(The following is not a verbatim transcript of comments or discussion that occurred during the meeting, but rather a summarization intended for general informational purposes.  All motions and votes are the official records). 

         

 

CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL

Notice of Regular Meeting

 

JULY 27, 2020

 

 

            Regular meeting of the City Council was held on Monday, July 27, 2020 via Zoom Webinar.

 

            The meeting was called to order at 7:05 P.M. by the Council President.

 

            Roll call showed the following members present:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

            Also Present: Daniel Parrillo, Director of Administration; John Psilopoulos, Deputy Director of Administration; Robert Strom, Finance Director; Christopher Rawson, City Solicitor; Evan Kirshenbaum, City Council Legal Counsel; David DiMaio, City Council Budget Analyst.

 

 

I.                  PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS

 

CONGRATULATING MARIA MEDEIROS WALL FOR HER YEARS OF SERVICE AS CITY CLERK

 

            Council President Farina thanked Ms. Wall for her years of service to the City and stated that a plaque is being presented to her from the Council.

 

            Councilmember Donegan also thanked Ms. Wall for her years of service to the City and stated that she was always quick to respond to any of his concerns and also thanked her for all the help she gave him during the past two years.

 

            Councilmember Brady thanked Ms. Wall and stated that he truly appreciates all the help she gave him during the time he started serving on the City Council.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas echoed his colleague’s remarks and thanked Ms. Wall for everything she did as City Clerk.

 

            Councilmember Hopkins thanked Ms. Wall for all the help she gave to the City Council and wished her all the best.

 

            Councilmember Stycos thanked Ms. Wall for all her help and wished her well.

 

            Council Vice-President Favicchio thanked Ms. Wall for everything she has done for the City Council and for her many years of service. 

 

            Councilmember Vargas thanked Ms. Wall for her years of public service to the City of Cranston.

 

            Ms. Wall thanked the City Council for giving her the opportunity to serve as City Clerk for twenty-one years and it was an honor and privilege to have served as City Clerk.  She knows she did not make many friends, it was not to be mean, but she tried to be fair with everyone as she did with the City Council.

 

PAUL J. MCAULEY FOR HIS DEDICATED YEARS OF SERVICE AS COUNCILMAN FOR WARD 2

 

            Council President Farina thanked Mr. McAuley for his service to the City and stated that a plaque is being presented to him from the Council.

 

            Councilmember Hopkins stated that he has become friends with a very, very good man who served the public with a heart on his sleeves and he has gained a friend for life.

 

            Councilmember Brady stated that Mr. McAuley always listened to both sides and will be very much missed and he also feels he gained a friend for life.

 

            Councilmember Stycos stated that he thinks Mr. McAuley worked hard as a Council Member and always followed-up with his constituents.  He thanked Mr. McAuley for his service to the community.

 

            Councilmember Vargas echoed prior statements and thanked Mr. McAuley for all the advice he gave her when she came on board on the City Council.  She stated that he gave a lot of dedication and service not only to the Ward, but the entire City and wished him the very best.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas stated that Mr. McAuley is everything you would hope to be as a City Council person.  He worked hard for the community and the entire City of Cranston.  He will miss him on the Council and wished him well.

 

            Council Vice-President Favicchio thanked Mr. McAuley for all he did on the City Council.  He was always an honest hard working person and he is going to miss him and wished him well.

 

            Councilmember Donegan echoed prior statements and stated that Mr. McAuley is one of the hardest working Council Member that he knows and whoever comes next in that seat has big feet to fill.  He wished him well and he will miss him.

 

            Council President Farina stated that Mr. McAuley did his job for the people and put his people first and he will be missed.  He stated that Mr. McAuley is not present this evening, but wished him well.

 

 

II.               PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

Robert Murray, Esq., 21 Garden City Dr., appeared to speak in favor of proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and stated that this Ordinance was introduced by the Mayor.  It is what he calls another tool in the tool box for the Zoning Board.  This Ordinance would bring Cranston in line with thirty other communities. 

