Click 
to view the meeting video.
CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE
RHODE ISLAND
JOURNAL OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 7, 2017
Council Chambers, City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
7:00P.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)(2).
A. NEWS CLAIMS
1. Albertino Milho
B. SEWER CHARGE ABATEMENTS
1. Joe Amaral
2. Maria I. Amaral
3. Dona J. & Christopher T. Barnes
4. Luis Bernardo
5. Dalia M. Costa
6. Lorraine D’Oliveira
7. Isabel Ferria
8. Lynn Haworth
9. Cristiano Silva
10. Jean E. Storm
II. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Briden calls the meeting to order at 7:34PM
III. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
IV. TO APPROVE THE CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Letters
1. CRMC February Calendar
2. Charlestown Town Council Resolution in Opposition to the Preferred Alternative Change in Railroad Alignment Within Its Borders.
B. Alcoholic Beverage - Class F
1. St. Mary Academy Bay View, Alumnae Special Event, March 31, 2017, 3070 Pawtucket Avenue, Kirsten Harvey.
C. Alcoholic Beverage – Class F-1
1. St Mary Academy Bay View, Fundraiser, March 31, 2017, 3070 Pawtucket Avenue, Kirsten Harvey.
2. St. Brendan Church, Mardi Gras, February 24, 2017, 55 Turner Avenue, Tamara Primmer.
D. Cancellation/Abatements
| Year | Amount |
| 2016 | $2,789.27 |
| Total | $2,789.27 |
E. Cancellation/Abatements - Board of Assessment Review
| Year | Amount |
| 2016 | $1,678.78 |
| Total | $1,678.78 |
F. Council Journals
1. Council Journal Regular Meeting January 17, 2017
2. Council Executive Session January 17, 2017
A motion to approve the Consent Calendar is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilman Faria and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
V. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Recent Tour of Sewer Treatment Plant - by Councilman Faria
Councilman Faria stated he realizes this has been an issue for many years. He has worked hard to bring a resolve to this matter. He went on a tour of the facility. Tom Azevedo was kind enough to provide this tour. It was eye opening. The staff is diligent and dedicated. He added he is amazed at the finished product of clean water which is released into the Bay.
Tom Azevedo provides a power point presentation. He notes that he is the Project Manager in Riverside at the East Providence Wastewater Treatment Facility. He was working for the City since 1990 and as the plant transitioned to Untied Water he transitioned to the Project Manager. They are all original City employees and he notes they take great pride in what they do.
Unfortunately it is the backend of everything and one of the unforgotten parts of the City's public works. He adds Councilman Faria came in January and they had a nice warm day.
Councilman Faria thanked Tom for the tour and stated that what he saw at State House meeting was very productive. He notes he was present along with Tom Azevedo, Tim Chapman, Steve Coutu, the State Delegation, Barrington officials and RI DEM. RI DEM has agreed as to the cause and solution. Terry Gray at RI DEM clearly states they will be monitoring and will be in touch with Barrington. Barrington has stated they are ready and committed to treat the water causing the odor.
Acting City Manager Chapman stated today they confirmed with Barrington that their Solicitor is requesting an independent party, a 3rd party, who will be sampling to confirm and test. They agreed to utilize the Bison product showed to them in August.
Councilman Faria stated there is no question as to this issue coming from Barrington.
City Manager Chapman stated 3-4 months ago the Councilman asked him to look into it and it appears they are on a resolution path.
B. Proclamation for Gilmores Flower Shop - by Councilwoman Sousa
Councilwoman Sousa provided an introduction to Gilmores which started on a farm in 1958. The son became the owner along with his wife and family. They have been a part of many family lives in East Providence. They are lifelong residents and participants in our community and she adds she is proud they are here today, 81 years later.
VI. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Christopher P. Gasbarro, 145 Terrace Avenue (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding the East Providence Fire Department Test being thrown out.
