(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

OCTOBER 5, 2020

The September 28, 2020 regular City Council meeting was rescheduled and held on Monday, October 5, 2020 via Zoom webinar in observance of Yom Kippur.

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, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

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

I. PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS

None.

II. PUBLIC HEARINGS

Douglas Doe, 178 Lippitt Ave., appeared to Speak to represent the West Bay Land Trust regarding proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and stated that he sent a letter to the City Council on September 24, 2020 regarding this Ordinance and he referred to various parts to that letter.

Pauline Derosa, 97 Cypress Dr., appeared to speak regarding proposed Ordinance 7-20-03 and thanked Matthew Reilly for his role in the Charter Review Commission in helping to create this document and thanked Councilmembers Hopkins and Paplauskas in sponsoring this Ordinance. She asked that this Ordinance be approved this evening.

Don Roach, 94 Hybrid Dr., appeared to speak in favor of “Resolution Supporting Our Men and Women In Blue”. He recommended to Council Vice-President Favicchio to add the following language to the Resolution: “Whereas, some residents have reported experiencing some racism firsthand resulting in mistrust of some governmental agencies. The City of Cranston remains committed to ensuring all members of its community feel safe and secure and protected by our law enforcement officers.”

Larry Warner, 75 Independence Way, appeared to speak regarding “Resolution of the City Council Declaring Racism as a Public Health Issue” and he thanked Councilmembers Donegan and Germain for introducing this Resolution. He stated that, as a person of color, Cranston resident and member and Co-Chair of Rhode Island Commission for Health and Equity, he underscore the importance in acknowledging in naming racism as a cause of many of the challenges that we see in our City and our State. This Resolution is consistent and aligned with the City’s work with OneCranston, the Cranston Health Equity Zone, Diversity Training and other efforts our City has undertaken to be a leader in advancing social justice.

Robert Wilson appeared to speak regarding Yardworks and stated that they have been operating three seasons non-stop Monday thru Saturdays with an occasional Sunday. As the residents record videos of Yardworks’s activity to help them prove their case in Court, they are now, on multiple occasions, have been met with threats and harassments from Yardworks employees and there seems to be no end in sight to this nightmare. He thanked the City Council and the Administration for their continued support and maybe this nightmare will end before they are forced from their homes and have to move.

Robert Murray, Esq., 21 Garden City Dr., appeared to speak in favor of proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and stated that this Ordinance was started as a generic Ordinance to allow Cranston to join thirty other communities to allow the Zoning Board to consider dimensional variances. When an applicant applies for a Special Use Permit, that is a basic tool the Zoning Board and property owner should have available to them. It would still have to meet the legal standards for Dimensional Variance, there would be notice to neighbors and there would be a public hearing before the Zoning Board. This is not an automatic event, but the description he listened to with respect to the suggested amendment basically would apply to uses within the A-80 Zone because that is principally where those roads are that Mr. Doe referred to as it directly effects the Cranston Country Club it would disallow the Zoning Board from considering their application that is presently pending. If that amendment is offered, he would urge the City Council not to accept it and to proceed forward with a positive recommendation from this Committee.

Jessica Marino, Natick Ave., appeared to speak regarding proposed Ordinance 5-20-04 and echoed the sentiments of the West Bay Land Trust as stated by Mr. Doe. She also stated that she is not in favor of the Ordinance amendment as a whole, but at least with those amendments, it does protect the rural nature of our City with those setbacks that were carefully placed in our City for a reason. She does not think that the Ordinance as a whole expedites the process that otherwise does not need to be expedited. She does not think that the current two-step process is a deterrent to businesses from entering our City and she thinks the two-step process is a proper protection and she is not in favor of the Ordinance amendment and at the very least, the West Bay Land Trust recommendations should be taken into action.

