Chelsea public meetings in 2024

Subcommittee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss nominations for City Council President and Vice-President for 2025, select a delegate to the School Committee, and draw lots for seating and roll call order. No binding votes or policy decisions are scheduled.

• Nominations for City Council President and Vice-President for 2025
• Nominations for delegate to the School Committee for 2025
• Drawing of lots for seating arrangement and roll call order for 2025

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss two orders introduced by Councilor Taylor. One seeks to rescind $3,380,000 in unissued borrowing for the Fiscal Year 2021 Beacham/Williams Corridor Reconstruction Project. The other authorizes $730.14 in FY24 unpaid vendor costs to be covered from the FY25 budget.

• Rescind $3,380,000 borrowing for Beacham/Williams Corridor Reconstruction Project
• Authorize $730.14 in FY24 unpaid vendor costs from FY25 budget

Subcommittee on Parks and Public Works CANCELLED

This meeting of the Chelsea City Council Subcommittee on Parks and Public Works has been cancelled. The agenda had only one item: discussion of possibly bringing Department of Public Works vehicle maintenance in-house.

• Meeting cancelled; no decisions or discussions occurred

Sub - Committee on Parks and Public Works

The Sub-Committee on Parks and Public Works will meet to discuss the possibility of bringing Department of Public Works vehicle maintenance in-house. Officials including the City Manager and Public Works Commissioner are invited to attend.

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss an order to authorize expenditures from the current FY25 budget to cover $2,270.83 in unpaid bills from FY24. The meeting is open to the public and city officials are invited to attend.

• Order ID# 24F105 to pay $2,270.83 in prior-year vendor obligations from FY25 budget

City Council Meeting

The Chelsea City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the Fiscal Year 2025 Minimum Residential Tax Factor and Residential Exemption. They will also consider rescinding $3,380,000 in unissued borrowing for the Beacham/Williams Corridor Reconstruction Project and authorize $730.14 in prior-year expenses. Additional discussions include community preservation grants, infrastructure projects, and public safety measures.

• Fiscal Year 2025 Minimum Residential Tax Factor and Residential Exemption vote
• Rescind $3,380,000 in unissued borrowing for Beacham/Williams Corridor Reconstruction Project
• Authorize $730.14 in prior-year expenses for unpaid vendor balances
• Award Fall 2024 Community Preservation Committee grants
• Install bollards at school-zone pedestrian crossings

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council’s Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss a proposed home rule petition to create a real estate transfer fee. City officials including the City Manager, City Solicitor, and Housing Director are invited to attend.

• Proposed Home Rule Petition - Real Estate Transfer Fee

Sub - Committee on Housing and Community Development

The Sub-Committee on Housing and Community Development will meet to discuss a proposed local ordinance for property management companies. The meeting is open to the public and will include the City Manager and City Solicitor.

• Proposed Local Ordinance for Property Management Companies

CANCELLED Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference meeting scheduled for November 19, 2024, at 6:00 P.M. in City Council Committee Room #305 at Chelsea City Hall was cancelled. The meeting was to discuss recent and ongoing public safety issues in Chelsea.

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss recent and ongoing public safety issues in Chelsea. Invited officials include the City Manager, Police Chief, and directors of Health and Human Services and Public Health. The meeting is open to all City Council members and the public.

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will hold a special meeting to swear in three new firefighters and promote three fire department officers. The agenda includes a salute to the flag, roll call, and the ceremonial appointments.

• Swearing-in of new firefighters Ivan Soto-Heyer, Ryan Motta, and Kevin Rosado
• Promotion of Deputy Chief Richard Carroccino
• Promotion of Captain Daniel DeJordy
• Promotion of Lieutenant Sean Byron

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will hold a regular meeting on November 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes several communications from the City Manager regarding zoning amendments for the Industrial District and to permit Accessory Dwelling Units, as well as a proposed local ordinance for property management companies. The Council will also consider orders to pay prior-year expenses totaling $13,994.56 and $2,270.83, and discuss enforcement of the plastic bag ban, bike lane signage, housing rehabilitation program data, ARPA funding reports, and regulations for bicycles and electric scooters.

• Zoning Amendment for the Industrial District (ID# 24CM167)
• Zoning Amendment to permit Accessory Dwelling Units (ID# 24CM168 and ID# 24Z9)
• Proposed Local Ordinance for Property Management Companies (ID# 24CM169)
• Order authorizing payment of prior-year expenses totaling $13,994.56 (ID# 24F102)
• Order authorizing payment of prior-year expenses totaling $2,270.83 (ID# 24F105)

CANCELLED Special Meeting

This special meeting of the Chelsea City Council includes ceremonial items: the swearing-in of three new firefighters and the promotion of three fire department officers. No legislative business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Swearing-in of new firefighters: Ivan Soto-Heyer, Ryan Motta, Kevin Rosado
• Promotion of Deputy Chief Richard Carroccino
• Promotion of Captain Daniel DeJordy
• Promotion of Lieutenant Sean Byron

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss two items: a potential program encouraging Chelsea residents to purchase rental insurance, and revisions to the City's ordinance on motorized scooters ahead of next spring and summer. City officials including the City Manager, Police and Fire Chiefs, and the Assistant City Solicitor have been invited.

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Subcommittee will discuss two items: a grant from the MWRA Lead Loan Program and a $13,994.56 transfer from the FY25 budget to cover unpaid FY24 vendor bills. The meeting is open to the public and city officials.

• Order authorizing acceptance of a grant through the MWRA Lead Loan Program
• Order to transfer $13,994.56 from FY25 budget to pay unpaid FY24 vendor balances

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will meet to discuss and vote on several items, including the Fiscal Year 2025 tax rates, appointments to boards and commissions, and a long-term contract for the city’s bike share program. The meeting will also feature committee reports and new business items such as a proposed fire station on the waterfront and small business assistance funding.

• FY2025 tax rates with a 1.75 commercial/industrial/personal property (CIP) shift factor
• 35% Residential Exemption for FY2025
• 9-year contract for bike share program operator (up to $___ under Section 30B)
• Feasibility study for new fire station on Chelsea waterfront
• Funds allocated to expand small business assistance programs due to downtown construction impacts

Sub - Committee on Housing and Community Development

The Sub-Committee on Housing and Community Development will discuss how the City plans to respond to housing emergencies, including fires, after ARPA funding is exhausted. The discussion will cover resources and support available to Chelsea families after a housing emergency and how the City helps them return to stability.

