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CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
RHODE ISLAND
JOURNAL OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 7, 2015
Council Chambers, City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
6:45 P.M. Executive Session, 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)(1)(2).
A. New Claims
1. Patrick Cronin
2. Benjamin J. Hadsell, Jr.
3. Carl J. Hultine
4. MetLife Auto & Home (Ins: Maria Medeiros)
5. Nationstar Mortgage
6. Anna M. Oliveira
7. Klaere Ruiz
8. Verizon
B. Claim for Reconsideration
1. Edward Reed
C. Sewer Charge Abatements
1. Luis Bernardo
2. Jack & Juliet Francisco
3. Eric Motta
4. Nancy Stevens
5. Mark Viana
D. Discussion of Facilities Manager Position
II. CALL TO ORDER
III. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
IV. TO APPROVE THE CONSENT CALENDAR
All items under “CONSENT CALENDAR” are considered to be of a routine and noncontroversial nature by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion on these items unless a Council member so requests, in which event, the item will be removed from the “CONSENT CALENDAR” and will be considered in its normal sequence on the docket.
A. Letters
1. Notice of New Property Number, 34 water Street (02914), second floor, Map 016, Block 02, Parcel 002.00, Zoning BPH, Albertino Milho.
2. Notice of New Property Number, 945 Bullocks Point Avenue (02915), Map 414, Block 02, Parcel 011.1, Zoning R3, Sathuan Sa.
3. Resolution Smithfield School Committee designating March 2015 and going forward as “Women’s History Month” to be celebrated in all Smithfield Public Schools.
4. Resolutions Portsmouth Town Council regarding; support for H5107 creating a commission to study taxation of personal retirement income and pension income paid by out of state employers, support for H5054 regarding a system to review, repeal and amend antiquated laws when starting a business, support for H5000 and act relating to taxation – personal income tax.
5. Resolution North Kingstown Town Council opposing H5473subjecting the structure and/or resulting shift schedule of any municipal department to collective bargaining and thus arbitration.
6. Resolutions Jamestown Town Council opposing; H5257 relating to waters and navigation harbors and harbor lines, H5044, H5173 and S559 exempting taxation of commercial properties until sold.
7. Resolution Town of Foster opposing legislation an act relating to taxation-levy and assessment of local taxes.
8. Resolution Town of Portsmouth requesting the General Assembly to correct the conflict in RIGL to enable School Committees to return surplus taxpayers monies to a municipal reserve fund.
9. Resolution Town of Hopkinton opposing H5044, S0559 and H5173 regarding legislation relating to levy and assessment of local taxes.
B. Alcoholic Beverage Class F-1
1. St. Mary Academy Bay View, 3070 Pawtucket Avenue (02915) Manhattan at the Bay Event, April 30th thru May 2nd 2015, Kirsten Harvey, 35 Grant Avenue (02915).
2. St. Francis Xavier Church, 160 Orchard Street (02914), Fundraiser for Rabo de Peixe Band, March 28, 2015, Maryann Marques, 81 N. Carpenter Street (02914)
C. Cancellation/Abatements
| Year | |
| 2013 | $371.56 |
| 2012 | $1,130.10 |
| Total | $1,501.66 |
D. Council Journals
1. Regular Council Meeting February 25, 2015
2. Regular Council Meeting March 11, 2015
3. Executive Minutes March 18, 2014
4. Executive Minutes May 6, 2014
A motion to approve the Consent Calendar but removing item #8 is made by Assistant Mayor Cunha, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. Nuno Branco – Bold Point
B. Tom Riley – Muni-School Division
VI. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Community Development Block Grant Week (by Mayor Rose)
David Bachrach comes to the podium and reads the proclamation .
VII. APPOINTMENTS
A. Conservation Commission Re-Appointment (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
John T. Burridge, 190 Waterman Avenue (02914)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. Conservation Commission (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Ernie Germani, 35 John Street (02914)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
C. Carousel Commission - Alternate (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Chrissy Rossi, 29 Woodbine Street (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, hearing no second the motion fails.
D. Waterfront Commission (by Mayor Rose)
Jay Kern, 223 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
E. Traffic Control (by Councilman Conley)
Richard Gregory, 154 Beverly Road (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilman Conley, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
F. Board of Assessment Review (by Mayor Rose)
Ronald Warr, 31 Elinora Street (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilman Britto, seconded by Councilman Conley and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
G. Zoning Board of Review – Reappointment (by Councilman Britto)
Michael Beauparlant, 387 Greenwood Avenue (02916)
The City Clerk notes in the reading of the appointment that the reappointment will take effect on officially on June 1st.
