CITY OF WORCESTER

JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Levi Lincoln (North) Chamber

Convened: 6:39 P.M.

Adjourned: 10:22 P.M.


Mayor
Joseph M. Petty

 

www.worcesterma.gov

City Manager
Edward M. Augustus, Jr.

City Auditor
Robert V. Stearns

Councilors

Morris A. Bergman Khrystian E. King
Konstantina B. Lukes Candy Mero-Carlson
Sarai Rivera Sean M. Rose City Clerk
Susan M. Ledoux
Gary Rosen George J. Russell
Kathleen M. Toomey Matthew E. Wally
 

City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts


1.

INVOCATION - Reverend Dimitrios Moraitis, St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church

2.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & STAR SPANGLED BANNER

3.

ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair.

4.

PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE

4a.

Prior to the Invocation, Reverend Dimitrios Moraitis offered a Moment of Silence in memory of the of the victims of the Stoneham Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, FL.

 

4b.

Mayor Petty presented Jennie DiCicco, a long-time Worcester resident, with a Key to the City on the occasion of her 100th birthday. Ms. Dicicco was joined by her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughters, great granddaughters and friends.

 

4c.

Mayor Petty read a Proclamation declaring the week of March 4 to March 10 as Worcester Consumer Protection Week 2018 in the City of Worcester. The Proclamation was presented to Biodun Akande, Yaffa Fain and Abdul Stipho.

 

4d.

Mayor Petty read a Proclamation declaring March 1, 2018 as Peace Corps Day in the City of Worcester. The Proclamation was presented to Heather Packard, Noreen Johnson-Smith, Tim Garvin and Kristen Maki.

 

4e.

Mayor Petty recognized Ellie Gilmore of Worcester Common Ground, as well as two students, Alex and Joel, from Chandler Magnet School.

 

5.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

5a.

Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of the City Council Meeting of February 6, 2018.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

6.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

6a.

Mayor Petty recognized the following speakers:
1. Christopher Crowley, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11m CC
2. Ellie Gilmore, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11a CC
3. Alex (no last name given), Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11a CC
4. Joel (no last given), Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11a CC
5. John Moynihan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11s CC
6. Andy Creen, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11s CC
7. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, unclear opinion concerning #11l CC
8. Bill O’Connor, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11s CC
9. Gail Lagoy, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to #14d
10. Michael Lagoy, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to #14d
11. Joyce Wedberg, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11s CC
12. Fred Potenti, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11s CC
13. Susan Howard, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11k CC
14. David Coyne, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11f CC
15. Colin Novick, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11f CC
16. Nancy Koutsoukounis, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11k CC
17. Paul Fullen, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11k CC
18. Kevin Ksen, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11m CC and in opposition to #11t CC
19. Janet Parent, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11k CC
20. Timothy O’Kearn, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11k CC
21. John Provost, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition of #11o CC
22. Brian Rousseau, Leicester resident, spoke in favor of #11m CC and #9.35A CM
23. Terri Kelly, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #8m CC
24. Fred Taylor, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of #11m CC

 

7.

HEARINGS & ORDERS

7a.

Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: WALL STREET Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: WALL STREET

Attachments

Hearing Held & Order adopted

 

7b.

Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: SHREWSBURY STREET Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: SHREWSBURY STREET

Attachments

Hearing Held & Order adopted

 

8.

PETITIONS

8a.

Councilor George J. Russell request to amend the Zoning Table of Uses for multi-family dwelling, low rise from SP to N in a RL-7 zone and for single-family attached dwelling from SP to N in a RL-7 zone.

Attachments

Referred to Planning Board. Councilor Russell moved to reconsider the Item. Reconsidered on a voice vote. Referred to Planning Board

 

8b.

William S. Coleman III request City Council have Administration consider asking the Arts Commission to meet with local artists to discuss making a Giant City of Worcester Heart (City Seal) Mosaic for the Common.

