City Council

City of'Taunton 9r1.unicipa{Council9r1.eeting 9r1.inutes City 1faCC, 15 Summer Street, 'Taunton, ~ In tne Cnester ~ 9r1.artin 9r1.unicipaC CounciC Cliam6ers 9r1.inutes, January 9, 2024 at 7.·04 O'cfoc~/P.9r1.. CFfediJe ofJl{{egiance c.R.§gular ;Meeting :Mayor Sliaunna £. 0 'Conne{(presUfing <Prayer was offereti 6y tne :Mayor Jl moment of sifence was offereti for }llan Cl'e{[etier. ;Mr. Cl'e{[etier was tli.e fovi.ng nus6anrf of 53 years to :Marie, as we{( as a prourffatli.er anti gramffatner. Jfe was a CiftCong 'Taunton resirient. Jfe was empCoyeti witn 'VCFS anti serveti on tne 'Taunton Jfousing Commission for wer 25 years. <Present at ro{( ca{(were: CounciCors :McCau~ <.Borges, :Martin, Cl'ottier, Sanriers, Quinta~ Cl'oste{[, Vuarte antiVooner Record of January 2, 2024 meeting was read by title and approved. So Voted. Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Page 1. So Voted. Communications from Citv Offlcers: Com. from the City Clerk regarding the appointment of one (1) permanent full-time Fire Lieutenant. Councilor Sanders disclosed that he is related to one of the candidates, however, the Law Department advised that he is able to vote on the matter. Councilor Pottier stated after discussion with the Fire Chief, it was determined that Douglas Alan Gaudette is ahead on the list. Motion was made to offer the full-time Fire Lieutenant position to Douglas Alan Gaudette. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted in favor of Douglas Alan Gaudette. The motion passes. The City Clerk swore in Douglas Alan Gaudette as Fire Lieutenant. Motion was made to revert to the regular order of business. So Voted. Opportunity for input by the general public. Attorney Thomas J. Bums III, 353 West Center Street, West Bridgewater, MA, spoke on behalf of Brian Ratcliffe. Attorney Bums stated that Mr. Ratcliffe previously submitted a correspondence on his behalf on January 4th asking that his letter be placed on the agenda for this evening. He stated that it was received by the City Clerk, however, it did not make it on the agenda this evening. Attorney Bums read the communication. Attorney Bums stated that he received a communication from the City Solicitor at 4:30pm this  2 afternoon indicating that there were no grounds for the City Council to hear his case. He stated that he disagrees with that and asked for a hearing. Hearing: Continued Hearing: On the petition of the City of Taunton, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for the acceptance of Winthrop Lane as a public way in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to continue the hearing until February 20, 2024. So Voted. Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Appointments. So Voted. Appointments: Communication from Mayor O'Connell for Law Department Appointments. Mayor O'Connell appointed Thomas P. Gay, Jr. as Second Assistant City Solicitor and David T. Gay as Special Assistant City Solicitor. Motion was made to approve. So Voted. Reappointment of Gill Enos to serve as Budget Director for a term of three years expiring January 12, 2027. Motion was made to approve. So Voted. Election of Various City Officials for a term of three (3) years expiring January 2027: o Board of Health: • Dr. Charles Thayer Dr. Brian Bagdasian o Sealer of Weights and Measures: • Craig Barter Motion was made to approve list as read. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted list as read. So Voted. Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Communications from the Mayor. So Voted. Communications from the Mayor: Mayor O'Connell invited Patrick Dello Russo and Katherine Nunes into the enclosure for a presentation. Ms. Nunes stated that they are here this evening to discuss the Senior Trash Bag Program. She stated that since the land fill closure in 2020, they have had to work to establish programs and evolve the trash and recycle services. She stated that they have been working with the Mayor's Office and Human Services to determine the eligibility factors for residents, especially the senior population, in order to provide economic relief for the bags. She stated that they receive a grant from the State every year in reward for their recycling and trash initiatives. She stated that they will be rolling out a program where Taunton seniors, ages 65 or older, living in a single through four (4) family household, will now qualify for six (6) sleeves of Taunton trash bags. She stated that they had a soft open at the start of this year and it has been well received. She stated that they feel this program reaches the needs of the seniors without being financially irresponsible. She discussed that they took feedback from the seniors regarding the application in order to make it user friendly. Ms. Nunes distributed a copy of the  3 application to the members of the Council. Mr. Dello Russo stated that the program will be for six (6) sleeves per household, regardless of the number of seniors in the household. He stated that they are using a number of their resources to offset the financial costs. Mayor O'Connell stated that they must be Taunton residents and do not need to do anything to qualify. She stated that they can receive six (6) sleeves per household per year in any month they choose. Councilor Pottier expressed gratitude to the administration