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Holyoke City Council Meeting October 1, 2024

Oct 1 2024

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

Posted September 27, 2024, 1:30 PM

Meeting will take place at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight St
and can also be accessed remotely via www.zoom.us
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85914960000?pwd=QVBqSkJvd0pSZENmNFdDbnVXTnVTUT09
Meeting ID: 859 1496 0000 Meeting Passcode: 657908 or by call in at 1 (646) 558-8656 with same Meeting ID and Passcode.

Live Spanish interpretation will be available on local access channel 15 using the television’s SAP option, through the live stream on the city website, as well as on the Zoom feed by clicking the interpretation option and choosing Spanish.

Tuesday, October 1, 2024
7:00 PM

LAID ON THE TABLE

1.         DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, ONE HUNDRED EIGHT THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED NINETY FIVE AND 56/100 Dollars ($108,695.56) as follows:

FROM:

8815-10400    CANNABIS STABILIZATION         $108,695.56

.-.    UPDATE TO FY2025        .

TOTAL:    $108,695.56

TO:

19412-57630    SOLICITOR – CLAIMS & DAMAGES        $108,695.56

TOTAL:    $108,695.56

2.         MAGRATH-SMITH – Ordered, that the Director of Economic Development and Planning come into the  Finance Sub-Committee to discuss the use of cannabis impact fee funds and future implications for us as a city.

COMMUNICATIONS

3.         From City Clerk Brenna Murphy Leary and Admin. Assistant Jeffery Anderson-Burgos, meeting minutes from September 18, 2024

4.         Memorandum of Agreement by and Between the City of Holyoke and NAGE R1-180, Clerical Union

5.         From Linda Vacon-Sex Har HPD, Investigation of Complaints Against Manuel Reyes

6.         Grant-Completion-Form-for-Fund-0689 FY24 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant

7.         From Board of Fire Commissioners, meeting minutes from August 19, 2024

8.         From Stephen Superba, Email to Council accompanying document on Investigation of Complaint Against Manuel Reyes(1)

PETITIONS

9.         Speed Hump Petition from Hampshire Street Residents

10.       Petition of Peter Hannoush for a renewal for a Second Hand License at 50 Holyoke St.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

11.       The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order  that an ordinance be created that establishes a public process for approving the installation of raised crosswalks that includes input from safety departments and the public and a determination from engineering.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

12.       The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order  that Holyoke double the tax abatement for veterans as authorized by the Hero Act:  Expanding Veteran Property Tax Exemptions.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

13.       — The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order  To explore creating a zoning and code enforcement position in the building department.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

14.       The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FIVE THOUSAND SIXTY NINE AND 13/100 Dollars ($5,069.13) as follows:

FROM:

11351-51106    AUDIT-PROF ACCOUNTANT HPD         $5,069.13

TOTAL:    $5,069.13

TO:

11522-53009    PERSONNEL-PROF SERVICES         $5,069.13

TOTAL:    $5,069.13

Recommended that the order be adopted.

15.       The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order  that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FIFTY EIGHT THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED AND 00/100 Dollars ($58,500) as follows:

FROM:

11751-51109    PLANNER II        $58,500

TOTAL:    $58,500

TO:

11751-51106    PLANNER I        $58,500

TOTAL:    $58,500

Recommended that the order be adopted.

16.       The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, THIRTY THREE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($33,000) as follows:

FROM:

14101-51101    PAY-ENGINEER        $19,000

14101-51105    PAY-SR CIVIL ENGINEER        14,000

TOTAL:    $33,000

TO:

14102-53010    PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES        $33,000

TOTAL:    $33,000

Recommended that the order be adopted.

17.       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 “MASSACHUSETTS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY EMPG GRANT, $5,000, NO MATCH” 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.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

18.       The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWO HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($250,000) as follows:

FROM:

12101-51107      PATROLMEN    $200,000

12101-51105      SERGEANT      50,000|

TOTAL:             $250,000

FROM:

12101-51300      OVERTIME       $250,000

TOTAL:             $250,000

Recommended that the order be adopted.

19.       The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWENTY TWO THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY EIGHT AND 00/100 Dollars ($22,378) as follows:

FROM:

12101-51103      POLICE CAPTAINS       $22,378

TOTAL:             $22,378

TO:

12101-51117      DISPATCHERS             $17,404

12101-51110      PRINCIPAL CLERKS     4,974

TOTAL:             $22,378

Recommended that the order be adopted.

