Welcome to the March 2nd, 2026 meeting of the Reier City Council. I'll rise and salute the flag, please. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to theublic for which it stands, one nation under
God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Madame clerk, >> roll call of the members. Councelor Arenzio >> here. >> Here. Councelor Cogleandro >> here. >> Here. Councelor Jino >> here. >> Here. Councelor Go SA >> here. >> Here. Councelor Hass >> here. >> Here. Councelor Kelly
>> here. >> Here. Councelor McKenna >> here. >> Here. Councelor Mccurio >> here. >> Here. Council Novaski >> here. >> Here. Councelor Sylvestri >> here. >> Here. And council president Zambudo >> here. here. Quorum is present. Approval of the journal of the regular meeting of February 9th.
>> So move. >> Public hearings calendar item number three. Hearing called is ordered on an ordinance further amending appendix A, table of fees of the revised ordinances of the city of River. proponents. I should have said I should have started
by saying this is a public hearing. Can we have the proponents now? We'll get on track here. Mr. CFO, >> Mr. President, this Broadway CFO and in favor of the proposed uh ordinance change for the schedule of
fees. [clears throat] I've been here about eight years. It's the first time we've done a comprehensive review of these fees and we did it based upon trying to make sure that we're staying par with our neighbors and the surrounding communities and um happy to answer any questions on that but I'm
going to have to uh in support of the ordinance. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other proponents? People in favor hearing and seeing none. We'll close that side of the hearing. Opponents. Anybody opposed? Hearing and seeing none. We'll close
that side of the hearing. Counselors. No interest here. Okay. This will go to ways and means calendar item number four. This is also a public hearing. Hearing called is ordered on an ordinance further amending title 12 of the Reier revised ordinances relative to construction pro procedures
for street and sidewalk openings. Proponents, people in favor hearing and seeing none, we'll close that side of the hearing. Opponents, anybody opposed? Hearing, seeing none.
City councilors, >> we're good. This will go to legislative affairs. Calendar item number five. Hearing call is ordered on a zoning ordinance further amending title 17 of the revised ordinances of the city of River relative to special permits.
This is a public hearing. Proponents people in favor hearing and seeing none close that side of the hearing. Opponents Mr. Director. >> Good evening councilors. Tom Skowski,
chief of planning, community development, 281 Broadway. Um, I uh certainly understand the intent of the proposal that's in front of you tonight. Um, I wanted to make two notes um clarifications on on this proposal. Um, the first and perhaps most importantly,
this uh proposal would bring us out of compliance for the MBTA community state law. Um, as you all know, back in December of 2023, we um had to come into compliance with this law, which states that we have to allow for the creation
of at least 25% of our housing stock by right um through our zoning codes. So, at that time in December, we had two different zoning districts, one in Green Street and one on Shirley Avenue that helped us come into compliance uh with
the ordinance. But what that sort of masked, I guess, is that there's a series of other zoning districts that helped us build a baseline. Um, so we had to have 6,135 units that we would be allowed to create
um by right through zoning. And those two districts covered about 2500 of that 6,135. So the other districts that played a critical role were those in the RC and GB districts uh which between those accounted for about 3,65
of our calculations. So simply put if we um took the RC districts as noted and the GB districts and turned them from a Y to an SP, we would no longer be in compliance with MBTA communities. And then the second note on on the smaller
item covered here 174040 um referencing single family and and uh two family projects that are currently within the jurisdiction of the building commissioner that would become under the purview of um the city council per this
change. I would also just like to note we did a recent analysis of our zoning and found that 96% of our parcels um in the city are not in compliance with at least one of our zoning ordinance uh dimensional characteristics. So I think there is some legitimate concern both
for the burden of the city council but also the burden of applicants with one and two family properties which are smaller scale often homeowners or homeowner owned maybe renting on the other side. this would place a pretty big burden on everybody if that scale of
properties would then fall under the purview of the council. So I'm happy to talk about any of that if you do have particular questions but I wanted to make those two things known >> Mr. uh Jenzio. >> Thank you Mr. President. Uh Mr. Scroski,
please. In your calculation that you had submitted to the state, was neighborhood business district included in that calculation? >> It was not. >> So, if we did want to consider this new ordinance, it could apply to
neighborhood business and not affect your calculation for housing stock. >> It certainly couldn't. I think that would be appropriate. >> Thank you. Any other counselors? >> Nobody. >> Wow.
>> Nobody wants to speak on my >> He spoke in opposition. >> My motion. Correct. >> What's that? >> He spoke in opposition to that. Correct. >> He did. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Yes. Oh, yeah. No, no, no. That's >> Can we >> Yes. >> The the key to the
>> director speaking is to tell us that the governor has put this in place and we can't we can't put in place what I had originally hoped for. Uh we got to be in compliance with the MBTA communities law. As much as that hurts my throat to
say that, uh, we have to, but, uh, councelor Aenjio brought up one of the points I was going to bring up. She saved me the trouble. I won't have to. This is going to committee and we're going to work out the details. We know that the big details were dictated by
uh, but we we do have some tweaking we can do that will protect neighborhoods. So, uh, this will go to zoning. Calendar item number six, hearing called is ordered on a bond authorization in the amount of 1,250,000
for mass D CWSRF planning project number 1 192000 proponents I'm Sorry, I I'm discombobulated here tonight. Off my game, >> Mr. CFO, you're back.
>> Good afternoon, Mr. President. Rich Fiske, CFO Tudtor on Broadway. I hear I'm here to speak in favor of this bond authorization. this um authorization will help us continue with our efforts in complying with the D and EPA on our
consent decree and um happy to answer any questions. Thank you. >> We we're we're awfully we're we're told that we got to comply with a a lot of things that are distasteful especially to the taxpayer.
It's like eating the poison. Mr. >> Good evening council. Chris Chair, Superintendent Public Works, 3 um 321 Charger Street. I'd also like to say I'm opponent for this. This is to advance the design for conveyance one, the
project that runs along the new high school site and the inflow and removal for project 13. That's all. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other proponents? Hearing and seeing none. Close that side
of hearing. Opponents. Anybody opposed to this? Hearing and seeing none. That side's closed. Uh councilors. Council McKenna. >> Thank you. Um Chris, can I ask you a question, please?
>> So, is CDM Smith doing the job for um you know how much I like them. Um is are they doing the job for the high school? They are doing conveyance one. Yes. >> Yes. Were they were the lowest bidder? >> Um yes, they were actually the lowest
bidder on the last time we put out the engineering services contract. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Yep. >> Councilman Curio. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Chris, one more question, please. Thank you. And I I al have one for Mr. Visque. Uh Chris, this is you said this is the outflow pipe for the school project.
>> So this is conveyance one. It's so since we line most of the sewer infrastructure in the city, the next step is moving forward to um the next step is moving forward to upsize some of the sewer lines. These are the main trunk lines that move sewage around the city. So,
this will be upsizing the 24-in sewer line that starts at um River Beach and goes down to the old Neco site into our sewer interceptor. >> Okay. We'll be upsizing it from 24 inch to 36 inch. >> Okay.
>> And does that work include a little uh of the uh big old flow pipe that's behind the old high school? Does it connect into that somehow? >> Um it it ties into that existing trunk line that goes down Liber. >> Okay. >> Correct. >> Thank you.
