(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
Regular meeting of the City Council was called held on Monday, November 22, 2021 in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 869 Park Ave., Cranston, RI and via ZOOM Webinar.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by the Council President.
Roll call showed the following members present: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
Also Present: Anthony Moretti, Chief of Staff; Christopher Millea, City Solicitor; John Verdecchia, Assistant City Solicitor; Robert Strom, Finance Director; Daniel Parrillo, Director of Personnel; Stephen Angell, City Council Legal Counsel; Tom Lima, host of meeting.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, it was voted to dispense with the reading of the minutes of the last meeting and they stand approved as recorded. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
I. PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS
2021 USATF NEW ENGLAND JUNIOR OLYMPIC CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONS - 11/12 BOYS DIVISION– CLCF PANTHERS RACING TEAM
EVELYN YANOVICH OF CLCF PANTHERSs – 2021 USATF NEW ENGLAND JUNIOR OLYMPIC CROSS COUNTRY INDIVIDUAL CHAMPION 8 & UNDER GIRLS DIVISION
MADDISON DUTRA, CRANSTON EAST FRESHMAN 3rd TEAM ALL-STATE 2021 RIIL GIRLS ALL-STATE CROSS COUNTRY TEAM
Councilwomen Renzulli and Marino presented Citations.
II. PUBLIC HEARINGS & PUBLIC COMMENT
John DiBona, Esq., appeared to represent applicant for proposed Ordinances 8-21-01 and 8-21-02.
Joseph Shekarchi, Esq., appeared to represent applicant for proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Janice Cataldo, 65 Sage Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Susan Bucci, Sage Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Ed Pimental, Traffic Consultant for applicant for proposed Ordinance 7-21-17, appeared to speak and stated that a full analysis was done and presented a copy of the section of the State Law and the analysis.
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, it was voted to accept Mr. Pimental’s handouts as part of the record. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
Mildred Moreira, 25 Caraway Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Resident of 5 Sage Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Joe Narcisi, 22 Caraway Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Cheryl Carbone, 4 Thyme Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
John Marland, 41 Caraway Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Anthony Manfredi, 15 Thyme Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Frank Gibbons, 50 Sage Dr., appeared to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17.
Appearing via Zoom to oppose to proposed Ordinance 7-21-17:
Kristen Narcisi, 22 Caraway Dr.
Lyndsey DelPrete, 15 Dove Court.
Danielle Marland, 41 Caraway Dr.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilman Donegan, it was voted take the docket out of order and vote on proposed Ordinance 7-21-17. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
7-21-17 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTTLED ‘ZONING’ (CHANGE OF ZONE – 0 SAGE DR.)
On motion by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilwoman Renzulli, it was voted to deny this Ordinance and include prior testimony from the Ordinance Committee meeting. Motion passed on a vote of 7-2. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Councilmen Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -7. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilwoman German and Councilman Donegan -2.
III. RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING FILING A GRANT PROPOSAL WITH THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, SMALL AND LARGE RECREATION DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF ‘NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH’
Councilmen Reilly, Donegan, Campopiano, Councilwomen Marino, Germain, Vargas, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas asked to be added as co-sponsors.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
IV. REPORT OF COMMITTEES
SAFETY SERVICES AND LICENSES COMMITTEE
(Councilwoman Nicole Renzulli, Chair)
CLASS BV LIQUOR LICENSE – NEW (OVER THE CAP)
CAFÉ DAY RESTAURANT & BAR 326 Union Ave
CARLOS SANTOS
Frank Manni, Esq., appeared to represent applicant.
Carlos Santos appeared to speak and stated that hours of operation will be 11-9 and the capacity is limited to 60.
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, it was voted to approve this liquor license application. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Reilly was not present for roll call vote.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
(Council Vice-President Robert J. Ferri, Chair)
9-21-06 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 3.24 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘REVENUE AND FINANCE – REAL PROPERTY FOR TAX FREEZE FOR ELDERLY
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
10-21-01 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 3.24.080 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘REVENUE AND FINANCE – INCOME QUALIFICATONS’
On motion by Councilman Donegan, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
10-21-02 ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL ENACTMENT OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS BOOK
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
10-21-04 ORDINANCE RATIFYING THE TEAMSTERS LOCAL 251 CONTRACT FOR TERM JULY 1, 2021 – JUNE 30, 2024
On motion by Councilman Donegan, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
10-21-05 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 3.04 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘REVENUE AND FINANCE – FISCAL PROVISIONS’
Councilwomen Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan and Reilly asked to be added as co-sponsors.
On motion by Councilwoman Vargas, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 7-2. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -7. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilwoman Renzulli and Councilman Reilly -2.
RESOLUTION ‘AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDS – PRIORITIZING USE AND PUBLIC INPUT
On motion by Councilwoman Germain, seconded by Councilman Donegan, it was voted to adopt the above Resolution.
Under Discussion:
Councilwoman Renzulli stated that she agrees with everything in this Resolution, but asked if there are any objections to adding in a survey, as it was discussed, that would open up opportunity for more people to respond.
