Holyoke City Council Meeting June 6, 2023

Posted June 2, 2023, 12:45 PM

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Status updates for orders

Meeting will take place at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight St
and can also be accessed remotely via www.zoom.us
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85914960000?pwd=QVBqSkJvd0pSZENmNFdDbnVXTnVTUT09
Meeting ID: 859 1496 0000 Meeting Passcode: 657908 or by call in at 1 (646) 558-8656 with same Meeting ID and Passcode.

Live Spanish interpretation will be available on local access channel 15 using the television’s SAP option, through the live stream on the city website, as well as on the Zoom feed by clicking the interpretation option and choosing Spanish.

AGENDA FOR THE CITY COUNCIL –

June 6, 2023
7:00 PM

LAID ON THE TABLE

1. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter of Veto for the CPA ballot question to be placed on the November 2023 local election.

PUBLIC COMMENT

COMMUNICATIONS

2. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter appointing Ms. Lauren Niles, 40 Lexington Ave. to serve as an associate of the Planning Board for the City of Holyoke: Ms. Niles will serve a five-year term; said term will expire on July 1, 2028.

3. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Mr. Michael Sullivan, 43 Park Slope as a member of the Holyoke Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (HEDIC) effective July 1, 2023: This seat on the Board of Directors represents the At-Large sector. Mr. Sullivan will replace Tessa Murphy-Romboletti who is not seeking reappointment. This is a three-year term which will expire on June 30, 2026.

4. From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter reappointing Mr. Jose L. Bayron, 610 County Rd. Unit 2 to serve as a Commissioner of the Parks and Recreation for the City of Holyoke: Mr. Bayron will serve a three year term; said term will expire on June30, 2026

5. From Tanya Wdowiak, City Auditor General fund and sewer fund expense ending May 30, 2023.

6. From Carl Rossi, Director Department of Public Works letter re: 2019 Partial City-Wide Traffic Signal Replacement Project.

7. Communication from Councilor Bartley regarding The New Valley Springs Behavioral Hospital to open in Holyoke.

8. Communication From Councilor Jourdain, Regarding State Statute MGL CH 44B CPA.

9. Grant Completion form: Fund #1195, Community Mitigation Reserve Fund Grant, Massachusetts Gaming commission.

10. Mackenzie Lease Stadium, Valley Blue Sox

11. From Board of Fire Commission minutes of April 13, 2023.

12. From Holyoke Redevelopment Authority minutes of April 12, 2023.

13. From Margaret Wood Owners Project Manager, regarding Public Comment, Peck Middle School Project.

PETITIONS

14. Petition of Andre Gamble for a special permit for a third floor dwelling (7.2.9) at 39-41 Portland St.

15. Petition of Salmar Realty LLC c/o Peter Martins for a special permit for a Proposed Coffee shop/Drive Thru Restaurant at South Street Plaza, A Portion of 209 South St.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

16. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

16A. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order Petition of Katherine Sanchez of 15-12 Dwight St, for a Street Vendor License Recommended that the license be granted with the following conditions:
That the hours be set as Thursdays and Fridays 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.

16B. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That Division 2 of our Ordinances be amended to require the Mayor and Personnel Dept. create and implement a job evaluation system for city employees so that all employees receive goals, standards of performance and a thoughtful annual evaluation against those standards. Ordinance 2-312 currently requires the Personnel Administrator to maintain the job evaluation system. Problem is no such system actually exists to be maintained. The new ordinance should be designed to require the existence of the system but management will be allowed the flexibility to draft it according to their needs and professional opinion. It is unacceptable that for too long such a system that is so necessary for all workplaces our size still does not exist in our city government. Absent the City Council requiring such a system it is almost certain that no such system will come into existence independent of us or it would have by now. There is no current objective measurement of employee performance that rewards high quality employees and holds poor quality employees accountable. Management in this city needs to take action as soon as possible. Recommended that the order be adopted.

16C. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that in the police department, the rate for Matrons be set at 18.00/hr and the rate for Reserve/special officers be set at $22.00/hr. per ordinance. Recommended that the order be adopted.