Mr. Gasbarro discussed the hard work and dedication of the applicants. He explained the personal connection to the issue which is his daughter’s boyfriend. He notes how great it was to see his enthusiasm and passion. The process is intense. They are notified regarding the written then the oral panel interviews. There are certifications and licenses. East Providence has the best fire department in the State and the best equipment in the State. It takes teamwork and leadership and support and they were really enthusiastic. On January 19th, they were totally puzzled about having to start the process over. Seeing the shock on his face, and trying to understand it from a residents point of view, there are really great candidates who want to get in and certain things were not done properly. Upon notification, he notes he immediately sent out an email to the whole City Council asking if they could explain this. He asked if it was because the City didn't properly advertise or if it was because of the lowering of the scores which has been done before in Providence. These scores were lowered across the board uniformly. To throw the whole thing out seems wrong and why can’t they salvage the 70 or above? His daughter’s boyfriend tried 3 years ago and he's been an EMT and worked for an ambulance company. He adds if there is no answer tonight if the Council could please get back to them.
Councilman Britto stated he would like to piggy back off of what was said noting he has this item on later on the agenda. His concern is what is the protocol and are there meeting minutes to the Personnel Hearing Board? He is concerned because there was a large number of minorities who applied and there is a new advertisement going out this week to start again. His recommendation would be to hold off until they have answers to these questions. He listed some of the places the information was received and advertised and stated there is a list that has 50-60 places on it. Is it the score lowering? If so then who approved it and why and why wasn't it addressed at that time? He would like to ask the City Manager to stop those advertisements which went out today until they get some answers to these questions.
The City Manager notes the process commenced in June. The list could not be decertified as it was never certified by the Personnel Hearing Board to begin with. There were two meetings of the Board which are open to the public. The Board voted per the Human Resource Director’s recommendation indicating the ordinances were not followed. The City Manager sites those ordinances including advertisement and score lowering below 70 also it was done after the Human Resource Department received the test scores. There were many problems. The advertisements the Assistant Mayor sites are not newspapers of general circulation.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked about the minutes.
The City Manager explained they will be approved at the next regularly scheduled meeting which he believes would be in the next 2 weeks. He notes it is the Board’s decision per ordinance. He adds he sat with both the Fire Chief and the Human Resource Director and both agreed what is best is to post and advertise for a new class for the June 5th Academy. This would prevent any delays in moving this forward.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked about the Zoning Board decision regarding Cumberland Farms at the time the City Council made a decision to sue. This decision came back from the court system and now the City will have a new Cumberland Farms.
The City Manager stated he handled that matter as the City Solicitor and he did the research and in fact in that case it could be done. However he is not sure that is an option here and he will leave that question to Solicitor Dias.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked when he could get a copy of the minutes.
The City Manager stated after they have been approved by the Board.
Councilman Botelho stated that to address Mr. Gasbarro, the first thing he did was to send letters out asking what were the reasons the list was not certified. He wanted to know what process errors were made. There was one member who stated that he was told by the Human Resource Director that the positions were not advertised as the City ordinance states and the lowering of the passing grade did not conform to ordinance. He notes it was advertised in The Reporter and that adjusting a passing grade was done routinely under Mr. Benoit. He adds he doesn’t know why the list wasn’t certified and no one has given him an explanation that makes sense and it is the Council’s responsibility to find a solution.
The City Manager restated the ordinances which were not followed.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked who approved this and why had it taken so long?
The City Manager stated those are personnel matters and performance issues.
Assistant Mayor Britto stated he was here the night of the recruitment and this place was packed with candidates for the Fire Academy.
Councilman Botelho states he doesn’t want to belabor this but he has never seen anything like this before and that it is really weird.
Councilwoman Sousa asked if the Human Resource Director was available to speak on this.
The City Manager states was she was not the Human Resource Director at the time the process was done. She presented based on the ordinances, the Fire Chief requested that the grades be 70 or higher but the Personnel Hearing Board did not agree to proceed and voted to redo the recruitment process.
Assistant Mayor Britto stated if the Human Resource Director was not here then who approved it and why.
Councilman Botelho stated there have been administrative adjustments to the list by City Manager’s in the past and he is surprised the City Manager wouldn't look at this and make an adjustment.
The City Manager stated he is following the ordinances and the Personnel Hearing Board.
