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AGENDA

PUBLIC COMMENT

LAID ON THE TABLE

COMMUNICATIONS

1. From Mayor Joshua Garcia, letter appointing Mr. Joseph Black of 1015 Maple St. to serve as a memeber of the Recycling Advisory Committee. Mr. Black’s will serve a three year term, expiring on August 1, 2027.

2. From City Clerk Brenna Murphy Leary and Admin. Assistant Jeffery Anderson-Burgos, meeting minutes from December 17, 2024.

3. From OPED Director Aaron Vega-letter to City Council – Open Square and HDIP January 2025

4. FY25 BUDGET VERSUS ACTUAL EXPENSE YEAR TO DATE REPORTS GENERAL FUND AND SEWER TO 12-31-2024

5. GRANT COMPLETION – FY24 MUNICIPAL ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM GRANT

6. GRANT COMPLETION- FY24 STATE 911 DEPARTMENT TRAINING GRANT PROGRAM

7. From Board of Fire Commissioners, meeting minutes from November 18, 2024.

8. From Andrea Johansen, letter regarding proposed lithium battery site in Westfield

PETITIONS

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

9. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, THIRTY THREE THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($33,000) as follows:

FROM

14101-51101 PAY-ENGINEER $19,000

14101-51105 PAY-SR CIVIL ENGINEER 14,000

TOTAL $33,000

TO:

14102-53010 PROF ENG SERVICES $33,000

TOTAL $33,000

Recommended that the order be adopted.

10. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWENTY THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($20,000) as follows:

FROM

12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $20,000

TOTAL $20,000

TO:

12202-52410 R&M VEHICLES $20,000

TOTAL $20,000

Recommended that the order be adopted.

11. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWO HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND 00/100 Dollars ($250,000) as follows:

FROM

12201-51105 FIREFIGHTERS $250,000

TOTAL $250,000

TO:

12201-51300 OVERTIME $250,000

TOTAL $250,000

Recommended that the order be adopted.

12. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “BJA FY2024 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM, $35,099, NO MATCH” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

13. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWENTY ONE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FORTY THREE AND 57/100 Dollars ($21,843.57) as follows:

FROM

11461-51125 PAY- ADMIN ASST $21,843.57

TAX COLLECTOR TOTAL $21,843.57

TO:

11461-51107 PAY-REVENUE COLLECTIONS $21,843.57

SPECIALIST TOTAL $21,843.57

Recommended that the order be adopted.

14. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWO THOUSAND SIXTY SIX AND 40/100 Dollars ($2,066.40) as follows:

FROM

12402-54200 PROF OFFICE SUPPLIES $2,066.40

TOTAL $2,066.40

TO:

11382-53410 TELEPHONE USAGE CHARGES $2,066.40

TOTAL $2,066.40

Recommended that the order be adopted.

15. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, SEVEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED TWELVE AND 00/100 Dollars ($7,712) as follows:

FROM:

2601-10400 TNC RIDESHARE $7,712

TOTAL $7,712

TO:

11752-53010 CONTRACTED SERVICES – PLANNING $7,712

TOTAL $7,712

Recommended that the order be adopted.

16. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TWELVE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SIXTY FOUR AND 44/100 Dollars ($12,264.44) as follows:

FROM

11351-51106 PROF ACCOUNTANT-HPD $12,264.44

AUDIT TOTAL $12,264.44

TO:

15411-51102 NUTRITION DIRECTOR $913.50

15411-51104 UTILITY PERSON 1,868.76

15411-51105 SOCIAL WORK/VOL COORD 5,803.36

15411-51202 HEALTH SERVICES PROVIDER 1,413.34

15411-51203 DRIVER 2,265.48

COUNCIL ON AGING MOA TOTAL $12,264.44

Recommended that the order be adopted.

17. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Settlement agreement by and between the City of Holyoke and UFCW Local 1459 COA employees

Recommended that the order be adopted.

18. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Redlined Settlement agreement by and between the City of Holyoke and UFCW Local 1459 COA employees

Recommended that the order be adopted.

19. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FORTY-

EIGHT THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED TWENTY-SIX AND 15/100 Dollars ($48,826.15) as follows:

FROM TO

11211 51276 MAYOR’S CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS 21,631.74

11211 51104 MAYOR’S PAY-CAFO 716.19

15431 51103 VETERAN’S PAY – INVESTIGATOR 6,002.88

15431 51101 VETERAN’S PAY – COMMISSIONER 2,240.00

15431 51500 VETERAN’S VACATION BUYBACK 2,000.00

15431 51510 VETERAN’S SICK LEAVE BUYBACK 5,000.00

11521 51102 PAY – PERSONNEL ASSISTANT 11,235.34

12401 51102 ASST BUILDING COMMISSIONER 3,132.93

12401 51103 CHIEF INSPECTOR OF WIRES 2,828.00

12401 51107 ZONING OFFICIAL 2,222.00

11751 51108 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PLANNING 4,560.00

11751 51102 ASST DIR OF ECONOMIC DEV 4,560.00

11751 51105 SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER 2,222.00

11751 51106 PLANNER 1 1,090.00

12441 51101 SEALER OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES 2,525.00

11711 51101 CONSRVTN & SUSTNBLTY DIRECTOR 3,030.00

14211 51108 SAFETY OFFICER 2,020.00

15411 51103 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR – COA 2,222.00

15411 51101 DIRECTOR COUNCIL ON AGING 3,030.00

15431 51105 NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICER 1,560.99

16301 51101 DIRECTOR PARKS/REC FORESTRY 2,899.14

15101 51101 DIRECTOR BOARD OF HEALTH 1,632.00

15101 51202 ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER 2,020.08

16911 51101 DIRECTOR WISTARIAHURST 2,828.00

16911 51103 CITY HISTORIAN 2,222.00

16301 51103 ASST DIRECTOR OF PARKS & REC 2,222.00

48,826.15 48,826.15

Recommended that the order be denied.

20. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Settlement agreement by and between the City of Holyoke and Holyoke Professional Supervisors Association

Recommended that the order be denied.

21. The Committee on Finance to whom was referred an order Redlined Settlement agreement by and between the City of Holyoke and Holyoke Professional Supervisors Association

Recommended that the order be denied.

22. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that That the City of Holyoke address poorly or un-plowed alleyways. Residents on the block of 192 Walnut str have been paying to have been paying to have alley plowed. Why are these not being plowed by the city if they are used by DPW for refuse pickup and access for Fire, Utilities, and police?

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

23. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order The DPW and Mayor locate public spaces where trash and recycling receptacles can be placed and maintained. This should start off as a pilot program and it will require funding and management to ensure the debris/recycling bins are maintained but hopefully it will be a success and Holyoke can expand its scope.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

24. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW fix the paving on Race Street near Sargeant Street especially where Handicap entrance to the building is located. The depression continues to puddle and pose a safety hazard to customers trying to enter the business.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

25. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order the Holyoke City Council invite a Medical professional from Holyoke Medical Center or Baystate Health to discuss the pros and cons of Marijuana usage and its effect on the community.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

26. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the Public Safety Committee invite in the Chief of Police, West Springfield Police representative to discuss and address the illegal drag racing on city streets and come up with solutions to better address these issues.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

27. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order the Public Safety and ordinance committee review the “access road” to Peck School for on street parking recommendation. Peck school administration has safety concern about the ability of 54 school buses to turn down the access road to the school.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

28. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Intersection at West Franklin and Linden has a crosswalk that is routinely ignored creating a dangerous circumstance for our pedestrians, can a study be conducted to place flashing lights and or a middle signage that creates urgency to stop for pedestrians. Traffic needs to slow down in our City.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

29. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City Engineer work with the Public Safety committee to discuss and attempt to mitigate traffic concerns near the Ridgewood and Summit intersection that are a concern for residents, particularly during the winter months. A constituent stated that with the Community Field gate open where vehicles exit onto Summit and turn onto Ridgewood, visibility going up or down the hill is marginal with the potential of a tragic incident. There was a request to add caution signage or even a stop sign at the exit.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

30. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW Superintendent work with the Fire Department Alarm Division and explore the costs to install blinking/flashing lights to alert residents of any upcoming parking bans, possibly at the following locations or throughout the City (Main and Cabot, Sargeant and Main, Jackson and Main, Maple and Sargeant, Maple and Jackson, Pine and Resnic.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

31. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the city engineer please explore the feasibility of installing a divider(s) at the top of Saint Vincent street. Concerns have been raised about vehicles being able to turn safely.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

32. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order With Community support, That the City Forrester provide a safety action plan and timeline for annual maintenance/tree trimming at intersections throughout the city.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

33. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City Engineer consider a Do Not Block the Box at 56 Jackson St. Since the state started detouring traffic for the 391 construction project, it has been difficult at times to exit and enter the premises for employees and customers at all businesses located at 56 Jackson St

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

34. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that we seek assistance from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to evaluate and address the longstanding truck traffic problems on Homestead Avenue.

Background information:

In Massachusetts, setting up a truck exclusion zone requires the permission of the Massachusetts Department of Public Works (MDPW).

This in turn requires a study that documents truck traffic levels and justifies excluding trucks from the streets affected. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVC) can help local governments evaluate truck traffic problems and develop strategies for dealing with them. If truck exclusion appears to be a reasonable solution, the PVC can assist local officials in performing the required study.

Truck exclusion zones can be authorized only if a suitable alternate route is available for truck traffic.

The link to the full article from PVC:
https://www.pvpc.org/sites/default/files/manage_truck_traff.pdf

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

35. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the police chief please provide reports for second, most recent, accident involving mayor vehicle.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

36. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order By recommendation of the City Engineer, that there be a traffic study of the Hampden St corridor from 202 to Nonotuck, as well as the Dwight St Corridor from Nonotuck to Beech Street. These areas are heavily walked, biked, used for street parking on both sides of each street section. The random two lane blocks of Hampden between Lincoln and Pleasant streets, along with two lane blocks of Dwight between Nonotuck and School Streets inspire motorists to speed, pass one another, ignore pedestrians in crosswalks, and endanger bike, scooter, and one wheel riders. Bike lanes and designated street parking areas exist beginning at 845 Hamden and at Parker St on Dwight. All traffic calming measures should be explored and implemented throughout these corridors.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

37. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That a youth task force be established with a stipend program to incentivize teens through stipend payments to participate in community wide civic engagements and volunteerism around anti violence/ anti gun activities as well as character and leadership skill development. Refer to public safety but invite in boys and girls club, Girls Inc, Enlace to discuss

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

38. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order the PD provide an update summary of enforcement activities by Holyoke and/or State Police re: truck traffic at night and drivers exceeding speed limits on Homestead Ave.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

39. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order At the 1-91 dedicated exit lane to the mall, install flexible lane delineators to prevent people from illegally crossing across the solid line across the bike lane.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

40. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the DPW please explore adding a sidewalk/walking area along the hill of Lower Westfield road beginning at Ingleside. Concerns have been raised about the lack of space on the hill incline for residents to walk safely.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

41. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that Sean Sheedy from DPW review maintenance issues/needs at the Senior Center.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

42. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the council works with Tapestry, state delegation, and appropriate city departments to work towards creating safe injection sites. These would be medically supervised and connect users to services available in our community.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

43. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that we create pathways for community ownership of property (land trusts, condominium conversion, cooperative housing etc).

