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City Council

Regular Meeting

Taunton, MA · December 17, 2024

AgendaMinutes

Minutes

City of'Taunton !:M.unicipa{Council!:M.eeting !:M.inutes City 1fa{{, 15 Summer Street, 'Taunton, !il(ft In the Chester~ !:M.artin !:M.unicipa{CounciC Cliam6ers - !:M.inutes, (})ecem6er 17, 2024 at 7:57 O'cfoc~/P.!:M.. a'Ced'ge of)f.Ckgiance ~gufar :Meeting :Mayor Sfiaunna £. O'Conne([presitfing (Jlrayer was offereti 6y tne :Mayor (Jlresent at ro([ ca([were: Councifors Coute, CJ>uarte, Cl'oste([, Q!tinta~ Santfers, Cl'ottier, :Martin, <Borges anti:McCau( Record of December 10, 2024 meeting was read by title and approved. So Voted. Opportunity for input by the general public. April Funches, 20 Kings Court, Taunton, Taunton Diversity Network, expressed her appreciation for those who attended the fundraiser at Talisa's on Main. She expressed gratitude to Councilor Sanders for organizing the event, as well as Talisa's on Main for hosting the event. Melissa Langham, T.R.U.E. Collective, expressed gratitude to Councilor Sanders for organizing the event. Mayor O'Connell thanked Ms. Funches and Ms. Langham for their words. She stated that Councilor Sanders organized an event that brought together organizations, businesses and the community to support some of the local organizations that do work for this community. Councilor Sanders thanked everyone who participated and that close to $4,000.00 was raised for various nonprofits in the City. Motion was made to go out of the regular order of business to Communications from the Mayor. So Voted. Communications from the Mavor: Mayor 0' Connell invited the interested parties into the enclosure for the Road and Sidewalk Recap Presentation. The parties introduced themselves as Tony Abreu, the Assistant Department of Public Works Commissioner, Fred Comaglia, the Department of Public Works Commissioner, Patrick Delio Russo, Chief Financial Officer, and Katherine Nunes, Capital Project Director. Mr. Comaglia stated that they will be providing an update on the paving and sidewalk work that has been going on. He discussed that during the last 5 years, Mayor O'Connell has prioritized road and sidewalk improvements by increasing City allocations and investing over $17,200,000.00 through the Capital Project Program. Mr. Delio Russo used a slide presentation to discuss the improvements of the road and sidewalk infrastructure during 2024, as well as a preview of the 2025 construction season infrastructure improvements. He stated that the upcoming 2 Capital Improvement Plan will include $7,200,000.00 for roads and sidewalks. Ms. Nunes stated that there are two hundred seven (207) Chapter 90 accepted streets and they have completed about twenty (20) percent of those roads. Mr. Dello Russo discussed that $10,279,000.92 has been invested to reconstruct 7.7 miles of sidewalks over the last five years. Mayor O'Connell commended Mr. Cornaglia and his team for the work they have completed on the roads and sidewalks. Mayor O'Connell asked Mr. Cornaglia for clarification regarding coordination for traffic concerns and detours. Mr. Cornaglia stated that they have a yearly meeting in February with the various utilities and the Police Department to discuss the potential traffic concerns and detours. Mayor O'Connell stated that this information is communicated through the City's Facebook page, website and the various stakeholders. Councilor Martin requested that this information can be posted on the City's website for the residents. Numerous Councilors asked questions and commended the Team for their work. The City Clerk read a communication from Mayor Shaunna O'Connell regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2029 Capital, Economic and Community Investment Program. Mayor O'Connell stated that there will be a presentation regarding this matter on January 21, 2025. Motion was made to refer to the Committee of the Council as a Whole. So Voted. Mayor 0' Connell stated that there is a list of community updates in the agenda packet. She highlighted the Elks Free Veterans Lunch, the Winter Wonderland Event and the Free Cardboard Disposal from December 14, 2024 until January 1, 2025. Motion was made to revert to the regular order of business. So Voted. Hearing: Upon the application submitted by Sean McGinley, Territory Sales Representative, Superior Plus Propane, on behalf of the City of Taunton, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for a NEW Flammable Storage License to be located at 90 County Street, Taunton, MA 02780 to store 4,500 Gallons of Class 2 liquid propane in aboveground storage tanks at which time and place all persons, parties, or corporations interested therein may appear and be heard in relation thereto. Motion was made to open the hearing and continue until December 23, 2024. So Voted. Upon the petition of John Garanito, President, Hawthorne Development, Inc., 174 Dean Street, Unit #3, Taunton, MA 02780 for the acceptance of Crowley Lane as a public way in the City of Taunton. Motion was made to open the hearing and invite the interested party into the enclosure. So Voted. The City Clerk read a communication from the Vice Chairman of the Taunton Planning Board stating that at their regularly scheduled meeting held on November 5, 2024, the Taunton Planning Board voted to send a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council to accept Crowley Lane as a public way in the City. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Mr. Garanito discussed that Crowley Lane is off of Worcester Street and is 800 feet. He stated that it serves nine (9) single family homes. He stated that the road was constructed according to the Planning Board Rules and Regulations and they have deemed it complete. 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. 3 Appointments: Reappointment of Jillian Joyce to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two (2) years expiring December 2026. Motion was made to approve. So Voted. Reappointment of Melissa Oliveira to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two (2) years expiring December 2026. Motion was made to approve. So Voted. Communications from Citv Officers: Com. from the Fire Chief regarding a change in the Massachusetts Civil Service process for the grading of promotional exams. For the recent Deputy Chief exam, the Taunton Fire Department adopted the weighted/graded Assessment Center Exam. With the Lieutenant and Captain promotional exams scheduled for next spring, the appointing authority must approve the percentages used in grading of the scores. He recommends that the grading system be weighed in the following manner. For the Lieutenant Exam: Technical Knowledge: 40%; Situational Judgement Test: 20%; Assessment Center: 20%; Experience, Certifications, Training & Experience: 20%. For the Captain Exam: Technical Knowledge: 35%, Situational Judgement Test: 20%, Assessment Center: 25%, Experience, Certifications, Training & Experience: 20%. Motion was made to approve. So Voted. Com. from the Fire Chief requesting to accept gifted rescue equipment from the MBTA with the New Bedford Fire Department acting as the fiscal agent. Motion was made to accept the donations. So Voted. Com. from the Director and Assistant Director of Human Services regarding the conclusion of the 2024 Annual Open Enrollment Process by the Taunton Department of Human Services/Council on Aging. Mayor O'Connell commended the Team for their dedication and thanked Councilor Borges for the time she volunteered and that it has been noted to file. Councilor Sanders motioned to include a copy of this letter in the personnel files of the mentioned staff members. 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 Zoning Ordinance for property at 425 John Quincy Adams Road (parcel 18-21 & 18-19). The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on this proposal on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 5:30pm at City Hall. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Com. from the City Solicitor regarding Assessor Parcel 63-1. Motion was made to authorize the conveyance of Assessor's Parcel 63-1 to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game in consideration of $106,026.00 or its appraised value if different from said sum and to rescind the motion made on July 2°d. So Voted. . Communications from Citizens: NONE. 4 Petitions: Class II License - RENEWAL 1. B&J Auto Sales located at 632 Winthrop Street, Taunton 2. Northeast Auto Exchange Inc. located at 406 Tremont Street, Taunton 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 for the Committee on Finance and Salaries, the Committee on Public Property, the Committee of the Council as a Whole, the Committee on Police and License items #1, #2 A and B, item #2 D and E, items #3, 4 and 5. So Voted. Councilor Postell stated that the Committee on Police and License met this evening to discuss item #2 C, which is the Amaro Family Auto Sales, located at 515 Middleboro Avenue, East Taunton on a petition for the Class II License. He stated that the Committee voted 3-0 to approve the renewal. Councilor Pottier asked if there was a final sign off taking place on Thursday for the project. Councilor Postell stated that the applicant advised him today that there was an outstanding item regarding a manhole cover needing to be set, which is scheduled to be completed on Wednesday. He stated that at that time, the Engineer will have all of the sign offs completed and the reports will be submitted to the City Planner for review. Councilor Pottier requested that the approval be contingent on the successful sign off this week. Councilor Postell motioned for the Committee on Police and License to put forth a positive recommendation to renew the license for this location, contingent upon the successful completion of the outstanding item and have the as-builts submitted to the City Planner. On discussion, Councilor Sanders asked what the next step is in the event that the item is not successfully completed. Councilor Pottier stated that the license will not be conveyed until the item is signed off. Councilor Borges stated in speaking with City Officials, she was told that the item would be inspected tomorrow, however, the sign off would not happen until Thursday. Motion was made to issue the license once all of the conditions are met and the as-built is signed off by the City Planner. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted in favor. The motion passes. Unfinished Business: The City Clerk read a communication from Animal Control Officer regarding an updated report as motioned at the June 11, 2024 Kennel License Hearing for R&R Beagles, 54 Turner St., East Taunton, MA. Mayor O'Connell stated that Mr. Massa conveyed to her that they have complied with all conditions and are still working on finishing the roof and that he is satisfied with what has been done so far. Motion was made to receive and place on file. So Voted. Councilor Borges requests an update on the Charter as previously requested on the following dates: January 23, 2024: Councilor Borges stated that on November 22, 2023, the City Council met regarding the Charter and there was a motion made to have the Law Department and the Chief Election Officer cure some of the 5 challenges ofsome of the sections of the Charter. Councilor Borges motioned to invite the Law Department and the Election Officer in to give the City Council an update during the Committee of the Council as a Whole as to where they are with those challenges and where the ballot question is. So Voted. Councilor Dooner was opposed. April 30, 2024: Councilor McCaul motioned to request an update from the Mayor's Office regarding the City Charter. So Voted. June 18, 2024: Com. from the City Solicitor stating that on April 30th, the Council voted to request an update regarding the Charter. The Law Department in consultation with the Mayor's Office and pertinent City personnel has been engaged in an internal review of the proposed charter. The intent of this review is to identify and address any substantive issues before presenting it to the Municipal Council, for renewed consideration as a home rule petition to the legislature. They expect this review to be completed in the coming weeks, at which time the proposed charter will be presented to the Council for its consideration, with a full disclosure of all revisions that are being suggested. Motion was made to refer to the Committee of the Council as a Whole. So Voted. On September 10, 2024: Councilor Borges requested an update on the charter. Mayor 0 'Connell stated that this can be provided. Councilor Borges requests this discussion in Council of the Whole in the next 30 days. Councilor Borges requested that the City Solicitor provide an update on when they will see a revised City Charter. Mayor 0' Connell stated that the Advisory Group is working on this and that there has been slow progress and they are anticipating having something to present to the Council within the first quarter of the New Year. Councilor Borges asked who the members of the Advisory Group are. Mayor O'Connell stated that the members are Councilor Pottier, Councilor Duarte, AJ Marshall, Attorney Costa, Attorney Bond, Patrick Dello Russo, Tom Gay and Amy Kazlauskas, Orders, Ordinances and Resolutions: Ordinance for a third reading to be ordained on a roll call vote AN ORDINANCE REQUIRING THE REMOVAL OF SNOW AND ICE Chapter 383: Streets and Sidewalks Article I: General Regulations Section 383-15: Removal of snow and ice required. Be it ordained by the Municipal Council of the City of Taunton and by authority of the same as follows: Section 383-15 of Article I of Chapter 383 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of Taunton, as amended, is hereby further amended by deleting said existing section and replacing the same with the following:- 6 § 383-15 Removal of snow and ice required. The owner of any building or lot of land bordering on any sidewalk on any public or private way located in any area designated as a business district, central business district or highway business district by any zoning ordinance of the City shall cause the snow and ice to be removed from such sidewalk. The owner shall remove snow from the entire width of the sidewalk. If the snow ceases falling in the day it shall be removed within four hours thereafter, and if it ceases falling in the nighttime it shall be removed before 11 :00 a.m. of the succeeding day, and all ice formed upon any sidewalk in such streets as may be so designated, or otherwise deposited thereon, shall be removed within 24 hours after the same is so formed or deposited unless within such time the sidewalk is otherwise rendered safe for travel. The penalty for the violation of this section shall be a fine not in excess of $50 for each violation. All ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage. Motion was made to approve on a roll call vote. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted in favor. So Voted. Order to be approved on a roll call vote Order to Expand the Allowable Expenditures for the Veterans Department Gift Account Ordered That: City ofTaunton's established Veterans Department Gift Account will be amended to add the following as allowable expenditures: • Dependent care • Veteran Events and Services Motion was made to approve on a roll call vote. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, nine (9) Councilors voted in favor. So Voted. Order to be approved on a roll call vote Order Authorizing a Housing Development Incentive Program Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40V for Premises at 74 Weir Street (Parcel ID 118-7) L Ordered: The proposed development of the property located at 74 Weir Street (Parcel 66-347) into a 36 unit multifamily community within the Downtown HDIP District ("Project"): (A.) Is consistent with and can reasonably be expected to benefit significantly from the City's plans relative to the Project property tax exemption; and, (B.) Together with all other projects previously certified and located in the same project HD zone, shall not overburden the City's supporting resources; and, (C.) Together with the municipal resources committed to the Project, shall, if certified, 7 have a reasonable chance of increasing residential growth, diversity of housing supply, supporting economic development and promoting neighborhood stabilization in 1 of the City's housing development zones. Ordered: In accordance with M.G.L. c. 40V, Section 4, the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Taunton, be and is hereby authorized to submit a proposal to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) for determination of the Project as a certified housing development in such form and with such information as the EOHLC prescribes. Ordered: In accordance with M.G.L. c. 40V and 760 CMR 66.00, the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Taunton, be and hereby is authorized to negotiate and execute a Housing Development Incentive Program, Tax Increment Exemption Agreement with RDA Properties Holding, LLC and its successors and assigns, pertaining to the Project, incorporating the tax exemption amounts set forth in the schedule attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. Motion was made to approve on a roll call vote. On a roll call vote, nine (9) Councilors were present, eight (8) Councilors voted in favor, Councilor Coute voted in opposition. The motion passes. New Business: Councilor Borges motioned to refer to the Committee on Americans with Disabilities Compliance regarding an update on the completions for 2024 and invite Kevin Scanlon. So Voted. List of Documents and Other Exhibits: • Agenda • Mayor's List of Upcoming Community Events-December 17, 2024 • PowerPoint Presentation- Road and Sidewalk Recap Meeting adjourned at 8:59 P.M. A true copy: Attest: JLL/MAT 8 City of Taunton Municipal Council December 17, 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 ~ ("") Councilor Scott Martin ~ -i -< ~ .., '=' a::O c ("") r-~ n 'Z -I N mo ::;o fT! The meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM. _, a 2 w :;.:;:~ -< u)< ("") 3'.: )> of"ll ,.