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City Council

Regular Meeting

Taunton, MA · February 20, 2024

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Minutes

City ofrraunton :Municipa[Counci[:Meeting :Minutes City 1fa[[, 15 Summer Street, fJ'aunton, ~ In tne Cnester ~ :Martin :Municipa[Counci[ Cnam6ers :Minutes, Pe6ruary 20, 2024 at 7:20 O'cfoc~./P.:M. Cl'fediJe of}ID:egiance ~gufar :Meeting Council cp,esUfent Cl'ottier presitfing cp,ayer was offerea 6y Council cp,esUfent Cl'ottier Councifor <Borges gave rema~ regarcCi.ng tli.e passi.ng of :Manny Spencer, Jr. Jfe was a aistinguisli.ea pu6fic servant, a d'ear friencC to many, a cferR..Jor tli.e Cl'Canning <Boarc{, a mem6er of tne <]overning <Boara of ©irectors for <Triumpn, Inc., a mem6er of tne <Taunton ~talizationjlutnority, a retirea<Taunton Cl'olice (])etective ana a d'erficatea communi'ty aavocate. JI moment ofsilence was offereafor :Mr. Spencer. Cl'resent at ro{[ ca{[were: Councifors :M.cCau~ <Borges, :Martin, Cl'ottier, Sand'ers, Cl'oste~ ©uarte ana©ooner Councifor Quintalwas a6sent. Record of February 13, 2024 meeting was read by title and approved. So Voted. Opportunity for input by the general public. J.P. Marcoux, 40 Summer Street, Taunton, expressed gratitude to the Council and the City for keeping him in their prayers. Hearing: Continued Hearing: On the joint petition of Verizon New England, Inc. and Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant proposing to place one (1) new joint pole location, 103-1 at 294 Tremont Street in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to reopen the hearing. So Voted. The party introduced themselves as Ross Bilodeau, representing Verizon New England. He stated that Verizon is proposing to place one, jointly owned pole on Tremont Street. He stated that this came to Verizon from T.M.L.P., as Verizon sets the poles on this side of town. He stated that Eversource Gas reached out to T.M.L.P. about placing a new monitoring cabinet adjacent to this proposed pole for one of their existing pieces of equipment. He stated that in order to do this, they need to get service lines for both telephone communication and overhead electric to service that cabinet. Councilor Borges inquired if they would be moving their existing pole across the street. Mr. Bilodeau explained that this would be a new pole in order to get their services across the street and it would be forty (40) feet from the existing pole, 103. Councilor Sanders requested that this is ADA compliant if there are sidewalks in this area. Motion was made to open 2 public input for this hearing. So Voted. Maggie Souza, 305 Tremont Street, Taunton, inquired if this will affect services for Verizon and T.M.L.P. as she works from home. Mr. Bilodeau stated that there will be no loss in activity at any time during the installation. Motion was made to close public input and grant the petition. So Voted. 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 reopen the hearing. So Voted. The City Solicitor stated that in regards to this petition, the City is requesting an additional continuance because Winthrop Lane is an existing street that is laid out on private property. He stated that the City is in the process of obtaining an appraisal of the value of the street as their advice will be that an eminent domain taking will be required to confirm the City's interest in the street if it is accepted and they want to be able to apprise the City Council of the value of that during the hearing. He stated that they are asking for an additional thirty (30) days. He stated that he spoke to the appraiser today and they can expect to have that information during this timeframe. Motion was made to continue the hearing to March 26, 2024. So Voted. Council President Pottier requested that the City Solicitor continue to be in communication with the homeowners regarding this matter. On the petition submitted by Kelly L. Piontek, 350 Harvey Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for the issuance of a personal 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 350 Harvey Street, Taunton. Motion was made to open the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The party introduced herself as Kelly Piontek. She stated that she is here to apply for a kennel license as she had three (3) rescue dogs and bought a fourth and was not aware that she needed a kennel license until she went to obtain a dog license. Councilor Borges inquired how many dogs the petitioner has. Ms. Piontek stated that she has a total of four (4) dogs. The Council invited Manny Massa, Animal Control Officer, and Kevin Gracia, the Assistant Animal Control Officer, into the enclosure. Councilor Borges asked Mr. Massa ifhe had anything to share in regards to this property. Mr. Massa stated that everything seems ok on the property, however, there was an issue about a year and a half ago when her Cattle Dog nipped her neighbor. Councilor Borges inquired about the breed of the dogs. Ms. Piontek stated that she has one (1) American Bully, one (1) Pitbull Mix, one (1) Australian Cattledog/Shepherd Mix, and the most recent addition is a Mini Goldendoodle. Councilor Dooner inquired if the dogs are spayed or neutered. Ms. Piontek stated that they are all spayed or neutered with the exception of the newest dog, as she is still too young, but she will be getting spayed in a few months. Councilor Dooner confirmed with Ms. Piontek that she is not breeding on her property and that she has no interest in getting more dogs for a business use. Councilor Sanders asked if Ms. Piontek has had any issues with her invisible fence. Ms. Piontek stated that her Cattle Dog is continuously patrolling the property and has had a few instances where the electric fence has failed. Councilor Sanders asked if Ms. Piontek is planning to install a physical fence. Ms. Piontek stated that she is not planning to do this as it is going to be too much money. Motion was made to open public input for this hearing. So Voted. David Souza, 340 Harvey Street, Taunton, stated that there have been numerous instances where her dog has been roaming freely through the neighborhood and has bitten two (2) people and one (1) of those people needed medical attention. He stated that further action should be taken in order to secure