Holyoke City Council Meeting October 4, 2022

Oct 4 2022

7:00 pm City Hall Holyoke

536 Dwight St, Holyoke 01040

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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/86901020711?pwd=b3RFbzlLZlF6YUVVc1ZvTjdzV09BZz09
Meeting ID: 869 0102 0711 Meeting Passcode: 086807 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
October 4, 2022

PUBLIC HEARING

To the CITY COUNCIL of Holyoke, Massachusetts.

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) 35’ pole in the Essex St alley way between Beech St & Oak St, Holyoke MA

LAID ON THE TABLE

The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order From Lisa Ball, Acting City Solicitor, letter re: Fire Chief’s Contract Recommended that the order is in compliance pending passage of the budget

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 “FFY19 PROJECT SAFE NEIGHBORHOODS PROGRAM, $64,850, 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.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that following the adoption of a resolution in support of the district, that the Ordinance Committee work with the mayor and the appropriate city and state departments to adopt an ordinance creating a Puerto Rican Cultural District within the City of Holyoke. Recommended that the order be adopted.

The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order that the City Council consider updating the Demolition Delay ordinance with changes proposed by the Historical Commission Recommended that the order be adopted as amended

The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the lines on Rt 202 on the closed right hand lane going toward Westfield be painted ASAP. Two lanes are being used as travel lanes creating a safety hazard. Recommended that the order has been complied with

COMMUNICATIONS

From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia leter of Veto regarding following order:
That until residents are offered an opportunity to meet IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD with public officials and public board members, who are making decisions with little to zero neighborhood input, the City shall not spend any funds or incur any costs for any new buildings including any school.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter of veto regarding Councilor Jourdains order from February 15, 2022:
That the City Council adopt an ordinance that requires all department heads and employees to electronically track (i.e. Munis or other such system as determined by the Personnel Department) all time off accrued and used on a monthly basis. They are also required to report all time off requests, approvals, denials and usage tracking centrally to the Personnel department on a monthly basis. The personnel department shall ensure compliance with city time off policies. Any employee or department head who knowingly provides false information on the reporting of time shall be subject to discipline up to and including termination. They shall also be subject to restitution and/or other civil fine as may be established by ordinance.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Ms. Gabriela Alcantara Pohls, 589 Pleasant St. 4R, to serve as a member of the Historical Commission for the City of Holyoke: Ms. Alcantara Pohls will replace Mr. Harry Montalvo and will serve Mr. Montalvo’s remainder term; said term will expire on October 1, 2023.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Ms. Lizabeth Rodriguez, 193 Brown Ave. to serve as a member of the Historical Commission for the City of Holyoke: Ms. Rodriguez will replace Ms Frances Welson and will serve Ms. Welson’s remainder term; said term will expire on April 16, 2024.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter re-appointing Mr. Joshua knox , 40 Morgan St. to serve as a member of the Board of Appeals for the City of Holyoke: Mr. Knox will serve a three year term; said term will expire on July 1, 2025.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Mr. Jesus Espinosa, 79 Lynch Dr. to serve as a Commissioner of the Soldier’s Memorial for the City of Holyoke: Mr. Espinosa will replace Mr. Robert K. MacKay and will serve the remainder of his term: said term will expire on September 30, 2023.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter appointing Ms. Julia Santiago, 51 Longwood Ave. to serve as a member on the Library Board of Directors for the City of Holyoke: Ms. Santiago will replace Ms. Kelly Curran and will serve the remainder term; said term will expire on February 2025.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia letter expressing Support for Holyoke Gas & Electric proposed LNG Infrastructure & Resiliency Project in West Holyoke.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, letter electing to contract Cataldo Ambulance Service Inc. of Somerville, Mass., for Emergency Ambulance Services in Holyoke. The effective date of separation from Action Ambulance Service Inc, is October 1, 2022.
From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, Executive Order for Sec. 18-35 Regulation of blighted and vacant buildings.
From Brenna Murphy McGee, MMC and Jeffery Anderson-Burgos, Admin. Ass’t. to City Council minutes from August 2, & September 1, 2022.
From Tanya Wdowiak, City Auditor, Purchase Agreement for Police Cruisers, Lease Schedule No 1 and Master lease purchase agreement.
Memorandum of Agreement Between City of Holyoke and the Professional Supervisors Union (PSA), and Damian Cote, employed as the Building Commissioner effective July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.
Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Holyoke and Professional Supervisors Union (PSA) to add Zoning Official Position effective July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023.
Agreement between The Board of Public Works of the City of Holyoke and United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1459, effective July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2025.
From David R. Pratt Chief of Police letter regarding remarks made on the September 1, 2022 City Council meeting.
From Office of Planning and Development letter re: Zoning text change 50% living space follow up.
From Office of Planning and Economic Development letter from Holyoke Historical Commission thanking the City Council for the Majority vote in favor of the new Preservation of Historic Building Ordinance, on August 2, 2022.
From Office of Planning & Economic Development letter regarding Incident during Ordinance Committee and Planning Board Joint public hearing on August 23, 2022.
From Holyoke Public Schools. Middle School Update from August to October 2022.
Petition for Speed hump for Hillside Ave
From Blossom Flower LLC notice of Community Outreach Meeting for a proposed marijuana product manufacturer at 1 Cabot St.
From Evergreen Industries LLC, 1 Cabot St. notice of a Community Outreach Meeting on September 16, 2022.
From Holyoke Parks & Recreation minutes of April 5 and May 9, 2022.
From Board of Fire Commission minutes of July 21, and August 30, 2022.
From MassDOT letter re: removal of application for electronic billboard permit from September 8, 2022 agenda from Lamar Central Outdoor LLC.