>> Yep. >> Mr. Visque, please. >> Sound like you know what you're talking about. >> What's that? You sound like you know what you're talking. >> Yeah, >> he does. Construction. >> Good evening, Mr. Visque. Uh so, uh this is 1.2 million uh on the descent decree,
correct? >> If approved. Yes. >> Yeah. And how much have we spent already on the descent decree? >> Ballpark. Just bring bring the residents [clears throat] up to date on it. We'd like to since we're going to give you another million, too, might as well tell what the whole package is. >> You're not giving it to me necessarily,
but it's about $120 million. >> $120 million so far. And do we see um light at the end of the tunnel for this? >> I'm not the best person to ask that. Chris is pretty much much more involved with the actual the decree itself and in it in its status. I just um make sure we
borrow the money so we can continue on with the projects. >> I forgot you're the money man. He's the dirt man over there. Right. Chris, when do you think we will see a little light at the end of the tunnel? I know it might be >> really >> what is it?
2038 >> 2038 >> the end of the consent order, correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe it's 2038. >> 2038 >> is estimated completion that that's completing all of our convenience projects. >> Okay.
>> To date, but um where we have been talking with the D on and off and we're pushing to get out of the content agree as soon as possible. >> Understandable. >> We are. >> So, we're going to be asking for more money. You're going to be asking for more money down the road.
>> Uh to complete the required consent decree. >> Okay. >> Planning projects. Yes. >> And has CDM Smith giving you a cost estimate for the remainder of the work to be completed? >> Not all the projects. No. There still >> would that be advantageous for the city
of Riviera to get that information? >> Yes. Also, I mean we can get vague estimates, I'm sure. >> Okay. But once you get through the planning process, we'll be again funding them to come up with those numbers. >> Well, we have some big bonds coming up in the near future. So, I'm just curious
if we keep on adding >> uh another 15 years to this decree at a million dollars, that's another 30 million, 40 million potentially bonding for the city. I know you don't have anything to do with that, Chris. I'm just [laughter] >> No, I understand. I I understand this is
a sore subject with everyone. >> Yeah, >> it's been ongoing for some time. And believe me when I say we are trying our best to >> appreciate just trying to get on this. >> Yep. And we can definitely sit down and go over all the numbers >> as well. >> I appreciate that. >> Yep.
>> Of course. >> Any other counselors? If I can make a comment from the chair. >> Thank you. Uh this is another one of those unfunded mandates that uh is torturous to the
taxpayers. This was completely with a gun to our head and uh I just want the taxpayers to understand we have absolutely no control of the federal government and uh they forced us to do this and we have to spend this money to come in compliance. So that's what this
is all about. We're all frustrated about it because it's like lighting money on fire. But uh it I think I think we if we're honest, it has made progress in our infrastructure and $120 million. We
would hope there's some progress made, but uh it has made a difference, but uh I I know it won't be probably done in my lifetime, but uh we're stuck with it. Thank you. on on the on the roll call on the uh
consent on the bond. >> Shall the city council approve a loan order the amount of 1,250,000 for Mass DWSRF planning project number 1 192000? Councelor Agenzio. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Cogleandro. Yes.
>> Yes. Councelor Janino. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Gino SA. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Hass. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Kelly. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor McKenna. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Mccurio. >> Yes. >> Yes. Council Novaski. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Sylvestri. >> Yes. >> Yes. And council president Sambutoo?
>> Yes. >> Yes. The loan order has been approved >> on the resolution. All in favor? All opposed. So audited. Calendar item number seven. Hearing called is ordered on a bond authorization in the amount of $500,000
for Mass D, I'm sorry, 19201. This is a public hearing. Proponents, Mr. President Richard Visqueke, CFO 2 Broadway. I am here in support of the loan order for us to continue on with
compliance with the consent decree. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Any other proponents? You can just raise your hand if you want, Chris. [laughter] >> Thank you. Christian Jao, superintendent public works. Um this is for the
planning of conveyance 2 which will be the next um conveyance project which will upsize and relay the sewer force main from Wade Park in North River going down into um behind the Squire Road shopping plaza.
>> Thank you for that information. At least we know where we're spending our money. >> Any other proponents? Hearing and seeing none. We'll close that side of the hearing. Any opponents except for everybody hearing and seeing none
counselors So I'm told we got to take a 5m minute recess. Okay, Madame Clerk. This is a roll call for the Shel the city council approve a loan order in the amount of $500,000 for Mass D CWSRF
planning project number 1 19201. Councelor Aenzio. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Cogleandro. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Gino. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Garino Sio. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Hass. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Kelly. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor McKenna. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Mccurio.
>> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Nasellki. >> Yes. >> Yes. Councelor Sylvestri. Yes. >> Yes. And council president Ziamudo. >> Yes. >> Yes. The loan order has been approved. >> On the resolution, all in favor? All opposed? So audited.
[clears throat] >> Calendar item number eight. Hearing called as ordered on the application of Mario Zapage 791 Broadway Reier Mass requesting a special permit from the River City Council to enable the appellent to construct two townhouse dwellings at 661 Washington. have
>> proponents >> councelor. >> Mr. President, good evening and members of the rever city council. James Cipleta and I'm the attorney for Maria Zapage who's here with me. He's the he's the principal in Zapage development. Uh we have before you an application for a
special permit to construct two uh townhouse two two-unit town houses on 9,410 square ft of land at the corner of Washington Avenue and Park Avenue. Uh the plans that you have before you show two side by side town houses which are
not they're stag they're staggered uh as to setbacks from the front of the uh um the property line uh along the public way so as to eliminate this um sort of monolithic look of town houses that you may see in other other cities and or
other parts parts of the town. It's a It's a more It's a safer and a more appeasing uh look. Town houses are allowed in the RB district. This is RB zone. Currently, there's a uh two family house u used to be a two family house.
It got burned. That's going to be uh removed and in its place. Uh two of these uh townhouse units which will be side by side. They're um appropriately spaced. Uh they're safely laid out. The uh setbacks do need u some very minor
relief from uh the zoning board of appeals who we will be visiting later on in the u in this this month. U it would be a much safer uh build because these town
houses would have to comply with all of the current codes, building code, health code, electrical code, um board of health and and so on. uh rather than rebuilding uh what is now standing or has been mostly destroyed.
The buildings as you see from the plans you have in front of you fit well on the lot. Um it is it gives enough light, air, open space and setback. Um the we anticipate that uh we will be successful at the zoning board of appeals to uh
obtain their dimensional uh regulation relief and that would be in a couple of weeks. Any questions? Mario's he wants me to let you know that these are very similar to the ones that he built on River Street which sold out in less than two weeks. >> We got to go through the public hearing.
So we we'll call for proponents and opponents and then councils. >> Any other proponents? People in favor of this project hearing and seeing. >> Chairman, there is a letter on file from Jeannie Serero, 54 Carlson in favor. >> Okay.
Any uh we'll close that side of the hearing. Any opponents? People against hearing and seeing none, we'll close that side of the council Janino. >> Thank you. I haven't received any phone
calls from the neighbors or buddies either positive or negative about this area yet. I looked at the plans on it and I think kind of fits the neighborhood that the two duplexes and it's going to look pretty good when they finish. I think I'm in support of it.
>> Thank you, councelor Councelor Sylvestri. >> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh this will be coming to zoning, but in in Mrs. Sereno's letter uh supporting the project. She did mention something regarding the the driveway. She thought the driveway could have been changed.
