Click here to sign up for city emergency alerts - including community event alerts, Fire Department notifications, law enforcement alerts, general information alerts, and public works notifications

Holyoke City Council Meeting October 15, 2019

Oct 15 2019

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

AGENDA FOR THE CITY COUNCIL
October 15,2019

LAID ON THE TABLE

1. From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC & Ryan Allen, Admin. Ass’t. to City Council minutes of Special Meeting of September 16, 2019.

PUBLIC COMMENT

 

COMMUNICATIONS

2. Communication from Councilor Bartley re: Agreement between the City of Holyoke and Rory Casey effective March 22, 2019.

3. Professional Services Agreement Advising & Consulting services to the Office of the Mayor effective November 19, 2018 thru June 30, 2019.

4. From Board of Health Minutes of September , 2019.

5. From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC & Ryan Allen Admin. Ass’t to City Council minutes of October 1, 2019.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

 

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

6. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

6A. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order  that the City of Holyoke place a handicap parking sign at 11 Center St. for Carmen Roy Recommend that the order be adopted

6B. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that a handicap sign be placed in front of 527 So. Summer St. for Carmen Robles Recommend that the order be adopted

6C. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the ordinance committee meet with the building commissioner and the city solicitor to discuss the merits of establishing a fine for property owners who have had their property sealed off blocking a street past a certain period.  There at least a couple of properties which are depriving others of easy access to their homes and businesses, with no immediate solution being proposed Recommend that the order has been complied with

6D. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the Ordinance committee review the current vacant and blighted building ordinance by calling in The Health Dept the building Dept. The greater Holyoke landlord association and any other concerned parties to address the ordinance and determine if there is a more business/landlord friendly way to ensure vacant buildings are in compliance with the current ordinance Recommend that the order has been complied with

7. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

7A. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, NINE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($9,000.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51103      PAY-CHIEF OF WIRES             $9,000.00
TOTAL: $9,000.00
TO:
12402-53050      INSPECTIONS- ELECTRICAL                $9,000.00
TOTAL: $9,000.00 Recommend that the order be adopted

7B. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “CULVERT REPLACEMENT MUNICIPAL ASSISTANCE” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant. Recommend that the order be adopted

7C. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order  that the Finance Committee invite in Mayor Lachapelle to discuss options and plans Easthampton used with regards to their new school project. Recommend that the order has been complied with

7D. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council invite in Mayor LaChapelle of Easthampton to discuss the Easthampton experience with debt exclusion for their school project. Concrete projections, numbers, and date to articulate the impact of the school construction on taxpayers and the community at large. Recommend that the order has been complied with

8. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

9. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

9A. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred City Council review of Mayoral appointee Marco Crescentini to serve as alternate of the Historical Commission for the City of Holyoke Recommend that the appointee be confirmed

9B. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred a City Council review of Mayoral appointee Matteo Riodato to the Fairfield Ave. Historic Commission
Recommend that the appointee be confirmed

9C. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order  that the City of Holyoke Water Dept. assess each fire hydrant Citywide and submit a detailed report to the City Council for discussion in the Public Service Committee. Recommend that the order has been complied with

9D. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the City Council invite into the Public Service Committee David Conti, the Water Commissioners, and Fire Dept. representatives to discuss the fire Hydrant issues that took place on Fairfield Ave. Please provide info on plans that in place to address water flow to fires if piping is bad in an area. Also please provide Committee with complete list of other areas in the City like Fairfield and what timelines are in place to fix such piping issues. Currently the Water Department has a bond for addressing several capital plans, is the bond sufficient to cover hydrant/piping needs or what funding would be required to address such a need? Recommend that the order has been complied with

9E. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the City of Holyoke Water Dept. come before the Public Service Committee to discuss their findings on the Fire Hydrant study Recommend that the order has been complied with

9F. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order That the Superintendent of the Holyoke Water Dept. and the Mayor come into the Public Service subcommittee to discuss the large amounts of complaints regarding discolored tap water and be prepared to discuss why there hasn’t been any notifications to the community Recommend that the order has been complied with

