City Council
Regular MeetingTaunton, MA · January 24, 2023
Minutes
City of<Taunton
:M.unicipa{Council:M.eeting :M.inutes
City 1fa{{, 15 Summer Street, <Taunton, :M..ft
In tne Cnester ~ :M.artin :M.unicipa{Council Cnam6ers
:M.inutes, January 24, 2023 at 7:40 O'cCocR..fP.:M..
~gufar ;Meeting
;Mayor Snaunna £. O'Conne[[presiding
<Boy Scout rJ'roop 40 from rraunton t:ea everyone in tne q>f:ed'ge ofJf{{egiance
<Prayer was offerea 6y tne :Mayor
)f moment of si,l:ence was offerea in memory of (])r. PigCoct a 6efovea person in tnis
community. J{e was a aevotea nus6ana anafatner, aeep{y respectea ana Covetf. J{e was
a aoctor wno careafor countl:ess peopt:e ana many peopt:e wno were in tne room. (])r.
PigCoc{ servea near{y ten-years in tne )fnny, inc[utfing a year in o/ietnam. Jfe was
nonora6(y aiscnargea in 1971 as a neavi{y aecoratea Lieutenant Cofone! Jfe came to
rraunton in 1971 ana continuea practicing meauine, spentfing more tnan 30-years at
;Morton Jfospita! Jfe alm servea on tne <Boara of Jfea[tn from 2014-2020. (])r. PigCocR_,
toucnea tne fives of many rrauntonians ana otners from surrountfing communities
auring nis 50-years+ nere wnere ne ca[[ea rraunton nis nome. 'We are gratefulfor nis
service to tnis community. Jfe wi[[ 6e aear{y missea 6y a{{, rrftougnts anaprayers go out
to nis fami{y at tnis time.
<Present at ro[[ ca[[were: CounciCors (J'oste[(, Quinta[, Sanders, Coute,
(J'ottier, :McCau[, <Borges, ©uarte ana ©ooner
Record of preceding meeting was read by title and approved. So voted.
Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Communications
form the Mayor. So voted.
Communications from the Mayor:
Mayor O'Connell said we have special guests from the Taunton Area Vietnam Veteran's
Association (TAVVA) and she invited them to the podium. TAVVA invited Mayor
O'Connell to join them at the podium. The TAVVA introduced themselves and issued a
Certificate of Appreciation to the City of Taunton for 40-years of outstanding support to
the TAVVA. Mayor O' Connell accepted the certificate. Mayor O'Connell said what a
deep honor it is for the City to be recognized by TAVVA and all that they have done for
them and taking the time to recognize the City. They couldn't be more humbled and
grateful for this and everything they have done in our community. TAVVA said they
started 40-years ago and they have had so many Mayors. They appreciate what the City
has done for them over the years and thanked Park & Recreation for maintaining their
2
memorials so well. They also thanked the citizens of Taunton for supporting them at their
ceremonies. Mayor 0' Connell continued to give her thanks and appreciation on behalf of
herself and the City Council. Mayor O'Connell issued the Taunton Area Vietnam
Veteran's Association (TAVVA) a resolution for their 40th Anniversary. TAVVA also
thanked the Veterans Department for doing a great job with all the Veterans in the area.
Mayor O'Connell also gave the Taunton Area Vietnam Veteran's Association (TAVVA) a
plaque for their 40-years of service to country and community on behalf of the City of
Taunton and the Taunton Veterans Department. The TAVVA gave a few words on their
journey on how they formed this organization and thanked the City for their cooperation
over the years.
Motion was made to revert back to the regular order of business. So voted.
Opportunity for input by the general public.
Jamie Kelley, 208 Scadding Street said she was speaking on behalf of herself, not
representing any other group. She thanked the Council for listening to everyone last week
for over an hour at Public Input. She hopes that just listening is not all that happens. She
hopes there is more that continues to go on in this City as a result of what happened two-
weeks ago. She asked what does it mean to be able to protest here in Taunton and what
does it mean to be a domestic terrorist. How do we know what this is and do we have
rules in our own City about where these parameters are. She doesn't have any idea. She
knows there are ongoing conversations in many different places but for those on the
outside, she would like to know. Her explanation continued.
Hearings:
On the petition submitted by Janet Ellis, 376 Tremont Street, Taunton for the issuance of
a Kennel License per City Ordinance Section 3-24 to allow a Grade 1 (4-6 Dogs) Kennel
License for personal use/dogs, NOT BUSINESS USE, at 376 Tremont Street, Taunton.
Motion was made to open the public hearing and invite the interested parties into
the enclosure. So voted. Janet Ellis introduced herself and said she has six (6) cocker
spaniel dogs. They are all licensed in the City and Manny, the Animal Control, went to
her home to look at her setup and said everything was fine. Councilor Borges said she
definitely meets the criteria as far as land according to the Ordinance. She asked who
owns 376 Tremont Street. Ms. Ellis said she owns the property. She said it may have
been under her business name initially. She had bought the house from her daughter who
moved to Tennessee. Councilor Borges said she has a Rhode Island address for the
property. Ms. Ellis stated that was her former address in Barrington. Councilor Borges
said that's fine, she just wanted to make sure she was actually the owner of the property.
Included was a communication from the Animal Control Officer submitting a positive
recommendation and also a map of the location. Motion was made to open public
input. So voted. Nobody was present to speak for public input. Motion was made to
close public input and approve the Kennel License. So voted.
On the petition submitted by Melissa Snow Phillips, 75 Dighton Avenue, Taunton for the
issuance of a Kennel License per City Ordinance Section 3-24 to allow a Grade 1 (4-6
Dogs) Kennel License for personal use/dogs, NOT BUSINESS USE, at 75 Dighton
Avenue, Taunton. Motion was made to open the public hearing and invite the
interested parties into the enclosure. So voted. Included was a communication from the
Animal Control Officer submitting a positive recommendation and a map of the location.
3
Melissa Snow Phillips introduced herself and said she now has four dogs. She just
recently got a puppy. Manny went to her house and said she has plenty of land and
property that's fenced in. She has submitted this Kennel License just to do the right thing.
Councilor Postell asked what are the breeds of the dogs and are they all registered with
the City. Ms. Phillips said they are all updated with their shots and fixed except for the
puppy. The puppy just got a rabies shot earlier in the evening. She paid the $50.00 to do
this process and she was told just to wait because it made sense to be approved first so
she wasn't double paying. She has a Mini Poodle which is mixed with a Shih Tzu, a
Maltese Yorkie, a Shichon with Bichon mix and a Shih Tzu with Bichon mix. All three
are fixed and the puppy will be as well. Motion was made to open public input. So
voted. Marcelino Leitte, 211 Appaloosa Way, Taunton, his property abuts the petitioners
property. He said his main concern is the type of dogs that are going to be at the property
because he has grandkids and there is a lot of kids in the neighbor. They live in a cul-de-
sac that is congested with houses and kids. Ms. Phillips said her dogs never go wild
behind her property. She has just one little area where they play and it's fenced in. She
said he would have never met her dogs because of this purpose. She stated again, she has
a Mini Poodle which is mixed with a Shih Tzu, a Maltese Y orkie, a Shichon with Bichon
mix and a Shih Tzu with Bichon mix. There is no big dogs at her house. Motion was
made to close public input and approve the Kennel License. So voted.
Communications from the Mayor:
Mayor O'Connell said the State of Address will be on Thursday, February 2, 2023 here at
the Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m. All of the public is welcome to come and they hope to
see the Chamber filled. The reception will follow. They believe it may be televised but
those details will come later. There is a Covid Clinic sponsored by the Department of
Public Health at 30 Olney Street, February 17th & March 24th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00
p.m. No appointments or health insurance is needed. They are giving away $75.00 gift
cards.
