City Council

City of'Taunton !M.unicipa{Councif!Meeting !M.inu'tes City 1fa{{, 15 Summer Street, 'Taunton, ~ In tli.e Cli.ester~ !Martin !MunicipalCouncifCli.am6ers - !M.inu'tes, Ju{y 16, 2024 at 7:02 O'cfoc~/P.!M.. a'l:etfae ef.ft./Mpnce ~ufa:r !M.eetine !Mayor Sliaunna £. O'Connellpresidine (}!fayer was offtrea6y tlie !Mayor (}!resent at mtIcallwere: Counci/Ors (})ooner, (J)ua:rte, Q!tinta' Santfers, fPottier, !Martin, CBorges anti!M.cCauf Counci/Or fPostelI was a6sent. Record of July 9, 2024 meeting was read by title and approved. So Voted. Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Appointments. So Voted. Appointments: Appointment and swearing in of two (2) permanent full time firefighters, Owen Brady and Emmanuel Jam.es Enos. Councilor Borges stated that she will be recusing herself from the appointment of Emmanuel James Enos. Council President Pottier stated that the Committee on Fires and Wires made conditional offers of employment to two gentlemen that went through the academy. He stated that it is the Chiefs recommendation to appoint and swear them in this evening. Council President Pottier motioned to appoint Owen Brady and Emmanuel James Enos. On a roll call vote, eight (8) Councilors were present, eight (8) Councilors voted to appoint Owen Brady and seven (7) Councilors voted to appoint Emmanuel James Enos. So Voted. Councilor Borges recused herself from the appointment of Emmanuel James Enos. Councilor Postell was absent. The Assistant City Clerk swore in Owen Brady and Emmanuel Jam.es Enos as firefighters. Motion was made to revert back to the regular order of business. So Voted. Opportunity for input by the general public. J.P. Marcoux, 40 Summer Street, Taunton, expressed gratitude to Mayor O'Connell and the Councilors for their birthday wishes. Steve Simmons, 17 Woodl~wn Street, East Taunton, stated that the cost of changing their street numbers was discussed at last week's meeting and that there would be no cost. He stated that he spoke with his mortgage company, Rocket Mortgage, as well as their  2 attorneys, and that there would be four conditions that will constitute them to pay. He discussed that those conditions would include paying off your house off, selling your house, foreclosure or death. He stated that it is false to say that there would be no expense with changing the street numbers. He discussed that his Mortgage Company stated that if the address does not match the deed and there is a foreclosure, the homeowner will pay whatever the cost is to straighten out the issue. He stated that it is the homeowner's responsibility to make sure the address gets changed on the deed. He questioned whether the City will be notifying the utility companies of the street number change or if this will be up to the residents. He stated that he spoke with the lawyer today in regards to estate changes and there would be no changes needed to be made for an estate or a will. He stated that his biggest concern is his licensing, however, a representative from the D.O.T. reached out to him and will be working with him on this. He discussed that he feels this was handled poorly and requested that moving forward, the residents are kept informed. Hearing: On the petition submitted by Justin Whitney, President, ASW Group, 31 Berryfield Road, Yarmouth, Maine 04096 for the acceptance of Johnny Mac Way as a public way in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to open the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The party introduced himself as Justin Whitney, 31 Berryfield Road, Yarmouth, Maine. He stated that he has a small development called Johnny Mac Estates and this past spring they sold the last unit and the road has been completed for about a year. He stated that the road has been inspected and they are prepared to turn the road over to the City. The Assistant City Clerk read a communication from the City Engineer stating that he is sending a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council for the acceptance of Johnny Mac Way as a public way by the City of Taunton. The street is located off Whittenton Street. This project was approved by the Planning Board under its definitive subdivision rules and regulations and was inspected by the outside consultant, Field Engineering. The contractor has met all of the responsibilities of the contract satisfactorily and has submitted all of the required documents. A positive recommendation has been sent out by the Planning Board. The Assistant City Clerk read a communication from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that at their regularly scheduled meeting that was held on May 2, 2024, the Taunton Planning Board voted to send a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council to accept Johnny Mac Way