Fitchburg public meetings in 2021

Finance Committee

The Fitchburg City Council Finance Committee meeting scheduled for December 28, 2021, was cancelled. No other agenda items were listed for this date.

• No agenda items were scheduled due to the cancellation.

Airport Commission

The Fitchburg Airport Commission will discuss the Airport Master Plan and ongoing lighting work. The agenda also includes updates on drone ordinances, hangar maintenance, and a request for proposals for hangars 7 to 9.

• Review of Airport Master Plan and REIL's/PAPI's
• RFP for hangars 7 to 9
• Drone ordinance and Leominster DPW land access rental
• Maintenance for hangar doors and roofs
• Approval of financial commitments and abatements

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission voted 4-0 to forward Chapters 1-4 of the Airport Master Plan to the FAA for approval. They also approved holding a 'Wings and Wheels' event on April 23-24, 2022, and selected Moulison for runway grounding work based on a lower estimate. The commission is considering a proposal from Peterbilt to rent 10 acres of land north of Runway 2-0 for $19,200 per year.

• Approved forwarding Master Plan Chapters 1-4 to FAA (4-0)
• Approved Wings & Wheels event for April 23-24 (4-0)
• Approved September, October, and November meeting minutes (4-0 each)
• Selected Moulison for runway grounding work based on $6,000 estimate vs. $20,000 from DW White

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council is reviewing several financial appropriations and appointments. This includes grants for library equipment, recycling programs, and police hiring. The council will also address cemetery price increases and updates to city pay scales.

• $250,000 DOJ grant to hire two additional police officers
• $36,000 MassDEP grant for recycling programs and waste disposal information
• $50,000 library grant for mobile shelving and self-check stations
• Ordinance updates for Fire Chief and Police Chief pay scales
• Petition to install guardrails at culverts on Billings Road

The Fitchburg City Council confirmed appointments including Police Chief Ernest Martineau and new Cultural Council members, and adopted six finance orders appropriating funds for equipment, grants, and library improvements. Two ordinances amending the Fire Chief pay matrix and table were adopted, with the table ordinance amended to move Police Chief to Step 11. A petition for cemetery price increases was granted, and several items were referred to committees.

• Confirmed Police Chief Ernest Martineau reappointment (11-0)
• Confirmed Cultural Council appointments Shara Osgood and Samuel Luxama (11-0)
• Adopted Finance Orders 208-213 appropriating $16,750, $31,320, and approving grants for cameras, police hires, recycling, and library equipment (11-0)
• Granted cemetery price increase petition (11-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 181-21 amending Fire Chief pay matrix (11-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 182-21 amending Fire Chief pay table, amended to move Police Chief to Step 11 (10-1, Beauchemin opposed)
• Referred Order 218-21 for $9,000 facilities repair to Finance Committee
• Referred Ordinance 219-21 adding hourly positions to Finance Committee

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is considering the re-appointment of the Fitchburg Police Chief. The committee will also review new appointments to the Fitchburg Cultural Council.

• Re-appointment of Police Chief Ernest Martineau
• New appointment: Shara Osgood to Fitchburg Cultural Council
• New appointment: Samuel Luxama to Fitchburg Cultural Council

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council will receive updates regarding grantees, modifications, and extensions. The agenda also includes a recap of the Winter Bazaar and discussions related to scholarships and FATV 2022.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• FATV 2022 discussion
• Winter Bazaar re-cap
• Scholarship discussion

Retirement Board

The Fitchburg Retirement Board will meet to approve various refunds, transfers, and retirements. The agenda also includes the approval of accounting records, bank statements, and meeting minutes.

• Approval of refunds, transfers, and retirements
• Approval of warrant, accounting, bank statements, and minutes
• Review of deaths
• Discussion of new members

The Fitchburg Retirement Board approved the December 2021 warrant totaling $1,857,129.94, the November 2021 accounting and bank statements, and the 2022 meeting schedule. It also approved the retirement of Stephen McCluskey and admitted 19 new members to the retirement system. The board discussed but took no final action on the administrative assistant job description and vacation buyback legislation.

• Approved December 2021 warrant of $1,857,129.94 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved November 2021 accounting and bank statements (5-0)
• Approved Stephen McCluskey's Option C superannuation retirement effective Dec 12, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved travel to 2022 Massachusetts seminars and meetings (5-0)
• Approved 19 new retirement system members (5-0)

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will review budget reports and approve previous meeting minutes. The agenda includes presentations on an FSU economic impact study and a request from River Styx. Members will also discuss housing grants for 409 Main Street and funding for Friends of Abolitionist Park.

• FSU Economic Impact Study presentation
• River Styx Request presentation
• Main Street Housing Grant Request for 409 Main Street
• Funding Request for Friends of Abolitionist Park
• Putnam Place facilities update

License Commission

The License Commission will review new applications for entertainment and amusement device permits. The agenda also includes numerous renewals for Sunday and weekday entertainment licenses and pouring licenses. Additionally, the commission will discuss the expiration of temporary outdoor premises expansions.

• New entertainment permit for Horizon Christian Fellowship at downtown common
• Amusement device applications for FunStuf Party Place and Game On Fitchburg Sports Center
• Change of officers for Alltown Fitchburg at 129 Whalon Street
• Renewal of Sunday and weekday entertainment permits for various local clubs
• Discussion on the expiration of temporary outdoor premises expansions

The Fitchburg License Commission approved several new and renewal applications, including entertainment permits for Horizon Christian Fellowship and FunStuf Party Place, and renewed 2022 licenses for numerous establishments. A change of stock ownership for The Boulder was referred to a public hearing. The board also discussed the upcoming expiration of temporary outdoor premises expansions.

• Approved Monday-Saturday entertainment permit for Horizon Christian Fellowship (2-0)
• Approved automatic amusement device application for FunStuf Party Place (2-0)
• Approved automatic amusement device application for Game On Fitchburg Sports Center, subject to diagram (2-0)
• Approved change of officers for Global Montello Group d/b/a Alltown Fitchburg (2-0)
• Referred change of stock ownership for Upper Common Inc. d/b/a The Boulder to public hearing on Jan 3, 2022 (2-0)
• Approved 2022 taxi/livery renewal for Twin City Kab (2-0)
• Approved 2022 Sunday and Monday-Saturday entertainment permit renewals for multiple venues (2-0)
• Approved 2022 pouring license renewals for multiple establishments, some subject to documentation (2-0)

Historical Commission

The Fitchburg Historical Commission is reviewing a historic site determination for 1427R Water St. and an exemption for Iver Johnson Mills. The meeting also includes updates on draft ordinances for demolition delay and stone wall preservation.

• Historic site determination for MART 1427R Water St. project
• Iver Johnson Mills flood plain historic exemption
• Update on proposed Demolition Delay ordinance draft
• Update on proposed Stone Wall Preservation ordinance draft
• Simonds Saw and Steel, Intervale Rd. historic documentation update

The Fitchburg Historical Commission unanimously approved a flood plain historic exemption for the Iver Mills Residences project, which will convert historic buildings into 61 market-rate residential units. The commission also unanimously determined that the MART property at 1427R Water Street has no historical significance, clearing it for a parking lot project. Minutes from November 18 were approved, while October 28 minutes were tabled. Several ordinance drafts and other items were discussed but no further votes were taken.

• Approved flood plain historic exemption for Iver Mills Residences (4-0)
• Determined MART property at 1427R Water Street has no historical significance (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 18, 2021 meeting as amended (5-0)
• Tabled approval of October 28, 2021 minutes until next meeting

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will hold an executive session regarding the property located at 520 Main Street. The meeting also includes an administrative report.

• Executive session regarding 520 Main Street

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to approve the HUD EPIC Capital Funding Plan for 2022-2026. The board will also consider financial reports from January through November FY2021 and recent payables.

• HUD EPIC Capital Funding Plan 2022-2026
• Approval of FY2021 January–November financials
• Approval of November–December FY2021 payables
• Approval of November 17, 2021 meeting minutes

The Fitchburg Housing Authority approved the EPIC Five Year Plan and Capital Funding Plan, which includes $266,633 in HUD funds for rehabilitation of 174 Milk St and design of a new administrative-community building. The board also approved payables, financials, and minutes. A serious issue with failing cast iron sewer drainpipes at Green Acres was discussed, potentially costing a million dollars to repair.

• Approved EPIC Five Year Plan & Capital Funding Plan (all in favor)
• Approved FHA Payables for November-December FY 2021 (all in favor)
• Approved January-November Financials FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of November 17, 2021 meeting (all in favor)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Crocker Elementary School Building Committee will review project budget status and schedule updates from Colliers. The meeting also includes an update from the Design Working Group.

• OPM report on project budget status and schedule
• Design Working Group update

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett MPO will discuss potential transit amendments for the 2022-2026 Transportation Improvement Program. The meeting includes presentations on a Sterling walkability study and an intersection analysis in Townsend. Members will also review the development schedule for the 2023-2027 transportation program.

• Potential transit amendments/adjustments for FFY 2022-2026 TIP
• Sterling Walkability Study presentation
• Townsend Rt 119/Canal St/Elm St Intersection Analysis presentation
• Development schedule review for FFY 2023-2027 TIP

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will conduct an annual vote for Chairperson and review November 2021 meeting minutes. The meeting includes a presentation on diversity efforts from the Carpenters Labor Management Program. Members will also discuss future programs and follow up on funding discussions with Three Pyramids.

• Vote on November 2021 meeting minutes
• Annual election of Chairperson
• Diversity efforts presentation by Lisa Clauson
• Discussion of Justice for All Program and other future topics
• Follow up regarding funding with Three Pyramids Board President

The Fitchburg Human Rights Commission met via Zoom on December 15, 2021, and unanimously approved Barbara Nealon as the new chairperson. The commission also heard a presentation from Lisa Clausen of the Carpenters Labor Management Program on diversity and inclusion efforts in construction. No other formal decisions were made; several topics were deferred to future meetings.

• Barbara Nealon nominated and unanimously approved as Chairperson
• Previous meeting minutes accepted as written
• Deferred discussion on commissioner address preferences to next meeting
• Agreed to continue remote meetings

Montachusett Regional Planning Commission

The committee will receive a staff update on the status of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) update. The meeting also includes reviewing requests to include projects from Fitchburg and other communities into the MEDD's CEDS.

• MRPC staff update regarding CEDS update status
• Requests for inclusion of Fitchburg projects into the MEDD’s CEDS
• Requests for inclusion of other communities’ projects into the MEDD’s CEDS

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several grant expenditures and budget appropriations. This includes funding for police hiring, library equipment, and recycling programs. The committee will also review proposed cemetery price increases.

• $250,000 DOJ COPS grant to hire two police officers
• $50,000 grant for library shelving and self-check stations
• $36,000 MassDEP grant for recycling information and carts
• $20,150 MEMA grant for imaging cameras and charging systems
• Approval of cemetery price increases

The Finance Committee approved all six orders on its agenda, including appropriations for weights and measures testing, library trust fund restoration, and four grant-funded expenditures. It also approved cemetery price increases. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved $16,750 for weights and measures testing (3-0)
• Approved $31,320 to restore Library Trust Fund (Wallace Fund) (3-0)
• Approved $20,150 MEMA grant for four imaging cameras (3-0)
• Approved $250,000 COPS grant to hire two police officers (3-0)
• Approved $36,000 DEP recycling grant (3-0)
• Approved $50,000 Library Commissioners grant for shelving and self-check-out (3-0)
• Approved cemetery price increases as proposed by Trustees (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct hearings on several applications for automotive businesses and residential property reinstatements. The agenda also includes a review of permit conditions following a nuisance complaint and a requested variance extension.

• Use variance for motor vehicle sales at 285 River St
• Special permit for auto sales and repair at 1033 Main St
• Appeal regarding a 4-family dwelling at 16 Temple St
• Review of special permit conditions at 19 Dwight St due to nuisance complaint
• Variance extension request for single-family construction at 0 Pearl Hill Pk

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals held a series of hearings, granting continuances and extensions for several cases. The board continued the review of a special permit for Star Motor Sports with new conditions, including a 30-day cleanup deadline. It also continued hearings for other applicants, granting extensions for variances and special permits, and addressed a violation of special permit conditions for a towing business.

• Continued ZBA-2019-23 (Star Motor Sports) review to March 8, 2022, with conditions including 30-day cleanup (4-0)
• Continued ZBA-2019-40 (Jose Santos) review to January 11, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued ZBA-2021-36 (Jose Collazo) special permit hearing to February 8, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued ZBA-2021-35 (Todor Ialamov) appeal to January 11, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued ZBA-2021-31 (Joan Mateo) special permit hearing to January 11, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued ZBA-2021-14 (Kenneth Godfrey) review to January 11, 2022, with added cleanup conditions (4-0)
• Extended ZBA-2020-21 (Matthew Thibeault) variance expiration to February 8, 2022 (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on several development applications, including a new Dunkin’ Donuts proposal and a 4-unit residential project. The meeting also includes reviews of site plans for parking and property modifications. Additionally, the board will discuss potential updates to the zoning ordinance and map.

• New application for 16 multifamily units at 50 Frankfort St
• Special Permit for Dunkin’ Donuts at 580 John Fitch Hwy (requesting continuance)
• Site plan review for 4-unit residential at 147 Daniels St
• Parking relief review for 133 Cedar St
• Shade Tree/Scenic Road Act hearing for Sheldon Rd lots 4, 5, 9 & 10

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved a special permit and site plan review for 50F, LLC to convert 50 Frankfort St. into 16 townhouse-style condominium units, with conditions including parking easements, stormwater management, and condo document restrictions. The board also approved several other items, including a minor site plan for a 3-family at 12 Nashua St., a special permit for a 2-family at 133 Cedar St., and driveway approvals on Sheldon Rd. Items for 21 Pacific St. and 147 Daniels St. were continued to the January meeting.

• Approved special permit for 16-unit conversion at 50 Frankfort St. (6-0)
• Approved minor site plan for 3-family at 12 Nashua St. (6-0)
• Approved special permit for 2-family at 133 Cedar St. (6-0)
• Approved four driveways on Sheldon Rd. (6-0)
• Approved ANR plan for 29 Woodward Way (6-0)
• Approved revised floor plan for Green Meadows Farms (6-0)
• Continued 21 Pacific St. site plan to January meeting (6-0)
• Continued 147 Daniels St. special permit to January meeting (6-0)

Montachusett Regional Planning Commission

The Montachusett Regional Planning Commission will discuss regional development projects and personnel policy updates. The agenda includes information regarding a $296,100 COVID-19 award for several towns and the Lancaster proposed mixed-use development project. Commissioners will also review the November 2021 cash schedule and upcoming staff positions.

• $296,100 FY19 CDBG COVID Response Award for Shirley, Lunenburg, Royalston, Townsend, and Westminster
• Proposed edits to MRPC Personnel Policies and Employee Procedures Handbook
• Lancaster proposed mixed-use development project discussion
• Updates on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding
• Regional affordable housing progress report

The Montachusett Regional Planning Commission approved hiring Jeffrey Legros as Principal Planner at an annual salary of $67,500, effective January 2022. The commission also approved increasing Tyler Godin and Ryan Doherty from part-time to full-time status. The November 2021 cash schedule was accepted, and the November 4, 2021 minutes were approved with corrections.

• Approved hiring Jeffrey Legros as Principal Planner at $67,500/year (7-0)
• Approved increasing Tyler Godin to full-time at $45,103.50/year (7-0)
• Approved increasing Ryan Doherty to full-time at $29,250/year (7-0)
• Approved November 2021 cash schedule as read (7-0)
• Approved November 4, 2021 minutes with corrections (6-0, 1 abstention)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board of Directors is conducting its monthly meeting to review committee and director reports. Agenda items include reviewing an RFP from Russ and discussing meal site agreements. Updates will also be provided regarding the CDBG grant and snow policy.

• Review of RFP from Russ
• Meal site agreement/plans
• CDBG grant update
• Snow policy discussion

The Fitchburg Council on Aging board approved discontinuing its contract with MOC (likely Meals on Wheels or similar) and replacing it with volunteer-based meal preparation starting in February. The board also approved the member Code of Conduct changes and accepted the November minutes and treasurer's report. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved discontinuation of MOC services, replacing with volunteer meal program (motion approved)
• Approved member Code of Conduct changes; copy to be sent to City Solicitor & Police
• Accepted November meeting minutes with requested address addition
• Accepted treasurer's report (Sunshine Fund $205)

Disability Commission

The Fitchburg Disability Commission will discuss updates regarding the Accessible Art Project at the Senior Center and the reopening of the Sam Pawlak Community Playground. The agenda also includes a review of curb cuts and sidewalk repairs.

• Accessible Art Project at Senior Center update
• Sam Pawlak Community Playground reopening in Spring 2022
• Review of curb cuts and sidewalk repairs
• MassDot public hearing for River St. Bridge Replacement

The Fitchburg Disability Commission met on December 8, 2021, and accepted the October and November minutes. They discussed updates on the accessible playground at Parkhill, including the installation of rubber safety surfacing and a planned spring 2022 grand opening. The commission also reviewed a complaint about a non-functioning crosswalk signal at Main and Mechanic, which is being repaired, and compiled a list of curb cuts needing attention to present to the Department of Public Works. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Accepted October and November meeting minutes
• Discussed accessible playground updates, grand opening set for Spring 2022
• Reviewed crosswalk complaint at Main and Mechanic, repair in progress
• Compiled curb cut list for DPW, including Rollstone Road and Caldwell Street

Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC)

The committee will discuss development schedules for the 2023-2027 Transportation Improvement Program and the 2023 Unified Work Planning Program. Members will also review the final report for an intersection analysis at Main St (Rt 119) and Canal St/West Elm St in Townsend. Contract status reports from federal and state agencies will be presented.

• FFY 2023-2027 Montachusett Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) development schedule
• FFY 2023 Unified Work Planning Program (UPWP) development schedule
• Final report for the Main St (Rt 119) at Canal St/West Elm St intersection analysis in Townsend
• Contract status reports from FTA, RTA, and MassDOT 3C

Water & Wastewater Commission

The Commission will receive updates on the city-wide Water Meter upgrade project and staffing. Discussion includes progress on combined sewer projects at Clarendon & Nashua St. and downtown, as well as ARPA funds for roof drain/sump pump assistance.

• City-wide Water Meter upgrade project update
• Combined Sewer Project (Clarendon & Nashua St.)
• CSO Closure delay until Spring
• ARPA Funds – Roof Drain/Sump Pump Assistance
• West Plant Repurposing Project

The Fitchburg Water/Wastewater Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 10, 2021 meeting. The meeting was primarily informational, with no substantive votes on projects or policies. Staff reported on water meter upgrades, staffing vacancies, and ongoing sewer projects, including delays and funding requests.

• Approved November 10, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review committee reports and discuss the new director search. The agenda includes a vote on funding for search postings and an update on a $48,371.17 state aid award. Members will also follow up on ARPA funds from the city.

• Vote on funding for director search postings
• State Aid Certification initial award of $48,371.17
• New Director Search Committee update
• Follow-up on ARPA funds

The Board of Trustees discussed the library's application for $6.5 million in ARPA funds from the city, with a decision expected in January. They also voted unanimously to increase advertising funding for the director search, and noted that no qualified candidates had applied so far, extending the search period.

• Approved minutes of November 10, 2021, as amended
• Voted unanimously to increase funding for advertising the Director position
• Discussed ARPA funding request of $6.5 million (decision pending)
• Extended director search due to lack of qualified candidates

Cultural Council

The Public Relations Subcommittee met to discuss final details for the Winter Bazaar. The agenda also included FATV membership for 2022 and a new logo for grant credit. No votes were scheduled for this meeting.

• Winter Bazaar final details
• FATV membership for 2022
• New logo for grant credit
• PR approvals

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council will review several ordinances amending Chapter 44 of the City Code concerning the Fire Chief. The agenda also includes a petition to establish the salary for the Fire Chief.

• Ordinance 181-21: First reading regarding Fire Chief provisions in Chapter 44
• Ordinance 182-21: First reading of an amendment to add Police Chief provisions to Chapter 44
• Petition 073-21: Proposal to set the salary for the Fire Chief

The City Council voted to advance two ordinances amending Chapter 44 regarding the Fire Chief's compensation, with one amended to include the Police Chief. The ordinances were recommended for first and second reading and ordered advertised, with votes of 11/0 and 10/1 respectively. The changes aim to set fixed salaries for both chiefs, separating their pay from collective bargaining agreements.

• Recommended Ordinance 181-21 (Fire Chief Matrix) for first/second reading and advertising (11-0)
• Amended Ordinance 182-21 to add Police Chief to the table (10-1, Van Hazinga dissenting)
• Recommended amended Ordinance 182-21 for first/second reading and advertising (11-0)
• Granted leave to withdraw Ordinances 068-21 and 069-21 and Petition 073-21 (11-0)

City Council

The Council is reviewing appointments to the Board of Assessors and Cultural Council. Agenda items include fund transfers for school expenses and using grants to hire two police officers. The meeting also includes ordinances regarding the Fire Chief and petitions for traffic changes.

• Appropriation of $600,000 for School Department expenses
• $250,000 DOJ grant to hire two additional police officers
• Pilot Agreement with North Branch Energy, LLC for a solar project at 0 Ashburnham Street
• Appropriation of $350,000 to the Stabilization Fund
• Petition for a traffic island at Old Leominster Road and Abbott Avenue

The City Council approved an $8,380 appropriation for four air scrubbers for the police station, and adopted several finance orders including transfers to stabilization and OPEB trust funds, school expenses, and a PILOT agreement for a solar project. Appointments to the Board of Assessors and Trustees of Public Burial Grounds were confirmed. Several ordinances and petitions were referred to committees or withdrawn.

• Approved $8,380 for four air scrubbers for police station (11-0)
• Confirmed appointments to Board of Assessors and Trustees of Public Burial Grounds (11-0)
• Adopted $350,000 transfer to Stabilization Fund (11-0)
• Adopted $450,000 transfer to OPEB Trust Fund (11-0)
• Adopted $125,000 for capital expenses reserve (11-0)
• Adopted $600,000 for school expenses (11-0)
• Authorized PILOT agreement with North Branch Energy for solar project (11-0)
• Withdrew ordinances 068-21 and 069-21 re: Fire Chief (11-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review priority policy requests from the administration, including those related to coronavirus. The committee will also discuss the status of policies currently with legal counsel and continue reviewing Section I: Instruction policies.

• Review and adoption of November 16, 2021 meeting notes
• Priority policy review regarding coronavirus-related concerns
• Status updates on policies in review with Legal Counsel and Administration
• Continued review of Section I: Instruction policies

Appointments Committee

The committee will consider one new appointment and four re-appointments. These roles involve the Board of Assessors and the Trustees of Public Burial Grounds.

• New appointment for Board of Assessors: Ryan Beauvais
• Re-appointment for Board of Assessors: Jerri Maillet
• Re-appointment for Board of Assessors: Chris Paquette
• Re-appointment for Trustees of Public Burial Grounds: Andrew Hawthorne
• Re-appointment for Trustees of Public Burial Grounds: Judith Perla

MassHire North Central Workforce Board

The MassHire North Central Workforce Board will meet via Zoom on December 14, 2021. The agenda includes a vote on Executive Committee membership and updates regarding Workforce Training Grants. The board will also receive an audit presentation from Spinelli CPA.

• Vote on Executive Committee membership request
• Workforce Training Grants updates
• Spinelli CPA Board Audit presentation
• Approval of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes and financial report

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review meeting minutes from November 29, 2021. The committee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment.

• Approval of November 29, 2021 meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment
• Review and approval of November 2, 2021 executive session minutes

Fitchburg Public Schools

The committee will review reports regarding enrollment trends, absenteeism, and digital literacy. They will also consider approving several grants and donations for community Spanish classes.

• Approval of $16,664,400 ESSER 3 grant
• Approval of $35,000 MASS GRAD Grant
• Approval of a $100 donation for Spanish class materials
• Approval of donated Spanish learning materials valued at $600

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will consider several new applications and license renewals. Items include taxi driver, solicitor, and amusement device permits. The board will also review multiple renewals for late closing, entertainment, pouring, and package licenses.

