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Holyoke City Council Meeting February 6, 2018

Feb 6 2018

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

AGENDA FOR THE CITY COUNCIL
February 6,2018

PUBLIC COMMENT

COMMUNICATIONS

1. From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re-appointing the following individuals to serve as members on the Library Board of Directors for the City of Holyoke:
Mr. Bellamy Schmidt, 661 West Cherry St., Mr. George Mettey, 7 Hemlock Dr., Mr. Jeremy Smith, 485 Hillside Ave., and Mr. Charles Berrios, 488 Maple St., they will serve a two-year term; said term will expire on February 2020.

2. From Brenna Murphy McGee MMC, City Clerk communication on explanation of FY2018 budget requests.

3. From Damian J. Cote, Building Commissioner Overview and Impact report 5 year update.

4. From Alicia M. Zoeller, Administrator, Office of Community Development Re: FFY2018 Community Development Block Grant Proposal Book.

5. From David M. Conti, Manager Holyoke Water Works, letter re: Inter municipal agreement for Tri-City Carbon Project.

6. From Parks & Recreation Commission minutes from December 14, 2017.

7. From Helen Gomez Andrews, Co founder of High End Chocolate, letter re: intention to apply for a cannabis Cultivation, Manufacturing and Retail license in the State of Massachusetts and the City of Holyoke.

PETITIONS

8. Petition of Kenrick Williams, for a renewal of a home occupation for a property preservation business at 97 Locust St.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

9. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

9A. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that order that the handicap parking sign near 970 Hampden Street be moved back away from the driveway as it is becoming a safety hazard for the home owner. Recommend that the order be adopted

9B. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the City Council Establish one “15-minute parking only” parking space in front of Easy Pick Convenience located at 224 Lyman St. Recommend that the order be adopted

9C. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That a no parking sign across the street from the drive way of 25 Arthur Street.  This is request of the property owner Recommend that the order be adopted

9D. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW gives Roberts Field a street number. There is too much confusion when people put the address into a GPS. Recommend that the order be adopted

9E. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred A special permit application for Forward Change Experience DBA Hobby Quest for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 226 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017 Recommend that the special permit be approved

9F. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred A special permit application for The Parlor Faded Co. LLC for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 230 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017 Recommend that the application be approved

9G. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that The City install a crosswalk from B.S. Church to the Messier parking lot across Northampton St near Carlton St. This is a constituent request. Recommend that the order has been complied with

10. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

10A. 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 “FY2018 TRAFFIC GRANT” 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

10B. 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 “State 911 Department Support and Incentive Grant” 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

10C. 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 “State 911 Dept Training and EMD/Regulatory Compliance Grant” 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

11. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

12. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

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

13A. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order Order:  Hon. Mike Knapik, Director of Gov. Baker’s western Massachusetts office, appear before the DGR committee.  Mr. Knapik to attend the same meeting with Sen. Humason and Rep. Vega Recommend that the order has been complied with

13B. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the City Council Invite Hon. Don Humason and Hon. Aaron Vega to an upcoming meeting  of the DGR Committee.  This order will help CC comply with its Rule 32A. Recommend that the order has been complied with

13C. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the Holyoke Public Works Department provide a detailed inventory of all benches/park equipment in storage at the John J. Lynch School.  (Include trash receptacles, tree planters etc). Recommend that the order has been complied with

14. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

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

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

16. SULLIVAN — That the City of Holyoke adopt MGL CH 39, Sec 23D in order to allow committee members to miss one meeting during the public hearing process.

MGL Ch 39, Sec. 23D
Section 23D. (a) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, upon municipal acceptance of this section for 1 or more types of adjudicatory hearings, a member of any municipal board, committee or commission when holding an adjudicatory hearing shall not be disqualified from voting in the matter solely due to that member’s absence from no more than a single session of the hearing at which testimony or other evidence is received. Before any such vote, the member shall certify in writing that he has examined all evidence received at the missed session, which evidence shall include an audio or video recording of the missed session or a transcript thereof. The written certification shall be part of the record of the hearing. Nothing in this section shall change, replace, negate or otherwise supersede applicable quorum requirements.

(b) By ordinance or by-law, a city or town may adopt minimum additional requirements for attendance at scheduled board, committee, and commission hearings under this section.

17. SULLIVAN — that the DPW commissioners & sewer commissioners meet with the council to discuss merger of elimination of sewer commissioner and the sewer deficit.