Council President Paplauskas stated that he would like to see a survey. He asked if Councilwomen Marino and Vargas could work with Budget Analyst Dimaio and Mr. Lima, our Media Coordinator, to come up with some type of survey we can link on the City Council website.
Councilwoman Vargas asked if we are able to put a survey on the City Council web page or do we need approval by the Mayor’s Office and if that is the case, would the Director be available to assist. Steven Paiva, Mayor’s Communications Coordinator, appeared to speak and stated that, historically, website requests have come from department heads to the Executive Office. Councilwoman Vargas asked if this could be placed on the City Council page on the web. Mr. Paiva stated that he does not see why not.
Councilman Donegan stated that he thinks a survey is great. The objective is to get as many voices at the table as possible.
Councilwoman Germain stated that she agrees that a survey would be a way to get more information from the community.
Councilwoman Vargas asked if a deadline she be placed as far as the survey.
Director Moretti stated that he is sure the Administration is all for whatever survey and whatever feedback the people may want to give. The only thing he cautioned is the accuracy of the results of such a survey. We have to be sure that that survey reaches across sections of all individuals in the City. That would be the fair thing to do. The Administration would like to participate with the City Council on this.
Council President Paplauskas stated that he envisions having workshops hosted by the full City Council in the Chambers for the fact that we have Zoom access and Utube simulcast capabilities. We have two meetings in January, at least one, if not two in February and final report with all results and get everything done by the April 1st deadline of when the budget will be introduced.
On motion by Councilwoman Marino, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, it was voted to amend the above Resolution as follows: line #66, after “City Council”, add “and to participate in a City survey”.
Councilwomen Germain, Renzulli, Vargas, Councilmen Reilly, Campopiano and Council President Paplauskas asked to be added as co-sponsors.
Roll call was taken on the above amendment and motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
Roll call was taken on the motion to adopt the above Resolution as amended and motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilman Reilly, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MOTOR VEHILE TAX ABATEMENTS
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Donegan was not present for roll call.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZIN TANGIBLE TAX ABATEMENTS
On motion by Councilwoman Germain, seconded by Councilwoman Renzulli, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Donegan was not present for roll call.
TAX INTEREST WAIVER APPOVALS
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Marino, it was voted to approve the list of Tax Interest Waiver Approvals. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Donegan was not present for roll call vote.
ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
(Councilman Matthew R. Reilly, Chair)
7-21-17 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTTLED ‘ZONING’ (CHANGE OF ZONE – 0 SAGE DR.)
Discussion and vote held at the beginning of the meeting.
8-21-01 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF THE CRANSTON 2010 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF CRANSTON, AS AMENDED 2012 (840 & 846 OAKLAWN AVE.)
On motion by Councilman Donegan, seconded by Councilwoman Marino, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Reilly was not present for roll call vote.
8-21-02 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ (CHANGE OF ZONE – 840 & 846 OAKLAWN AVE.)
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilwoman Renzulli, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -8. Councilman Reilly was not present for roll call vote.
9-21-08 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 10.32.030 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC - MULTI-WAY STOP INTERSECTIONS-ENUMERATED’
On motion by Councilwoman Marino, seconded by Councilwoman Germain, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT FOR UN-DOCKETED ITEMS
None.
VI. ELECTION AND/OR APPOINTMENT OF CITY OFFICIALS
PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
- RE-APPOINTMENT OF LARRY WARNER FOR TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 3, 2024
JUVENILE HEARING BOARD:
- RE-APPOINTMENT OF CAROL AGUASVIVAS FOR TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 1, 2024. (Councilwoman Vargas)
On motion by Councilwoman Germain, seconded by Council Vice-President Ferri, it was voted to re-appoint Carol Aguasvivas as a member of the Juvenile Hearing Board. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
- APPOINTMENT OF BERNARD KEVIN O’CONNOR AS ALTERNATE MEMBER FOR TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 22, 2022 (Council Vice-President Ferri)
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Council Vice-President Ferri, it was voted to appoint Bernard Kevin O’Connor as an Alternate Member of the Juvenile Hearing Board. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
ZONING BOARD OF REVIEW:
- APPOINTMENT OF JASON JODOIN, PMP, AS FOURTH ALTERNATE MEMBER FOR TERM TO EXPIRE ON NOVEMBER 22, 2022. (Council President Paplauskas)
On motion by Councilwoman Germain, seconded by Council Vice-President Ferri, it was voted to appoint Jason Jodoin as Fourth Alternate Member of the Zoning Board of Review. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION:
- APPOINTMENT OF JAMES DONAHUE FILLING THE UN-EXPIRED TERM OF JOSEPH MORALES FOR TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 17, 2022. (Council President Paplauskas)
No action needed.
VII. REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS
None.
VIII. EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS
REQUEST TO BE CHANGED FROM SERVICE PENSION TO DISABILITY PENSION OF HAROLD WINSTANLEY, CRANSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
On motion by Councilwoman Renzulli, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, it was voted to go into Executive Session. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
The meeting went into Executive Session at 8:43 p.m.
