CITY OF WORCESTER

JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

Esther Howland (South) Chamber

Convened: 5:02 P.M.

Recessed into Executive Session: 7:52 P.M. Reconvened in Open Session for the Purpose of Adjourning: 9:27 P.M.


Mayor
Joseph M. Petty

 

www.worcesterma.gov

City Manager
Edward M. Augustus, Jr.

City Auditor
Robert V. Stearns

Councilors

Morris A. Bergman Donna M. Colorio
Khrystian E. King Candy Mero-Carlson
Sarai Rivera Sean M. Rose City Clerk
Nikolin Vangjeli
Gary Rosen George J. Russell
Kathleen M. Toomey Matthew E. Wally
 

City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts


1.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

2.

STAR SPANGLED BANNER

3.

ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair, except for Councilor Bergman, Councilor Mero-Carlson, Councilor Rivera and Mayor Petty. Mayor Petty arrived at 5:12 P.M. and Councilor Bergman arrived at 5:17 P.M.

4.

PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE

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 June 22, 2021.

Attachments

Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted

 

6.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

6a.

Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio read the item and recognized the following speakers: 1. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #9y CC 2. Brian Stacey, Worcester resident, spoke concerning Elections procedure 3. Walter (no last name given), Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.4D CM 4. No name given, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.4D CM 5. Jennifer Desrosiers, Worcester resident, spoke concerning traffic issues in the vicinity of airport rotary 6. Troy Segel, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 7. Eric Butler, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 8. Nelly Medina, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.29A CM, #11h CC and #11i CC 9. Carl Gomes, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11m CC, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.13A CM 10. Jennifer Riley, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 11. Lea Bradley, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 12. Alexander Cunningham, New Jersey resident, spoke in favor of item #10.13A CM 13. Ashley Rogers, Worcester resident, spoke neither in opposition to item #10.4C CM 14. Birgit Mcnerney, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.13A CM 15. Bobby Hazelton, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11n CC and item #10.7A CM 16. Chris Manthos, [No resident given], spoke in opposition to item #10.10A CM and #10.13A CM 17. David Slatkin, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.29A CM, spoke in opposition to item #13c CC 18. Eric Stratton, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11n CC 19. Joe O’Brien, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #9w CC 20. Evelyn Hurowitz, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11n CC 21. Gina Plata-Nino, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 22. Isabel Gonzalez, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 23. Greg Dorschler, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor in opposition to #10.38A CM 24. Judy Diamondstone, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 25. Jillian MacMillan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.13A CM 26. Adam Fackler, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11q CC and #11r CC 27. Kevin Ksen, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.29A CM 28. Marcel Blais, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.13A CM 29. Margaret Burnett, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.29A CM 30. Mathew Corey, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.13A CM 31. Paul Popichek, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 32. Rosanne Fitzgerald, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM 33. Shameen Wijesundara, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #11n CC 34. Sheila Brenner, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor nor opposition to item #10.29A CM 35. Stephanie Cunningham, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.13A CM 36. Stephanie Friree-Ford, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.29A CM

 

7.

HEARINGS & ORDERS

7a.

Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: LAMARTINE ST. Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: LAMARTINE ST.

Attachments

Mayor Petty moved to take up items #7a CC through #7c CC collectively, which was approved on a voice vote. Mayor Petty read the item and opened the hearing, asking if any abutters were in attendance to speak on the item. Seeing no speakers, the Mayor moved to close the hearing. Mayor Petty moved to approve the Item. Hearing held and Order adopted.

 

7b.

Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: SHREWSBURY ST. Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location on: SHREWSBURY ST.

Attachments

Hearing held and Order adopted (See Item #7a CC)

 

7c.

Hearing: NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location on: BARROWS RD. Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location on: BARROWS RD.

Attachments

Hearing held and Order adopted (See Item #7a CC)

 

8.

RECESS TO EXECUTIVE SESSION

8a.

