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CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
RHODE ISLAND
JOURNAL OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 19, 2014
Council Chambers, City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
6:45 P.M. Executive Session
7:30 P.M. Open Session
Present: Mayor Briden
Assistant Mayor Rose
Councilwoman Capobianco
Councilman Cunha
Councilwoman Rossi
Acting City Manager Paul Lemont
Solicitor Timothy Chapman
Deputy Clerk June Lundstrom
I. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The City Council of the City of East Providence will meet in Executive Session pursuant to RI General Laws § 42-46-5 (a) (2)
A. Claims
1. Peter Barilla, Jr.
2. Natasha Lyn Dow
3. Susan C. Hudson
4. Riverside Partners, LLC
5. David C. Robbins
6. Verizon
7. Edward Wheeler
B. Sewer Abatements
1. Marco Pacheco (Sewer Charge Abatement)
2. Meredith A. Shea (Sewer Charge Abatement)
C. Litigation
1. Michael Stone vs. City, C.A. No. 09-5782
2. Jo-Ann Durfee vs. City, C.A. No. 13-788
3. Sao Realty Company vs. City, C.A. No. 13-1125
D. Ratification of Fire Contract
E. Corporate Authority for Police Contract
II. CALL TO ORDER
A moment of silence is held for former Superintendent John DeGoes and School Committee Member Richard “Spunky” Pimentel who both passed away recently.
III. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
IV. TO APPROVE THE CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Cancelation/Abatements
| Year | |
| 2012 | $155.45 |
| 2013 | $561.25 |
| 2014 | $62,590.87 |
| Total | $63,307.57 |
B. Abatements Board of Review
| Year |
|
| 2014 | $15,670.02 |
| Total | $15,670.02 |
C. Alcoholic Beverage Class F
D. Letters
1. Notice of New Property Number, 17 Skycrest Avenue (02914), Map 607, Block 18, Parcel 004.00, Zoning R2, Daniel Desenna, 19 Skycrest Avenue (02914).
2. Notice of New Property Number, 89 Mowry Avenue (02914) Map 306, Block 02, Parcel 006.00, Zoning R6, Richard J. Palumbo, 30 Meadowbrook Drive, Barrington (02806).
E. Council Journals
1. Special Council Meeting June 26, 2014
2. Executive Session July 15, 2014
3. Regular Council Meeting July 17, 2014
4. Special Council Meeting July 29, 2014
A motion to approve the Consent Calendar is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. Ken Goucher Water Meters
Assistant Mayor Rose asks for unanimous consent to move the Resolution honoring Mr. and Mrs. Stringfellow to this location on the docket. Unanimous consent is granted.
Assistant Mayor Rose speaks on the honor of naming the Press Box and asks the City Clerk to read the Resolution.
A. Resolutions
1. RESOLUTION NAMING COACH WILLIAM STRINGFELLOW, JR. & SHEILA E. STRINGFELLOW PRESS BOX
WHEREAS, William (“Bill”) Stringfellow, Jr. is a proud and lifelong resident of East Providence becoming a top graduate of East Providence High School where he became an All-State football player under Coach Lou Farber, and also participated on the wrestling team and in the band.
WHEREAS, Bill attended Wilbraham Academy then matriculated from Springfield College, whereupon he moved onto his first teaching and football assignments at St. Andrew’s School;
WHEREAS, upon completion of service in the United States Army, he returned to teaching at St. Dunstan’s School;
WHEREAS, Bill commenced his East Providence teaching and coaching career at Central Junior High School in 1955 and then transferred to the Senior High School in 1970 where he became head coach of the football team and won the State Championship in his first year. He continued to coach for the next 18 years, with his teams earning back-to-back State Championships in 1979-1980;
WHEREAS, Coach Stringfellow was named Athletic Director, and during the course of his career, was appointed as the first director of the East Providence Recreation Department serving in that capacity for 14 years along with many years of service on the Executive Board of the Rhode Island Interscholastic League Injury Fund;
WHEREAS, upon “retiring” from the East Providence School System after serving 36 years, Bill coached freshman football at Bishop Hendricken High School for 10 years;
WHEREAS, “Beansie”, as he is affectionately known, accomplished many goals, received numerous awards and was recognized by his peers for his outstanding achievements including: induction into the Rhode Island Coaches Hall of Fame and the Gridiron Hall of Fame, named Kodak Coach of the Year, Athletic Director of the Year, recipient of the Savastano Sports Medicine Achievement Award and recipient of the NIAAA State Award of Merit;
WHEREAS, Bill was inducted into the East Providence Hall of Fame, Honorary Alumni Inductee of the Bishop Hendricken High School Hall of Fame, recipient of the Larry Gallogly Humanitarian Award from the Providence Gridiron Club, named to the first Athletic Directors’ Hall of Fame; named to Springfield College’s 1940’s All Decade football team and honored by the Rhode Island Chapter of the National Football Foundation for Contributions to Amateur Sports;
WHEREAS, Bill portrays that tough guy image, where smiles are not easily displayed, but he was, and is, respected, admired and loved by his players, students and generations of Townies;
WHEREAS, Bill Stringfellow, Jr.’s greatest achievements was marrying his beautiful wife, Sheila, and raising seven children, Bill III, Arthur, Peter, Paul, Todd, Jonathan and Ann. In addition, he has 21 grandchildren, 2 step granddaughters and a great grandson;
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of East Providence wishes to honor and recognize William Stringfellow, Jr. and Sheila E. Stringfellow for their many years of dedication and commitment to the students, athletes and citizens of East Providence; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of East Providence hereby names the press box at Pierce Field as the Coach William Stringfellow, Jr. and Sheila E. Stringfellow Press Box.
