Holyoke City Council Meeting January 5, 2021

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
January 5,2021

The meeting was called to order by President Anderson-Burgos at 07:04 PM.

The Clerk called the roll. Absent members: 0 Present Members 13 (Anderson-Burgos, Bartley, Greaney, Hernandez, Leahy, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, McGee, McGiverin, Murphy, Sullivan, Tallman, Vacon).

The name of Councilor Anderson-Burgos was drawn to head the roll call voting.

 

LAID ON THE TABLE

VACON Ordered, that an order that the bonding for the 10 priority intersections and funding for the traffic light installations be reviewed in Finance Committee
—> Received and laid on the table.

PUBLIC COMMENT
President McGee: asked if anyone in attendance planned to speak for public comment. Requested Admin clarify.
Admin: acknowledged there were additional people in attendance but that nobody had stated a plan to speak for public comment.
President McGee: Stated they would move to Communications.

COMMUNICATIONS

From Mayor Alex B. Morse letter appointing Mr. Marcos A. Marrero, 34 Pinehurst Rd. to serve as a Commissioner of the Gas & Electric for the City of Holyoke: Mr.Marrero will replace Robert Griffin, who’s term expired July 1, 2020. Mr. Marrero will serve a six year term; said term will expire July 1, 2026.
Councilor Greaney: motion to receive item 2, refer to DGR, seconded by Sullivan.
Councilor McGiverin: motion to amend to refer to Public Service, seconded by Councilor Tallman.
President McGee: acknowledged the first motion was to refer to DGR. Clarified the rule stating that Public Service tends to have jurisdiction.
Councilor Leahy: made a point of information. Stated the good job Public Service does in handling these types of items for local appointments, with DGR handling state and federal appointments.
President McGee: read rules regarding DGR jurisdiction.
Councilor Greaney: stated the appointments has to do with residences, businesses, development of city, government relations. Believes it goes to DGR.
Councilor Tallman: stated that G&E commissioners usually go to public service.
Councilor McGiverin: pointed out that it is a mayoral appointment and should go to Public Service. Stated he would expect a good discussion on the appointment in that committee.
Councilor Sullivan: believed it should go to DGR. Stated that HG&E has an impact on the city’s future, observing that they are quasi-governmental corporation governed by state and federal regulation.
Councilor Lisi: recalled past G&E commissioner appointments have gone to public service before. Questioned what would happen in DGR that wouldn’t happen in public service.
President McGee: clarified the first motion was to send to DGR, and amendment was to send to public service.
Show of hands vote for the amendment failed 6-7.
Councilor Murphy: observed that because of natural gas issues and clean energy, there needs to be adequate time for discussion on Marrero’s views and role of G&E to attract business with natural gas capacity. Noted there was a successful lawsuit in Brookline that changed prohibition on natural gas. Noted a need for balance between economic growth and good environmental policy.
Councilor McGiverin: reiterated that the item is a mayoral appointment. Observed that the vote would be on qualifications, looking at his background.
Councilor Sullivan: questioned if the way it has always been done is the right way to decide. Reiterated the appointment is about development and government relations.
Councilor Murphy: stated disappointment in delay in making new appointment. Thanked outgoing commissioner for work.
Councilor McGiverin: reiterated that things are done a certain way because of standard process.
Councilor Leahy: asked for item to go to Public Service, as Chair.
Councilor Hernandez: stated confidence that Public Service can handle interviewing the candidate. Expressed support for the candidate’s qualifications.
Councilor Greaney: stated that the appointment is critical to future of Holyoke. Asked to move on the motion.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