Did you see that? >> I'm sorry. Can you just >> Yes. On the plans, one of the town houses have the entrance from the church from the other side of the street and doesn't have a garage. Has a double parking spots. That's the reason three of them has a garage and one has a
parking. >> Each of them has two parking spots though. >> Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Councelor McKenna. >> Um, thank you, Mr. President. My only concern is we've had problems on uh Sergeant Street in um Washington Street.
We've had a cars go a car cars go through the fences. Uh there's a corner house there and to make the turn on Sergeant Street and Chris knows this, we had to put uh uh bolards bards. So that
Yeah. So I mean the car has been through this poor woman's fence three times, three different cars. >> So we need some barrier there uh on the corner because it is taking up some of that corner. >> So thank you. >> These are some of the things that can be
worked out in zoning. Council Curio. >> Thank you. Council President, I'm a little concerned about this last townhouse being so close to the curvature. Our zoning calls for no a driveway cannot be within 20 ft of the
curvature of the road. Number two, this is one of the busiest intersections in Riviera without a light. So my problem with this whole development is that when the cars back out, they're backing into the curvature of the roadway. I mean, I'm all for the
I'm pro development by by all means, >> but I think putting this third this last townhouse is is is not going to work. I would be happy with three, but the way this third one sits one more >> uh or the first one, I don't know how they're numbered here. Um it it it's
within I know it's not we're not zoning here, but um I can't be in favor of this to be honest with you. uh because it's it you know like I said it's it's one of the busiest intersections in Riviera that doesn't have a light. Thank you, Mr. President. I don't know if you can respond to that.
>> Thank you, councelor. These are things that can be worked on. If you want to respond to that, you can >> only that that is one of the issues that the uh zoning board of appeals is going to deal with. >> Councelor Kelly. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Um, Council
Mccurio kind of stole my thunder, but before I give my just a brief remarks, could I, Madame Clerk, have the um, could we have the letter from Mrs. Serino read into the record, please? >> Go ahead. Read it in, please.
>> From Jean Sereno, 54 Carlson AB. I submit this letter as the former property owner of 661 Washington AB, along with my late husband, Richard. I have seen the proposal and on its face it looks to be a good use of the land and I feel it will fit in nicely with the neighborhood. I also have seen some
of the applicants other projects and feel they complement their neighborhoods. So in this respect I'm a proponent of the project. However, there was one aspect of the proposal I feel a responsibility to address and that's the proposed new driveway on Washington A.
I've seen traffic increase over the 30 years I've lived at this house lived at this address. The intersection of Washington A and Malden Street has had its share of accidents to the point where stop signs in a blinking red light have been added to both directions of Washington A traffic to along to go
along with the stop signs for Malden Street drivers entering Washington Avenue. Guardrails have also been added in front of two Washington Avenue properties, including the project's direct to Butter. Cars have jumped the intersection island and caused property damage, including to my own yard. Taking
my firsthand experiences into account, the proposed new driveway on the Washington AB side of the property should be given more thought from a safety standpoint. Not every car from Malden Street comes to a full stop at their stop sign before accelerating onto Washington Avenue. And in my opinion, anyone entering or exiting that new
driveway is at serious risk of an accident. I understand that since I no longer live there, it ought to be the will of the direct and indirect butters of the property and the council to decide what's best for the neighborhood. It's my wish that the proposed project works for everyone. Jean Serino, 54
Carlson Avenue. >> Thank you, Madam Clerk. >> Thank you. Go ahead, councelor Kelly. >> Thank you. Um, so I have basically the same concerns that councelor Mccurio um spoke about. We have a 9,400 foot lot. Generally, we need 3,000 square feet of
land per unit. So, we're a little short there. Um, but that's not my main concern because generally I want to support town houses. I think single families and town houses, I actually I'm a proponent of them. They can put people on a path to home ownership and build
stability and wealth. So, I generally want to support town houses. Um, but this one because of specifically where it's located in this intersection causes me to pause only because of the driveway and the dangerousness of that and the congestion of that particular
intersection. If this was on further down Washington A on the straight strip, I probably wouldn't have an issue with it at all. It's just because of this particular location, the location of the driveway, the curvature. Um, all of those things pose safety concerns for
me. The other thing is just um the other uh relief that you'll need from the ZBA regarding the setback. I understand that one of the abutters there that will be affected by the reduction in the setback has an ingground pool. Um, so I don't know how they'd feel about it. And in
order for me to I don't know if you directly spoke to them. Um, I know that notification's given, but sometimes as a counselor I hear a lot from constituents that they don't receive notice. So in order for me to vote on this, I would rather know that they definitely know
about this um property line aspect. Um, so in light of all that, I'm not saying no to town houses, but I think maybe three town houses with some type of a shared driveway, maybe on Washington, um, on Malden, where the driveway is now, would be maybe a better compromise.
So maybe something could be worked out. Um, I don't think the only other option is to rebuild what's there. We, you know, we could have other options rather than just four town houses or to build what's there. Maybe we can meet somewhere in the middle. So, >> so financially three of them are not going to make sense. That's the problem.
>> That was a business decision on your part though. It's not it's it's >> we can work this out if you like. >> We're not going to we're not going to litigate this project tonight. Uh councelor Gino SA. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh Mr. Zage,
you've built the other town houses, right? Nine of them. >> Yes. >> Um how many new owners purchased them? Are they all sold or >> all sold in a couple of weeks? All nine of them. >> All nine of them sold right away. >> Yeah. >> Um my question I actually I I I like
this project to be honest with you. Um I think it complements the character of the neighborhood >> and um I think it keeps the aesthetics of the neighborhood the way it's supposed to be. Um yeah, I'm I'm I like the project. Thank
you, >> Council Carlandro. Thank you, Mr. President. That's that's what I was going to ask is you built the town houses over the old Sons of Italy. >> Are these going to be the same style? Same exact style. Two beds, two bath, two pockets, same style.
>> Um, currently the the property that's there, >> how many units were in that property? >> There were like I believe was like two family, but almost four units. Two were illegal, I guess. >> Okay. >> So, >> thank you. You're
>> okay. Uh, council council. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh, I looked over the plans. Uh, I don't see a problem with them. I think it's a it's fits into the aesthetics of the neighborhood. Uh, I like town houses. Um, and I I think it'll add to the
neighborhood. And I always defer to the um ward counselor. The ward counselor is is happy with the project. He represents the area. Uh, I don't see any opposition here to this. So, u I'm in favor of the project. Thank you. >> This is going to zoning.
>> Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, >> Angel. Take over. >> Calendar item number nine. Hearing called is ordered on the application of Andrea Garcia, 150 Arnold Street, River, Mass, requesting a special permit from the River City Council to modify an
existing non-conforming structure and use from a tow company to a restaurant at 855 Broadway. proponents. >> Good evening. Um all councils of um members of the council, Andrea Garcia, 150 Arnold Street with Valentine's
General Contracting. Um again, just like Ashley mentioned, um this is formerly known as uh Atlantic Towing, and it will be now we're dividing into two spaces. Um, one will be the, um, we're relocating the existing, uh, Poo Royale
restaurant at 529 Broadway now at this location. And then the space to the left will just be um, uh, like a vanilla box just to lease out to another tenant. Any proponents?