16D. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that Ordinance 2-61 be amended as follows:
Amend Section B. Each member of the city council shall be furnished, by the city solicitor’s office, a copy of every collective bargaining agreement clearly outlining all changes made to the agreement showing the prior language and the new proposed language, a minimum of ten days prior to the cost items of said agreement being submitted to the city council for approval.
Add Section C. That the City Auditor provide the City Council an accurate financial impact analysis of any such proposed agreement submitted to the city council for approval explaining the full cost of the proposed agreement and attesting to the city council if such agreement is projected to be affordable in all fiscal years impacted by the new agreement. Recommended that the order be adopted.

16E. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That Schedule C of 2-35 be updated to reflect a new title and salary for police matrons Recommended that the order be adopted.

16F. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That the Schedule C of 2-35 be updated to reflect competing salaries for police reserves Recommended that the order be adopted.

17. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

17A. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order 5yr Contract for the School Department Transportation with VanPool and Durham Recommended that the order be adopted.

17B. 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 “MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES’ LOCAL FOOD POLICY COUNCIL GRANT PROGRAM; HOLYOKE FOOD ECONOMY COALITION, $8,000, NO MATCH” 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. Recommended that the order be adopted.

17C. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order That the City appropriate the amount of eighty five million, five hundred four thousand, five hundred ninety-two ($85,504,592) Dollars for the Purpose and Introductions of paying costs for the construction of the new Peck Middle School, 1916 Northampton Street, Holyoke, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto (the “Project”), which school facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school children for at least 50 years, and for which the City may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of the School Building Committee. To meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The City acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA, and any project costs the City incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the City; provided further that any grant that City may receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) eighty percent (80%) of eligible, approved project costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA; provided that any appropriation hereunder shall be subject to and contingent upon the City being awarded a grant from the MSBA for the Project; and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that may be executed between the City and the MSBA. FURTHER ORDERED: That the 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 of the City authorized as of the date hereof, and to provide such information and execute such documents as such officials of the Commonwealth may require in connection therewith. Recommended that the order be adopted.

17D. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, FIFTY FIVE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($55,000) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANT $55,000
TOTAL: $55,000
TO:
12101-51300 OVERTIME $55,000
TOTAL: $55,000 Recommended that the order be adopted.

17E. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that the city complies with MGL 30 section 62A and the required environmental notification form is filed for the school project so the Secretary of Environmental Affairs can make a determination as to whether an environmental impact report is required, prior to any application for financial assistance.
If the environmental notification form is filed before the May 16, 2023 city council meeting, that it be provided as a communication to the city council. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

17F. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that the City appropriate the amount of eight-five million, five hundred four thousand, five hundred ninety-two ($85,504,592) Dollars for the purpose of paying costs for the construction of the new Peck Middle School, 1916 Northampton Street, Holyoke, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto (the “Project”), which school facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school children for at least 50 years, and for which the City may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of the School Building Committee. To meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The City acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA, and any project costs the City incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the City; provided further that any grant that City may receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) eighty percent (80%) of eligible, approved project costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA; provided that any appropriation hereunder shall be subject to and contingent upon the City being awarded a grant from the MSBA for the Project; and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that may be executed between the City and the MSBA. Recommended that the order be returned to the Auditor

18. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

18A. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That a flashing stop sign be installed to replace the current standard stop sign located on Magnolia Ave going up Portland St. Cars are speeding and ignoring the current stop sign. Recommended that the order be adopted.

18B. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Reach out to DPW/HPD to conduct a traffic study for the area, corner of Pine and Appleton Street, due to high speed travel and constant running of the Stop sign. Residents are concerned and have suggested that a camera could assist police department in identifying violators. In addition there is a problem with constant parking of vehicles in the alleyways between Pine and Walnut on the Appleton side street in which they conduct mechanical work and in summer time these illegally parked vehicles are utilized as launching pads for fireworks. Recommended that a second stop sign on the left side be installed.

18C. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city engineer review the inner section of Yale and Park Slope to determine what options are available (i.e. new signage) to help slow traffic in the area. Recommend that the order be adopted to approve the installation of an informational sign at the Engineer’s recommendation.

18D. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW place a “STOP SIGN AHEAD” on the G&E pole #8 near 59 Magnolia Avenue. Recommended that the order be adopted.

18E. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order A study to address a possible right turning only lane, Hampden right turn only onto Pleasant is the goal. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18F. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Clinton & Dwight street corner in need of crosswalk or light and some kind of bump out to keep cars from parking up to corner blocking visibility for pedestrians, currently pedestrians have to walk to almost the middle of street to see incoming traffic. Vehicles constantly park in the -No parking zone-, not being enforced nor ticketed. Recommended that the order has been complied with, and be referred to the mayor to request funding for bulbouts as recommended by the Engineer.

