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Holyoke City Council Meeting March 20, 2018

Mar 20 2018

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

AGENDA FOR THE CITY COUNCIL
March 20,2018

LAID ON THE TABLE

1. From Irma Cruz, Assistant City Clerk minutes of February 20, 2018.

2. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW consider a 4-way stop sign at Washington Ave./ Charles St. intersection Recommend that the Council adopt the recommendation of the DPW Director

3. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW places a stop sign at the intersection of Judith St. and Sheehan Dr. There have been multiple instances of near collisions with cars turning from Judas St. onto Sheehan Dr. without stopping. This is a constituent request. Recommend that the Council adopt the recommendations of the DPW director

PUBLIC COMMENT

COMMUNICATIONS

4. From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re: final report from Clifton Larsen Allen.

5. From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re: Clifton Larson Allen Engagement Letter.

6. From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter reappointing Ms. Elizabeth A. Larivee, 198 Pleasant St. to serve as a member of the Commission on Disabilities for the City of Holyoke; Ms. Larivee will serve a three-year term; said term will expire on March 2021.

7. From Irma Cruz, Assistant City Clerk minutes from March 6, 2018.

8. From Bellamy Schmidt, City Auditor, Monthly Budget Reports as of December 31, 2017.

9. From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor re: Debit card, copy of the warrant for the City Christmas Tree.

10. From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor re: Debit Card, with written procedures established for the use of the Debit card.

11. From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor summary re: Debit Card including department and object.

12. From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor, re: Debit Card with copies of the Auditor’s emails in regards to the City Christmas Tree.

13. From Cheryl A. Dugrue, Executive Director Holyoke Retirement Board, letter re: Request to Designate the Holyoke Retirement Board as Special Municipal Employees.

14. From Terrence Murphy, Chair of Parks & Rec. Commission letter of resignation effective March 16, 2018.

15. From Parks & Recreation Commission minutes of January 11, 2018.

PETITIONS

16. Petition of Karen Spear for a renewal of a home occupation at 778 Homestead Ave. for a Nail Salon.

17. Petition of Joseph Harfoush, for a renewal of a livery license vehicle to be garaged at 395 Maple St.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

18. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

19. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

19A. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred a Communication from MA Dept. of Revenue RE: follow -up to the correspondence sent on January 19, 2018 regarding the status of Holyoke’s Annual City and Town Financial Report (Schedule A) for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2017.    Recommend that the communication has been received and complied with

19B. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that the auditing firm of Clifton, Lawson, and Allen appear before the City Council Finance Committee with their findings Recommend that the order has been complied with

19C. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council invite in our outside auditors, Melanson and Heath, to participate in the conversation with the former City Auditor Josh Pueschal, former City Auditor Brian Smith and former City Purchasing Director David Martins. Recommend that the order has been complied with

19D. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council (Finance Committee) invite in Auditor/former Auditor Joshua Pueschal to address his letter of resignation and finances in the city.  Also, invite in Brian Smith and David Martins Recommend that the order has been complied with

19E. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Ordered, 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: Auditor’s Office
11352-54200      Office Supplies             $2,400.00
TOTAL:$2,400.00
TO:
11351-51250      Temp/Seasonal             $2,400.00
TOTAL:$2,400.00 Recommend that the order be denied

20. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

21. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

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

23. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

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

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

25. BARTLEY — WHEREAS MassDOT and the Governor have directed the
LISI Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) to plan for
VALENTIN level funding for the fourth year in a row; and

WHEREAS the increased costs of operating PVTA services
at the levels needed by Holyoke and the region continue
to rise (insurance, labor, fuel, etc.) effectively
rendering MassDOT’s “level funding” policy a cut to
public transportation and creating a $3.1 million
shortfall for PVTA’s operating budget in the coming
fiscal year; and

WHEREAS Sandra Sheehan, Administrator
of the PVTA, warned the City of Holyoke of this situation
at a Development & Governmental Relations (DGR) subcommittee
hearing on November 13, 2017 and Tim Brennan, Ex.
Director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission,
appeared before the DGR committee on September 25,
2017, to also advise the City of Holyoke on this matter;
and