-- l> -,,o ....,., rri 1. Approve minutes from December 10, 2024. . .:;u ~ CJ ::s:; w rri r: Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve. So voted. 2. 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 amounto/$1,804,302.91. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the accounts payable warrant in the amounto/$8,873,075.57. So voted. 3. Meet for the continued discussion on Councilor Borges' motion: "To refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries a discussion of the Committee on Finance and Salaries approving all transfers." / Ms. Borges stated that she spoke to the City Solicitor regarding Chapter 44, Section 33B and that the matter can be disposed. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to dispose of the matter. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Martin to adjourn at 5:37 PM So voted. 9 List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Finance and Salaries Meeting Minutes from 12/10/24 Payroll Warrant #97 Bill ID.voice Warrant #96 List of items over $100,000 Respectfully submitted, DEC 1 7 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees PORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. ~LE~ ITYCLERK Committee on Finance and Salaries December 17, 2024 Page2of2 10 City of Taunton Municipal Council December 17, 2024 -I c:::> The Committee on Police and License I,., )> c :l'; -1 0 rn ('""l N l...J The meeting was held at Taunton City Hall, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MQ27~ in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers. p -;;;. )> r-1 A) ...D •• Members Present: Councilor Jeffrey Postell :A W CJ1 Councilor Estele Borges Councilor Larry Quintal Also Present: Detective Peter MacDougall Eduardo Guardiola, Director of Compliance & Security, Tree Market Lisa Bond, Assistant City Solicitor The meeting was called to order at 5 :40 PM. 1. Approve minutes from December 3, 2024. Motion by Mr. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve. So voted. 2. Meet on the petitions for the renewal of the following Class II Licenses: a. ACJ\.ffi Fabrication & Equipment Leasing, LLC at 91 Arlington Street b. Advantage Automotive at 600 Winthrop Street c. Amaro Family Auto Sales at 515 Middleboro Avenue, East Taunton d. Taunton Tire & Auto Service, Inc. at 491 West Water Street e. Winthrop Street Motors, Inc. at 347 Winthrop Street Mr. Postell read the list, excluding item "c", Amaro Family Auto. Detective MacDougall gave a positive recommendation. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve the list (except for "c"). So voted. On item "c", Amaro Family Auto, Mr. Postell read an email from City Planner Kevin Scanlon stating that he has not yet received the as built. Mr. Postell reported that he had spoken with Mr. Amaro and that Mr. Amaro told him that all work was complete with the exception of a manhole cover which was scheduled to be completed the next day. The as built will be submitted once all is complete. 11 Ms. Borges stated that she has gone by the site and has spoken with the engineer who has not released the as built and won't be able to until Thursday when all the work is complete. She stated that she is comfortable moving it forward. Mr. Quintal agreed. Mr. Duarte clarified that this is the renewal for the entire next year and asked the chair to pull it out in the full council. Mr. Sanders agreed with Mr. Duarte's concern around extending for a full year. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve the Class II License for Amaro 's Family Auto Sales at 515 Middleboro Ave in East Taunton. So voted. 3. Meet on the petition for the renewal of the Class IV License for ET Auto, LLC dba Euro Tech Auto at 420 Broadway Detective MacDougall gave a positive recommendation. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve. So voted. 4. Meet on the petition for the renewal of the Hours of Operations License for Joe's Diner, Inc. at 51 Broadway to be open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Detective MacDougall gave a positive recommendation. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve. So voted. 5. Meet for an update on the marijuana license renewal for Tree Market Taunton, LLC dba Greatest Hits Cannabis Co. - Marijuana Retailer License at 9 Cape Road. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to invite in the interested parties. So voted. __ _ Detective MacDougall stated that this was originally renewed until December 31 because of a dispute with the landlord. He believes that is a civil matter. Ms. Borges clarified that she is not related to Dennis Borges, the landlord in this matter. She filed a disclosure with the City and provided a copy of that. Motion by Mr. Quintal and seconded by Mr. Postell to make that part of the record So voted. Committee on Police and License December 17, 2024 Page2of4 12 Mr. Guardiola stated that the lease agreement is a civil matter and there are still ongoing negotiations for a lease. The ultimate goal is to stay and continue doing business. Ms. Borges asked if they currently have a valid license from the CCC. Mr. Guardiola stated that they have a valid license and had requested an extension. He provided a document that showed that that their Taunton license is active and has been approved for extension. They are currently working on their positive impact plan. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to make the document from Mr. Guardiola part of the record. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to make the document from the CCC part of the record. So voted. Ms. Borges asked if there has been any change in management. Mr. Guardiola stated that ownership remains the same but they have added a Board. This was approved by the CCC. Ms. Borges stated that she believes that this is a civil matter. Mr. Guadiola noted that if they did not have an active license they would not be able to move product. Mr. Postell asked for the names of the owners. Mr. Guardiola stated that they are Rhett Jordan and Joe Villatico. Mr. Postell asked ifthere are any requirements or disqualifiers for management and Detective MacDougall stated that a background check must be completed. He indicated that one person has a legal battle but there has been no conviction. Mr. Guardiola stated that when there is a disposition of the case they must notify the CCC. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to approve to the end of the licensing period, June 30, 2025. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to refer to the Committee of the Whole a discussion about forming a committee dealing with cannabis within the Council. So voted. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to invite the City Clerk, Detective MacDougall, and the Law Department to discuss the license application process. Attorney Bond stated that this could be part of the Ordinance discussion. Ms. Borges agreed. Ms. Borges withdrew her motion. Mr. Postell asked stated that it seems that when there are issues it is dependent on ownership to do the right thing. Detective MacDougall noted that background checks are completed on a yearly basis. Motion by Ms. Borges and seconded by Mr. Quintal to adjourn the meeting at 6:07 PM So voted. Committee on Police and License December 17, 2024 Page3 of4 13 List o(Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Police and License meeting minutes from December 3, 2024 Disclosure of appearance of conflict of interest (Estele Borges) Copy of screen showing license extension request status for Tree Market Taunton Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Public Record Request CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, DEC 172024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees REPORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. FOR ITEMS #1, #2 A AND B, ITEM #2 D AND E, ITEMS #3, 4 AND 5. SO VOTED. ON ITEM #2 C, WHICH IS THE AMARO FAMILY AUTO SALES, LOCATED AT 515 MIDDLEBORO AVENUE, EAST TAUNTON ON A PETITION FOR THE CLASS II LICENSE, MOTION WAS MADE TO ISSUE THE LICENSE ONCE ALL OF THE CONDITIONS ARE MET AND THE AS-BUILT IS SIGNED OFF BY THE CITY PLANNER. ON A ROLL CALL VOTE, NINE (9) COUNCILORS WERE PRESENT, (9) COUNCILORS VOTED IN FAVOR. THE MOTION PASSES. ~.~ T~~:J:~ Committee on Police and License December 17, 2024 Page4of4 14 City of Taunton Municipal Council December 17, 2024 The Committee on Public Property 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 David Pottier, Chairman Councilor Scott Martin I I 0 rn c-, Councilor Jeffrey Postell N Councilor Phillip Duarte w Councilor Christopher Coute )> Also Present: Jim Howland, Assistant Director, OECD Jay Pateakos, Executive Director, OECD The meeting was called to order at 6:11PM. 1. Approve minutes from November 26, 2024. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded by Mr. Martin to approve. So voted. 2. Meet for the continued discussion on the request to declare lots as surplus: a. Map 84 I Lot 61 Richmond Street b. Map 71/Lot32 Richmond Street Mr. Howland explained that this was discussed a few months ago. At that time, Councilor Duarte had asked for a conservation restriction to be placed on the properties. They were not ready to do that at that point. Now they have worked it out and need permission to put these lots in front of the Conservation Commission. Mr. Duarte asked if the Conservation Commission would retain ownership and Mr. Howland stated that they are hoping it will go to Wildlands Trust but for now the Conservation Commission will retain it. Mr. Coute asked about the plan for this land. Mr. Howland explained that they are developing along 44 and reserving the lower lots all for conservation. Ms. Borges asked if this will permanently protect the land and Mr. Howland confirmed. 15 Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Mr. Postell to declare parcels 71-32 and 84-61 as surplus for the purpose of transfer to the Conservation Commission for a conservation restriction. So voted. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded by Mr. Duarte to adjourn at 6: 17 pm. So voted. List o{Documents and Other Exhibits Used: The Committee on Public Property Meeting Minutes of 10/29/24 CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, DEC 1 7 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees ORTS ACCEPTED. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED. Committee on Public Property December 17, 2024 Page 2 o/2 16 City of Taunton Municipal Council December 17, 2024 The Committee of the Whole 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, Chairman Councilor John McCaul Councilor Estele Borges Councilor Scott Martin n Councilor Barry Sanders ~ .c:: -1 --{ 0 -< ;n Councilor Lawrence Quintal )> rT'I ~f11 c: ('"') Councilor Jeffrey Postell x rri.D ;:-) -I rv 7.lf'1 Councilor Phillip Duarte 0 w ::w;:- Councilor Christopher Coute -; -< 2 c.n< :r )> orri 0 r )> .,.,o "'11 r""1 -P. ::0 n ::.-r;; w !"Tl The meeting was called to order at 6: 18 PM. Ul 1. Remarks from the Chair Mr. Pottier gave his thanks to the Council. 2. Approve minutes from December 3, 2024. Motion by Mr. McCaul and seconded by Mr. Postell to approve. So voted. 3. Meet in executive session pursuantto MGL Chapter 30A §21, reason number 3: "To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining or litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigating position of the public body and the chair so declares" to discuss the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Mashpee W ampanoag Tribe. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Mr. McCaul to enter into executive session. So voted on a roll call. Motion by Mr. Duarte and seconded by Mr. McCaul to come out of executive session. So voted on a roll call. 17 Mr. Pottier stated that two votes were taken in executive session other than the vote to come out of executive session. Motion by Mr. Postell and seconded by Mr. Sanders to adjourn at 7:52 PM So voted. List ofDocuments and Other Exhibits Used: Committee of the Whole meeting minutes of 12/3/24 CITY OF TAUNTON Respectfully submitted, DEC 1 7 2024 IN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees Committee of the Whole December 17, 2024 Page2 of2

Agenda

MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA CHESTER R. MARTIN MUNICIPAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 15 SUMMER STREET, TAUNTON, MA 02780 City Clerk's Office DECEMBER 17, 2024-7:00 PM Notice of Posting Time: //) :$!)!}/fl PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE INVOCATION Date:./;) ·/J ·$tJJ 'f ROLL CALL Jt, READING OF THE RECORDS FROM DECEMBER 10, 2024 PUBLIC INPUT • Comments will be received for the record • Please state your name and address • Please limit comments to 3 minutes or less • Supplemental written comments may also be provided • Comments should be addressed to the body as a whole and pertain to the business of the City HEARING #1: Upon the application submitted by Sean McGinley, Territory Sales Representative, Superior Plus Propane, on behalf of the City of Taunton, 15 Summer Street, Taunton, MA 02780 for a NEW Flammable Storage License to be located at 90 County Street, Taunton, MA 02780 to store 4,500 Gallons of Class 2 liquid propane in aboveground storage tanks at which time and place all persons, parties, or corporations interested therein may appear and be heard in relation thereto. • HEARING WILL NEED TO BE CONTINUED TO THE DECEMBER 23, 2024 COUNCIL MEETING HEARING #2: Upon the petition of John Garanito, President, Hawthorne Development, Inc., 174 Dean Street, Unit #3, Taunton, MA 02780 for the acceptance of Crowley Lane as a public way in the City of Taunton. • Com. from Vice Chairman, Taunton Planning Board - Submitting a positive recommendation • Map of Street COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR • Road and Sidewalk Recap Presentation • Com. from Mayor Shaunna O'Connell - Fiscal Year 2025-2029 Capital, Economic and Community Investment Program • Community Update APPOINTMENTS • Reappointment of Jillian Joyce to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two (2) years expiring December 2026. • Reappointment of Melissa Oliveira to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two (2) years expiring December 2026. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY OFFICERS Pg. 1 Com. from Fire Chief - Requesting Approval of Grading System for Exams Pg.2 Com. from Fire Chief - Requesting Approval of Gift Equipment Pg. 3 Com. from Director and Assistant Director of Human Services - Submitting Recap of the 2024 Annual Open Enrollment Process Results Pg.4 Com. from Chairman, Taunton Planning Board - Notifying of a Public Hearing Pg. 5-6 Com. from City Solicitor - Requesting a Vote Regarding Assessor Parcel 63-1, 25.86 Acres COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS - NONE PETITIONS Class II License - RENEWAL 1. B&J Auto Sales located at 632 Winthrop Street, Taunton 2. Northeast Auto Exchange Inc. located at 406 Tremont Street, Taunton COMMITTEE REPORTS UNFINISHED BUSINESS • Com. from Animal Control Officer - Submitting Updated Report as Motioned at the June 11, 2024 Kennel License Hearing for R&R Beagles, 54 Turner St., East Taunton, MA • Councilor Borges requests an update on the Charter as previously requested on the following dates: January 23, 2024: Councilor Borges stated that on November 22, 2023, the City Council met regarding the Charter and there was a motion made to have the Law Department and the Chief Election Officer cure some of the challenges ofsome of the sections of the Charter. Councilor Borges motioned to invite the Law Department and the Election Officer in to give the City