Any opponents? going to close both sides of the hearing. Um councilors >> council vestri >> I am the ward counsel I'll I'll hold my comments till later. >> Thank you madam chair. Uh madam
president actually right now. Thank you. Um so I just was wondering how many uh are you the restaurant owner? >> No I'm not. >> Oh you're just the contractor. >> Just contractor. No, I I just want to How many seating
how much will the seating be? And um >> Yes. So, um so for seating count, we have I apologize. Let me just freshen up here. Um
we have occupancy use of I apologize. I haven't seen these in a little bit. Um >> about 30 seating count approximately. >> Okay. And then where where how many parking spots will be? >> Uh no parking. No parking. There's no parking.
>> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you, >> Council Material. >> Thank you, Madam Vice President. Um, I'm off of the restaurant, but uh, this plan is kind of incomplete. We don't know what the facade's going to look like. You have two driveways that need to be
closed up. Um, we have another restaurant that's coming up. Uh, and they they have a detailed plan of what the building's going to look like, the floor plan of the restaurant. >> So, this this plan is incomplete in in my book. I don't I mean you you're just saying you converted an old toll uh
business into a a restaurant with an incomplete plan >> and I do apologize. Uh we were yes in the process of getting the plan complete which is the one I have in front of me and I can um I will submit it but it was just not ready at the time of my um that
I submitted the application. >> Okay. But I do have a complete set of plan that can be reviewed. >> What the facade's going to look like, the restaurant, the entrances, >> all the handicap facilities inside the restaurant. >> I have it all and I do apologize that it wasn't submitted. >> Okay, that would be great to present
that to the council. >> Yes, definitely. >> I like I love the idea that that finally that building is getting a new life into it. >> Yes. [snorts] >> And uh I think it's going to be a a great asset to the city. Um but you should present the plan to the council prior to coming up in front of us. Yes.
So we all can get a look see at it. >> Yes, >> that's all. Thank you madam vice president. >> Thank you. Sorry >> council cogandro. >> Thank you madam vice president or president pro tempor. What is it right now? [laughter] >> One of the prompor
>> shrimp temporum. Sorry. >> You're not going to be selling motorcycles or minibikes out of that location. Correct. [laughter] >> No we won't be. I know that was one of the biggest issues there. >> I agree with Council Mccuri. I'm very happy to see this building getting a facelift. Um, very happy to seeing the
use seeing the use changed. And I I do agree we I wish we had some some more in detailed plans, but I know we're going to be going to zoning. So, if we could have them by then, >> that would be great. >> Um, there's no parking here. This is Poo Royale going in from down the road,
right? >> Exactly. >> And there's really no parking over there. Street parking. >> And how many seats was the occupancy again? I'm sorry. It is um it's 30. Yes. >> And and this used to be my ward. Um I haven't heard any anything from the
people that I'm still in communication with in that neighborhood. All I can tell you is that they've dealt with a lot over there. And not to speak, this is now councelor Garino SA's ward, but they've dealt with a lot because of the company that's currently there. Not to speak poorly about them, but um if there
is a neighbor in the area, I would just ask maybe you guys do anything you can to work with them. I am in favor of this 100%. >> So, just continue to be good neighbors as always. >> Yes. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you, council. Council Garino, uh
no, Council Jenino, I'm sorry. >> Thank you. This going to be similar to the other restaurants we have in our setup. >> I'm sorry. Similar to to the other restaurants they have Polar Royal like the one in Lyn. >> Exactly. >> The one over in Everett, the one down in Rhode Island. >> All Yep. It will be >> so be exactly the same.
>> It's going to be a nice nice restaurant. Oh, yes. I'm seeing I mean I've been to half dozen three or four in the area. >> Yes. >> And seeing pictures of the other two or three has out of state. >> Mhm. >> And >> they all have pretty much similar similar facade. All the um you know >> similar decor and stuff like that and
all the >> it will be pretty much an exact replica. >> Very nice. And the family is a decent family to work with. >> Yes. >> And uh I've seen what the neighbors and I've seen them help the city out a few times. I know the police department over the years. >> They've they've helped us out with different things and >> looking forward to it. Thank you.
>> Yeah. Thank you, >> Council Gorino SA. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Hi. Um, so as the ward counselor, I have not received any communication at all about this development or about this proposed um,
restaurant. Um, I haven't heard from any others and I would really like to know how they feel about having another restaurant in that area as well. >> Um, I'm not against it because I want to clean up what is there. Um,
but I am interested in seeing what the neighbors have to say. Um, particularly regarding the parking that's around there. >> Um, how many people are expected to go into the restaurant? Is there going to be um, ample parking in like right in
front of it? Are we going to be parking on the street? >> Street parking because there's no parking in Yeah. >> So, what's going to happen with the neighbors that actually live right next door? >> Do you know what I'm saying? I I would like to get some community input if that's possible. Um maybe set up a
community meeting with the Yabuters. >> Okay. >> Um that's what I would like to see if that's possible. >> Thank you. >> Definitely. Yes. Definitely work with that. >> Thank you, councelor. Any other counselors? Council mccurial. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you for the leeway. How big is the interior of
this space? >> So, it's going to be divided into two spaces. So, what the space that Boy Royale will be occupying is 3,200 ft². Uh, and then next door is about 2100 square f feet. >> So, you're going to have two uses out of it now.
>> Two uses. >> Okay. I think you need to present the plan to the uh the counselor. >> Yes. >> We're looking at a restaurant now. It's going to be another use. I'm just we're just gonna we're going to help you through the process, but we we need to see
>> this on paper to see what we're voting for. >> Definitely. Yep. Okay. And we'll send those over. >> Thank you, Mr. President. >> Anyone else? Sony >> calendar item number 10. Hearing call is ordered on the application of floor
Gomez, 276 Malden Street, River, Mass, requesting a special permit to enable the appellent to modify a non-conforming structure by converting a retail flower shop to a restaurant at 619 Broadway. >> Proponents name and address for the record, please.
>> Uh, good evening, Rivera City Council members. My name is Oswaldo Limus III aka Aussie with designs by Oz thei architectural and design and engineering design solutions for the past 20 years. I'm here with the owners Laura and uh
Carlo Sanchez uh for an application for a special permit an effort to create an admirable attractive building for the city of River bringing in more revenue continuing to stay in harmony with the main streets and character of the city of River. The building is located in the
intersection of Broadway and School Street where it once was a floral shop. Now, I'll explain the uh proposed architecture concepts with the plans you guys already have. The building is zone in a general business area.
We're changing the occupancy to a mixeduse a 30se seat restaurant serving Italian and Spanish dishes with a small bar with all the required amenities per mass codes city re
regulations including a full kitchen at ground level. Again, all in compliance with the city river and the mass code, of course, with the board of health, fire department, and a single residence,
one-bedroom apartment, bathroom, small kitchen, living room with a 5-ft diameter spoil stairway and emergency fire escape at the second floor. Uh, as well as an as well as adequate parking for both units. We have four
existing parkings in that lot. There's also going to be a dumpster and the actual fire escape. Plenty of room. We'll do some nice landscaping as well. Also note that uh we're going to be raising the floors about 2 feet because
we don't have enough height for the kitchen and give it more height on the restaurant. Give it a bigger presentation, more elegant look. Uh the building footprint will remain the same. Exterior materials will generally remain
the same. Vinyl siding, architectural roofs as shown on the rendering. Uh we'll add some more windows at the side where the intersection is to give it more light. And then uh yeah, again more
land landscaping, decorative elements and a future sign to attract clients to the new restaurant as it would be called no stress with a stop sign kind of uh you know sign style. The idea is to
keep a clean look as the building is is is unique features anyways. There's not too much to do to it. It's got a glass facade or glass canopy on the on the right side. It's really small anyway, so it's kind of a challenge to uh accommodate the stairs and get that one
bedroom upstairs. Uh again, just to create a restaurant with that beautiful entry with audible curb appeal. We have maintained the redesign objectives to stay within the dimensional controls
uh with the city river as well as adequate parking that there already exist. We're seeking a special permit to relieve a non-conforming structure within the existing non-conforming lot. Let me just get a little bit deeper in here into what the uh lot conditions
are. The existing building is uh in a very exposed location which makes it a perfect location for a restaurant. Keep it in harmony and character with the modern rever Broadway look for pedestrian walking and keep that nice
modern look that we want to create as we you know move forward. Uh again adequate parking which no one has. We have four spaces which is more than enough for for requirements. uh uh has adequate public sewage water
facilities from the previous floral business. Uh we'll upgrade all the required civil requirements as deemed if we need to upgrade. Uh including a new and appropriately calculated grease trap for the restaurant. I think that's the only thing that's actually missing.