Present in Executive Session: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas; Anthony Moretti, Chief of Staff; Christopher Millea, City Solicitor; John Verdecchia, Assistant City Solicitor; Daniel Parrillo, Director of Personnel; Robert Strom, Finance Director.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilman Donegan, it was voted to come out of Executive Session. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
The meeting came out of Executive Session at 8:50 p.m.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilwoman Vargas, it was voted to seal the minutes of Executive Session. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
Council President Paplauskas indicated that no votes were taken in Executive Session.
On motion by Council Vice-President Paplauskas, seconded by Councilman Reilly, it was voted to approve the request of Mr. Winstanley. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
Director Moretti addressed the status of the Mausoleum and stated that there have been no developments since October 31st. The Administration had the Department of Public Works secure the building and the City is doing everything it can to secure the building. They have cleared 20-foot perimeter of the building and we are stepping up Police patrol every shift. The building was deemed abandoned by a Judge several years ago. Director Moretti also indicated that the City does not own it. There was a potential object that was in the building that could be valuable and the City had the item removed from that building and it is in safe storage. The Solicitor will be filing Receivership for that item. The City is also working with the Governor’s Office to try to get those bodies out of that decrepit facility and hoping to relocate them. The Administration is open for discussion. There will be a meeting on December 2nd at 6 pm. Everyone is welcomed to attend, but cautioned not to violate Open Meetings Law.
Director Moretti stated that yesterday, the City had conversation with DOT regarding the bike path ownership. They clearly claim ownership. He also stated that the City is responsible for up to $5,000 per project.
IX. COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS
Council President Paplauskas wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and invited everyone to attend the Christmas Tree Lighting at the Knightsville Gazebo on December 1st at 6 p.m.
X. COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS
COUNCILWOMAN VARGASs:
- PLAYGROUND ASSESSMENTS THROUGHOUT THE CITY
Councilwoman Vargas asked if an assessment of playgrounds in general be provided to the City Council at the next meeting or the January meeting. Director Moretti stated that he will ask the Parks and Recreation Director to put something together.
Council President Paplauskas asked that this be placed on the Public Works Agenda.
XI. COUNCIL BUSINESS MATTERS CARRIED OVER
None.
XII. INTRODUCTION OF NEW MATTERS BEFORE THE COUNCIL*
* These new matters are referred for public hearing to the appropriate sub-committee of the Council. They are listed here for referral and vote to a committee and for informational purposes.
11-21-01 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TTLE 6 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ANIMALS GENERALLY’. Sponsored by Councilwoman Marino.
Referred to Ordinance Committee December 9, 2021.
CLAIMS REFERRED TO CLAIMS COMMITTEE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021
- Property Damage Claim:
- Giana Catoni from alleged incident on October 11, 2021.
- Mona Rodriguez Masjoan from alleged incident on October 13, 2021.
- Personal Injury Claim:
- Severance Trucking and Joseph Gagne from alleged incident on July 16, 2021.
On motion by Council Vice-President Ferri, seconded by Councilwoman 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”: Councilwomen Marino, Renzulli, Vargas, Germain, Councilmen Donegan, Campopiano, Reilly, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -9.
XIII. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS ON CLERK’S DESK
7-21-08 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 12 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON 2005, ENTITLED ‘STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES’ (Street Paving). Sponsored by Councilman Donegan and Councilwoman Marino
Solicitor Millea stated that, as stated in the Mayor’s veto message, this is a very dangerous ground the City Council will be going down. It is a violation of Open Meetings Act. He quoted Section 3.19 of the City Charter where it states that the City Council is not to demand anything from a department. That is what this Ordinance is doing. The Council can request information from the Administration, but to demand in a public manner, it is an absolute violation of the Charter and General Laws of the State of Rhode Island. Based on that, the Council should not be overriding the Mayor’s veto.
Councilwoman Marino stated that the intent is for public access and public record and she would like to hear from City Council Legal Counsel. Attorney Angell stated that this is not an Open Meetings Act violation. The access to Public Records Act alluded to Section 38-2-1. The legislation does not seek to access public records. It seems to elucidate information for the public including members of the taxpayers of the City of Cranston. He sees this within the purview of the City Council
Roll call was taken on motion to override the Mayor’s veto and motion passed on a vote of 6-3. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwomen Marino, Vargas, Germain, Councilman Donegan, Council Vice-President Ferri and Council President Paplauskas -6. The following being recorded as voting “nay”: Councilwoman Renzulli, Councilmen Campopiano and Reilly -3.
EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO R.I.G.L. 42-46-5(a)(1) PERSONNEL
Vote to be taken to go into Executive Session
Vote to be taken to Come out of Executive Session
Votes taken in Executive Session reported out in Public Session.
Vote to be taken to seal minutes of Executive Session.
This was addressed earlier in the meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 9:15 P.M.
/s/ Rosalba Zanni
Acting City Clerk
(See Stenographic Notes of Ron Ronzio, Stenotypist)