• New taxi driver application for Ryan Marchesini with City Cab, Co.
• Solicitor license application for Craig LaPine of Power Home Remodeling
• Amusement device permit for three pool tables at Kingston Island Cuisine
• Late closing permit renewal for Slattery’s Restaurant
• Renewals for various entertainment and liquor licenses

The Board of License Commissioners approved a slate of 2022 license renewals for late closing, entertainment, pouring, and package licenses, plus a new solicitor license and a new automatic amusement device application. A new taxi driver application for Ryan Marchesini of City Cab was denied by a 2-0 roll call vote after an executive session. The board also approved minutes from November 15, 2021, and moved Mill No. 3 from pouring to package renewals.

• Approved minutes of November 15, 2021 by unanimous consent 2/0.
• Denied new taxi driver application for Ryan Marchesini (City Cab) by roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved new solicitor license for Craig LaPine (Power Home Remodeling) by roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved automatic amusement device application for Kingston Island Cuisine (3 pool tables) by roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved new 2021-2022 late closing permit (2AM) for Slattery's Restaurant by roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved 2022 renewals for late closing permits (12AM, 1AM, 2AM) by unanimous consent 2/0.
• Approved 2022 Sunday and Monday-Saturday entertainment permits by unanimous consent 2/0.
• Approved 2022 license renewals for pouring and package licenses, including moving Mill No. 3 to package, by unanimous consent 2/0.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold hearings regarding a petition to rescind the current mask mandate and a proposal for waste hauler contracts. The board will also review a food storage proposal from AKS Recycling, Inc. and vote on new meeting rules.

• Petition to rescind the BOH Mask Mandate
• Petition for 'Three strikes and you’re out' provision in waste hauler contracts
• Title 5-Local Upgrade Approval for 67 Scott Road
• AKS Recycling, Inc. proposal to store bread and baked goods on tip floor
• Vote on BOH meeting rules

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

This meeting consists of routine administrative and subcommittee updates. Agenda items include Superintendent-Director and Principal reports, personnel changes, and various subcommittee presentations.

• Personnel updates including retirements, resignations, and appointments
• Subcommittee reports on policy, capital improvements, and workforce
• Review of financial statements

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council is meeting to perform a grant review and receive grantee updates or modifications. The agenda also includes discussion regarding the December 11th Winter event.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• Discussion of December 11th Winter event
• Grant review process

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review minutes from its November 2, 2021 meeting. The committee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for the superintendent role.

• Review and approval of November 2, 2021 subcommittee meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment
• Review and approval of November 2, 2021 executive session minutes

Retirement Board

This meeting is a continuation of the recessed Retirement Board meeting from November 23, 2021. The agenda is limited to discussions regarding the Fifth Board Member and new business.

• Fifth Board Member
• New Business

The Fitchburg Retirement Board approved routine financial items, retirements, new members, and the 2022 budget. It also interviewed and unanimously appointed John Brown to fill the vacant fifth board seat.

• Approved November 2021 warrant and Oct 26 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved October 2021 accounting and bank statements (4-0)
• Approved James Farrell's accidental disability retirement, Option C, effective Oct 26, 2021 (3-0, Farrell abstained)
• Approved Wayne Little's superannuation retirement, Option C, effective Nov 1, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved C/Y 2022 budget: $296,900 salaries/expenses, $787,000 management fees (4-0)
• Approved GASB 67 & 68 report from Stone Consulting (4-0)
• Approved 13 new retirement system members (4-0)
• Appointed John Brown as 5th board member (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several orders to transfer funds from available funds into the Stabilization Fund, OPEB Trust Fund, and school expenses. The committee will also discuss a petition for a solar project PILOT agreement at 0 Ashburnham Street.

• $600,000 appropriation for school expenses
• $350,000 transfer to Stabilization Fund
• $450,000 transfer to OPEB Trust Fund
• $125,000 transfer to Reserve for Other Municipal Purposes
• PILOT agreement with North Branch Energy, LLC for solar project at 0 Ashburnham Street

The Finance Committee unanimously approved four appropriations from Available Funds totaling $1.525 million: $350,000 to the Stabilization Fund, $450,000 to the OPEB Trust Fund, $125,000 to the Reserve for Other Municipal Purposes, and $600,000 to the School Department. It also approved a 20-year PILOT agreement with North Branch Energy, LLC for a solar project on Ashburnham Street. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved $350,000 appropriation to Stabilization Fund (5-0)
• Approved $450,000 appropriation to OPEB Trust Fund (5-0)
• Approved $125,000 appropriation to Reserve for Other Municipal Purposes (5-0)
• Approved $600,000 appropriation to School Department for school expenses (5-0)
• Approved PILOT agreement with North Branch Energy, LLC for solar project (5-0)

Cultural Council

The council will perform a grant review and discuss grantee updates, modifications, or extensions. The agenda also includes discussion regarding an event on December 11th.

• Grant review
• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• December 11th event discussion

Retirement Board

The Fitchburg Retirement Board will meet to approve retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers. The agenda also includes reviewing the CY2022 retirement budget and discussing a fifth board member.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers
• Review of CY2022 retirement budget
• Discussion regarding a fifth board member
• Approval of warrant, accounting, bank statements, and minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a site visit of the Game On Fitchburg facility, including fields, buildings, and off-site improvements. No deliberation or decision-making will take place during this walk.

• Site visit of Game On Fitchburg facility (fields, building, and off-site improvements)

Trustees of Public Burial Grounds

The Trustees of Public Burial Grounds will discuss a proposed price increase for burial grounds. The meeting includes updates regarding cameras for Laurel Hill Cemeteries and the Mausoleum RFP. The board will also review ARPA funding and re-appointments.

• Proposed price increase for Burial Grounds
• Cameras for Laurel Hill Cemeteries
• Mausoleum RFP Update
• ARPA Funding
• Re-appointments of Perla/Hawthorne

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee and Resource Committee will meet to initiate the budget process. The agenda includes enrollment updates and the Goodrich Academy 1:1 initiative. The committee will also consider accepting the MSBA Accelerated Repair Program.

• Approval of October 14, 2021, meeting minutes
• E-Rate Update & Goodrich Academy 1:1 Initiative
• Start of the budget process
• Transportation request for FHS Ski Club
• MSBA Accelerated Repair Program acceptance

Fitchburg Public Schools

The School Committee will receive updates regarding school building maintenance, SBM positions, and redistricting planning. The meeting also includes progress reports on MSBA projects for Crocker Field and South Street Elementary.

• School Building Maintenance and SBM Positions update
• Redistricting Planning Update
• Crocker Field update
• MSBA Crocker Core Project update
• Acceptance of LMS Accelerated Repair Project

Historical Commission

The commission will discuss the proposal to nominate several cemeteries as local historic places. The agenda also includes updates on proposed demolition delay and stone wall preservation ordinances. Additionally, members will review brick sidewalk paving at Christ Church.

• Nominating several Fitchburg cemeteries as local historic places
• Main Street brick sidewalk paving replacement at Christ Church
• Proposed Demolition Delay ordinance draft update
• Proposed Stone Wall Preservation ordinance draft update
• Filling a vacancy on the commission

The Fitchburg Historical Commission voted 4-0 to forward the draft Stone Wall Ordinance to the Planning and Building Departments and the Planning Board chair for review and input. The commission tabled its October minutes until December. It also discussed, but did not vote on, the Main Street sidewalk project at Christ Church, proposed rules and regulations, and a vacancy on the commission.

• Approved motion to get input on the Stone Wall Ordinance as is (4-0).
• Tabled October 28, 2021 minutes until December meeting.
• Discussed Main Street brick sidewalk replacement at Christ Church (no vote).
• Discussed proposed commission rules and regulations (no vote).
• Discussed filling commission vacancy; suggested Peter Capodagli and Tracy Sladen (no vote).

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will discuss the status of a Building Needs Assessment and RFP. The meeting also includes updates on meal counts, WiFi connectivity, and committee reports.

• Status of Building Needs Assessment/RFP
• Meal site update and meal counts
• WiFi connection update
• Personnel committee report

The Fitchburg Council on Aging Board approved minutes, the treasurer's report, and motions to repair the broken dishwasher, invite Russell to every meeting with an itemized issue list, and draft revised Codes of Conduct based on Achunet Senior Center standards. The MOC site manager is leaving Nov. 24 due to vaccine refusal, halting meals until a replacement is found. The board also discussed masonry safety concerns, parking issues, and pending items like the MOC contract and by-laws review.

• Approved October meeting minutes after corrected copies were provided
• Approved treasurer's report with Sunshine Fund balance of $205
• Approved motion to send written invitation to Russell for every meeting with itemized issues
• Approved motion to authorize Bill to repair the broken dishwasher
• Approved motion for Joan to draft revised Codes of Conduct for BOD review and City Solicitor approval
• Noted MOC site manager's last day is Nov. 24 due to vaccine refusal; meals suspended until replacement found
• Discussed parking issues; suggested staff park on side of building to free spaces
• Agreed to incorporate Achunet Senior Center standards into Fitchburg Senior Center Codes of Conduct

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to review financial reports and approve various project-related motions. Agenda items include funding for the Wallace Tower Tenant Association and change orders for Green Acres. The board will also consider accepting a large grant for ASHP.

• $750,000 UNITIL Grant for ASHP
• $32,072.26 change order for Green Acres basement
• $33,354.01 proposed change order for Green Acres gutters
• $780.00 in funds for Wallace Tower Tenant Association
• Final completion of paving at Overland Street

The Board voted to approve Option 1, the back field location, for the new Administrative-Community Building at Green Acres, after discussing traffic and safety concerns with city officials. They also approved two change orders for the basement project, including one for gutters and downspouts, and authorized the chair to select a low bidder for a 4th floor office project at C.J. Durkin. The meeting was opened with a quorum of three board members present.

• Approved minutes of the October 27, 2021 regular session, with a correction requested by Vice Chair Giannetti.
• Approved FHA payables for October-November FY2021.
• Approved January-October financials FY2021.
• Approved Change Order #002 for $32,072.76 for the basement project.
• Approved Change Order #004 for $33,354.01 for gutters and downspouts.
• Approved $780.00 in funds for the Wallace Tower Tenant Association.
• Approved the UNITIL Grant for ASHP at Wallace Tower (FISH097132).
• Approved substantial and final completion for FISH097134 (Overland Driveway & Sidewalk Replacement).

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) meeting scheduled for November 17, 2021, has been canceled because no agenda items require formal action. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 15 at 1:00 PM.

Airport Commission

The commission will review ongoing airport work, including the Airport Master Plan and fuel transfer systems. The meeting also includes discussions regarding hangar renovations and a drone ordinance.

• Review of Airport Master Plan and ongoing work
• RFP for Hangars 7 to 9
• Lease assignment for Rick Bullock
• Land access rental with Leominster DPW
• Discussion regarding drone ordinance

The commission voted 3-0 to approve $7,000 for new drawings of Hangar 10, needed because original drawings were lost and a New Hampshire company requires them to build and install a new door. Minutes from September and October were tabled for the December meeting. The commission also discussed ongoing issues with the airport's grounding system affecting navigational aids, with a meeting set for November 23rd to seek a solution.

• Approved $7,000 appropriation for new Hangar 10 drawings (vote 3-0).
• Tabled approval of September 22 and October 27 meeting minutes for December.
• Discussed grounding system issue affecting NavAids; meeting set for November 23rd.
• Noted FAA and MassDOT are working on restricted zone issue (R4102A & R4102B).
• Reported Fitchburg City Council approved lease assignment from Rick Bullock to Mr. Corley.
• Noted drone ordinance approved by Solicitor Pusateri, awaiting MassDOT review.
• Reported Leominster DPW land access rental awaiting mayor's signature for $8,600.
• Discussed airport master plan Chapter 4; comments due December 1st.

City Council

The City Council will vote on several financial appropriations, including $600,000 for the School Department. The agenda also includes grant approvals for community policing and energy-saving programs. Additionally, the council will hear a petition regarding utility pole relocation.

• $600,000 appropriation to the School Department
• $151,283 Green Communities grant for energy saving programs
• $100,000 transfer for Longsjo Middle School window replacement
• Public hearing for Unitil pole relocation near Harvard and Boylston Streets
• PILOT Agreement with North Branch Energy, LLC for a solar project

The Fitchburg City Council confirmed three new full-time student police officers and approved multiple finance orders, including $71,227 for community policing, $24,403 for police equipment, $20,000 for police station entrance renovations, $28,000 for homelessness outreach, $100,000 for Longsjo Middle School window replacement, and $151,283 for energy-saving programs. The council also approved a Unitil utility pole relocation petition and authorized the mayor to consent to an airport lease assignment from Bullock Charter to Cornerstone Aviation. All votes were unanimous (10-0) except the airport lease, which passed by roll call 10-0.

• Confirmed three new full-time student police officers (10-0)
• Approved $71,227 COPS grant for community policing (10-0)
• Approved $24,403 DOJ grant for police equipment (10-0)
• Approved $20,000 transfer for police station entrance renovation (10-0)
• Approved $28,000 for homelessness outreach services (10-0)
• Approved $100,000 for Longsjo Middle School window replacement (10-0)
• Approved $151,283 energy grant for city programs (10-0)
• Approved Unitil pole relocation petition (10-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The subcommittee will review meeting notes from October 26, 2021. Members will discuss priority coronavirus-related policy concerns requested by the administration. The group will also check the status of policies with legal counsel and continue reviewing fraud, naming opportunities, and instruction policies.

• Review of meeting notes from October 26, 2021
• Review of coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Status update on policies with legal counsel or administration
• Review of Fraud Policy (DIF)
• Review of Naming Opportunities (FF) and Instruction policies

Appointments Committee

The Fitchburg Appointments Committee is meeting to discuss new appointments for the position of Full Time Student Police Officers. The candidates listed are Noel Ntoro, Ashley Perez, and Alison Tota.

• New appointments for Full Time Student Police Officers: Noel Ntoro, Ashley Perez, and Alison Tota

Human Rights Commission

The commission will review and vote on the October 2021 meeting minutes. The agenda includes presentations from Community Legal Aid-Fitchburg Office and Open Sky Community Services. Members will also hear reports from the Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup.

• Vote on October 2021 meeting minutes
• Presentation from Community Legal Aid-Fitchburg Office
• Presentation from Open Sky Community Services
• Annual voting of Chairperson nominees
• Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup reports

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council will review specific grants and receive updates on grantee modifications or extensions. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Winter Bazaar, FCC TV 2021 schedule, and the date for Fitchburg Open Studios 2022.

• Review of grants 16291, 16421, 6108, 7636, 4261, and 11317
• Winter Bazaar update
• Fitchburg Open Studios 2022 date discussion
• FCC TV 2021 schedule review

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will review meeting minutes and a budget summary report. The board will vote on a MassDevelopment Under Utilized Property Grant award and discuss space requests for Putnam Place. An executive session is scheduled to discuss the purchase of 520 Main Street and the potential purchase of 808 Main Street.

• Vote to approve MassDevelopment Under Utilized Property Grant award
• Space request from Fitchburg Health Department for Putnam Place
• Discussion regarding the purchase of 520 Main Street
• Discussion regarding the potential purchase of 808 Main Street
• Funding request for Rotary Breakfast of the Bands

Fitchburg Public Schools

The committee will review reports from several subcommittees and the Superintendent. Proposed actions include approving a water donation for South Street students and submitting a grant application for financial literacy.

• Approval of $5,000 water donation from Charles W. Moore Lodge Angel Fund for South Street students
• Recommendation to submit a $48,250 grant titled Financial Literacy
• Presentation of MASC Recognition Award to a School Committee member

License Commission

The License Commission will review various 2022 permit applications, including Sunday entertainment and late closing licenses. The agenda also includes a taxi driver application and a manager change for Facility Management Corp.

• Taxi driver application for David Bruce Fortier (City Cab, Co.)
• Manager change at Facility Management Corp. (1000 John Fitch Highway)
• Sunday entertainment permits for Knights of Columbus and Paddock Lounge
• Late closing permit renewals for businesses including The Boulder and Partners Pub
• Package license renewals for Twin City Market, Wine World, and others

The Fitchburg License Commission approved all 2022 entertainment and late-closing permit applications, including new and renewal permits, with unanimous 2-0 votes. Two entertainment permits (The Boulder and Partners Pub) were conditionally approved pending fire alarm installation. The board also approved a change of manager for Facility Management Corp. and granted a taxi driver application leave to withdraw. No action was taken on police reports involving Major's Café, with further discussion deferred to an upcoming inspection.

• Approved change of manager for Facility Management Corp. to G. Jeffery Thomas (2-0)
• Approved 2022 Sunday entertainment permits for Knights of Columbus and Paddock Lounge (2-0)
• Approved 2022 Mon-Sat entertainment permits for The Boulder (conditional), Falcon Hub, Knights of Columbus, Paddock Lounge, and Partners Pub (conditional) (2-0)
• Approved new 2AM late closing permit for Tacos Tequila's (2-0)
• Approved 2022 renewals for 1AM late closing permit (Falcon Hub) and 2AM permits (The Boulder, Dario's Diner, Knights of Columbus, Major's Café, Paddock Lounge, Partners Pub, River Styx Brewing) (2-0)
• Approved 2022 pouring license renewal for Tacos Tequila's (2-0)
• Approved 2022 package license renewals for Bill Bailey Wachusett, Peerless E C, Inc., Twin City Market, Wine World, Wyman's Liquors (2-0)
• Granted leave to withdraw for taxi driver application of David Bruce Fortier (2-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review several school policies. This includes addressing coronavirus-related policy concerns requested by administration and reviewing the Fraud Policy. The committee will also check the status of policies currently with legal counsel or administration.

• Review and adoption of October 26, 2021 meeting notes
• Review of coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Status update on policies in review with Legal Counsel and/or Administration
• Review of the Fraud Policy (DIF)
• Review of Section I Instruction policies

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee will review previous meeting notes and discuss priority policy reviews requested by the administration regarding coronavirus-related concerns. The committee will also check the status of policies currently with legal counsel and continue reviewing policies related to fraud, naming opportunities, and instruction.

• Review of coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Review of Fraud Policy (DIF)
• Review of Naming Opportunities Policy (FF)
• Review of Section I Instruction Policies

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The meeting includes updates from the Superintendent-Director and Principal regarding school goals and enrollment. The committee will also review subcommittee reports, personnel changes, and various financial items including insurance rates and grants.

• Superintendent-Director 2021-2022 goals presentation
• Review of medical and dental insurance rates
• Results of surplus equipment auction
• Acceptance of Capital Skills Grant
• Approval of lease

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The subcommittee will review a working draft of the five-year Capital Plan. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the February 23, 2021 meeting.

• Review of the 5-year working draft of the Capital Plan
• Approval of minutes from the February 23, 2021 meeting

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee is reviewing administration-requested coronavirus policies and the status of policies currently with legal counsel. The committee will also continue reviews of fraud, naming opportunities, and instruction policies.

• Adoption of October 26, 2021 meeting notes
• Coronavirus-related policy review
• Fraud Policy (DIF) review
• Naming Opportunities Review (FF)
• Section I Instruction policies review

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

This meeting consists of routine administrative reports and subcommittee updates. The committee will also review financial items such as insurance rates and grant acceptances.

• Acceptance of Capital Skills Grant
• Medical and dental insurance rates
• Results of surplus equipment auction
• Personnel appointments, retirements, and resignations

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee School Personnel Sub Committee will hold an executive session to discuss a grievance. No other agenda items are listed for this meeting.

• Executive session to discuss a grievance

Disability Commission

The Fitchburg Disability Commission will review October minutes and discuss grant funding projects. The commission will also consider a motion to spend $200 on art supplies for an accessible art project.

• Vote on spending $200 for holiday ornament art supplies
• Discussion of Community Access Training
• Discussion of Grant Funding Projects

The Fitchburg Disability Commission held its monthly meeting, discussing an accessible playground update, art classes, and potential spring Community Access Training. No formal votes were taken; the commission compiled a list of curb cut and sidewalk issues to send to the Department of Public Works and noted a complaint about a non-functioning crosswalk signal at Main and Mechanic.

• Compiled list of curb cuts and sidewalk issues for DPW (Wallace/Elm, Day St, Grove St, Main St, Rollstone Rd, Caldwell St, Anwelt Complex, Library Parking)
• Noted complaint about non-functioning crosswalk chirping signal at Main and Mechanic
• Discussed holding Community Access Training in spring for local and surrounding commissioners
• Reviewed accessible playground progress at Parkhill (rubber surfacing being installed)
• Scheduled next meeting for December 8, 2021, at 1:30pm in City Hall East Meeting Room

Water & Wastewater Commission

The Commission will review updates on water meter upgrades and storage tank replacements. The meeting includes a continued public hearing regarding a sewer billing abatement request for 68 Bilotta Way. Additionally, the agenda covers wastewater division project progress and infrastructure updates.

• Public hearing for 68 Bilotta Way sewer billing abatement appeal
• Supply chain delays affecting Falulah transmission main and SCADA
• RFP extension for West Plant Anaerobic Digestion to March 31, 2022
• Progress on Clarendon & Nashua St. combined sewer projects
• Appointment recommendation for Deputy Commissioner of Wastewater

The Water/Wastewater Commission voted unanimously to uphold its previous denial of a sewer abatement request for 68 Bilotta Way, after the property owner, Kasia Allen, presented no new evidence. The commission also recommended Anthony Maressa for appointment as Deputy Commissioner of Wastewater, and approved the minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting.

• Approved minutes from October 13, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Reopened and upheld denial of sewer abatement for 68 Bilotta Way (unanimous)
• Recommended Anthony Maressa for Deputy Commissioner of Wastewater (unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review committee reports, including updates on the new director search. The agenda also includes discussions regarding teacher card policies and staff meeting schedules. Additionally, the board will address display case removal and elevator repair reimbursement.

• New Director Search Committee report
• Teacher card policy
• Staff meeting monthly schedule
• Display case removal
• Elevator repair reimbursement

The Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees voted to remove the display case outside the front door, known as 'the tomb.' The board also approved the minutes of the October 13 meeting as amended and discussed the director search, including posting the position and interview procedures. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021, as amended
• Voted to remove the display case outside the front door ('the tomb')

City Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to conduct a final reading of an ordinance amending ward boundary descriptions. The agenda also includes the appointment of full-time student police officers and the recognition of council members.

• Final reading of Ordinance 187-21 regarding ward boundary descriptions
• Appointment of Noel Ntoro, Ashley Perez, and Alison Tota as full-time student police officers
• Recognition of Ward Councillors for Wards 1 through 6

The City Council held a special meeting to consider the final reading of Ordinance 187-21, which amends Chapter 47-1.A ward boundary descriptions. After a presentation by the Mayor's Chief of Staff explaining corrections to boundary markers and a map error, the council unanimously approved the ordinance. The ordinance was adopted on a final reading with a 9-0 roll call vote.

• Adopted Ordinance 187-21 amending ward boundary descriptions (9-0)
• Approved amendment to the ordinance by unanimous consent (9-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing orders to approve various grants and municipal fund transfers. These items cover community policing, school maintenance, homelessness services, and energy efficiency.

• $71,227 COPS grant for community policing
• $24,403 DOJ grant for community policing equipment
• $20,000 transfer for Police Station entrance security
• $100,000 transfer for Longsjo Middle School window replacement
• $151,283 Green Communities grant for energy saving programs

The Finance Committee approved all six orders on the agenda, including expenditures from federal and state grants for community policing, police station safety, homelessness outreach, Longsjo School window replacement, and energy-saving programs. All motions passed unanimously, with one 4-0 vote before Councilor Zarrella arrived.

• Approved $71,227 COPS grant for police accreditation and software (4-0)
• Approved $24,403 DOJ grant for community policing equipment and overtime (5-0)
• Approved $20,000 transfer for police station entrance staging (5-0)
• Approved $28,000 for homelessness outreach services from CDBG Year 47 (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 for Longsjo School window replacement feasibility study (5-0)
• Approved $151,283 Green Communities grant for energy projects (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review several applications for property changes in Fitchburg. These include requests for residential conversions, garage expansions, and a new truck repair business. Some cases are continuances from previous sessions.

• Truck maintenance/repair business permit at 69 Benson St
• Basement to in-law apartment conversion at 22 Berkshire St
• Four-family dwelling reinstatement at 147 Daniels St
• Garage expansion variance at 36 Castle Rd
• Deck installation variance at 71 Ethier St

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance to John and Melissa Pagonis to expand their garage at 36 Castle Rd, reducing the side setback to 11.2 feet, with conditions. The board also approved a special permit for an accessory apartment at 22 Berkshire St, subject to conditions including a floor plan and affidavit. Other cases were continued, including a truck maintenance business at 69 Benson St and a four-family dwelling at 147 Daniels St, pending further review.