• Discussion of post-ARPA housing emergency response plans
• Review of resources and support for families after housing emergencies like fires
• City Manager, Emergency Management Director, and Housing Director invited to attend

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council approved a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with the New England Police Benevolent Association, Local 93, covering police patrol officers, with annual raises of 4%, 4%, and 3.25% and a total cost of approximately $1.8 million. The council also voted to rename Arlington Street Extension as Walnut Street after a public hearing, and accepted appointments to the Planning Board and Tree Warden. Several resolutions were adopted, including commendations for a firefighter and proclamations for Italian-American Heritage Month and a pastoral anniversary.

• Approved $1.8M police patrol union contract (FY25-27) with 4%, 4%, 3.25% raises and $330,000 transfer from Salary Reserve for FY25 costs
• Renamed Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street (vote 10-0-1)
• Appointed Jessica Arbaiza to Planning Board and Bladimir Hernandez as Tree Warden, both for three-year terms
• Approved conflict-of-interest exemption for William Sheppard to teach English part-time while employed by Chelsea Public Schools
• Requested $100,000 supplemental funding for Chelsea 400 and Beyond Campaign

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2025 tax rates. City officials including the City Manager, Deputy City Manager for Finance, Chief Assessor, and Board of Assessors have been invited. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2025 Tax Rates

City Council

The City Council will consider several major items, including a five-year trash hauling contract with Boston Carting Services, LLC, a collective bargaining agreement with the police patrol officers' union, and a $500,000 appropriation for Polonia Park improvements using PARC grant funds. The council will also set the FY2025 tax rates and vote on appointments to boards and commissions.

• Five-year trash hauling contract with Boston Carting Services, LLC for Public Works Department
• Collective bargaining agreement with New England Police Benevolent Association, Local 93, including $330,000 transfer for FY2025 wage increases
• $500,000 appropriation from General Stabilization Fund for Polonia Park improvements, designating it as open space parkland
• Fiscal Year 2025 tax rates to be set
• Revised loan order for MWRA Lead Service Replacement program

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss a proposed Home Rule Petition that would amend Section 6-3 of the City Charter, which governs the Traffic and Parking Commission. The meeting is open to the public and includes invited officials.

• Proposed Home Rule Petition amending Section 6-3 'Traffic and Parking Commission' of the City Charter

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss four orders: approving a new collective bargaining agreement with the police patrol union (Local 93) for FY2025-2027, transferring $330,000 from salary reserves to fund FY2025 wage increases, appropriating $100,000 from the General Stabilization Account for a new Special Events Fund for the Chelsea 400 and Beyond Campaign, and endorsing a $500,000 PARC grant project to designate Polonia Park as permanent open space.

• Approval of police union contract (Local 93) for July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027
• Transfer of $330,000 from FY2025 Salary Reserve to Police Regular Salaries for contract wage increases
• Appropriation of $100,000 from General Stabilization Account to new City Special Events Fund for Chelsea 400 and Beyond Campaign
• Endorsement of $500,000 PARC grant project for Polonia Park, with permanent Article 97 open space designation

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss a proposed order to appropriate $100,000 from the General Stabilization Account to the DPW Streets and Sidewalks professional and technical account for FY25.

• Proposed $100,000 transfer from General Stabilization Account (Fund #7020) to DPW Streets and Sidewalks account (0142252-530000)
• Order introduced by Councilor Taylor

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet on October 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Room #305 to discuss the timeline and framework of future committee meetings related to traffic and parking issues. The City Manager, all City Council members, and the public are invited to attend.

• Discussion of timeline and framework for future committee meetings on traffic and parking issues

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the process for hiring an attorney to consult on matters as needed. City Solicitor Cheryl Watson Fisher and all council members are invited to attend. No decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only item.

• Discussion of process to hire an attorney for consultation on council matters

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will decide on a new three-year police labor contract, fund Polonia Park renovations with $500,000, and formally rename Arlington Street Extension as Walnut Street. The meeting also includes a public hearing on the street renaming and votes on conflict-of-interest exemptions and grant endorsements.

• Approve $330,000 transfer to fund FY2025 police wage increases
• Appropriate $500,000 for Polonia Park Renovation Project via PARC grant
• Formal vote to rename Arlington Street Extension as Walnut Street
• Endorse $27,225 Justice Assistance Grant application
• Approve $100,000 for new City Special Events Fund for Chelsea 400 and Beyond

The City Council voted 10-0-1 to rename Arlington Street Extension as Walnut Street after a public hearing. The Council also adopted three resolutions honoring a firefighter, Italian-American Heritage Month, and a pastor's anniversary. Several communications from the City Manager were received, including appointments to boards, a conflict-of-interest exemption, a police union contract, and a funding request for the Chelsea 400 campaign, but no final votes were taken on those items.

• Approved renaming Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street (10-0-1)
• Adopted resolution commending Firefighter Euclides Barahona for rescue at 132 Congress Avenue
• Adopted resolution declaring October 2024 as Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month
• Adopted resolution honoring Bishop Robert G. Brown's 43rd Pastoral Anniversary
• Accepted and filed minutes of September 23, 2024 special and regular meetings
• Moved City Manager's appointment recommendations to second reading (no final vote)
• Accepted and filed conflict-of-interest exemption request for William Sheppard
• Accepted and filed police union contract and $330,000 transfer request (no final vote)

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means - CANCELLED

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Ways and Means meeting scheduled for October 7, 2024, was cancelled. The meeting would have discussed a $100,000 appropriation for FY25 DPW Streets and Sidewalks.

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Ways and Means subcommittee will discuss a single item: a $100,000 appropriation from the General Stabilization Account to the DPW Streets and Sidewalks professional and technical account for fiscal year 2025.

• Proposed $100,000 transfer from General Stabilization Account (Fund #7020) to DPW Streets and Sidewalks account 0142252-530000

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider several financial orders, including transferring $100,000 from the General Stabilization Account for street and sidewalk work and accepting a $460,000 Barr Foundation grant for the Office of Resilience and Sustainability. Other items include a $50,976.74 transfer for DPW vehicle acquisitions, a $2,925.26 payment of prior-year bills, and an $89,018.20 appropriation from the TNC Surcharge Fund for roadway repair. The council will also discuss a proposed senior property tax reduction program and a request for a speed bump at 145 Essex Street.

• Order to appropriate $100,000 from the General Stabilization Account for FY25 DPW Streets and Sidewalks (Item 12a, ID# 24F96)
• Order to accept and approve a $460,000 Barr Foundation grant for the North Suffolk Office of Resilience and Sustainability (Item 12g, ID# 24166)
• Order to transfer $50,976.74 from completed capital projects for DPW vehicle acquisitions (Item 11a, ID# 24F93)
• Order to appropriate $89,018.20 from the TNC Surcharge Distribution Fund for roadway repair (Item 11c, ID# 24F95)
• Order requesting a program where homeowners aged 65+ pay only 0.5% property taxes for 20 years (Item 12e, ID# 24164)

The City Council approved a resolution supporting a 'Good Standing Policy' for landlords, requiring property owners to pass inspections and resolve violations before receiving new permits or licenses. The vote was 10-0-1, with Councilor Recupero absent. The Council also unanimously approved a resolution honoring Edward 'Ned' Keefe for 31 years of city service, and accepted a $460,000 Barr Foundation grant for the North Suffolk Office of Resilience and Sustainability.