Attachments

Petitioner spoke and Referred to Economic Development Committee

 

8c.

Councilors Matthew E. Wally and Gary Rosen on behalf of Peter Stearns request sidewalk resurfacing at 966 Pleasant St.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee

 

8d.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request inbound bus stop in front of St Bernard's Church at 236 Lincoln St. be relocated away from the front doorway to the Church.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee

 

8e.

Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a stop sign on Channing St. at the entrance to Green Hill Park.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee

 

8f.

Vicki Truelson request installation of a crosswalk to and from Haven Lane and the bus stop in front of the National Guard Building on Lincoln St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee

 

8g.

Mark Kaczmarczyk request the removal of the two handicap parking spaces in front of 13 Jones St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee

 

8h.

Rocco Leone request removal of winter parking ban on Belmont St. from Skyline Drive to Picadilly Pub Plaza, at the light.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee

 

8i.

Gordon Ward et al request City Council consider community requests to remove the Citizens of Color Honor Roll from its present location in Lincoln Square to available space at 40 Belmont St.

Attachments

Councilor Mero-Carlson moved to file the Item. – Not Put. Petitioner spoke. Councilor King moved to refer the Item to Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee. Referred to Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee.

 

8j.

Evan Corrigan request City of Worcester recognize the 100 year anniversary of Armistice Day (November 11, 1918), and organize an event to honor Worcester's sons and daughters who participated in the Great War.

Attachments

Petitioner spoke and Referred to Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee

 

8k.

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: FORBES ST.

Attachments

Hearing set for March 6, 2018 at 6:30 PM

 

8l.

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: HOLLYWOOD ST.

Attachments

Hearing set for March 6, 2018 at 6:30 PM

 

8m.

Jo Hart request the enclosed list for information regarding the WRTA and any other available information the city may have for the next City Council meeting.

Attachments

Petitioner spoke and Referred to Public Service and Transportation Committee

 

9.

COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

9.1

APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation
 

9.2

APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation
A.

Recommend appointment of Lindsey Silva to the Commission on Disabilities.

Attachments

Confirmed on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
B.

Recommend the appointment of Madison Friend to the Advisory Committee on the Status of Women.

Attachments

Confirmed on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
 

9.3

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the City of Worcester and Worcester Public School employees wages for calendar year 2017.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
B.

Recommend City Council's review, consideration and adoption of the attached salary ordinance needed to implement the recently ratified successor agreement for Local 490, NAGE covering FY18-FY20.Refer to CCM Item 9.33B

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
C.

Recommend City Council's review, consideration and adoption of the attached salary ordinances needed to implement the recently ratified successor agreements for Local 495, NAGE covering FY17-FY20.Refer to CCM Item 9.33G

Attachments

Voted to advertise three (3) three proposed ordinances on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
D.

Transmitting informational communication regarding an Opportunity Fair scheduled for Wednesday, April 4, 2018 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, 5 Chestnut Street, Worcester.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
 

9.4

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
 

9.5

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Administration Division
 

9.6

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
 

9.7

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Operations Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the Construction Progress Report for the month ending January 31, 2018.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee

 
B.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the policy and practice concerning the pre-treatment of steep and hilly streets, that are not main arterials, prior to the arrival of snow and ice storms.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
 

9.8

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Parks Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the celebration of Arbor Day, scheduled for Friday, April 27, 2018 at 10AM in Institute Park.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
B.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the installation of lights at Grant Square.

Attachments

Referred to Public Service and Transportation Committee

 
 

9.9

FIRE DEPARTMENT
 

9.10

POLICE DEPARTMENT
 

9.11

DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
 

9.12

LICENSE COMMISSION
 

9.13

LAW DEPARTMENT
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to information concerning why municipal employees cannot serve on Worcester’s boards and commissions.

Attachments

Referred to Rules and Legislative Affairs Committee

 
B.