as an accepted public way in the City. The Assistant City Clerk stated that two (2) maps of the location have been included. Motion was made to make the above listed communications a part of the record. So Voted. Motion was made to open public input. So Voted. No one spoke during public input. Motion was made to close public input and grant the petition. So Voted. On the petition submitted by the City of Taunton, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for the discontinuance of a portion of the roadway entitled Sao Paulo Avenue in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to open the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The Assistant City Clerk read a communication from the City Engineer stating that it is requested that the Planning Board forward a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council supporting the discontinuance of a portion of Sao Paulo Avenue. The reason for the request is to discontinue the portion of Sao Paulo Avenue that was created during the original subdivision. When the subdivision was extended, the need for the turnaround was no longer needed. The discontinuance of the unnecessary and unused portion of the street layout will then revert to the abutting  3 properties. This will allow the lots to be configured in the same manner as the rest of the subdivision. The Assistant City Clerk read a communication from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating at their regularly scheduled meeting that was held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, the Planning Board was in receipt of a letter from the City Engineer regarding the partial discontinuance of Sao Paulo Avenue. The Planning Board voted to forward a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council for the partial discontinuance of Sao Paulo Avenue as recommended by the City Engineer. The Assistant City Clerk stated that five (5) maps of the location have been included. Motion was made to make the above listed communications a part of the record. So Voted. Michael Patneaude, the City Engineer, discussed that a cul-de-sac was designed at the end of the roadway, however, it has since been extended and the cul-de-sac has become unnecessary. He stated that he was approached by one of the abutters to purchase it, however, they decided to move forward with the discontinuation process. He stated that the four (4) abutters will have some property given back to them. He stated that he went to the Assessor's Office to discuss what the increase in their taxes would look like. He stated that two (2) of the parcels are less than one hundred square feet, therefore, there would be no increase. He stated that the other two (2) parcels were over two thousand square feet and would result in an approximately $200.00 assessment increase, which at the current tax rate would come to about $3.00 increased per year. He stated that he sent letters to the four (4) abutters and received responses from two (2) of them and a phone call from the third and they were ok with the process. William Murray, 125 Sao Paulo Avenue, Taunton, stated that he is one of the abutters and is in favor of this. Motion was made to open public input. So Voted. No one spoke during public input. Motion was made to close public input and grant the petition. So Voted. On the petition submitted by Maria C. Costa, 32 Purchase 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, located at 32 Purchase Street, Taunton. Motion was made to open the hearing and invite the interested parties into the enclosure. So Voted. The Assistant City Clerk stated the Kennel License application, a positive recommendation from the Animal Control Officer and a map of the location have been included. Motion was made to make the above listed communications a part of the record. So Voted. The party introduced herself as Maria C. Costa, 32 Purchase Street, Taunton. She stated that she is here to request a kennel license in order to keep her additional dog that originally belonged to her father. Councilor Quintal stated that he visited this residence and spoke to Ms. Costa and sees no reason not to grant her this license. Council President Pottier questioned what the breeds of the dogs are. Ms. Costa stated that she has three (3) boxers and one (1) husky. Council President Pottier questioned whether the yard is fenced. Ms. Costa confirmed that the yard is fenced all the way around. Council President Pottier stated that Mr. Massa, the Animal Control Officer, did not note any issues with her animals in the past. Council President Pottier questioned whether there have been any issues with her animals and the neighbors. Ms. Costa stated that they have never had any issues. Councilor Borges questioned the names on the application. Ms. Costa