for the program and inquired what the anticipated cost of the program will be. Mr. Dello Russo stated that the total cost will be subject to the number of residents coming in and utilizing the program, however, they feel confident that there are enough available funds to cover the costs of this program. He stated that the anticipated cost will be anywhere from $120,000 to $170,000. Councilor Pottier inquired if the application process will need to be done annually. Ms. Nunes stated that nothing will change with the residents in existing programs. She stated that for this program, enrollment will be on an annual basis. She stated that the application is available online or residents can come into the DPW. She stated that since they began this program, they have had 482 applicants so far, and 195 of them have been approved. Councilor Pottier inquired if they are only able to pick up the bags at the DPW. Ms. Nunes stated that they are only able to get the bags at the DPW. Councilor Pottier requested that the City make this program available to disabled households as well. Councilor Sanders stated that he appreciates the clarification that this program is an expansion of the existing programs to include senior residents who have financial difficulty, but not to the same extent that they would be eligible for existing support programs. He stated that he agreed with Councilor Pottier's suggestion to include households that receive disability payments. Councilor Duarte gave Ms. Nunes kudos for implementing this program. Motion was made to revert to the regular order of business. So Voted. Continued Hearing: On the joint petition submitted by Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant and Verizon New England, Inc. proposing to place one (1) new joint pole location ELI and the installation of an anchor on EL2 on Williams Street in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to reopen the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The party introduced himself as Tyler Arruda, Transmission and Distribution Engineer at TMLP. He discussed that they currently have pole 2 and are looking to close a gap for the span over Williams Street. Motion was made to open hearing for public input. So Voted. No one spoke during public input. Motion was made to close public input and grant the petition. So Voted. Continued Hearing: On the petition submitted by Haskell Kennedy, III, P.O. Box 6045, New Bedford, MA 02742 for the issuance of a Special Permit to allow an 1,800 sq. ft. Marijuana Retailer to be located at 446 Winthrop Street, Taunton located in the Highway Business District. Motion was made to reopen the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The City Clerk stated that Haskell Kennedy, III requested that the name on the Special Permit Application be amended to list Medicine Man Solutions, LLC Haskell Kennedy, III as the Manager. The City Clerk read a communication from the City Planner stating that the petition has received a Site Plan Review approval, which is attached, and a modification will not be necessary unless the Special Permit is granted with conditions that alter the site layout. She indicated that the Special Permit is attached. The City Clerk read a communication from the Conservation  4 Agent stating that the building and exterior work is under an Order of Conditions, SE 73- 2847, and will expire on July 27, 2024. The use as a marijuana retailer and work on the interior is not subject to the Wetlands Protection Act, however, exterior work should be completed prior to the expiration date or a request for an Extension should be submitted two months prior to the expiration date. The City Clerk read a communication from the Water Superintendent stating that the City water services the existing building, the account is inactive at the moment; DPW permits are required including: City licensed contractor, road opening, and/or trench; the City reserves the right to change these terms and conditions at any time. The City Clerk read a communication from the Fire Inspector stating that he has reviewed the plans for the proposed 1,800 sq. ft. marijuana retailer ad determined sufficient fire access exists. The City Clerk read a communication from the City Engineer stating that the property was approved for office use and a proposed site plan was submitted. The site is nearly completed. The property owner should submit a partial as built plan for the site work completed to ensure that it was constructed as proposed. Motion was made to make the above listed communications a part of the record. So Voted. The parties introduced themselves as Attorney Blake Mensing, John Desousa, NorthCounty Group and Haskell Kennedy, Medicine Man Solutions. Attorney Mensing stated that the project is 1,800 sq. ft. and subject to a deemed complete application before the Cannabis Control Commission, which indicates a statutory deadline within which the Commission must give a yes or no on the provisional. He stated that there is a Municipal Response Form, which essentially determines if this property is capable of complying with zoning. He stated that this property is located in the Highway Business District and is eligible for a Special Permit according to the applicable Zoning Ordinance. Mr. DeSousa used a slide presentation to discuss the