the dogs. He inquired whether a kennel license will allow the dogs to roam or 3 whether it will require they are secured at all times. Councilor Pottier asked Mr. Massa if a kennel license requires the applicant to put up a physical structure that keeps the dogs separate from the public. Mr. Massa stated that they can put up a chain-linked fence kennel. Mr. Massa stated that he was not aware of the second bite and that it was not reported. Attorney Costa stated that the City Ordinance does not have a reference to a physical fence. Councilor Pottier inquired if there are requirements to have a structure that limits the dog's activity on that premises. Attorney Costa stated that according to the City Ordinance 191-8, dog's shall be kept housed, sheltered or kept at a minimum of 100 feet from the nearest residential dwelling. Mr. Souza stated that there is only 29 feet from their foundation to the property line. Attorney Costa stated that the Ordinance indicates that the keeper of the dogs will obey the leash law and will obey the laws relative to excessively barking dogs and there is also a standard of the property having a minimum of a half-acre or more. Councilor Pottier stated this property is 0.58 acres, therefore, it passes this stipulation. Attorney Costa stated that any of the requirements can be waived by the Council with a two thirds vote based on that waiver or reduction not being detrimental to the public health, safety and well-being. Mary Kuczewski, 340 Harvey Street, Taunton, stated that she is unable to walk her dog past this house because the Cattle Dog is vicious towards her and the other two (2) dogs will follow behind barking. Jan Boboruzian, 25 Beaufort Court, Taunton, expressed concerns with these dogs running loose in the neighborhood and excessively barking. He inquired if there is anything that can be done about the excessive barking and if the dogs will be required to be in a physical cage. Mr. Massa stated that if they are barking during the day, then that is permitted, and quiet time is from 9pm until 7am. Mr. Gracia stated that barking over 30 minutes is considered excessive barking. Mr. Massa stated that he has not received any complaints in regards to the dogs running loose. Ms. Kuczewski stated that the dogs have been outside barking at 2 a.m. Ms. Piontek stated that she recently had a new dog door installed as part of the electric fence and set the timer of the door to close at 9:30 p.m. Council President Pottier confirmed with Ms. Piontek that she is not planning to install any physical structure on her property to prevent the dogs from free roaming. Patricia Gonsalves, 30 Beaufort Court, Taunton, expressed concern for the safety of the neighborhood if the electric fence fails. Motion was made to close public input. So Voted. Councilor Postell asked Mr. Massa if the dog was quarantined after the bite incident. Mr. Massa confirmed the dog was quarantined. Councilor Postell inquired if there had been any other reported incidents at this address. Mr. Massa stated that there have been no further incidents reported to him. Councilor Postell expressed sympathy for the petitioner as well as the neighbors and his concern that there are no physical barriers to keep the dogs on the property. Ms. Piontek explained that she was not aware the electric fence had failed when her dogs got loose and their access to outside have been restricted since this incident. Councilor Postell asked what the age of the Cattle Dog is and if she has done any type of obedience classes with her. Ms. Piontek stated that the dog is approximately 4 years old and she has not done any classes with her. Councilor Postell asked if that would be something she would consider, as well as periodic testing of her fence. Council President Pottier stated that while an invisible fence may prevent the owner's dog from leaving the property, it does not prevent another dog from coming onto the property. Councilor Borges stated that she would not be able to approve this petition with hearing the fear in the voices of the neighbors who spoke this evening and the concerns for their safety. Councilor Sanders stated that it is not the fourth dog that is the problem and that there are additional responsibilities for certain types of dogs. Councilor Sanders expressed concern that these problems will continue with or without a 4 kennel license. He stated that there is work that needs to be done and perhaps she should consider moving the invisible fence. Councilor Martin discussed that the petitioner should consider evaluating the situation and acting in the best interest of the needs of the Cattle Dog. Councilor Dooner explained that Cattle Dogs are working dogs and need a job to do. She inquired if the petitioner would be able to fence in a small area of the yard. Ms. Piontek stated that she may be able to fence in a small area of the yard for the Cattle Dog. Mr. Gracia stated that it would need to be a tall fence as this breed is known to jump very high. Attorney Costa stated that in order to grant the permit and waive the 100 foot requirement from the nearest dwelling, six (6) votes will be required. Motion was made to approve the petition. On a roll call vote, eight (8) Councilors were present, eight (8) Councilors voted in opposition. The motion does not carry. Petition denied. Councilor Quintal was absent. Motion was made to close the hearing. So Voted. Communications from the Mavor: Council President Pottier stated that there will be an honor guard for the funeral of Detective Spencer at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday that will gather at St. Anthony's Church. Council President Pottier stated that 21 years ago today was the Station Nightclub Fire in West Warwick, Rhode Island. He stated that three (3) of the people who passed were from Taunton, including Christine Carbone, Teresa Rikowski and Robert Young. He stated that they hold all who were impacted in their thoughts and prayers. Council President Pottier read the community update information. Appointments: • Appointments to the Elderly and Disabled Fund Advisory Committee: o Christine Clymens, Treasurer/Collector o Ian Fortes, City Auditor o Richard Conti, Assessor o Estele Borges, City Councilor and Arc of Bristol County Outreach Coordinator o Heather Baylies-Grigoreas, Co-Chair of SEPAC to the Elderly and Disabled Fund Advisory Committee Motion was made to approve the above five (5) appointments. So Voted. Communications from Citv Officers: Com. from the Superintendent of Buildings requesting permission to pay a prior year bill. This bill is for copy services with Ricoh. The invoice was misplaced within the City and located after the close of the Fiscal Year. The total amount is $352.18. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So Voted. Com. from the City Solicitor regarding a communication dated February 7, 2024 which the Law Department has received from Xfinity with enclosures (Form 500 Complaint and Interruption Data, Annual Notice Information, Services and Pricing Information and Channel Lineup). Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chairman, Taunton Planning Board stating that the Taunton Planning Board is in receipt of a Special Permit/Site Plan Review from Section 440 Attachment #2 5 of the Zoning Ordinance for property at 6 Mozzone Boulevard- to allow a drive-through for a 2,433 sq. ft. restaurant with 83 seats and a second space with either a 2,932 sq. ft. restaurant with 140 seats or a 2,932 sq. ft. retail use in the Industrial District- submitted by GREP Mozzone, LLC. The next scheduled meeting for this petition will be on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 8:45am in the Taunton Planning Board Office, 141 Oak St., at which time the application shall be reviewed by the DIRB and again on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 5:30pm at 15 Summer St., which this petition will be reviewed by the Planning Board. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Communications from Citizens: Com. from Andrew A. Toldo, Esq., Toldo Law Group, P.C., 661 South Street West, Raynham, MA 02767 regarding concerns for Planet Petroleum, 274 Winthrop Street, Taunton. Motion was made to refer to the Law Department, the Committee on Police and License, the Police Chief and the Committee of the Whole. So Voted. Petitions: NONE. 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, with the exception of item #6 in the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So Voted. Councilor Duarte stated that item #6 in the Committee on Finance and Salaries was to meet to establish the spending parameters of the Mayor's Worthy Cause Gift Account and a motion was made to approve the order as written, with the exception of item #3. The order states that the City of Taunton will expend funds from the City of Taunton Mayor's Worthy Cause Donation Fund and will be allowed to expend donated funds on the following items and any other spending will be subject to the Council's approval: 1. Charitable causes organized and sponsored by local nonprofits or other 50l(c)(3) organizations. 2. Community events, such as the Lights On Festival, End of Summer Celebration or any event that benefits the community as a whole. 3. Hosting or participating in special events where proclamations, resolutions or citations are issued. 4. Scholarships. 5. City of Taunton School or Club Fundraisers. 6. To benefit or support City residents or community organizations. Councilor Duarte stated that the vote in the Committee was 3 to 0. Motion was made to affirm this vote. On a roll call vote, eight (8) Councilors were present, seven (7) Councilors voted in favor, Councilor Mccaul was opposed. So Voted. Councilor Quintal was absent. Unfinished Business: NONE. Orders, Ordinances and Resolutions: Com. from the Chief Financial Officer stating that the Finance Department, on behalf of Mayor O'Connell, is pleased to announce they are at the next step of financing the public safety facility and is referring the Order below to be read as a first reading. 6 Order for a first reading to be passed to a second reading Ordered That, the sum of $67,700,000.00 be and hereby appropriated to pay the cost of designing, constructing, equipping and furnishing a new public safety building, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to G.L. c.44, §7(1), or any other enabling authority. Motion was made to pass to a second reading. So Voted. New Business: Councilor Borges requested to meet with the Fire Chief and fire union in the Committee on Fires and Wires for a discussion of the ladder company. Councilor Borges requested to include the Chief Financial Officer in this meeting. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on the Fire Department, the Fire Chief, the Fire Union and the Chief Financial Officer. So Voted. Councilor Pottier stated that he had discussions with Chief Lavigne, Union President O'Leary and the Chief Financial Officer on this matter and is hopeful they will be able to announce some exciting news in the near future. List o[Documents and Other Exhibits: • Agenda • Mayor's List of Upcoming Community Events-February 20, 2024 • Xfinity Separate Packet for Pages #2 and #3. Meeting adjourned at 8:22 P.M. A true copy: Attest: JLL/MAT 7 City of Taunton Municipal Council February 20, 2024 The Committee on Finance and Salaries The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Phillip Duarte, Chairman Councilor Estele Borges I Councilor Scott Martin I I ~ ('") ""-l --j ..0 Also Present: Patrick Delio Russo, CFO -t -,, -< > \~; :::0 Richard Conti, Chair, Board of Assessors ! ('") c:: z -; r1t co N r-f11 ~() __._. 1'11 Lisa Labelle, Assessor ·-; 0 w ::x;_ :z:: Ian Fortes, City Auditor -< en< ("") :::?: l> C:J l'TJ r- !"Tl ::D )> 9 .,,-.,o :::x; C> ("") The meeting was called to order at 5:33 PM. 0 r.i 1. Approve minutes from February 13, 2024. 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, 168, 059.11. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the accounts payable warrant in the amount of $1,555, 740.20. So voted. 3. Meet to discuss the request that previously authorized and unissued debt be rescinded. Mr. Delio Russo explained that there is $18,084,288 in previously authorized but unissued debt that he would like the Council to rescind. In many cases, the City is paying cash and he noted how this saves between $9 Million and $12 Million in interest charges. Mr. Duarte read the unissued amounts and associated projects. Ms. Borges noted that some of the projects go back to 2016. Mr. Dello Russo stated that rescinding this debt makes the City look more favorable. 