List of Council appointments January 2021.
Councilor Leahy: made motion to appoint Jeffery Anderson-Burgos, seconded by Councilor Tallman.
Councilor McGiverin: made motion to go to the first ballot, seconded by Councilor Tallman.
Councilor Bartley: asked for president to clarify the three positions and to clarify for new councilors that they can vote for anyone.
President McGee: described the current holders of the three positions.
President McGee: clarified that councilors can vote for current holders or anyone.
Councilor Lebron-Martinez: asked about salary for each position.
President McGee: stated that the Admin has a salary, Water Commissioner has a stipend, and Whiting Street Fund does not get paid.
Councilor McGiverin: stated that he thought the Admin position had been a two year term.
President McGee: stated it was attempted but it had failed.
Councilor Bartley: stated that this should be attempted again.
President McGee: stated he would file for next meeting.
—> Motion was made and seconded to move to the first ballot for Administrative Assistant to the City Council. Jeffery Anderson-Burgos was appointed with 12 votes to serve a one year term ending January 2022. Juan Anderson-Burgos did not vote or participate in discussion on this appointment.
Motion was made and seconded to move to the first ballot for Water Commissioner. John P. Barrett was appointed unanimously to serve a three year term ending January 2024.
Motion was made and seconded to move to the first ballot for Whiting Street Fund. John Pietrikowski was appointed unanimously to serve a three year term ending January 2024.

President McGee: stated that the minutes from the two previous meetings are missing due to delays in the Clerk’s office because of illnesses.
From Office of Planning and Economic Development reports required under Section 5-209 of the City of Holyoke Code of Ordinances regarding Grant reports.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

From Community Development FFY2019, amended annual plan-Legal Notice & resolution.
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

Councilor Murphy: stated he received a communication from Alicia Zoeller about item 5, a transfer of funds to small business grants and BOH pandemic response. asked for it to be processed and voted on.
Councilor Bartley: made motion to have Admin speak, all in favor.
Councilor Bartley: asked Admin if he had the item in Drive folder.
Admin: stated he had not received the item.
Councilor Bartley: stated that having not seen the item, he was uncomfortable voting to approve.
President McGee: clarified the details of item 5, confirming it is $486,324 allocated to the city from Housing and Urban Development, with a description of plans for allocation.
Councilor Murphy: suggested that others should have received the communication the previous week and noted the importance of passing the item in a timely manner.
Councilor Leahy: stated he had not received it, noted the importance, but that a discussion should happen first.
Councilor Tallman: stated he had received the communication on December 21st. Offered concern about the funds being lost.
Councilor Bartley: suggested that the item can be added to the January 25th DGR meeting.
President McGee: clarified that the motion on item 4 was to send to DGR. All voted in favor.
President McGee: asked for clarification on plan for item 5.
Councilor Bartley: made motion to send to DGR, seconded by Councilor McGiverin.
Show of hands vote passed 8-5.

From Planning Board re: 2020 update to the demolition delay ordinance.
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

From Gas & Electric Department minutes of April 29, 2020.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Holyoke Gas & Electric re: Payment in Lieu of Taxes PILOT
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

From Parks & Recreation Department minutes of November 12, 2020.
—> Received.

Councilor Lisi: made motion to take up late file G, seconded by Councilor Hernandez.
Show of hands vote passed, 8-5 (Councilors Bartley, Greaney, Murphy, Sullivan, Vacon)
LISI Ordered, that the City Council invite in James Lavelle (and/or the G&E Commission members) from the Holyoke Gas and Electric to give an update on the issues they are presently experiencing including, but not limited to the gas moratorium, its renewable energy portfolio, and the fiber and broadband internet networks
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

Councilor Vacon: made motion to refer to DGR.
Councilor McGiverin: pointed out that there cannot be discussions on late files.
President McGee: clarified that there cannot be discussion unless the Council plans to take final action on the item.
Councilor Lisi: stated that she is not looking for a final vote, and that she was looking to explain the order. Made motion to suspend the rules to explain, seconded by Councilor Hernandez.
Show of hands vote failed 5-8 (Councilors Anderson-Burgos, Hernandez, Lebron-Martinez, Lisi, Tallman).
On motion to send to DGR, all in favor.