WHEREAS PVTA is now forced to respond by reducing
service and raising fares for Holyoke residents who
depend the most on the bus and can least afford to
pay higher prices; and

WHEREAS the proposed cuts
in service on Saturdays will be especially harmful
for Holyoke residents who depend on the bus and who
will no longer be able to shop for groceries, commute
to work, visit family and friends, and make other
trips that are necessary for the vitality of our local
economy and the quality of life of our community;
and

WHEREAS this forced reduction in bus service
does not help the City, the region, and the Commonwealth
achieve our shared goals of reducing energy use and
greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector;
and

WHEREAS statewide funding in the FY2019 state
budget dedicated to regional transit authorities,
including the PVTA, was anticipated by the Transportation
Reform Act of 2009 to be $88 million, and that this
amount reflects the true and actual needs of PVTA
and its sister RTAs for preserving existing levels
of service; and

WHEREAS the $80.4 million set
by MassDOT and the Governor would result in the loss
of approximately 20% of all PVTA service within less
than one year;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
The
City of Holyoke urges in the strongest terms that
the members of the General Court fund the Regional
Transit Authority line item in their respective FY2019
budgets at no less than $88 million.

26. BARTLEY — The City Council create a “temporary sign” ordinance that regulates when such temporary signs can be placed in homeowners’ yards and on commercial buildings or otherwise in public view.  The ordinance should regulate when the sign(s) can be installed, the sign(s) size as well as the deadline by when the sign(s) must be removed.  The ordinance could then impose a penalty on the property owner and/or the vendor or candidate in whose favor the sign is for.  The ordinance should also describe which city department(s) shall enforce this ordinance.  (Background: my purpose in filing this order is not to punish vendors or political candidates but to emphasize that campaigns, for example, are only finite by nature and any political signs should only be temporary themselves and not be permanently posted in lawns or on buildings.   This Order’s intent is not to impose regulating the content of the vendor or political candidate’s speech but only to preserve aesthetic appeal and traffic safety.)  Any current political signs leftover from past campaigns shall not be exempt from this ordinance.

27. BARTLEY — The chain link fence at Lt. William J. Sheard Playground be removed unless there’s some rationale reason for keeping it in place. If it cannot be removed, then please explain why and at least replace it with something more attractive and that doesn’t become a magnet for plastic bags and litter.

28. BARTLEY — the Mayor please budget for appropriate signage for the parking spaces on the City Hall deck and that the DPW order signs pursuant to ordinance 86-106 (b)(1)(ii).

29. BARTLEY — the Mayor please budget for ongoing professional education for City Hall management and employees, as necessary

30. BRESNAHAN — the Fire Chief and/or Board of Commissions come before the  council to discuss if their plan for more firefighters per apparatus is being fulfilled.  As discussed by the Fire Chief and Commissioners in previous public meetings and press releases that if an engine was blacked out this would allow the Fire Dept. to assign more firefighters to apparatus.  Further, please provide the  Council with the staffing records for all apparatus from July 1st, 2017 to March 1st 2018.

31. LEAHY — That that DPW and their third party contractor submit a schedule of planned street sweeping (by ward and street) to the City Council by no later than April 15, 2018.  The purpose is to allow residents to plan vehicle parking and sidewalk cleaning in an orderly fashion and further set a date certain when all city streets will be swept.

32. LEBRON-MARTINEZ — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 49 No. East St. for Ana Cruz Nazario.

33. MCGEE — Order that the city council set the tax rate for FY 2018.

34. MCGEE — that Section 6.4.7 of zoning be sent back to ordinance to be amended in order to be in conformity with the rest of the sign ordinances under the zoning code

35. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Four thousand three hundred forty-one and 52/100 Dollars ($4341.52) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51107 Patrolmen $4341.52
TOTAL: $4341.52
TO:
12101-51180 Injured on Duty $4341.52
TOTAL: $4341.52

36. MCGIVERIN — that the amount of Two thousand two hundred twenty-one and 65/100 Dollars ($2221.65) be authorized from the DPW Department’s Professional Services (14222-53010), Seventy-eight and 00/100 Dollars ($78) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010), Ninety-five and 00/100 Dollars ($) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010) appropriation in fiscal year 2018 for services rendered in fiscal year 2017 which were unencumbered at the 2017 fiscal year end.

37. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Three thousand twelve and 64/100 Dollars ($3,012.64) as follows:

FROM:
15432-57600 Patriotic Events $3,012.64
TOTAL: $3,012.64
TO:
15431-51104 Pay-Head Clerk $3,012.64
TOTAL: $3,012.64

38. MCGIVERIN — the City Council amend the sewer rate ordinance adjusting
LISI the deficit in their sewer budget.

39. MCGIVERIN — Order to establish all Retirement Board positions as special municipal employees.

40. MCGIVERIN — Order to establish a fee to accompany tort claims to the city law department. Suggested fee $15. Successful claims would be granted fee reimbursement.

41. MCGIVERIN — That the City of Holyoke appropriate the amount of Thirteen Million Seven
Hundred Ninety Seven Thousand Five Hundred Eighty One Dollars ($13,797,581.00)
for the purpose of paying costs of Boiler and Window replacement at the Dr. Marcella R.
Kelly Elementary School at 216 West St Holyoke and Window Replacements at the Lt.
Clayre Sullivan Elementary School at 400 Jarvis Ave, Holyoke and the William G. Morgan
Elementary School at 596 South Bridge St., Holyoke including the payment of all costs
incidental or related thereto (the “Project”), which proposed repair project would materially
extend the useful life of the school and preserve an asset that otherwise is capable of
supporting the required educational program, and for which the City of Holyoke has applied
for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be
expended under the direction of Holyoke Public Schools. To meet this appropriation the City
of Holyoke, is authorized to borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to
any other enabling authority. The City of Holyoke acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant
program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the
MSBA, and if the MSBA’s Board of Directors votes to invite the City to collaborate with the
MSBA on this proposed repair project, any project costs the City of Holyoke incurs in excess
of any grant that may be approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole
responsibility of the City of Holyoke; and that, if invited to collaborate with the MSBA on
the proposed repair project, the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote
shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that
may be executed between the City of Holyoke and the MSBA.

42. SULLIVAN — That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with
VALENTIN M.G.L. c. 30B and the Holyoke Procurement Ordinance,
vote to accept an offer from OneHolyoke CDC to purchase
a parcel of land located at 278 Pine Street for $1.
Said Parcel contains approximately 0.19 acres and
is described in Holyoke Assessors’ records as Map
004, Block 06, Parcel 013 and being more particularly
described in deeds recorded in the Hampden County
Registry of Deeds Book 21088, Page 399. The parcel
is zoned Downtown Residential (DR) and has an assessed
value of $31,200.

43. VACON — that speed limit signs (30mph) be installed on Mt Rd ( request 2-3 on each side of the road).

 

 

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
March 20,2018

The meeting was called to order by President McGee at 07:30 PM.

The Clerk called the roll. Absent members: 2 (Leahy, Roman).

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

Councilor Juan Anderson-Burgos name was called to head the roll call voting. Councilor Bartley volunteered to take the first vote and head the roll call: Council voted to allow this to take place.

LAID ON THE TABLE

From Irma Cruz, Assistant City Clerk minutes of February 20, 2018.

—> Received.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and take Items 2 and 3 as a package
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW consider a 4-way stop sign at Washington Ave./ Charles St. intersection Recommend that the Council adopt the recommendation of the DPW Director

—> Received, adopted on a roll call, 11 Yeas, 0 Nays, Councilors absent, Leahy, Roman Approved by the Mayor

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the DPW places a stop sign at the intersection of Judith St. and Sheehan Dr. There have been multiple instances of near collisions with cars turning from Judas St. onto Sheehan Dr. without stopping. This is a constituent request. Recommend that the Council adopt the recommendations of the DPW director