ORDER - That the City Council convene in Executive Session at the Tuesday, July 20, 2021 meeting for the purpose of discussing litigation strategy with respect to the case of Worcester Interfaith, Inc., et. al. v. City of Worcester et al.; United States District Court Civil No. 4:21-CV-40015 and the City Council will reconvene in open session.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to amend the item to not reconvene in open session. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 

9.

PETITIONS - a Petitioner may speak up to three (3) minutes the first time their petition appears on an agenda

9a.

Fernando Dalfior request that a portion of the premises known and numbered as 300 Southbridge St. and shown on the attached Exhibit A be rezoned to extend the boundaries of the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District (AROD) to include the premises.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #9a CC and #9b CC to the Planning Board. Referred to the Planning Board.

 

9b.

Julia Gutierrez-Crowley request Allston Ave. be made a public street, to ensure proper drainage.

Attachments

Referred to Planning Board (See Item #9a CC)

 

9c.

Barbara Tully request installation of a sidewalk in front of 25 Proctor St.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #9c CC through #9i CC to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee.

 

9d.

Councilor George J. Russell request sidewalk repair on Standish St. from Hamilton St. to Grafton St.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9e.

Councilor George J. Russell request street resurfacing on Standish St. from Hamilton St. to Grafton St.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9f.

Councilor George J. Russell request sidewalk repair on Upsala St., especially in the area of the Upsala Street Elder Apartments, located at 36 Upsala St.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9g.

Councilor George J. Russell request street resurfacing on Upsala St., especially in the area of the Upsala Street Elder Apartments, located at 36 Upsala St.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9h.

Karen J. Hall and Jeffrey D. Hall request abatement of street betterment assessment #25579 in the amount of $13,500 for Barrett Ave.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9i.

John Hamm et al. request Prouty Ln. from Pleasant St. to Airport Dr. be resurfaced.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee (See Item #9c CC)

 

9j.

Heather Martin request the street sign for Rustic Dr. Ext. be moved to a more visible location, with the addition of "No Outlet" signage accompanying the street sign.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #9j CC through #9u CC to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee.

 

9k.

Daisa Perez request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 64 Austin St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9l.

Roberta Adams request installation of a handicap parking space large enough for two vehicles in front of 197 Eastern Ave.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9m.

Roberta Adams request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage adjacent to 197 Eastern Ave.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9n.

Roberta Adams request installation of three to four speed bumps at the end of Eastern Ave. in the vicinity of Breck St. and Velander St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9o.

Carlo Genatossio, Jr. request installation of a solar powered flashing signage at the existing crosswalk at the intersection of Kendall St. and Channing St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9p.

Michael Grandone request installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Sunderland Rd. and Massasoit Rd.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9q.

Karla Garcia, on behalf of Worcester Manufacturing, request installation of additional 5 ton truck weight limit restriction signage on Gilman St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9r.

Councilor George J. Russell on behalf of the Grafton Hill Neighborhood Association request consideration of reversing the one way direction of traffic on Fairmont Ave. off of Hamilton St. leading to Grafton St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9s.

Grace Sara, on behalf of Central Pizza, request installation of traffic mirror in the vicinity of 222 Chandler St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9t.

Joseph Zwirblia request traffic study for Fourth St. be conducted

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9u.

Charles Norton Jr. request removal of four (4) parking meters on Mercantile St., with the installation of signage that would provide for a "Passenger Loading Zone" and a "Commercial Loading Zone" to service the new restaurant facilities at Mercantile Center being put in its place.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9j CC)

 

9v.

Evan Corrigan et al. request demolition order for the building at 342 West Boylston St. be issued.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the City Manager. Referred to the City Manager.

 

9w.

Joe O'Brien request City Council request City Manager work with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation to address the issue of criminal and gang activity that is occurring in the evening in the parking lots of Blackstone Valley Visitors Center located at 3 Paul Clancy Way.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager and Deputy Police Chief responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to the City Manager. Referred to the City Manager.

 

9x.

