| | CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE RHODE ISLAND JOURNAL OF REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 20, 2009 CONTINUED TO THURSDAY OCTOBER 22, 2009 7:00pm Executive Session 7:30pm Open Session | |
| Present: | Robert E. Cusack | ) | Assistant Mayor |
| | Valerie A. Perry | ) | Council Members |
| | Bruce DiTraglia | ) | |
| | Brian G. Coogan | ) | |
| | Richard Brown | ) | City Manager |
| | James P. Briden | ) | City Solicitor |
| | Kim A. Casci | ) | City Clerk |
The Invocation is read by Councilwoman Perry and the Salute to the Flag is led by Councilman DiTraglia.
A motion is made by Councilman DiTraglia to return from Executive Session and to keep the minutes of the Executive Session closed, seconded by Councilwoman Perry and it is unanimous.
I. THE CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Approval of Council Journals
1. Journal Regular Council Meeting September 15, 2009
B. Letters
1. Rhode Island Ethics Commission New General Commission Advisory 2009-4 Secondary Employment.
C. Cancellations/Abatements
| Year | Amount |
| 2005 | $602.07 |
| 2006 | $554.22 |
| 2007 | $426.46 |
| 2008 | $462.54 |
| 2009 | $5,111.49 |
| Total | $7,156.78 |
D. Hardship Appeals
| Year | Amount |
| 2009 | $31,064.37 |
| Total | $31,064.37 |
E. Alcoholic Beverage Class F-1
1. St. Francis Xavier, Fundraiser October 31, 2009, 81 North Carpenter Street (02914)
2. St. Francis Xavier, Fundraiser November 1, 2009, 81 North Carpenter Street (02914)
3. St. Francis Xavier, FADO Night November 14, 2009, 81 North Carpenter Street (02914)
F. Alcoholic Beverage Class F
1. St. Martha’s Church, Portuguese Night October 24, 2009, 2595 Pawtucket Avenue (02914)
G. VICT/NOT OVER 25
1. Stop & Shop Super Markets Co. Inc., 1925 Pawtucket Avenue (02914)
H. HOLIDAY SALES
1. Stop & Shop Super Markets Co. Inc., 1925 Pawtucket Avenue (02914)
A motion to approve the Consent Calendar is made by Councilman DiTraglia, seconded by Councilwoman Perry and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
II. APPOINTMENTS
1. Traffic Control (by Councilman Cusack)
Connie Delsavio, 56 Blanche Avenue (02914)
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Economic Development Commission (by Councilman Cusack)
Timothy Norton, 180 Bourne Avenue (02916)
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
3. Traffic Control (by Mayor Larisa)
1. John Harris
2. Richard Cordeiro
3. James Tolor
4. Stephen McKenna
5. Ryan Vose
6. Geneviene Rock
7. Justin Robidoux
8. Peter Cordeiro
9. James Aceto
10. Kelvin Cabrera
11. Brian Mulvey
12. Geoffrey Waldman
13. Matthew Pendergast
Per request of the Chief of Police Joseph Tavares
Chief Tavares is asked to come up and explain the request. He states these are the 13 Police Officers who were laid off as a result of budgetary constraints. He would like to have these officers available on the Traffic Control list. It is good for them to keep working, good for the City to subsidize the amount the City pays in unemployment and hopefully will keep them active on the East Providence Police force while negotiations continue with the Union to maybe bring them back full-time.
A motion is made to approve by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and discussion ensues.
Councilman Coogan asked Assistant Mayor Cusack if he could let the people know why he is serving as Acting Mayor tonight and Assistant Mayor Cusack explained that Mayor Larisa’s wife was in labor with their first child.
Councilman Coogan asked the Chief about overtime at the Police Department. The Chief explained that the beats are being filled and the overtime is what it is, people get to take time off if they have vacation or sick time they need to take and the slots are being filled.
Councilman Coogan wanted to know if these officers actually want to be traffic control especially since he feels the City Manager didn’t factor in the overtime when these officers were laid off. Councilman Coogan asked the Chief if he was in control of the overtime.
Councilwoman Perry calls a point of order and calls the question. Assistant Mayor Cusack acknowledges the point of order and asks for a roll call vote.
Councilman Coogan – Nay Councilman Cusack – Aye Councilman DiTraglia – Nay Councilwoman Perry – Aye and the motion fails.
CITY COUNCIL SITTING AS LICENSING COMMISSIONERS
III. LICENSES REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARING
4. RENEWAL OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSES (subject to approvals from Chief of Police, Building Inspector, Health Inspector and Fire Marshall. Advertised October 2 & 9, 2009)
CLASS A (RETAILERS)
Barrington Liquors, Inc.
618 Warren Avenue
Clift’s Liquors, Inc.
191 Willett Avenue
Liquor Depot East Providence, Inc.
dba Wine & Spirits Depot
1925 Pawtucket Avenue Suite #5
Marvic Enterprises, Inc.
dba Jordan’s Liquors
199 Taunton Avenue
McGreens Fine Wine & Spirits, Inc.