18G. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order DPW repaint the crosswalk on Hillside Ave near Coit. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18H. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Due to concerns at Metcalf school, ordain, : right turn only’ when exiting the parking area. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18I. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Due to neighbor concerns, the city engineer review accident reports at the intersection of Linden and Hampshire Streets and, if needed, recommend traffic safety improvements at what now is a 3-way stop. Refer to public safety and copy to city engineer for a report in 60 days time. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18J. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order From Barbara Blodgett, re: letter sent to Mayor Joshua A. Garcia addressing speeding on Hillside Avenue & Speeding within the City of Holyoke. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18K. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That DPW and or Holyoke Police department provide an update on what was the agreement when the Dunkin Donuts was built as to designate certain parking spaces for Eddie’s Furniture located at 865 Hampden Street, to allow their delivery and Large cargo vehicles to have the necessary clearance to enter and exit safely from their lot. As it stands there are provisional handwritten no parking signs posted on cones that continually are being taken down thus preventing their business to function properly. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18L. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that our City Engineer recommend traffic calming measures for Whiting Farms Rd. Constituents are reporting drivers operating their vehicles in an unsafe manner. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18M. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that SLOW CHILDREN AT PLAY signs be placed on at both ends of Locust St between West Franklin St and MacKenzie Ave. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18N. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the City engineer draft the feasibility and associated costs of a raised crosswalk adjacent to 401 Main Street. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18O. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the City Engineer evaluate and make suggestions to address the speeding on Beech St, specifically the stretch between Portland St and Linden St. The residents that live on the side streets are concerned when tuning on to Beech St. As a side note the Holyoke High School is across the street and this makes that section a hazard to the students as well as the pedestrians. Recommended that the order has been complied with

18P. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city engineer evaluate the area of Cherry & Dale Streets for speed calming measures and the PD enforce speed limits. Pedestrians and drivers are reporting drivers traveling at high speeds failing to stop for the crosswalk and causing dangerous situations for drivers entering Cherry Street from Dale St. and driveways on Cherry St. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18Q. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City Engineer explore options for traffic mitigation on Whiting Farms Rd, specifically at the crosswalks on Farnum and Tokeneke, to ensure that drivers stop for pedestrians utilizing the crosswalks. Recommended that the order has been complied with

18R. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the City Engineer look into whether installation of a traffic light at the intersection of 141 and Bemis Rd is necessary in order to mitigate traffic concerns and potential accidents. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18S. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the city engineer please explore the feasibility or repairing the raised crossed walk on West Franklin and Magnolia Ave. Concerns have been raised about its effectiveness. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18T. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the City Engineer review the opportunity to put a raised sidewalk(s) in front of Blessed Sacrament School on Westfield Rd and report back to the City Council on our ability to do that. These were placed in front of Mayer Field on this street and should also be considered here as well for child safety. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18U. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city engineer study the intersection of Hamilton Street and Main Street in the hopes of adding safety measures. Some problems at this intersection have been “very dangerous to cross the street even with the marked crosswalk” and “dangerous when taking a left turn from Hamilton onto Main Street”. Any recommendations to how we can improve the safety at this intersection would be great! Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18V. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW change the size of the “no turn on red” signs located on the corner of Hillside Ave and Cherry St. The current signs are too small, making drivers unaware of them. Recommended that the order has been complied with, and the sign sizes be adjusted based on the Engineer recommendation.

