Central Falls public meetings in 2021
44 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is holding a special meeting with public comment and first readings of two ordinances: one on business hours proposed by Councilperson Solano and one on commercial vehicles proposed by Councilperson Levasseur. No final votes are scheduled; these are first readings only. The council may also enter executive session on any agenda item as permitted by state law.
- First reading: ordinance regarding business hours (Councilperson Solano)
- First reading: ordinance regarding commercial vehicles (Councilperson Levasseur)
- Public comment period
- Possible executive session per R.I. General Laws
City Council Meeting
The City Council will consider tax abatement requests for properties affected by a March 2020 fire. The meeting also includes the introduction of two new ordinances regarding business hours and commercial vehicles.
- Tax abatement consideration for Thread Factory 420 Pine Proprietor LLC
- Tax abatement consideration for Thread Factory Stables Proprietor LLC
- Introduction of ordinance regarding business hours in Central Falls
- Introduction of ordinance regarding commercial vehicles
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold public hearings on several new liquor and food licenses, a tax abatement for 280 Rand Street, and a petition to change business hours for Good Fellas Tavern. They will also receive a police presentation on the speed camera and red-light enforcement program, consider a claim from Capron Properties, and accept the resignation of Ward 2 Councilperson Adamaris Villar. Several ordinances and resolutions are scheduled, including one on motorized devices and off-road vehicles.
- New liquor licenses: La 70 Bar and Grill (855 Broad St), Royal Fried Chicken (1400 Broad St), Esperanza Convenience Store (791 Broad St), Vanderly Market (641 Broad St)
- Transfer of liquor license for Elsy Nutrition (527 Broad St)
- Tax abatement for Thread Factory Rand Proprietor, LLC, 280 Rand Street, tax year 2021
- Petition by Calderon Events d/b/a Good Fellas Tavern (664 Dexter St) regarding business hours
- Ordinance amending zoning ordinance relative to dumpsters (motion to continue)
Planning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Planning Board voted to report to the City Council that the 2021 Vacant or Blighted Property Redevelopment Plan conforms to the city's Comprehensive Plan, and recommended adoption of an ordinance amending the Board's duties and powers. The board also tabled approval of prior meeting minutes and a staff report. No public comments were made during the hearings.
- Advisory opinion that the 2021 Vacant or Blighted Property Redevelopment Plan conforms to the Comprehensive Plan
- Recommendation to adopt ordinance amending Planning Board duties and powers, defining a five-member board with two alternates
- Concerns raised about property 'taking' and potential financial loss in redevelopment acquisitions
- Minutes from October 19 and October 27, 2021 meetings tabled
- Staff report tabled
Zoning Board Meeting
The Zoning Board of Review granted multiple variances to allow for 24 residential units and 2 commercial units at 44 Central Street. The project, proposed by Pawtucket Central Falls Development Corp., includes both market-rate and affordable rental housing. A separate request for a truck repair business on Conduit Street was continued to the next meeting pending staff recommendations.
- Approved use and dimensional variances for 24 residential and 2 commercial units at 44 Central St.
- Granted relief from parking setback, off-street parking, and loading requirements for 44 Central St.
- Continued Case #ZB-21-13 regarding a proposed truck repair business at 30 Conduit St.
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council meets to consider new and transferred liquor and business licenses, tax abatements, and several ordinances and resolutions. The council will also hear a police department presentation on the speed camera and red-light enforcement program. The agenda includes both final votes on ordinances and first readings of new proposals.
- New Class A liquor license for El Carriel Antioqueño at 428 Dexter Street
- Transfer of automotive repair license for United Express Mechanix & Towing at 1190 Broad Street
- Tax abatement requests for properties including 1002 Broad Street and 280 Rand Street
- Resolution supporting affordable housing project at 44 Central Street and scattered sites
- Ordinance introduction on motorized devices and recreational off-road vehicles
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met and approved all three applications on the agenda: a special use permit and variances for a long-existing apartment at 903 Dexter St., a dimensional variance for a second-floor addition at 33-35 Cowden St., and special use permits and variances for a warehouse and distribution facility at 1159 Broad St. and 85 Hunt St. The board also tabled approval of the previous meeting's minutes and introduced two new board members.