1086 Willett Avenue
O’Dell Enterprises, Inc.
dba Brookfield Liquors
470 North Broadway
Riverside Liquors, Inc.
225 Bullocks Point Avenue
Town Liquor Co., Inc.
dba Town Wine & Spirits
179 Newport Avenue
Warren Avenue Liquor Market, Inc.
208 Warren Avenue
B-FULL PRIVILEGE (VICTUALING)
141 Corp.
dba Uncle Tony’s Pizza & Pasta
141 Newport Avenue
Ban Chiang, Inc.
dba Siam Square Restaurant
1050 Willett Avenue
Bruno Foods, Inc.
dba Cattails City Grille
315 Waterman Avenue
Cape Verdean Progressive Center
329 Grosvenor Avenue
Casa Brasil, LLC
dba Casa Brasil
543-545 North Broadway
Centre Court Inc., The
dba The Loft
55 Hospital Road
Chelo’s of East Providence, Inc.
911 Warren Avenue
Chelo’s of Newport Avenue, Inc.
45 Newport Avenue
China Gourmet, Inc.
dba China Gourmet Restaurant
181 Willett Avenue
Comedy Connection of RI, Inc.
dba Comedy Connection
39 Warren Avenue
Davenport’s Bar & Grill, Inc.
dba Davenport’s Restaurant
1925 Pawtucket Avenue
D L Enterprises, Inc.
dba East Bay Tavern
305 Lyon Avenue
Dolces Restaurant, Inc.
dba Bovi’s Town Tavern
287-289 Taunton Avenue
East Providence House of Pizza, LLC
187 Willett Avenue
East Providence Yacht Club, Inc.
9 Pier Road
El Azteca Mexican Restaurant, LLC
dba El Azteca Mexican Restaurant
335 Newport Avenue
Golden Dragon, LLC
dba Young China Restaurant
250 Warren Avenue
Holy Ghost Beneficial Brotherhood of Rhode Island
51 North Phillips Street
Holy Ghost Brotherhood of Charity
59 Brightridge Avenue
Hong Meas Restaurant, Inc.
dba Hong Meas Restaurant
332 Warren Avenue
Ichigo Ichi, LLC
dba Ichigo Ichie
5 Catamore Boulevard
K&G Enterprises, Inc.
dba Restaurant La Camelia
92 Waterman Avenue
Lane Foods Company, LLC
dba Gregg’s Restaurant
1940 Pawtucket Avenue
Lees Restaurant and Lounge, Inc.
dba Lees Restaurant and Lounge
376 Bullocks Point Avenue
Lincoln Bar & Grill, Inc.
24 Monroe Avenue
Little Lucy’s Lunch, Inc.
dba Red Bridge Tavern
22 Waterman Avenue
Loggia Luce Moderna 1112
99 Hicks Street
Lucky’s American Bar & Grille
1175 Warren Avenue
East Providence, RI 02914
Mathias Enterprises, LTD
dba Campino Restaurant & Sports Bar
218 Warren Avenue
Merrill Lounge, Inc.
dba Merrill Lounge
535 North Broadway
Milho, Albertino R.
dba Madeira Restaurant
288-290 Warren Avenue
P & G Bowling, Inc.
dba East Providence Bowling Center
80 Newport Avenue
Paiva’s Restaurant Corp.
dba O’Dinis Restaurant & Tavern
579 Warren Avenue
Pepper Dining, Inc.
dba Chili’s Grill & Bar
50 Highland Avenue
Portuguese American Athletic Club
281 Warren Avenue
Pub Ventures, Inc.
dba Mulhearn’s Pub
507 North Broadway
PWRPJ, Inc.
dba Rockin’ Times
478 Waterman Avenue
Riviera Inn Dining and Banquet Company
580 North Broadway
Sao Miguel Eateries, Inc.
dba Estrella Do Mar
736 North Broadway
Sax’s Steak & Pizza, LLC
dba Sax’s Steak & Pizza
525 North Broadway
SAZ, Inc.
dba Town Pizza & Family Restaurant
949 Willett Avenue
T&T’S 133 Club, Inc.
dba 133 Club
29 Warren Avenue
THF, Inc.
dba Houlihan’s Tavern On The River
28 Water Street
Town Pub, Inc.
311 Taunton Avenue
Tropical Ilhas, Inc.
472 Waterman Avenue
Watchemoket Bar, Inc.
dba Watchemoket Bar
31 Warren Avenue
Yikes Entertainment Group, Inc.
dba Two Jerks Pub & Grill
446 Waterman Avenue
C (SALOON)
Quattrucci, Carl & Arthur
dba Monforte’s Bar
493 Waterman Avenue
D-FULL PRIVILEGE
Agawam Hunt
15 Roger Williams Avenue
Columbus Club of Barrington
1 Viola Avenue
Columbus Club of East Providence
3200 Pawtucket Avenue
East Providence Athletic Club
118 Mauran Avenue
East Providence Fraternal Order of Eagles 1773
334 Waterman Avenue
East Providence Lodge of Elks 2337
60 Berkeley Street
Holy Ghost Brotherhood Mariense
846 Broadway
Metacomet Country Club
500 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Riverside Post Holding Co., Inc.