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilman Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
H. Beautification Commission (by Councilman Britto)
Jacquelyn Bourne, 12 Marietta Street (02916)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
VIII. LICENSES NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARING
A. Holiday Sales
Azorian Meat Market Inc., 1024 South Broadway (02914) Suzy Lopes, 359 Hunt Street, Central Falls (02843)
A motion to approve the License is made by Assistant Mayor Cunha, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. Peddler – Ice Cream
Castor S. Hoyos DBA Palagi’s Ice Cream, 55 Bacon Street, Pawtucket (02860), Castor S. Hoyos, 16 Boutwell Street, Floor 2, Pawtucket (02860)
A motion to approve the License is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
IX. PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FINAL PASSAGE
A. An ordinance amending the Beautification Ordinance.
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 2 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED “ADMINISTRATION”
SECTION I. Sec. 2-203 entitled “Election of officers; rules, records and reports” of Division 12 entitled “Beautification Commission” of Article III entitled “Boards, Committees, Commissions” of Chapter 2 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island, 1998, as amended, entitled “Administration” is amended to read as follows:
The beautification commission shall elect a chair from among its members whose term of office shall be one year and who may be eligible for reelection thereafter. The commission at its discretion shall elect a vice-chair. The commission shall also elect a secretary, treasurer, and historian in the same manner as chair. The commission shall adopt bylaws for the transaction of its business subject to the approval of the city council.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon its second passage and all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Councilwoman Capobianco states that she is happy that this Commission is active once again.
A motion to approve the Ordinance for final passage is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. An ordinance regarding a One Way on Fort Street (eastbound) from Fifth Street to Seventh Street during the hours of 8:30am to 9:30am and 2:30pm to 3:30pm on school days.
A motion to dispense with the reading of the ordinance is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
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”
SECTION I. Section 18-247 entitled “Designation of one-way streets” of Article VIII entitled “One-Way Streets” of Chapter 18 entitled “Vehicles and Traffic” is amended by adding thereto the following:
Fort Street (eastbound) from Fifth Street to Seventh Street during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on school days.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon second passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Councilman Cunha
Speaking against the ordinance:
1. Tom Riley, 3620 Pawtucket Avenue – feels this has the potential to cause traffic jams
Assistant Mayor Cunha stated that this item was placed on the docket as this is meant to be used during school hours just for drop off and pick up safety issues. Adding that 150 yards won't create a traffic jam it’s a safety issue and the buses need room to pull in.
Mayor Rose stated that on all the other schools are using this and it is working very well.
A motion to approve the Ordinance for final passage is made by Assistant Mayor Cunha, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
X. PUBLIC HEARING- COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND ZONING MAP AMENDMENT
Advertised East Providence Post – February 12, 19 and 26, 2015
Request for an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan by VSH Realty, Inc. & Cumberland Farms, Inc., for property located at: Map 309, Block 6, Parcels 5 and 6, at 9 Wampanoag Trail and 15 Wampanoag Trail from an existing designation of low-density residential to retail with conditions as outlined in the Planning Board memorandum to the City Council dated March 3, 2015.
Petitioner: VSH Realty, Inc. and Cumberland Farms, Inc.
Request for a rezoning by VSH Realty, Inc. & Cumberland Farms, Inc., for property located at: Map 309, Block 6, Parcels 5 and 6, at 9 Wampanoag Trail and 15 Wampanoag Trail from an existing zoning of Residential- 3 to a requested zoning of Commercial-2 with conditions as outlined in the Planning Board Memorandum to the City Council dated March 3, 2015.
Petitioner: VSH Realty, Inc. & Cumberland Farms, Inc.
Dillon Conley requested for the petitioner a continuance to the next Regular City Council meeting of April 21, 2015.
A. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE 2010-2015 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE
As requested by the petitioner, a motion is made to continue this item to the next City Council meeting being held on April 21, 2015 by Councilman Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous with Assistant Mayor Cunha and Councilman Conley recusing.