- Approved special use permit and variances for 903 Dexter St. to legalize an existing ground-floor apartment (Case ZB-21-09)
- Approved dimensional variance for 33-35 Cowden St. to add a second story to a single-family home (Case ZB-21-10)
- Approved special use permits and variances for warehouse/distribution facility at 1159 Broad St. and 85 Hunt St. (Case ZB-21-11)
- Tabled approval of October 20, 2021 minutes
- Introduced new board members Jackie Parra and Miguel Garcia
Planning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Planning Board granted Master Plan and Preliminary Plan approval for a Major Land Development at 44 Central St., proposing 24 residential units (80% affordable) with 2,200 sq ft of commercial space. The board also delegated final plan approval to staff and discussed a draft Redevelopment Plan ordinance for future action.
- Approved Master Plan and Preliminary Plan for 24-unit residential development at 44 Central St. (Plat 1, Lot 261)
- Development includes 2,200 sq ft of commercial space and 27 parking spaces
- 80% of units affordable, 20% market rate
- Final Plan Approval delegated to Planning Department staff
- Draft Redevelopment Plan ordinance discussed; vote scheduled for next meeting
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met but did not take up any new business. Because a quorum had not been confirmed before the meeting, staff advised applicants the meeting would likely be continued, and the board voted to continue to November 3, 2021 at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The board approved the minutes from the September 21, 2021 meeting.
- Approved minutes of September 21, 2021 meeting
- Continued meeting to November 3, 2021 at 6:00 PM at City Hall
Planning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Planning Board approved a Master Plan for a Major Land Development by Phoenix Construction to redevelop a former manufacturing facility at 1154 Broad St., 1159 Broad St., and 85 Hunt St. into warehouse and distribution space. The approval includes a condition that the applicant continue discussions with staff about possibly adding other uses. The board also approved the minutes from the September 22, 2021 meeting and introduced two new board members.
- Master Plan approval for Case PB 21-04 (Phoenix Construction) for warehouse/distribution at 1154 Broad St., 1159 Broad St., 85 Hunt St.
- Condition: applicant must discuss potential additional uses with Planning Department staff
- City hired McCabe Enterprises to prepare a vision plan for the site and surrounding neighborhood
- Public hearing held with no public comments
- Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 meeting
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a regular meeting with public comment, approval of minutes, and financial reports. Key items include considering the appointment of Mary Signer as Finance Director, an executive order requiring employee vaccinations, and several license applications. The council will also hear first readings of multiple ordinances, including zoning and solid waste changes, and discuss a special election on school construction.
- Executive Order 2021-0015 requiring employee vaccinations
- Appointment of Mary Signer as Finance Director
- New liquor license for Guaro & TQLA Bar Restaurant at 63 Hadwin Street
- New peddler license for AJ's Hotdogs at 88 Ring Street
- First reading of ordinance adopting 2021 Vacant or Blighted Property Redevelopment Plan
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is reviewing several appointments for the Planning Board and the Zoning Board. These items are presented for hearing and/or consideration.
- Appointment of Gerard Levesque to the Planning Board
- Appointment of Laurilim Rosado to the Planning Board
- Appointment of Hugo Figueroa to the Planning Board
- Appointment of Miguel Garcia to the Zoning Board
- Appointment of Jacqueline Parra and Herman Yip to the Zoning Board
Planning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Planning Board met on September 22, 2021, but only three of four members were present. The board approved the minutes from the May 26, 2021 meeting and then voted to continue the meeting to October 19, 2021, because the low attendance prevented them from opening new business. No other decisions or discussions took place.
- Approval of minutes from the May 26, 2021 meeting
- Motion to continue meeting to October 19, 2021, at 6:00 PM
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met and approved a request from the Central Falls Housing Authority for dimensional variances and reduced off-street parking to build a 6-unit residential townhouse at 6 School St., replacing an existing 2-family building. The board also approved minutes from two prior meetings. No other business was discussed.