Appointments:
NONE
Communications from City Officers:
Com. from the Chairman, Taunton Planning Board notifying of a site plan review
regarding the property at 207 Hart Street, Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School,
Taunton, for a demo of the existing school building, existing track, the construction of a
new school building (416,000 gross sq. ft.), additional parking and new athletic fields,
submitted by Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School. The next scheduled meeting
for this petition will be on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. in the Taunton
Planning Board Office, 141 Oak Street, at which time the application shall be reviewed
by the DIRB and again on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. at 15 Summer Street,
which this petition will be reviewed by the Planning Board. Motion was made to receive
and place on file. So voted.
Com. from Councilor Borges, Vice Chairman of the Committee on Zoning and Dennis
Ackerman, Chairman of the Planning Board regarding an increase in the stipend for the
Zoning Board of Appeals. Councilor Borges feels all boards should be paid fairly across
the board. Motion was made to refer to the Director of Planning. So voted. On
discussion, Mayor O'Connell wanted to make it clear, that since this is on the agenda and
4
CFO, Patrick Dello Russo was present at the meeting, it doesn't appear that everyone has
accurate information regarding this topic so she wanted to let the CFO very briefly share
with them a discussion they had to ensure that anyone requesting these increases knows
the proper procedure. Motion was made to invite the CFO, Mr. Delio Russo into the
enclosure. Mr. Dello Russo said he wanted to make it very clear that at no time did any
member of the Finance Department deny any board member/committee member a raise
whatsoever. That simply is not true. In fact, the Chairman of the Zoning Board of
Appeals had the opportunity to meet with him and members of the Law Department at
which time they provided an explanation of the budget procedure and how to go about
requesting increases, salaries and stipends. Upon that discussion, the Planning Director
had already inputted the requested funds that are noted in the letter on the agenda. They
feel they met all the needs and the information was actually supplied in the budget portal
prior to the letter going on the agenda. As a reminder, if anyone has any questions
regarding budgetary stuff, they are simply a phone call away. Councilor Borges said this
was a discussion they had in the Finance Committee where they were discussing the
salary of the Mayor and the Council and she asked that all boards be looked at. If there
was any board that wasn't being met, she asked them to challenge the Council. This was
one that wasn't being met. The Chairman of the Zoning Board reached out to her to let
her know that the request had been put in and was denied. She did have a conversation
with Kevin Scanlon on Friday who told her that he had worked it into his budget. Mayor
O'Connell said Mr. Dello Russo just wanted to make it clear that this request was never
denied.
Com. from the Budget Director requesting to make a presentation to the Committee on
Finance and Salaries on January 31, 2023 with CFO, Patrick Dello Russo so they can
present the Q-2 update on Revenue and Expenses to the Committee. Motion was made
to refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So voted.
Com. from the Chief Financial Officer regarding the Tax Deferral Program Expansion
proposal. He stated Mayor O'Connell requested that the Finance Department examine the
Tax Deferral and Recovery program offered by the City of Taunton. In his explanation it
listed things such as Purpose: Expansion of Tax Deferral Program, Proposed Change #1:
Increase Poverty Threshold, Proposed Change #2: Decrease Interest on Outstanding Real
Estate Taxes, Proposed Change #3: Decrease Age of Eligibility from 65 to 60 and
Summary and Conclusion. In summary, the following recommendations are being
presented Mayor O'Connell and the Finance Department for support: 1. The Municipal
Council vote to increase the poverty threshold from $20,000 in annual income to an
amount not to exceed $35,341 in annual income if married, and not to exceed $29,014
annually, if single. 2. The Municipal Council voted to decrease the interest accrual rate
inside the tax deferral and recovery program from 8% to 4%. 3. The Municipal Council
vote to decrease the allowable age to enter into a tax deferral and recovery program from
65 to 60 years of age by way of a home rule petition to be sent to the State Legislate for
passage. Motion was made to refer to the Council of the Whole. So voted.
Com. from the Second Assistant City Solicitor regarding the lease of 42 Williams Street
to the Taunton Art Association. It was brought to him and his offices' attention that the
Taunton Art Association and the City of Taunton entered into a lease agreement in 1985,
but neither of the parties was able to locate a signed original/copy. The parties have acted
as if there was a signed lease for the past 37-years and the insurance requirements are
5
being met. Unfortunately, they are unable to locate copies of the meeting of a vote.
Enclosed was a lease that would reaffirm the lease entered into in 1985. Motion was
made to approve the lease. So voted.
Com. from Mayor O'Connell submitting comments to acknowledge and thank members
of our community who joined them for last week's Public Input session during the City
Council to share their thoughts, feelings and concerns around the incident that transpired
at the Taunton Public Library on January 14, 2023. She acknowledged the importance of
the City's elected officials having the opportunity to hear directly from the people who
were affected by the incident and has been uplifted in the amount of community support
that has followed in the wake of this deeply disturbing incident. As she stated
unequivocally at last week's Council meeting, she wholly condemns the actions, hate
speech, tactics and ideology used by the protestors. There is no place for these individual
or their actions in this City or anywhere. Her office continues to engage in ongoing and
comprehensive communication with the Taunton Police Department, the Taunton Public
Library and the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network to ensure that patrons will feel safe at
future events and to provide support and assistance to those who were affected by the
incident that occurred last week. Taunton is an open and inclusive City. She and her
colleagues reaffirm their commitment to promoting a welcoming and inclusive
environment for all people in the City of Taunton. Councilor Borges thanked Mayor
O'Connell for the letter and made a motion to add that the Council go on record as
a whole to condemn the actions against the hate speech and the tactics around the
incident that happed on January 14, 2023 at the Taunton Public Library. So voted.
Communications from Citizens:
Com. from Priscilla Matton, Superintendent, Bristol County Mosquito Control submitting
the Annual Report for 2022. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So voted.
Petitions:
Hours of Operation License - RENEWALS
1. Cumberland Farms, Inc. -dba- Cumberland Farms #6766 located at 660 County
Street, Taunton. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Police and
License and to the Police Chief. So voted.
2. DDO New England LLC -dba- Taco Bell Store #40880 located at 700 County
Street, Taunton. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Police and
License and to the Police Chief. So voted.
Second Hand Article License - NEW
1. Mirror Mirror a Unique Boutique submitted by Angela Barros, 118 Lakeview
Avenue, Taunton to be located at 322 Bay Street, Taunton. Motion was made to
refer to the Committee on Police and License and to the Police Chief. So
voted.
Committee Reports:
Motion was made for Committee reports to be read by title and approved. So
Voted. Recommendations adopted to reflect the votes as recorded in committee
reports. So Voted.
6
Unfinished Business:
NONE
Orders. Ordinances and Resolutions:
Acceptance o(MGL Ch. 269 ofthe Acts 0(2022
AN ACT RELATIVE TO COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS FOR RETIREES
Whereas, The deferred operation of this act would tend to defeat its purpose, which
is to provide for increased cost-of-living adjustments for retirees, therefore it is hereby
declared to be an emergency law, necessary for the immediate preservation of the public
convenience.
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) (1) Notwithstanding section 103 of chapter 32 of the General
Laws or any other general or special law to the contrary, the retirement board of any
system that has accepted said section 103 may elect to establish a cost-of-living
adjustment increase of not less than 3 per cent and not greater than 5 per cent on the base
amount provided for in said section 103 for fiscal year 2023.
(2) The sum of the dollar amount of the cost-of-living increase on the base amount,
together with the amount of retirement allowance, pension or annuity to which the cost-
of-living increase is applied, shall become the fixed retirement allowance, pension or
annuity for all future purposes, including the application of subsequent cost-of-living
adjustments in future years.
(b) A retirement board may grant a cost-of-living increase of not less than 3 per
cent and not greater than 5 per cent on the base amount for fiscal year 2023 at any time
during the fiscal year.