• Granted variance for garage expansion at 36 Castle Rd (5-0)
• Approved accessory apartment special permit at 22 Berkshire St (5-0)
• Continued truck maintenance special permit at 69 Benson St to Dec 14 (5-0)
• Continued four-family dwelling special permit at 147 Daniels St to Jan 11, 2022 (5-0)
• Continued two-family dwelling review at 220-222 Albee St to Dec 14 (5-0)
• Continued three-family dwelling special permit at 12 Nashua St to Feb 8, 2022 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for a Dunkin’ Donuts replacement and a mixed-use conversion at 759-769 Main St. The meeting also includes reviews of site plan modifications for cannabis retail and parking expansions. Additionally, the board will discuss conceptual plans for River Street buildings.

• Special Permit for Dunkin’ Donuts replacement at 580 John Fitch Hwy
• Conversion of 759-769 Main St to commercial and residential use
• Revised floor plan for Green Meadows Farms, LLC at 50 Whalon St
• Parking expansion at 1427 Water St
• Conceptual plan for buildings at 87, 89, and 91 River St

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved a revised floor plan for Green Meadows Farms' medical cannabis facility at 50 Whalon St., subject to police review, and granted a one-year extension for MART's expanded parking project at 1427 Water St. The board also approved a special permit for converting 759-769 Main St. into commercial and residential use, and continued a hearing for a proposed Dunkin' Donuts at 580 John Fitch Highway pending a traffic study.

• Approved Green Meadows Farms floor plan modification (6-0), subject to Fitchburg Police review
• Granted MART site plan approval extension to November 2022 meeting (6-0)
• Approved special permit for 759-769 Main St. conversion to commercial and 4 residential units (7-0)
• Continued Dunkin' Donuts special permit hearing to December meeting (7-0)
• Approved September 14 meeting minutes with corrections (7-0)
• Approved October 12 meeting minutes with corrections (7-0)
• Approved October 26 meeting minutes as written (7-0)

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will conduct a site visit at 808 Main Street. The agenda also includes an administrative report and standard procedural items.

• Site visit to 808 Main Street

Sheriff's Sale

The Worcester County Deputy Sheriff will hold a public auction to sell the interest of Professional Performance, LLC in the property at 133-137 Laurel Street. The sale is being conducted per a court-issued execution involving Equity Trust Company FBO CM Strategies, LLC Solo 401K Plan. Bidders must present a $5,000 deposit to qualify for the auction.

• Public auction of 133-137 Laurel Street, Fitchburg
• $5,000 deposit required to qualify as a bidder
• Sale follows judgment in favor of Equity Trust Company FBO CM Strategies, LLC Solo 401K Plan

City Council

The council is reviewing committee reports regarding sidewalk repairs and street signage. The agenda also includes orders for several grants and fund transfers, including items for school maintenance and community policing.

• $151,283.00 grant for energy saving programs
• $100,000.00 transfer for window replacement at Arthur M. Longsjo Middle School
• $28,000.00 appropriation for Homelessness Outreach Services
• $71,227.00 grant for Community Oriented Policing Services
• Renaming of Union Street to include Adrian Ford Way

The Fitchburg City Council approved several public works petitions, including berm and sidewalk repairs, and held one petition for a traffic study. It also referred multiple finance orders to the Finance Committee for approval of grant expenditures and fund transfers. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Granted petition to install berm at 52 Warren Street (11-0)
• Granted petition to repair sidewalk at 99 Pleasant Street (11-0)
• Granted amended petition to co-name Union Street as Adrian Ford Way (11-0)
• Granted petition for berm and apron work at 25 Mayland Street (11-0)
• Granted petition to repair sidewalk at 11 Nutting Street (11-0)
• Held petition to remove 'No Turn on Red' sign for traffic study (11-0)
• Granted amended petition to add signage at 113 Summit Street (11-0)
• Referred six finance orders to Finance Committee

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review COVID-19 updates including case numbers and vaccination rates. The board will also consider petitions regarding the mask mandate and waste pickup. Additionally, members will discuss amending an order related to student vaccinations for extra-curricular activities.

• Petition to remove BOH Mask Mandate
• Petition regarding special interest money in waste pickup
• Amendment of Order #2021-4 (student vaccination mandate)
• Approval of September and October 2021 meeting minutes

The Fitchburg Board of Health voted to continue the municipal mask mandate in all municipal and school buildings, rejecting a petition to remove it. The board also amended its vaccination mandate for Fitchburg Public Schools students in extracurricular activities to a testing-only requirement. Additionally, the board voted to refer concerns about campaign contributions from waste haulers to the City Council.

• Continued mask mandate in all municipal and school buildings (motion carried)
• Amended BOH Order #2021-4 to change vaccination mandate for FPS extracurricular students to testing-only (motion carried)
• Referred petition on waste hauler campaign contributions to City Council (motion carried)
• Approved meeting minutes for Sept 2, Sept 23, and Oct 14, 2021 (all in favor)

License Commission

The License Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding a new retail restaurant, wine, and malt beverage license for Doughboys Pizzeria. The commission will also review minutes from previous meetings and consider a new taxi driver application for David Bruce Fortier of City Cab, Co.

• Public hearing for Doughboys Pizzeria at 150 Main Street
• New taxi driver application for David Bruce Fortier with City Cab, Co.

The Fitchburg License Commission approved a new Retail Restaurant, Wine and Malt Beverage License for Doughboys Pizzeria at 150 Main Street by a unanimous 3-0 roll call vote. The commission also continued a taxi driver application for David Bruce Fortier to the next meeting because he was not present. Additionally, the commission discussed an incident at Major's Cafe and a question about free drinks for pool leagues, but took no formal action on these matters.

• Approved new Retail Restaurant, Wine and Malt Beverage License for Doughboys Pizzeria, 150 Main Street (3-0)
• Continued taxi driver application for David Bruce Fortier to November 15 meeting (3-0)
• Approved minutes of October 18, 2021 (3-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will meet via Zoom to review and approve minutes from the October 19, 2021, meeting. The subcommittee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for the superintendent position.

• Approval of October 19, 2021, meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview superintendent applicants
• Approval of October 19, 2021, executive session minutes

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss potential real estate transactions during an executive session. These discussions include the possible sale of properties at 200 Boulder Drive and 0 Airport Road, as well as the potential purchase of 808 Main Street.

• Potential sale of 200 Boulder Drive
• Potential sale of 0 Airport Road
• Potential purchase of 808 Main Street

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee is meeting to vote on several financial items and grant applications. This includes reviewing funding for student activities and educator workforce diversity. The committee will also address building repair programs and personnel benefits.

• Approval of $35,000 MASS GRAD Grant submission
• Acceptance of $25,000 BARR Foundation grant for educator workforce diversity
• Approval of $640 donation from Parchment LLC for Fitchburg High School activities
• Acceptance of invitation to the MSBA accelerated Repair Program
• Addition of ten sick days to Permanent Building Substitute positions

Cultural Council

The Public Relations Subcommittee will discuss planning for the Winter Bazaar, including press releases and promotion. The meeting also covers FCC TV tapings, new membership, and a new logo. No votes or deliberations are scheduled for this meeting.

• Winter Bazaar planning and promotion
• FCC TV programming and FATV membership
• New membership and logo discussion
• Public relations approvals

Historical Commission

The Commission will review meeting minutes and proposed rules and regulations. Members will also receive updates on the Demolition Delay and Stone Wall Preservation ordinance drafts. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions regarding Simonds Saw and Steel demolition and a new housing development marker.

• Proposed Commission Rules and Regulations
• Demolition Delay and Stone Wall Preservation ordinance drafts
• Historic site marker wording for Blossom and Crescent Streets development
• Simonds Saw and Steel demolition and time capsule transfer
• Nominating several cemeteries as local historic places

The Fitchburg Historical Commission voted unanimously to transfer the contents of a time capsule opened during the demolition of Simonds Saw and Steel to the Fitchburg Historical Society. The commission also discussed options for designating public burial grounds as historic sites, but tabled approval of minutes from previous meetings and continued work on several ordinances and regulations.

• Voted unanimously to transfer time capsule contents to Fitchburg Historical Society
• Tabled approval of June 24, 2021 minutes
• Tabled approval of August 26, 2021 minutes
• Tabled approval of September 30, 2021 minutes

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to review fiscal year 2021 financials and audits. The board will also consider motions regarding new tenant fees, notary services, and the recognition of a local tenant organization.

• Approval of new tenant fees and fines
• Bid results for 76 Mechanic Street (Elizabeth House)
• Recognition of Canton Valley Tenant Association
• Review of FY2021 financial reports and audits
• Request for ARPA and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds

The Fitchburg Housing Authority board approved several items, including a $2,500 bid from Our Father's Housing for Elizabeth House, new tenant fees and fines, and a request for $200,000 in local ARPA funds for Wallace Tower and Green Acres projects. The board also recognized the Canton Valley Tenant Association as a Local Tenant Organization, effective upon satisfactory review of documents. A motion to choose a location for the administrative-community building was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved bid results for Elizabeth House: Our Father's Housing bid of $2,500 plus property taxes and water/sewer bills (all in favor)
• Approved new tenant fees and fines (all in favor)
• Approved request for $100,000 ARPA funds for Wallace Tower and $100,000 for Green Acres admin building (all in favor)
• Approved recognition of Canton Valley Tenant Association as Local Tenant Organization, effective upon satisfactory review of documents (all in favor)
• Approved notary services fee schedule with option A amended to free for FHA-related documents (all in favor)
• Approved allocation and drawdown of admin fees for Green Acres Basement Project (all in favor)
• Tabled motion to select location for administrative-community building until next meeting (all in favor)
• Approved FHA payables for September-October FY2021 and January-September financials FY2021 (all in favor)

Airport Commission

The Fitchburg Airport Commission will review the Airport Master Plan and ongoing infrastructure work. The meeting also includes discussions regarding drone ordinances and hangar maintenance.

• Review of Airport Master Plan and fuel transfer systems
• RFP for 7 to 9 hangars
• Discussion regarding a Drone Ordinance
• Lease assignment for Rick Bullock
• Land access rental involving Leominster DPW

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission voted 4-0 to allow Rick Bullock to reassign his current hangar lease to Richard Corley, with about six years remaining. The commission also voted 4-0 to extend the RFP for 7 to 9 hangars by 90 days to allow attorneys to resolve exceptions raised by the Principle Group. Other items were discussed, including grounding test results, the airport master plan, and a new lobby door, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved lease reassignment from Rick Bullock to Richard Corley (4-0)
• Extended RFP for 7-9 hangars by 90 days (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance to amend ward boundary descriptions in Chapter 47-1.A. This special meeting is scheduled for October 26, 2021.

• Ordinance 187-21: Amendment to Chapter 47-1.A regarding ward boundary descriptions

The City Council held a special meeting to consider an ordinance amending Chapter 47-1.A, which updates ward boundary descriptions based on the 2021 Ward and Precinct map. The ordinance was passed to a first and second reading and ordered advertised by a roll call vote of 9 in favor and 0 opposed. The changes will take effect December 31, 2021.

• Approved ordinance 187-21 amending ward boundaries (9-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The subcommittee will review priority policies requested by the administration, specifically regarding coronavirus-related concerns. The meeting also includes updates on policies under legal review and a continuing review of fraud and instruction policies.

• Review of coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Status update on policies in review with Legal Counsel or Administration
• Review of Fraud Policy (DIF)
• Review of Section I Instruction Policies
• Adoption of September 14, 2021 meeting notes

Finance Committee

The meeting agenda consists only of a cancellation notice. The regular meeting of the Fitchburg City Council Finance Committee scheduled for Tuesday, October 26, 2021, has been cancelled.

• Cancellation of the October 26, 2021, Finance Committee meeting

Planning Board

The Fitchburg Planning Board will meet to review plans that do not require approval. This includes a continued review for Warner Ave./Central Ave. involving Greenstone Realty and a plan for Culley St. by Seney.

• Warner Ave./Central Ave. plan review (Greenstone Realty)
• Culley St. plan review (Seney)

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved two ANR (Approval Not Required) plans. The first, for Greenstone Realty on Warner Ave./Central Ave., was endorsed after revisions, and the second, for Steve Seney on Culley St., was endorsed despite no one being present. Both votes were 6-0 in favor. The board also agreed to defer action on meeting minutes and discussed improving hybrid meeting audio.

• Authorized Mike O'Hara to endorse ANR plan for Warner Ave./Central Ave. (6-0)
• Authorized Mike O'Hara to endorse ANR plan for Culley St. (6-0)
• Deferred action on meeting minutes until next meeting

Retirement Board

This meeting consists of routine administrative and procedural items. The board will review retirements, refunds, transfers, and financial records including bank statements and warrants.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers
• Review of warrants, accounting, and bank statements
• Report on new members

The Fitchburg Retirement Board approved the October 2021 warrant totaling $1,656,136.91, the September 2021 accounting and bank statements, and the September 26, 2021 meeting minutes (regular and executive session). The board also approved three retirements (Norman Tourigny III, James Marabello, Randolph Silverberg) and admitted 19 new members to the retirement system. No substantive policy decisions were made; new business items (assistant administrator position, stipend deductions, fifth board member) were discussed but deferred.

• Approved October 2021 warrant of $1,656,136.91 (5-0)
• Approved September 2021 accounting and bank statements (5-0)
• Approved September 26, 2021 regular meeting minutes (5-0) and executive session minutes (4-0, Farrell abstained)
• Approved Norman Tourigny III's Option C retirement effective Oct 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved James Marabello's Option C retirement effective Oct 17, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved Randolph Silverberg's Option B retirement effective Oct 18, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved 19 new members to the retirement system (5-0)
• Noted death of Jane Howell, spouse of Richard Howell, triggering Option C pop-up

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review new petitions for infrastructure improvements, including sidewalk repairs and berm installations. The committee will also revisit held petitions regarding a traffic sign removal and a barrier installation.

• Rename Union Street in Ward 5B to Adrian Ford Way
• Install a berm at 52 Warren Street to address water erosion
• Repair sidewalks at 99 Pleasant Street and 11 Nutting Street
• Replace asphalt berm and add apron at 25 Mayland St
• Remove “No Turn on Red” sign at John T. Cetrino Memorial Drive and Water Street

The Public Works Committee approved five petitions, including a berm installation, sidewalk repairs, a street co-naming, and a berm/apron replacement. One petition was held pending a traffic study. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved berm installation at 52 Warren Street (3-0)
• Approved sidewalk repair at 99 Pleasant Street (3-0)
• Approved co-naming Union Street to include Adrian Ford Way (4-0)
• Approved berm and apron replacement at 25 Mayland St (4-0)
• Approved sidewalk repair at 11 Nutting Street (4-0)
• Held petition to remove 'No Turn on Red' sign at Cetrino Drive and Water Street until traffic study completed (4-0)
• Approved amended petition to add signage at 113 Summit Street (4-0)

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss the potential sale of the 200 Boulder Drive property. The board will also discuss a new hire's salary during an executive session. An administrative report is scheduled for review.

• Potential sale of 200 Boulder Drive property
• Salary of new hire
• Administrative report

Community Outreach Meetings

ACT Laboratories of MA is holding a virtual community outreach meeting regarding a proposed independent testing lab. The facility would be located at 131 John Fitch Highway. Residents can participate via Zoom or submit questions in advance by email.

• Proposed independent testing lab at 131 John Fitch Highway

Trustees of Public Burial Grounds

The Trustees of Public Burial Grounds will discuss maintenance projects at Laurel Hill, including fencing and temporary cameras. The meeting also includes updates on mausoleum repairs and a review of current cemetery pricing.

• Fencing Phase #4 at Laurel Hill
• Temporary camera installation at Laurel Hill
• Update on RFP for mausoleum repairs
• Review of current cemetery pricing
• Donation from Sally Cragin and Stratton Players Production

The Cemetery Trustee Board approved a Veterans Day program at Forest Hill Cemetery and authorized using a $25,000 state earmark for mausoleum repairs. They also approved the September meeting minutes and discussed cemetery price increases, historic preservation status, and a temporary camera at Laurel Hill.

• Approved September 16, 2021 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Veterans Day program at Forest Hill Cemetery on Nov 13 (4-0)
• Approved using $25,000 state earmark for mausoleum repairs (4-0)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Workforce Subcommittee will review proposed Superintendent-Director goals for the 2021-2022 school year. The committee will also review and approve meeting minutes from May 19, 2021.

• Review of proposed Superintendent-Director goals for 2021-2022
• Approval of May 19, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of May 19, 2021 executive session minutes

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting scheduled for October 20, 2021, is canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 17 at 1:00 PM.

Human Rights Commission

The Fitchburg Human Rights Commission will meet virtually on October 20, 2021. The agenda includes a presentation from the Community Legal Aid-Fitchburg Office and reports from racial justice subgroups. Commissioners will also discuss future programs and the Peace Pole Project.

• Presentation from Community Legal Aid-Fitchburg Office
• Vote on September 2021 meeting minutes
• Reports from Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup
• Discussion of Peace Pole Project focusing on children and youth

City Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to conduct a hearing. The session focuses on the classification and taxation of property according to its use.

• Hearing regarding property classification and taxation according to use

The City Council held a special hearing on the classification and taxation of property for FY2022. After discussion with assessors, the Council voted 10-1 to adopt a 0% shift, maintaining a 100% classification. This results in a single residential and commercial/industrial/personal tax rate of $17.61, subject to Department of Revenue approval.

• Adopted 0% tax shift to keep 100% classification (10-1)

City Council

The council will review committee reports regarding appointments, finance, and legislative rule changes. Key items include approving grants for flood mitigation and COVID-19 response, as well as a fund transfer for police vehicles. A public hearing is also scheduled for propane tank installation at 200 Game on Way.

• $500,000 ARPA grant for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing
• $173,350 grant for Baker Brook drainage Basin flood mitigation
• $212,000 transfer for police vehicle replacement
• Propane tank installation at 200 Game on Way
• Amendments to City Council voting and speaking rules

The Fitchburg City Council unanimously approved several orders, including $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing, and $173,350 for flooding mitigation in the Baker Brook drainage basin. It also confirmed two appointments, amended council rules, granted a propane tank installation petition, and adopted an ordinance on permit holder definitions and municipal charges liens.

• Approved $500,000 ARPA funds for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing (11-0)
• Approved $173,350 grant for Baker Brook flooding mitigation (11-0)
• Approved $40,000 grant for staffing review (11-0)
• Approved $212,000 transfer for four police vehicles (11-0)
• Confirmed Liz Murphy to Cultural Council and Gary Kirschke to Zoning Board (11-0)
• Amended Council Rules 3.5 and 3.6 on motion withdrawal (11-0)
• Granted Game on Way propane tank installation petition (11-0)
• Adopted ordinance on permit holder definition and municipal charges lien (11-0)

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council will hold a public hearing regarding petition 185-21. The petition concerns the installation of four above-ground and four underground 1,000-gallon propane tanks at 200 Game on Way.

• Public hearing for flammable storage petition 185-21
• Installation of four 1,000 gallon above-ground propane tanks at 200 Game on Way
• Installation of four 1,000 gallon underground propane tanks at 200 Game on Way

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review meeting minutes from October 5, 2021. The committee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for the superintendent position.

• Review and approval of October 5, 2021, subcommittee meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview employment applicants
• Review and approval of October 5, 2021, executive session minutes

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is considering new members for two local boards. The meeting includes appointments for the Fitchburg Cultural Council and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Appointment of Ms. Liz Murphy to the Fitchburg Cultural Council
• Appointment of Mr. Gary N. Kirschke as Associate Member of the Zoning Board of Appeals

Cultural Council

The council will discuss grantee updates, modifications, and extensions. The agenda also includes a recap of Fitchburg Open Studios and planning for upcoming winter events.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• Fitchburg Open Studios recap
• Winter events planning
• FCC TV fall schedule
• Treasurer’s and Grant Coordinator report

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will consider authorizing the conveyance of land at 49 Snow Street. The agenda includes a presentation on ARPA funds and a facilities update for Putnam Place. The board will also discuss potential property sales in an executive session.

• Vote to authorize land conveyance at 49 Snow Street
• Presentation on ARPA funds by Tom Skwierawski
• Putnam Place facilities update
• Funding request for Fitchburg Art Museum Corporate Sponsorship Renewal
• Potential sale of FRA property at 0 Airport Road and 200 Boulder Drive

Fitchburg Public Schools

The committee will review the Superintendent's report and approve delegates for a joint conference. Action items include a recommendation to close School Choice for 3rd Grade Only for the remainder of FY 21-22 and setting health requirements for a Disneyland trip.

• Closing School Choice for 3rd Grade Only for the remainder of FY 21-22
• Vaccination or negative PCR test requirements for the FPS Music Department Disneyland Trip
• Approval of delegates for the 2021 MASC/MASS Joint Conference

License Commission

The Fitchburg License Commission will review several permit applications, including a new retail restaurant and wine and malt beverage license for 150 Main Street. The meeting also includes an entertainment permit for Trick or Treat on Main Street and outdoor premises extensions for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co.

• New retail restaurant and wine and malt beverage license for Doughboys Pizzeria at 150 Main Street
• Entertainment permit for Trick or Treat on Main Street on October 30, 2021
• One-day wine and malt beverage license for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co at 265 Summer Street
• Extensions of outdoor licensed premises for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co at 265 Summer Street

The Fitchburg Board of License Commissioners approved several licenses and permits, including a Trick or Treat on Main Street entertainment permit, a special one-day wine and malt license for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co., and an extension of Thirsty Robot's outdoor licensed premises. They also accepted a new liquor license application from Doughboys Pizzeria for a public hearing. No applications were denied.

• Approved solicitor applications for three Power Home Remodeling representatives (3-0)
• Approved Trick or Treat on Main Street entertainment permit, amended to 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (3-0)
• Approved special one-day wine and malt license for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co. Vendor Fair (3-0)
• Approved outdoor premises extension for Thirsty Robot Brewing Co. (ELP-21-6) (3-0)
• Granted leave to withdraw Thirsty Robot's second extension application (ELP-21-7) (3-0)
• Accepted Doughboys Pizzeria liquor license application, referred to public hearing Nov. 3, 2021 (3-0)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee will review school building maintenance, including redistricting planning and ESSER III updates. The meeting also includes progress reports on the Crocker Field proposal and MSBA repair projects.

• Approval of June 16 and September 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Update on moving Gale to Phase II of the Crocker Field proposal
• MSBA Crocker Core Project funding agreement update
• Status of MSBA accelerated repairs for South Street Elementary boilers and roof
• Discussion regarding school building maintenance and ESSER III updates

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee will meet to approve draft minutes from June 16 and September 2, 2021. The agenda includes updates on enrollment, transportation, and low income reporting. Grants to be submitted or accepted are currently listed as TBA.

• Approval of June 16th and September 2nd, 2021 draft minutes
• Updates on low income reporting, enrollment, and transportation
• Review of grants (TBA) and donations

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review petitions regarding the rescission of mask mandates and a proposal to prohibit Waste Management from bidding on contracts for 10 years. The board will also discuss school-aged COVID-19 testing and vaccination mandates. Additionally, there will be a discussion regarding the Fitchburg/Westminster Sanitary Landfill.

• Petition to rescind BOH Mask Mandate in municipal buildings, schools and housing authority
• Petition to prohibit Waste Management from bidding on contracts for 10 years
• Review of school-aged COVID-19 testing mandate
• Review of school-aged vaccination mandate
• Discussion regarding Fitchburg/Westminster Sanitary Landfill

The Fitchburg Board of Health voted to maintain the existing mask mandate in municipal buildings, schools, and the Fitchburg Housing Authority, rejecting a petition to rescind it. The board also voted to require COVID-19 vaccination for students aged 12 and up participating in public school extracurricular activities, with religious and medical exemptions, and tabled a broader school vaccine mandate. Additionally, the board voted to allow Waste Management to continue its current contract and bid again in the future, denying a petition to bar the company from bidding for 10 years.

• Maintained mask mandate in municipal buildings, schools, and Fitchburg Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Denied petition to rescind mask mandate (unanimous)
• Required COVID-19 vaccination for students 12+ in public school extracurricular activities (unanimous)
• Added religious and medical exemptions to extracurricular vaccine requirement (unanimous)
• Tabled school-age COVID-19 testing and vaccination mandates for ages 12 and under (unanimous)
• Allowed Waste Management to finish current contract and bid again (unanimous)
• Denied petition to bar Waste Management from bidding for 10 years (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of September 2 and September 23, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will review treasurer, president, and director reports. Discussion includes Mass Historic Commission recommendations and COVID update/flu clinic information. Committee reports regarding personnel and building grounds are also scheduled.