stated that her daughter, Carolyn, is the owner of two (2) of the dogs, and her son, Joshua, is the owner of the other two (2) dogs. Council President Pottier confirmed with Ms. Costa that her children and the dogs reside at her residence. Motion was made to open public input. So Voted. Nick Dooley, 41 Benefit Street, Taunton, stated that this is a tight neighborhood and a chain- linked fence divides everything. He stated that more dogs result in more noise. Motion  4 was made to close public input. So Voted. Councilor Borges questioned which dogs were already on the property. Ms. Costa stated that the three (3) boxers already resided there and the husky came to them after her father became very ill and asked her to take his dog. She stated that her father passed away and feels the dog is a connection to her father. Councilor Borges questioned whether there were complaints from the neighbors when she only had the three (3) boxers. Ms. Costa stated that she has never received any complaints and her dogs are only outside for a short period of time. She stated that the dogs go outside for the last time around 1O:OOpm and do not go back outside until around 7:00am. Councilor Borges questioned how long the husky has lived with them. Ms. Costa stated that he has lived with them for two years. Councilor Borges questioned if she has received any complaints from her neighbors in the last two years. Ms. Costa confirmed that she has not received any complaints. Council President Pottier stated that he appreciates the residents concern about noise and if there is an issue he is welcomed to call and file a complaint. Council President Pottier requested that Ms. Costa keep the noise to a minimum with the extra dog. Motion was made to approve the petition. So Voted. Motion was made to close the hearing. So Voted. Communications from the Mayor: Mayor O'Connell stated that the Engineering Department was in the middle of a process for Woodlawn Street, therefore, information would not be sent out in the middle of a process. She stated that all of the information that they can gather to assist the residents will be sent to the residents. She stated that all of the notifications regarding the change of the street numbers will be sent to their internal Departments. The Assistant City Clerk read a communication from Mayor 0' Connell regarding the concerns that have been raised over the past few weeks in regards to the renumbering of addresses on Woodlawn Street. She stated that they appreciate the time the residents have taken to express concerns and have been listening closely to their feedback. Over the past several weeks, they have held numerous internal meetings with the appropriate City stakeholders to discuss their concerns and find a way to support them through this transition. They have had ongoing discussions on actions that may need to be taken and expenses that may be associated with renumbering. Initial review indicates that significant expenses are unlikely; however, they are working diligently on developing an application process for expenses that may be associated with renumbering. Their goal is to ease the burden on residents and ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible. Once they have finalized the application process, along with an informational memo, they will notify all affected residents via mail with instructions on how to apply for assistance. They are committed to keeping them informed and making this process transparent and accessible. Mayor O'Connell stated that there is a list of community updates in the agenda packet. Mayor O'Connell stated that the cooling center at Our Daily Bread, located at 111 High Street, is open from 12:00pm until 3:00pm. She stated that they provide water, snacks and movies. Councilor Sanders expressed gratitude to Mayor 0' Connell for her letter in the agenda packet. He stated that he was most interested in making sure that there would be a process for residents to have expenses associated with this project covered. He requested  5 that the information is shared with the Council once the application process has been finalized so that they can advocate for the process. Mayor O'Connell stated that once they have sent out the application process to the residents, they will share it with the Council. Mayor O'Connell stated that they have been having ongoing discussions about this and they want to make sure they do everything the right way. She stated that they should have the packets ready within the next few weeks. Communications from City Officers: Com. from the Chief Financial Officer stating that the Marketable Property Program has been a great success not only for housing and business needs but also for conservation and charitable opportunities. Last year, Mayor O'Connell and the Council unanimously approved offering the property at 5 Chester Court in an RFP providing a charitable housing opportunity. As reported by the MOECD Office, the successful respondent to that RFP was Old Colony Habitat, which provides housing opportunities for those in need. Now that the groundbreaking is set to begin, the permitting process is about to get underway. The Finance Team requests that any and all permit, building or connection fees be waived for this charitable cause. They request that this matter be taken up on July 23, 2024, before the Committee on Finance and Salaries. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So Voted. Com. from the Chief Financial Officer stating that they would like to amend the allowable expenses for TRIAD to include food assistance. They request that this matter be taken up on July 23, 2024, before the Committee on Finance and Salaries. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries. So Voted. Com. from the City Solicitor regarding a communication dated July 1, 2024, which the Law Department has received from Comcast with information about changes to Xfinity TV services. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that the Planning Board is in receipt of a Site Plan Review modification for property at 224 Broadway (Parcel l.D. 39-272) for the expansion/alteration of an existing building to allow additional 345 sq. ft. enclosed dining area and a 345 sq. ft. outdoor patio area with 10 seats enclosed by existing bollards and a fence for the existing commercial restaurant (max 30 seats on site) submitted by Grilla, LLC. The Planning Board will review and hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:30pm at City Hall, 15 Summer Street, 2nd Floor, in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that the Planning Board is in receipt of a Site Plan Review modification for 291 Winthrop Street to allow driveway access to the adjoining property (293 Winthrop Street, proposed Taco Bell) at the northwest comer of the lot, submitted by 291 Winthrop Street LLC, Williams Adams. The Planning Board will review this on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:30pm at City Hall, 15 Summer Street, 2nd Floor, in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that the Planning Board is in receipt of a Special Permit/Site Plan Review from Section 440 Attachment #2 of the  6 Zoning Ordinance for the construction of 34,380 sq. ft. gravel storage area with a 16 foot wide access drive on Richmond Street, Map 71, Lot 44, E. Taunton, MA, submitted by Jason Branco. The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:30pm at City Hall, 15 Summer Street, 2nd Floor, in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that the Planning Board is in receipt of a Site Plan Review for property at 904 County Street for the conversion of the former Pizzeria Uno Restaurant to a Free Play Bar Arcade with a proposed 300 occupants inside and 22 occupants outside in an enclosed outdoor patio, submitted by E. Anthony Santurri, owned by SYNH, LLC. The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:30pm at City Hall, 15 Summer Street, 2nd Floor, in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the Chief Financial Officer stating that the Finance Department requests the opportunity to declare four additional abutter lots as surplus, which were not included in the July 2, 2024, surplus declaration hearing. They are asking for a discussion and vote on four additional abutter lots that currently do not qualify for the City's abutter program. The four parcels are: Map/Lot 92-252, Map/Lot 92-248, Map/Lot 94-199, Map/Lot 63-1- 0. A packet with photos will be sent out prior to this hearing. They request that this matter be taken up on July 30, 2024, in the Committee on Public Property, as they will also be discussing 350 Norton Avenue in the Committee, as mentioned previously. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Public Property. So Voted. Com. from the Fire Chief requesting that the Taunton Fire Department participate in this year's Statewide Civil Service Deputy Fire Chief Promotional exam. The current Civil Service promotional list is set to expire in August of this year. Motion was made to move approval. So Voted. The Assistant City Clerk advised that the motion be made to refer to the City Clerk to request the exam. Motion was made to refer to the City Clerk to request the Civil Service Deputy Fire Chief Promotional exam. So Voted. Com. from the DPW Commissioner stating that the Department of Public Works is requesting a meeting with the Municipal Council Solid Waste sub-committee to discuss the City's current solid waste curbside collection process, automated curbside trash collection, and the recent request for proposals for land lease for composting, yard and brush disposal for 360 East Britannia Street. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Solid Waste. So Voted. Communications from Citizens: Com. from Sandy Thomas submitting her resignation from the Cultural Council effective immediately. Motion was made to accept the resignation and to send a scroll thanking Ms. Thomas for her service. So Voted.  7 Petitions: Junk Collector & Junk Dealer Licenses - NEW 1. Silver City Scrap Metal located at 16 Merrill Avenue, Taunton. The Assistant City Clerk stated that on Monday, July 15th, Jonathan Ellis came in to withdraw from this business name and that his business will be referred to as Silver City Scrap Metal, LLC. Motion was made to refer to the Committee on Police and License and the Police Chief. So Voted. Temporary Fixed Vendor License - NEW 1. Khalil's Express located at 264 Broadway, Taunton (Food Truck). 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 of today's Committees as adopted to reflect the votes as recorded in Committee Reports. So Voted. Council President Pottier stated that the Committee on Police and License met in a special session last evening and he will defer to the Vice-Chair of the Committee, Councilor Borges, for the results of that meeting. Councilor Borges stated that last evening, the Committee on Police and License met and present for the interviews were herself, Councilor Postell, Council President Pottier and Councilor Quintal. She stated that the Committee unanimously voted to recommend conditional offers to candidates, Joseph Erwin Schnupp III and Alexander Leonard Shani, subject to conditions and requirements identified by the Chief on a roll call vote. Council President Pottier stated that he did not take part in the discussion nor the vote and was only there as an observer. Motion was made to give conditional offers to candidates, Joseph Erwin Schnopp III and Alexander Leonard Shani, subject to conditions and requirements identified by the Chief on a roll call vote. On a roll call vote, eight (8) Councilors were present, eight (8) Councilors voted list as read. So Voted. Councilor Postell was absent. Unfinished Business: NONE. Orders, Ordinances and Resolutions: NONE. New Business: Council President Pottier motioned to refer the issue of a MGL, c. 31, §41 hearing to the Council as a Whole in Executive Session to be scheduled for Tuesday, July 23, 2024. So Voted. Council President Pottier stated that he was informed that there is a personal issue that calls for the Council's discussion and perhaps action, which is why he has referred to the Committee as a Whole for an executive session to be scheduled for next Tuesday. List of Documents and Other Exhibits: • Agenda • Mayor's List of Upcoming Community Events-July 16, 2024  8 Meeting adjourned at 7:41 P.M. A true copy: Attest: ~L.~ Krystal L. Rebelo Assistant City Clerk KLR/MAT  9 City of Taunton Municipal Council July 15, 2024 The Committee on Police and License The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Surnrner Street, Taunton, MA 02780 in the ·Chester R Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Jeffrey Postell, Chairman Councilor Larry Quintal Councilor Estele Borges Also Present: Councilor David Pottier ~ ,..._,, ("") --J Alexander Shani, Police Candidate -; ..c::: --<. L- ~-... Blais Musallarn, Police Candidate > c: r11 c r- Joseph Schnupp, Police Candidate ::i::.. _, -nc; ·~· Cl C() ~:2! z {._. -; r11 ..r:: ·-( - (-.t :r 1J '.:;;::;o I __, ~ )> t:Y -,, The meeting was called to order at 6:41 PM. :x ("') rn _J 1. Meet to interview police candidates. The first candidate interviewed was Alexander Shani. Councilor Postell introduced the process and made introductions. Mr. Shani stated that he is a four year Air Force veteran. Ms. Borges asked about his residency and Mr. Shani indicated that he lived in Taunton much of his life, jomed the Air Force at 19 and moved in with his grandmother. She further questioned Mr. Shani who provided additional background information. Mr. Quintal asked Mr. Shani why he is looking to work in Taunton and Mr. Shani stated that he loves the City especially the schools and the people. Mr. Quintal continued to ask questions and Mr. Shani gave additional information. Mr. Postell asked Mr. Shani how he planned to work with diverse people and Mr. Shani stated that he respects and treats all the people the sarne. Questions continued and Mr. Shani answered. The Committee discussed Mr. Shani's interview. The second candidate interviewed was Blais Musallarn. Mr. Postell explained the process to Mr. Musallarn and gave him the opportunity to make an opening statement. Mr. Musallarn stated that he is 38 years old, is hard working, and always had to prove himself. Mr. Quintal asked why he wants to be a cop in Taunton and Mr. Musallarn stated that his wife is from Massachusetts and has lived here for years. He loves the area and Taunton. Mr. Quintal continued to question Mr. Musallarn who provided additional background information. Ms. Borges asked Mr. Musallarn about what stresses him and how he handles it. Mr. Musallarn  .