City Council

METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Chair Faretra called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. He announced Mayor Perry is ill and would not be in attendance. Members present: Clr. Beauregard, Clr. Campagnone, Clr. DiZoglio, Clr. Marsan, Clr. Pesce, Clr. Saffie, Clr. Soto, Clr. Valley and Chair Faretra. Acceptance of the Agenda MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to accept the agenda. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS Pledge of Allegiance/Words of Wisdom//Moment of Silence Everyone stood for the Pledge of Allegiance. John Sheehan, Beverly Hannaford, and Stanley Katowski. Vice-Chair Soto read a quote from Winston Churchill ref: Courage. Public Participation Kenneth Doherty, 32 Lyndale Ave, Methuen Resident since 1953, spoke in support of purchasing the Searles Estate. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Mayor Perry and Community Development put together an amazing deal. There are many potential revenue sources. This would bring fun and excitement to the city. Mr. Searles built a High School that is now our city hall. There are three buildings still serving the city. He urged everyone to look at the video and photos. If it does not work out, the city can always sell. David Consoli, Consoli Realty, 57 Old Ferry Road, distributed photos relative to the conditions of the road along with a photo of a National Grid truck blocking the facility for 38 minutes. The road is extremely narrow and inadequate. One vehicle must back down the road if there is a vehicle coming down. There is an 80’ drop with no guardrails. It is a significant liability. In February of 2020, the only action received was from former Chief Solomon. These trucks pose a safety risk. In August 2023, Mayor Perry and Chief McNamara’s department had 1.7 million dollars to put aside for road improvements. He has been waiting four years for improvements to be made. Steve Saba, 15 Chippy Lane, spoke in support of the purchase of the Searles Estate. A couple of questions were not answered. He would have motioned to table until answers were received. He noted the packets that went out to Council were not online. He asked where the money is coming from for maintenance and utilities. He asked if anyone did inspections and about security because of the precious artifacts. Most people have never seen the site. “How do we protect that once the check is written?” “Who is going to be personally responsible?” Item 9A is to waive the Council rules. You are acknowledging this failed the last time. He noted reconsideration has always been from the prevailing side. This should be a unanimous vote of Council. The city should be giving Councilors answers to their question. Bring back the vote 1 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** and ask questions. There should be a second read. “What is the plan? Let us do the right thing and get a unanimous vote.” Rose Marie Redman, 31 Cochrane Lane, President of the Festival of Trees, and graduate of PMA, spoke in favor of purchasing the Searles Estate as well as $500,000 spent to restore and preserve the Searles, tombstone, and walls outside the carriage house. She noted she also worked as a teacher until the school closed. The property was hard to open because sisters lived there. The city cannot let go of what sits in that gorgeous building and property. She urged Council to purchase the Searles Estate for the city. Kay DiFiore, 18 Rebecca Way, spoke in support of the reconsideration and purchase of the Searles Estate. Maureen Pollard, 8 K Street, resident of Methuen for forty years, former owner of Pollard Funeral Home, President of the Methuen Historical Commission, said if not now, when will the city could acquire this property. It is a fair and reasonable price. The time is now to pay attention and to act now. It would benefit us for years to come. She commented the George Washington statute was sold. The Tenney Castle was destroyed by fire. There have been other historical castles, i.e., Ipswich, Gloucester, and North Andover. An affirmative vote is the future, a vote for preserving history. It should be managed by a Board of Trustees. Sue Juknavorian, 9 Abbey Road, said many things have already been said. She would like to see the Council have faith in the people here in our community. Make sure this piece of land is kept in our community. Andrew Scanlon, 589 Prospect said he is a person who appreciates growing up in Methuen. Some said it should put on the burden of the taxpayers. “Why shouldn’t we?” The cost to the taxpayer is a non-issue. The purchase price per resident is $70.00. others said there is no clear plan. We have the opportunity to do it now. Cannot go back and expect it to be available. People recognize the importance of this. Methuen citizens will do our part for the greater good. He encouraged the Council to support this. Recommendation Daniel Veit, 36 Lantern Lene said 1946 a group of concerned citizens raised money to buy the music hall here and worked tirelessly. He asked the city to save the Searles Property. Jack Burke, 49 Canobieola Road, said the Council is hearing from constituents tonight. One person recused himself. There is a need to make sure others decided they do not. have a conflict. There seems to be a rush. There is a 120-day window (November). Serious questions were asked about a plan. There was a plan, and here we are 20 years later saying we do not have a plan. Twenty-nine people signed up, a number people who signed to save the Searles Estate. 