City Council

METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING 1. Roll Call - Clr. Campagnone, Clr. DiZoglio, Clr. Faretra, Clr. Pesce, Clr. Soto, Clr. Surillo, Clr. Valley & Chair Marsan – All members were present. 2. Acceptance of the Agenda - Motion to accept by Clr. DiZoglio, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – unanimously approved. 3. Pledge of Allegiance/Words of Wisdom/Moment of Silence - Clr. Soto said, "Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet" by Aristotle – Chair Marsan said, “I’d like to have a moment of silence for two members of our community who were lost in the last week or so. Mr. Sam Rivela was a staple in our community. He was a great gentleman. He served on many boards in the city. And he'll be deeply missed. We also have the Fire Fighter Keith Cormier, who passed away this evening. Thank you.” 4. Public Participation: 5. Tom Giarrosso, 9 Echo Lane, “Thank you for your support in returning Echo Lane sewer project to the CIP budget. I believe the Councilors have received e-mails about the history of the project. And we're here tonight to show our support as a neighborhood and hope you can help us with that project. So, thank you very much. Thank you.” • Vice Chair Soto said, “We have three letters to be read into public participation this evening.” “Good morning, councilors. My name is Norman Berube, and I live at 6 Echo Lane. Our street has finally made it for discussion to add a new sewer line to Echo Lane. I personally wanted to let you know how important this is to all of us. Our street was built in 1986. Our septic systems are all on borrowed time. I, for one, am in my reserves. And from what I gather, the contractor put the wrong size stone in all of our systems. This is why mine failed 30 years ago. And two of my neighbors have also failed. This is probably the last chance that the town will be able to put a sewer line because if our systems fail, and we have to start spending 30-plus thousand dollars on a new septic system, there's no way anyone is going to tie into the city sewer after spending that kind of money. On another note, our entire street is retired. And with the cost of everything continuously climbing, it makes things harder for all of us. I am asking that all of you on the Council please consider strongly passing our sewer line in the budget. Do you think it would help if any of us were present at the meeting? Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. • Tom & Christine Giarrosso, 9 Echo Lane: “We are writing to express our strong support for the inclusion of Echo Lane sewer project in the upcoming capital improvement plan CIP budget. As one of many original residents of the Echo Lane, we have witnessed firsthand the challenges our street has faced due to the lack of proper sewer system. Echo Lane sits atop one of the largest aquifers in the city, making the integrity of our wastewater system not only a matter of personal concern, but of environmental responsibility. Our street was developed in the mid-1980s during a time when Methuen was expanding its sewer infrastructure in the West End. Unfortunately, Echo Lane was not included in the efforts. And the original METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING septic systems, now nearly four decades old, are nearing the end of their functional lives. Several homes have already experienced septic failures, and it has come to light that the systems were constructed with undersized crushed stone, a flaw that should have been caught during inspection. This oversight has placed an undue burden on homeowners and raised concerns about potential contamination of the groundwater and nearby wetlands. We also want to highlight that our neighborhoods have been historically underserved. Promised infrastructure, such as a storm drain connection and street lighting, was never fully delivered. Mayor Perry has acknowledged these issues and committed to addressing them before his passing. We hope the city will honor the commitment by prioritizing the sewer project now. Many residents of Echo Lane are retired and living on fixed incomes. The cost of replacing individual septic systems is north of $30,000. It's simply not feasible for us. If we are forced to make those investments, it will likely eliminate any future incentive to correct a city sewer line, making this a critical window of opportunity for the city to act. We respectfully urge you to consider the long-term benefits of this project for both public health and environmental protection. We would also be happy to attend any meetings, hearings, wherever, to discuss the matter and provide further input.” • Michael Hamil, 15 Echo Lane, “Dear Councilors, I want to fill you in about the proposed Echo Lane sewer project. Echo Lane sits on the largest aquifer in the area. I believe many years ago, the town supplied water to residents from the water shop on Cross Street. In the mid-1980s, Methuen had a low-interest loan to install sewage throughout the west end of the town. Echo Lane was being developed by a well- known builder and wasn't pressed to install it at all. The storm drains from Hampshire Road were supposed to be connected to a pipe in the easement that runs through the length of the street. That was not done. Three streetlights were never installed. The street was accepted and released, and the bond was released. As time went on, three houses had issues with their septic systems. They were found to have undersized crushed stones in their leach fields. They should have been caught by the town inspector. We don't know if it was missing or just a rubber stamp because of the builders’ influence on the city. All of the homeowners are the original owners. The septic systems are 36, 37 years old and may be getting to the end of their life. They may also be leaking into the groundwater, affecting the wetlands nearby. We feel the past city officials did a poor job with this development. We had a meeting with Mayor Perry before he passed, and he promised he would get the street lights installed and find the money to get the sewer line installed. Please consider Echo Lane's sewer project when reviewing the revised CIP budget line. Thank you.” 6. Organizational Business - None 7. Reading and Acceptance of Minutes from Previous Meetings: • Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Special City Council Meeting - Motion to accept by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – 7 yes, 1 present (Clr. DiZoglio) METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING • Monday, August 4, 2025, Regular City Council Meeting - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – Unanimously approved. 8. PROCLAMATION/CORRESPONDENCE • Citation for Antonio Pacheco of Starbucks at 4 Broadway for all their efforts for the Methuen Arlington Neighborhood Youth – Chair Marsan recognized Vice Chair Soto, “The Methuen City Council extends its sincere congratulations to Antonio Pacheco, manager of Starbucks on Broadway in Methuen, in recognition of his outstanding support and dedication to the Arlington Neighborhood in Methuen. Your commitment to community engagement, especially your consistent efforts to uplift and invest in the youth of the Arlington Neighborhood, has made a lasting impact. Through your leadership at Starbucks, you have exemplified what it means to be a partner in our community, building, fostering collaboration, and supporting local initiatives and creating opportunities that empower our next generation. The City of Methuen honors your dedication, generosity of spirit, and continued service to our community. Thank you so much.” Chair Marsan recognized Mr. Pacheco, “I wasn't prepared for this, but I just want to say thank you. It's been an honor to help as much as I can in the community. Linda Soucy has been great, and I'm always here to help out in any way that I can. Thank you for supporting MAN, Inc. and Linda Soucy.” 