 

Council President Farina asked Attorney Murray if he is representing the Cranston Country Club.  Attorney Murray stated, yes.

 

            Douglas Doe appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and referred to the Planning Department’s memo.  He stated that this Ordinance is about bulldozing holes for a solar farm.  There are far many questions to be answered for the City Council to make a decision in one night.

 

            Robert Ferri, 2426 Cranston St., appeared to speak regarding proposed Ordinance 6-20-05 and stated that he lives on the bike path.  Approximately five or six years ago, he noticed that all the vegetation five to six feet to the right and five to six fee to the left suddenly died.  He sent pictures to the Mayor’s Office and called and complained to the Parks and Recreation Department and went nowhere.  He had a conversation with Parks and Recreation Director Liberatore and was told that they spray everything to clear all the growth.  This year, because of COVID, the use of the bike path has probably tripled then normal.  He stated that herbicide is harmful to the people using the bike path, harmful to the environment and erosion caused from rain because there is nothing to stop the water from running.  He asked that this Ordinance be approved.

 

            Jessica Marino, 799 Natick Ave., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and stated that it is a bit disingenuous to state this evening that this is with regards to the ease of doing business when it is for the primary purpose of the Cranston Country Club project.  There are residents who have expressed concerns and this is the wrong foot to begin with.

                       

           

III.           RESOLUTIONS

 

RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF SUPPORTING CRITICAL CIVIL RIGHTS LEGISLATION AT THE STATE HOUSE (H-7747 and S-2585)

 

            On motion by Councilmember Donegan, seconded by Councilmember Stycos, it was voted to adopt the above Resolution.

 

Under Discussion:

            Councilmember Vargas stated that the Cranston Police Colonel and the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association are in favor of the Bill.

 

            Councilmember Brady asked for Council Vice-President Favicchio’s opinion as it relates to State Law.  Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that he does not see any reason why it should not go forward.

 

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Resolution and motion passed on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

 

IV.            REPORT OF COMMITTEES

 

FINANCE COMMITTEE

(Council Vice-President Michael W. Favicchio, Chair)

 

6-20-03            ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 5.04.100 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘LICENSES GENERALLY’ (Mooring Fees)

 

            On motion by Councilmember Stycos, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

6-20-04            ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO UTILIZE EASTERN CRANSTON RECREATIONAL IMPACT FEES TO BUILD A SPLASH PAD IN WARD 3

 

On motion by Councilmember Donegan, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 7-1. The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -7.  The following being recorded as voting “nay”:  Councilmember Brady -1.

 

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MOTOR VEHICLE TAX ABATEMENTS

 

On motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

TAX INTEREST WAIVER APPROVALS

 

On motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, it was voted to approve the above Tax Interest Waiver Approvals. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

 

 ORDINANCE COMMITTEE

(Council Vice-President Michael W. Favicchio, Chair)

 

5-20-04           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ (Special Use Permit)

 

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, it was voted to adopt the above Ordinance.

 

Under Discussion:

            Councilmember Stycos stated that what bothers him on this is it was stated that this was the Administration’s idea and no one from the Administration has spoken this evening on this.  He stated that bit by bit, the rural atmosphere in Western Cranston is being destroyed.  It is unfair to all the residents of the City.  He suggested that this Ordinance be sent back to Committee, which ought to hear from the Administration honestly why they want this. 

 

            Councilmember Vargas stated that when this Ordinance was before the Ordinance Committee, she voted in favor of this Ordinance, but she can’t vote in favor of it now, after consideration and after going through this and reviewing e-mails from Mr. Doe and other residents, she agrees with Councilmember Stycos that she would like to hear from the Administration or even from the attorney of the Cranston Country Club before voting in favor of this.

 

            Director Parrillo stated that he believes, at the Committee, he spoke in favor of this Ordinance and Director Pezzullo also spoke in favor of this and the Planning Commission recommended approval.