Transmitting informational communication relative to allowing members of boards and commissions to serve on more than one board or commission, providing there is no conflict of interest and there is a demonstrated positive attendance record.

Attachments

Referred to Rules and Legislative Affairs Committee

 
C.

Transmitting informational communication relative to a report concerning the processes available to review issues/changes to the functioning of the City Council including but not limited to the length of council terms(s) term limit.

Attachments

Referred to Rules and Legislative Affairs Committee

 
D.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the establishment of up to 15 regulated Marijuana Establishments, which may include cultivators, laboratories, product manufacturers, retail stores (off-site consumption only), and related establishments.

Attachments

City Solicitor David Moore stated there was some wording on City Manger's cover letter needed revision. The City Solicitor asked the report be revised to show such changes. Councilor Toomey disclosed for the record that she works for an addiction treatment program. Referred to Planning Board as amended

 
 

9.14

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration
 

9.15

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
 

9.16

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division
 

9.17

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Public Health
 

9.18

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs
 

9.19

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Human Rights and Disabilities
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the Woman and Young Woman of Consequence Awards Ceremony scheduled for Thursday, March 8, 2018 from 5:00PM - 7:00PM in the Levi Lincoln Chambers of City Hall.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
B.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the National Consumer Rights Week on March 4-10, 2018.

Attachments

Placed on file

 
 

9.20

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services
 

9.21

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Services
 

9.22

WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY
 

9.23

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division
 

9.24

PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
 

9.25

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to property tax exemptions available.

Attachments

Referred to Municipal Operations Committee

 
 

9.26

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division
 

9.27

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Energy and Asset Management
 

9.28

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division
 

9.29

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Technical Services Division
 

9.30

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division
 

9.31

FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers
 

9.32

FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations
A.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of One Hundred and Two Dollars and No Cents ($102.00) from Silver Fox & Fox Tours to the Department of Public Works and Parks; Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Division for future recreational programming.

Attachments

Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
B.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of Four Hundred Dollars and No Cents ($400.00) from C.R. Electronics Inc. for the Commission on Disability.

Attachments

Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
C.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Fifty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($50,000.00) from MA Dept of Energy Resources (DOER) under the MA Pathways to Zero Grant Program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
D.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of One Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($175,000.00) under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts FY 2018 Budget program for tree replanting.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
E.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Seventy Five Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($75,000.00) from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
F.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of Four Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($400.00) from G & G Commercial Systems Inc. to the Worcester Fire Department’s for the Fire Investigation Unit.

Attachments

Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
G.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount up to Fifty Thousand Dollars an No Cents ($50,000.00) from the Mass Office of Health & Human Services under the Department of Transitional Assistance - Competitive Integrated Employment Services (CIES) to provide education, skills training, job development and job placement assistance.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
H.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Forty Eight Thousand Five Hundred Thirteen Dollars And No Cents ($48,513.00) from Massachusetts Probation Service under the Diverting Juveniles and Emerging Adults from Criminal Justice System Involvement program to benefit the 2018 Worcester Youth Violence Initiative.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
I.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend supplemental grant funds in the amount of Two Hundred Sixty Two Thousand One Hundred Fifty Two Dollars and No Cents ($262,152.00) from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Entitlement Program Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) for Fiscal Year 2018/Program Year 43 Funding.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
J.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Three Hundred Thirty Nine Thousand Four Hundred Seventy One Dollars And No Cents ($339,471.00) from FEMA under the FY17 Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
K.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of Four Hundred Twenty Dollars and No Cents ($420.00) from the Skyhawks Sports Academy, Inc. to the Department of Public Works and Parks; Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Division, for the division's future recreational programming.

Attachments

Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
L.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude, a donation in the amount of One Hundred Thirty Four Dollars and Forty Cents ($134.40) from UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. for the Worcester Youth Orchestra who performed at the 2018 Inaugural Exercises.

Attachments

Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
 

9.33

FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers
A.