PETITIONS

Petition of Chevonne Ann Machuca, 47 Hitchcock St. for a street vendor license on Race St.
Petition for a new Marijuana Manufacturing Establishment at 109 Lyman St. for Small Wonder Cultivation LLC.
Petition for a new Marijuana Manufacturing Establishment at 420 Race St. Suite 1A for Upper Echelon Cultivation LLC
Petition of Sidikson Mamadjonov for a renewal of a second hand license at 50 Holyoke St.
Petition of Helson Morales for a special permit for a driveway in front yard (6.1.8.1) at 2 Orchard St.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

38. Ordinance Committee Reports (if any)

38A. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That an ordinance be created to allow for a Fire Chief contract and that this ordinance also establish a salary range for the position (Min/Mid/Max) Recommended that the order be adopted, as amended to include the language that “any contract awarded under this ordinance is subject to appropriation by the City Council.”

38B. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order Zone change application from DR to BH for Daniel Laflamme at 41 Temple St (085-00-012) to operate a truck repair shop in a district zoned DR so that the business can be conforming. Recommended that the order be adopted.

38C. The Committee on Joint Committee of City Council and School to whom was referred an order That the school Receiver Mr. Anthony Soto and his team be requested to explore the steps, costs and federal reimbursements associated with re-establishing the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps or similar sister service program in the public schools. It is additionally requested that interest be measured to determine student body support for such a program. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

38D. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order Amend the zoning ordinance to read any home construction in a residential zone shall be greater than 50% living space. A special permit from CC is required if the home construction will have 50% or less living space.
Recently home plans have been approved and it has been communicated from the Building Commissioner that our current residential zoning allows for construction of a home that is 80% garage and 20% living space. Recommended that the order be denied.

38E. The Committee on Ordinance to whom was referred an order That Mayor Garcia be given the authority to hire a DPW director above mid range up to no more than max without needing further approval from CC due to special circumstances Recommended that the order be adopted, as amended to stipulate that these special circumstances would expire when the next DPW Director is hired.

39. Finance Committee Reports (if any)

39A. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Order that $12,500 be transferred from the Cannabis Impact & Innovation Fund to OPED to be the match to the MassTrails Grant for continued planning on South Main Street Corridor Improvement Plans. See executive summary and presentation at this link https://www.holyoke.org/springdale-corridor-main-st-project/| Recommended that the order be adopted.

39B. 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 “2022 MASSTRAILS GRANT, $50,000, $12,500 MATCH THROUGH CANNABIS IMPACT STABILIZATION FUND, ” 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

39C. 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 “FY23 BEST PRACTICES COMPACT PROGRAM: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT COSTS EVALUATION & RECOMMENDATION, $25,000, 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.

