City Council

1 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING A Regular Meeting of the City Council was held in-person on Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM for the purpose of transacting any and all business. Notice of this meeting was posted on September 09, 2025, at 4:42 PM. This meeting is being recorded and is live on S.A.T.V. and Zoom unless technological issues interrupt the transmission. All Councillors Present. Council President Prosniewski presided. Councilor Harvey moved to dispense with the reading of the record of the previous meeting. It was so voted. President Prosniewski requested that everyone please rise to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Salem City Council Land Acknowledgement The Salem City Council honors that this land is Naumkeag, or fishing place, where generations of Naumkeag people from the Pawtucket band of the Massachusett Tribe lived and passed through for centuries. We acknowledge that this is unceded Indigenous land and also acknowledge the Massachusett Tribe, who continue to honor and hold this land into the present. Salem’s City Council is committed to having ongoing meaningful dialogue with the indigenous peoples who have presence in Salem in order to dismantle the legacies of oppression and inequities that persist today. PUBLIC TESTIMONY 1. Pauline Quirion, 197 Friend St., Boston - Support Clean Slate Resolution 2. Margaret Van Deusen, 391 Essex St., Salem - Support Clean Slate Resolution 3. Ann Friedgen, 9 Bertram Terrace, Salem - Salem Housing Authority Appointment would like better tenant representation #415 - (#410) - ORDER FROM NATIONAL GRID AND VERIZON TO INSTALL 1 JOINTLY OWNED POLE ON LORING AVE - (OLD HORACE MANN LABORATORY SCHOOL) A hearing was held on the order from National Grid to install one jointly owned pole on Loring Ave near the Old Horace Mann Laboratory School.  2 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Appearing in favor was Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy, a representative from National Grid, 44 River St., Beverly. This is to provide service for the new location. No one appeared in opposition. Councillor Varela moved to close the Public Hearing. It was so voted. Councillor Varela moved to grant the location. It was so voted. #416 - (#411) - ORDER FROM NATIONAL GRID TO INSTALL CONDUITS ON LORING AVE. - 39 LORING AVE A hearing was held on the order from National Grid to install conduits on Loring Avenue. Appearing in favor was Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy, a representative from National Grid, 44 River St., Beverly. Twenty-five feet of conduit is needed from the new pole to the property line to provide service to 39 Loring Ave. No one appeared in opposition. Councillor Varela moved that the public hearing be closed. It was so voted. Councillor Varela moved that the location be granted. It was so voted. #417 - (#412) - ORDER FROM NATIONAL GRID AND VERIZON TO INSTALL 2 JOINTLY OWNED POLES ON BAY VIEW AVE. - CORNER OF BAY VIEW AVE / CROSS AVE & IN FRONT OF 104 BAY VIEW AVE. A hearing was held on the order from National Grid to install 2 jointly owned poles on Bay View Ave - Corner of Bay View Ave/Cross Ave and in front of 104 Bay View Ave. Appearing in favor was Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy, a representative from National Grid, 44 River St., Beverly. Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy stated they were willing to postpone this due to changes and issues with the placement of the poles. Still have to present movement to Verizon for a new petition and would be holding up these petitions. Chris Henderson who resides at 99 Bay View Avenue is concerned about splitting meeting because it could cause problems later on. Sibhita believes it is best to go ahead with these 2 and then she will write up a new order for Cross Ave and High Ave.  3 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Watson-Felt asked Sibhita if she can verbally guarantee the property owner she will not have 3 poles on each corner of her house. Sibhita agreed. Councillor Morsillo wanted to verify that the 2 poles in front of us have to be done to fix 106 Bay View Ave. Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy stated yes. Councillor Jerzylo moved that the hearing be closed. It was so voted. Councillor Jerzylo moved that the locations be granted with the condition that National Grid submit a new petition as soon as possible in the near future to move pole 1799 back to its original location. It was so voted. #418 - (#413) - ORDER FROM NATIONAL GRID TO INSTALL CONDUITS ON CANAL ST. - 266 CANAL ST. A hearing was held on an order from National Grid to install Conduits on Canal Street. Sibhita Mahabier-Sheehy, a representative from National Grid, 44 River Street, Beverly, MA appeared in favor to provide service to these four buildings on this property. No one appeared opposed. Councillor Cohen moved to close the public hearing. It was so voted. Councillor Cohen moved to grant the location. It was so voted. #419 - (#389) - ORDER FROM COMCAST TO INSTALL CONDUITS ON UNION ST.. FOR SERVICE AT 13 HAWTHORNE BLVD. A hearing was held on an order from Comcast to install conduits on Union Street. Dave Flewelling a representative from Comcast, 9 Forbes Rd. Woburn, appeared in favor. This is to provide service for 13 Hawthorne Blvd. No one appeared opposed. Councillor Jerzylo moved to close the public hearing. It was so voted. Councillor Jerzylo moved to grant the location. It was so voted.  4 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #420 - (#408) - ORDER FROM COMCAST TO INSTALL CONDUITS ON CANAL ST. - SERVICE AT 266 CANAL ST. A hearing was held on the Order from Comast to install conduits on Canal Street. Dave Flewelling a representative from Comcast, 9 Forbes Rd., Woburn, appeared in favor. This is to provide service to the buildings at 266 Canal Street. No one appeared opposed. Councillor Cohen moved to close the public hearing. It was so voted. Councillor Cohen moved to grant the location. It was so voted. #421 - (#409) - ORDER FROM COMCAST TO INSTALL CONDUITS ON LEE FORT TER. - SERVICE AT 1 LEE FORT TER. A hearing was held on the Order from Comcast to install conduits on Lee Fort Terrace. Dave Flewelling, representative from Comcast, 9 Forbes Rd., Woburn, appeared in favor. This is to provide service to 1 Lee Fort Terrace. No one appeared opposed. Councillor Jerzylo moved that the public hearing be closed. It was so voted. Councillor Jerzylo moved that the location be granted. It was so voted. (#372) - MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING WITH TERMS TO EXPIRE The following appointments were confirmed by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. Gina Flynn 25 Buena Vista Ave. to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board term to expire April 1, 2026 Tom Southerton 8 Messervy St. to the Race Equity Commission term to expire July 17, 2028 Craig Bilodeau 10 Ames St. to the Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee with a term to expire September 14, 2026  5 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Varela requested and received suspension of the rules to allow the appointees to speak. (#398) - MAYOR'S RE-APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING WITH TERMS TO EXPIRE: The following reappointments were confirmed by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. Name Board/Commission Address Term Length Term Exp. Datanis Elias Board of Health 71 Harbor St. 3 years 7/16/2028 Zachary Calderón Sustainability, Energy and Resiliency Committee 21 Cabot St. # 2 3 years 7/16/2028 Lynda Coffill Council on Aging Board 56 Belleview Ave. 3 years 7/16/2028 #422 - MAYOR'S RE-APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING WITH TERMS TO EXPIRE: The following reappointments were held under the rules. Name Board/Commission Address Term Length T erm Exp. Susan Yochelson Tree Commission 5 Eden Street #1 3 years 11/2028 Rachel McCarter T ree Commission 17 Forest Avenue #7 3 years 9/11/2028 Paul