Councilman Faria thanked Mr. Gasbarro and noted they had previously had a dialogue. He added that he met with the Human Resource Director and the City Manager and did receive the same answers. He noted that no one is happy with this and it is very sad. He added that he too requested a copy of the minutes. He asked the Solicitor what could be done being that this was a personnel matter and they were the legislative body.
Solicitor Dias stated the decision was made by the Personnel Hearing Board and there were 2 public hearings and they voted not to certified the list. That is not something the City Manager or the City Council can adjust.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked if they could put a hold on the advertisement which went out today to get answers.
Councilman Faria asked if there was anything they could do to offer these applicants.
The City Manager stated that anyone who did take the test, the City will cover the fee if they reapply.
Councilman Faria added that he is getting phone calls and emails that they have called Human Resources and didn't get an answer.
Solicitor Dias stated the concern would be that the Personnel Hearing Board process wasn't correct and if there is a complaint then it goes to Court and then the Court throws the whole list out and the City puts off the advertisement then they might not be able to have a class on June 5th. There is a reason they did the advertisement as soon as possible so that the next class can be ready as soon as possible.
Councilman Faria asked if the current City Manager was here during the process.
The City Manager stated no not in the beginning, that was City Manager Kirby.
Councilwoman Sousa stated it is disheartening for those that did well and it is time consuming from their family and their personal careers. It is not an easy thing to go out for the fire or police departments and she feels tremendously sorry for what has gone on. The City Council is not supposed to get involved. For those that did well and passed and have been certified are they needed to recertify?
City Manager Chapman stated no list was certified and the process starts again and that it is his understanding they are the only department in the City which is posting so hopefully they will have a bigger applicant pool than the 189. There are those that may fail and those that may pass. Minority applicants were mentioned earlier and hopefully they will have an even bigger pool. The City is not happy but needs to move forward. This has been discussed with the Chief and this is the best way to move forward. The Human Resource Director came back at the end of November and held 2 public hearings and moved things along.
Assistant Mayor Britto asked who approved it.
The City Manager stated that was a performance personnel question.
Councilman Botelho stated he wants an investigation of who approved and when.
Mayor Briden stated that part of the issue is with the advertisements the Council does not have the minutes so they don't know enough. They need to have the minutes. They need the Solicitor to review and to determine if the Personnel Hearing Board was erroneous and then for the Solicitor to advise the Council because if they take an action and halt the process and then find out after the review that from a legal standpoint it was the correct decision then they have to be careful they are not doing more harm. Also with the open meetings law the Council cannot take a vote on such a thing which has not been listed on the docket. The Zoning case where the City appealed the decision has a statutory process laid out under RI General Law. He would like to know just where the Council’s jurisdiction lies if they were to do so. Obviously they need the law department to review whether as a matter of law the Personnel Hearing Board was erroneous, because as a matter of law, they may have been correct. He adds he is not sure it's wise to stop the recruitment process which was commenced again. He would like to know is it their jurisdiction under the Charter to be making this decision and if it may fall within the administrative part of our government.
Councilman Botelho stated he is right it is an administrative function and in the past City Manager’s have addressed it and in this case that is not happening. He is just wondering why these poor kids went through this and it is being tossed out.
City Manager Chapman stated the major reason is they made a decision to redo and that is what he is following if the Councilman is asking him to violate the ordinance he will not do that.
Councilman Faria asked so they are clear, is the Solicitor is going to investigate who lowered the scores?
Solicitor Dias stated he is going to investigate the process not necessarily include names but make a determination as to if the Council can even be involved in that process or in an appeal of the decision.
Mayor Briden stated he would like to see the review of the applicable law and then advice the Council, does the Council have the right to change and what is the purview of the City Manager.
B. Joseph Pingitore IV, 840 Bullocks Point Avenue (02915) requesting to address the Council regarding Firefighter Hiring.
Mr. Pingitore state all his questions had been answered.
C. Bruce Rogers, Vice Chair, Democratic City Committee, 500 Warren Avenue (02914) requesting to address the Council regarding illegal appointment to the Canvassing Authority.
Mr. Rogers passes out two documents copies of RI General Laws 17-8 and 17-14.