830 Willett Avenue
Riverside Sportsmans Association
1 Sportsman Drive
Squantum Association
Squantum Club
947 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Teofilo Braga Club
26 Teofilo Braga Way
Trinity Brotherhood
146 Sutton Avenue
Wannamoisett Country Club
96 Hoyt Avenue
B-LIMITED (VICTUALING)
Boston House of Pizza, Inc.
540-542 Taunton Avenue
Bowling Academy, Inc.
354 Taunton Avenue
Chan, Ben Ying
dba Mei Singh Chinese Restaurant
2827 Pawtucket Avenue
E B Dragon, LLC
dba East Buffet Restaurant
52 Narragansett Park Drive
Farnsworth Café, LLC
dba Farnsworth Cafe
302 Willett Avenue
Horton’s Seafood, Inc.
dba Horton’s Seafood
809 Broadway
Jeon, Il Sun
dba Sun & Moon Korean Restaurant
95 Warren Avenue
Jin Hua Chinese Restaurant, Inc.
dba New Buffet Restaurant
1925 Pawtucket Avenue
JPCT Sports, LLC
dba Tennis Rhode Island
70 Boyd Avenue
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and discussion ensues. Councilman DiTraglia wanted to know if there have been any problems at any of these establishments. The City Manager states he has not received any reports. The City Clerk indicates that any licenses that have stipulations are to continue with those stipulations and would have to come before Council individually to request any changes. The City Manager added that if there were continuing problems the Police Chief would alert the City Manager and the Council and if necessary request license suspension or revocation.
On a roll call vote Councilman Coogan recuses and the motion passes.
IV. PUBLIC HEARING
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and it is unanimous.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $141,554,032 FOR
THE SUPPORT OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR ENDING OCTOBER 31, 2010
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I. The receipts for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2010 have been established to amount to $141,554,032 made up as follows:
| RECEIPTS | |
| Beginning Balance | $2,777,200.00 |
| General Property Tax | $81,463,975.00 |
| Licenses and Permits | $1,099,000.00 |
| Rescue Fee Transfer | $800,000.00 |
| Vehicle Detail Fee Transfer | $350,000.00 |
| Recycling Transfer | $95,000.00 |
| Fines, Forfeits, Penalties | $46,000.00 |
| Revenue from Use of Money & Property | $50,000.00 |
| Revenue from Other Agencies | $7,521,300.00 |
| Charges for Current Services | $672,492.00 |
| Revenue from City Agencies | $210,000.00 |
| Revenue Water Department | $8,178,786.00 |
| Revenue Wastewater Department | |
| Sewer Use Charge | $7,098,477.00 |
| Other Revenue | $802,000.00 |
| Revenue School Department | |
| Local Sources | $3,690,000.00 |
| State Sources | $26,699,802.00 |
| TOTAL RECEIPTS | $141,554,032.00 |
SECTION II. To defray the expenses of the City of East Providence for the fiscal year commencing November 1, 2009 and ending October 31, 2010, the sum of money, or so much thereof as are authorized by law indicated in the accompanying schedule, are hereby appropriated for the objects and purposes, and in the amounts expressed therein, provided that payments thereunder shall be subject to the provisions of the City Charter of the City of East Providence and also subject to the provisions of said City Charter relative to the manner and form of expenditures of money set forth in said Charter from the City Treasury.
SECTION III. All monies appropriated are to be expended by the various departments in the manner and form approved by the Director of Finance.
SECTION IV. The payment to the School Fund of the following estimated receipts, included in the appropriation of $74,414,888 for the support of the public schools for the City of East Providence fiscal year 2009-2010, shall be increased or decreased to conform with the actual amounts received from such sources during the fiscal year 2009-2010 except the City appropriation of property tax.
| REVENUE-SCHOOL DEPARTMENT | |
| Local Sources | $3,690,000.00 |
| State Sources | $26,699,802.00 |
| City Appropriation of Property Tax | $43,525,086.00 |
| R.I. Meals Tax Designated for Deficit Reduction | $500,000.00 |
| TOTAL | $74,414,888.00 |
SECTION V. The purpose of this ordinance is to adopt the Budget for the fiscal year 2009-2010 which begins November 1, 2009 and ends October 31, 2010 as prepared and submitted by the City Manager, and to implement the recommendations as set forth in the City Manager's Budget Message by the approval of said recommendations as contained herein, or by other ordinances or resolutions of the City Council; all in accordance with the provisions of said Article.