18W. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the DPW fully plow, sand, salt all of Ogden St. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18X. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the DPW install a raised crosswalk at the intersection of Linden St and West Franklin St. Vehicles coming down Linden St are not coming to a complete stop. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18Y. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the police department provide the city council with a report of the intersections with the highest rates of accidents. A discussion of safety concerns would be helped by having a broader picture of problem areas instead of discussing individual issues. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18Z. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the public safety committee invite in relevant departments to address safety concerns at the intersection of Beech St and West Franklin. A resident recently lost her life crossing the street, and other residents have also expressed concerns. What can prevent future tragedies? What are the state’s plans and timeline? What can be done in the meantime? Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18[. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the radar speed feedback sign be placed on Cherry Street near the curve (Beaudoin Village side of road) when approaching the intersection at Dale. Pedestrians have reported nearly being hit by drivers while in the crosswalk. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that we install raised crosswalks, or other calming measures, on Main Street between Hamilton Street & Sargeant Street and Cabot Street & Spring Street. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18]. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The City Engineer provide an update to a future Public Safety meeting on the status of funding repairs at the crosswalk at the main gate to H.C.C. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18^. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The crosswalk that was installed in Hampden Street next to Stop and Shop, to address our pedestrians but most importantly our blind residents, is missing essential functions and it would be most beneficial that a Spring-loaded In-Street Pedestrian Crosswalk Sign be placed in the middle with lines repainted that instill urgency to the motorist that they need to stop, slow down to allow our pedestrians to safely arrive to the other side. Currently motorists continue to speed up that hill ignoring the initial beep. It would be most beneficial to have a light such as that in South Street in front of Elmwood towers. Motorists that do stop to yield to pedestrians are most of the times almost rear ended by other speeding motorists and at times they try to dodge the stopped vehicle and go around creating a very unsafe atmosphere for pedestrians that now are obliged to step back out of the way. Recommended that the order has been complied with, and referred to the mayor to request funding for bulbouts as recommended by the Engineer.

18_. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The DPW repair sidewalks on Hampden St. near 8 Williams St. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18`. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The DPW, HPD and City Engineer report to City Council with its efforts to improve traffic safety at the corners of Linden/Hampshire Sts. and Linden/Locust Sts. as residents report speeding, accidents, and many instances of running the stop signs. Please produce any accident reports for the last two years for these intersections and send as a communication. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18a. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The Mayor and community development dept fund the following projects with either CDBG or ARPA funds: Repair Sidewalk on east side of Queen St. between Coit St and Queen St. and Build/Repair Sidewalk on west side of High St. from Norfolk St. to Parenteau Dr.; repave Merrick Ave.; repair sidewalk on south-side of Hampden St. between Nonotuck and Pleasant Sts. with the section near Thorpe Ave. (W-4) in need of immediate attention. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18b. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order With Community support, That all four way intersections include either red blinking lights or solar powered stop signs, AND that any new stop signs installed include solar powered lighting.
Recommended that the order has been complied with.

18c. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order with special support from our blind residents and advocates, Order that a light signal with crossing sounds be installed at location of existing cross to Stop n Shop on Hampden St at Clinton Ave. Recommended that the order has been complied with, and referred to the mayor to request funding for bulbouts as recommended by the Engineer.

19. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

19A. The Committee on Public Service to whom was referred an order that the City Council hold interviews to appoint a member of the public to the Holyoke Media board. Recommended that the order be referred to the City Council.

20. Development and Governmental Relations Committee Reports (if any)

20A. The Committee on Development and Governmental Relations to whom was referred an order From Alicia M. Zoeller, Administrator, Office of Comm. Development, 2023 ARPA Allocation Spreadsheet. Awaiting disposition

21. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

22. Joint City Council and School Committee Reports (if any)

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

23. PUELLO — That speed humps be placed on South Summer St. Petition attached.

24. PUELLO — That the traffic trailer please be placed facing Maple St, at the intersection of Maple and Hampshire streets. Constituent concern raised about speeding.

25. PUELLO — That the police chief please provide reports for second, most recent, accident involving mayor vehicle.

26. RIVERA_J — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 16 Center St. for Sylvia Robello, Placard #PL 6020201.

27. RIVERA_I — Order that the mayor, public health department, and sheriff department, veteran services department come into public safety to converse about the possibility of developing a Returning Citizens department under the public health.

28. RIVERA_I — Order that the city engineer out Willow street in the traffic study list. Constituents are concerned about speeding and the volume of cars going up and down the street and would like to explore a variety traffic calming measures that could help make the street safer.

29. RIVERA_I — Order that employees at the Holyoke Police Community Center come into public safety and present on the services offered as well as any other projects they maybe working on that is important for the community to be aware of.

30. RIVERA_I — Order that the Holyoke Hub come into public safety and present and updates they may have on the work they have been doing since the Hubs inception.

31. RIVERA_I — that the city council recognize fiesta cafe (Juan Montano) with a proclamation for his consist dedication and work with the Holyoke Transitions Academy.

32. RIVERA_I — that city council invite representatives of the Sheriff department into public safety to present recidivism and release data specifically to Holyoke.