Mr. Rogers stated he is representing the Democratic City Committee as Vice Chair. The appointment recently made by the Mayor, by a person not listed as a Chair of a party as is required by State law is illegal. Legal Counsel has advised the Democratic City Committee that any issue shall be legally challenged. The Mayor with this appointment has done the opposite of upholding the laws. They are requesting a change be made which coincides with State law.
Councilman Faria asked the Solicitor to please respond.
The Solicitor stated that recognition at the end of that statute which was handed out is that if a Chairperson shall fail or refuse to submit a list the Mayor or President of the Council shall appoint any one to the list. His review of documentation is that it may be true there is none so there would be no list from the Republican Party which would allow the Mayor to make an appointment form any list and the appointed is a registered voter of the City of East Providence. Mr. Rogers stated a legal opinion is a legal opinion but the way it is stated is that if they shall fail to submit a list however a list was submitted by a legitimate Chair of a party and that person was John Faria. If there was no other legitimate list submitted that becomes the legitimate list and if the Mayor does not agree with the top person on that list he can go to the next one.
Councilman Faria asked Mr. Rogers if he disagreed with the appointment and Mr. stated he did.
VII. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. Stephen Sharkey, 116 Estrell Drive (02915) – City Approach to Persons Undocumented
B. Dan Landry, 19 Oxford Drive (02916) – Do What’s Right for the Taxpayer
C. Jason Desroisers – Charter Commission and Public Comment Response
D. Tom Riley, 3620 Pawtucket Avenue (02915) – Honor
VIII. APPOINTMENTS
A. Council Member Appointment to the East Providence High School Building Committee (by City Council)
A motion to approve Councilman Joseph Botelho to serve on the East Providence Building Committee is made by Councilman Faria, seconded by Councilwoman Sousa and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
B. Board of Assessment Review (by Councilman Botelho)
Gary S. Pascoa, 152 Summit Street (02914)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilman Botelho, seconded by Assistant Mayor Britto and on a roll call vote the motion passes 4-0 with Councilwoman Sousa Abstaining.
C. Library Board of Trustees - Reappointment (by Assistant Mayor Britto)
Elizabeth Ingraham, 84 Hood Street (02914)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilman Botelho and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. Library Board of Trustees - Reappointment (by Councilman Faria)
Don Paiva, 81 Harris Street (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Sousa and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
E. Juvenile Hearing Board (by Councilman Faria)
Jason Rafferty, 85 Bluff Street (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilman Botelho and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
F. Juvenile Hearing Board (by Councilwoman Sousa)
Joan Daft, 11 Ferncrest Drive (02915)
A motion to approve the Appointment is made by Councilwoman Sousa, seconded by Assistant Mayor Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
IX. PUBLIC HEARING – ORDINANCES FINAL PASSAGE
A. AN ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 19 OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 1998, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED “ZONING”
Motion to dispense with the reading of the Ordinance is made by Councilwoman Sousa, seconded by Councilman Faria and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
SECTION I. Section 19-95 entitled “Districts Designated” of Article III entitled “District Regulations” is hereby amended as follows:
Parcel 1.10 on Assessor’s Map 709, Block 2 presently located in an Open Space 1 (O-1) and “Zoning Undesignated” category is hereby changed to be included in an Industrial 2 (I-2) District.
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: AAA Northeast
Christine Engustian, Esq., 1 Grove Avenue (02914) is present representing AAA Northeast.
Ms. Engustian states this is the old ACME boiler property. It is nearly a rectangular parcel and is approximately 7 acres long. It is situated in an I2 zoning district and they sought permission to renovate to house a member warehouse and service vehicles and this included outside storage. They submitted an application. Its final approval is tonight. In June 2015, they received City zoning approvals for special use permits for open storage and dimensional variances for storage to be erected. They purchased 3 additional parcels which are the subject of tonight's meeting. Parcel 1.1 would be used for landscaping and drainage facilities and refers to map findings on page 9 of the report. This is compatible with the surrounding area and will not alter the character of that area and is consist with the City’s comprehensive land use plan. The Planning Board unanimously approved this and sent it to Council for approval. They are requesting Council approval. Lloyd Alber Senior Vice President of New Business Development and Mr. Page Blanc the Certified Planner who wrote the petition are both present tonight.