9. Consideration of Appointments • Jeffrey Slattery - Methuen Fire Department - Captain to Deputy Chief – Motion to appoint by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. DiZoglio – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Fire Chief David Toto to make a brief presentation or a synopsis on each MFD appointment. Chief Toto said, “Thank you, Councilor Chair. Good evening, everyone. Good night from the Methuen Fire Department. We have five great candidates to present to you for consideration for promotion. First up is Captain Slattery up for Deputy Chief. This is a budgeted position, not a new position. He was number one on the promotional list, so no bypass was in this situation. Captain Jeff Slattery, he's a 27-year member of the Methuen Fire Department, currently serving in the Fire Prevention Division, lifelong resident of the city, where he demonstrated a commitment to public safety, leadership, and community service. He was schooled here in Mattoon and Lawrence, graduating from St. Monica's in 1987 and Central Catholic in 1991. He has two associate degrees, one in Engineering from Northern Essex Community College and another in Fire Science and Technology from North Shore Community College. Jeff also has a background in building construction, holding a Massachusetts General Contract license from 2005 to 2010. He was hired as a reserve member of the Fire Department in 1995, a week after the Malden Mills fire, and has 27-plus years of full-time service. He began his service as a Permanent full-time Fire Fighter in April of 1998, elevating to the rank of Lieutenant in August of 2010. He served in the role of Lieutenant for 13 years at the East End Station. In May of 2023, Jeff was promoted to the rank of METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING Captain, performing the duties and responsibilities of fire prevention and assisting in the day-to-day responsibilities. Jeff is married to his wife, Shani of 23 years and has three grown children. His daughter, Ashley, is the proud mother of their first granddaughter, a 7-year-old, Riley, and a 1-year-old, Cora Lee. His son, Michael, who is also a Methuen Fire Department Fire Fighter, and youngest daughter, Jamie, who is attending Riviera College in Nashville, New Hampshire. So proud to stand here and put forward Jeff Slattery to be Deputy Chief, taking my old position.”- UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • Richard Talbot - Methuen Fire Department - Lieutenant to Captain - Motion to appoint by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – MFD Chief Toto said, “So next up is another great candidate, Mr. Talbot. Lieutenant Richard Talbot, 22- year member of the Methuen Fire Department with eight years as lieutenant on Engine 5 at East End Station. He's one of the most respected leaders of our department and has educational experience to manage any situation he encounters. He's a graduate of Methuen High School in 1989, has an Associate's Degree in Fire Science and Protection, graduating from North Shore Community College in 2008. Hired as a Permanent Firefighter in October of 2003, rising to the rank of Lieutenant in 2017. Since his promotion, he's served in the busiest firehouses and has excelled in that role. Holding certifications as Fire Prevention Officer One, Basic Fire Plans Review, Hazardous Materials Operations Level, and OSHA 30-hour Safety Certification set him on a clear path to Captain in Fire Prevention. Along with these, Rick also has numerous training and professional development courses listed on his resume that everybody should have. Also, Rick has been very active in the community and served as Vice President of the Local 1691 for seven years. He's visible at every community event, such as Senior Supper, Veterans Cookout, Fishing Derby, just to name a few. Rick has been married to his wife, Shana, for 13 years, and has a daughter, Alexis, who is a registered nurse in Arcology. I'm proud to stand here and put forward Rick Talbot for Captain.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • Susan Vallera - Methuen Fire Department - Lieutenant to Captain - Motion to appoint by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Surillo – Discussion – Chief Toto said, “Again, just like in Rick's situation, I didn't say this, but these are both also budgeted positions, and Rick was number one on the list, and Sue was number two on the list. So, no bypassing any of these. So, Lieutenant Susan Vallera, 21-year member of the MFD, with six years as Lieutenant on Engine 3 at the West End Station. She's a well-respected leader who has a real passion for the fire service and all that it stands for, both in handling emergencies and community involvement. She's a graduate of Methuen High School in 1988, has an Associate's Degree in Fire Science from North Shore Community College, and graduated cum laude from Merrimack College in 2002 with a Bachelor's Degree of Business Administration with a major in Accounting. She has several certifications, including Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Incident Safety Officer, as well as Public Fire and Life Safety Education. Hired as a permanent firefighter back in March of 2004, elevating to Lieutenant in September of 2019. She's been a professional and dependable officer who leads with compassion and maintains accountability, earning the respect of her METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING peers. She's been a member of the Honor Guide, Chairperson individual for the union, and most recently has become a mentor through the Big Friends, Little Friends organization. So, I'm proud to put forward Sue Vallera.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • Cooper Brown - Methuen Fire Department - Firefighter to Lieutenant - Motion to appoint by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – Discussion – Chief Toto said, “Cooper Brown and the next Lieutenant are both tied at number one on the Lieutenant's list. I am very proud to stand here and put forward Cooper. He's a nine- year member of the MFD, served as an Acting Lieutenant for the last 11 months on Engine 3 out of the West End Station. He's a graduate of Methuen High, has an Associate's Degree in Fire Science and Technology from North Shore Community College, graduating in 2019. He's also a licensed paramedic, completing the paramedic program at New England EMS Institute in 2018. Cooper has extensive training and professional records that include Firefighter 1-2, Fire Officer 1-2, Fire Instructor 1-2. He's a Certified Hazardous Materials Technician, an Incident Safety Officer, and Public Fire and Life Safety educator. He's been a very active member in the community at union events, parades, and has served in our Honor Guard. He's married to his wife, Jennifer, for five years, even though they've been together for 16. And they have two daughters, Ava, age two, and a newborn, Addison, of two months. So very proud to stand here and put forward Cooper Brown for a Lieutenant position – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • John Blais - Methuen Fire Department - Firefighter to Lieutenant - Motion to appoint by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Faretra – Discussion – Chief Toto said, “And last but certainly not least is Mr. Blais. Great name for a firefighter, huh? Firefighter John Blais, 12-year member of the MFD, who has served on Engine 3 at the West End Station. High school education at Andover High, graduating in 1996. Graduated with honors from North Shore Community College in 2016, earning an Associate's Degree in Fire Science and Technology. He's worked on every piece of our apparatus over his 12-year career, spending time on the ladder truck and numerous engine companies seeking the opportunity to learn all positions and gain exposure to different Fire Lieutenant leadership styles in preparation for this moment. Firefighter Blais is also very involved in community outreach, partaking in parades, Senior Supper, and the Fishing Derby League plays a very large part. He brings in unique skills as a U.S. Coast Guard Certified Captain and Merchant Marine Mariner, assisting in the training on our public safety boat. His biggest job is being the father to his 10-year-old son, Brody. John also has a family history in public service. His mother, Cecilia, is retired from Andover Police Department, and his father, John Sr., is retired from Lawrence Police Department. So, it’s my pleasure to bring forward John Blais for promotion to Lieutenant.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • William Perry - Commission on Trust Funds - Motion to appoint by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Faretra – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. • Torry Sciacca - Constable (Reappointment) - Motion to reappoint by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING 10. PRESENTATION/PROJECTS/DEPARTMENT HEAD - none 11. Mayor’s Report – *** Mayor Beauregard was unable to attend the City Council meeting and sent the Mayor’s Report and Concerns of Councilors on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. • MHS Update 12. CAFO Report – CAFO Duprey gave a CIP Report Update and ARPA Report Update. Request of Councilors - *** Mayor Beauregard was unable to attend the City Council meeting and sent the Mayor’s Report and Concerns of Councilors on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Chair Marsan said, “We're going to be skipping requests of Councilors. Hopefully the Mayor will give us an update on each of these tomorrow and I'll ask him for that so we can respond directly to each one of them.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “Mr. Chair, I think, just for the record, if you don't mind, for requests of Councilors, that we need a little fire here under the Mayor's office for some of these items. Between the Charter Review, the cleanup, which was just in the news, and the School Audit, we really need that, we need a date. We need an ETA. And going through you, Chair, we need that before our last meeting, which is six meetings from now.” Chair Marsan said, “So, the only one that I can help us with is the School Audit. The one that they're doing is 99% complete. We're going to be setting up a meeting on September 30th to have a Joint Public Hearing with the School Committee and have a presentation by the audit company to go over it with them. After that, we can discuss it, we can have however we want to handle it from there, but we're going to get a presentation from the audit company. On the other two, I'll try to have a response tomorrow for all of us, about the cleaning of the schools and the Charter Review Committee.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “I just think we need an ETA on the Charter Review Committee, and then an update on the school's cleanup, because that Eagle Tribune article was just unacceptable. Thank you.” Chair Marsan said, “So the Clerk is just telling me the Charter Review Committee is meeting on September 11th. That’s their next meeting, so I'll call the Chair tomorrow, and I'll try to get an update for us, and I'll send out an email tomorrow just to see where we stand with it and see how close they are to finishing their work to get it to us. Because it's still a long road ahead, just so we have to digest it, make any changes that we want, the Mayor gets his say at it, and then we get to vote on it. So, it's still a ways off, and we only have six meetings, seven meetings left, so we have to move it along if we're trying to get it done.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “We also have to do a Home Rule Petition at the Statehouse who has less meetings.” Chair Marsan said, “Correct. We have to get it there and try to get METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING it through.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “I'd like to have it passed before this Council walks out.” Chair Marsan said, “That is the goal. We've been trying to get it, but we need them to continue on their efforts. I'll have an update. I'll call the Chair tomorrow, and I'll send out an email with an update.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Faretra, “Mr. Chair, I can give a bigger update on the audit, since I'm on that committee, if you want. Okay, so we met last Friday as a group. The committee members are me, the Mayor, and then School Committee members, Donovan and Shibilia. They have until end of business tomorrow to kind of give any last feedback to the Audit group, any edits. And then after that, the goal would be to present the audit with CBIS to the administration the week of September 22nd. So, they have time to see it and review it before the joint meeting, which right now, as the chair said, will be September 30th with the School Committee and us and the Mayor. So, that's the timeline we have right now.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “And the last thing I would ask, too, is to the Solicitor is we had an ordinance that had a timeline originally for the Charter Commission. If we can go back and look at that ordinance and if the council can set a date now for a due date, I think that's something that we might have to consider. And just so everyone knows, if we wanted to have a ballot question for the Charter, we would need to have it before October 1st. So, at that point, it's a moot point. We're probably not going to be able to get anything on the ballot. Thank you.” 13. PUBLIC SERVICE: A. Grants: B. Licenses: C. Contracts: C-26-22 – Carahsoft Technology Corp., 11493 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 100, Reston, VA 20190 – First Platform for Cloud Based Occupancy/Inspection Software Renewal Purchase through COMMBUYS Contract ITS60 - $26,239.50 - Motion to approve by Clr. DiZoglio, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-23 – ESO Solutions, Inc., 115000 Alterra Parkway, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78758 – ESC Software, EHR Fax, Fire Incidents, ESO Fire Bundle and HER CAD Integrations - $26,142.42 - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Faretra – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-24 – Bobrek Engineering & Construction, LLC, 100 Conifer Hill Drive, Suite 204, Danvers, MA 01923 – Engineering Construction Oversight for Sidewalk Repairs & ADA Improvements for Hampstead Street (Between Howe Street & Maple Street) - $80,000.00 - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-25 – Woodard & Curran, 40 Shattuck Road, Suite 110, Andover, MA 01810 – Engineering Services for Raw Water Pump Station Emergency Upgrades - $53,550.00 - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Faretra – Discussion – Chair Marsan METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “I just have one question, and the CAFO might be able to explain this. Was this work already completed?” CAFO Duprey said, “No, this part is for engineering services for additional projects.