 

            Jason Pezzullo, City Planner, appeared to speak and stated that this was discussed at the Ordinance Committee.  The issue was that this was identified in the analysis of the Zoning Code that we had an issue with the Special Use and Variance.  It is not a spot zone because this is a City-Wide Ordinance.  This is not giving anyone any rights.  This is just allowing someone to go to the Zoning Board to make the request.  This is not a hidden agenda.  This is not an application for the Cranston Country Club.  There will be other applicants that will use this Ordinance.

 

            Council President Farina asked if there are any other applications besides the Cranston Country Club.  Director Pezzullo stated that there will be another applicant coming forward.

 

            Councilmember Vargas asked if this will apply to all businesses who want solar or future developments coming into the City.  Director Pezzullo stated that, as far as solar in Western Cranston, that is banned.  Only thing allowed as to solar in Western Cranston is minor accessory.

 

            Director Parrillo stated that this gives people the opportunity to go before the Zoning Board of Review to get the authority and the check and balance still exists.

 

            Councilmember Hopkins stated that this is not spot zoning.  This is a minor system that is being put on the golf course to be used by the golf course.  He also stated that he recalls at past meetings Councilmember Stycos encouraging businesses to use solar and now we have the Cranston Country Club trying to do that and he does not understand why this is not being accepted.

 

            Councilmember Stycos stated that the issue is not the fact that it is a solar project.  The issue is where this is located.  It would be right on the road.  There is a 60 foot setback on Burlingame Road in order to preserve the rural feel of that area.  What the Cranston Country Club wants to do is put this solar project right on the road within 24 feet.  If this project was put somewhere else on the Cranston Country Club property, there would not be an issue with the dimensional variance.

 

            Councilmember Brady stated that he is at a loss with this, but stated that we should be encouraging businesses to pay their bills through solar.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas stated that the Planning Commission passed this unanimously and he is sure they did their homework.  This is not approving anything for the Cranston Country Club, it gives the opportunity to apply to the Zoning Board of relief.

 

            Councilmember Donegan stated that he will vote opposed to this Ordinance out of respect for some concerns some of the residents have brought up.

 

            Councilmember Stycos made a motion to send this Ordinance back to the September Ordinance Committee for further study and report from the Planning Department.  Councilmember Brady seconded the motion for discussion.

 

Under Discussion:

            Council President Farina stated that he received a lot of feedback from the same people who a few years ago said our solar legislation was wrong.  He agrees in sending this Ordinance back to the Ordinance Committee and agrees that we should know all projects this could affect. 

 

            Councilmember Brady stated that we want to continue to be transparent and he does not see the need to rush this.  He did receive concerns from some residents and he is not against this, but agreed to have this forwarded back to Committee.

 

            Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that, to him, to make a decision of who may apply, is problematic.  He is not opposed to referring this back to Committee. 

 

            Council President Farina stated that what he stated is that he would like Director Pezzullo to put together what businesses could come through.

 

            Attorney Kirshenbaum stated that what may be helpful is if the Planning Department can come up with an example of that might happen in each Ward if this passed.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas stated that he would like to hear more input on this.

 

Roll call was taken on motion to refer the above Ordinance to the September Ordinance Committee meeting for further study and report from the Planning Department and motion passed on a vote of 7-1.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -7.  The following being recorded as voting “nay”:  Councilmember Paplauskas -1.

 

6-20-02            ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 8.08 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘FIRE PREVENTION CODE’  (Permits for Hazardous Substances)

 

            On motion by Councilmember Stycos, seconded by Councilmember Brady, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8. 

 

6-20-05            ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 12 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES’ (Synthetic Herbicide Use)

 

            On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Donegan, it was voted to adopt the above Ordinance.

 

Under Discussion:

            Council President Farina asked to be added as co-sponsor and thanked Mr. Ferri for fighting for this.

