CITY OF WORCESTER

JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Esther Howland (South) Chamber

Convened: 6:44 P.M.

Adjourned: 9:04 P.M.


Mayor
Joseph M. Petty

 

www.worcesterma.gov

City Manager
Eric D. Batista

City Auditor
Robert V. Stearns

Councilors

Morris A. Bergman Donna M. Colorio
Etel Haxhiaj Khrystian E. King
Candy Mero-Carlson Thu Nguyen City Clerk
Nikolin Vangjeli
Sarai Rivera Sean M. Rose
George J. Russell Kathleen M. Toomey
 

City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts


1.

INVOCATION - REVEREND STEPHEN CARLYLE, ARMENIAN CHURCH OF THE MARTYRS

2.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & STAR SPANGLED BANNER

3.

Roll Call – All present with the Mayor as the Chair, except for Councilor Nguyen. Councilor Rivera participated in the meeting remotely.

4.

PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE

4a.

MOMENT OF SILENCE in memory of Burnton “Buddy” Chandler, who passed away on April 15, 2023 at the age of 89. Mr. Chandler was a civil rights attorney and advocate in the city, as well as in memory of Taibe Beqiri, who passed away on April 18, 2023 at the age of 95. Ms. Beqiri emigrated to Worcester and was a member of Worcester’s Albanian community.

 

4b.

Mayor Petty read a Proclamation recognizing the Armenian Genocide and declaring Monday, April 24, 2023 as Armenian Martyr’s Day in the city, commemorating the lives of the Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives in the Armenian Genocide. Mayor Petty provided the Proclamation to Reverend Stephen Carlyle of the Armenian Church of the Martyrs and representatives from Worcester’s Armenian community.

Attachments

 

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 March 28, 2023.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

6.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

6a.

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the following speakers: 1. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.3B CM 2. Andrew Marsh, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.3B CM 3. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.37G CM 4. Deb Carey, Princeton resident, spoke in favor of item #10.9A CM 5. Greg Degermajian, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.3B CM 6. John Rodgers, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #9l CC and #10.3B CM 7. Yenni Desroches, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #9l CC and #9m CC and in opposition to item #10.3B CM 8. Emily Galante, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #10.3B CM 9. Kathleen Krieger, West Boylston resident, spoke in favor of item #10.9A CM 10. Natalie Turner, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #9n CC 11. Kathleen Roy, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10.3B CM

 

7.

HEARING AND ORDER

7a.

Hearing: CROWN CASTLE NG EAST, LLC for a conduit location on: CANTERBURY ST. Granting permission to CROWN CASTLE NG EAST, LLC for a conduit location on: CANTERBURY ST.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to open the hearing for the item. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent). Mayor Petty asked if any abutters wished to be heard on the item. Hearing no speakers, Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to close the hearing. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to approve the item. Hearing held and Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent).

 

8.

SUSPENSION OF RULES TO TAKE UP A COMMITTEE REPORT AND OTHER RELATED ITEMS

8a.

ORDER of Councilor George J. Russell - As Chair of the City Council Standing Committee on Public Works and in accordance with Rule 33 (e) of the Rules of City Council, request City Council suspend its rules at its April 25, 2023 meeting to take up the Report of the Committee on Public Works Upon the Petition of Councilor Donna M. Colorio and Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request Salisbury St., from Park Ave. to the Holden line, be given the honorary street name title of Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu Way. This request is in honor of the 555 anniversary of the death of the national hero of the Albanian Community, as presented by Councilor Donna M. Colorio and Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and referred to the Standing Committee on Public Works Committee as Item #9b CC on the City Council agenda for March 21, 2023, along with related items pending before the Committee.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9.

PETITIONS

9a.

Jessica Soto request Wayne St. from Baker St. to Gates Ln. be made public.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to the Planning Board. Referred to the Planning Board on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9b.

Miguel Villega request the street in front of 56 Acton St. be resurfaced.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #9b CC through #9e CC to Public Works Committee. Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9c.

Linda Campaniello et al. request Marland Ct. be resurfaced.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9b CC)

 

9d.

Jaime Florez request Benefit St. or Oread Pl. be given the honorary street name title of Jaime Florez Way.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9b CC)

 

9e.

