City Council

Council President Councillors-at-Large Mark C. Bodanza Thomas F. Ardinger Council Vice President Susan Chalifoux-Zephir Pauline M. Cormier Brandon Robbins Claire M. Freda Ward Councillors Ward 1 – Robert M. Tocci Ward 2 – Pauline M. Cormier Ward 3 – David R. Cormier Ward 4 – Mark C. Bodanza Ward 5 – Carrie Noseworthy MINUTES CITY OF LEOMINSTER CITY COUNCIL APRIL 28, 2025 JOHN P. MAHAN CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS PUBLIC HEARING, 6:20 P.M. 46-25 Susan Chalifoux-Zephir; Councillor At-Large; Request to adopt Chapter 140 Section 139(c) of the Massachusetts General Laws as follows: (c) No fee shall be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined by the Americans with disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be charged for a dog owned by a person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision. Hearing opened at 6:30 P.M. with Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir, Chair of the LEGAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE, presiding. All members were present. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir read the petition into the record. Councillor Chailfoux -Zephir stated that the council did receive a referral back from Todd Pickett, Animal Control in favor of this petition. No one else from the council or the public spoke in favor or opposition of this petition. Councillor Chalifoux -Zephir closed the public hearing at 6:23PM. PUBLIC HEARING, 6:25 P.M. 35-25 Kenneth Delgado, 8 Highland Street, Lancaster, MA; Request to amend the current lot width under zoning district RB for two family dwellings. The amendment would consist of changing the minimum required width from 80 ft to 50 ft for two family dwellings. The current frontage requirement for 2 family dwellings in RB is 50’ and 80’ lot width requirement would create “Pork Chop” lots, which the city does not favor. Lot configuration would be rectangular and consistent if both frontage and lot width were equal. Re: 1420, 1426, 1428, 1432 Central Street, Leominster, MA. Hearing opened at 6:30 P.M. with Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir, Chair of the LEGAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE, presiding. All members were present. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir stated that the council received this petition back in February 24 for the first time with further time given until March 10th, a continued public hearing for April 14th with further time given and a continued public hearing until April 28th. Councillor Tocci stated that he did see that Peter Niall did send back his referral. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir read the referral into the record in favor of the petition. Councillor Pauline Cormier stated that this petition has been in motion for a while and nobody has appeared on its behalf to explain it or support it. Councillor Pauline Cormier stated that she not sure why it is still on the agenda. Councillor Freda stated that she was at the Planning Board meeting, and she believed Mr. Xarras was presenting but was not sure what the outcome was. Councillor Bodanza stated the Planning board voted 6/1 that evening in favor. Councillor Bodanza also stated that the opposed was the Chairperson. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir stated there was a reference to the director’s report that mentioned instead of changing the zoning throughout the city, Mr. Delgado could possibly get a variance for each of these lots instead of making this city wide. Councillor Freda stated that she remembers eliminating pork chops lots in the city was a big issue. Nobody wanted them so she is confused as to why the vote from the planning board was 6-1 for them. Councillor Bodanza stated that he is not sure that a requirement of 80 feet of width versus 50 feet of frontage requirement creates a pork chop lot. Councillor Bodanza also stated that the city does not like pork chop lots. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir asked the city clerk to ask the planning department for the director’s report . Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir stated she will keep this public hearing open for one more meeting. Page 2  PUBLIC HEARING, 6:45 P.M. 42-25 Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a NATIONAL GRID and Verizon New England, Inc requests permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way: Tory Circle - National Grid to install 1 JO pole on Tory Circle beginning at a point approximately 367 feet Northwest of the centerline of the intersection of Willard Street and Tory Circle. National Grid to install one new 35ft class-3 pole and anchor, numbered P2-50, on Tory Circle to reposition the overhead lines that have been knocked down by dump trucks per the customer's request. Leominster, MA. Location approximately as shown on plan attached. Whereof it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission to erect and maintain poles and wires, together with such sustaining and protecting fixture as it may find necessary, said poles to be erected substantially in accordance with the plan filed herewith marked – Tory Circle – Leominster, Massachusetts. Councillor David Cormier abstained from this petition. Councillor Robbins read the petition into the record. Representative from National Grid, Mujahed was present. Mujahed explained that the service used to go across the street and the dump trucks kept knocking it down, the customer wanted the pole in his yard. Councillor Robbins started that he drove by the area today and the wires