PETITIONS

(Video timestamp 38:55)
Councilor Bartley: asked if petitions require public hearings.
Councilor Lisi: clarified that petitions are usually laid on the table and set as public hearings before the full Council.
Petition for pole and wire locations:
The GAS AND ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT requests permission to locate a line of wires, cables, poles and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way or ways:
 One (1) 40’ Class 1 pole in alley next to 215 Essex St, Holyoke MA
—> Received and laid on the table.

Petition for pole and wire locations:
The GAS AND ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT requests permission to locate an underground line of wires, cables, equipment and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way or ways:
 One (1) pad mount switch on corner of Walnut St & Appleton St, Holyoke MA
—> Received and laid on the table.

Petition for pole and wire locations:
The GAS AND ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT requests permission to locate an underground line of wires, cables, equipment and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way or ways:
 One (1) terminal cabinet on corner of Linden St & Appleton St, Holyoke MA
—> Received and laid on the table.

Petition for pole and wire locations:

The GAS AND ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT requests permission to locate an underground line of wires, cables, equipment and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way or ways:
 One (1) terminal cabinet on corner of Lyman St & Saint Kolbe Dr, Holyoke MA
Wherefore
—> Received and laid on the table.

Councilor McGiverin: asked for a point of information. Stated he believed it was passed that abutters of locations would be notified of a public hearing.
Clerk: clarified that petitioners are in charge of notifying abutters.
Councilor Bartley: made motion to put 10-13 on the table, and for Clerk to work to prepare the public hearing, seconded by Councilor Vacon. All in favor.

Presidents Report
President McGee: Thanked city employees for pushing through a tough year. Expressed that all have a desire to get back to work in city hall. Observed that Council did great job working through challenges.
Councilor Greaney: observed receiving calls from seniors looking for information on vaccinations.
Councilor Lisi: Stated that the city’s Covid response team has set up vaccination schedule, with a plan to convert testing sites to vaccination sites. Observed that the plan is waiting for vaccines to become available.
Councilor Greaney: stated that Council meetings should broadcast as much information as possible as it becomes available.
Councilor Lebron-Martinez: shared personal experience with contracting Covid and having family go through it. Shared that even with good health, she dealt with serious symptoms.
Various councilors offered appreciation for sharing the story and offered well wishes for better health.
Councilor Murphy: Expressed concern about converting outdoor testing sites to vaccine sites with the cold weather impacting those who may have compromised health. Also noted the need to observe those who receive the vaccine in case of reactions. Stated a need to have and understand an organized plan for distribution.
Councilor Vacon: noted that on the coming Sunday, elders in local facilities are being scheduled for vaccines. Agreed with concerns expressed by Councilor Murphy.
Councilor Lisi: noted that Board of Health would be best location to get information on roll out of vaccinations. Understands there to be a phased roll out plan.
Councilor Leahy: noted a change in testing location, that the walk up site on Appleton St had been moved to the War Memorial building, 301 Appleton St.
Councilor Lebron-Martinez: stated concern that late file G had not been voted on.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

(Video timestamp 51:00)
Councilor Lisi: made motion to take 14A and 14B together as a package. All in favor.
The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred a Zone Change Application from BL to DR for One Holyoke Community Development Corp. at 414 Maple St.
have considered the same and Recommended that the application be approved.

Committee Members:
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Linda L. Vacon
Terence Murphy
Libby Hernandez
Councilor Lisi: stated it was zone change petition. Observed that the two parcels are the only two BL parcels in an area of parcels zoned DR (downtown residential). Stated the petitioner plans to improve area which includes lot next to project. Noted it would be an improvement to the block.
—> Report of Committee received and the Ordinance passed its first reading.
The Ordinance passed its second reading.
The Ordinance was passed to be enrolled.
The Committee has considered the same and find that it is truly and properly enrolled.
Report of Enrollment received.
The Ordinance was passed to be Ordained and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 12–Nays 0–Absent 1 (Greaney, Jr.).

