Fall River public meetings in 2022

City Council

The City Council will consider an amended loan order of $2,700,000 to fund the construction and renovation of buildings for the Emergency Medical Services department. The council will also discuss rescinding Bristol County ARPA funding for the 'For Youth Initiative' to use local ARPA funds instead. Additionally, a public hearing is scheduled regarding a billiards room at 30 Front Street.

• $2,700,000 loan order amendment for EMS building construction and renovation
• Request to rescind Bristol County ARPA funding for the 'For Youth Initiative'
• Public hearing for a 24-table billiards room at 30 Front Street
• Traffic ordinance amendments for new handicapped parking locations
• Auto repair shop license renewals and transfers

The City Council approved a permit for a pocket billiard room and renewed several auto repair shop licenses. The council also approved the use of city ARPA funds for the 'For Youth Initiative' by rescinding previous Bristol County funding. A $2.7M loan order for EMS building renovations was referred to the Committee on Finance.

• Approved pocket billiard room permit for Bob's Place LLC (unanimous)
• Approved auto repair license renewals for Mill City Diesels, Tom Legault’s Auto Repair, and Dave’s Tire and Auto Service (unanimous)
• Approved request to fund 'For Youth Initiative' via City ARPA funds instead of Bristol County ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Approved taxicab driver applications (unanimous)
• Denied livery vehicle applications for Muhammad Shabbir (unanimous)
• Referred $2.7M EMS building loan order to Committee on Finance (unanimous)
• Referred auto repair license transfer for 830 Globe Street to Committee on Regulations (unanimous)
• Referred traffic ordinance amendments to Committee on Ordinances and Legislation (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council and Finance Committee will discuss a $4,675,000 loan for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements. The agenda also includes proposals to allocate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for IT improvements and traffic equipment. Additionally, the council will consider appointments to the Housing Authority and Zoning Board of Appeals.

• $4,675,000 loan order for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements
• $1,034,604 ARPA funding proposal for IT Department Capital Improvements
• $3,000,000 ARPA funding allocation for Water Division lead service removal
• $10,000,000 U.S. EPA grant to replace public and private lead pipes
• Reappointment of Jason Burns to the Housing Authority

The City Council approved a loan order for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements and authorized several ARPA funding allocations for IT and traffic safety. The council also confirmed two appointments and adopted several grants for infrastructure and lead pipe replacement.

• Approved $4.675M loan for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements (8-1)
• Approved $1,034,604 in ARPA funding for IT capital improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $56,592.99 in ARPA funding for Speed Alert Radar Message signs and trailers (unanimous)
• Accepted $3,000,000 ARPA allocation for lead service removal (unanimous)
• Adopted grants of $2,000,000 for Route 79-Davol St. Corridor and $10,000,000 for lead pipe replacement (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Jason Burns to the Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Ricky P. Sahady to the Zoning Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Adopted Confirmatory Order of Taking for Bicentennial Park (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a $4,675,000 loan order for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements and a Section 108 loan application for fire apparatus replacement. The agenda also includes public hearings for utility work on Davol Street and several municipal appointments.

• $4,675,000 loan order for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal Water Systems Improvements
• $1,025,539.00 loan order for Central Fire Station and Fall River Fire Museum
• Public hearing for Verizon New England, Inc. underground conduit on Davol Street
• Confirmation of Kristen Cantara Oliveira to the Community Preservation Committee
• Amendments to traffic ordinances regarding intersections and parking prohibitions

The City Council authorized a $4.675 million loan for lead service removal and approved the purchase of the Adirondack Farm parcel on Blossom Road. The council also confirmed two mayoral appointments and passed ordinances regarding graffiti and traffic regulations.

• Confirmed Kristen Cantara Oliveira to Community Preservation Committee (8-0)
• Confirmed Al Oliveira as Director of City Operations (7-1)
• Adopted resolution for Section 108 loan for fire apparatus and equipment (unanimous)
• Authorized $4.675M loan order for Phase 22 Lead Service Removal (unanimous)
• Adopted order and resolution to purchase Adirondack Farm land on Blossom Road (unanimous)
• Passed salary schedule ordinance for Director of Fall River Emergency Management Agency (unanimous)
• Passed amendments to graffiti ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved $1,025,539 loan order for Central Fire Station and Fall River Fire Museum (8-0)

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss several financial transfers and committee appointments. The agenda includes moving funds to the school appropriation and law expenses. The council will also hold public hearings regarding utility pole relocations on Bedford Street.