Uh the proposed building will actually will fall in in line with all the current upgrades going on through the city of River. H it will not in any way harm or degrade or cause any disruption to the neighborhood.
On the contrary, it will enhance the vacant building and create a community hub for pedestrians to admire and visit versus having an eyesore, an empty vacant lot, uh, and create this beautiful, charming restaurant, uh, open all year round to serve the
public, which will also bring more revenue and harmony to the city of River. >> Great. Thank you very much. Any other proponents? People in favor hearing and seeing none, we'll close that side of the hearing. Any opponents? People opposed
hearing and seeing none. We'll close that side. Counselors. >> Councelor Cogleandro. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Hi, guys. U So, I just I haven't I didn't I don't know anything about this. This is my ward. I I hadn't heard about
this. Um I do love that we're, you know, bringing another restaurant. I think it's great. Um my question is the four parking spots, where will you be pulling into them? Will it be from Broadway or will >> for School Street where the actual driveway is right now? >> Okay.
So, somebody would to to access. Are those spots going to be for uh >> one will actually be for >> staff? >> For staff. I say the two front was for staff and possibly the one for upstairs. >> Okay. So, that's that's a little bit better if it's for staff because that street
>> Yeah. It's not going to be a nightmare parking for public. >> Yeah. Um, and what what type of restaurants going in? >> That's Italian, >> sold, >> Spanish, American >> food. >> Um, and will you be seeking a liquor license?
>> I think so. >> Okay. And and when you And just because I want to know because there's a lot of residences over there and I've done nightclub security for a long time. Um, how many patrons do you do you plan? >> 30 seats. >> 30 seats. How many bar seats? Is that
included in the 30? Seven. Is that >> small bar? >> Okay. And what type of license are you going for? Are you going to have entertainment? Are you going to have one 1:00 a.m.? Are you going to try to go to 2 a.m.? >> I think we're just going to go with a basic license. >> You have to come to the microphone, sir,
please. Thank you. >> Yeah. For now, it's a basic liquid lights in, you know, it's a >> I'm so sorry. Could you just give your name and address? >> Uh, Carlos Sanchez. >> Hi, Carlos. Yeah, it's basically liquid light and a and a you know no entertainment small place most of it
will be tapas and cocktails so >> so no no DJ maybe you just play some music through speakers >> just speaker speaker but you know quiet music you know good for drinking so we meant for uh something more for couples and friendly place if there are a bar
>> nothing for single people >> well that too you know >> I'm I'm kidding listen I just I just want to know because I know the questions that I'm going to get asked. >> Yeah. >> Um I'm I'm in favor of having a brand new restaurant. And and just one more question. This is modifications to the
the building. Are you changing the footprint of this building at all? >> Uh no, we only we only uh we're going to keep the same thing. So, you know, future patio in the future because we have a nice patio onto the side, but we have to request that separate. >> This is going to zoning, right, Mr. President?
>> Yes. >> All right. Awesome. So, we'll do the presentation then. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. Thank you, councelor. Councelor Mccurial. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Just uh one question. Uh the second floor of this building, is it going to be used for anything besides the restaurant or are
you going to make an apartment out of it? >> It's going to be a one-bedroom apartment with a separate entry. >> Okay. >> And it will have the form of egress >> with the uh spiral stair. >> Okay. Spiral stair. So, there'll be two means of egress. >> Yes. >> Okay. Great. And the allseasons porch
that you're pres uh presenting, that's the existing glass structure that's there now. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. So, that'll be for the summertime future outdoor dining. >> And those are those windows, do they open up in the summer months or is that just like a greenhouse type of glass?
>> We'll have to see because obviously there's going to be insects whether we want to stay cool inside or we'll have to play that by ear, but it will be functional. >> Okay, great. Well, I wish you the best of luck and I think it's going to be a wonderful restaurant for you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Any other counselors?
>> Zoning. >> Calendar item number 11. Hearing call is order on the application of H&J Realy LLC 126 Morris Street River Mass requesting a special permit to enable the appellant to reconstruct alter and extend a pre-existing non-conforming
residential structure into a four-story residential apartment structure consisting of nine units at 95 Stanton About Public hearing proponents counselor I'm on. Am I the only mic that's working?
There it goes. >> Testing one, two. >> Uh, thank you. Uh, tech support. Uh, good evening, President Zambo and city councilors. My name is Nancy O'Neal. I am an attorney located at 14 Proctor Avenue. I represent the applicant uh, in
this matter, H&J Realy LLC. And I am joined here tonight uh, by the principal of H&J Realy LLC, Mr. Harry Patel of Morris Street, as well as our uh, project engineer uh, Mr. Jim uh, Ziggowitz of the MO Group. Uh H&J Realy
LLC is the owner of the subject property 95 Stanton Avenue located at the corner of Stanton Avenue and American Legion Highway uh which you can see here. The proposal is for the reconstruction and extension of this 110year-old
multifamily building an accessory garage. Uh this current building is over aundred years old. It is a building that is falling into uh disrepair. We are proposing uh to replace this older building uh with a new
uh well-designed structure that would contain uh nine apartments. This new structure would contain four stories with parking uh on the first floor in a screened area and three residential stories uh above uh the parking floor. So, this structure would
be about 7 feet taller than the existing building uh but feature increased setbacks to neighbors uh over what is currently there. So, this building is deliberately cited on the lot uh to push it away from neighboring property lines and toward the street line uh which fits
with neighboring properties along American Legion Highway. So, the size and scale of this proposed building fits with the surrounding properties. Uh and this property is also not uh anticipated to have traffic impact. Uh this building will feature nine parking spaces
providing spaces at a one:1 uh space tounit ratio. So this building features uh sufficient parking to meet demand. So overall, this building will form uh significant improvement over the existing structure, provide increased setbacks to neighbors, uh plant
extensive new landscaping uh and trees, and form an overall uh renewal of this portion of American Legion Highway. Again, this is a minimally impactful project with sufficient parking that will beautify this area. Um and my client, Mr. Patel is a city of
River resident and small business owner who is looking to improve this property in the city. Again, this is not a developer here. This is a city of River resident. So, this project is by uh a local property owner looking to improve a 100-year-old uh building and improve
the appearance of American Legion Highway. And for these reasons, we would respectfully request uh that this honorable council look favorably upon the application for special permit. And as always, we are happy to answer any questions that you may have and discuss the project further at zoning subcommittee. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Any other proponents? People in favor hearing and seeing none, we'll close that side of the hearing. Opponents, anybody opposed? Hearing and seeing none, we'll close that side of the councilors and councelor Kino SA.