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred a Zone Change Application to change from BL to DR for One Holyoke Community Development Corp. at 125 Sargeant St.
have considered the same and Recommended that the application be approved.

Committee Members:
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Linda L. Vacon
Terence Murphy
Libby Hernandez
—> Report of Committee received and the Ordinance passed its first reading.
The Ordinance passed its second reading.
The Ordinance was passed to be enrolled.
The Committee has considered the same and find that it is truly and properly enrolled.
Report of Enrollment received.
The Ordinance was passed to be Ordained and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 12–Nays 0–Absent 1 (Greaney, Jr.).

Councilor Lisi: stated that Hector Carrasquillo is still in his job, and that the position has been posted.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the hourly wage for reserve officers be raised from its current $14.95 an hour.
have considered the same and Recommended that the order be approved, with an amendment to increase the rate by $3.05 an hour to $18 an hour.

Committee Members:
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Linda L. Vacon
Terence Murphy
Libby Hernandez
Councilor Lisi: motion to receive, adopt, and pass the first reading, seconded by Councilor Murphy. Observed that the order was filed because reserve officers due much of the same work as newest members of police force. Noted comparisons to other communities. Observed that there is a potential plan to propose another increase for next fiscal year.
Councilor McGiverin: noted the work the reserve officers do, stepping into job that full time officers do as well. Observed that the item is one line item in budget.
Councilor Anderson-Burgos: clarified hand raising change on Zoom app.
Councilor Sullivan: noted that the Finance meeting discussion was good, with discussion of grants and OT. Observed that when additional details are offered to reserve officers, they don’t tend to take it. Suggested that raise in pay may give more incentive, and could result in savings of OT costs.
Councilor Tallman: noted watching the meeting, agreed with benefit to officers and potential savings to budget. Noted it was long overdue.
Councilor Anderson-Burgos: asked how many reserve officers work with the city, and how much this will add to the budget.
Councilor McGiverin: stated it is up to mayor to add to line item. Observed that a reserve officer cannot be on duty without money in the line item. Suggested that they have enough in account and that they can request more if needed.
—> Report of Committee received and the Ordinance passed its first reading.
The Ordinance passed its second reading.
The Ordinance was passed to be enrolled.
The Committee has considered the same and find that it is truly and properly enrolled.
Report of Enrollment received.
The Ordinance was passed to be Ordained and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the City of Holyoke install a handicap accessible sign at 126 Brown Ave.
have considered the same and Recommended a leave to withdraw.

Committee Members:
Rebecca Lisi
Juan . Anderson-Burgos
Linda L. Vacon
Terence Murphy
Libby Hernandez
Councilor Lisi: mentioned that on late file order, motion is to have G&E come in and give updates.
Councilor Vacon: asked for a point of order.
President McGee: observed that 14D is item up for discussion. Asked for clarification on leave to withdraw.
Councilor Lisi: yes, give leave to withdraw.
All in favor.
Councilor Vacon: asked for a point of order. Noted that an item related to a hen ordinance had been voted out of committee.
Councilor Lisi: clarified that legal language was not drafted yet, and it would be needed before the full Council can vote on it.
Councilor Vacon: asked if the items remain in committee.
President McGee: clarified that items cannot be put on the agenda without legal form and could not be acted on.
Councilor Vacon: noted that legal form would usually be made available before committee votes.
Councilor Murphy: stated importance of getting legal form with enough time for councilors to review.
Councilor Lisi: reiterated that hen item, along with the flood plain order, was voted out of committee, but not drafted in legal form. Stated there would be time for council to review language.
—> Report of Committee received and recommendation adopted.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2021 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE (JAG)” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.
have considered the same and Recommended that the grant be accepted, with a vote of 4-1 in favor.