• Transfer of $1,370,000 from the Tax Levy to the School Appropriation
• Transfer of $180,000 from the FY2022 Stabilization Fund to Law Expenses
• Confirmation of appointments to the Special Charter Review Committee
• Public hearing on utility pole relocations at Bedford and Seabury Streets
• Acceptance of a $267,842 grant for the purchase of part of Adirondack Farm

The City Council approved several fund transfers, including $1.37M for schools, and passed a resolution recommending support for the Southcoast Rail Project. The council also confirmed appointments to the Special Charter Review Committee and approved traffic mitigation easements.

• Approved $1.37M transfer from Tax Levy to School appropriation (unanimous)
• Approved $180,000 transfer from FY2022 Stabilization Fund to Law Expenses (unanimous)
• Approved $2,205 appropriation for CPA Historic Resources and Community Housing (unanimous)
• Adopted amended order of taking for MBTA Southcoast Rail traffic improvements (8-1)
• Adopted resolution recommending support for the Southcoast Rail Project (8-1)
• Confirmed 5 mayoral appointments to Special Charter Review Committee (5-4)
• Approved 4 City Council appointments to Special Charter Review Committee (5-4)
• Approved $267,842 and $65,000 grants for farmland purchase and police equipment (unanimous)

Revised)

The City Council will consider transferring $14,953.28 to cover ballot printing costs for the November 8 special election. Members will also vote on confirming five appointments to the Special Charter Review Committee. Additionally, the council will discuss a land conveyance involving the Fall River Housing Authority and SouthCoast Hospital Group.

• Transfer of $14,953.28 from General Fund Reserve for election expenses
• Confirmation of five appointments to the Special Charter Review Committee
• Acceptance of a $57,114.00 gift for Fire Department chemical detectors
• Public hearing for curb removal at 323 William S. Canning Blvd
• Discussion on using ARPA funds for cameras in city parks and playgrounds

The City Council voted 3-6 against confirming the mayor's five appointments to the Special Charter Review Committee, with councilors citing the committee being established late and lacking cultural diversity. The Council also adopted a Home Rule Petition to allow the Fall River Housing Authority to convey land to SouthCoast Hospital Group, approved a $14,953 transfer for election expenses, and accepted a $57,114 gift for fire department chemical detectors.

• Rejected mayor's appointments to Special Charter Review Committee (3-6)
• Adopted Home Rule Petition for Housing Authority land conveyance to SouthCoast Hospital Group (9-0)
• Approved $14,953.28 transfer from General Fund Reserve to Elections expenses (unanimous)
• Accepted $57,114 gift from Precise Packaging for fire department chemical detectors (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance reorganizing city departments (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for ARPA-funded park cameras, amended to include cost estimate within 60 days (unanimous)
• Approved taxicab driver license subject to payment of overdue excise taxes (unanimous)
• Denied Council's own appointments to Special Charter Review Committee (4-4 vote, motion failed)

City Council

The City Council will vote on transferring $55,800 for cemetery upgrades and $98,900 for EMS expenses. The agenda also includes ordinances to abolish the Boards of Fire Commissioners and Police. Additionally, the council will review salary changes for city officials and traffic ordinance amendments.

• Transfer of $55,800 from Sale of Burial Lots Fund to Cemetery Upgrades
• Transfer of $98,900 from EMS Stabilization Fund to EMS Expenses
• Ordinance to abolish the Board of Fire Commissioners and the Board of Police
• Salary increase for Director of Fall River Emergency Management Agency
• Amendments to traffic ordinances regarding parking and one-way streets

The City Council voted unanimously to abolish the Board of Fire Commissioners and the Board of Police, and to establish a Director of City Operations position, reorganizing several city departments. The council also approved fund transfers for cemetery upgrades and EMS equipment, and passed salary schedule updates for contract and non-union personnel. Several other items were referred to committees or placed on file.

• Approved $55,800 transfer from Sale of Burial Lots Fund to Cemetery Upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved $98,900 transfer from EMS Stabilization Fund to EMS Expenses (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance abolishing Board of Fire Commissioners (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance abolishing Board of Police (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance establishing Director of City Operations (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance reorganizing city departments (unanimous, ordination postponed to Oct 11)
• Passed salary schedule for contract personnel (7-1, Councilor Dionne opposed)
• Passed salary schedule for executive officers and non-union personnel (7-1, Councilor Dionne opposed)

City Council

This special meeting includes an emergency preamble regarding the election of the Council President. The council will consider an order to elect a City Council President for the rest of 2022.