Nicole Sawitz request removal of the broken guardrail at the corner of Westborough Rd. and Pioneer Rd.

Attachments

Referred to Public Works Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9b CC)

 

9f.

Anita and Paul Scheipers request installation of stop sign on Barrett Ave. at the intersection of West Chester St. and other intersections in the area be evaluated for traffic control signage.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer items #9f CC through #9i CC to Traffic and Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9g.

Lori Wentworth request installation of handicap parking space in front of Hadwen Park Congregational Church (6 Hadwen St.) in the vicinity of the church's handicap ramp.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9f CC)

 

9h.

Rajeev Tirur request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage in front of 17-23 Chandler St. in the vicinity of the dumpster.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9f CC)

 

9i.

Joanne Troiano et al. request installation of "No Parking Anytime" signage on Short St.

Attachments

Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9f CC)

 

9j.

EVERSOURCE for a conduit location on: INSTITUTE RD.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to set a hearing on May 2, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. for items #9j CC and #9k CC. Hearing set for May 2, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9k.

EVERSOURCE for a conduit location on: HAVILAND ST.

Attachments

Hearing set for May 2, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #9j CC)

 

9l.

Yenni Desroches request City Council recognize April as Autism Acceptance Month.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera and Councilor Rose, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9m.

Yenni Desroches request City Council request City Clerk provide an update concerning planned agenda management system change.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to the City Clerk. Referred to the City Clerk on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

9n.

Natalie Turner request sound permits rules, regulations, and ordinances in and around parks within the city be amended to protect the interest of the residents and homeowners living in the vicinity of the parks.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Colorio, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Colorio. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager and Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks work with interested parties to ensure noise issues at Beaver Brook Park are addressed.” (See Item #22b CC). Councilor King then moved to place the item on file. – Not Put. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mero-Carlson, who moved to refer the item to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Haxhiaj, who moved to amend the item to hold a discussion regarding the city’s current regulations relative to sound and noise. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to, “Request City Manager review the city’s current noise ordinance against similar ordinances in other cities and towns to determine whether the ordinance needs to be updated.” (See Item #22c CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who moved to amend the item to read as follows: “Natalie Turner request a discussion be held to allow for the exploration of the city’s sound permits rules, regulations, and ordinances in and around parks, in an effort to protect the interest of the residents and homeowners living in the vicinity of the parks.” Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who withdrew his motion to place the item on file. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, Councilor Haxhiaj and Councilor Rivera for second times, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item as amended to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee as amended on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

10.

COMMUNICATIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

10.1

APPOINTMENTS
Non-City Council Confirmation
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the appointment of Gerardo Schiano to the Other Post Employment Benefits Board of Trustees.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
 

10.2

APPOINTMENTS
City Council Confirmation
A.

Recommend the appointment of William Nay to the Cable Television Advisory Committee.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to confirm the appointment. Confirmed on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
 

10.3

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
William Bagley, Jr., Esq., Director
A.

Recommend adoption of a Salary Ordinance Amendment necessary to implement recent City Council Order relative to the City Clerk annual salary increase.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
B.

Recommend adoption of a salary ordinance amendment necessary to implement the City's recently completed collective bargaining agreement with Local 911-NEPBA.

Attachments

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

 
 

10.4

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Peter Dunn, Chief Development Officer
 

10.5

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Eric D. Batista, City Manager
 

10.6

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Administration Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner
 

10.7

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Engineering and Architectural Services Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner
 

10.8

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Operations Division
Jay J. Fink, P.E., Commissioner
 

10.9

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND PARKS
Parks Division
Robert C. Antonelli, Jr., Assistant Commissioner
A.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the Urban Forestry Master Plan Initiative public hearings.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell. Councilor Russell then moved to, “Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks prioritize the replacing of trees that were removed on Heywood St.” (See Item #22d CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Rose. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to, “Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks complete all within the city’s power to apply for and access funds associated with the U.S. Forestry Grant.” (See Item #22e CC). Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Haxhiaj and Councilor Toomey, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a third time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
B.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the 2023 Arbor Day Festival.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to place the item on file. Placed on file on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
C.