• 10 indicated that not knowing what he's doing causes stress and that he needs to ask for help. Ms. Borges continued to interview Mr. Musallam who expanded on his background. Mr. Postell asked if Mr. Musallam can follow orders and Mr. Musallam noted that in a work environment you follow the chain of command. Further questions were asked and answered. The Committee discussed Mr. Musallam's interview. The third and final candidate interviewed was Joseph (Joe) Schnupp. Mr. Postell opened with coinments and explained the process. Mr. Schnupp stated that he is a Brockton High School graduate. He joined the Army National Guard and was in Iraq until 2009. He worked at the Bristol Department of Corrections and then the State Department of Corrections. Ms. Borges asked Mr. Schnupp to expand on incidents in his history and background. Mr. Schnupp stated that he is now a family man and currently a stay-at-home dad. Ms. Borges asked Mr. Schnupp additional questions and Mr. Schnupp provided information and background. Mr. Postell followed up on Mr. Schunpp's past and Mr. Schnupp stated that having kids changes your perspective. Mr. Postell continued with his questioning. Mr. Quintal asked why Mr. Schnupp wants to work in Taunton and Mr. Schnupp stated that this is where he wants to raise his children. Mr. Quintal followed up with additional questions. The Committee discussed Mr. Schnupp's interview. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to make conditional offers of employment to Mr. Shani and Mr. Schnupp. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to aiijourn the meeting at 8:17 PM So voted. List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: Background packet, Alexander Shani (Confidential) Background packet, Blais Musallam (Confidential) Background packet, Joseph Schnupp (Confidential) CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, JUL 16 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Maggie . Clarke Clerk of Council Committees On behalf of David Pottier REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. ON A ROLL CALL VOTE, EIGHT (8) COUNCILORS WERE PRESENT, EIGHT (8) COUNCILORS VOTED TO GIVE CONDITIONAL Committee on Police and License OFFERS TO ALEXANDER LEONARD SHANI AND JOSEPH ERWIN SCBNUPP, III. COUNCILORJuly 15, 2024 POSTELL WAS ABSENT. Page 2 of2 ~:!..~ KRY{TAL L. REBELO, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK  11 ,___, c::.i City of Taunton ':3 --\ Municipal Council :1 ~~:::--· r· July 16, 2024 ,.___ --- : .. ~ ' t - ' -· C::> --·: ' :::~:..:. ~--. - --,,- -o -·-'- The Committee on Finance and Salaries r·· J? f;-? The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, M.A·"o2780 in tlle Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. Members Present: Councilor Phillip Duarte, Chairman Councilor Estele Borges Members Absent: Councilor Scott Martin Also Present: Patrick Delio Russo, CFO Christine Clymens, Treasurer/Collector Katherine Nunes, Director ofDPW Capital Projects Ian Fortes, City Auditor Gill Enos, Budget Director The meeting was called to order at 5:34 PM. 1. Approve minutes from July 9, 2024. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Duarte to approve. So voted. 2. Review the weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Duarte to approve the payroll warrant in the amount of$1,872,131.90. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Duarte to approve the FY24 accounts payable warrant in the amount o/$4, 774,988.95. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Duarte to approve the FY25 accounts payable warrant in the amount o/$118,855.91. So voted. 3. Meet with the Finance Department to review the FY2023 audit and ACFR submission. Mr. Dello Russo stated that the audit has been submitted to the GFOA.  12 Mr. Fortes stated that the outside auditors started the first week of June and in July they started on their single audit statements. For the financial statements, the bulk of the work was done in October and completed in March of 2024. Once the audit was complete, it was submitted to the team for review and they gave their signoff. Ms. Borges noted that in the introductory section, there is a summary letter from Mayor 0' Connell and she encouraged others to review that. 4. Meet with the Finance Department for the Fiscal Year 2024 End-of-Year Report. Mr. Dello Russo gave a presentation and reviewed the FY24 fiscal accomplishments. Ms. Nunes reviewed the budget