(c) This section shall take effect for the members of a retirement system by a
majority vote of the board of such system and upon local acceptance: (i) of the city
council upon recommendation of the mayor in a city, (ii) of the city council upon
recommendation of the city manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan E charter, (iii) of
the chief executive officer, as defined in section 7 of chapter 4 of the General Laws, in a
town, (iv) of the county commissioners in a county and (v) by vote of the governing
board, commission or committee in a district or other political subdivision of the
commonwealth. For any retirement system comprising more than 1 political subdivision
of the commonwealth, this section shall be effective by a majority vote of the board of
such system and upon the acceptance of two-thirds of cities and towns within the system
by approval of: (i) the city council upon recommendation of the mayor in a city, (ii) the
city council upon recommendation of the city manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan
E charter, and (iii) the chief executive officer, as defined in section 7 of chapter 4 of the
General Laws, in a town.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect on July 1, 2022.
Motion was made to approve on a roll call vote. On a roll call vote, nine (9)
Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted in favor. So voted. Motion
passed.
7
New Business:
Councilor Borges proposed to refer the revised City of Taunton Back Water Valve
Ordinance to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills and invite the
Plumbing Inspector and the DPW Commissioner. So voted.
Councilor Borges proposed to refer the City of Taunton Ordinance change for Gas
& oil Separators/Interceptors to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills
and invite the Director of the Board of Health & Plumbing Inspector. So voted.
Councilor Borges proposed to refer the City of Taunton Ordinance change for
Grease Interceptors to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills and invite
the Director of the Board of Health & Plumbing Inspector. So voted.
Councilor Borges requested to refer to the Committee of the Whole a discussion to
require all HCA and Licenses for Cannabis to provide the City Council with their
Business Plan to both Committee of the Whole for HCA and Committee on Police
and License for their license prior to meeting moving forward. So voted.
Councilor Duarte requested to refer to the Law Department MGL Chapter 268
Section 34 (relative to obstructive disguises) and MGL Chapter 272 Section 53
(relative to disturbing the peace) for a written opinion on their applicability to
protests that may occur, such as that which occurred at the Drag Queen Story Hour
at the Taunton Public Library on January 14, 2023. So voted.
Councilor Quintal spoke about last year's dedication to the memorial of Raymond
LaPointe who passed away in 1967 at Vietnam. He asked the Mayor for her help with
getting a sign on one of the main roads coming into Taunton that says "Welcome to
Taunton a Proud Veterans Community". That time has come. He did a little research with
Karen Pemberton who is a huge asset to the City and to the Veterans. He also reached out
to the Taunton Vietnam Veterans Association were they invited him to their meeting next
month. He passed out a drawing to the Council. This sign is going to be roughly under
$2,000.00. He would like to try to fast track this. He offered to pay for this sign so the
City doesn't incur any money. When he meets with the Vietnam Veterans Association, he
would like to have their input to see whether they would like the sign on Routes 44, 140
or 138. Mayor O'Connell recommended having the meeting, writing a letter and have it
referred to the Committee. He asked for the Council to stand behind him. He would like
to get this done by the Spring. Motion was made to refer this to the Committee on the
Military & Veterans Affairs. So voted.
On discussion, Councilor Quintal said after listening to public input and such an
unfortunate thing that happened at the Library, he would like to congratulate our Police
Department. He explained that when you are a Police Officer and you get called, you
have split second decisions to make. They did what they could with the unfortunate
situation they were dealt with. He feels if they went in with riot gear and everything else,
they would just traumatize the children even more than they were already traumatized.
His opinion is that although he was not there, they did the best job that they could to
diffuse the situation where no one was physically hurt. People were mentally hurt. He is
looking forward for more discussions in the future. Again, he thanked our Police
8
Department. He feels they did a good job to the best of their ability to diffuse the
situation as quick as possible.
The City Council meeting ended at 8:25 p.m. The Council went back into the Committee
of the Council as a Whole that was recessed earlier in the evening.
A true copy:
rk~
Attest:
JLL/KLD
9
City of Taunton
Municipal Council
January 24, 2023
'.·
-~.
-·< --r.'111
The Committee on Finance and Salaries ~~·-Ji;;;
~·~ --·1
The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA ::o278i~ in tlre
N
]rB
('.:;"'~
~ 1J
~~
Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. ;
f. ')">
ri w "'.1:1
Present were Councilor Phillip Duarte, Chairman and Councilors Pottier and ~Caul. "' ?)
r"'t1
c.n
The meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM.
I
1. Meet to review the weekly vouchers and payrolls for City departments.
MOTION: Approve the payroll warrant in the amount o/$3,954,385.01. So voted.
MOTION: Approve the accounts payable warrant in the amount of $2, 723, 510. 68. So voted.
The meeting adjourned at 5:36 PM.
CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted,
l JA~.- 2 4 2023
/)pf/: 7
·.)1'0A.e~v f_). L-·U{/1.),_
. (jo
.t_..
~NICIPAL COUNCIL J\:faggie E. Clarke
Clerk of Council Committees
10
City of Taunton
Municipal Council
January 24, 2023
'
The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills I .~ ··<
The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA
Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers.
k21~
=:;, g;'
in~
cr-
-< .. :u1<
Pre:sent were Councilor Barry Sanders, Chairman, and Councilors Dooner anf1c~iul. -glice~'lj
Chief Edward Walsh was also present. ~ ~ AA
The meeting was called to order at 5:38 PM.
1. Meet with the Police Chief to discuss request to remove parking meters on Governor
Street.
Chief Walsh explained that Governor Street had been changed to a one-way street and
recommended eliminating parking on the south side with a proposed ordinance.
MOTION: Refer to the Law Department to prepare and post the proposed ordinance. So voted.
The meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM.
CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted,
'/)lftl_?i 0'-'--' f
Maggie E. Clarke
cfa,._ #v--
IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Clerk of Council Committees
RTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED.
~
11
r--..;:
\I C::J
t:j
City of Taunton (._
:i::>-- '
'
......-- -
\
1-···i
:;z::
Municipal Council \ [',)
.,, ,.,_.,
i··t'11t)
~~~.
January 24, 2023 ......
...,, (:J
;z
)ii>
lJ
YI
ai
:-n
The Committee on the Fire Department N
U'\
• f
The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the
Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers.
Present were Councilor David Pottier, Chairman, and Councilors Postell and Coute. Fire Chief
Timothy Bradshaw, City Solicitor Matthew Costa, and Deputy Chief Jason Boiros, and Lietenant
Tim O'Leary of the Fire Department were also present.
The meeting was called to order at 5 :49 PM.
1. Meet with Chief Bradshaw to discuss how applicants for a position are ranked when
Civil Service indicates that there is a tie.
Councilor Pottier read a letter from JeffMcCue ofH.R.D. into the minutes.
MOTION: Make the letter part of the record So voted.
Chief Bradshaw reported that the next exam is scheduled for March 25.
Councilor Pottier indicated that they had called for a Lieutenant list and that the current list is in
effect until March 1.
Councilor Coute asked if the Chief feels that the need to extend the list and the Chief said that he
does need feel the need and he believes that if the list were to be extended it would be for one
year.
Councilor Borges stated that she doesn't think it makes sense to go 5 weeks without a list and
can see no reason not to extend the list. Further, there is currently no vacancy for a lieutenant so
doesn't know why we are calling for a list. She believes the list should be extended until the new
exam scores come out. She expressed her concern that the McCue letter had not been previously
read fully. Chief Bradshaw pointed out that there have been other times without a list.
Councilor Pottier asked if the Chief and the Union were comfortable with how things are
proceeding and Chief Bradshaw and Lieutenant O'Leary both indicated that they are. Chief
Bradshaw pointed out that tests have always been valid for 2 years.
Councilor Duarte pointed out that the letter was included on the full Council agenda.