SECTION VI. This ordinance shall take effect upon its passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
| LEGISLATIVE, JUDICIAL AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES | |
| CITY COUNCIL | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 59,365.00 |
| Supply and Service | 11,300.00 |
| | 70,665.00 |
| CITY MANAGER | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 304,872.00 |
| Supply and Service | 30,945.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 1,500.00 |
| | 337,317.00 |
| SENIOR CENTER | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 364,652.00 |
| Supply and Service | 25,300.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 400.00 |
| | 390,352.00 |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 282,728.00 |
| Supply and Service | 136,604.00 |
| Equipment & Capital Outlay | 50,000.00 |
| | 469,332.00 |
| CITY CLERK | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 491,245.00 |
| Supply and Service | 129,500.00 |
| Equipment & Capital Outlay | 500.00 |
| | 621,245.00 |
| FINANCE-DIRECTOR | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 153,824.00 |
| Supply and Service | 2,000.00 |
| | 155,824.00 |
| FINANCE-CONTROL AND ACCOUNTS | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 322,672.00 |
| Supply and Service | 5,425.00 |
| | 328,097.00 |
| FINANCE-TREASURY-MIS | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 92,273.00 |
| Supply and Service | 55,100.00 |
| | 148,373.00 |
| FINANCE-TREASURY DIVISION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 566,080.00 |
| Supply and Service | 53,394.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 4,200.00 |
| | 623,674.00 |
| FINANCE-PURCHASING DIVISION | |
| Personnel Services & Fringe Benefits | 171,965.00 |
| Supply and Service | 19,527.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 500.00 |
| | 191,992.00 |
| FINANCE-ASSESSMENT DIVISION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 701,172.00 |
| Supply and Service | 9,850.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 600.00 |
| | 711,622.00 |
| PLANNING | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 670,574.00 |
| Supply and Service | 18,850.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 500.00 |
| | 689,924.00 |
| HUMAN RESOURCES & SERVICE-PERSONNEL & E.M. | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 440,733.00 |
| Supply and Service | 17,960.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 500.00 |
| | 459,193.00 |
| HUMAN RESOURCES & SERVICE-AFFIRMATIVE ACTION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 101,358.00 |
| Supply and Service | 6,300.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 500.00 |
| | 108,158.00 |
| LAW DEPARTMENT | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 392,629.00 |
| Supply and Service | 8,350.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 1,000.00 |
| | 401,979.00 |
| CANVASSING AUTHORITY | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 178,912.00 |
| Supply and Service | 17,889.00 |
| | 196,801.00 |
| PUBLIC LIBRARIES | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 1,596,447.00 |
| Supply and Service | 130,400.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 2,000.00 |
| Debt Service | 224,146.00 |
| | 1,952,993.00 |
| PUBLIC SAFETY-POLICE | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 10,481,934.00 |
| Supply and Service | 1,034,329.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 25,000.00 |
| | 11,541,263.00 |
| PUBLIC SAFETY-FIRE | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 11,075,336.00 |
| Supply and Service | 777,075.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 52,000.00 |
| | 11,904,411.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-ANIMAL SHELTER | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 250,372.00 |
| Supply and Service | 87,300.00 |
| | 337,672.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-BUILDINGS DIVISION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 656,775.00 |
| Supply and Service | 614,291.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 1,500.00 |
| | 1,272,566.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-BUILDING INSPECTION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 656,508.00 |
| Supply and Service | 62,700.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 17,200.00 |
| | 736,408.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-DIRECTOR | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 211,658.00 |
| Supply and Service | 2,575.00 |
| | 214,233.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-ENGINEERING | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 642,700.00 |
| Supply and Service | 22,714.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 4,950.00 |
| | 670,364.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-HIGHWAY | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 2,367,886.00 |
| Supply and Service | 539,993.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 25,000.00 |
| | 2,932,879.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-CENTRAL GARAGE | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 718,270.00 |
| Supply and Service | 79,775.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 1,700.00 |
| | 799,745.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-STREET LIGHTS | |
| Supply and Service | 625,000.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-WASTEWATER FACILITIES PLANT | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 1,758,376.00 |
| Supply and Service | 1,678,206.00 |
| Debt Service | 199,639.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 925,000.00 |
| | 4,561,221.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-WASTEWATER FACILITIES-COLLECTION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 144,982.00 |
| Supply and Service | 2,870,722.00 |
| Debt Service | 323,552.00 |
| | 3,339,256.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-REFUSE DISPOSAL | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 2,720,774.00 |
| Supply and Service | 30,925.00 |
| | 2,751,699.00 |
| PUBLIC WORKS-WATER | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 2,165,849.00 |
| Supply and Service | 3,575,437.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 2,337,500.00 |
| Debt Service | 100,000.00 |
| | 8,178,786.00 |
| RECREATION | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 874,125.00 |