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
James M. Leahy
David K. Bartley
Councilor McGiverin: made motion to receive, adopt, and pass the first reading, seconded by Councilor Leahy. Stated grant is familiar to council and PD. Clarified that there is no match. Total is $7,942. Noted the grant is to purchase 10 bikes. Explained the dissent was due to issues with grant in all departments creating deficits until reimbursements come through. Stated intent to vote for item after receiving information regarding better grant management.
Councilor Murphy: plans to support, commended work of officers. Noted the benefit of helping law enforcement needs.
Councilor Tallman: stated the grant to be a big help to the community.
Councilor Greaney: observed that two bids would go out to Holyoke businesses.
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2021 MUNICIPAL ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.
have considered the same and Recommended that the grant be accepted, with a vote of 3-2 in favor.

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
James M. Leahy
David K. Bartley
Councilor McGiverin: made motion to receive, adopt, pass the first reading, seconded by Councilor Tallman.
Councilor McGiverin: Observed that Sgt. Hart was in attendance to discuss. Explained that grant changed from two separate grants due to state combining grants together. Observed there will be five traffic mobilizations. Clarified that he voted against in committee and will support tonight. Observed that many questions have been answered regarding grant management. Stated some things still need to be corrected but doesn’t want to hold up grant.
Councilor Tallman: stated support for grants. Observed a need for the mobilization’s that these grants will pay for. Noted built in accountability mechanisms.
Councilor Bartley: observed that committee vote of Councilor McGiverin in committee was valid. Noted that reason for update email was result of pushback in committee meeting. Observed email from auditor regarding initiative to bring more internal controls. Clarified that dates for mobilization’s were announced, but locations were not. Observed that grant is for Holyoke Police Department overtime.
Councilor Sullivan: observed he was one vote against in committee and will join in approving tonight. Observed never receiving info on how money from grants is spent. Noted city should work to get most benefit out of grants.
Councilor Anderson-Burgos: clarified that more accountability is needed to avoid impacts on taxpayers. Good to get grants, but more is needed to keep up with checks and balances.
Councilor Lisi: observed problem is grant management, clarifying that nothing is wrong with grants themselves. Suggested a grants manager might be beneficial to oversee management.
Councilor Vacon: commented that internal controls are needed and noted issues when auditor can’t close grants without reimbursements. Departments need to maintain paperwork for grants to be closed out in a timely manner. Questioned the value of management by one person overseeing all grants.
Councilor McGiverin: thanked speakers for message being sent. Appreciated the focus from several councilors on addressing the issues.
Councilor Greaney: noted that the tax bills are out and that many residents are seeing an increase of $200-$600.
Councilor Lisi: observed that Councilor Bartley filed order requesting that council get reports from departments that received grants when Council approved the grants. Hard to make sure order is implemented if there is no central control over grants. Noted that tax increases are also due to increase in home values.
Councilor Greaney: noted that a tax increase is an increase no matter what causes it.
President McGee: on motion to pass the first reading, all in favor.
Councilor Tallman: made motion to pass second reading.
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2021, TWO THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED AND 28/100 ($2,760.28) as follows:
FROM:
11412-53190          EDUCATION & TRAINING                    $1,000.00
11412-53430         ADVERTISING                                        200.00
11412-53010         PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENT           500.00
11412-51500        OFFICE & PROFESSIONAL SUPPLIES  1,060.28
TOTAL: $2,760.28
TO:
11411-51500        VACATION BUYBACK                             $2,760.28
TOTAL: $2,760.28
have considered the same and Recommended that the transfer be approved.

Committee Members:
Joseph M. McGiverin
Peter R. Tallman
Michael J. Sullivan
James M. Leahy
David K. Bartley
Councilor McGiverin: observed that City Assessor, Tony Dulude, would have enough funds in department to get through end of year. Stated there were cancellations in education and training, less cost in advertising. Noted the request is for vacation buyback for Dulude, trips were cancelled due to Covid restrictions.
—> Report of Committee passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 13–Nays 0–Absent 0.