Joel Licker appeared to speak regarding issue of fire pits. He stated that this is a health safety issue. He is also speaking for the Tabor St. Condominium Association as well. He has sent numerous emails, he has called the Fire Department and has been told that they can’t enforce the Ordinance and he needs to call the Police Department. The Police Department tells him to call the Fire Department. He has called the Mayor’s Office and was told that the Mayor has more important issues to deal with. He stated that he can’t keep his doors open because of the smoke and smell coming from items being burned. He hopes we can put an end to the fire pits situation.

Bob Schoenberg, 3 Brewster Rd., appeared to speak regarding open fire pits and stated that he has been experiencing smoke coming into his house for months, which he initially did not know where it was coming from and he eventually found out it was coming from his neighbor two houses down from him on the Pontiac Ave. side. He called the Fire Department and every time he called them they sent an engine to that address and Fire Prevention people told him to keep calling and eventually they would catch the culprits. They caught them three times and made them put out the fire and they only kept doing it again and again and again. It got so bad he started getting shortness of breath and went to see his doctor who diagnosed him as having smoke inhalation. He had to hire an attorney because his health was really being impaired very negatively and his attorney has really helped him to solve the problem and so far it really seemed to have been solved. The point is no citizen should have to go through this. He urged the Council to protect the citizens of Cranston because this is a real problem, it’s a health problem and smoke inhalation is a real serious matter and no one should have to go through this.

Tracy Breton, 174 Columbia Ave., appeared to speak regarding the issue of the smoke is a bigger problem than just the fire pit. The City has issued restaurant permits to people who are actually not operating a restaurant but catering business where their sole job is to produce smoked meats that they use big smokers with that they are pouring smoke into the residents’ backyard. The business is a good business and the people are really nice and it started off as what she thought was a barbecue business which now merged into a popular catering business. She does not think any of the residents that live right behind this business were ever notified that there was going to be an environmental issue here and she does not think DEM was ever notified. She is waking up a couple of times a week with smoke coming into her house. This is affecting not just her property value but her health. There are already Ordinances on the books that aren’t being enforced and there has to be a way to stop the pollution and does not think homeowners should have to hire attorneys to get these problems solved.

III. RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Councilmembers Hopkins, Paplauskas, Germain, Brady, Donegan, Stycos, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina asked to be added as co-sponsors.

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, the above Resolution was adopted 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.

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL DECLARING RACISM AS A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE

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

Under Discussion:

Councilmembers Vargas, Paplauskas and Council President Farina asked to be added as co-sponsors.

Council Vice-President Favicchio questioned the sponsor on how we would declare this as a health issue. Councilmember Donegan stated that he thinks that systemic racism impacts health outcome

Councilmember Germain stated that racism impacts not just physically but emotionally.

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Resolution and 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.

RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE MAYOR PROGRESS TOWARDS GOALS IN ENFORCING USE OF FIRE PITS

Councilmember Stycos motioned to adopt the above Resolution. No one seconded the motion.

Councilmember Stycos stated that he introduced this Resolution because our Ordinance is excellent, it bans the burning of treated wood and prohibits fire pits. The problem, as the Fire Chief admitted at a prior meeting, is enforcement. This is a problem for the Administration and he asked Director Parrillo that the Mayor should address this to the departments and how are we going to enforce this and protect the quality of life of our residents.

Director Parrillo stated that as to what the Fire Chief stated, they cannot enforce it, it is up to the Police Department to enforce it and, a) we need a complaint and b) we need to come up with a system where Fire Department is responding or Police Department is responding. He can speak to the Colonel and Fire Chief about this on why the increase in complaints for fire pits.

Councilmember Stycos asked that if this Resolution passes, the Administration report back next month on the progress and what steps have been taken. He stated that this be placed on the October 13^th Safety Services meeting agenda and the Administration report on what they will be doing about the enforcement. Councilmember Paplauskas stated that he is not sure if this could be added to that agenda since the agenda for the October 13^th is a continuation from this evening’s meeting. As long as the Law Department approves it, it could be added. Director Parrillo indicated that this Resolution states December 2020 for update. Councilmember Stycos questioned when is it a reasonable time for an answer. Director Parrillo stated November would be reasonable.