really do hang low into the middle of Tory Circle. Councilor Freda asked where is the anchor going to go to that pole, is it on public property or city property? Mujahed explained that the anchor will be placed about six feet back from the poles on city property. Councillor Freda asked if everybody is ok with that, you talked to the neighbors there. Mujahed answered that the customer is okay with it, he has not spoken to the neighbors however he can do that if the council would like him to. Councillor Freda stated that, in her opinion, it would be a good idea to talk to the neighbors to make sure they are ok with it. Councillor Freda also asked if there is a pole there now that they will be removing? Page 3  Mujahed explained that there is no pole there now, it just goes across the street so they will be putting in a new pole on that customer’s property. Councillor Freda asked if there was a double pole situation there? Mujahed confirmed correct, no double pole situation. Councillor Robbins confirmed he did receive referrals back from the police department and the department of public works in favor of this petition. The police department did stress the importance of having a police detail while this is being done for safety reasons. Councillor Robbins addressed to National Grid that they will need to provide a police detail for whenever the work is done. Mujahed confirmed that will be done. Mathew Bourgault, of 581 Willard Street on the corner of Tory Circle asked how this will affect him. He stated that he had not seen this petition or any drawings for it. He also stated that nobody has come to talk to him about it. He stated that he feels he was black balled and wants more information before this moves forward. Councillor Robbins recommended that the hearing be kept open and asked that National Grid revisit the neighborhood and speak to Mr. Bourgault and the other people in the neighborhood. PUBLIC FORUM, 6:55 P.M. The public forum is an opportunity for any member of the audience to speak on a matter specifically listed on the Council Agenda. Speakers will be asked to come to the microphone and state their formal name and address along with identifying the specific item(s) they wish to address. Each speaker is respectfully asked to keep their comments within a two (2) minute time frame. The Council will not be responding or answering any questions; however, at the discretion of the Council President, clarification may be given. Council President Mark Bodanza opened the public forum at 6:55 PM. The following people signed up and spoke in favor of Petition 41-25 Horse and Dog Racing in the City: Caitlin Smith of 194 Prospect Street, Beverly Quiles of 497 Johnny Appleseed Lane, Paul Gove of 925 Mechanic Street, Phil Valeri of 639 Mechanic Street. Page 4 PUBLIC FORUM, cont’d The following people signed up and spoke in favor of the Fairgrounds Horse Racing Track in the City: Aimee Murphy of 51 Biscuit Hill Drive, Craig Long of 36 Leo Gagnon Way, Mark Kennedy of 100 Crisci Street, Jay Budrewicz of 40 Regina Drive , Fred Taylor, Representative for the Carpenters Union, Jorge Rivera, President of the Worcester/Fitchburg Building Trades Council, Jeremy Murphy, President of the Local 1841 Leominster Firefighters they also are in favor of C-55, Elisha Moises of 390 Johnny Appleseed Lane, Jennifer Flanagan Long of 36 Leo Gagnon Way. Sue Koehler of 541 Merriam Ave spoke in frustration of item #C-59 and that route 12 in front of the hospital is being done for a third time. She believes the taxpayers deserve an explanation. Public forum closed at 7:20PM. I. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL, 7:00 P.M. The regular meeting of the City Council opened at 7:10 PM. Councillor Bodanza introduced the new Ward 5 Councillor , Councillor Carrie Noseworthy who took the late Councillor Peter Angelini’s seat. Councillor David Cormier made a motion to recess. Councillor Freda seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously by a vote of 9-0. The meeting went into recess at 7:10 PM and was reconvened for regular session at 7:21 PM. II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE III. ROLL CALL OF COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE Attendance was taken by a roll call vote; 9 members were present. Councillor Bodanza, Councillor David Cormier, Councillor Pauline Cormier, Councillor Ardinger, Councillor Tocci, Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir, Councillor Robbins, and Councillor Freda, Councillor Noseworthy. Others present, Elizabeth Doiron, City Clerk, Maribel Perez, Assistant City Clerk. MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR COUNCILLOR PETER ANGELINI Page 5 IV. APPROVAL OF RECORDS - March 10, 2025, Minutes - These minutes were placed on file. - March 24, 2025 - Minutes - These minutes were placed on file. - April 14, 2025 – Minutes - These minutes were placed on file. V. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR The following communications were given regular course. C-65 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $15,000.00 be made to the Fuel Depot Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. C-66 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $21,600.00 be made to the Assessing Valuation Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. C-67 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $25,000.00 be made to the Ambulance Billing Expense Account; the same to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. RE: Increased cost in ambulance billing. This would cover expenses through the end of the year. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir asked for clarification on this request. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir asked why the Treasurer/Collector is asking for funding for ambulance expenses. Hasn’t the Fire Department requested additional ambulance funding in the past if needed? C-68 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $32,500.00 be made to the Collector’s Billing Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. RE: Increased cost in printing. This would cover expenses through the end of the year. C-69 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $60,000.00 be made to the Paramedics Overtime Account; the same to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. C-70 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $110,000.00 be made to the Police Department Light Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and deficiency Account. Page 6 COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR, cont’d Councillor David Cormier recused himself. The communication was deferred to the clerk of Finance, Councillor Pauline Cormier. The following communication was given regular course. C-71 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $250,000.00 be to the Fire Department Public Safety Overtime Account; the same to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. The following communication was given regular course. C-74 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; request that an appropriation of $25,000.00 and $3,800.00 be made to the Insurance reimbursement and September Flood Account respectively the same amount to be transferred from the State Flood Infrastructure Funds. REAPPOINTMENTS The following communications were given regular course. C-72 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that the reappointment of the following: Council on Aging: term to expire 04/15/2028 Marlene Thibeault 556 Central Street, Lot 1 Leominster, MA Patricia Vallee 16 Arrowhead Road Leominster, MA Maria Malari 35 Biscayne Street Leominster, MA Conservation Commission: term to expire 4/15/2028 Stephanie Quinlan 140 Lincoln Street Leominster, MA Disability Commission; term to expire 4/15/2028 David Cormier 9 Deer Run Leominster, MA Planning Board: term to expire 4/15/2030 Dean Valliere 1232 Main Street Leominster, MA APPOINTMENTS The APPOINTMENTS were received, referred to the WAYS AND MEANS AND COMMITTEE, and given REGULAR COURSE. Interviews were scheduled for May 12, 2025, at 6:20PM. C-73 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request the appointments of the following: Culture Commission: term to expire 4/15/2028 Afia Obeng 35 North Meadow Rd Leominster, MA Denise Sutton 63 Green St., Apt. 2 Leominster, MA Page 7 VI. PETITIONS FIRST TIME ON THE AGENDA 47-25 Brian R. Falk, Attorney; on behalf of Crossroads Office Park, LLC.; Request to Adopt the proposed Fairgrounds Overlay District zoning amendments. RE: 670, 690 and 694 Mechanic Street, Leominster, MA. This communication was given regular course. A public hearing was established for June 9, 2025, at 6:20PM with referrals from the Leominster Police Department, traffic department , KP Law, Health Department, the Mayor. The Planning Board, Conservation agent, DPW, Leominster Fire, DEP, and the Building Commissioner. Vote 9/0. 48-25 Thomas M. Bovenzi: Request an amendment to change zoning District of Parcel 94-6 Amend the zoning Ordinance of the City of Leominster, Ma to change the boundaries of the zoning district shown on the Zoning Map so that the parcel identified as lot 6 on Assessor’s Map 94 containing approximately 9, 984 square feet and having an address. of 44 Union Street shall be located entirely in the Residence B (RB) District. This communication was given regular course. A public hearing was established for June 9, 2025, at 6:00PM with referrals from the Planning Board, Assessor’s office, and the Building Commissioner. VII. MATTERS BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL VIII. FINANCIAL REPORT Councillor David Cormier, Chair of the FINANCE COMMITTEE, read the Financial Report for the City into the record. Account balance is as follows: Stabilization Account $23,515,227.07 IX. FINANCE C-58 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $40,000.00 be made to the Medicare expense account; the same amount is to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency account. The Finance Committee recommended to GRANT Communication C-58. The City Council voted 9-0 to GRANT Communication C-58. ORDERED: - that the sum of Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000.00) be made to the Medicare expense account; the same amount is to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency account. Page 8  Order ADOPTED by a vote of 9-0. FINANCE, cont’d C-59 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $1,000,000.00 be made to the Street Resurfacing Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency. Councillor Freda asked that the names of the streets that will be paved to be read into the record for the public, Councillor Cormier read them all into the record. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir asked if further time could be given in response to Mrs. Koehler question that was raised. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir stated that it is reasonable to ask what the million dollars is for and why the area in front of the hospital is being paved a third time. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir asked who was paying for that and hopefully not the city. Councillor David Cormier stated that he believes this is a state project, no local funds have been used. Councillor Chalifoux-Zephir made a motion to recess. Councillor Robbins seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously by a vote of 9-0. The meeting went into recess at 7:45 PM and was reconvened for regular session at 7:47 PM. The Mayor stated this is not state money, it is all city money for this project. The Mayor also stated that he does not see the purpose of delaying the project. The Mayor also explained that they need to get the project out to bid and cannot do that until the Council approves it. He also stated that waiting will put the city in competition with everybody else trying to get road construction done which will increase the cost. The Mayor also explained that if we do not get these out to bid , we will have to wait until next spring. The Finance Committee recommended to GRANT Communication C-59. The City Council voted 9-0 to GRANT Communication C-59. ORDERED: - that the sum of One Million Dollars ($100,000,000.00) be made to the Street Resurfacing Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency. Order ADOPTED by a vote of 9-0. Page 9 FINANCE, cont’d C-60 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $75,000.00 be made to the Legal Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from Excess and Deficiency. The Finance Committee recommended to GRANT Communication C-60. The City Council voted 9-0 to GRANT Communication C-60. ORDERED: - that the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($75,000.00) be made to the Legal Expense Account; the same amount to be transferred from Excess and Deficiency. Order ADOPTED by a vote of 9-0. C-61 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request to reappropriate $77,750.00 to renovate the field, fencing and dugouts for Lassie League; the same is to be transferred from funds that were appropriated for the Lassie League parking lot. The Finance Committee recommended to GRANT Communication C-61. The City Council voted 9-0 to GRANT Communication C-61. ORDERED: - that the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand, Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($77,750.00) to renovate the field, fencing and dugouts for Lassie League; the same is to be transferred from funds that were appropriated for the Lassie League parking lot. Order ADOPTED by a vote of 9-0. C-62 Dean J. Mazzarella; Mayor; Request that an appropriation of $2,000.00 be made to the Emergency Management Expense Account; the same amount is to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. The Finance Committee recommended to GRANT Communication C-62. The City Council voted 9-0 to GRANT Communication C-62. ORDERED: - that the sum of Two-Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) be made to the Emergency Management Expense Account; the same amount is to be transferred from the Excess and Deficiency Account. Page 10  Order ADOPTED by a vote of 9-0. X. WAYS AND MEANS The Ways and Means Committee recommended that the City Council GRANT the following petitions. By a vote of 9-0 the petitions were GRANTED. 43-25 Sterling Jewelers Inc., DBA Kay Jewelers, 1285; Request to renew a license to deal secondhand articles at 12 Watertown Plaza, Leominster, MA. 44-25 Christopher Rivard, 28 Arch Street, Douglas, MA: Request to renew Transient Vendor license with the City of Leominster, MA 45-25 Best Buy Stores, LP #1433; Request to renew a license to deal secondhand articles at 22 Orchard Hill Park Drive, Leominster, MA REAPPOINTMENTS The Ways and Means Committee recommended that the City Council GRANT the petition C-57 as a block. By a vote of 9-0 the petitions were GRANTED. C-57 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request the reappointment of the following: Board of Appeals: terms to expire 04/15/2028 Michelle Haggstrom 152 Sacramento Drive Leominster, MA Board of Assessors: term to expire 4/15/2028 Richard Dondero 691 Lancaster Street Leominster, MA Board of Health: term to expire 4/15/2028 Nicole Pare 29 Oakwind Holow Road Leominster, MA Wendy Wiiks 142 Blossom Street Leominster, MA Council on Aging: term to expire 4/15/2028 Phyllis Gagne 34 Fairmount Street Leominster, MA John Diggins 59 Rustic Drive Leominster, MA Donna Smith 161 Spruce Stret, #411Leominster, MA Disability Commission: term to expire 4/15/2028 Thomas Thelin 48 Judy Drive Leominster, MA Gail Turbide 99 Scenic Drive Leominster, MA Martin Turbide 99 Scenic Drive Leominster, MA Historical Commission: terms to expire 4/15/2028 Diane Sanabria 18 Lawrence Avenue Leominster, MA Page 11 Mary Marotta 37-Wheeler Street Leominster, MA REAPPOINTMENTS, cont’d Library Board of Trustees: terms to expire 4/15/2028 James Despo 2 Helena Street Leominster, MA Joanne D’Onfro 231 Helena Street Leominster, MA Library Board of Trustees: terms to expire 4/15/2026 Susan Chalifoux-Zephir 900 West Street Leominster, MA Planning Board: terms to expire 4/15/2030 Jason Pare 29 Oakwind Hollow Road Leominster, MA Paul Weizer 170 Barrington Road Leominster, MA Recreation Commission: terms to expire 4/15/2028 Peggy Stephenson 100 Weathervane Drive Leominster, MA Theresa McEwen 500 Brooks Pond Road Leominster, MA XI. LEGAL AFFAIRS 46-25 Susan Chalifoux-Zephir; Councillor At-Large; Request to adopt Chapter 140 Section 139(c) of the Massachusetts General Laws as follows: (c) No fee shall be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined by the Americans with disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be charged for a dog owned by a person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision The Legal Affairs Committee recommended that the City Council GRANT the petition. By a roll call vote of 9-0 the petition was GRANTED. 