ORDERS AND TRANSFERS

(Video timestamp 1:36:06)
GREANEY, JR., Tallman, Vacon Ordered, that Ordered that three additional speed limit postings of 30 miles per hour be placed in strategic locations on Mountain Road. Excessive speed on that road has become a severe safety hazard.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. Copy to DPW and Holyoke Police Department.

LISI Ordered, that the City Council consider updating the Demolition Delay ordinance with changes proposed by the Holyoke Historical Commission (see attached)
—> Received and referred to the Ordinance Committee.

MCGEE Ordered, that Order that the public safety committee invite in David Conti and the water commissioners into discuss and get an update on the water filtration system.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

MCGEE Ordered, that Order that the public safety committee invite in Jim Lavelle and/or a representative of the HG&E with regard to the Valley Heights Street area.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

MCGEE, Leahy Ordered, that Order that the finance committee invite in Suez representatives and the Mayor to discuss budget shortfall and potential cost saving measures, and begin review for contract renewal including rate adjustments.
Councilor Vacon: asked to amend order, take strategic approach to renewal of contract with Suez. Observed needing more control over management. Noted a need to review for contract renewal purposes. Councilor McGiverin: asked to add amendment to include in rate to see if it is appropriate for need.
Councilor Lisi: noted she was not clear if DPW was invited to have discussion alongside Suez. Suggested it would be appropriate to have both.
Councilor Leahy: asked to be added to order. Suggested hiring an independent third party to assess materials. Need to understand valuation of equipment, as we as a discussion regarding street sweeping.
Councilor Lisi: noted there is an assessment being done on equipment. Observed the cost of the assessment is split between Suez and the city.
Councilor McGiverin: noted that on street sweeping, the job was given to Sewer Department. When Suez took over, the job was taken away. Suggested looking at it. Suggested inviting mayor to discuss contract.
President McGee: asked for clarification that mayor should be invited.
Councilor McGiverin: yes.
President McGee: read item with amendments: Order that the finance committee invite in Suez representatives, DPW representatives, and the mayor to discuss budget shortfall and potential cost saving measures and begin contract renewal services discussions and rate adjustment discussion.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee. Copy to Suez.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2021, FOUR THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED EIGHTY NINE AND 50/100 Dollars ($4,789.50) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $2,142.53
12201-51104 LIEUTENANT 2,646.97
TOTAL: $4,789.50
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $4,789.50
TOTAL: $4,789.50

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
Councilor McGiverin: noted the purpose of orders is removing funds from salary line item to go to injured on duty for accounting purposes.
Councilor Bartley: noted that injured on duty pay is paid tax free. Noted that the fire chief monitors closely. These are a benefit to the first responders when they are injured, and that there are no deductions.
—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Anderson-Burgos, Lebron-Martinez).

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2021, SIX THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED THIRTY TWO AND 04/100 Dollars ($6,932.04) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $4,285.07
12201-51104 LIEUTENANT 2,646.97
TOTAL: $6,932.04
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $6,932.04
TOTAL: $6,932.04

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Anderson-Burgos, Lebron-Martinez).

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2021, TWENTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FORTY ONE AND 43/100 Dollars ($20,841.43) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANTS $6,591.96
12101-51107 PATROLMAN 14,249.47
TOTAL: $20,841.43
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $20,841.43
TOTAL: $20,841.43

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Passed two readings and Adopted on a call of the roll of the yeas and nays –Yeas 11–Nays 0–Absent 2 (Anderson-Burgos, Lebron-Martinez).

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that

That the City of Holyoke appropriate the amount of Two-hundred Seventy thousand ($270,000) Dollars for the purpose of paying costs of conducting a Feasibility Study to identify improvements and updates to:

●Building roof replacement at the Lt. Clayre Sullivan Elementary School, a 112,000 square foot school building originally constructed in 1960, and located at 400 Jarvis Avenue, Holyoke, Massachusetts,

●Building roof replacement at the Maurice A. Donahue School, a 70,550 square foot school building originally constructed in 1972 and located at 210 Whiting Farms Rd., Holyoke, Massachusetts, and

●Building roof replacement at the E.N. White School, a 63,965 square foot school building constructed in 1958 and located at 1 Jefferson Street, Holyoke, Massachusetts,

including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto, and for which the City of Holyoke may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of The Holyoke City Council.