8 Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the Order and move to a first reading: ORDERED, that the City of Taunton hereby rescinds $18,084,288 of authorized, unissued debt that was authorized on the dates, in the amounts, and for the following purposes: Amount Date Originally Authorized Authorized Authorized Un issued Purpose 9/12/2016 $4,800,000 $40,000 Water Distribution System Improvements 9/12/2016 $240,000 $240,000 WWT Capacity & Anti-degradation analysis 9/12/2016 $17,000,000 $1,036,893 Main Lift Pump Station Construction 3/28/2018 $64,971,831 $6,920,539 Mulcahey Elementary School Construction 1/7/2019 $25,451,140 $1,430,209 New City Hall Alternative High School Roof and Window 8/28/2019 $5,735,882 $3,275,198 Repair/Replacement 6/7/2021 $ 7,500,000 $16,402 Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrades Phase 1 9/13/2021 $1,900,000 $1,900,000 County St. Land Acquisition 12/9/2021 $2,318,795 $2,318,795 MUNIS Enterprise Resource Planning 4/26/2022 $450,000 $450,000 Vactor Truck 6/16/2022 $10,000,000 $206,252 Add'I Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrades Phase 2 Total: $18,084,288 So voted. 4. Meet to review outcomes related to The City of Taunton and the Appellate Tax Board (ATB). Mr. Dello Russo stated that the Taunton assessors have very few abatement claims since they spend a great deal of time educating the taxpayer and they do a great job with a high degree of accuracy. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to take a five minute recess. So voted. The Committee came back to order at 5 :48 PM. Mr. Conti gave a presentation explaining the abatement process. He stated that everyone has an opportunity to apply for an abatement but they see a very low percentage of applications. Abatements give people an opportunity to challenge their assessment and he noted that assessments have gone up significantly recently. Mr. Conti noted that everyone who files an abatement application gets a call and a visit from the Assessing Department. He stated that while they do concentrate on preserving the tax levy, they want the assessments to be right. Abatement money comes from the overlay account. Mr. Dello Russo noted that $750,000 - Committee on Finance and Salaries February 20, 2024 Page2of5 9 $1,000,000 goes into the overlay account each year. Mr. Conti stated that there have been years with as much as $5,000,000 in abatements and all exemptions. Taxpayers can file for a trial to be heard by a commissioner if they don't agree with the decision of the assessors where they can represent themselves or hire an attorney. At the Appellate Tax Board, the assessor is presumed correct and the burden of proof is on the taxpayer. Mr. Conti explained that all the tax bills are printed by owner and by location and are in the office for anyone to look at. The timeframe to apply for abatements is January 1-February1 and the assessors grant or deny the abatement by April 30. He highlighted some of the abatement activities over the past few years and explained that currently there are about 20 cases in the Appellate Tax Board. Several involve subsidized housing and they are working on a project to settle those. Mr. Conti suggested that the biggest challenge is with utilities who are the largest taxpayers in the City. He noted that utility valuation will go back to the State with the new Municipal Empowerment Act. One current issue that Mr. Conti described is with the assessment of the hospital. The City has it assessed at about $80 Million but their appraisal shows it at $38 Million. However, Mr. Conti sees some flaws with their report and he believes the City will need to hire an appraiser. Ms. Borges and Mr. Martin both commended and thanked the assessors. Mr. Duarte asked if abatements first go to the Board of Assessors and Mr. Conti confirmed. He stated that when an application comes in, they first look at is as a Board and then assign teams to go out and look at the property. They then discuss it in executive session and make a vote. Mr. Duarte asked ifthere is any data on success rate at ATB and Mr. Conti stated that he believes it is about 50/50 but he hasn't lost a case. Mr. Duarte asked how long the process takes and Mr. Conti stated that it takes a minimum of 9 months. Mr. Pottier commented on the number of properties in Taunton compared to New Bedford and Fall River and noted that Taunton has more single families and condos than the other cities which perhaps suggests a more stable community. Mr. Sanders asked about the different available formulas for assessing and Mr. Conti emphasized the training they receive and explained that the basic formulas are the cost approach, the income approach, and the sales approach. 5. Meet for an update on the internal audit program. Mr. Dello Russo explained that this is about identifying efficiencies and about transparency and thanked Mr. Fortes for his contributions bringing this forward. Mr. Fortes gave a presentation explaining the Internal Audit Program. He reviewed the goals of the program and noted that there were five areas of focus: Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Cash Handling, Procurement, and Documented Policies. To date he has completed audits of 9 departments and reviewed the results of those audits in the areas discussed. He explained his recommendations that have emerged from the audits: desktop scanners, date and time stamps, record retention training, tracking of deposits, secure Committee on Finance and Salaries February 20, 2024 Page3 of5 10 locations for deposits, and the creation of a Finance Department procedure binder. He explained the internal audit timeline for the remainder of the year. Ms. Borges and Mr. Martin gave their thanks and congratulations. Mr. Duarte questioned the timeline and Mr. Fortes stated that 9 departments have been completed and there are 16 or so remaining. Mr. Sanders asked if anyone needed to be retrained or disciplined and Mr. Fortes indicated that he has not been approaching it that way and, at this point, saw this as a chance for him to see how people do things. Mr. Pottier gave his congratulations and stated that the City is better for this effort. 