Councilman Britto asked about parcel 1.1.
Mr. Alber explained they have 9 offices in RI and similar to the Cranston site they do hope to add registry services.
Councilwoman Sousa asked about wetland.
Ms. Engustian stated there was some wetland designation on a parcel on lot 1 as shown on the plan but they received all of the approvals from the State agency.
Councilwoman Sousa stated that she just wants to make sure it won't increase the flooding in the area.
Ms. Engustian stated that the engineer has shared with her that they will be reviewing with CRMC and RI DEM.
Councilman Botelho stated it was a very thorough and well done application.
Under Public Hearing:
Tom Riley 3620 Pawtucket Avenue – Noted he was in support of the project it is a absolutely fabulous project for the City
A motion to approve the Ordinance is made by Councilwoman Sousa, seconded by Assistant Mayor Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. City Managers Report (by Acting City Manager Timothy Chapman)
1. RFQ for Water Storage Tank Painting and Rehabilitation
The City Manager explains the process the City utilized to get to this point.
Councilman Botelho states the documents provided were very well done and thanked the City Manager and the Director of Public Works for being quite thorough and noted that everything seems to be in order and that all questions have been answered.
A motion to approve is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilman Faria and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Discussion Regarding Water/Sewer Rate Study Workshop
The City Manager reported he sat down with the professional service group on the rate study and they gave the City some information. It is not complete yet but it will need to go before the Council. Instead of just having it listed at a Council meeting he is requesting to have it discussed at a workshop anytime from March 14th or after.
The date of Wednesday March 15, 2017 at 6PM is agreed to by Council.
3. Monthly Water and Sewer Bills Status
The City Manager reported they put an insert in the February billing indicating that June will begin the new monthly billing cycle. Residents can pay and manage this online by visiting the website and clicking on the green button on the right. It will be done via cloud invoicing.
4. Crescent Park Carousel Grants and Readers Choice Get Out The Vote
The City Manager addressed grant monies obtained by the Carousel Commission for restoration and repairs and noted the Carousel was chosen for the Readers Choice Program GOTV.
5. Snow Storm Reimbursement of Funds
The City Manager reports that the City expects a reimbursement of 94,000.
6. Discussion Regarding Request By Resident for City Council to Contact RI DOT for Traffic Safety Study of Pawtucket Avenue/Veterans Memorial Parkway Intersection
The Council agrees to submit a letter to RI DOT.
The City Manager added a last item recognizing the East Providence Police Department for great police work regarding the capture of the Barrington shooter. He also recognized the Fire Department for their work on several fires this week particularly the one on Summit Street.
B. Council Members
1. Charter Review Commission (by Mayor Briden)
a. Number of Members
Mayor Briden stated the Council had a Special Meeting on this last week and discussed various formats for the Charter Review Commission they would have a 9 member Commission. Four would be appointed two from each and one from the member who would be sitting on the Commission as a non-voting member.
Councilman Botelho stated that he has re-thought this and he wouldn't be opposed to an 11 member commission and have the Mayor appoint 3 because to get a quorum at a meeting can sometimes be difficult.
A motion to have 11 members of the Charter Review Commission, two appointed by each Council member and the Mayor to appoint three and for the Mayor to serve as a non-voting member of the Commission is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Sousa and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
b. Number of Members Appointed by Each Council Member
This item was addressed with the previous motion.
c. Selection of Council Member to Serve as a Non Voting Advisory Member
This item was addressed with the previous motion.
d. Special Council Meeting Date to Appoint Members to the Commission
A motion to hold a Special Council Meeting to appoint the members of the Charter Review Commission on Monday, February 13, 2017 at 5:30PM in the Council Chambers is made by Councilman Faria, seconded by Assistant Mayor Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Discussion Regarding Pleasant Street traffic pattern Community Meeting (by Assistant Mayor Britto)
Councilman Britto noted there are some issues and problems regarding traffic flow between 4:00pm-6:00PM. He will be hosting a community meeting in the next couple of weeks. The bulk of the issue is due to heavy traffic from Massachusetts using this as a cut through street. There will be a flyer going out and he will have a public meeting in the next three weeks.