• Mass Historic Commission recommendations update
• COVID update and flu clinic information
• Retired Men’s Club donation
• Formula Grant discussion
• Personnel and building/grounds committee reports

The Council on Aging Board approved a motion to request a written update from Russell on the status of the Special Needs Assessment, after noting redundant efforts between the Board and Russell. The board also accepted the treasurer's report and approved a motion to request a written update on the assessment. No other substantive decisions were made; most items remain pending.

• Approved motion to request written update from Russell on Special Needs Assessment status
• Accepted treasurer's report
• Approved motion to request update from Russell on gutters (copper/non-copper approval)

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council is holding a training session for its members. No deliberation or votes are scheduled to occur during this meeting.

• Training session for council members

Disability Commission

The commission will review September minutes and receive an update on the Accessible Art Project. The meeting also includes discussions regarding proposed projects for grant funding and Main Street renewal.

• Update on Accessible Art Project
• Proposed projects for Grant Funding
• Main Street renewal update
• Discussion of crossing lights on Main Street

The Fitchburg Disability Commission accepted the September meeting minutes and discussed several accessibility issues, including a non-working crosswalk signal at Main and Mechanic. Members compiled a list of curb cuts and sidewalk problems throughout the city to present to the Department of Public Works. The accessible playground equipment has been delivered with a December completion date, and a site visit is planned.

• Accepted September meeting minutes
• Compiled list of curb cuts and sidewalk issues for DPW
• Planned site visit to accessible playground after December completion
• Scheduled next meeting for November 10, 2021

Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC)

The committee will review the development and implementation of the Sterling Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. Members will also hear a MassDOT presentation regarding the Safe Routes to School Program and infrastructure funding. Additionally, the meeting includes contract status reports for the FTA, RTA, and MassDOT 3C.

• Overview of Sterling Complete Streets Prioritization Plan development and implementation
• Presentation on Safe Routes to School Program and infrastructure funding by MassDOT
• Review of August 11, 2021 meeting minutes
• Contract status reports for FTA, RTA, and MassDOT 3C

Water & Wastewater Commission

The commission will hear a public appeal regarding sewer billing for private irrigation systems. The meeting includes updates on water treatment plant operations and ongoing CSS construction projects. It also notes the resignation of the Deputy Commissioner of Wastewater.

• Public hearing on sewer billing abatement request for private irrigation usage
• Update on CSS separation/rehabilitation projects in Water Street and Main Street areas
• Presentation on staffing and equipment procurement for solids byproducts hauling
• Report on operational issues at Falulah Water Treatment Plant
• Resignation of Deputy Commissioner Jeff Murawski

The Commission voted unanimously to deny the sewer abatement appeal for 68 Bilotta Way after reviewing water usage data and finding no irregularities. They also approved minutes from prior meetings, recommended continuing contracted bio-solids transportation, and discussed water system issues and construction projects.

• Approved minutes from September 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 20, 2021 special meeting as modified (unanimous)
• Denied sewer abatement appeal for 68 Bilotta Way (unanimous)
• Recommended to City Council to continue contracted bio-solids transportation services (unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will discuss library operations, including ARPA funding and staffing. The board is scheduled to vote on a policy for individuals and pairs using meeting rooms. Committee reports regarding finance, legislation, and the director search will also be presented.

• Vote on policy for individuals and pairs using meeting rooms
• Discussion of ARPA funds from the City and MBLC
• Discussion regarding funding for a Teen Librarian position
• Reports on the New Director Search

The Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees approved funding to upgrade the part-time Teen Librarian position to full-time using State Aid if needed, and approved changes to the Meeting Room Policy with an added ALA Bill of Rights. They also discussed the director search, ARPA funds, and an IMLS grant opportunity.

• Approved funding for full-time Teen Librarian position using State Aid (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Meeting Room Policy and addition of ALA Bill of Rights
• Approved minutes of August 11 and September 15, 2021, with amendment to September minutes
• Agreed to notify Chair Bruun, Cindy Morawski, and Kim Cochrane of each director application received

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider orders regarding several grant expenditures and fund transfers. These include funding for Baker Brook flood mitigation and a city staffing level review.

• $500,000 in ARPA funds for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing
• $212,000 transfer to replace four police vehicles
• $173,350 grant for flood mitigation in the Baker Brook drainage Basin
• $40,000 grant for a review of city staffing levels

The Finance Committee approved four orders, including a $500,000 American Rescue Plan Act expenditure to expand COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing, and a $173,350 state grant to study flood mitigation in the Baker Brook drainage basin. It also approved $212,000 to replace four police vehicles and $40,000 for a citywide staffing review. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $40,000 Community Compact grant for a staffing review of all departments except public safety and schools (5-0).
• Approved $173,350 MVP Action Grant to explore flood mitigation in the Baker Brook drainage basin (5-0).
• Approved $212,000 transfer to replace four police vehicles, including extended warranties (5-0).
• Approved $500,000 ARPA funds for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and contact tracing activities (5-0).

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on several special permit requests and variances. These include proposals for multi-family dwellings, a driving school, and a cold storage warehouse.

• Special Permit for two-family dwelling at 220-222 Albee St
• Special Permit to change rooming house to single-family home at 80 Fairmount St
• Special Permit for driving school business at 72-80 Franklin Rd
• Continuance of special permit for three-family dwelling at 12 Nashua St
• Continuance of variance for cold storage warehouse at 808 Main St

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals approved three special permits and continued two cases. A special permit was approved to convert a rooming house at 80 Fairmount St into a single-family home, and another was approved for a driving school at 72-80 Franklin Rd (a/k/a 495 Electric Ave). A special permit for a storage warehouse at 808 Main St was approved with conditions, limited initially to the second floor. Reviews for properties at 220-222 Albee St and 12 Nashua St were continued to November 9, 2021.

• Approved special permit for single-family conversion at 80 Fairmount St (5-0)
• Approved special permit for driving school at 72-80 Franklin Rd (5-0)
• Approved special permit for storage warehouse at 808 Main St, limited to 2nd floor initially (5-0)
• Continued review of 220-222 Albee St to November 9, 2021 (5-0)
• Continued review of 12 Nashua St to November 9, 2021 (5-0)
• Amended petition for 808 Main St from variance to special permit (5-0)
• Voted to determine pre-existing non-conforming manufacturing use at 808 Main St (4-1)

Planning Board

The board will hold public hearings on several special permit applications, including a 16-unit multifamily project and a Dunkin’ Donuts replacement. Members will also consider extensions for various cannabis cultivation and retail permits. Additionally, the meeting includes discussions regarding Drepanos Drive.

• Special Permit for 16-unit multifamily at 0 Beech St.
• Site Plan Review for Dunkin’ Donuts replacement at 580 John Fitch Hwy.
• Extensions for cannabis cultivation and retail permits on River St, Broad St, and John Fitch Hwy.
• Special Permit for rooftop wireless installation at 76 Summer St.
• Minor Site Plan Review for Moran Square Diner outdoor seating at 2 Lunenburg St.

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved several special permits and extensions, including a three-lot single-family development at 0 Lancaster St., a 16-unit multifamily project at 0 Beech St., and a rooftop wireless installation for T-Mobile at 76 Summer St. The board also granted one-year extensions to cannabis cultivation and retail operations for Blue Collar Botany, Cannaburg, and Green Era. A proposed Dunkin' Donuts at 580 John Fitch Hwy was continued to the next meeting with a warning that it would be the last continuance.

• Approved special permit for three single-family dwellings at 0 Lancaster St. (7-0)
• Approved special permit for 16-unit multifamily at 0 Beech St. with conditions (7-0)
• Approved special permit for T-Mobile rooftop installation at 76 Summer St. (6-0)
• Granted extension for Blue Collar Botany cultivation to 10/31/2022 (7-0)
• Granted extension for Cannaburg cultivation to 11/30/2022 (7-0)
• Granted extension for Green Era retail at 371 John Fitch Hwy to 5/31/2022 (7-0)
• Granted extension for Green Era retail at 143-145 Water St. to 5/31/2022 (7-0)
• Continued Dunkin' Donuts hearing to November meeting (7-0)

License Commission

The Fitchburg License Commission is holding a special meeting to consider permit applications for Thirsty Robot at 265 Summer Street. The agenda includes an entertainment permit and an application for an outdoor licensed premises extension.

• Entertainment Permit for Thirsty Robot (PA-21-44)
• Special Extension of Outdoor Licensed Premises for Thirsty Robot (ELP-21-6)

The Board approved an entertainment permit for Thirsty Robot's October 10 motorcycle showcase, but continued the application for a special outdoor premises extension to October 18 pending required inspections. The board suggested a one-day liquor license as an alternative for near-term events.

• Approved entertainment permit for Thirsty Robot (2-0)
• Continued special outdoor premises extension application to October 18 (2-0)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Student Support Sub Committee will discuss a December 2021 trip to Walt Disney World for the FHS Music Department. The meeting also includes an athletic department update and a report on library services across all schools.

• FHS Music Department Walt Disney World Florida Trip (December 2021)
• Support of LGBTQ Students presentation by Sally Cragin
• Athletic Department Annual Update by Craig Antocci
• Report of Library Services Provided at all Schools

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The committee will review the 2021-2024 District Improvement Plan and student enrollment reports. Agenda items also include subcommittee policy updates regarding admissions and masks, along with financial matters like health insurance rates.

• Award of Welding Shear Bid
• District Improvement Plan 2021-2024 update
• Review of health insurance rates
• Results of surplus equipment auction
• Policy updates for admissions and masks

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Fall Program Advisory Committee will meet to review school programs and the 5-year plan. The agenda includes updates on Chapter 74 Frameworks and curriculum. The meeting also covers OSHA COVID-19 protocols.

• Nomination of Program Advisory Chairperson for 2021-22
• 5-year Plan Updates
• Chapter 74 Frameworks Updates
• Curriculum Update
• OSHA Industry Standard COVID 19 Protocols

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The committee is reviewing NCLEX exam results from 2015 through 2021. Members will elect a new chairperson and review the nursing curriculum, student handbooks, and strategic improvement plans. The meeting also covers admissions details for the 2022-23 academic year.

• Election of Advisory Committee chairperson for 21-22
• Review of NCLEX pass rates from 2015 to 2021
• Approval of PN curriculum and student handbooks
• Discussion of 2022-23 admissions and TEAS testing schedule

City Council

The City Council will review several financial orders, including the use of $500,000 in ARPA funds for COVID-19 activities. The agenda also includes a $212,000 transfer for police vehicle replacements and a grant for flood mitigation. Additionally, the council will consider ordinance amendments and various infrastructure petitions.

• $500,000 ARPA fund allocation for COVID-19 testing and vaccination
• $212,000 transfer for replacing four police vehicles
• $173,350 grant for Baker Brook drainage Basin flood mitigation
• Class II Dealer’s License petition for 71 John Fitch Highway
• Ordinance amendments regarding permit holders and Fire Chief details

The City Council confirmed Daniel J. Cunningham to the Fitchburg Disability Commission and granted a Class II Dealer's License to Aurelio & Lovely Lacombe for Aurelove Motors. Several financial orders were referred to the Finance Committee, and two ordinances were advanced for first reading.

• Confirmed Daniel J. Cunningham to the Fitchburg Disability Commission by unanimous consent 11/0.
• Granted a Class II Dealer's License to Aurelio & Lovely Lacombe for Aurelove Motors by unanimous consent 11/0.
• Referred orders to the Finance Committee, including $173,350 for Baker Brook flooding mitigation, $212,000 for police vehicle replacement, and $500,000 for Covid-19 activities.
• Approved forwarding Ordinance 180-21 to a first reading, amending permit holder definitions and adding a municipal charges lien.
• Referred Ordinances 181-21 and 182-21 to a Council as a Whole meeting, amending the Fire Chief matrix and table.
• Referred petitions to the Public Works Committee for repairs at 25 Mayland Street and 11 Nutting Street.
• Scheduled a public hearing for October 19, 2021, on a petition to install propane tanks at 200 Game on Way.

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review minutes from the August 25, 2021 meeting. The committee also plans to enter an executive session to consider or interview candidates for the superintendent role.

• Approval of August 25, 2021, meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview superintendent applicants

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is meeting to consider a new appointment to the Fitchburg Disability Commission. The agenda includes the appointment of Mr. Daniel J. Cunningham for a term expiring October 1, 2024.

• New appointment for the Fitchburg Disability Commission (Mr. Daniel J. Cunningham)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will consider a petition from Aurelove Motors. The request is for a Class II Dealer’s License at 71 John Fitch Highway.

• Petition for a Class II Dealer's License by Aurelove Motors

The Public Safety Committee unanimously recommended granting a Class II Dealer's License to Aurelio & Lovely Lacombe, doing business as Aurelove Motors, at 71 John Fitch Highway. The recommendation is subject to the applicant providing items on the checklist. The meeting was brief and adjourned at 6:40 PM.

• Recommended granting Class II Dealer's License to Aurelove Motors (unanimous)

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will hold an executive session to discuss real estate matters. This includes the potential sale of 200 Boulder Drive and rent structures for a Mount Wachusett Community College RFP.

• Potential sale of 200 Boulder Drive property
• Discussion of rent structure for Mount Wachusett Community College RFP

Fitchburg Public Schools

The School Committee is meeting to review superintendent reports and vote on various financial items. This includes accepting multiple state and federal grants and approving the use of ESSER funds for gymnasium maintenance.

• Acceptance of grants including Title I ($2,703,630), Title IIA ($303,689), and Title III ($145,645)
• Submission of BARR Foundation grants for $25,000 and $95,000
• Use of ESSER funds to pay custodians for gym access for city recreational programs
• Approval of school supply donations from Highland Baptist Church valued at approximately $50

License Commission

The commission will conduct a summons hearing regarding license and open container violations at M&M Variety Store. The meeting also includes applications for taxi drivers and entertainment permits for Saima Park. Additionally, the board will review a manager change for Buffalo Wild Wings.

• Summons hearing for GMG Variety, LLC dba M&M Variety Store regarding license and open container violations
• Entertainment permit and one-day license application for Saima Park at 67 Scott Road
• Change of manager for Buffalo Wild Wings at 150 Whalon Street
• Taxi driver applications for Ronald Crocker of Twin City Kab

The Board approved a one-day entertainment permit and special one-day license for a music event at Saima Park, approved a change of manager for Buffalo Wild Wings, and voted to take no action on a summons against M&M Variety Store after hearing from the owner and police. The board also granted a taxi driver's request to withdraw his application.

• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 by unanimous consent 3/0.
• Granted leave to withdraw for Ronald Crocker's taxi driver application by unanimous consent 3/0.
• Approved Monday through Saturday Entertainment Permit for Nathalie Castro Da Rosa for Saima Park event on November 5, 2021 by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Approved Special One Day License for Nathalie Castro Da Rosa for music show at Saima Park on November 5, 2021 by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Approved change of Manager of Record for Buffalo Wild Wings from Timothy Pryer to David E. Rivers by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Voted to take No Action on summons against GMG Variety, LLC dba M&M Variety Store by unanimous consent 3/0.

Cultural Council

The Public Relations Subcommittee will review survey results and debrief recent programs including Fitchburg Open Studios. Members will also discuss a new logo and the Winter Market. No votes or deliberations are scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of PR and event survey results
• Debrief of Fitchburg Open Studios and Grant Training
• Discussion of Winter Market and future events
• New logo review
• FCC TV and PR approvals

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Crocker Elementary School Building Committee is reviewing MSBA – PFA status and project schedules. The meeting includes discussions regarding contract amendment statuses for Colliers and Saam.

• MSBA – PFA status update
• Colliers amendment status
• Saam amendment status
• Project milestone schedule (Colliers)
• Design schedule (Saam)

Historical Commission

The commission will review minutes from June and August 2021 meetings. The agenda includes a presentation on the Fitchburg Public Library design renovation and updates on proposed ordinances for demolition delay and stone wall preservation. Members will also discuss various local preservation projects and site markers.

• Fitchburg Public Library design renovation presentation
• Proposed Demolition Delay and Stone Wall Preservation ordinance drafts
• Historic site marker wording for Blossom and Crescent Streets development
• Simonds Saw and Steel demolition update on Intervale Rd
• Cemetery nominations as local historic places

No meeting was held on September 30, 2021, because the Fitchburg Historical Commission did not have a quorum. No decisions were made or items discussed.

Finance Committee

The regular meeting of the Fitchburg City Council Finance Committee scheduled for September 28, 2021, has been cancelled. This notice contains only the meeting cancellation announcement.

• Meeting cancellation

Retirement Board

The Fitchburg Retirement Board will meet to review retirements, refunds, and transfers. The board also plans to approve financial statements and discuss recent election results.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers
• Approval of warrants, accounting, bank statements, and minutes
• Review of retirement board election results

The Fitchburg Retirement Board approved five superannuation retirements, admitted 24 new members, and approved the September 2021 warrant and financial statements. The board also voted to withhold pension checks for two members who failed to return required affidavits, and allowed laid-off police and firefighter members to purchase laid-off time with interest.

• Approved September 2021 warrant of $1,694,414.46 (5-0)
• Approved August 24, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved July and August 2021 accounting and bank statements (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Deborah Walker, Option B, effective Sept 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Wayne Shaw, Option C, effective Sept 7, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Joyce Belli, Option B, effective Sept 13, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Rodney Conrad, Option C, effective Sept 22, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of William Lyons, Option A, effective Sept 27, 2021 (5-0)

Public Works Committee

The regular meeting of the Fitchburg Public Works Committee scheduled for September 28, 2021, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 26, 2021.

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will meet in executive session to discuss the potential sale of two properties. The discussion includes 0 Airport Road and 49 Snow Street.

• Potential sale of 0 Airport Road
• Potential sale of 49 Snow Street

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council will consider several grants for public safety, including E911 service improvements and dispatcher training. The agenda also includes a final reading of a zoning by-law amendment and the approval of funds for downtown parking enhancements. Additionally, the council will review petitions regarding street renaming and local business licensing.

• $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza
• $174,594 grant for E911 service system repairs in the Police Department
• Final reading of an ordinance amending the City Zoning By-Law
• $45,000 grant for downtown parking system technological enhancements
• Petition to rename Union Street to Adrian Ford Way

The City Council approved two orders (160-21 and 161-21) to spend about $120,000 in grant funds for technological upgrades to the downtown parking system, including license plate recognition (LPR) technology and signage changes. The vote was 9-2, with Councilors DiNatale and Squailia opposed. The council also confirmed several appointments, adopted multiple grant-funded orders, and approved a zoning ordinance amendment.

• Approved $45,000 MassDevelopment TDI grant for parking tech (9-2)
• Approved $75,000 40R Zoning Incentive Payment for parking tech (9-2)
• Confirmed Mark F. Piermarini to Water/Wastewater Commission (11-0)
• Confirmed Amanda K. Alford as Provisional City Clerk (11-0)
• Adopted $174,594 state 911 grant for Police Department (11-0)
• Adopted $197,950 Shared Streets grant for Cushing Street pedestrian plaza (11-0)
• Adopted zoning by-law corrections on final reading (11-0)
• Held $40,000 staffing review grant in committee (11-0)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Board of Health and School Committee will hold a special joint meeting. The agenda includes a COVID-19 update and discussions and votes regarding school testing and vaccination mandates.

• Discussion and vote on school testing mandate
• Discussion and vote on school vaccination mandate
• COVID-19 update

Board of Health

The Fitchburg Board of Health and School Committee will hold a special joint meeting. The agenda includes a COVID-19 update and discussions regarding school testing and vaccination mandates. The bodies are scheduled to vote on these mandates.

• COVID-19 update
• Discussion and vote on school testing mandate
• Discussion and vote on school vaccination mandate

The Board of Health voted unanimously to require weekly COVID-19 testing for all Fitchburg Public Schools staff as a condition of employment, and to mandate vaccination for all employees unless they have a medical or religious exemption. The testing mandate and vaccine mandate were both approved with all members in favor. The vaccination deadline is subject to negotiations with employee unions.

• Approved weekly COVID-19 testing mandate for all Fitchburg Public Schools staff (unanimous)
• Approved COVID-19 vaccine mandate for all Fitchburg Public Schools employees with medical/religious exemptions (unanimous)

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is considering a new appointment for the Water/Wastewater Commission. The proposed appointee is Mark F. Piermarini, P.E., for a term expiring September 1, 2025.

• New appointment to the Water/Wastewater Commission

Public Safety Committee

Councilors Bernard Schultz III and Amy Green have proposed an amendment to Section 169 of the Fitchburg City Code. The proposal concerns no parking regulations on Ellis Street.

• Amendment to Code of the City of Fitchburg, Section 169 (No Parking on Ellis Street)

The Public Safety Committee unanimously recommended granting a petition to amend the City Code to add no-parking restrictions on Ellis Street. The new signage will prohibit parking Monday through Friday from 8-10 AM and 2-4 PM. The recommendation will go to the full council for final action.

• Granted petition to amend Section 169 for no parking on Ellis Street (unanimous consent)

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to consider several financial and construction items. Proposed actions include approving a formula funds amendment and reviewing bid results for the ASHP Project G/A. The board will also vote on completion certificates for various housing projects.

• Formula Funds Amendment No.# 22 ($496,623.92)
• Change Order for 76 Mechanic Street Windows Project ($12,565.92)
• Bid results for ASHP Project G/A ($197,000.00)
• HCVP (Section-8) Payment Standards at 110% Ratio
• Completion certificates for Canton Valley and Forest and Taft Street projects

The Fitchburg Housing Authority approved Amendment 22 to CFA 5001, accepting $496,623.92 in additional DHCD funding for FY2024 Formula Funding and asbestos removal. The board also approved payables and financials, restored maintenance beeper pay, and congratulated members on awards. Several items were discussed but not voted on, including personnel policy review and tree inspection dates.

• Approved Amendment 22 to CFA 5001 ($496,623.92) (all in favor)
• Approved FHA payables for August-September FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved January-August financials FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of Executive Session meeting of August 11, 2021
• Restored maintenance beeper pay effective September pay period
• Congratulated Linda Byrne as Housing Board Member of the Year (all in favor)
• Congratulated Andrew Skoog with MA NAHRO Agency Award (all in favor)

License Commission

The License Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a new retail liquor license application for POS Food Services, LLC. The agenda also includes a summons hearing for M&M Variety Store concerning possible open container violations and a request to change Sunday hours for Supermart.

• New retail alcoholic beverages license application for POS Food Services, LLC at 200 Game On Way
• Summons hearing for GMG Variety, LLC dba M&M Variety Store regarding possible open container violations
• Request to change Sunday hours for Shika, LLC dba Supermart at 7 Westminster Street
• Entertainment permit applications for Fitchburg Blacksmith Art & Music Festival and Fitchburg State University
• New taxi driver application for Ronald Crocker of Twin City Kab

The Fitchburg License Commission approved a new retail general on-premise all-alcoholic-beverages license for POS Food Services, LLC at 200 Game On Way, despite neighbor concerns about late hours and safety. The board also approved several other applications, including a change of hours for Supermart and an entertainment permit for the Blacksmith Art & Music Festival. A summons hearing for M&M Variety Store was continued to October 4, 2021.

• Approved new alcohol license for POS Food Services, LLC at 200 Game On Way (3-0)
• Approved Sunday hours change for Shika, LLC dba Supermart, 7 Westminster Street (3-0)
• Approved change of officers/directors for 99 West, LLC dba 99 Restaurant & Pub (3-0)
• Approved amended entertainment permit for Fitchburg Blacksmith Art & Music Festival, 65 Arbor Way (3-0)
• Approved amended entertainment permit for Fitchburg State University, 160 Pearl Street (2-0)
• Continued taxi driver application for Ronald Crocker to October 4, 2021 (3-0)
• Continued summons hearing for GMG Variety, LLC dba M&M Variety Store to October 4, 2021 (3-0)
• Continued Lieutenant Howe's correspondence to October 4, 2021 (3-0)

Airport Commission

The commission will review ongoing work regarding airport lighting, the Master Plan, and fuel transfer systems. The agenda also includes discussions on hangar lease assignments and land access rentals involving Leominster DPW.