Councilor McCaul asked who had retired to create this opening and the Chief and Deputy Chief
Boiros and Lieutenant O'Leary explained that there was a Memorandum of Understanding
12
whereby someone was moved to a different position and the Chief was under the impression that
he would retire by April 1 so there is an anticipated vacancy in April. The Union believes that
because of this MOA that there is an open lieutenant position. Lieutenant O'Leary explained
that he is acting as an assistant to the mechanic. Chief Bradshaw agreed that there is a vacancy
in the ranks. Attorney Costa cautioned the Council to avoid discussions on particular persons.
Chief Bradshaw explained the formula that has been used for years and years when there is a tie.
He indicated that he did not create this formula. Civil Service now groups people together and
scores are rounded and people are banded.
Councilor Coute questioned if the education experience score comes from the Civil Service and
Chief Bradshaw said that it does and explained the process including that documentation must be
provided. He confirmed that both the written score and the experience score come from Civil
Service.
Councilor McCaul again asked if there is a vacancy and Chief Bradshaw said that this would be
discussed in executive session. Attorney Costa reminded the Council of the agenda.
Councilor Borges requested that the Council find out if the list can be extended for a couple
months or if it needs to be for a year.
Councilor Coute suggested they hold off on any votes.
MOTION: Open public input. So voted.
Firefighter Nicholas Faria handed out a statement issued 12/19/22 by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. He referenced the personnel administration rules for promoting and hiring and
indicated that the formula being used by Chief Bradshaw is not recommended by the Civil
Service. He stated that in the case of a tie, the Chief can make a recommendation but that
ultimately it is up to the hiring authority.
Firefighter Douglas Gaudette stated that he does not believe there is a vacancy since nobody has
been demoted from lieutenant to mechanic and nothing says that the Lieutenant is not a
lieutenant any more. Mr. Gaudette believes he has been reassigned but not demoted.
Firefighter Mike Rodriguez indicated that if someone is reassigned because they can no longer
perform their duties then there is no going back to that position. In this situation, the person can
no longer perform his original duties.
MOTION: Close public input. So voted.
2. Meet in executive session with Chief Bradshaw to discuss strategy regarding collective
bargaining.
Committee on the Fire Department
January 24, 2023
Page 2 of3
13
MOTION: Enter into executive session. On a roll call, Councilors Pottier, Coute, and Postell
voted yes. So voted.
MOTION: Return from executive session. On a roll call, Councilors Pottier, Coute and Postell
voted yes. So voted.
It was reported two votes were taken in total in executive session.
The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.
CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted,
JAN.·2 4 2023
.
/ i"
i: , ' . t.
.
\,j1_,~j~~· .
.
- ;1
l. L(l/1.., t
'
'-L--·--
Maggie E. Clarke
IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Clerk of Council Committees
REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED.
~mf~
Committee on the Fire Department
January 24, 2023
Page3 of3
14
City of Taunton
Municipal Council
January 24, 2023
f:J: N
The Committee of the Council as a Whole . ::;.; ~: a-
-< .
... u
The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Str~et, Taunton, MAm27§'6 in tJw
Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. I
N
<.n
Present were Council President Kelly Dooner and Councilors Duarte, Borges, McCaul, Pottier,
Coute, Sanders, Quintal, and Postell. Attorney Blake Mensing and Haskell Kennedy of
Medicine Man Solutions, and John Desousa ofNorthcounty Group.
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 PM.
MOTION: Recess. So voted.
The meeting resumed at 8:27 PM.
1. Meet to discuss the request for renewal of a Host Community Agreement for Medicine
Man Solutions, LLC located at144 West Britannia Street.
Councilor Duarte reported that he would be recusing himself from this matter and item number 3
on the agenda.
Councilor Dooner read a letter dated 1/17/23 from Attorney Mensing requesting that this HCA
be extended for one year.
MOTION: Make this part of the record So voted.
Attorney Mensing and Haskell Kennedy gave an update on the progress of this business.
Councilor Borges asked if they thought 6 months was enough time and they indicated that while
they believe 6 months is enough time, 1 year would certainly be enough time.
MOTION: Grant the petitioner a one year extension. So voted.
2. Meet for a pre-review on the issuance of a Special Permit upon the petition of Robert
Asack, 96 Sachem Rock Ave., East Bridgewater, MA to allow a 10.unit group home
with a parking waiver at 74 Weir Street located in the Central Business District.
John DeSousa, on behalf of his client, indicated that the plan calls for 10 residential units to be in
a refurbished building.
Councilor Dooner stated that she will be interested in hearing the square footage of each unit, the
criteria for moving in, if there will be an upstairs, details on management, and details on parking.
15
Councilor McCaul clarified that while this says group home, these will be high end studio
apartments and Mr. DeSousa confirmed. Mr. McCaul expressed his interest in hearing about the
sprinkler system - if it will be overhead or tanks in the basement in addition to hearing about
how long the project will take.
Councilor Borges requested to hear about the market rate, the number of units, the size of the
units, more on parking, if there will be a management company, if there has been community
outreach, and how long for the buildout.
Councilor Postell requested that they discuss any structural issues.
Councilor Coute is interested in hearing about neighborhood outreach and if there will be
commercial space on the first floor.
Councilor Sanders is curious why they used the term group home and wants to know exactly
what is going in there. He's also interested in any environmental issues, water impacts, and
efforts toward energy conservation.
3. Meet in executive session with the City's legal representation to discuss the pending
litigation of Greater Goods, LLC vs. City of Taunton Municipal Council
MOTION: Enter into executive session. On a roll call, Councilors Borges, McCaul, Pottier,
Coute, Sanders, Quintal, Postell, and Dooner voted yes. Councilor Duarte was recused So
voted.
MOTION: Come out of executive session. On a roll call, Councilors Borges, McCaul, Pottier,
Coute, Sanders, Quintal, Postell, and Dooner voted yes. Councilor Duarte was recused So
voted.
Council President Dooner reported that one vote was taken in executive session in addition to the
vote to come out of executive session. That vote was reaffirmed:
MOTION: Approve the settlement. On a roll call, Councilors Postell, Quintal, Sanders, Coute,
Pottier, and Dooner voted yes. Councilors McCaul and Borges voted no. Councilor Duarte was
recused. The motion carries 6-2-1.
The meeting adjourned at 9:18 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
/j,)· lP'LC
1 11
e c·-- ·
f'. l/~ /.,~l"- fcL-
L ...
('\':'.)
Maggie E. Clarke
Clerk of Council Committees
Committee on the Council as a Whole
January24, 2023
Page 2 of2
Agenda
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA
CHESTER R. MARTIN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
15 SUMMER STREET, TAUNTON, MA 02780
JANUARY 24, 2023 - 7:00 PM
City Clerk's Office
INVOCATION
ROLL CALL Notice of Posting
RECORDS Time: / / :,3) /}Ii/
Date: I~ ~O ·dtJR3
PUBLIC INPUT
\.LL
• Comments will be received for the record
• Please state your name and address
• Please limit comments to 3 minutes or less
• Supplemental written comments may also be provided
• Comments should be addressed to the body as a whole and pertain to the business
of the City
HEARING: On the petition submitted by Janet Ellis, 376 Tremont Street,
Taunton for the issuance of a Kennel License per City Ordinance
Section 3-24 to allow a Grade I (4-6 Dogs) Kennel License for
personal use/dogs, NOT BUSINESS USE, at 376 Tremont Street,
Taunton.
• Com. from Animal Control Officer - Submitting a
Recommendation
• Map of Location
On the petition submitted by Melissa Snow Phillips, 75 Dighton
Avenue, Taunton for the issuance of a Kennel License per City
Ordinance Section 3-24 to allow a Grade I (4-6 Dogs) Kennel
License for personal use/dogs, NOT BUSINESS USE, at 75
Dighton Avenue, Taunton.