 

            Councilmember Hopkins asked if the City is using this spray anywhere else such as ball fields.  Councilmember Donegan stated that, based on a conversation he had with Parks and Recreation Director Liberatore, they do spray on the ball fields.  Councilmember Hopkins stated that he has a very big concern about that and is opposed to any type of spraying at any of the ball fields.

 

            Councilmember Stycos agreed with Councilmember Hopkins and stated that we should look at a wider ban.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas thanked the co-sponsors for bringing this together.  This is a good step and we should look at other areas to ban this. 

 

            Councilmember Vargas asked to be added as co-sponsor and stated that she was walking this weekend at Stillhouse Cove and she asked Administration if someone could reach out to DEM because she noticed little red flags indicating that there was spraying done.  This is another example of pesticide used not only on playgrounds, bike path and ball fields, but also at Stillhouse Cove. 

 

            Councilmember Brady thanked co-sponsors for sponsoring this Ordinance.

 

            Council Vice-President Favicchio thanked Mr. Ferri and everyone else that worked on this and asked to be added as co-sponsor.

 

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Ordinance and motion passed on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8. 

 

6-20-08           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF TITLE 10 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC’ (Harrison Avenue at Vinton Avenue Stop)

 

On motion by Councilmember Paplauskas, seconded by Council Vice-President Favicchio, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

 

RULES COMMITTEE

(Council Vice-President Michael W. Favicchio, Chair)

 

6-20-07           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF RULE 36 OF THE CITY COUNCIL RULES OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2019-2021 TERM

 

            On motion by Councilmember Vargas, seconded by Councilmember Donegan, it was voted to adopt the above Ordinance.

 

Under Discussion:

            Council President Farina stated that in his opinion, this is an Ordinance and we can’t change the Council Rules of a future City Council by Ordinance.  The incoming City Council would have to change their Rules for their term.  We can change the time of the meeting for the remainder of the year without changing the Rule.  We would have to just suspend the Rules in order to do that.  Council President Farina asked Councilmember Vargas if she has any problem with changing the time to 6:30.  He also asked for Councilmembers’ input.  Councilmember Vargas stated that since we are holding virtual meetings and do not know how much longer we will be holding virtual meetings, she will withdraw this Ordinance and re-introduce it next year.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas stated that he is not opposed to try to hold the Council meetings at 6:30 p.m.

 

            No one objected to holding the Council meetings at 6:30 p.m. for the remainder of the year.

 

On motion by Councilmember Paplauskas, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, it was voted to suspend Council Rule 36 and hold City Council meetings at 6:30 p.m. for the remainder of the year.  Motion passed on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

Council President Farina stated that at this time, e-mails from the public with

statements or questions go to him.  He asked if the Clerk or the Assistant City Clerk’s email address could be added and have those statements or questions go to them. 

 

            Councilmember Donegan asked if it is possible for the City to create an e-mail such as citycouncil@cranstonri.gov for the public to send e-mails to with questions and that would automatically forwards whatever official e-mail that the City Council person has submitted.

 

            Council President Farina that he thinks this is a great idea.  He is pretty sure we can make a quick e-mail for the docket going forward that states council@cranstonri.com and all nine Council Members would get that email.  We would also have to do research as to what other cities and towns are doing.

 

 

V.               PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

None.

 

 

VI.            ELECTION OF CITY OFFICIALS

 

Councilmember Stycos asked if the Council can vote on all the re-appointments below as a block.  Solicitor stated they could, as long as the names and terms are mentioned in the motion.

 

BUILDING APPEAL BOARD:

·         Re-appointment of Vincent Dinofrio for term ending July 27, 2025 (Councilmember Paplauskas)

 

·         Re-appointment of David L. Cloxton for term ending  July 27, 2025 (Councilmember Paplauskas)

 

 CRANSTON LIBRARY BOARD TRUSTEES:

          Re-appointment of Jack Tregar for term ending July 31, 2023 (Council President Farina)

 

          Re-appointment of Mary Ann Slocomb for term ending July 27, 2023 (Council President Farina)

 

    Re-appointment of Fred Raisner for term ending August 30, 2023 (Council President Farina)