3. Firefighters Academy (by Assistant Mayor Britto)
This item was deferred.
4. Public Comment Response (by Councilman Botelho)
This item was deferred.
5. Sewer Use Fee Study Conclusion (by Councilman Botelho)
Councilman Botelho states he wants to address the sewer use issue regarding premiums for water, which does not go down the sewers. He went on this search for information and received all the information provided by Acting City Manager Chapman, Director Coutu and Director Moore and he thanked them for making it easy to understand. He states Barrington is paying their fair share. It may stink but they are paying for it. The bond issue addresses the collection system and the plant. The presentation made earlier regarding the upgrades in 2010 is the reason for the escalated fees. Barrington is paying their fair share and he would like to dispel that notion that they are not. With all the pieces in place, averaging that summer time sewer use fee bill so that it reflects a true bill of what is going down the toilet. Monthly billing will be starting soon. The City can wirelessly read any home so if they are using extra water they can let them know right away.
Councilman Faria stated he also had a variety of discussions with Director Moore. Mr. Riley made these suggestions and asked if the City could give a flat fee and put it in place right away.
Acting City Manager Chapman stated they will incorporate all this in the workshop.
Mayor Briden stated the City needs to bring in a certain amount of revenue but in terms of a model they can look into what other cities and towns do.
Councilman Faria stated maybe they can suspend these abatements and that the savings could help.
A motion to extend the meeting by 15 minutes is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Sousa and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
6. City Council Meeting Structure and Decorum (by Councilman Botelho)
Councilman Botelho stated that regarding how the City Council conducts meetings, the last meeting didn't start on time and there was a long drawn out Claims Committee Meeting. It's not fair if they don't start on time perhaps the Council can suspend the Claim Committee Meeting and finish after the Open Session is completed. He understands the long meeting issue, they used to meet until 1:00AM and understand about getting done early but maybe 10:00PM is too early for a curfew. The item regarding unanimous consent, this used to hardly ever be used. It seems like this is being used to move stuff around on the docket. Regarding Public Comment he adds that he cannot believe these comments cannot be addressed. What people say and what it amounts to is a public flogging and the Council just has to sit there like “Mickey the mope”. Lastly, he had people stating they thought they were watching the Burrillville Town Council Meeting. This had nothing to do with East Providence.
7. City Affairs – 60 Day Review and Analysis (by Councilman Botelho)
Councilman Botelho states that he will post this on line on his website.
8. Status of Revaluation Lawsuit (by Councilman Faria)
Councilman Faria stated that it's a shame when any resident has to file suit to get any type of relief and he has met with these residents and worked diligently to bring these parties together. As many of these properties are in the 4th Ward he wants to make sure these assessments are accurate and in compliance with RI General Laws and he doesn’t want these residents tied up in litigation. They all got together to avoid a long and costly litigation process. They are working on it and he has been in daily contact with Assistant Solicitor Craven.
9. Sewer Plant Update (by Councilman Faria)
Councilman Faria thanked Tom for providing the presentation tonight and noted that there will be seeing a resolve very soon and there is open line with RI DEM.
10. Ward 4 Constituency Issues (by Councilman Faria)
a. Street Lights out Rounds Avenue and Beverly Avenue (by Councilman Faria)
Councilman Faria thanked Director Coutu and Acting City Manager Chapman for getting the street lights back on.
b. Status Report Lottie Street Flooding (by Councilman Faria)
The City Manager stated the location has been surveyed and there is a depression and the work to repair this depression will be done in the Spring.
c. Update on Traffic Study for Forbes Street (by Councilman Faria)
Councilman Faria stated he would like to speak with the neighbors to address the proposed speed change on the road before making the change.
11. Public Comment Response (by Councilman Faria)
Councilman Faria stated that he concurs with much of what Councilman Botelho has stated regarding public comment. He also stated that he responds to all constituents who contact him sometimes he has to refer these to the law department but he always sends a letter.