• Election of City Council President for the remainder of 2022

The City Council held a special meeting to elect a President for the remainder of 2022. Councilor Joseph D. Camara received 5 votes to Councilor Michelle M. Dionne's 4 and was declared President. A subsequent motion for unanimity failed.

• Adopted emergency preamble to act on council order regarding election of President (9-0)
• Elected Joseph D. Camara as City Council President for remainder of 2022 (5-4)
• Motion for unanimity failed (2 opposed)

City Council

The Fall River City Council will review several grant acceptances, including funds for the Quequechan River Rail Trail and lead pipe inventory. The agenda also includes proposals for ARPA funding for fitness courts and pedestrian signs, alongside various traffic and parking ordinance changes.

• $11,000,000 Bristol County ARPA funding recommendation for water and sewer infrastructure
• $268,132 grant to extend the Quequechan River Rail Trail
• $164,350 ARPA funding proposal for a Fitness Court initiative
• $100,000 EPA grant for lead pipe inventory and public engagement
• Proposed ordinances regarding traffic and handicapped parking changes

The City Council approved $6 million in Bristol County ARPA funding for water and sewer infrastructure, amended from the proposed $11 million. They also confirmed several appointments, approved ARPA-funded fitness and pedestrian safety initiatives, and passed first readings on ordinances to abolish the Fire and Police Boards and reorganize city departments. Council President Pamela Laliberte resigned via letter, and the council deferred electing a new president to the next meeting.

• Approved $6M in ARPA funds for water and sewer infrastructure (unanimous)
• Confirmed Tyler Antaya as Director of Management Information Services (unanimous)
• Approved $114,350 ARPA grant for Outdoor Fitness Court (unanimous)
• Approved $145,000 ARPA grant for solar flashing stop and pedestrian signs (unanimous)
• Adopted TIF amendment for Blount Fine Foods expansion at 630 Currant Road (unanimous)
• Passed first reading of ordinance abolishing Board of Fire Commissioners (unanimous)
• Passed first reading of ordinance abolishing Board of Police (unanimous)
• Passed first reading of ordinance establishing Director of City Operations (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review proposals for Bristol County ARPA funding, including $1,365,000 for the Bioreserve Discovery Center and $2,000,000 for a youth initiative. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding National Grid underground conduit installations and a fuel storage license. Additionally, the council will consider various grants for local infrastructure and environmental projects.

• Approval of $1,365,000 in ARPA funding for the Bioreserve Discovery Center
• Proposal for $2,000,000 in ARPA funding for a youth initiative
• Acceptance of grants for Quequechan River Rail Trail and Sawdy Pond Dam repairs
• Public hearing on National Grid underground conduit installations
• Allocation of $325,000 for an ice skating rink at Kennedy Park

The Fall River City Council unanimously approved two major Bristol County ARPA funding proposals: $1,365,000 for the Bioreserve Discovery Center (as amended) and $2,000,000 for a youth initiative (as amended to include non-profits and sports activities). The council also confirmed two reappointments, adopted multiple traffic ordinances, and approved several grants and licenses.

• Approved $1,365,000 ARPA proposal for Bioreserve Discovery Center (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000,000 ARPA youth initiative, amended to include non-profits and sports activities (unanimous)
• Confirmed reappointment of Ann M. O'Neil-Souza to Commission on Disability (unanimous)
• Confirmed reappointment of Mark Nassiff Jr. to Retirement Board (unanimous)
• Passed handicapped parking ordinance for 8 streets with emergency preamble (9-0)
• Passed parking prohibition on Atlantic Boulevard with emergency preamble (9-0)
• Adopted resolution for $325,000 ARPA ice skating rink at Kennedy Park (unanimous)
• Approved storage license for 40,000 gallons of fuel at 323 William S. Canning Blvd (unanimous)

Revised)

The City Council will review several transfers from FY21 surplus revenue, including funds for legal expenses and a large transfer to the Stabilization Fund. The agenda also includes a public hearing for an auto repair shop license and a resolution regarding noise complaints at a car wash.