| Supply and Service | 127,750.00 |
| Debt Service | 12,000.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 49,867.00 |
| | 1,063,742.00 |
| RECREATION-PARKS | |
| Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits | 1,034,989.00 |
| Supply and Service | 212,957.00 |
| Equipment and Capital Outlay | 20,000.00 |
| | 1,267,946.00 |
| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| Retiree Benefits | 1,647,012.00 |
| Interest on Tax Notes | 485,000.00 |
| General Audit | 30,000.00 |
| Judgment & Claims | 100,000.00 |
| Mental Health | 60,000.00 |
| Bond Principal | 681,500.00 |
| Bond Interest | 428,872.00 |
| Insurance (Public Liability) | 675,000.00 |
| Unemployment Compensation | 345,000.00 |
| Professional Services | 200,000.00 |
| Membership Fees | 22,000.00 |
| Computer Lease Purchase | 60,000.00 |
| Self-Help | 30,000.00 |
| Master Lease | 252,479.00 |
| Capital Equipment | 50,000.00 |
| Minimum Standards | 60,000.00 |
| Other Miscellaneous | 22,700.00 |
| | 5,149,563.00 |
| CONTINGENCY FUND | 30,000.00 |
| DEBT SERVICE FUND | 1,904,849.00 |
| SCHOOL FUND | 73,914,888.00 |
| SCHOOL DEFICIT FUND | 500,000.00 |
| | |
A motion is made to approve by Councilwoman Perry, a second cannot be achieved and Assistant Mayor Cusack reminds everyone that absent of a second on the motion, the item cannot be discussed and could again be brought up upon a continuation of this meeting on another date. He reminds Council that what is at stake here is the difference between the original budget as submitted by the City Manager and the budget that they all voted to approve at the last Council meeting which stops the closure of the Recreation Center, the layoffs and reassignments at Pierce Field, the layoff in the Planning Department and the layoffs of Library staff as well as the closure of two of the library branches in the City. That vote will not hold without a second passage and by default the City Manager’s original proposed budget will become law by Friday, October 24th as set forth in the City Charter. He added we all have objections to the budget and it is not perfect however it does provide for balance, significant cuts and a 3.5% tax increase, none are pleasant to contemplate but necessary to balance. We heard from the public last week and were able to make those requested amendments to that budget.
Donna Drapeau 28 Riverwoods Court in Rumford came up to speak. She noted she didn’t come forward before because she didn’t realize there wouldn’t be a second and a vote. What is the issue that the two Councilmen are abstaining from in the vote. The items they wanted in the last meeting are getting resolved.
Councilman Coogan responded that he ran his race for Council on control spending and the City is out of control with spending and at the last minute the City Manager just started slicing everything. He added he is in support of all those items being included in the budget. But when you lay off 13 officers and create a bunch of over time that is mismanagement and he is reckless in this budget. There is a plan to lay off 28 firemen. After Mayor Larisa returns from his wife having a baby they will put the budget through.
Ms. Drapeau wanted to know why the Councilman was throwing away the baby with the bathwater.
Councilman Coogan stated he was not on the Council a year ago to vote for the Department Head raises and doesn’t feel it was well planned out. It seems to be that I am shut down when I ask questions. Those items will be saved when the Mayor returns to vote on the budget. I do not want a 3.5% raise in taxes or Department Heads getting raises and have issues with City Manager’s salary without concessions.
Ms. Drapeau wanted to know from Assistant Mayor Cusack how negotiations are going with the police union. Assistant Mayor Cusack stated that yes he does want negotiations to continue but the City had an offer on the table and so far that has not been answered. He added that the budget on the floor tonight is the exact same budget as the one voted in favor of at the last Council meeting. It is up to everyone out there whether that makes sense or not. The raises being discussed are in there by contractual agreement and their contract has not expired as had happened with the Teacher’s Union. That is not the case with these, there is no surprise there are raises in the budget they were signed over a period of years depending on the bargaining unit and they expire at different times. There were other concessions on the other side to pay more on healthcare, not 20%, but some concessions. What was unexpected was the money from the State which was slashed. What was planned for revenue sharing money from the State, several million dollars, had to be found, reduce spending and raise taxes to make up for it. The City is trying to maintain services and not increase taxes past the tax cap. Tomorrow there will be a hearing at the State House on a bill which would mandate binding arbitration on financial issues for teacher unions. If that passes some arbitrator somewhere would effectively be setting our tax rate.
Ms. Drapeau wanted to know how they could have another vote and Assistant Mayor Cusack stated that we do have the power to continue this meeting and vote on it at that time. We would be merely moving the question for a vote and I am highly confident it will pass at that time and before the deadline.
Assistant Mayor Cusack asked if the Council would like to issue a sense of the Council to City Manager Brown to reach out to the Police Union again.
Councilwoman Perry stated that if that was so important to the Police Union they would call the City Manager instead of the other way.
Assistant Mayor Cusack stated the offer doesn’t have to be changed but a request can be made to meet again, more dialog is better than less.
The Council agreed they would like the City Manager to reach out to the Police Union and the City Manager agreed he would be glad to reach out to Union President Rossi tomorrow.
Councilman DiTraglia added both Police and Fire Unions have committed more than a million each and there should be plenty of money. This is a political budget, the money is there, a civilian has come into the chambers with savings, now they want to hold this ransom because of the Recreation Center and the libraries. All of a sudden if we don’t vote on this then they will be closed. The City Manager would be the person to close them not the Council.