Transmitting informational communication relative to the conditions of Elm Park Pond.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Bergman. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Toomey. Mayor Petty recognized the Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Toomey. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee. Referred to Veterans’ Memorials, Parks and Recreation Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
 

10.10

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY
Stephen S. Rolle, P.E., Commissioner
 

10.11

FIRE DEPARTMENT
Martin Dyer, Fire Chief
 

10.12

POLICE DEPARTMENT
Steven M. Sargent, Police Chief
 

10.13

DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Charles R. Goodwin, Director
 

10.14

LAW DEPARTMENT
Michael E. Traynor, Esq., City Solicitor
A.

Recommend advertising the final version of the proposed Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Haxhiaj, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Haxhiaj. Councilor Haxhiaj then moved to, “Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer provide City Council with a report concerning engaging in conversation with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) on how best to establish a local preference option for residents as it relates to Inclusionary Zoning.” (See Item #22f CC). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance. Voted to advertise on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
 

10.15

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Administration
Christopher P. Spencer, Commissioner
 

10.16

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Building and Zoning Division
David Horne, Deputy Building Commissioner
 

10.17

DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Housing and Health Inspections Division

 

10.18

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration
Dr. Matilde "Mattie" Castiel, M.D., Commissioner
 

10.19

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Public Health
Soloe M. Dennis, MS, MEP, Director
 

10.20

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Elder Affairs
Amy Vogel Waters, Director
 

10.21

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Human Rights and Accessibility
Jayna L. Turchek, Esq., Director
 

10.22

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Veterans Services
Alex R. Arriaga, Veterans' Services Officer/Director
 

10.23

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Division of Youth Services
Raquel Castro-Corazzini, Director
 

10.24

WORCESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY
Jason L. Homer, Executive Director
 

10.25

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANANGER
Cultural Development Division
Fabian Barracks, Cultural Development Officer
 

10.26

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Election Commission Division
Nikolin Vangjeli, City Clerk
 

10.27

PUBLIC SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Rachel Monarrez, Superintendent
 

10.28

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Assessing Division
Samuel E. Konieczny, City Assessor
 

10.29

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Budget Office Division
Erin E. Taylor, Director
 

10.30

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Purchasing Division
Christopher Gagliastro, Director
 

10.31

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Treasury and Collections Division
Timothy J. McGourthy, Acting Treasurer
 

10.32

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
Julie A. Lynch, Chief of Public Facilities
 

10.33

DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE
John W. Odell, Chief Sustainability Officer
 

10.34

DEPARTMENT OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Michael P. Hamel, Chief Information Officer
 

10.35

FINANCE ITEMS
Capital Transfers
 

10.36

FINANCE ITEMS
Grants and Donations
A.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from Massachusetts Pirates, LLC., in the amount of One Hundred Twenty Five Dollars And No Cents ($125.00) to support the maintenance of sports fields.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt items #10.36A CM through #10.36L CM, as well as #10.37B CM through #10.37L CM. Resolution adopted with gratitude on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
B.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from Massachusetts Pirates, LLC. in the amount of Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($750.00) to support the maintenance of sports fields.

Attachments

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

 
C.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from the Roman Catholic Bishop in the amount of Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($750.00) to support sports fields.

Attachments

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

 
D.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from the Roman Catholic Bishop of Worcester in the amount of One Hundred Twenty Five Dollars And No Cents ($125.00) to support the maintenance of Glodis Field at Providence Street Playground.

Attachments

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

 
E.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from the Eagles Coffee Club, Inc. in the amount of One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($1,250.00) to support the maintenance of sports fields.

Attachments

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

 
F.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from Ellan Marques Duarte in the amount of One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($1,250.00) to support the maintenance of sports fields.

Attachments

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

 
G.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from Superior Painting & Cleaning, Inc., in the amount of Two Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($2,250.00) to support the maintenance of sports fields.

Attachments

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

 
H.

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 Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) to support the Park Steward Program.

Attachments

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

 
I.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of One Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($125,000.00) from the MA Attorney General's Office under the Local Consumer Aid Program program.