• Transfer of $1,300,000 from FY21 Surplus Revenue to the Stabilization Fund
• Transfer of $180,000 for a legal settlement with Amaral Bus Co., Inc.
• Transfer of $97,392.50 to Law Expenses
• Public hearing for an auto repair shop license at 67 Kay Street
• Resolution regarding noise complaints at the Fall River Coin Operated Car Wash

The Fall River City Council approved several financial transfers, including $1.3 million to the Stabilization Fund and $180,000 for a legal settlement with Amaral Bus Co. A $97,392.50 transfer for law expenses was initially rejected but later approved after an amendment to first use remaining funds from the Bank Street/Columbia Street Capital Project. The council also confirmed a Board of Appeals reappointment and approved multiple licenses and citations.

• Confirmed Ricky P. Sahady to Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Approved $1.3M transfer to Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $180,000 transfer for Amaral Bus Co. settlement (unanimous)
• Approved $97,392.50 transfer for law expenses, amended to use capital project funds first (9-0)
• Approved auto repair shop license for Manchester Automotive at 67 Kay Street (unanimous)
• Approved taxicab licenses for Derrick Guerrier and Joseph Paiva (unanimous)
• Approved auto repair shop license renewal for Saber Auto Body (unanimous)
• Referred $11M ARPA water/sewer resolution to Finance Committee (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review seven proposals for Bristol County ARPA funding and schedule a special election regarding the MBTA South Coast Rail district. The agenda also includes appointments to the new Historical Commission and the Sewer Commission. Additionally, the council will consider zoning amendments for the Waterfront Downtown HD Zone.

• Approval of seven proposals for Bristol County ARPA funding
• Scheduling a Nov. 8 Special Municipal Election regarding MBTA South Coast Rail
• Zoning amendment request from Sanford Spinning Mills LLC for Globe Mills Avenue
• Establishment of a $200,000 CVTE Revolving Fund for BMC Durfee High School
• Transfer of $50,000 from Fire Salaries to Fire Expenses

The Fall River City Council approved six of seven Bristol County ARPA funding proposals totaling about $4.5 million, covering police body cameras and Tasers, graffiti removal, pothole repair, street sweepers, a water quality project, and a 911 dispatch upgrade. The BioReserve Discovery Center proposal was tabled to explore Community Preservation Committee funding. The council also confirmed appointments to the new Historical Commission and Sewer Commission, and scheduled a special election for November 8, 2022.

• Approved $1,522,877 for police body-worn cameras and Tasers (6-1, Dionne opposed)
• Approved $75,400 for graffiti removal machine (6-1, Dionne opposed)
• Approved $122,568 for pothole and asphalt repair equipment (6-1, Dionne opposed)
• Approved $950,000 for three street sweepers (6-1, Dionne opposed)
• Tabled $1,365,000 BioReserve Discovery Center proposal
• Approved $241,275 for Blue Water Project (unanimous)
• Approved $305,000 for 911 dispatch system upgrade (unanimous)
• Confirmed 7 appointments to Historical Commission and 1 to Sewer Commission (unanimous)

City Council

The Committee on Finance and City Council will continue discussing the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget. The agenda includes reviews of public safety departments, including Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services. Orders for the General Fund and Emergency Medical Services Enterprise Fund are also listed.

• Proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget
• Public Safety budget review (Police, Fire, EMA, EMS)
• General Fund budget orders
• Emergency Medical Services Enterprise Fund budget orders

The Fall River City Council voted 8-1 to adopt the $360,136,387 Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget, with Councilor Michelle M. Dionne voting against most appropriations. The council also approved the $9,651,000 EMS Enterprise Fund appropriation unanimously. A motion to reduce the Mayor's salary by $6,000 failed for lack of a second.

• Adopted FY2023 Municipal Budget of $360,136,387 (8-1)
• Adopted EMS Enterprise Fund appropriation of $9,651,000 (9-0)
• Approved Mayor's salary of $292,720 (8-1)
• Approved City Council salaries of $277,649 (8-1)
• Approved School appropriation of $140,487,792 (9-0)
• Reduced Police expenses by $278,000 (9-0)
• Increased Reserve Fund by $278,000 (8-1)
• Failed motion to reduce Mayor's salary by $6,000 (no second)

City Council

The Council will review requests from the Mayor to accept various grants, including $220,770 for Route 6 improvements and $30,000 for firefighter equipment. Members will also continue discussions on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget. Additionally, public hearings are scheduled regarding utility installations and curb removal requests.