6. Meet to establish the spending parameters of the Mayor's Worthy Cause Gift Account. Mr. Duarte stated that the creation of the account was approved a few weeks ago and read the proposed order. ORDERED: That the City of Taunton will expend funds from the City of Taunton Mayor's Worthy Cause donation fund and will be allowed to expend donated funds on the following items. Any other spending will be subject to Council approval: •Charitable causes organized/sponsored by local Non-Profits or other 501 c (3) Organizations •Community events such as Lights On Festival, End of Summer Celebration, or any similar event that benefits the community as a whole • City of Taunton Employee Appreciation Events. • Hosting or participating in special events where Proclamations, Resolutions or Citations are issued • Scholarships •City of Taunton school or club fundraisers • To benefit or support City residents or community organizations Mr. Della Russo stated that this is in the spirit of the original fund and is set up like any other donation fund. Ms. Borges questioned bullet number 3 - City of Taunton Employee Appreciation Events. She also asked ifthere will be a committee. Mr. Della Russo stated that right now there is no money so there is nothing to deliberate on. Mr. Sanders stated that the categories are broad enough to cover many different types of contributions and Mr. Delio Russo stated that the spirit of the account will stay the same. Mr. Sanders expressed his concern with the item which discusses participation in events where proclamations or resolutions will be given. Committee on Finance and Salaries Febroary 20, 2024 Page 4of5 11 Mr. McCaul asked ifthere will be a committee with a council representative and Mr. Della Russo stated that at this time there is no need to create a committee but, if there was to be a committee, the power of appointment rests with the Mayor. Mr. McCaul asked about the scholarship criteria and suggested that giving a proclamation benefits the elected officer. Mr. Della Russo stated that the intent is to continue with prior uses. Mr. McCaul suggested that he needs more information and requested that the Committee take a roll call vote. Mr. Duarte stated that prior to the establishment of this account, the Mayor's Worthy Cause was completely independent from the City and was not accountable to the City or to the City Council. He suggested that with some prior gift accounts that were established, MGL required the creation of a committee to oversee spending from that account. Generally, the City Council simply establishes the parameters for spending. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the order with the exception of the bullet ,,,number 3. So voted on a roll call. Motion by Mr. Martin and seconded by Ms. Borges to adjourn at 7: 13 P.M So voted. List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Finance and Salaries Meeting Minutes from 2/13/24 Payroll Warrant #133 Bill Invoice Warrant #132 List of items over $100,000 Presentation - Tax Abatements Presentation - Internal Audit Program Update CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, FEff-2 0 2024 ~~-~ Maggie E. Clarke IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED WITH THE EXCEPTION OF ITEM #6, WHICH WAS AFFIRMED ON A ROLL CALL VOTE. EIGHT (8) COUNCILORS PRESENT, SEVEN (7) COUNCILORS VOTING IN FAVOR. COUNCILOR MCCAUL VOTING IN OPPOSITION. COUNCILOR QUINTAL WAS ABSENT. ir.t., Committee on Finance and Salaries February 20, 2024 Page 5 of5

Agenda

MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA CHESTER R. MARTIN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 15 SUMMER STREET, TAUNTON, MA 02780 FEBRUARY 20, 2024 - 7:00 PM PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE INVOCATION ROLL CALL READING OF THE RECORDS FROM FEBRUARY 13, 2024 City Clerk's Office PUBLIC INPUT Notice of Posting • • Comments will be received for the record Please state your name and address Time: a/ /CJ //lJ • Please limit comments to 3 minutes or less Date: rj /6- a{)rt'/ ~ • • Supplemental written comments may also be provided Comments should be addressed to the body as a whole and pertain to the business JL of the City HEARING #1: Continued Hearing: On the joint petition of Verizon New England, Inc. and Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant proposing to place one (1) new joint pole location, 103-1 at 294 Tremont Street in the City of Taunton. • Map of Location HEARING #2: 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. HEARING #3: On the petition submitted by Kelly L. Piontek, 350 Harvey Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for the issuance of a personal 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 350 Harvey Street, Taunton. • Com. from Animal Control Officer - Submitting a Positive Recommendation • Maps of Location COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR • Community Update APPOINTMENTS • Appointments to the Elderly and Disabled Fund Advisory Committee: o Christine Clymens, City Treasurer/Collector o Ian Fortes, City Auditor o Richard Conti, City Assessor o Estele Borges, City Councilor o Heather Baylies-Grigoreas, Outreach Coordinator for the Arc of Bristol County and Co-Chair of the Taunton Special Education Parent Advisory Council COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY OFFICERS Pg. 1 Com. from Superintendent of Buildings - Requesting to Pay Prior Year Invoice Pg. 2-3 Com. from City Solicitor - Submitting Xfinity Correspondence (SEPARATE PACKET) Pg.4 Com. from Chairman, Taunton Planning Board - Notifying of Public Meetings COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Pg. 5 Com. from Andrew A. Toldo, Esq., Toldo Law Group, P.C., 661 South Street West, Raynham, MA 02767 - Providing Update Concerning Planet Petroleum, 274 Winthrop Street, Taunton PETITIONS - NONE COMMITTEE REPORTS UNFINISHED BUSINESS - NONE ORDERS, ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS Pg. 6 Com. from Chief Financial Officer - Public Safety Facility Financing Order {or a first reading to be passed to a second reading Ordered That, the sum of $67,700,000.00 be and hereby appropriated to pay the cost of designing, constructing, equipping and furnishing a new public safety building, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to G.L. c.44, §7(1), or any other enabling authority. NEW BUSINESS • Councilor Borges requests to meet with the Fire Chief and fire union in the Committee on Fires and Wires for a discussion of the ladder company Respectfully submitted, ~fikF f / JennHer L. Leger !