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Holyoke City Council Meeting September 5, 2023

Sep 5 2023

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

Posted August 31, 2023, 12:30 PM

Status updates for orders

vídeo en español

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.

AGENDA FOR THE CITY COUNCIL –
SEPTEMBER 5, 2023
7:00 PM

PUBLIC HEARING

1. Petition for Joint or Identical Pole Location Verizon New England Inc and Holyoke Gas & Electric Department:

Request permission to locate poles, wires, cables and fixtures, including the necessary anchors, guys and other such sustaining and protecting fixtures to be owned and used in common by your petitioners, along and across the following public way or ways:

JARVIS AVENUE: Place one (1) jointly owned mid-span pole numbered T.5 1/2/E.30 1/2 o the east side of Jarvis Avenue at a point approximately eight hundred seventy five (875) feet southwesterly from the centerline of Easthampton Rd.

Reason: This request has been initiated by the Holyoke G & E and is intended to provide for the distribution of intelligence and telecommunications and the transmission of high and low voltage electric current

LAID ON THE TABLE

2. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter of Veto for the CPA ballot question to be placed on the November 2023 local election.

3. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, NINE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED FIFTY TWO AND 4/100 Dollars ($9,952.04) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANT $3,497.74
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 6,454.30
TOTAL: $9,952.04
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $9,952.04
TOTAL: $9,952.04

4. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWENTY FIVE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED ELEVEN AND 58/100 Dollars ($25,511.58) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANT $11,542.48
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 13,969.10
TOTAL: $25,511.58
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $25,511.58
TOTAL: $25,511.58

5. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY THREE AND 90/100 Dollars ($2,293.90) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER (PAY PERIOD #1) $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90

6. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY THREE AND 90/100 Dollars ($2,293.90) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER (PAY PERIOD #2) $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90

7. The Committee on Charter and Rules to whom was referred an order that all employment related ordinance issues be sent to the Public Service Committee instead of Ordinance Committee Recommended that the order be adopted, but striking out “instead of Ordinance Committee.”

8. The Committee on Charter and Rules to whom was referred an order that all roads and sign issues (including ordinances) be sent to the Public Safety Committee instead of Ordinance Committee Recommended that the order be adopted, but striking out “instead of Ordinance Committee.”

9. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That Ordinance Section 12-4 Flags of the City of Holyoke be amended to include the new regulations for flying the POW flag. Recommended that the order be adopted.

10. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order To amend section 2-156.1 to return the approval the assistant city solicitor for the city council by the President of the city council to the language:
(1) City council. An assistant city solicitor shall attend all regular and special city council meetings and subcommittee meetings as necessary. The assistant shall work with the city council regarding legal questions posed to the law department by the council or by individual council members. The appointment of the assistant city solicitor for the city council shall also be approved by the president of the city council. Recommended that the order be adopted.

11. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that Ordered that DPW and Parks & Rec look into making Rohan Park a kids and dog park. As it stands only half of the park is being utilized. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

12. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that Ordered that the public safety committee meet with representatives from the Opioid Substance Abuse task force, the health director, and Judge William Hadley, to discuss the need for a short-term residential transition program to assist individuals returning from a treatment program. The goal of this would be to improve the chances of long-term success for these individuals. The resident capacity would probably be around 20 beds. Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

13. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that That the DPW Superintendent provide the City Council with an update on the tree list. Update should include how trees are prioritized and the obstacles the DPW faces in addressing them. This is a constituent request. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

14. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that With Community support, order that the City Forester present his department’s obligations and an action plan for addressing constituent concerns. Ongoing issues include dangerous dead and overgrown trees growing on or over city property. Understanding our Forester’s action plans will help us understand how best to support the department’s efforts. This will also help with understanding if an ordinance update or change is needed. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

15. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the Police Chief provide the City Council with a performance report on how Shot Spotter is performing and what we are learning about gun activity in the city so far. Please email the City Council all reports available asap for our review so we can be prepared for this discussion. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

16. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that Ordered that the mayor and the health director appear before that public safety committee to provide an update on the potential for the city to establish a homeless shelter, potentially at the War Memorial Building. Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

PUBLIC COMMENT

COMMUNICATIONS

17. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter re: Progress report.

18. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, And School Building Committee, letter re: progress on Middle School Building Project.

19. From Mayor Joshua Garcia, Congressional earmarks for CSO’s Resolutions

20. From Tanya Wdowiak, Auditor FY24 Sewer Fund.

21. From Tanya Wdowiak, Auditor, FY2024 General Fund.

22. From Retirement Board, 2022 PERAC Investment Report.

23. From Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General, letter re: Open Meeting Law Complaint.

24. From Law Department License Agreement for 370-396 Main St.

25. From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC & Jeffery Anderson-Burgos, Admin. Ass’t. to City council minutes of August 1, 2023.

26. From Todd Mcgee, ward 7 and President of the City council and Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter regarding Congressional Earmark for CSO’s – City of Holyoke resolution.

27. From MassDOT Replacement of Bridges, Route 141 (Appleton Street) over first level and second level canals.

28. Grant Completion Form, FIR689, Firefighter Equipment Grant FY23, Department of Fire Services.

29. Grant Completion Form LWCF Anniversary Hill Park Land Acquisition $150,000.

30. Grant completion Form Greening the Gateway Cities $100,000 and $20,000.

31. Grant Completion Form FY22 Municipal Energy Technical Assistance $15,000.

32. Grant Completion Form DCR Urban & Community Forestry Award public tree inventory $30,000.

33. Grant Completion Form Advance Climate resilience & Health through Urban forestry $13,500.

34. From Board of Fire Commission minutes of July 27 & August 2, 2023.

35. From Holyoke Redevelopment Authority minutes of July 19, 2023.

PETITIONS

36. Petition of Blossom Flower LLC for a special permit for Transportation of Cannabis at 1 Cabot St.

37. Petition of Laura Delmolino for a new special permit for a driveway in front yard (6.1.8.1) at 176 Lincoln St.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

38. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

38A. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order From Kathleen Degnan, Assistant City Solicitor, OPEB Declaration of Trust Agreement Recommended that the order be adopted.

38B. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order Special Permit Application of Red Barn Growers LLC to operate a Marijuana Manufacturing Establishment at 1 Cabot Street Units 5 and 6 (048-01-010). Recommended that the special permit be granted with the following conditions:
1. That the owner of the building always pay the commercial property tax rate to the extent allowed by federal, state, and local laws for the duration of the Special Permit.
2. That the business retains a minimum 30% Holyoke residents for non-security jobs.
3. That the hiring preference be given to security personnel that are retired Holyoke police or are a retired member of another police department that now lives in the city of Holyoke.
4. There shall be no marijuana consumption allowed on site.
5. That the hours of operation be set according to City ordinances.
6. That the applicant must abide by Massachusetts General Laws and guidance’s from the Cannabis Control Commission.
7. That the petitioner/applicant shall conform with city and state health laws, rules, and regulations, including odor nuisance controls, for the duration of the permit.
8. That if substantial progress has not occurred within 2 years of issuance of the Special Permit, an extension shall be required.
9. That the operations for the special permit begin after the completion of a host community agreement or approval of a waiver.

38C. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That a handicap sign be placed in front of 19 Worcester Place for Mya Williams, PL 5160992. Exp: April 12. 2024. Recommended that the order be adopted.

38D. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That a handicap sign be placed in front of 565 So. Canal St. for Miguel Maysonet, Placard # PL 1400890. Recommended that the order be adopted.

38E. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That the City Council adjust the Sewer Rate ordinance. Recommended that the order be adopted, with a recommended rate of $8.02.

38F. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That the handicap sign be removed from 282 Pine St. for Frank Collado as the sign user has passed. Recommended that the order be adopted.