Under Discussion:
Item 2 and 3 taken up as a package: It was noted that both orders were tabled at the previous meeting in order to get legal forms along with measurements from DPW. It was noted that both orders were traffic related orders and involved safety recommendations from the DPW Superintendent. Motion was made and seconded to adopt both orders: Items 2 and 3 adopted 11-0 (Roman, Leahy absent)—> Received and adopted on a roll call, 11 yeas, 0 Nays, Absent, Leahy, Roman, Approved by the Mayor,
ROMAN, Bresnahan, McGee, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin Ordered, that That the City Council and Mayor request and approve the use of the State Auditor (Suzanne Bump’s Office) to conduct and do an audit of all the city finances for the City of Holyoke
Under Discussion:
Tabled order from previous meeting was taken off the table. It was noted that the item was request to make use of the State Auditor Suzanne Bump’s office to do a review of City finances. Motion was made and seconded to receive and adopt the order. Item received and adopted referred to State Auditor.
—> Received and adopted. Copy to State Auditor. ( Mayor did not sign)

PUBLIC COMMENT

Helene Florio spoke and asked that the budget be definitively balanced. Helene Florio thanked the Finance Dept. for their work in getting the City to the point where the tax rate can be set. Helene Florio stated that she hopes that the tax rates for both businesses and residents can be decreased.

COMMUNICATIONS

From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re: final report from Clifton Larsen Allen.

—> Received. Copy to Finance Committee.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and take Late file C, D & E out of order

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, One hundred sixty-two thousand seven hundred five and 00/100 Dollars ($162,705) as follows:

FROM:
8810-10400 Stabilization Fund $162,705
TOTAL: $162,705
TO:
8999-10400 State of Emergency Deficit Spending $162,705
TOTAL: $162,705

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Received and adopted, In City Council March 20, 2018, Passed two readings and adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays, Yeas 11–Nays 0– absent 2 (Leahy, Roman)

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that the amount of One thousand six hundred sixty-five and 00/100 Dollars ($1,665.00) be authorized from the DPW Department’s Professional Services (14222-53010), Ninety-five and 00/100 Dollars ($95) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010) appropriation in fiscal year 2018 for services rendered in fiscal year 2017 which were unencumbered at the 2017 fiscal year end.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Bellamy Schmidt, Acting City Auditor letter re: Free Cash

—> Received, Copy to Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Two hundred twenty-two thousand nine hundred thirty-one and 00/100 Dollars ($222,931) as follows:

FROM:
8810-10400 Stabilization Fund $222,931
TOTAL: $222,931
TO:
8999-10400 State of Emergency Deficit Spending $222,931
TOTAL: $222,931

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 7–Nays 4 (Bartley, McGee, Sullivan, Vacon)–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, One million two hundred ninety-six thousand three hundred thirty-two and 00/100 Dollars ($1,296,332) as follows:

FROM:
*****-***** Free Cash $1,296,332
TOTAL: $1,296,332
TO:
*****-***** Reduce FY2018 Tax Levy $1,296,332
TOTAL: $1,296,332

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 0–Nays 11 (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin)–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).
Under Discussion:
Rules were suspended to take up Late Files C, D, and E, as a package: Councilor McGiverin spoke on his orders and noted that the three votes represent options for balancing the budget. Rules were suspended to allow Mayor Alex Morse to address the Council. Mayor Morse spoke and explained each of the late files and gave details on how each would help in balancing the budget. Councilors discussed the various options contained in the orders and noted the costs of the October snow storm of 2011 and how stabilization would be used to pay for those costs. Councilors also discussed various financial issues that have been going on in the City along with options that could have been taken previously to address them.
Motion made and seconded to adopt Late File D: Late File D: denied by 7-4 vote (Roman, Leahy absent)
Motion made and seconded to adopt Late File C: Late File C adopted 11-0 (Roman, Leahy absent)
Motion made and seconded to adopt Late File E: Late File E Denied 11-0 (Roman, Leahy absent)
From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter re: Clifton Larson Allen Engagement Letter.

—> Received. Copy to Finance Committee.