- Approved dimensional variance from Article IV, Section 401 (minimum front yard) for 6 School St. (Plat 4, Lot 483A)
- Approved relief from Article VIII, Section 801.8 off-street parking requirements to allow fewer than two parking spaces per unit
- Applicant: Central Falls Housing Authority, 30 Washington St.; property owned by Central Falls Affordable Housing Corp.
- Public comment read from abutting neighbor Carlene Fonseca of 40 School St., who did not object to setbacks but questioned parking sufficiency
- Unanimous roll-call votes on all motions
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met but lacked a quorum, with only four of six members present. The board voted to continue the meeting to September 26, 2021, at 6:00 pm at 1280 High Street, and then adjourned. No substantive zoning matters were discussed.
- Meeting continued to September 26, 2021, at 6:00 pm at 1280 High Street
- Only four members present; Daniel Klotz and Andres Flores absent
- Motion to continue made by Ann Peckham, seconded by Gary Berdugo
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will meet on September 13, 2021, to consider new liquor and bakery licenses, tax abatements, board appointments, and several ordinance introductions. The agenda also includes presentations on the FY 2020 audit and FY 2021 audit process, plus a pothole damage claim.
- New Class A-Restaurant licenses for Samayoa's Restaurant & Bakery (801 Broad St), Kings Fried Chicken (830 Broad St), and Bubble Waffle Café (870 Dexter St)
- New Class D-Bakery license for Samayoa's Restaurant & Bakery
- Tax abatements for 16 properties including 969 Lonsdale Ave, 502-508 Dexter St, 16 Bagley St, and 7 Summer St
- Re-appointments to Redevelopment Agency Board: Timothy Grace, Barbara Silvis; new appointments: Anthony Goes, Steven Levine
- Ordinance introductions: Participatory Budgeting, Solid Waste, Cooperative Purchasing, Vacant or Blighted Property Redevelopment Plan, Zoning (dumpsters), Quarterly Grant Reporting
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is meeting as the Board of License Commissioners to hold a hearing and/or consideration for an F1-Entertainment permit for Mundialito at 127 Perry Street. The agenda includes roll call, pledge of allegiance, and adjournment, with the entertainment permit as the only substantive item. The council reserves the right to convene in executive session on any item as permitted by state law.
- Hearing on F1-Entertainment permit for Mundialito, 127 Perry Street, contact Tatiana Baena
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met on August 18, 2021, to consider a request from owners of 122 Perry St. The board voted unanimously to approve both a use variance and a dimensional variance. These approvals allow the conversion of an existing commercial garage/storage building into a single-family residence on a lot that already contains a two-household dwelling.
- Approved Use Variance for 122 Perry St. (Plat 4, Lot 154) to allow a Multi-household Dwelling (Three or more units) in an R-2 zone
- Approved Dimensional Variance for 122 Perry St. to waive minimum side and rear yard requirements
- Approved relief from Article V, Sec. 511 regarding the limit of one main residential building per lot
- Public hearing held with one resident question from James Wilson of 325 Illinois St.
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is meeting to consider disciplinary action against the Tropicana Night Club's liquor license, including possible fines, suspension, or termination. They will also review an entertainment permit application for AG Servicios LLC. The meeting includes a show cause hearing and a separate hearing on the permit.
- Show cause hearing for Tropicana Night Club & Restaurant (BV-Liquor license) at 134 Cowden Street, contact Gioconda Salazar
- Consideration of entertainment permit (F1) for AG Servicios LLC at 1214 Broad Street, Providence, contact Yoselin Borrero
- Executive Order 2021-0014 requiring face coverings in city buildings
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met remotely and approved minutes from May 19. The only new business was a request by Jorge and Sonia Goncalves for a use variance to convert a commercial garage at 122 Perry St. into a single-family residence; the board voted unanimously to continue the case to August 18 so the applicants can amend their application to include dimensional variances.
