CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE

DOCKET-REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 2024

CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 P.M.

145 TAUNTON AVENUE-CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND

EXECUTIVE SESSION: CONFERENCE ROOM A

 

OPEN SESSION WILL IMMEDIATELY FOLLOW EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

Notice: The meeting will also be viewable live at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0YEW6s1RpjcKR47VMil1LA

 

City Council:

Council President, Bob Rodericks – At Large

Council Vice-President: Frank Rego – Ward 1

Councilwoman Anna Sousa - Ward 2

Councilman Frank Fogarty - Ward 3

Councilman Rick Lawson - Ward 4

 

City Solicitor, Michael J. Marcello

City Clerk, Jill Seppa

  

 

I.          CALL TO ORDER

            Roll Call

 

Fogarty___X__ Lawson__X___ Rego__X___ Sousa __X___ Rodericks__X___

 

II.        SALUTE TO THE FLAG

 

III.       EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

The City Council of East Providence may meet in Executive Session,

            pursuant to RIGL §42-46-5 (a)(2)

 

1.      Omsairam LLC d/b/a Rumford Motor Inn vs. City of East Providence

C.A. No. PC-2024-00413

Status Update

 

2.      Claims & Litigation Docket

Bk 39                                                                                                                                      Pg 362

 

3.      Colleen A. Derrick vs. City of East Providence
C.A. No. 20-cv-00491-MSM-PAS

Update and Request for Assignment of Claim

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

IV.       RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION

 

Fogarty__2^nd, X___ Lawson_Motion, X____ Rego__X___ Sousa __X___ Rodericks__X___

 

V.        MOTION TO SEAL EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Second, X
Lawson	X
Rego	Motion, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

 

VI.       CONSENT CALENDAR - For discussion and possible vote

 

A.    COUNCIL JOURNALS:

 

1.      March 5, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes

2.      March 5, 2024 Executive Meeting Minutes

3.      March 19, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes

 

B.     LETTERS:

 

1.      CRMC Public Notice for proposed rulemaking to Section 650-RICR-10-00-1 (Management Procedures). This amendment includes proposed amendments to Section 1.4.6(A)(10) to eliminate the option for a 3-day beach vehicle permit and Section § 1.5.12 to eliminate the fourth extension request.

 

C.    TAX ABATEMENTS

Year	Amount
2018	$73.31
Total	$73.31

     

Bk 39                                                                                                                          Pg 363

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, x
Rego	Motion, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

 

 

VII.     LICENSES - For discussion and possible vote

A. Motion to bundle licenses

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	Motion, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

 

B. Motion to approve licenses

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Second, X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

           

            C. NON-PUBLIC HEARING        

1.  One Day Entertainment

Applicant: St. Mary Academy-Bay View Campus

Event: Back to the Bay Weekend

Location: 3070 Pawtucket Avenue (02915)

Date and Time: April 25, 2024 – April 28, 2024 6:00am-10:00pm

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

2.      One Day Entertainment

Applicant: Crescent Park Preservation Assoc.

Event: Food & Wine Pairing Silent Auction

Bk 39                                                                                                                          Pg 364

Location: 700 Bullocks Point Avenue (02915)

Date and Time: September 5, 2024 5:00pm-10:00pm

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

D.    PUBLIC HEARING

1.      Dance and Entertainment License

Applicant: Isaac Da Silva Neto

Business: Minas Café II

Business Address: 315 Waterman Ave. (02914) 

 

·         Proprietor gave an overvue of business application.

·         Coralia Braga spoke a concern on a one way on Waterman Avenue and lack of buffer for sound. 

·         Krishna Andrews spoke concerns regarding

·         Rudy Boker on Cole Street spoke in support of entertainment license.

·         Councilwoman Sousa spoke concerns regarding it being smaller venue.

·         Councilwoman Sousa proposed stipulation to support the business, limit 6 month trial and then come before the council with Friday, Saturday and Sunday license.