SECTION I. Map 3 of the City of East Providence 2010-2015 Comprehensive Plan Update entitled "Central East Providence Generalized Land Use" is hereby amended to identify the parcels designated as Assessor's Map 309, Block 6, Parcels 5 and 6 as retail use subject to the following conditions:
1. That the use of the property be restricted to a convenience store and gas pumps, and further, that in the event the properties are not developed into, or used as a convenience store and gas pumps, the properties would revert to their original status as “Low density residential” designated on the generalized land use map of the City’s Comprehensive Plan;
2. That all of the landscaping, storm water management, lighting, buffer requirements and parking area design standards of a Development Plan Review are met, which are defined in Article 8 of zoning or a reasonable attempt as shall be determined by the Development Plan Review Committee is made by the applicant to meet the minimum standards.
The Central East Providence Generalized Land Use Map (Map 3) of the City of East Providence 2010-2015 Comprehensive Plan Update shall be amended accordingly.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Planning Department
B. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 19 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "ZONING"
As requested by the petitioner, a motion is made to continue this item to the next City Council meeting being held on April 21, 2015 by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous with Assistant Mayor Cunha and Councilman Conley recusing.
SECTION I. Section 19-95 entitled "Districts Designated" of Article III entitled "District Regulations" is hereby amended as follows:
Parcels 5 and 6 on Assessor’s Map 309, Block 6 presently designated as a Residential 3 District are hereby changed to a Commercial 2 District subject to the following conditions:
1. That the use of the properties be restricted to a convenience store and gas pumps and further, that in the event the properties are not developed into or used as a convenience store and gas pumps, the properties would revert to their original status as a Residential-3 designation on the City’s Official Zoning Map;
2. That all of the landscaping, storm water management, lighting, buffer requirements and parking area design standards of a Development Plan Review are met, which are defined in Article 8 of zoning or a reasonable attempt as shall be determined by the Development Plan Review Committee is made by the applicant to meet the minimum standards.
The Zoning Map of the City of East Providence shall be amended accordingly.
SECTION II. This ordinance shall take effect upon passage and all ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
Requested by: Planning Department
XI. NEW BUSINESS
A. City Managers Report (by Acting City Manager, Paul Lemont)
1. Police Security Cameras Bid Award
The City Manager reported that this bid award was for police cameras in the Police Station. He called Chief Parella to the podium. The Chief stated this is for evidentiary and security purposes and can be used also for internal complaints and cell blocks. The old system is outdated and there are blind spots. They are all digital and necessary and are a permissible spending under asset forfeiture. They decided to go with option one it is the least expensive but can be built upon for future uses and upgrades and the system provides all they need.
The City Manager stated the selected bid is $44,199 with the highest bid over $170,000 and he recommends Council approval.
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Application for Tax Stabilization – For Construction of a 75,000 square foot medical office building at 375 Wampanoag Trail (Map 509, Block 2, Parcel 1)
Director of Planning Jeanne Boyle and Jim Moran are called to the podium.
The City Manager stated that the building is the start of what people will be seeing in the coming months.
Director Boyle stated the Planning Department is very pleased with this significant development. The Planning Board has given its approval and it’s gone through the process. The property was underutilized for years. The tax stabilization ordinance helped attract the developer and this was due to those changes which the City Council made. This development will provide 100 new jobs as well as construction jobs.
Jim Moran stated that this applicant is the first to use the stabilization program adopted by the City Council at the end of 2013. The plans are ready for recording and the process is ready to begin. It will generate $108,000 in tax revenue.
Lee Ann Marshall provided a brief over view and gave the City Council a copy of the artist rendering. They purchased the property about a year ago it was the old Branch Trucking Terminal. Cleanup done over the summer and they demolished the buildings. This will be medical offices which are consolidating here from various places in the State. They ready to start construction via AZ Corporation which is located in Southern Connecticut. They plan to be complete by September and occupied by April of next year.
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
3. Water Distribution System Improvements Bid Award
Director of Public Works Steve Coutu is called to the podium. The City Manager stated that the City Council approved in February the prequalification of 5 companies. The City is asking to award to the lowest bidder.
Director Coutu stated that is project is funded through the Clean Water fund bond and it is for the waterline to back the system from the storage tank.
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
4. Water/Sewer Bidding Software Bid Award
The City Manager stated last summer the City had quite a number of comments from residents regarding monthly billing as opposed to the current quarterly billing.
Financial Advisor Paul Luba and Jim Marvel from the Water Department were called to the podium.