vs. actual on the DPW Capital Improvement Program. Mr. Enos covered the status of the Capital Improvement Plan for public building projects. Ms. Clymens explained the three year revenue comparison and noted that the largest increase in FY24 was in investment earnings. Ms. Nunes covered the Water Enterprise Fund revenue vs. expense and noted that they are still collecting more money than they are spending. Similarly, she covered the Sewer Enterprise Fund revenue vs. expense and noted that both revenues and expenses had increased. Mr. Fortes reviewed the General Government expense update and noted that it was 15% below budget. The Reserve Account was only 27% utilized. Maintenance of Tax Possession was reduced since the MPP is covering that cost. Mr. Dello Russo stated that Public Safety came in at 6% under budget. Ms. Nunes stated that DPW was within budget except for Snow and Ice. Mr. Enos reviewed Health and Human Services and Culture and Recreation and noted that much of the turnback for Human Services was because there was a vacant position for a portion of the year and not all Veterans benefits were needed. He also stated that the Library met State certification. Mr. Dello Russo discussed Fixed Costs and explained that insurance is budgeted as if every employee will have a family plan. The remainder of the presentation showed photos of ongoing work and accomplishments. Ms. Borges asked what improvements had been completed at the Animal Shelter and Mr. Enos stated that they had reconfigured the office area and made roof repairs. Ms. Borges asked about the decrease in Tax Foreclosure and Mr. Dello Russo stated that the Marketable Properties Program allows this to be split into Sale of Real Estate and Economic Development. Ms. Borges asked if the School Committee is still waiting for a report on Coyle and Mr. Dello Russo stated that the improvements being done now will need to be completed regardless of the outcome. Mr. Duarte asked about interest for long term debt and Mr. Della Russo explained that the budget is finalized in September and sometimes the debt and interest charges change in October or November. Mr. Quintal commented on the Animal Shelter and Mr. Dello Russo stated that this year they are going to make an extra effort to make sure that everyone understands the CIP opportunity and process. Committee on Finance and Salaries July 16, 2024 Page 2 o/3  13 Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Duarte to adjourn at 5:58 P.M So voted. List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Finance and Salaries Meeting Minutes from 719124 Payroll Warrant #9 FY 24 Bill Invoice Warrant #211 FY 25 Bill Invoice Warrant #8 List of items over $100,000 Presentation: Fiscal Year 2024 Review CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, JUL 16 2024 11A IA ~ ~ f atJu- R / ~:~:2~~ke IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Clerk of Council Committees REPORTSACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONSADOPTED. ~~ ,( fJ,kb:r- KRYSTAL L. REBELO ASSISTANT CITY CLERK Committee on Finance and Salaries July 16, 2024 Page 3 of3  14 City of Taunton Municipal Council \ _, ~ July 16, 2024 ,-,.·- -:--:· \1 I I J> i:.:.:. ~ . ..\ ·~:. ~·~ The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills ,\ :.J.'~· r • ; -·I ::··. .- - •::-2 CJ CO , .~ •< The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, I\?fA. 0''.2780-{:J the·;-,") Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. n ~~ _ -~: ,_J I • N - r'l :;J .. ?·r Members Present: Councilor Barry Sanders, Chairman ;::i;:. Councilor Kelly Dooner Councilor Phillip Duarte Also Present: Arsenic Chaves, Safety Officer Michael Patneaude, City Engineer Kevin Scanlon, City Planner The meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM. 1. Approve minutes from July 9, 2024. Motion by Ms. Dooner and seconded by Mr. Duarte to approve. So voted. 2. Meet to discuss No Truck Traffic on Fremont Street. Ms. Borges explained that she had referred this matter to the Committee because she had received some complaints from residents. Officer Chaves put on more patrols in the area and there have been no more complaints. She said that she has since learned that this is a State matter. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to discharge from the Committee. So voted. The Committee went out of order and moved to item number 5 on the agenda. 5. Meet to discuss a proposed ordinance for a yield sign at the intersection of West Britannia Street and Danforth Street. Mr. Sanders read a letter from Officer Chaves dated 2/8/24.  15 Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to approve the request and refer to the City Solicitor to draft for a first reading. So voted. 