   

ZONING BOARD OF REVIEW:

·         Re-appointment of Thomas Barbieri for term ending July 22, 2025.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Stycos, it was voted to re-appoint Vincent Dinofrio and David Cloxton to the Building Appeal Board for term ending July 27, 2025; Jack Tregar, Mary Ann Slocomb and Fred Raisner to the Library Board of Trustees for terms ending July 31, 2023, July 27, 2023 and August 30, 2023 respectively; and Thomas Barbieri to the Zoning Board of Review for term ending July 22, 2025 as a block.  Motion passed on a vote of 8-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8.

 

WARD 2 Vacancy – Council Appointment of Aniece Germain (Resignation of Paul J. McAuley, Ward 2, Democrat June 22, 2020)

 

            On motion by Councilmember Vargas, seconded by Councilmember Donegan, it was voted to appoint Aniece Germain as Councilmember for Ward 2 to fill the vacancy of Paul J. McAuley.

 

Under Discussion:

            Councilmember Stycos stated that Ms. Germain will be filling Mr. McAuley’s position for the remainder of the year and she is highly qualified.

 

            Councilmember Vargas stated that she can’t think of anyone better qualified to represent Ward 2 other than Mr. McAuley, but Aniece Germain   She is a hard working woman and mother of three.  She is happy for her appointment where diversity is much needed now more than ever and she is looking forward to working with her on the City Council.

 

            Councilmember Donegan stated that he has worked with Ms. Germain and she is a champion on so many issues.

 

            Councilmember Brady stated that it is great to see more diversity in City government and he looks forward to working with Ms. Germain in the coming months.

 

            Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that he has a procedural issue with someone who has announced that she is a candidate for that position and being appointed at this time.  He would not want to set precedent that could be used in the future.

 

            Councilmember Hopkins stated that he welcomes Ms. Germain, but concurs with Council Vice-President Favicchio.  He would have to abstain for the reason Council Vice-President gave and for the way former Councilmember McAuley was treated.

 

            Councilmember Paplauskas welcomed Ms. German to the City Council and stated that he looks forward to working with her.

 

            Council President Farina stated that he will be voting in favor of Ms. Germain’s appointment and she meets all the qualifications based on our Charter.

 

Roll call was taken on motion to appoint Ms. Germain as Councilmember for Ward 2 to fill the vacancy of Mr. McAuley and motion passed on a vote of 6-0 with 2 abstentions.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmember Stycos, Vargas, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas and Council President Farina -6.  Councilmember Hopkins and Council Vice-President Favicchio abstained -2.

 

            Ms. Germain appeared to speak and thanked everyone for their votes and support and is looking forward to working with everyone.

 

APPOINTMENT OF CLAIMS COMMITTEE CHAIR

 

            Councilmember Donegan was appointed to replace former Councilmember McAuley as Chair of Claims Committee for the remainder of the year.

 

 

VII.        REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS

 

None.

 

 

VIII.    EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

REPORT ON HIRING OF SPECIAL COUNSEL, CONSULTANTS, ETC., PURSUANT TO CHARTER SECTION 15.05.

 

            Councilmember Donegan asked what the status is of the traffic safety litigation case.  Director Parrillo stated that it is ongoing and he has not had any updates recently.

 

REQUEST TO BE CONTINUED IN SERVICE FOR ONE YEAR CAPTAIN LAWRENCE E. CARON, JR., CRANSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

 

            Director Parrillo appeared to speak.

 

            On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, it was voted to approve the above request.  Motion passed on a vote of 9-0.  The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

 

 

IX.            COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS

 

Council President Farina stated that it is going to be hot in the next few days and asked everyone to try to stay cool and stay safe during COVID and practice social distancing.

 

 

X.               COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS

 

COUNCILMEMBER VARGAS:

 

Councilmember Vargas addressed the above issue and indicated to specific building on Warwick Ave. and Park Ave., which is looking like an eyesore.  She asked if there is anything the City can do with buildings that are boarded up for a long period of time.  She asked if the Solicitor can research this.  Council President Farina asked that this item be placed on the Public Works agenda.