Councilmember Brady stated that he has received no complaints from his Ward.

On motion by Councilmember Paplauskas, seconded by Council Vice-President Favicchio, it was voted to amend the above Resolution as follows: Line #32, delete “Mayor” and add “Mayoral Administration”. 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.

On motion by Councilmember Paplauskas, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, it was voted to amend the above Resolution as follows: Line #33, delete “December” and add “November”. 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.

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Resolution as amended. Motion passed on a vote of 8-1. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -8. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilmember Brady -1.

RESOLUTION SUPPORTING OUR MEN AND WOMEN IN ‘BLUE’

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

On motion by Council Vice-President Favicchio, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, it was voted to amend the above Resolution as follows: line #40, add the following paragraph: “Whereas, some residents have reported experiencing racism first hand resulting in mistrust of some governmental agencies, the City of Cranston remains committed to ensuring all members of its community feel safe, secure and protected by our esteemed law enforcement officers”. 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.

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Resolution as amended. 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.

RESOLUTION URGING MAYOR FUNG TO FUND $4.1 MILLION FROM CRANSTON’S CUMULATIVE SURPLUS TO THE CRANSTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

On motion by Council President Farina, seconded by Councilmember Brady, it was voted to adopt the above Resolution.

Under Discussion:

Council President Farina handed gavel to Vice-President Favicchio.

Council President Farina stated that he had drafted this Resolution a few months ago and was holding it to see what would happen with the Federal Government, State Government, to see how budgets would work out and see what funding would come in from the Federal Government. He realizes that the City Council removed the funding from the budgets because at the time it was the right thing to do, but now at this point, we are in October and we have no direction from the Federal Government as to when they are going to finalize their budgets and the State will not do their budget until they get their funding from the Federal Government and low and behold, our kids are back in school. He put together this Resolution to urge the Mayor to fund it directly from the Rainy Day Fund. The way he drafted this Resolution is that when the funds do come back, they would go back into the Rainy Day Fund. Logistically, the Mayor would have to work with the School Department because Maintenance of Effort would be an issue. There would have to be a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the City Council, Mayor and School Department, but he is starting the ball rolling on getting funding for the School Department.

Councilmember Germain asked to be added as co-sponsor

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that he does not think much has changed. He thinks the State will get to work on the budget after the Election and this may be a little premature. He asked Council President Farina if he would be willing to send this to the Finance Committee. Council President Farina stated that he would rather vote on this tonight. As everyone knows, he lost in the Primary and he may not be here in December and he will not be returning on the Council in January and does not want to leave with this unresolved. At this point, we waited and the City Council needs to act now.

Councilmember Hopkins stated that he agrees with Councilmember Paplauskas. He would hate to have this have an effect on the Maintenance of Efforts. He does not want to rush into it and would like to see it go to the Finance Committee for more discussion.

Councilmember Stycos stated that he would be in favor of forwarding this to the Finance Committee this month and would like to have the School Department attend and speak about the COVID money and where their costs have increased above what they anticipated in February when they passed their budget and where they have decreased.

Council President Farina stated that he would not be opposed to having this go before this month’s Finance Committee, but he does not want to wait until after the Elections.

On motion by Councilmember Stycos, seconded by Council President Farina, it was voted to forward the above Resolution to the October Finance Committee meeting and invite the School Department to give detail presentation regarding on their financial situation and their projections.

Under Discussion:

Director Strom pointed out that the Budget we did the budget, we had the $4.1 million in it and the City Council amended the Budget taking it out not knowing what was going to happen.

Director Strom also stated that the school right now has $164 million appropriated between ourselves and the State. They only have used #31 million so far this year for the first quarter. He thinks the school at this point is ok financially. He does not know what is going to happen going forward, but the first three months of this fiscal year, they seem to be doing fine. He thinks, at this point, he does not agree that we should be funding the school. He thinks it is a little premature and something like this should really be done in the fourth quarter.