/ City Clerk PETITION PLAN NO: MA2023-52 Taunton DATE: December 5, 2023 VERIZON NEW ENGLAND INC. AND TAUNTON MUNICIPAL LIGHTING PLANT POLE PLACEMENT I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I / I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I PARCEL 44-43-0 I / I _I I I 305TREMONT / PARCEL 44-42-0 ,' / STREET / 297 TREMONT ,' / 1 STREET / PARCEL 44-41-0 ,' - -...,,_ - - - - - / / 295 TREMONT / -- I I STREET I --- I / I -- I · I I ......_ I I -- --.._ - _ / EXISTING / -.._ / JOINTLY OWNED / --00LE103 / ---........._ ,/ PARCEL 52-13-0 --............,....... ,'/ 291 TREMONT I I ............. I STREET I I ...._ I I I ................... I ...... .I '."-.. I I '-..... ...... I I I PARCEL 52-115-0 I I '"--... I 300TREMO~T I I '' I I STREET I I I ""- ' I I ' I I I I I I I ""' I I I I I I .I PARCEL SZ,.114.-0 I I 294 TREMONT I STREET I I I I I I I I I .I I I I I LEGEND - - - - - - EDGE OF PAVEMENT • PROPOSED JOINTLY OWNED POLE ---------- EDGE OF PROPERTY @ EXISTING JOINTLY OWNED POLE TO REMAIN - - - - - - CENTER OF ROAD THE COMMONWEALTH . " OF MASSACHUSETTS ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER KENNEL INSPECTION REPORT _-,-- , . City or Town of: . JOl(NfpN ~ Page 1 of_ _ __ Kennel license number:_~...,.....,..-.....---.-------- Inspection date: Q - /J,/- ;;J 'f Kennelname:____,,,......::....---,-..,,..----,--r-----:~~--:--.,...,------------------~ /, Kennel owrter:_~~.i........!......l....,J4.__...._,_-L,;!£.L..t.....J.:..:::...!-...1-..---------------·---,"-- . Kennel address:_~~:.i..o::-'-'-.id...l~:...=..:=J....~£.-J"--------------------­ Kennel phone: Number of dogs over 6 months old on premise: 3 Number of dogs allowed for this license: Kennel license status: Kennel type: Commercial D Doggie Daycare D Personal~ Other _ _ _ _ __ If kennel license has not been· renewed, why not?_ _- ' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A. Dogs are housed in a humane manner: No D B. Dogs are able to stand, lie down and tum around freely: Yes ~ No D C. Kennel is kept at an ambient temperature: Yes~ No 0 (between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit) D. Kennel is maintained in a sanitary manner: Yes~ No 0 E. The kennel has adequate lighting: Yes~ No 0 F. Dogs have access to clean, fresh food and water: Yes~ No D G. Dogs have adequate exercise space: Yes ~ No D H. Veterinary and other records available: Yes ~ No D Please explain any No answers on page 2. ~ ferJC:e J :N 'f I""J UNJ -\-tte Approved NJ .Not appro~ed D . Reinspect on or after: D pertb. ~~ ACOs name: Report received by: L<:e,~;y\ .le_/( ACO'sSignatu~==~ SignatureofRecipient: _ _ tf..-. ~ White Copy- Office I Yellow Copy-ACO I Pink Copy- Kenn~I Owner City of Taunton, MA December 28, 2023 Property Information Print map scale is approximate . • Property ID Location 22-2-0 350 HARVEY STREET Critical layout or measurement Owner PIONTEK KELLY L &JOSEPH H JR activities should not be done using this resource. MAP FOR REFERENCE ONLY NOT A LEGAL DOCUMENT City of Taunton, MA makes no claims and no warranties, expressed or implied, concerning the validity or accuracy of the G IS data presented on this map. Geometry updated 7/1/2021 Data updated 09/12/2023 \ -------\ ----------------·-----·----·----------- City of Taunton Ligia M. Madeira, Esq. CHIEF OF STAFF OFFICE OF THE MAYOR City Hall Patrick D. Dello Russo, Jr. 15 Summer Street· Taunton MA 02780 CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (508) 821-1000 Gill E. Enos MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR Community Update - February 20, 2024 Taunton Public Library February Vacation Activities • Taunton Public Library will be hosting FREE February Vacation activities starting Tuesday, February 20, 2024 through Friday, February 23, 2024 • Please see the attached schedule of activities • For more information, visit https://www.tauntonlibrary.org/ or call 508-821-1412 Taunton Community Blood Drive • Sponsored by Taunton Diversity Network and American Red Cross • Friday, February 23, 2024 from 12pm to 5pm at Taunton High School, 50 Williams Street • In honor of Black History Month, there will be a focus on helping those affected by sickle cell disease • Donors who identify as Black or African American are in real need, but all are encouraged to donate • To register, call 1-800-733-2767 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter TauntonCommunity to schedule an appointment Old Colony YMCA February Vacation Open House • Friday, February 23, 2024 from 4pm to 7pm • Open House will include free swim, splash pad from 4pm to 6pm, bouncy house, arts and crafts, face painting, music, balloon characters and a tour of the Taunton Facility • For more information, please contact scole@oldcolonyymca.org or call 508-823-3320 , SOULful Sounds Brunch • Sponsored by T.R.U.E. Diversity • Sunday, February 25, 2024 from 12pm to 2pm at the District Center of the Arts, 15 Court Street • Live performances from talented local artists, celebrating the soulful sounds that have defined generations • Tickets are $25 • Visit facebook.com/truediversityinc to purchase tickets • For more information, call 617-869-9250 or visit truediversityma.org Old Colony History Museum Military Room Re-Opening • Thursday, February 29, 2024 from lOam to 4pm at the Old Colony History Museum • Newly renovated Military Room featuring the military history of Taunton and its surrounding areas from the colonial era to the present day • To celebrate, OCHM is offering free admission to all • For more information, contact 508-822-1622 or visit www.oldcolonyhistorymuseum.org Mayor O'Connell and the Department of Public Works Free Waste Drop-off Event • Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 7am to 3pm at the Taunton Convenience Center, 330 East Britannia Street • Taunton residents can drop off household trash, bulk items not exceeding 75lbs., yard waste, metal items, recycling and paper for shredding free of charge • Mattresses, electronics, appliances and household hazardous waste (such as paint, batteries, waste oil) will NOT be accepted • Proof of residency will be required upon drop-off (driver's