• Acceptance of grants including $220,770 for Route 6 improvements and $121,750 for water supply protection
• Acquisition of property at 2450 Indian Town Road via a drinking water supply protection grant
• Approval of Memorandums of Agreement for several collective bargaining units including AFSCME and Police Superior Officers
• Public hearings regarding Massachusetts Electric Company conduit on Highland Avenue and new poles on Graham Road
• Discussion of the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget

The City Council voted 9-0 to adopt collective bargaining agreements with four unions, including AFSCME Locals 3177 and 1202, the Police Superior Officers, and Labor Advantage. The contracts include wage increases of 1.5%, 1%, and 1.5% over three years, with EMS workers getting no retroactive pay and a parking fee reduction from $35 to $20 per month. A motion to refer the agreements to the Finance Committee failed 4-5.

• Adopted four collective bargaining agreements (9-0)
• Rejected referral of union contracts to Finance Committee (4-5)
• Accepted six grants totaling $579,672 for traffic, firefighter safety, water supply, and wellness
• Approved resolution for acquisition of 2450 Indian Town Road for water supply protection
• Approved 5-year school food service and HVAC contracts
• Approved curb removals for 5 properties and referred one to Public Works
• Approved taxicab driver license and 3 auto repair shop renewals
• Referred two Open Meeting Law complaints to Corporation Counsel

Special Meeting (Revised)

The Fall River City Council is meeting to review orders from the Committee on Finance regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 municipal budget. This includes items related to the General Fund and the Emergency Medical Services Enterprise Fund.

• Proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget: General Fund
• Proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Municipal Budget: Emergency Medical Services Enterprise Fund

The City Council held a special meeting on June 6, 2022, primarily to approve minutes from prior meetings. No substantive decisions were made; the FY23 budget was discussed in committee but not voted on. The meeting adjourned after approving four sets of minutes.

• Approved Public Hearing minutes (May 10, 2022) unanimously
• Approved Committee on Finance minutes (April 26, 2022) unanimously
• Approved Committee on Finance minutes (May 10, 2022) unanimously
• Approved Regular City Council minutes (May 10, 2022) unanimously

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the allowable use of $16,035,844.70 in Bristol County ARPA funds. The agenda also includes confirming appointments for the Chief of Police and the Board of Election Commissioners chair. Additionally, the council will consider ordinances regarding water rates, sewer rates, and traffic changes.

• Confirmation of Paul F. Gauvin as Chief of Police
• Discussion on $16,035,844.70 in Bristol County ARPA funds
• Proposed ordinances for water and sewer rates
• Amendments to traffic ordinances for various street parking and intersections
• Proposed Residential Compost Recycling Program ordinance

The Fall River City Council unanimously confirmed Paul F. Gauvin as Chief of Police and approved his three-year employment contract with a starting salary of $185,000. The council also confirmed Ryan Lyons as Chairperson of the Board of Election Commissioners and reappointed John Brandt and James Cusick to the Conservation Commission. Several ordinances were passed, including water and sewer rate changes, a residential compost recycling program, and historical preservation measures.

• Confirmed Paul F. Gauvin as Chief of Police and approved 3-year contract (unanimous)
• Confirmed Ryan Lyons as Chairperson of Board of Election Commissioners (unanimous)
• Reappointed John Brandt and James Cusick to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Passed ordinance on handicapped parking at 4 locations with emergency preamble (8-0)
• Passed water rates ordinance (7-1, Dionne opposed)
• Passed sewer rates ordinance (6-2, Dionne and Lee opposed)
• Passed residential compost recycling program ordinance (unanimous)
• Passed historical preservation ordinance (unanimous)

Revised)

The Fall River City Council will consider several appointments and fund appropriations, including $2,511,737 from Community Preservation Act funds. Public hearings are scheduled for a new second-hand store and multiple curb removal requests. The Finance Committee will also discuss implementing body cameras for the police department.

• Appropriation of $2,511,737 from Community Preservation Act funds for FY2023 projects
• Resolution regarding the use of body cameras by the Fall River Police Department
• Transfer of $850,000 from State and County Assessments to the School Appropriation
• Public hearing for Black Brick Market at 575 Globe Street
• Proposed ordinances for water/sewer rates and residential compost recycling

The Fall River City Council unanimously approved several appointments, budget transfers, and appropriations, including $2,511,737 for FY2023 Community Preservation Act projects. It also passed ordinances for handicapped parking and traffic changes, and approved multiple curb removals and license renewals.