project. He stated that the site was originally prepared for another client who started to construct a building, which is weather-tight. He stated that the site is comprised of 1,700 sq. ft. of land and had a previous curb cut from Mass Highway. He stated that the original plan proposal was for two (2) retail spaces, but was later converted to one (1) retail spot. He stated that they are required to have seven (7) parking spots on site, however, they have a total of ten (10) spots. He stated that they reutilized the curb cut entrance and the permit from Mass Highway was carried over to the new ownership. He stated that the site was constructed and is about 80% completed, including all of the drainage being placed, the utilities being brought in and the property being graded. He stated that they still need to complete the top coat that goes on the asphalt, as well as the landscape for the site. He discussed the inside of the building, which is currently open and includes one (1) bathroom, one (1) mechanical room and two (2) points of egress. He stated that they are planning to remove a window on the front of the building and convert it into an exit. He discussed the new layout, which will utilize the current double doors for entry, and will have a waiting area as well as a security room. He stated that there will be a U-shaped sales floor area and a handicapped counter on the left. He stated that on the backside of the building there will be a vault room, packaging room, a small office, a break room, a bathroom, a closet and a mechanical room. He displayed the plans for security, which include egress points for supervisors and admin only in red, common egress points in green and admin only in light blue. Attorney Mensing stated that the Cannabis Control Commission Regulations require an employee limited access area matrix, which means that a new employee will not have access to every area of the facility for inventory control purposes and to avoid diversion. He stated that there will be an architectural review of the site to ensure proper security. Mr. Kennedy discussed the location of the project, which is 446 Winthrop Street, Taunton in the Highway Business District and  5 meets all local current zoning for cannabis retail. Mr. Kennedy briefly discussed the interior layout and displayed images of the planned rendering of the interior. He displayed images of the current exterior of the building and the planned rendering of the exterior. He stated that they will be adding a fence to the side of the property and will have the required dumpster on site. He stated that they are hoping to be granted the maximum allotted time of Monday through Saturday from 9: OOam until 11 :OOpm for their hours of operation as allowed by the Cannabis Control Commission and will later determine what hours make the most sense to be open. He stated that they will have ten (10) parking spaces, which exceeds the current requirement. He stated that they are currently waiting for their provisional license to be voted on and that everything has been submitted. He stated that they have sent a letter to the Law Department as well as that acknowledges this and from there they are waiting to end up on the agenda for a vote. He stated that from there, they are hopeful they will receive their provisional license by next month and hope to start construction by February. Attorney Mensing stated that this is a social equity applicant pursuant to the CCC, therefore, there are some Municipal benefits that come with that. He stated that there was a recent change in the statute back in November of 2022 that indicates that every town and city has to create a social equity policy for giving out Host Community Agreements. Mr. Kennedy stated that the security will meet all of the requirements, which will include 24-hour camera and video surveillance. He stated that there will be no access to the sales floor without proper age verification, which is ages 21 and older. He stated that a license or identification will be verified before entering the sales floor and again at the counter before the purchase is complete. He displayed the locations of the cameras and indicated that he will have a combination of regular cameras, 360-cameras and there will be more cameras than what is typically required in a bank. He discussed their community impact plan. He stated that they look forward to collaborating with the City of Taunton to bring a positive impact to the community through employment, increased revenue for the City and partnerships with local, non-profit agencies. He stated that they are committed to supporting community organizations focused on social justice and entrepreneurship. He stated that the business will be funded by President, Haskell Kennedy III. He stated that if additional finances are required, which does not appear to be the case at this time, Medicine Man Solutions will work with Bay Coast Bank to access additional finance resources. He discussed the timeline of the project, where they were hoping to receive the Special Permit last month, however, they are hoping to receive it this month, along with their Provisional License and begin construction and have the construction completed by June 2024. He stated that they are hoping to be reaching toward their final licensing by July 