35-25 Kenneth Delgado, 8 Highland Street, Lancaster, MA; Request to amend the current lot width under zoning district RB for two family dwellings. The amendment would consist of changing the minimum required width from 80 ft to 50 ft for two family dwellings. The current frontage requirement for 2 family dwellings in RB is 50’ and 80’ lot width requirement would create “Pork Chop” lots, which the city does not favor. Lot configuration would be rectangular and consistent if both frontage and lot width were equal. Re: 1420, 1426, 1428, 1432 Central Street, Leominster, MA Recommendation made for FURTHER TIME was GRANTED. Vote 9-0. A Public Hearing date was established for May 27, 2025, at 6:45PM. Vote 9-0. Page 12 LEGAL AFFAIRS, cont’d Re: Appointment of a Special Legal Affairs Committee for Communication C-50 At the last City Council hearing, it was determined that Council President Mark Bodanza must recuse himself from presiding over matters related to Communication C-50. Additionally, Legal Affairs Chairman Peter Angelini and Legal Affairs Clerk Robert Tocci have conflicts and must recuse themselves from any involvement in this matter. As the current Vice President, I will serve as Acting President for all proceedings related to C-50. Given that I am the only remaining member of the Legal Affairs Committee, and to ensure compliance with Open Meeting Laws and quorum requirements, I sought and received legal guidance from KP Law. After reviewing City Council Rule 4, which authorizes the President to appoint special committees for specific matters, I am appointing a Special Legal Affairs Committee for the limited purpose of addressing the special permit issued to Middlesex Integrative Medicine at 25 Mohawk Drive and any related matters. The members of this Special Legal Affairs Committee are as follows: • Councilor Claire Freda – Chairwoman • Councilor Susan Chalifoux- Zephir – Clerk • Councilor Brandon Robbins – Third Member This appointment ensures the continued handling of Communication C-50 in an impartial and procedurally sound manner C-50 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request that the City Council hold a Hearing on Middlesex Integrative Medicine’s special Permit to operate a marijuana grow facility. Recommendation made for FURTHER TIME was GRANTED. Vote 7-0. Councillor Bodanza and Councillor Tocci recused themselves. Page 13  41-25 Lisa Nugent, of 45 Beth Avenue, Leominster; Request that the City Council prohibit all horse and dog racing and any associate betting or wagering anywhere within Leominster, Massachusetts by the following: Amend Article I: Section 22-4, Definitions, by adding the following definition: "Racetrack. Any tract of land where horses or dogs are raced and where any form of betting or wagering on the speed or ability of horses or dogs are permitted or conducted." Amend Article III. Section 22-17, Underlying Districts Table of Uses, under Business. Uses, to add: Racetrack" as a listed use, and to add the letter "N", for not allowed, in every column for each and every district. Amend Article III, Section 22-18. Overlay Districts Table of Uses, under Business Uses, to add "Racetrack" as a listed use, and to add the letter "U", for underlying district, in each and every column for each and every Overlay District. The purpose of this zoning amendment is to prohibit commercial horse or dog racing anywhere within the city of' Leominster. Recommendation made for FURTHER TIME was GRANTED. Vote 9-0. A public hearing was established for May 12, 2025, at 6:30 PM. XII. PUBLIC SERVICE 42-25 Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a NATIONAL GRID and Verizon New England, Inc requests permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way: Tory Circle - National Grid to install 1 JO pole on Tory Circle beginning at a point approximately 367 feet Northwest of the centerline of the intersection of Willard Street and Tory Circle. National Grid to install one new 35ft class-3 pole and anchor, numbered P2-50, on Tory Circle to reposition the overhead lines that have been knocked down by dump trucks per the customer's request. Leominster, MA. Location approximately as shown on plan attached. Whereof it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission to erect and maintain poles and wires, together with such sustaining and protecting fixture as it may find necessary, said poles to be erected substantially in accordance with the plan filed herewith marked – Tory Circle – Leominster, Massachusetts. Councillor David Cormier recused himself from this petition. Councillor Robbins read the petition into the record. Recommendation made for FURTHER TIME was GRANTED. Vote 8-0. A Public Hearing date was established for May 12, 2025, at 6:30 PM. Vote 8-0. Page 14 XIII. NEW BUSINESS First Reading of an Ordinance Recommendation to ADOPT as presented by a vote 9-0. 24-25 Thomas M. Bovenzi, Esq. on behalf of Steve Boucher, requests to amend the Zoning District map for Parcel 352-6 such that entire parcel will be zoned Residence B. Since a portion is currently zoned Industrial. Recommendation to ADOPT as presented by a vote 9-0. 