• Approved resolution supporting landlord 'Good Standing Policy' (10-0-1)
• Approved resolution honoring retiring Director Edward 'Ned' Keefe (11-0-0)
• Accepted $460,000 Barr Foundation grant for resilience office
• Moved City Manager's appointments to Planning Board and Cultural Council to second reading
• Accepted and filed minutes of September 9, 2024 special and regular meetings

City Council

The Chelsea City Council is holding a special meeting to swear in six new police officers and promote two current officers. The agenda includes the swearing-in of Marcus Atkins, Alex Cabassa, Darien Lavino, Oscar Lopez, Christopher Marroquin, and Sulmy Urruita as officers, the promotion of Sergeant John Noftle to Lieutenant, and the promotion of Officer David Deleney to Sergeant.

• Swearing-in of six new police officers: Marcus Atkins, Alex Cabassa, Darien Lavino, Oscar Lopez, Christopher Marroquin, Sulmy Urruita
• Promotion of Sergeant John Noftle to Lieutenant
• Promotion of Officer David Deleney to Sergeant

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will meet to discuss three financial orders (ID# 24F93–24F95). The meeting is open to the public and will include the city manager and deputy city managers.

• Discussion of City Council Financial Orders ID# 24F93, 24F94, and 24F95

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed three financial orders but took no votes or final decisions. Items included a $50,976.74 fund transfer for a DPW vehicle, $2,925.26 in prior-year expenses for the City Clerk and Human Resources, and an $89,018.20 appropriation from the TNC Surcharge Distribution Fund for road repairs. The meeting was informational only, with no actions approved or denied.

• No decisions made; items discussed only

City Council Schedule (September - December)

The Chelsea City Council, led by President Norieliz DeJesus, has published its regular meeting calendar for September through December 2024. All sessions take place at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Chelsea City Hall, 500 Broadway.

Regular Meeting - REVISED

The Chelsea City Council will consider several items including approval of the HERO Act, renaming Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street, and collective bargaining agreements with police dispatchers, E-911 supervisors, firefighters, and police superior officers. The council will also discuss capital improvement plans, fund transfers, and a proposed moratorium on converting streets to one-way.

• Request to approve and implement the HERO Act (24CM129)
• Request to rename Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street (24CM130)
• Collective bargaining agreements with E-911 Dispatchers, E-911 Supervisors, Firefighters Local 937, and Police Superior Officers Association (24F89-24F92)
• Transfer of $50,976.74 from unexpended CIP funds for DPW vehicle acquisitions (24F93)
• Appropriation of $89,018.20 from TNC Surcharge Fund for roadway repair (24F95)

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will meet to approve collective bargaining agreements with police and fire unions, authorize $89,018.20 for road repairs, and vote on a street renaming. The City Manager also requests approval for fund transfers, capital project adjustments, and appointments to boards and commissions.

• Approve $89,018.20 for DPW Streets & Sidewalks Capital Road Improvements from Commonwealth Transportation Fund
• Authorize collective bargaining agreements with Chelsea Firefighters Local 937, Teamsters Local 25, NE Police Benevolent Association, and Chelsea Police Superior Officers Association
• Vote on renaming Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street (public hearing scheduled for Oct 7)
• Transfer $50,976.74 from unused Capital Improvement Plan funds to FY25 DPW vehicle acquisitions
• Approve $2,925.26 in unpaid vendor balances from FY24

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will hold a special meeting to recognize the Chelsea Fire Department, E-911 Emergency Communications Center, and Emergency Management Supervisor Paul Koolloian for their response to a residential structure fire at 185 Washington Avenue on August 14, 2024. The meeting will include ceremonial presentations of resolutions.

• Presentation of resolution to Chelsea Fire Department for fire response at 185 Washington Avenue (August 14, 2024)
• Presentation of resolution to Chelsea E-911 Emergency Communications Center for fire response at 185 Washington Avenue (August 14, 2024)
• Presentation of resolution to Emergency Management Supervisor Paul Koolloian for fire response at 185 Washington Avenue (August 14, 2024)

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss City Council Financial Orders ID# 24F88 through 24F92. City Manager Fidel Maltez and other officials are invited to attend. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion of Financial Orders ID# 24F88 — 24F92

The Ways and Means subcommittee discussed three financial orders: a $50,976.74 transfer from prior capital projects to a DPW vehicle purchase, two payments for prior-year expenses totaling $2,925.26, and an $89,018.20 appropriation from ride-share surcharge funds for road repairs. No votes were taken; the items were only discussed.

• Discussed transfer of $50,976.74 from prior CIP to DPW vehicle acquisition (no vote)
• Discussed $1,125.26 payment for police vehicle floor mat/decal (no vote)
• Discussed $1,800 payment for public safety medical exams (no vote)
• Discussed $89,018.20 appropriation from TNC surcharge fund for road repairs (no vote)

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will vote on cost items for contracts with Chelsea Firefighters Local 937 and Chelsea Police Superior Officers Association, covering July 2024 through June 2027. The meeting will also approve the warrant for the September 3, 2024 State Primaries.

• Approval of cost items for Chelsea Firefighters Local 937 contract (ID# 24CM127, 24F91)
• Approval of cost items for Chelsea Police Superior Officers Association contract (ID# 24CM128, 24F92)
• Approval of warrant for State Primaries on September 3, 2024 (ID# 24148)

The Chelsea City Council approved the warrant for the September 3rd state primary election by a 7-0 roll call vote. Two proposed union contracts—one with Chelsea Firefighters Local 937 and one with Police Superiors Local 98—were accepted and filed, then referred to the Ways and Means Committee for further review. No final votes were taken on the contracts themselves.

• Approved warrant for September 3rd state primary election (7-0)
• Accepted and filed communication re: Firefighters Local 937 contract (referred to Ways and Means)
• Accepted and filed communication re: Police Superiors Local 98 contract (referred to Ways and Means)

Meeting

The City of Chelsea intends to request the release of funds for heating and cooling system upgrades in two Chelsea Housing Authority residential community rooms. The project is located at 14 Bloomingdale and 260 Clark Ave.