Paul Luba stated the goals were to identify a system which allows the City to move to a monthly billing cycle. It reduces the time to get billing done and allows the City to automate scheduling and tracking of home visits and install and repair meters. This is important because right now it is a manual process and to make the City state of the art it was recommended to purchase the new system. This system will enhance water and waste water and will do all the City requires and more. It is a cloud based system and also can be used on smart phones and the internet. Residents can easily track their water usage and make payments on line for water and taxes. It is the best system that they have seen in any municipality. It has faster reports and reacts to problems sooner. The cost of the system is roughly $200,000 to purchase and implement. He added that of all the vendors they looked at this was the cheapest. The City was able to negotiate the company down by $30,000 and have extra services put into the program. The program is not cheap but it gets the City to where it needs to go. Implementation will probably take 8-12 months.
Jim Marvel stated the biggest advantage to the consumer is to have the ability to look up information at their convenience and see the same things City employees look at when they call in for information. For payments, it’s a convenient system and is real time. For example, if the City Water Department officials are on the road and a work order is sent it can be dealt with real time. The Water Department has a small staff and this will t take a major burden off their back. They will have to hire one additional staff person.
The City Manager added this will also speeds up the cash flow.
Councilman Conley asked who will provide the training.
Jim Marvel stated the training is part of the contractual obligations.
Mayor Rose stated that this was a good job towards moving forward and making it easier for constituents to budget their payments and the City Council has received many calls on this.
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
5. Parks Department Tree Trimming Bucket Truck Bid Award
Director Coutu was called to the podium.
Mayor Rose stated this was something long awaited for by the City. The breakdowns and the repairs have been going on for many years. The last truck was bought in the early 1980s and this is a huge asset.
Director Coutu stated the crew is very excited for the new truck and they will be able to respond to tree issues in a more efficient manner particularly during storm time as they will be able to eliminate hazards more efficiently. They are asking the City Council to approve the low bid at $162,000 via Alltech Industries.
Assistant Mayor Cunha asked if the purchase was budgeted.
Director Coutu stated yes it is in the capital improvement program.
A motion to approve is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. 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 Cunha and seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco to convene in closed session for the purposes of discussing claims & litigation. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rose – Aye, Councilman Britto – Aye, Councilwoman Capobianco – Aye, Councilman Conley – Aye, Councilman Cunha - Aye, the motion is approved 5-0.
EAST PROVIDENCE CLAIMS COMMITTEE
CLAIMS & LITIGATION REPORT
TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015; 6:45 P.M.; ROOM 101
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NEW CLAIMS
PATRICK CRONIN $220.81
M No. 14-111, Claim No. 15-014
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Risho Avenue. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Deny the claim.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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BENJAMIN J. HADSELL, JR. $537.66
RM No. 15-015, Claim No. 15-013
Claim for property damage to mailbox and post sustained as a result of snow plowing operations. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Offer to settle the claim in the amount of $268.83.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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CARL J. HULTINE $513.80
RM No. 15-014, Claim No. 15-012
Claim for property damage to mailbox and post sustained as a result of snow plowing operations. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Offer to settle the claim in the amount of $256.90.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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METLIFE AUTO & HOME $4288.45
(INS: MEDEIROS, MARIA)
RM No. 14-096, Claim No. 15-017
Claim for reimbursement of 5% of property damage sustained to insured’s vehicle and medical expenses paid on behalf of the passenger as a result of an accident with a police vehicle. Recommend referral to insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilman Cunha Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Refer the claim to the insurance carrier.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE
RM No. 07-124, Claim No. 15-022
Claim for correction of title defect/title dispute.
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Conley
Motion: Deny the claim.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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ANNA M. OLIVEIRA Unspecified
RM No. 15-017, Claim No. 15-015
Claim for personal injuries sustained as a result of a slip and fall on the sidewalk located in front of 419 Waterman Avenue. Recommend referral to insurance carrier.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Refer the claim to the insurance carrier.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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KLAERE RUIZ $283.43
RM No. 15-019, Claim No. 15-016
Claim for property damage to vehicle sustained as a result of striking a pothole on Taunton Avenue. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Refer the claim to the R.I. Department of Transportation.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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VERIZON Unspecified
RM No. 15-024, Claim No. 15-020
Claim for property damage to a Verizon facility sustained while repairing a water main break in front of 580 North Broadway. See memorandum and incident report of the Water Utilities Superintendent.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Deny the claim.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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CLAIM FOR RECONSIDERATION
EDWARD REED $296.77
RM No. 15-012, Claim No. 15-010
Claim for property damage sustained when a City snow plow caught the net of a portable basketball hoop in the sidewalk area knocking it down and landing on the back windshield of claimant’s vehicle. The Claims Committee voted at its meeting held on March 11, 2015 to deny the claim. Claimant is asking for reconsideration.