Attachments

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

 
J.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept, with gratitude, a donation from the Worcester Historical Museum in the amount of Five Hundred Fifty Dollars And No Cents ($550.00), to support the purchase and planting of one (1) memorial tree at Green Hill Park in memory of trustee and friend Mr. Derrick Leto.

Attachments

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

 
K.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to file, accept, and expend a grant in the amount of Twenty Eight Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($28,000.00) from the MassHire Metro North Workforce Board (MHMNWB).

Attachments

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

 
L.

Recommend adoption of a resolution to accept a grant with a value of Twenty Two Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($22,000.00) from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) through the School Zone grant program.

Attachments

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

 
 

10.37

FINANCE ITEMS
Operational Transfers
A.

Recommend that Three Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($300,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1038-610100, Police Ordinary Maintenance, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1038-601100, Police Overtime, to fund projected overtime costs through June 30, 2023.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege. Councilor King then withdrew his motion to Table the Item Under Privilege. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 
B.

Recommend that Three Hundred Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($300,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1026-600100, Water Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1026-610100, Water Ordinary Maintenance, to address increased operating costs.

Attachments

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

 
C.

Recommend that Two Hundred Thirty Five Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($235,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1026-600100, Water Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1026-601100, Water Overtime, to cover anticipated overtime costs through the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
D.

Recommend that Seventy Two Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($72,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1025-600100,Sewer Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1025-601100, Sewer Overtime, to cover anticipated overtime costs through the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
E.

Recommend that One Hundred Eighty Two Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($182,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1076-600100, Parks Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1076-601100, Parks Overtime, to cover anticipated overtime costs through the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
F.

Recommend that One Hundred Forty Two Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($142,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1053-610100, DPW Ordinary Maintenance, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1053-601100, DPW Overtime, to cover anticipated overtime costs through the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
G.

Recommend that Forty Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($40,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #1028-600100, Worcester Public Library Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #1028-610100, Worcester Public Library Ordinary Maintenance, to provide funding for departmental operating costs for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
H.

Recommend that Sixty Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty Four Dollars And No Cents ($69,984.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1001-600100, City Council Salaries, and be appropriated to Account #CC1006-600100, City Clerk Salaries, to provide funding for the Chief of Council payroll costs for Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
I.

Recommend that Fifteen Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($15,000.00) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1020-600100, Inspectional Services Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1020-601100, Inspectional Services Overtime, to fund overtime expenses through the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023.

Attachments

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

 
J.

Recommend that Five Hundred One Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty Eight Dollars And Thirty Three Cents ($501,868.33) be transferred from various Snow accounts, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1057-699399, DPW Fleet Management Capital Outlay, to allow for the purchase of snow equipment.

Attachments

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

 
K.

Recommend that One Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($1,000) be transferred from Cost Center #CC1002-600100, Mayor’s Office Regular Salaries, and be appropriated to Cost Center #CC1002-610100, Mayor’s Ordinary Maintenance, to cover invoices.

Attachments

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

 
L.

Recommend that Five Hundred Ninety Two Thousand Dollars And No Cents ($592,000.00) be transferred to and from various operating accounts to provide sufficient funding for Fiscal Year 2023 obligations.

Attachments

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

 
 

10.38

FINANCE ITEMS
Prior Year
 

10.39

FINANCE
Loan Orders
 

10.40

MISCELLANEOUS AGENDA TRANSMITTALS
11.

CHAIRMAN'S ORDERS

11a.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager review the feasibility of any potential consultant work that could aid in the oversight of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