39D. 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 “FY23 BEST PRACTICES COMPACT PROGRAM: MUNIS EMPLOYEE SELF SERVICE IMPLEMENTATION, $29,475, 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.

39E. 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 “FY23 LIBRARY SERVICES & TECHNOLOGY ACT (LSTA) – STRENGTH IN FAMILIES, $10,000, 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.

39F. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, ONE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($1,000) as follows:
FROM:
15101-51203 SUBSTITUTE NURSES $1,000
TOTAL: $1,000
TO:
15101-51300 OVERTIME $1,000
TOTAL: $1,000 Recommended that the order be adopted.

39G. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, SIXTY TWO THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($62,000) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51110 PAY LOCAL BUILDING INSPECTOR $55,000
12401-51201 PAY PROPERTY MAINT/DEMO SUPER 7,000
TOTAL: $62,000
TO:
12401-XXXXX PAY-ZONING OFFICER (NEW) $55,000
12401-51101 PAY-BUILDING COMMISSIONER 7,000
TOTAL: $62,000 Recommended that the order be adopted.

39H. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that pursuant to the January 4, 2022 order, which was unanimously approved by the City Council, the HG&E appear before the Finance Committee to give an update on their progress.
The January 4, 2022 Order adopted by the City Council read as follows: “The Holyoke Gas and Electric be requested to take all necessary steps to end the gas moratorium. That they report back to the City Council by April 1, 2022 on their recommended plan of action including potential time table to bring the moratorium to an end. ” Recommended that the order has been complied with

40. Public Safety Committee Reports (if any)

40A. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Communication from Councilor Maldonado-Velez regarding 988 number: https://namimass.org/wp-content/uploads/MAMHNAMIMassFact_988ImplementationH2081S1274.pdf Recommended that the order has been complied with

40B. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the Police Chief and Fire Chief have Baby Safe Haven signage at all manned police and fire stations and ensure effective procedures are in place to comply with Chapter 227 of the Acts of 2004. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

40C. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the Police Chief, Fire Chief, and a representative of the Holyoke Medical Center be invited to appear at the Public Safety Committee to discuss and review the Baby Safe Haven law as it relates to the City of Holyoke. Please provide any statistics on how many infants have been received since the law took effect if available. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

40D. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the public safety committee meet with representatives from ROCA to discuss the benefits of the program both to the participants and the city, and to see if there are other things that ROCA and the city might partner to do. Recommended that the order has been complied with.

40E. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that traffic flow on Kane and Vermont Street be evaluated to reduce congestion during pick up and drop off times at McMahon School and b) that buses be routed from Homestead Ave rather than Vermont Street and c) consider the number of buses needed as it appears fewer students are using the bus service.
Recommended that the order has been complied with.

