proposed budget, with Mayor Larisa stating that this has been the most painless budget since he has been on the Council.
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Rogers, and on a roll call vote, the 1999-2000 Proposed Budget is approved.
ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $ 97,735,737 FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING OCTOBER 31, 2000.
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, and on a roll call vote, the ordinance is adopted.
Requesting approval for purchase of material/services utilizing bond funding
Julia Forgue, Public Works Director, answers questions from the Council regarding the request.
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to approve.
City Manager's Report
Mr. Lemont states that negotiations are ongoing with the Steelworkers and Police and he asks for a meeting in Executive Session to discuss the issue as well as discussion on a site for the new fire station. Mr. Miranda and Mr. Midgley asks that the meeting not be scheduled for Wednesday.
(By William J. Conley, Jr., City Solicitor)
Claims Committee Report
Jeffrey T. Luciano Claim No. 99-46 ................... Deferred
Richard Oliver Claim No. 99-48 .......................... Denied
Hasbro v. Tax Assessor .................................... Referred to Law Dept. for Appeal
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to accept the report as presented.
(By Valerie A. Perry, City Clerk)
Renewal of Alcoholic Beverage Licenses
Requesting authorization be granted to advertise renewal applications for subject licenses for a public hearing at the first Council meeting in November. (November 2, 1999)
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, it is unanimously VOTED to approve.
(By Mayor Joseph S. Larisa, Jr.)
Riverside Pride and Grant Money (Deferred from September 7, 1999)
Jeanne Boyle, Planning Director, reports that the City was successful in its grant application of $75,000 from the Transportation Enhancement funds for the improvements to Riverside Square. She also reports that Block Grant Funds in the amount of $2,000 were approved for facade improvements.
URI Elderly Study (Deferred from September 7, 1999)
Nancy Remington reports on a $2.8 million grant received by U.R.I. from the National Institute of Health, which was one of 15 awarded this year. The study will be looking at the health across the ages in the state. The study will be behavioral model on the effects of exercise and nutrition on citizens over the age of 65.
(By Councilman Patrick A. Rogers)
Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program - Report on Safe Summer Initiative
Police Chief Gary Dias highlights the program and reports that the program's objectives were achieved - reduced speed in neighborhoods and a reduction in traffic accidents. He also reports that all moving violations will now be $50.
(By Councilman Rolland R. Grant)
Warren Avenue Extension
Mr. Grant says some buildings have been demolished at Watchemoket Square and he was hoping that it would be the beginning of a turn-a-round for the neighborhood but doesn't see that happening.
Mayor Larisa states that he, along with the City Manager and Planning Director, are getting actively involved in trying to figure out a master plan for the area.
3-Way Stop on Bradford Avenue at Greenwich Avenue north & south w/ Police enforcement Mr. Grant says he will recommend this issue for the next Council meeting
Condition of State highway at Warren Ave. & Skycrest Ave. traffic signal Mr. Grant asks that a letter be sent to D.O.T. regarding this issue. Mr. Conley will send a letter.
(By Councilman Peter F. Midgley)
Handicapped Parking
Mr. Midgley speaks about the enforcement of the handicapped parking laws and says he would like to incorporate it into the ordinance. Mr. Conley says it can be enforced, and he will prepare a memo to the Council regarding the issue.
Unanimous Consent - Mr. Miranda
Mr. Miranda receives Unanimous Consent to make an appointment. On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to approve the appointment of Joao Canerio, 44 Fleming Street, East Providence, Rhode Island to Traffic Control.
(If given first passage, can be referred to the next regular Council meeting to be held on October 19, 1999 for a public hearing and consideration of final passage)
1. AN ORDINANCE ORDERING THE ASSESSMENT AND COLLECTION OF PROPERTY TAX ON THE RATABLE REAL ESTATE, TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY AND AN EXCISE TAX ON REGISTERED MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAILERS.
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for First Passage..
2. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO BORROW FUNDS IN ANTICIPATION OF TAXES.
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for First Passage.
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, it is unanimously VOTED to dispense with the reading of the next ordinance.
3. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC", which amends SEC I. Sec. 18-247 entitled "Designation of one-way streets." by deleting therefrom the following:
HOWLAND AVENUE (westbound) from Dover Avenue to Pawtucket Avenue during the hours of 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, school days.
WANNAMOISETT ROAD (eastbound), from Dover avenue to Pawtucket Avenue during the hours of 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, school days.
DODGE STREET (northbound), from Silver Spring Avenue to Hilltop Road during the hours of 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, school days.
PROGRESS STREET (southbound), from Heath Street to Silver Spring Avenue during the hours of 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, school days.
SILVER SPRING AVENUE (westbound), from Progress Street to dodge Street during the hours of 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, school days.
SECTION II. Sec. 18-247 entitled "Designation of one-way streets." is amended by adding thereto the following:
HOWLAND AVENUE (westbound) from Dover Avenue to Pawtucket Avenue during the hours of 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, school days.
WANNAMOISETT ROAD (eastbound), from Dover Avenue to Pawtucket Avenue during the hours of 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, school days.
DODGE STREET (northbound), from Silver Spring Avenue to Hilltop Road during the hours of 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, school days.
PROGRESS STREET (southbound), from Heath Street to Silver Spring Avenue during the hours of 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, school days.
SILVER SPRING AVENUE (westbound), from Progress Street to dodge Street during the hours of 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, school days.
(Requested by the Director of Public Works)
(This ordinance amendment changes the hours of one-way designations on certain streets to conform with the change of time for school days)
On motion of Mr. Midgley, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for First Passage.
4. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC", which amends SEC I. Sec. 18-269 entitled "Stop and yield intersections designated; when stops required." by adding theretothe following:
SECOND STREET (northbound and southbound traffic), at Schuyler Street.
(Requested by the Director of Public Works)
On motion of Mr. Miranda, seconded by Mr. Grant, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for First Passage.
5. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC." which amends SEC I. Article X entitled "Stopping, Standing and Parking." Subsection 18-307 entitled "Parking prohibited at all times." by deleting therefrom the following:
EASTERN AVENUE (south side)
SECTION II. Article X entitled "Stopping, Standing and Parking." of Chapter 18 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island, 1998, as amended, entitled "Vehicles and Traffic." Subsection 18-307 entitled "Parking prohibited at all times." is amended by adding thereto the following:
EASTERN AVENUE (south side) from its dead end easterly for a distance of 386 feet
(Requested by the Director of Public Works)
On motion of Mr. Grant, seconded by Mr. Miranda, it is unanimously VOTED to approve for First Passage.
There being no further business, the meeting is adjourned at 11:10 p.m.
Attest:
Valerie A. Perry
City Clerk Approved: October 19, 1999