- Case #ZB-21-07: Use variance for 122 Perry St. (Plat 4, Lot 154) to convert garage to residence
- Continuation to August 18 for amended application
- Minutes from May 19, 2021 approved with correction
- Future meetings to be held in person at 1280 High Street starting July 23
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes from two prior meetings and considering a petition for an F1-Entertainment permit for AG Servicios LLC at 1214 Broad Street, Providence. The meeting is held via Zoom due to COVID-19 executive orders. No other substantive items are on the agenda.
- Consideration of F1-Entertainment permit for AG Servicios LLC, 1214 Broad Street, Providence, contact Yoselin Borrero
- Approval of meeting minutes from June 30, 2021 and July 12, 2021
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a public hearing on the police department's 2021 JAG/Byrne grant application, consider tax abatements for multiple properties, and review June 2021 financial reports. The council will also sit as the Board of License Commissioners to consider several liquor license applications, including new, transfer, and per-diem requests. Presentations on crime statistics and the 2021 property revaluation are scheduled.
- Public hearing on 2021 JAG/Byrne grant application for police
- Tax abatements for 2014 Jeep Cherokee, 2014 Dodge Ram, 548 Roosevelt Ave, 396 Roosevelt Ave units, 502-508 Dexter St
- Liquor license applications: Shark's Peruvian Cuisine (new), Mimi & Pop's Ice Cream Shop (transfer), Tikal Bakery and Market (transfer), St. Joseph Church (new), Club Sport Uniao Madeirense (per-diem)
- Resolution declaring June 19 as Juneteenth annually
- Resolution celebrating participatory budgeting in FY 2022 budget
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will meet on June 30, 2021, to consider new entertainment licenses for Vanderly Café Restaurante and Good Fellas Tavern. The meeting also includes roll call, pledge, public comment, and approval of minutes from June 14, 2021. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- New entertainment license for Vanderly Café Restaurante, 765 Broad Street, contact Felix & Ana Semedo
- New entertainment license for Good Fellas Tavern, 664 Dexter Street, contact Julio Calderon
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is meeting to consider several items, including a resolution supporting legislation to authorize up to $5,760,000 in bonds for a new high school and school repairs, the FY2022 operating budget ordinance (second reading), and other ordinances. They will also hear public comment, approve minutes, and review financial reports. The council will sit as the Board of License Commissioners to consider a new amusement and entertainment license for Rockwell Amusement & Promotions, Inc., and will hear two claims for damages.
- Resolution supporting H-6408/Senate LC 2998 to authorize $5,760,000 bond for new high school and school repairs
- FY 2022 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance - General Fund (second reading)
- Ordinance on salaries of department heads and unclassified service (second reading)
- Ordinance amending wage schedule (second reading)
- Claim by Bradley Santos for damages on Feb 18, 2021; claim by Felicidade Brasileiro for injuries on Feb 23, 2021
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct a public hearing on the proposed FY2022 budget, including the operating budget, capital program, and salary ordinances. Following the hearing, the council will consider first readings of these ordinances. The meeting also includes the appointment of Mary Signer as acting Director of Finance and a proclamation declaring June 2021 as Pride Month.
- Public hearing on FY2022 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance-General Fund
- Public hearing on Ordinance Pertaining to Salaries of Department Heads and Others in Unclassified Service
- Public hearing on Ordinance Amending the Wage Schedule Generally
- Public hearing on Annual Capital Program and Capital Budget Ordinance
- First readings of all four budget-related ordinances
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed FY 2022 budget with department directors. The agenda includes continued discussions with the Fire Department and Emergency Management Agency, followed by new discussions with the Law, Human Resources, Public Works and Code Enforcement, and Parks & Recreation departments. The meeting is held via Zoom due to the governor's executive order.