Recommend that Fifty Four Thousand Two Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($54,200.00) be transferred from Account #270-91000, Communications Personal Services, to Account #270-92000, Communications Ordinary Maintenance, for payment of the current and estimated department obligations and operations through the remainder of the fiscal year.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
B.

Recommend that Thirty Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Forty One Dollars And No Cents ($37,741.00) be transferred from Account #900-92000, City Manager's Contingency and Thirty Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Forty One Dollars And No Cents ($37,741.00) be transferred from Account #663-96000, Health Insurance and appropriated to the respective accounts recommended by Thomas F. Zidelis, Chief Financial Officer.Refer to CCM Item 9.3B

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
C.

Respectfully request that a total of Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($3,500.00) be transferred from Account #043-92000, Economic Development Ordinary Maintenance, and be appropriated to Account #043-97099 Economic Development Salary Account. The transfer will reimburse the Department of Public Works and Parks Department for a Parks staff person who supported special events on the Common.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
D.

Recommend that Forty Nine Thousand Five Hundred Thirty Three Dollars And No Cents ($49,533.00) be transferred from Account #660-91000, Treasury Personal Services, to Account # 110-91000, EAM Regular Salaries.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
E.

Recommend that Four Hundred Thirteen Thousand Seven Hundred Forty Four Dollars And Twenty Six Cents ($413,744.26) be transferred from Account # 330-08, Reserve for Appropriation on Loans, to Account #660-92000, Treasurer’s Office Ordinary Maintenance.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
F.

Recommend that One Million One Hundred Five Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen Dollars And No Cents ($1,105,416.00) be transferred from various CDBG accounts and be appropriated to various CDBG accounts to provide funding for various projects included in the City's Program Year 43 CDBG Action Plan Substantial Amendment #1.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
G.

Recommend that the total of Six Hundred Ten Thousand Nine Hundred Forty Dollars and No Cents ($610,940.00) be transferred from Account #900-92000, City Manager's Contingency ($200,000.00), and Account #663-96000, Health Insurance ($410,940.00), and appropriated to the respective accountsRefer to CCM Item 9.3C

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
 

9.34

FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year
A.

I respectfully recommend that Four Hundred Five Dollars and Seventy Six Cents ($405.76) be authorized from Law Department, Account #120-92108, for the payment of a prior year's invoice.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Toomey absent)

 
 

9.35

FINANCE
Loan Orders
A.

Recommend adoption of a Loan Order in the amount of One Hundred Ninety Four Million Six Hundred Forty Six Thousand Two Hundred Forty Dollars And No Cents ($194,646,240.00) be appropriated to Account #91C7113L, MSBA Rehabilitation South High, to pay for costs associated with the construction and furnishing of a replacement South High Community School.

Attachments

Item was taken up collectively with #11u CC. Voted to advertised proposed Loan Order on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 
 

9.36

MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS
10.

CHAIRMAN'S ORDERS

10a.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request Traffic Engineer provide City Council with recommendations, in a reasonable time frame, measures to improve the road safety in Coes St. from Mill St. to Park Ave. with a focus specifically where the roadway bends.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

10b.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request Police Chief provide police patrols and speed enforcement in Coes St., in vicinity of parking lot, between Mill St. and Park Ave.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

10c.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request Commissioner of Public Works & Parks provide City Council with recommendations to increase lighting and to curb illegal dumping in Coes St, in vicinity of parking lot, between Mill St. and Park Ave.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11.

ORDERS

11a.

Request City Manager and Assistant Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Cemetery attend an April 5, 2018 meeting at the Pleasant St. Neighborhood Network Center in order to have a community conversation concerning the possibility of the City taking ownership of the basketball courts bounded by Hawley St. and Piedmont St. (Rivera)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11b.

Request City Manager provide a report concerning the legality, proliferation and paving by homeowners of driveways on their front lawns, often resulting in unauthorized curb cuts which eliminate on-street parking spots for their neighbors. Further, report if these homeowners choose to drive over the curb instead of creating a curb cut, are cars parked along that curb subject to ticketing and towing for blocking such driveways. (Rosen)

Attachments

Councilor Rosen moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Rosen

 

11c.