10. Development and Governmental Relations Committee Reports (if any)

10A. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  that the DG&R committee meet with the superintendent of the DPW, and the health director to seek solutions to the problem of city owned and other vacant lots which seem to be neglected until there is a complaint.  The city needs to at least with city owned lots have a regular schedule for clean up and trash and other debris removal. Recommend that the order has been complied with

10B. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order   that the parks and recreation director, the community development director, and the public works superintendent appear before the DGR committee to discuss the plans and the needed funding to upgrade Springdale Park. Recommend that the order has been complied with

10C. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  that the DG&R committee meet with representatives from the building department, the board of health, the planning and development office to review the conditions of buildings and the alleyways off Main Street from Sargeant to Hamilton Streets.  This is a situation which needs both immediate and long term actions to correct a dangerous situation.
Recommend that the order has been complied with

10D. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the DG&R committee meet with the superintendent of the DPW, the city engineer, and the city forester to discuss the problems caused by planting trees on city streets.  Discussion should include types of trees which might be planted without having negative impact on neighborhood sidewalks. Recommend that the order has been complied with

10E. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the Mayor, the Director of Planning and Development, and the Director of the Holyoke Housing Authority meet with the DG&R committee to seek ways to include the parking lot at the corner of Clemente and Hamilton Streets as part of the planned South Holyoke housing redevelopment around Carlos Vega Park.   Recommend that the order has been complied with

10F. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred a Special permit application of Frank DeMarinis for a Single-Family Home in the Floodplain Overlay District 8.1.2 on Northampton St. at Map 223 Block 00 Parcel 019.  Recommend that the application be approved with the following conditions:
a.       The petitioner shall work with Conservation commission and the southerly abutter’s independent arborist to identify trees along the property line that are to be removed.  It shall be the responsibility of the petitioner to remove those trees (approx. 23) that are likely to fall on the abutter’s property.  Because said trees have an estimated maximum life span of 3 years, it is required that all trees so identified are to be removed within that 3-year period.
b.       Plant appropriate vegetation to serve as a buffer between the petitioner’s property and the property of the southern-most abutter but specifically along the property line for no less than 150’ but not more than 200’.  The petitioner and the abutter should confer beforehand to ensure trees are planted in the right place.  Trees should be approximately 5-feet apart.  Type of species to be planted is arborvitaes, which shall be of a height no less than 7’ when planted.  All trees as described shall be planted along the property line within 12 months of date of special permit unless otherwise agreed-to by the petitioner and the abutter in writing.
c.       Sept 13, 2019, letter of Conservation Commissioner shall be complied with by petitioner.
d.       Sept 20, 2019, letter of Building Commissioner shall be complied with by petitioner.
e.       City ordinance section 8.1.5 (7) was must be complied with.

 

10G. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order That the Honorable Holyoke City Council approve a grant to One Holyoke CDC as recommended by the Community Preservation Committee in the amount of $32,000 for project at 43 Canal St.   Recommend that the order be adopted with a strong recommendation from the DGR Committee that the building be named in honor of one Jorge L. Neves

11. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

12. Joint City Council and School Committee Reports (if any)

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

13. BARTLEY — The law dept. and problem property group provide it’s regular 6-month update on the city’s receivership program and any other relevant issues.  Refer to DGR with copy to Law Dept.  Plan to make a committee presentation in November or December.

14. BARTLEY — The Mayor or the Law Department or anyone with knowledge of the two Casey contracts please advise City Council as to who drafted the two contracts between the City of Holyoke and Rory Casey as it was disclosed by the city’s law department at Ordinance meeting on 10/8/19 that it did not draft the city contracts signed by the Mayor and Mr. Casey.

15. BARTLEY — The Mayor, Building Commissioner, and DPW Superintendent provide an update to City Council regarding the city’s plans to free up Walnut St. from the fencing that has blocked this city street since February 2018. The City Officials should determine the costs associated as well as a funding source. Copy to Holyoke Fire Dept. for its feedback regarding fire protection for this area while the fencing remains in place. . Refer to Public Safety.

16. BARTLEY — City Council receive a communication regarding the Casey contract with an effective date of March 22, 2019, from city Auditor/Treasurer. The communication should include all invoices and payment copies relative to this contract. Please specify the accounts in the budget from which funds were paid. Further, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide all reports produced as a result of this contract. Finally, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide documentation of what was delivered to the City by Mr. Casey for the $2,000.00 contracted amount. Please provide these to city council by the first regular city council meeting in November 2019.