20.       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 “HPD EQUIPMENT DONATION:  THERMO SCIENTIFIC TRUNARC HANDHELD NARCOTICS ANALYZER, FAIR MARKET VALUE $40,871.91”.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

21.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order Petition of Francisco Martir, Food Vendor License Application for 415 Main St.

Awaiting disposition

22.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  From Mayor Joshua Garcia-Elms College Lease Agreement for the use of Mackenzie Field

Awaiting disposition

23.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order From Mayor Joshua Garcia- Valley Blue Sox Lease Agreement for use of Mackenzie Stadium

Awaiting disposition

24.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order to declare Holyoke Assessors Parcel 030-08-004, 285 Main Street, Holyoke, MA as surplus property and sell to abutter, Johnna Caizan-Torres with an address of 10215 Jamaica Avenue, Apartment 2L, Richmond Hill, NY 11418, for $15,000.00.  This property is valued under $35,000.00 and therefore exempt from procurement requirements.

Awaiting disposition

25.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  that the City Council approve the Resolution for the Certified Housing Development Incentive Program Project including a Local Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement with Elliott Properties, LLC for the redevelopment of 174 Lyman Street (Assessors Map  012, Block 04, Parcel 001) into downtown market rate housing.

Awaiting disposition

26.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  From Marco Crescentini-CCC-2024-06-14 City Council Chambers Plan Memo & Sketches

Awaiting disposition

27.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order The conservation commissioner be invited to attend a future DGR meeting to provide an update on the construction in and around Scott’s Tower.  Please be prepared to address the issue of water run-off to the pond owned by the abutter at 5 Lindor Heights.  Refer to DGR and Conservation Commission.

Awaiting disposition

28.       The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order  HPD and MA DOT work to promote a pedestrian safety plan for the employees contracted to work at the Soldiers’ Home.  MA DOT expects to have up to 300 employees working on site for the next three years.  The employees are scheduled to park at Lot Q at H.C.C. during that time.  Refer to HPD, MA DOT District 2 and the Development and Governmental Relations Committee for a follow-up.

Awaiting disposition

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

29.       ANDERSON-BURGOS – Ordered that the DPW repair the sidewalk in front of 86 Beacon St. This is a pressing concern as the sidewalk is severely uneven, causing elderly residents to trip in a poorly lit area. Please prioritize this.

30.       Bartley- The public safety committee invite the DPW Superintendent and City Forester to a future meeting to discuss tree trimming, tree stump removal, tree planting, and Holyoke’s tree nursery.

31.       Bartley- The city of Holyoke work with DCR to allow the state access to city property to plant trees at the top of the 391 interchange.  Receive and refer to DGR.

32.       Bartley- HG&E review the lighting in the parking lot behind City Hall to see if it’s properly illuminated.  Receive and Refer to HG&E and request a communication by November’s first meeting.

33.       DEVINE, RIVERA, J. – Ordered, that the Police Chief, Board of Health Director, Mayor and Law Dept meet with the City Council to discuss improving numerous quality of life issues that we have seen or citizens have expressed concerns with us.  We would like to look at current strategies and see if they are effective or what we need to change including the potential need for additional resources.  We also request leadership develop a comprehensive plan including a map that they can present containing all the resources currently provided, those planned and needed to achieve both short and long term objectives.

34.       DEVINE – Ordered that a proclamation be given to Kate McCoy for 44 years of dedication as the payroll clerk and other duties in the HPD

35.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, SEVEN THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY ONE AND 26/100 Dollars ($7,861.26) as follows:

FROM:

12201-51103    CAPTAIN        $3,663.90

12201-51105    FIREFIGHTERS        4,197.36

TOTAL:    $7,861.26

TO:

12201-51180    INJURED ON DUTY (PAY PERIOD #6)        $7,861.26

TOTAL:    $7,861.26

36.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWENTY ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED THIRTY AND 64/100 Dollars ($21,930.64) as follows:

FROM:

12101-51105    SERGEANTS        $7,135.36

12101-51107    PATROLMEN        14,795.28

TOTAL:    $21,930.64

TO:

12101-51180    INJURED ON DUTY        $21,930.64

TOTAL:    $21,930.64

37.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWENTY FIVE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED NINETY TWO AND 98/100 Dollars ($25,892.98) as follows:

FROM:

12101-51105    SERGEANTS        $7,135.36

12101-51107    PATROLMEN        18,757.62

TOTAL:    $25,892.98

TO:

12101-51180    INJURED ON DUTY         $25,892.98

TOTAL:    $25,892.98

38.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($150,000) as follows:

FROM:

8810-10400    CITY GENERAL STABILIZATION         $150,000

TOTAL:    $150,000

TO:

13003-58000    SCHOOLS-CAPITAL OUTLAY        $150,000

TOTAL:    $150,000

39.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($150,000) as follows:

FROM:

8811-10400    CAPITAL STABILIZATION        $150,000

TOTAL:    $150,000

TO:

13003-58000    SCHOOLS-CAPITAL OUTLAY        $150,000

TOTAL:    $150,000

40.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, ONE HUNDRED NINETY TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED AND 00/100 Dollars ($192,500) as follows:

FROM:

8811-10400    CAPITAL STABILIZATION         $192,500

TOTAL:    $192,500

TO:

14223-58001    CAPITAL OUTLAY-FUEL DEPOT        $192,500

TOTAL:    $192,500

41.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($50,000) as follows:

FROM:

12941-51104    PAY-TREE CLIMBER        $50,000

TOTAL:    $50,000

TO:

12942-53010    CONTRACT FORESTRY SERVICES         $50,000

TOTAL:    $50,000

42.       DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FIVE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($5,000) as follows:

FROM:

11752-53010    CONTRACTED SERVICES         $5,000

TOTAL:    $5,000

TO:

11751-51112    LICENSING AGENT         $5,000

TOTAL:    $5,000

43.       DEVINE – Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “COMMUNITY COMPACT GRANT- SPEED MANAGEMENT PLAN, $50,000, NO MATCH” 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.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

44.       JOURDAIN, GIVNER, RIVERA, I..- Ordered, that the Police Chief, Board of Health Director, Mayor and Law Dept meet with the City Council to discuss improving numerous quality of life issues that we have seen or citizens have expressed concerns with us.  We would like to look at current strategies and see if they are effective or what we need to change including the potential need for additional resources.

45.       JOURDAIN – That the DPW please repair the potholes on Old Bassett Rd.

46.       MAGRATH-SMITH – Ordered, that the DPW Director and Conservation Director provide an update either in writing or in person as to the progress made in implementing the Urban Forestry Grant monies for 24-25.

47.       MAGRATH-SMITH – Ordered, that City Council approve a scope of work change for a contract between Wistariahurst and the CPA Committee so remaining funds from a CPA project which came in under budget can be used to include plaster work in the Marble Lobby, the Great Hall, the Music Room, and the Silk Room.

LATE FILES ORDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS

48.       DEVINE, RIVERA, J. – ORDERED that the DPW Director, DPW Board of Commissioners and Interim Engineer appear before the Finance Committee to give the status of identifying public and private ways and non accepted streets and the next steps necessary in addressing the funding needed to hire a consultant to do an inventory of these streets with recommendations to the Mayor, City Council and DPW Director and DPW Board.
*Added September 27, 2024, 2:00 PM

49. DEVINE, MAGRATH-SMITH – that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts repair and blacktop Old Bassett Road as according to Assessors office, the Commonwealth owns this road. Item #45 should be given leave to withdraw as this is not an accepted city road but rather owned by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
*Added September 30, 2024, 11:45 AM

50. MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI – Order that the Police Department be allowed to hire a Crime Analyst past the Grade 10 mid-range (which is $70,407) to $78,000.
*Added October 1, 2024, 12:15 PM


LATE FILES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING

From Assistant Superintendent of Fire Alarms Jake Thibeault, letter regarding repairs on South Street

Rivera I.- Order that HPD explore costs and new funding avenues so the department can invest in body cams. With the climate that police have to work in today, it is only fair they and the people they aim to serve are protected.

MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI – Ordered that the City Council present a proclamation to Joe McGiverin in honor of his retirement after over 44 years of service to the city and community.

MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI – Ordered: that the revised Home Rule petition seeking authorization for setting January 28, 2025 as the date for a special municipal election on changing the city charter to provide for an appointed treasurer hereby is approved.

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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