This resolution shall become effective upon its passage.
Requested By: Assistant Mayor Rose
Assistant Mayor Rose states the Press Box will be dedicated in October and he will announce the date and time as it gets closer.
A motion to approve the Resolution is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
VI. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. 2014 Dolly Searle Student Scholarship Recipients (by Acting Director of Recreation, Diane Sullivan)’
Acting Director Diane Sullivan stated that each scholarship winner receives $1,500 each and a total of $9,000 was given in scholarships this year. She called up the recipients.
1. Collin Costa
2. Teslie Andrade
3. Jillian Amaral
4. Errol Danehy
5. Zachary Foster
6. Matthew Fagan
B. Awarding of FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) Plaque to the City of East Providence, by the RI Emergency Management Agency.
FEMA presented the award and spoke of the difficulty of cities to achieve this honor. East Providence is the only City in the State to gain entry into this program. It’s a class 9 entry and a 5% reduction of those living in the flood plain area. It takes a lot of work and careful planning.
The City Manager spoke about Wayne Barnes and the great job that he does and the Emergency Operations Center at Station #3.
C. East Providence EMA ‘2014 Hurricane Season and Emergency Preparedness Presentation
VII. APPOINTMENTS
A. Tree Warden (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Ronald Nawrocki, 50 Tanglewood Drive (02915)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. Carousel Park Commission (by Mayor Briden)
William Abbood, 29 Martha Road (02914)
This appointment was withdrawn at the applicant’s request.
C. Traffic Control (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Arnold Zoglio, 55 Knowlton Street (02915)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. Zoning Board of Review – Alternate 1 – Reappointment (by Mayor Briden)
Richard Croke, 84 Hazelwood Drive (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilman Cunha , seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
E. Ward Three School Committee Nomination (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
Nathan Cahoon, 30 Greenwich Avenue (02914)
Assistant Mayor Rose announces that Mr. Cahoon would be replacing Richard “Spunky” Pimentel who has passed away. He adds that he would like to swear-in Mr. Cahoon at the next School Committee Meeting.
Mayor Briden states that is fine.
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Rossi , seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
F. Historic District Commission (Mayor Briden)
Deborah T. Ormerod, 156 Thatcher Street (02916)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
VIII. LICENSES REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARING
A. B Limited Victualer
Justo G. Valest DBA Matador, 521 Bullocks Point Avenue (02915), Justo G. Valest, 15 B Rice Street, Warwick (02886).
Mr. Valest is not present.
A motion to pass this off the docket and have Mr. Valest reapply should he choose to do so is made by the license is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
B. City Managers Report (by Acting City Manager, Paul Lemont)
The City Manager let residents know that the Planning Department is still conducting the survey and forms are in the back of room. This survey is for the City’s Comprehensive Plan for 2015.
1. Roofing Issues – Odd Fellows Home, Pierce Field
The Library roof is currently being worked on and the Pierce Field Broadcast Booth will be deferred to the 2nd week in September in order to get the roof above the City Hall Chamber complete. Also being worked on is the EPHS entry foyer. Nothing yet has been done to the Odd Fellows Home. It’s a beautiful old building but to bring it up to code we are looking at over $1 million looking. He added he is looking for direction from Council on the matter. The Historic Properties people have written and are imploring him to do something with the roof to stop further damage. However, the roof alone is about $90,000 the question is how does the Council want me to proceed?
Assistant Mayor Rose asked if it was in the best interest of the City to look into a non-profit.