41. Public Service Committee Reports (if any)

42. Develpment anf Governmental Relations Committee Reports (if any)

43. Charter and Rules Committee Reports (if any)

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

MOTIONS, ORDERS, AND RESOLUTIONS

MALDONADO-VELEZ, ANDERSON-BURGOS, GIVNER — Ordered, that the Superintendent provide feedback on how the department is handling reports of teachers using the “N word” in front of students. Refer to Joint CC and SC Committee
MALDONADO-VELEZ — Ordered, that the city provide an update on any antiracism and diversity training already in place for employees, and update on how it can be improved. Refer to Personnel, Public Safety, and Joint SC and CC Committee
MALDONADO-VELEZ, RIVERA_I — Ordered, that the Mayor create and fund a Public Safety Department, suggesting a beginning budget of $500,000 for FY24. Refer to Mayor, Public Safety.
MALDONADO-VELEZ, RIVERA_I — Ordered, that an RFP be created to study a community responder model type program that is outside of the Police Dept but works in collaboration with that department as one of several contributing partners. Refer to Public Safety.
MALDONADO-VELEZ — Ordered, that a fund be created to implement a series of studies rotating between city departments each year to study best practices and methods of implementation for improvement of processes. Our city should constantly be seeking to improve how the public is served and that requires regularly looking at internal processes. Refer to Charter and Rules, Ordinance
MCGEE, ANDERSON-BURGOS — Order that the DPW install a crosswalk area and signal on 141 at the entrance to the reservoir.
MCGEE — To explore creating a zoning and code enforcement position in the building department.
MCGEE — Order that DPW patch up the potholes on Lincoln Street as soon as possible.
MCGEE — Order that DPW place Lincoln street on the resurfacing list of street to get done.
MCGEE, TALLMAN — that the City Council adopt the attached resolution “Back from the Brink”
MCGEE — Order that the DPW/forestry trim the tree on Jefferson near 3 George Street and review to see if the tree has to be taken down.
MCGEE — Order that the DPW/forestry trim the branches along Hampton knolls that are over hanging the street
MCGEE — Order that DPW put in the temporary speed bumps on Hampton knolls.
MCGEE — Order that the DPW repair the broken swings and equipment at all the parks in the city. Also, that new wood chips be places in the parks. Several parks in the city have broken parts that are a danger to the children and a liability to the city.
MCGEE — That Department heads be given the authority to hire Schedule A positions above mid-range up to no more than max without needing further approval from CC due to special circumstances.
MCGEE — That the City Solicitor be given the authority to hire a paralegal above mid range up to no more than max without needing further approval from CC due to special circumstances.
MCGEE — That the Polling Places for each of the voting precincts in the City of Holyoke for the State Election to be held Tuesday, Nov.8, 2022 be and the same are hereby designated as follows:
ORDENA, que los lugares para cada recinto en la Ciudad de Holyoke para la Eleccion Estatal que se llevaran a cabo el Martes, 8 de Noviembre 2022, sea y al igual, por este medio designado lo siguente:
WARD ONE BARRIO UNO
PRECINCT A – Rosary Towers Recreation Room 21 Bowers St..
RECINTO A—Rosary Towers Recreation Room 21 de la Calle Bowers
PRECINCT B—City Hall (Basement) 536 Dwight St.
RECINTO B—City Hall (Basement) 536 de la Calle Dwight
WARD TWO   BARRIO DOS
PRECINCT A—Morgan School Gym, South Bridge St. Entrance only
RECINTO A—Gimnasio de la Escuela Morgan, en la Calle So. Bridge solamente
PRECINCT B – Falcetti Towers, 475 Maple St.
RECINTO B – Falcetti Towers, 475 de la Calle Maple
WARD THREE   BARRIO TRES
PRECINCT A&B – Metcalf School Gym, 2019 Northampton St..
RECINTO A&B – Gimnasio de la Escuela Metcalf, 2019 de la Calle Northampton
WARD FOUR   BARRIOS CUATRO
PRECINCT A& B – St. Paul’s Church Parish Center, Appleton St.
RECINTO A&B – St. Paul’s Church Parish Center, en la Calle Appleton
WARD FIVE   BARRIOS CINCO
PRECINCT A – Lt. Elmer J. McMahon School Gym, Kane Rd.
RECINTO A—Gimnasio de la Escuela McMahon, en la Calle Kane
PRECINCT B – Maurice A. Donahue School Gym, Whiting Farms Rd.
RECINTO B—Gimnasio de la Escuela Donahue, en la Calle Whiting Farms
WARD SIX   BARRIO SEIS
PRECINCT A&B –Sullivan School, 400 Jarvis Ave.
RECINTO A&B – Escuela Sullivan, 400 de la calle Jarvis
WARD SEVEN   BARRIO SIETE
PRECINCT A&B – E. N. White School Gym, 1 Jefferson St.
PRECINTO A&B– Gimnasio de la Escuela E. N. White, 1 de la Calle Jefferson
MCGEE — That the State Election in the City of Holyoke for the choice of State Officers be and the same is hereby called to be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, in the several polling places designated by the City Council.
The polls will be opened at 7:00AM, and remain open continuously thereafter until 8:00PM, when the polls will be closed, and all the voters will in the several precincts in which they are entitled to vote, between said hours, give in their votes for:
Que las Elecciones Estatales para la nominacion de candidatos del Partido Politico para las oficinas que seran ocupadas en la Eleccion del Estado en el ano 2018, sea y illos de por este medio llamado a que lleve a cabo en la Ciudad de Holyoke el Martes, 6 de Noviembre, 2018, en los varios lugares de votacion, como designado por el concejo municipal. Las urnas seran abiertas a las 7:00AM, y permanaceran abiertas continuamente de alli en adelante hasta las 8:00PM cuanda las urnas sean cerrada, y todas los votantes de los partidos politico en los varios lugares de votacion en el cual ellos tienen derecho a votar, entredicha horas ceder sus votos para la nominacion de candidatos del partido politico para las siguentes oficinas:
Governor & Lt. Governor – Gobernador y Vice Gobernador
Attorney General – Fiscal General