18. SULLIVAN — that the water commissioners & dept. head meet with the council to discuss and update issues regarding Ashley & Whiting Reservoir, tax abatements.

19. SULLIVAN — That the Law Dept look into joining class action suits against opoid manufacturers to recover financial damages suffered by the City.

20. SULLIVAN — Whereas: Property values in the City have risen at a very modest rate and are taxed at the maximum amount allowed. Any increase in property values should reflect a decrease in the tax rate.
Whereas: Level funding will not work in addressing the City’s impending financial woes.
Whereas: Stronger measures must be implemented now in order to avoid a financial crisis and lessen the burden on taxpayers.

The Holyoke City Council hereby encourages the Mayor to submit a budget that incorporates a reduction in total spending of at least 2.5%.

21. SULLIVAN — That OPED meet with council to discuss (A) Compliance of various Pilot Recipients (B) Status of Hart Wool/Winn Dev. Projects.

22. SULLIVAN — That the legal Department clarify for the council whether council members may be excluded from Executive Sessions of City Boards or Commissions.

23. SULLIVAN — that all council member be AD Hoc Non voting members of all City Boards and Commissions and therefore allowed to participate in Executive Session.

24. BARTLEY — DPW fix the sidewalk on South St. between (1) Harrison Ave. and Northampton St. as well as (2) Russell Terrace and Northampton St.  Not all of it is in dire straights but much of it could use some TLC and some of it needs to be replaced.  This area is CDBG eligible.

25. BARTLEY — That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 30B and the Holyoke Procurement Ordinance, vote to accept an offer from Way Finders, Inc. to purchase a parcel of land located at 188 Chestnut Street for $15,500. Said Parcel contains approximately 0.27 acres and is described in Holyoke Assessors’ records as Map 011, Block 10, Parcel 008 and being more particularly described in deeds recorded in the Hampden County Registry of Deeds Book 20552, Page 219 and further described in Book 12504, Page 178. The parcel is zoned Multifamily Residence and Professional Offices (RO) and has an assessed value of $24,500.  Mayor’s acceptance letter and additional information has been submitted to the Council.

26. BRESNAHAN — The City Engineer/DPW review the intersection of Hampden and Nonotuck Streets to ensure that the lighting configuration and signage are adequate and ensure a safe way for drivers on Nonotuck Street to enter on to Hampden Street and for those drivers on Hampden Street to exit onto Nonotuck Street.  Further have a Representative of Police Dept. provide the total of all accidents that have occurred at this location over the past 5 years.

27. LEAHY — Order That the City Council honor City Clerk Brenna Murphy McGee with a proclamation for being given the highest designation of Master Municipal Clerk by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

28. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — In order to meet the MSBA deadline of March 20th for City Council approval of the middle school project’s Preliminary Design Phase, the Joint Committee of the City Council & School Committee shall invite in members of the School Building Committee, the OPM, Pinck&Co., and the architect, Jones Whitsett, for a presentation.

29. LISI — that given the recent FCC rulings on net neutrality, the City Council invite in representatives from HG&E to discuss public access to broadband, fiber, and the G&E’s ability to provide free, city-wide WiFi.

30. LISI — that the City Council adopt an ordinance that phases out and prohibits the use of plastic bags in the city (plastics bags are one of the greatest contributors to the trash and debris problems we have throughout the city and many neighboring city’s have passed language that we can emulate).

31. LISI — that the City Council adopt an ordinance that creates a new, Retail Center (RC) zone and create an RC district in the Whiting Farms corridor heading down to the mall (3rd time filing due to inactivity by committee chair).

32. LISI — that the date that a special permit was received by the council appear next to the item on committee agendas. This will make it easier for the public to see how quickly the council is moving through the permitting process.

33. LISI — that the City Council in coordination with the Tax Collector send out a notification (either via mail or phone) to all residents notifying them that the 3rd and 4th quarter tax bills will be coming out together on April 1st and will come due on May 1st due the Council’s inability to set a tax rate.

34. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “COPS Hiring Grant” 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.

35. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “Shannon CSI Grant” 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.

36. MCGIVERIN — That the city council approve payment of prior year bill to Grynn and Barrett for Government portraits. The payment will come from the City Hall Supplies budget line.

37. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Eight Hundred Forty-four and 88/100 Dollars ($844.88) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51107 PATROLMEN $844.88
TOTAL: $844.88
TO:
12101-51180 INJ ON DUTY $844.88
TOTAL: $844.88

38. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SIX AND 85/100 Dollars ($2026.85) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $2026.85
TOTAL: $2026.85
TO:
12201-51180 INJ ON DUTY $2026.85
TOTAL: $2026.85

39. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, TWO THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED NINETY-ONE AND 10/100 Dollars ($2,691.10) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51103 CAPTAINS $1035.00
12101-51204 PT CLERKS 1500.00
12101-51204 PT CLERKS 156.10
TOTAL: $2,691.10
TO:
12101-51104 LIEUTENANTS $1035.00
12101-51110 SR CLERKS 1500.00
12101-51118 ADMIN ASST 156.10
TOTAL: $2,691.10

40. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Six Thousand two-hundred thirty-seven and 00/100 Dollars ($6,237.00) as follows:

FROM:
12401-51110 Local Inspector $6,237.00
TOTAL: $6,237.00
TO:
12401-51101 Bldg Commissioner $6,237.00
TOTAL: $6,237.00

41. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Two thousand four hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($2,400.00) as follows:

FROM:
11352-54200 Office Supplies $2,400.00
TOTAL: $2,400.00
TO:
11351-51250 Temp/Seasonal $2,400.00
TOTAL: $2,400.00

 

 

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
February 6,2018

The meeting was called to order by President McGee at 07:20 PM.

The Clerk called the roll. Absent members: 2 (Vacon, Valentin) Present Members 11: (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Bresnahan, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Roman, Sullivan, Tallman)..

The name of Councilor Lebron-Martinez was drawn to head the roll call voting.

Proclamation was presented to the family of Mr. Thomas Wyse, for being a dedicated teacher and role model at Donahue School for 12 years.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Mr. Price Armstrong spoke in favor of reducing the speed limits to 20mph on all residential roadways. Mr. Armstrong stated that this would make cycling and pedestrian activities safer in these areas.

Helen Gomez of Brooklyn NY spoke and stated that she and her husband are interested in developing their marijuana chocolate business to the City of Holyoke. Mrs. Gomez expressed how Holyoke could benefit from having her business in the City.

COMMUNICATIONS

From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re-appointing the following individuals to serve as members on the Library Board of Directors for the City of Holyoke:
Mr. Bellamy Schmidt, 661 West Cherry St., Mr. George Mettey, 7 Hemlock Dr., Mr. Jeremy Smith, 485 Hillside Ave., and Mr. Charles Berrios, 488 Maple St., they will serve a two-year term; said term will expire on February 2020.
Under Discussion:
All appointees confirmed by Council. Councilors discussed if there are any limits on how many boards or commissions an individual can serve on noting that some individuals are serving on multiple boards
—> Received and appointment confirmed.

From Brenna Murphy McGee MMC, City Clerk communication on explanation of FY2018 budget requests.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Damian J. Cote, Building Commissioner Overview and Impact report 5 year update.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

From Alicia M. Zoeller, Administrator, Office of Community Development Re: FFY2018 Community Development Block Grant Proposal Book.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

From David M. Conti, Manager Holyoke Water Works, letter re: Intermunicipal agreement for Tri-City Carbon Project.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Parks & Recreation Commission minutes from December 14, 2017.
—> Received.

From Helen Gomez Andrews, Co founder of HIgh End Chocolate, letter re: intention to apply for a cannabis Cultivation, Manufacturing and Retail license in the State of Massachusetts and the City of Holyoke.
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

PETITIONS

Petition of Kenrick Williams, for a renewal of a home occupation for a property preservation business at 97 Locust St.
—> Received and adopted.

PRESIDENT REPORT

Councilor McGee spoke on desks and noted the changes in the Chambers including desks exchanged with councilors who asked for them to be exchanged. Councilor McGee also gave brief overview of meeting he attended with the Holyoke Tax Payer Association. Councilor McGee thanked Councilors for their support and well wishes upon the birth of new daughter Mac McGee.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

Motion made and seconded to suspend rules and take Items 9A and 9B as a package.
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that order that the handicap parking sign near 970 Hampden Street be moved back away from the driveway as it is becoming a safety hazard for the home owner.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman
Under Discussion:
It was noted that Ordinance Committee Chair Linda Vacon was on vacation and that in her stead Vice Chair Bartley would do the Ord. Committee reports. Councilor Bartley spoke on the orders and noted that the language contained in both orders were very straightforward and that the DPW Director Mr. McManus contributed to the Committee and guided the disposition of the order. Motion was made and seconded to adopt Items 9A and 9B: Clerk called the roll: Items 9A and 9B adopted 11-0 (Vacon absent, Valentin absent)
—> 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 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the City Council Establish one “15-minute parking only” parking space in front of Easy Pick Convenience located at 224 Lyman St.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman
—> 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 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That a no parking sign across the street from the drive way of 25 Arthur Street.  This is request of the property owner
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman

Under Discussion:
Councilor Bartley noted that the order was a constituent request and was made to allow for adequate room for the resident when leaving and entering the driveway at the location. Motion was made and seconded to approve Item 9C: Clerk called the roll Item 9C adopted 11-0 (Vacon, Valentin absent)
—> 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 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

Motion made and seconded to suspend rules and take Items 9D and 9G as a package.
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW gives Roberts Field a street number. There is too much confusion when people put the address into a GPS.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be complied with.

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman
Under Discussion:
Councilor Bartley spoke on the order and the discussions that took place with DPW Director McManus during the meeting. It was noted that he could implement a change to the EMS and HPD GPS systems to allow Roberts Field it’s own location ping. Councilor Leahy stated that he filed the order as a safety precaution noting that for whatever reason there were a couple of instances where someone was injured on or around the field and the paramedics were unable to see the exact location of the field. Motion was made and seconded that the order be adopted: Item 9D Adopted 11-0 (Valentin, Vacon absent)
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

Motion made and seconded to suspend rules and take Items 9E and 9F as a package.
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred A special permit application for Forward Change Experience DBA Hobby Quest for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 226 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017
have considered the same and Recommend that the special permit be approved with Conditions:
1. Hours: Mon-Fri. 10-6pm
2. Hours: Sat-Sun 9-5pm
3. Lighting on side of building.

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman
—> Report of Committee received and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred A special permit application for The Parlor Faded Co. LLC for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 230 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017
have considered the same and Recommend that the application be approved with conditions:
1. Hours: tues, weds, Fri. Sat 9-5pm
2. Hours: Thursday 10-7pm
3. limit to 4 Chairs.

Committee Members:
Linda L. Vacon
David K. Bartley
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Nelson R. Roman
—> Report of Committee received and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).
Under Discussion:
Councilor Bartley stated that the two orders involved parcels on Sargeant St. Councilor Bartley noted that two businesses were looking to utilize the space for a STEM Enrichment activities program and also for a barber shop. Councilor Bartley gave overview of communications from the Law Dept. Building Commissioner, and OPED noting that the parcels were appropriate for commercial use. It was also noted that the amount of parking and traffic for the area would not be a burden to the neighborhood. Councilor Bartley explained the conditions put on each Sp. Permit noting that: The Parlor Faded Co. LLC for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 230 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017 would have the following conditions:
1. Hours: tues, weds, Fri. Sat 9-5pm
2. Hours: Thursday 10-7pm
3. limit to 4 Chairs.

And the Forward Change Experience DBA Hobby Quest for a 4.7.2. Non-Conforming Use at 226 Sargeant St. Map 089 Block 00 Parcel 017 would have the following conditions:
1. Hours: Mon-Fri. 10-6pm
2. Hours: Sat-Sun 9-5pm
3. Lighting on side of building.
Motion was made and seconded to approve Items 9E and 9F with the recommended conditions: Clerk called the roll: Items 9E and 9F adopted 11-0 (Vacon absent, Valentin absent.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that The City install a crosswalk from B.S. Church to the Messier parking lot across Northampton St near Carlton St. This is a constituent request.
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
Nelson R. Roman
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

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 “FY2018 TRAFFIC GRANT” 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.
have considered the same and Recommend that the order be adopted .
Under Discussion:
Finance Committee Chair McGiverin spoke on the order and gave overview of the grant. Councilor McGiverin noted that the grant is standard and usually comes in every year. It was further noted that the grant money allows HPD to put out more patrols on the street. Motion was made and seconded to approve the grant: Clerk called the roll: Item 10A approved 10-0 (Valentin, Vacon absent) (Leahy abstained)

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 10–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin). Councilor Leahy did not vote or participate in discussion on this item.

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 “State 911 Deparetment Support and Incentive Grant” 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
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

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 “State 911 Dept Training and EMD/Regulatory Compliance Grant” 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 .
Under Discussion:
Committee Chair McGiverin again gave overview of discussions that took place within the Finance Committee and how each grant would benefit the Holyoke Police Dept. It was noted that moneys would go to training dispatch and other various needs the HPD has. Motion was made and seconded to approve Items 10B and 10C: Items 10B and 10C adopted 11-0 (Vacon, Valentin absent)

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Vacon, Valentin).