29-25 Elizabeth Wood, on behalf of the Planning Board Request to amend the zoning ordinance pertaining to the Flood Plain. Federally mandated update to Flood Plain District (EP): Article VI, Section 22-34. Recommendation to ADOPT as presented by a vote 9-0. C-54 Dean J. Mazzarella; Mayor, Request to adopt the attached ordinance update. This ordinance update to Chapter 16. Personnel. Section 16-30 of the Leominster Revised Ordinances reflects the Non-Union employee’s salary and wage adjustments for the FY2025 through FY 2027 time period. Page 15 FINANCE, cont’d FY25 MIN 2 3 MID 4 5 6 MAX S-1 35, 262 36,675 38,143 39,665 41,252 42,910 44,618 45,513 S-2 39,496 41,073 42,718 44,429 46, 201 48,052 49, 973 50,979 S-3 44,233 46,004 47,842 49,760 51,748 53,823 55,972 57,091 S-4 49,545 51,527 53,588 55,726 57,956 60,275 62,684 63,937 S-5 55,490 57,710 60,013 62,417 64,910 67,507 70,206 71,613 S-6 62,146 64,631 67,222 69,904 72,701 75,610 78,635 80,211 S-7 69,598 72,361 75, 284 78, 296 81,428 84,680 88,063 89,827 S-8 77,955 81,076 84,315 87,692 91,198 94,841 98,640 100,608 S-9 87,309 90,802 94,435 98,208 102,144 106,227 110,474 112,681 S-10 97,600 101,698 105,766 109,996 114,399 118,971 123,731 126,205 S-11 109,311 113,901 118,458 123,196 128,127 133, 247 138,579 141,349 FY26 MIN 2 3 MID 4 5 6 MAX S-1 36,320 37,776 39,287 40,855 42,489 44,197 45,956 46,878 S-2 40,681 42,306 43,999 45,762 47,587 49,494 51.,4 72 52,508 S-3 45,560 47,384 49,277 51,253 53,300 55,437 57,651 58,804 S-4 51,031 53,073 55,196 57,397 59,695 62,083 64,565 65,856 S-5 57,155 59,441 61,814 64,289 66,857 69,532 72,312 73,761 S-6 64,010 66,570 69, 238 72,001 74,882 77,878 80,994 82,617 S-7 71,686 74,532 77,543 80,645 83,871 87,220 90,705 92,522 S-8 80,294 83,508 86,845 90,323 93,934 97,687 101,599 103,627 S-9 89,928 93,527 97,268 101,154 105,208 109,414 113,788 116,061 S-10 100 ,528 10 4,749 108 ,939 113,296 117,831 122,540 127,443 129,991 S-11 112,591 117,318 122,011 126,892 131,970 137,245 142,736 145,590 FV27 MIN 2 3 MID 4 5 6 MAX S-1 37,409 38,909 40,465 42,081 43,764 45,523 47,335 48,284 S-2 41,901 43,575 45,319 47,135 49,014 50,979 53,016 54,083 S-3 46,927 48,806 50,755 52,791 54,899 57,100 59,381 60,568 S-4 52,562 54,665 56,852 59,119 61,486 63,946 66,502 67,831 S-5 58,870 61,225 63,668 66,218 68,863 71,618 74,482 75,974 S-6 65,931 68,567 71,315 74,161 77,129 80,214 83,424 85,095 S-7 73,837 76,768 79,869 83,065 86,387 89,837 93,426 95,297 S-8 82,703 86,013 89,450 93,033 96,752 100,617 104,647 106,736 S-9 92,626 96,332 100,186 104,189 108,364 112,696 117,201 119,543 S-10 103,543 107,891 112,207 116,695 121,366 126,216 131,266 133,891 S-11 115,969 120,838 125,672 130,699 135,930 141,362 147,018 149,958 Councillor David Cormier recused himself. Recommendation to ADOPT as presented by a vote 9-0. C-55 Dean J. Mazzarella, Mayor; Request to adopt the attached updates. This ordinance update to Chart 16. Personnel. Section 16-30 of the Leominster Revised Ordinances reflects: 1. Leominster Fire Department salary and wages adjustments for FY 2025 through FY 2027 2. Department of Public Works salary and wages adjustments for FY 2025 through FY 2027 Page 16 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2025 (365 days) w/ all increases NEW SALARIES F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2024 .5 %Adj 3%COLA FY2025 FF $ 62,073.00 $ 62,383.37 $ 64,254 .87 $ 64,255.00 FF EMT $ 67,467.61 $ 67,468.00 FF EMT-D $ 68,752.71 $ 68,753.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 68,190.29 $ 68,191.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 69,475.39 $ 69,476.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 68,912.97 $ 68,913.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 70,198.07 $ 70,199.00 Step 2 Yearly FY2024 FY2025 FF $ 65,268.00 $ 65,594.34 $ 67,562.17 $ 67,563.00 FF EMT $ 70,940.28 $ 70,941.00 FF EMT-D $ 72,291.52 $ 72,292.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 71,662.96 $ 71,663.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 73,014.20 $ 73,015.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 72,385.64 $ 72,386.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 73,736.88 $ 73,737.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2024 FY2025 FF $ 68,447.00 $ 68,789.24 $ 70,852 .91 $ 70,853.00 FF EMT $ 74,395 .56 $ 74,396.00 FF EMT-D $ 75,812.62 $ 75,813.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 75,118.24 $ 75,119.00 FF EMT-D/ HM OC $ 76,535 .30 $ 76,536.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 75,840.92 $ 75,841.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 77,257.98 $ 77,258.00 MAXIMUM FY2024 FY2025 FF $ 69,814.00 $ 70,163.07 $ 72,267.96 $ 72,268.00 FF EMT $ 75,881.36 $ 75,882.00 FF EMT-D $ 77, 326.72 $ 77,327.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 76,604.04 $ 76,605.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 78,049.40 $ 78,050.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 77,326.72 $ 77,327.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 78,772.08 $ 78,773.00 Page 17 F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2024 FY2025 Paramedic $ 66,419.00 $ 66,751.10 $ 68,753.63 $ 68,754.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 69,476.31 $ 69,477.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 70,198.99 $ 70,199.00 Step 2 Yearly FY2024 FY2025 Paramedic $ 69,837.00 $ 70,186.19 $ 72,291.77 $ 72,292.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 73,014.45 $ 73,015.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 73,737.13 $ 73,738.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2024 FY2025 Paramedic $ 73,238.00 $ 73,604.19 $ 75,812.32 $ 75,813.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 76,535.00 $ 76,535.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 77,257.67 $ 77,258.00 MAXIMUM FY2024 FY2025 Paramedic $ 74,701.00 $ 75,074.51 $ 77,326.74 $ 77,327.