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

44. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the city revisit existing traffic light projects and consider rotaries in their place. Traffic circles require no lights and therefore no maintenance cost. They are also less expensive to build than traffic light intersections. They are proven to deter speeding as they require reduced speed upon approach, during use, and returning to travel lanes. They force driver attention adding to overall safety. Other U.S. research has shown that roundabouts lead to 37% less collisions and 90% less fatalities than traffic lights. Conversion to roundabouts also lead to quicker traffic flow, with a reduction in delays of anywhere between 20% and 89%. Our neighboring communities have studies reflecting a wide range of benefits to traffic circles and roundabouts including the following:

“A 2001 Institute study of 23 intersections in the United States reported that converting intersections from traffic signals or stop signs to roundabouts reduced injury crashes by 80 percent and all crashes by 40 percent. Similar results were reported by Eisenman et al.: a 75 percent decrease in injury crashes and a 37 percent decrease in total crashes at 35 intersections that were converted from traffic signals to roundabouts. Studies of intersections in Europe and Australia that were converted to roundabouts have reported 41-61 percent reductions in injury crashes and 45-75 percent reductions in severe injury crashes.

Because roundabouts improve the efficiency of traffic flow, they also reduce vehicle emissions and fuel consumption. In one study, replacing a signalized intersection with a roundabout reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 29 percent and nitrous oxide emissions by 21 percent. 9 In another study, replacing traffic signals and stop signs with roundabouts reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 32 percent, nitrous oxide emissions by 34 percent, carbon dioxide emissions by 37 percent, and hydrocarbon emissions by 42 percent. 10 Constructing roundabouts in place of traffic signals can reduce fuel consumption by about 30 percent. 9, 11 At 10 intersections studied in Virginia, this amounted to more than 200,000 gallons of fuel per year. 8 And roundabouts can enhance aesthetics by providing landscaping opportunities.”

Northamptonma.gov/FAQ.aspx?QID=151

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

45. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order With community support, Order that the BOH provide the Public Safety subcommittee with either a presentation or written outline of what laws exist to protect property owners from damage by overgrowth of trees and other greenery from neighboring homeowners.

Recommended that the order be given a leave to withdraw.

46. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Police Chief provide an updated list of all tickets issued in Calendar Year 2023 including violation reason, number of violations, and the disposition.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

47. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that our engineer evaluate the Whiting Farms Rd, Farnum and Tokeneke intersections to determine if a traffic light is warranted.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

48. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order DPW install a crosswalk on Cabot Street at South Summer Street on the Westerly corner in front of Capri Pizza so people can safely walk across the street in this heavy traffic area. There are no nearby crosswalks. Ideally this would be a raised sidewalk with appropriate signage but at a minimum a crosswalk with appropriate signage including in the median.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

49. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that our city engineer evaluate the area at Sullivan School for the addition of a crosswalk. This is a constituent request.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

50. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the police department please provide an update on all traffic citations issued since January 2023.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

51. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order Petition of Ward 5 residents for a crosswalk on Kane Road

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

52. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the Board of Health, Community Development, and Mayor do a survey of City Hall and the annex building in order to prioritize the top needs for improvements of the two buildings (I.e. elevators, mold removal, carpets, etc).

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

53. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order hat the sidewalk in front of 211 West Franklin St be repaired. The roots from the tree in front of the house has raised the sidewalk making it difficult to transport their disabled child.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

54. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That a permanent sign indicating “traffic light ahead” be placed before the curve on Westfield Rd approaching Apremont Hwy going toward Westfield. That a sign indicating “traffic light ahead” be placed on Westfield Rd for traffic approaching from Westfield toward Holyoke

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

55. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order From Interim City Engineer- Bray Park Dr. Update

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

56. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order to request the MVD to come to city council and explain what is legal and not legal for Handicap signs for residents.

Recommended that the order has been complied with.

57. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city engineer and/or HPD study the traffic and increase enforcement on Northampton St between Beech and West Franklin. Residents and businesses on the street and the side streets between that stretch have complained about difficulty pulling onto the street due to speeding traffic.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

58. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City Engineer provide feedback to address traffic safety issues at the intersection of Linden, Anderson, and MacKenzie. Drivers have been observed frequently driving through, often speeding through the stop sign on Linden. Recently a vehicle hit a house right at that corner.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

59. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City Engineer investigate safety measures at the intersection of West Franklin and St Jerome. Residents are expressing concern about vehicles speeding around the bend, which is especially concerning considering the poor line of sight around it.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

60. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that we look into having security cameras installed at Rohan Park. Constituents that live near the park have reported illegal activities after dusk, including vandalism of private property.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

61. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the police department station a car on McKenzie near the intersection of Portland and McKenzie in order to prevent cars ignoring all the stop signs on McKenzie, Magnolia, Lawler, Martin and Portland Streets before someone gets hurt. There are cars and trucks completely ignoring the stop signs, particularly on Magnolia up Portland.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

62. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city engineer out Willow street in the traffic study list. Constituents are concerned about speeding and the volume of cars going up and down the street and would like to explore a variety traffic calming measures that could help make the street safer.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

63. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order In light of the enhanced work by HPD to take back our streets, please enforce citywide stop sign ordinances and please regularly send a Police to monitor compliance at Brown Ave. – Laurel St. (3-way stop sign regularly ignored) and Lawler – Martin Sts. (2-way stop regularly ignored).

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

64. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW/Engineer review better placement and/or address the tree obstructing the stop sign at the intersection of St Jerome as it meets West Franklin. Residents traveling on West Franklin have expressed concern about drivers going through the stop sign and believe it may be due to not seeing it until last the second.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

65. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the DPW look into traffic calming and increased safety measures for the intersection of Sargeant Street & St. Jerome Ave. Residents have complained that cars regularly ignore the 4-way stop signs and would like the City to explore installing flashing lights or raised crosswalks.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

66. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That HPD come to a Public Safety Committee meeting to discuss patrolling of West Franklin St. There is a significant amount of speeding accidents and trucks cutting through.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

67. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That HPD patrol Florence Ave. The residents feel unsafe with all the vehicles that have been cutting through and speeding recently.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department, Sgt Zurheide for use with traffic enforcement grant

68. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order for the city engineer to install 2 raised crosswalks on Samosett St., neighbors are complaining about speeding up and down Samosett St.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Ordinance Committee.

69. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the City accept Lynn Ann Drive and Richard Eger Drive as public ways.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Ordinance Committee.

70. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order By constituent requests, order that crosswalks be installed from the parking lot on canal serving businesses in the block between Water and Appleton streets.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Ordinance Committee.

71. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order By request of several business owners, update Grafitti ordinances 74-100 & 74-101 to transfer law enforcement responsibilities onto HPD instead of property owners. OR, give building owners warnings with a grace period of a specified number of days to clean up the graffiti BEFORE being fined. Building owners are currently fined for Graffiti creation on their property. This seems unfair as building owners are not tagging their own property and cannot control unlawful acts happening to their property.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Ordinance Committee.

72. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order From residents of Norwood Terrace, petitioning the City of Holyoke for improvements to the east sidewalks on the dead end portion of the street.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Law Department

73. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order to create a rental registration, requiring all rental units, including short term rentals, register with the city. This can be housed in the Board of Health or Building Department.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Law Department for opinion on legality.

74. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the city creates a public accessible landlord registry database. Information includes (but not limited to) who owns the property, who is responsible for maintenance, how many code violations that property has received through the city, and how many no cause evictions has the landlord filled on residents.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Law Department for opinion on legality.

75. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order That the city review and recommend 3-way or 4-way stop signs at all these intersections Samosett & Bower Streets, Samosett & West Streets, Samosett & Center Streets, Samosett & North East Streets, Bower & East Dwight Streets, Bower & Mosher Streets, Bower & Lyman Streets, Lyman & Grover Streets, Lyman & Center Streets, Lyman & Northeast Streets due to the ongoing traffic issues.

Holyoke Police Department do a review of all the intersections for all ongoing traffic issues.

Recommended that the order be referred to the DPW, City Engineer.

76. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order With community support, Order to create “don’t block the box” street markings and signage at Beacon St on Pleasant St, for safety. This area sees congestion and confusion during morning and afternoon school traffic commuting times. Residents have expressed concern for children as they are picked up and dropped off by school buses.

Recommended that the order be adopted and referred to the DPW.

77. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order DPW also install a flashing signal/stop sign for cars to stop at the crosswalk at Cabot and South Summer Street so residents can safely cross Cabot Street.

Recommended that the order be referred to the DPW to request sign be moved from Homestead to this location or that a financial request be submitted to pay for the sign.

78. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that That the DPW and Sewer Commission do a study and seriously consider adopting a sewer maintenance insurance program for homeowners that is modeled off the Water Department’s water maintenance insurance program. The Water Department program has been a great accomplishment and has been very warmly received by residents who appreciate this very low cost protection. That the DPW report back to the City Council on their findings by April 1, 2022.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Board of Public Works.

79. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that the Holyoke City Council declare that Housing is a Human Right, which means everyone regardless of income, history of criminal justice involvement, mental health status, substance use, race, sexual orientation, immigration status, physical ability, sex, gender, religion, and veteran status deserve safe and affordable dignified housing.

Recommended that the order be adopted.

80. — The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order With community support, Order that temporary speed humps be placed on Taylor Street to be followed by permanent speed humps for resident safety. This is a densely populated and highly trafficked through street due to its proximity to a grocery store and its one way direction.

Petition attached.

Recommended that the order be referred to the City Council for confirmation from City Clerk of required signatures.

81. The Committee on Public Safety to whom was referred an order that HPD explore costs and new funding avenues so the department can invest in body cams. With the climate that police have to work in today, it is only fair they and the people they aim to serve are protected.

Recommended that the order be referred to the Police Department and the Mayor.

MOTIONS, ORDERS AND RESOLUTIONS

82. Bartley- The City Council issue a proclamation to honor the passing of Harry Chandler, U.S. Navy Veteran and Pearl Harbor hero, who died Dec 31 2024 age 103. Harry Chandler is a Holyoke native. Per WPEC of West Palm Beach, FL, it posted the following: Harry Chandler was just 20 years old when he served as a hospital corpsman during the infamous attack on Dec. 7, 1941.

Reflecting on that fateful day, Chandler once said, “The bombs dropped, and the torpedoes. Hittin’ the… Ah. Battleships. I hope. We never thought that… we would be hit the way we were. I saw the Arizona blow up, I saw the Oklahoma capsize. Saw the West Virginia go down. I saw the Nevada… grounding itself. Chandler recounted his experience from Mobile Hospital No. 2 on IE Heights, where he had a clear view of the harbor. “It was something you really couldn’t believe,” he said. “And it was afterwards, in the quiet, that we got scared. My God, we could have been killed. But we were lucky.”

83. Bartley- The Board of Public Works post its meeting minutes immediately and forward approved minutes to the CC’s administrative assistant ASAP so they may be reviewed by elected members. This was already stated orally (by me) at the first meeting in December and nothing’s been provided. Please note: from July 2021 to December 2024 the BPW has posted exactly one set of meeting minutes online. Finally, as of 1/3/25 I’ve requested the minutes of 2021-2024 be provided to me.

84. Devine, Givner – ORDERED: that all Collective Bargaining Agreements or Memorandum of Understanding or Agreement that are sent to the City Council for passage be red-lined ONLY TO THOSE ITEMS pertaining to appropriations and that no other subjects be entertained or red lined except appropriations.

85. Devine – Ordered that rule 9P be amended to remove the reference to items being tabled if they are not taken up in 45 days.

86. DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, SIX THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIX AND 64/100 Dollars ($6,806.64) as follows:

FROM

12201-51103 CAPTAIN $3,663.90

12201-51104 LIEUTENANTS 3,142.74

TOTAL $6,806.64

TO:

12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY – PP#13 $6,806.64

TOTAL $6,806.64

87. DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, SIX THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIX AND 64/100 Dollars ($6,806.64) as follows:

FROM

12201-51103 CAPTAIN $3,663.90

12201-51104 LIEUTENANTS 3,142.74

TOTAL $6,806.64

TO:

12201-51180 INJURED ON DUTY – PP#14 $6,806.64

TOTAL $6,806.64

88. DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, TEN THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED AND 00/100 Dollars ($10,500) as follows:

FROM

12101-51107 PATROLMEN $10,500

TOTAL $10,500

TO:

12102-53010 MAP/DATA MAINT $10,500

TOTAL $10,500

89. DEVINE – Ordered, that there be and is hereby appropriated by transfer in the fiscal year 2025, FIFTEEN THOUSAND AND 00/100 Dollars ($15,000) as follows:

FROM

14251-51104 PAY-HMEO $15,000

TOTAL $15,000

TO:

14222-52505 R&M SENIOR CENTER $15,000

TOTAL $15,000

90. Devine-Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “MA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH/PARTNERS FOR A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY – CAPACITY BUILD RACIAL EQUITY, $10,000, NO MATCH” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

91. Devine-Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “SFY25 SHANNON COMMUNITY SAFETY INITIATIVE (CSI) GRANT PROGRAM, $606,446.54, 25% IN KIND MATCH” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

92. Devine-Ordered, that in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53A, the City Council hereby accepts the provisions of the “SFY2025 COMMONWEALTH PROJECT SAFE NEIGHBORHOODS INITIATIVE GRANT, $30,000, NO MATCH” grant and authorizes the establishment of a Fund or other method appropriate for the accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all resources associated with the administration of said grant.

Sec 2-509 – Grant Reporting

Any city department, of which has received grant funding by approval of the city council pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, or any other authorizing criteria, shall within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 60 days from the conclusion of said grant, generate a detailed report which outlines the planned outcomes with the documented actual results. Said report shall be submitted to the city clerk for addition to the city council’s next agenda.

93. Jourdain- Ordered, That the Mayor, Law Dept and Auditor please enforce MGL Ch. 44, Section 68, “Whenever a city, town or district votes to grant a salary increase to all or any of its employees, such increase may be retroactive to a date not earlier than the beginning of the fiscal year prior to the date of such vote.” The City Council is repeatedly being asked to approve requests that appear to violate the statute by asking the City Council to approve retroactive salary increases that are inconsistent with our state law guidelines. For example, the current PSA salary increase proposal in Finance seeks to impose a salary increase retro to July 1, 2023. Can this practice please stop immediately and can Holyoke please comply with our state law? Thank you.

94. Jourdain- Ordered, that the DPW/City Engineer fix the city street in front of the driveways of 188 Sargeant Street and 307 Linden Street because the street storm runoff is running on to the properties of these residents from the street. During the winter the street runoff also causes the sidewalks to fill with water and cause icy conditions that are dangerous to pedestrians. This should be considered a matter deserving urgent attention please and fixed asap. Originally filed on October 13, 2023, DPW has still not taken care of this. Please assist asap. Thank you

95. Jourdain- Ordered that the Forestry dept remove the dead tree in the tree belt in front of 251 Walnut Street. The tree is splitting and dangerous. Immediate attention requested. Originally filed on May 17, 2022, the DPW/Forestry has still not taken care of. Please assist asap. Thank you.

96. Magrath-Smith- Ordered that the attached letter titled ‘An Open Letter to the Public,’ regarding the upcoming Special Election on January 28, 2025, be approved by the City Council and Mayor for public distribution.

97. Magrath-Smith- Ordered, that the Mayor, Engineer, and DPW Director update the Council on the status of completing Northampton Street between Lincoln Street and the Mount Tom Access Road, including fully paving the road to include a bike lane, and replacing sidewalks. In many places, the sidewalks are deteriorated or blocked by utility poles.

98. Magrath-Smith- Ordered, that Hampden Street Streetscape Improvements from Waldo St to Nonotuck St block are made based on the recommendations of the city engineer, with necessary changes made in Ordinance to support necessary upgrades.

99. Murphy-Romboletti- Ordered, that 3 salary reports for calendar year 2024 be provided to the City Council as an update to the past reports published on the City website: the top 100 salaries for the City of Holyoke, the top 100 salaries for the Holyoke Public Schools, and a report of salaries for elected officials. Reports should not include confidential identifying information such as social security numbers.