• Total budget of $347,559.30 for Community Room Heating/Cooling Upgrades
• CDBG FFY20 and FFY21 award of $237,559.30
• ARPA award of $110,000
• Project locations: 14 Bloomingdale and 260 Clark Ave.

City Council

The Chelsea City Council is meeting to consider authorizing the City Manager to execute a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement. This agreement concerns the Flatiron Energizar Project at 284 Eastern Avenue.

• PILOT Agreement with Energizar Storage, LLC for 284 Eastern Avenue for terms up to 20 years
• Proposed Host Community Agreement to support the PILOT and minimize city impacts

The Chelsea City Council voted 10-0-1 to authorize a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement with Flatiron Energizar Project for a battery energy storage system on the parcel at 284 Eastern Avenue. The council also approved an amendment removing the host community agreement from the authorization, passed by the same vote.

• Approved amendment to remove host community agreement from the PILOT authorization (10-0-1)
• Approved PILOT agreement with Flatiron Energizar Project for up to 20 years (10-0-1)

City Council

The City Council is considering several five-year contracts for police Tasers and trash disposal with Wheelabrator Saugus, Inc. The meeting includes numerous requests to appropriate funds from Free Cash for police, fire, and DPW expenses, as well as a proposed salary increase for council members starting in 2026.

• Five-year contract for Chelsea Police Department Taser purchase
• Five-year trash disposal contract with Wheelabrator Saugus, Inc.
• Appropriation of $171,354 from Free Cash for Police Department body worn cameras
• Proposed amendment to set City Council annual salary at $33,000 starting January 2026
• Appropriation of $66,000 for Affordable Housing Trust Fund Housing Specialist

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed multiple communications from the City Manager, including updates on Garden Cemetery renovations, requests for five-year contracts for police Tasers and trash disposal, approval of prior-year expenses, and union contracts for 911 dispatchers and supervisors. No votes were taken on these items; they were accepted under suspension for filing. The council also adopted a resolution recognizing June 27, 2024 as North Chelsea Day.

• Adopted resolution recognizing June 27, 2024 as North Chelsea Day (suspension, Robinson)
• Accepted and filed communication on Garden Cemetery renovations (suspension, Recupero)
• Accepted and filed request for five-year Taser contract for Police Department (suspension, Jimenez-Rivera)
• Accepted and filed request for five-year trash disposal contract with Wheelabrator Saugus (suspension, Jimenez-Rivera)
• Accepted and filed request to pay prior-year expense of $2,918.50 to Baystate (suspension, Robinson)
• Accepted and filed request to approve union contract with NEPBA Local 192 for 911 dispatchers (suspension, Recupero)
• Accepted and filed request to approve union contract with Teamsters Local 25 for 911 supervisors (suspension, Recupero)
• Approved minutes of June 3, 2024 meeting (suspension, Taylor)

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will meet to discuss City Council Financial Orders ID#: 24F61 through 24F87. City management and City Council members are invited to attend.

• Discussion of City Council Financial Orders ID#: 24F61 — 24F87

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed 27 financial orders (24F61–24F87) covering appropriations from Free Cash, salary reserves, and prior-year expenses for multiple city departments. No votes were taken; the meeting was a discussion session only.

• Discussed $66,000 CPC salary appropriation (24F61)
• Discussed $6,911.38 AT&T prior-year expense authorization (24F62)
• Discussed $171,354 body camera program appropriation (24F63)
• Discussed $50,600 IT datacenter and Wi-Fi upgrade (24F64)
• Discussed $30,000 DPW buildings maintenance supplement (24F65)
• Discussed multiple salary reserve transfers (24F66–24F72)
• Discussed multiple Free Cash salary appropriations (24F73–24F79)
• Discussed revolving account authorizations (24F86–24F87)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to receive an update on ARPA funds. City officials, including the City Manager and Director of Housing and Community Development, are invited to attend.

• Update on ARPA Funds

The Sub-Committee on Conference received a presentation on the status of Chelsea's $40 million in ARPA funds. Of that, $25 million was used to offset lost revenue, and $15 million was allocated to a community fund for housing, food security, small business, workforce development, environmental health, and behavioral health. Funds must be obligated by December 2024 and fully expended by December 2026. No votes or decisions were taken.

• No decisions were made; the meeting was informational only

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the proposed Energizar Storage Project from Flatiron Energy. Representatives from Flatiron Energy and Benchmark Strategies are invited to attend.

• Discussion of Flatiron Energy's Proposed Energizar Storage Project

The Sub-Committee on Conference heard a presentation from Flatiron Energy on its proposed Energizar battery storage project. A proposed PILOT agreement would pay the city $1.5 million per year, and a preliminary host community agreement would contribute $578,000 annually for workforce development. No votes were taken; the meeting was informational only.

• No decisions were made; the meeting was a discussion-only session

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the FY22 Audit Report. City management, the City Auditor, and representatives from Roselli, Clark and Associates are invited to attend.

• Discussion of FY22 Audit Report

The Sub-Committee on Conference received a presentation from Roselli, Clark and Associates on the Fiscal Year 2022 Audit Report. The audit provided a clean opinion, indicating no material issues. No votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational only.

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which includes total appropriations of $245,002,137 for the General Fund. The meeting also addresses several zoning amendments regarding marijuana retailers, body art, and floodplain districts.

• FY2025 Budget: $245,002,137 total appropriations
• Zoning Amendment: Marijuana Retailers (Chapter 34, Article XII)
• Zoning Amendment: Body Art (Part II Chapter 34)
• Zoning Amendment: Floodplain District (Part II Chapter 34)
• Property Acquisition: Request to acquire 26 County Road

The Chelsea City Council unanimously approved three zoning amendments: removing the 9 PM to 9 AM operating restriction for marijuana retailers, adding a new use category for body art establishments, and updating the floodplain ordinance to comply with new FEMA model regulations. The council also adopted resolutions recognizing LGBTQ+ Pride Month and Juneteenth Independence Day. Public hearings were held on all three zoning amendments and the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, with no opposition speakers.

• Approved zoning amendment removing marijuana retailer operating hours restriction (11-0)
• Approved zoning amendment adding body art establishment use category (11-0)
• Approved zoning amendment updating floodplain ordinance to comply with FEMA model (11-0)
• Adopted resolution recognizing June 2024 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month (10-0-1)
• Adopted resolution recognizing June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth Independence Day (11-0)
• Accepted and filed minutes of June 3, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss sewer, trash, and water rates for Fiscal Year 2025. The City Manager, Deputy City Manager of Finance, and DPW Commissioner are invited to attend.

• Fiscal Year 2025 Sewer, Trash and Water Rates

The Sub-Committee on Conference discussed proposed Fiscal Year 2025 rate increases: 1.5% for sewer and water, and 8% for trash. No votes were taken; the matter was only discussed. The trash rate increase is driven by limited disposal options and an expiring contract.