Councilmember Brady thanked Council President Farina for bringing this forward and agreed that this should be forwarded to the Finance Committee and thinks this is a serious issue and looks forward to discussing this further.

Councilmember Vargas thanked Council President Farina for bring this to light and stated that she is also in favor of forwarding this to the Finance Committee for further discussion.

Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that he made the motion to take the $4.1 million from the budget and just as it was then we did not want to commit to the Maintenance of Effort and since then, some COVID money has been sent to the School Department and they have also had less expenses to a certain extent which he thinks would less the impact of this. To him, it is still a little premature. He has no problem in taking this back to the Finance Committee.

Roll call was taken on motion to forward the above Resolution to the October Finance Committee meeting and invite the School Department to give detail presentation regarding the COVID money and where their costs have increased and where they have decreased and 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.

Gavel was handed back to the Council President.

IV. REPORT OF COMMITTEES

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MOTOR VEHICLE TAX ABATEMENTS

On motion by Councilmember Donegan, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TANGIBLE TAX ABATEMENTS

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. Councilmembers Stycos, Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Donegan, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -9.

TAX INTEREST WAIVER APPROVALS

On motion by Councilmember Donegan, seconded by Councilmember Paplauskas, it was voted to approve the above Tax Interest Waiver Approvals. 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.

TAX INTEREST WAIVER DENIALS

On motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, it was voted to approve the above Tax Interest Waiver Denials. 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.

8-20-01 ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO UTILIZE WESTERN ROAD IMPACT FEES FOR THE ENGINEERING FOR TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENTS AT TWO MAJOR INTERSECTIONS

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

Under Discussion:

Director Parrillo stated that a study was conducted in 2019 for the intersections of Natick and Wilbur and Hope/Phenix and Wilbur and study indicated a readily available project at the Natick and Wilbur intersection consisting of single lane roundabout. The complete land survey has been done and plans are being prepared for potential bidding and construction available in FY 2022. Also, due to the tight land available in that Hope/Phenix and Wilbur area, they are studying a potential of land acquisition which would allow for a single lane roundabout or possible installation of signalized intersection. If all that comes to fruition, we would be looking at FY 2023 construction.

Councilmember Brady stated that this is a great place to use the fees to look into improving this area.

Councilmember Stycos questioned when would this money be started to be spent? Director Parrillo stated that to the best of his knowledge, he thinks some of the money would be spent in 2021 and construction going into 2022-2023.

Director Strom stated that we have Impact money that is designated for Western roads. It’s not really restricted to any type of thing. It meets the criteria. There is approximately a quarter of a million dollars in that fund.

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Ordinance and 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.

RESOLUTION LOAN ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, the above Resolution was adopted 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.

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 Hopkins, it was voted to adopt the above Ordinance.

Under Discussion:

Councilmember Stycos stated that he would like to amend this Ordinance as recommended by Mr. Doe.

Council Vice-President Favicchio asked what the impact of this Ordinance would be. Jason Pezzullo, City Planner, stated that he had no knowledge of this amendment prior to the meeting. It was brought to his attention at approximately 6:30 this evening.

Councilmember Hopkins asked to hear more from Director Pezzullo regarding this.

Director Pezzullo stated that as to the amendment, he has not had a chance to read it or digest it. The Ordinance on the table now affects applications throughout the City for special use that might need dimensional variance.

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that he will be voting against this amendment this evening. Just to carve out one section of the City when dimensional variances are allowed in thirty other cities and towns and this would allow it across our whole City for people to apply to it.

Councilmember Stycos stated that when this first came up, the City Council was told by Direct Pezzullo that there had been a part-time employee in the Planning Department who had gone through the Code of Ordinances and highlighted this as a problem and something that needed to be solved. That was the first time this came up. Then the second time this came up, Director Pezzullo stated that that this was not a recommendation by the Planning Department. The Planning Department supported it, but it was not initiated by the Planning Department. There seems to be a contradiction there.