William S. Coleman, III and Peter Stefan request an opportunity to present to City Council and the City Manager concerning a "Worcester Stop the Violence" city-wide education program.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the petitioner, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved to place the item on file. Placed on file.

 

9y.

Peter Stefan request City Council request City Manager provide an update concerning a previously filed petition relative to payments for funeral services for indigent veterans.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the City Manager. Referred to the City Manager.

 

10.

COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

10.1

APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation
 

10.2

APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation
A.

Recommend the reappointment of Suzanne Graham to the Community Development Advisory Committee with a term to end on June 30, 2024.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to confirm the appointment. Confirmed on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 
B.

Recommend the appointment of Christina Parissi to the Accessibility Advisory Committee with a term to end on May 31, 2024.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to confirm the appointment. Confirmed on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 
 

10.3

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
 

10.4

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the initiation of a study by the Worcester Historical Commission to consider the potential establishment of a new Local Historic District in the Elm Park neighborhood.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee.

 
B.

Recommend adoption of the attached resolutions to file and accept entitlement funding under the City of Worcester’s Fiscal Year 2022/ Program Year 47 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME), and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Program, funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Health and Human Services Committee. Referred to Public Health and Human Services Committee.

 
C.

Recommend adoption of an ordinance establishing the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF).

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer and City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Wally, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Wally. Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item. Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman. Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio recognized Councilor Rosen, who spoke concerning the item. Vice Chairperson Councilor Colorio recognized the Chief Development Officer and City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Rosen. Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee.

 
D.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file an application to designate 22, 24, and 28 Mulberry Street as a Certified Project and approve a Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Plan for the properties.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee.

 
 

10.5

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Administration Division
 

10.6

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the FY21 Sidewalk Rehabilitation Program.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee.

 
 

10.7

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Operations Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the tree removal associated with street reconstruction.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee.

 
 

10.8

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Parks Division
 

10.9

FIRE DEPARTMENT
 

10.10

POLICE DEPARTMENT
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to on-the-water oversight and enforcement that occurs at Indian Lake; working with the Environmental Police to increase oversight and enforcement on Indian; and how the patrol boat donated to the Worcester Police Department by the Massachusetts Environmental Police will be used.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with item #10.13A CM. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who spoke concerning the item. Councilor Rose then moved to, “Request City Manager request City Solicitor draft legislation to temporarily ban the use of personal watercrafts on Indian Lake, until such a time the city’s Police Department, Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) and Environmental Police prepares an effective plan to combat oversight and enforcement challenges on the lake.” (See Item #17d CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Deputy Police Chief, City Solicitor and City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to advocate to the Environmental Police for increased oversight at Morgan Park at Indian Lake.” (See Item #17e CC). Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager reach out to city’s State Delegation to advocate to the Environmental Police for increased oversight at Morgan Park at Indian Lake.” (See Item #17f CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Deputy Police Chief, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose for a second time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Rosen. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose for a third time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman for a second time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a third time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman for a third time, who moved to amend Councilor Rose’s motion to include an emergency preamble. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt Councilor Rose’s motion as amended. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 6 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (King abstained). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the items to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee.

 
 

10.11

DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
 

10.12

LICENSE COMMISSION
 

10.13

LAW DEPARTMENT
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to restricting who may use personal watercraft on Indian Lake.

Attachments

Referred to Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee (See Item #10.10A CM)

 
 

10.14

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration
 

10.15

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
 

10.16

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division
 

10.17

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration
 

10.18

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Public Health
 

10.19

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs
 

10.20

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Human Rights and Accessibility
 

10.21

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services
 

10.22

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Services
 

10.23

WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY
 

10.24

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANANGER
Cultural Development Division
 

10.25

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division
 

10.26

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Office of Urban Innovation
 

10.27

PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
 

10.28

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division
 

10.29

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the proposed budget for the initial portion of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - King

 
 

10.30

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Energy and Asset Management
 

10.31

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division
 

10.32

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division
 

10.33

DEPARTMENT OF TECHNICAL SERVICES
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the security of the City's networked systems.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 
 