L’Heaureux Tree Commission 24 Lafayette Place 3 years 9/11/2028 Alexandra Ramos Race Equity Commission 4 First Street #6306 3 years 9/14/2028 Rosa Alvarado Race Equity Commission 22 Boston Street #2 3 years 9/14/2028 Jeff Swartz Transportation Commission 65 Washington Street #312 3 years 9/28/2028 John Wathne Bicycling and Shared Path Advisory Committee 34 Boardman St 3 years 9/14/2028 Veronica Miranda Salem Housing Authority Board (tenant rep) 64 Rainbow Terrace 5 years September 11, 2030 #423 - THE MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING WITH TERMS TO EXPIRE: The following Appointments were held under the rules. Dr. Larry Broisman 59 Brittania Cir Comm. on Disabilities September 11, 2028 Alexis Lambert 7 English St. Comm. on Disabilities January 13, 2028 Nate Berkowtiz 22 Friend St. Manchester MA Food Policy Council November 17, 2026  6 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Allie Carufel 83 Essex St. Food Policy Council September 14, 2024 Madison Tetens 28 Goodhue St. Food Policy Council September 11, 2028 Colby Bomberowitz 105 Federal St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Dr. Vanita Naidoo 254 Lafayette St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Dr. Melanie Sonsteng-Person 359 Essex St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Dayton Marchese 74 Boston St. Conservation Comm. March 28, 2027 Ryan Macione 2 Lee St. Salem Redevelopment Auth. April 13, 2027 Megan Gonzales 34 Moffatt Road Scholarship and Education Comm. September 11, 2028 Kevin Rice 25 Oakland St. Sustainability, Energy and Resiliency Comm. September 9, 2027 #424 - CONSTABLE The Mayor's Re-Appointment of George Hoxha of 52 Highland Ave to serve as Constable for the City of Salem with a term to expire September 10, 2028 was received and filed. #425A-H - APPROPRIATIONS FOR RETIREMENT VACATION SICK LEAVE BUYBACK AMOUNTS The following eight orders submitted by the Mayor for retirement vacation /sick leave buyback amounts were adopted under suspension of the rules. #425A ORDERED: That the sum of Fifty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Eight Dollars and Zero Cents ($56,208.00) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor.  7 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Name Department Amount Eric Connolly Salem Police $56,208.00 Department $56,208.00 #425B ORDERED: That the sum of Forty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Nineteen Dollars and Twenty Cents ($41,819.20) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Ellen Kaslaukas Salem Public $41,819.20 Schools $41,819.20 #425C ORDERED: That the sum of Twenty-One Thousand Two Hundred Eight Dollars and Forty Cents ($21,208.40) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Maureen Beaudet Salem Public $21,208.40 Schools $21,208.40 #425D ORDERED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand Forty-Nine Dollars and Sixty Cents ($20,049.60) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Sally Lincoln Vogel Salem Public $20,049.60 Schools $20,049.60  8 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #425E ORDERED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Eight Dollars and Eighty Cents ($20,568.80) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Allison Traxler Salem Public $20,568.80 Schools $20,568.80 #425F ORDERED: That the sum of Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Eight Dollars and Forty Cents ($19,248.40) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Luz Villarreal Salem Public $19,248.40 Schools $19,248.40 #425G ORDERED: That the sum of Eighteen Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Two Dollars and Seventy Cents ($18,632.70) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the contractual buyback(s) listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Salem Public $18,632.70 Susan Fair Schools $18,632.70 #425H ORDERED: That the sum of Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Zero Cents ($5,625.00) be approved within the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for negotiated sick leave buyback provisions for active employees as needed in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Name Department Amount Catherine Corriveau Salem Teachers $5,625.00 Union $5,625.00  9 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #426 - APPROPRIATION OF $37,000.00 TO THE SPECIAL EVENTS FUND FOR THE OCTOBER SATELLITE SHUTTLE PROGRAM The following order submitted by the Mayor was adopted under suspension of the rules. ORDERED: That the sum of Thirty Seven Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($37,000.00) is hereby appropriated from the following accounts, Transportation Management Association (TMA) Account (2007305-5805P) in the amount of $22,500.00, the Transportation Department’s Part-Time Salary Account (14811-5113) in the amount of $14,000.00 and the Transportation Enhancement Fund (TEF) Account (25T93-5713) in the amount of $500.00 and transferred to the Special Events Fund account listed below for the October Satellite Shuttle program during the weekends in October as well as Indigenous People’s Day and Halloween Day, in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Description Amount 23613-5713H $37,000.00 Total $37,000.00 #427 - APPROPRIATION OF $14,500.00 TO DPS BURIAL ACCOUNT The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted under suspension of the rules. ORDERED: That the sum of Fourteen Thousand Five Hundred Dollars and Zero Cents ($14500.00) is hereby transferred and appropriated from the Receipts Reserved funds listed below to the Department of Public Services Burial Account (14112-5383) in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. From To Amount 2430 R/Res Sale of Lots 14112-5383 DPS Burial $9,500.00 2431 R/Res Sale of Vaults 14112-5383 DPS Burial $5,000.00 Total $ 14,500.00  10 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #428A-D - PER MGL CH. 44 SEC. 64 PAYING PRIOR FISCAL YEAR INVOICES WITH CURRENT FISCAL YEAR FUNDS The following 4 orders submitted by the Mayor were adopted under suspension of the rule by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. #428A ORDERED: Per MGL Chapter 44 Section 64 which allows for a municipality to pay for prior fiscal year invoices using current fiscal year appropriations by two-thirds vote of the City Council we request the sum of Twenty Six Thousand Seven Hundred Forty Dollars and Zero Cents ($26740.00) of outstanding Fiscal Year 2024 invoices is hereby allowed to be paid from the Fiscal Year 2026 Engineering Department’s Solid Waste budget (account 620032- 5291) as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Department Vendor Amount Engineering Department Cascade Engineering $26,740.00 Solid Waste Collection (620032-5291) Total $ 26,740.00 #428B ORDERED: Per MGL Chapter 44 Section 64 which allows for a municipality to pay for prior fiscal year invoices using current fiscal year appropriations by two-thirds vote of the City Council we request the sum of Seven Thousand Five Hundred Seventy Eight Dollars and Thirty Cents ($7578.30) of outstanding Fiscal Year 2021, 2023 & 2025 invoices is hereby allowed to be paid from the Fiscal Year 2026 Human Resource Department’s budget (account 19131-5173 & 19121-5172) as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Department Vendor Amount Human Resource Department HR Unemployment Compensation MIIA Unemployment (19131-5173 Services $ 4,904.30 HR Workmen’s Comp (19121- MGB Community Physicians 5172 Inc. $ 955.00 HR Workmen’s Comp (19121- MGB Community Physicians 5172 Inc. $ 80.00 HR Workmen’s Comp (19121- 5172 North Shore Medical Center $ 1,639.00 Total $ 7,578.30  11 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #428C ORDERED: Per MGL Chapter 44 Section 64 which allows for a municipality to pay for prior fiscal year invoices using current fiscal year appropriations by two-thirds vote of the City Council we request the sum of Five Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy Three Dollars and Ten Cents ($5873.10) of outstanding Fiscal Year 