Director Pezzullo stated that there is no contradiction. This was discussed in August. Drew Farmer, who was the Associated Planner and was tasked in reviewing the Zoning Code. It was flagged by the Office because it was still in our Code that really did not make any sense and there was no real value added to it. Ordinance before this Committee was not sponsored by the Planning Department or drafted by the Planning Department, however, the Ordinance as submitted, the Office supports because they had already identified in removing this from the Zoning Code.

Council President Farina stated that if it was not drafted by the Planning Department, who drafted it? Director Pezzullo stated, Bob Murray.

Councilmember Stycos motioned to amend the above Ordinance as follows and Councilmember Donegan seconded the motion for discussion: line #78, add the following language: “Restrictions on Applicability of Dimensional Variances. As the Comprehensive Plan lists goals and policies to identify and protect scenic roads in Western Cranston, dimensional variances may not be granted to properties requiring special permits adjacent to streets listed in city ordinance 17.20.090(L), and streets that are part of the Historic Farm Route, and Pippin Orchard Road north of Scituate Ave. until such scenic roads are identified and protected. Properties along scenic roads shall not be eligible for dimensional variances under special permits”.

Under Discussion:

Councilmember Donegan stated that the people that he will be impacted by this Ordinance have all resoundingly been opposed to this Ordinance and because of that, he will be voting against this Ordinance this evening.

Councilmember Vargas asked for clarification on this. She stated that her concern is the members of the Zoning Board of Review are appointed by the City Council members. As City Council members, we have to make sure that we are appointing members to the board that we are appointing members to whom we believe have the best interest of the City and have background and we trust to make sure that decisions such as special use permits or dimensional variance is given, that we allow them to also make those important decisions. This Ordinance would be impacting more so the Western side of the Cranston.

Councilmember Brady stated that he spoke to all the residents and has not had any opposition.

Council President Farina stated that he received approximately five complaints from neighboring residents and the fact that this was written by the attorney representing the Cranston Country Club he will be voting no on this.

Roll call was taken on motion to amend the above Ordinance and motion failed on a vote of 2-7. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Stycos and Donegan -2. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilmembers Hopkins, Vargas, Germain, Brady, Paplauskas, Council Vice-President Favicchio and Council President Farina -7.

Roll call was taken on motion to adopt the above Ordinance as presented and motion failed on a vote of 4-3 and 2 abstentions. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmembers Hopkins, Brady, Paplauskas and Council Vice-President Favicchio -4. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilmembers Stycos, Donegan and Council President Farina -3. Councilmembers Vargas and Germain abstained.

Council President Farina stated that there is a requirement that five votes are necessary to pass anything and since there were two abstentions, motion to approve fails.

7-20-03 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITELD ‘ZONING’ (Citizens Guide to Land Development Process)

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

Under Discussion:

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that this came to fruition from work the Charter Commission did and urged passage.

V. PUBLIC HEARINGS

Sheila Resseger, 50 Malvern Ave., appeared to speak. At last month’s Council meeting on August 24th, seven members of 5G Free RI gave presentations detailing their objections to the rollout of so-called small cell 5G antennas in Cranston and across Rhode Island. She asked if there has been any follow-up investigation or any discussion among the Council members or Solicitors about the materials they presented during the comment section and in writing.

VI. ELECTION OF CITY OFFICIALS

ZONING BOARD OF REVIEW:

Appointment of Carlos Zambrano as Ward 1 member (Councilmember Vargas)

On motion by Councilmember Stycos, seconded by Councilmember Germain, it was voted to appoint Carlos Zambrano as Ward 1 member of the Zoning Board of Review to fill the un-expired term of Matthew Gendron.

Under Discussion:

Councilmember Vargas stated that the Ward 1 member moved out of the City. Mr. Zambrano has been a resident of Ward 1 for a very long time. The boards and Commissions need to be diversified. As a Ward 1 Council member, she would like to see some diversity on the Zoning Board of Review as well as other boards in the City.

Council President Farina stated that since we have two people for the same seat, it is germane to discuss both persons.