A motion to extend the meeting 15 minutes is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilman Botelho and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
12. Update on State Street Project (by Councilwoman Sousa)
Councilwoman Sousa thanked the Highway Department and DPW for cleaning out the catch basins. RIDOT and RIDEM were also contacted and they cleaned out the catch basins on State Street. Work is being done on Marsh Street to cut back debris and trees.
13. Public Comment Response (by Councilwoman Sousa)
Councilman Faria requested unanimous consent to make an announcement regarding the 68th Anniversary of Edward and Noami Marie Getz.
C. Reports of Other City Officials
1. Handicap Parking Signs: 48 Oak Avenue - by Director of Public Works, Steve Coutu
A motion to approve is made by Councilman Botelho, seconded by Assistant Mayor Britto and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
2. Claims Committee Report (by City Solicitor Greg Dias)
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 42-46-5(a)(2), a motion is made by Councilwoman Sousa and seconded by Councilman Britto to convene in closed session for the purposes of discussing claims & litigation. Upon a roll call vote: Councilman Botelho – Aye, Assistant Mayor Britto – Aye, Councilman Faria – Aye, Councilwoman Sousa – Aye, Mayor Briden – Aye, the motion is approved 5-0.
EAST PROVIDENCE CLAIMS COMMITTEE
CLAIMS & LITIGATION REPORT
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2017; ROOM 101; 7:00 P.M.
=====================================================================
NEW CLAIMS
ALBERTINO MILHO $567.10
RM No. 16-112, Claim No. 16-060
Claim for property damage to windows on the claimant’s building sustained as a result of the Parks Division mowing grass at the adjacent John Lewis Park. See recommendation of the Director of Public Works.
Motion by: Councilwoman Sousa Seconded by: Councilman Britto
Motion: Defer the claim.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
SEWER CHARGE ABATEMENTS
JOE AMARAL $136.08
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 90 Merrill Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $136.08.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
MARIA I. AMARAL $238.96
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 63 Orlo Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Sousa
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $238.96.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye |
| √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay | √ |
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
DONNA J. & CHRISTOPHER T. BARNES $453.66
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 22-24 Vineland Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $453.66.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
LUIS BERNARDO $289.98
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 9-11 Martello Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilwoman Sousa Seconded by: Councilman Britto
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $289.98.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye |
| √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay | √ |
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
DALIA M. COSTA $707.55
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 114 Rice Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $707.55.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye |
| √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay | √ |
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
LORRAINE D’OLIVEIRA $301.58
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 17 Mary Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $301.58.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye |
| √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay | √ |
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
ISABEL FERRIA $322.20
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 202 Vincent Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Faria Seconded by: Councilwoman Sousa
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $322.20.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
LYNN HAWORTH $131.56
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 35 Jay Street in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $131.56.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye |
| √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay | √ |
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
CRISTIANO SILVA $118.14
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 202 Woodward Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilwoman Sousa
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $118.14.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
JEAN E. STORM $20.62
Request for a sewer charge abatement for the property located at 34 Narragansett Avenue in accordance with City Ordinance Sec. 17-183(g).
Motion by: Councilman Britto Seconded by: Councilman Faria
Motion: Approve the sewer charge abatement in the amount of $20.62.
|
VOTE | COUNCILMAN BOTELHO | ASST. MAYOR BRITTO | COUNCILMAN FARIA | COUNCILWOMAN SOUSA | MAYOR BRIDEN |
| Aye | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Nay |
|
|
|
|
|
| Abstain |
|
|
|
|
|
| Absent |
|
|
|
|
|
A motion is made by Councilman Britto, seconded by Councilman Faria to adjourn at 7:25 p.m. and reconvene in open session. Upon a roll call vote, the motion is approved 5-0.
A motion to approve the Claims Committee Report is made by Assistant Mayor Britto, seconded by Councilwoman Sousa and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
D. Report of School Committee Liaison
School Committee Member Jessica Beauchaine announces there is a Town Hall Meeting being hosted by the Rhode Island Federal Delegation members at the East Providence High School from 2:00PM-4:00PM on Sunday in the auditorium.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
A motion to Adjourn is made by Councilwoman Sousa, seconded by Councilman Faria and on a roll call vote it is unanimous.
Approved By Council: February 21, 2017
Attest: _______________
City Clerk