17. BARTLEY — City Council receive a communication regarding the Casey contract with effective dates of November 19, 2018 to June 30, 2019, from city Auditor/Treasurer. The communication should include all invoices and payment copies. Please specify the accounts in the budget from which funds were paid. Further, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide all reports produced as a result of this contract. Finally, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide documentation of what was delivered to the City by Mr. Casey for the $9,999.00 contracted amount. Please provide these to city council by the first regular city council meeting in November 2019.

18. LEAHY — that the Honorable City Council vote to add three
MCGEE (3) people by roll call to the Whiting Reservoir Study
MCGIVERIN Committee.

19. LEAHY — that the Honorable City Council vote for a person
MCGEE to serve on the Community Preservation Committee.
MCGIVERIN

20. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — Per non english (spanish) residents request that all minutes from council and school committee meeting be translated and up loaded in the Holyoke City website, TV coverage of every council and school committee meetings and subtitle within TV showing.

21. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — That the clerk office assure that room 1(Mayors) office received a copy of  all city council agenda and all committee meetings that will appear in city website for communication for direct communication purpose.

22. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — Per request of residents that orders that have gone thru committees and being reported to council for a vote list the name in front of order within the agenda of to be easier to follow who had file the particular order in the first place, and better understand the discussion.

23. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — That DPW work on pedestrian crossing lines on around commercial street, specially on areas where children are crossing in the area of Holyoke Boys and Girls Club and other areas of the City that has not yet been completed.

24. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND 00/100 Dollars ($3,000.00) as follows:

FROM:
12402-53010 OTHER CONTRACTED SERVICES $3,000.00
TOTAL: $3,000.00
TO:
12401-51201 PROPERTY MAINT/DEMO SUPERVISOR $3,000.00
TOTAL: $3,000.00

25. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2019 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

26. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY19 BULLETPROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

27. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY19 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

28. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, SEVEN THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED EIGHTY EIGHT DOLLARS AND 00 /100 Dollars ($7,388.00) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51104 LIEUTENANTS $5,231.02
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS 2,156.98
TOTAL: $7,388.00
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $7,388.00
TOTAL: $7,388.00

29. MURPHY — that the HG&E install two light poles on Elm Street to improve lighting and also offer a deterrent for unwanted activities.  If possible, please place one light fixture between 320 and 324 Elm Street on the east side, and the other one on the west side at the intersection with Franklin Street.

30. MURPHY — that the DPW repaint the handicapped parking spaces for 318 and 320 Elm Street prior to the winter.

31. MURPHY — that the sidewalk in front of 320 Elm Street be repaired temporarily at an angle to prevent tripping, and then in the spring to be permanently repaired without the dangerous lip.

32. VACON — that the Mayor have his signs  removed from his old
BARTLEY campaign headquarters on Maple and Northampton streets
as there is no Mayor race this year.  The Mayor signs
are causing confusion.

 

 

Addendum:
The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the chair which may be discussed at the meeting.
Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law

______________________________
City Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
October 15,2019

The meeting was called to order by President McGee at 07:15 PM.

The Clerk called the roll. Absent members: 0 Present members 13 (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Bresnahan, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Murphy, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin).

The name of Councilor Bresnahan was drawn to head the roll call voting.

Proclamation was given to Betty Medina Lichtenstein for her work and service to the City of Holyoke and the community in general.

LAID ON THE TABLE

From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC & Ryan Allen, Admin. Ass’t. to City Council minutes of Special Meeting of September 16, 2019.
—> Received and adopted.