Request City Manager provide an update regarding the progress and plans, if any, being made by Boston-based Winn Development which is now in its 4th year as the exclusive developer for the potential acquisition and redevelopment of the former Lincoln Square Boys Club. (Rosen)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11d.

Request City Manager report as to whether or not the seldom-used and almost forgotten two-lane Ernest A. Johnson Tunnel, which was built in 1956 and runs under Lincoln Square, could be effective in improving two-way traffic flow through the square. (Rosen)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11e.

Request City Manager report on the feasibility of having the WRTA provide frequent, reliable, convenient and complete high-quality, government-subsidized service on a select and large service area of the city. The city would then recruit a private for-profit bus company to provide unsubsidized service to the remainder of the city. (Rosen)

Attachments

Councilor King moved for a roll call vote on the Item. Prior to the roll call vote, Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Lukes. Councilor Lukes moved to amend to include information on service in all towns the WRTA services as well. Order denied as amended on a roll call vote of 1 Yea and 10 Nays (Yea – Rosen)

 

11f.

Request City Manager develop a short and long-term plan to improve water quality and access at Patch Reservoir, such as: restoring a canoe launch off of Mill Street, addressing invasive species, water quality as well as silt levels, and moving the abutting piece of property to the care, custody, and control to the Conservation Commission. (Wally, Petty)

Attachments

Councilor Bergman moved to be recused from the Item and left the room. Order adopted

 

11g.

Request City Manager focus clean-up efforts on Endicott Street, Ward Street, and Millbury Street, including but not limited to illegal dumping enforcement and working with Mass DOT to keep I-290 underpasses free of debris as well as improving lighting. (Petty, Rivera)

Attachments

Councilor Mero-Carlson moved to amend to include Grafton St. Order adopted as amended

 

11h.

Request City Manager provide City Council with the crime statistics for calendar year 2017. (Petty, Toomey)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11i.

Request City Manager request the Police Chief provide truck and speed enforcement in Granite St. (Petty, Russell)

Attachments

Councilor Russell moved to amend: Further, request City Manager provide increased enforcement specifically at the guardrail at Cliff St. and Granite St. Councilor Toomey moved to add her name as an author. Order adopted as amended

 

11j.

Request City Manager report to City Council any changes that the U.S. Post Office has implemented regarding the delivery time for mail. Further, request City Manager report how the changes will impact the delivery time of notices from boards, commissions, city council standing committees, etc. and further, report how the city processes its own mail and the time it takes to do this before it is given to the US Post Office. (Mero-Carlson)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11k.

Request City Manager provide a report concerning the safety measures that can be taken at the extremely dangerous intersection of Heard and Clover Streets at which speeding cars frequently veer off the road and wind up in the yard of a residential property at that location. (Rosen)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11l.

Request City Manager and his administration to reconsider developing and implementing a plan to encourage home ownership for owner occupied 2 and 3 family homes in Worcester’s RG-5 zoned neighborhoods. Further, down payment assistance as well as incentives to encourage improvements to the facades of these properties should be explored. Said plan should request the participation of Non Profit Educational institutions in addition to the city itself to assist their employees with their efforts to be owner occupied Landlord - home owners in Worcester. (Russell)

Attachments

Item was taken up collectively with #17a CC. Order adopted

 

11m.

Request City Manager update both the City’s affirmative action policy and affirmative action plan in order to address existing disparities and ensure equity in job hiring, placements and contracts. Further, request this review process include a recommendation on how to involve the community. (Rivera, King, Russell, Petty, Rose)

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to take this item up with #18b CC. Councilor Toomey moved to be included as an author. Order adopted

 

11n.

Request City Manager develop a plan to install sidewalks where none currently exist in school zones where the safety of students is compromised. (Wally)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11o.