To meet this appropriation the City Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The City of Holyoke acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA, and any costs the City of Holyoke incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the City of Holyoke, and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Feasibility Study Agreement that may be executed between the City of Holyoke and the MSBA.

Any premium received upon the sale of any bonds or notes approved by this vote, less any ‎such premium applied to the payment of the costs of issuance of such bonds or notes, may ‎be applied to the payment of costs approved by this vote in accordance with G.L. c. 44, ‎‎§20, thereby reducing the amount authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by a like ‎amount. ‎

The City Treasurer is authorized to file an application with the appropriate officials of The ‎Commonwealth of Massachusetts (the “Commonwealth”) to qualify under Chapter 44A of the ‎General Laws any and all bonds or notes of the City authorized by this order and to provide such ‎information and execute such documents as such officials of the Commonwealth may require in ‎connection therewith. ‎

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
Councilor McGiverin: noted the meeting would take place on January 11th. Stated that all are eligible for MSBA formula. Noted that school representatives would be in attendance to answer questions.
Councilor Greaney: asked if the funding is reimbursable by the state.
Councilor McGiverin: confirmed that it is and stated that the city is applying and noted that it could be 80% or 90% reimbursable.
Councilor Murphy: asked if the city would have to bond for this, or if we could pay for it with interest from stabilization account.
Councilor McGiverin: stated that could be a possibility. Suggested that could be brought up for discussion in the committee meeting. Stated city must agree up front, and reimbursement would come as expenses come up. Stated bonding is the suggestion that the mayor had put in front of Council.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MCGEE, McGiverin Ordered, that Order that $832.00 be transferred from Admin Assistant Budget Line 11571-51101 (which is part of End of Year Surplus) and paid over to Ryan Allen as a stipend for the work done during the transition period.
Clerk: stated concern that Council cannot adopt unless mayor initiates.
President McGee: noted that it would be approved to send to mayor to see if he would approve it. Stated that Council cannot take it out. Observed that Ryan did the work of helping with the transition. Noted that pay couldn’t come out of Covid funds.
Councilor McGiverin: noted that Council is not adopting a transfer but, as department heads, sending request to mayor that he sign off. Noted that Ryan Allen couldn’t be made a special employee. Transfer should be doable.
Councilor Bartley: made motion to allow solicitor to speak, seconded by Councilor Leahy. All in favor.
Barnes: stated she reached out to Ryan to get approval to talk to Ethics commission. Law says he could not be authorized to get paid for two city jobs at the same time. Stated the best way to go forward in future instances would be to get authorization from supervisor in future instances to work with union contracts and stipulate timeline for work. Noted that plan in front of Council is a violation of ethics law, and Ryan would be the one accountable to those laws.
President McGee: discussed the history of the issue, noting that DPW contacted Council to communicate that Mr. Allen would be hired by them. He stated understanding that there would be a delay to allow for a transition.
Councilor Bartley: stated a desire to see a statement from Ethics Commission and suggested further discussion in Finance Committee. Stated an interest in hearing from the mayor. Also noted there were previous discussions about paying out of Flower Fund.
McGiverin: stated that the first step should be to get the mayor in the discussion. Noted an understanding of the ethical and legal issues, but that the order should be passed to move to the next step.
Councilor Greaney: asked Crystal Barnes to look into paying with a bonus or severance benefit.
Councilor McGiverin: observed that the motion is to pass. If we refer to mayor, we can have the same discussion more promptly.
Councilor Tallman: observed that a year ago, Council spent hundreds on holiday party that would not be happening this year due to Covid. Suggested it should be taken out of the Flower Fund.
President McGee: noted that the motion is to send to mayor. All in favor.
—> Received and adopted. Referred to the Mayor.

