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CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE

MINUTES-REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 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_____ Lawson_____ Rego_____ Sousa _____ Rodericks_____

 

           

II.        SALUTE TO THE FLAG

 

 

III.       PROCLAMATIONS & PRESENTATIONS

 

1.      Certificate of Excellence Daniel Rogers – Council Vice President Rego

Council Vice President presented the Certificate of Excellence to Daniel Rogers on behalf of the Council.

2.      Recognize Earth Day April 23, 2024 – Councilwoman Sousa

Councilman Sousa read an acknowledgement of Earth Day.

3.      Acknowledgement of East Providence Cheer Team – Councilwoman Sousa

Councilwoman Sousa presented an acknowledgement of the East Providence Cheer Team.

 

IV.       EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

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

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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

2. Richard Kirby vs. City of East Providence

C.A. No. PC-2019-6124

Status Update

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

V.        RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION

 

Fogarty_X____ Lawson_M, X____ Rego__X___ Sousa __2^nd, X___ Rodericks__X___

 

VI.       MOTION TO SEAL EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES

 

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

 

VII.     CONSENT CALENDAR - For discussion and possible vote

 

1.      Add proposed meeting date July 9, 2024 to City Council Annual Calendar

 

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

 

VIII.    LICENSES - For discussion and possible vote

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Motion to bundle licenses

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

 

B. Motion to approve licenses

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

           

            C. NON-PUBLIC HEARING        

1.  Special Event Class F1

Applicant: Braga Club / Terry Carvalho

Event: Holy Ghost Soups

Location: Sacred Heart Church 118 Taunton Ave E (02914)

Date and Time: April 20, 2024 6:00pm-11:300pm

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

2.      Special Event – Entertainment

Applicant: Tracy and Amberlynn Johnson

Event: Summer Solstice Market by Amber N Crystals

Location: Crescent Park 701 Bullocks Pt. (02915)

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

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3.      Road Race

Applicant: Claire Akin on behalf of University Orthopedics

Race: Tomorrow Fund

Location: 1 Kettle Point Avenue (02915)

Date and Time: September 15, 2024 9am-12:00pm

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

4.      Road Race

Applicant: Frazier Bell on behalf of AIDS Project RI

Race: APRI 5K

Location: Pierce Field 171 Fifth St (02914)  

Date and Time: May 4, 2024 8:00am-12:00pm

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

5.      Road Race

Applicant: Jason Paganelli on behalf of Narragansett Brewing

Race: True North

Location: East Bay Bike Path (02914)  

Date and Time: May 12, 2024 9:00am-11:00am

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

 

D.    PUBLIC HEARING-none

 

 

IX.       COMMUNICATIONS-none

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            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.

 

 

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.

Rick Lawson announced Baseball Fundraiser at Stevie D’s @1:00pm Saturday April 20, 2024

Rick Lawson announced Ward 4 Town Hall meeting April 27, 2024 at 10:00am.

Nancy Hale spoke on Earth Day and the importance of recycling.

 

XI.       APPOINTMENTS

 

1.      Appointment to the Recreation Board; Jody Richards – Sponsor Councilman Lawson

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

 

 

XII.     COUNCIL MEMBERS

 

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

Council President updated the Council on the timeline for Charter Commission updates.

2.      Restaurant Week follow up – discuss- Council Vice President Rego

Council Vice President gave an update on Restaurant Week. City Clerk presented quotes from marketing and design vendors to consider for restaurant week. She also stated that a business week promotion is an idea and web development to promote small businesses starting off with restaurant week. City Clerk Jill Seppa, highlighted several options that they have before them to consider regarding marketing, branding and advertising.  

3.      Receive report on Storefront Improvement Program – discuss – Councilman Fogarty, Council Vice President Rego and Councilwoman Sousa

Councilwoman Sousa inquired about a report of those who were issued payments. What are the barriers of unfinished work. Melissa Spurr, ARPA Project Manager said she and “Victor” helped the applicant find various locations “sometimes people want to apply for storefront but we have to helpt hem find a location” they looked at 3

 

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locations for the business. Something happened and we changed the location on the application. The third location was Valley Street and we changed the application because that space need outdoor improvement and the others did not. There was a lot of disagreement with the landlord. At some point they decided not to move forward. Unfortunately, the applicant had already started painting the building and put deposits down on exterior signs. Now he is looking into a food truck. Unfortunately, he did receive the funds because he followed all the rules. Then he did not just move forward with the location. There is always some risk in providing grants.

Council Vice President Rego stated with all those multiple moves there was not a confirmed location. Council Vice President Rego asked legal to recoup the funds. Solicitor Marcello stated that this is the first he is hearing of this situation.

4.      Discussion on former Oldham building – discuss – Councilman Lawson

Melissa Spurr presented six files (attached) on the history of Oldham School and her work history on the project. President Rodericks ask her to summarize if there is a citywide effort to sell Oldham School. Melissa Spurr confirmed that the incubator is the focus of the city. She pointed to her experience at Hope and Main to be able to do an incubator.