• Discussed proposed 1.5% increase in sewer and water rates for FY25
• Discussed proposed 8% increase in trash rates for FY25
• No votes or final decisions were made at this sub-committee meeting

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss funding for the FY25 PEG Access Budget and the FY25 Community Preservation budget. The body will also consider an order to pay unpaid vendor balances from FY23 using FY24 budget funds.

• FY25 PEG Access Budget: $218,600 for Chelsea Cable Television, $85,000 for Chelsea Public Schools, and $130,000 for the City of Chelsea
• FY25 Community Preservation budget report
• Authorization of expenditures from FY24 budgets to pay unpaid FY23 vendor balances

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several large-scale budget appropriations for the General Fund, Sewer Enterprise Fund, and Water Enterprise Fund. The meeting also includes votes on funding for a comprehensive master plan, student scholarships, and downtown initiatives.

• Proposed General Fund appropriation of $245,002,137
• Proposed Sewer Enterprise Fund appropriation of $14,839,628
• Proposed Water Enterprise Fund appropriation of $10,408,776
• Appropriation of $450,000 from Free Cash for the Chelsea Onward Comprehensive Master Plan
• Appropriation of $245,500 from Free Cash for the Bunker Hill Community College Scholarship Program

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed multiple communications from the City Manager, including appointments to boards and commissions, responses to council orders, and budgets. The appointments for the Community Recreation Advisory Board, Board of Assessors, Tree Board, and Disability Commission were moved to second reading. All other communications were accepted and filed under suspension.

• Moved to second reading appointments to Community Recreation Advisory Board, Board of Assessors, Tree Board, and Disability Commission
• Accepted and filed response on renaming Arlington Street Extension to Walnut Street
• Accepted and filed response on Broadway to Clark Avenue staircase design and estimated $1M cost
• Accepted and filed response on overgrown tree between 116 and 120 Clark Avenue
• Accepted and filed response on line painting for crosswalks near commuter rail crossings
• Accepted and filed response on accounting for Storefront Improvement Program
• Accepted and filed response on parking ticket online payment process changes
• Accepted and filed response on crime reports availability on police website

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct promotion and swearing-in ceremonies. These ceremonies involve members of the Chelsea Police Department and the Chelsea Fire Department.

• Promotion and Swearing-In Ceremony for Chelsea Police Department
• Promotion and Swearing-In Ceremony for Chelsea Fire Department

The Chelsea City Council held a special meeting primarily to conduct promotion and swearing-in ceremonies for the Chelsea Fire Department and Chelsea Police Department. No substantive legislative decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and ceremonial only.

• Approved call of the meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed minutes of May 20, 2024 special and regular meetings (unanimous)
• Conducted promotion and swearing-in for Fire Department: Deputy Chief Phil Rogers, Captain Brian Capistran, Lieutenant Nicholas Quatieri, Firefighter Thomas Reyes-Amezquita
• Conducted promotion and swearing-in for Police Department: Captain Jason Farden, Lieutenant Richard Stec-Ruggiero, Sergeant John Ridge

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. The meeting includes invited city officials such as the City Manager and Deputy City Manager.

• Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. City officials, including the City Manager and various department directors, are invited to attend.

• Discussion of Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference is meeting to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. City officials from finance, police, fire, public works, and other departments are invited to attend.

• Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss four orders to appropriate Free Cash funds. These proposals cover a master plan, student scholarships, downtown initiatives, and accounting system upgrades.

• $450,000 for the Chelsea Onward Comprehensive Master Plan
• $245,500 for the Bunker Hill Community College Scholarship Program for Chelsea High School graduates
• $200,000 for the Downtown Initiative including small business support and public art
• $100,000 for business processes optimization and MUNIS accounting system upgrades

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed four orders to appropriate a total of $995,500 from Free Cash for a comprehensive master plan, a community college scholarship program, a downtown initiative, and MUNIS accounting system upgrades. No votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion only.

• Discussed $450,000 for Chelsea Onward Comprehensive Master Plan (first in 50 years)
• Discussed $245,500 for Bunker Hill Community College Scholarship Program for Chelsea High graduates
• Discussed $200,000 for Downtown Initiative including storefront improvements and events
• Discussed $100,000 for MUNIS accounting system upgrades and business process optimization

Sub - Committee on Elder Services, Veterans' Affairs and Community Advancement

The Sub-Committee on Elder Services, Veterans' Affairs and Community Advancement will meet to discuss the city's planned programs for Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

• Planned programs for Memorial Day
• Planned programs for Veterans Day

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss a proposed energy storage project from Flatiron Energy. Representatives from Flatiron Energy and Benchmark Strategies are invited to attend.

• Discussion of Flatiron Energy's Proposed Energizar Storage Project

Subcommittee on Conference CANCELLED

The scheduled meeting of the Subcommittee on Conference was cancelled. The agenda had listed a discussion regarding Flatiron Energy’s Proposed Energizar Storage Project.

• Flatiron Energy’s Proposed Energizar Storage Project (cancelled)

City Council

The City Council will consider the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget submitted by City Manager Fidel Maltez. The body is also deciding on the naming of a park and residency waivers for board members.

• Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
• Designation of 212 Congress Avenue as 'Bear Park'
• Residency waiver for Janice Tatarka to serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Authorization for departments to pay prior-year expenses from FY24 budgets
• Appointments and re-appointments to Boards and Commissions

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed several communications from the City Manager, including appointments to boards and commissions, a residency waiver for a Zoning Board of Appeals member, a proposal to name a new park 'Bear Park,' approval for prior-year expenses, and the FY25 budget submittal. The council also adopted a resolution recognizing Mother's Day and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No public hearings were scheduled and no public speakers addressed the council.

• Approved appointments to Zoning Board of Appeals, Conservation Commission, Board of Library Trustees, Community Recreation Advisory Board, Licensing Commission, Disability Commission, and Council of Elder Affairs (moved to second reading)
• Accepted and filed residency waiver request for Zoning Board of Appeals member Janice Tatarka
• Accepted and filed proposal to name new park at 212 Congress Avenue 'Bear Park'
• Accepted and filed request to pay prior year expenses totaling $15,083.04
• Accepted and filed FY25 City Manager Proposed Budget of $245,002,137
• Adopted resolution recognizing May 12, 2024 as Mother's Day (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 29, 2024 regular meeting

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the City of Chelsea Fair Housing Plan. Members will also discuss potential solutions for housing-related concerns in the city.