>> Thank you, Mr. President. Um a community meeting was held uh regarding 95 um Stan Street and the uh Butters that came out there came and shared their concerns. To be honest with you, many of them um live right next door to this poorly
maintained property for years and have dealt with trash and rodent issues. Um he said that they deserve to see this property improved. Um, while the original proposal was for 12 units and the residents were actually in
favor of the 12 units, I was completely against it. Um, I requested it be reduced to nine units to ensure the one-on-one parking um, underneath the building and prevent any added pressure on the neighborhood street parking. Um the adjustment was made with the
surrounding residents in mind and I truly appreciate what you guys have done bringing it down from the 12 units. Um now we don't have to worry about this parking and it'll be one to one. The developer also committed to twice weekly
commercial trash pickup and fenced in a fenced enclosure. Um proactive uh rodent mitigation prior to it, during it and after it. uh PVC fenting between the property, landscaping and sprinklers,
police detail as needed while it's being built, and dust control measures, which is one of the things that the neighbors wanted. Um so for me, my role was to take this actively and bring it down to
best fit the neighborhood. And I'm make I'm trying to make sure that this property is >> is improved responsibly and I'm trying to protect the neighbors in the best way I can. And I really appreciate you guys coming down [clears throat] from the 12 units to the nine units
because this this makes me more apt to say yes. Thank you very much, >> Council Mccurial. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Um, Miss O'Neal, um, the project seems nice, but as a developer, and I am a developer, I
have to look at the whole area. And I spoke to Chris Chamelo, and we went over the infrastructure. Uh, a lot of these developers are forgetting the most important part of a development is the infrastructure. We're going to be adding nine new toilets, nine new sinks, nine
nine new uh, more showers to this to this neighborhood area. the pipe that services that area is insufficient to uh service that street, Stanton Street. So, I'm going to ask the developer that he's going to be required to put a new water
line. The soil line is fine. We checked into that. The water line needs to be replaced from um correct me uh Chris from >> we need one new gate. >> Okay. So, the size is adequate and the water line is fine,
>> but there's there's one bad gate. >> Okay. So, I I'm going to I'm going to put a big ask and completely uh put two gates and also a new water line down the whole street because it's going to need it and we want to probably up the size of it to service all the residents in
that area. Um and the trash um the dumpster, where is that located? Where is that going to be located? I believe uh it wouldn't be a dumpster. It would be uh >> it would be in store. >> It' be a Yeah, a trash enclosure. Uh
immediately on the right side of the entrance off of Stanton. >> And what what what type of it's not going to be a dumpster. It's going to be barrels. >> Actually think it would be a dumpster. Three twice a week. We were thinking that a three and a half gall dumpster would be uh fully sufficient.
>> Okay. >> Because we I had spoke to Go ahead. I'm sorry. >> I'm sorry. It would be a dumpster. would be located um on the other side on the side. That's uh this is the American Legion highway view. It would be located on the other side of the building.
>> Okay. I spoke to uh Chris Jamelo, the head of DPW. He's a little concerned about the dumpster being so close to the property line also. So, we might need to find a new home for the dumpster and a new water line down to whole Stanton Street with two new gates and
you can be under the direction of the city engineer and Chris Chow Melo for that water line. We'd like to see that water line updated and I'd be in favor of the project. >> Thank you, Mr. President. >> Thank you, councelor U.
Councelor Kelly, I'm sorry. >> Thank you, Mr. >> For some reason, I'm >> so um it's it's no it's no surprise I'm not really in favor of more apartments because of the cumulative effect that
they've having on our infrastructure and it's the number one thing I get from residents saying that they just don't want any more apartments. But that being said, this is a particularly small lot for nine units. Um, where you're actually building on like 1/5if, I
believe, of what would be required by our zoning code for this building. So, to me, it's it an example of extreme overbuilding. It's not just a minor exception that we're looking at. And it it seems to be something that's driven a density that's driven by profit. So, um,
and I don't think it's a good fit for the neighborhood. Um the standard is that um whether or not the proposal will not be more detrimental to the neighborhood. But in coming to that that determination,
we're supposed to look at things like size, height, and number of units. So to me, this because of the size, height, and the number of units, we're magnifying the nonconformity. We're not just expanding on it slightly. It's a gross magnification of already the
nonconformity that we have. So, I don't think this is something that I'm going to be able to support. If it was a smaller building with fewer units, then yes, possibly. But thank you. >> According to our rules, I'm I can't let you speak again. This is going to
zoning. we can work all these details out. We're doing a little more than we normally do on these uh special permits tonight. >> Yeah. It's just that we we have these committees for a reason and you know, you've got some great ideas there and they should be presented there and
before this comes to the council all these things can be worked out again in zoning. >> Understood. Thank you, >> Councelor Henzio. Uh >> thank you, Mr. President. Uh Mr. Chmelum, can I ask a question please? What's the size of the water line on Stanton?
>> 8 inch. >> 8 inch. And you don't feel it's adequate to support this new project? >> I think the water line is sized appropriately. It's just I I did say there's one bad gate at the end of the street. >> One bad gate. So So you don't feel the
water line needs to be at 8 in. >> I don't even know whether I think one of the utilities is coming off of Lee Bernbank. Actually, I didn't see the layout. There's I think I believe one the sprinkler service is coming off one street and the domestic is coming off
another. >> I see. So the building is has two different water lines. One for sprinkler. >> Yes. >> Yes. I I don't know which one's coming off which but >> Okay. >> Yes. There's two independent. One's grabbing off of American Legion and
one's coming off of Stanton. Oh, and I'm sorry. It's a six six inch >> six inch water line. Okay. There's only like two houses on that street, right? >> Um I don't know. >> Stand. >> One, two, three, four, five, six. Yeah, maybe six. Seven. >> Six. Okay. All right. Thank you very
much. >> Yep. No question. >> Any other counselors? >> Zoning Public comment pursuant to chapter 402 of the acts of 1965. >> Anybody's going to be making public comments? Get Now's your time to come up
and tell us what you're going to speak on. Seeing none, that's over. You want to call them? Yep. Okay, there's a motion to suspend the rules. All in favor? All opposed? I
city council is under suspension of rules to take up calendar item number 19. Motion presented by councelor H that the mayor be requested to establish a medical equipment loan program through elder affairs and public health departments. The program would allow seniors who are in need of medical
equipment or any resident who underos procedure and is in need of equipment to borrow items such as a wheelchair, walker, transport chair, commode, shower bench, chair, cane, knee scooter, etc. There would be no charge to the city simply storage and tracking of said equipment as well as zero cost to the
residents who take out the equipment. The inventory and supply of equipment would rely solely on donated items, allowing the program to start from the ground up and essentially run itself over time. The program would also feature a waiver that the resident would sign before taking the equipment home.