100. Murphy-Romboletti-That the Polling Places for each of the voting precincts in the City of Holyoke for the Special Election to be held Tuesday, January 28, 2025, be and the same are hereby designated as follows:

WARD ONE BARRIO UNO

PRECINCT A – Rosary Towers Recreation Room 21 Bowers St..

PRECINTO A—Rosary Towers Recreation Room 21 de la Calle Bowers

PECINCT B—City Hall Basement, 536 Dwight St.

PRECINTO B—City Hall Sotano, 536 de la Calle Dwight St.

WARD TWO BARRIO DOS

PRECINCT A—Morgan School Gym, South Bridge St. Entrance only

RECINTO A—Gimnasio de la Escuela Morgan, en la Calle So. Bridge solamente

PRECINCT B – Falcetti Towers, 475 Maple St.

RECINTO B – Falcetti Towers, 475 de la Calle Maple

WARD THREE BARRIO TRES

PRECINCT A – Metcalf School Gym, 2019 Northampton St..

RECINTO A – Gimnasio de la Escuela Metcalf, 2019 de la Calle Northampton

PRECINCT B – Metcalf School Gym, 2019 Northampton St.

RECINTO B –Gimnasio de la Escuela Metcalf, 2019 de la Calle Northampton

WARD FOUR BARRIOS CUATRO

PRECINCT A& B – St. Paul’s Church Parish Center, Appleton St.

RECINTO A&B – St. Paul’s Church Parish Center, en la Calle Appleton

WARD FIVE BARRIOS CINCO

PRECINCT A – Lt. Elmer J. McMahon School Gym, Kane Rd.

RECINTO A—Gimnasio de la Escuela McMahon, en la Calle Kane

PRECINCT B – Maurice A. Donahue School Gym, Whiting Farms Rd.

RECINTO B—Gimnasio de la Escuela Donahue, en la Calle Whiting Farms

WARD SIX BARRIO SEIS

PRECINCT A&B – Sullivan School, 400 Jarvis Ave.

RECINTO A&B – Escuela Sullivan, 400 de la Calle Jarvis

WARD SEVEN BARRIO SIETE

PRECINCT A&B – E. N. White School Gym, 1 Jefferson St.

PRECINTO A&B– Gimnasio de la Escuela E. N. White, 1 de la Calle Jefferson

101. Murphy-Romboletti- Ordered That a Special Election in the City of Holyoke for a ballot question regarding the City Treasurer is hereby called to be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, in the several places as designated by the City Council.

The polls will be opened at 7:00 AM and remain open continuously thereafter until 8:00PM., when the polls will be closed, and all voters of the political parties will in the several polling places in which they are entitled to vote, between said hours, give in their votes by Accu-Vote.

102. Vacon, Jourdain, Greaney, Bartley- Once free cash is certified, we request that any transfers out of general stabilization approved in December 2024 please be deposited back to the general stabilization account. The Treasurer is requested to provide an update and projected timeline at the 2nd City Council meeting in January 2025,> for reconciliation of the accounts in the Treasurer’s office so that free cash can be certified. Refer to Mayor and Treasurer

103. Vacon, Jourdain- ORDER-that the City Council establish minimum eligibility requirements (such as a four your degree in accounting/finance & 3 years successful management experience), for appointment as Treasurer prior to the initial appointment-(if voters approve the appointment)-send to Ordinance and HR

LATE FILED ORDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS

104. From Mayor Joshua A Garcia, Appointed treasurer special election press release
*Added January 6, 2024, 11:12 AM

105. GIVNER – Ordered that the City Council’s December 17, 2024, order declaring Holyoke Assessors Parcel 183-00-006, Old Rock Valley Road, Holyoke, MA as surplus and authorizing a sale to Jessica A. Messier for $25,000.00 be amended to reflect that the purchaser will be the Jessica A. Chartier Trustee of the JAC Realty Trust.
*Added January 7, 2024, 2:24 PM