• Com. from Animal Control Officer - Submitting a
Recommendation
• Map of Location
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR
• Presentation of a Proclamation for the Taunton Vietnam Veteran's Association
• Community Update
APPOINTMENTS - NONE
COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY OFFICERS
Pg. 1 Com. from Chairman, Taunton Planning Board - Notifying of a Public
Meeting and Hearing
Pg. 2-4 Com. from Councilor Borges, Vice Chairman of the Committee on Zoning
and Dennis Ackerman, Chairman, Planning Board - Regarding Increase in
Stipend for Zoning Board of Appeals
Pg. 5 Com. from Budget Director - Requesting to Make a Presentation to the
Committee on Finance and Salaries
Pg. 6-7 Com. from Chief Financial Officer - Tax Deferral Program Expansion
Proposal
Pg. 8-11 Com. from Second Assistant City Solicitor - Lease of 42 Williams Street
to Taunton Art Association
Pg. 12 Com. from Mayor O'Connell - Submitting Comments
COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS
Pg. 13-14 Com. from Priscilla Matton, Superintendent, Bristol County Mosquito
Control - Submitting the Annual Report for 2022
PETITIONS
Hours of Operation License - RENEWALS
1. Cumberland Farms, Inc. -dba- Cumberland Farms #6766 located at 660 County
Street, Taunton
2. DDO New England LLC -dba- Taco Bell Store #40880 located at 700 County
Street, Taunton
Second Hand Article License - NEW
1. Mirror Mirror a Unique Boutique submitted by Angela Barros, 118 Lakeview
Avenue, Taunton to be located at 322 Bay Street, Taunton
COMMITTEE REPORTS
UNFINISHED BUSINESS - NONE
ORDERS, ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
Acceptance ofMGL Ch. 269 of the Acts of 2022
AN ACT RELATIVE TO COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS FOR RETIREES
Whereas, The deferred operation of this act would tend to defeat its purpose, which
is to provide for increased cost-of-living adjustments for retirees, therefore it is hereby
declared to be an emergency law, necessary for the immediate preservation of the public
convenience.
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) (1) Notwithstanding section 103 of chapter 32 of the General
Laws or any other general or special law to the contrary, the retirement board of any
system that has accepted said section 103 may elect to establish a cost-of-living
adjustment increase of not less than 3 per cent and not greater than 5 per cent on the base
amount provided for in said section 103 for fiscal year 2023.
(2) The sum of the dollar amount of the cost-of-living increase on the base amount,
together with the amount of retirement allowance, pension or annuity to which the cost-
of-living increase is applied, shall become the fixed retirement allowance, pension or
annuity for all future purposes, including the application of subsequent cost-of-living
adjustments in future years.
(b) A retirement board may grant a cost-of-living increase of not less than 3 per
cent and not greater than 5 per cent on the base amount for fiscal year 2023 at any time
during the fiscal year.
(c) This section shall take effect for the members of a retirement system by a
majority vote of the board of such system and upon local acceptance: (i) of the city
council upon recommendation of the mayor in a city, (ii) of the city council upon
recommendation of the city manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan E charter, (iii) of
the chief executive officer, as defined in section 7 of chapter 4 of the General Laws, in a
town, (iv) of the county commissioners in a county and (v) by vote of the governing
board, commission or committee in a district or other political subdivision of the
commonwealth. For any retirement system comprising more than 1 political subdivision
of the commonwealth, this section shall be effective by a majority vote of the board of
such system and upon the acceptance of two-thirds of cities and towns within the system
by approval of: (i) the city council upon recommendation of the mayor in a city, (ii) the
city council upon recommendation of the city manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan
E charter, and (iii) the chief executive officer, as defined in section 7 of chapter 4 of the
General Laws, in a town.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect on July 1, 2022.
NEW BUSINESS
Councilor Borges proposes to refer the revised City of Taunton Back Water Valve
Ordinance to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills and invite the Plumbing
Inspector and the DPW Commissioner.
Councilor Borges proposes to refer the City of Taunton Ordinance change for Gas & oil
Separators/Interceptors to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills and invite the
Director of the Board of Health & Plumbing Inspector.
Councilor Borges proposes to refer the City of Taunton Ordinance change for Grease
Interceptors to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills and invite the Director of
the Board of Health & Plumbing Inspector.
Councilor Borges requests to refer to the Committee of the Whole a discussion to require
all HCA and Licenses for Cannabis to provide the City Council with their Business Plan
to both Committee of the Whole for HCA and Committee on Police and License for their
license prior to meeting moving forward.
Councilor Duarte requests to refer to the Law Department MGL Chapter 268 Section 34
(relative to obstructive disguises) and MGL Chapter 272 Section 53 (relative to
disturbing the peace) for a written opinion on their applicability to protests that may
occur, such as that which occurred at the Drag Queen Story Hour at the Taunton Public
Library on January 14, 2023.
fie.arrIJH di:. I
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASS.KCHUSETTS
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER KENNEL INSPECTION REPORT
City or Town of:
Kennel license number:
2C:U1v ·/zJ N.
Inspection date: / - /.;) - 613
Kennel name:
Kennel owner:~""J....-Q.,.-n-::.~e-+-:---£,.../'/-r-:/•5-·- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Kennel address: 3 ') tO /re..man"t _ 5/
Kennel phone: 1./0 J / Q (o J ... _5.d_ l:J .
Kennel veterinarian name and address: A b"b:;tt & \ma \ ffeSj?1G '-'~ 56<3 336' . . qq3 0
Number of dogs over 6 months old on premise: _ _ _,,{O
_____ Number of dogs allowed for this license: _ _l/-#-_----:::0'---·______
Kennel license status: New [J;;2f' Renewed CJ Expired CJ Unlicensed CJ
Kennel type: Commercial · CJ Doggie Daycare CJ Person- f f i a l Other:
Dogs are housed in a humane manner: Yes~ No
CJ
Dogs are able to stand, lie down and turn around freely: Yes~ No
CJ
Kennel is kept at an ambient temperature: Yes[}§/ No
CJ
Kennel is maintained in a sanitary manner: YesIB No
CJ
The kennel has adequate lighting: Yes~ No
Dogs have access to clean, fresh food and water:
Dogs have adequate exercise space:
Yes rn No CJ
CJ
Yes~ No
Veterinary and other records available: ·Yes No CJ
Please explain any NO an- CJ CJ
swers
--~( "-/ .
r1
'() evµ·.\ \
1 \J '1 I ~ ~ 3I\
I .
I~-'----"'-~·--
\\,
\.
/
/
\
\
/·
/l-&u11Ja4i= ~,
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHU:SE.TTS
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER KENNEL INSPECTION REPORT
City or Town of: ·-;Cl?J111f IV o
Kennel license number: •
Inspection date: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Kennel license status: New ~ Renewed CJ Expired CJ Unlicensed
CJ
Kennel type: Commercial CJ Doggie Daycare CJ Person- []Z'f al Other:
CJ
Dogs are able to stand, lie down and turn around freely: Yes~ No
CJ
Kennel is kept at an ambient temperature: Yes~ No
CJ
Kennel is maintained in a sanitary manner: Yes~ No
The kennel has adequate lighting: Yes No
CJ
Dogs have access to clean, fresh food and water: Yes ~ No CJ
Dogs have adequate exercise space: Yes
Q/ No
CJ
Veterinary and other records available: Yes ~ No CJ
Please explain any NO an- ~ CJ
swers
ACO's
by:
ACO's
ii[i! . .
name
si;l:re!I!~~
aou e... a '. a. CJ
I
Signature of recipie
White Copy - ACO I Yell ow Copy - Kennel owner
\
TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD
141 Oak St. - Office Address
15 Summer St. - Mailing Address
Taunton, Massachusetts 02780
Phone 508-821-1051Fax508 821-1043
Denise J Paiva, Head Administrative Clerk
dpaiva@taunton-ma.gov
January 11, 2023
Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor
Members of the Municipal Council
15 Summer St.
Taunton, Ma. 02780
C/O Jennifer Leger, City Clerk
RE: Site Plan Review - 207 Hart Street - Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical
School
Dear Mayor O'Coruiell and Members of the Municipal Council:
The Taunton Planning Board is in receipt of a Site Plan Review for 207 Hart Street for a
demo of the existing school building and existing track and the construction of a new
school building (416, 000 gross square foot) additional parking and new athletic fields,
submitted by Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical School.