2 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Anita Kiley, 13 Maguire Street, a graduate of PMA, spoke in support of the Searles Estate. The possibilities are endless. If we make Methuen a destination our community will benefit. She would like taxes to go towards it, helping create a historical center. Mary Beth Kennedy Maloney, 7 Myrtle Street graduate of PMA, spoke in support of the purchase of the Searles Estate. She asked about plan for the unused buildings. The Searles Estate could be opened for wedding venue or citizens could take small classes. The sisters could take residents around. It can be a destination now. It would be unfair to burden the citizens. John Hadley, 17 Stoney Brook Road. was raided in Methuen, is a member of the Methuen Historical Society, as well as a volunteer at the Tenney Gatehouse. He supports the purchase of the Searles Estate. The city has given so much and lost so much. The cost of upgrading the Castle was never enough. There are 3,400 responses of support to purchase the Searles Estate. Weddings could be held at the cathedral and concerts held on site. The list goes on and on. The city must not let this opportunity slip through our fingers. The government and citizens must work together as a community to purchase and support the Searles Estate. Jennifer Loiselle, a local artist, and member of the Methuen Cultural Society, said she is saddened to learn of past decisions, something that should have never happened. The city could change the future. The estate potential is limitless. There is a lack of spaces, no studios, no communal spaces. Artists are forced to go elsewhere such as Lynn. The city experienced a tremendous transformation. This could be a space where creativity flourishes. There could be community events. The city is investing in our future in creating a community that has a lot to offer. Eleni Varitimos said she agrees with buying the Searles Estate. She spent over a decade working for Community Development as a private citizen. As an economic development employee, she traveled the state to do work. The first question she asked was “does the city have site control? If we do not it does not matter. Someone else will decide if we do not have site control. Our downtown must come with planning, with laser focus on fulfilling these plans. To do so the city must take site control. Heather Plunket, a resident of Methuen since 2019, moved here from Houston, TX. Texas does not have the same history as Mass. Was Tenney Castle a bad decision? This is about the future generation, affordable housing, but should not compromise historic properties. It is not about your district. It is about everyone who lives in the city. Representative Ryan Hamilton announced he secured $250,000 in federal funding for recreational and historic. That would go toward historical I do not want you to think you are done. The city can build a coalition for citizens to get involved in this should the city purchase 3 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** it, everyone working to preserve this property, working with Mayor Perry, the Council, and the administration. He recalled touring city hall when he was in the third grade. History meets progress. We could open doors to make this a destination and for people to come to Methuen. Future generations are going to love this place. He hopes this happens. Steven Gillis, Jackson Street said the proposal needs amendments and safeguards. No one wants to see housing. We need to protect the land with strong language that it can never be divided. The second amendment is to install cameras inside and outside. Some amendments should be drawn up to protect just as we monitor and safeguard our own homes and computers. This item should be tabled. Penny Hamel, 7 Country Lake Road said she was educated in Methuen. Few people were in the Tenney Castle before it burnt down. She chose to stay in Methuen because it has diversity, the Organ Hall, walls etc. that make up our community. She is in favor of buying the Searles Estate and urged Councilors to consider their vote carefully. Bill Haneffant, 6 West Ayers Street, said the problem is procedure. Councilors asked what the plan is and then voted yes. He admires the two Councilors that vote no. Anyone could have tabled it at that time. It lost. Let us find a way to get it back on the agenda. He would love to find a way to purchase that. $250,000 cost for maintenance and $500,000 on taxpayers. We have got to have a plan to create enough revenue to pay money back. The property is very nice. In 1946 there was a group of peopled that filed an article of the Board of Trustees consisting of 17 members for the Music Hall. We do not need politics to interfere with the running of this property. Twenty years ago, the city said we have a plan, and nobody bothered. Chair Faretra read a letter from Robert DeFusco (attached) Councilor Saffie read a letter from Jessica Finocchiaro (attached) Chair Faretra read a letter from Robert LeBlanc (attached) Councilor Marsan read a letter from Sid Harris (attached) Chair Faretra read letter from the Sisters of PMA (attached) Councilor Beauregard stated that the State Ethics confirmed there is a “conflict of interest”. The academic building abuts the site the city wished to buy. His employer has a financial interest. He said he is doing the right thing and left the room. Organizational Business - None Reading and Acceptance of Minutes from Previous Meetings: August 5, Regular Meeting MOTION BY: Councilor Soto, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to approve the minutes. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 present (Clr. Pesce) 4 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Proclamations/Citations/Correspondence: None Consideration of Appointments: None Presentations/Projects/Department Updates: Searles Acquisition Draft John Wilson, Director of Community Development Director, reviewed the Searles Acquisition Proposal which included a short video of the property. CAFO Duprey explained this would cost 4.8 million dollars over twenty years. The first payment would be due on the bond in FY’2026. John Wilson said there is a $500,000 grant underway. They would provide security and maintenance breakdown of cameras, lights, and having police presence on campus as well as a maintenance person. Councilor Marsan said all his questions were answered. Councilor Pesce said she grew up with tales of lost treasures. The most important part is acquiring property and preservation. She asked there are any written assurances preserving this historically. John Wilson said the intent here is the city would establish it as a matter of acquisition that property would be preserved. He noted the requirement of a zoning change is a 2/3 vote of the City Council. Having that, the city is in a much better position of stopping any development. Councilor DiZoglio said the sale price is 2.5 million, spending 4.8 million in bonding. CAFO Duprey said it would be a twenty-year bond just under 4.8 million dollars. Councilor Valley referenced the insurance and questioned demolishing non-historic part. John Wilson said there are no plans to demolish anything. Some buildings are old but not as historically significant as Pine Lodge. It would be yet to be determined. Councilor Valley asked about structural inspections. John Wilson said Weston and Sampson is doing the assessment which is under way. There is a window of opportunity to buy this building. The city has interest to preserve the estate and stop any further damage to the property. This is absolutely an investment. They have not spent the money for an appraisal. Councilor Valley said we do not know what it is going to cost for renovations. John Wilson said the end use will guide us if any buildings may not be needed. CAFO Duprey said any cost beyond approval would come back to Council whatever it happens to be. John Wilson said this property could produce revenue for the city. Councilor Campagnone said this is too valuable piece of property for us to let go. It would a good day that we got the Searles Building back. She supports the city purchasing it. Vice-Chair Soto thanked the Methuen Historical Society. She asked if the closing is September 12, 2024. John Wilson said the closing would be as soon as possible. 5 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Councilor Soto noted it is subject to purchase as is. Procurement closing date would have been October 12, 2024. John Wilson said he thought it was 90 days or 120 days. Councilor Soto question if Article 10, Section B, has been achieved and the uniform procurement act. John Wilson said we are compliant with all applicable laws. He does not think there will be an issue with it. Councilor Soto said the city loaned $20,000 of artifacts to the Historical society. John Wilso said the artifacts on site will become the city’s artifacts, one million plus for the artifacts. Councilor Soto said the artifacts are not in the best state she asked if this is something that will be addressed. John Wilson said the city is not contemplated doing any physical improvements. This is just about planning. Councilor Soto said she is glad to hear the good news, $500,000 is total that could be allocated. John Wilson said the city is also going to get additional funding Councilor Soto referred to the planning piece and said the city has eighteen months to review and do. John Wilson said that would be the plan. They would get further with Weston and Sampson. Councilor Saffie commented she appreciates the work that has been done. It is very rare that so many residents come in favor of spending money. There is overwhelming support. The city needs to purchase and preserve it. Chair Faretra said if this goes through, 3.5 million-dollar bond, bonding would be thirteen to fifteen million dollars. He asked if the city would bond the same amount if it is less than 3.5 million dollars. CAFO Duprey said it would on the lesser side of that range. Chair Faretra said many question could have been answered if the presentation was in August. Solicitor Rossetti explained the legalities required. At the last meeting there were six members voting, two absent, and one recusal. The measure required a 2/3 vote. The motion to approve received 4 votes in favor and two against. The measure was defeated. Council is allowed, by a 2/3 vote, to waive the one-year bar VII(a) when a measure is defeated. Under VII(d) any member who voted with the majority may vote to reconsider. 