- Discussion of FY 2022 proposed budget with Fire Department and Emergency Management Agency
- Discussion of FY 2022 proposed budget with Law Department
- Discussion of FY 2022 proposed budget with Human Resource Department
- Discussion of FY 2022 proposed budget with Department of Public Works and Code Enforcement
- Discussion of FY 2022 proposed budget with Parks & Recreation Department
Planning Board Meeting
The Planning Board reviewed staff reports regarding the OSRAM property and Roosevelt Mill developments. The meeting also included updates on bike path construction and board training availability.
- OSRAM property developer plans demolition of silo structures and a new warehousing facility
- Roosevelt Mill building is being cleaned in preparation for future construction
- Construction has begun on the local bike path project
- Approval of minutes from five previous meetings dating back to August 2020
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed FY 2022 budget with department directors from the Police, Fire, and Emergency Management Agency. The council will also sit as the Board of License Commissioners to consider possible fines, suspension, or termination of a liquor license for Vanderly Coffee Restaurant at 765 Broad St. The meeting is held remotely via Zoom due to the governor's executive order.
- Discussion with Police, Fire, and Emergency Management Agency directors on FY 2022 proposed budget
- Show cause hearing on BV-Liquor license for Vanderly Coffee Restaurant, 765 Broad St, owners Ana Gonsalves & Felix Semedo
- Approval of meeting minutes from May 17, 2021
- Public comment period
- Remote meeting via Zoom with passcode 551733
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met remotely and took action on three cases. It denied a request to reconsider a previously denied parking variance for 21 Mowry St., finding no substantial change in circumstances. The board then approved a dimensional variance to subdivide properties at 557-559 and 565-567 High St., and approved a special use permit and dimensional variance for two residential units above a commercial building at 732 Dexter St.
- Denied reconsideration of Case ZB 20-02-06 for 21 Mowry St. (parking variance)
- Approved dimensional variance for 557-559 and 565-567 High St. (subdivision)
- Approved special use permit and variance for 732 Dexter St. (two residential units above commercial)
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed FY22 budget with department directors, consider a permit for Jenks Park, and vote on a resolution supporting inclusion in the Downtown Pawtucket TIF statute and an ordinance requiring quarterly grant reporting. The meeting will be held via Zoom due to the governor's executive order.
- Discussion with department directors on FY22 proposed budget
- Permit for Jenks Park for The Learning Community, 21 Lincoln Avenue
- Resolution supporting legislation to include Central Falls in Downtown Pawtucket Tax Increment Financing statute
- Ordinance creating quarterly grant reporting requirement (second reading)
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a regular meeting with public comment, approval of minutes, and financial reports. New business includes presentations on participatory budgeting and a memory program, plus hearings on several resolutions and ordinances, including one creating a Youth Opportunities Council and one supporting state funding for out-of-school programs. The council will also sit as the Board of License Commissioners to consider a new entertainment license and numerous tax abatements, and will hear a first reading of an ordinance requiring quarterly grant reporting.
- Ordinance creating a Youth Opportunities Council (introduction)
- Resolution supporting H-5211 and S-577 for $2,000,000 annual funding for out-of-school time programs
- Resolution urging passage of SB-865 and HB-6152 to amend Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights
- New entertainment license for Vanderly Coffee Restaurant at 765 Broad Street
- Tax abatements for multiple properties including 135 Washington Street, 528 Dexter Street, and 819 Lonsdale Avenue
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council met via Zoom on April 22, 2021, to conduct a second reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 28 regarding Parks and Recreation. The council also considered license petitions for The Learning Community at 21 Lincoln Avenue and passed a resolution honoring After-school Professionals Appreciation Week. No specific dollar amounts or new contracts were listed in the agenda text.
- Second reading of Ordinance Amending Chapter 28 'Parks and Recreation'
- Consideration of F1-Application license for The Learning Community at 21 Lincoln Avenue
- Consideration of Entertainment license for The Learning Community at 21 Lincoln Avenue
- Resolution honoring April 19-23, 2021 as After-school Professionals Appreciation Week
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met remotely and approved minutes from previous meetings, including amended minutes correcting a vote record. No new business was discussed. Staff reported on recent cases, potential new applications, and a Housing Summit highlighting the need for more housing, possibly requiring zoning variances.