Council an update during the Committee of the Council as a Whole as to where they are with those challenges and where the ballot question is. So Voted. Councilor Dooner was opposed. April 30, 2024: Councilor McCaul motioned to request an update from the Mayor's Office regarding the City Charter. So Voted. June 18, 2024: Com. from the City Solicitor stating that on April 30th, the Council voted to request an update regarding the Charter. The Law Department in consultation with the Mayor's Office and pertinent City personnel has been engaged in an internal review of the proposed charter. The intent of this review is to identify and address any substantive issues before presenting it to the Municipal Council, for renewed consideration as a home rule petition to the legislature. They expect this review to be completed in the coming weeks, at which time the proposed charter will be presented to the Council for its consideration, with a full disclosure of all revisions that are being suggested. Motion was made to refer to the Committee of the Council as a Whole. So Voted. On September 10, 2024: Councilor Borges requested an update on the charter. Mayor 0 'Connell stated that this can be provided. Councilor Borges requests this discussion in Council of the Whole in the next 30 days. ORDERS, ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS Ordinance (or a third reading to be ordained on a roll call vote AN ORDINANCE REQUIRING THE REMOVAL OF SNOW AND ICE Chapter 383: Streets and Sidewalks Article I: General Regulations Section 383-15: Removal of snow and ice required. Be it ordained by the Municipal Council of the City of Taunton and by authority of the same as follows: Section 383-15 of Article I of Chapter 383 of the Revised Ordinances of the City of Taunton, as amended, is hereby further amended by deleting said existing section and replacing the same with the following:- § 383-15 Removal of snow and ice required. The owner of any building or lot of land bordering on any sidewalk on any public or private way located in any area designated as a business district, central business district or highway business district by any zoning ordinance of the City shall cause the snow and ice to be removed from such sidewalk. The owner shall remove snow from the entire width of the sidewalk. If the snow ceases falling in the day it shall be removed within four hours thereafter, and if it ceases falling in the nighttime it shall be removed before 11 :00 a.m. of the succeeding day, and all ice formed upon any sidewalk in such streets as may be so designated, or otherwise deposited thereon, shall be removed within 24 hours after the same is so formed or deposited unless within such time the sidewalk is otherwise rendered safe for travel. The penalty for the violation of this section shall be a fine not in excess of $50 for each violation. All ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage. Order to he approved on a roll call vote Order to Expand the Allowable Expenditures for the Veterans Department Gift Account Ordered That: City ofTaunton's established Veterans Department Gift Account will be amended to add the following as allowable expenditures: • Dependent care • Veteran Events and Services Order to he approved on a roll call vote Order Authorizing a Housing Development Incentive Program Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40V for Premises at 74 Weir Street (Parcel ID 118-7) Ordered: The proposed development of the property located at 74 Weir Street (Parcel 66-347) into a 36 unit multifamily community within the Downtown HDIP District ("Project"): (A.) Is consistent with and can reasonably be expected to benefit significantly from the City's plans relative to the Project property tax exemption; and, (B.) Together with all other projects previously certified and located in the same project HD zone, shall not overburden the City's supporting resources; and, (C.) Together with the municipal resources committed to the Project, shall, if certified, have a reasonable chance of increasing residential growth, diversity of housing supply, supporting economic development and promoting neighborhood stabilization in 1 of the City's housing development zones. Ordered: In accordance with M.G.L. c. 40V, Section 4, the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Taunton, be and is hereby authorized to submit a proposal to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) for determination of the Project as a certified housing development in such form and with such information as the EOHLC prescribes. Ordered: In accordance with M.G.L. c. 40V and 760 CMR 66.00, the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Taunton, be and hereby is authorized to negotiate and execute a Housing Development Incentive Program, Tax Increment Exemption Agreement with RDA Properties Holding, LLC and its successors and assigns, pertaining to the Project, incorporating the tax exemption amounts set forth in the schedule attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NEW BUSINESS - NONE Respectfully submitted, '; : :IA.:A£-'lt.-r.;1~fe~r t.L'!:r City Clerk JICJ.Ir~-#-; TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD rJ 141 Oak Sreet - office address 15 Summer Street - mailing address Taunton, Massachusetts 02780 Phone 508-821-1051 Denise J Paiva, Head Administrative Clerk dpaiva@.taunton-ma.gov November 19, 2024 Honorable Mayor Shaunna O'Connell and Members of the Municipal Council City Hall, 15 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 c/o Jennifer Leger, City Clerk RE: Street Acceptance - Crowley Lane Dear Mayor O'Connell and Members of the Municipal Council: Please be advised that at our regularly scheduled meeting held on November 5, 2024 the Taunton Planning Board voted to send a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council to accept Crowley Lane as a public way in the City. Respectfully yours, b~ll~ Dennis I. Ackerman, Vice Chairman Taunton Planning Board DIA/djp = l ll( PURPOSE Of lHIS PROJCCl WAS TO CFU:A T( A NltlE LOT CLUSTER SUBDMS!Ol'l AS PRESUJltO TO AND APPROVED BY Tl1E Pl.ANNINO BOARD ON SEPTi).IBER 12, 2018. CROWLEY lANE CONSERVATION S£E THE CERTIFICATE ornNAL ACTION RECORDED IN THE BRISTOL RESTRICTION AREA 530,288 s.f.± MAP l4, I.OT 1i8 HOM(Ov-n.IEA'S ASSOC. COUNTY NORTH AEGISlRV Of' OIEOS IH BOC»\ 2S914, PACE 343. THE SUBDIVISION WAS RECOAOEI• IN THE BfflSTOi.. COUNTY HORTH AEGISTIIY PIAN VIEW -AS-BUlLT MAP 34, LOT 14 OF OE£0S IN PL,t.H BOOK 52\, l'ACf: 48. SHEET I OF l 12.17 acres± q:-t· ~~ n/f E. (l)LUNO A HOMrDWNEAS ASSOCIATION W.\S CRCATa> AS LISTED IN BOOK 26329, PAC( 191. .~v THE f'OU.OWNG WAIVERS WERE :>RANTED TO THE CITY Of' AN AS-BUlLT PIAN ,o;;,. TAUNTON SUBOIVISIOH CDNlROL LAW: I: TO ALLOW f'OR ONE 6' WIDE SIDEWALK ON lliE SOOlH 4< WEST IN y."ft.- SIDES, INSTEAD OF SIDEWALKS ON BOTH SIDES. 2: TO ALLOW THE t.llNOR ROAOllAV 10 HAVIO A 24' PAYEMENT WOTH, TAUNTON, MA 1i~~l:Nt:':> INSTEAD OF lH( ACQUIRED 30'. 3: 10 ALLOW THE t.llNOR SlREET TO HAVE A 44' WIDE LAYOUT, FOR INSlEAD Of' THE Rl:QUIRto 50'. 4: TO AU.OW FOR AS UTILE A~ 0 FOOT Buffrn AlONG lHE EASTEflLY PROPER TY LINE ABUTIING UAP ?4, LOT 15, !tlSTEAO OF THE HAWTHORNE DEVELOPMENT, INC. 100' REOVIRED. 5: TO ALLOW lliE BUFfER ZDNf TO BE REDUCED AND/OR INCREASED DATE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2024/ RE\/ISEO: OCTOBER 23, 2024 10 ME£T THE OIMENSIOHS OF THE CONSERVATION RESTillCTION AREA. ~ 6: TO ALLOW THE SLOPED GRAtllTE £DGING TO BC LJJ0 FU.TIER THAN lliE REQUIRED 5" REVEAL. 10 ILLOW FOR A 2.S" R£YEAL SFO ASSOCIA'.IES, INC. IN AUGUST OF 2020, THC CITY :J.IGlNEER APPROYfl> A R€VISION TO SENNA Ffl'ZGERAID GllJIERT A&'lOCIA'.IFS THE ROAD CROSS- SECTION TO U.LOW FOR 12" CAPE COO BERMS ON Cl'Al.O«»l£ERSA: LAHO ~l,£l'ORS Ta (S08)946- 5258 ~ BOlH SID£5 Of' THE ROAD, INSi EAO OF GRANITE CURBING ON OOE SI!)(, 28UAAISTRE£T,l.)J([Vll.£. UA02J47 lELft'AX (508) ~~~l2WOllCD1EllST ;_ ANO TO Au.OW A 24' PAVEMENT WOTH, MIO 5' \YID£ SIDEWALi(. nlE TAUNTON CONSERVATION O>Ml.llSSION VOTED 10 B£ THE HOWER OF nlE CONSERVATION RESlR!CTIQt. AREA SliOWN. 1H£ PURPOS( or THIS THE OCTOBER 23, 2024 REVISION WAS DONE TO l.AO£l 1li£ RISER POLE, TRAHSf'OftMERS. CONSERVATION AREA IS 10 PROVIDE DEEDED PUOTECTION Of' ENOANCEREO SPECIES AND AflD Hr.NOHOl..ES, AHtl TO ADO A NOT( R£GAAOING THE STREET TR((S. RESTRICTION AREA THEIR HABITATS. SEE lli( O(CL.l.!~ATION Of' RESTRICTION RECORDED IN THE BRISTOL COUNTY RCG!ST<V Of OfEOS IN BOOK 26329. PAC( 46. 