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CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
RHODE ISLAND
JOURNAL OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 26, 2014
Council Chambers, City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
6:45 P.M. Executive Session - Claims Room, 101
7:30 P.M. Open Session
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) & (5)
A. New Claims
1. Amica Mutual Ins. Co.
2. Richard Cabral
3. Eric Carrier
4. Cody Griffen
5. Del Antonio Marshall
6. Maryann Matlack
7. Faye Mendoza
8. Jose and Aliza Sousa
9. Leeza Sultan
10. United Services Automobile Association (Ins. Howard Rosenberg)
B. Miscellaneous
1. Cynthia Rogers – Request for Sewer Charge Abatement
2. American Ring Company – Request for Sewer Charge Abatement
3. Kathy Riker – Request for Sewer Charge Abatement
C. Collective Bargaining
1. Contract Negotiations
D. Discussion Related to the Disposition of City Owned Property
1. 260 Dover Avenue Map 408, Block 2, Parcel 2
II. CALL TO ORDER
III. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
IV. TO APPROVE THE CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Letters
1. Letter from National Grid regarding new pole location work for Waterman Avenue.
2. Resolution Exeter Town Council in support of Newport Pell Bridge Safety.
3. Resolution Town of Charlestown opposing opening the Chariho Act for revision.
4. Vote of the Chariho Town Council regarding referendum item: requesting the Chariho School Committee to allow a child to attend a Chariho Elementary School in a town other than their town of residence dependent upon space availability.
5. Notice of New Property Number belonging to Don Monroe Jr and Megan Correia of 59 Anna Court in Seekonk MA. Location 7 Winter Harbor Avenue, Map 513, Block 34, Parcel 003.00, Zoning R4. New property address for the two single family homes are: 12 N. Shore Drive (02915) and 9 Winter Harbor Avenue (02915).
6. Resolution Charlestown Town Council supporting the Repeal of Master Lever Voting (S2091).
B. Abatements
| Year | Amount |
| 2013 | $47,393.75 |
| 2014 | $54,377.56 |
|
|
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| Total | $101,771.31 |
C. Abatements Tax Board of Review
| Year | Amount |
| 2013 | $150,278.70 |
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|
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| Total | $150,278.70 |
D. Council Journals
1. Regular Council Meeting January 7, 2014
2. Special Meeting – Council Quorum November 8, 2013
A motion to approve the Consent Calendar is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
1. Ray Blinn IBPO Local 569 – Police Department Issues
VI. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Presentation of Citations regarding donations for technology purchases to Riverside Middle School (by Councilwoman Capobianco and Councilwoman Rossi)
- Mike Motta
- Benjamin Moore, The Paint Shoppe
B. Presentation by H & R Block for Community Programs for City of East Providence (Requested By Mayor Briden)
Deferred to the next docket.
C. Red Flex Corporations – Electronic Cameras for Specific Traffic Light Intersections (Requested By Assistant Mayor Rose)
The system is not owned by the City. There is no cost. Redflex receives its funds via the paid citations. They operate pilot programs but if the City wanted a 6 month trial they would tailor to those needs. It’s a cost neutral program the City would never pay more than cost coming in via citations. They have been in the state for 5 years and have several contracts with school buses.
Councilwoman Rossi asked the City Manager about the process.
The City Manager stated that the City would have to do a request for proposals.
Assistant Mayor Rose stated that he would like the City to look further into this idea.
Chief Tavares came to the podium he stated it’s true the police can’t be everywhere and there are major intersections where drivers are habitually going through lights. This product allows for this enforcement to try to change the behavior of drivers not to raise money. This is one tool but an important tool in making the community safer.
The City Manager asked the Chief, the Director of Finance and the Purchasing Agent to come up with an RFP and then bring this back to Council.
Councilwoman Capobianco made the motion to bring an RFP back to Council, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it was unanimous. Mayor Briden requested that the City Solicitor also take a look at this idea as well to make sure it was ok legally.
D. Vinagre Energy - Solar Opportunities for City Buildings Presentation (Requested By Councilwoman Rossi)
Deferred to the next docket.