• Confirmed John Sylvia to Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Confirmed Lisa Robitaille to Election Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $12,000 transfer from Council Expenses to Salaries (unanimous)
• Appropriated $871,151 to School Appropriation (unanimous)
• Appropriated $2,511,737 for FY23 Community Preservation projects (unanimous)
• Passed handicapped parking ordinance with emergency preamble (8-0)
• Passed traffic ordinance first reading for Indian Town Road stop (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to discuss Stonehaven Road construction (5-3)

Revised)

The City Council will discuss proposed FY23 budgets for the Water and Sewer Divisions. The agenda also includes a request from the Mayor to confirm Ashley Pires as City Auditor. Public hearings are scheduled regarding an auto repair shop license and a new utility pole on Essex Street.

• Proposed FY23 budgets for Water and Sewer Divisions
• Confirmation of Ashley Pires as City Auditor
• New utility pole installation on Essex Street
• Support for the Fair Share Amendment in the November 2022 election
• Auto repair shop license for 1030 Dwelly Street

The Fall River City Council confirmed Ashley Pires as City Auditor and adopted the FY2023 Water and Sewer Division budgets (7-2). It also accepted Glendale Street, granted leave to withdraw a resolution for electrical cabinets at Gates of the City, and approved various licenses and permits.

• Confirmed Ashley Pires as City Auditor (unanimous)
• Adopted FY2023 Water and Sewer Division budgets (7-2)
• Accepted Glendale Street from North Main to dead end (unanimous)
• Granted leave to withdraw resolution for electrical cabinets at Gates of the City (unanimous)
• Referred Small Street and Stanley Street acceptance to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Adopted order for Michelle Arruda's curbing removal at 37 Chicago Street (unanimous, Pelletier abstaining)
• Adopted resolution supporting Fair Share Amendment (unanimous)
• Approved auto repair shop license for RS Performance and Repair at 1030 Dwelly Street (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review a resolution for the Community Development Agency's Year Three Annual Action Plan involving federal funding. The agenda also includes an order to transfer $1,427,230 from insurance funds to the school appropriation. Public hearings are scheduled regarding utility work on Airport Road and curb removal on Oak Grove Avenue.

• Appropriation of $1,427,230 from Insurance to School Appropriation
• Resolution for Community Development Agency Year Three Annual Action Plan
• Ordinances regarding salary schedules for contract personnel and executive officers
• Public hearing for National Grid poles and conduit on Airport Road
• Public hearing for curb removal at 452 Oak Grove Avenue

The Fall River City Council unanimously approved a $1,427,230 transfer from the Insurance account to the School Appropriation, and adopted a resolution authorizing submission of the Community Development Agency's Year Three Annual Action Plan for HUD funding. Two proposed salary schedule ordinances were referred to the Committee on Ordinances and Legislation. Several resolutions were adopted, including one to discuss street closure notifications and another to create a Veterans' Advisory Board.

• Approved $1,427,230 transfer from Insurance to School Appropriation (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for CDA Year Three Annual Action Plan (unanimous)
• Referred salary schedule ordinance for contract personnel to committee
• Referred salary schedule ordinance for executive officers to committee
• Adopted resolution to discuss street closure notifications (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to create Veterans' Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 taxicab, second hand, pawnbroker, and pool/billiards license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved drainlayer licenses for 22 companies (unanimous)

Joint Meeting

The City Council and School Committee will review the city's fiscal and financial condition. This includes reviewing revenue and expense forecasts in preparation for the Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

• Review of the city's fiscal and financial condition
• Revenue and expense forecasts for FY 2023 budget preparation
• Citizens input session

The City Council and School Committee held a joint meeting to review the city's fiscal condition and the proposed FY2023 budget. Presentations covered the municipal budget (estimated at $325 million) and the school budget ($141.9 million), including new positions and capital projects. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational, and both bodies adjourned.

• No formal votes taken during joint meeting
• School Committee adjourned (5-0, with 2 absent)
• City Council unanimously adjourned

City Council

The City Council will address Mayor Paul E. Coogan's veto regarding funding for the new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School. The Mayor is requesting a special election to allow voters to ratify the project, citing that costs exceed $5,000,000. The agenda also includes proposed FY2023 budgets for water and sewer divisions and several municipal appointments.

• Mayor's veto regarding Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School construction
• Proposed FY2023 budgets for Water and Sewer Divisions
• Comcast Cable Corporation request for three new poles on Hancock Street
• Confirmation of appointments to the Conservation Commission, Sewer Commission, and Watuppa Water Board
• Proposed ordinances for FY2023 water and sewer rates

The City Council voted 7-1 to override Mayor Paul Coogan's veto of the February 22 vote supporting the construction of a new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School, with Councilor Bradford Kilby dissenting. The council then unanimously approved the Diman communication, notwithstanding the veto. The mayor had vetoed the earlier vote because he believed the project's cost, exceeding $5 million, required voter ratification.