530,288 s.f.± CONSERVATION RES11ltCTION SIQIS ANO CONCRETE BOUtlOS \'OE SET ALONG THE BOUNDARY Of' TH£ CONSERVATION RESTRICTION AREA., AS 12.17 acres± REOUJRED. ALSO, SEE GRANTS Of ACCESS EASEUOITS OVER LOTS 1, 6, a: 7 TO PROVID( ACCESS TO THE CONS! AVA TIDN RCS1R1CTION AR[A AND """" ". TO THE ORAINACE CASEMCNTS 10 PROVIDE 1.11.JtHBIANCf AMO Ttt£ ?URPOSE Of THIS Pt.AN IS TO SHOW AS-BUILT LOCAlrONS Of THE M,l.P J4, LOT 15 REPAIR TO THE ORAJNAG£ STRU:TVRES. AS RECORDED IN THE BRISTOL COUNTY R(GISTRV Of' !>££DS IN BOOK 26330, PAGE 107. ROADWAY, SIOCWALKS, DRAINAGE, AtlO WATER MAJNS. E.l.EClftlC. n/f D. LEITE '-... C"61.E, ANO TELEPHONE LINES SHO\\W ARE APPROXIMATL. NHESP lR"CICING NO.: 14 - 32852, TH( INSTALLATION Of' THE ORAINAG[ STRUCTURES, DRAIN PIPES, INflllRATION '-.... -........ . ,, aASMS, WAT(~. CAPE COO BERMS, ROADWAY ASPHALT, SIOEWALKS, "\~ TH( PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITlllN PRIORITY HAflll"T 240 AtlO .WO CONCRET( BOUNDS HAllE HEDI CONSTRUCTED ESTIMATED HABlllAT 126. ([A!irERN BOX TURllC) ~ -~1, .. ) ~' 34/lH J0,293 sq. ft. ""· ==-~ THE PROPERTY IS NOT LOCATED 'MTHIN A SP(CIAL FLOOO HAZARD OISTil!CT AS SHO~ ON THE FEAA MAP, CQUIAU/llTY NO. ~0066, PAHEL NO. 0141f, EFfECllVE 01.lE: ..lJLV 7, 2009. THE LOCAT10N OF UtlOCRGROUNO Ul!Ull£S ARE APPROKIMATE OHLY, ANO AR£ HOT WARIMNTEO TO BE CORRECT. llNOERGROUHO UTILITIES ARE SHOV.W BASED ON EITHER RECCiRD DATA PRO..,OED BY THE 0P£RATlNG AUlHOAITIES. VISUAL INSPECTION Of AVAILABLE A90\1; CRoutHl STRUCTURC;, PHYSICAL SIJRf'AC( MAAi(INGS fOlJNO, Oil DATA PROVI0£0 BY OTH£R:S. ADDITIONAL UTIUTlES MAY J'l/H4 30.003sq.rt. zl NOl'IET\.ANDS EXIST ""llCH ARE NOT INOIC,\lrD ON lH(S[ Pl..AHS. ALL EXISllNG UTILITIES SHAU. BE 'J!:RlFIEO FOR SERI/IC£, Sil[. INVERT El!VA1!Qf'I, LOCATIOt'IS. ETC. PfUOR 10 ( 29,269S.f. Or)l11d f N(W COtlN(CllONS TO OR RElOCATION Of' SAME. COtllRACTOR MUST NOTIFY DIG-SAFE AT l-8S8-~72.l3 AT I.EAST 72 HOURS PRIOR TO /JIY EXCAVATION. NOTIFY THIS FIRM !W Yofl!TING Of' AHV ANO AU DISCREPANCIES ~ PRIOR TO COMM£t~CING ANY 'NC.IR!I;, } s. S1R£ET IR~ES 'loffiE f>t.>.Hl[I) AS REOUIREO. HOVi£'JER, SIHC£ lH£Y \llE'RE Pl.ACU> OUlSIO( Of' lHE RIGHT- OF- WAY, lH[Y ARE HOl SHO'M.t ON THIS Pl.AH. All EU:VA JIOHS ANO COMTotfflS ARE OH lH( NGW 29 DATUM. fl.AOOED EDGE ~ / • Of 1.L S.f. \ lHE OCTAll.S Of' THE !UDl\1DIJAL WATER S£R"1CE COHNECTIOWS AR£ AVAILASI.£ 4T TffE CITY Of' TAUtnOH £NCtHE£RlttG AND WATER DfPARlM[NT, SCP1lC SYSTEM LOCATIONS AHO D.EVATIONS ARE AVA!LA8t.C ON THE QI S!Qi~ AS-a\JILT l't.ANS OU FlU: WllH 111£ DOAAD OF HEALlH, ) lit[ SUBDIV!SIOl'I WAS FtECOROCO IM lHE SRISTOI. CQOWTY HOffTH R(CISTRY .. / OF OEEVS l/ol Pt.M SOOK 521, PAGE 48. '":;;I CfRDE!CAlf ()( PfRfOO!JAMCE ---...} " nlE WAYS WlllUU lttlS SUBDIV!SIOtf HAVE 8E£H COMPl.£T£D SUDSTAIHIAU.Y JN ACCOROANC£ 1'11TH lH[ aTY or TAUHTON suaoms1ou CONTROL LAW, EXCEPT WHER( PORTIONS HA\'E ~rn WAIYf:O BY TH( PLANtllttG BOARD. ANO THE .APPRO\f:O D£FINnt\IE PL.AU ANO PRDFllE. MAP l4. LOT 148 51"- Hl>lt =:~f.ti~~~~:. *'!b ;,r;:M 1-tOIJEO'Mie:R'SASSOC. --~~- 34/142 .~ ~;,.~;;, ~~li Cf!Socll~ 31,B42sq.ft NO WETI.ANDS /,w ;:; · ~· .. v. OUl ' e& ~ 1 "tt,: D'-tr~. /_;!; I~ i MAP 34, LOT 52 n/f M. I. H. CRO\IL£V /'E ~O~~~T~ ~5!.0~~~b(C ABAREYIADQH l Er.fNQ CHAMBER S. \\HH 1' Of cce CAPE COO BERM I SlQt.IE AA CUND. ANO 6" Of S!T BITVM1NOOS C<ltfCRElE .,; STONE ABO'/( & BO.OW C8 COffalETE BOUND OR!LL HOl.£ !:::' 15 "1NV. IN: 86. 4 4 LOCUS t.4AP DETECTABLE WARNING PAD SASE Of B ASIN: 8 5. 20 n.t.s. STA. 2.+ I.2 - 211'LJ. R(T. BASltl 11 TOl" :90.0:t 0 @ """"' DRAIN MANHOl.£ \S} SEWER lilANHOl.£ UllUlY BOXES CONSERVATION f?li UllUTY POLE WITH STREET UGHT RESTRICTION AREA tt WATER SHUlOfF 530,288 s. f.± ZONING: RURAL RESIDENTIAL C><J WATER GATE VALVE CENERAL Dlt.l.ENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS: ~ HYDRANT 12.17 acres± MINIMUM FROtflAGE: 50' ----'M.l·,-WAlERMAIN Ml tl!l~UM LOT AREA: 30,000 S.F. ~tAP 34, LOT 148 MINlt.1.Ut.I DISTANCE BETWEEN Ol'IELUNCS: 50' -WS · -WATER SER\1C£ HOIJEOwt<ER's ASSOC. ..... MINIMUM SETBACK FOR NON-0Yt(WNG ~ ;TRUCTUR£S: 1.5' -Ojl+--0\>tRtlEAO UTH.llES Z£RO LOT LINE DE'¥a.0Pt.l.EN T IS PERMlilEO. - U/G-- UllDERGEIOUHO UTllTIES -=~~~ "'' ~~!~~~~!METER BUFFER ZONE WIOT:I: 100', ()(CEPT ~ ~ __Kfil..._ 1" .. 40' HORIZ. SHl!Bf I <F l 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 CHI EF FINANCIAL OFFICER (508) 821-1000 Gill E. Enos MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR December 13, 2024 Dear Members of the Municipal Council and Fellow Tauntonians, My administration is pleased to announce the Fiscal Year 2025-2029 Capital, Economic, and Community Investment Program, which reflects our continued dedication to improving the quality of life for our residents and supporting the employees who serve our community. This comprehensive plan highlights key investments in infrastructure, public safety, and sustainable initiatives, all while maintaining a fiscally responsible approac.li. The program includes $2,117,097 allocated to Public Safety for equipment and infrastructure improvements to ensure the safety of our first responders and the residents they protect. This funding will support the purchase of a new fire engine and police cruisers. Additionally, a total of $16,699,692 is dedicated to public works projects, including roads, sidewalks, drainage systems, and water mains. For this year alone, we are proposing $7,200,000 in road and sidewalk improvements, which will bring the total investment in these areas during my tenure to nearly $37,200,000, inclusive of Chapter 90 funds. · One of the standout projects in Public Works is the $3,500,000 solar array to be constructed at the sewer treatment plant. Once operational, this initiative will save City taxpayers $1, 100,000 annually, with federal incentives covering 40% of the expenditure. This underscores our commitment to adopting innovative solutions to reduce costs for residents. We are allocating $6,890,000 to Public Buildings, including solar projects at the library to lower operational expenditures. As promised, $4,500,000 will be invested to bring the former Coyle Cassidy building up to code, enabling our school district to expand while saving taxpayers $100,000,000 by avoiding the construction of a new school. The program also includes $1 ,200,000 for Public Grounds, financing the construction of a splash pad in East Taunton. This investment will provide families with opportunities to create lasting memories and enjoy the excellent recreational facilities our City has to offer. My administration is pleased to fund the design of construction documents for three new fire stations to replace the existing facilities, each of which are over 100 years old. This marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to upgrade public safety facilities across the City. In total, the program represents a $176,669,102.36 investment over the next five years. We have carefully evaluated all funding mechanisms to support this plan without relying on debt issuance for the City' s capital needs, thereby reducing long-term financial liabilities and safeguarding our fiscal health. A digital copy of the Capital Budget, which includes 17 detailed sections outlining all capital requests and supplemental information, will be provided to you on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. A printed version will also be available. We remain committed to transparency and to ensuring that you have all the necessary tools and information to make well-informed decisions about these critical investments. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, ~l~R_ Mayor Shaunna 0' Connell City of Taunton Ligia M. Madeira, Esq. CHIEF OF STAFF OFFICE OF THE MAYOR City Hall Pa trick D. Delio 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 - December 17, 2024 Old Colony History Museum Candlelight Tours Downtown • Wednesday, December 18 at 4pm at the Old Colony History Museum, 66 Church Green • Tickets: OCHM Members $10, Non-Members $15, space limited to 15 people per hour • Tours are a one-mile loop starting and ending at the Old Colony History Museum • Check in begins at 3:30pm and there will be a complimentary DIY hot cocoa bar before the walking tour • For tickets, visit: https://www.oldcolonyhistorymuseum.org/ Photos with Santa on the Green • Parks & Recreation will be providing complimentary pictures with Santa on the Green the following days: o December 19: 6:30pm-8:00pm o December 20: 5:00pm-8:00pm o December 21: 4:00pm-8:00pm o December 22: 3:00pm-8:00pm Winter Wonderland Event • December 20-22 at Liberty & Union Park • Pet Pictures with Santa, Ice Sculptures, Photo Booths, The Grinch, Delaney Wilson (American Idol Contestant), Bottle Rocket Food truck, THS Food Truck, Colonial Donuts and more! • For hours and more information, visit taunton-ma.gov Siypnow and Taunton Police Department Toy Drive • Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 2pm to 6pm at Platinum City Gaming, 294 Winthrop Street • Entertainment, Christmas movies, food, music, free toys, free haircuts and more • New and gently used toys will be collected until Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Platinum City Gaming • For more information, contact Rashaud at 617-438-3629 Gingerbread House Decorating Contest • The contest opened on Monday, December 9, 2024 and will close on Friday, December 20, 2024 • Decorate your gingerbread house and submit a photo to the Mayor's Office at gingerbread@taunton-ma.gov • Winners (one adult, one child) will be announced on Monday, December 23, 2024 Convenience Center Holiday Hours • The City's Convenience Center located at 330 East Britannia Street will be closed for the holidays on Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25, 2024) and New Year's Day (Wednesday, January 1, 2025) • For questions regarding the Convenience Center, please call the DPW at 508-821-1431 Mayor O'Connell and DPW Offer Free Cardboard Disposal • Mayor O'Connell has announced THREE weeks of FREE cardboard disposal this year at the City's Convenience Center at 330 E. Britannia Street • Cardboard disposal will be free of charge at the City's Convenience Center on the following dates: o Saturday, December 14, 8AM-3PM o Wednesday, December 18, 7AM-1PM o Friday, December 20, 7AM-1PM o Saturday, December 21, 8AM-3PM o Friday, December 27, 7AM-1PM o Saturday, December 28, 8AM-3PM o Friday, January 3, 7AM-1PM o Saturday, January 4, 8AM-3PM • After the holidays, beginning the week of January 6th, regular drop-off rates will apply. 16th Annual Jingle Paws • Support the Taunton Animal Shelter this holiday season • Make a donation in honor of a particular pet at the shelter or send a toy/treat/gift for the pet of your choice • Donations are accepted through December 24, 2024 and forms are available at the Shelter, via email at paws4blue@aol.com, Taunton City Hall, Robin's Comer Flower Shop and Raynham Town Hall Christmas Items for Sale • Lights On Ornament: $20; for sale at Mayor's Office and Parks & Recreation (170 Harris Street) • Taunton Police Christmas Patch: $10, for sale at Mayor's Office and Police Station (23 Summer Street) Please visit the City website (www.taunton-ma.gov) and Facebook page for more information. City of Taunton 1>;e~~"t~~t5 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 Gi ll E. Enos MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR December 13, 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 reappointing Jillian Joyce to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two years expiring in December 2026. Ms. Joyce is a Taunton resident and she has served as a mentor on the Youth Commission for the past two years. She is also a board member for the Old Colony YMCA. Ms. Joyce has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude. These qualities have shown that she is reliable and takes her responsibilities seriously. I look forward to Ms. Joyce's continued success on the Youth Commission throughout the tenure of her two year term. Respectfully, Mayor Shaunna 0' Connell IiffJOIAllJJafs 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 OFFI CER (508) 821-1000 Gill E. Enos MAYOR SHAUNNA O'CONNELL BUDGET DIRECTOR December 13, 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 reappointing Melissa Oliveira to serve on the Youth Commission for a term of two years expiring in December 2026. Ms. Oliveira is a member of the Executive Leadership team at Adult & Teen Challenge New England and New Jersey. Her exceptional leadership and organizational skills have been an asset to the Youth Commission. I look forward to Ms. Oliveira's continued success on the Youth Commission throughout the tenure of her two year term. Respectfully, Sh~~ Mayor Shaunna 0' Connell CITY OF TAUNTON /, FIRE DEPARTMENT 50 School Street Taunton, MA 02780 Tel: (508) 821-1452 • Fax: (508) 821-1495 STEVEN P. LAVIGNE Chief ofDepartmen·t l<.JITE GOVER Administrative Assistant December 9, 2024 RE: Civil Service Promotional Exam Honorable City Council Members This letter is to inform you as the appointing authority for the City of Taunton of a change in the Massachusetts Civil Service process for t~e grading of promotional exams. For the recent Deputy Chief exam, the Taunton Fire Department adopted the weighted/graded Assessment Center exam. With the Lieutenant and Captain promotional exams scheduled for next spring, the appointing authority must approve the percentages used in grading of the scores. Civil Service requires that the appointing authority approves the grading system prior to authorizing the members of the Fire Department to sit for the examination. I recommend that the grading system be weighed in the following manner. Lieutenant Exam: 1. Technkal Knowledge 40% 2. Situational Judgement Test 20% 3. Assessment Center 20% 4. Experience, Certifications, Training & Experience 20% Captain Exam: 1. Technical Knowledge 35% 2. Situational Judgement Test 20% 3. Assessment Center 25% 4. Experience, Certifications, Training & Experience 20% I am requesting your approval t<? use the above percentages listed above and authorize the City Clerk to inform Mass Civil Service of this decision. Lavigne CITY OF TAUNTON FIRE DEPARTMENT 50 School Street Taunton, MA 02780 Tel: (508) 821-1452 • Fax: (508) 821-1495 STEVEN P. LAVIGNE Chief ofDepartmen.t KATE GOVER Administrative Assistant December 12, 2024 RE: Equipment Gift Honorable City Council, This letter is to seek Council approval for the Taunton Fire Department to accept gifted rescue equipment from the MBTA with the New Bedford Fire Department acting as the fiscal agent. This award is part of a $900,000.00 Massachusetts DOT equipment bond intended to supply local fire departments with the necessary means to respond to incidents along the SouthCoast Railway. The Taunton Fire Department has received the following equipment: (1) Polaris UTV, (1) Maxiforce 2PT Heavy Lift l<it (air bags), (1) Victor Style Torch l<it, (1) Holmatro Mini-Cutter and accessories, (1) Rescue Litter and accessories and (1) Litter Mule. In total the Taunton Fire Department received a total of $70, 053.00 in rescue equipment. Chief of Department €itp at 'IAtiidi:lti i1Jegli/Jtflttt.ul"'1#ttttal1b'ftd & t:mutdian:§gfttJ1 $0 (l/J'lhel #llfbt;_ (/Jftifltt• .1,11!!1 02780 5418:.$2.l.-l4$Jqr~.,$21.,14S .#HNt 508•82J ~1444 Cliaikn11:8011611lstii f;;,iJl!tlllffll!!' Director PriiiJ.nilff {lll{irifinstpi' T~liln 'lOoW;m,f! Nlli'c D11i1tli1Pt/i1/11 lsslstanlDltattor CiJmmulilf'/ffe/afluns CfJUnse/or KHl!efa~tlvia: Jsnliif/JrNartins flscafA'uent/Adtnin!sfraflv.eAssi$fQnl l/11fi/lJ/t!11f(l:a(b.l!artuyue$J lluh\ihiliffe'Mi:Kl!lfllil .Pf!lh~lJ!;ifIJliiel De~ Mem'.be:rs: ofthe CltY' Taunton C.o.®~11:: W~are h~ppy to nQtjfy y~~;~1at:~e 1024 A:nnual.Open Et1Tolfu1ent process has been sucoossftdly,coricl\tded'by the £aumtol1; pepaitment.sofHuman.8efvieestCot111eil"On-Agi11g. .As .rou know, seniOts cEfl;l··ent<tllin~ .tn~if¥~.··or ~attq~l their health iasma:rtee, dutittg,open errrfHh11~nt. Open entollil1:ent begins ,on bct()bet 15111 ml'd.•.entis °'n Decw:nifer 7th. Ac~ot~i11f:fl:P. om~h,Js,w:e~&~tst~!l1413:·Wlclµmli~n~ted<sel)i<m! ~r:p~qple,on Medicare, navi~afe1heit<,~te~et4l)tfon .or h~altb insl:U1$1.C~ p1ansfli0m OetG'ber l5!11 thnrtotht}i:.. DUplieated statsfotthattmie frame:tn~IIicl.mg.Je'QJ?Te11eW:to Meaieare:Is:4~(L'Fo:putthis. 1n p.ersJ!leeti~e,~ we Usilaliy; only~~lst'arnund ~DJ) sent~ra1; 'SQ to ~tst46:01Jl)its,Q'f setviee to 41~ ;s~ni~ES is AIV!~~BW!lrk! 1 ~pp1aud Ttaq:~ He11~ W11P ~ootdiu~t~dthi& ~e:m-1s.prog~~ ~:C and tom~~.who,tf$~i,$l~d;With t))~. ~P:ll)pitdS~11$, ti'.tl;t;t% 1'€?!l.tl'i®4' t~ll~y fQXQP'9l'Ql1\~~g,aJ;h0f~~reque~ts for ~p<::lin.tm~llf$saltd ~TI:~~beth Pet~fS«J:rl fQt'm~agf:tig··jJi~ Ql,J.:tre~I+ po~ipn,.e:E'the pr~gpam:, We W@uld mrtner like to thank; ccit~ ded~eated v:el:unteers M~ ~:Riva~ Mary Scaxletl and Bitt La:Plartte for their.time and d~i:Uc~tib.n as w.el:l as,ourS.enler Ta~ Wnrkoff S.em'drs:, Vieto:tia S'nut!er and BdDUfl;'y'Wlto scanned (tozens and dctfl:}:J1$ Q'ftiles 1 ~~ ' A;s. <tilty le:®:~t$1. e?tchrofy1;rn, ax<Ht::valuahle',P.00 of ffi!S',$ll~~~$lll1 dfort,.amt we ~Rplaud you tor y<>wf 00ntl:mled ,support 0f .Qiµ; p:r~gn~mand ;sem~es. In 'each eneQUllter~in whieh a Oity Ci£Tauritol1 ·seniatds.sewed,) ou'.f cg.un®fil:einbets: Jtte 1 rfght tllerelinsel!V:teei. :adVocacy~ and 'Support. We would also I'iki:·'W. ~~ogni~ QJty C:<:t®oilor·.Es~le ()., :aQl'g~S .fi:>r her.tro+~ and .