10.34

FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers
 

10.35

FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations
A.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept with gratitude an in kind donation with an approximate value of One Hundred Twenty Five Dollars And No Cents ($125.00) from the Boston Red Sox Baseball Club, LLC., for the Paul J. Moosey Employee of the Year Award.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to collectively adopt items #10.35A CM through #10.35G CM, #10.36A CM through #10.36D CM and #10.37A CM through #10.37D CM. Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 
B.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($250,000.00) from National Endowment for the Arts under the Rescue Relief funding for Arts and Culture program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
C.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, and accept with gratitude a donation in the amount of Forty Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty Dollars And No Cents ($47,880.00) from Bank of America in support of the Summer Recreation Worcester program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
D.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to apply for, accept, and expend grant funding in the amount of Fifty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($50,000.00) from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Complete Streets Program, for completion of a Prioritization Plan.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
E.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of Two Hundred Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars And No Cents ($203,500.00) from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security under the FY22 Development Grant program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
F.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend grant funding in an amount up to Six Hundred Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($600,000.00) from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, through the COVID-19 Contact Tracing support program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
G.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept and expend a grant in the amount of One Hundred Forty Seven Thousand One Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($147,150.00) from Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs under the FY2021 Dam, Levee and Seawall Repair and Removal Design and Permitting Grant program.

Attachments

Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
 

10.36

FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers
A.

Recommend City Council's approval of Fiscal Year 2021 year end transfers to make adjustments to City accounts to balance the Fiscal Year 2021 Budget.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
B.

Recommend the amendment in the Fiscal Year 2022 Table of Organization of the Treasury Department by adding one Senior Customer Service Representative position paygrade 28, and deleting one Customer Service Representative position paygrade 22 as approved in the Fiscal 2022 Budget request but not reflected in the budget document.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
C.

Recommend that One Million Five Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars And Seventeen Cents ($1,528,711.17) be transferred, as described, to provide sufficient funding for the Cable PEG Program for the 1st Quarter of Fiscal Year 2022.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
D.

Recommend that Twenty Seven Thousand Six Hundred Eighty Six Dollars And Eighty One Cents ($27,686.81) be transferred from Account #330-08, Reserve for Appropriation Premium on Loans, and be appropriated to Account #660-92000, Treasurer's Office Ordinary Maintenance, to fund costs associated with the issuance of a bond dated June 22, 2021.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
 

10.37

FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year
A.

Recommend that Three Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy One Dollars And Seventy Five Cents ($3,871.75) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2022 Account #610-92000, Budget Ordinary Maintenance, to pay a prior year invoice.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
B.

Recommend that Fifty Seven Dollars And Ninety Cents ($57.90) be authorized from Fiscal Year 2022 Account #610-92000, Budget Office Ordinary Maintenance, to pay prior year invoices.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
C.

Recommend that Two Hundred Forty Five Dollars And Ninety Two Cents ($245.92) be authorized from Account #660-92000, Treasurer's Office Ordinary Maintenance, to pay a prior year invoice.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
D.

Recommend that Eighty Two Dollars And Ninety Three Cents ($82.93) be authorized from Account #030-92000, Mayor's Office Ordinary Maintenance, to pay prior year invoices.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #10.35A CM)

 
 

10.38

FINANCE
Loan Orders
A.

Recommend the adoption of a Loan Order in the amount of Five Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($5,500,000.00) be appropriated to Account #91C702B, Land Acquisition Becker, to pay for costs associated with the acquisition and rehabilitation of property for municipal purposes that was part of the former Becker College Worcester campus.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Wally, who moved to recuse himself from the item and left the room. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Loan Order. Voted to advertise proposed Loan Order on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (Wally recused) Mayor Petty moved to reconsider the item. Reconsideration approved on a voice vote. Mayor Petty moved to suspend the rules to allow for less than eight (8) votes to advertise the proposed Loan Order. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk and the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Russell, who moved to, “Request City Manager request City Assessor provide City Council with a report concerning how the value of the properties of Becker College being acquired by the city were determined.” (See Item #17b CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who moved to, “Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion as to the City Council’s ability to suspend its rules to waive the eight (8) votes required for the advertisement of loan orders.” (See Item #17c CC). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Loan Order. Voted to advertise proposed Loan Order on a roll call vote of 7 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (Wally recused)

 
 

10.39

MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the initiation of a Community Crisis Response Model.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty moved to refer the item to Public Safety Committee. Referred to Public Safety Committee.