• Review of REILs, PAPIs, and Airport Master Plan
• Lease assignment for Rick Bullock
• RFP for 7 to 9 hangars
• Land Access Rental with Leominster DPW
• Abatement of $182.71 for Paul Michaud

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission approved a $45,617 fixed-price bid for a new Hangar 10 door (3-0) and approved the August 25, 2021 meeting minutes. The commission also agreed to table the RFP for 7 to 9 hangars until a full commission is present, and discussed updates on the FPA lease negotiation, self-serve fuel farm, and the Airport Master Plan. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved August 25, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved $45,617 fixed-price bid for Hangar 10 new door (3-0)
• Tabled RFP for 7 to 9 hangars until full commission present

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee will hold a training workshop. The session features Dr. Darmisa Amonte Jackson and focuses on Diversity, Belonging, Inclusion, & Equity (DBIE).

• Workshop with Dr. Darmisa Amonte Jackson regarding DBIE

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council will discuss grantee updates, modifications, and extensions. The agenda also includes discussions regarding Fitchburg Open Studios, winter projects, and an update on FCC TV.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• Fitchburg Open Studios + Meet & Greet
• Winter projects
• FCC TV Update
• Treasurer’s and Grant Coordinator Report

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will discuss North Street properties and an amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan. The agenda includes a housing grant discussion for 805 Main Street and a funding request for holiday lights. An executive session is scheduled regarding the potential sale of property at 0 Airport Road.

• Potential sale of FRA property at 0 Airport Road
• BSC Amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan
• Main Street Housing Grant for 805 Main Street
• Funding request for Fitchburg Holiday Lights
• Update on 66 & 68 North Street properties

Water & Wastewater Commission

The Water/Wastewater Commission is holding a special meeting to consider easement approvals. The commission will vote on permanent and temporary easements on City watershed property for the Route 140 reconstruction project in Westminster.

• Vote to approve permanent and temporary easements on City watershed property for Route 140 reconstruction/improvement project

The Water/Wastewater Commission held a special meeting and voted unanimously to approve permanent and temporary easements on City watershed property for the Route 140 reconstruction/improvement project in Westminster, MA. The motion approved the easement agreement between the City of Fitchburg and the Town of Westminster. No other substantive decisions were made; the next regular meeting was scheduled for October 13, 2021.

• Approved permanent and temporary easements on City watershed property for the Route 140 reconstruction/improvement project
• Granted the easement agreement between the City of Fitchburg and the Town of Westminster unanimously

Montachusett Regional Planning Commission

The Montachusett Brownfields Group will review progress on site assessments funded by a $300,000 grant across several towns. The group will also discuss the MRPC Revolving Loan Fund and the pursuit of new EPA grants. There are currently no pending site assessment requests.

• Progress updates for $300,000 Brownfields Site Assessment Grant sites
• Reuse of MRPC Revolving Loan Fund income for loans
• Creation of a Revolving Loan Fund application and marketing plan
• Pursuit of new EPA Environmental Site Assessment or Revolving Loan Fund grants

Trustees of Public Burial Grounds

The Trustees of Public Burial Grounds will discuss cemetery maintenance items including fencing at Laurel Hill Cemetery and the purchase of veterans flag holders. The meeting also includes updates on mausoleum repairs and subcommittee planning.

• Purchase of Veterans Flag Holders
• Fencing for Laurel Hill Cemetery
• Mausoleum repairs update
• Sub Committee Preservation Planning Meeting Update
• Historical Commission Meeting Update

The Fitchburg Cemetery Trustee Board approved the minutes from the June 17, 2021 meeting. They received the Cemetery Department's progress report, discussed future pricing changes due to manufacturer increases, and considered a video surveillance proposal for Laurel Hill Cemetery, asking for more information. The board also noted the completion of the third phase of fencing at Laurel Hill and the purchase of 130 additional veterans' flag holders.

• Approved the minutes from the June 17, 2021 board meeting (4-0).
• Heard the Cemetery Department report and discussed various operational issues.
• Discussed potential cemetery pricing changes due to manufacturer increases; deferred to a future meeting.
• Asked Superintendent to gather more information on the video surveillance proposal for Laurel Hill.
• Noted completion of the third phase of fencing at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• Noted purchase of 130 additional veterans' flag holders for Forest Hill Cemetery.
• Discussed historic status designation and its potential impact; Trustee Sciabarrasi to contact Historical Commission Chair for clarification.

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett Brownfields Group is reviewing progress on site assessments under a $300,000 MRPC grant. The meeting also covers the reuse of program income for the MRPC Revolving Loan Fund and potential EPA grant pursuits.

• Update on $300,000 Brownfields Site Assessment Grant activities in Ayer, Athol, Lunenburg, Groton, Fitchburg, and Winchendon
• Discussion regarding MRPC Revolving Loan Fund policy and application creation
• Review of site assessment requests (none pending)
• Pursuit of EPA Environmental Site Assessment or Revolving Loan Fund grants

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) meeting originally scheduled for Wednesday, September 15th, is canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 20th at 1:00 PM.

• Cancellation of the September 15, 2021, meeting

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review reports from the Chair and Librarian. The agenda includes discussions regarding the FY2022 Trust Fund budget and the search for a new director. Committee reports will cover investment updates and board officer nominations.

• New Director Search and job description/posting
• Trust Fund FY2022 Budget
• Nomination and vote for Board Officers
• Investment reports for June, July, and August
• FY2022 meeting dates

The Board of Trustees unanimously elected Matthew Bruun as Chair, replacing Jim Walsh, who resigned. The board also unanimously approved the proposed Trust Fund budget, which is the same as last year's. A motion was accepted to conditionally approve the Director's job description, which will be submitted to the city HR director for editing and salary range addition.

• Elected Matthew Bruun as Chair by unanimous vote.
• Approved the minutes of the June 9, 2021 meeting.
• Approved the proposed Trust Fund budget unanimously.
• Conditionally accepted the Director's job description as presented.

Human Rights Commission

The Commission will review the June 2021 meeting minutes for approval. The agenda includes discussions regarding bills S.2040 and H.3199 related to language access and inclusion. Members will also hear updates on local initiatives and programs from MIRA.

• Vote to review June 20 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Language Access for All Coalition efforts regarding bills S.2040 and H.3199
• Updates on statewide or local initiatives from Representative Michael Kushmerek
• Presentation of MIRA programs
• Reports from the Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup

The Fitchburg Human Rights Commission heard a presentation on state legislation (S.2040/H.3199) aimed at improving language access in state agencies, with speakers including State Rep. Michael Kushmerek. Commissioners were invited to write personal testimonies in support of the bill. The commission also discussed other state bills on teacher diversity and mental health services, and unanimously agreed to continue meeting remotely due to COVID-19. No formal votes or decisions were taken.

• Heard presentation on language access bill S.2040/H.3199
• Invited to write personal testimonies in support of the bill
• Discussed state bills on teacher diversity and mental health
• Unanimously agreed to remain remote due to COVID-19

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is considering an order to approve funds from the MassDevelopment TDI Challenge Grant Program. This expenditure would target technological enhancements in the City's downtown parking system and implement accompanying signage changes.

• $45,000 for downtown parking technology and signage updates via the MassDevelopment TDI Challenge Grant Program

The Economic Development Committee voted 4-1 to approve Order 161-21, accepting a $45,000 MassDevelopment TDI Challenge Grant for technological enhancements to the downtown parking system, including License Plate Reader (LPR) enforcement and signage changes. The committee also unanimously passed non-binding language endorsing the move to time-limited free parking and an 85% parking availability goal, subject to full council approval. Councilor Squailia opposed the grant approval.

• Approved $45,000 MassDevelopment TDI Challenge Grant for parking tech (4-1, Squailia opposed)
• Passed non-binding endorsement of time-limited free parking and 85% availability goal (5-0)
• Noted grant requires future council action to remove meters and change city code

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The subcommittee will review priority policies requested by the administration, including a Fraud Policy and an updated Admissions Policy. The meeting also includes discussions on coronavirus-related policy concerns and an annual review of the Practical Nursing Program Policy Manual.

• Fraud Policy presentation
• Updated Admissions Policy
• Coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Annual review of the Practical Nursing Program Policy Manual

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee will review notes from the August 31 meeting. The committee is scheduled to discuss administration-requested priority reviews, including coronavirus-related policies and a fraud policy. Members will also continue the annual review of the Practical Nursing Program Policy Manual.

• Review of August 31 meeting notes
• Discussion of coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Presentation of Fraud Policy
• Annual review of the Practical Nursing Program Policy Manual

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several grant approvals and budget transfers. These items include funding for the Cushing Street pedestrian plaza, E911 service systems, and downtown parking technology.

• $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza
• $174,594 grant for E911 service system repairs and salaries
• $75,000 grant for downtown parking technology and signage
• $44,690 grant for Fire and Police dispatcher training
• Resolution to fund improvements to Lowe Park

The Finance Committee approved a resolution to fund improvements to Lowe Park, with a 5-0 vote. The committee also approved several grant expenditures, including $174,594 for E911 services, $44,690 for dispatcher training, $3,300 for child safety seats, and $7,500 for youth programs. A $15,768 transfer for food consultant expenses was approved 4-1, and a $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza was approved 5-0. The committee held a $40,000 staffing review grant for further discussion.

• Approved Lowe Park improvement funding resolution (5-0)
• Approved $174,594 E911 grant for police dispatcher salaries (4-0)
• Approved $44,690 training grant for police and fire dispatchers (5-0)
• Approved $3,300 grant for child passenger safety seats (5-0)
• Approved $7,500 Digital Federal Credit Union gift for youth programs (5-0)
• Approved $15,768 transfer for food consultant expenses (4-1)
• Approved $197,950 grant for Cushing Street pedestrian plaza (5-0)
• Held $40,000 staffing review grant for further discussion (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on several property use applications. These include requests for automobile sales, car detailing, and the conversion of vacant buildings into multi-family dwellings.

• Special Permit for automobile sales and repair at 1033 Main St
• Special Permit to reinstate a vacant building as a 3-family dwelling at 324 Lunenburg St
• Variance for a 30x40 detached garage at 68 Highview St
• Variance to operate a cold storage warehouse at 808 Main St
• Special Permit to change a 3-family dwelling to a 4-family dwelling at 34 Granite St

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals revoked a special permit for a car detailing business at 1151 Main St. (ZBA-2020-05) due to the petitioner's absence and failure to comply with conditions. The board also denied a variance for a single-family dwelling at 0 Fisher Rd. (ZBA-2020-25), a special permit for a four-family conversion at 34 Granite St. (ZBA-2021-28), and special permits to keep chickens at 270 Ashburnham St. (ZBA-2021-23) and 76 Heywood St. (ZBA-2021-24). The board continued several other cases, including a review for 1033 Main St. to December 14, 2021, and a special permit for 12 Nashua St. to October 12, 2021.

• Revoked the special permit for a car detailing business at 1151 Main St. (ZBA-2020-05) with a 5-0 vote.
• Denied a variance for a single-family dwelling at 0 Fisher Rd. (ZBA-2020-25) with a 0-4 vote.
• Denied a special permit to keep 13 chickens at 270 Ashburnham St. (ZBA-2021-23) with a 0-5 vote, recommending six months for removal.
• Denied a special permit to keep 8 chickens at 76 Heywood St. (ZBA-2021-24) with a 0-5 vote, recommending six months for removal.
• Denied a special permit to convert a 3-family to a 4-family dwelling at 34 Granite St. (ZBA-2021-28) with a 2-3 vote.
• Continued the review of a special permit for an auto sales business at 1033 Main St. (ZBA-2019-40) to December 14, 2021.
• Continued the review of a special permit for a 3-family dwelling at 12 Nashua St. (ZBA-2021-18) to October 12, 2021.
• Granted a variance for a detached garage at 68 Highview St. (ZBA-2021-25) with conditions, by a 5-0 vote.

Planning Board

The Fitchburg Planning Board will conduct public hearings and review several site plan revisions. Topics include storm damage prevention through tree removal and modifications to existing special permits. Some items are continuations from previous meeting dates.

• Removal of ten trees on Mt. Elam Rd. for Unitil storm damage prevention
• Site plan revision for a self-storage facility at 34 Kimball Place
• Revised outdoor seating area for Moran Square Diner at 2 Lunenburg St.
• Special permit modification for Ethos Cannabis at 20 Authority Dr.
• Proposed dwellings at 0 Lancaster St. (continued from 8/19)

The Board denied a special permit for a single-family dwelling at 7 Milk St. after a 4-2 vote fell short of the required two-thirds majority. The Board approved a minor site plan revision for Cazard at 34 Kimball Place, a minor modification for Ethos Cannabis at 20 Authority Dr., and a tree removal request by Unitil on Mt. Elam Rd. Several hearings were continued to October, including for a new Dunkin' Donuts and a multifamily project at 0 Beech St.

• Approved ANR plan for 1020 Ashby West Rd. (5-0).
• Approved minor site plan revision for Cazard, 34 Kimball Place (5-0).
• Approved minor modification to Ethos Cannabis special permits and site plan (6-0).
• Continued special permit hearing for KCMC Management (Dunkin' Donuts) to October (6-0).
• Continued special permit hearing for ASG Dream Flip to October (6-0).
• Continued special permit hearing for City Storage to October (6-0).
• Denied special permit for 7 Milk St. dwelling (4-2, not 2/3 majority).
• Approved Unitil tree removal on Mt. Elam Rd. with conditions (5+1-0).

MassHire North Central Workforce Board

The MassHire North Central Workforce Board will discuss the Career Center's re-opening plan and an October 21 ribbon cutting ceremony. The meeting includes updates on manufacturing, healthcare, and youth employment programs. The board is also scheduled to vote on the June 8, 2021 meeting minutes and financial report.

• Career Center/Board re-opening plan and October 21 ribbon cutting ceremony
• Approval of June 8, 2021 meeting minutes and Financial Report
• Updates on Career Technical Initiative (Monty Tech, Nashoba Tech, Minuteman Tech)
• ReMake 4.0 - Advanced Manufacturing and Virtual Manufacturing Exploratory Pilot updates
• Healthcare Hub and Rapid Reemployment Grant updates

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee is meeting to review superintendent reports and vote on several action items. These include accepting various educational grants, approving a solar power agreement for Longsjo Middle School, and deciding on student bus pass fees.

• Submission of $16,664,400 ESSER 3 grant
• Acceptance of several grants including $7,424,838 for ESSER 2
• Solar Power Purchase Agreement for Longsjo Middle School
• Donation of school supplies valued at $4,500 from City United Church
• Decision on student bus pass fees for the 2021-2022 school year

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Student Support Sub Committee will discuss support for LGBTQ students. The meeting also includes discussion regarding COVID-19 mask requirements and weekly testing for unvaccinated student athletes and coaches.

• Support of LGBTQ Students
• COVID-19 mask requirements and weekly testing for unvaccinated student athletes and coaches

Council on Aging

The Board of Directors will review the Treasurer's report and recent programs. The meeting includes updates on the Building Needs Assessment and COVID-19 status.

• Building Needs Assessment update
• Treasurer's report including Sunshine Fund
• COVID-19 and site manager updates
• Committee reports on personnel and building/grounds

The Council on Aging board approved a motion to request a written update from Russell on the status of the Special Needs Assessment, after noting redundant efforts. They also accepted the treasurer's report and approved a motion to request an update on the gutters. No major policy decisions were made; most items remain pending.

• Approved motion to request written update from Russell on Special Needs Assessment
• Approved motion to request update from Russell on gutters
• Accepted treasurer's report
• Approved minutes from June 10 and July 1 meetings

Disability Commission

The Fitchburg Disability Commission will discuss committee membership, future plans, and advisory committee consolidation. The meeting also includes updates on an accessible playground and the Accessible Art project.

• Update on accessible playground
• Accessible Art project
• Main Street renewal
• Advisory committee consolidation
• Discussion on committee future plans

The Fitchburg Disability Commission accepted the June meeting minutes. They discussed multiple curb cuts and sidewalk issues across the city, planning to present a list to the Department of Public Works. The accessible playground equipment has been delivered with a December completion date. The Advisory Committee Consolidation Plan was tabled.

• Accepted the June meeting minutes.
• Compiled a list of curb cuts and sidewalk issues to present to the Department of Public Works.
• Planned to invite city officials to discuss policies affecting disabled residents.
• Noted the accessible playground equipment delivery and December completion date.
• Tabled the Advisory Committee Consolidation Plan.
• Scheduled a site visit to the playground once construction is complete.
• Tasked members to present future event plans at the October meeting.
• Adjourned at 3:00pm; next meeting set for October 13, 2021.

License Commission

The Fitchburg License Commission will conduct a lodging house review and consider several permit applications. This includes a new alcoholic beverage license for POS Food Services, LLC and changes to operating hours for local businesses. The commission will also review various one-day wine and malt beverage licenses and entertainment permits.

• New retail general alcoholic beverages license application for POS Food Services, LLC
• Change of Sunday hours for Shika, LLC dba Supermart
• Manager and hour changes for Global Montello Group Corp. dba Alltown Fitchburg
• One-day wine and malt beverage licenses for various local events
• Entertainment permits for the Blacksmith Art & Music Festival and other venues

The Fitchburg License Commission approved several liquor license applications, including a new retail license for POS Food Services, LLC, and multiple one-day licenses and entertainment permits. They also approved a manager change and hours change for Alltown Fitchburg, and continued several applications to the next meeting. The Commission agreed to summons M&M Variety to address complaints.

• Approved new retail all-alcohol license for POS Food Services, LLC (200 Game On Way), forwarded to public hearing (3-0)
• Approved manager change and Sunday hours for Alltown Fitchburg (129 Whalon St) with TIPS certification condition (3-0)
• Approved one-day beer garden license for Chartwells at University Main Quad (2-0, Sarefield recused)
• Approved one-day license for Chartwells 50th Reunion Dinner (2-0, Sarefield recused)
• Approved one-day all-alcohol license for Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (3-0)
• Approved amended one-day license for Ipanema Productions 'Summerfest' (3-0)
• Approved one-day license for Legends Bar and Grille fundraiser for Zach's Goal (3-0)
• Approved Sunday entertainment permits for Ipanema, Legends, and others (3-0)

Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC)

The Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC) meeting scheduled for September 8, 2021, was canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 13th.

• Cancellation of the September 8th MJTC meeting

Water & Wastewater Commission

The commission will review a petition to investigate transporting sludge in-house instead of outsourcing. They will also hear an appeal regarding sewer billing for irrigation usage and receive updates on water meter upgrades and construction projects.

• Public hearing for a sewer billing abatement request related to private irrigation usage
• Petition No. 134-21 to study in-house sludge transport versus outsourcing
• Construction update regarding Water Street closure and vehicle detours
• Updates on the city-wide water meter upgrade project
• Report on 500 total rain barrels sold through the program to date

The Fitchburg Water/Wastewater Commission approved minutes from May 12, 2021, and unanimously passed a motion to gather more information regarding Kasia Allen's irrigation system in response to her appeal of a sewer abatement denial. The commission postponed discussion of a meter issue at 245 River St. due to a scheduling conflict with the City Solicitor. No other formal votes were taken; remaining items were informational updates on water and wastewater projects.

• Approved minutes from May 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Passed motion to gather more information on Kasia Allen's irrigation system for sewer abatement appeal (unanimous)
• Postponed 245 River St. meter issue discussion to October 13, 2021 meeting

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several grant applications, including $197,950 to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza. The agenda also includes an ordinance to amend the city's zoning by-law and various petitions for local infrastructure repairs.

• $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza
• $174,594 grant for E911 service system repairs and salaries
• First reading of an ordinance to amend the City of Fitchburg Zoning By-Law
• $75,000 grant for downtown parking system technological enhancements
• Community Host Benefit agreement with Green Meadow Farm LLC at 50 Whalon Street

The City Council adopted the Community Host Benefit agreement with Green Meadow Farm LLC at 50 Whalon Street, authorizing Mayor DiNatale to execute it. The Council also accepted the final report of the City Hall Building Committee, which recommended returning $450,000 in excess project funds to the city. Several grant expenditures were approved and referred to committees, including a $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza. A motion to suspend rules to allow petition 169-21 to be withdrawn failed, and the petition was referred to the Legislative Affairs Committee.

• Adopted the Community Host Benefit agreement with Green Meadow Farm LLC by unanimous consent 11/0
• Accepted the City Hall Building Committee's final report, including recommendation to return $450,000 in excess funds
• Approved and referred to Finance Committee a $197,950 grant to convert Cushing Street into a pedestrian plaza
• Approved and referred to Finance Committee a $174,594 state 911 grant for E911 system support
• Approved and referred to Finance Committee a $44,690.39 training grant for dispatchers
• Approved and referred to Finance Committee a $75,000 40R Zoning Incentive Payment for downtown parking technology
• Granted petition to replace broken guardrail boards at 97 Appleton Circle
• Held petition to install a barrier at 113 Summit Street in committee

Mosquito Control

Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project personnel will be in Fitchburg on September 2 and 7 to respond to resident concerns. Residents can request service via phone or the CMMCP website. Applications of insecticides may occur in site-specific areas using truck-mounted equipment.

• Mosquito control visits scheduled for September 2 and 7
• Service requests available via phone or online
• Property owners may opt out of pesticide applications

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Resource Subcommittee will review several grant applications and acceptances, including ESSER II and Early Literacy grants. The meeting also includes updates on student enrollment, bus passes, and the solar project at Longsjo Middle School.

• Solar Project at Longsjo Middle School
• Acceptance of various grants including ESSER II and Title Grants
• Submission of ESSER III grant in October
• Donation of 150 backpacks with supplies from City United Church
• Updates on enrollment and bus passes

Fitchburg Public Schools

The School Committee will discuss school building maintenance, including summer work and new positions. The agenda also covers Crocker Field turf cost estimates and MSBA project funding agreements.

• Gale turf cost estimates for Crocker Field
• MSBA Crocker Core Project funding agreement update
• LMS windows and boilers repair project status
• South Street Elementary boiler completion and roof update
• Longsjo Solar Project Statement of Interest submittal

Board of Health

The Board will consider a hearing request to remove the BOH Mask Mandate. The meeting also includes a COVID-19 update on cases, vaccination rates, and clinics. Additionally, the board will review Title 5 Local Upgrade Approvals for two properties.

• Hearing request to remove the BOH Mask Mandate
• COVID-19 update on confirmed cases, vaccination rates, and clinics
• Title 5 Local Upgrade Approval: 794 Ashburnham Hill Road
• Title 5 Local Upgrade Approval: 715 Ashburnham Street

The Board of Health heard a resident's request to remove the mask mandate but did not vote to change it. The board discussed the mandate's purpose and kept it in place. They also approved prior meeting minutes and tabled local upgrade approvals.

• Mask mandate upheld after hearing (no vote taken)
• Approved August 25, 2021 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved August 5, 2021 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Tabled Title 5 Local Upgrade Approvals (motion carried)

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss the potential sale of two properties. These discussions are scheduled to take place during an executive session.

• Potential sale of FRA property at 200 Boulder Drive
• Potential sale of FRA property at 66 North Street

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Financial Planning Subcommittee will meet to discuss the FY22 budget. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the May 5, 2021, meeting.

• Approval of May 5, 2021, meeting minutes
• FY22 budget discussion

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The School Committee will review superintendent and principal reports, including enrollment and faculty guides. The meeting includes discussions on subcommittee reports regarding admissions and mask policies. Members will also consider financial statements and personnel changes.

• Award of Bid 2022-03 for a New Hydraulic Shear
• Acceptance of ESSER II grants
• Subcommittee reports on Admissions and Mask policies
• Personnel updates including retirements, resignations, and appointments
• Review of financial statements

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee is reviewing the 2021-2022 LPN Policy Manual and school committee governance and operations. The group will also review its meeting schedule for the upcoming school year. There are currently no coronavirus-related policy concerns listed.

• Adoption of August 17, 2021, meeting notes
• Review of 2021-2022 LPN Policy Manual
• Final review of School Committee Governance & Operations
• Review of the 2021-2022 meeting schedule

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will consider two items regarding entertainment permits. The commission will review an amendment for a permit on Mill Street, Boulder Drive, and Main Street. They will also discuss a permit for a tribute remembrance at Coolidge Park.

• Amendment to Entertainment Permit for Mill Street Stage, Boulder Drive, and Main Street
• Entertainment Permit for Tribute Remembrance in Honor of LCpl Ronald O. Valentin at 198 Townsend Street

The Board of License Commissioners met via Zoom and approved an entertainment permit for a tribute remembrance honoring LCpl Ronald O. Valentin at Coolidge Park on September 5, 2021, from 2-6 PM. The board also granted leave to withdraw an application to amend an existing entertainment permit for a September 2 event on Mill Street, Boulder Drive, and Main Street, as the applicant cited road closures and weather concerns.