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the claim in the amount of $296.77.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | Recused | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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SEWER CHARGE ABATEMENTS
LUIS BERNARDO $120.00
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 49-51 Lyon Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Cunha Seconded by: Councilman Britto
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $120.00.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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JACK & JULIET FRANCISCO $579.96
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 9 Orchard Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Britto
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $579.96.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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ERIC MOTTA $75.18
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 29 Oakley Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Capobianco
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $75.18.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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NANCY STEVENS $553.73
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 37 Beaumont Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Cunha
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $553.73.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
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| Abstain |
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| Absent |
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MARK VIANA $207.60
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 395 Waterman Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilwoman Capobianco Seconded by: Councilman Britto
Motion: Approve the abatement in the amount of $207.60.
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VOTE | MAYOR ROSE | COUNCILMAN BRITTO | COUNCILWOMAN CAPOBIANCO | COUNCILMAN CONLEY | COUNCILMAN CUNHA |
| 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 Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Presentation Regarding Former Fuller Library (by Eileen Socha, Director of Library Services)
Director Eileen Socha provided background and a power point presentation for the ideas for the library building.
Councilman Britto stated that he felt this was a good idea to invest back in the community and that with the resources the City has right under its nose it would be a great opportunity and great for after school programs. Students would not have to leave the community for these programs and he thanked Director Socha for the presentation.
Mayor Rose stated it was a great presentation and it will be placed on the next City Council docket for a vote to move forward.
2. Beautification Commission By-Laws (by City Solicitor Timothy Chapman)
Assistant Solicitor Greg Dias provided background and stated the bylaws are being brought before the City Council because part of the ordinance requires this. The Law Department has reviewed and finds them to be in order and a vote from the City Council is needed for approval.
A motion to approve the By Laws is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
C. Council Members
1. Donation Box on Tax Bills (by Mayor Rose)
Mayor Rose asked for suggestions for the donation box. Councilman Conley suggests the EPHS Football Team which is currently trying to raise money for new uniforms.
Mayor Rose stated this was a great idea and the tax bills will go out on June 1st with the new check box on them.
A motion to place the East Providence High School Football Team uniforms as the voluntary donation check box on this year’s tax bill is made by Councilman Conley, seconded by Assistant Mayor Cunha and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Consolidation of City/School Services (by Mayor Rose)
Mayor Rose deferred this item.
3. Discussion of Carousel Grounds (by Councilwoman Capobianco)
Councilwoman Capobianco called Steve Costa, Chair of the Carousel Commission to the podium.
Mr. Costa asked what the Commission needs to do next to move forward to build the pavilion and the train.
The City Manager stated since the Carousel was not starting out with a big balance the City is putting some money to help keep up with restoration. As of right now, he wasn’t sure that the Carousel had enough funds to build the pavilion and they would have to fund raise. They might want to focus on one item at a time and work on the funding for the pavilion first.
Mr. Costa stated the Commission has about $46,000 in a fund specific to build the pavilion.
The City Manager stated the Commission should first work on getting a good estimate on the cost and then bring that back to City Council for approval.
4. Ward One Health Initiative (by Councilman Britto)
Councilman Britto discussed a health initiative which he has begun in Ward 1 and which he is hoping if it is successful he can do city wide. He stated that what he is looking to do this summer through a former NFL New England Patriots player and a trainer is to provide a 3 time weekly workout session. During this time working with the Senior Center Director and a nutritionist as a circuit workout and tie it in with a nutritional piece. They could start on the website a biggest loser contest and a gift certificate would be supplied to the winner. This would start in Ward 1 for those who want to make this change and eventually spill over to the entire City maybe next year.