Motion made and seconded to take Item 13C out of order.
The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the Holyoke Public Works Department provide a detailed inventory of all benches/park equipment in storage at the John J. Lynch School.  (Include trash receptacles, tree planters etc).
have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been sent back to committee

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

Motion made and seconded to suspend rules and take Items 13A and 13B as a package.
The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order Order:  Hon. Mike Knapik, Director of Gov. Baker’s western Massachusetts office, appear before the DGR committee.  Mr. Knapik to attend the same meeting with Sen. Humason and Rep. Vega
Under Discussion:
DGR Committee Chair Bartley gave a summary overview of discussions that took place with State Sen. Humason, Rep. Vega, and Governors Director of the WMASS office Mike Knapik. Councilor Bartley gave information on timelines for infrastructure improvements, and other topics of discussion. Councilor Bartley also gave overview of discussion that took place on Charter School reimbursements and other information. Motion was made and seconded that Items 13A and 13B have been complied with: Both items complied with by voice vote.
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
Nelson R. Roman
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the City Council Invite Hon. Don Humason and Hon. Aaron Vega to an upcoming meeting  of the DGR Committee.  This order will help CC comply with its Rule 32A.
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
Nelson R. Roman
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

 

ORDERS AND TRANSFERS

SULLIVAN, Bresnahan Ordered, that That the City of Holyoke adopt MGL CH 39, Sec 23D in order to allow commitee members to miss one meeting during the public hearing process.
MGL Ch 39, Sec. 23D
Section 23D. (a) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, upon municipal acceptance of this section for 1 or more types of adjudicatory hearings, a member of any municipal board, committee or commission when holding an adjudicatory hearing shall not be disqualified from voting in the matter solely due to that member’s absence from no more than a single session of the hearing at which testimony or other evidence is received. Before any such vote, the member shall certify in writing that he has examined all evidence received at the missed session, which evidence shall include an audio or video recording of the missed session or a transcript thereof. The written certification shall be part of the record of the hearing. Nothing in this section shall change, replace, negate or otherwise supersede applicable quorum requirements.

(b) By ordinance or by-law, a city or town may adopt minimum additional requirements for attendance at scheduled board, committee, and commission hearings under this section.
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee. Copy to Law Department.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that that the DPW commissioners & sewer commissioners meet with the council to discuss merger of elimination of sewer commissioner and the sewer deficit.
—> Received and referred to the Charter and Rules Committee.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that that the water commissioners & dept. head meet with the council to discuss and update issues regarding Ashley & Whiting Reservoir, tax abatements.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that That the Law Dept look into joining class action suits against opoid manufactureres to recover financial damages suffered by the City.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to Law Department and Mayors Office.
Approved by the Mayor.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that Whereas: Property values in the City have risen at a very modest rate and are taxed at the maximum amount allowed. Any increase in property values should reflect a decrease in the tax rate.
Whereas: Level funding will not work in addressing the City’s impending fiancial woes.
Whereas: Stronger measures must be implemented now in order to avoid a financial crisis and lessen the burden on taxpayers.
The Holyoke City Council hereby encourages the Mayor to submit a budget that incorporates a reduction in total spending of at least 2.5%.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that That OPED meet with council to discuss (A) Compliance of various Pilot Recipients (B) Status of Hart Wool/Winn Dev. Projects.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that That the legal Department clarify for the council whether council members may be excluded from Executive Sessions of City Boards or Commissions.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to Law Department.
Approved by the Mayor.

SULLIVAN Ordered, that that all council member be AD Hoc Non voting members of all City Boards and Commissions and therefore allowed to participate in Executive Session.
—> Received and referred to the Charter and Rules Committee.

BARTLEY Ordered, that DPW fix the sidewalk on South St. between (1) Harrison Ave. and Northampton St. as well as (2) Russell Terrace and Northampton St.  Not all of it is in dire straights but much of it could use some TLC and some of it needs to be replaced.  This area is CDBG eligible.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to DPW.
Approved by the Mayor.