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 78,049.42 $ 78,050.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 78,772.10 $ 78,773.00 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2025 (365 days) w/ all increases NEW SALARIES FY2025 F-3 FY2024 .5 %Adj 3%COLA 86,987.00 LT $ 84,033.00 $ 84,453.17 $ 86,986.76 $ LT EMT $ 91,336.10 $ 91,337.00 LT EMT-D $ 93,075.83 $ 93,076.00 LT EMT/HMOC $ 92 ,058.78 $ 92, 059 .00 LT EMT-O/HMOC $ 93,798.51 $ 93,799.00 LT EMT/HMTC $ 92,781.46 $ 92,782.00 LT EMT-D/HMTC $ 94,521.19 $ 94,522.00 F-3 FY2024 FY2025 MM $ 84,033.00 $ 84,453.17 $ 86,986.76 $ 86,987.00 MM EMT $ 91,336.10 $ 91,337 .00 MM EMT-D $ 93,075.83 $ 93,076.00 MM EMT/HMOC $ 92,058.78 $ 92,059.00 MM EMT-D/HMOC $ 93,798.51 $ 93,799.00 MM EMT/HMTC $ 92,781.46 $ 92,782.00 MM EMT-D/HMTC $ 94,521.19 $ 94,522 .00 Page 18 F-4 FY2024 FY2025 DC $ 95,107.00 $ 95,582.54 $ 98,450.01 $ 98,451.00 DC EMT $ 103,372.51 $ 103,373.00 DC EMT-D $ 105,341.51 $ 105,342.00 DC EMT/HMOC $ 104,095.19 $ 104,096.00 DC EMT-D/HMOC $ 106,064.19 $ 106,065.00 DC EMT/HMTC $ 104,817.87 $ 104,818.00 DC EMT-D/HMTC $ 106,786.87 $ 106,787.00 F-5 FY2024 FYZ0Z5 Chief $ 139,625.00 $ 140,323.13 $ 144,532.82 $ 144,533.00 Chief EMT- D $ 154,650.12 $ 154,651.00 Chief EMT -D/HMTC $ 156,095.48 $ 156,096.00 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2026 (365 days) w/ alt increases NEW SALARIES F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2025 .5 %Adj 3%COLA FY2026 FF $ 64,255.00 $ 64,576.28 $ 66,513.56 $ 66,514.00 FF EMT $ 69,839.24 $ 69,840.00 FF EMT-D $ 71,169.51 $ 71,170.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 70,587.32 $ 70,588.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 71,917.59 $ 71,918.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 71,335.41 $ 71,336.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 72,665.68 $ 72,666.00 Step 2 Yearly FY2025 FY2026 FF $ 67,563.00 $ 67,900.82 $ 69,937.84 $ 69,938.00 FF EMT $ 73,434.73 $ 73,435.00 FF EMT-D $ 74,833.49 $ 74,834.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 74,182.81 $ 74,183.00 F EMT-D/HMOC $ 75,581.57 $ 75,582.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 74,930.90 $ 74,931.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 76,329.65 $ 76,330.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2025 FY2026 FF $ 70,853.00 $ 71,207.27 $ 73,343.48 $ 73,344.00 FF EMT $ 77,010.66 $ 77,011.00 FF EMT-D $ 78,477.53 $ 78,478.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 77,758.74 $ 77,759.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 79,225.61 $ 79,226.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 78,506.82 $ 78,507.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 79,973.69 $ 79,974.00 Page 19 MAXIMUM FY2025 FY2026 MAXIMUM FF $ 72,268.00 $ 72,629.34 $ 74,808.22 $ 74,809.00 FF EMT $ 78,548.63 $ 78,549.00 FF EMT-D $ 80,044.80 $ 80,045.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 79,296.71 $ 79,297.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 80,792.88 $ 80,793.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 80,044.80 $ 80,045.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 81,540.96 $ 81,541.00 F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2025 FY2026 Paramedic $ 68,754.00 $ 69,097.77 $ 71,170.70 $ 71,171.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 71,918.79 $ 71,919.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 72,666.87 $ 72,667.00 Step 2 Yearly FY2025 FY2026 Paramedic $ 72,292.00 $ 72,653.46 $ 74,833.06 $ 74,834.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 75,581.15 $ 75,582.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 76,329.23 $ 76,330.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2025 FY2026 Paramedic $ 75,813.00 $ 76,192.07 $ 78,477.83 $ 78,478.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 79,225.91 $ 79,226.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 79,973.99 $ 79,974.00 MAXIMUM FY2025 FY2026 Paramedic $ 77,327.00 $ 77,713.64 $ 80,045.04 $ 80,046.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 80,793.13 $ 80,794.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 81,541.21 $ 81,542.00 Page 20 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2026 (365 days) w/ all increases NEW SALARIES F-3 FY2025 .5%Adj 3%COLA FY2026 LT $ 86,987.00 $ 87,421.94 $ 90,044.59 $ 90,045.00 LT EMT $ 94,546.82 $ 94,547.00 LT EMT-D $ 96,347.71 $ 96,348.00 LT EMT/HMOC $ 95,294.90 $ 95,295.00 LT EMT-D/HMOC $ 97,095.80 $ 97,096.00 LT EMT/HMTC $ 96,042.99 $ 96,043.00 LT EMT-O/HMTC $ 97,843.88 $ 97,844.00 F-3 FY2025 FY2026 MM $ 86,987.00 $ 87,421.94 $ 90,044.59 $ 90,045.00 MM EMT $ 94,546.82 $ 94,547.00 MM EMT-D $ 96,347.71 $ 96,348.00 MM EMT/HMOC $ 95,294.90 $ 95,295.00 MM EMT-D/HMOC $ 97,095.80 $ 97,096.00 MM EMT/HMTC $ 96,042.99 $ 96,043.00 MM EMT-D/HMTC $ 97,843.88 $ 97,844.00 F-3 FY2025 FY2026 IT $ 86,987.00 $ 87,421.94 $ 90,044.59 $ 90,045.00 IT EMT $ 94,546.82 $ 94,547.00 IT EMT-D $ 96,347.71 $ 96,348.00 IT EMT/HMOC $ 95,294.90 $ 95,295.00 IT EMT-D/HMOC $ 97,095.80 $ 97,096.00 IT EMT/HMTC $ 96,042.99 $ 96,043.00 IT EMT-D/HMTC $ 97,843.88 $ 97,844.00 F-4 FY2025 FY2026 DC $ 98,451.00 $ 98,943.26 $ 101,911.55 $ 101,912.00 DC EMT $ 107,007.13 $ 107,008.00 DC EMT-D $ 109,045.36 $ 109,046.00 DC EMT/HMOC $ 107,755.21 $ 107,756.00 DC EMT-D/HMOC $109,793.44 $ 109,794.00 DC EMT/HMTC $ 108,503.29 $ 108,504.00 DC EMT-D/HMTC $ 110,541.53 $ 110,542.00 F-5 FY2025 FY2026 Chief $ 144,533.00 $ 145,255.67 $ 149,613.33 $ 149,614.00 Chief EMT- D $ 160,086.27 $ 160,087.00 Chief EMT-D/HMTC $ 161,582.43 $ 161,583.00 Page 21 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2027 (365 days) w/ all increases NEW SALARIES F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2026 3%COLA FY2027 FF $66,514.00 $ 68,509.42 $ 68,510.00 FF EMT $ 71,934.89 $ 71,935.00 FF EMT-D $ 73,305.08 $ 73,306.