2024. Attorney Mensing stated that the Commission will afford an accelerated review process by virtue of the social equity status, however, they can't quantify this. Mr. Kennedy discussed his background, which includes working in the retail business for 20 years, as well as 20 years in real estate. He discussed that he has worked as an investor, general contractor and property manager on many projects. He stated that he is a Social Equity Certified Applicant and they have completed all of the requirements to be certified within the first group of the Massachusetts Social Equity Program. Councilor Pottier expressed gratitude to Mr. Kennedy for his patience during this process as it has been a long road. He stated that this will be the third one sited on Winthrop Street. He stated that it is an accepted use and is properly zoned. He stated that they denied a separate applicant on Winthrop Street and were sued and ended up selling that case. He stated that he sees no reason to not move this project forward. He questioned Mr. Kennedy as to whether there would be any obtrusive signage. Mr. Kennedy stated there would not be. Councilor  6 Pottier stated that there have not been any police nor traffic issues thus far with the marijuana businesses that are currently open. He stated that he supports the project and expressed gratitude to Mr. Kennedy for his investment in the City of Taunton. Councilor Duarte stated that in the City Planner's letter, he discussed that a modification of the Site Plan Review will not be necessary unless this is granted with conditions that alter the site layout. He questioned whether they envision this being applicable. Mr. DeSousa stated that there are no modifications being proposed to the layout of the site. Councilor Duarte inquired how many employees they expect to have on site at a time. Attorney Mensing stated that they anticipate between eight (8) to ten (10) employees to start. Mr. Kennedy stated that they are more likely to start with four (4) to six (6) employees and will later expand to ten (10) employees. Councilor Duarte asked how they plan to accommodate the parking for employees as well as customers. Mr. Kennedy stated that they are in discussion with surrounding businesses to have the employees park there and transport them to the facility, leaving the parking lot open for customers. He stated that at other dispensaries, there are typically anywhere from two (2) to five (5) customers at most at a time, so it does not seem like it would be an issue. Councilor Duarte stated that Mr. Kennedy's Host Community Agreement was awarded prior to the change in the law and questioned whether it needs to be renegotiated. Attorney Mensing stated that he does not believe that it does and as he recalls the City Solicitor hit the nail on the head in regards to the now enforced statute and he is aware the Cannabis Control Commission will now begin reviewing Host Community Agreements in March of 2024 and it will become applicable at the renewal. He stated that when the operator renews, they must send a letter to the municipality stating what costs were incurred that were reasonably related. He stated that the new statute indicates that substantiate costs that they can tie to that particular facility, or it says that if they make it up and charge them for just for existing, the statute provides the right to challenge that, and if the City did make it up, the judiciary will act. He stated that they do not anticipate this being an issue and the impacts that were anticipated by the State did not happen. He stated that he is only aware of one instance of theft in the State, which was during a riot in Boston. Councilor Dooner echoed Councilor Pottier's sentiments and expressed gratitude for the detailed presentation. Councilor Sanders questioned whether the security plan has been submitted to the Police Chief. Mr. Kennedy stated that they have not yet but will plan to do so as soon as possible. Councilor Sanders questioned whether the applicants have any issues with any of the conditions set forth by the Planning Board. Mr. DeSousa stated that they do not have any issues with the conditions. Motion was made to open public input for this hearing. So Voted. Victor Santos, 414 Winthrop Street, Taunton, stated that he is a concerned citizen who lives in and operates a business in the area. He stated that there have been three (3) provisional licenses for establishments on Winthrop Street, which include 284R Winthrop Street, 354 Winthrop Street, 400 Winthrop Street and now this establishment at 446 Winthrop Street, as well as another establishment in Dighton at 200 Williams Street. He stated that he appreciates Councilor Pottier's comments on the impact of facilities on traffic, however, there is nowhere else in the City with four (4) establishments within 1 Yi miles of each other. He stated that he is aware that in the beginning, the Host Community Agreements provided for 3% of the gross sales for these facilities to come to the City and with the ability to grant nine (9) licenses, the City will receive millions of dollars, however, this has changed and the City will now have to prove what the impact will be in order to be reimbursed for these expenses. He stated that in November of 2022, the City of Boston returned $2,860,000 to nine (9) establishments according to the Boston Globe and they have stopped collecting any fees from any  7 marijuana establishments. He stated that his fear as residents is that they will be left with the impact of traffic, possible risk of accidents due to impaired drivers, and the City may not have the ability to collect any of these fees for the community impact. He asked for them to consider the effect that this will have on the 1 Y2 miles on Winthrop Street with four (4) operating marijuana retail establishments. Motion was made to close public input and grant the Special Permit. On discussion, Councilor Duarte asked that the departmental comments are included. Attorney Costa stated that the Ordinance states that the Special Permit will accept the hours of operation and part of their presentation included this, therefore, he suggests that this is included in the permit. Councilor Sanders asked the City Solicitor whether they have established hours of operation and is their request within those hours. Attorney Costa stated he does not believe that they do and that the Ordinance only indicates that the hours of operation will be set in the Special Permit. Councilor Sanders stated that he would be comfortable granting the hours of operation as requested. Mayor O'Connell asked if this would be seven (7) days a week. Attorney Mensing stated that they are requesting seven (7) days a week. Motion was made to close public input, grant the Special Permit with the understanding that all departmental conditions will be adhered to, and further grant the requested hours of operation of 9:00am until 11 :OOpm, seven (7) days a week. So Voted. Communications from the Mavor: Mayor O'Connell stated that City Hall Offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2024 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. There will be a celebration on Monday, January 15, 2024 at 6:00pm at the Baptist Church of All Nations at 61 Winthrop Street, Taunton. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Communications from City Officers: Com. from the Fire Chief requesting that the City call for the Civil Service List of eligible candidates for the hiring of two (2) permanent full-time firefighters. Motion was made approve the request. So Voted. Com. from the Police Chief requesting that the Municipal Council, as the appointing authority for police officers, request from the Human Resources Division, a certification to fill the position of Police Captain and the lower ranks for the vacancies created through the chain for the promotion. This would be a request for one (1) Police Captain, one (1) Police Lieutenant, and two (2) Police Sergeants. Motion was made to approve the request. So Voted. Com. from the Chief Financial Officer stating that the Finance Department would like the opportunity to request the establishment of a gift or agent account for the Mayor's Worthy Cause. The Finance team and the Law Department will roll out a formal process to acquire the funding, however, the first step in the process is to authorize the fund and set up the appropriate accounts both on the general ledger and the bank. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So Voted. Com. from the Superintendent of Schools stating that on behalf of the Taunton School Committee, they would like to request an open session meeting between School Committee members and the members of the City Council. The School Committee requests that this meeting take place on January 16, 2024 in the City Council Chambers. The primary focus of the discussion will be the property at 2 Hamilton Street, historically  8 known as Coyle & Cassidy High School and Middle School. Motion was made to receive and place on file, Councilor Pottier stated that after discussion with Chairman DeMelo and members of the administration and a joint meeting will take place on January 30, 2024 and expressed gratitude to the administration for setting up tours for the Council and school community members next Monday at lO:OOam of the facility. So Voted. Com. from the Clerk of Committees stating that at the November 28, 2023 meeting of the Committee on Finance and Salaries, it was requested that the Clerk of Committees organize a training session on parliamentary procedure. She has been in contact with Professional Registered Parliamentarian, Carl E. Pease and they have set a date for a workshop. The workshop will be held on Monday, January 29, 2024 at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers. The topics will include Robert's Rules of Order, Rules of the Council, and potentially Open Meeting Law basics. Motion was made to receive and place on file with thanks to the Clerk of Committees and extend an invitation to other Boards and Committees in hopes they will attend. So Voted. On discussion, Councilor Duarte expressed gratitude to Ms. Clarke and the Human Resources Director for working with him on this and also would like to make sure this gets forwarded to all of the Boards and Commissions, as well as the School Committee. Com. from the Safety Officer requesting an ordinance for No Parking on both sides of James Street from Broadway. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Ordinance and Enrolled Bills. So Voted. Communications from Citizens: Com. from Priscilla Matton, Superintendent, Bristol County Mosquito Control submitting the Annual Report for 2023. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Petitions: Class III License - Renewal 1. Automotive Recovery Services, Inc. -dba- Insurance Auto Auctions, 58 Myricks St., East Taunton (Also a change of corporate officers) Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Police and License and the Police Chief. So Voted. Class III License - Change of Ownership 1. Harry's Auto Wrecking, 68 Whitsborough St., Taunton (New Owners in addition to Harry Soares will be Justin Silveira and Ryan Silveira) Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Police and License and 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. Unfinished Business: NONE.  9 Orders, Ordinances and Resolutions: NONE. New Business: Councilor Martin requested to refer to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills a discussion on eliminating seasonal restrictions on the issuance of permits under City Ordinance Section 383-20, I. Motion was made to move approval. So Voted. List o(Documents and Other Exhibits: • Agenda • Mayor's List of Upcoming Community Events-January 9, 2024 • Application for the Senior Trash Bag Program • Presentation for the hearing of Medicine Man Solutions, LLC Meeting adjourned at 8:13 P.M. A true copy: Attest: tftfi-- . Leger JLL/MAT  10 City of Taunton Municipal Council January 9, 2024 702~ JAN l I P 2: 4 3 The Committee on Finance and Salaries .(~ 1·: '1' r: L [ t" K The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taiintoii;-M:A--02780 in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Phillip Duarte, Chairman Councilor Estele Borges Councilor Scott Martin Also Present: Patrick Dello Russo, CFO Ally Rodriguez, Director of Veteran Services The meeting was called to order at 5 :31 PM. 1. Approve the minutes from December 19, 2023 Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve. So voted. 2. Meet to review the weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the payroll warrant in the amount of $4,269,940.09. There was discussion on contracts with pay raises. Ms. Borges stated that her understanding is that any increase would require a transfer through Finance and Salaries. The motion on the floor was withdrawn. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to refer to the Law Department MGL Ch. 44 section 3a, MGL Ch. 41section108, and Rules of the Council Section 501-E2for an opinion on the process for approving contracts with pay increases. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the payroll warrant in the amountof$4,269,940.09. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the accounts payable warrant in the amount of$5,986,220.82. So voted.  11 3. Meet to discuss the proposal to double the Veterans Tax Exemption. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to invite in the CFO and the Veterans Agent. So voted. Mr. Dello Russo and Ms. Rodriguez explained that the HERO Act had recently passed and allows for the doubling of the veterans tax exemption. Currently those with a service connected disability rating of 10-90% qualify for a $400 exemption. Those with 100% qualify for $1000 exemption. By doubling the benefit, they would qualify for $800-$2000. Mr. Duarte stated that this would be on the full Council agenda for next week so statutory language should be verified. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to enact certain measures of the recent HERO act legislation to increase the veteran exemption section 22a,b,c,d, andffor an amount of $400. 00 to $800. 000 (10-90% disabled). So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to enact certain measures of the recent HERO act legislation to increase section 22e s from $1, 000 to $2, 000 (100% disabled). So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to excuse the parties and adjourn at 5:41 P.M So voted. List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Finance and Salaries Meeting Minutes from 12/19/23 Payroll Warrant #109 Bill Invoice Warrant #108 List of items over $100,000 CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ~ f. ~(,.._,__ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. fk:i:L. ~Gt:!' CITY CLERK Committee on Finance and Salaries January 9, 2024 Page2of2  12 City of Taunton Municipal Council January 9, 2024 20zq JAN r I p 2: 4 LJ The Committee on Public Charity, Arts, Humanities & Tourism The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 0278U'nnhl Cl L:h'K Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Jeffrey Postell, Chairman Councilor Barry Sanders Councilor Lawrence Quintal The meeting was called to order at 5 :44 PM. 1. Review matter in file a. Proposal of Purpose Locker Foundation to install locker facilities on public property. Mr. Postell read a letter from the Law Department dated September 10, 2021 which expressed some concerns with the proposal. Mr. Sanders recalled when this group came in and thought this was an amazing concept. He had suggested that they first establish themselves on some private property locations. Mr. Sanders has followed them and they are doing some nice work in the community. Motion by Mr. Sanders and seconded by Mr. Quintal to dispose of the matter from the Committee. So voted. Motion by Mr. Sanders and seconded by Mr. Quintal to adjourn at 5:51 P.M So