3. Meet to discuss the appointment of the representative of the Golf Course Commission where the Ordinance and Rules of the Council do not coincide. Mr. Sanders stated that the Law Department is working on this and they should have something to consider in a couple weeks. Motion by Ms. Dooner and seconded by Mr. Duarte to table for three weeks. So voted. 4. Meet with the City Planner to discuss Ordinance section 440-706 Signs pertaining to reader boards. Ms. Borges stated that reader boards have become very popular and she has received questions on why some are allowed and some are not. Mr. Scanlon explained the sign ordinance as it applies to reader boards. Businesses are allowed one freestanding sign per lot or they can obtain a variance. The purpose is to detail the names of the businesses that are there. They are allowed up to half of the sign to be a reader board. He stated that is hasn't really been an issue but there was one business that wanted to have an all LED freestanding sign and another that wanted to go beyond the 50%. He explained that there are restrictions on what they can do in the Ordinance so as not to distract drivers. Mr. Scanlon stated that he does not believe there is a problem. Mr. Sanders asked Mr. Scanlon to explain what a freestanding sign is and Mr. Scanlon stated that it is not on the building. The maximum size is based on the size of the building up to a maximum of 200 square feet. Ms. Borges asked who would do the enforcement and Mr. Scanlon confirmed that it is Bob Pirozzi. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Ms. Dooner to discharge this from the Committee. There was further discussion on reader board functionality and Mr. Scanlon indicated that he would be coming back. So voted. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded Ms. Dooner to adjourn the meeting at 6:19 PM So voted. Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills July 16, 2024 Page2 of3  16 List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: Meeting minutes from the Committee on Ordinances and Emolled Bills from 719124 Letter from Arsenio Chaves dated 2/8/24 CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, JUL 16 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ~'C.~ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTSACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONSADOPTED. ~:t~~ KRYSTAL L. REBELO ASSISTANT CITY CLERK Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills July 16, 2024 Page3 of3  17 City of Taunton Municipal Council July 16, 2024 C) -I The Committee of the Whole I :.t.: r-•- -u~ - The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA :.Q27~ in tire ·"\~. ~-~ ..;:..... Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. ~ ~ u '~, ~-Pl ....... ,, ~;;:;o Councilors Present: Council President David Pottier 1;-) !"Tl Councilor John McCaul --' Councilor Estele Borges Councilor Scott Martin Councilor Barry Sanders Councilor Lawrence Quintal Councilor Phillip Duarte Councilor Kelly Dooner Councilors Absent: Councilor Jeffrey Postell Also Present: John DeSousa, North.county Group The meeting was called to order at 6:26 PM. 1. Remarks from the Chair There were no remarks. 2. Approve minutes from July 9, 2024. Motion by Mr. McCaul and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve. So voted. 3. Meet to discuss the requested two-year extension of a Special Permit for 122 Winter Street, a mixed use development consisting of 36 residential units and 600 square feet of commercial space located in the Highway Business and Urban Residential District. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to invite the party in. So voted. Mr. DeSousa explained that they had obtained approval for the 36 units at 122 Winter Street and part of the process was to notify the MBTA so they have a chance at the property before a building permit is issued. The MBTA has not responded and they are now ready to proceed  18 to at least get a foundation permit. The time to start the project will have lapsed so they are looking for a two year extension to fmalize all the architectural plans, obtain a permit, and start construction. Mr. Quintal stated that he sees no reason not to grant this extension. Ms. Borges stated that she is in favor of granting the extension for two years. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. McCaul to grant the extension for two years. So voted. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded by Ms. Borges to adjourn at 6:31 PM So voted. List ofDocuments and Other Exhibits Used: Committee of Whole meeting minutes of 7/9/24 CITY OF TAUNTON .· ·' Respectfully submitted, JUL 16 2024 ~ E. CfM_b-z__ IN MUl~lCIPAL COUNCIL Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. ~~A,<.~ ~iii~ L. REBELO ASSISTANT CITY CLERK Committee of the Whole July 16, 2024 Page2 o/2