 

 

            Councilmember Vargas asked if there is any update on the $4.3 million for school funding from the State.  Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that the State has another week or so with their budget. 

 

            Director Strom stated that he has weekly conversations with RI League of Cities and Towns, Finance Directors and Municipal Affairs and we should have a better insight for this past year by the beginning of August and by the second or third week of August, we should have more information regarding FY 2021.

           

COUNCILMEMBER STYCOS:

 

Councilmember Stycos stated that with everything that is going on in the Country with police and violence, people are nervous about situations of what can happen to them or their kids and the Police.  We should have a public forum with the Police Colonel of what their policies are and the public can ask questions.

 

            Council President Farina suggested that Councilmember Paplauskas ask the Colonel to appear before the Safety Services and Licenses Committee to address how to have the meeting Councilmember Stycos is suggesting with social distancing rules.

 

Councilmember Vargas stated that, per the Police Colonel, they have a National Night Out during the first week in August and that may be another way of getting information to the people.

 

COUNCILMEMBER PAPLAUSKAS:

 

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that, per the Canvassing Office, the City needs 140 or more poll workers for the Elections.  He asked if anyone knows of someone who is interested, they contact the Canvassing Office.

 

Councilmember Paplauskas thanked RI DOT for cleaning the weeds on Atwood Ave.

 

 

XI.            OLD BUSINESS

 

            None.

 

 

XII.        INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS

              *(for informational purposes.  All new business is referred to Committee for public hearing)

 

7-20-01           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF TITLE 10 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC’ (New Hampshire St. and Southern St. 4 Way Stop).  Sponsored by Councilmember Paplauskas. 
Referred to Ordinance Committee August 13, 2020.  

 

7-20-02           ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2020 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2021 (Economic Development).  Sponsored by Council Vice-President Favicchio.
Referred to Finance Committee August 3, 2020. 

 

7-20-03           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ (Citizens Guide to Land Development Process).  Sponsored by Councilmembers Hopkins and Paplauskas.  Referred to Ordinance Committee September 17, 2020.   

 

7-20-04           ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ (Change of Zone – New London Ave.).  Petition filed by Coastal Partners LLC, Mulligan’s Island LLC, and State of Rhode Island. 
Referred to Ordinance Committee September 17, 2020. 

 

REQUEST FROM NATIONAL GRID AND VERIZON FOR POLE LOCATION AT WALNUT GROVE AVE. 
Referred to Public Works Committee August 13, 2020. 

 

REQUEST FROM NATIONAL GRID AND VERIZON FOR POLE LOCATION AT CARLSBAD ST. 
Referred to Public Works Committee August 13, 2020.

 

 

CLAIMS COMMITTEE – Thursday, August 13, 2020

·        Property Damage Claim:

·        Personal Injury Claim:

 

            On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, it was voted to refer the above new business to the respective Committees.  Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”:  Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

                                                                                                                       

 

XIII.    MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS ON CLERK’S DESK

 

 

6-20-06            ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 5 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “BUSINESS LICENSES AND REGULATIONS” (THIRD PARTY DELIVERY SERVICES).  SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN. 
FAILED IN COMMITTEE 7/16/2020 ON A TIE VOTE.  (INFORMATION ONLY).

 

4-20-06            ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF SECTION 2.80.010 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL – SALARIES” (SICK LEAVE).  SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBERS STYCOS AND DONEGAN.  CONT. FROM 5/4/2020 & 6/1/2020. 

FAILED IN COMMITTEE 7/6/2020.  (INFORMATION ONLY).

 

 

 

The meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                        /s/ Leanne Zarrella, JD

                                                                        City Clerk                                          

 

 

 

 

/s/ Rosalba Zanni

Assistant City Clerk/Clerk of Committees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(See Stenographic Notes of Ron Ronzio, Stenotypist)

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