Secretary of State – Secretario de Estado
Treasurer – Tesorero
Auditor – Auditor
Representative in Congress – Representante en el Congreso
Councillor – Concejal
Senator in General Court – Senador de la Legislatura Estatal
Representative in General Court – Representante de la Legislatura Estatal
District Attorney – Fiscal de Distrito
Register of Deeds – Jefe del Registro de Escrituras Publicas
Question #1 – Pregunta #1
Question #2 – Pregunta #2
Question #3 – Pregunta #3
Question #4 – Pregunta #4
MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “FY2023 MUNICIPAL ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM, $35,000, 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.
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWENTY THREE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED SEVENTY EIGHT AND 36/100 Dollars ($23,678.36) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51104 LIEUTENANT $3,883.22
12101-51105      SERGEANT                  10,085.70
12101-51107      PATROLMAN                9,709.44
TOTAL: $23,678.36
TO:
12101-51180      INJURED ON DUTY                  $23,678.36
TOTAL: $23,678.36
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TWENTY ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED FORTY SIX AND 53/100 Dollars ($21,546.53) as follows:
FROM:
12101-51104 LIEUTENANT $3,883.22
12101-51105      SERGEANT                  6,723.80
12101-51107      PATROLMEN                10,939.51
TOTAL: $21,546.53
TO:
12101-51180      INJURED ON DUTY                  $21,546.53
TOTAL: $21,546.53
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, EIGHT HUNDRED FORTY THREE AND 64/100 Dollars ($843.64) as follows:
FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $843.64
TOTAL: $843.64
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $843.64
TOTAL: $843.64
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED EIGHTY EIGHTY AND 62/100 Dollars ($1,988.62) as follows:
FROM:
12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $1,988.62
TOTAL: $1,988.62
TO:
12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY $1,988.62
TOTAL: $1,988.62
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, TEN THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($10,000.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51110 PAY-LOCAL INSPECTOR $10,000.00
TOTAL: $10,000.00
TO:
12401-51110 OTHER CONTRACTED SERVICES $10,000.00
TOTAL: $10,000.00
MCGIVERIN — that the amount of NINE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FIVE AND 00/100 Dollars ($9,705.00) be authorized from the IT Department’s PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING (11552-53010), TWENTY THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY SEVEN AND 00/100 Dollars ($) be authorized from the POLICE/FIRE NETWORK ADMINISTRATION (11552-53020) appropriation in fiscal year 2023 for services rendered in fiscal year 2022 which were unencumbered at the 2022 fiscal year end.
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, FIFTY FIVE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($55,000.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51110 PAY LOCAL BUILDING INSPECTOR $55,000.00
TOTAL: $55,000.00
TO:
12401-XXXXX PAY-ZONING OFFICER (NEW) $55,000.00
TOTAL: $55,000.00
MCGIVERIN — that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, SEVEN THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($7,000.00) as follows:
FROM:
12401-51201 PAY PROPERTY MAINT/DEMO SUPER $7,000.00
TOTAL: $7,000.00
TO:
12401-51101 PAY-BUILDING COMMISSIONER $7,000.00
TOTAL: $7,000.00
MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “GREENING THE GATEWAY CITIES PARTNERSHIP, $20,000, 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.
MCGIVERIN — that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “GREENING THE GATEWAY CITIES IMPLEMENTATION, $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.
MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — That the Honorable City Council, in accordance with M.G.L. ch. 30B and the Holyoke Procurement Ordinance, vote that the City of Holyoke accept the proposal and sell the surplus properties at 297, 301 & 303 Elm Street for $25,800.00 to Carrie and Arthur Naatz. The properties are contiguous parcels of vacant land on Elm Street at the corner of Sargeant Street and described by Assessor’s records as:
297 Elm Street (Assessors Map 004, Block 04, Parcel 005)
Approximately 6,360 square feet in size
Zoned Downtown Residential (DR)
Assessed value is $34,700.
301 Elm Street (Assessors Map 004, Block 04, Parcel 006)
Approximately 6,316 square feet in size
Zoned Downtown Residential (DR)
Assessed value is $34,700
303 Elm Street (Assessors Map 004, Block 04, Parcel 007)
Approximately 8,276 square feet in size.
Zoned Downtown Residential (DR)
Assessed value is $35,000.
MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — That the City of Holyoke, through its Honorable City Council and Honorable Mayor, hereby petitions the Massachusetts General Court to enact legislation “Establishing an Appointed Treasurer for the City of Holyoke” in the form set forth below; provided, however, that the General Court may reasonably vary the form and substance of the requested legislation within the scope of the general public objectives of this petition.
“An Act Establishing an Appointed Treasurer for the City of Holyoke” – This act proposes to change the City Treasurer from an elected position to an appointed one; the appointment will be made by the Mayor, with approval of the City Council, for a term not to exceed five (5) years and qualifications for the position may be established by ordinance. If adopted, the Treasurer elected in the 2023 municipal election will fill the vacancy in the office for the remaining two (2) years, and a Treasurer will be appointed to the position following the expiration of that term in January 2026 or sooner if the office is vacated.
MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — Ordered that the City examine and study the Schedule A increases that were recommended by the salary study completed in 2014, so that we can implement salary adjustments that are competitive and more aligned with neighboring municipalities in order to retract and retain City employees.
MURPHY-ROMBOLETTI — Ordered that the Committee on Development and Government Relations invite representatives from the Worcester Red Sox to learn more about its “Town Takeover” initiative in the 2023 season.
RIVERA_J — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 16 East Court, for Hector Reyes, placard #PL1430356.
RIVERA_J — That a handicap sign be placed in front of 8 West Court for Maria Malave.
RIVERA_J — Order that we make Samosett Street a one way heading east
RIVERA_J, MALDONADO-VELEZ — Order that we install raised crosswalks, or other calming measures, on Main Street between Hamilton Street & Sargeant Street and Cabot Street & Spring Street. Refer to Public Safety.
VACON, JOURDAIN, MCGIVERIN — amend ordinances to include that the Police and Fire Chief contractual salaries are subject to appropriation.
VACON — that the crosswalk at McMahon school be painted and branches trimmed away from the flashing light, as well as any remaining unpainted crosswalks and lines in streets in Ward 5 be painted ASAP as this is a safety hazard.
VACON — that our City Engineer evaluate and determine the installation of a crosswalk. The crossing guard stands on the corner of Kane Road and Knollwood Circle. This is a request from school staff and our School Committee member.
VACON — that “No Engine Brakes” signs be placed on Lower Westfield road near #72 AND on Rt 202 near Sunset Rd. (traveling toward Homestead Ave).
VACON — That the speed feedback trailer be placed on Apremont Hwy near #154 to let drivers see their speed when traveling down the hill.
ANDERSON-BURGOS — Order that the handicap parking located at 29 Belvidere Ave be removed. Per constituent request.
ANDERSON-BURGOS — That the DPW repaint the 3 stop markers located at the intersection of Hillside Ave and Claremont Ave.
BARTLEY, GIVNER, JOURDAIN, RIVERA_I — The Mayor please fund the concrete removal and rebuild of the pad site for the South St. PVTA bus shelter near Sav-a-Lot. Per PVTA’s engineer, the estimated City cost should be $2,000.00
BARTLEY, JOURDAIN, MCGEE, TALLMAN — The city engineer please recommend on-street parking improvements on the north-side of South St. between 485 South St. (Elmwood Towers) and Russell Terrace and the south-side of South St. from Taino’s Restaurant to the old fire station. (Order is suggested by local business owners.) Refer to Public Safety and Mayor.
BARTLEY, JOURDAIN, MCGEE TALLMAN — That a Proclamation be bestowed upon the Jericho Bureau for Exceptional Children and Adults commemorating its 50th Anniversary of serving the Greater Holyoke community with love, patience and understanding.
BARTLEY, VACON — Request a communication from the Planning Board and/or the Law Dept. documenting legal fees incurred by the City of Holyoke as a result of the actions and votes pertaining to Dunkin Donuts/Log Cabin (and any other petitioners) of the Planning Board. Please respond within 30 days and please update the council every quarter. Refer to Planning, Legal and City Auditor.
GIVNER — 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.
-Request to City Engineer, DPW, and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER — Order that Zoning Ordinance 4.4.6 “Location of Accessory Structures” be updated to align with zoning in our neighboring municipalities in an effort to allow more flexibility on residential lots. -Send to Ordinance and request Building Commissioner study be shared with all City Council members.
GIVNER — Order that crosswalks be repainted across Main Street at Hamilton st, along with added signs reflecting state law that requires cars to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. – Request to DPW and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER — Order that the signals division of the fire department implement a light delay at Hamden & Linden streets to help avoid incidents. -Request to the Fire Department and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER, ANDERSON-BURGOS — Collaborative order to create “don’t block the box” Painting and signage to accommodate traffic flow on Beach St at CVS entrance/exit. -Request to DPW and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER — Order that the “no parking” sign be removed on one side of the curve at O’Connor Ave bend to add parking while keeping the corner safe and passable for service and emergency vehicles. -Request to DPW and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER — Order to install city-wide signage reflecting state law that requires cars to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. -Request to DPW and copy to Public Safety
GIVNER, MALDONADO-VELEZ — Ordered, that a no parking sign be placed in front of 5 Whiting Avenue at the request of the residents.
JOURDAIN, BARTLEY, VACON — Ordered, that the City Council adopt a Resolution of strong support of the Holyoke Police Department. As Councilors, we appreciate the difficult and often dangerous job they have to serve and protect the people and property of Holyoke. We believe this Resolution of strong support and solidarity also reflects the strong support and appreciation shared by the vast majority of our residents.
JOURDAIN, MCGIVERIN — Ordered, that the Treasurer and Flynn Financial please appear before the Finance Committee to discuss how our Stabilization Funds are being invested. The City Council would also like to receive quarterly financial statements on these investments going forward. In advance of the meeting, please provide us the financial statements for the period July 1, 2019-June 30, 2022 so we can be prepared for the meeting and our discussion. Please also provide us any applicable regulations or rules from the state related to how Stabilization funds may be invested.