~$.i~qe pvert1Ie<p~t·mew'months with as:s~sting 01Jt'P:onu~~e,.:speajkir,.g ~Iients, QounPilQ:tBo:J,'ges~' v()luritary efforts allowed uS'ta :Seamlessly respond t~ a;p,p:qo.xhn:atelra dozen :clients :whenever needed. ~~ Tobias\'f. CQwans.· ",.,.,, ,. " '·''·''·: ·" Assistant> Direetor TAUNTON PLANNING BOARD 141 Oak St. - Office Address 15 Summer St. - Mailing Address Taunton, Massachusetts 02780 Phone 508-821-1051 Denise J Paiva, Head Administrative Clerk December 10, 2024 Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor Members of the Municipal Council 15 Summer St. Taunton, Ma. 02780 CIO Jennifer Leger, City Clerk RE: Special Permit/Site Plan Review - 425 John Quincy Adams Rd. (parcel I.D. 18- 21 & 18-19) Dear Mayor O'Connell and Members of the Municipal Council: The Planning Board is in receipt of a Special Permit/Site Plan Review from Section 440 Attachment #2 of the Zoning Ordinance for property at 425 John Quincy Adams Road (parcel 18-21 & 18-19) for a 40,000 sq. ft. warehouse/storage facility with indoor garage, vehicle maintenance, repair and service, material storage, office space and 146,000 sq. ft. outdoor storage in an Industrial District, submitted by MCP IV John Quincy IOS, Owner, LLC, & MCP IV 425 JQA Owner, LLC The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on this proposal on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 5:30 PM at City Hall, 15 Summer St. in the Chester R. Martin Municipal Council Chambers, 2nd floor, Taunton, Ma. Respectfully, ()l1Uliv~ OA2'1Jal{(lft) Anthony Abreau, Chairman Taunton Planning Board AA/djp City of Taunton LAW DEPARTMENT 15 Summer Street Lisa Bond, Esq. FIRST ASST. CITY SOLICITOR Taunton, Massachusetts 02780 Shaunna O'Connell Phone (508) 821-1036 Facsimile (508) 821-1397 Thomas P. Gay, Esq . MAYOR ASST. CITY SOLICITOR Matthew J. Costa, Esq. David T. Gay, Esq. CITY SOLICITOR SP. ASST. CITY SOLICITOR December 13, 2024 Council President David Pottier Members of the Taunton Municipal Council 15 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 RE: Assessor Parcel 63-1, 25.86 acres Dear Council President Pottier and Members of the Municipal Council: On July 2, 2024 the Council adopted a motion regarding the above referenced parcel as follows: "to assemble parcel 63-1 with parcel 62-2, known as the Arthur Sharp Estate" The parcel known as the Arthur Sharp Estate is City-owned conservation land. Therefore, the vote of July 2, 2024 basically contemplates that parcel 63-1 would be retained by the City for conservation purposes along with the Arthur Sharp Estate parcel. Presently the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game has made an offer to acquire parcel 63-1 from the City, to be held as open space, as part of its effort to acquire land in the Glebe Street/Rocky Woods region as a wildlife management area. The Commonwealth has offered $106,026.00 for this parcel. An appraisal will be conducted to support the purchase price. Acquisition of this parcel by the Commonwealth will result in its protection as open spaces under the jurisdiction of the Department of Fish and Game, subject to the protections of Article 97 of the amendments to the Massachusetts Constitution . This would appear to be consistent with the intent of the most recent council vote to concerning this parcel. The Mayor is recommending that the City accept the Department of Fish and Game's offer to acquire this property. For the above reasons the Law Department is respectfully requesting that the Council vote as follows: "To authorize the conveyance of Assessor's Parcel 63-1 to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game in consideration of $106,026.00 or its appraised value if different from said sum." Thank you for your attention and consideration . Respectfully submitted, ~J-4--- City Solicitor MJC/smv THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER KENNEL INSPECTION REPORT City or Town of: ] .CtltN ioAI Kennel license num her: - --")c.(:t. -a =. . .,t,w,________ Inspection date: 18 - G - ;Jh/ • 1. Kennel information 2. Licensing status: Kennel license status: New L=:J L=:J Renewed Expired L=:J Unlicensed L=:J Kennel type: Commercial L=:J Doggie Daycare L=:J Person- [J2j al . Other: If kennel license has not been renewed, why not? 3. Housing: Dog housing: Crates C=:J Kennel runs Free C=:J Other:_ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ __ _ 4. Conditions: Dogs are housed in a humane manner: Yes~ No Dogs are able to stand, lie down and turn around freely: Yes [0" No Kennel is kept at an ambient temperature: YesL=:J No Kennel is maintained in a sanitary manner: Yes CJa' No The kennel has adequate lighting: Yes No Dogs have access to clean, fresh food and water: Yes oa No Dogs have adequate exercise space: Yes oa No Veterinary and other records available: Yes [J2( No Please explain any NO an- swers "D OG s are. .\ + Reinspect on or after: 4. Comments: ACO's[[J_~ anu-e.a n~:~ _ ~ ~ _ · _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ Report received by: ACO':s;gnature ~ ==u~ Signatureofrecipient ~ White Copy- ACO I Yellow Copy- Kennel owner i- CS"\ RECE lVE D CITY CLt:'R K' S OFFICE wzq OEc I 3 A q: 58 TAU NTOH. HA _________ Cl TY CLEHK December 17, 2024 Honorable Shaunna L. O'Connell, Mayor Council President David W. Pottier And Members of the Municipal Council The following committee meetings have been scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2024 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 December 10, 2024. 2. Review the weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. 3. Meet for the continued discussion on Councilor Borges' motion: "To refer to the Committee on Finance and Salaries a discussion of the Committee on Finance and Salaries approving all transfers." Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass. Gen. L. C. JOA, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting. The Committee on Police and License 1. Approve minutes from December 3, 2024. 2. Meet on the petitions for the renewal of the following Class II Licenses: a. ACME Fabrication & Equipment Leasing, LLC at 91 Arlington Street b. Advantage Automotive at 600 Winthrop Street c. Amaro Family Auto Sales at 515 Middleboro Avenue, East Taunton d. Taunton Tire & Auto Service, Inc. at 491 West Water Street e. Winthrop Street Motors, Inc. at 347 Winthrop Street Page 1 of 2 3. Meet on the petition for the renewal of the Class IV License for E T Auto, LLC dba Euro Tech Auto at 420 Broadway 4. Meet on the petition for the renewal of the Hours of Operations License for Joe's Diner, Inc. at 51 Broadway to be open 24 hours, 7 days a week. 5. Meet for an update on the marijuana license renewal for Tree Market Taunton, LLC dba Greatest Hits Cannabis Co. - Marijuana Retailer License at 9 Cape Road. Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass. Gen. L. C. 30A, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting. The Committee on Public Property 1. Approve minutes from November 26, 2024. 2. Meet for the continued discussion on the request to declare lots as surplus: a. Map 84 I Lot 61 Richmond Street b. Map 71 I Lot 32 Richmond Street Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass. Gen. L. C. 30A, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting. The Committee of the Whole 1. Remarks from the Chair 2. Approve minutes from December 3, 2024. 3. Meet in executive session pursuant to MGL Chapter 30A §21, reason number 3: "To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining or litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigating position of the public body and the chair so declares" to discuss the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Please note: A "meeting" of the entire Municipal Council, as said terms is defined in Mass. Gen. L. C. 30A, §18 may occur concurrently with this committee meeting. Respectfully, ~( . C&Ju.___ Maggie E. Clarke Clerk of Council Committees Page 2 of2

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