Assistant Mayor Rose requests permission to announcement an event and calls to the podium Kevin Robinson from the KROB Foundation. Mr. Robinson explains this is the 4th Annual wine tasting event to raise funds to help underprivileged kids pay fees to play sports. The event takes place this Saturday at Avenue N from 7pm-10pm. The annual KROB Family Fun Festival will be taking place again in May with over 80 vendors and 5000 people in attendance. Vendors interesting in participating should visit the website krobfoundation.org.
Mayor requests permission to have those under Communications come forward at this time, Council agrees.
F. Communications
1. Norma L. Brown-Annis, 153 Hoppin Avenue, requesting to address the Council regarding, City car taxes and the status of abandoned properties in Riverside.
Ms. Brown-Annis is not present, her item is deferred.
2. Phillip Tirrell, 168 Becker Avenue (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding an exemption for tangible taxes for all businesses in East Providence.
Mr. Tirrell stated that he is a business owner and board member of the East Providence Chamber of Commerce. He thanked Council for the recent Tax Stabilization Ordinance which will help many businesses in the City. Currently, like other cities and towns, East Providence has a three tier tax system residential, commercial and tangible. East Providence has almost the highest tax for tangibles. He is asking for an exemption to help in particular to help small businesses. This would be an exemption on the tangible starting at $25,000 or $50,000. The National Tax Foundation states that the tangible tax is the worst tax in cities and towns for economic growth. East Providence would be the only one in the State with this exemption and it would attract businesses. It would stand out as an entrepreneur city. There is a cost when an exemption is created but if Council looks at it as an investment it is an long term home run for all.
Councilman Cunha states that he agrees with Mr. Tirrell.
Assistant Mayor Rose asks if the city could look into this.
The City Manager restates that if this is undertaken the decision would need to be made on where the money for the exemption would come from.
Councilwoman Rossi stated that after the budget work last year, it was an eye opening experience going through the budget with the Director of Finance, the Council can restructure any way we want and as we go forward looking at next year’s programs this tangible exemption would be a huge boost to the economy in East Providence.
Mayor Briden asked if it was the case that the state law might need to be amended to have this type of exemption. This question of enabling legislation would need to be looked at. He also asked if the Council could also see publications and studies done from organizations such as the Tax Institute to be sure to get this right. If precedent exists that would be helpful.
Mr. Tirrell said he would like to see EDC provide matching funds to start an important program such as this.
Mayor Briden requests when the City pursues this idea that the legal department review if enabling legislation would need to be passed. Also he requested the City look to state resources such as the Hassenfeld Institute at Bryant University.
VII. APPOINTMENTS
A. East Providence Public Library Trustees (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Don E. Paiva, 81 Harris Street (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. East Providence Public Library Trustees Reappointment (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Pat Armstrong, 33 Berwick Place (02916)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
C. East Providence Public Library Trustees Reappointment (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
Paulo Silva, 150 South Rose Street (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. East Providence Public Library Trustees Reappointment (by Mayor Briden)
Elizabeth Ingraham, 84 Hood Avenue (02916)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianci\o, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
E. Carousel Park Commission (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Tony Ottone, 5 Cul De Sac Way (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.
F. Carousel Park Commission (by Councilwoman Rossi)
William Hurley, 128 Prescott Drive (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.
G. Carousel Park Commission Alternate (Assistant Mayor Rose)
Christine Foster Hollands, 429 Dover Avenue (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
H. Carousel Park Commission Alternate (Councilwoman Rossi)
Kelly Marshall, 14 Mayflower Street (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
I. Carousel Park Commission Alternate Re-Appointment (Councilwoman Rossi)
Nuno Branco, 40 Anthony Street (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
J. Carousel Park Commission (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Mary Nascimento, 53 Brookfield Road (02915)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
K. Traffic Control ( Assistant Mayor Rose)
Jeremy Reis, 34 Miles Avenue (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
L. Board of Assessment Review – Reappointment (Assistant Mayor Rose)
Anthony DeCastro, 54 Hilltop Road (02914)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
M. East Providence Housing Authority (by Mayor Briden)
Valarie Lawson, 122 Hoyt Ave (02916)
A motion to approve the appointment is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Mayor Briden and on a roll call vote the motion fails 3-2.