voted. List ofDocuments and Other Exhibits Used: Letter from David Gay dated 9110/21 CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ~~e-~ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. a1~x iU¢P _g~~~'R L. LEGEi{ L- CITY CLERK  13 City of Taunton Municipal Council January 9, 2024 ZOZQ JAN I I P 2= 4 W The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills 1·· · l \.' .., I c f; .' The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Tauriton,-MA -0278b ih the ·"r\ Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Barry Sanders, Chairman Councilor Kelly Dooner Councilor Phillip Duarte Also Present: Fred Comaglia, DPW Commissioner Joe Federico, BETA Group Kevin Duquette, Board of Health Christopher Costa, Plumbing Inspector Tony Abreau, Assistant DPW Commissioner The meeting was called to order at 5:53 PM. 1. Approve minutes from November 14, 2023. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to approve. So voted. 2. Meet for the continued discussion on ordinance changes for a. Grease interceptors b. Gas and oil separators/interceptors c. Back water valves Mr. Abreau reported that the DPW, Board of Health, and Plumbing Department have been meeting periodically and that they have made progress. They have created a variance application. Matt Costa has been involved and will write up the ordinance changes to be voted on down the road. There have been plumbing code changes which Mr. Costa reported were promulgated on December 8 which was earlier than expected. Mr. Sanders asked them to summarize the proposed ordinance changes. Mr. Duquette stated that the Health Department has regulations for FOG management at the food establishment level and there is a signage requirement. This has been removed from the plumbing code but this will remain in the Board of Health regulations. Mr. Costa reported that large outdoor grease interceptors have been taken out of the plumbing code and responsibility goes to the authority having jurisdiction which is the Sewer Department. However, they took the formula from the old code and will use that as the basis for the Ordinance for the City. Mr. Sanders asked what  14 will be different for new restaurants and Mr. Abreau stated that there will be no significant changes. Mr. Abreau reported that they had created an application for a variance for grease interceptors and they are trying to make the process more user friendly. Mr. Costa indicated that they do not believe any change is necessary for gas and oil separators/interceptors. Mr. Sanders asked if businesses can request relief from this regulation and Mr. Costa stated that they can choose the best option for compliance. Permanent bollards are the cheapest and easiest solution. Mr. Costa also stated that backwater valves will remain in the plumbing code but an ordinance change is needed. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to discharge with the topic ofgas and oil separators and interceptors from the Committee. So voted. Ms. Borges was happy to see so much progress had been made and that they had created an application for a variance. On the oil and water separators she questioned the option Mr. Costa had mentioned and he stated that companies can install permanent bollards in front of the garage door to prevent vehicles from entering the garage. Ms. Borges asked if there are any grants or other relief available for businesses. Mr. Abreau suggested that OECD might have grants available for relief and agreed that this is an expensive proposition for businesses. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to refer the matters ofgrease interceptors and backwater valves to the Law Department to prepare the appropriate ordinance changes within 30 days. So voted. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded Ms. Dooner to adjourn the meeting at 6:07 PM So voted. List o{Documents and Other Exhibits Used: Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills Meeting Minutes of 11/14/23 Sizing formula for large capacity grease interceptors Fats, Oils, and Grease Variance Request Form CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, JAN 0'9 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ~[-~k-- Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. u/~:t :ft Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills ~~L.LEGER~ January 9, 2024 Page 2 of2 CITY CLERK  15 City of Taunton Municipal Council January 9, 2024 101q JAN l I P 2: 4 4 The Committee of the Council as a Whole ·- ··-·· ·- ___ :°'' T'/ CUYK The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Councilors Present: Council President David Pottier Councilor John McCaul Councilor Estele Borges Councilor Scott Martin Councilor Barry Sanders Councilor Lawrence Quintal Councilor Jeffrey Postell Councilor Phillip Duarte Councilor Kelly Dooner Also Present: Gill Enos, Budget Director Andrew Sukeforth, Procurement Director Patrick Delle Russo, CFO Jay Pateakos, OECD Executive Director Christine Clymens, Treasurer/Collector The meeting was called to order at 6:12 PM. 1. Approve minutes from December 12, 2023. Motion by Mr. McCaul and seconded by Mr. Postell to approve. So voted. 2. Meet with the Finance Department for an update on revitalization initiatives. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Ms. Dooner to invite in all interested parties. So voted. Mr. Dello Russo gave a presentation highlighting revitalization initiatives. He summarized the CIP from 2022 and discussed the FY 2023 CIP as well as the Economic Development Plan. Mr. Sukeforth covered the MPP program and in round 1, part 1, 9 properties were sold to date. He stressed that the goal has been both to bring in money as well as to help blighted properties. Mr. Pateakos discussed loans through his office but stressed that they try not to be a bank. However, in the cases discussed, they could not get funding elsewhere. He  16 mentioned Isabella's which will be purchased and renovated which his office provided funding to help. The former McGrath's will be the new Cocoa Lounge, another restaurant, and they needed funding to finish the job. Mr. Dello Russo introduced the Taunton Redevelopment and Investment Pilot Program (TRIPP) where the City evolves from donor to investor and has been approved in form by the DOR. More information on this program will be forthcoming. Mr. Pateakos discussed the Taunton Revitalization Loan Program that will help improve businesses. The implementation will be done using the City's existing banking relationships. Mr. Dello Russo discussed the upcoming MPP two. Mr. Dello Russo also mentioned solar projects and stressed that there is a 30-40% return. Mr. Sanders asked if the low interest loans available to businesses would also be available to non-profits. Ms. Dello Russo stated that they would be open to that discussion. Mr. Quintal asked if the interest rate changes dependent on the business and Mr. Dello Russo indicated that it would be dependent on the client and that the bank will make the credit determination. · Mr. Postell asked how the loan process would work and Mr. Dello Russo explained that they would be partnering with the bank who would loan. Mr. Postell stressed that he doesn't want the City to become a debt collector. Mr. Dello Russo stated that all City loans are fully collateralized. Mr. Duarte asked Mr. Pateakos what the Downtown Development Initiative and Loan Program loans were used for and Mr. Pateakos indicated that most were for equipment as well as renovation. Mr. Duarte stressed the importance of solar particularly for the wastewater treatment plant and the pump station because of the amount of electricity they use. Mr. McCaul asked about the future of the highlighted properties that were sold. Mr. Sukeforth stated that Ashleigh I and II would be single family homes as would Rachel Drive. 21 Weir will be a restaurant with 2 apartments on the top floor. 45 School Street will house a business and potentially apartments on the second floor. Mr. McCaul asked about housing for senior citizens and veterans and Mr. Dello Russo stated that the Leonard School RFP will need to come back to the Council and the Nursing Home will also be coming forward in the next 60 to 90 days. Ms. Borges asked about the vote to be taken on the TRIPP program. Mr. Dello Russo stated that will be discussed on another night. Mr. Martin acknowledged the ADA compliance and the elevator fund. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded by Ms. Dooner to excuse the parties with thanks. So voted. Committee of the Council as a Whole January 9, 2024 Page2of3  17 3. Meet to consider five member vs. three member committees. Mr. Pottier suggested that the challenge with three memb.er committees is that you can't bounce an idea off another member without it being an Open Meeting Law violation. He is looking to see if there is an appetite to look at changing this. Mr. Sanders asked if there is any logic or state law that requires one committee or another to be 3 or 5 members. Motion by Mr. Sanders and seconded by Mr. Postell to refer this to the Law Department for guidance on any statutes or regulations requiring 3 vs. 5 member committees. The Clerk of Committees is to research other communities. Mr. Postell suggested that this is a chance to review the committees in general and, perhaps, consolldate some of the committees. Mr. Pottier agreed and suggested reviewing the Rules. Mr. Duarte recommended reviewing the Charter as well to determine ifthere is anything in the Charter to dictate the committee membership. The motion was amended to include this. He also suggested that, if looking at other communities, the number of members on the council be considered. He is concerned that here, a 5 member committee is a quorum of the full council. Mr. McCaul felt that 3 member committees be brought up to 5. Amended motion: Refer this to the Law Department for guidance on any statutes or regulations requiring 3 vs. 5 members. The Charter should also be reviewed The Clerk of Committees is to research other committees. So voted. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded Ms. Dooner to adjourn the meeting at 6:55 PM So voted. List ofDocuments and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee of the Council as a Whole Minutes from 12/12/23 Presentation-O'Connell Administration's Revitalization and Business Development Programs and Plans CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, JAN 0·9 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ~E:~ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. E:::t:L:E~ CITY CLERK Committee of the Council as a Whole January 9, 2024 Page3 of3