The program would allow our residents easy access to items while avoiding large purchases on medical items, especially if the resident is in need of the equipment for only a short period of recovery window. Councelor Hash. >> Thanks so much, Mr. President. So, in my
current place of employment, this is something that I work with on a daily basis. Um, we have a unique opportunity here. We get to build this program from the from the ground up. And it simply relies on residents donating equipment that's in great shape. Um, we would not
have to accept any equipment that's damaged, rusty, anything like that. So, we get to build up a little surplus of the equipment that was mentioned in the motion, whether it's a wheelchair or a rollolator or um you know a cane or anything like that, even crutches, but
you would not have to accept any all the equipment that comes in. So, what happens is you build up a little surplus, you store the items, you find a place to store the items. a resident has surgery or a senior's looking for something like a transport chair, their family's looking for a transport chair
or a wheelchair, they would call the elder affairs department or you know the public health department and they would say looking for a transport chair for a week for my my elderly mom who recently had surgery. Um then you'd check the storage to see if you had set equipment
and you would have them sign the waiver. They would take the equipment and it's kind of run on say like the honor system. So you would lend it out to the senior or the person who's having surgery for you would say a few weeks or just as much as however long they would
need the equipment. But it's a great program. Like I said, I work with it on a daily basis and I see probably several requests requests a week. I also see a good number of residents um local residents from the surrounding cities and towns call and look to donate
equipment that's barely used um purchased for a loved one that recently passed or just has been in storage for some time and that's still able to offer usage to to residents and seniors. Thank you. >> Thank you councelor Councelor Gino SA.
>> Thank you Mr. President. Great motion councelor H. Um, I think this program is going to be a win-win for everyone. Um, it will be zero cost to the city, zero cost to the residents, and real support when people need it the most. Um, it allows donated equipment to be put back
into circulation to repurpose it. Um, creating a self- sustaining system rooted in compassion and common sense. I absolutely love it. I'm so proud of this motion. Thank you, >> Salvestry.
>> Thank you, Mr. Uh, President, um, this is a great motion. I I really, um, I just have to say that, uh, we tried this in the veterans office for a while. Um, I think two things we would need to
look at for for a bit is, um, where we would store the equipment. Uh, another issue we ran into with the board of health was with the commodes. We couldn't take commodes and and repurpose them. Um, but we did do a similar thing with and there are I think um I don't
know if the veterans would have them, but there are electronic wheelchairs that I had um in a storage unit in North Revier that might be able to be utilized in this as well, but there just might be a few kinks that we have to do work out. Thank you.
>> Thank you, councelor. Councelor Novaski. >> Thank you, Mr. President. I think it's a great idea and like councelor Sovvesi said we have tried this before through the um ADA discrimination um commission and um they
gave it up because they had no place to store the equipment and I know um they were always referred there's a place in Wuben that >> the Masonic Lodge >> Masonic Lodge right >> and we we referred everybody up there to anything that they would need and they
can get the things for nothing also. So, um that's the only concern I have is uh and and who specifically would control it, you know, within the city. So, thank you. >> Thank you, councelor Councelor Mccurial.
>> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh it's a great great motion, Mr. H. Uh I'm in full support of it. Uh, I do agree with uh, Councelor Noiski and Sylvestri that uh, we'll work the details out on this and uh, we'll make this happen somehow and uh, it's a great motion and I'm full
support of it. >> Uh, if I might add my two cents to this, I'm I'm thrilled with this motion. I think it's a great motion. I've in the past I've had real trouble getting wheelchairs for constituents. I found out uh through my good friend uh Barbara
Puchi that we could go up to uh Shriners and we did and it worked out wonderful. There's, you know, there's a routine and you got to sign your life away, but you got to bring it back. But uh I think if we can do it here and we can take care of the logistics, it would be great. And
uh it it when people need things like a wheelchair for their loved one, it's a big deal. And you wouldn't think it is until you try to get one. And uh so I think this is a wonderful motion and uh I think we can work out the details. We have the director here of the senior
center. I don't know if she'd like to come up. That's why I took this out of order to try to get her out of here. But madame director, >> thank you counselor. I appreciate it. And I think you're all we're all on the same page with this. So I'm not here to
be the naysayer. Um, but as uh C councelor Novesowski said, there is a program already in place. It's the free ma mason's help program. When someone calls the senior center for donations, um whether they want to give us a wheelchair, a walker, shower bench, or
they want to rent, you know, rent or get one, we do refer them to uh the Masonic hospital loan program in Wuburn. They provide free durable equipment for homes for the home use. Um, I've personally used the equipment for my dad. It's been
great. Um, the program serves residents of Essex, Middle Sex, and Suffach counties and accepts donations of gently used equipment, but not broken items. Equipment can be picked up and returned from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturdays in Wuburn, which is
approximately 11 miles from Revier. Um, if we were to loan the equipment, we would need someone to collect these items. Invoice the items, make sure they're clean, keep track of the loaned equipment, um, and make sure it's in
good working order, which I know we say we have them sign something, but we all know legally they can sign anything. They can still sue the city. Um, in my years at the senior center, no one has ever had trouble getting from the
from this place. Um if anything it's I have to wait till Saturday and and yes that would be the only the other thing too is my dad had a walker and um a cane and Medicare and Medicaid paid for both. So I don't think this is a program of
people getting things for free because they're free. Um it's more of a problem of where we're going to store the stuff and then who's going to run the program and we are going to need someone. It's not going to be self- sustained. We are going to need someone to run the program. And that's just my feeling.
>> We need a new job. >> Okay. I think I'm gonna send this to Ledger Fears or some committee. Uh because we got to work out the details and we're not going to just pass this without knowing how we're going to facilitate it.
>> Which one? >> Oh, yes. >> That's why we have the clerk here. Human services committee. Back to the regular order of business. >> Calendar item number 12, unfinished business. Motion presented by Councelor Kelly, that the city council amend the
city council rules of order by inserting a new rule number 47, community meetings, as follows. for the purpose of requiring internal notification among counselors regarding community meetings held by private applicants or other non- city entities in order to ensure transparency among all counselors,
promote equal access to information for both ward and atlarge counselors, and avoid open meeting law concerns. [clears throat] Rule 47, community meetings. Any counselor who schedules, hosts, or becomes aware of a community meeting held by a private applicant or
other non- city entity concerning matters that may come before the city council shall provide notice to all city councilors via email through the city clerk at least 72 hours in advance of such meeting when practicable. Such notice shall be forformational purposes only and shall include the
date, time, location, and subject matter of the meeting if known. Councilors who attend who intend to attend such a meeting shall reply to the notice email indicating their intent to attend in order to promote coordination and to avoid quorum related related concerns.
Attendance at any community meeting shall be limited so as not to constitute a quorum of the city council or quorum of any subcommittee of the city council in order to avoid any violation of the open meeting law. Nothing in this rule shall be construed to require, regulate, or impose notice obligations upon
private applicants or non- city entities, nor shall it convert any private community meeting into a public meeting subject to the open meeting law. >> Councelor Kelly. >> Thank you, Mr. President. I do have a statement I'd like to read on this
tonight. Um, I briefly want to restate the purpose of this motion. It's it's simple. When community meetings are held, counselors should all have the same information about them at the same time. That motion promotes transparency, good faith, and better coordination in how we serve the public. For example,
there are times when residents do not receive notice of community meetings. The more of us who are aware that a meeting is happening, the more opportunity there is to help make sure more residents know about it. Broader awareness leads to greater transparency and ultimately more input from
residents. I also want to be very clear about what this motion does not do. It does not violate the open meeting law. It does not involve deliberation, decision-making, or any action outside of a properly noticed public meeting. Counselors have attended informational
community meeting meetings together in the past, including situations where multiple counselors were present without any issue as long as there was no deliberation. The motion operates on that same principle. Nothing in this motion changes existing legal obligations or meeting practices. It is
strictly about notice, information sharing, and transparency. Providing notice of a meeting does not violate the open meeting law. Deliberation among a quorum on public business outside a properly posted meeting does.