• Approved entertainment permit for Tribute Remembrance in Honor of LCpl Ronald O. Valentin at Coolidge Park, 198 Townsend Street, September 5, 2021, 2-6 PM, by roll call vote 2/0.
• Granted leave to withdraw application to amend existing entertainment permit for Mill Street, Boulder Drive, and Main Street event on September 2, by unanimous consent 2/0.

Historical Commission

The commission will consider endorsing a proposal to nominate several Fitchburg cemeteries as local historic places. The meeting also includes reviews of renovation permits for One Oak Hill Rd. and updates on Monument Park repairs.

• Endorsement of proposal to nominate Fitchburg cemeteries as local historic places
• Renovation permit review for One Oak Hill Rd. Building 5
• Update on Monument Park repairs, including cast iron fence and statue base
• Review wording for a historic site marker at Blossom and Crescent Streets
• Update on the demolition of Simonds Saw and Steel on Intervale Rd

The Fitchburg Historical Commission unanimously endorsed a proposal to nominate six cemeteries as historic places, with a condition that forms be updated. The Commission also discussed a renovation project at One Oak Hill Road, agreeing to review additional details on window weep holes before issuing a determination. Several other items were tabled, including a historic site marker and demolition delay ordinance.

• Approved minutes of June 24, 2021
• Endorsed cemetery historic designation (unanimous)
• Agreed to continue review of One Oak Hill Road renovation with conditions
• Tabled historic site marker wording
• Tabled Monument Park repairs update
• Tabled demolition update for Simonds Saw and Steel
• Tabled demolition delay ordinance draft
• Tabled historic districts brochure update

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council is meeting to review public relations activities and plan upcoming events. The body will discuss the Creative Meet + Greet and the grant season process.

• Planning for Creative Meet + Greet including budget and location
• Discussion of Fitchburg Open Studios
• Grant Trainings and Grant Season
• Review of FCC TV episodes
• Approval of posts

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The authority will review updates on several FRA properties, including 0 Airport Road and 66 North Street. The meeting also includes a request to extend the 2020 Urban Renewal Plan until March 2022. Additionally, members will discuss grant applications and funding requests.

• Request for extension of 2020 Urban Renewal Plan until March 2022
• Presentation regarding 0 Airport Road RFP
• Discussion regarding 66 North Street property
• Review of FRA Grant Round #3 application draft
• Potential sale of 200 Boulder Drive

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review minutes from the August 9, 2021 meeting. The committee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment.

• Approval of August 9, 2021, meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee will vote on several action items, including a new grant and a revised face covering policy. The agenda also includes committee reports and the approval of minutes from the August 10 meeting.

• Acceptance of Capital Skills Grant for $71,762
• Approval of school supply donation from AXIS Employees valued at approximately $2,500
• Approval of Revised Face Covering Policy #5707

Airport Commission

The Fitchburg Airport Commission will review ongoing work regarding the Airport Master Plan and fuel transfer systems. The meeting also includes discussions on hangar door and roof repairs and land access rental with Leominster DPW.

• Review of REILs, PAPIs, and Airport Master Plan
• Hangar 2 and 3 doors and Hangar 12 and 13 roof repairs
• RFP for 7 to 9 hangars
• Land access rental with Leominster DPW
• Self-serve fuel transfer and fuel farm updates

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission approved a motion to request MassDOT Aeronautics funding for hangar doors and roofs, and approved the July 28, 2021 meeting minutes. The commission also discussed ongoing projects including the FPA lease renewal, runway reconstruction, and airport master plan, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved July 28, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved motion to present hangar door/roof grant request to MassDOT Aeronautics (3-0)

Retirement Board

The Fitchburg Retirement Board is meeting to review routine administrative items. The agenda includes the approval of retirements, refunds, buybacks, transfers, and bank statements.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buybacks, and transfers
• Approval of warrant, accounting, bank statements, and minutes
• Review of deaths and new members

The Fitchburg Retirement Board met on August 24, 2021, with three members present and two absent. They unanimously approved the August 2021 warrant, the July 27, 2021 minutes, and the June and July 2021 accounting and bank statements. They also approved the retirement of Brenda Fitzgerald, effective August 25, 2021, and admitted 17 new members to the retirement system. The board discussed an election update and a buyback request from Lt. Phillip Jordan Jr., which was deferred for further review.

• Approved August 2021 warrant and July 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous 3-0).
• Approved June and July 2021 accounting and bank statements (unanimous 3-0).
• Approved Brenda Fitzgerald's Option A superannuation retirement, effective August 25, 2021 (unanimous 3-0).
• Approved admission of 17 new members to the retirement system (unanimous 3-0).
• Noted retiree deaths: Honorine Beauregard (8/1/2021) and Martha Kari (8/17/2021).
• Deferred discussion of Lt. Phillip Jordan Jr.'s buyback request to the next meeting.
• Approved August warrant payment of $1,616,386.22.
• Approved withdrawal applications totaling $59,888.95 and PRIT Core Fund management fees of $17,100.65.

Board of Health

The Board will discuss amendments to the August 5, 2021, Mask Order, including social distancing language and age requirements. The meeting also includes updates on COVID-19 cases and vaccination rates. Additionally, the board will review local upgrade approvals for two addresses.

• Amendments to the August 5, 2021, Mask Order
• Removal of Fitchburg State University exemption from mask order
• Local Upgrade Approvals (LUA) for 794 Ashburnham Hill Road and 715 Ashburnham Street
• COVID-19 vaccination rates and clinic updates

The Board of Health voted unanimously to amend the Order Requiring Face Coverings in Municipal Buildings, effective August 30, 2021. The amendments expand mask requirements to schools, Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg Housing Authority buildings, and transit services, and impose a $300 fine for violations. The board also tabled the August 5, 2021 meeting minutes and local upgrade approvals until the next meeting.

• Amended mask order to include schools, Fitchburg State University, housing authority, and transit (unanimous)
• Adopted $300 fine for mask order violations (unanimous)
• Tabled August 5, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled local upgrade approvals (unanimous)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee Policy Sub Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss Policy #5707- Covering Policy Face. No other policy recommendations or new items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from a previous Policy Sub Committee Meeting
• Discussion regarding Policy #5707- Covering Policy Face

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting scheduled for August 18, 2021, was canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 15 at 1:00 PM.

• Cancellation of the August 18 meeting

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council will review grantee updates, modifications, and extensions. The meeting includes discussions on new council priorities for the grant season and upcoming grant training. Members will also address Fitchburg Open Studios and winter projects.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• New council priorities for grant season
• Grant training schedule and new cycle
• Fitchburg Open Studios
• Winter projects

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council is hosting a grantee reception and public input meeting. The agenda includes guest speakers and an open forum for community comments. Residents can register via email to participate in the public comment portion.

• Guest speakers Brandon Robbins, Joan David, Patrick Hare, and Veronica Ramirez Martell
• Grantee reception
• Public input open forum

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will review financial reports and approve payables for July and August 2021. The board is also scheduled to vote on the 2022 Section-8 utility allowance.

• $12,000 change order for Wallace Tower Exterior Project #097132
• Approval of 2022 HCVP (Section-8) Utility Allowance
• Approval of July-August FY2021 payables
• Approval of January-July FY2021 financials
• Recognition of FHA College Interns Summer 2021

The Fitchburg Housing Authority approved payables and financials, revised its meeting schedule, and approved a change order for the Wallace Tower exterior project. The board also discussed COVID-19 precautions, construction updates, and recognized summer interns. No major policy decisions were made; most items were routine approvals or updates.

• Approved FHA payables for July-August FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved January-July financials FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved revised meeting schedule (all in favor)
• Approved change order for Wallace Tower exterior project, cost not to exceed $12,000 (all in favor)
• Approved HUD Section 8 utility allowance 2021-2022 (all in favor)
• Entered executive session and returned to regular meeting (all in favor)

Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC)

The committee will hold elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary positions. Members will also receive updates on RAISE grant applications and regional demographics. The agenda includes discussions on the Northern Tier Rail Study and future meeting formats.

• Election of officers including Nicolas Bosonetto, Dick Kilhart, and Guy Corbosiero
• Updates on Regional Demographic and RAISE Grant Applications
• Discussion regarding the Northern Tier Rail Study
• Contract status reports for FTA, RTA, and MassDOT 3C

Library Trustees

The New Director Search Committee is requesting input regarding the Library Director position. This information will be used to prepare a final version of the job advertisement for presentation at the September 8 meeting.

• Request for input on the Library Director position job advertisement

The Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees met and discussed the ongoing director search, including plans to interview finalists publicly and use the city's application system. The board tabled approval of the June 9, 2021 minutes until the September meeting. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Tabled approval of June 9, 2021 minutes until September meeting
• Discussed director search process, including public interviews for finalists
• Noted City Council does not need to approve director hire
• Planned to develop job description for board approval at September meeting

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee will meet via Zoom to review meeting notes from June 8, 2021. The committee is also scheduled to conduct a priority policy review of proposed admissions changes requested by the administration.

• Review and adoption of June 8, 2021, meeting notes
• Review of proposed admissions changes

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee will review proposed changes to admissions policies requested by the administration. The committee will also review and adopt meeting notes from April 13, 2021.

• Review of proposed admissions changes
• Adoption of meeting notes from April 13, 2021

Fitchburg Public Schools

The committee will vote on a new three-year contract with the Fitchburg Education Association and review updates to school reopening plans. The agenda also includes approval of the revised 2021-2022 school calendar and several equipment donations.

• Approval of three-year contract with Fitchburg Education Association
• Approval of revised FY 21-22 School Calendar
• Donation of three bicycles estimated at $286.94
• Donation of three scooters estimated at $139.28

Planning Board

The Fitchburg Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to review various site plans and special permits. Agenda items include a new Dunkin’ Donuts at 580 John Fitch Hwy and multiple residential developments. Some hearings are continuations from the July 13, 2021, meeting.

• Special Permit for a new Dunkin’ Donuts with drive-thru at 580 John Fitch Hwy
• Site Plan Review for a 2,500 sq. ft. Building Trade Shop at 31 Industrial Rd.
• Special Permit for two duplexes and one 3-family dwelling at 0 Lancaster St.
• Request to reduce units from 12 to 11 at 139 Harvard St.
• Scenic Road/Public Shade Tree hearing for a proposed driveway on Mt. Elam Rd.

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved several site plans and special permit extensions. It approved the parking area layout for Moran Square Diner's outdoor dining, but required a resubmission for the dining structure. It also approved a site plan for a new plumbing and heating shop at 31 Industrial Rd. and granted a two-month extension for a 20-unit PUD on Meadowbrook Rd. Several other hearings were continued to September.

• Approved ANR plan for 2 Boulder Dr./180 Main St. (6-0)
• Granted two-month extension for Special Permit 2018-2, 20-unit PUD on Meadowbrook Rd. (6-0)
• Approved parking area layout only for Moran Square Diner, 2 Lunenburg St.; dining area plan must be resubmitted (6-0)
• Continued Special Permit hearing for new Dunkin' Donuts at 580 JFH to September (6-0)
• Continued Special Permit hearing for City Storage duplexes/3-family at 0 Lancaster St. to September (6-0)
• Continued Special Permit hearing for ASG Dream Flip multifamily at 0 Beech St. to September (6-0)
• Approved stone wall break under Scenic Road Act at 0 Mt. Elam Rd. (6-0)
• Approved site plan to convert second floor to three residential units at 1151 Main St. (6-0)

Human Rights Commission

The scheduled meeting for the Fitchburg Human Rights Commission on August 10, 2021, was cancelled. No agenda items were listed for discussion.

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee will review minutes from the July 13, 2021 meeting. The committee will also enter an executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment.

• Approval of July 13, 2021 meeting minutes
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council is meeting to discuss public relations and upcoming programming. The agenda includes planning for the Grantee Reception, Fitchburg Open Studios, and a Creative Meet & Greet. The council will also review FCCTV television show updates and training dates.

• Grantee Reception and community input planning
• Fitchburg Open Studios
• Creative Meet & Greet planning including budget and location
• FCCTV television show updates
• Grant Training Dates

Side Yard Sales Committee

The Side Yard Sales Committee will discuss plans for splitting the lot at 35 Davis Street with applicants Sheryl Sawyer and Matthew and Corina Santmire. The meeting also includes a public forum and the approval of minutes from May 14, 2021.

• Discussion regarding splitting the lot at 35 Davis Street
• Approval of May 14, 2021 meeting minutes

Board of Health

The Board will discuss COVID-19 vaccination clinics, FPS Schools reopening, and contact tracing preparation. A hearing is scheduled for a site assignment modification request for AKS Recycling, Inc at 15 Cobbler Drive. The meeting also includes a continued nuisance dog hearing regarding 'Harper' at 214 Meadowbrook Lane.

• COVID-19 update on cases, vaccinations, and FPS Schools reopening
• Site assignment modification request for AKS Recycling, Inc at 15 Cobbler Drive
• Nuisance dog hearing regarding 'Harper' at 214 Meadowbrook Lane

The Board of Health voted unanimously to reinstate a mask mandate effective August 23, 2021, requiring masks in all municipal buildings and schools for students, teachers, and visitors, with exceptions for eating, drinking, and outdoor activities. The board also approved a 3-month trial allowing AKS Recycling to store municipal solid waste for up to 72 hours instead of 24, and continued a nuisance dog hearing for 'Harper' until November 1, 2021, with conditions.

• Reinstated mask mandate for municipal buildings and schools, effective Aug 23, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved AKS Recycling site assignment change: MSW storage time increased from 24 to 72 hours for 3-month trial (unanimous)
• Continued nuisance dog hearing for 'Harper' until Nov 1, 2021; dog must be leashed and restrained (unanimous)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The committee will review superintendent and principal reports regarding enrollment, graduation plans, and the school calendar. The agenda includes the acceptance of a donation from Griffin Electric and grants from the Capital Skills Grant and Mass Life Sciences Center.

• Acceptance of donation from Griffin Electric
• Acceptance of Capital Skills Grant
• Acceptance of Mass Life Sciences Center grant
• Approval of deposit into Regional Transportation Reimbursement Revolving Fund
• Temporary amendment of Policy BE

License Commission

The License Commission will discuss and approve the process for required temporary alterations to premises licenses. This includes a discussion regarding Strong Style Coffee (ELP-21-4).

• Process for temporary alteration of premises licenses (Strong Style Coffee ELP-21-4)

The Board of License Commissioners approved a temporary alteration of premises license for Strong Style Coffee (ELP-21-4), allowing the business to extend its premises to the Mill Street stage area for safe consumption. The approval was by a 2-0 roll call vote, with the understanding that the license is temporary and a permanent change would require a separate ABCC application.

• Approved temporary alteration of premises for Strong Style Coffee (ELP-21-4) (2-0)

Mosquito Control

Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project personnel will be in Fitchburg on select dates to respond to resident concerns about mosquitoes. Residents can request service via phone or online, which may result in insecticide applications in specific areas.

• Tentative visit dates: August 5, 12, 19, 26, and September 2
• Service requests can be made by calling (508) 393-3055 or via cmmcp.org
• Property owners may designate their property for exclusion from pesticide applications

Trustees of Public Burial Grounds

The subcommittee for historic preservation of Mausoleum and Laurel Hill Cemetery will meet to discuss preservation topics. The provided agenda contains only the meeting notice and does not list specific items for discussion or decision.

• No specific agenda items or motions were listed in the notice

Airport Commission

The commission will review ongoing airport work including the Airport Master Plan and fuel transfer systems. The agenda also includes discussions on several RFPs for hangars, a solar farm, and land access rental with Leominster DPW.

• Review of Airport Master Plan and REIL’s and PAPI’s
• RFPs for hangars 7 to 9, hangar 2 and 3 roofs, and a hangar 10 door
• Discussion on RFP Solar Farm and Leominster DPW land access rental
• Approval of commitments/abatements including $28.93 for Jay Thiel
• Update from Fitchburg Pilots Association regarding September Young Eagles

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission approved the June 23, 2021 meeting minutes and a request from the Fitchburg Pilots Association to hold a Young Eagles event on September 25, 2021. Both motions passed 3-0. The commission also reviewed ongoing projects, including the Runway 14-32 reconstruction and airport master plan updates, and approved a $28.93 abatement for Jay Thiel.

• Approved June 23, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved Young Eagles event on September 25, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved $28.93 abatement for Jay Thiel

Finance Committee

The regular meeting of the City Council Finance Committee scheduled for July 27, 2021, has been cancelled. No other agenda items were listed in the notice.

• Cancellation of the July 27, 2021, Finance Committee meeting

Appointments Committee

The Special Appointments Committee will review several new appointments for the Fitchburg Police Department and Fire Department. The committee will also consider re-appointments to the Water/Wastewater Commission.

• Appointment of Special Police Officer Frederick C. Lake
• Appointments of five permanent full-time firefighters
• Re-appointments to the Water/Wastewater Commission

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will review and approve retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers. The meeting also includes the approval of warrants, accounting, bank statements, and minutes.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers
• Approval of warrant, accounting, bank statements, and minutes
• Review of deaths and new members

The Fitchburg Retirement Board approved the July 2021 warrant and the June 22, 2021 minutes, and unanimously approved two retirements: Joanne Madigan (Option A, effective June 30, 2021) and Frederick Lake (Option C, effective July 5, 2021). The board also admitted two new members, John Harmon and Selena Dupuis, and discussed Bill H2808 and three candidates for a board seat. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved July 2021 warrant and June 22, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Joanne Madigan's retirement, Option A, effective June 30, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved Frederick Lake's retirement, Option C, effective July 5, 2021 (4-0)
• Admitted John Harmon and Selena Dupuis to membership (4-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is reviewing several new petitions regarding local infrastructure. These include requests for a barrier at 113 Summit Street and sidewalk accessibility assessments at 6 Myrtle Ave. The committee will also discuss replacing guardrail boards at 97 Appleton Circle.

• Petition to install a barrier at 113 Summit Street
• Petition to assess sidewalk accessibility at 6 Myrtle Ave
• Petition to replace guardrail boards at 97 Appleton Circle
• Review of held petition to remove 'No Turn on Red' sign at John T. Cetrino Memorial Drive and Water Street

The Fitchburg Public Works Committee held a petition to install a barrier at 113 Summit Street, citing liability concerns, and approved replacing broken guardrail boards at 97 Appleton Circle. A petition to assess the sidewalk at Moran Square Diner was withdrawn. The committee also received updates on DPW projects and staffing shortages.

• Held petition 135-21 for barrier at 113 Summit Street (4-0)
• Withdrew petition 137-21 for sidewalk assessment at Moran Square Diner (3-1)
• Approved petition 146-21 to replace guardrail boards at 97 Appleton Circle (4-0)
• Held petition 089-20 to remove 'No Turn on Red' sign at Cetrino Drive and Water Street (4-0)
• Approved minutes from 1/26/21 and 5/25/21 meetings

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council held a special meeting and confirmed all recommended appointments by unanimous consent (10-0). New appointees include a retired officer as Special Police Officer, five permanent full-time firefighters, and three re-appointments to the Water/Wastewater Commission. The appointees were sworn in, and the meeting adjourned.

• Confirmed Frederick C. Lake as Special Police Officer (10-0)
• Confirmed Robert P. Barrett, Lorenzo Calderon, Noah P. Emslie, Brian P. Nielson, and Daniel J. Voutila as permanent full-time firefighters (10-0)
• Re-appointed Michael McLaughlin, George Seiner, and Richard Healey to the Water/Wastewater Commission (10-0)
• Adopted minutes of the July 20, 2021 regular meeting

Cable Advisory Committee

Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale will hold a public hearing via Zoom to discuss the renewal of the cable television license for Comcast Of Massachusetts III, Inc. Residents can provide comments on the proposed Renewal Cable License during the meeting or via email.

• Public hearing regarding the renewal of the cable television license of Comcast Of Massachusetts III, Inc.

The Cable Advisory Committee held a public hearing on Comcast's license renewal. Attorney William Solomon outlined contract terms including a 10-year term, 4.5% franchise fee, and $705,000 capital support. One written public comment was read; the hearing was closed and the meeting adjourned without any formal decision or vote.

• Public hearing on Comcast license declared open at 4:35 p.m.
• Contract terms outlined: 10-year term, 4.5% franchise fee, $705,000 capital support
• Written comment from William Shoemaker read aloud
• Motion to close public hearing approved
• Meeting adjourned at 4:42 p.m. without substantive action

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to review executive reports and financial documents. The agenda includes motions regarding debt write-offs for former tenants and upcoming meeting schedules.

• Approval of payables for June-July FY2021
• Approval of financials from January-June FY2021
• Motion to approve debt write-off from former state public housing tenants
• Approval of FHA Annual & CIP meeting and submission dates

The Fitchburg Housing Authority held a regular board meeting on July 21, 2021, approving payables, financials, a write-off of former tenant debts, and various administrative motions. The board also reviewed construction updates, including a rejected bid for the Canton Valley CSI project and progress on other projects. No major policy changes were made; the meeting was largely routine.

• Approved FHA payables for June-July FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved January-June financials FY2021 (all in favor)
• Approved write-off of former tenants owing $14,816.25 (all in favor)
• Approved next board meeting on August 11 at 10am at Canton Valley (all in favor)
• Approved dates for Annual and CIP Plan submission (all in favor)
• Approved regular meeting dates and locations for August-December 2021 (all in favor)
• Signed final bound proposed bylaws (all in favor)
• Rejected $2,994,000 bid from TRAC Builders for Canton Valley CSI project (recommended by DHCD)

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The Montachusett MPO will review a potential amendment to the FFY 2021-2025 Transportation Improvement Program. The meeting also includes a review of RAISE grant applications and a demonstration of an ADA survey application. Additionally, members will discuss the Northern Tier Rail Study.

• Potential amendment to FFY 2021-2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Review of RAISE Grant applications
• Demonstration of ADA Public Right of Way (PROW) Surveys Data Collection Application
• Discussion regarding Northern Tier Rail Study

Department of Public Utilities

The Department of Public Utilities will hold a virtual public hearing regarding Fitchburg's request to implement an electricity aggregation program. The plan would allow the city to procure electric supply for eligible consumers, with automatic enrollment for those not currently using a competitive supplier.

• Public hearing for electricity aggregation plan (D.P.U. 20-117)
• Proposed automatic enrollment of eligible electric consumers
• Retention of Good Energy, L.P. as city agent and consultant

City Council

The City Council will review a $65,050,000 loan order to construct a new Crocker Elementary School at 200 Bigelow Road. The agenda also includes minor amendments to the zoning ordinance and the declaration of two properties as surplus. Additionally, the council will address budget transfers and various municipal appointments.

• $65,050,000 loan order for Crocker Elementary School construction
• Declaration of 253 Laurel Street and 44 Wanoosnoc Road as excess property
• Minor amendments to the Fitchburg Zoning Ordinance
• Public hearing for Verizon New England, Inc. regarding conduit on Game on Way
• $100,000 budget transfer for law, litigation, and special counsel

The City Council approved a $65,050,000 loan order to fund the construction of a new Crocker Elementary School at 200 Bigelow Road, with a grade configuration of 1 to 5. The loan was adopted by a roll call vote of 11 in favor and 0 opposed, and signed by the Mayor on July 21, 2021. The Council also approved several other items, including the naming of the Legislative Building as the 'David Clark Legislative Building' (after a motion to withdraw was approved), and the declaration of 253 Laurel Street as surplus property.

• Approved $65,050,000 loan order for new Crocker Elementary School (11-0).
• Approved naming the Legislative Building the 'David Clark Legislative Building' (motion to withdraw approved 6-5).
• Declared 253 Laurel Street as surplus property (unanimous).
• Retained 44 Wanoosnoc Road as city property (motion to amend to 'HOLD' approved, then failed to accept as surplus).
• Approved Verizon's request to place a conduit on Game on Way (unanimous).
• Approved $86 transfer for Veterans expenses (unanimous).
• Approved $6,000 transfer for City Clerk receptionist (unanimous).
• Approved $100,000 transfer for litigation and special counsel (unanimous).

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding petition 145-21. The petition requests permission for Verizon New England, Inc. to place one four-inch conduit on Game on Way.

• Public hearing for Verizon New England, Inc. to install a 4-inch conduit on Game on Way

City Property Committee

The City Property Committee will consider declaring 253 Laurel Street and 44 Wanoosnoc Road as excess or surplus property. The committee will also review a request to authorize the Mayor to sign an Entire Release of Easement for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority.