N. East Providence Housing Authority – Resident Commissioner (by Mayor Briden)
Joan Shovelton, 3663 Pawtucket Avenue (02915)
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 NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARING
Licenses are granted subject to all required approvals from State and City departments.
A. Holiday Sales
April J. Medeiros DBA Lots of Treasures, 111 Warren Avenue (02914), April J. Medeiros, 52 Island Avenuw (02916)
This item was moved to the March 18th docket.
B. Laundry/Dry Cleaner – Transfer
Transfer from KARDAV, Inc to RHC Investments, LLC DBA City Bubbles, Richard Coelho, 589 Victory Highway, West Greenwich (02817)
Mr. Coelho comes to the podium. He states that is he just transferring all is staying the same.
A motion to approve the license is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Advance Stores Company, Inc. DBA Advance Auto Parts #6038, 325 Taunton Avenue (02914), Carrie Horton, 24 Bicknell Avenue (02916)
A motion to approve the license is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. Holiday Sales
Stephanie Correira DBA Buttons & Bows Childrens Clothes, 2723 Pawtucket Avenue (02914), Stephanie Correira, 5 Cedar Avenue (02915)
This item was moved to the March 18th next docket.
IX. PUBLIC HEARING – SHOW CAUSE HEARING
(Council sitting as Licensing Commissioners)
A. DL Enterprises, Inc. DBA East Bay Tavern, 305 Lyon Avenue (02914), Denise Laidlaw.
An Attorney Michael Crocker is present for Attorney William C. Maaia who cannot be present. Attorney Maaia has requested a continuation as he is out of the State today.
Councilwoman Rossi stated that she sees no need to postpone and continue to another date as there are issues and problems at the establishment and continuing this serves no purpose.
Assistant Mayor Rose agrees stating there are ongoing issues with this establishment and we haven't had any other issues similar to these from any other business in the City. It is ongoing since the previous Council and something has to be done today.
Through Attorney Crocker, Attorney Maaia asked to present to the Council that there are discovery issues still outstanding and due from the EPPD which would also be part of the basis for the request.
Solicitor Chapman stated that it would be problematic if there are any outstanding discovery items.
Chief Tavares stated that he requested the show cause hearing and they are in the process of continuing to build a good case. He has spoken to the Solicitor and it may be in everyone’s best interest if the issues with discovery were addressed. It is his recommendation to oblige but having said that he will insist and continue to insist that the conditions be adhered to. These conditions are to have a strong police presence and that has been one of the measures he feels both sides are willing to work with until the full hearing can take place. This would mean police details, if they can be filled. The manager has failed to call the police in a timely fashion and used up all the good will from him and he understands the Council but also wants to comply with some of these requests to build the best case possible.
Solicitor Chapman stated the Chief tried and attempted to forward the additional discovery items and the attorney had stated it he did not receive them. The chief is trying to comply with getting all the information to the attorney.
Councilwoman Rossi stated that public safety is her concern and the ability to stop the establishment from selling alcohol until the show cause hearing would assist with public safety.
Solicitor Chapman added that the attorney may go into court to seek sanctions against the City if the Judge feels the City did not provide due process.
Councilwoman Rossi stated she would only be comfortable with granting the continuance if there was a police presence at the establishment every hour they are open.
Councilman Cunha stated that the City has been too lenient and it is unacceptable. At the rate things are going there we could have been a murder at the establishment and there are homes 200 yards away.
Assistant Mayor Rose holds up a large thick file which includes incidents and calls to the establishment over the last several years.
Mayor Briden reminded Council not to get into the facts of the case as that is for the hearing. The City needs to ensure due process and reasonable notice as well as the hearing but sometimes the attorney can agree to implement safeguards and that might include those safeguards the Chief has mentioned.