11b.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the language associated with the reimbursement process associated with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11c.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager review the feasibility of retroactively discontinuing any reimbursement model associated with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) monies, as long as such a model is not in violation of any ARPA regulations or requirements.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11d.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager review American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) monies allocations to work with applicants to ensure said monies are expended in as timely and urgently a way as possible.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11e.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager highlight in an urgent fashion the timeline in which applicants should file their applications relative to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) monies.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11f.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager determine a timeline to ensure organizations receiving American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds are kept in check. Further, request City Manager ensure other organizations are made aware if said monies become available.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11g.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager provide City Council with a demographic breakdown of the Executive Director and Board of Directors of each organization that was award American Rescue Plan (ARPA) monies.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11h.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Clerk work with the Director of Human Resources to develop a survey relative to both the Chief of Council position and the and Principal Clerk position in the City Clerk’s Office that is assigned to work with the City Council in order to determine what tasks each position should be utilized for and each City Councilor’s overall understanding of how to best utilize the positions.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11i.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Clerk work with the City Manager and City Council to determine appropriate staffing levels for City Council support staff.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11j.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager consider ensuring a minimum of two additional staff members are budgeted in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Budget for City Council support staff.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11k.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager consider setting aside contingency funding to allow for the City Council to budget for additional future staff beyond the originally requested two (2) staff members in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Budget.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11l.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Manager request City Solicitor provide City Council with a report concerning potentially amending the City Charter to include the following language: “The City Council shall have no power of appointment except those powers specifically granted to the City Council in this charter and except as to the appointment of the secretaries, stenographers, clerks, telephone operators, and messengers connected with their office whose appointment shall not be subject to the civil service laws. The City Council may remove said appointees without a hearing and without making a statement as to the cause of their removal.”

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

11m.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - Request City Clerk, until such a time the City Council is able to hire its own staff, organize an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing strategy for hiring City Council support staff prior to the final hiring of any position.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #11a CC)

 

12.

CHAIRMAN'S RESOLUTION

12a.

FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS - That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support amending the City Charter in order to allow for City Council to hires its own City Council Staff.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Toomey, Councilor King and Councilor Mero-Carlson, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey for a second time, who moved to, “Request City Clerk provide City Council with a report concerning the processes used by other cities and towns to support their elected officials.” – Not Put. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rose, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey for a third time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

13.

ORDER

13a.

DECREE TO MAKE PUBLIC: BITTERSWEET BOULEVARD

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

14.

RECESS TO FINANCE COMMITTEE - No items pending

15.

COMMUNICATION

15a.

Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, transmitting, "Resurging Regional Ridership: An analysis of mobility flows, riders, and ridership in the WRTA region."

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Public Service and Transportation Committee. Referred to Public Service and Transportation Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

16.

REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

16a.

REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMISSION Upon the Final Study Report for the Proposed Elm Park Neighborhood Local Historic District, to recommend the establishment of the Elm Park Neighborhood Local Historic District.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to refer the item to Economic Development Committee. Referred to Economic Development Committee on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

17.

REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

17a.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Amended Petition of Steven Rothschild, Trustee of More Bricks Realty Trust et al. request the Zoning Map be amended by extending the BG-6.0 (Business, General) zoning district and Commercial Corridors Overlay District (CCOD-D) to encompass the properties located at 24, 36 and 40 Jackson St., and 21 Lagrange St. Further, request the BG-3.0 (Business, General) zoning district and Commercial Corridors Overlay District (CCOD-E) be extended to wholly encompass the properties located at 767 Main St. Further, request the RG-5 (Residence, General) zoning district be extended to wholly encompass the properties located at 5, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 22 & 24-26 Lagrange St. and 93 (aka 95) Beacon St. (Petition wording corrected following the October 20, 2022 Economic Development Committee meeting to properly reflect amendment made during its Planning Board hearing): recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take items #17a CC through #17d CC collectively. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Russell, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized the Chief Development Officer, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Russell. Councilor Russell then moved to, “Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer provide City Council with a report concerning whether the proposed changes to the Adaptive Overlay Relay District zoning ordinance will provide increased flexibility as it relates to parking in said zones.” (See Item #22g CC). Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinances. Voted to advertise on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

17b.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Petition of Paul Conger request Article XV, Section 5 of the Worcester Zoning Ordinance be amended to allow the Planning Board to modify certain zoning requirements by special permit for new Multi-Family Dwelling buildings within the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District by deleting Subsection D in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following: “D. In addition, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in Article IV, Section-7, the Planning Board shall be authorized to grant a special permit to modify parking, loading requirements, dimensional requirements for off-street parking and loading areas; landscaping requirements; intensity of use buffer area requirements; layout requirements and number of required spaces for uses permitted in Adaptive Reuse Overlay District (by right or by special permit) pursuant to Section-3 of this Article. This provision shall only apply to Multi-Family Dwelling (low-rise and high-rise) uses (new or existing) and uses in the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District which are located in buildings or structures in existence as of October 22, 2022. Per Article IV, Table 4.4 Notes, the required number of spaces cannot be reduced below (1) space per dwelling unit.”: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #17a CC)