38G. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That a handicap sign be placed in front of 36A Resnic Blvd. for Margaret Colon, Placard #PL2290916. Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

38H. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order Special permit application for Small Wonders LLC at 109 Lyman St (023-01-014) for a marijuana manufacturing establishment. Recommended that the special permit be given a leave to withdraw at the request of the applicant.

39. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

39A. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that the sum of $10,500,000 is appropriated to pay costs of the Holyoke River Terrace Sewer Separation Project, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto and, without limitation, all costs thereof as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C of the General Laws, as amended (“Chapter 29C”); that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor is authorized to borrow said amount and to issue bonds or notes of the City therefore under any enabling authority, including Chapter 44, Sections 7(1) or 8(14) of the General Laws and/or Chapter 29C; that such bonds or notes shall be general obligations of the City unless the Treasurer with approval of the Mayor determines that they should be issued as limited obligations and may be secured by local system revenues as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C; that the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor is authorized to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust (the “Trust”); and in connection therewith to enter into one or more loan agreements and/or security agreements with the Trust and otherwise to contract with the Trust and the Department of Environmental Protection, to expend all funds available for the project and to take any other action necessary to carry out the project. Recommended that the order be adopted.

39B. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, FORTY EIGHT THOUSAND FORTY FIVE AND 00/100 Dollars ($48,045) as follows:
FROM:
8811-10400 CAPITAL STABILIZATION $48,045
TOTAL: $48,045
TO:
14302-52410 REFUSE-R&M VEHICLES $48,045
TOTAL: $48,045 Recommended that the order be adopted.

39C. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, NINETEEN THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY AND 00/100 Dollars ($19,450) as follows:
FROM:
8811-10400 CAPITAL STABILIZATION $19,450
TOTAL: $19,450
TO:
14102-53010 PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES $19,450
TOTAL: $19,450 Recommended that the order be adopted.

39D. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, ONE HUNDRED TWENTY ONE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SEVENTY NINE AND 00/100 Dollars ($121,879) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51510 SICK LEAVE BUYBACK $121,879
TOTAL: $121,879
TO:
12101-51103 CAPTAIN $121,879
TOTAL: $121,879 Recommended that the order be adopted.

39E. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order The Mayor provide an update on funding pedestrian safety signals at Hitchcock and Martin Sts. The City Engineer provide an update on any necessary plans. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

39F. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order The undersigned seek a meeting of the City council and have the question to vote for a CPA rate of 1% or 1.5% placed on the November 2023 ballot as voted by a majority of the City council on April 4, 2023. This is the first opportunity we have to vote on the tax surcharge since was approved 5 years ago. We object to any delay in our ability to vote on this tax surcharge, whether we support a reduction or support the current rate. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

39G. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the Board of Public Works, DPW Director, City Engineer, City Auditor, and Treasurer update the City Council Finance Committee regarding recent sewer breaks and the sewer enterprise account.
Recommended that the order has been complied with.

40. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

41. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

41A. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order From Mayor Joshua A, Garcia letter Appointing Mr. R. Andrew Parker, 170 Mt. View Dr. to serve as a member on the Library Board of Directors for the City of Holyoke: Mr. Parker will replace Ms. Julia Santiago and will serve the remainder of her term; said term will expire on February 2025. Recommended that the appointment be confirmed.

41B. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Greg Virgilio, David “DJ” O’Connor, Linda Pratt, Nayroby Rosa-Soriano, Frank Dailey. Matt Mainville, Meagan Magrath-Smith, Axel Fontanez, Markeysha Dawn Davis & Camilia Garcia as members on the Recycling Advisory Committee for the City of Holyoke: They will serve a three year term; Said term will expire on August 1, 2026. Recommended that the appointments be confirmed.

41C. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the Edward Kennedy’s monument plaque be redone/invest in a new upright granite monument along with a listing of his heroic acts and participation in the 82nd Airborne’s biggest operation, including Market Garden where he was gravely wounded. Recommended that the order has been complied with, and be referred to the mayor for appropriation.