The Chief stated while they can't guarantee an officer for every hour they can place an officer there on the busiest nights, when available. They have been sending officers to the establishment on a rotating basis so that they have a presence. In the meantime, he states, to do this right and build the case we have to make sure that the discovery is forwarded. One observation the police have made is that this establishment is no longer a neighborhood bar. Advertising was being done by the establishment to come over the bridge from Providence to East Providence advertising also open mics and rap karaoke. This is not attracting neighborhood people. The Police have asked that type of advertising to be discontinued. The stabbing incident in question involved gang members. The attorney has agreed to reduce the hours and adhere to these conditions. There is no guarantee this will end the issues but when advertising to come from Providence for these types of venues then we know what they are dealing with.
Attorney Crocker stated that they would agree to these stipulations. The advertising could also be suspended. They would agree to increased EPPD presence and have taken steps to eliminate the entertainment as a condition to rescheduling the hearing.
Assistant Mayor Rose requested that the detailed officers extend to next Council meeting.
Councilwoman Rossi stated she is not happy with this solution and would like the liquor license suspended until the show cause hearing.
Mayor Briden stated that they can't without having the hearing, it is due process. His idea based on these conditions, is to extend to the next Council meeting which is less than a week away. That would place the show cause hearing on Tuesday, March 4th noting that the discovery has now been delivered per the Chief and he will follow up and add the file containing past cases.
Councilwoman Rossi stated she can't see them being open at all without an officer in that establishment that they are paying for.
Assistant Mayor Rose made a motion to continue the Show Cause Hearing to the next Tuesday’s Council meeting of March 4, 2014 and that a police detail be present at the establishment for all hours until that Show Cause Hearing with the addition of all the Chief’s recommendations regarding no entertainment and cancellation of all advertisements
Under discussion:
Councilman Cunha stated this City was known for its no tolerance for crime and crime has increased in the last 3-4 years and it is sad. Something needs to change this is not comforting.
The Chief stated he is not going to defend that establishment but just wants the City to do it right so that when sanctions are delivered the City is on safe ground.
Attorney Crocker stated he can't represent an every hour police detail but would agree to police details on weekends and no advertising and no entertainment.
Mayor Briden stated that when he makes these comments he is doing so in a legalistic manner by asking the attorney to agree to it.
the roll call vote for the motion continues and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. City Managers Report (by Acting City Manager, Paul Lemont)
1. DPW Truck Bid Award
This is to approve the purchase of five F250 Fords and two F550 Fords. This was put out to bid and the low bidder was Tasca Ford for a total of $220,678. This will be a lease using Webster Bank. The reason the City went to Webster was the company the City used in the past refused to bid because they felt the financial condition of the City would be an issue.
A motion to approve the DPW Truck Bid Award is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
The City Manager also reported that for the first time in a year or more Department Heads are now getting financial reports from the Finance Department. They are receiving a print out of the expenditures and the City Manager receives one for the entire City. This provides a real handle on where the City sits with expenditures.
The City Manager also reported that the water bills and sewer bills have successfully been put back together again. With the new financial program in the City, on line permitting is about ready to go. All new phones are installed as well as all new computers, for a total of 150 new computers. All the police cruisers now have laptops. The City recently hired 17 new Fire Fighters to bring that department back up to strength. There are 3 new police officers and another one coming soon. The reason for these hires is due to overtime expenses which have been excessive and extensive because it is difficult to fill a regular shift when there are not enough bodies. The overtime costs will go down substantially due to the process of the new hires. The contract for the Fire Fighters is under discussion and soon the City will begin negotiations with the East Providence Police Department. The City has had good negotiations in the past and suspect we will in the future.
B. Report of Other City Officials
1. Claims Committee Report (by 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
FEBRUARY 26, 2014; 6:45 P.M.; ROOM 101
====================================================================
NEW CLAIMS
AMICA MUTUAL INS. CO.
(INS: MICHELLE MARCHAND) $5,926.42
RM No. 13-007, Claim No. 14-005
Claim for property damage to insured’s vehicle sustained as a result of an accident with a Fire Department vehicle. Recommend referral to the insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi 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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RICHARD CABRAL $742.69
RM No. 13-089, Claim No. 13-060
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Crescent View Avenue. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Deny the claim.
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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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ERIC CARRIER $197.50
RM No. 13-094, Claim No. 14-003
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Turner Avenue. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $197.50.
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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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CODY GRIFFEN $1496.37
RM No. 13-093, Claim No. 14-001
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on River Road. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Refer the claim to the R.I. Department of Transportation.