 

17c.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Petition of Paul Conger request Article XV, Section 5 of the Worcester Zoning Ordinance be amended to reduce the required minimum number of off-street parking spaces for new Multi-Family Dwelling buildings within the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District by deleting Subsection A and Subsection C in their entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following: “A. Subject to Subsection 5(C) of this Article XV, for all new buildings and structures, the parking requirements of Table 4.4 of this Ordinance shall apply.” “C. For reuse or substantial restoration of existing buildings or structures within the Adaptive Reuse Overlay District and new Multi-Family Dwelling buildings (low-rise and high-rise), the parking requirements of Table 4.4 of this Ordinance shall apply with the following exceptions: 1. All residential parking shall require 1.5 parking spaces for each dwelling unit; and 2. Office, professional/general uses shall require one (1) parking space for every 500 square feet of gross floor area.": recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance (See Item #17a CC)

 

17d.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Upon the Report of the Planning Board Upon the Communication of the City Manager recommend adoption of an ordinance to amend the City's Zoning Ordinance relative to adult use marijuana: recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.

Attachments

Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance (See Item #17a CC)

 

18.

REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS

18a.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Fiscal Year 2023 financial update, as of January 31, 2023: recommend Communication be placed on file.

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to accept items #18a CC through #18c CC. Accepted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

18b.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Manager transmitting informational communication relative to the Fiscal Year 2023 financial update, as of October 31, 2022.: recommend Communication be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #18a CC)

 

18c.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Manager Transmitting informational update on American Rescue Plan Act Funds (ARPA): recommend Communication be placed on file.

Attachments

Accepted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #18a CC)

 

19.

TABLED UNDER PRIVILEGE

19a.

Hearing: NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC for a pole location on: BLITHEWOOD AVE. Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC for a pole location on: BLITHEWOOD AVE. (Tabled Under Privilege - Petty April 11, 2023)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Russell, who moved to Table the Item Under Privilege for a second time. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote on Councilor Russell’s motion to Table the Item Under Privilege for a second time. Tabled Under Privilege on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) Tabled Under Privilege – Russell

 

20.

TABLED ITEMS

20a.

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

 

20b.

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

 

20c.

ORDER of Councilor Sarai Rivera - Request City Manager consider prioritizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for REC Worcester’s capital project involving the development of the new REC Worcester headquarters and Center for Food Justice and Urban Agriculture (for Worcester and Central Massachusetts), in an effort to support community food security, as well as youth development and employment. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson October 26, 2021 and Tabled Under Privilege - Petty November 9, 2021 and Tabled - Rivera November 16, 2021)

Attachments

No action taken

 

20d.

CHAIRMAN'S ORDER FROM THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION - Request City Council work to ensure City Council and School Committee districts are parallel, so as to ensure public clarity. (Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson May 24, 2022 and June 7, 2022 and Tabled - Petty June 14, 2022)

Attachments

No action taken

 

20e.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION Upon the Order of Councilor Morris A. Bergman and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request Standing Committee on Public Service and Transportation Committee hold a public discussion with the WRTA Administrator relative to the removal of a bus route that passes the EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way: recommend Communication be placed on file. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman January 17, 2023 and Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson January 24, 2023 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson January 31, 2023)

Attachments

No action taken

 

20f.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION Upon the Order of Councilor Sarai Rivera and Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request Standing Committee on Public Service and Transportation meet with the WRTA Administrator to provide City Council with a report concerning the WRTA’s winter weather plan, especially including information as to how snow will be removed at each of the bus stops: recommend Order be placed on file. (Tabled Under Privilege - Bergman January 17, 2023 and Tabled Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson January 24, 2023 and Tabled - Mero-Carlson January 31, 2023)

Attachments

No action taken

 

20g.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager recommend adoption of two (2) salary ordinance amendments related to the Executive Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. (Tabled - King February 7, 2023)