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

42A. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order Council approves the Resolution for the Certified Project Application and Special Tax Assessment (STA) Agreement with Valley Malt LLC for the purpose of the company’s acquisition and expansion of 4 North Bridge St. Holyoke, MA 01040 (Assessors Map 042, Block 01, Parcel 005). Recommended that the order be adopted, contingent upon receipts of annual reports

42B. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the City Council approves the Amendment to the Special Tax Assessment (STA) Agreement with Aegis Energy Services, Inc., Aegenco, Inc. and Jackson Canal, LLC, for the development that occurred at 55 Jackson Street and 84 Sargeant Street (now known as 59 Jackson Street). The STA was originally approved by the City Council on January 19, 2016. Recommended that the order be adopted.

42C. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the City Council hereby decertifies the Certified Project and the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Agreement with AACO Realty Corporation and request decertification of the Certified Project by the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council. The Certified Project and TIF Agreement were originally approved by the City Council on November 7, 2016 for the planned redevelopment project known as The Canal Gallery at 380 Dwight Street (Assessors Map 021, Block 01, Parcels 003). Recommended that the order be adopted.

42D. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order that the City Council hereby decertifies the Certified Project and the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Agreement with Canal Row, LLC and request decertification of the Certified Project by the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council. The Certified Project and TIF Agreement were originally approved by the City Council on October 5, 2021 for the planned commercial development on land bound by Race and Main Streets (Assessors Map 030, Block 06, Parcels 001, 002, 004, 005, 006, 013 and 014). Recommended that the order be adopted.

42E. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order The Honorable City Council, extend the order approved by the City Council on August 2, 2016 and reapproved on October 16, 2018, which authorized the transfer of the properties (listed below) to the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority for consideration of $1.00. The authorization would not be applicable to the property at 160 Middle Water Street as this property was sold. The original transfer authorization and subsequent extensions are in accordance with the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority’s urban renewal plan as amended entitled, “Connect. Construct. Create. – A Plan for the Revitalization of Center City Holyoke” which was originally approved by the Holyoke City Council on December 4, 2012, and by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development on February 5, 2013, vote to reauthorize the transfer of the properties listed below to the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority for consideration of $1.00. (see attached chart) Recommended that the order be adopted.

42F. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order The Honorable City Council, in accordance with the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority’s urban renewal plan as amended entitled, “Connect. Construct. Create. – A Plan for the Revitalization of Center City Holyoke” which was originally approved by the Holyoke City Council on December 4, 2012, and by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development on February 5, 2013, vote to approve the transfer of the properties listed below to the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority for consideration of $1.00. (see attached chart) Recommended that the order be adopted.

43. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

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

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

45. GIVNER — With community support, Order that the BOH provide the Public Safety subcommittee with either a presentation or written outline of what laws exist to protect property owners from damage by overgrowth of trees and other greenery from neighboring homeowners.

46. GIVNER — With community support, Order that streetlights be added to Taylor St for the safety of residents and their properties. There is no light from 59-61 Taylor street. Existing light poles shine light directly down instead of previous lighting which shined light in a radius of 3-5 houses. There have been several vehicle break ins that would likely not have happened had street lighting covered these dark areas.

47. GIVNER — With community support, Order that temporary speed humps be placed on Taylor Street to be followed by permanent speed humps for resident safety. This is a densely populated and highly trafficked through street due to its proximity to a grocery store and its one way direction.
Petition attached.

48. GIVNER — With community support, Order that dead tree at 61 Taylor St. be removed.

49. GIVNER — With community support, Order that crumbling School Street sidewalks be assessed for repair/ replacement. Water main work and sewage repair has created considerable damage to both sides of the street around 22 school St..

50. GIVNER — With community support, Order that initiatives be discussed and created to encourage convenience store and fast food store owners to install trash receptacles and sponsor trash collection throughout the city of Holyoke. It is clear that much of our city’s trash is from fast food restaurants and corner stores. These entities must be invited to be a part of the community they profit from by supporting quality of life initiatives that increase business support.