The City Manager stated that he didn’t know if any non profit could take a project on of this magnitude. There was some discussion involving Councilwoman Rossi and the Arts Council to create an arts and cultural center but the City Manager asked where is the money going to come from? If the City were to put the property up for sale it would be for a dollar if we were lucky.
Councilman Cunha asked if a tax incentive or tax credit could be used.
The City Manager stated he didn’t know if that would work. The ultimate decision will be made here with the City Council.
Jeanne Boyle, Director of Planning was called to the podium and she discussed the state historic tax credit situation and that unfortunately right now the legislature has not renewed this. She also discussed the City’s tax stabilization program. Then discussed that a private sector buyer might have a better opportunity to secure the kind of funding needed she added that the Planning Department could take look at doing an RFP but if we don't patch the roof the deterioration will accelerate fast. It’s fairly common in cities such as Providence to have a tax title conveyance for $1 however they do take a look at the ability of purchaser to fix the property. The City should do due diligence not to end up with a blight. It's been done in other communities and it is a challenge.
Councilwoman Capobianco asked what Director Boyle suggests.
Director Boyle stated that she suggests making minimum repairs to the roof to patch it to the extent that water doesn't pour in. To draw up an RFP and offer a sale price of $1 to a purchaser who has the means to repair the property and she expects it would be a long term process while ensuring it not be allowed to turn into a blight.
Solicitor Chapman stated that the land value is listed at $81,200 and the building is listed at $96,600.
Assistant Mayor Rose stated that Keller Williams who is selling other City properties should take to look at it.
Councilwoman Rossi asked if there are any other odd fellows in existence that might be interested in this building.
Councilman Cunha stated research should be done to see if they exist and to contact them. He also discussed a capital campaign in each ward of donations of $10 per person which we would provide a lot of funding to repair the building.
Councilwoman Rossi stated the City Manager should find a way to button up the roof and stop it from leaking into the interior.
Councilman Cunha asked the City Manager to contact the State regarding the side property being used as parking.
Councilwoman Capobianco stated there should be something in the contract that any purchaser signs stating that they have to keep it a certain way with respect to the historic structure.
Mayor Briden requested this information for the next meeting, including the cost to button up the roof and also what other cities have done as well as a proposal for sale but with a buyer showing a plan and resources.
2. Request approval of donation from Tockwotton parcel adjacent to Bold Point Park.
Jeanne and Kevin McKay explain to Council that this is a piece of land on the waterfront which is 1.2 acres of which .49 is under water and Tokwotton would like to give it to East Providence. The Planning Board has agreed to the offer it is free and the conditions are listed in the Planning Department memo. Mr. McKay stated that Tokwotton is agreeable to those conditions.
A motion to approve the donation is made by Councilman Cunha, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
C. Reports of Other City Officials
1. Claims Committee Report (by City Solicitor Timothy Chapman)
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 42-46-5(a)(2), a motion is made by Councilman Rose and seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco to convene in closed session for the purposes of discussing claims & litigation. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Briden – Aye, Councilwoman Capobianco – Aye, Councilman Cunha - Aye, Councilman Rose – Aye, Councilwoman Rossi – Aye, the motion is approved 5-0.
EAST PROVIDENCE CLAIMS COMMITTEE
CLAIMS & LITIGATION REPORT
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2014; 6:45 P.M.; ROOM 101
====================================================================
NEW CLAIMS
PETER BARILLA, JR. $766.76
RM No. 14-062, Claim No. 14-046
Claim for property damage sustained when a City vehicle struck claimant’s parked vehicle in the Central Garage parking lot.
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $766.76.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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NATASHA LYN DOW $2,007.42
RM No. 14-043, Claim No. 14-042
Claim for property damage sustained when a City employee using a bobcat loader backed into claimant’s parked vehicle.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $2,007.42.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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SUSAN C. HUDSON Unspecified
RM No. 14-053, Claim No. 14-040
Claim for personal injury sustained a result of a slip and fall on a sidewalk located on John Street near the intersection of Grosvenor Avenue. Recommend referral to insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilman Cunha Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Refer the claim to the insurance carrier.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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RIVERSIDE PARTNERS, LLC $3,433.00
RM No. 14-061, Claim No. 14-045
Claim for reimbursement of expenses incurred and property damage sustained as a result of a sewer backup. Recommend referral to insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Refer the claim to the insurance carrier.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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DAVID C. ROBBINS $400.00
RM No. 14-057, Claim No. 14-044
Claim for reimbursement of expenses incurred as a result of a sewer backup. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $400.00.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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VERIZON $2,683.27
RM No. 13-099, Claim No. 14-043
Claim for property damage sustained when a City snow plow struck a telephone pole on South Broadway.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $2,683.27.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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EDWARD WHEELER $1,379.85
RM No. 14-048, Claim No. 14-041
Claim for property damage sustained when a large branch from a City tree fell on claimant’s parked vehicle. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $1,379.85.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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SEWER CHARGE ABATEMENTS
MARCO PACHECO $304.28
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 30 Robin Hood Drive in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $304.28.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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MEREDITH A. SHEA $1,061.70
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 15 Holbrook Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $1,061.70.