Councilmember Donegan stated that he will be supporting the appointment of Mr. Zambrano. He feels that it is an appointment for Ward 1 and Councilmember Vargas, being Ward member, should be able to appoint the person she wants. He hopes to keep Mr. Barbieri on the board possibly as an Alternate.

Councilmember Hopkins, stated that Councilmember Vargas is not the only person representing Ward 1. Looking at diversity, we have a couple of women that serve on the Zoning Board.

Councilmember Brady stated that diversity should be in the forefront and this is nothing against Mr. Zambrano, but the person he is nominating has an attendance record that has been great asset to the Board.

Councilmember Stycos stated that we need to look at the way the Ordinance was written. To have two City Council members proposing two members of the Zoning Board is just not appropriate. He is supporting Mr. Zambrano.

Council Vice-President Favicchio stated that he does not think it matters if you have lived in a certain Ward for a certain amount of time. He does not have a problem with diversifying, but experience factor is important.

Councilmember Paplauskas stated that Mr. Barbieri has done a great job on the Zoning Board and he respects the work he has done.

Councilmember Donegan stated that Mr. Zambrano’s experience from his resume sounds like pertinent experience for the Zoning Board.

Councilmember Vargas stated that she had a conversation with Mr. Barbieri and Councilmember Brady and indicated that there was an Alternate position available if he wished to continue to serve on the board.

Councilmember Brady stated that this is not a Ward 1 appointment, it is a City Council appointment. He removed Mr. Barbieri for consideration and, hopefully, will be appointing him as an Alternate, but does not think it is fair to him

Roll call was taken on motion to appoint Mr. Zambrano as a member of the Zoning Board of Review and 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.

Appointment of Thomas Barbieri as Ward 1 member (Councilmember Brady)

No action taken.

Appointment of Dean Perdikakis Ward 4 member (Councilmember Brady)

On motion by Councilmember Brady, seconded by Councilmember Vargas, it was voted to appoint Dean Perdikakis as Ward 4 member of the Zoning Board of Review to fill the un-expired term of Thomas Barbieri. 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.

VII. REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS

REPORT FROM CRANSTON ARTS COMMISSION

Danielle Izzi St. Pierre, Chair of the Arts Commission and Ward 5 resident, appeared to give a presentation.

VIII. EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS

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

No discussion.

IX. COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS

Council President Farina asked that everyone be safe with this pandemic. He also stated that Council Vice-President Favicchio has been toying with the idea of having some meetings in public again, possibly a hybrid, and in an auditorium and he asked that Council Vice-President Favicchio speak to the Clerks to see if we can make that happen.

X. COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS

COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN:

Traffic at Chapel View

Councilmember Donegan stated that everyone is ware of the traffic at Starbucks in Chapel View. He questioned if there is anything we can do with the business or property manager to try to work on the traffic configuration.

Council President Farina stated that they were doing a good job for a while. He asked the Administration why this has changed. Director Parrillo stated that he will inquire with the landlord and the business to continue with the queuing that they were doing in the past.

COUNCILMEMBER BRADY:

Roosters

Anthony Paolino, 450 Pippin Orchard Rd., appeared to speak and stated that this past Spring, his neighbor acquired chickens and a rooster. The rooster starts making noises on and off all day seven days a week. It is affecting health and wellbeing. He has contacted Zoning There is a roadblock regarding roosters. His neighbor does not keep the chickens fenced-in and they are allowed to roam. They even roam down Pippin Orchard Rd. It is getting to the point where it is unbearable. His neighbor is not a farmer, he is a real estate broker. These are pets. This is a residential area and has always been a residential area. He is asking the City Council to do something about this issue.

Director Parrillo stated that, unfortunately, there is nothing currently on the books regarding chickens.

Council President Farina stated that through Councilmember Brady, the Administration, Animal Control and Inspections, they try to see how this can be addressed and possibly draft legislation regarding roosters.