51. JOURDAIN, PUELLO — City Council review the law for the enforcement of rights of reverter and extensions of reverter [

52. JOURDAIN, PUELLO — Law Dept provide the City Council an inventory of all outstanding rights of reverter with parcel id numbers, address, what the current reverter expiration date is if it has one, provide a summary of the condition that the reverter is based on (i.e. change of use (such as if no longer used as a golf course) or if no development by X date)

53. JOURDAIN — Police Chief provide an updated list of all tickets issued in Calendar Year 2023 including violation reason, number of violations, and the disposition.

54. JOURDAIN — City Council explore with the Mayor a residential redevelopment plan for city owned vacant parcels has homes built then sold.  City funds coupled with any available grant funding will be used for seed funding with the proceeds of the sales used to build more homes.  The long term play for the city is the generation of all of the property tax revenue from these home sales, the new availability of great new housing, the reduction in city owned buildable lots  and the growth of population.

55. JOURDAIN —   Law Dept and Mayor be invited to the City Council to discuss an update on the city’s use of the receivership program including current properties being targeted and others that are excellent prospects for required repairs.  I also would like to see if we can use this for larger scale problem rental properties with the right receiver as has been done in larger metropolitan cities.  I also would like to start an initiative as has been used in large urban settings where we have required landlord training programs when appropriate as well as a model like Kansas City Bad Apple Program for repeat offenders.  Law dept. and Mayor will be encouraged to look at what resources we need to go bold on problem properties and develop a plan with us.

56. JOURDAIN — Parks dept please install a motion sensor system and/or improved camera system and/or improved security plan at the Pouliot pool for use when the pool is in season.  After hours security needs to be dramatically improved.  Please let City Council and Mayor know if funding is required.

57. JOURDAIN — Mayor please consider putting the senior discount back into the next Comcast contract renewal coming up.  Seniors need every break they can get during these inflationary times and this would be very appreciated by many.

58. JOURDAIN — Ordered, that the Ordinance Committee invite in the Mayor and DPW superintendent to review Chapter 74 of our ordinances on Solid Waste and how this reconciles with the proposed roll-out of a new residential trash pickup program in light of our already existing laws in this area.  It is requested that they review their proposal with us so we and citizens can understand it better.

59. MCGEE — Order that two handicap parking spots be installed at the new park at Kennedy field.

60. MCGEE — That the Polling Place for each of the voting precinct in the City of Holyoke for the Preliminary Election to be held Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, be and the same are hereby designated as follows:

ORDENA, que los lugares para cada recinto en la Ciudad de Holyoke para las Elecciones Preliminar Esta que se llevaran a cabo el Martes, 26 de Septiembre 2023 sea y al igual, por este medio designado lo siguente:

WARD SEVEN BARRIO SIETE
PRECINCT A&B – E. N. White School Gym, 1 Jefferson St.

PRECINTO A&B– Gimnasio de la Escuela E. N. White, 1 de la Calle Jefferson

61. MCGEE — That the Preliminary Election in the City of Holyoke for the choice of City Officers be and the same is hereby called to be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 in the several polling places as designated by the City Council. The polls will be opened at 7:00 a.m. in the forenoon and closed at 8:00 p.m. in the afternoon of said day, and all the voters in the several precincts in which they are entitled to vote, between said hours, may cast their votes by voting machines and paper ballots for the election of:

CITY COUNCILOR WARD SEVEN ( 7)

Que las Elecciones Preliminaria en la Cuidad de Holyoke, para el escojer de oficiales de la cuidad, sera llevado a cabo el Martes, 26, de Septiembre 2023 en los varios barrios, designados por la Asambleista Municipal. Los precintos estaran abiertos a las 7:00 a.m. de la manana y permaneceran abierto hasta las 8:00 p.m., cuando los precintos sean designado para votar en las horas dicha y hagan dado sus votos por medio de las maquinas de eleccion o por boletos de papel, para la eleccion de:

ASAMBLEISTA MUNICIPAL BARRIO SIETE (7)

62. MCGEE, MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — Ordered, that the Veterans Services Director be invited to describe the development of a regional Veterans Services District in collaboration with surrounding communities, and that the City Council approve the district as a way to improve service to veterans in
the region by sharing knowledge, experience, and resources between the participating communities.