 
11.

ORDERS

11a.

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning whether towing companies that remove cars that were involved in accidents from city streets and private or public property are also required to remove any or all debris from the accident scene. Further, if so, request City Manager include in said report whether the city enforces such a policy so homeowners will not have to do or pay for the cleanup. (Rosen)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11b.

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks prioritize the repair of the road under the Brooks St. bridge. (Rose)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11c.

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of implementing a bus pilot in the Canal District that includes inline stopping as a means of alleviating parking limitations in the area. (King, Mero-Carlson)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11d.

Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks analyze the triangle at Burncoat St. and Mountain St. West for improvements such as benches, plantings and a potential additional tree. Improvements to walkability to the triangle with freshly painted crosswalks and potentially ADA walkways inside the triangle should also be considered. (Rose)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11e.

Request City Manager review the city's process for posting public notices relative to tax delinquent properties so as to ensure the owner listed is updated when a property is transferred after January 1st and the new owner is delinquent. (Wally)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11f.

Since the vacant former Big D/Price Chopper market property on Mill St. has been an eyesore and an inexcusable blight on the neighborhood since the supermarket closed eighteen years ago, request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning what steps need to be taken to effectively persuade the thoughtless owner to sell or lease the property for housing and/or retail development. (Rosen, Wally)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11g.

That the City Council does hereby amend its meeting schedule to cancel the September 14, 2021 meeting due to the September Preliminary Election and schedule a meeting for September 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in its place. (Petty)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11h.

Request City Manager consider creating a task force that includes but is not limited to public safety officials from the Worcester Police Department, Worcester Fire Department and Emergency Communications Department to complete a needs assessment to help combat any increases in crime using funds from the American Rescue Plan. (Rose)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11i.

Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning using the American Rescue Plan Act funds to increase community policing, neighborhood police presence and adding a mental health intervention team to the Worcester Police Department. (Rose)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11j.

Request City Manager consider publicly engaging the public and the City Council in advance of renewing or granting any Cable TV and internet contract. Said public conversation should outline any and all choices available to the administration for this important utility that seems to be increasing in cost far beyond any regional comparable companies. (Russell)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11k.

Request City Manager provide City Council with an assessment concerning whether or not two-way radios would or could be a resource to the city's summer staff in pools and ponds as an effective communication tool to public safety and overall communication. (Rose)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11l.

Request City Manager provide City Council with a financial plan for the purpose of funding a new Burncoat Senior High School. (Petty)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11m.

Request City Manager work with the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to review the city's "Right Tree, Right Place" policy to reevaluate the planting of Golden Rain Trees in the city, due to their toxicity, especially to children. (Colorio)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11n.

Request City Manager work with the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to research creative ways to pave around trees instead of cutting them down. (Colorio)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11o.

Request City Manager work with MassDOT to install traffic calming measures on Grove St. (Colorio)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11p.

Request City Manager work with MassDOT to install traffic calming measures on Pleasant St. (Colorio)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11q.

Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to collaborate with the WRTA Director to ensure signage for bus stops are present and readable. (Bergman)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11r.

Request City Manager request Police Chief collaborate with the WRTA Director to determine best practices for preventing and enforcing illegal parking in “No Parking Bus Stops” signage locations. (Bergman)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

11s.

Request City Manager work with United States Small Business Administration to improve equitable access to federal resources for minoritized businesses throughout the City. (Rivera, Petty)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Tabled Under Privilege - Petty

 

12.