Attachments

Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved for a roll call vote to take items #20g CC through #20j CC off the Table. Taken off the Table on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent). Councilor King then spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinances and adopt the items. Voted to advertise the two (2) proposed Ordinances on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)

 

20h.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager recommend that the Fiscal Year 2023 Table of Organization for the Executive Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion be amended by increasing the total number of authorized positions from two (2) to nine (9). (Tabled - King February 7, 2023)

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #20g CC)

 

20i.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager recommend that the Fiscal Year 2023 Table of Organization for the Executive Office of Health & Human Services, Human Rights Division, be amended by eliminating one (1) Executive Director of Human Rights Commission position, Pay Grade 42EM, and one (1) Staff Assistant I position, Pay Grade 32. (Tabled - King February 7, 2023)

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #20g CC)

 

20j.

COMMUNICATION of the City Manager recommend that the Fiscal Year 2023 Table of Organization for the Department of Human Resources be amended by eliminating one (1) Lead Investigator position, Pay Grade 45M, and one (1) Coordinator of Training, Development, and Wellness Programs position, Pay Grade 44M. (Tabled - King February 7, 2023)

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #20g CC)

 

21.

BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the April 11, 2023 City Council meeting.

21a.

RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby support moving forward with a feasibility study as it relates to implementing an Inclusionary Zoning ordinance in the city. – Item #19a CC Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 1 Nay

 

21b.

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager request Police Chief provide City Council with a report concerning data relative to the efficacy of ShotSpotter. – Item #19b CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

21c.

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council with an analysis of the demographics of wage earners for the City of Worcester to ensure women and BIPOC individuals are being paid proportionally. Further, request City Manager include in said analysis information relative to how much entry level positions are being paid, as well as the demographics of the highest wage earners. – Item #19c CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

21d.

ORDER of Councilor Thu Nguyen – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report outlining the Worcester Police Department’s (WPD) overtime data, including information relative to the process used for determining details over the past three years. – Item #19d CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

21e.

ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Auditor provide City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of auditing overtime expenditures throughout the city. – Item #19e CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

21f.

ORDER of Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning other cities and towns offering signing bonuses for lateral transfer to their municipalities. –Item #19f CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays

 

22.

NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under suspension at the April 25, 2023 City Council meeting.

22a.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS Upon the Councilor Donna M. Colorio and Councilor Etel Haxhiaj request Salisbury St., from Park Ave. to the Holden line, be given the honorary street name title of Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu Way. This request is in honor of the 555 anniversary of the death of the national hero of the Albanian Community: recommend adoption of the accompanying Order to designate Salisbury St. from Moreland St. to Flagg St. as Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg Way.

Attachments

Accepted and Adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #8a CC)

 

22b.

Motion King @ #9n CC – Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks work with interested parties to ensure noise issues at Beaver Brook Park are addressed. 10-0

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9n CC)

 

22c.

Motion Toomey @ #9n CC – Request City Manager review the city’s current noise ordinance against similar ordinances in other cities and towns to determine whether the ordinance needs to be updated.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #9n CC)

 

22d.

Motion Russell @ #10.9A CM – Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks prioritize the replacing of trees that were removed on Heywood St.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (See Item #10.9A CM)

 

22e.

Motion King @ #10.9A CM – Request City Manager request Assistant Commissioner of Public Works and Parks complete all within the city’s power to apply for and access funds associated with the U.S. Forestry Grant.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #10.9A CM)

 

22f.

Motion Haxhiaj @ #10.14A CM – Request City Manager request Chief Development Officer provide City Council with a report concerning engaging in conversation with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) on how best to establish a local preference option for residents as it relates to Inclusionary Zoning.

Attachments

Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent) (See Item #10.14A CM)

 

22g.

Motion King – Suspension of Rules – Request City Manager provide City Council with feedback concerning how the President of Community Healthlink leaving her role and eighty (80) layoffs at said organization will impact the city. Said feedback should include information relative to Community Healthlink being involved with the city’s Crisis Response program and the plan for patients that will be phased out of Community Healthlink’s services.

Attachments

Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who introduced the item. Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who spoke concerning the item. Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Nguyen absent)