From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter reappointing Ms. Elizabeth A. Larivee, 198 Pleasant St. to serve as a member of the Commission on Disabilities for the City of Holyoke; Ms. Larivee will serve a three-year term; said term will expire on March 2021.

—> Received and appointment confirmed.

From Irma Cruz, Assistant City Clerk minutes from March 6, 2018.

—> Received.

From Bellamy Schmidt, City Auditor, Monthly Budget Reports as of December 31, 2017.

—> Received. Copy to Ordinance Committee and Finance Committee.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and take Items 9-12 as a package
From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor re: Debit card, copy of the warrant for the City Christmas Tree.

—> Received. Copy to Ordinance Committee and Finance Committee.

From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor re: Debit Card, with written procedures established for the use of the Debit card.

—> Received. Copy to Ordinance Committee and Finance Committee.

From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor summary re: Debit Card including department and object.

—> Received. Copy to Ordinance Committee and Finance Committee.

From Bellamy H. Schmidt, Acting City Auditor, re: Debit Card with copies of the Auditor’s emails in regards to the City Christmas Tree.

—> Received. Copy to Ordinance Committee and Finance Committee.

From Cheryl A. Dugrue, Executive Director Holyoke Retirement Board, letter re: Request to Designate the Holyoke Retirement Board as Special Municipal Employees.

—> Received and referred to the Public Service Committee.

From Terrence Murphy, Chair of Parks & Rec. Commission letter of resignation effective March 16, 2018.

—> Received and referred to the Public Service Committee.

From Parks & Recreation Commission minutes of January 11, 2018.

—> Received.

PETITIONS

Petition of Karen Spear for a renewal of a home occupation at 778 Homestead Ave. for a Nail Salon.

—> Received and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman). Renewal Granted.

Petition of Joseph Harfoush, for a renewal of a livery license vehicle to be garaged at 395 Maple St.

—> Received and adopted. Renewal Granted.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Councilor McGee announced Alzheimer’s community breakfast at HCC on April 27th. Councilor McGee also reported event at the mall on May 6th. It was also noted that a thank you letter should be drafted to ABC pizza thanking them for helping the City Council by holding the banner, pole and flowers for the St. Patrick’s Parade.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and Take Item 33 Out of Order
MCGEE Ordered, that Order that the city council set the tax rate for FY 2018.
Under Discussion:
Councilor McGee explained the process for the City Council setting the City tax rate. It was noted that there can be three suggestions in front of the Council.
Option #3, 1.59 .764657 $19.12 res. $39.75 comm.
Roll Call of 5 Yeas, 6 Nays roll call did not pass for Option 3 (Yeas, (Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez, McGee, Tallman, Vacon) Nays, (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Lisi, McGiverin, Sullivan,
Valentin). Absent Councilors: Leahy and Roman
Option #2 1.580 .76846 $19.17 res. $39.63 comm.
Roll Call of 1 Yeas, 10 Nays roll call did not pass for Option 2 (Yeas, (Sullivan) Nays, (Anderson-Burgos) Bartley, Bresnahan, Lebron – Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin). Absent Councilors: Leahy and Roman
Option #1 1.5880 .765455 $19.13 res. 39.69 comm.
Roll Call of 7 Yeas, 4 Nays, Roll call passed to accept new tax rate for 2018. (Yeas, (Bartley, Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez,Lisi, McGiverin,Tallman, Vacon) Nays, (Anderson-Burgos,McGee,Sullivan, Valentin)
Absent Councilors: Leahy and Roman
*Received and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays: –Yeas 7 – Nays 4 (Anderson-Burgos, McGee, Sullivan, Valentin dissenting) (Leahy, Roman absent) FILL IN THREE OPTIONS AND VOTES HERE 1 hour 19 mark
—> Received and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 7–Nays 4 (Anderson-Burgos, McGee, Sullivan, Valentin)–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman). the selected residential factor is 0.765455.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and take Item 25 out of Order
BARTLEY, Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, Tallman, Valentin Ordered, that WHEREAS MassDOT and the Governor have directed the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) to plan for level funding for the fourth year in a row; and