Addendum:

LATE FILES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING

A. MCGIVERIN — Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “PVPC FY23 CT RIVER CLEANUP FUNDING, $512,000, 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.

B. MCGIVERIN — Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2023, ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($150,000) as follows
FROM:
12101-51107 PATROLMEN $150,000
TOTAL: $150,000
TO:
12101-51300 OVERTIME $150,000
TOTAL: $150,000

C. From Holyoke Waste Management Study Group, July 25th, 2022 Meeting Minutes

D. GIVNER — Order to amend the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance to reflect the following: |
(1) Sec 4.3, amend table to allow Motor Vehicle Sales (use) in BG by Special Permit (CC).

E. GIVNER — Order to amend the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance to reflect the following:
(2) Section 7.2.13, amend text by adding the BG zone to the others currently listed (BH, IG, BE).

F. GIVNER — Order to amend the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance to reflect the following:
(3) Create a new Special Permit for allowing the non-conforming use in a historic structure in BG zone.

G. GIVNER — Order to amend the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance to reflect the following:
(54) a zone change to BG for the parcels 091-00-062 & 091-00-063 (a future SP condition item could be, to join both parcels by ANR).

H. From Holyoke Police Department Mill Town Agriculture Security Plan for 1 Cabot St.

I. From Jackie Glasheen, Holyoke Public Schools, Communication regarding first day of school coinciding with Primary election

J. From Tanya Wdowiak, City Auditor, Updated Tax Recap form and Final Cherry Sheet

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

October-4-2022-Agenda.pdf

September 6, 2022