2025 invoices is hereby allowed to be paid from the Fiscal Year 2026 Information Technology Department’s budget (account 11562-5243) as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Department Vendor Amount IT Department Civic Plus $ 5,873.10 IT/GIS Maintenance (11562-5243) Total $ 5,873.10 #428D ORDERED: Per MGL Chapter 44 Section 64 which allows for a municipality to pay for prior fiscal year invoices using current fiscal year appropriations by two-thirds vote of the City Council we request the sum of Five Hundred Thirty Six Dollars and Ninety Eight Cents ($536.98) of outstanding Fiscal Year 2025 invoices is hereby allowed to be paid from the Fiscal Year 2026 Police Department’s budget (account 12102-5384) as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. Department Vendor Amount Police Our Family Veterinary Department Services $536.98 Police-Animal Care & Control (12102-5384) Total $ 536.98 Councillor Merkl explained that Engineering paid for half of the garbage and recycling containers and repeatedly asked for the bill for the other half and were repeatedly told it was paid. When the bill was finally sent it was sent to an employee who was no longer there. The money owed by HR was for injury expenses for a former employee and we are responsible for the payment. The IT department never received the bill until August and it was sent to an employee who is no longer in IT. The Police must pay for Vet costs for care of stray dogs.  12 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #429 - DONATION TO PURCHASE FOOD AND SUPPLIES FOR THE LONGEST TABLE EVENT The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. ORDERED: To accept the donation from Salem Five Bank in the amount of One Thousand Dollars ($1000.00) for the purchase of food and supplies for the Longest Table Event. These funds will be deposited into the Mark Park Food Farm account 25S01-4800 in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. #430 - MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH UNICEF USA The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. ORDERED: That the Mayor of Salem is hereby authorized, pursuant to Salem Ordinance Section 2-1688, to sign a memorandum of understanding with UNICEF USA, establishing a formal relationship between the City of Salem and UNICEF USA, with the goal of working toward certification by UNICEF USA as a Child Friendly City. The initial term of this Memorandum is six years, with an option to renew. Councillor Hapworth stated the City was asked to apply and if accepted we would be the 9th city in the Country to join. This is only to sign an agreement to apply. Councillor Morsillo stated she is in favor of the five goal areas outlined by UNICEF. #431 - SEWER EASEMENT RELOCATION AGREEMENT WITH THE RESIDENCES AT CANAL STREET, LLP The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. Ordered: The Mayor is hereby authorized to execute an Easement Relocation Agreement with The Residences on Canal Street, LLP for the purpose of relocating a sewer easement granted to the City that runs through the middle of the property located at 266, 282, 286 and 282R Canal Street and 2 Kimball Road. The relocation shall allow The Residences at Canal Street, LLP to construct the project as presented, reviewed and approved by the Planning Board and Office of the City Engineer. Councillor Cohen explained this is to be respectful of the neighbors on Betini Way for the HVAC noise. This easement which is 3 feet longer will alleviate the noise.  13 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #432 - ORDINANCE AMENDING CH. 12-70 ELECTRICITY FOR TELECOMMUNICATION ATTACHMENTS IN THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AND TEMPORARY PLACEMENT OF EQUIPMENT The following Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Electricity Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Sec. 12-170. Fee for telecommunications attachments in the right-of-way is hereby amended by deleting this section in its entirety and replacing it with the following: "Sec. 12-170 Fee for telecommunication attachments in right-of-way and temporary placement of equipment. Applicants seeking a grant of location in association with telecommunications attachments to poles within the right-of-way, portable cellular phone tower or temporary communication facility for the purpose of enhancing cellular telecommunications shall, at the time of filing, pay a $500.00 application fee to cover the costs of the interdepartmental review as may be required. This fee shall be in addition to any rental payments for telecommunications attachments to poles or on property owned by the city." Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by city charter. Councillor Hapworth state this is for cell phone companies to pay the same fee as telecommunication companies. #433 - ORDINANCE AMENDING TRAFFIC CH. 42 SEC. 43 RELATIVE TO NO DELIVERIES ON THE ESSEX STREET MALL The following Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An Ordinance relative to Traffic Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows:  14 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section 1. Section 43 of Article IV of the Ordinance Relative to Traffic is hereby amended by striking out the following: D. Essex Street Mall – No Truck deliveries from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Passenger vehicles prohibited. $20.00 fine violation of DPW Ch. 85 S. 2. (6/7/79 DPW 5-1623; Ord. of 12-6-2007; Ord. of 10-28-10, §§ 1, III) And inserting in its place the following: D. Essex Street Mall – No truck deliveries from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Passenger vehicles prohibited. Punishable by a $50.00 fine pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 16. Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. Councillor Watson-Felt stated that access to the pedestrian mall has come up many times before in the Chambers. With all the new safety measures including the bollards this is really a positive move. A survey was taken of the local businesses. Councillor Stott stated this was a great first step. Hope there is actual enforcement. Councillor Morsillo stated she is in favor. The pedestrian mail is a pedestrian mall. There shouldn’t have trucks or cars creeping up behind you. I hope we have enforcement for this but police should not be in cars either. #434 & #435 - HOME RULE PETITIONS RELATIVE TO LOCAL LIQUOR LICENSES The following Orders submitted by the Mayor relative to Home Rule Petitions to the State Legislature regarding local liquor licenses were adopted by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 0 nays and 1 absent. Councillor Varela recused himself during these matters and was recorded as absent on the roll call votes #434 ORDERED: That a petition to the General Court, accompanied by a bill to amend Chapter 67 of the Acts of 2008 to convert the additional beer, wine and cordial liquor licenses granted therein to a license for the sale of all alcohol to be drunk on the premises, as set forth below, be filed with an attested copy of this Order be, and hereby is, approved under Clause (1) of Section 8 of Article 2, as amended, of the Amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to the end that the following legislation be adopted, except for amendments by the Senate or House of Representatives which conform to the intent of this home rule petition:  15 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING AN ACT amending Chapter 67 of the Acts of 2008 authorizing the city of Salem to convert 1 annual license for the sale of wine, malt and cordial beverages to be drunk on the premises to an annual license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court Assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows: SECTION 1. Chapter 67 of the Acts of 2008, authorizing the city of Salem to grant 1 annual license for the sale of wine, malt and cordial beverages to be drunk on the premises, is hereby amended by converting the beer, wine and cordial license to an annual