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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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DEL ANTONIO MARSHALL $85.27
RM No. 14-003, Claim No. 14-002
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Summit Street. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $85.27.
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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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MARYANN MATLACK $107.27
RM No. 13-091, Claim No. 13-061
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Burnside Avenue. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $107.27.
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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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FAYE MENDOZA $1548.74
RM No. 14-005, Claim No. 14-004
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on South Spruce Street. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Deny the claim.
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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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JOSE & ALIZA SOUSA $592.00
RM No. 13-096, Claim No. 14-008
Claim for reimbursement of expenses incurred as a result of a sewer backup. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi Seconded by: Councilman Rose
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $592.00.
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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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LEEZA SULTAN $282.68
RM No. 13-092, Claim No. 13-062
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Hemingway Drive. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $282.68.
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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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UNITED SERVICES AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION
(INS: HOWARD ROSENBERG) $3,170.02
RM No. 13-088, Claim No. 14-007
Claim for property damage to insured’s vehicle sustained as a result of an accident with a Fire Department vehicle. Recommend referral to the insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilwoman Rossi 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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2. MISCELLANEOUS
CYNTHIA ROGERS $284.43
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 148 Halleck Avenue 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 $284.43.
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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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AMERICAN RING COMPANY $1049.15
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 19 Grosvenor Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Rose Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $1049.15.
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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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KATHY RIKER $220.32
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 62 Taunton Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Cunha Seconded by: Councilwoman Rossi
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $220.32.
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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 Councilman Cunha, seconded by Assistant Mayor Rose and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
3. Presentation regarding City Economic Development Outreach and Business Assistance Initiatives (by Planning Director Jeanne Boyle)
4. Handicap Parking Requests (by Director of Public Works Steve Coutu)
a. 24 Gurney Street
b. 171 Ivy Street
c. 60 Bart Drive
C. Council Members
1. "Draft of Corporate Sponsorship Program" (by Mayor Briden)
This item was deferred to the next meeting.
2. Discussion of proposed language relating to Charter amendment for Mayor/Council form of government. (by Mayor Briden)
Items #2 and #4 were combined and discussed at this point on the docket.
Sandy Barone was called to the podium to speak. She thanked the Council for voting to allow the citizens to choose the form of government which will be on the ballot in 2014. If a mayoral form of government was passed, the first election for mayor would be held in November 2016. The new 4 year City Council election is this coming November 2014 and that Council will be halfway through its 4 year term. What she is proposing is that the elected mayor’s first term be in 2016 and be a 2 year term allowing the newly elected Mayor and Council to begin a 4 year term together in 2018. This will enable the City Council and Mayor to serve their first concurrent 4 year terms in 2018 and henceforth going forward. She is proposing the language related to a Charter Amendment in 2016 for an initial 2 year term for a newly elected mayor followed in 2018 with a succeeding 4 year term.
Councilwoman Capobianco asked why it was so important to begin in 2016 for a 2 year term instead of just beginning altogether in 2018 for the mayoral election.
Mrs. Barone stated the vote will be in 2014 and if the voters decide they want it then the next time they could have this would be 2016. Otherwise, those who voted will have to wait 4 years before the form of government they have chosen can start.
Assistant Mayor Rose stated that there were a couple of things that needed to be dealt with before this even comes before the Council. For example, a mayor would hire a chief of staff and maybe a driver or legal counsel or others etc...all these items need to be discussed and decided. Would we change the number of council members, there is a lot to discuss.
Councilwoman Capobianco stated that several people have asked questions regarding the fact that a City Manager provides a resume and background and education what if a person is popular but does not have this and wins, then what then.
Mrs. Barone stated she can't give an answer but if given the opportunity to run for mayor, we have an abundance of talented people in the business and legal areas and we have to put faith in the citizens of East Providence that we would look carefully and elect the best person for the job. Both mayors and city managers can at times be less than perfect.
Councilman Cunha stated that sometimes it can be a popularity vote and they might not be strong in certain areas and sometimes they rely on staff to help them it could go either way.