From Tanya Wdowiak, City Auditor, Mayors request re: Supplemental Budget.
—> Laid on the table.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take item #18 out of order:
LEAHY, McGee, McGiverin Ordered, that the Honorable City Council vote to add three (3) people by roll call to the Whiting Reservoir Study Committee.
Under discussion:
Order to appoint 3 people to the Whiting Farms St. Reservoir Study Committee: Councilor Leahy spoke and gave the names of those whom attended the Public Service Committee meeting to interview for the positions. Councilor Leahy also gave a brief overview of the purpose and function of the Whiting Rd. Reservoir Committee and how it would be structured. Councilor Leahy thanked everyone for their interest in applying and for their interest in volunteering to help the City. It was noted that each of the Councilors had received resumes and letters of intent for those interested. Councilor Sullivan spoke and stated that all 5 candidates were great candidates and stated that he hopes that the Mayor will pick someone off the list of those whom applied because all were qualified and would be great on the board. Councilor Bartley also commended the Chair for running a good meeting and allowing the committee to get to know all the appointees.
—> Motion was made and seconded to move to the first ballot for the three year term.
Harry Craven was appointed to the 3 year term with 8 votes (Bresnahan, Leahy, McGee, McGiverin, Murphy, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon), Marlene Connor received 2 votes (Lisi, Valentin). Kip Foley received 2 votes (Bartley, Lebron-Martinez), Michael Lynch received 1 vote (Anderson-Burgos).
Motion was made and seconded to move to the second ballot for the two year term. Kip Foley was appointed to the 2 year term with 9 votes (Bartley, Bresnahan, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Sullivan, Tallman), Marlene Connor received 3 votes (Murphy, Vacon, Valentin), Michael Lynch received 1 vote (Anderson-Burgos).
Motion was made and seconded to move to the third ballot for the one year term. Marlene Connor was appointed to the 1 year term with 10 votes (Anderson-Burgos, Bresnahan, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Murphy, Vacon, Valentin), Michael Lynch received 2 votes (Sullivan, Tallman), Kevin Haaraman received 1 vote (Bartley),

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take 9A out of order:
The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred City Council review of Mayoral appointee Marco Crescentini to serve as alternate of the Historical Commission for the City of Holyoke
have considered the same and Recommend that the appointee be confirmed .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
Under discussion:
Councilor Leahy and Sullivan spoke on Mr. Crescentini and the work that he has done with the City. It was noted that he has been active on the Historic Commission and is also currently a member of the Community Preservation Act Committee. Councilor Leahy stated that the City Council unanimously voted in favor of confirming the appointee.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take item 9B out of order:
The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred a City Council review of Mayoral appointee Matteo Riodato to the Fairfield Ave. Historic Commission
have considered the same and Recommend that the appointee be confirmed .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
Under discussion:
Councilor Leahy spoke on Mr. Matteo Riondato and his background and resume. Councilor Leahy stated that this was a very good pick and someone with a strong resume and very well qualified to be on the board.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take 19 out of order:
LEAHY, McGee, McGiverin Ordered, that the Honorable City Council vote for a person to serve on the Community Preservation Committee.
Under discussion:
Councilors spoke and noted that Megan McGrath has been an active volunteer on the CPAC Committee and has shown knowledge of its functions.
—> Motion was made and seconded to appoint Meg McGrath-Smith to the CPC.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take 10F out of order:
The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred a Special permit application of Frank DeMarinis for a Single-Family Home in the Floodplain Overlay District 8.1.2 on Northampton St. at Map 223 Block 00 Parcel 019.
have considered the same and Recommend that the application be approved with the following conditions:
a.       The petitioner shall work with Conservation commission and the southerly abutter’s independent arbor’s to identify trees along the property line that are to be removed.  It shall be the responsibility of the petitioner to remove those trees (approx. 23) that are likely to fall on the abutter’s property.  Because said trees have an estimated maximum life span of 3 years, it is required that all trees so identified are to be removed within that 3-year period.
b.       Plant appropriate vegetation to serve as a buffer between the petitioner’s property and the property of the southern most abutter but specifically along the property line for no less than 150’ but not more than 200’.  The petitioner and the abutter should confer beforehand to ensure trees are planted in the right place.  Trees should be approximately 5-feet apart.  Type of species to be planted is arborvitaes, which shall be of a height no less than 7’ when planted.  All trees as described shall be planted along the property line within 12 months of date of special permit unless otherwise agreed-to by the petitioner and the abutter in writing.
c.       Sept 13, 2019, letter of Conservation Commissioner shall be complied with by petitioner.
d.       Sept 20, 2019, letter of Building Commissioner shall be complied with by petitioner.
e.       City ordinance section 8.1.5 (7) was must be complied with.

. Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
Councilors discussed the conditions and it was noted that building permit would need to be eventually obtained by the petitioner. It was noted that there were some outstanding fines that were levied against the petitioner and the Council wanted to get answers as to the status of the fines and to figure out if each had been paid. It was further noted that the status of fines were incorporated in a letter from the Conservation Commissioner but the Conservation Commissioner has currently resigned. Councilors continued to have questions as to whether the approval of the project should go through if Mr. Demarinis is delinquent on fines.
—> Report of Committee received and Denied on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 8 (Bartley, Bresnahan, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, McGiverin, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon)–Nays 5–Absent 0.
Motion was made and seconded to reconsider the action and lay the item on the table.
Item was laid on the table.

President’s report: Council President Todd McGee gave president’s report: Councilor McGee stated that January 4 would be the annual City Council Christmas Party and that further details would be coming out soon. It was also noted that Govt. pictures would be November 19th at 5:00pm before the Full Council meeting. Councilor McGee stated that if anyone has an issue with that date they should let him or Admin. Assistant know. Councilor McGee also gave update on Veteran’s job fair taking place in the War Memorial. Councilor McGee stated that there would likely be an executive session meeting at some point to get the Council updated on certain litigation. It was noted that the date would be announced soon.

PUBLIC COMMENT

 

COMMUNICATIONS

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take items 2, 3, 14, 16, 17 as a package
Communication from Councilor Bartley re: Agreement between the City of Holyoke and Rory Casey effective March 22, 2019.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

Professional Services Agreement Advising & Consulting services to the Office of the Mayor effective November 19, 2018 thru June 30, 2019.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

BARTLEY Ordered, that The Mayor or the Law Department or anyone with knowledge of the two Casey contracts please advise City Council as to who drafted the two contracts between the City of Holyoke and Rory Casey as it was disclosed by the city’s law department at Ordinance meeting on 10/8/19 that it did not draft the city contracts signed by the Mayor and Mr. Casey.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

BARTLEY Ordered, that City Council receive a communication regarding the Casey contract with an effective date of March 22, 2019, from city Auditor/Treasurer. The communication should include all invoices and payment copies relative to this contract. Please specify the accounts in the budget from which funds were paid. Further, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide all reports produced as a result of this contract. Finally, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide documentation of what was delivered to the City by Mr. Casey for the $2,000.00 contracted amount. Please provide these to city council by the first regular city council meeting in November 2019.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee. Copy to Auditor and Treasurer .

BARTLEY Ordered, that City Council receive a communication regarding the Casey contract with effective dates of November 19, 2018 to June 30, 2019, from city Auditor/Treasurer. The communication should include all invoices and payment copies. Please specify the accounts in the budget from which funds were paid. Further, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide all reports produced as a result of this contract. Finally, the City Auditor or any relevant official shall provide documentation of what was delivered to the City by Mr. Casey for the $9,999.00 contracted amount. Please provide these to city council by the first regular city council meeting in November 2019.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee. Copy to Auditor & Treasurer.

From Board of Health Minutes of September , 2019.
—> Received.

From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC & Ryan Allen Admin. Ass’t to City Council minutes of October 1, 2019.
—> Received and adopted.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order  that the City of Holyoke place a handicap parking sign at 11 Center St. for Carmen Roy
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted per the recommendation of the City Engineer.