license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises under section 12 of said chapter 138 issued to Gulu-Gulu Cafe located at 247 Essex Street in the city of Salem. The license converted under this section shall be subject to all of chapter 138 of the General Laws except sections 17 and 17A. The licensing authority shall not approve the transfer of the license converted pursuant to this section to any other location but it may grant the license to a new applicant at the same location if the applicant files with the licensing authority a letter from the department of revenue and a letter from the department of unemployment assistance indicating that the license is in good standing with those departments and that all applicable taxes, fees and contributions have been paid. If the license converted pursuant to this section is cancelled, revoked or no longer in use at the location of original issuance, it shall be returned physically, with all of the legal rights, privileges and restrictions pertaining thereto, to the licensing authority and the licensing authority may then grant the license to a new applicant at the same location under the same conditions as specified in this act. SECTION 2. (a) The city of Salem shall charge a fee for the conversion of the licenses authorized in section 1 which shall be paid by the licensee at the time of issuance unless the licensing authority agrees to enter into a contract with the licensees to allow the division of the fee into multiple payments over time from the licensee. If the city elects to accept multiple payments over time from the licensees, the option shall be made available, upon request, to all qualified applicants for a license. (b) Any fee collected by the city of Salem for the licenses converted pursuant to section 1 which is greater than the amount of the fee charged for an annual renewal of a similar license issued by the city shall be deposited into the city's economic development account and expended by it in a manner consistent with the purposes of such account. SECTION 3. This act shall take effect upon its passage.  16 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #435 ORDERED: That a petition to the General Court, accompanied by a bill for certain additional liquor licenses notwithstanding the provisions of sections 17 and 17A of chapter 138 of the General Laws as set forth below, be filed with an attested copy of this Order be, and hereby is, approved under Clause (1) of Section 8 of Article 2, as amended, of the Amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to the end that the following legislation be adopted, except for amendments by the Senate or House of Representatives which conform to the intent of this home rule petition: AN ACT authorizing the city of Salem to convert 1 seasonal license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises to an annual license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises and to convert 1 seasonal license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises to an annual license for the sale of wine and malt beverages and cordials to be drunk on the premises. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court Assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows: SECTION 1. (a) Notwithstanding sections 17 and 17A of chapter 138 of the General Laws, the licensing authority of the city of Salem may convert 1 seasonal license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises to an annual license for the sale of wine and malt beverages and cordials to be drunk on the premises under section 12 of chapter 138 currently issued to Amazing Pizza LLC d/b/a Amazing Pizza located at 62 Wharf Street in the city of Salem. The license converted under this section shall be subject to all of said chapter 138 except sections 17 and 17A. (b) Notwithstanding sections 17 and 17A of chapter 138 of the General Laws, the licensing authority of the city of Salem may convert 1 seasonal license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises to an annual license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises under section 12 of chapter 138 currently issued to Maitland Farm LLC d/b/a Maitland Farm Kitchen and Spirits located at 84 Derby Street in the city of Salem. The license converted under this section shall be subject to all of said chapter 138 except sections 17 and 17A. The licensing authority shall not approve the transfer of the license converted pursuant to this section to any other location but it may grant the license to a new applicant at the same location if the applicant files with the licensing authority a letter from the department of revenue and a letter from the department of unemployment assistance indicating that the license is in good standing with those departments and that all applicable taxes, fees and contributions have been paid.  17 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING If the license converted pursuant to this section is cancelled, revoked or no longer in use at the location of original issuance, it shall be returned physically, with all of the legal rights, privileges and restrictions pertaining thereto, to the licensing authority and the licensing authority may then grant the license to a new applicant at the same location under the same conditions as specified in this act. SECTION 2. (a) The city of Salem shall charge a fee for the conversion of the licenses authorized in section 1 which shall be paid by the licensee at the time of issuance unless the licensing authority agrees to enter into a contract with the licensees to allow the division of the fee into multiple payments over time from the licensee. If the city elects to accept multiple payments over time from the licensees, the option shall be made available, upon request, to all qualified applicants for a license. (b) Any fee collected by the city of Salem for the licenses converted pursuant to section 1 which is greater than the amount of the fee charged for an annual renewal of a similar license issued by the city shall be deposited into the city's economic development account and expended by it in a manner consistent with the purposes of such account. SECTION 3. This act shall take effect upon its passage. #436 - HOME RULE PETITION FOR AN ACT RELATIVE TO SALEM HARBORMASTER AND ASSISTANT HARBORMASTERS REGARDING RETIREMENT BENEFITS The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. ORDERED: That a petition to the General Court, accompanied by a bill relative to retirement benefits for the Salem Harbormaster and Assistant Harbormasters, as set forth below, be filed with an attested copy of this Order be, and hereby is approved to the end that the following legislation be adopted, except for amendments by the Senate or House of Representatives which conform to the intent of this home rule petition: AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE CITY OF SALEM HARBORMASTER AND ASSISTANT HARBORMASTERS Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows:  18 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING SECTION 1: In the city of Salem, the positions of Harbormaster and Assistant Harbormaster who have statutory powers of law enforcement and are sworn City of Salem Special Police Officers shall be Group 4 employees pursuant to M.G.L. c. 32, § 3(2)(g). Notwithstanding any provision in M.G.L. c. 32, §§ 1-28, inclusive to the contrary, all prior creditable service rendered before the effective date of this act rendered by eligible Harbormaster and Assistant Harbormasters as.of the date of this act will be considered Group 4 service. Section 2: This act shall take effect upon its passage #437 - REVIEW CURRENT PLANS, VISION AND FUTURE OF CHARLOTTE FORTEN PARK The following order introduced by Councillor Hapworth was adopted. Ordered: That the Committee on Community and Economic Development co-posted with the Committee of the Whole meet with the Planning Director, the Mayor, and any other relevant city personnel to review the current plans, vision, and future of Charlotte Forten Park; to assess lessons learned from past activation efforts and impacts on local businesses; and to discuss recommendations for improving the park’s use and community impact. Councillor Hapworth stated something is not working. Councillor Harvey stated this needs to be a public space. Councillor Jerzylo stated there has been a lot of issues with that park. One issue is with the fencing and Anthem has a contract until 2026. #438 - ESTABLISHING THE SAM ZOLL CIVIC LEADERSHIP AWARD The following Order introduced by Councillor Hapworth was adopted. ORDERED: That the City of Salem hereby establishes the Sam Zoll Civic Leadership Award, to be presented annually to a living individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public service, civic engagement, and the betterment of the Salem community.  