33. VACON — the radar speed feedback sign be placed on Cherry Street near the curve when approaching the intersection at Dale

34. VACON — the radar speed feedback sign be placed on Whiting Farms Road on the travel side going toward the mall.

35. VACON — that the road improvements be made on Homestead Ave from Cherry Street to Lower Westfield Rd, including repairing sinking/broken sewers etc.  Please see citizens petition from residents.  Refer to Mayor and Finance Committee to determine funding source as DPW and Veolia indicate there is no money available for the repairs.

36. VACON — Repair sidewalk on Kane Rd at #35 and #55.  Tree roots are causing sidewalk to lift and buckle creating a safety hazard near McMahon School.

37. VACON — Remove the dead tree on Evergreen Drive across from #79.  It is a safety hazard near the wires and road.

38. VACON — the radar speed feedback sign be placed near 427 Southampton Rd next on the schedule.

39. VACON — The undersigned seek a meeting of the City council and have the question to vote for a CPA rate of 1% or 1.5% placed on the November 2023 ballot as voted by a majority of the City council on April 4, 2023. This is the first opportunity we have to vote on the tax surcharge since was approved 5 years ago. We object to any delay in our ability to vote on this tax surcharge, whether we support a reduction or support the current rate.

40. VACON — a camera be placed at the intersection of Westfield Road and Homestead Ave. to monitor truck traffic to ensure/assist with compliance with “no truck traffic between 8pm and 6 am.” on Homestead Ave southbound.

41. ANDERSON-BURGOS, MALDONADO-VELEZ — Ordered, that the City Council present a proclamation to Jessica Wild, contestant from RuPaul’s Drag Race and Drag Race All Stars, who will be headlining this year’s Holyoke PrideFest on June 17th.

42. BARTLEY, MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI, PUELLO, TALLMAN, VACON — That the City further honor its medal of honor recipients by improving and adding-to the signage at the Medal of Honor Way near Mitchell Field.  DPW to work with City Council to design a signage depicting the names Mueller, Beaudoin and McKenzie and installing it along the Way.  Include on each sign the name of the medal winner, dates of service and a picture of the medal of honor. Receive, adopt, refer to DPW, copy to DGR.  Our goal is to have the signs approved by early fall and installed in time for Veterans’ Day.

43. BARTLEY, MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI, PUELLO, TALLMAN, VACON — The city further honor its three medal of honor recipients by causing enhancements to the Medal of Honor Way near Mitchell Field. The city shall install appropriate individual signage for McKenzie,  Mueller,  and Beaudoin highlighting their names, service branch, and the symbol depicting the medal of honor.  Receive, adopt, refer to DPW,  copy to DGR. Let’s plan to put signs in place by Veterans Day after a design review in committee.

44. GIVNER — Per constituent request, please remove the handicap sign at 1820 Linden as the previous owner has passed.

45. GIVNER — By recommendation of the City Engineer, that there be a traffic study of the Hampden St corridor from 202 to Nonotuck, as well as the Dwight St Corridor from Nonotuck to Beech Street. These areas are heavily walke, biked, used for street parking on both sides of each street section. The random two lane blocks of Hampden between Lincoln and Pleasant streets, along with two lane blocks of Dwight between Nonotuck and School Streets inspire motorists to speed, pass one another, ignore pedestrians in crosswalks, and endanger bike, scooter, and one wheel riders. Bike lanes and designated street parking areas exist beginning at 845 Hamden and at Parker St on Dwight. All traffic calming measures should be explored and implemented throughout these corridors.

46. GIVNER — By recommendation of the City Engineer, that informational Blind persons crossing signage be added to existing crosswalk on Hampden St at Clinton Ave.

47. GIVNER — Per constituent requests, that additional informational parking sign be added at the corner of Division and High Streets to highlight available public parking.

48. GIVNER — Per constituent requests, that trees/bushes be cut back at the corners of Beech and Dwight streets. There is very low visibility at that already dangerous intersection.

49. JOURDAIN — Ordered, that Holyoke City Council adopt a resolution of support to Sen Velis and Reps Puppolo & Ashe’s bills allowing small stakes gambling at senior centers in the Commonwealth.  Our seniors enjoy playing card games, dominos, bingo et cetera and should be allowed to play with the reasonable small wagers they enjoy to make the games more fun.  That this resolution be sent to our delegation, these 2 Representatives, State Senator James Eldridge and the governor’s office with a copy to our Holyoke COA Director.