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
It was noted that there is already an ordinance on the books at the location and therefore the City Council should just vote to adopt the recommendation from the City Engineer.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.
Approved by the Mayor.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that a handicap sign be placed in front of 527 So. Summer St. for Carmen Robles
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Terence Murphy
—> Report of Committee received and the Ordinance passed its first reading.
The Ordinance passed its second reading.
The Ordinance was passed to be enrolled.
The Committee has considered the same and find that it is truly and properly enrolled.
Report of Enrollment received.
The Ordinance was passed to be Ordained and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.
Approved by the Mayor.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the ordinance committee meet with the building commissioner and the city solicitor to discuss the merits of establishing a fine for property owners who have had their property sealed off blocking a street past a certain period.  There at least a couple of properties which are depriving others of easy access to their homes and businesses, with no immediate solution being proposed
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
Councilor Vacon spoke on the order and stated that the DPW Director and Law Department were present for the meeting to discuss the order. It was Committee report adopted by voice vote. It was noted that there are several locations in the City where a sidewalk is blocked off by fencing because of falling debris or other hazards. Councilor Vacon stated that Atty. Barnes explained that these buildings are privately owned and usually the owner does not have the financial means to make repairs or to stop the potential damage and that in these cases the City steps in to put in fencing and to mitigate the danger the building poses. Councilor Murphy spoke as maker of the order and noted that there needs to be more done and more solutions looked into because some of these obstructions are out there for years blocking portions of the public way. Councilor Murphy stated that the building owners must be incentivized to get these properties fixed and perhaps some could apply for CBDG money.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the Ordinance committee review the current vacant and blighted building ordinance by calling in The Health Dept the building Dept. The greater Holyoke landlord association and any other concerned parties to address the ordinance and determine if there is a more business/landlord friendly way to ensure vacant buildings are in compliance with the current ordinance
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
Councilor Vacon spoke and gave information on the order noting that two meetings had taken place with landlords, BOH, Building Commissioner and others and that the ordinance was discussed at length including perceived strengths and weaknesses of the language. It was noted that the ordinance does seem to be working well and that the order was tabled previously in order to allow landlords to come up with some suggestions for potential improvements. It was noted that they did not come back with any suggestions.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take an item from the ordinance committee:
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that 5.3.1 under section 5 of Dimensional Controls (zoning ordinance) be amended to add the BH zone so that height limitations in the BH zone may be exceeded by Special Permit when approved by the City Council in accordance with the following standards: 5.3.1.2 and 5.3.1.3.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted
Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
It was noted that a public hearing was held at 5:30pm before the 7:00 full Council meeting and that the Ordinance Committee had heard from proponent of changing the zone Mr. Bill Rogowski and closed the public hearing. It was noted that the Planning Board had sent a recommendation to the Full Council that was in support of the zone change as well. Councilor Vacon read the recommendation of the Planning Board into the record.
—> Report of Committee received and the Ordinance passed its first reading.
The Ordinance passed its second reading.
The Ordinance was passed to be enrolled.
The Committee has considered the same and find that it is truly and properly enrolled.
Report of Enrollment received.
The Ordinance was passed to be Ordained and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.
Approved by the Mayor.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, NINE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($9,000.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51103      PAY-CHIEF OF WIRES             $9,000.00
TOTAL: $9,000.00
TO:
12402-53050      INSPECTIONS- ELECTRICAL                $9,000.00
TOTAL: $9,000.00
(Recommended by the Mayor)
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
Under discussion:
Councilor McGiverin spoke on the order and noted that the transfer request came from within the Building Department and was to transfer funds from one of the open positions in the department to a person actually performing the work necessary. It was noted that he has been using a master electrician from another community to get the work done and that the individual needs to be paid.
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 0. Councilors Leahy and Lisi did not vote or participate in discussion on this item.
Approved by the Mayor.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “CULVERT REPLACEMENT MUNICIPAL ASSISTANCE” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.
(Recommended by the Mayor)
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
Under discussion:
Councilor McGiverin gave information on the grant noting that Mass Dept. of Ecological Preservation to replace a culver in the City. It was noted that DPW gave more detailed overview and stated that there is a time constraint on the grant.
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.
Approved by the Mayor.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take items 7C & 7D as a package
The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order  that the Finance Committee invite in Mayor Lachapelle to discuss options and plans Easthampton used with regards to their new school project.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with.