·         Motion to approve the license contingent upon sign of from Chief of Police and Chief of Fire with a six months conditional license limited for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Council President Rodericks spoke against stipulations.

·         Christina Andrews spoke on concerns of indoor versus outdoor entertainment.

·         Frederick Shanley expressed concerns about the noise factor of people leaving the establishment.

·         Councilwoman Motion to approve the license contingent upon review in seven months.

·         President Rodericks asked for right turn only signs upon exit on Waterman at Minas.

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second	X
Rego	X
Sousa	Motion, X
Rodericks	X

 

VIII.    PROCLAMATIONS & PRESENTATIONS

 

Council Vice President Rego announced Autism Awareness Month

Councilwoman Sousa announced National Poetry Month

Council President Rodericks announced Nationall Small Business Week

Council President Rodericks acknowledges Jenn Fagriffith

 

IX.       COMMUNICATIONS

            Any person who submits a communication to the Council and wishes to speak on it must indicate this in writing no later than 4:00 p.m. the Thursday prior to the next regularly scheduled Council meeting.  A person who lists more than one topic on their communication will be allowed to speak on the first one listed.

 

1.      Vintner Avenue Inclusive Playground – Chrissy Rossi

Chrissy Rossi spoke on EP Kids fundraising for Vintner and looking for grants for the playground.

Mayor spoke about CDBG monies that became available and he met with David Bachracht and Daniel Borges to put money into the playgrounds. He reviewed the NPA and found O’Brien who has done other city projects. Mayor re-iterated strict timelines and with Vitner there is a corrugated pipe as part of the construction.

Chrissy Rossi spoke about accessibility with a different surface versus wood chips.

 

X.        PUBLIC COMMENT

            All persons wishing to make public comment shall sign a public comment sheet stating their name, address and the subject of their comments.  Each speaker will be limited to three (3) minutes.  The order of speakers will be on a first come, first serve basis and the maximum time for public comment shall by limited to thirty (30) minutes per meeting.

-Matt Vianna ADU’s

-Jennifer Griffith Taunton Avenue Collaborative

-Lisa Guilette Taunton Avenue Collaborative

 

XI.       APPOINTMENTS

 

XII.     COUNCIL MEMBERS

 

1.      Update on Charter Commission Summary to City Council – discuss- Council President Rodericks

 

Council President Rodericks reported that the updates are in progress.

Solicitor Conley voted at the last meeting to transmit a section which is in process. Some additional changes are being drafted. Vice President Rego expressed concern for the timeline.

Solicitor Conley reported that the process is that what goes to the Ballot is done by ordinance through the Council. Conley will forward to the Council substantive charter changes. Conley also reported that substantive changes are labor intensive because they impact changes required across the charter. Council Vice President expressed concerns for timeline.  Councilman Lawson clarified that ballot questions need to be turned in by August 1.  Council Vice President Rego reported they originally asked for changes by January and it is April and the council has nothing. Council Vice President reported that Council President had requested having it for December/January.  Councilwoman Sousa requested for whatever changes are available.

 

2.      Review East Providence City Council Small Business Forum – discuss- Council Vice President Rego

Council Vice President Rego reviewed the Small Business Forum and reiterated advocating for small businesses. Councilman Lawson announced a small business meeting at the State House Wednesday April 3, 2024. Council Vice President revisited Restaurant week, Sunday June 16 would be a good day to start. Council Vice President announced an offer Rhode Island Monthly for advertising. Council Vice President recommended branding with digital placemaking.

Director Resendes has been working with Blacktone Valley Tourism Council to take out an ad book to support small businesses.

 

3.      Report requested Operational Cost of Rescue 1 for a year – discuss – Council Vice President Rego

 

Council Vice President Rego reported that in December the Mayor pledged his support for a fourth rescue. Council Vice President Rego reiterated he is frustrated with the timeline of wanting to implement a fourth rescue.  Chief Carey reported that one year of a rescue is 1,067,000. Chief Carey reported that all communities are the same with mutual aid need. He reported they have seen 20 second time increase since December 11, 2023. Vice President Rego requested the raw data. Councilman Lawson asked if the people are all on staff, Chief Carey confirmed that the report is for current staff. Chief Carey said if you wanted to run it full time you would need to hire 6 firefighters. Chief Carey reported that they are looking at 3.5% increase in salary.