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “Okay. Well, it said emergency upgrades, so I wasn't sure if this was an immediate situation.” CAFO Duprey said, “The project is the emergency upgrades. There's a project for the CIP.” Clr. DiZoglio thanked CAFO Duprey – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-26 – Springbrook Holding Company DBA Springbrook Software, P.O. Box 200566, Dallas, TX 75320-0566 – Utility Billing & Tax Collection Maintenance - $42,171.61 - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Surillo – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “To the CAFO. So, is this a separate ERP system or SAS product that we're going to be using?” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, so this is one that we already have that we've been using for years. It's specific to water sewer billing. Eventually, we hope to move that over to Munis. But that's probably the last phase of moving forward with Munis.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “Okay. Is this a yearly contract then? Because I didn't see anything about it.” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, it is. Fiscal Year 2025, we paid $40,551, so this is ongoing every year.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “Until Munis takes over?” CAFO Duprey said yes. Clr. DiZoglio continued, “Okay. Can we get a report on what systems will be retiring when Munis is up and running and what the cost savings is going to be once those other softwares retire?” CAFO Duprey agreed. – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-27 – CivicPlus, LLC, 302 South 4th Street, Suite 500, Manhattan, KS 66502 – Digital 311 (Citizen Request Line Annual License Already in Place.) - $27,386.10 - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. DiZoglio – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-28 – WasteZero, Inc., 8396 Six Forks Road, Suite 103, Raleigh, NC, 29576 – Manufacture & Distribution of Overflow Bags for Trash Cart Program - $73,251.00 - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. DiZoglio – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Faretra, “Thank you. I'm going to continue to beat this dead horse called trash. I was doing some math over the weekend while looking at this, I read this as we pay $81.39 a case, which means we bring in $318.61 per case that goes back to the city. Just doing some math. We lose money on this. Charging $2 a bag, $10 for five bags. If you use your, you know, you go through everything here. So, a resident pays $1.60 per bag, you know, net is what we bring in. They pay approximately $0.40 goes to pay for this. The $1.60 then comes into the city. Using the amount of $110 per ton is what we pay Harvey when they actually take away the trash. If the bags hold 35 pounds and it costs $1.75 for us to dispose of that bag that we only took in $1.60. So, we are losing money every time somebody uses those trash bags as intended. So, our trash system is completely broken. I'm sure that the people that are asked for the extra barrels haven't paid the additional fee for $100, which is that means, you know, they're paying $100. That means that we're guessing they're going to throw away less than a ton of trash a year in that barrel, which is METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING understated, which is understated. You figure 52 weeks a year --- That's 40 pounds. There's no way the people are throwing away more than 40 pounds of trash per week in that second barrel. We're not. We're not getting that money back for the $100. We're losing money on the bags. And our vendor sucks. So besides that, everything's great when it comes to our trash system. You know, I drove here tonight, went all the way from Forest Street, all the way down Lowell Street, and barrels are full everywhere. There was a vacuum sticking out of one. There's trash and recycling barrels, and all those will get picked up tomorrow and not one blue bag. So, I'm not sure who's actually buying these, why bother? Just stuff your barrel full to the top. They don't even close the lid. Right. So, I think this needs to be adjusted along with our other prices, because we're losing money, once again, on people buying extra bags and extra barrels. So, for those people that are following the rules, we lose. So just wanted to get that information out there for the public and for this Council that we need to adjust what we're charging per overflow bag in order to at least break even, not lose money per bag.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Soto, “I have a follow-up question, Mr. Chair, through you. I'm not sure who it would be --- to the CAFO or the Solicitor. The Mayor's not here this evening. To Clr. Faretra's point, who keeps the inventory of this? So, for example, we know absolutely that we need these overflow bags because we're done with them. Does your system recoup the cost of what we sold? As you said, we sold all of them, so we recouped some of these dollars that we're paying back out.” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, so they track the inventory, Waste Zero, and they provide us with monthly reports as far as where the inventory is, how much they're transferring over to our accounts with what's been taken in. We get monthly reports on all of that.” Clr. Soto said, “Thank you.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “Thank you. How many companies are distributing bags today? Just the Market Baskets?” CAFO Duprey said, “It's more than that. I would need a minute to look at the last report that I have, but it's more than Market Baskets.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “So, the question doesn't have to be answered today. Are we seeing a bigger selling point at a Market Basket versus maybe a CVS? Because the idea here is inventory and how we can save on inventory, too. Because is this number going to go up every year? Is it going to go down every year based on how much access to blue bags we have left over? Are we looking at a year that we might potentially run out? So, that's what I'm kind of understanding is where do we see the biggest seller?” CAFO Duprey said, “So, those would be the biggest sellers, Market Baskets. On those reports that I was talking about, they show how much the stores are purchasing. And so I can provide one of those reports for you just so you can see what I'm looking at.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “That would be great. Because I think there's cost savings here and a potential opportunity for us with the distributor and maybe a Market Basket to say, hey, could we see some additional benefit here, like a rebate if we were directed to a few stores? Thank you.” Chair Marsan said, “I just say we can also increase the cost of the bag to $5 if we choose to. So at least we're not losing money. That's something that this body could do just so that right on its face we're not losing money at least. I don't know if that's going to disparage many people, but is it really going to make a huge difference? I don't know.