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 72,705.42 $ 72,706.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 74,075.61 $ 74,076.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 73,475.96 $ 73,476.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 74,846.14 $ 74,847.00 Step 2 Yearly FY2026 FY2027 FF $ 69,938.00 $ 72,036.14 $ 72,037.00 FF EMT $ 75,637.95 $ 75,638.00 FF EMT-D $ 77,078.67 $ 77,079.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 76,408.48 $ 76,409.00 FF EM T- D/ HMOC $ 77,849.20 $ 77,850.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 77,179.01 $ 77,180.00 FF EMT-D/ HM TC $ 78,619.74 $ 78,620.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2026 FY2027 FF $ 73,344.00 $ 75,544.32 $ 75,545.00 FF EMT $ 79,321.54 $ 79,322.00 FF EMT-D $ 80 ,83 2.42 $ 80,833.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 80,092.07 $ 80,093.00 FF EMT-D/HMOC $ 81,602.96 $ 81,603.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 80,862.60 $ 80,863.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 82,373.49 $ 82,374.00 MAXIMUM FY2026 FY2027 FF $ 74,809.00 $ 77,053.27 $ 77,054.00 FF EMT $ 80,905.93 $ 80,906.00 FF EMT-D $ 82,447.00 $ 82,447.00 FF EMT/HMOC $ 81,676.47 $ 81,677.00 FF E MT-D/ HM OC $ 83,217.53 $ 83,218.00 FF EMT/HMTC $ 82,447.00 $ 82,447.00 FF EMT-D/HMTC $ 83,988.06 $ 83,989.00 F-1 -Minimum Yearly FY2026 FY2027 Paramedic $71,171.00 $73,306.13 $ 73,307.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 74,076 .66 $ 74,077.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 74,847.20 $ 74,848.00 Page 22 Step 2 Yearly FY2026 FY2027 Paramedic $74,834.00 $ 77,079.02 $ 77,080.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 77,849 .55 $ 77,850.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 78,620.09 $ 78,621.00 Step 3 Yearly FY2026 FY2027 Paramedic $ 78,478.00 $ 80,832.34 $ 80,833.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 81,602.87 $ 81,603.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 82,373.41 $ 82,374.00 MAXIMUM FY2026 FY2027 Paramedic $ 80,046.00 $ 82,447.38 $ 82,448.00 Paramedic/HMOC $ 83,217.91 $ 83,218.00 Paramedic/HMTC $ 83,988 .45 $ 83,989 .00 Page 23 LEOMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SALARIES FY 2027 (365 days) w/ all increases NEW SALARIES F-3 FY2026 3%COLA FY2027 LT $ 90,045.00 $ 92,746.35 $ 92,747.00 LT EMT $ 97,383.67 $ 97,384.00 LT EMT-D $ 99,238.59 $ 99,239.00 LT EMT/HMOC $ 98,154.20 $ 98,155.00 LT EMT-D/HMOC $ 100,009.13 $ 100,010.00 LT EMT/HMTC $ 98,924.73 $ 98,925.00 LT EMT-D/HMTC $ 100,779.66 $ 100,780.00 F-3 FY2026 FY2027 MM $90,045.00 $ 92,746.35 $ 92,747.00 MM EMT $ 97,383.67 $ 97,384.00 MM EMT-D $ 99,238.59 $ 99,239.00 MM EMT/HMOC $ 98,154.20 $ 98,155.00 MM EMT-D/HMOC $ 100,009.13 $ 100,010.00 MM EMT/HMTC $ 98,924.73 $ 98,925.00 MM EMT- D/ HM TC $ 100,779.66 $ 100,780.00 F-3 FY2026 FY2027 IT $90,045.00 $ 92,746.35 $ 92,747.00 ITEMT $ 97,383.67 $ 97,384.00 IT EMT-D $ 99,238.59 $ 99,239.00 IT EMT/HMOC $ 98,154.20 $ 98,155.00 IT EMT-D/HMOC $ 100,009.13 $ 100,010.00 IT EMT/HMTC $ 98,924.73 $ 98,925.00 IT EMT-D/HMTC $ 100,779.66 $ 100,780.00 F-4 FY2026 FY2027 DC $101,912.00 $104,969.36 $ 104,970.00 DC EMT $110,217.83 $ 110,218.00 DC EMT-D $112,317.22 $ 112,318.00 DC EMT/HMOC $110,988.36 $ 110,989.00 DC EMT-D/HMOC $113,087.75 $ 113,088.00 DC EMT/HMTC $111,758.89 $ 111,759.00 DC EMT-D/HMTC $113,858.28 $ 113,859.00 F-5 FY2026 FY2027 Chief $149,614.00 $154,102.42 $ 154,103.00 Chief EMT- D $16 4,889.59 $ 164,890.00 Chief EMT -D/HMTC $166,430.65 $ 166,431.00 Page 24 DPW- Wage Scales FY25 3% Min. Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step4 Max. Grounds Keep W-1 19.02 19.61 20.10 20.53 21.13 21.54 Grounds Keep W-2 20.81 21.56 22.23 22.77 23.54 23.99 Laborer W-3 22.55 23.31 23.88 24.64 25.41 25.89 Truck Driver W-4 24.09 24.88 25.65 26.52 27.32 27.85 W-5 25.56 26.36 27.20 28.07 28.80 29.36 Working Faren W-6 32.69 34.22 35.65 36.41 37.04 37.78 FY26 3% Min. Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Max. Grounds Keep W-1 19.59 20.20 20.70 21.14 21 .76 22.18 Grounds Keep W-2 21.43 22.20 22.89 23.46 24.24 24.71 Laborer W-3 23.22 24.01 24.59 25.38 26.17 26.67 Truck Driver W-4 24.81 25.63 26.42 27.32 28.14 28.69 W-5 26.33 27.15 28.02 28.91 29.66 30.24 Working Forerr W-6 33.67 35.24 36.72 37.50 38.15 38.91 FY27 3% Min. Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Max. Grounds Keep W-1 20.18 20.81 21.32 21.78 22.41 22.85 Grounds Keep W-2 22.07 22.87 23.58 24.16 24.97 25.45 Laborer W-3 23.92 24.73 25.33 26.14 26.96 27.47 Truck Driver W-4 25.56 26.40 27.21 28.14 28.98 29.55 W-5 27.12 27.96 28.86 29.78 30.55 31.14 Working Faren W-6 34.68 36.30 37.82 38.63 39.29 40.08 XIV. OLD BUSINESS XV. COMMUNITY CALENDAR Councillor Claire Freda put out a reminder for the council and the public that on May 4, 2025, the Laurelwood Garden Club in partnership with the Blue Star Mothers, will be dedicating a highway marker in front of the old Shaw’s on Route 2 by Hamilton Street at 2:00pm. Councillor Freda also stated that she hopes people will come and support the military. The City Council individually offered a reflection of the late Councillor Peter Angelini. XI. ADJOURNMENT Councillor David Cormier made a motion to adjourn, Councillor Pauline Cormier seconded the motion, meeting adjourned at 8:40pm. - Elizabeth Doiron, City Clerk Page 25