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
Under discussion:
It was noted that Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChappelle was present for the meeting to give information and discuss the two orders. It was noted that Mayor gave information on building new schools and some of the challenges that are faced. Councilor McGiverin spoke and detailed that there are differences between what Easthampton did and what Holyoke is looking to do. Councilor McGiverin continued to give information that was gathered in committee.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council invite in Mayor LaChapelle of Easthampton to discuss the Easthampton experience with debt exclusion for their school project. Concrete projections, numbers, and date to articulate the impact of the school construction on taxpayers and the community at large.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the necessary rules and take items 9C, 9D, 9E and 9F as a package
The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order  that the City of Holyoke Water Dept. assess each fire hydrant Citywide and submit a detailed report to the City Council for discussion in the Public Service Committee.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
Under discussion:
Councilor Leahy spoke on the 4 order s and noted that the Water dept. was in along with the Fire Dept. and water commissioners to give information on each of the orders. Councilor Leahy gave overview of the discussions that took place in meetings noting that explanations of the way the fire hydrants work were discussed in Committee. It was noted that the City had stopped flushing hydrants because of cost but that this practice was being renewed. Councilor Leahy also gave information regarding water mains and how the water flows to the hydrants. It was noted that some hydrants have a larger water capacity than others and that the Water Dept. is working to improve ensuring that all hydrants have large capacity to pump water. It was noted that water discoloration was happening in big part because of renovations and development work going on at the old Atlas Copco building that will be phased into Amazon.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the City Council invite into the Public Service Committee David Conti, the Water Commissioners, and Fire Dept. representatives to discuss the fire Hydrant issues that took place on Fairfield Ave. Please provide info on plans that in place to address water flow to fires if piping is bad in an area. Also please provide Committee with complete list of other areas in the City like Fairfield and what timelines are in place to fix such piping issues. Currently the Water Department has a bond for addressing several capital plans, is the bond sufficient to cover hydrant/piping needs or what funding would be required to address such a need?
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the City of Holyoke Water Dept. come before the Public Service Committee to discuss their findings on the Fire Hydrant study
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order That the Superintendent of the Holyoke Water Dept. and the Mayor come into the Public Service subcommittee to discuss the large amounts of complaints regarding discolored tap water and be prepared to discuss why there hasn’t been any notifications to the community
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
James M. Leahy
Rebecca Lisi
Joseph M. McGiverin
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  that the DG&R committee meet with the superintendent of the DPW, and the health director to seek solutions to the problem of city owned and other vacant lots which seem to be neglected until there is a complaint.  The city needs to at least with city owned lots have a regular schedule for clean up and trash and other debris removal.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
Councilor Murphy spoke on the various orders and gave a review of the meetings of which they were discussed. It was noted that DPW Director, BOH Director, Parks and Rec. Director were present to give information on each of the 5 orders. Councilor Murphy spoke and stated that he was the maker of the orders and gave status of vacant lots in the City and spoke on some of the plans that were discussed to try to convert them into positive uses. Councilor Murphy also stated some of the steps that were going to be taken to make the ball parks safer including adding new fencing where it is needed.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order   that the parks and recreation director, the community development director, and the public works superintendent appear before the DGR committee to discuss the plans and the needed funding to upgrade Springdale Park.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  that the DG&R committee meet with representatives from the building department, the board of health, the planning and development office to review the conditions of buildings and the alleyways off Main Street from Sargeant to Hamilton Streets.  This is a situation which needs both immediate and long term actions to correct a dangerous situation.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the DG&R committee meet with the superintendent of the DPW, the city engineer, and the city forester to discuss the problems caused by planting trees on city streets.  Discussion should include types of trees which might be planted without having negative impact on neighborhood sidewalks.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the Mayor, the Director of Planning and Development, and the Director of the Holyoke Housing Authority meet with the DG&R committee to seek ways to include the parking lot at the corner of Clemente and Hamilton Streets as part of the planned South Holyoke housing redevelopment around Carlos Vega Park.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

 

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order That the Honorable Holyoke City Council approve a grant to One Holyoke CDC as recommended by the Community Preservation Committee in the amount of $32,000 for project at 43 Canal St.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted with a strong recommendation from the DGR Committee that the building be named in honor of Attorney Jorge L. Neves .

Committee Members:
David K. Bartley
Michael J. Sullivan
Jossie M Valentin
Peter R. Tallman
Terence Murphy
Under discussion:
Councilor Bartley spoke on the order and noted that the vote was to approve CPA funds to One Holyoke CDC to renovate the former Portuguese American Club and really make it an activity community center for people in the area. It was noted that the Council was hoping that the place would be named after Mr. Jorge Neves who had put so much work into getting the Portuguese American Club up and running and functional. Councilors commended the work that Mr. Neves had done and supported the suggestion.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.
Approved by the Mayor.