95% of the time the majority would be the prevailing vote, not a 100% overlap. The rule states any member who voted with the majority may move for reconsideration. Roberts Rules of Order operate in a different manner. Roberts Rules of Order say a motion can only be brought up by a member of the prevailing side. Except when you have a requirement of 2/3 vote VII(d) says a member of the majority may reconsider a vote. In this case a member of the majority or minority may move 6 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** for reconsideration. The Solicitor reviewed the sequence of votes. If the motion to reconsider passes, Council takes the resolution up for second read. There would be a motion to approve and deliberation. If passed, the effect will constitute a second read tonight. Councilor Soto questioned the waiver of the rules. The Solicitor said a motion to waive the rules to reconsider may be at the same meeting or the next meeting. We are motioning to waive the rules to take up consideration without waiting the one-year after a measure fails. Councilor Soto referred to the Greater Lawrence Vocational High School vote, noting this could have been avoided. She said she has a problem with this and asked if she could trust him as the Solicitor. Now we are doing this to get this property. There is one page with no Purchase and Sale attached. Solicitor Rossetti said his legal advice is appropriately rendered. He did a deep dive as to who is eligible and not eligible. He communicated what needs to be done. Regarding GLT bonding, the prevailing side moved for reconsideration (5-3) consistent with the opinion he just gave. Councilor Soto requested that the Solicitor provide history on Methuen City Council votes to reconsider. She commented that Councilor Campagnone said in thirty years she never saw it happen. Councilor Soto said she wants case law. Solicitor Rossetti said he would investigate that. He cannot speak to what prior attorneys advised. Councilor Soto said she will introduce an ordinance to safeguard and provide a revolving fund. 9A Motion to Waive Council Rule VI(a) the one-year bar under City Council Rule VII(h) on reintroducing rejected resolutions as that bar applies to the August 5, 2024 City Council Vote on TR-24-51 (Resolution to Approve the City’s Acquisition of the Searles Estate Via Purchase and Sale Agreement) Sponsored by Clr. DiZoglio MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Saffie to waive Rule VI(a) the one-year bar under City Council Rule VII(h) on reintroducing rejected resolutions as that bar applies to the August 5, 2024 City Council Vote on TR-24-51 (Resolution to Approve the City’s Acquisition of the Searles Estate Via Purchase and Sale Agreement) Councilor DiZoglio said Council should fix this tonight. Ten years ago, the city paid 4.8 million for the stadium. This is 3.25 million dollars for nineteen acres. This Council can make a difference in the city’s history. Roads/infrastructure cause more problems. The city wants this. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 6 yes, 2 no (Clr. Soto, Clr. Valley) 1 abstention (Clr. Beauregard was out of the room) 7 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Motion for Reconsideration of the August 5, 2024 Vote of the Methuen City Council Rejecting TR-24-51 (“Resolution to Approve the City’s Acquisition of the Searles Estate Via Purchase and Sale Agreement”) Sponsored by Councilor DiZoglio MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Pesce to reconsider the August 5, 2024 vote of the Methuen City Council rejecting TR-24-51. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Beauregard out of the room) TR-24-51 Resolution to Approve the City’s Acquisition of the Searles Estate via Purchase and Sale Agreement (Requested by the Mayor) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Saffie to approve. Councilor Soto – Point of Information – said she would like to amend to include an ordinance to outline and put forward the mechanisms regarding this property. This proposal talks about eighteen months during which time the Mayor gets to pick people to manage a revolving fund. This allows transparency. Chair Faretra said a separate ordinance would come before the Council that would have to be submitted. Solicitor Rossetti said it would have to be brought at another council meeting, the next council meeting. Councilor Soto said she would sponsor the ordinance and submit to the Solicitor for review for the next meeting. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Beauregard out of the room) TR-24-52 Resolution Authorizing a Borrowing to Pay Costs for the acquisition of the Searles Estate (Requested by the Mayor and CAFO) (remove from the table) MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to remove from the table. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Beauregard) MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to approve UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 abstention (Clr. Beauregard) MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Soto to declare a brief recess. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Faretra called the meeting back to order. Members present: Clr. Beauregard, Clr. Campagnone, Clr. DiZoglio, Clr. Marsan, Clr. Pesce, Clr. Saffie, Clr. Soto, Clr. Valley, and Chair Faretra. Mayor’s Report Update on MHS – Chair Faretra reported the bus loop is completed. The ice rink is started, and pickle ball courts are underway. Residents may call the Recreation department at 978-893-8590. 8 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Holy Family – Assistant Solicitor Paul O’Neill reported the Judge approved the sale of hospitals. The closings are set for the end of the month (by September 30th) and then transition to new ownership. Chair Faretra said the risk of Triple E and West Nile are low. Patrick McCarty reported we are in good standing. No humans have tested positive for either disease. Triple E and West Nile are transmitted through a bite from a mosquito. They are active between dusk and dawn. Approximately one and a half weeks ago there was spraying in Methuen. CAFO Report CAFO Duprey reported she provided an updated ARPA and CIP report and included potential changes for reclassifications. Chief McNamara said he agreed with Mr. Consoli regarding the condition of the road. Engineering did look at it. given the slope of the street and crumbling on the sides, improvements must be made there. The sale of the storage facility is on the horizon. “Can we restrict travel?” There is a stop measure by widening the streets. Councilor Soto asked if the street is accepted or unaccepted. Felix Garcia, DPW Deputy Director, said he believes it is accepted. Woodard and Curran are analyzing next week to find solutions. Councilor Pesce asked if the property was assessed for property taxes. Requests of Councilors • 80 Howe Street Update (Clr. Campagnone) • Merrimack Street Corridor Sidewalk and Street work Update (Req. of Clr. Soto) • Update on Charles Street Wall (Request of Chair Faretra) • Update on Eversource and DPW Paving Projects (Request of Chair Faretra) • Update on School Audit (Request of Chair Faretra) • Update on the Gulf Station at corner of Howe Street and Pleasant (req. of Clr. Campagnone) • Receivership Program (Request of Clr. Soto) • Update on Aggregation Program (Request of Clr. Beauregard) • Update Regarding the Damaged Freeman Property in Downtown at 50-52 Hampshire Street (Request of Clr. Beauregard) • Update on Additional Housing being put on top of Washington Street (Request of Clr. DiZoglio) • Status on the sale and purchaser of the new warehouse on top of Old Ferry Road along with any traffic studies or concerns with the usage of that road to tractor trailers (Req. of Clr. DiZoglio) • Update on signage at the transfer station (Request of Chair Faretra) 9 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Councilor DiZoglio requested for the next meeting if there are any traffic studies for Old Ferry Road and Rt. 113. Councilor DiZoglio requested an update on the sale of the storage facility on Old Ferry Road, who the purchaser was and commented the road cannot handle the amount of traffic on that road. Other Officers and Committee Reports Councilor Beauregard reported that the Veterans’ Affairs Committee will be held in conjunction with the next Council regular meeting. Public Service: A) Grants: None B) Licenses: Taj Touring Corporation (New) 30 Partridge Road, Methuen, MA MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS Vehicle for Hire: Villa Transport, LLC (new), 19 Annis Street, Methuen, MA MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS Vehicle for Hire: Sutin Transportation (new), 87 Elm Street, Methuen, MA MOTION BY: Councilor Pesce, seconded by Councilor DiZoglio to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS. C) Contract(s): C-25-17 Methuen Police Superior Officer’s Association July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027 (second read) (remove from the table) as amended MOTION BY: Councilor Pesce, seconded by Councilor Soto to remove from the table. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS MOTION BY: Councilor seconded by Councilor to approve. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 no (Clr. Faretra) C-25-18 Local 3699 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO Methuen Support Staff Employees’ Unit (AFCME A) July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027 (second read) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor DiZoglio to approve. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 no (Clr. Faretra) C-25-19 Local 3699 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO Methuen Inspectors Employees’ Unit (AFSCME B) (second read) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor DiZoglio to approve. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 8 yes, 1 no (Clr. Faretra) 10 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** C-25-20 Cyber Communications Solutions, Inc., 56 Holton Street, Woburn, MA 01801 for On-Call Services for Public Safety Radio Network in the Amount of $167,861.52 $55,953.84 Billed Annually) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes C-25-21 Colonial Ford, Inc. D/B/A Colonial Municipal Group, 61 Brigham Street, Marlborough, MA 01752 for (2) 2025 Ford PIU, fully upfitted in the amount of $103,753.40 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Saffie to approve. Councilor Campagnone asked if this was the lowest bidder. The CAFO said the city will buy off the state contract, under #1. Councilor DiZoglio asked if this is part of the CIP. The CAFO said it is a combination of three-year balances to purchase two vehicles. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes C-25-22 Woodard & Curran, Inc., 40 Shattuck Road, Suite 110, Andover, MA 01810 for Arlington Neighborhood Construction Mitigation Planning in the Amount of $100,000 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes C-25-23 E.J. Paving Company, Inc., 101 Lindberg Avenue, Methuen, MA 01844 for Milling and Paving 37 Streets in the Amount of $1,874,747.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Saffie to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes C-25-24 Dennis K. Burke, Inc., 555 Constitution Drive, Taunton, MA 02780 for Vehicle Gasoline & Premium Diesel Fuel, Mass State Contract # ENE53 (Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel Category 1) and ENE 54 (Regular Gas Category 1) Prices shall be based upon Oil Price Information Service daily low price for Boston Unleaded, 87 Octane, Est. Qty. 180,000 gallons estimated -Less than Truck Load ($.1547 per gallon) -Truck Load ($.1037 per gallon) Ultra-Low Sulfur Deisel Engine Fuel, Est. Qty. 120,000 gallons estimated -Less than Truck Load ($.2172 per gallon) -Truck Load ($.1274 per gallon) MOTION BY: Councilor Saffie, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes Councilor Saffie left the room C-25-25 E.J. Paving Company, Inc., 101 Lindberg Avenue, Methuen, MA 01844 for Superpave Surface, HMA Patching, and Hot Mix in the Amount of $784,575.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Valley to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) 11 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** C-25-26 P.J. Albert, Inc., 199 Upham Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420 for Reclaimed Pavement for Base Course in the Amount of $480,635.50 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Valley to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) C-25-27 Torromeo Industries, Inc. 33 Old Ferry Road, Methuen, MA 01844 for Sand, Stone and Gravel in the Amount of $104,925.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) C-25-28 Tread Milling Co., Inc. 18 Ayers Village Rd, Suite 10, Methuen, MA 01844 for Cold Planing & Profiling of Bituminous Surfaces in the Amount of $27,000.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) C-25-29 R.A.D. Corp., dba R.A.D. Sports, 171 VFW Drive, Rockland, MA 02370 for Removal and Replacement of Fence in the Amount of $98,002.80 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Pesce to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) C-25-30 Tasco Construction, Inc., 92 Stoneybrook Road., Belmont, MA 02478 for Structure Casting Adjustments FY’25 in the Amount of $62,750.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) C-25-31 Bobrek Engineering & Construction, LLC, 100 Conifer Hill Drive, Suite 204, Danvers, MA 01923 for FY’25 Paving Projects Construction Inspection Services in the Amount of $300,000.00 MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to approve. Councilor DiZoglio asked if an engineer will be hired to inspect work. Felix Garcia said the work will be inspected to make sure it is the right quality. Councilor DiZoglio asked if they will be looking at Eversource. Felix Garcia responded no. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of room (Clr. Saffie) Councilor Saffie returned to the room Unfinished Business Resolutions: TR-24-46 Resolution Accepting and Establishing the Water and Sewer Rates Analysis (remove from table) as amended MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Soto to remove from the table. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 7 yes, 2 no (Clr. Beauregard, Clr. Faretra) 12 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Pesce to amend eliminating FY’27, FY’28 and FY’29 adopting one-year FY’25. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 7 yes, 2 no (Clr. Marsan, Clr. Faretra) Councilor Soto noted there is no urgency. The CAFO said there is urgency as the FY’25 budget is based on the increases. It would impact the budget. Councilor Soto asked what happens if there are any outstanding water bills. The CAFO explained there would be a lien put onto the property similar to what is done with property taxes. Councilor DiZoglio asked if Council could get a number. Chair Faretra said he would data to show what we have spent over the last few years to show why we need to do it. He has not received justification as to why we need to do this. Solicitor Rossetti explained there is a six-vote minimum. CAFO Duprey explained she has provided back up information in her impact statement. MOTION BY: Councilor Beauregard, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to table as amended. Chair Faretra announced another public hearing would need to be held. The thirty-day timeframe is up today. Solicitor Rossetti said Council would have to report the process. The resolution could be effective in October. UPON ROLL CALL VOTE: 5 yes, 4 no (Clr. DiZoglio, Clr. Pesce, Clr. Soto, and Clr. Valley) Councilor Marsan left the room TR-24-48 RESOLUTION Approving a Tax Increment Financing (“TIF”) Agreement by and between the City of Methuen (“CITY”) and Heav’nly Investments IV LLC and Heav’nly Commissary, Inc. (collectively “COMPANIES”) (Requested by the Mayor and Director of Economic and Community Development) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Pesce to approve. UPON VOTE: 8 yes, 1 out of the room (Clr. Marsan) Councilor Marsan returned to the room TR-24-49 Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of $1,300 grant through the MED-Project (Requested by the Mayor and Chief of Police) MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Pesce to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes TR-24-50 Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of a Fiscal Year 2025 Commonwealth of Massachusetts State 911 Department Support and Incentive Grant of $180,964 (Requested by the Mayor and Chief of Police) 13 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** MOTION BY: Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Saffie to approve. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS yes Ordinance(s): TO-24-6 An Ordinance Amending the Wage and Salary Classification Plan, AFSCME A, to add the new position of Community Outreach Coordinator (Requested by the Mayor and Director of Human Resources) MOTION BY: Councilor Saffie, seconded by Councilor Campagnone to approve. CAFO Duprey explained one position has increased in the budget. Some are doing similar roles. This is a universal role doing the same thing. Councilor Marsan noted the city council approved the re-org plan. CAFO Duprey said they are not adding anyone. MOTION BY: Councilor DiZoglio, seconded by Councilor Marsan to table. UPON VOTE: 7 yes, 2 no (Clr. Beauregard, Clr. Faretra) Chair Faretra suggested that New Business carry to the next Council meeting. Solicitor Rossetti said the cleaner procedure would be to adjourn the meeting. New Business would be eligible for the next agenda. Adjourn MOTION BY: Councilor Marsan, seconded by Councilor Pesce to adjourn. UPON VOTE: UNANIMOUS. New Business: to be added to September 16, 2024 agenda Resolutions: TR-24-54 Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of $1,754,541 for Fiscal Year 2025- 2027 Massachusetts Department of Public Health Shared Public Health Services Grant (Requested by the Mayor and Director of HHSI) TR-24-55 Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of $156,707.36 for Fiscal Year 2025 Commonwealth of Massachusetts State 911 Department Training grant (Requested by the Mayor and Chief of Police) TR-24-56 Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of $16,232.86 for Fiscal Year 2024 Commonwealth of Massachusetts State 911 Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Grant TR-24-57 Resolution Authorizing an Amendment of Order No.5646 Borrowing to Pay Costs for the Fiscal Year 2022 Capital Improvement Plan 14 METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. **Change of Location to Methuen Community Studios, 20 Aegean Drive, Unit 11** Ordinances: TO-24-7 An Ordinance Establishing Section 16-15.1 of the Methuen Municipal Code to Authorize Civil Sanctions for Failure to Restore Excavated Land in Public Rights of Way Requested by Chair Faretra, Councilors Saffie, Beauregard, and DiZoglio, and Mayor Perry TO-24-8 An Ordinance Amending Section 16-9(A) of the Methuen Municipal Code to Formally Establish a Minimum Indemnity Bond Amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) Relative to the Excavation of Public Streets Requested by Chair Faretra, Councilors Saffie, Beauregard, and DiZoglio, and Mayor Perry TO-24-9 An Ordinance Accepting M.G.L. c. 90 § 17C to Reduce the Statutory Speed Limit from 30 mph to 25 mph in Thickly Settled or Business Districts Requested by Chair Faretra, Councilor Saffie, and Councilor Beauregard TO-24-10 An Ordinance Amending the Wage and Salary Classification Plan, Unaffiliated, to add the new position of Social Worker (Requested by the Mayor and Director of Elder Services) TO-24-11 An Ordinance Amending the Wage and Salary Classification Plan, Unaffiliated, to add the new position of HR Generalist (Requested by the Mayor and Director of Human Resources) Any Other Business for the Good and Welfare of the Community I do hereby certify that a meeting of which a quorum was present the foregoing minutes were adopted by the Methuen City Council by a unanimous vote (Clr. Saffie and Clr. DiZoglio were absent) on September 16, 2024. Linda Gagnon COUNCIL CLERK 15