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VOTE | MAYOR BRIDEN | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CUNHA | COUNCILMAN ROSE | COUNCILWOMAN ROSSI |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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A motion to approve the Claims Committee Report is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. Council Members
1. City Manager Search (by Mayor Briden)
Mayor Briden stated that this was on the docket at the last meeting and that the Council postponed action until tonight. The City is approaching the end of the term a new budget season. Is it the desire of the Council not to pursue a City Manager search until after this process is completed?
Councilwoman Rossi stated that when stared on the school committee they came on board with newly signed contracts that they couldn't do anything about and she feels that the Council should let the next Council make the decision for themselves as to who they want to be their City Manager and that this Council should strap next Council with something they have not chosen themselves it is unfair.
Assistant Mayor Rose agrees.
A motion is made to discontinue recruitment by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Odd Fellows Home (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
Assistant Mayor Rose states this item was already discussed.
3. Social Media Position (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
Assistant Mayor Rose stated that he and Councilwoman Rossi had an opportunity to sit with the IT Director and view the new city website which would put the City in a whole different category regarding economic development and would reach out to the constituency and bring our City into the next era utilizing facebook, twitter, apps and highlighting departments and City events. With this position, there would be a person dedicated to making this happen.
Kelly Aherns, the IT Director comes to the podium and hands out packets to Council. She provides information on the position and the need and answers questions from Council.
Assistant Mayor Rose stated that the City has needed this for years and it’s time to hire someone.
Solicitor Chapman states that the Council cannot vote to create a position that is the City Manager’s responsibility and states 3-31 regarding the City Manager’s duties.
Councilwoman Rossi states that she believes they can and reads section 2-9 of the City Charter.
Mayor Briden states that he would like to see the motion be that the City Manager research and move toward the creation of the position with the Council requesting it be posted but the City Manager hiring.
Councilwoman Rossi makes a motion to hire a social media position, Councilwoman Capobianco states she would like to take a look at this as well.
The City Manager states there is no need as he will work with the IT Director and have the job posted by Thursday.
4. Kent Heights Athletic Fields (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
Assistant Mayor Rose states that the field is moving forward they have been cleaning and fixing fences and the field is a bit better. They are currently working with David Bachrach for funding for better drainage on the soccer field.
5. Four Year Terms-Home Rule Charter (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi stated that she received a certified letter in mail from the Canvassing Board and read it to those present. The Canvassing Board will hold no meeting pertaining to this topic unless there is a court order.
6. Update on EP Council on the Arts (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi reported that there will be an EP Arts Council October 25th Halloween Fun Night. They did this last year and a flash of mob zombies walked to the Carousel. This year in addition to the zombie walk the Carousel will be decorated like a haunted house and there will be a dance at the American Legion. In addition, they are also looking for help for a community theatre group utilizing the Oldham School Building and anyone interested should contact Councilwoman Rossi or the EP Arts Council.
7. Riverside Renaissance Movement (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi reported that the Riverside Renaissance met two weeks ago on August 10th and cleaned, swept and weed whacked the Riverside Square. The next meeting is Aug 25th at the Riverside Congregational Church.
8. Public Celebrations Committee (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi asked if someone could take the lead of forming a much needed Public celebrations Committee and if this could come back on the docket at the next meeting.
9. Old Oldham School Building (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi stated that previously the City had a meeting at Oldham with the City Manager and she is requesting that the City use a portion of the building as an EPPD sub-station and also look into the site to be used for the EP Jr Townies who are looking for space to practice and also the AYSO who are looking for space as well. Previously the Council voted to put the recreation center at the building but after a walk thru there was little administration support. The arts council, theatre groups and use as a community building is a good use and if it needs to be reopened as a school in the future the building will still be in good shape. She requested the City Manager to take a look at what it would take to make this happen.
10. Proper Signage – Metropolitan Drive at Willett/Crescent View Avenue (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi asked that this be looked into because the signage there now, the stop sign is hidden and there have been many crashes. She adds that she understands this is a State road but it used to have a stop sign in the middle on a concrete base. She requested the Director of Public Works look into what can be done.