• City of Chelsea Fair Housing Plan
• Discussion on housing-related concerns

The Sub-Committee on Conference held a discussion-only meeting on the City of Chelsea's Fair Housing Plan and housing concerns. No votes or formal decisions were taken. The presentation covered barriers to housing, affordable housing supply, and priority strategies such as a real estate transfer fee and rent stabilization.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational only

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several funding requests from Free Cash for a comprehensive master plan, scholarships, and downtown initiatives. The body is also discussing zoning amendments regarding marijuana retailers and body art establishments.

• $450,000 from Free Cash for the Chelsea Onward Comprehensive Master Plan
• $245,500 from Free Cash for the Bunker Hill Community College Scholarship Program
• $200,000 from Free Cash for the Downtown Initiative
• $100,000 from Free Cash for MUNIS accounting system upgrades
• Proposed zoning amendment to repeal the 9 PM to 9 AM operating hour prohibition for marijuana retailers

The Chelsea City Council received communications from the City Manager proposing $995,500 in expenditures from certified Free Cash for a Comprehensive Master Plan ($450,000), Bunker Hill Scholarship Program ($245,500), Downtown and City Wide Event Programming ($200,000), and Munis software upgrades ($100,000). The Council also approved minutes from prior meetings and recognized Arbor Day and Autism Awareness Month. No final votes on the funding requests were recorded in these minutes.

• Approved minutes of March 28, 2024 special meeting and April 1, 2024 regular meeting
• Recognized April 26, 2024 as Arbor Day via resolution
• Heard proposal to name new open space Lewis Howard Latimer Overlook
• Heard $995,500 in funding requests from Free Cash (no vote recorded)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss ongoing plans for the City of Chelsea’s 400th anniversary celebration.

• Plans for the City of Chelsea’s 400th anniversary celebration

The Sub-Committee on Conference received a presentation from City Solicitor Cheryl Watson Fisher on the 400th Steering Committee's activities. No votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was purely informational.

Joint Conference w/ School Committee

The Chelsea City Council and School Committee will hold a joint conference to review the annual budget for Chelsea Public Schools. The meeting includes the City Manager, the Superintendent of Chelsea Public Schools, and the Director of Administration and Finance.

• Review of the Annual School Department Budget

The City Council's Subcommittee on Conference met jointly with the School Committee to review the Fiscal Year 2025 Chelsea Public Schools budget of $140,307,815. The discussion focused on the expiration of ESSER COVID-response grants and the need to absorb 41.6 positions into the General Fund. The city plans to increase its voluntary contribution by over $1 million to offset the loss. No votes were taken; the meeting was informational only.

• No votes or formal decisions were made; the meeting was a review and discussion only

Special Committee On Youth Sports

The Special Committee on Youth Sports will meet to determine the format and structure of future committee meetings. Members will also discuss potential ideas for addressing youth sports-related concerns in Chelsea.

• Discussion on format and structure of future committee meetings
• Discussion on ideas to address youth sports-related concerns

The Special Committee on Youth Sports held a meeting to discuss format and how to address youth sports concerns. The main issue raised was a lack of coordination between the City, schools, and leagues, causing scheduling and location problems. The committee reached a consensus that youth sports should be handled separately and a new position should be created to coordinate efforts. No formal decisions or votes were taken.

• Discussed format and structure of future committee meetings
• Heard from city staff, league representatives, and youth about coordination issues
• Reached consensus to recommend creating a new coordinator position for youth sports

City Council

The City Council will discuss naming parcels at 15 and 29 Eastern Avenue as Latimer Overlook. The body is also reviewing a $2.5 million grant for Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods and discussing FY25 water, sewer, and trash rates.

• Announcement of a $2.5 million Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant
• Proposal to name parcels at 15 and 29 Eastern Avenue as Latimer Overlook
• Request to discuss FY25 Water, Sewer and Trash rates
• Proposal to name the Washington Avenue overpass after Detective Scott Conley
• Request for a meeting to discuss Police and Fire Department staffing issues

The Chelsea City Council adopted resolutions commending firefighters and ECC dispatchers for their actions during the March 1 structure fire at 50 and 52 Maverick Street. The council also recognized Earth Day and Autism Awareness Day via resolutions. No substantive legislative decisions (ordinances, contracts, or policy changes) were made; the meeting was largely ceremonial and procedural.

• Adopted resolution 24R18 commending firefighters for rescuing trapped colleagues at Maverick Street fire (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 24R19 commending ECC dispatchers for their role in the Maverick Street fire response (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 24R20 recognizing April 22, 2024 as Earth Day in Chelsea (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 24R21 recognizing April 2, 2024 as Autism Awareness Day in Chelsea (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 18, 2024 regular meeting under suspension
• Accepted and filed communication 24CM76 proposing naming new open space 'Latimer Overlook' after Lewis Howard Latimer
• Accepted and filed communication 24CM77 announcing launch of municipal aggregation program 'Chelsea Electricity Choice'

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to receive an update regarding the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' plan to open a shelter for migrants at the Veteran’s Home in Chelsea.

• Update on Commonwealth of Massachusetts plan for migrant shelter at Veteran’s Home

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan for FY25 through FY29. The body will also consider the expenditure of $16,801,417 in grant funding for various capital projects and equipment.

• Public hearing: Capital Improvement Plan (FY25—FY29)
• Order #2449: Authorization to expend $16,801,417 from Miscellaneous Grants and Chapter 90 funds
• Communication 24CM72: Contract extension for Police Chief Keith Houghton
• Order #2486: Proposal for a program to support entrepreneurs in Chelsea
• Order #2487: Proposal for a resident assistance program for energy and water bills

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed the minutes from the March 18, 2024 regular meeting under suspension. The meeting included resolutions honoring Nicola Richardson and Cara Cogliano, a public hearing on the FY2025 Capital Improvement Plan, and several communications from the City Manager regarding appointments, hiring, and contract extensions. No substantive decisions were made beyond accepting the minutes and communications.

• Accepted and filed minutes of March 18, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution honoring Nicola Richardson (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution honoring Cara Cogliano (unanimous)
• Moved appointments to Historical Commission and Cultural Council to second reading (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed notice of permanent hiring of Grace Agosto as Executive Assistant (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed notice of extension of Police Chief Keith Houghton's contract to May 31, 2027 (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed report on tax abatements (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed response on 'Welcome to Chelsea' signs and Park Square traffic plans (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several appropriation orders to fund road improvements, water systems, and department salaries. The body is also discussing the appointment of a new Fire Chief and the launch of a Fair Housing Plan.