WHEREAS the increased costs of operating PVTA services at the levels needed by Holyoke and the region continue to rise (insurance, labor, fuel, etc.) effectively rendering MassDOT’s “level funding” policy a cut to public transportation and creating a $3.1 million shortfall for PVTA’s operating budget in the coming fiscal year; and

WHEREAS Sandra Sheehan, Administrator of the PVTA, warned the City of Holyoke of this situation at a Development & Governmental Relations (DGR) subcommittee hearing on November 13, 2017 and Tim Brennan, Ex. Director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, appeared before the DGR committee on September 25, 2017, to also advise the City of Holyoke on this matter; and

WHEREAS PVTA is now forced to respond by reducing service and raising fares for Holyoke residents who depend the most on the bus and can least afford to pay higher prices; and

WHEREAS the proposed cuts in service on Saturdays will be especially harmful for Holyoke residents who depend on the bus and who will no longer be able to shop for groceries, commute to work, visit family and friends, and make other trips that are necessary for the vitality of our local economy and the quality of life of our community; and

WHEREAS this forced reduction in bus service does not help the City, the region, and the Commonwealth achieve our shared goals of reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector; and

WHEREAS statewide funding in the FY2019 state budget dedicated to regional transit authorities, including the PVTA, was anticipated by the Transportation Reform Act of 2009 to be $88 million, and that this amount reflects the true and actual needs of PVTA and its sister RTAs for preserving existing levels of service; and

WHEREAS the $80.4 million set by MassDOT and the Governor would result in the loss of approximately 20% of all PVTA service within less than one year;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
The City of Holyoke urges in the strongest terms that the members of the General Court fund the Regional Transit Authority line item in their respective FY2019 budgets at no less than $88 million.
Under Discussion:
Councilor Bartley, Lisi, McGiverin, spoke on the resolution and why they are supporting it. It was noted that due to increasing costs of the running the PVTA level funding the Regional Transit Authority line item in the FY 2019 budget would in effect be a cut. Councilors spoke on the need to fund the line item at no less than 88 million dollars. Motion was made and seconded to adopt the order: Item 25 adopted 11- 0 (Roman, Leahy absent)

—> Received and adopted.
Approved by the Mayor.

Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and take item 41 out of Order

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that That the City of Holyoke appropriate the amount of Thirteen Million Seven
Hundred Ninety Seven Thousand Five Hundred Eighty One Dollars ($13,797,581.00)
for the purpose of paying costs of Boiler and Window replacement at the Dr. Marcella R.
Kelly Elementary School at 216 West St Holyoke and Window Replacements at the Lt.
Clayre Sullivan Elementary School at 400 Jarvis Ave, Holyoke and the William G. Morgan
Elementary School at 596 South Bridge St., Holyoke including the payment of all costs
incidental or related thereto (the “Project”), which proposed repair project would materially
extend the useful life of the school and preserve an asset that otherwise is capable of
supporting the required educational program, and for which the City of Holyoke has applied
for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be
expended under the direction of Holyoke Public Schools. To meet this appropriation the City
of Holyoke, is authorized to borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to
any other enabling authority. The City of Holyoke acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant
program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the
MSBA, and if the MSBA’s Board of Directors votes to invite the City to collaborate with the
MSBA on this proposed repair project, any project costs the City of Holyoke incurs in excess
of any grant that may be approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole
responsibility of the City of Holyoke; and that, if invited to collaborate with the MSBA on
the proposed repair project, the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote
shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that
may be executed between the City of Holyoke and the MSBA.

—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred a Communication from MA Dept. of Revenue RE: follow -up to the correspondence sent on January 19, 2018 regarding the status of Holyoke’s Annual City and Town Financial Report (Schedule A) for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2017.

have considered the same and Recommend that the communication has been received and complied with .
Under Discussion:
It was noted that the order was a communication from MA DOR. Councilor McGiverin gave overview of the communication. Motion was made and seconded to adopt the Committee report that the communication has been complied with: Motion passed 11-0 (Roman, Leahy absent)
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 rules and take items 19B, 19C & 19D as a package
The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that the auditing firm of Clifton, Lawson, and Allen appear before the City Council Finance Committee with their findings

have considered the same and Recommend that the order has been complied with .
Under Discussion:
Finance Chair McGiverin spoke on the orders and noted that the entire City Finance team along with outside auditors attended a Finance Committee meeting and answered all the questions that were contained within the orders. Motion was made and seconded to adopt the committee report. Committee report adopted by voice vote and Items 19B, 19C, and 19D were 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.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council invite in our outside auditors, Melanson and Heath, to participate in the conversation with the former City Auditor Josh Pueschal, former City Auditor Brian Smith and former City Purchasing Director David Martins.