• Declaration of 253 Laurel Street as excess/surplus property
• Declaration of 44 Wanoosnoc Road as excess/surplus property
• Authorization for the Mayor to sign an Entire Release of Easement for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is meeting to consider new appointments for poll workers. These appointments cover the period from September 1, 2021, through August 21, 2022.

• New appointments for poll workers (September 1, 2021 – August 21, 2022)

Cultural Council

The Fitchburg Cultural Council will review grantee updates, modifications, and extensions. The meeting also includes discussions regarding Fitchburg Open Studios and grant training for a new cycle.

• Grantee updates, modifications, and extensions
• Fitchburg Open Studios
• Grant training for a new cycle
• Treasurer’s and Grant Coordinator report
• FCC TV update

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will review budget reports and approve meeting minutes from June and July 2021. The agenda includes updates on 0 Airport Road and Putnam Place, as well as discussions regarding Grant Round #3.

• Presentation by GFI Properties for 0 Airport Road
• Update on Tango at 0 Airport Road
• River Styx Parking Lot and facilities update for Putnam Place
• FRA Grant Round #3
• Funding request from Friends of Fitchburg Veterans

License Commission

The Fitchburg License Commission will consider several applications, including a manager change for Strong Style Coffee at 37 Boulder Drive. The meeting includes reviews for special one-day licenses for events at Fitchburg State University, Saima Park, and Riverfront Park. The commission will also discuss lodging house reviews.

• Change of manager for Strong Style Coffee, 37 Boulder Drive
• Special one-day licenses for events at Fitchburg State University
• Special one-day license for LUK Crisis Center event at Saima Park
• Sunday entertainment permit for Civic Days at Riverfront Park

The Fitchburg License Commission approved a change of manager for Strong Style Coffee, three solicitor licenses, and several one-day liquor licenses, including for LUK Crisis Center and the City of Fitchburg's Civic Days. A temporary alteration of premises for River Styx was approved with a reduced area due to construction. Two Chartwells applications were continued to September 8, 2021.

• Approved Strong Style Coffee change of manager from Eirean Bradly to Kimberly Jones (3-0)
• Approved solicitor license for Lee Garafola for residential solar panels (3-0)
• Approved solicitor licenses for Corey Howard, Anthony R. Minasian, and Leo Romero for free exterior home remodeling estimates (3-0)
• Continued Compass Group/Chartwells beer garden and 50th Reunion applications to September 8, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved one-day license for LUK Crisis Center 50th Anniversary event at Saima Park (3-0)
• Approved one-day license and Sunday entertainment permit for City of Fitchburg Civic Days at Riverfront Park (3-0)
• Approved River Styx temporary alteration of premises with reduced area of 80' x 115' due to construction (3-0)

Appointments Committee

The Fitchburg Appointments Committee is meeting to discuss new appointments for various city boards and departments. This includes positions on the Historical Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Conservation Commission. The committee will also review candidates for full-time student police officer roles.

• Appointment of Andrew Lipasti to the Fitchburg Historical Commission
• Appointment of Eric Chartrand to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Appointment of James Reynolds to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Appointment of Joyce Jacobs to the Conservation Commission
• Appointments for full-time student police officers in the Fitchburg Police Department

Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC)

The Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC) meeting scheduled for July 14, 2021, is canceled. The next meeting will be held on August 11th and will include the election of officers.

• Cancellation of the July 14th MJTC meeting
• Election of officers scheduled for the August 11th meeting

Water & Wastewater Commission

The Fitchburg Water/Wastewater Commission is meeting to review minutes, hear updates on water and wastewater projects, and discuss a council petition to study in-house sludge transport. The agenda includes updates on the SCADA project, rate study, meter project, and construction projects, as well as sewer ordinance updates from Westminster and Lunenburg.

• Council Petition No. 134-21: study in-house sludge transport; contract prices listed from $126,270 (2016/2017) to $321,450 (2022/2023)
• Water Street closure between First and Walnut Streets for CSO separation/rehabilitation project
• Sewer ordinance updates: Westminster voted to mirror Fitchburg's Chapter 147; Lunenburg draft under review
• Wastewater staffing updates: new Senior Operator, General Foreman, and other hires; 6th crew spot to be filled
• Rain barrel program: 155 sold in 2021, 500 total

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The subcommittee will review minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting. Members will also update recruitment documents and consider a motion to launch the Superintendent position posting on School Spring.

• Motion to launch the Superintendent position posting via School Spring
• Review and update of supporting documents/brochure for the job position
• Review of minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider a loan order of $65,050,000.00 for the construction of a new Crocker Elementary School at 200 Bigelow Road. The meeting also includes an announcement regarding public meeting recordings and a public forum.

• Loan order of $65,050,000.00 for the MSBA Core Project to construct Crocker Elementary School
• Construction project located at 200 Bigelow Road

The Finance Committee voted 5-0 to approve a $65,050,000 loan order to fund the construction of a new Crocker Elementary School at 200 Bigelow Road. The project is an MSBA Core Project with an 80% reimbursement rate on eligible costs, though the effective rate is 65.9% after accounting for ineligible costs, leaving the city's share at about $22.1 million. The new two-story school will serve grades 1-5 and is expected to be complete by January 2025. The loan order now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Approved loan order 143-21 for $65,050,000 to build a new Crocker Elementary School (5-0 roll call vote)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)
• Heard public comment from Debra Jeffries in support of the project
• Discussed MSBA reimbursement rate of 80% on eligible costs, with effective rate of 65.9% after ineligible costs
• Noted city's share of project cost is approximately $22.1 million
• Projected debt service increase of about $1.3 million over six years, to be funded gradually
• Discussed potential $12 million rehab cost if project falls through
• Noted project completion expected January 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several special permit applications. These include requests to convert or reinstate buildings as multi-family dwellings and a contractor's yard. The board will also review cases remanded from the Land Court and Superior Court.

• Special permit for a contractor's yard at 136 Falulah St
• Reinstatement of three-family dwellings at 12 Nashua St, 7 Canton St, and 133 Cedar St
• Parking reconfiguration at 50 Frankfort St
• Variance review for a single-family dwelling at 0 Fisher Rd
• Boarding house use petition review at 94 Highland Ave

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for the reconfiguration of parking for a 16-unit condominium development at 50 Frankfort St, adding green space and reducing parking from 17 to 6 spots on the adjacent 46 Frankfort St property. The board also approved a special permit for a contractor's yard at 136 Falulah St, continued several cases, and denied a special permit for a three-family dwelling at 133 Cedar St due to the applicant's absence.

• Approved special permit for 16 condos at 50 Frankfort St with conditions including a 6-foot fence, no parking on Fayerweather St, and a non-transferable permit.
• Approved special permit for a contractor's yard at 136 Falulah St with conditions including demolition of existing buildings and a sunset clause on transfer.
• Denied special permit for a three-family dwelling at 133 Cedar St (0-5 vote) due to applicant's absence and lack of parking plan.
• Continued to September 14, 2021: ZBA-2020-25 (variance for 0 Fisher Rd), ZBA-2021-09 (157 High St), ZBA-2021-18 (12 Nashua St), ZBA-2021-20 (7 Canton St).
• Approved special permit for two-family dwelling at 220-222 Albee St with conditions including removal of left-side addition and 18-month completion deadline.
• Continued review of ZBA-2017-16 (94 Highland Ave) to February 8, 2022, with conditions on parking and dumpster placement.

Planning Board

The Board will conduct public hearings for various site plan reviews and special permits. These include a Dunkin’ Donuts at 580 John Fitch Hwy and residential developments on Beech St. and Lancaster St. A request to withdraw has been filed for the 26-unit project at 50-56 Oliver St.

• Special Permit for Dunkin’ Donuts with drive-thru at 580 John Fitch Hwy
• Site Plan Review for 20-unit multifamily at 0 Beech St.
• Site Plan Review for 2 duplexes and a 3-family dwelling at 0 Lancaster St.
• Amendment for medical marijuana retail sales at 50 Whalon St.
• Site Plan Review for residential conversion at 1151 Main St.

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved a minor site plan for River Styx Brewing to make its outdoor seating area permanent, with a 5-0 vote. The board also approved a one-year extension for the Alpine Solar array site plan and transferred its approval to Northeast Solar Development, LLC. Additionally, it approved a minor site plan for two temporary office trailers at Garden Remedies, Inc., and approved the transfer of a special permit for medical marijuana retail sales at 50 Whalon St. to Green Meadows Farm, LLC.

• Approved ANR plan for 134 Crawford St. (Tango Construction) to combine parcels, 5-0.
• Approved minor site plan for River Styx Brewing outdoor seating, 5-0.
• Granted one-year extension and transfer of site plan approval for Alpine Solar array to Northeast Solar Development, LLC, 6-0.
• Approved minor site plan for two temporary office trailers at Garden Remedies, Inc., 6-0.
• Approved transfer of Special Permit 2020-4 to Green Meadows Farm, LLC and amendment for medical marijuana retail sales, 7-0.
• Continued special permit hearing for Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru at 580 John Fitch Hwy to August meeting, 7-0.
• Continued site plan review for 1151 Main St. (Bradley) to August meeting, 6-0.
• Approved site plan for Twin Pines Landscaping parking area at 10 Congress Place, 6-0.

Human Rights Commission

The scheduled meeting of the Fitchburg Human Rights Commission for July 13, 2021, was cancelled.

Cultural Council

The Public Relations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss upcoming community programs and events. The agenda includes planning for Fitchburg Open Studios and organizing a grantee reception. The subcommittee will also address FCC TV episodes and grant training logistics.

• Fitchburg Open Studios planning and sponsorship
• Grantee Reception community input and publicity
• FCC TV episode planning
• Creative Meet & Greet
• Grant Training dates and facilitators

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Subcommittee is meeting to review minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting and update recruitment brochures. The committee will also consider a motion to launch the Superintendent job posting on School Spring.

• Motion to launch the School Spring posting for the Superintendent Position
• Review and update of supporting documents/brochure for the job position posting

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will hear presentations regarding the Urban Renewal Plan and structural improvements at River Styx. The BSC Group is scheduled to present an update on the plan, and owner Jackie Cullen will present on the River Styx project.

• Urban Renewal Plan Update presentation by The BSC Group
• Structural improvements at River Styx presentation by owner Jackie Cullen

License Commission

The Fitchburg License Commission will meet to approve minutes from a prior meeting. The commission will also consider applications for changes of managers at Strong Style Coffee and The Boulder, as well as an entertainment permit for live music on Boulder Drive.

• Change of manager for Strong Style Coffee, 37 Boulder Drive
• Change of manager for The Boulder, 880 Main Street
• Entertainment permit for Mill Street Stage on Boulder Drive for live music and a DJ

The Fitchburg License Commission approved a change of manager for The Boulder at 880 Main Street from Chris Bujold to Monica McNamara by a unanimous 3/0 vote. It also approved an amended entertainment permit for Mill Street Stage on Boulder Drive, allowing live acoustic and amplified music and DJs on specified dates, with adjusted times to comply with Regulation 10.6, and expanded the September 25 event to include Main Street, by a 2/0 vote. A change of manager for Strong Style Coffee was continued to July 19 because the applicant was absent. The board also discussed complaints about Kingston Island Cuisine and agreed to a site visit.

• Approved change of manager for The Boulder from Chris Bujold to Monica McNamara (3/0)
• Approved amended entertainment permit for Mill Street Stage, with times adjusted to 9:30 PM and September 25 expanded to Main Street (2/0)
• Continued Strong Style Coffee change of manager application to July 19, 2021 (2/0)
• Approved minutes of June 21, 2021 (2/0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health is holding a special meeting to review candidates for two positions. The discussion will take place during an executive session.

• Reviewing applications for Food and Milk Inspector
• Reviewing applications for Vaccine Coordinator

City Council

The Council will consider a $65,050,000 loan order to construct the new Crocker Elementary School at 200 Bigelow Road. The agenda also includes various budget transfers for DPW and water maintenance, as well as committee reports on appointments and public safety.

• $65,050,000 loan order for the construction of Crocker Elementary School
• $57,972 grant for a police-based Jail Diversion Program
• Declaration of 253 Laurel Street and 44 Wanoosnoc Road as excess property
• $160,000 budget transfer to DPW Highway expenses and personnel
• $40,000 grant for the Mass in Motion Municipal Wellness and Leadership Initiative

Appointments Committee

The Fitchburg Appointments Committee is meeting to consider reappointments to the Human Rights Commission and Disability Commission, as well as new appointments to the Redevelopment Authority and the Public Library Trustees. The meeting is open to the public and can be viewed remotely.

• Reappointment of David Roth to the Human Rights Commission (term to May 1, 2024)
• Reappointment of Basil Tolos to the Disability Commission (term to Feb 1, 2024)
• New appointment of Chris Bujold to the Redevelopment Authority (term to July 1, 2026)
• New appointments of Muna Kangsen and Dennis Pierce to the Public Library Trustees (terms to July 1, 2023)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss several items regarding road safety and accessibility. Topics include installing a stop sign at Stoneybrook Road and reviewing no-parking zones on Eastlin Way and Canton Street. The committee will also assess sidewalk conditions near 6 Myrtle Ave for handicap access.

• Installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Stoneybrook Road and Village Crossing
• Review of no parking restrictions on Eastlin Way
• Proposal for 'no parking' signage on Canton Street near FHA apartments
• Assessment of sidewalk accessibility at 6 Myrtle Ave (Moron Square Diner)

The Public Safety Committee recommended granting petitions 041-21 (stop sign at Stoneybrook Road and Village Crossing) and 042-21 (review of no parking restrictions on Eastlin Way). It also recommended petition 123-21 (no parking signage on Canton Street) be given leave to withdraw, and referred petition 137-21 (sidewalk assessment at 6 Myrtle Ave) to the Public Works Committee. These are recommendations, not final decisions.

• Recommended granting petition 041-21 for a stop sign on the east side of Stoneybrook Road at Village Crossing.
• Recommended granting petition 042-21 to review no parking restrictions on Eastlin Way for possible expansion.
• Recommended petition 123-21 for no parking signage on Canton Street be given leave to withdraw.
• Referred petition 137-21 to assess the sidewalk at 6 Myrtle Ave to the Public Works Committee.

Mosquito Control

The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project will be in Fitchburg on specific dates to address mosquito concerns. These service dates are tentative and subject to change based on weather or mosquito activity. Residents can request insecticide applications or opt-out of spraying on private property.

• Service dates include July 4, 6, 15, 22, and 2a
• Requests for service can be made via (508) 393-3055 or www.cmmcp.org
• Property owners may designate private property to be excluded from pesticide applications

Board of Health

The Board will review COVID-19 vaccination rates and cases. The agenda includes hearings for a plumbing variance at Green Acres and a dog complaint at 214 Meadowbrook Lane. Members will also discuss regulations regarding site assignment modifications.

• COVID-19 updates on cases, vaccination rates, and clinics
• Plumbing variance request for backflow preventers at Green Acres
• Dog complaint hearing for 'Harper' at 214 Meadowbrook Lane
• Request to modify site assignment conditions for AKS Recycling Inc. at 15 Cobbler Drive
• Discussion of staffing vacancies for health and sanitary inspectors

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will discuss options for spending earmark monies. The meeting also includes treasurer reports and committee updates.

• Discussion of options for spending earmark monies
• Treasurer's report on the Sunshine Fund and financial status
• Committee reports regarding personnel, building, grounds, and bylaws

The Fitchburg Council on Aging Board approved motions to enforce a 2000 preservation restriction on the Senior Center, requesting an updated needs assessment and a cease-and-desist on non-emergency work until the Massachusetts Historical Commission reviews it. The board also changed its meeting start time to 1:00 PM and amended prior minutes to include invited guests and meeting dates/times.

• Amended June minutes to note Russell Karlstad's invitation and future guest/date/time details (approved)
• Changed COA BOD meeting start time from 1:30 PM to 1:00 PM for all future meetings (approved)
• Approved motion to continue abiding by 2000 preservation restriction and request updated needs assessment for Senior Center
• Approved motion to notify Mayor and Facilities Director of preservation terms and request cease-and-desist of non-emergency work until Commission review

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss the Urban Renewal Plan. The meeting includes a presentation by The BSC Group regarding a plan update.

• Urban Renewal Plan Update presentation by The BSC Group

City Property Committee

The City Property Committee is considering declaring two properties as excess or surplus property. The committee will also discuss authorizing the Mayor to sign a release of easement for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority.

• Declaration of 253 Laurel Street as excess/surplus property
• Declaration of 44 Wanoosnoc Road as excess/surplus property
• Authorization for the Mayor to sign an Entire Release of Easement to the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

Public Works Committee

The regular meeting of the Fitchburg Public Works Committee scheduled for Tuesday, June 29, 2021, is cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 27, 2021.

Historical Commission

The Commission will discuss the proposed demolition of Simonds Saw and Steel on Intervale Road. The meeting includes reviews of historic marker wording for Blossom and Crescent Streets and updates on Monument Park repairs. Members will also review draft ordinances regarding demolition delays and stonewall retention.

• Proposed demolition of Simonds Saw and Steel, Intervale Rd
• Historic site marker wording for Blossom and Crescent Streets
• Monument Park cast iron fence and statue base repairs
• Draft stonewall ordinance proposal
• Proposed Demolition Delay ordinance draft

The Fitchburg Historical Commission approved the May 27, 2021 minutes unanimously. They discussed wording for a historic marker at a new housing development on Blossom and Crescent Streets, with the developer agreeing to erect it. The proposed Demolition Delay ordinance was briefly discussed and tabled. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were status updates.

• Approved May 27, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed historic marker wording for Blossom and Crescent Streets development; developer agreed to erect marker
• Tabled proposed Demolition Delay ordinance
• Reviewed draft of proposed Stonewall Preservation Ordinance (discussion only)

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Superintendent Search Subcommittee met via Zoom. The meeting focused on developing a process for searching potential candidates for the superintendent position.

• Development of the candidate search process for the superintendent position

Airport Commission

The commission will review ongoing airport projects, including flight checks and the Airport Master Plan. The agenda also includes discussions regarding a 2.2% rent increase, solar farm RFPs, and warehouse development.

• Proposed 2.2% rent increase
• Review of REIL’s and PAPI’s flight checks
• RFP for Solar Farm
• Land access rental with Leominster DPW
• RFP for hangars

The Fitchburg Municipal Airport Commission approved a 2.2% rent increase for airport properties, factoring in cost of living and development costs. The commission also approved the May 26, 2021 meeting minutes. The runway project's flight inspection was completed, making navigation aids operational, with corrective action planned for grounding issues. The FAA grant for the Airport Master Plan was issued to the city, awaiting signature to begin production.

• Approved May 26, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0 vote).
• Approved 2.2% rent increase for airport properties (3-0 vote).
• Runway project flight inspection completed; NavAids operational.
• FAA grant offer for Airport Master Plan issued to city; awaiting signature.
• Discussed drone prevention petition with police; awaiting documentation from Solicitor.
• Discussed easement for Leominster land access; Solicitor to present to Leominster DPW.
• Hangars 2, 3 & 10 repairs approved by City Council for new fiscal year.
• Self-serve fuel farm valve issue resolved; system working safely.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is considering several orders to transfer funds between city accounts. These include transfers for DPW capital equipment, building renovations, and cemetery services. The committee will also consider a grant for the Social Host Liability Billboards Program.

• $1,000 grant approval for Social Host Liability Billboards Program
• $160,000 transfer for DPW capital equipment and highway expenses
• $114,000 transfer for DPW building renovation and engineering services
• $6,000 transfer from cemetery summer help to cemetery overtime
• $13,600 transfer to Council on Aging program coordinator

The Finance Committee unanimously approved all eight orders on the agenda, including a $1,000 grant from the Worcester County District Attorney's Office for the Social Host Liability Billboards Program. The committee also approved several fund transfers, including $160,000 to DPW capital equipment and $114,000 to DPW building renovation, despite some councilors' concerns about unfilled positions and the use of surplus labor funds.

• Approved $1,000 DA grant for Social Host Liability Billboards (5-0)
• Approved $160,000 transfer to DPW Capital Equipment (5-0)
• Approved $114,000 transfer to DPW Building Renovation (5-0)
• Approved $6,000 transfer from Cemetery Summer Help to Overtime (5-0)
• Approved $417 transfer to License Commission Personal Services (4-0, Zarrella recused)
• Approved $3,300 transfer to IT Help Desk Technician (5-0)
• Approved $7,000 transfer to Treasurer Postage (5-0)
• Approved $13,600 transfer to Council on Aging Program Coordinator (5-0)

Retirement Board

The Fitchburg Retirement Board will meet to approve retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers. The board will also review accounting, bank statements, and minutes.

• Approval of retirements, refunds, buy backs, and transfers
• Review of warrant, accounting, bank statements, and minutes
• Updates regarding deaths and new members

The Fitchburg Retirement Board unanimously approved the June 2021 warrant, May 2021 bank statements, and minutes from May 25, 2021. It approved five retirements, including David Piermarini (Firefighter) and Michael Burns (Sanitary Inspector), and admitted two new members. The board also approved an amended administrator agreement and a 2% pay increase for Diane Vieweg.

• Approved June 2021 warrant and May 25, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 2021 bank statements (5-0)
• Approved retirement of David Piermarini, Firefighter, Option A, effective June 28, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Michael Burns, Sanitary Inspector, Option C, effective June 30, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Joyce Helmer, Paraprofessional, Option A, effective June 30, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Colleen Bergeron, Principal Secretary, Option B, effective June 30, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved retirement of Valerie D'Alessandro, Paraprofessional, Option C, effective June 27, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved new members Taylor Caveney and Jeremy Normandin (5-0)

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee is reviewing committee reports and the Superintendent's report regarding retiring teachers and summer programs. The meeting includes votes on several grant submissions and a donation of hand sanitizer for classrooms.

• Donation of approximately 1,550 pieces of hand sanitizer from Walmart of Leominster (est. $3,487.50)
• Grant submission: Accelerating Math Instruction for Students 2021-22 ($93,000)
• Grant acceptance: 21st Century Community Learning Centers — Exemplary Programs Grant ($155,000)
• Submission of Summer FY22 grants including Title I ($2,371,488) and PL 94-142 ($1,638,401)

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will review minutes from a previous meeting and consider several permit applications. These include requests for live music at 923 Main Street and 20 Authority Drive, along with a one-day alcohol license for an event at 718 Main Street. The board will also discuss temporary alterations to premises licenses for Kingston Island Cuisine.

• Music and DJ permit application for Zen Den Studios and Upper Common at 923 Main Street
• Live music permit application for Ethos Cannabis at 20 Authority Drive
• One-day wine and malt beverage license for North Central Chamber of Commerce Business Event at 718 Main Street
• Discussion regarding temporary alteration of premises licenses for Kingston Island Cuisine

The Board approved a one-day all-alcohol license and an entertainment permit for Ipanema Productions' rodeo events at the Fitchburg Municipal Airport on August 15 and September 26, 2021. It also approved an amended entertainment permit for Zen Den Studios' live music event on August 15, and a carnival entertainment permit for St. Bernard's School from June 24-27. A solicitor's application was withdrawn, and the board discussed drafting a letter about premises extensions and investigating grant funds for ID checks.

• Approved Ipanema Productions' entertainment license for August 15 and September 26, 2021, by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Approved Ipanema Productions' one-day all-alcohol license for the same dates, by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Approved Zen Den Studios' amended application for live amplified music on August 15, 2021, by unanimous roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved St. Bernard's School's entertainment license for a carnival from June 24-27, 2021, by unanimous roll call vote 3/0.
• Approved leave to withdraw for Christopher Shivo's solicitor application, by unanimous roll call vote 2/0.
• Approved the minutes of June 7, 2021, by unanimous consent 2/0.
• Agreed to draft a letter to licensees about applying for permanent premises alterations.
• Agreed to research assistance for licensees and investigate grant funds for ID check inspections.

Trustees of Public Burial Grounds

The Trustees of Public Burial Grounds will meet virtually to discuss cemetery-related topics. The agenda includes Memorial Day ceremonies, a donation from Stratton Players, and preservation planning.

• Memorial Day Ceremonies
• Stratton Players Donation
• Sub Committee Preservation Planning
• Veterans Flag Holders

The Fitchburg Cemetery Trustee Board approved the minutes from its May 20, 2021 meeting by a 5-0 vote. The board heard the Cemetery Superintendent's progress report covering routine maintenance, interments, and administrative tasks. No public forum comments were made, and no new business was decided beyond scheduling a sub-committee meeting.