- Approved minutes from March 17, 2021 meeting
- Approved amended minutes from September 23, 2020 meeting, correcting vote record for 21 Mowry Street (Plat 8, Lot 64), Case #ZB-20-06
- Staff noted two new applications may be considered at May meeting
- Housing Summit discussion on increasing housing supply via zoning variances
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will meet via Zoom to consider a license petition for The Learning Company at 21 Lincoln Avenue, acting as the Board of License Commissioners. They will also hold a first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 28 'Parks and Recreation' and approve minutes from prior meetings.
- F1 license application for The Learning Company, 21 Lincoln Avenue, contact Derek Callamati
- Entertainment (per diem) license for The Learning Company, 21 Lincoln Avenue
- First reading of ordinance amending Chapter 28 'Parks and Recreation' (Vega)
- Approval of meeting minutes from March 30, 2021 and April 12, 2021
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a regular meeting, including sitting as the Board of License Commissioners to consider new liquor and entertainment licenses for several businesses, and a show cause hearing for a license. The council will also hear appointments to city boards, consider resolutions urging state legislation, and take up ordinance introductions and second readings.
- New BV Liquor and Entertainment licenses for El Antojo Restaurant Bar, 494 Dexter Street
- New Entertainment licenses for Azucena's Bar & Restaurant, 1270 Broad Street, and Petencito Restaurant Bar & Grill, 527 Dexter Street
- New C-Variety license for GMJ's Convenience Store, 791 Broad Street
- Show cause hearing for Vanderly Coffee Restaurant, 765 Broad Street
- Appointments to Donald J. Wyatt Detention Facility Corporation and Juvenile Hearing Board
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a special meeting to consider a resolution on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, proposed amendments to council rules, and first readings of two ordinances. The council will also sit as the Board of License Commissioners for a show cause hearing regarding a license for Pizza R Us / Convenience R Us.
- Resolution regarding the Central Falls Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
- Proposed amendments to City Council Rules changing minimum committee composition from 3 to 2
- First reading: Ordinance amending Chapter 2 creating the Ensuring Equity in Central Falls Public Meetings Ordinance
- First reading: Ordinance Creating the Open and Green Government Ordinance
- Show Cause Hearing for Class C - Variety license, Pizza R Us / Convenience R Us, 791 Lonsdale Ave., owner Tariq S. Khalil
City Council Meeting
The City Council will introduce an ordinance regarding equity in public meetings and consider amendments to committee composition rules. Additionally, the Council will sit as the Board of License Commissioners for a show cause hearing regarding Pizza R Us / Convenience R Us.
- Introduction of the Ensuring Equity in Central Falls Public Meetings Ordinance
- Proposed amendment to change minimum committee composition from 3 to 2 members
- Show Cause Hearing for Pizza R Us / Convenience R Us at 791 Lonsdale Ave. regarding license status
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will meet to consider several resolutions urging state legislation, including on prescription drug prices, and to act on license petitions, tax abatements, and ordinance changes. The council will also hear a presentation on the Nuisance Task Force and Receivership Program, and consider special constable appointments. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and financial reports.
- New BV liquor license for Petencito Restaurant Bar & Grill, 531 Dexter Street
- Transfer of A Restaurant license for Nature's Health Smoothie Bar, 527 Broad Street
- Tax abatements for multiple properties including 773 Lonsdale Avenue, 915 Dexter Street, 934 Dexter Street
- First reading of ordinance amending Municipal Court Ordinance for Nuisance Task Force
- First reading of ordinance creating Open and Green Government
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met remotely and approved minutes from three prior meetings. Old Business was tabled because the agenda item did not meet Open Meetings Law requirements. Staff reported that the Planning Board approved the Roosevelt Mills project, which will require a parking variance for 106 residential units, and that new applications are expected soon.