• Overrode mayor's veto of Diman school construction vote (7-1)
• Approved Diman communication notwithstanding veto (unanimous)
• Confirmed Paulo J. Amaral to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Confirmed Laura Jean Washington to Sewer Commission (unanimous)
• Confirmed Rebecca Collins to Watuppa Water Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sharon L. Quinn to Library Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Confirmed Bridget Almon as Director of Financial Services with contract (8-0)
• Adopted tax exemption orders for Gold Star Parents and property held in trust (unanimous)

Joint Meeting

The joint meeting of the City Council and School Committee features the Mayor's annual address regarding the city's status. The speech outlines updates on waterfront development, infrastructure projects, and park renovations. It also discusses the implementation of federal grants for public safety and community health.

• Route 79 project expected to bring over $1 billion in investment
• $8 million Water Department project for water main and lead service replacement
• $60,000 allocation for the Kennedy Park Renovation Project
• $44,000 allocation for skate park renovations at Lafayette, Abbot Court, and North Park
• $2 million SAMSHA grant for mental health and addiction outreach

The joint meeting was held solely for Mayor Paul Coogan to deliver the 2022 State of the City address. No formal votes or decisions were made during the meeting; both the City Council and School Committee adjourned unanimously afterward. The address highlighted economic development, infrastructure projects, and ARPA fund allocations.

• Adjourned City Council meeting unanimously (Councilor Camara absent)
• Adjourned School Committee meeting unanimously (Member Larrivee absent)

City Council

The City Council and School Committee will discuss the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan. The Finance Committee will review requests for school repairs at Wiley School and Resiliency Preparatory Academy. The Council will also consider appointments and an EMS fund transfer.

• $685,000 transfer from EMS Stabilization Fund to EMS Fund Capital
• Repair requests for Wiley School (roof, boilers, windows)
• Window and door replacement request for Resiliency Preparatory Academy
• Appointments to the Conservation Commission and Sewer Commission
• New traffic ordinances regarding parking and weather conditions

The Fall River City Council approved a $685,000 appropriation from the EMS Stabilization Fund to purchase a forestry/rescue truck and an ambulance. It also adopted a resolution supporting Ukraine and condemning Russia's attack, approved the Capital Improvement Plan, and passed several traffic ordinances. Appointments to the Conservation and Sewer Commissions were tabled pending additional information.

• Approved $685,000 EMS vehicle purchase (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting Ukraine, condemning Russia (unanimous)
• Approved Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Passed traffic ordinance first reading (unanimous)
• Passed emergency parking fine ordinance first reading (unanimous)
• Passed handicapped parking ordinance with emergency preamble (8 yeas)
• Tabled Conservation Commission appointment (unanimous)
• Tabled Sewer Commission appointment (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will address Mayor Coogan's veto regarding the construction of a new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School. The agenda includes orders to schedule a special election for April 11, 2022, and to designate polling places. A ballot question regarding a Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion for the project will also be considered.

• Mayor's veto of the February 22, 2022, vote on Diman High School construction
• Scheduling of a special election for April 11, 2022
• Designation of polling places for the upcoming election
• Ballot question regarding Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion for the $293,479,760 project

The City Council voted unanimously to table the mayor's veto of its February 22 vote supporting the new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School. The council then denied an order to schedule a special election on the project's funding and withdrew related orders, effectively delaying the project's approval process.

• Veto of Feb 22 Diman vote tabled unanimously
• Order scheduling April 11 special election denied (7-2)
• Warrant for special election withdrawn (9-0)
• Order designating polling places withdrawn (9-0)
• Ballot question order re: Diman withdrawn (9-0)

Revised)

The City Council will consider appointments for Fire Chief and Human Resources Director. The council will also review requests to submit repair program statements of interest for two local schools. Additionally, the Finance Committee will hear a presentation regarding the Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School project.