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.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City Council (Finance Committee) invite in Auditor/former Auditor Joshua Pueschal to address his letter of resignation and finances in the city.  Also, invite in Brian Smith and David Martins

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.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Ordered, 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: Auditor’s Office
11352-54200      Office Supplies             $2,400.00
TOTAL:$2,400.00
TO:
11351-51250      Temp/Seasonal             $2,400.00
TOTAL:$2,400.00
(Recommended by the Mayor)

have considered the same and Recommend that the order be denied.
Under Discussion:
Councilor McGiverin noted that the financial transfer has already been taken care of and therefore is no longer needed. Item 19E: Denied 11-0 (Roman, Leahy absent)

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
James M. Leahy
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
Todd McGee

—> Report of Committee received and Denied on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11 (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin)–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).
Approved by the Mayor.

ORDERS AND TRANSFERS

BARTLEY Ordered, that The City Council create a “temporary sign” ordinance that regulates when such temporary signs can be placed in homeowners’ yards and on commercial buildings or otherwise in public view.  The ordinance should regulate when the sign(s) can be installed, the sign(s) size as well as the deadline by when the sign(s) must be removed.  The ordinance could then impose a penalty on the property owner and/or the vendor or candidate in whose favor the sign is for.  The ordinance should also describe which city department(s) shall enforce this ordinance.  (Background: my purpose in filing this order is not to punish vendors or political candidates but to emphasize that campaigns, for example, are only finite by nature and any political signs should only be temporary themselves and not be permanently posted in lawns or on buildings.   This Order’s intent is not to impose regulating the content of the vendor or political candidate’s speech but only to preserve aesthetic appeal and traffic safety.)  Any current political signs leftover from past campaigns shall not be exempt from this ordinance.

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

BARTLEY Ordered, that The chain link fence at Lt. William J. Sheard Playground be removed unless there’s some rationale reason for keeping it in place. If it cannot be removed, then please explain why and at least replace it with something more attractive and that doesn’t become a magnet for plastic bags and litter.

—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

BARTLEY Ordered, that the Mayor please budget for appropriate signage for the parking spaces on the City Hall deck and that the DPW order signs pursuant to ordinance 86-106 (b)(1)(ii).

—> Received and adopted. Copy to Mayors Office.
Approved by the Mayor.

BARTLEY Ordered, that the Mayor please budget for ongoing professional education for City Hall management and employees, as necessary

—> Received and adopted. Copy to Mayors Office.
Approved by the Mayor.

BRESNAHAN Ordered, that the Fire Chief and/or Board of Commissions come before the  council to discuss if their plan for more firefighters per apparatus is being fulfilled.  As discussed by the Fire Chief and Commissioners in previous public meetings and press releases that if an engine was blacked out this would allow the Fire Dept. to assign more firefighters to apparatus.  Further, please provide the  Council with the staffing records for all apparatus from July 1st, 2017 to March 1st 2018.

—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. Copy to Fire Dept..

LEAHY Ordered, that That that DPW and their third party contractor submit a schedule of planned street sweeping (by ward and street) to the City Council by no later than April 15, 2018.  The purpose is to allow residents to plan vehicle parking and sidewalk cleaning in an orderly fashion and further set a date certain when all city streets will be swept. Please avoid trash pickup days as part of sweeping.

—> Received and adopted. Copy to DPW, Suez.
Approved by the Mayor.

LEBRON-MARTINEZ Ordered, that That a handicap sign be placed in front of 49 No. East St. for Ana Cruz Nazario.