MCGIVERIN, Leahy, Tallman Ordered, that That the City Council meet with DPW Superintendent to discuss bonding for replacement of vehicles.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

MURPHY Ordered, that Ordered that the mayor and the purchasing director as well as the manager of the HG&E appear before the finance committee to discuss current plans regarding the expansion of the electric vehicles within the city fleet.  Do we have a specific plan in terms of how many and what type of vehicles as well as when we might be doing this?  Do we have plans for having sufficient rapid recharging stations? There are some reports which indicate while the initial investment might be greater, the long-term effect is reduced fuel expenses, less carbon dioxide emissions, and in some cases, vehicles that had a longer usable lifespan
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

VACON Ordered, that the Police Department provide an update on drug overdose/deaths for the last two years.

Also provide an update on drug dealing arrests and
crime stats, including shootings & murders In the last two years and also how many were Holyoke residents.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. Copy to Holyoke Police Department.

VACON, Sullivan Ordered, that That the total gross pay of the top 100 paid employees of the city for the past two calendar years be listed by the Treasurer and provided to the City Council. Also, the total gross pay of the elected officials for the past 2 years be listed and provided to the City Council. Also, please include a list of 100 top paid employees of the School Department.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee. Copy to Treasurer .

ANDERSON-BURGOS, Greaney, Jr. Ordered, that Order that the city engineer look into potentially changing the driveway into Peoples Bank off of Beech St to only be an entrance. There have been safety concerns related to the slope of the driveway leading cars out of the property into traffic that is often rushing to make the light.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. Copy to DPW.

LATE FILED ORDERS & COMMUNICATIONS

From James M. Lavelle, General Manager, Holyoke Gas & Electric, letter re:Pilot agreement.
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

HERNANDEZ Ordered, that Constituents have brought to my attention the dangerous speeds that vehicles are traveling at when taking a left onto hampden street coming up from Lincoln.  Can a stop for pedestrians walkway be installed preferably with lights in the middle to create a sense of urgency on slowing down as many constituents use this crosswalk to get to one of the bigger shopping centers in the area, Stop-n-Shop.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

HERNANDEZ Ordered, that In an abundance of caution and taking into consideration all of the continuous accidents on Walnut and Cabot, a bigger Stop Sign with lights on it would be most beneficial and would make this corner much safer. Lots of pedestrians utilize this intersection and although most of the accidents are involving vehicles, these measures will ensure pedestrian safety.
Councilor Hernandez: stated she is referring to the stop signs and have the solar lights around the edges.
Councilor Vacon: made motion to refer to Ordinance.
Councilor Murphy: asked if there was already a stop sign in that location.
Councilor Hernandez: stated there is but that it doesn’t make a difference.
Councilor Bartley: suggested it be sent to DPW with a copy to the mayor to finance it.
President McGee: asked for clarification on if the order required an ordinance.
Councilors Bartley and Vacon noted that it does not.
Councilor Murphy: observed that a recent Public Safety meeting included a discussion on this type of sign at the intersection of Linden and West Franklin. Resolution was a larger sign with flashing lights.
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

HERNANDEZ Ordered, that Study on the possibility of single lane parking or a no parking zone near narrow and or s shape turn on Occonor Avenue, to allow large such as emergency, fire trucks, DPW, to obtain enough clearance to get through at all times
—> Received and referred to the Public Safety Committee.

MCGEE Ordered, that Order that the city council DGR committee invite in and meeting with Roca member
—> Received and referred to the Development and Governmental Relations Committee.

MCGIVERIN Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2021 SENATOR CHARLES E. SHANNON, JR., COMMUNITY SAFETY INITIATIVE (SHANNON CSI)” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

To the City Council:
I hereby recommend the passage of the above order at the meeting of your Council to be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021.

Alex B Morse, Mayor
—> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.

 

Adjourn at 09:21 PM.
A true record
ATTEST:

______________________________
City Clerk