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “With all due respect, Mr. Chair, let's get the trash company to do their part first before we can start going back on the residents. We should be getting fine money back if we haven't been doing that either.” Chair Marsan said, “But we don't follow through on anything is the problem, so we METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING don't. There's trash sticking out. You drive down any street on trash day and half the barrels aren't closed. They just can't close the barrels. They put so much stuff in it. We all see it. Everyone sees it.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “One more to the CAFO. Have we hired the trash czar yet? I know that was a position in the budget.” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, so I know we're in transition with that, but we do have an active DPW employee who is doing that at least as a portion of our position right now while we transition into the actual creating that position.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “I guess a we could put in a Request of Councilors could be also can we get a report on what that person is doing and what are they reporting on and are we recouping fines? Don't get me wrong. The DPWs changed the whole leaf bag pickup, which I know has increased a lot of calls to the city, with no notification across the board. So, someone is doing something right, yet there was no communication. So, I would like to know if that person is in charge of communicating to the DPW leaders and then the community as well.” CAFO Duprey said yes. Chair Marsan said, “The answer was someone is doing the job, but we haven't filled the position yet. Is that the short answer?” CAFO Duprey said, “So, I believe we have a current employee that has started to beef that up and start working towards that, but we haven't created a full-time position. That's to come in front of Council at a different time. And we're working on a job description to bring it forward to create it.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. C-26-29 - Bobrek Engineering & Construction, LLC, 100 Conifer Hill Drive, Suite 204, Danvers, MA 01923 for Engineering Consultant for Monitoring for the Landfill for Three Years - $156,000 - Motion to approve by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Soto, “I have a question, Mr. Chair, through you to the CAFO. C-26-24, I see it's the same company. Is that the reason why it didn't go out to bid, because we're already using them on something else? And then to follow up to that, this is a 30-year project, meaning that they have to do this monitoring for 30 years? The time frame to monitor that place is 30 years, if you read the contract, Councilor. So, my question is, are they the original people that started doing this, or not?” CAFO Duprey said, “As far as the 30 years, that's as far as the actual landfill capping is concerned. The City has to monitor it for 30 years from when it was capped. So, we go through and do three-year contracts with the engineering firms to do that monitoring and state reporting for us. But we don't have to be with individual engineering firms for those 30 years. We do it in three-year pieces. And I'll check to see who was on that before shortly. And what was the first piece?” Clr. Soto said, “So the first piece was, it didn't go out to bid. Is that because we already have them doing another project locally?” CAFO Duprey said, “It's because it's in engineering services, and engineering services don't have to go out to bid. So we go with the companies that tend to have that experience, that expertise, I should say. So different engineering firms have different expertise, so we go with those. Woodard and Curran might have specific water sewer expertise, so we would go with them for that type of thing. So that's how we assess engineering firms.” Clr. Soto said, “Okay. Thank you. And then finally, on the FY26, 27, and 28, I see Felix is here, so he could probably answer some of these too. The estimated cost will go up if there's an emergency, if there's, like, an amendment that needs to be done to the contract, was that factored into this price or not? That's the question.” CAFO Duprey said, “I believe if there's an emergency or for some reason there's something that is outside of the regular scope of the monitoring and METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING the reporting, it would be in addition to that.” Chair Marsan recognized Deputy DPW Director Garcia, “So this is a bigger contract with Bobrick. The previous consultant was Woodard & Curran. We went over to Bobrick because they were cheaper. It was a better price for monitoring. So, we got the information from Woodard & Curran, all the inspections that they've done, and they sent us with Bobrick, and they helped us with the continuation of the monitoring of the landfill.” Clr. Soto said, “May I ask one more thing? The project assumption is saying that the tubing and sampling pumps can be replaced. Is that something that's going to be necessary, or they just put that in there?” Deputy DPW Director Garcia said, “I think they put that in there. I don't know if they have to replace it or not. They haven't said anything to me. They haven't done any inspections yet. So, I think that's something that they put in the final plan to replace it.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. D. Order Calling for Preliminary Election on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 - Motion to approve by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. 14. OTHER OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Faretra, “I'll be brief, Mr. Chair. So, the Public Safety Committee will be meeting on Monday the 15th prior to the Council meeting, and then there will be an ordinance on that agenda as well for snow emergencies, the winter parking ban. And then, we'll have our first read on the 16th. You guys will have any other questions, and then we'll have a public hearing, a public meeting about it before the October meeting. They'll let the public come in and have their say about it before we vote on it for the second time, for that first meeting in October. And according to the Chief, that timeline gives him, in his department, enough time to roll out any changes that may need to be made before winter. So, that's all I got. Thank you.” 15. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Resolutions: TR-25-41 - Resolution Authorizing Expenditures of $5,800 from the Edwin J. Castle Fund to support Hispanic Heritage Month events - Motion to approve by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Surillo – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-42 - Resolution Authorizing Expenditures of $1,800 from the Edwin J. Castle Fund for the American Legion Post 122 - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-43 - Resolution to Appropriate funds of $25,000 from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to support the Merrimack Valley Prevention and Substance Abuse Project - Motion to approve by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING TR-25-44 - Resolution to Appropriate funds of $100,000 from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to fund Two Patrol Officers - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Surillo – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-45 - Resolution to Appropriate funds of $100,000 from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to fund Two Emergency Medical Technicians - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Pesce – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-46 - Resolution to Temporarily Rescind the adoption of the fourth paragraph of MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B to allow a dedicated stabilization fund for Methuen Stadiums and Parks. - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Faretra – UPON VOTE – 7 yes, 1 no (Clr. Soto) TR-25-48 as amended - Resolution Order Authorizing a Borrowing to Pay Costs for the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Plan - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Faretra – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Faretra, “Thank you. Through you, Mr. Chair. To the CAFO, Ms. Duprey. You obviously heard from many residents tonight during public participation about Echo Lane. Can you explain to us what the amended changes were in the CIP?” CAFO Duprey said, “Sure. After the first read, the Mayor has amended the Capital Improvement Plan that was presented with this agenda. The total CIP hasn't changed. The total amount that we're requesting to bond hasn't changed. But what we have done is we've moved $450,000 from the Road Improvement Project, which was originally $4 million, is now $3,550,000, and created a new project to fund the Echo Lane Sewer Connection Project for $450,000. So again, the bottom line doesn't change, but it carves out that project, which didn't exist on the original that was provided.” Clr. Faretra said, “And then a follow-up to that --- I want to get this on the record for the public from speaking to the Mayor. There was an abundance of money still left over from FY 2025 CIP for roads that haven’t been allocated yet. So, we were able to make that move without really, you know, pushing that project, those projects back, right? Is that my understanding?” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes. So, when we reviewed this in between the two reads, that was exactly what we came up with. We still have at least $1 million remaining from prior year CIP paving projects. And so that coupled with the $3.5 million exceeds the annual amount that we'd like to put towards that project. So, we felt that we were comfortable then able to carve that out.” Clr. Faretra said, “Okay. Thank you. Just wanted that clarification for the public so they don't think we’re not paving a road for this project. We're still going to be able to stay on our plan in theory. Thank you. And they can keep their hopes up that their road's getting paved.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “Thank you. Just to piggyback off that note, is that because we didn't get to that road this year? It wasn't completed? That $1 million is still accounted for, though, I'm assuming.” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, it is still accounted for. So, in our paving plan, it's whatever we can get after with the weather that we can and the time frame that we can. So, all things, the plan will stay the same. It just might take us a little bit more time. So, we're still able to get after. However, you know, the plan does change and fluctuate here or there, but the timing of it just gives us the ability to do more than use it longer than we had METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING planned.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “If a project didn't finish on July 1st, we've graded the road, like the road's been shaved down to that original part. I'm assuming it's going to cost us, let's say, $150,000 to put hot top on that. Wouldn't that still be part of the contract that was approved in 2025?” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, so those contracts are for the project, not just for the year. So, it's until the project's complete. CIP doesn't fall into the same restrictions that the general fund and the enterprise fund do, where at 6/30 it is no longer available, or after 6/30, I should say. Capital improvement rules. So, you'll be able to see on the capital improvement status updates that I provided, you'll be able to see those prior paving, what remains in each one of those, because we've done it over the last four years, I believe. – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-49 - Resolution Amending Traffic Rules and Regulations of the City of Methuen – Stop Sign – Don Avenue, Southerly Direction, at the Intersection with Forest Street - Motion to approve by Clr. DiZoglio, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TR-25-50 - Resolution Amending Traffic Rules and Regulations of the City of Methuen – Stop Sign – Deana Avenue, Southerly Direction, at the Intersection with Forest Street - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Pesce – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. Ordinances: TO-25-10 - Ordinance to Amend Section 8-11 of the Municipal Code of the City of Methuen to increase fees for the disposal of Construction and Demolition Debris - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TO-25-11 - Ordinance Amending the Wage and Salary Classification Plan, Unaffiliated, to Formally Change the Title of the “Executive Assistant to the Mayor” to “Director of Communications and Constituent Services” - Motion to approve by Clr. Campagnone, seconded by Clr. Soto – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TO-25-12 - as amended - Ordinance to Regulate Unlawful Camping on Public Property (Requested by Mayor Beauregard and Vice-Chair Soto) - Motion to approve by Clr. Faretra, seconded by Clr. Soto – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. TO-25-13 - Ordinance to Establish a School Bus Violation Detection Monitoring System Program for Illegally Passing a School Bus (Requested by Mayor Beauregard and Vice- Chair Soto) - Motion to approve by Clr. Surillo, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. DiZoglio, “Thank you. So I think I brought this up last meeting, but, you know, there were a few cities that were discussed, like Peabody, I think was one of them, and Danvers. And then I think there was another school district that was also brought up that own their own buses, where the Peabody and Danvers were METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING utilizing the same bus company. I am all for this. But I haven't seen a letter from NRT that says they're going to do this. I haven't seen any of that. So, I mean, I am 100% for this, but it's their buses. They are not ours. And I don't see any collaboration partnership here. If there's a letter out there, I would love to see it. The school committee will also need to obviously approve this, but they have, are aware of it, and they have made provision in the bus contract for it. So why is it coming to us? Like, is it because we're funding this?” City Solicitor said, “It's an ordinance change. It has to be done by ordinance.