 

4.      Glenlyon Field lighting follow up from 3/5/24 City Council meeting – discuss – Council Vice President Rego

Council Vice President Rego requested an update on Glenlyon field lighting, walking path and fence. Council Vice President reported that Council Brito said he started the process in the previous council. Director Resendes the netting is complete, the fence has not been installed, the law department has to create and MOU, the walking path will completed this spring. Contractors are being contacted and will move along if the bids are reasonable. Director Resendes said that a park closed dusk to dawn does not make sense to install lighting. The walkway will be overlaid this spring and early this summer. President Rodericks asked is the closing of the park at sunset, is it by ordinance. President Rodericks suggested lights to light the area even though it is closed, to have general lighting in the area. President Rodericks said neighbors have reported that the walking paths are pitched. Solicitor Marcello that he plans to draw up an mou to have an understanding the responsibility will be moved. President Rodericks reiterated

 

5.      Discussion on ARPA funded projects – discuss- Councilman Lawson

 

Bk 39                                                                                                                          Pg 367

Councilman Lawson expressed frustration that work has not moved forward at Oldham School. Community is frustrated with Crescent Park.  Councilman Lawson listed ideas for Oldham such

 

as multicultural center, classrooms and meeting space. Councilman Lawson said that he heard the police department received increased funds.

President Rodericks asked that these messages be communicated to the Mayor.

Police Station renovation was awarded 966,000. The Architect has been meeting with the chief on a weekly basis. They are assessing asbestos. Director Resendes says she witnesses lots of meeting and work that is happening.

Director Resendes reported that the sign at Wachemoket takes time, it took years.

Vice President Rego noted that the Police Station plans have been underway with the last council. He reported that there were already designs. 

Councilwoman Sousa asked for updates on Bold Point Park. Director Resendes the contractor is expected to finish paving for the next two to three weeks. Councilwoman Sousa asked about the lighting,

Councilman Lawson asked for an update on Capital Projects starting in the spring.

 

XIII.    PUBLIC HEARINGS – Ordinance for first and final passage and second passage - For discussion and possible vote

 

1.      An Ordinance In Amendment Of Chapter 19 Of The Revised Ordinances Of The City Of East Providence, Rhode Island 1998, As Amended, Entitled “Zoning”

 

Summary: Adding Sec. 19-360.9. Hotels and Motels.

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	Second, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

 

XIV.    CONTINUED BUSINESS

1.      Standing Item - Discuss impact of Washington Bridge closure in the City of East Providence – City Council

Councilwoman Sousa requested striping Grosvenor to RIDOT. She expressed frustration with how long roads to be striped seem to be taking. Director Resendes reported that the DOT is picking up the striping and signage. There should be two lanes traveling north and south on Grosvenor.

 

XV.     NEW BUSINESS

 

A.    MAYOR COMMUNICATIONS

           

Bk 39                                                                                                              Pg 368

REPORTS OF OTHER CITY OFFICIALS  

1.      Solicitors Report

A.     Request for public input regarding potential nuisance at 400 Newport Avenue (Rumford Motor Inn) for Attorney General investigation pursuant to RIGL 10-1-1 et seq. and RIGL 11-30-1 et seq. Correspondence may be sent by any private citizen to the City Clerk at jseppa@eastprovidenceri.gov

 

 

B.     REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE LIAISON

 

C.    RESOLUTIONS - For discussion and possible vote

1. Resolution Urging the General Assembly to Lower the High-Cost Special Education Categorical Fund to 3% and Providing Full Funding in the Future

Sponsor: Councilman Lawson

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	X
Sousa	Motion, X
Rodericks	X