• Appropriation of $400,000 for utility work related to the Central Avenue Project
• Appropriation of $332,000 for construction to restore the Quiet Zone in Chelsea
• Appropriation of $170,000 for the Admiral’s Hill Water Pump Station fire suppression system
• Proposed authorization of $16,801,417 in grant funding for capital projects and equipment
• Appointment of John Quatieri as the next Fire Chief

The City Council approved multiple free cash requests totaling $1,083,000 for various city needs, including line painting, a parking vehicle, GIS software, the Quiet Zone project, Central Avenue infrastructure, electricity costs, vehicle maintenance, and debris removal. The Council also revoked the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to establish a Special Revenue Fund for opioid settlement proceeds, and approved appointments to the Cultural Council and Community Preservation Committee.

• Approved $1,083,000 in free cash requests for DPW line painting ($160,000), parking vehicle replacement ($31,000), GIS system ($40,000), Quiet Zone project ($332,000), Central Avenue/Inness infrastructure ($400,000), electricity for traffic signals/streetlights ($18,000), electricity for public buildings ($22,000), vehicle maintenance ($40,000), and debris removal ($40,000)
• Revoked Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund and established Special Revenue Fund for opioid settlement proceeds (two-thirds vote required)
• Approved appointment of William Kaufman to Cultural Council for three-year term ending February 28, 2027
• Approved appointment of Loren Sokol to Community Preservation Committee to complete unexpired term ending June 30, 2024
• Accepted and filed minutes of February 12, 2024 Regular Meeting
• Adopted resolution honoring Chelsea Trailblazers for Black History Month
• Swore in new Chelsea Fire Department firefighters: Alexander Lozada, Ramon Pagan, Carlos Figueroa, and Felix Vega

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means is discussing several orders to appropriate funds from Free Cash and Water Retained Earnings. These proposals cover infrastructure, public works, and departmental salaries.

• Appropriation of $400,000 for utility work related to the Central Avenue Project
• Appropriation of $332,000 for construction to restore the Quiet Zone in Chelsea
• Appropriation of $170,000 for the Admiral’s Hill Water Pump Station fire suppression system
• Transfer of $231,524.36 from a Special Purpose Stabilization Fund to a Special Revenue Fund for opioid settlements
• Appropriation of $160,000 for DPW Streets and Sidewalks Road Improvements

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed 15 financial orders totaling over $1.5 million, including revoking a special opioid settlement fund and appropriating funds for road improvements, vehicle replacement, GIS system, quiet zone restoration, Central Avenue utility work, street lights, traffic signals, building lighting, vehicle maintenance, debris removal, fire suppression, council salaries, and overtime. No votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion only.

• Discussed revoking opioid settlement stabilization fund and transferring $231,524.36 to a special revenue fund (24F34)
• Discussed $160,000 from free cash for road line-painting contract (24F35)
• Discussed $31,000 from free cash for replacement parking department vehicle (24F36)
• Discussed $40,000 from free cash for cloud-based GIS system (24F37)
• Discussed $332,000 from free cash for quiet zone restoration contract (24F38)
• Discussed $400,000 from free cash for Central Avenue utility work near Innes Development (24F39)
• Discussed $86,500 from free cash for legislative department salaries (24F46)
• Discussed $170,000 from water retained earnings for Admiral's Hill fire suppression system (24F45)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the Capital Improvement Plan for FY25 through FY29. City officials from various departments are invited to attend the meeting.

• Capital Improvement Plan FY25 — FY29

Sub - Committee on Rules and Regulations

The Sub-Committee on Rules and Administration will meet to discuss how agendas are set and the process for requesting meetings. City Solicitor Cheryl Watson Fisher is invited to attend.

• Sub-Committee agenda setting process
• Process for requesting Sub-Committee meetings

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the Municipal Aggregation Plan. City Manager Fidel Maltez and representatives from the Peregrine Group are invited to attend.

• Discussion of Municipal Aggregation Plan

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several requests to allocate Free Cash and other funds toward road improvements, water systems, and department salaries. The body is also discussing the transfer of opioid settlement funds and the approval of board appointments.

• Appropriation of $400,000 from Free Cash for the Central Avenue Project surrounding the Innes Development
• Appropriation of $332,000 from Free Cash to restore the Quiet Zone in Chelsea
• Acceptance of a $150,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center
• Transfer of $231,524.36 from an Opioid Stabilization Fund to a Special Revenue Fund
• Appropriation of $170,000 from Water Retained Earnings for the Admiral’s Hill Water Pump Station fire suppression system

The City Council approved multiple free cash requests totaling $1,083,000 for various city needs, including $332,000 for the Quiet Zone project, $400,000 for the Central Avenue and Inness Infrastructure Project, and $160,000 for line painting. The Council also voted to revoke the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund and establish a Special Revenue Fund for opioid settlement proceeds, and approved appointments to the Cultural Council and Community Preservation Committee.

• Approved $1,083,000 in free cash requests for multiple city projects and operations (unanimous)
• Approved revocation of Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund and establishment of Special Revenue Fund (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of William Kaufman to Cultural Council for three-year term (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Loren Sokol to Community Preservation Committee for unexpired term (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 5, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution honoring Chelsea Trailblazers for Black History Month (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed communication regarding opioid settlement fund (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed communication regarding free cash certification (unanimous)

Sub - Committee on Public Safety

The Sub-Committee on Public Safety will meet to discuss public safety concerns in the City of Chelsea. The City Manager and the Police Chief are invited to attend.

• Discussion of public safety concerns in the City of Chelsea

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to receive an update from City Manager Fidel Maltez. The discussion will focus on the first 100 days of his administration.

• Update from City Manager Fidel Maltez on the first 100 days of his administration

Sub - Committee on Elder Services, Veterans' Affairs and Community Advancement

The Sub-Committee on Elder Services, Veterans’ Affairs and Community Advancement will meet to discuss the city's planned programs for Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

• Discussion of planned programs for Memorial Day and Veterans Day

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss the acceptance of a state grant and the authorization of funds to pay outstanding vendor balances from FY23. The meeting includes the City Manager and members of the sub-committee.

• Order 24F32: Authorization to accept a $150,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center
• Order 24F33: Authorization of FY24 budget funds to pay unpaid vendor balances from FY23

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss and draft a set of priorities for the Chelsea City Council for the 2024-2025 period.

• Drafting of Chelsea City Council priorities for 2024-2025

City Council

The City Council will receive updates on ARPA funds, LED streetlights, and a Logan Airport noise study. Members will discuss the FY25-FY29 Capital Improvement Plan and consider requests to pay prior-year expenses using FY24 budgets.