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee. Copy to Commission on Disabilities.

 

MCGEE Ordered, that Section 6.4.7 of zoning be sent back to ordinance to be amended in order to be in conformity with the rest of the sign ordinances under the zoning code

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Four thousand three hundred forty-one and 52/100 Dollars ($4341.52) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51107 Patrolmen $4341.52
TOTAL: $4341.52
TO:
12101-51180 Injured on Duty $4341.52
TOTAL: $4341.52

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).
Approved by the Mayor.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that the amount of Two thousand two hundred twenty-one and 65/100 Dollars ($2221.65) be authorized from the DPW Department’s Professional Services (14222-53010), Seventy-eight and 00/100 Dollars ($78) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010), Ninety-five and 00/100 Dollars ($) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010) appropriation in fiscal year 2018 for services rendered in fiscal year 2017 which were unencumbered at the 2017 fiscal year end.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

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 2018, Three thousand twelve and 64/100 Dollars ($3,012.64) as follows:

FROM:
15432-57600 Patriotic Events $3,012.64
TOTAL: $3,012.64
TO:
15431-51104 Pay-Head Clerk $3,012.64
TOTAL: $3,012.64

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN, Lisi Ordered, that the City Council amend the sewer rate ordinance adjusting the deficit in their sewer budget.

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that Order to establish all Retirement Board positions as special municipal employees.

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that Order to establish a fee to accompany tort claims to the city law department. Suggested fee $15. Successful claims would be granted fee reimbursement.

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

SULLIVAN, Valentin 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 OneHolyoke CDC to purchase a parcel of land located at 278 Pine Street for $1. Said Parcel contains approximately 0.19 acres and is described in Holyoke Assessors’ records as Map 004, Block 06, Parcel 013 and being more particularly described in deeds recorded in the Hampden County Registry of Deeds Book 21088, Page 399. The parcel is zoned Downtown Residential (DR) and has an assessed value of $31,200.

—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

VACON Ordered, that speed limit signs (30mph) be installed on Mt Rd ( request 2-3 on each side of the road). It was noted that Councilor Bartley would abstain from the Item due to conflict of interest

—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

LATE FILED ORDERS & COMMUNICATIONS

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, One hundred sixty-two thousand seven hundred five and 00/100 Dollars ($162,705) as follows:

FROM:
8810-10400 Stabilization Fund $162,705
TOTAL: $162,705
TO:
8999-10400 State of Emergency Deficit Spending $162,705
TOTAL: $162,705

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Received and adopted, In City Council March 20, 2018, Passed two readings and adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays, Yeas 11–Nays 9– absent 2 (Leahy, Roman)

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that the amount of One thousand six hundred sixty-five and 00/100 Dollars ($1,665.00) be authorized from the DPW Department’s Professional Services (14222-53010), Ninety-five and 00/100 Dollars ($95) be authorized from the Professional Services (14222-53010) appropriation in fiscal year 2018 for services rendered in fiscal year 2017 which were unencumbered at the 2017 fiscal year end.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Bellamy Schmidt, Acting City Auditor letter re: Free Cash

—> Received, Copy to Finance Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, Two hundred twenty-two thousand nine hundred thirty-one and 00/100 Dollars ($222,931) as follows:

FROM:
8810-10400 Stabilization Fund $222,931
TOTAL: $222,931
TO:
8999-10400 State of Emergency Deficit Spending $222,931
TOTAL: $222,931

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 7–Nays 4 (Bartley, McGee, Sullivan, Vacon)–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2018, One million two hundred ninety-six thousand three hundred thirty-two and 00/100 Dollars ($1,296,332) as follows:

FROM:
*****-***** Free Cash $1,296,332
TOTAL: $1,296,332
TO:
*****-***** Reduce FY2018 Tax Levy $1,296,332
TOTAL: $1,296,332

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, March 20, 2018.

Alex B Morse, Mayor

—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 0–Nays 11 (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Bresnahan, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon, Valentin)–Absent 2 (Leahy, Roman).

 

Adjourn at 09:20 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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