63. MCGEE — Ordered, that Mila Dillard, the Blessed Sacrament student that won third place in the statewide Arson Watch Reward Program poster contest, be invited into a coming City Council meeting to receive a proclamation and to present the winning poster for display in City Council chambers.

64. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, ONE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND 00/100 Dollars ($1,200.00) as follows:

FROM:
11381-51102 ASSISTANT CPO-PURCHASING $1,200.00
TOTAL: $1,200.00
TO:
12442-54800 MV FUEL-WEIGHTS & MEASURES $1,200.00
TOTAL: $1,200.00

65. MCGIVERIN — that the amount of TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED TWENTY FOUR AND 00/100 Dollars ($2,524.00) be authorized from the SOLICITOR Department’s LITIGATION (11512-57600) appropriation in fiscal year 2024 for services rendered in fiscal year 2023 which were unencumbered at the 2023 fiscal year end.

66. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, SIX THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($6,000.00) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51117 E911 DISPATCHERS $6,000.00
TOTAL: $6,000.00
TO:
12101-51910 STIPENDS $6,000.00
TOTAL: $6,000.00

67. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWENTY SEVEN THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY THREE AND 36/100 Dollars ($27,853.36) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANTS $10,493.16
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 17,360.20
TOTAL: $27,853.36
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY- PAYROLL 8/5/2023 $27,853.36
TOTAL: $27,853.36

68. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY THREE AND 90/100 Dollars ($2,293.90) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY- PAY PERIOD #3 $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90

69. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY THREE AND 90/100 Dollars ($2,293.90) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY – PAY PERIOD #4 $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90

70. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWENTY FOUR THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED FIFTY NINE AND 00/100 Dollars ($24,359.00) as follows:

FROM:
16102-52100 ENERGY-GAS/OIL/ELECTRIC $24,359.00
TOTAL: $24,359.00
TO:
16101-51112 FINANCIAL MANAGER – LIBRARY $24,359.00
TOTAL: $24,359.00

71. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “2023 CAR SEAT DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM, NON MONETARY, 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.

72. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($100,000) as follows:

FROM:
8811-10400 CAPITAL STABILIZATION $100,000
TOTAL: $100,000
TO:
60402-53011 SEWER- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES $100,000
TOTAL: $100,000

73. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($50,000) as follows:

FROM:
8811-10400 CAPITAL STABILIZATION $50,000
TOTAL: $50,000
TO:
60402-53005 SEWER – LEGAL SERVICES $50,000
TOTAL: $50,000

74. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($200,000) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51107 PATROLMEN $100,000
12101-51920 INCENTIVE – QUINN BILL ED PLAN 100,000
TOTAL: $200,000
TO:
12101-51300 OVERTIME $200,000
TOTAL: $200,000

75. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWENTY TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED FOURTY NINE AND 22/100 Dollars ($22,249.22) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANTS $9,793.62
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 12,455.60
TOTAL: $22,249.22
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY PAYROLL W/E 8-19-2023 $22,249.22
TOTAL: $22,249.22

76. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY24 EEA MUNICIPAL VULNERABILITY PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM, $192,900, 25% MATCH (IN KIND/CPA)” 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.

77. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWENTY FIVE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED FORTY FOUR AND 66/100 Dollars ($25,944.66) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANTS $13,990.88
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 11,953.78
TOTAL: $25,944.66
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY (PAYROLL W/E 9-2-2023) $25,944.66
TOTAL: $25,944.66

78. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2024, TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY THREE AND 90/100 Dollars ($2,293.90) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY (PAY PERIOD #5) $2,293.90
TOTAL: $2,293.90

79. MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — With support from the city’s Veterans Benefit Department, that the City Council update its ordinances to provide free municipal parking for veterans that have an official Veteran License Plate.