• Appointment of Roger St. Martin as Fire Chief ($165,000 salary)
• Appointment of Nicholas A. Macolini as Human Resources Director ($85,000 salary)
• $293,479,760 Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School project
• Statement of Interest for Stone Therapeutic Day School at Westall
• Statement of Interest for Robert L. Medeiros Resiliency Preparatory Academy

The Fall River City Council approved the Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee's request for $293,479,760 to design, engineer, construct, and equip the new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School and related athletic facilities, with a vote of 6 yeas and 3 nays. The council also unanimously confirmed the appointments of Roger St. Martin as Fire Chief and Nicholas A. Macolini as Human Resources Director. Two requests from Fall River Public Schools to submit Statements of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority's Accelerated Repair Program were referred to the Committee on Finance. The council also adopted orders for a taxicab driver license and two auto repair shop license renewals, and referred claims and two Open Meeting Law complaints to Corporation Counsel.

• Approved $293,479,760 for the new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School and related athletic facilities (6 yeas, 3 nays).
• Confirmed Roger St. Martin as Fire Chief (unanimous).
• Confirmed Nicholas A. Macolini as Human Resources Director (unanimous).
• Referred Statement of Interest for Stone Therapeutic Day School at Westall to Committee on Finance (unanimous).
• Referred Statement of Interest for Robert L. Medeiros Resiliency Preparatory Academy to Committee on Finance (unanimous).
• Adopted order for 2022 taxicab driver license for Gabriel Olivierre (unanimous).
• Adopted order for auto repair shop license renewals for Warren Auto Repair and Joe's Gas Auto Sales (unanimous).
• Referred claims and two Open Meeting Law complaints to Corporation Counsel (unanimous).

City Council

The City Council unanimously approved a $35,000 supplemental appropriation from Community Preservation Act reserves for the Kennedy Park Overlook Project, bringing total design funding to $185,000. The council also confirmed several mayoral appointments, including Kaitlin Young as City Planner, and approved multiple curb removal orders and license renewals. A proposed ordinance on handicapped parking passed all readings with an emergency preamble.

• Approved $35,000 supplemental CPA funding for Kennedy Park Overlook Project
• Confirmed Kaitlin Young as City Planner
• Confirmed Timothy McCoy to Licensing Board
• Confirmed Shawn E. Cadime to Tax Increment Financing Board (Cadime abstained)
• Confirmed reappointments to Council on Aging, Board of Appeals, TIF Board, and Board of Library Trustees
• Adopted curb removal orders at 1311 County St, 248 Hancock St, 1040 Eastern Ave, and four hearing locations
• Passed ordinance on handicapped parking through all readings with emergency preamble
• Adopted citations for emergency services and individual for fire at 140 Irving St

Revised)

The City Council will consider the appointment of Seth Thomas Aitken as City Administrator and an appropriation of $105,408 for school transportation. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the five-year capital improvement plan and the Fiscal Year 2022 second quarter budget report.

• Appointment of Seth Thomas Aitken as City Administrator at a $130,000 annual salary
• Appropriation of $105,408 from General Fund Free Cash to School Transportation
• Review of the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan
• Consideration of implementing body cameras for the Police Department
• Renewal of various auto body and auto repair shop licenses

The Fall River City Council confirmed Seth Thomas Aitken as City Administrator by a 9-0 vote, approved a $105,408 appropriation for school transportation, and adopted the 2022 meeting schedule after amending the February date. The council also referred the body camera resolution to the Committee on Finance and approved various license renewals.

• Confirmed Seth Thomas Aitken as City Administrator (9-0)
• Approved $105,408 appropriation for school transportation (9-0)
• Adopted 2022 meeting schedule, amended to move Feb. 8 meeting to Feb. 15 (5-4)
• Referred body camera resolution to Committee on Finance (9-0)
• Adopted resolution for quarterly water supply reviews, including water filtration plant (unanimous)
• Approved taxicab, livery, auto body, and auto repair license renewals (unanimous)
• Referred claims and Open Meeting Law complaints to Corporation Counsel (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed FY22 Q2 budget report and communications (unanimous)

Organization of Government

This meeting organizes the government following the inauguration of municipal officers. The City Council will hold elections for a President and Vice President for the year 2022.

• Election of City Council President for 2022
• Election of City Council Vice President for 2022

The Fall River City Council held its annual organization meeting and elected a president and vice president for 2022. Councilor Pam Laliberte-Lebeau was elected president with 5 votes, and Councilor Michelle M. Dionne was elected vice president with 7 votes. Both were sworn in by the City Clerk.

• Elected Pam Laliberte-Lebeau as Council President (5 votes)
• Elected Michelle M. Dionne as Council Vice President (7 votes)
• Adopted order to proceed with president election (unanimous)
• Adopted order to proceed with vice president election (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:59 p.m. (unanimous)