2. Resolution in Support of Healthy School Meals for All/Universal Free School Meals 

Sponsor: Councilman Lawson

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	Second,X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

3. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into a Contract with Communication Systems, Inc. (CSI) for the Installation of Security Cameras and Support Equipment in the Resident Hallways of the East Providence Housing Authority Buildings

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

Bk 39                                                                                                                           Pg 369

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Motion, X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

4. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into a Contract with Third Millennium Communications, Inc. for the Installation of a Cable System to Support the Wi-Fi and Security Cameras at the East Providence Housing Authority Buildings

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Motion, X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

5. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Purchase a Roll Off Truck for the Department of Public Works Highway Division

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks, Council Vice President Rego

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	Motion, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

6. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into a Contract with Pawtucket Hot Mix Asphalt, Inc. for the Reconstruction of Cement Sidewalks and Curbing Along Lyon Avenue and Around Agnes B. Hennessey Elementary School

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks, Councilwoman Sousa

Bk 39                                                                                                               Pg370

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	X
Sousa	Motion, X
Rodericks	X

7. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into a Contract with O'Brien & Sons for the Installation and Replacement of Playground Equipment at Sabin Point Park Playground, Vintner Avenue Playground and Hull Street Playground

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks, Councilman Lawson, Councilwoman Sousa

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Second, X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

8. Resolution in Support of the Litter-Free Rhode Island Campaign

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	X
Sousa	Second, X
Rodericks	X

9. Resolution in Support of Passage of H-7543 and S-2565 Related to the Timing of Payments by the State of the Costs of the Basic Program Under R.I.G.L. 16-7-17 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	Motion, X
Sousa	X
Rodericks	X

 

Bk 39                                                                                                                          Pg 371

10.  Resolution In Opposition To House Bill 7062 Relating To Accessory Dwelling Units

 

Sponsor: Council Vice President Rego

This item was tabled.

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

Councilman Lawson expressed concerns regarding the contractor to be outside

 

D.    INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES - For discussion and possible vote

 

1.      An Ordinance In Amendment Of Chapter 16 Of The Revised Ordinances Of The City Of East Providence, Rhode Island, 1998, As Amended, Entitled “Taxation”

 

Summary: Adding Article XI. Tax Stabilization Agreement, Assistant Solicitor Dylan Conley

 

           Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

 

Jen Hawkins owner gave an overview of the project. She reported that the company is paying $84,000 on the vacant lot property currently. She reported that it is a 64 million dollar project. The net operating income margin after costs is minimal. They require many inputs for what is called a Capital Stack. Councilman Lawson identified that the residents would need services that are paid for by taxes. Council Vice President Rego asked for the construction costs, Ms. Hawkins reported that is about 45 million. Council Vice President Rego asked if the contractor is offering a discount. Ms. Hawkins said if they do not receive a tax break they will need to fill the gap.

Solicitor Conley reviewed the application under the 8% tax savings law. There is a secondary tax law. There is a new reduction in taxes being paid.

Sarah Frew read a memo into the record marked exhibit 1.

Councilwoman Sousa confirmed that the residents tax rate is 14%.

Councilwoman Sousa did speak to the developer.  She expressed concerns that neighbors are concerned about the project. Based on the number, 51 apartments low income and 94 of low to moderate income. 

Director Resendes spoke on behalf of the administration that this would be the contribution on the cities part. She also said looking at resources that the residents would be contributing to small business and local economy.

 

Councilman Lawson made a motion to not approve the tax stabilization ordinance, Seconded

Bk 39                                                                                                                          Pg 372

by Councilwoman Sousa.

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty		X
Lawson	Motion, X
Rego	X
Sousa	Second
Rodericks		X

 

XVII.  ADJOURNMENT

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty	Motion, X
Lawson	Second, X
Rego	X
Sousa
Rodericks	X

 

Approved by Council: May 21, 2024

Attest: ___________________________

           City Clerk