80. PUELLO — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 584 So. Summer St. for Wilfredo Lorenzi, Placard #PL2230484.

81. RIVERA_J — an order to remove a handicap sign from the front of 60 North East St. the person has moved.

82. RIVERA_I — Ordered, invite Thomas Irwin from PaintCare MA to discuss pending state legislation that would create a statewide paint recycling program to allow people to return unused paint to stores to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

83. RIVERA_J — Ordered, that a stop sign be considered on Suffolk at the intersection with Chestnut. Concerns have been reported about accidents and near accidents due to parked cars preventing drivers on Chestnut from seeing vehicles traveling on Suffolk until they are already pulling into the intersection.

84. RIVERA_J — an order to request the repainting of all crosswalks and parking spaces from the intersection of Lyman and Main Streets to the intersection of Cabot and Main Streets.

85. RIVERA_J — an order to request a curb cut to facilitate access for wheelchairs and walkers at the entrance on Appleton Street of The United Congregational Church located at 300 Appleton Street.

86. RIVERA_J, ANDERSON-BURGOS, GIVNER, MALDONADO-VELEZ, MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI, RIVERA_I — Ordered that the city council work with the mayor and school superintendent to address the reinstatement of bus services for Lyman Terrace as soon as possible, as a matter of public safety.  This has been a service they have received for the past 20 years.

87. RIVERA_J, MALDONADO-VELEZ — Order that the Board of Health, Police, or appropriate department let us know the process of addressing noise complaints, particularly when it comes to businesses operating their heavy machinery and making lots of noise as early as 5:30 am. The residents of Ward 1
say they have submitted complaints and nothing has been done to remedy the situation.

88. VACON — place a “no engine brake” sign on Westfield Road on the side approaching Homestead Ave. in the area approaching 550 Westfield Rd.

89. ANDERSON-BURGOS — Ordered, that TJ O’Connor be invited in to a subcommittee meeting to discuss how they serve the animal population of Holyoke, including the struggles they face and what Holyoke can do to help.

90. BARTLEY — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 541/2 Davis St, for Angel Luis Vazquez Natal, Placard # PL5800106.

91. BARTLEY — The DPW replace the heaved sidewalk between W. Glen St. and Clark St. on the southbound side of Northampton St. DPW repair the roadway between W. Glen St. and Gilman St. Receiver and Refer to DPW, City Engineer to implement these orders and the Mayor to finance these projects.

92. BARTLEY — The City Engineer redesign and the DPW replace the traffic island proximate to 2 Brown Ave & 274 South St. for the purposes of creating public parking spaces. This is the area that was left after the roadwork to alter Brown Ave. was completed and it’s in need of alterations; the plan to increase parking is supported by the effected residents. Refer to City Engineer. Refer to Finance Cte. & Mayor.

93. BARTLEY, JOURDAIN — Due to multiple constituent concerns with improperly disposed needles, the DPW look at securing the fence on the west side of Woodland St. and report back to city council on how the fence can either be fixed or replaced.  Include costs and funding source.

LATE FILED ORDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS

A. VACON — Ordered, that DPW paint a crosswalk at McMahon school because the engineer reported the bid for the raised crosswalk “failed.” This is a safety hazard for students, parents, and crossing guards.
*Updated September 5, 2023, 1:10 PM

B. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter regarding school busing services for Lyman Terrace.
*Updated September 5, 2023, 4:51 PM

Addendum:

LATE FILES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING

A. JOURDAIN — Ordered, that the City Council review and adopt the Mayor’s proposal for the city’s financial policies by ordinance.”

B. MCGEE — that the treasurer and Mass Munifin come before the finance committee to update on the overall progress of the department and the scope of service work being done.

C. MCGIVERIN — That the DPW paint a crosswalk at the corner of Jarvis Ave. and West Cherry St, crossing over Jarvis Ave.

D. From Atty Kathleen Degnan, Asst City Solicitor, home rule petition for appointed treasurer.

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

Item-5-September-5-2023-City-Council-Meeting-Minutes.pdf
August 17, 2023
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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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