COUNCILMEMBER VARGAS:

· Speeding on Broad Street

Councilmember Vargas stated that recently, a woman was part of a tragedy with speeding involved and was in the hospital. Narragansett Blvd. and Broad St. has been a concern that she has put on more than once under council Member Communication. She reached out to the Police Department in hopes to get another traffic study done

Director Parrillo stated that speeding is a city-wide issue. He thinks that what needs to happen is to have some type of sub-committee to decide how to move forward as to speeding.

Councilmember Vargas asked if there is a policy regarding speed bumps at Shaw Ave. at Rhodes School. Director Parrillo stated, none that he is aware of.

Director Parrillo stated that we will be doing trial of bump-outs at Castleton Estates. He also indicated that Major Quirk is on the call if there are any questions for the Police Department.

Councilmember Vargas asked how that area was selected. Director Parrillo stated that he believes the City Council voted on it.

Councilmember Vargas stated that she will reach out to some cities and towns to see what their policies are as to speed bumps and response times for Police and Fire. Director Parrillo indicated that he has Johnston’s.

Councilmember Vargas asked Major Quirk what other options we have as to speed bumps. Major Quirk stated that as tragic as the accident was on Broad St., it was an isolated incident. He stated that he does not know what het answer is to this issue. There are not enough Officers. He does not know if speed bumps are the answer because now you have to deal with Police, Fire vehicles and snow vehicles. As to the Castleton Estates, the geographical is different than Broad St.

Council President Farina sked that this be placed on the Public Works Agenda for follow-up.

COUNCILMEMBER STYCOS:

· Yardworks Update

· Northeast Tree Update

Beausoleil/Station Street construction debris grinding operation

Councilmember Stycos asked that the above items be referred to the Ordinance Committee meeting.

XI. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XII. INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS

9-20-01 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 10.32 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” (REMOVAL OF NO PARKING ON INVERNIA RD.). SPONSORED BY MAYOR FUNG.
Referred to Ordinance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-02 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” (GRACE STREET AT POND STREET STOP). SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER STYCOS.
Referred to Ordinance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-03 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” (BROWNE AND DUNEDIN) SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN.
Referred to Ordinance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-04 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 12.12 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “STREET AND SIDEWALK USE REGULATIONS” (STEEL PLATE USE) SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAPLAUSKAS.
Referred to Public Works Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-05 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 6 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005. ENTITLED “HEALTH AND SAFETY” (FAIR HOUSING PRACTICES) SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBERS DONEGAN, GERMAIN, STYCOS AND VARGAS.
Referred to Ordinance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-06 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 2 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND COUNCILS” (AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMISSION). SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN. CO-SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBERS GERMAIN AND VARGAS.
Referred to Ordinance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-07 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 3.16 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “PROPERTY TAX CLASSIFICATION” (CHANGE OF TAX VALUE FOR COMMERCIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS). SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER STYCOS.
Referred to Finance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-08 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 3 OF CHAPTER 3.16 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION” (TANGIBLE PROPERTY EXEMPTION). SPONSORED BY COUNCIL VICE-PRESIDENT FAVICCHIO.
Referred to Finance Committee October 15, 2020.

9-20-09 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32 OF TITLE 10 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” (FOUNTAIN AND PURITAN). SPONSORED BY COUNCILMEMBER DONEGAN.
Referred to Ordinance Committee 15, 2020.

CLAIMS COMMITTEE – Thursday, October 15, 2020

Property Damage Claim:

Steven DiBiasio from alleged incident on June 29, 2018
Zachary Daigle from alleged incident on August 4, 2020.
Steven Ferland from alleged incident on August 15, 2020.

· Personal Injury Claim:

Sandra Fiore from alleged incident on January 31, 2019.

On motion by Councilmember Donegan, seconded by Councilmember Hopkins, 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

None.

The meeting adjourned at 10:45 P.M.

/s/ Leanne Zarrella, JD

City Clerk

/s/ Rosalba Zanni

Assistant City Clerk/Clerk of Committees

(See Stenographic Notes of Ron Ronzio, Stenotypist)