The next scheduled meeting for this petition will be on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at
8:30 AM in the Taunton Planning Board Office, 141 Oak St. at which time the
application shall be reviewed by the DIRB and again on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at
5 :30 PM at 15 Summer St., which this petition will be reviewed by the Planning Board.
Sincerely,
~~L~~
Anthony Abreau, Chairman
TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD
AA/djp
;? '
Municipal Council
City of Taunton
MASSACHUSETTS
Phillip E. Drtm·te Co1mcilo1's
Council P1•esident
Estele C, Bo>:ges
Maggie E. Clarlie Cln:istopher P. Coute
Cler.k of Council Committees Kelly A. Doone1·
Plrillip E. Duarte
City Hall John M. MeCaul
(608) 821-1036 Jeffrey S. Postell
tauntoncouncil@taunton-ma.gov David W. Pottier
Lawrence J. Quintal
Ba>.-ry 0. Sanders
1/17/23
Honorable Mayor Shaunna O'Connell
Members of the Municipal Council
CFO Patrick DelloRusso
Director of Planning Kevin Scanlon
CIO Jennifer Ledger, City Clerk
RE: Increase in Stipend for the Zoning Board of Appeals
Dear Colleagues in city government, Mr DelloRusso and Mr Scanlon,
On December 16th the Finance and Salaries Committee met to discuss with CFO
and Human Resources Director for a presentation on analysis of elected official's
compensation. During this meeting I mentioned all ofTaunton's City employees
work really hard and that I support them day in and day out. I drew attention to all
of the boards in the city that are cotnpensated including the Conservation
Commission, the School Committee, the Planning Board, and the Zoning Board
which are all boards that work really hard. I requested t.o Mr. DelloRusso to ensure
that all boards: Cable Commission, Conservation, etc. are being fairly
coinpensated. I suggested we look at them at the same time. Later we learned that
the School Committee already had received a 100% increase in their stipend. At
the end of the committee meeting the following was stated by me.
"She stressed that she would like Mr. DelloRusso to come back with the other
boards and everybody be looked at to determine what they're 1naking and see
Municipal Council
City of Taunton
MASSACHUSETTS
Pltlll/.p E, Dum·tc Cormcilo1•B
Council President
Estele C. Bo1•ges
Maggle E. Cta,.he Christopher P. Coute
Clerk of Council Committees Kelly A. Dooner
Phillip E. Duarte
City Hall Jolln M. McCaul
(508) 821-1035 Jeffrey S. Postell
tauntoncouncil@taunton-ma.gov David W. Pottie1•
Lawtence J. Quintal
Bat'l'Y C. Sanders
where changes are needed. Again, she urged them to make the same request for
fair compensation.
Although I voted in favor of the Mayor's compensation and against the City
CounciPs request for an increase in stipend I didn't think other boards would not
be given the same oppmtunity for an increase in a stipend as I believe in fairness
across the board.
On January l 711t I received the communication attached by the Chahman of the
Zoning Board of Appeals Dennis Ackerman with the signatures of his board
requesting a increase in their stipend. Again this is the reason I requested that at
boards be looked at and fahness across the board.
I would request that this letter be refe11·ed to the Finance and Salaries Committee
and invite the CFO and the City Planner in to explain why this board was denied
their request and to reconsider fair compensation to alt City Employees. Elected
Officials and Appointed Stipend board members are City of Taunton Employees.
Vice. Chair of The· Committee on Zoning
CC: Dennis Ackerman Chairman ofthe Zoning Board of appeals
City of Taunton
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
City Hall · 15 Summer Street · Taunton MA 02780 · (508) 821-1000
MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL
Patrick Delio Russo, Jr.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Ligia Madeira
CHIEF OF STAFF
Gill E. Enos
BUDGET DIRECTOR
January 19, 2023
Mayor Shaunna O'Connell
And Members of the Municipal Council
City Hall
Taunton, Ma 02780
The Honorable Mayor O'Connell and Members of the Municipal Council,
I respectfully request to appear before the Finance & Salaries Committee on January 31,
2023 with Patrick Delle Russo, CFO, so that we can present the Q-2 update on Revenue
and Expenses to the committee.
If there is anything else that you would like to see, please contact us before the scheduled
meeting.
#;/Z£
,. Gill E Enos
Budget Director
Cc: P. Delle Russo, CFO
City of Taunton Ligia M. Madeira, Esq. {_p
CHIEF OF STAFF
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
City Hall Patrick D. Dello Russo, Jr.
15 Summer Street · Taunton MA 02780 CHIEF FINANCIAL
(508) 821-1000 OFFICER
Gill E. Enos
MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR
Tax Deferral Program Expansion Proposal
Introduction: Tax Deferral and Recovery Agreement CH.59§5 Clause 41A
Mayor O'Connell requested that the Finance Department examine the tax deferral and recovery
program offered by the City of Taunton. The City currently has a tax deferral program that is being
underutilized and has only one participant out of approximately 60,000 residents. Tax deferral is
a municipal lien available to individuals who meet certain criteria: income level, age, and length
of time in their home. These criteria are determined by state law or a vote of the Board of Assessors
and Municipal Council. The deferral program allows residents who meet this criteria to defer tax
payments until the time of home ownership transfer while accruing interest which is currently at
8% in the City. This allows individuals to remain in their home without threat oflosing their home
to a tax lien or entering into a risky reverse mortgage.
Purpose: Expansion of Tax Deferral Program
The O'Connell Administration, in partnership with the Board of Assessors, is proposing an
expansion of the deferral program and requesting the support of Municipal Council. Mayor
O'Connell is committed to helping residents in need while protecting the City's assets. Currently
there are an estimated 1,100 residents who could qualify for this program based on population
data: 8.2% of residents ages 65-74 and 11.8% of residents 75 or older meet the income threshold.
Proposed Change #1: Increase Poverty Threshold
Mayor O'Connell is recommending increasing the poverty threshold from its current level of
$20,000 to provide increased access to families and individuals who qualify for the program. The
Board of Assessors has the legal authority to increase the poverty threshold by a majority vote and
they have so voted. We now request that the Municipal Council approve the measure by a majority
vote as well.
The proposed recommendation is as follows: "The Municipal Council vote to increase the poverty
threshold of the City of Taunton from $20, 000 in annual income to an amount not to exceed
$35,341 in annual income if married, and not to exceed $29,014 annually, if single. "
Proposed Change #2: Decrease Interest on Outstanding Real Estate Taxes
In an effort to avoid high interest costs and provide increased relief to individuals in need, Mayor
0 'Connell is recommending the current interest rate of 8% for the tax deferral program be lowered
to 4%. The Board of Assessors has the legal authority to decrease the current interest by way of a
majority vote and they have so voted. We now request that the Municipal Council also approve
the measure by a majority vote.
The proposed recommendation is as follows: "The Municipal Council vote to reduce the interest
accrued inside a tax deferral agreement from 8% to 4%. "
Proposed Change #3: Decrease Age of Eligibility from 65 to 60
Mayor O'Connell is also recommending lowering the allowable age to enter into this program
from 65 to 60. The data shows that the number of eligible residents would increase from
approximately 1,100 to 1,800.