- Tabled Old Business (Case ZB-20-02) due to Open Meetings Law non-compliance
- Roosevelt Mills project at Roosevelt and Cross: Master Plan and Preliminary Approval granted, parking variance needed for 106 units
- Planning Department reviewing hearing procedures after Western Oil appeal
- Approved minutes from Sept 23, Oct 7, 2020, and Jan 20, 2021 meetings
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will hold a special meeting to consider several expired business licenses, introduce an ordinance amending law enforcement hiring procedures, and discuss a pending lawsuit claim. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19 executive orders.
- Hearing on expired licenses: Garden Meat Market LLC (156 Washington St), Carmen's Secret Place (1361 Broad St), AIM LLC d/b/a Hydro Punc Café (712 Broad St), Restaurante Montecristo (744 Broad St)
- Review of Class B (Victualling) license for La Colombiana Bar & Grill (477 Dexter St)
- Introduction of ordinance amending law enforcement hiring procedures (sponsored by Council President Vega and Councilwoman Levasseur)
- Discussion of Baxter v. City of Central Falls lawsuit (1:19-cv-00502)
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will meet to consider several appointments, license renewals, and tax abatements. They will also introduce an ordinance on open government and vote on resolutions supporting afterschool programs, civics education, and misdemeanor reclassification.
- License renewals for Family Dollar Store, Dollar Tree, Broad Street Gulf Station, and Super Ice Cream; new license for El Salvador Bakery
- Tax abatements for multiple properties including 679 Lonsdale Ave, 98-100 Bagley St, and 1000 Broad St
- Appointments to Personnel Board, Tree Warden, and Wyatt Detention Facility Corporation Board
- Introduction of ordinance creating open and green government
- Resolutions supporting afterschool programs, Civics Literacy Act, and misdemeanor reclassification
Zoning Board Meeting
The Central Falls Zoning Board of Review met via Zoom and unanimously approved a use variance (Case #ZB-21-01) for a food manufacturing facility at 31 Ledge St. (Plat 5, Lot 199, R-3 zone). The applicant, Andres Restrepo, rents part of the building and plans to operate a cold kitchen producing refrigerated and frozen products. The board also elected officers, approved prior meeting minutes, and amended October 2020 minutes to correct a date reference.
- Approved use variance for food manufacturing at 31 Ledge St. (Case #ZB-21-01)
- Reappointed Kevin Marchand as Chair and Kevin Kazarian as Vice Chair
- Approved minutes of December 16, 2020 meeting
- Amended October 21, 2020 minutes to correct date from Sept. 23 to Sept. 30
- Planning staff to continue as board secretary
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council is meeting to consider several resolutions, including one condemning the January 6 Capitol invasion and calling for the 25th Amendment, another creating a working group on civilian police oversight, and resolutions honoring outgoing police and fire chiefs. The council will also hold first readings on the FY 2021 operating budget ordinance and a department head salary ordinance, plus consider appointments to the Purchasing Board and continued discussion of council rules.
- Resolution condemning Capitol invasion and calling for 25th Amendment removal of President Trump
- Resolution creating Working Group on Best Practices of Civilian Oversight of the Police
- First reading of FY 2021 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance - General Fund
- First reading of Ordinance Pertaining to Salaries of Department Heads & Others in Unclassified Service
- Appointments to Purchasing Board: Kayla Lubo, Andre Prado, Evelyn Diaz
City Council Meeting
The Central Falls City Council will elect its president and president pro tempore, then consider a series of executive orders appointing department heads, including a new police chief, finance director, city clerk, and others. The council will also hear and consider appointments for probate and municipal court judges, and introduce the FY 2021 operating budget ordinance and a salary ordinance for unclassified employees.
- Executive Order 2021-0001 naming Anthony Roberson Chief of Police
- Appointment of Ernest Almonte as Finance Director
- Appointment of Jahaira Rodriguez as City Clerk
- Introduction of FY 2021 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance
- Appointment of Joseph Molina Flynn as Municipal Court Judge