50. MCGEE — That Rule 1 of the City Council be suspended for the purpose of the City Council going on Summer Recess and that the July 4, July 18 and August 15, 2023 meetings be cancelled.

51. MCGEE — Order that the city accept and adopt proposed language from the City Solicitor as a home rule petition to the Great and General Court regarding the Acts 1929, c. 113, as amended by Acts 1979, C. 44. Specifically the clause requiring 2 members being of the second world war.

52. MCGEE — Ordered, that the Finance Committee discuss the funding of interpretation of subcommittee meetings.

53. MCGIVERIN — that the sum of $10,500,000 is appropriated to pay costs of the Holyoke River Terrace Sewer Separation Project, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto and, without limitation, all costs thereof as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C of the General Laws, as amended (“Chapter 29C”); that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor is authorized to borrow said amount and to issue bonds or notes of the City therefor under any enabling authority, including Chapter 44, Sections 7(1) or 8(14) of the General Laws and/or Chapter 29C; that such bonds or notes shall be general obligations of the City unless the Treasurer with approval of the Mayor determines that they should be issued as limited obligations and may be secured by local system revenues as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C; that the Treasurer with the approval of the Mayor is authorized to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust (the “Trust”); and in connection therewith to enter into one or more loan agreements and/or security agreements with the Trust and otherwise to contract with the Trust and the Department of Environmental Protection, to expend all funds available for the project and to take any other action necessary to carry out the project.

54. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWELVE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($12,000) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51204 PRINCIPAL CLERKS $5,000
12101-51201 MATRONS 7,000
TOTAL: $12,000
TO:
12102-53210 MEDICAL $6,000
12102-53190 TRAINING & EDUCATION 6,000
TOTAL: $12,000

55. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWO THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED SIXTY TWO AND 72/100 Dollars ($2,362.72) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $2,362.72
TOTAL: $2,362.72
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $2,362.72
TOTAL: $2,362.72

56. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, SIX HUNDRED SEVENTY FIVE AND 06/100 Dollars ($675.06) as follows:

FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTER $675.06
TOTAL: $675.06
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $675.06
TOTAL: $675.06

57. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWENTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED TWENTY THREE AND 48/100 Dollars ($20,823.48) as follows:

FROM:
12101-51105 SERGEANT $10,287.42
12101-51107 PATROLMEN 10,536.06
TOTAL: $20,823.48
TO:
12101-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $20,823.48
TOTAL: $20,823.48

58. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, ONE HUNDRED SEVEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED AND 00/100 Dollars ($107,700) as follows:

FROM:
14251-51104 HIGHWAY HMEO $107,700
TOTAL: $107,700
TO:
14251-51300 HIGHWAY OVERTIME $5,000
14212-57100 ADMIN EXP IN STATE TRAVEL 200
12941-51300 FORESTRY OVERTIME 1,500
14302-52901 TRASH EXP HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECT 36,000
14302-53100 TRASH EXP OTHER SERVICES 22,000
14222-52104 PROPERTY EXP ENERGY PELLISSIER 22,000
14222-52504 PROPERTY EXP R&M PELLISSIER 15,000
14222-52505 PROPERTY EXP R&M SR CENTER 2,000
14222-52509 PROPERTY EXP R&M POLICE STATION 2,000
14222-52510 PROPERTY EXP R&M CENTAL FIRE STATION 2,000
TOTAL: $107,700

59. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, EIGHT THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($8,000) as follows:

FROM:
14251-51104 HIGHWAY HMEO $8,000
TOTAL: $8,000
TO:
14222-52511 PROP EXP R&M ELMWOOD FIRE STATION $4,000
14222-52514 PROP EXP R&M W HOLYOKE FIRE STATION 4,000
TOTAL: $8,000

60. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “2023 RECYCLING DIVIDENDS PROGRAM, $7,700, NO MATCH” 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.

61. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING GRANT, $82,300, NO MATCH ” 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.

62. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “SEWAGE NOTIFICATION ASSISTANCE, $64,039, NO MATCH” 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.

63. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “2023 COMMUNITY PLANNING GRANT AWARD, $200,000, NO MATCH” 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.

64. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY24 GREENING THE GATEWAY CITIES PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP GRANT AWARD, 30,000, NO MATCH” 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.

65. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY23 MUNICIPAL ENERGY TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM, $15,000, NO MATCH” 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.

66. MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY24 GREENING THE GATEWAY CITIES PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION GRANT AWARD, $100,000, NO MATCH” 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.

67. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, ONE HUNDRED FORTY THREE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($143,000) as follows:

FROM:
14211-51101 GENERAL SUPERINTENDANT $10,000
14211-51103 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE MANAGER 20,000
14251-51107 HIGHWAY LABORER 33,000
14301-51102 REFUSE HMEO 80,000
TOTAL: $143,000
TO:
16501-51300 PARKS OVERTIME $3,000
14222-52302 WATER/SEWER CITY HALL 5,000
14222-52304 WATER/SEWER DPW 1,000
16932-52300 WATER/SEWER WAR MEMORIAL 1,000
14222-552303 WATER/SEWER ANNEX 8,000
14302-52902 REFUSE RECYCLING CONTRACT 45,000
14302-52900 REFUSE LANDFILL DISPOSAL 80,000
TOTAL: $143,000

68. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWENTY NINE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED SEVENTY FIVE AND 00/100 Dollars ($29,975) as follows:

FROM:
14251-51105 HIGHWAYS POWER SHOVEL OPERATOR $29,975
TOTAL: $29,975
TO:
14222-52505 PROPERTY R&M SENIOR CENTER $2,000
14222-52509 PROPERTY R&M POLICE STATION 3,000
14211-51300 ADMINISTRATION OVERTIME 4,000
14211-51400 ADMINISTRATIVE LONGEVITY 175
14221-51300 PROPERTY OVERTIME 5,000
14221-51400 PROPERTY LONGEVITY 50
14222-52502 PROPERTY R&M CITY HALL 5,000
14261-51300 AUTO EQUIP MAINT OVERTIME 4,000
14261-51830 AUTO EQUIP MAINT CLOTHING/TOOL ALLOW 750
14262-54800 AUTO EXP MOTOR VEHICLE FUEL 6,000
TOTAL: $29,975

69. MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, FIVE THOUSAND 00/100 Dollars ($5,000) as follows:

FROM:
14251-51105 HIGHWAY POWER SHOVEL OPERATOR $5,000
TOTAL: $5,000
TO:
14302-54800 REFUSE EXP MOTOR VEHICLE FUEL $5,000
TOTAL: $5,000

70. MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. ch. 30B and the City ordinance for property disposition, vote that the City of Holyoke accept the proposal and sell 107 Clemente Street for $34,700.00 to Housing Innovations and Programming, Inc. (a division of Holyoke Housing Authority).  The property is described in the City Assessor Records as Map 028, Block 03, Parcel 002, consisting of approximately 6,534 square feet of vacant land.  The property is zoned as Downtown Residential (DR) and has an assessed value of $34,700.00.

71. MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. ch. 30B and the City ordinance for property disposition, vote that the City of Holyoke accept the proposal and sell 267 Elm Street for $15,000.00 to GEM Holdings, LLC.  The property is described in the City Assessor Records as Map 004, Block 03, Parcel 004, consisting of approximately 5,662 square feet of vacant land.  The property is zoned as Downtown Residential (DR) and has an assessed value of $34,500.00.

72. MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — Ordered that the City Council invite representatives of the newly established High Street Business Association to discuss their efforts, challenges, priorities and ways the city can support their future initiatives.

LATE FILED ORDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS

A. MCGEE — Ordered, to adopt Chapter 32B, section 20 and to create a Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Trust Fund
*Updated June 5, 2023, 11:45 AM

B. MCGEE — Ordered, To create an Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to receive and manage all funds received from settlements of national opioid litigation.
*Updated June 5, 2023, 11:45 AM

C. RIVERA_I, ANDERSON-BURGOS — Ordered, to establish a Holyoke Food Coalition by city ordinance.
*Updated June 5, 2023, 11:45 AM

D. TALLMAN — Ordered, To add revised language from the 1929 special act creating the Soldiers Memorial Commission to the existing Soldiers Memorial ordinance.
*Updated June 5, 2023, 11:45 AM

Addendum:

LATE FILES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING

A. RIVERA_I — Order that the City Council approve the CPA request for Scott Tower/Anniversary Hill Phase II / City of Holyoke (Conservation Commission) / Kestrel Land Trust / Open Space

The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the chair which may be discussed at the meeting.
Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law

______________________________
City Clerk