license or utility bill) • Any questions can be directed to DPW at 508-821-1431 Please visit the City website (www.taunton-ma.gov) and Facebook page for more information. F\e.b~uarY ~vacation· Week• TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 20 FAl\fiLY GAMES 21 AFRICAN DANCE 22 WINTER CARNIVAL 23 COMPUTER SCIENCE ********* \VITH CHEFIATOU FOR KIDS EXPLORATION STUFFY SLEEPOVER TO KOU STORYTIME ********** @ 1 :00 PM Have fun @ 1 :30 PM Join us for some TEEN SCENE celebrating winter and all Computer Science fun! Various @ 10:00 AM Family @ 2:00 PM Celebrate Black things ice with your coding board games , circuit Games Drop-In with Youth History Month at the Taunton friends while playing boards , and micro: bits available Services for a morning of Public Library with Chefiatou winter themed games , for you to explore. fun with bowling , ping pong Tokou , an African dancer and and drinking hot cocoa! You'll also be able to utilize our and board games . choreographer from Togo in All while staying warm! robotics collection! West Africa . @ 6:00 PM Have you ever It's Winter Carnival time! This is a family event, ages 5+ . d ~ wondered what happens at @ 6:00 PM Teen Scene This is a family friendly (j the library when it's From K-Pop to robotics, event and all are welcome. 0 closed? Bring a stuffed from 3-0 Printing to crafts, ~ friend with you for a PJ we'll have """' '.Z story time then say good- so many different activities ~ night as you tuck them in . to try and share with your (j They 'll tell you all about the friends . Race , play, and 0 ~ adventures they had while compete on our PS5! camped out here in Youth Free pizza & snacks! Services! Ages 12-16 d '.Z ~~ Youth Services • 12 Pleasant St • Taunton, MA 02780 """' ~ Tmmmu 508-821 -14 12 • W\\,"W.tauntonlibr:uy.org/ youth/ • F acebook: T aunton Public Library ~ t_'zj PublD The Taunton Public Library does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request will provide reasonable Lilir11rf accommodations to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Notification for accommodations must be received at least 2 weeks in advance of all programs and activities and for some services. To request an accommo- ;3 dation for any of the Library's programs, services, or activities, please inform the Library Director of your accommoda- '.Z tion request. Please call 508-821-1410 or email at lcoelho@sailsinc.org. ~ 00 City of Taunton CHIEF OF STAFF OFFICE OF THE MAYOR City Hall Patrick D. Delio Russo, Jr. 15 Summer Street · Taunton MA 02780 CHIEF FINANC IAL OFFICER (508) 821-1000 Gill E. Enos MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR February 15, 2024 Council President David Pottier Members of the Taunton Municipal Council 15 Summer Street Taunton, Ma 02780 Dear Council President Pottier and Members of the Taunton Municipal Council, Please be advised that I am appointing City Treasurer Christine Clymens, City Auditor Ian Fortes, Assessor Richard Conti, City Councilor Estele Borges and Outreach Coordinator for The Arc of Bristol County and Co-Chair of the Taunton Special Education Parent Advisory Council Heather Baylies-Grigoreas to the Elderly and Disabled Fund Advisory Committee. These individuals' diverse perspectives will contribute to the effectiveness of the committee in addressing the needs of our community's elderly and disabled population. I thank the Council for your support in creating this fund and look forward to the positive impact it will have in our community. Sincerely, Mayor Shaunna 0 ' Connell 1-. CITY OF TAUNTON MASSACHUSETIS CITY HALL ANNEX 141 OAK STREET CHRIS CARMICHAEL TAUNTON, MA 02780-3464 SUPERINTENDENT OF BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS (508) 821-1015 FAX (508) 821-1019 February 13 1\ 2024 Honorable Mayor Shaunna O'Connell. Members of the Municipal Council 15 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 Dear Mayor O' Connell and Members of the Municipal Council: Your permission is requested to pay a prior year bill. This bill is for copy services with Ricoh. The invoice was misplaced within the city and located after the close ofthe Fiscal Year. If you have any questions, please call me at 508-821-1015 . Supervisor of Public Building Acct.# 01-492-5520-5599 $352.18 Total amount is $3 52.18. Regards, City of Taunton LAW DEPARTMENT Shaunna O'Connell 15 Summer Street Lisa Bond, Esq. MAYOR FIRST ASST. CITY SOLICITOR Taunton, Massachusetts 02780 Matthew J. Costa, Esq. Phone (508) 821-1036 Facsimile (508) 821-1397 Thomas P. Gay, Jr., Esq. CITY SOLICITOR ASST. CITY SOLICITOR David T. Gay, Esq. SP. ASST. CITY SOLICITOR February 8, 2024 Council President David Pottier and Members of the Municipal Council City of Taunton City Hall 15 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 Dear Council President Pottier and Members of the Municipal Council: Submitted herewith is communication dated February 7, 2024 which the Law Department has received from Xfinity with enclosures (Form 500 (Complaint and Interruption Data), Annual Notice Information, Services and Pricing information and Channel Lineup). Please note that the letter has been redacted to remove information that is not intended for public dissemination. Thank you. Matthew J. Cos City Solicitor MJC/tmg Enclosure February 7, 2024 Via UPS City Attorney City of Taunton 15 Summer Street ... ·-· .. .,.,. Taunton, MA 02780 City of Taunton Law Department Re: Form 500 & Annual Notice Filing Dear City Attorney: Pursuant to G.L. Ch . 