Councilman DiTraglia asked if Director McDonald could come up to answer some questions.
Director McDonald stated the budget as presented is balanced if you reverse the 3.5% tax increase you would have to cut $3.5 million and that would need to replace that tax increase because if not the budget would not balance. The budget already calls for a reduction in the police and fire of over $2.5 million. You would then have to cut another $3 million that is already incorporated in the budget. This is a recommended budget on the amount of revenue that is available the reductions which include the major reductions in police and fire. Any budget is an estimate with a plan to try to achieve certain revenues and expenditures. It is what you must do to try to make an estimate over a whole year on what you can achieve in savings. We are required to come up with this. The overtime for the police department was factored in but not dramatically. The unemployment of those laid off officers was factored in as well. Whether we factored in enough will depend on what the overtime comes out to over the course of a year we can’t use just one week as an example.
Councilman Coogan also wanted to know whether or not overtime to excess for police and fire will affect their safety and the resident’s safety as well.
Councilman DiTraglia explained that the reason why he voted for the 13 police officers working part time was because usually when you have part-time workers it means the job will never be filled full-time again and we really need full time police officers again, we will probably lose some of these police officer’s to other cities and towns. Adding that he has been stating for 3 years that he is not voting for any tax increase, the City is expending too much and too many people are receiving large salaries. There are 8 people in the City that make over $100,000 a year. This is happening throughout the State and Country. I can’t go door to door and justify this to someone, that additional money in the 3.5% tax increase each week is someone’s medication they can no longer afford. If everyone is going to take a cut and everyone chips in and we have to raise taxes then that’s different. The City Manager should have gone to the Department Heads one by one.
V. NEW BUSINESS
1. City Managers Report (City Manager Richard Brown)
A. Award of Bid Cost Containment
In August of this year a RFP was issued for Cost Containment Services. Consultants specialize in finding areas where municipalities can reduce their costs. As part of that analysis they identify baseline expenditures and take a percentage of the savings as compensation. There is no photocopying, printing, utilities, office equipment, leases and related maintenance contracts. One was the Birkshire Group located in New Jersey the other was Dillan Management Services out of California. Birkshire Group is operating in this area they have a contract with Brown University and are here regularly. I am requesting Council approval to enter into Cost Containment Services with the Birkshire Group.
Assistant Mayor Cusack stated that he encouraged the Birkshire Group to seek this and that he came to know principals of the Birkshire Group who is working in this area. They have been active with municipalities in New Jersey and New York and added they are very well received at Brown University and are up to a couple of million dollars in savings. I am not sure whether they will find any savings here because I feel we are pretty well managed in these areas but even well managed organizations sometimes are able to renegotiate contracts in favor of the organization. Given the fact that there is no outlay of funds except for a portion of the savings after they are documented this is a win/win situation. There are ways that consultants like this work that are not standard operating procedures at municipal agencies, hospitals and companies whereby small changes that might not have been thought of by the employees are brought to light with their knowledge of how it is done in other places. Department Heads are not cost cutting experts, they are supposed to be good managers but even good managers are not going to know the practices of all other organizations like their own. It’s common for outside people to come in and using what they have learned in other places renegotiate contracts. I would endorse this and ask for Council support.
A motion is made to accept the recommendation to award as recommended by the City Manager by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman Coogan and a discussion ensues.
The City Manager states the rate in their proposal is 20% of the savings for the next two years. Their responsibility is to identify areas that need to be looked at and identify where the baseline is at that point and the City verifies those savings. After discussions with our Department Heads and the savings we have already instituted they may determine it’s not worth spending time working with us. If however, they can identify savings and they are proven and documented they do receive a portion of that as a fee. They look through our records and some of our processes. We pay based upon the documented savings not the estimate. The documented savings may go beyond two years but they only receive their 20% for two years. For large numbers they take a smaller percentage around 10%.
The Finance Director spoke and stated it’s a no lose situation, no money comes out of our pocket if there are no savings, anything saved is money we didn’t have before, 80%, to begin with. The savings are probably going to be marginal but it’s a no lose situation. The company pays to send staff here from New Jersey they pay for that.
Councilman DiTraglia stated that if the City has 8 people that make $100,000 a year then its up to the City Manager to go to the Department Heads and direct them to look for savings. The City Manager needs to work with the Department Heads and ask them each individually.
The City Manager responded that during the year the Department Heads were kept apprised and asked for savings to meet the reductions. The reductions they came in with were not appropriate to meet that level of reduction. It’s very difficult when you are operating a department and you are looking at your employees’ day in and day ou, to make the types of reductions that are needed to dramatically alter the way we spend money. I took the initiative and gave Council a document. Department Heads found some savings, but they are temporary and not systemic to achieve the type of reductions we need to. Their mission is to provide support for the department they are working for, I am willing to take the hit and make the recommendation.
On a roll call vote Councilman Coogan – Aye Councilman Cusack – Aye Councilman DiTraglia – Nay Councilwoman Perry – Aye and the motion passes.