• Review of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for FY25-FY29
• Request to use FY24 budgets to pay unpaid FY23 vendor balances
• Update on ARPA Funds
• Resident concerns regarding speeding on Congress, Highland, Maverick, and Willow Streets
• Appointment to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board

The City Council accepted and filed a noise study report from Vianair on aircraft noise from Logan Airport over Chelsea, and approved several other communications from the City Manager, including responses on dog waste dispensers, LED streetlights, ARPA funds, and municipal aggregation. The Council also approved re-appointments to boards and commissions, and adopted a resolution recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month.

• Accepted and filed noise study report on Logan Airport aircraft noise (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed response on dog waste dispensers (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed response on LED streetlights (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed ARPA funds update, referred to Sub-Committee on Conference (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed municipal aggregation update, referred to Sub-Committee on Conference (unanimous)
• Moved re-appointments to boards and commissions to second reading (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 22, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to receive an update on the proposed Downtown Infrastructure Project. City Manager Fidel Maltez and DPW Commissioner Cate Fox-Lent are invited to attend.

• Update on the proposed Downtown Infrastructure Project

Sub - Committee on Public Safety

The Sub-Committee on Public Safety will meet to discuss public safety concerns within the City of Chelsea. The agenda also includes a tour of the Chelsea Police Station.

• Discussion of public safety concerns in the City of Chelsea
• Tour of the Chelsea Police Station

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several orders to transfer funds from various capital improvement projects and stabilization accounts to the FY2024 CHS Cafeteria Renovation Project. The body is also considering a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 708 and a grant for clean energy.

• Transfer of $1,500,000 from Early Learning Center HVAC Project to CHS Cafeteria Renovation
• Acceptance of $215,000 from The Nature Conservancy for the Mill Creek Restoration Program and a park at 88 Clinton Street
• Approval of cost items for the AFSCME Local 708 collective bargaining agreement (FY2024-2026)
• Authorization to accept a $150,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center
• Transfer of $89,828.00 for FY24 Exempt Employee Cost of Living Adjustment

The Chelsea City Council approved several financial items, including a transfer of $89,828 from the Salary Reserve Account to fund FY24 exempt employee cost-of-living adjustments, and accepted a $215,000 grant from The Nature Conservancy for the Mill Creek Restoration Program, which includes a new park at 88 Clinton Street. The council also approved a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 708 for FY2024-2026 and accepted a $150,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center for the Chelsea Microgrid Phase II project. Additionally, the council approved the appointment of Kelly Chamblee to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and received notice of Fire Chief Leonard Albanese's retirement.

• Approved $89,828 transfer for exempt employee cost-of-living adjustments (11-0)
• Accepted $215,000 grant from The Nature Conservancy for Mill Creek Restoration Program (11-0)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 708 for FY2024-2026 (11-0)
• Accepted $150,000 grant from Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center for Microgrid Phase II
• Appointed Kelly Chamblee to Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Approved minutes of January 8, 2024 meeting
• Accepted and filed communication on Chelsea Creek Municipal Harbor Plan approval
• Accepted and filed notice of Fire Chief Leonard Albanese retirement

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to receive an update regarding the restoration of the Commuter Rail Quiet Zone. City Manager Fidel Maltez and DPW Commissioner Cate Fox-Lent are invited to attend.

• Update on the Restoration of the Commuter Rail Quiet Zone

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the City Council's Rules and Regulations. This breakdown of rules is intended for all members of the Council.

• Breakdown of City Council’s Rules and Regulations

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss several fund transfers and appropriations. A primary focus is securing funding for the Fiscal Year 2024 CHS Cafeteria Renovation Project through the reallocation of unexpended capital improvement funds.

• Transfer of $89,828.00 for FY24 Exempt Employee Cost of Living Adjustment
• Approval of cost items for AFSCME Local 708 collective bargaining agreement (FY2024-2026)
• Acceptance of $215,000 from The Nature Conservancy for Mill Creek Restoration Program and 88 Clinton Street park
• Multiple fund transfers to CHS Cafeteria Renovation Project totaling $2,170,697.00 from various accounts
• Appropriation of $495,000.00 from School Stabilization Account to CHS Cafeteria Renovation Project

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several fund transfers and appropriations to support the Chelsea High School Cafeteria Expansion/Renovation Project. The body is also discussing collective bargaining costs for AFSCME Local 708 and a grant for the Mill Creek Restoration Program.

• Proposed transfer of $1,500,000 from Early Learning Center HVAC Project to CHS Cafeteria Renovation
• Proposed appropriation of $495,000 from School Stabilization Account for CHS Cafeteria Renovation
• Acceptance of $215,000 from The Nature Conservancy for the Mill Creek Restoration Program
• Proposed appropriation of $100,000 from General Stabilization Account for SemiCentennial Celebration
• Proposed appropriation of $30,758 for replacement of fire damaged vehicle WSD-3 Utility Vehicle

The Chelsea City Council met on January 8, 2024, with 10 of 11 councilors present. The council unanimously adopted two resolutions: recognizing January 2024 as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and January 15, 2024, as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only procedural items and no public speakers.

• Adopted resolution recognizing January 2024 as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recognizing January 15, 2024, as Martin Luther King Jr. Day (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to swear in members and elect its President, Vice-President, and School Committee delegate for 2024. The body will also approve the roll call order, seating arrangements, and rules for the year.

• Election of Council President, Vice-President, and School Committee delegate
• Approval of 2024 Rules and Regulations
• Oath of Office for City Council members
• Oath of Office for School Committee members
• Oath of Office for City Manager Fidel Maltez

The Chelsea City Council held a special organizational meeting to swear in members and elect officers for 2024. Councilor Norieliz De Jesus was elected President, Councilor Todd Taylor was elected Vice-President, and Councilor Kelly Garcia was elected Delegate to the School Committee, all by unanimous votes. The council also approved several items from the City Manager, including appointments, salary increases, a union contract, a grant acceptance, and supplemental funding for the Chelsea High School cafeteria project.

• Elected Norieliz De Jesus as City Council President for 2024 (10-0)
• Elected Todd Taylor as Vice-President for 2024 (10-0)
• Elected Kelly Garcia as Delegate to the School Committee for 2024 (10-0)
• Adopted 2023 Rules and Regulations for 2024 pending subcommittee review (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Devra Sari Zabot to Community Preservation Committee (unanimous)
• Approved 4.0% salary increase for exempt employees for FY24 (unanimous)
• Approved AFSCME Local 708 union contract with 3.5%-4% annual raises (unanimous)
• Approved $2,665,697 in supplemental funds for Chelsea High School cafeteria project (unanimous)

City Council Schedule (January-June)

City Council President Norieliz De Jesus has scheduled several meeting dates for the first half of 2024. All meetings are set to take place at 7:00 P.M. in the Chelsea City Hall, City Council Chambers.

• Twelve scheduled meeting dates between January 8 and June 24, 2024