166A, Section 10, Comcast is pleased to provide a copy of the Form 500-YE2023. The Form 500 contains information on customer video service-related issues in your community and how Comcast responded, including the time taken to resolve these complaints. For the Form 500, the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable defines a complaint as: Any written or verbal contact with a cable operator in connection with subscription in which a person expresses dissatisfaction with an act, omission, product or service that is (1) within the operator's control, and (2) requires a corrective measure on the part of the operator. Also, per Massachusetts cable regulations (207 CMR 10.01(2) and 10.02(6)), enclosed is a copy of Comcast's policies and procedures, sample subscriber bill, work order and rate & channel line-up information for your community. Comcast has also provided a copy ofthe above information to the Department of Telecommunications and Cable. Lastly, w e wanted to share with you agai n the steps for emergency/trouble reporting procedure in the event a municipal building experiences problems with downed cable drops, signal transport issues with I-NET or Video Return Lines, Public, Education and Government (PEG) Access channels or to have our t echnical or construction staff on-site during an emergency. MUNICIPAL - EMERGENCY/TROUBLE REPORTING PROCEDURES (Please note the XOC telephone number listed below IS NOT for public dissemination} Please do not hesitate to contact me should you hav e any questions at patrick_shea rn s(,g!Lomcast.com. Sincerely, Patric/Sf. shearns Patrick J. Shea rn s, Sr. M anager Governm ent & Regulatory Affairs Enclosures 1 1 Enclosures maybe double sided. TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD 141 Oak St. - Office Address 15 Summer St. - Mailing Address Taunton, Massachusetts 02780 Phone 508-821-1051 Fax 508 821-1043 Denise J Paiva, Head Administrative Clerk dpaiva(a1taunton-ma.gov February 14, 2024 Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor Members of the Municipal Council 15 Summer St. Taunton, Ma. 02780 C/O Jennifer Leger, City Clerk RE: Special Permit/Site Plan Review - 6 Mozzone Blvd. Dear Mayor O' Connell and Members of the Municipal Council: The Taunton Planning Board is in receipt of a Special Permit/Site Plan Review from Section 440 Attachment #2 of the Zoning Ordinance for property at 6 Mozzone Boulevard - to allow a drive-through for a 2,433 sq. ft. restaurant with 83 seats and a second space with either a 2,932 sq. ft. restaurant with 140 seats or a 2,932 sq. ft. retail use in the Industrial District - submitted by GREP Mozzone LLC The next scheduled meeting for this petition will be on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 8:45 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, March 7, 2024 at 5:30 PM at 15 Summer St., which this petition will be reviewed by the Planning Board Sincerely, Anthony Abreau, hairman TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD AA/djp Real Estate & Estate Planning Law 661 Sou th Street Wesr A NDREW A. ToLDo, Esq. Raynharn, MA 02767 ~1 ndrew (u toldolaw.com Tel: 508-32 1-9300 Fax: 508-32 1-9420 February 12, 2024 Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor Council President David W. Pottier And Members of the Municipal Council RE: 274 Winthrop Street I Planet Petroleum Dear M ayor O'Conn ell an d Hono rable Co uncil M embe rs, Th is co rrespond ence se rves to add res s o ne of yo ur it em s noted in t he meeting schedul ed fo r tomorro w, Febru ary 13, 2024 regard in g t he "chall enges relatin g to th e repair shop locat ed at 274 Wint h ro p St reet ". It has com e to our attention th at several abutters and other city res idents have comp lained of t he di sarrayed nature of t he pro perty. As an acti ve mechanica! repair :.hop, there are m any vehicles th at are moved daily whi le being se rviced in various stages of repair. As such, ca rs are always in p lain sight and parked in m any differe nt areas of th e locus. M o st recently, M r. M il ad Dbaib has had t o TE MPORARILY move vehicles from behind th e screened area of 272 Wint hrop Street, to th e prop erty locat ed at 274 Wint hro p, due t o th e prop erty at 272 W int hro p bein g und er construction . In an effort to proactively address t he m atter, I have been asked by M r. Dba ib t o w ork w ith you to rem edy wh at is reaso nable for all parti es. M r. Dba ib, im plores t he City 's patience w hil e parking behin d 272 Wi nthrop street is te m porarily hind ered. Please feel free to contact m e t o disc uss same. Respectfully, TOLDO LA'f! ~~· ~~v Af1 drew A To ldo, Esq . City of Taunton Ligia M. Madeira, Esq. CHIEF OF STAFF OFFICE OF THE MAYOR City Hall Patrick D. Delio Russo, Jr. 15 Summer Street · Taunton MA 02780 CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (508) 821 -1000 Gill E. Enos BUDGET DIRECTOR MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL February 15, 2024 Council President David Pottier Members of the Taunton Municipal Council 15 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 Dear Council President Pottier and Members of the Municipal Council, The Finance Department, on behalf of Mayor O'Connell, is pleased to announce we are at the next step of financing the public safety facility. Below is the required formal order to authorize the debt issuance which was passed by the Council on February 7, 2023. This order is simply the formal process that enables the City to borrow the actual funds. We elected to initiate this process now, so as to follow best practices and only carry authorized debt on the balance sheet when needed. We will be sending this to the City Clerk for publishing and readings. Ordered: That the sum of $67,700,000.00 be and hereby appropriated to pay the cost of designing, constructing, equipping and furnishing a new public safety building, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to G.L. c.44, §7(1), or any other enabling authority. Respectfully submitted, Patrick D. ello Russo Jr. Chief Financial Officer City of Taunton \ February 20, 2024 \ __. I > c: Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor IC) z -i 0 U1 Council President David W. Pottier -i x. -< And Members of the Municipal Council n :.3: lJ r- ~ > The following committee meetings have been scheduled for Tuesday, Feb~ary 20, 2ta4 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. Approve minutes from February 13, 2024. 2. Meet to review the weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. 3. Meet to discuss the request that previously authorized and unissued debt be rescinded. 4. Meet to review outcomes related to The City of Taunton and the Appellate Tax Board (ATB). 5. Meet for an update on the internal audit program. 6. Meet to establish the spending parameters of the Mayor's Worthy Cause Gift Account. Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass. Gen. L. C. 3 OA, § 18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting. Respectfully, ~f.~ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees

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