BARTLEY Ordered, that That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 30B and the Holyoke Procurement Ordinance, vote to accept an offer from Way Finders, Inc. to purchase a parcel of land located at 188 Chestnut Street for $15,500. Said Parcel contains approximately 0.27 acres and is described in Holyoke Assessors’ records as Map 011, Block 10, Parcel 008 and being more particularly described in deeds recorded in the Hampden County Registry of Deeds Book 20552, Page 219 and further described in Book 12504, Page 178. The parcel is zoned Multifamily Residence and Professional Offices (RO) and has an assessed value of $24,500.  Mayor’s acceptance letter and additional information has been submitted to the Council.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

BRESNAHAN Ordered, that The City Engineer/DPW review the intersection of Hampden and Nonotuck Streets to ensure that the lighting configuration and signage are adequate and ensure a safe way for drivers on Nonotuck Street to enter on to Hampden Street and for those drivers on Hampden Street to exit onto Nonotuck Street.  Further have a Representative of Police Dept. provide the total of all accidents that have occurred at this location over the past 5 years.
—> Received. Referred to Public Safety.

LEAHY, Bresnahan, Lisi, Tallman Ordered, that Order That the City Council honor City Clerk Brenna Murphy McGee with a proclamation for being given the highest designation of Master Municipal Clerk by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.
—> Received and adopted.
Approved by the Mayor.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that In order to meet the MSBA deadline of March 20th for City Council approval of the middle school project’s Preliminary Design Phase, the Joint Committee of the City Council & School Committee shall invite in members of the School Building Committee, the OPM, Pinck&Co., and the architect, Jones Whitsett, for a presentation.
—> Received and referred to the Joint City Council and School Committee.

LISI Ordered, that that given the recent FCC rulings on net neutrality, the City Council invite in representatives from HG&E to discuss public access to broadband, fiber, and the G&E’s ability to provide free, city-wide WiFi.
—> Received. Refferred to Public Service, Copy to Holyoke Gas And Electric with invite to come in to a meeting.

LISI Ordered, that that the City Council adopt an ordinance that phases out and prohibits the use of plastic bags in the city (plastics bags are one of the greatest contributors to the trash and debris problems we have throughout the city and many neighboring city’s have passed language that we can emulate).
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

LISI Ordered, that that the City Council adopt an ordinance that creates a new, Retail Center (RC) zone and create an RC district in the Whiting Farms corridor heading down to the mall (3rd time filing due to inactivity by committee chair).
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

LISI Ordered, that that the date that a special permit was received by the council appear next to the item on committee agendas. This will make it easier for the public to see how quickly the council is moving through the permitting process.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to Ryan Allen.
Approved by the Mayor.

LISI Ordered, that that the City Council in coordination with the Tax Collector send out a notification (either via mail or phone) to all residents notifying them that the 3rd and 4th quarter tax bills will be coming out together on April 1st and will come due on May 1st taxpayers are welcomed to prepay in the Tax Collector’s Office.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to Tax Collector and Holyoke Gas and Electric.
Approved by the Mayor.

Motion made and seconded to suspend rules and take Items 34-41 as a package.
MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “COPS Hiring Grant” 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, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “Shannon CSI Grant” 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, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that That the city council approve payment of prior year bill to Grynn and Barrett for Government portraits. The payment will come from the City Hall Supplies budget line.
To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Eight Hundred Forty-four and 88/100 Dollars ($844.88) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51107 PATROLMEN $844.88
TOTAL: $844.88
TO:
12101-51180 INJ ON DUTY $844.88
TOTAL: $844.88

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SIX AND 85/100 Dollars ($2026.85) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $2026.85
TOTAL: $2026.85
TO:
12201-51180 INJ ON DUTY $2026.85
TOTAL: $2026.85

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, TWO THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED NINETY-ONE AND 10/100 Dollars ($2,691.10) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51103 CAPTAINS $1035.00
12101-51204 PT CLERKS 1500.00
12101-51204 PT CLERKS 156.10
TOTAL: $2,691.10
TO:
12101-51104 LIEUTENANTS $1035.00
12101-51110 SR CLERKS 1500.00
12101-51118 ADMIN ASST 156.10
TOTAL: $2,691.10

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Six Thousand two-hundred thirty-seven and 00/100 Dollars ($6,237.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51110 Local Inspector $6,237.00
TOTAL: $6,237.00
TO:
12401-51101 Bldg Commissioner $6,237.00
TOTAL: $6,237.00

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Two thousand four hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($2,400.00) as follows:

FROM:
11352-54200 Office Supplies $2,400.00
TOTAL: $2,400.00
TO:
11351-51250 Temp/Seasonal $2,400.00
TOTAL: $2,400.00

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

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

LATE FILED ORDERS & COMMUNICATIONS

From Paul Payer City Solicitor, letter re: Grievance, Holyoke Professionals and Supervisors Association.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

 

Adjourn at 09:35 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
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