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “But it's their budget, though. Their budget's already been approved. So, unless the funding is coming from us, and they're negotiating a contract, does that mean there's a chance that with the implementation of these cameras, they're going to be over budget on busing next year, potentially? I'm speaking here because I'm a counselor, not a school committee member. I am all for this. But again, I need to understand where the school committee's mind is on this, and if they actually get it approved in that agreement. Other than the fact that we just, yeah, sure, go do it, I feel like there's a moot point here, unless it's going to be done.” Chair Marsan recognized CAFO Duprey, “So I was just going to say that I believe the language for this ordinance is for the city to accept the statute, and then all of the other things that have been brought up tonight as far as the budget and the contracts and all of that gets handled as such going forward, but tonight what this ordinance is doing is having the City Council accept the statute. My understanding is we can't move forward with those things until it's accepted for the city.” Clr. DiZoglio said, “Okay. I appreciate it. And the reason for this question is because I've just been seeing Eagle Tribune articles where we're being told that we're overstepping our boundaries as a council here on school committee matters. I'm kind of tired of the mudslinging, so I just don't want to be voting on something else that's on their turf. So, thank you.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Faretra, “Thank you. I know the Mayor's not here, so I don't know if Ms. Duprey or Solicitor O’Neill can give some clarification. Once this passes tonight, this is the second read, and obviously we've changed, maybe the Chief as well, and once this ordinance is now changed, what are we looking at for a timeline before this actually gets implemented, this part of it as compared to it always being illegal to pass a bus, now it's just being, you know, there's going to be video or whatever. So, how long between the ordinance change tonight and buses that are on the Methuen streets have the equipment to enforce this ordinance? Because, you know, school just started, you know, is this going to be a March, April, is this October? What are we looking at?” Police Chief McNamara said, “So, I don't have an exact answer for you. I think this is the first step in a sequence that we have to undertake, and I think the biggest hurdle that we're going to have is even if we can start the process, eventually we're going to have to negotiate with the relevant bus company about whether or not they would be agreeable to install this, the hardware and the buses that would be needed. So, you know, it might be several months, maybe we can fast track it, but this is the worthy endeavor for a number of reasons. I think, first and foremost, and the most important thing to me is harm METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING reduction. I don't want to see any children hurt. I know that we have considerable violations out there, and they're very difficult to detect. The pilot programs that have been acted in a couple of locations, I think are Peabody and Salem, they've seen an ungodly amount of violations in a short period of time with these cameras, somewhere in the area of 3,000 violations over a period of three or four months. So, you can see that there's a real issue in terms of danger for our children out there, which is my biggest concern. The other benefit here, of course, the violations could be a revenue enhancer for the city, and it could offset some of these transportation costs that seem to be spiraling out of control.” Clr Faretra said, “Okay. My only suggestion is when it comes to the public, whenever we're going live, we're going live. It's day one, you're fine. Hey, there's cameras, so we're going to be giving out warnings if you pass a school bus. Do not pass, go. Do not collect $200. Here's your ticket. I don't think there's an education piece that's needed here. I think once we can get our bus company on board, if so, I think we will start enforcing day one. We just let the public know that this is what's happening, and there's no need for us to hold somebody's hand when it comes to passing a bus.” Police Chief McNamara said, “I agree with your point there. I think that's one of the things that people do know. It's one of the things that police officers typically don't have any tolerance for whatsoever. If we see something like that, a violator who passes a stopped school bus, any police officer I know will cite that person. That's not somebody who gets a warning. It's something that should be routinely understood by every motorist in the state and beyond, so I agree with you on that point. I love the information piece. I think that's something we should always engage in, and I'll do my part to get the message out. But I agree that this is something that needs to stop, and it needs to stop today.” Clr. Faretra said, “I just have one more question, because obviously we have not just Trombley or NRT, whatever you want to call it, who transport students from Methuen Public Schools, but there's also multiple schools that provide transportation to pick up kids in Methuen, so do those schools also get this notice saying that we're doing this in Methuen? You know, Press Collaborative, Greater Lawrence. So those schools that Methuen students go to that use buses, are they getting notified of this as well and seeing if they want to hop on board?” Police Chief McNamara said, “I hadn't contemplated that until you just said it, but it seems like an obvious next step in the program. I think the first thing is to get the Methuen Public School buses under the umbrella of this program, but I can see your point there. We certainly would want to expand it to any bus that transports school children.” Clr. Faretra said, “Okay, thank you, sir. I appreciate it.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Surillo, “So this is happening, I just haven't thought, throughout the whole Commonwealth. So, the bus company is aware that this is going to be happening. Greater Lawrence uses the same transportation as Methuen Public Schools. So, there should be no if, ands, or buts that this is happening. And it starts at the Council level when we start putting this ordinance. Everything goes as the CAFO says. I also agree with Clr. Faretra. This should be day one that this is in effect, that if people are getting caught, they should be fined then. Because we METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING are talking about the lives and safeties of kids that are in these bus stops.” – UPON VOTE – unanimously approved. 16. NEW BUSINESS: Resolutions: TR- 25-51 - A Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of a FY25 Survey and Planning Grant Award from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to Support the Searles Estate Historic District Register Nomination (Requested by the Mayor) - Motion to Table by Clr. Soto, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – Discussion – Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Soto, “I have a question, Mr. Chair. So, I understand this is a grant in order to start. Would you be answering my question or?” Chair Marsan recognized Community Development’s Environmental Planner Joseph Cosgrove, “There's a planning process involved in pursuing the nomination for a national register. This would hire the planning consultant to work with the city and with the Massachusetts Historical Commission to pursue that with the National Park Service. These funds are National Park Service funds that flow through the state. The state gives the money to cities and towns. There was some delay because of the chaos going on at the federal level in terms of we received the award of this grant, I think it was back in February or March, and there was a hold on these funds until we found out that the funds were actually going to be in place, weren't going to be clawed back by the federal government. So, we just got the contract, I think it was the end of July, beginning of