To achieve this, the Municipal Council may vote that the City of Taunton reduce the age
requirement to enter into a tax deferral and recovery agreement from the age 65 to 60 by way of a
home rule petition to be sent to the state legislature for passage.
Summary and Conclusion:
The O'Connell Administration has been steadfast in its commitment to finding ways to offer
assistance to those most in need of support. The recommendations being brought forward will
fundamentally change the deferral program to expand its availability to residents in need of support
and allow our seniors to remain in their homes at a low interest level as opposed to the skyrocketing
interest rates offered with reverse mortgages. The Finance Department is in full support of this
measure and has concluded that there will not be an impact to the City's liquidity or cash positions
as the taxes owed to us are safeguarded by the agreement.
To summarize, the following recommendations are being presented by Mayor O'Connell
and the Finance Department for support:
1. The Municipal Council vote to increase the poverty threshold from $20,000 in annual
income to an amount not to exceed $35,341 in annual income if married, and not to
exceed $29,014 annually, if single.
2. The Municipal Council vote to decrease the interest accrual rate inside the tax
deferral and recovery program from 8% to 4%.
3. The Municipal Council vote to decrease the allowable age to enter into a tax deferral
and recovery program from 65 to 60 years of age by way of a home rule petition to be
sent to the State legislature for passage.
Patrick Dello Russo Jr.
Chief Financial Officer
City of Taunton
City of Taunton
LAW DEPARTMENT
15 Summer Street
Taunton, Massachusetts 02780
Phone (508) 821-1036 Facsimile (508) 821-1397
Shaunna O'Connell Peter F. Winters, Esq.
MAYOR FIRST ASST. CITY SOLICITOR
Matthew J. Costa, Esq. Thomas P. Gay, Jr., Esq.
CITY SOLICITOR SECOND ASST . CITY SOLICITOR
David T. Gay, Esq.
SP. ASST. CITY SOLIC ITOR
January 20, 2023
Council President Kelly Dooner
Members of the Municipal Council
City of Taunton
City Hall
15 Summer Street
Taunton, Massachusetts 02780
Re: Lease of 42 Williams Street to Taunton Art Association
Dear Council President Dooner and Members of the Municipal Council:
It was brought to the attention of this office that the Taunton Art Association and
the City of Taunton entered into a lease agreement in 1985, but neither of the parties
was able to locate a signed original/copy. The parties have acted as if there was a
signed lease for the past 37 years and the insurance requirements are being met.
Unfortunately, we were unable to locate copies of the meeting minutes of a vote.
As such, please find enclosed a lease that would reaffirm the lease entered into
in 1985. We would ask that the Council take a vote to reaffirm the vote from 1985 which
we believe took place and authorize the execution of this lease agreement.
Respectfully,
Thomas P. Gay, Jr., Esquire
Second Assistant City Solicitor
TPG/smv
Enclosure
q
CITY OF TAUNTON
AND
TAUNTON ART ASSOCIATION, INC.
WHEREAS, certain citizens of the greater Taunton area have united to form an
organization known as the "Taunton Art Association, Inc.," a non-profit Massachusetts
corporation; and,
WHEREAS, the purpose and stated aims of the Taunton Art Association, Inc. is
to foster, encourage, and teach the practice and appreciation of all forms of arts and
crafts for all the inhabitants of the greater Taunton area; and
WHEREAS, the presently elected and duly serving officials of the City of Taunton
do recognize this worthwhile endeavor and do intend to encourage and assist in this
meritorious civic endeavor, and to that purpose make available to said Art Association
certain premises belonging to the City of Taunton; and did proper vote of the Municipal
Council to lease certain premises located on Williams Street, Taunton, Massachusetts
to said Association. Whereas, the presently elected Municipal Council herein re-affirms
the vote taken in 1985 to authorize this lease.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained,
the parties do mutually agree, consent, and promise as follows:
1. The City of Taunton shall and does hereby lease to the Taunton Art
Association, Inc., the premises and structure located on the northerly side of Williams
Street, Taunton, Bristol County, Massachusetts, bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the North line of Williams Street, said point being
the southeast corner of land now or formerly of Joseph Sylvia Chalifaux to
a corner and other land of the City of Taunton; thence N 37°06'57" W
288.39' by land now or formerly of Joseph and Sylvia Chalifaux to a corner
and other land of the City of Taunton; thence N 62°25'41" E 78.50' to a
stone bound; 265'± by other land of the City of Taunton to the North line of
Williams Street; thence by the North line of Williams Street S 57°20'54" W
95' ±to a point; thence still by the North line of Williams Street S 51°58'1 O"
W 70.80' to the point of beginning.
2. The term of said lease shall be for ninety-nine (99) years beginning July 1,
1985 and terminating June 30, 2084, and as rent for such premises the said Association
shall pay to the City of Taunton the amount of One ($1.00) Dollar, provided that, if the
lessee ceases to use the premises for the fostering, encouragement, and teaching of
the arts as stated in the second introductory paragraph, this lease shall be deemed
terminated and possession of the premises shall therefore return to the lessor.
3. The Taunton Art Association does agree that, in addition to the rent
hereinafter provided, it shall:
Page 1of3
JD
a. Enter into and improve said premises, thereafter keeping said
premises in good and creditable condition;
b. Maintain at its own cost, said premises and structure during the
pend ency of this lease and any extensions thereof.
c. Pay as they come due any charges by any person, utility,
governmental unit or corporation for any services of charges, liens, or
assessments levied against said premises or the Taunton Art
Association because of the occupancy or use of said premises.
d. Save and hold harmless the City of Taunton, its elected officials,
officers, agents, servants, or employees from any and all claims of any
type or nature whether at law or in equity that any party may bring,
claim or press against the City of Taunton, its elected officials, officers,
agents, servants, or employees because of or related to the use,
occupancy or lease of said premises.
e. Peacefully and quietly quit and deliver up said premises to the City of
Taunton at the termination of said lease in better condition than they
are at the inception of this agreement, removing therefrom any and all
personal property of said lessors prior to said delivery.
f. Make no claim, or charge, or request for payment of the City of
Taunton because of or on account of any improvements made to said
premises by the Association during the pendency of said lease or any
extension thereof.
g. Shall maintain liability insurance on the premises in an amount no less
than $100,000.00 for each person and $300,000.00 for each incident
with the lessor and lessee as named insureds.
h. That the Taunton Art Association will maintain a policy of fire insurance
and other specified hazards on the subject premises, listing the City of
Taunton as owner of said premises.
4. The City of Taunton does agree that, in the event of any loss or damage to
said premises and the recovery of reimbursement from the insurance company for said
loss or damage, the City of Taunton will either rebuild or repair said premises or apply
the proceeds so received to provide a premises for the conduct of the purposes of the
Taunton Art Association. (This would be in the event of the mutual agreement by the
parties that rebuilding of the leased premises is impossible, impractical, or unwise.)
This day ____________
Page 2 of 3
I/
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have affixed our hands and seals on behalf of the
respective parties:
TAUNTON ART ASSOCIATION CITY OF TAUNTON
President Mayor Shaunna O'Connell
Vice President Councilor Kelly A. Dooner
Treasurer Councilor Phillip Duarte
Secretary Councilor Estele C. Borges
Councilor John M. Mccaul
Councilor David W. Pottier
Councilor Christopher P. Coute
Councilor Barry Sanders
Councilor Lawrence J. Quintal
Councilor Jeffrey S. Postell
Page 3 of 3
City of Taunton Ligia M. Madeira, Esq.
CHI EF OF STAFF
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
City Hall Patrick D. Dello Russo, Jr.
15 Summer Street · Taunton MA 02780 CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICE R
(508) 821-1000
Gill E. Enos
BUDGET DIRECTOR
MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNEil..