• Approved the May 20, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0 vote).
• Scheduled the Preservation Planning Sub-Committee meeting for July 29, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:07 a.m. (5-0 vote).

License Commission

The License Commission is reviewing an entertainment permit application from Centro, Inc. The request involves live amplified music for approximately 350 people at Parkhill Park on June 19, 2021.

• Entertainment permit request for Centro, Inc. at 27 Franklin Road

The Fitchburg Board of License Commissioners approved entertainment and one-day alcohol licenses for Ipanema Productions' rodeo events at the Municipal Airport, and entertainment permits for St. Bernard's School's carnival and Zen Den Studios' live music event. A solicitor's application was continued to the next meeting because the applicant was absent. The board also discussed drafting a letter to licensees about permanent premises extensions and investigating grant funds for ID-check spot inspections.

• Approved minutes of May 17, 2021 by unanimous consent 3/0.
• Continued solicitor application for Christopher Shivo, JSP Tree and Landscape, to June 21st meeting due to applicant absence (3/0).
• Approved amended entertainment application for Zen Den Studios, 923 Main Street, for live music and DJ on August 21, 2021, 4PM-9PM (3/0).
• Approved entertainment license for Ipanema Productions at Fitchburg Municipal Airport for August 15 and September 26, 2021 (3/0).
• Approved one-day all-alcohol license for Ipanema Productions for August 15 (4,000 people) and September 26 (3,000 people), 11AM-9PM (3/0).
• Approved entertainment license for St. Bernard's School carnival, June 24-27, 2021 (3/0).
• Agreed to draft a letter to licensees about applying for permanent premises alterations.
• Agreed to research assistance for licensees and investigate grant funds for ID-check spot inspections.

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will discuss proposed changes to its bylaws and a new office location for MHHC-C.J. Durkin. The board also plans to review financial reports, payables, and project change orders.

• Proposed modifications to FHA Bylaws
• New office location and construction for MHHC-C.J. Durkin
• Green Acres Basement Project #FISH 097076 Change Order
• Prioritization list for FISH #097153 G.A. Location of Admin/Community Bld.
• Approval of FY2021 payables and financials

The Fitchburg Housing Authority board approved a new Juneteenth holiday and voted to compensate board members for meetings and check signing. They also approved the FY 2020 PMR audit with no finding, the proposed bylaws, and a change order for the Green Acres basement project. The board prioritized a location for a new administrative-community building, with Option #2 as most favorable.

• Approved Juneteenth as a holiday for the FHA.
• Approved board compensation for meetings and check signing.
• Approved the FY 2020 PMR audit with no finding.
• Approved the proposed bylaws.
• Approved a change order for the Green Acres basement project.
• Prioritized Option #2 (Backfield) as the most favorable location for the administrative-community building.
• Approved relocation of MHHC's Supportive Housing Office.
• Approved payables for May-June FY 2021 and financials for January-May FY 2021.

Fitchburg Public Schools

The Fitchburg School Committee is reviewing updates on school building maintenance plans and summer priorities. The agenda also includes progress reports on the Crocker Field turf restoration and MSBA accelerated repair projects.

• Crocker Field artificial turf project update
• MSBA Crocker Core Project update (Board vote scheduled for 6/23/2021)
• Statement of Interest for LMS windows and boilers repair project
• South Street Elementary roof update and completed boiler project

Fitchburg Public Schools

The subcommittee will review minutes from the May 13, 2021, meeting. The agenda includes submitting or accepting various grants and donations, such as the 21st Century @ McKay grant and hand sanitizer from Walmart. The Juneteenth holiday is also listed for discussion.

• Approval of May 13, 2021, subcommittee minutes
• Submission of Accelerated Math Grant and Federal Grant Programs
• Acceptance of 21st Century @ McKay grant
• Acceptance of hand sanitizer donation from Walmart
• Juneteenth holiday discussion

Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

The scheduled meeting for the Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization on June 16, 2021, was canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for July 21st.

City Council

The council will review several financial transfers and appropriations, including funds for library renovations and airport maintenance. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding Tibbett Circle and a final reading on a $4 million wastewater infrastructure loan order.

• Final reading of a $4,000,000 loan order for various wastewater infrastructure projects
• Public hearing regarding laying out a portion of Tibbett Circle as a public way
• Appropriation of funds for library heating and cooling system construction
• Appropriation of $135,000 for airport hangar roof and door repairs
• Promotion of Robert Raboin to the position of Permanent Police Sergeant

The City Council unanimously approved two orders to lay out a portion of Tibbett Circle as a public street, following a continued public hearing. The council also adopted a series of finance orders, including transfers and appropriations for snow and ice removal, library HVAC, airport repairs, and other projects. A $4 million loan order for wastewater infrastructure projects was advanced to final reading.

• Approved laying out portion of Tibbett Circle as public way (11-0)
• Adopted 13 finance orders including $7,202 snow/ice transfer, $50,000 OPEB appropriation, $280,000 library HVAC, $135,000 airport hangar repairs (11-0)
• Approved $4 million loan order for wastewater infrastructure projects (unanimous)
• Referred 5 petitions to committees (sludge study, barrier at 113 Summit St, special counsel, sidewalk at 6 Myrtle Ave)
• Approved release deeds for Parcels A and B of 16 Market Street (11-0)

City Council

The Fitchburg City Council is conducting a continued hearing regarding the laying out of a portion of Tibbett Circle as a public street or way. This follows an order for notice and a previous committee review held in March 2021.

• Continued hearing for laying out a portion of Tibbett Circle as a public street

Cultural Council

The council will vote on meeting locations and filling open positions. The agenda also includes updates on grantees and discussion regarding the Cultural District Designation.

• Vote on meeting location
• Vote on open positions
• Grantee updates, modifications, or extensions
• Cultural District Designation discussion
• Fitchburg Open Studios

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will discuss development at 0 Airport Road and a Request for Proposals. The agenda also includes budget reports, Putnam Place facilities updates, and potential grant rounds.

• Discussion of 0 Airport Road with developer Steve Goodman and broker Joel Aho
• Request for Proposals (RFP) for 0 Airport Road
• Facilities update for Putnam Place Building 3
• Possible FRA Grant Round #3
• Funding request for North Central Chamber of Commerce – Business After Hours

License Commission

The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission will perform minimum age and delivery compliance checks throughout the City of Fitchburg during 2021-2022. This item serves as a notice regarding upcoming enforcement activities.

• Minimum Age Purchase Law Compliance Checks
• Minimum Purchase Law Alcoholic Delivery Compliance Checks

City Council

The City Council will debate and vote on several orders regarding the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. This includes appropriations for the General Fund, Water Enterprise, Wastewater Enterprise, and Airport Fund. Department heads facing potential cuts are scheduled to attend.

• Appropriation of $139,479,493 for the General Fund
• $1,775,000 from available funds to the FY 2022 tax levy to reduce the tax rate
• $700,000 from overlay surplus to the FY 2022 tax levy
• Appropriation of $6,267,208 for the Water Enterprise Fund
• Appropriation of $15,485,159 for the Wastewater Enterprise Fund

The Fitchburg City Council voted 7-4 to adopt the Mayor's Fiscal Year 2022 operating budget of $139,479,493 for the General Fund, along with separate appropriations for Water, Wastewater, and Airport funds. All proposed budget cuts to individual departments and positions were defeated, with the exception of three items (Highway laborer, contingent adjustments, and yard waste collection) which were granted leave to withdraw. The Council also approved several related orders, including using $1,775,000 from available funds to reduce the tax rate.

• Adopted the FY2022 Operating Budget of $139,479,493 for the General Fund by a 7-4 vote.
• Approved $700,000 from Overlay Surplus to be credited to the FY2022 tax levy.
• Approved $1,775,000 from Available Funds to be credited to the FY2022 tax levy to reduce the tax rate.
• Approved appropriations for Water ($6,267,208), Wastewater ($15,485,159), and Airport ($841,537) enterprise funds.
• Approved $213,848 from Parking Meter/Garage Receipts for Treasurer Personal Services and Expenses.
• Approved $25,000 from PEG Access and Cable Related Fund Receipts for Information Technology expenses.
• Approved $15,000 from Cemetery Sale of Lots and Graves for Cemetery Personal Services.
• Approved the expenditure of funds from various Revolving Funds up to $100,000 each (except Public Health Sustainability at $700,000).

City Council

The City Council will meet for a special session to conduct a final vote on several FY2022 budget orders. These items include appropriations for the Mayor's operating budget and various enterprise funds. The council will also consider using available funds and overlay surplus to impact the tax levy.

• Appropriation of the Mayor’s FY2022 Operating Budget, including $139,479,493 for the General Fund
• $700,000 credit to the FY2022 tax levy from the overlay surplus
• $1,775,000 credit to the FY2022 tax levy from available funds to reduce the tax rate
• Appropriation of $6,267,208 for the Water Enterprise Fund
• Appropriation of $15,485,159 for the Wastewater Enterprise Fund

The City Council unanimously approved the FY2022 operating budget, including $139,479,493 for the General Fund, $6,267,208 for Water Enterprise, $15,485,159 for Wastewater Enterprise, and $841,537 for the Airport Fund. They also approved using $700,000 from overlay surplus and $1,775,000 from available funds to reduce the tax levy, along with several smaller appropriations for parking, PEG access, cemetery, and enterprise funds. The meeting was a special session to finalize budget matters.

• Approved FY2022 Operating Budget: General Fund $139,479,493, Water Enterprise $6,267,208, Wastewater Enterprise $15,485,159, Airport Fund $841,537 (Order 095-21)
• Approved $700,000 from overlay surplus to reduce FY2022 tax levy (Order 096-21)
• Approved $1,775,000 from available funds to reduce FY2022 tax rate (Order 097-21)
• Approved $213,848 from parking meter/garage receipts for Treasurer services and expenses (Order 098-21)
• Approved $25,000 from PEG access and cable related fund receipts for IT expenses (Order 099-21)
• Approved $15,000 from cemetery sale of lots and graves for cemetery personal services (Order 100-21)
• Approved $6,267,208 for Water Enterprise Fund accounts (Order 101-21)
• Approved $15,485,159 for Wastewater Enterprise Fund accounts, using $12,585,765 from receipts and $2,899,394 from retained earnings (Order 102-21)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will hold its annual meeting to review financial reports and committee updates. The agenda includes discussing the impact of the Program Coordinator's termination and the full opening of the senior center. Members will also receive updates on summer programming and the Lions Club.

• Review of Sunshine Fund and financial reports
• Discussion regarding the impact of the Program Coordinator's termination
• Update on the full opening of the senior center
• Report on upcoming summer programs
• Committee reports for personnel, building and grounds, and by-laws

The Fitchburg Council on Aging Board elected George Bourque II as vice chair and approved motions to invite city officials to discuss the need for a program coordinator. The board also approved a motion for Joan to continue only her current duties, not the program coordinator's responsibilities. No other substantive decisions were made; the board deferred decisions on building repairs pending more information.

• Elected George Bourque II as vice chair (motion by Joe Byrne, seconded)
• Approved motion to invite Mayor's office and a City Councilor to discuss program coordinator importance
• Approved motion that Joan continue only her job, not program coordinator duties
• Approved previous meeting minutes

Disability Commission

The Fitchburg Disability Commission will discuss updates regarding the Senior Center access ramp and art class. The meeting also includes discussions on accessible walkways at Coggshall Park and playground features.

• Senior Center Access Ramp Update
• Senior Center Art Class Update
• Coggshall Park accessible walkway update
• Accessible Playground update
• Advisory Committee Consolidation Plan

The Fitchburg Disability Commission voted to accept the May meeting minutes. The commission will not meet in July or August 2021, with the next meeting scheduled for September 8, 2021, in person at the new City Hall. Updates were given on the Senior Center access ramp repairs, art classes, and ongoing accessibility projects.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 8, 2021, in person at City Hall

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will discuss an MBLC virtual seminar about hiring a new director. The meeting also includes reports from the Chair, Librarian, and committees for finance, legislative, and nominating. Approval of May 12, 2021, minutes is also scheduled.

• MBLC Virtual Seminar on Hiring a New Director
• Finance Committee Report
• Legislative Committee Report
• Nominating Committee Report

The Board approved closing the library on June 18 and 19 to observe Juneteenth, following the city's declaration of the holiday. They also approved a motion to form a Director Search Committee, selecting three trustees. The $500,000 boiler funding and the library's proposed budget were reported as approved by the city.

• Approved library closure June 18-19 for Juneteenth
• Approved forming Director Search Committee with Rob Favini, Jacalyn Kremer, Matthew Bruun
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2021, with amendment adding Molly Dineen's name

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review previous meeting notes and discuss priority policy concerns related to coronavirus. The committee will also conduct an annual review of the 2021-2022 LPN Policy Manual and a fraud policy suggested by auditors.

• Review and adoption of April 13, 2021 meeting notes
• Coronavirus-related policy concerns
• Annual review of the 2021-2022 LPN Policy Manual
• Review of fraud policy suggested by auditors

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several orders regarding fund transfers and appropriations. Items include funding for library heating and cooling systems, airport maintenance, and federal grant expenditures.

• $280,000 appropriation for library heating and cooling systems
• $333,333 FAA grant to develop an Airport Master Plan
• $135,000 transfer for airport hangar roof and door repairs
• $50,000 appropriation to the OPEB Trust Fund
• $23,000 FAA Coronavirus Response Program grant for airport expenses

The Finance Committee unanimously approved all 14 orders, including $280,000 for library heating and cooling systems, $135,000 for airport hangar repairs, and acceptance of FAA grants totaling $356,333. It also approved smaller appropriations for snow and ice, OPEB, building digitization, and CDBG programs.

• Approved $7,202 transfer for snow and ice accounts (5-0)
• Appropriated $50,000 to OPEB Trust Fund (5-0)
• Appropriated $4,000 for Building Department digitization (5-0)
• Appropriated $280,000 for library HVAC construction (5-0)
• Transferred $135,000 for airport hangar roof and door repairs (5-0)
• Transferred $2,500 for airport overtime (5-0)
• Approved FAA grants of $23,000 and $333,333 (5-0)
• Approved CDBG appropriations totaling $24,539 (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several applications for special permits and variances. These include requests for a car detailing business, a medical clinic, and motor vehicle sales. Several items are continuances from previous sessions.

• Review of boarding house permit and ADA accommodation at 94 Highland Ave
• Special permit for car detailing business at 1151 Main St
• Special permit for medical clinic at 370 Lunenburg St
• Variance to increase detached garage footprint at 157 Walton St
• Use variance for motor vehicle sales at 285 River St

The Fitchburg Zoning Board of Appeals held a virtual meeting on June 8, 2021, and made several decisions. The board denied a special permit for a methadone clinic relocation to 370 Lunenburg Street, denied a special permit for agricultural use at 170 Arn-How Farm Road, and approved a deck special permit at 89 St. Anthony Street. Several other cases were continued or withdrawn.

• Denied special permit for methadone clinic relocation to 370 Lunenburg St. (0-5)
• Denied special permit for agricultural use at 170 Arn-How Farm Rd. (0-5)
• Approved special permit for deck at 89 St. Anthony St. (5-0)
• Approved variance for garage expansion at 157 Walton St. (5-0)
• Continued review of car detailing business at 1151 Main St. to Sept. 14, 2021 (5-0)
• Continued review of boarding house at 94 Highland Ave. to July 13, 2021 (4-0)
• Withdrawn home occupation permit for hair artist at 218 Rollstone St. (5-0)
• Denied appeal to overrule building commissioner's decision on lot at 414 Ashburnham St. (0-4)

Planning Board

The board will hold public hearings for various development projects, including multi-family housing and restaurant site plans. The agenda also includes reviews for road repaving and outdoor seating modifications.

• Conversion of 50 Frankfort St. to 16 multifamily units
• Development of 27 one-bedroom units at 35 Columbus St.
• Site plan review for Cibao Spanish Market at 1109 Main St.
• Repaving of Mcintire Rd. and Mass Works project at Main St. & Boulder Dr.
• Outdoor seating area modification for River Styx Brewing at 166 Boulder Dr.

The Fitchburg Planning Board approved several site plans and special permits, including a 27-unit housing conversion at the former St. Joseph's School, a new market and take-out restaurant, and a construction yard. The board also approved a landscaping update for a PUD, a site plan for a property split, and tree removals for road paving. Two applications were withdrawn without prejudice, and two hearings were continued to the next meeting.

• Approved renderings and landscaping plan for Seney PUD duplexes (7-0)
• Approved site plan for 14-18 Myrtle Ave. property split into 3-unit and 4-unit (7-0)
• Approved ANR plan for 14-18 Myrtle Ave. parcel split (7-0)
• Approved tree removal under Public Shade Tree Act for road paving (7-0)
• Approved special permit for 27-unit housing at 35 Columbus St. with conditions (7-0)
• Approved special permit and site plan for Cibao Market at 1109 Main St. with conditions (7-0)
• Approved site plan for City Line Paving construction yard at 136 Falulah St. with conditions (7-0)
• Withdrew without prejudice: MKEP 770 LLC application at 50 Frankfort St. and 14 Highland Ave. application (7-0)

Human Rights Commission

The commission will review May 2021 meeting minutes and discuss the July and August meeting schedule. Members will also hear reports from the Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup. Discussion includes the Peace Pole Project focusing on children and youth.

• Vote on May 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion on potential summer meeting suspension
• Education Racial Justice Group/SURJ subgroup reports
• Peace Pole Project discussion regarding children and youth

MassHire North Central Workforce Board

The MassHire North Central Workforce Board will review financial reports and approve minutes from the March 9, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes updates on Career Center construction and various workforce development initiatives. A guest presentation regarding a transportation initiative is also scheduled.

• Approval of March 9, 2021, meeting minutes and financial report
• Career Center construction update and re-opening plans
• Updates on Career Technical Initiative and ReMake 4.0
• Healthcare Hub and Rapid Reemployment Grant programs
• QRyde/Mart-Workforce Transportation Initiative presentation

Fitchburg Public Schools

The School Committee is meeting to consider the $66,300,000 FY22 school department budget. The agenda also includes approving grant applications and accepting donations of books and supplies for students.

• Approval of the $66,300,000 FY22 School Department Budget
• Submission of Evidence-Based Early Literacy Grant for $59,775
• Donation of 120 reading books valued at $1,076.85 from the Fitchburg Education Association
• Donation of student supplies valued at approximately $300 from the Fitchburg City Council
• Submission of Emergency Connectivity Fund grant (amount unknown)

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will review several permit applications for upcoming local events. This includes requests for live music at 923 Main Street and a rodeo at the Fitchburg Municipal Airport. The board will also consider carnival permits for St. Bernard’s School.

• Entertainment permit for Zen Den Studios (923 Main Street) for August 21, 2021
• Sunday Entertainment Permit and alcohol license for Ipanema Productions at Fitchburg Municipal Airport
• Carnival permits for St. Bernard’s School (254 Summer Street) for June 24-27, 2021
• Peddler applications from Jodi Ann Davick and Kimberly Jones

The Fitchburg License Commission approved several entertainment and alcohol licenses for upcoming events, including a Zen Den Studios event, Ipanema Productions' rodeo, and St. Bernard's School carnival. A solicitor application was continued to the next meeting because the applicant was absent. The commission also discussed drafting a letter about premises extensions and exploring assistance for licensees affected by COVID-19.

• Approved minutes of May 17, 2021 (3-0)
• Continued solicitor application for Christopher Shivo to June 21 (3-0)
• Approved Zen Den Studios event license for Aug 21, 4-9 PM (3-0)
• Approved Ipanema Productions entertainment license for Aug 15 and Sep 26 (3-0)
• Approved Ipanema Productions one-day alcohol license for Aug 15 and Sep 26 (3-0)
• Approved St. Bernard's School carnival entertainment license for Jun 24-27 (3-0)

Cultural Council

The Public Relations Subcommittee will discuss media communications and FCC TV. The meeting also includes bookkeeper recruitment outreach and input for the Grantee Reception.

• Media Communications discussion
• FCC TV discussion
• Bookkeeper recruitment outreach
• Grantee Reception Annual Input
• Fitchburg Open Studios

Board of Health

The Board will review COVID-19 vaccination rates, mask mandates, and restriction reductions. The meeting includes hearings for tobacco and nicotine violations at two local businesses. Additionally, the board will discuss private well regulations and waste management.

• Tobacco violation hearing: Expressway Market (449 Mechanic Street)
• Tobacco violation hearing: M&M Variety (330 Water Street)
• Amendment request for Private Well regulations
• Discussion on curbside waste collection
• Bill #HD291: Reclassifying health officials in the Public Retirement System

Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority

The Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority will hold a continued presentation and discussion regarding the Urban Renewal Plan. The meeting also includes an administrative report.

• Presentation on the Urban Renewal Plan by the BSC Group

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School

The Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School Committee will review reports from the Superintendent and Principal. The agenda includes decisions on several technology leases, a paving bid, and the reappointment of legal counsel.

• Award of Paving Bid
• Approval of various computer and copier leases
• Proposed edits to the 2021-2022 Student Handbook
• Reappointment of Legal Counsel
• Acceptance of donation from LPA

City Council

The City Council will review several financial orders, including fund transfers for library heating systems and airport maintenance. The agenda also includes reports on streetlights and berm installations.

• $4,000,000 loan order for Wastewater Infrastructure Projects
• Fund transfers to Library Capital for heating and cooling construction
• Approval of a $333,333 FAA grant for an Airport Master Plan
• Installation of a streetlight at Prichard Street and Wallace Avenue
• Appropriation of $9,999 for the Pawlak Playground Project

The City Council adopted three Finance Committee orders, including a $625,000 transfer for the South Street School roof and boilers project, a $40,000 transfer for library HVAC engineering, and a $6,875 appropriation for council expenses. A $4 million loan order for wastewater infrastructure projects was advanced to a first reading and ordered advertised. The council also granted three public works petitions for streetlights and berms, and allowed two petitions to be withdrawn, including one to declare Ethier Street a public way.

• Adopted $6,875 appropriation for City Council expense, ordinance code supplement (11-0)
• Adopted $40,000 transfer for library HVAC engineering design (11-0)
• Adopted $625,000 transfer for South Street School roof & boilers capital project (11-0)
• Advanced $4,000,000 loan order for wastewater infrastructure projects to first reading (11-0)
• Granted petition to install streetlight at Prichard Street and Wallace Avenue (11-0)
• Granted petition to install berm at 506 Wanoosnoc Rd (11-0)
• Granted petition to install berm at 76 Richardson Rd (11-0)
• Granted leave to withdraw petition to declare Ethier Street a public way (11-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding several site plan reviews and special permits. Proposed projects include a new fast food restaurant at 580 John Fitch Hwy and residential changes on Myrtle Ave and Highland Ave. The board will also review minor modifications for parking and landscaping.

• New drive-thru restaurant at 580 John Fitch Hwy via demolition of existing Dunkin’ Donuts
• Parcel split into 3-unit and 4-unit buildings at 14-18 Myrtle Ave
• Conversion of single-family home to two-family at 14 Highland Ave
• Repaving and parking lot revisions at 8-20 John Fitch Hwy
• Transfer of special permits for 50 Whalon St and 140 Industrial Rd

Fitchburg Housing Authority

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will meet to review financial reports and proposed bylaw modifications. The board will also consider a revised lease agreement with Open Sky and the procurement of 76 Mechanic Street.

• Procurement of 76 Mechanic Street for low-income populations
• Revised lease agreement with Open Sky at 240 Ashburnham Street
• Proposed modifications to FHA Bylaws
• Approval of April-May FY2021 payables
• Approval of January-April FY2021 financials

The Fitchburg Housing Authority board voted unanimously to add Juneteenth as an official holiday for employees, effective in 2021. The board also approved new leases, financial reports, and a procurement process for a property, among other actions.

• Adopted Juneteenth as official holiday for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved payables for April-May FY2021 (unanimous)
• Approved January-May financials FY2021 (unanimous)
• Approved new 5-year lease for 240 Ashburnham St at $3,250/month (unanimous)
• Accepted Our Father's House agreement to pay outstanding water bills at 76 Mechanic St (unanimous)
• Approved procurement for 76 Mechanic St limited to hard-to-house low-income populations (unanimous)
• Approved month-to-month lease for 76 Mechanic St at $1,500/month (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 28, 2021 meetings (unanimous)