August.” Clr. Soto said, “Okay. So, with that being said, this is, and I know it's part, we discussed on this floor the RFP for the Searles Estate, which we haven't seen yet. It hasn't been published. I know the Solicitor has. I'm not sure if any of my fellow Councilors have seen it. I haven't. Isn't this putting like the cart in front of the horse even though it's a stipulation in there? Isn't this us advancing before we actually have the RFP out? Because we haven't even looked at bids or anybody bidding or if it's going to limit our pool.” Mr. Cosgrove said, “No, it's totally separate from the RFP process. This is really the status of the property itself. So, if we kept ownership of the property, we would pursue, I think it's a community decision to pursue a National Register nomination. We need two-thirds of the owners of the area parcels, you know, of the owners in the area that's going to be nominated to agree to the nomination. So, it's best to do it while the community is in control and can work with them. So, it's ideally, I know the community talked 30 years ago, but the sisters did not want to pursue a nomination. They didn't want to get tied up with the federal process. They didn't need tax credits. So, this is something to do, I think, and that's why the mayor pursued the grant was while the city has control of the property, let's pursue the National Register nomination. This is a good opportunity to do that at this time.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Campagnone, “Who's going to oversee this project?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “That will be me. It will be through the Community Development Office. We'll be overseeing the community and the Historic Commission, you know, with the Historic METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING Commission locally.” Clr. Campagnone said, “What does it say about the Historic Commission?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “Well, there is, in terms of Methuen, because we're a certified local government through Mass. Historic Commission, we have an active Historic District Commission. So, our local match was reduced from 50% as a standard, so we have 60% of the grant funded. So, our local match is 40% on that. So, in terms of, I will be, or the Community Development Office will be managing the consultant work, but we'll be working with the Historical Commission and the Historic District Commission.” Clr. Campagnone said, “And will the Mayor's Office have any jurisdiction?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “We report to the Mayor and we will keep him abreast of the progress of the work going forward, you know, with the consultant selection.” Clr. Campagnone said, “My question, I think, is who is going to be in charge of this?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “Well, I am designated as the project manager who will be overseeing the consultant work. And we'll coordinate with the Mayor and the historic agencies and the stakeholders.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Surillo, “Thank you. Two questions. One, for the CAFO. The match. Does the Community Development department have the funds for the match on this?” CAFO Duprey said, “Yes, they have $20,000 budgeted for matching grants just, like, just for this type of work. And so, it's about $6,000 of that $20,000. They have enough in the 2026's fiscal budget.” Clr. Surillo said, “And probably to the Solicitor. This designation. In the RFP, and I know you've seen it; I haven't seen a draft of it. Does this play into affecting how many people can actually apply for the RFP?” Solicitor O’Neill said, “No, it's part of the RFP. And I believe it was also mentioned in the surplus declaration that we would require those who bid to cooperate fully with the historic designation. So, it's consistent with what the council has done, both in the surplus and it is in the RFP as well that whoever does the bidding has to cooperate in these efforts.” Chair Marsan recognized Clr. Soto, “May I ask the solicitor a follow up to that? For clarification, does that affect whoever bids on the RFP? Would it affect their bid? Like, potentially what they can do there with the designation?” Solicitor O’Neill said, “Well, it does have certain effects, but most of the effect of the historic designation is opening up for, I believe, tax credits and other things like that. I think Mr. Cosgrove can speak better to that than I can. But yes, once they're the owner of the property, they will have to comply with whatever requirements there are for national historic place designation.” Clr. Soto said, “What are those?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “So, I can send and give you information on what the specifics are, because the federal designation does not really restrict private money. It's only if somebody uses federal money or state money or needs tax credits. Tax credits are 20% tax credits that would be eligible investment tax credit. So, if an owner, and that's pretty, it's really incentive to put money into a property. And that's really, other than that, it's really a status recognition for the property. So, it's, but it doesn't really restrict private funding. And that's how it works. I know we can put, you know, there are other controls that the city will be putting on, I think, as we negotiate an agreement with the prospective candidate to do that. And I think one of them was specifically, you know, going METHUEN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 @ 7:00 P.M. GREAT HALL, SEARLES BUILDING through the federal register review process. So, there is, you know, if you use federal money, if you apply for the tax credits, you have to go through an approval process with the State Historic Preservation Office, that's the Historic Commission, and with the National Park Service, Department of Interior.” Clr. Soto said, “And so why do this before the RFP is out though? Why can't you do it in tandem?” Mr. Cosgrove said, “Actually, we would have done it, ideally it would have been in place beforehand. But I think the timing, because of the timing of the grant, and the timing as we go through this disposition process on the property. So, it makes sense to have it in place, you know, as soon as possible. So, I think, you know, we will probably, you know, we have to coordinate the timing and who we're going to work with. Hopefully, you know, I know the intent of the Mayor is to do the public disposition process as soon as possible. But, you know, I anticipate we'll be working with the owners, the successful candidate, the proposer on supporting us on working through the nomination process.” Clr. Soto said, “Well, I'd like to motion to table until the RFP is out to have this done.” Mr. Cosgrove said, “Well, this is a first reading, and I know there is timing with the grant as well in terms of the funds are only in place for a certain amount of time. I know Mass Historical is asking us to get this approved in September so we can start the consultant procurement process in October and, you know, complete the work.” Motion to table by Clr. Soto, seconded by Clr. Campagnone – UPON ROLL CALL VOTE – 5 yes, 3 no (Clr. DiZoglio, Clr. Faretra and Clr. Pesce) Respectfully submitted, Lisa Yarid Ferry Assistant Council Clerk I do hereby certify that at a meeting of which a quorum was present, the foregoing minutes were adopted by the Methuen City Council by a unanimous vote on September 15, 2025. Linda Gagnon Council Clerk