Assistant Mayor Rose agreed that there used to be an island but due to larger boats traveling to the marina the island was removed and the stop sign put on the side of the road. It is very hard to see and there are many accidents there. Director Coutu stated that he would meet with the Police Chief to see if they could get a stop sign somewhere in middle of the open area where the island used to be.
E. Report of School Committee Liaison
School Committee Member Tony Fereirra stated that the science lab may not open on time. In addition, AYSO has 750 kids who do not have soccer fields due to the reconstruction which has not happened as it was supposed to behind EPHS. The changeover painting job from chalkboards to dry erase is running into snags at the high school. Additionally, there was no contact from the City regarding the traffic pattern for Orlo Elementary School.
The School Committee has hired 2 new principals for elementary schools. The PTA is in support.
The Soccer field issue really needs to be addressed something is wrong on the school side.
Councilman Cunha asked if in the short term Kent Field could be utilized.
Assistant Mayor Rose replied they could be because they have done the measurements and there is enough room.
Councilman Cunha stated someone dropped the ball on the other field fine but why can't they grade the property in 14 months time? Additionally, the RI Philharmonic has stated the City can use their field space what is going on with that?
Mr. Fereirra stated the Council needs to step up and everyone needs to pull together for the kids.
Councilman Cunha asked if someone from the City can go to the RI Philharmonic Fields and check out the use.
Assistant Mayor Rose said that in the meantime Kent Heights can fit 3 smaller and one bigger field.
Councilwoman Rossi stated the City needs to factor this in when building the budget a city project manager needs to be hired so that this type of thing doesn’t continue to happen. She asked that this go on the docket for the next meeting.
F. Introduction of Ordinances
1.An ordinance amending tent permits.
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 8 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE,RHODE ISLAND, 1998, ASAMENDED, ENTITLED “LICENSES AND BUSINESS REGULATIONS”.
SECTION I. Sec. 8-575 entitled “Tents for which license required—Application and issuance” of Article XXI entitled “Tents” of Chapter 8 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island 1998, as amended, entitled “Licenses and Business Regulations” is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 8-575. Tents for which license required--Application and issuance.
No tent exceeding one hundred twenty square feet (120 sq. ft.) three hundred fifty square feet (350 sq. ft.) in area shall be erected, maintained, operated, or used in the City of East Providence until a license from the City Clerk of the City of East Providence is obtained. The license shall not be issued for a period exceeding thirty (30) days and shall be revocable for cause.
No license shall be issued until the provisions of the section have been complied with and approval has been obtained from the Police Department and Fire Department and a permit has been issued from the Building Official in accordance with the Rhode Island Building code.
Application shall be made on proper form and, when deemed necessary by the City, shall include plans drawn to scale, showing exits, aisles, and seating arrangements and details of the structural support of tent, seats, and platforms, etc. No license shall be issued until the provisions of this section have been complied with and approval has been obtained from the building department, the police department, the fire department, and, when tents are to be used for fifty (50) or more persons, from each and every department having jurisdiction over places of assembly.
For the purposes of this section, the fire marshal shall have no jurisdiction over tents on the property of one or two (2) family private dwellings. Nothing contained in this section shall prohibit the fire marshal from requiring a license for a tent smaller than three hundred fifty square feet (350 sq. ft.) where other sections of the fire code deem it necessary, including but not limited to use, occupancy, opening, exposure, an increase in occupancy of a commercial establishment and any other similar factors.
The cost for this license shall be $10.00.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
City Clerk of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island
Requested by: Councilman Rose
A motion to approve the ordinance for first passage is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
G. Communications
1. Michael Akkaoui, 1169 Bullocks Point Avenue (02915) on behalf of the Narragansett Terrace Association requesting permission to address the Council regarding a Block Party for September 6, 2014 from 4:00PM-8:00PM. Request to block the road at two points where Seaview meets Bullocks Point and where Riverside meets Ocean.
Mr. Akkaoui states they had a block party last year it was a good event and no issues.
A motion to approve the block party is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Christine Reposa, 23 Wingate Road (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding a block party on September 6, 2014 blocking off a portion of Wingate from #19 to #23.
Tony Bevilaqua, 84 Anthony Street is present on behalf of Christine Reposa who is on vacation and cannot attend the meeting. They have been holding this block party for the last 3 years a good event with no issues.
A motion to approve the block party is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
3. Ken Goucher, 291 Brown Street requesting to address the Council regarding water meters.
Mr. Goucher spoke under Public Comment.
4. Thomas Riley, 3620 Pawtucket Avenue requesting to address the Council regarding the statute for water and sewer bill reduction and its administration.
Mr. Riley tabled this item.
X. ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:35PM is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Approved By Council: September 2, 2014
Attest: _______________
City Clerk