19 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Further Ordered: That the award shall honor the legacy of Mayor Sam Zoll, whose decades of leadership preserved Salem’s historic identity, reflected a steadfast desire to improve his community, and embodied a lifelong dedication to the public good. Further Ordered: That a selection committee shall be formed each year, consisting of two members of the City Council appointed annually by the President, the Mayor or their designee, one Salem resident at large appointed annually by the Mayor, and one past recipient of the award (if applicable). The committee shall solicit public nominations and make a final recommendation to the full City Council. Further Ordered: That the timeline for the annual award process shall be as follows: the selection committee shall be named by January 31; the public nomination period shall run from March 1 through May 31; the recipient shall be announced in June; and the award shall be presented at the first regular September meeting of the City Council. Further Ordered: That the recipient shall be honored annually with appropriate recognition from the City, which may include a citation, plaque, medal, or other suitable form of acknowledgment. #439 - ORDINANCE TO AMEND CH. 2-272 - CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETINGS The following Ordinance introduced by Councillor Stott was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to regular City Council meetings Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section I. Chapter 2, Sec. 2-272. Regular meetings is hereby amended by deleting this section in its entirety and replacing it with the following: “Sec. 2-272. Regular meetings. Regular meetings of the City Council shall be held at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month except the months of July and August when there shall be one regular meeting each month, with the meeting date set by Council President prior to the first day of February each calendar year.” Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter.  20 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Stott stated in the 6 years that she has served on Council, the Council does not follow the above ordinance. Generally, there is an order put in at some point during the year, usually right before the summer, that says the meetings of July and August will be combined either into the month of July or the month of August, and there's some sort of meeting date sent. This year, that was an order done offline, and then the meeting was in July. I'm fairly certain the six years that I've served, we also have always had to have an emergency special meeting in August. That's hard. It's nice to know what your schedule's going to be at the beginning of the year, especially, the majority of us have other things going on, jobs, family, travel. I know I'm a planner, for one, if you've ever seen my calendar, so it's nice to know, also for transparency with the city and the public, as well as for the other departments within the city. If you looked at the agenda tonight, the first full meeting after summer it was quite large. There were 5 utility petitions on there. I'm pretty sure that National Grid doesn't take the months of July and August Our other boards and commissions don't take the summer off, the departments, our city employees do not take the full summer off. I think it's respectful that we do have somewhat of a pause in the month of summer, because stuff does slow down, we all do deserve breaks, but it also should be respected for time and making sure that people are available for the set meetings, and I think a good compromise is having one scheduled meeting in the month of July and August. Councillor Watson-Felt but don’t we also do the same thing in December? Councillor Stott stated we do not have a second and fourth Thursday meeting in December, but rather one (plus) our tax meeting. We have in the past changed also for election seasons, but I'm hoping with the separation of the elections office that that will no longer be necessary, and the timing of the meetings in December is also dependent on when we need to file our budget or taxes or something, the tax rate with the state, so sometimes that has to be held a little sooner. I don't necessarily think we need to have two meetings in the month of December, so I didn't put forward that in the order. Councillor Morsillo stated the idea here is to help all of us organize our summers and have some sort of reliable calendar. I did go back. to see when we had meetings? 2017, 2018, 2021, 2023, two in 2024, and then this year. So, we all seem to have a regular need for these meetings, and I will point to tonight's agenda, just like Councillor Stopp mentioned. we had the retired employee’s sick and vacation buybacks. All that paperwork was done, for the most part, July 11th and that was paused for 2 months because we didn't have a regular meeting. The city doesn't stop during the summer, and the city council also should not stop. There are things happening. Our boards sometimes don't have a quorum because they don't have the people, ready to go. So, I am in favor of this because it's better to have something that you can count on as a summer schedule.  21 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Merkl thinks it would be nice to get the summer schedule more organized. We end up having meetings anyway, and I think it's a good compromise to have one in July and one August, because us counselors are always working, and people don't stop reaching out over the summer, but we have city staff to consider, too, they do a tremendous amount of work putting our meetings together, and they need to take summer vacation. So, I think this just works out nicely for one in July and one in August Councillor Cohen stated I've made amendments that are similar to this, and I'm glad that Councillor Scott brought this in to make it official. Although National Grid is probably also culpable, the people at the lower, the residence on Canal Street, could have moved in earlier. If we were able to do their petitions. A little bit earlier, than today. Councillor Prosniewski stated his concern is that it will have a ripple effect amongst the other city employees and other city staff being told that we have to have a meeting in August. We usually do have meetings in August, because we need one, but if we didn't need one. Some of the city staff knowing that we are away and having a break in August, they plan their vacations around the fact that we are also on break, and now to mandate that we have a meeting in August it puts everybody's feet to the fire again, and it may be a little bit of a stressful and when you have a department that has quite a few employees that are trying to schedule a vacation, knowing that August is the best time to do it, now all of a sudden, it's not going to be the best time to do it. I think when we need to have an August meeting, we have an August meeting. If we don't need to have an August meeting, then we don't have to, but I'm not sure that codifying it is the best way to do it, especially for scheduling purposes. But if that's what the will of the body is, then that's what the will of the body is. #440 - ORDINANCE