Request City Manager report on the feasibility of establishing in downtown Worcester a permanent outdoor display of flags representing the diversity of the city's population. (Lukes)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11p.

Request City Manager report on any and all public licenses, certifications, notices, etc required to be filed with the city or state, by social services entities, operating pursuant to the Dover amendment including but not limited to group homes, shelters and, sober houses. (Lukes)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11q.

Request City Manager provide City Council with and update concerning the Greendale Mall. (Mero-Carlson)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11r.

Request City Manager request the Traffic Engineer report to City Council all of the traffic restrictions for Natural History Rd., Natural History Dr. and Lake Ave. North. (Mero-Carlson)

Attachments

Order adopted

 

11s.

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning code violations for 65 Kenwood Ave., known as a Vanderburgh House. (Mero-Carlson, Petty)

Attachments

Councilor Toomey informed the City Clerk of her need to be recused from the Item and left the room. Order adopted

 

11t.

Request City Manager identify funds to be set aside for the winter of 2018/2019 to purchase and supply sufficient hats and gloves to the homeless. (Bergman)

Attachments

Councilor King moved to file the Item. – Not Put Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 3 Nays (Nays – King, Rivera, Russell)

 

11u.

Request City Manager include in the budget(s) for the architectural design of South High School and Doherty High School consultation with the appropriate representatives of the Worcester Public Schools, Worcester Police Department, Worcester Fire Department and Worcester Emergency communications to include best practices in designing safety features. (Bergman)

Attachments

Item was taken up collectively with 9.35A CM. Order adopted

 

11v.

Request City Manager work with the City Solicitor to examine options for limiting fertilizer and nutrient run off that is entering Indian Lake from the Town of Holden. (Rose)

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to be recused from the Item and left the room. Order adopted

 

12.

RECESS TO FINANCE COMMITTEE - No items pending

13.

COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY AUDITOR

13a.

Transmitting the requested list of banks and other depositories of cash and cash equivalents of the City of Worcester, the DCU Cener and the WRA.

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes

 

13b.

Transmitting communication concerning stocks held by the city and the Worcester Retirement System (WRS).

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes

 

14.

REPORTS OF THE PLANNING BOARD

14a.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Nick Smith, President of 207 Greenwood St. LLC request to remove and discontinue Warmland St., a private way, from the Official Map.

Attachments

Accepted

 

14b.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Jonathan Finkelstein, Attorney on behalf of Edward Hyder request to amend the zoning map to include 4 Winslow St. in the BG-3 zoning district.

Attachments

Accepted

 

14c.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Nick Lewis et al request to extend the BL-1.0 zone to encompass the entire lot at 127 Cambridge St.

Attachments

Referred to Economic Development Committee

 

14d.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Martha Hawley request the RG-5 zone be extended to include Parcels B and D of 7 Brookfield St.

Attachments

Referred to Economic Development Committee

 

14e.

REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD Upon the Petition of Jonathan Finkelstein on behalf of Ed Hyder request to change the zoning designation of a portion of 408 Pleasant St. and all of 4 Winslow St. from RG-5 to BG-3 and also to be included in the CCOD.

Attachments

Referred to Economic Development Committee

 

15.

REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING

15a.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to a handicap parking space on Rugby Street: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15b.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Maria DeJesus request installation of a handicap parking space across from 16 Ames St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15c.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Zubaid Bhatty request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 116 Harrison St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15d.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Patricia Zinkevich request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 23 Merrifield St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15e.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Evelyn Torres request installation of a handicap parking space across from of 2 1/2 Lodi St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15f.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Cindy Nguyen on behalf of Cam Nguyen request installation of a handicap parking space in Maywood St. across from 2 Stevens Rd.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15g.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Bernadette Forget request installation of handicap parking space in front of 9 Merrifield St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15h.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Roberta Adams request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 197 Eastern Ave.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15i.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Norma Delgado request installation of a handicap parking space across from 36 Gates St. due to winter parking ban: recommend passage of the accompanying two proposed Ordinances.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinances

 

15j.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of June Sullivan request installation of a handicap parking space at the corner of 22 Plantation St. and Leon St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15k.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Robert Donahue on behalf of Margaret Donahue request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 4 Anderson Ave.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15l.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson on behalf of Gina Cariglia request One Hour Parking from 8AM to 7PM, seven days a week, be installed for the Draper St. side of 373 Shrewsbury St.: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15m.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Jonathan Church, Administrator WRTA request installation of "No Parking" signs 40 feet before and 40 feet after the bus shelter location at the inbound bus stop at 286 Lincoln St. (across from Hahnemann Hospital): recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15n.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Jonathan Church, Administrator WRTA request installation of "No Parking Signs" within the bus stop pull-out area on Franklin St. (next to Worcester Common and across from 34 Franklin St.): recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed ordinance

 

15o.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request installation of a crosswalk and appropriate lights/signage on Catharine St. between the two driveways of properties of the AdCare Hospital campus, which are located at 95 and 107 Lincoln Street, to support pedestrian safety: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

Attachments

Accepted & Adopted

 

15p.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson and Councilor Kathleen Toomey request the bus stop located in front of 366 Shrewsbury St. be relocated: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order.

Attachments

Accepted & Adopted

 

15q.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Maria Tranakas on behalf of Antonio Tranakas request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 4 Loxwood St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted

 

15r.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Peter Zagabe of Ubentu Autism Consultants request one-hour parking in front of 377 Shrewsbury St. be extended to eight-hour parking or removed: recommend Petition be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted

 

15s.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Michael Carroll request installation of resident permit parking in front of 237 Park Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted

 

15t.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Report of the Committee on Traffic & Parking Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Feasibility of Making Coes Street one way from Mill Street to Park Avenue: recommend Report and Communication be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted

 

15u.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of Joan Smiley request installation of additional handicap parking space in front of 18 Newbury St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted

 

16.

TO BE ORDAINED

16a.

Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 relative to Members of DPW Clerks Bargaining Unit(Local 170, Teamsters)

Attachments

Ordained on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

17.

TABLED UNDER PRIVILEGE

17a.

ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty - Request City Manager work with the Mayor’s office and other key stakeholders to form a targeted plan to invest in our multi-family housing. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty February 13, 2018)

Attachments

item was taken up collectively with #11l CC. Order adopted

 

18.

TABLED ITEMS

18a.

ORDER of Councilor Gary Rosen and Councilor Philip P. Palmieri - Request City Manager inform City Council as to whether he and other representatives from the city intend to meet with the owners of the Pawtucket Red Sox to see if they have any interest in relocating to Worcester. (Tabled - Gaffney September 29, 2015 and Tabled - Rosen December 19, 2017)

Attachments

No action taken

 

18b.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication on a quarterly update relative to the City of Worcester’s plan to implement improved strategies and policies that better serve and represent our diverse community. (Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes January 26, 2016, Tabled - Petty February 2, 2016 and Tabled - Lukes December 19, 2017)

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to take the Item off the Table and take it up with #11m. Item taken off the Table on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays. Placed on file

 

18c.

COMMUNICATION of Mayor Joseph M. Petty forwarding a survey by the Worcester Student Governmental Association (WSGA), which asked current undergraduate and graduate college students in the Worcester consortium about their time as a student living in Worcester, Massachusetts. (Tabled - Petty February 6, 2018)

Attachments

No action taken

 

19.

BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the February 13, 2018 City Council meeting.

19a.

ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – Request City Manager provide City Council with a general report on streetlights in the City and the process in place for repairing them, including information as to whether or not there is a backlog of streetlights to be repaired. – Item #18a CC Order adopted

 

19b.