Whoops. This is not about control, oversight, or enforcement. It does not police anyone's work or question anyone's effectiveness. It simply seeks to ensure that we all have the same information at the same time. I do not understand the concern about I do
understand the concern about enforcability, but not every rule or expectation of this council is enforceable through penalty. In fact, many of our rules operate on professional norms and professional courtesies rather than punishment. This motion follows that same exact approach.
I don't see how sharing information about an upcoming meeting so that we're all on the same page about it can be viewed as anything other than a positive. Lastly, of course, reasonable people can disagree on matters of process, but this motion simply asks that councilors be informed when
community meetings are being held and therefore encourages transparency. It is a well-intentioned information sharing proposal, nothing more, and it is should be seen for what it is. Thank you. Thank you, Councelor Kelly. Any other
counselors? >> No. Okay. Roll call >> on the motion. Councelor Aenzio. >> No. >> No. Councelor Cogleandro. >> No. >> No. Councelor Jino. >> No. >> No. Councelor Gino Slaya. >> No.
>> No. Councelor Hass. >> No. >> No. Councelor Kelly. >> Yes. Yes. Council McKenna. >> No. >> No. Councelor Mccario. >> No. >> No. Council Novaski. No. >> No. Councelor Sylvester. >> Yes. >> Yes. And Council President Zambudo.
>> Yes. >> Yes. The motion fails. >> Appointment subcommittee report. >> Councelor McKenna. >> Uh thank you, Mr. President. Tonight we had a new appointment Lily Martinez and
one reappoint Matthew Woofer. >> Did I say that right? >> Yes. >> Yes. Um I would like to uh they both attended u both gave summaries on what they do what they're going to do and I would like to uh vote them favorably
tonight. A road call from the council please. >> On Take both of them. >> Both of them at the same time. That's fine. >> You want a roll call on this? >> Now, all in favor, all oppose.
>> Voted. >> Calendar item number 15, communication from the mayor relative to the appointment of Anthony Pazi to the conservation commission. >> Appointments. Calendar item number 16, communication from the mayor relative to the reappoint
of Leila Petri to the affordable housing trust fund board. >> Appointments. >> Calendar item number 17, communication from the city engineer relative to the discontinuence of Broadway from River Street to Brown Circle by Masdot.
Council Zambo is recorded as recused from discussion on this motion. >> Any uh you want to We have the superintendent of public works here. >> Evening counselors. Chris Jerem, superintendent of public works. Uh, this
motion is for the mastoot to actually discontinue the section of Broadway from River Street to Brown Circle. Some may not know, but that's actually owned currently by Masot. They do not maintain the property. I'm sorry, that roadway.
the city of River does and we're trying to allow them to discontinue it so then we can come before you again with a later motion to accept that roadway increasing our chapter 90 funding and setting Broadway obtaining the rest of
Broadway for the city that's all any questions [snorts] >> thank you Mr. President, I I don't have any questions, but uh uh Superintendent Charmelo is exactly correct. When I first came here in the 80s, the the um
Mass Dot did do some plowing. They did do some sweeping and then once u early uh 1990s rolled around, they completely abandoned it. So, I think it should be part of our inventory and and like uh Mr. Chamela said, it would increase our
uh consideration for uh chapter 90 funding. Thank you. Thank you, councelor McKenna. >> Thank you, Mr. President. I agree with you. Whatever we can do to get Massport away from rever mas dot, excuse me,
massport too. Massport, too. Both of them. Um, I agree with you. So, >> thank you. >> You will. >> Thank you, councelor. Councelor Sylvestri. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh, Chris, all in favor, this is a great idea and I think something we need to do. Thanks.
Appreciate that. Councelor Cogleandro. >> Thank you, Mr. President. How do we do this more often and continue to take Masdot's control away from River Streets? How do we do that? Is there a process? >> We can just keep asking. Yeah, there is a process actually. >> Well, let's do that. I [laughter] mean,
maybe we can start with the Harris Street intersection. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Council Murio. >> Uh, thank you, Council President. Uh, Chris, uh, great motion here. Uh, great communication. Uh, I think it's important. We I'd like to see a couple of more streets if we can. Uh, you know,
they do a they do a bad job as it is and uh it's tough to get them to do anything. So, I commend you on getting at least this part of Rivier taken care of and uh once again, thank you for all your hard work. We appreciate it. >> We open a can of worms, huh? [laughter]
>> Any anyone else? Councilor Novaski. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh, I think this is a good idea. I I've known it's been part of this mass uh property and uh there's always been a question, oh we don't do that. It's up to them and there's always arguments going back and
forth. The only question on adding something, what do we what do we look at as far as old Nasha Road from uh Rev Beach Parkway down to Kimv? >> We can have that discussion. [laughter] No, I'm just I'm just throwing I'm just
throwing it up there because they do plow it, but that's >> a lot of options, I guess. >> Yeah, I know they do plow it, but u I think we're the ones that sweep it. >> Yeah. >> Yes. So, just put it in your top of your head. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, councelor. Councelor Garino
SA. >> Thank you, Mr. Trimela, for taking back Ward five. [laughter] [gasps] >> That it for you? >> Okay. On the motion, all in favor? All opposed. >> So voted. >> Calendar item number 18. Motion
presented by council goam that the mayor request the parking department and traffic commission to conduct a feasibility study on offering free 2-hour parking at metered spots for rever residents 65 years of age or older who have a valid driver's license and vehicle registered in their name.
>> Councelor Gino SA. Um several cities and towns in Massachusetts including Everett, Framingham, Lexington, and Newton are already testing this program and that that they offer free and discounted meter parking for residents aged 65 and
older. They have to like present a valid driver's license and uh have their vehicle registered in their name. they I think a feasibility study would help to to make sure that something like this we we pick it up. I understand that we
did the 15-minute grace period um on for everyone on the Broadway corridor, but this might be helpful for allowing seniors, especially the two hours once a month, even if we did it that way when they have their uh senior party at the
senior center, the the the Rosetti Cohen senior center, even if we give them those two hours once a month, whatever the mayor or this the staff feels would be a good idea. Um, I would I would like them to look into it. Thank you.
>> Thank you, council. Anybody else? Council Mccurio. >> Thank you, Mr. President. It's a great motion. Uh, I'm definitely behind this one. You know, I've I've uh was looking for parking the other day and it's it's difficult for the seniors to uh use the
passport parking app. So, I think this would be a great motion. Uh I hope we can push this through and it's only for two hours. I think the I think the city can handle this uh and it I think it would be a great thing for the uh the seniors in Rivier. Thank you, Mr. President.
>> Thank you. >> What's that? >> We'll send this to economic development. >> Uh Mr. President, point of privilege. >> Council Sylvester, state your point of personal privilege. I I just want to thank um our fellow counselor Ivan
Noaski wrote happy birthday today. So counselor Novaski's birthday >> as well as my daughter at home Sage's 16th birthday. So happy birthday Sigurio Sia. >> Did you
>> happy birthday? >> As well as councelor Janino's as well. >> Oh wow. People are trying to sneak by here. Happy birthday. Half the council's uh >> the city council will stand that you
until March 9th. >> Thank you all.