TO AMEND CH. 43-12 - TREES - COMPOSITION AND MEETINGS The following Ordinance introduced by Councillor Morsillo was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Ch. 43-12 – Trees - Composition and Meetings Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem as follows:  22 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section I. Chapter 43, Section 12 Composition and Meetings (a) shall be amended by deleting the following: (3) One member who is a licensed landscape architect or certified arborist appointed by majority vote of the City Council; (4) One member of the general public and one alternate of the general public to be appointed by majority vote of the City Council; (5) One member who is a licensed landscape architect or certified arborist appointed by the mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the city council; (6) One member of the general public and One alternate of the general public to be appointed by the mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the city council; And inserting the following: (3) Two members who are licensed landscape architects or certified arborists appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the City Council; (4) Two members of the general public and two alternates of the general public to be appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the City Council; And the remaining section shall be renumbered Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. Councillor Morsillo stated this is making all the appointments the Mayor’s appointments. Originally some appointments were made by the City Council when it was a new commission and they wanted it to run smoothly but now they should all be the Mayor’s appointments. Councillor Merkl stated that interviewing candidates in public is uncomfortable. Councillor Cohen asked a question about arborist versus landscape architect. Councillor Morsillo responded that all this ordinance is doing is making the Mayor the appointing authority for all the appointments.  23 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #441 - RESOLUTION: RAISING UP SALEM RESIDENTS THROUGH CLEAN SLATE RECORD SEALING The following Resolution introduced by Councillor Davis was adopted by roll call vote 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent Resolution: Raising Up Salem Residents Through Clean Slate Record Sealing WHEREAS, criminal records—regardless of age or outcome—create significant barriers to employment, housing, and community participation; WHEREAS, an estimated 1 in 5 Massachusetts residents has a criminal record, yet the complex and underutilized sealing process leaves many—including low-income Salem residents—unable to access relief even when eligible; WHEREAS, racial disparities in the criminal legal system have especially impacted Black and Latinx individuals, who make up over 25% of Salem’s population; WHEREAS, backlogs and delays in sealing petitions further exacerbate these barriers, often resulting in missed opportunities for those who deserve a second chance; WHEREAS, every Salem resident deserves the opportunity to support themselves and their families, regardless of past involvement in the criminal legal system; WHEREAS, the Clean Slate legislation (S.1114/H.1811 and S.1124/H.1693), co- sponsored by Senator Joan Lovely and Representative Manny Cruz, would automate record sealing and remove collateral consequences, providing long-overdue relief; WHEREAS, Clean Slate Massachusetts—a statewide coalition supported by local organizations including the League of Women Voters of Salem—is working to modernize and expand access to sealing; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Salem supports passage of S.1114/H.1811 and S.1124/H.1693 to expand opportunities for employment, housing, and full community participation by removing barriers to sealing; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Salem urges the Massachusetts Legislature to enact automated record sealing and related reforms, and that a copy of this resolution be sent to Salem’s state legislative delegation and the Chairs of the Joint Committees on the Judiciary and Ways and Means.  24 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Davis stated there is a letter from Chief Miller in support. He also stated only 10% eligible take advantage of it for reason unknown. Councillor Morsillo stated this is allowed by Statute but you need a lawyer to try to navigate the system now (paper all the red tape vs. automatic) Councillor Watson-Felt without being able to do this delays someone the ability to get into housing or to get a job which are the bare essentials of life. #442 - MEET TO DISCUSS PUBLIC GUIDE ORDINANCE The following Order introduced by Councillor Jerzylo was adopted. (late file) ORDERED: That the Committee of Ordinance, License, and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole meet to review and discuss the Public Guide Ordinance Ch. 40 to address concerns related to the number of licensed guides, group size, public safety, fee structure, enforcement, etc. and that the following be invited: the City Solicitor, the City Clerk or designee, the Salem Police Licensing designee and any other relevant city personnel the Chair feels appropriate to review the ordinance #443 - (#361) - ORDINANCE TO AMEND NOISE CONTROL ON ESSEX ST. PEDESTRIAN MALL Councillor Hapworth offered the following report on the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom was referred the matter of Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Noise Control on Essex St. Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets has considered said matter and would recommend adoption for first passage as amended. The amendment is to amend 8am to 10am in Sec. B (#1,2, & 3) Councillor Hapworth explained that in the month of October, we have a noise ordinance on the pedestrian mall and it is violated in many ways. The most visible are the street preachers, or performers, or people with microphones. But the less obvious way is by ambient noise that happens from the crowds. And when the ambient noise reaches a level above the allowable decibel limit the Salem Police can't really enforce anything on  25 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING that mall, so it's sort of fair game in the month of October. The allowable limit for a street preacher or a performer is 10 decibels above that limit. This gives the police something that they can use to enforce. This ordinance creates two performance zones, one at the fountain, and one over on Front Street. This is allowing the police to enforce an ordinance that has been unenforceable for a very long time. #444 - (#250) - SMART GROWTH OVERLAY DISTRICT Councillor Hapworth offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom was referred the matter of an Ordinance to amend Ordinance relative to Zoning – Amend Section 7 Special Residential District Regulations by adding a new section, 7.4 Smart Growth Overlay District has considered said matter and would recommend adoption for second passage as amended by roll call vote. Councillor Hapworth explained this was for Salem State University Harrison Road. He will go through the amendments that were brought forward from the Planning Department. Councillor Jerzylo still has a problem with section 7.4.5 parking requirements. I know it's 1.75 but why not just keep one space per dwelling unit as a minimum? I'm just very worried. I see it at Lee Fort Terrace, they did 80 spaces for 120 units and I'm already having problems with parking in the area and the neighborhood. I'm very concerned about overflow, maybe not just this project, but other projects in the future that may be in a more dense area, neighborhood. Councillor Cohen said the developers will do what is appropriate for that development. Councillor Varela stated for this project at Salem State University South Campus it is isolated and is not abutting neighborhoods. He has no problem with the parking.  