January 20, 2023
Council President Kelly Dooner
Members of the Taunton Municipal Council
15 Summer Street
Taunton, MA 02780
Dear Council President Dooner and Members of the Taunton Municipal Council,
I am writing to acknowledge and thank the members of our community who joined us for last week's Public
Input session during City Council to share their thoughts, feelings and concerns around the incident that
transpired at the Taunton Public Library on January 14, 2023.
I acknowledge the importance of the City' s elected officials having the opportunity to hear directly from
the people who were affected by this incident. Furthermore, it has been uplifting to witness the amount of
community support that has followed in the wake of this deeply disturbing incident.
As I stated unequivocally at last week 's Council meeting, I wholly condemn the actions, hate speech, tactics,
and ideology used by these protesters. There is no place for these individuals or their actions in this City or
anywhere.
My Office continues to engage in ongoing and comprehensive communication with the Taunton Police
Department, the Taunton Public Library, and the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network to ensure that patrons will
feel safe at future events, and to provide support and assistance to those who were affected by the incident
that occurred last week.
Taunton is an open and inclusive City. We deeply value and treasure the diversity that enriches our
community.
I know my City Council colleagues join me in reaffirming our commitment to promoting a welcoming and
inclusive environment for all people in the City of Taunton.
Respectfully,
Mayor Shaunna O'Connell
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETIS
STATE RECLAMATION AND MOSQUITO CONTROL BOARD /j
BRISTOL COUNTY MOSQUITO CONTROL PROJECT
38R Forest Street * Attleboro, MA 02703
Tel: (508) 823-5253 * Fax: (508) 828-1868
ANNUAL REPORT -TAUNTON, MASSACHUSETTS
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
This year marks the 63rd anniversary of the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project and its services to the
cities and towns of Bristol County. Our mission is to bring mosquito populations to tolerable levels using a
variety of scientifically effective methodologies consistent with applicable laws. Surveillance, water
management, biological and chemical controls are performed in an environmentally sensitive manner to
minimize potential effects on people, wildlife and the environment. The Project is a regional response to a
regional problem, and provides a way of organizing specialized equipment, specially trained employees, and
mosquito control professionals into a single agency with a broad geographical area of responsibility.
The Project continues to make investments in new technologies that increase our efficiency and accuracy when
fulfilling our mandate. We remain committed to applying environmentally responsible larvicide and adulticide
products. Our surveillance program, along with service request data and updated GPS and computer equipment,
allow us to focus our pesticide applications to targeted areas.
Disease risk from mosquitoes changes greatly from year to year. Because of this constant change in risk,
BCMCP works in close relationship with the MA Dept. of Public Health to analyze disease risk in current and
future years. The summer of 2022 experienced severe drought throughout the County that significantly affected
the mosquito population.
During the 2022 mosquito season, 12, 196 individual mosquitoes in 452 samples were tested for the mosquito
borne viruses EEE and WNV. There were no isolations ofEEE and no human cases in the County. Bristol
County had 5 mosquito samples test positive for WNV with no reported human cases. There were no equine
cases for EEE or WNV.
The Project continues its year round efforts to reduce mosquito breeding areas through water management and
source reduction. Our goal is to remove debris, silt and vegetation from drainage ditches to improve water flow,
thus eliminating standing water conducive to larval development. Work is conducted using mechanized
machines and by hand.
Bristol County Mosquito Control Project completed the following work in the City of Taunton during the time
period of January 1, 2022- December 31, 2022.
• Sprayed over 8,213 acres
• Treated 43.25 acres in 30 locations with B.t.i. for mosquito larvae
• Received and completed 600 requests for spraying
• Cleared and reclaimed 10,950 feet of brush
• Cleaned 2,060 feet of ditches by machine
• Mowed 1.25 acres of brush by machine
• Treated 1,440 catch basins
• Additionally, 939 acres of the Hockomock Swamp was treated by aerial larvicide.
Throughout the year, we strive to educate the public concerning mosquito borne diseases and simple ways
residents can protect themselves and help prevent breeding on their own property. We have many types of
outreach programs available including speaking at public health events, radio/newspaper interviews, visiting
local schools, senior centers, and creating informational handouts for distribution. Be sure to check out our
website: www.mass.gov/eea/bristolcountymosquitocontrol for updates and information.
I would like to thank the city officials and residents of Taunton for their continued support and cooperation.
Our Project is extremely proud of the work we perform and look forward to serving our communities in the
upcoming year. If there are any questions concerning the Project's efforts or objectives, please feel free to
contact our office.
Respectfully submitted,
Priscilla Matton
Superintendent
January 6, 2023
Bristol County Mosquito Control Commissioners:
Joseph Barile, Chairman
Gregory D. Dorrance
Christine A. Fagan
Henry R. Vaillancourt
,__,
,_::.::;,
__,
W...J
....~ ,.,..
(._
::i~
z
JANUARY 24, 2023 q - N
·-~:-1
"''.1fi:r
a ~': ~£!
f.~.,
-~ .
.#
;,.; <
Honorable Shawma L. O'Connell, Mayor J> .-, fir!)
Council President Kelly A. Dooner
ffl
1-
l"'1
): .. ,,rav
:;u 9
And Members of the Municipal Council .:!':; N Q
~ .. I
....I
The following committee meetings have been scheduled for Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 5:30
PM at the Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the Chester R.
Martin Municipal Council Chambers.
5:30 PM
THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND SALARIES
1. Meet to review the weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments.
Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass.
Gen. L. C. JOA, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting.
THE COMMITTEE ON ORDINANCES AND ENROLLED BILLS
1. Meet with the Police Chief to discuss request to remove parking meters on Governor Street.
Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass.
Gen. L. C. JOA, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting.
THE COMMITTEE ON THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
1. Meet with Chief Bradshaw to discuss how applicants for a position are ranked when Civil
Service indicates that there is a tie.
2. Meet in executive session with Chief Bradshaw to discuss strategy regarding collective
bargaining.
Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass.
Gen. L. C. JOA, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting.
Page 1of2
THE COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL AS A WHOLE
1. Meet to discuss the request for renewal of a Host Community Agreement for Medicine Man
Solutions, LLC located at 144 West Britannia Street.
2. Meet for a pre-review on the issuance of a Special Permit upon the petition of Robert Asack,
96 Sachem Rock Ave., East Bridgewater, MA to allow a 10 unit group home with a parking
waiver at 74 Weir Street located in the Central Business District.
3. Meet in executive session with the City's legal representation to discuss the pending
litigation of Greater Goods, LLC vs. City of Taunton Municipal Council.
Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass.
Gen. L. C. 30A, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting.
Respectfully,
~/) '1 ' /~~)
h Ii/ i!1, /) . 1<,,1 __)
,. w1._Y/"- (' -- L -
Maggie~ eiarke
Clerk of Council Committees
Page 2of2
I '"'..J
,c:;.,
___,
I -,-··
\.,w
...
I5:?
c_ ""~
,.. :0-. .) • .....
'·
.:1 ;;~ ~::::~
1'...J rr,.;,
- 4 1!
;.'t... 0 .',~rq
-(
./; ~.c
JANUARY 25, 2023 c;
r'.':'- -- l> rri
~
'.!!:· -~
Pf 9 TJ
Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor ~ N ,;;t:J
' I
Council President Kelly A Dooner -'
And Members of the Municipal Council
The following committee meetings have been scheduled for Wednesday, January 25 at 6:00
PM at the Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the Silver City
Conference Room (Second Floor).
6:00 PM
The Committee on the Fire Department
1. Meet in executive session to discuss a grievance.
Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass.
Gen. L. C. JOA, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting.
Respectfully,
,. ;? .1 .1L?2,,~ t } /1
I
'I
/>:; 1 kJ----
1 i l?fA Of)- · . / - \_/ 'LhVV ,
Maggie E. Clarke
Clerk of Council Committees
Get email alerts for Taunton
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.