D. Report of School Committee Liaison
E. Resolutions
1. RESOLUTION PROPOSING TO CREATE AN ARTS DISTRICT IN THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
A motion to dispense with the reading of the Resolution is made by Councilman Conley seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
WHEREAS, the East Providence City Council desires to create an Arts District in the City of East Providence; and
WHEREAS, a group of citizens in the City have expressed an interest in the establishment of an Arts District in East Providence; and
WHEREAS, the State of Rhode Island has created sales tax exemptions for artists to encourage them to set up residence in certain areas of the State and could allow income tax exemptions for those who reside in the district; and
WHEREAS, the East Providence City Council seeks to promote and support local artists efforts; and
WHEREAS, Art as a development tool beautifies and animates cities, provides employment, compliments adjacent businesses, enhances property values, expands the tax base, attracts well-educated employees and contributes to a creative innovative environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council believes that an Arts District is part of community/urban development;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council hereby directs its Planning Department to complete the necessary work to review changes to zoning use schedules to accommodate an arts district, identify areas of the City that would best accommodate an Arts District and refer the matter to the Planning Board to report back to the Council with their findings.
Requested by: Councilwoman Capobianco & Councilman Conley
Councilwoman Capobianco stated that the Chair of the Arts Council was present and available for questions.
A motion to approve the Resolution is made by Councilwoman Capobianco, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE REFINANCING OF THE EXISTING SECTION 108 LOAN FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD)
WHEREAS, in September 2003, the City obtained a Section 108 Loan from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) for the remediation and redevelopment of the former Ocean State Steel site also known as 300 Bourne Avenue, East Providence, Rhode Island; and
WHEREAS, the City has been making the debt service payments for the Section 108 Loan; and
WHEREAS, HUD is making a public offering scheduled for May 28, 2015; and
WHEREAS, the City has been invited to participate in the public offering by HUD; and
WHEREAS, the City stands to realize significant savings over the remaining term of the existing Section 108 Loan if the City participates in the May 2015 public offering through a refinance of the Section 108 Loan.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of East Providence authorizes the Planning Department and the Community Development Coordinator to participate in the May 2015 HUD public offering for the existing Section 108 Loan.
Requested by: Mayor Rose
David Bachrach comes to the podium and reads the resolution.
Councilman Britto asks for clarification on the restructure change.
Assistant Mayor Cunha asks questions regarding the rate.
A motion to approve the Resolution is made by Assistant Mayor Cunha, seconded by Councilwoman Capobianco and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
F. Communications
1. Ron Moniz, 82 Oak Crest Drive (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding AFLAC Insurance full open enrollment in the City of East Providence due to the fact that they have had an account since 1977 and in the past 10 years have not been able to do a complete open enrollment.
Ron Moniz and Mark Taglifaria are present and come to the podium. They state this has been part of the benefit package for City employees since 1977 but they have not been able to come in for full City presentation.
Mayor Rose states this is a voluntary benefit and is not part of a package.
Councilwoman Capobianco asks if people can just contact them individually if they want to.
Mr. Moniz states they can.
The City Manager states there is no solicitation from any business allowed on City grounds. People can contact them individually if they so choose and can opt for payroll deduction if they so choose same as anything else.
2. David Silva, 1086 South Broadway, Apt. 6 (02916) requesting to address the Council regarding accessibility at the Grove Street Post Office.
David Silvia is present and comes to the podium. He states that he has sent the City Council a communication over the subject of accessibility to the Grove Avenue Post Office and is asking for their support to the Federal Delegation and the Post Office to make it accessible for people with disabilities. He explains to the City Council the back ground of the situation.
Mayor Rose states the City Council can put a Resolution on the next docket which can then be submitted to the Federal Delegation and Post Office in support and they can follow up with a phone call to Congressman Cicilline’s Office.
3. Elizabeth Salahuddin, 552 Middle Highway, Barrington requesting to address the Council regarding the Brown Play School 6th Annual Run to Mama 5K Road Race and Kids Fun Run, Sunday, May 17, 2015.
Ms. Salaguddin is not present.
4. Alejandro Arteaga, 237 Suffolk Avenue, Pawtucket requesting to address the Council regarding Ice Cream Truck Peddlers licensing fees.
Alejandro Arteaga is present and explains the back ground regarding his licensing request. He shows samples of what some of the other cities and towns do to ensure the driver is vetted for safety reasons and how they license the truck and issue a permit for the drivers so that the drivers can change without having to pay for a whole license over again. Samples of various permits and badges are passed out to Council.
The City Council asks the City Clerk and the Law Department to review the other cities and towns and come back to the City Council with the possible amendments to the current ordinance.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:46PM is made by Assistant Mayor Cunha, seconded by Councilman Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Approved By Council: April 21, 2015
Attest: _______________
City Clerk