26 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Stott makes a motion to amend 7.4.5 Header on Chart from “Parking Space Required” to “Parking Spaces Permitted”. This motion to amend this wording was adopted. All the amendments that Councillor Hapworth read through (amendments available for review in City Clerk’s Office) in 7.4.1 – Definitions; 7.4.5 – Parking Requirements; 7.4.7 (4)(a) – Plan Review Process – Design Review Board;7.4.8 (1) (e) – Smart Growth Overlay Subdistricts – Parking requirements; Section III – Landscape Standard – Streets and Parking (1) (b) The motion to adopt these amendments by the Planning Department were adopted. The Zoning Ordinance was adopted for second passage as amended by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. Councillor Jerzylo was recorded as opposed. #445 - REPORT FROM THE PLANNING BOARD REGARDING ZONING AND MULTIFAMILY PARKING The following report from the Planning Board was received and Filed. Report of the Planning Board to City Council Re: Zoning and Multifamily Parking September 8, 2025 At its meeting on September 4, 2025, the Planning Board discussed the zoning changes, which would amend Sections 5.1.8 Table of Required Parking Spaces, 5.1.9 Central Development District, 5.4.3 Mandatory Provision of Affordable Units, 5.4.4 Housing Bonus and Parking Reduction, 6.11.8 Parking and Loading, 7.1.2 Standards, 8.4.9 Parking Requirements, 8.7.8.4 Development Standards. Parking Standards, 9.5.3 Application, and 9.5.6 Review Criteria of the Salem Zoning Ordinance. The item was referred to the Planning Board for its recommendation from the August 20, 2025, joint public hearing with the City Council. The Planning Board voted eight (8) (Vice Chair Sarah Tarbet, Helen Sides, Carole Hamilton, Jonathan Berk, Graham Wing, Zach Caunter, Josh Turiel, and Tom Furey) in favor, and zero (0) opposed to recommend that the City Council adopt the ordinance. The Planning Board presents the following information to support their recommendation that these changes are in the City’s best interest and should be fully adopted by the City Council.  27 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING It is critical to emphasize: removing minimum parking requirements does not ban parking and it does not impact existing parking availability. It simply removes the requirement that developers build more than the market demands. This reform gives developers the flexibility to provide the right amount of parking for their specific location, residents, and price point. Research from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and our own local planning staff, as presented in previous discussions, has found that most new developments in Salem are already overparked. In practice, developers will almost always include parking, but when they’re forced to include too much, it reduces the space available for housing, green space, or other community benefits. This is a chance for Salem to take control of its future. Eliminating minimum parking requirements is a historic preservation strategy, a climate action, a mobility win and a housing affordability policy rolled into one. It helps make housing more affordable, neighborhoods more walkable, and our city more livable. It aligns with bipartisan best practices and growing momentum across the country. And finally, as we head into Salem’s 400th year, it gives us the local flexibility to, once again, design our City for people, not just for cars as we’ve done for the past half-century. We urge the City Council to support the removal of minimum parking requirements for new multifamily residential developments and create a future Salem that better reflects how people live today, not to perpetuate a future of doubling down on a failed policy that continues to harm our City and its residents. The Planning Board agrees with the determination of the City of Salem Legal Department that the proposed zoning changes that would amend Sections 5.1.8, 5.1.9, 6.11.8, 7.12, 8.4.9, and 8.7.8.4 of the Salem Zoning Ordinance would allow for additional housing units beyond what would otherwise be permitted under the existing zoning and, thus, meet the criteria outlined in Section 5 of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40A to enable the application of a simple majority vote quantum. In closing, the Planning Board thanks you for your consideration of their recommendation and welcomes any follow-up questions prior to your vote on this matter. Please contact Tom Daniel, AICP, Director of Planning and Community Development at 978-619-5685 with any questions you may have. Sarah Tarbet, Vice Chair CC: Ilene Simons, City Clerk  28 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING (#377) - ZONING ORDINANCE RELATIVE TO MULTIFAMILY PARKING The following Zoning Ordinance relative to Multifamily Parking was adopted for first passage by taking two roll call votes for different sections of this ordinance. Sections 5.4.3, 9.5.3 and 9.5.6 required a 2/3 vote and these sections were adopted by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. The remaining sections only required a simple majority vote due to the Housing Choice Act and were adopted by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. Councillor Jerzylo was recorded as opposed in both roll call votes. Councillor Morsillo stated that we need to right size our parking requirements. She gave an example of the Halstead building. Instead of the parking costs involved to pave the lot it could have been green space or a playground. So we should listen to developers. Councillor Watson-Felt the number of downtown passes were decreased because people not using them. The data supports this. We have parking; its just not immediate gratification when they can’t find parking right next to where they live. This is data supported. Councillor Merkl stated she supports this. Not one size fits all. Councillor Stott stated this specifically for new buildings going forward, for new construction of multi-families. Councillor Jerzylo said on the flip side 27 Charter St and The Dalton on Bridge St. are always looking for parking. They can’t find parking for them or their health aides. Should be some type of minimum. Developers want to make money. Councillor Cohen stated he supports this. More people in the United States died from heat zones. We have a lot of heat zones in Salem, for example the parking lot at the Halstead. We don't understand how people react when they're walking around, and you see people taking a break, and maybe they don't have enough water or whatever, but it is actually a fairly big health issue. Just speaking for Ward 5, the projects that have been permitted in Ward 5, every single developer asked for a variance from the parking. No one said, 1.5, that's perfect, They all got a variance. They had to go through a separate boards than they normally would do to get a variance, so that they could install less parking than was required in this zoning.  29 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Watson-Felt stated many of the developments in the last 10, 15, 20 years have sought parking variances and almost all of them have been approved because the data supports it. Because the right sizing is something that's actually already a common practice through the variance process that is already in place and what this does is avoids the variance process. Anyone can build as much parking on their development as they want. but this right-sizing, again, is supported by data and our own local practices over the last 15 years. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An Ordinance to amend the City of Salem Zoning Ordinance. Section I. Amend Section 5.1.8 Table of Required Parking Spaces by a. Delete the following sentence: "In R3 Districts, the restriction on off- street parking will not apply to age restricted housing projects built under the jurisdiction of the Salem Housing Authority and financed by a federal or state subsidy." b. Deleting the phrase "Dwellings (RC, Rl, R2. R3)" in the first row of the table and replacing it with the phrase "Dwellings, single- family; Dwellings, two-family;" c. Adding a second row to the table as follows: I "Dwellings, multifamily" I None Section II. Amend Section 5.1.9 Central Development (B5) District by deleting Section 5.1.9.2 in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "New residential dwelling uses in the B5 District shall provide parking in accordance with Section § 5.1.8." Section III. Amend Section 5.4.3 Mandatory Provision of Affordable Units by a. Deleting Section I.a. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "In any development subject to this Section§ 5.4, at least ten (10) percent of the dwelling units shall be Affordable Housing Units." b. Deleting the word "DHCD's" in Section § 5.4.3.c.ii. and replacing it with "the Department of Housing and Community Development's (DHCD)" c. Deleting the phrase "most current" from the second paragraph of Section 4.  30 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING d. Deleting the phrase "the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)" from the second paragraph of Section 4. e. Inserting the sentence "The payment shall be equal to the total development cost limit in the most recent Qualified Allocation Plan in which a development cost limit is defined, adjusted for inflation to the present year." at end of the second paragraph of Section 4. Section IV. Amend Section 5.4.4 Housing Bonus and Parking Reduction by a. Deleting the phrase "and Parking Reduction" from the section title. b. Deleting the first sentence of the section. c. Deleting the title of Section 1, "Housing Bonus." d. Inserting the phrase "with the exception of those obtaining a special permit pursuant to Section 5.4.3.2," following the phrase "Developments in compliance with the requirements of this Section§ 5.4" in the second paragraph of the section. e. Deleting Section 2 Parking Reduction in its entirety. Section V. Amend Section 6.11.8 Parking and Loading by a. Inserting the sentence "For multifamily dwelling units, refer to Section§ 5.1." at the beginning of the section. b. Deleting the phrase "For new residential dwelling uses" in the first paragraph and replacing it with "For all other new residential dwelling uses". Section VI. Amend Section 7.1.2 Standards by deleting Section 6 in its entirety and replacing it with "Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Section § 5.1. No parking space shall reduce the effective width of the driveway providing access to more than one (I) dwelling unit to 1ess than sixteen (16) feet." Section VII. Amend Section 8.4.9 Parking Requirements by a. Deleting Section 4.a. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "For artist lofts and living space as described in Section§ 8.4.5, one (1) space per unit for patrons of artist spaces with a studio where items are sold." b. Deleting Section 4.b. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "All other uses in the NRCC shall follow the parking requirements as listed in this Zoning Ordinance." c. Delete Section 4.c.  31 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section VIII. Amend Section 8.7.8.4 Development Standards. Parking Standards by deleting section B.i in its entirety and replacing it with the text "For multifamily dwellings, refer to Section § 5.1. All other new residential uses shall have 1.0 spaces per unit." Section IX. Amend Section 9.5.3 Application by a. Inserting the phrase "and a Transportation Demand Management Plan" following the phrase "as requested" in the first paragraph. Section X. Amend Section 9.5.6 Review Criteria by deleting Section I in its entirety and replacing it with "Adequacy of parking facilities, number of parking spaces proposed for each development, and adequacy of the Transportation Demand Management Plan;". Section XI. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #446 - SALEM COMMON NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION KIDS FUN FEST The request from Salem Common Neighborhood Association to hold Kids Fun Fest on Salem Common October 18. 19, 25 & 26, 2025, 11:00AM - 5:00PM was granted. #447 - BLOCK PARTY - ORNE SQUARE A request from the residents of Orne Square (all of Orne Square) to hold a block party on October 31, 2025 from 4pm-8pm with no rain date was granted. #448 - PUBLIC GUIDES The Following Public Guide License Applications were granted. DAVID TULLIS, 14 FOWLER STREET, SALEM DANIEL J. KOSTELEC, 221 CENTENNIAL FARM LANE , GILBERTSVILLE NY ASHLEY DELEON , 4 LORING AVE APT 3, SALEM, THEODORE LINGER, 125 DERBY STREET APT C, SALEM MEAGHAN MICHEL, 125 DERBY STREET , SALEM MARK OSTRANDER, 114 WEBSTER STREET, ARLINGTON  32 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING MARY BETH O'CONNOR , 190 CANTON STREET, N. EASTON KIMBERLY LYNN MORIARTY , 32 FERN PARK AVE, OLD ORCHARD BEACH ME AJAY THAKKAR, 54 MILL STREET #11, WOBURN DANIELLE PRIBYL, 1 NEWPORT AVE APT #518, QUINCY EMMA CUNNINGHAM , 39 BEACON STREET #2, EVERETT ASHTON BISHOP, 7 MORNINGSIDE LANE , NORTH ANDOVER SCOTT H SEVERANVE , 15 WILL SMITH ROAD, PITTSFIELD, NH ANASTASIIA BUKHANEVICH, 102 MORLAND STREET, BOSTON, RICHARD JACOBSON, 72 COUNTRY CLUB WAY, IPSWICH DIANA M DUNLAP , 4 CEPRESS STREET, SALEM RANDY BOBBACK, 155 WASHINGTON STREET ASHTON AINSWORTH , 195 LAFAYETTE STREET JAKE FISHER, 13 CROWDIS STREET , SALEM JAMIE SEMOS , 15 CROMBIE STREET APT 2, SALEM TESSA PRENDERGAST, 126 WALKER ROAD, SWAMPSCOTT EMMANUEL STEINER, 38 PUTHAM STREET , SALEM, JACQUELINE MANNO, 83 BANKS ROAD , SWAMPSCOTT HAVEN GULLETT, 11 BURNHAM STREET, SOMERVILLE, ANDREW MAERCKLEIN, 8 LEE STREET , MARBLEHEAD ARIEL WALKER , 7 CYPRESS PLACE, LYNN FREDDIE MARIER, 8143 FRYTOWNROAD, WARRENTON, VA JOHN BITTRICH, 158A LAFAYETTE STREET, SALEM SAMANTHA VON DELVAUX, 555 WESTERN AVE #15, LYNN DANIELLE GRAVELLE , 32 BASS AVE #2 , GLOUCESTER CONOR MEEHAN , 10 COPLEY DRIVE , ANDOVER MELISSA BINARI, 390 CABOT STREET, BEVERLY SABRINA VELANDRY , 51 PROSPECT STREET, MARBLEHEAD MICHAEL MIGNANELLI, 15 KING ROAD , CAMPTON, NH SAMANTHA PEPPER, 8004 MOORLAND LANE, BETHESDA MD WILLA RATTIGAN , 13 PARRAMATTA ROAD , BEVERLY STELLA KERSKER, 29 PRATT AVE, BEVERLY, ELIZABETH KELLEY , 89 DELL AVE UNIT 1, MELROSE HEIDI DONAGHY 35 ABINO FARM ROAD PEABODY KELLY HURD 707 WASHINGTON STREET GLOUCESTER STEPHANIE CLEMENTS 12 HAWTHORN BLVD SALEM NEIL J MCGARRY 55 CHICKATAWBUT AVE MARSHFIELD JAMES AYERS 9 FARRELL CT MARBLEHEAD  33 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING GABRIELLE MONTEVECCHI 15 BAYVIEW TERRACE DANVERS EMMA STEPHENS 415 MASSACHUSETTES AVE BOSTON MATTHEW MCGLAUGHLIN 124 EAST STREET TOPSFIELD COLIN MAGEARY 26 FOREST AVE #1 SALEM ABIGAIL MYETTE 29 WILLIAMS STREET SALEM ROMANI TORRES 38 S HIGH STREET MELROSE KELSEY MATTES 3 KARLEE DRIVE MAYNARD CYNTHIA APARICIO 61 MALL AVE SOMERVILLE ELIZABETH M MARANDO 24 NORMAN STREET # 102 SALEM MELISSA FERNANDEZ 133 EASTERN AVE # 3 LYNN (2 APPLICATIONS) JOSEPH QUARANTELLO 10 TURNER STREET SALEM JONATHAN HULBERT 260 WASHINGTON ST #33 SALEM ALEXANDER ROBINSON 34 SHEAFE STREET BOSTON JEFFREY GRAYSON 25 ETHEL AVE PEABODY LEE MCCOLGAN 386 ESSEX STREET SALEM WILLIAM HARRIOSN 42 WASHINGTON ST PEABODY SARA ZATORSKI 136 LOWELL STREET #449 - #454 - CLAIMS The Following Claims were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. Joyce Chandler 0 Defrancesco Ave Salem Erick Clerjeune 5 Harrison Ave #01 Salem Carlos R. Umpierre 130 Walker Road Swampscott Reverend Nathan Ives 24 St. Peter Street Salem Elliot Stewart- Abbot 323 Lafayette Street Salem Donna Tremblay 23 Barns Road Salem #455 - DRAINLAYER / CONTRACT OPERATOR LICENSES The Following Drain Layer Applications were granted. Landmark Utilities 134 Centre Street Danvers NCCL Enterprises 60 Concord Street North Reading CCG 321 Central St Hudson  34 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #456 & #457 – BONDS The Following Drain Layer Bonds were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and returned approved. CCG 321 Central St. Hudson NCCL Enterprises 60 Concord St North Reading On the motion of Councillor Morsillo, the meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m. ATTEST: ILENE SIMONS CITY CLERK