COMMUNICATION OF THE CITY CLERK

12a.

Transmitting an informational communication regarding the filling of one vacancy on the Library Board of Directors.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept the item. Accepted.

 

13.

REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

13a.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Petition of Clifford Rucker request the Worcester Zoning Map be amended by extending the RG-5 zoning district to fully encompass properties at 113-115 Elm St., 61 Cedar St., 65 Cedar St. and 67 Cedar St: recommend passage of the accompanying Ordinance.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 

13b.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational communication relative to a report as to status and condition of 18 Palisades Street: recommend item be placed on file.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take items #13b CC through #13e CC Collectively. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Wally, who moved to recuse himself from items #13d CC and #13e CC. Mayor Petty moved to accept the items. Accepted.

 

13c.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational communication relative to the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAM's) opinion regarding the deed restriction for Mt. Carmel properties: recommend item be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted (See Item #13b CC)

 

13d.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Communication of the City Auditor transmitting communication relative to review of ballpark agreements and financial package: recommend item be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted (Wally recused) (See Item #13b CC)

 

13e.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Order Councilor Konsantina B. Lukes and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request City Manager make recommendations regarding energy efficiency and renewable energy goals, including but not limited to solar energy, green living roofs, electric motor vehicle charging stations, in the design of Polar Ball Park and the Madison Properties Project and as a condition of any TIF or other tax incentives: recommend item be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted (Wally recused) (See Item #13b CC)

 

14.

TO BE ORDAINED

14a.

Amending Chapter 13, Section 42 of the Revised Ordinances of 2008 to Revise Parking Time Limits, Parking Designations, Meter Zones And Tow Away Zones in the Canal District.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to ordain the item. Ordained on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to reconsider the item. Reconsideration denied on a roll call vote of 0 Yeas and 8 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 

14b.

Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group A - Administrative And Supervisory relative to the Chief of Operation and Project Manager of Inspectional Services, Chief Staff Assistant, Coordinator Labor Relations, Worker’s Comp and Investigations, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager, Director of Accounts, Assistant Treasurer II, Director of Projects, Lead Investigator, Investigation Specialist and Transportation Program Manager. Amending The Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group C - Information Services relative to the Production Support Specialist. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group EM – Executive Management relative to the Chief of Public Facilities, Ass’t Commissioner of Engineering, Director Maintenance Park/Cemetery, Chief Sustainability Officer, Director of Housing and Health Inspections, Director of Golf, Supervisor of Forestry, Assistant Development Officer of Special Projects and Assistant Development Officer Administration and Business Development. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group K – Library relative to the Coordinator of Access Services. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group M – Recreation relative to the Program Coordinator, Worcester Recreation and Assistant Program Coordinator, Worcester Recreation Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group NA – Fire relative to the Fire Apparatus Repairman and Fire Protection Engineer. Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group Q – Trade Inspection relative to the Ass’t Chief Clerk of the Works, Energy Analyst and Project Manager, Sustainability. Amending The Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Occupational Group R – Laborer And Craftsman relative to the Working Foreman Parks (Green Infrastructure).

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to ordain items #14b CC through #14d CC. Ordained on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent)

 

14c.

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 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #14b CC)

 

14d.

Amending the Salary Ordinance of August 20, 1996 Relative to Non-Bargaining Unit Employees.

Attachments

Ordained on a roll call vote of 8 Yeas and 0 Nays (Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (See Item #14b CC)

 

15.

TABLED ITEMS

15a.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to a legal opinion as to the jurisdiction of office space and facilities within City Hall. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson March 12, 2019; Tabled Under Privilege - Petty March 19, 2019 and Tabled - Petty March 26, 2019)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15b.

ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion regarding the process of instituting a residential rent control program and the resulting impact of implementing such a program. (Tabled Under Privilege - Lukes September 17, 2019 and September 24, 2019 and Tabled - Lukes October 15, 2019)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15c.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' MEMORIALS, PARKS AND RECREATION Upon the Petition of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson request restoration and relocation of the Sullivan Memorial located in Melrose St. to a location approximately 50 feet north of its current location: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson April 21, 2020 and April 28, 2020 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson May 5, 2020)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15d.

