Chelsea public meetings in 2025

Subcommittee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will accept nominations for President, Vice President, and Delegate to the School Committee for 2026, and draw lots for seating and roll call order. The meeting is open to all newly elected councilors and the public.

• Accept nominations for President, Vice President, and Delegate to the School Committee for calendar year 2026
• Drawing of lots for seating arrangement and roll call order for calendar year 2026

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss three orders introduced by Councilor Taylor. Two orders involve accepting donations of athletic equipment from the Good Sports Foundation for the Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs. A third order concerns the City Council's action on a report from the Community Preservation Committee regarding the awarding of grant funding for Fiscal Year 2026 Community Preservation Act projects.

• Discussion on awarding FY2026 Community Preservation Act grant funding (ID# 25F60).
• Proposal to accept a donation of athletic equipment from the Good Sports Foundation (ID# 25F61).
• Proposal to accept a separate donation of baseball and softball equipment from the Good Sports Foundation (ID# 25F62).

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment to prohibit enclosed seafood processing, packing, loading, and distribution within 300 feet of residential uses. The Council will also consider second readings on several orders, including accepting grants and gifts, appropriating funds for park improvements and emergency assistance, and acting on Community Preservation Committee grant awards. New business includes orders to accept athletic equipment donations, discuss ICE-related requests, and affirm a home rule petition on the City Charter.

• Public hearing on zoning amendment to ban seafood processing within 300 feet of homes (Section 34-78)
• Order to appropriate $825,000 from General Stabilization Fund for Kayem Park improvements (PARC grant)
• Order to accept $100,000 grant from United Way for One Chelsea Fund Program
• Order to appropriate $100,000 from General Stabilization Fund for emergency assistance and One Chelsea Fund
• Order to discuss ICE Out of Chelsea petition and federal ICE presence

City Council

The Chelsea City Council is holding a special meeting that includes a swearing-in and promotion ceremony for the Chelsea Police Department. The agenda also includes the pledge of allegiance and calling the roll of council members.

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

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The sub-committee will discuss seven orders, including paying $37.95 in prior-year vendor balances, accepting a $10,000 Carnegie grant for the library, a $15,000 Mystic Valley Elder Services grant, a $1,000 Ruby Bridges Foundation gift, a $100,000 United Way grant for the One Chelsea Fund, and appropriating $100,000 from stabilization for the One Chelsea Fund. The largest item is a $825,000 PARC grant for Kayem Park improvements, requiring the city to designate the park as open space in perpetuity.

• Appropriation of $825,000 from General Stabilization Fund for Kayem Park improvements via PARC grant
• Acceptance of $100,000 United Way grant for the One Chelsea Fund Program
• Appropriation of $100,000 from General Stabilization Fund for the One Chelsea Fund emergency assistance
• Acceptance of $10,000 Carnegie Corporation gift for Chelsea Public Library community event
• Acceptance of $15,000 Mystic Valley Elder Services grant for Senior Center health/wellness program

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will discuss and vote on the Vision Zero Action Plan to reduce traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2040. The council will also review communications from the city manager responding to prior council orders on topics including paving, parking violations, asthma rates, and fire station updates.

• Chelsea Pride Youth Football recognition
• Approval of minutes from November 10, 2025 meetings
• City Manager updates on Central Avenue paving, parking systems, and asthma rates
• Second readings for appointments to Chelsea Youth Commission
• New business: Resolution to adopt Vision Zero Action Plan

The Chelsea City Council adopted a resolution commending Chelsea Pride Youth Football and Cheerleading for rebuilding the youth sports program. The council also accepted and filed multiple communications from the City Manager regarding infrastructure, parking, asthma rates, a new fire station, a senior food fund, and military leave pay. No public hearings or public speakers were scheduled.

• Adopted resolution honoring Chelsea Pride Youth Football and Cheerleading (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed minutes of Nov 10 special and regular meetings
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on Central Avenue paving plans
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on searchable parking ticket system
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on overnight parking violation data
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on asthma prevalence rates
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on new fire station feasibility study
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on One Chelsea Fund for seniors

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on FY26 tax rates, the minimum residential tax factor, and a residential exemption. They will also consider second readings on a 35% residential exemption, a commercial/industrial tax shift, and a zoning amendment restricting seafood processing near residences. Additionally, the council will vote on several grants and donations, including $825,000 for Kayem Park renovations and $100,000 for the One Chelsea Fund.

• Public hearing on FY26 tax rates, minimum residential tax factor, and residential exemption
• Second reading: 35% Residential Exemption for FY26
• Second reading: Minimum Residential Tax Factor with 1.75 CIP shift factor
• Second reading: Zoning amendment to prohibit enclosed seafood processing within 300 ft of residential uses
• Appropriation of $825,000 from General Stabilization Fund for Kayem Park renovation project

City Council

The Chelsea City Council holds a special meeting to conduct a swearing-in and promotion ceremony for members of the Chelsea Fire Department. The meeting follows procedural items such as the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call.

• Swearing-In and Promotion Ceremony for Chelsea Fire Department

Sub - Committee on Public Safety

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Public Safety will meet to discuss the Vision Zero Action Plan. City Manager Fidel Maltez, Deputy Director Emily Granoff, Planner Sara Han, and representatives from Stantec have been invited.

• Discussion of the Vision Zero Action Plan

CANCELLED Sub - Committee on Conference

This meeting of the Sub-Committee on Conference was cancelled. It was originally scheduled to discuss the FY23 and FY24 audits.

Regular Meeting - REVISED

The Chelsea City Council will hold its regular meeting on October 20, 2025, to discuss and vote on several key items, including proposed tax policy changes for FY2026, union contracts, and updates on city projects such as affordable housing and downtown construction. The meeting will also feature communications from the City Manager on ARPA funds, housing authority matters, and immigration support resources.