3. Council Members
A. Odors from Pond View/TransLoad (by Councilman Cusack)
Assistant Mayor Cusack states he received two calls from a daycare organization in Rumford asking the City to look into odors emanating from the area. He then received a second call from a resident who was also complaining. He contacted the City Manager and expressed his concern. The City is currently looking into the matter. The Assistant Mayor asked the City Manager to explain what is being done and if the City has found out if the odors are dangerous.
The City Manager explained the City is reviewing the odors and determining where they are coming from. While they appear to be offensive we do not believe they are toxic. The City is checking with the treatment plant and others to determine the exact source of those.
Ed Pimental came forward to discuss the matter in more detail. He explained they too had received phone calls of complaints in the area. They noticed odor and a strange hissing sound. A site inspection was conducted and the odor was clearly coming from Pond View and it was a sulfur/rotting egg smell and this was consistent with the reports. The smell seemed to disappear and was resolved and we did not receive any more complaints. Following that there were reports to the Fire Departments of a natural gas odor. It was their opinion that the smell was coming from Pond View. I sent a violation letter to the attention of Pond View. I received a call from Mr. Kenneth Foley, who is a consultant to the operation, and he indicated to me that what had been happening was that they were taking in sheet rock and it’s supposed to be decomposed before it gets there and it was not, and if it decomposes there it causes a sulfur/rotting egg smell. He further indicated they will not be accepting the sheet rock any longer. If any member of the public does smell anything again they should call the Zoning Office so they can investigate further.
B. “Townie Pride in East Providence” (by Mayor Larisa)
C. “Our Legislative Delegation-with EP taxpayers or against?” (by Mayor Larisa)
VI. Introduction of Ordinances
1. This ordinance authorizes the Director of Finance to borrow during the fiscal year ending October 31, 2010 money in anticipation of the sewer use fee revenue.
A motion to defer is made Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF
FINANCE TO BORROW FUNDS IN ANTICIPATION OF REVENUE.
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I. The Director of Finance is authorized to borrow during the fiscal year ending October 31, 2010 such sums of money in anticipation of the sewer use fee revenue of the year as may be permitted by law for the purpose of meeting the current liabilities and expenses of the City and that the Director of Finance is authorized to issue the note or notes of the City therefore and to refund such note or notes and any revenue anticipation notes of a prior year to the extent permitted by law.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Director of Finance
2. This ordinance authorizes the Director of Finance to borrow during the fiscal year ending October 31, 2010 money in anticipation of the property taxes.
A motion to defer is made Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF
FINANCE TO BORROW FUNDS IN ANTICIPATION OF TAXES.
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I. The Director of Finance is authorized to borrow during the fiscal year ending October 31, 2010 such sums of money in anticipation of the property taxes of the year as may be permitted by law for the purpose of meeting the current liabilities and expenses of the City and that the Director of Finance is authorized to issue the note or notes of the City therefore and to refund such note or notes and any tax anticipation notes of a prior year to the extent permitted by law.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Director of Finance
3. The following ordinance pertains to 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.
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and it is unanimous.
A motion to defer is made Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
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.
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I. That the City Council of the City of East Providence hereby orders the assessment and collection of a tax on ratable real estate, tangible personal property and an excise tax on registered motor vehicles and trailers in a sum not more than Eighty-seven Million Three Hundred Twenty-one Thousand ($87,321,000) Dollars nor less than Eighty-six Million Two Hundred Twenty-one Thousand ($86,221,000) Dollars. Said tax is for ordinary expenses, for the payment of interest and indebtedness, in whole or in part, of said city, and for other purposes authorized by law.
The Tax Assessor shall assess and apportion said tax on the inhabitants and ratable property of said city as of the 31st day of December, 2009 at twelve o'clock Eastern Standard Time, according to law, and shall on completion of said assessment, date and sign same and shall make out and certify to the City Treasurer of the City of East Providence, who is charged with the duties for the collection of taxes, on or before the 15th day of June, 2010 complete list of the names of the persons taxed and of the total value of all the real estate assessed against each person, and also the amount of registered motor vehicles and trailers assessed against each person, and also the total amount assessed against each person on said real estate, personal estate and registered motor vehicles and trailers, opposite the name of the person or persons assessed. Upon receipt of the certified tax list by the City Treasurer, he shall proceed and collect said tax on the persons and estates liable thereof; said tax shall be due and payable on and between the 1st day of June 2010 and the 1st day of July, 2010 and provided further that if said tangible personal property and real estate taxes are paid in full on or before the 1st day of July, 2010, a discount of three per centum (3%) of the total taxes on said tangible personal property and real estate shall be granted, and all taxes remaining unpaid on the 1st day of July, 2010 shall carry until collected a penalty at the rate of twelve per centum (12%) per annum from the 1st day of June, 2010 upon said unpaid tax, however, said taxes may be paid in four installments; the first installment of twenty-five per centum (25%) on or before the 1st day of July, 2010, the second installment of twenty-five per centum (25%) on or before the 1st day of September, 2010, the third installment of twenty-five per centum (25%) on or before the 1st day of December, 2010 and the fourth installment of twenty-five per centum (25%) on or before the 1st day of March, 2011.