Mrs. Barone stated that the same thing can happen when people vote for council, representatives and senators however this is a golden opportunity and it’s a large city and people are waiting to see what will happen, 48 thousand people should have a voice but it could go the other way and it depends how strongly both sides of the issue are put forward.
Solicitor Chapman has drafted some wording this will be completed and sent to the Council to be discussed.
Mayor Briden asked the legal department to work on language and to address the concerns.
Councilwoman Rossi stated that she is in 100% disagreement with a split term for council and mayor. Council will be spending money and effort for 4 year terms for 5 council members and a city manager then in 2016 there is suddenly a mayor. As Council we expect our City Manager to implement our ideas and directives. The Charter needs to be gone through and amendments need to be prepared for everything that the City Manager now has a finger on. This all has to be worked out. We have to make sure there are checks and balances.
3. Local Business Fair and Spotlighting Local Businesses (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
This was deferred to the next docket.
4. City Manager/Mayor Form of Government (by Assistant Mayor Rose)
This was discussed earlier on the docket.
5. K-Rob Foundation (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
This was discussed earlier on the docket.
6. Relay for Life (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Heather Foley the Co-Chair for Relay for Life stated that the event will be held in June again this year. Last year it was an overnight fundraising event. It is a worldwide event and last year the total raised was $4 billion worldwide. In East Providence, we had the highest increase in teams. This year, the event will be held Friday, June 6th through Saturday June 7th if anyone would like information on joining a team or are a survivor or know a survivor contact RI Relay for Life. Information on the reception to kick off the event and to recognize community sponsors can be found at relayforlife .org /epri
7. Crescent Park Carousel Train (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi explained that the Carousel Train feature was approved by the Carousel Commission. Currently, the train feature is going forward to the State Preservation Society.
Mayor Briden asked if there was an expense.
Councilwoman Rossi said the cost is not to be borne by the City but rather it is through private sponsorships. The train cannot be purchased until they have secured the funding. This vote just allows the Carousel Commission to go forward. The only thing which is generated is an extra employee to run the train and the train generates more than a fair share of funds. It will be similar to the Roger Williams Zoo train at their carousel. Coincidentally, it looks amazingly like the old Crescent Park Train. It is trackless.
Councilwoman Capobianco asked if the cost to ride the train will support the ride.
Councilwoman Rossi stated it would and then some extra. Everything that the Carousel takes in with the exception of insurance is already paid for by the Carousel Commission and we need to bring in more money and make it more of a destination. Historic preservation can’t just be supported by Carousel rides alone or it becomes a burden to the City.
Mayor Briden asked how many months a year the train will run.
Councilwoman Rossi stated it will run from Easter to Columbus Day. However, the Carousel must shut down in the cold but there are other things which can be done with the train. It is not limited to weather. People can ride the train and stop for hot chocolate and it can be used for Winterfest and because it is track free it can be used all over the City.
Mayor Briden asked if it is it kept indoors.
Councilwoman Rossi stated that every night it is put in its own tunnel which will be secured to the Carousel security system.
Mayor Briden inquired about insurance.
Councilwoman Rossi stated it is under The Trust under the Carousel umbrella.
Mayor Briden stated is the idea that by adding this you will ultimately raise more money which will be used to maintain the Carousel and that ability is lacking now?
Councilwoman Rossi stated that is correct.
Mayor Briden asked it this has been successful elsewhere.
Councilwoman Rossi stated yes.
A motion to approving to allow the Carousel Commission to continue to move forward with the train is made by Councilwoman Rossi, seconded by Councilman Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
8. Dunkin Donuts Scholarship Fund (by Councilwoman Rossi)
Councilwoman Rossi stated she received this information from Mayor Briden and read from the letter sent from Dunkin Donuts regarding the details for the scholarship fund.
9. Full and complete update on the Fire Station constructions (by Councilwoman Rossi)
This item was deferred to the next meeting.
10. City Manager Search (by Councilwoman Rossi)
This item was deferred to the next meeting.
D. Report of School Committee Liaison
XI. ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn is made by Assistant Mayor Rose, seconded by Councilwoman Rossi and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Approved By Council: April 1, 2014
Attest: _______________
City Clerk