RESOLUTION of Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Sean M. Rose and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - That the Worcester City Council urges our State Delegation and others to pursue the naming in 2020 of the Worcester District Courthouse the “Sarah E. Wall Courthouse”. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman June 2, 2020 and June 9, 2020 - Petty and Tabled - Russell June 16, 2020)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15e.

ORDER of Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey, Councilor Sean M. Rose, Councilor Morris A. Bergman, Councilor Matthew E. Wally, Councilor George J. Russell, Councilor Donna M. Colorio, Councilor Gary Rosen and Mayor Joseph M. Petty - Request City Manager support the (re)opening of the City’s licensed cigar and hookah lounges and for the state to amend the classification of these establishments. These establishments can, and should, fit under the guise and parameters set forth as restaurants as they have or will have a common ViC license. (Tabled Under Privilege - Rivera September 8, 2020 and Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson September 15, 2020 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson September 22, 2020)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15f.

COMMUNICATION of the City Clerk transmitting a draft of social media policies and procedures for City Council, in the event that a Facebook page for the City Council is created, including information relative to best practices used in other communities. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman January 26, 2021, Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson February 2, 2021 and Tabled - Petty February 9, 2021)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15g.

RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King - That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support Representative Rebecca Rauch and Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz’s SD 699 HD 1283, An Act effectuating equity in COVID-19 Vaccination Bill. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman February 9, 2021 and Tabled - Bergman February 23, 2021)

Attachments

No action taken

 

15h.

PETITION of Meighan Sharry request City Council request City Manager effectively stop efforts to develop athletic fields at Duffy Field/Wetherall Park. (Tabled - Petty March 30, 2021)

Attachments

No action taken

 

16.

BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the June 29, 2021 City Council meeting.

16a.

ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty - That the City Council does hereby amend its meeting schedule to begin the July 20, 2021 and August 10, 2021 City Council meetings at 5 p.m. - Item #20a CC Order adopted

 

17.

NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the July 20, 2021 City Council meeting.

17a.

Motion Petty @ #6a CC - Request City Manager work with the Superintendent of Public Schools and Commissioner of Public Works and Parks to identify safety improvements for students and pedestrians in the vicinity of the rotary at the Route 122 and the Worcester Airport.

Attachments

Order adopted (See Item #6a CC)

 

17b.

Motion Russell @ #10.38A CM – Request City Manager request City Assessor provide City Council with a report concerning how the value of the properties of Becker College being acquired by the city were determined.

Attachments

Order adopted (See Item #10.38A CM)

 

17c.

Motion King @ #10.38A CM – Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion as to the City Council’s ability to suspend its rules to waive the eight (8) votes required for the advertisement of loan orders.

Attachments

Order adopted (See Item #10.38A CM)

 

17d.

Motion Rose @ #10.10A CM – Request City Manager request City Solicitor draft legislation to temporarily ban the use of personal watercrafts on Indian Lake, until such a time the city’s Police Department, Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) and Environmental Police prepares an effective plan to combat oversight and enforcement challenges on the lake.

Attachments

Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who moved to amend Councilor Rose’s motion to include an emergency preamble. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt Councilor Rose’s motion as amended. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 6 Yeas and 0 Nays (Colorio, Mero-Carlson, Rivera, Toomey absent) (King abstained) (See Item #10.10A CM)

 

17e.

Motion King @ #10.10A CM – Request City Manager work with the Police Chief to advocate to the Environmental Police for increased oversight at Morgan Park at Indian Lake.

Attachments

Order adopted (See Item #10.10A CM)

 

17f.

Motion King @ #10.10A CM – Request City Manager reach out to city’s State Delegation to advocate to the Environmental Police for increased oversight at Morgan Park at Indian Lake.

Attachments

Order adopted (See Item #10.10A CM)