Councilman Lawson asked why they aren’t moving forward with Roofs, Windows and Doors since the business incubator will not take up the whole building.

Dan Borges worked on a scope of work to go out to bid for replacing the roof. Council Lawson confirmed it is the RFP to do the work and Dan Borges confirmed.

Councilman Lawson concerned that the timeline is not being met.

Vice President Rego confirmed with legal that the RFQ are no longer in place, Melissa Spurr said the interested parties understand that other options are being explored.

5.      Request for update on Sabin Point boat ramp closure – discuss - Councilman Lawson

Patricia Resendes said this was in Dominiques presentation later in the meeting.

6.      Discussion on moving speed camera revenue into a restricted account for school building maintenance and upgrades – discuss- Councilman Lawson

Director Malcom Moore reported that next years budget will be difficult. Council President Rodericks pointed out that the schools are in good shape.

7.      Discussion of appointing an independent financial advisor for the City Council – discuss – Council Vice President Rego

Vice President Rego announced that having a financial advisor is helpful to have information and checks and balances.

8.      Update on Flock Cameras – discuss – Councilwoman Sousa

Councilwoman Sousa inquired 3 of 22 fixed cameras are installed and operational. The remaining 9 will be installed on the next two weeks. Ridot approval caused the delays then there was a supply chain issue with the breakaway metal poles.

 

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

 

1.      An Ordinance In Amendment Of The City Of East Providence 2010-2015 Comprehensive Plan Map 4 of the City of East Providence 2010-2015 Comprehensive Plan Update entitled “Southern

 

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East Providence Generalized Land Use,” is hereby amended to identify the property designated as Assessor’s Map 709, Block 1, Parcel 1 as “Mixed Use.”

 

Summary: Comp Plan

Petitioner: JAG Properties LLC

Street address: 0 Wampanoag Trail

Jeffrey M Hanson, professional engineer spoke, explaining that the requested zone change was to create the foundation for development.

Dominic Leonardo, Senior Planner, spoke on the application.

Councilman Lawson made a motion to deny amendment of the comp plan, Vice President Rego seconded, 3-2., The applicant has the ability to return without prejudice.

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

 

2.      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: Petition for zone change from I-1 to C-2

Petitioner: JAG Properties LLC

Street address: 0 Wampanoag Trail

Location: Map 709, Block 1, Parcel 1

 

Member	Aye	Nay
Fogarty
Lawson
Rego
Sousa
Rodericks

 

 

XIV.    CONTINUED BUSINESS

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

President Rodericks wanted to give a shout out to the local delegation who advocated for local businesses during the recent small business hearing.

 

XV.     NEW BUSINESS

 

A.    MAYOR COMMUNICATIONS

            Dir of Proj. Mgt. and Communications Patricia Resende.  

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1.      Appointment/Reappointment requiring Council Confirmation

·         James Christopher Clancy, appointment to Personnel Hearing Board, Appointment 1, Term 12/7/2019- 12/6/2025.

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

 

2.      Items for announcement/discussion

·         Property Tax Sale Memo – Dir. Malcolm Moore

·         National Walking Day Proclamation – April 3, 2024

·         National Library Week & Library Workers Day – April 8-12th

·         National Small Business Week – April 28^th – May 4^th

·         National Autism Awareness Month – Month of April

·         2024 Arbor Day – April 26, 2024

·         April 25 Tree Planting @ Riverside Middle School 10:30 AM with funds from $750K federal grant

 

B.     REPORTS OF OTHER CITY OFFICIALS  

1.      Solicitors Report

 

2.      Update on City of East Providence Capital Projects – Senior Planner Dominic Leonardo

Senior Planner Dominic Leonardo gave a presentation of an overview of citywide Capital projects.

C.    REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE LIAISON-Councilman Lawson

1.      Groundbreaking for Martin Middle School

 

D.    RESOLUTIONS - For discussion and possible vote

 

1.      Resolution Requesting The Synchronization Of Distribution

Of Funds Pursuant To Rhode Island General Laws §44-34.1-2

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

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

 

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2.      Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Enter Into A Contract With JCJ Architecture For Professional Services For the Police Department Renovation Project

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks

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

 

3.      Resolution Authorizing The Granting of A Temporary Construction Easement Over An Additional Portion of Land Owned By The City At Silver Spring Playground

Sponsorship: Council President Rodericks, Council Vice President Rego

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

 

4.      Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Enter Into A Contract With Yard Works, Inc. For The Hull Street Playground Drainage Improvement Project

Sponsor: Councilwoman Sousa, Council President Rodericks

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

 

5.      Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Purchase A Hackney Spartan Rescue For The Fire Department

Sponsor: Council President Rodericks, Council Vice President Rego

 

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

 

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XVI.    ADJOURNMENT

 

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

 

Approved by Council: May 21, 2024

Attest: ___________________________

           City Clerk

 

Please see attached separate files for Oldham School