ORDERS AND TRANSFERS

BARTLEY Ordered, that The law dept. and problem property group provide it’s regular 6-month update on the city’s receivership program and any other relevant issues.  Refer to DGR with copy to Law Dept.  Plan to make a committee presentation in November or December.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee. Copy to Law Department.

BARTLEY Ordered, that The Mayor, Building Commissioner, and DPW Superintendent provide an update to City Council regarding the city’s plans to free up Walnut St. from the fencing that has blocked this city street since February 2018. The City Officials should determine the costs associated as well as a funding source. Copy to Holyoke Fire Dept. for its feedback regarding fire protection for this area while the fencing remains in place. . Refer to Public Safety.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. Copy to Fire Department.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that Per non English (Spanish) residents request that all minutes from council and school committee meeting be translated and up loaded in the Holyoke City website, TV coverage of every council and school committee meetings and subtitle within TV showing.
—> Received and referred to the Public Service Committee. Copy to Holyoke Media, School Committee.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that That the clerk office assure that room 1(Mayors) office received a copy of  all city council agenda and all committee meetings that will appear in city website for communication for direct communication purpose.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the City Clerk.
Approved by the Mayor.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that Per request of residents that orders that have gone thru committees and being reported to council for a vote list the name in front of order within the agenda of to be easier to follow who had file the particular order in the first place, and better understand the discussion.
—> Received and referred to the Charter and Rules.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that That DPW work on pedestrian crossing lines on around commercial street, specially on areas where children are crossing in the area of Holyoke Boys and Girls Club and other areas of the City that has not yet been completed.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the DPW.
Approved by the Mayor.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND 00/100 Dollars ($3,000.00) as follows:

FROM:
12402-53010 OTHER CONTRACTED SERVICES $3,000.00
TOTAL: $3,000.00
TO:
12401-51201 PROPERTY MAINT/DEMO SUPERVISOR $3,000.00
TOTAL: $3,000.00

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2019 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY19 BULLETPROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY19 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE ” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2020, SEVEN THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED EIGHTY EIGHT DOLLARS AND 00 /100 Dollars ($7,388.00) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51104 LIEUTENANTS $5,231.02
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS 2,156.98
TOTAL: $7,388.00
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $7,388.00
TOTAL: $7,388.00

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 10–Nays 0–Absent 3 (Lisi, McGee, Valentin).
Approved by the Mayor.

MURPHY Ordered, that the HG&E install two light poles on Elm Street to improve lighting and also offer a deterrent for unwanted activities.  If possible, please place one light fixture between 320 and 324 Elm Street on the east side, and the other one on the west side at the intersection with Franklin Street.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the Mayor, HG & E. Copy to Public Safety.
Approved by the Mayor.

MURPHY Ordered, that the DPW repaint the handicapped parking spaces for 318 and 320 Elm Street prior to the winter.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the DPW.
Approved by the Mayor.

MURPHY Ordered, that the sidewalk in front of 320 Elm Street be repaired temporarily at an angle to prevent tripping, and then in the spring to be permanently repaired without the dangerous lip.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the DPW & City Engineer.
Approved by the Mayor.

VACON, Bartley Ordered, that the Mayor have his signs  removed from his old campaign headquarters on Maple and Northampton streets as there is no Mayor race this year.  The Mayor signs are causing confusion.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the Mayor and Building Commissioner.
Returned with no signature from the Mayor.
This order goes into effect on October 25, 2019 per the City of Holyoke Ordinances Section 24, if such ordinance, order, resolution or vote shall not be returned within ten days after it shall have been presented to the Mayor the same shall be in force.

LATE FILED ORDERS & COMMUNICATIONS

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that An order to remind council for the appointment of youth/students to serve on council.
—> Received and referred to the Public Service Committee. Copy to Dr. Zrike.

BARTLEY, Sullivan Ordered, that City Council amend the Whiting Street Reservoir Study Committee Ordinance to permit the at-large members of the committee to name up to two alternates.
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

 

Adjourn at 09:42 PM.
A true record
ATTEST:

______________________________
City Clerk


Jeffery Anderson-Burgos
Administrative Assistant to the City Council

Holyoke City Hall
536 Dwight St, Room 10
Holyoke, MA 01040
Regular hours 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Meeting days 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Close window