ORDER of Councilor Sarai Rivera – Request City Manager provide City Council with information that can be brought to neighborhood meetings concerning the activity and accomplishments of the Traffic Division. – Item #18b CC Order adopted

 

19c.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – Request City Manager request Worcester Redevelopment Authority adopt a policy to ensure FDIC coverage for any excessive deposit balances. – Item #18c CC Order adopted

 

19d.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – Request City Manager include on the City’s website the appraised values of all the parcels within the Downtown Urban Renewal Plan. – Item #18d CC Order adopted

 

19e.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – Request City Manager request Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer, along with SMG, review the daily balances and seek to increase FDIC coverage by opening new accounts at local banks and additionally, open accounts at banks that provided additional insurance above the FDIC limit, such as member banks of the Deposit Insurance Trust. – Item #18e CC Order adopted

 

19f.

ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager include samples of the appropriate housing stock in Worcester with any job postings relative to the City Treasurer vacancy. – Item #18f CC Order adopted

 

19g.

ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Auditor provide City Council with a report concerning the stocks held by the City, as well as in the City’s retirement funds. – Item #18g CC Order adopted

 

19h.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – Request City Auditor provide City Council with a list of the banks that hold deposits for the City’s funds including the DCU Center funds and the Worcester Redevelopment Authority funds. – Item #18h CC Order adopted

 

19i.

RESOLUTION of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson – That the City Council does hereby recognize State Representative Jim O’Day and State Representative John Mahoney for their work in getting the necessary money to repair the sound barrier at West Boylston Dr. – Item #18i CC Resolution adopted

 

19j.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes – Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report detailing the legal status of private marijuana clubs. – Item #18j CC Order adopted

 

19k.

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell – Request City Manager address litter concerns in Sunderland Rd. between Lake Ave. and Atlas St. – Item #18k CC Order adopted

 

20.

NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Item brought forth under suspension at the February 27, 2018 City Council meeting.

20a.

Motion Lukes @ #11s CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning which sober houses and sober house owners have committed to the voluntary certification process for such places.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20b.

Motion Lukes @ #11k CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report on how to escalate a plan dealing with speeding and changing speed limits throughout the City.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20c.

Motion Russell @ #11m – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the City’s outreach efforts to hire Worcester residents over the last two years.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20d.

Motion King @ #9.7B CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with the list of the additional streets and routes needing pre-treatment prior to the arrival of snow and ice storms be provided to City Council before the next winter season.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20e.

Motion Mero-Carlson @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report concerning whether there could be a limit of three marijuana retailers per City Council district.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20f.

Motion Petty @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a map of the potential number of marijuana retailers that can be established in one particular City Council district based on the proposed zoning restrictions.

Attachments

Councilor Lukes moved to amend: Further, request City Manager include in said map all residential zones. Order adopted as amended

 

20g.

Motion King @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning whether the establishment of marijuana retailers can be staggered throughout each district, so as to not have too many in one district prior the establishment of other retailers in other districts.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20h.

Motion Toomey @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with an overlay map concerning where all liquor stores are located in the City as well as potential marijuana retailers.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20i.

Motion Russell @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager consider developing a specific overlay zoning district outlining where marijuana retailers can operate.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20j.

Motion Lukes @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report listing any surrounding cities or towns that have pending legislation or have taken a vote in regards to banning marijuana retailers, as well as those who have reversed such a vote.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20k.

Motion Lukes @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with information comparing anticipated costs of enforcement due to marijuana legislation with its anticipated revenue.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20l.

Motion Russell @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report determining the number of potential sites for marijuana retailers, based on which parcels are empty and available to move into.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20m.

Motion Toomey @ #9.13D CM – Request City Manager consider the location of addiction treatment centers when reviewing the placement of marijuana retailers.

Attachments

Order adopted

 

20n.

Motion Rivera – Suspension of Rules – Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks repair the flashing pedestrian lights at 425 Pleasant St.

Attachments

Order adopted