Each installment of taxes if paid on or before the last day of each installment period successively in order shall be free from any charge of interest.
If the first installment or any succeeding installment of taxes is not paid by the last date of the respective unpaid balance period or periods as they occur, then the whole tax or remaining unpaid balance of the taxes as the case may be shall immediately become due and payable and carry until collected a penalty at the rate of twelve per centum, (12%) per annum.
The City Treasurer shall, by advertisement in the public newspaper having circulation in the City of East Providence, notify all persons assessed to pay their respective taxes at his office on and between the said 1st day of June, and the 1st day of July, 2010 both days inclusive; said City Treasurer setting forth the hours during which his office shall remain open to receive said taxes.
SECTION II. That any of said taxes not paid on or before the 1st day of March, 2011 shall forthwith be collected by levy upon the sale of real estate upon which it is assessed and by that or other due process of law in case of assessment upon personal property.
SECTION III. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
4. The purpose of the ordinance is to establish a bus drop off and pick up zone for the East Bay Community Action Program's Head Start Facility located at 70 Turner Avenue.
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Perry, seconded by Councilman DiTraglia and it is unanimous.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
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”
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I. Subsection 18-307 entitled “Parking prohibited at all times.” of 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.” is amended by adding thereto the following:
Turner Avenue (south side), from utility pole #6, easterly for 52 feet, between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on school days.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
A motion to approve is made by Councilman DiTraglia, seconded by Councilwoman Perry and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
VII. Communications
2. Christine Rossi, 29 Woodbine Street (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding petitions signed by East Providence residents calling for action to replace the City Manager.
Mrs. Rossi distributed copies of the petition. (A five minute recess is requested by Assistant Mayor Cusack and on a motion from Councilman DiTraglia, seconded by Councilman Coogan it is unanimous)
Mrs. Rossi begins by stating there are 266 signatures of East Providence residents requesting that the City Manager should be replaced immediately. This is being requested because he is actively looking for employment elsewhere. This demonstrates a lack of interest in our City as evidenced by the current proposed budget.
After further explanation of the reason for the request Councilwoman Perry asked Mrs. Rossi if she was indeed running for Council and Mrs. Rossi stated yes in Ward 4.
Councilman Coogan stated the signature sheet was impressive as it is from all over the City. Assistant Mayor Cusack stated they would receive the information and look at it.
City Solicitor Briden explained that a performance of an employee cannot be discussed without first informing the employee where he is allowed to choose if that discussion will take place in private or public, they can also choose to have an attorney there. There is a process and usually it takes place in Executive Session. The City Manager is a full time employee and the Council has direct authority over him unlike the Chief of Fire or Police. These items are covered by the RI Opens Meeting Law as well as regulated by the East Providence City Charter.
Assistant Mayor Cusack stated it is a matter the Council can choose to take up and if they do notice will have to be given. If this is what you want to do you may want to speak to each Councilmember individually and request this and see if they would want this as well.
3. Joseph Klucinik, Fire Chief, 913 Broadway (02914) requesting to address the Council regarding the East Providence Firefighters Freaky 5K 4th Annual Road Race.
Chief Klucinik was requesting Council support to hold their annual race again this year. Traditionally held the Sunday before Halloween, some runners/walkers etc…will participate in costumes. Funds raised are donated to local organizations, in the past 3 years we have raised a little over $20,000 for 3 Little League Baseball Teams, Pop Warner Football, Turkey Baskets for needy families in EP, Christmas Gifts for East Providence children and most recently two scholarships for EP High School Students. They are in communication with the Police Department for road closings etc…it’s a great family day to raise money for local organizations, this Sunday, October 25 from 9:00am-11:00am. The RI Blood Center will be there as well for the blood bank donations. Those interested in participating in the run/walk can contact the Fire Department.
Approval is given and all are in favor of allowing the streets to be closed for the race.
Unanimous Consent is requested by Councilman Coogan for Detective Corporal John Rossi to address the Council, Councilwoman Perry requests the topic. The topic is a response to questions being bantered about regarding overtime in the Police Department. No objection is received.
Detective Rossi explained that the over-time is happening because they are down to 85 officers due to the fact that there were people who were out on leave already. Over-time will continue to be there especially in the summer months, which is their busiest time. Over-time is happening because the numbers are so far down and they are just running out of people and he is not sure that those on leave were factored in during the decision making process to lay off the 13 officers.
Councilman Coogan reminded everyone there is a Townie Pride Parade Friday night at Pierce Field and it starts at 5:30pm.
Assistant Mayor Cusack requested the Council continue the meeting regarding the budget next Thursday at 7:30pm, there are no objections and the meeting recesses at 10:00 p.m.
Approved by Council: December 1, 2009
Attest: __________
City Clerk