• Vote on 35% Residential Exemption for FY2026 tax policy
• Approval of union contract with AFSCME Local 708 for Library employees
• Transfer of $1,750,000 from City Hall Attic Expansion to Public Buildings Renovations
• Donation of $9,814.98 in gym equipment for Chelsea Fire Department
• Request for ARPA-funded contractor audit reports to assess financial controls

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will hear updates from the City Manager on ARPA funds, affordable housing, and downtown construction. They will also consider tax policy changes, donations, and several oversight requests related to city spending and ICE presence.

• Request for third-party audits of all ARPA-funded contractors and grantees (ID#: 25109)
• Proposed 35% Residential Exemption for FY2026 (ID#: 25F51)
• Minimum Residential Tax Factor adoption with 1.75 commercial/industrial shift (ID#: 25F52)
• Union contract approval for AFSCME Local 708 Library employees (ID#: 25F47, 25119)
• $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for Chelsea Fire Department (ID#: 25F46)

The Chelsea City Council approved 11 appointments to various boards and commissions, including the Board of Library Trustees, Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board, Youth Commission, and Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, all by an 11-0 vote. The council also adopted resolutions declaring October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and honoring Santiago Fernandez for 28 years of barbershop ownership. Several communications from the city manager were accepted and filed, including updates on ARPA funds, Chelsea Housing Authority placements, a union contract for library employees, and a FEMA reimbursement denial.

• Approved 11 appointments to boards and commissions (11-0)
• Adopted resolution declaring October 2025 as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month
• Adopted resolution honoring Santiago Fernandez for 28 years of barbershop ownership
• Accepted and filed minutes of October 6, 2025 meeting
• Accepted and filed communication on ARPA funds audit update
• Accepted and filed communication on Chelsea Housing Authority placements (53 in 2024, 37 in 2025)
• Accepted and filed communication on AFSCME Local 708 library union contract (3% annual raises FY27-FY29)
• Accepted and filed communication on FEMA reimbursement denial for COVID-19 food distribution

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council’s Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss proposed FY26 tax rates, the minimum residential factor, and the residential exemption. City Manager Fidel Maltez, Deputy City Manager for Finance Michael Mason, and Chief Assessor Jim Sullivan are invited to attend.

• FY26 Tax Rates
• Minimum Residential Factor
• Residential Exemption

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Ways and Means sub-committee will discuss five orders: accepting a $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for the Fire Department, transferring $182,717.42 from completed capital projects to flood resilience and road reconstruction, paying $1,324.79 in prior-year vendor bills, accepting two Patriot Clocks valued at $570 for a race, and deferring $1,750,000 from the City Hall Expansion to a Public Buildings Renovations project.

• Accept $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for Fire Department from Bobby Cobb
• Transfer $182,717.42 from completed CIP projects to Island End River Flood Resiliency and Beacham/Williams Street reconstruction
• Defer $1,750,000 from City Hall Attic Expansion to FY2026 Public Buildings Renovations
• Approve $1,324.79 in unpaid prior-year vendor bills
• Accept two Patriot Clocks valued at $570 for Chelsea 5K Road Race prizes

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council’s Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss two topics: declining enrollment in Chelsea Public Schools and food sustainability plus overall wellness for the city’s immigrant families. City Manager Fidel Maltez, Superintendent Almudena Abeyta, all School Committee members, all City Council members, and the public are invited to attend.

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will meet to approve prior-year expenses, transfer $1.75M in capital funds, and discuss a $1M legal-services appropriation for ICE-related work. The agenda also includes zoning-ordinance amendments, a Vision Zero plan review, and a conflict-of-interest exemption for a Youth Sports Instructor position.

• Approve $1,324.79 in prior-year unpaid vendor balances (FY24–FY25)
• Transfer $1,750,000 from City Hall Attic Expansion to Public Buildings Renovations (FY26)
• Consider $1M appropriation for legal services to address ICE rights violations
• Amend zoning tables for dimensional and principal-use regulations (Chapter 34, Articles XI & XIII)
• Review Vision Zero Action Plan for traffic-safety improvements

The Chelsea City Council adopted two resolutions: declaring October 2025 as Italian-American Heritage Month and congratulating Aida Cruz for 33 years of operating Blessed Shears Beauty Salon. No public hearings were held. The council accepted and filed several communications from the City Manager, including responses to council orders on streetlight inspections, trash barrel fees, and negotiations to purchase or lease St. Rose School for a community center. No substantive decisions were made beyond the resolutions and procedural filings.

• Adopted resolution declaring October 2025 as Italian-American Heritage Month (unanimous under suspension)
• Adopted resolution congratulating Aida Cruz for 33 years of Blessed Shears Beauty Salon (unanimous under suspension)
• Accepted and filed minutes of September 8, 2025 meeting (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on 'Don't Block the Box' painting at Everett Ave & 4th St (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on routine streetlight inspection plan (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on potential fee for replacement trash barrels (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on negotiations to purchase or lease St. Rose School (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on expiring use properties affordability update (under suspension)

City Council

The City Council will consider several financial items, including a $103,714 transfer from TNC surcharge funds for sidewalk and roadway repairs, and a $182,717 reallocation of unexpended capital funds to flood resiliency and corridor reconstruction projects. They will also discuss accepting a $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for the fire department, a proposed fee for replacement trash barrels, and a potential lease or purchase of the Saint Rose property for a community center. Other items include updates on the Everett soccer stadium, Malone Park, and the Fitzpatrick-Prattville redevelopment project.

• Appropriation of $103,714.70 from TNC Surcharge Fund for DPW Streets & Sidewalks Capital Road Improvements
• Transfer of $182,717.12 in unexpended capital funds to Island End River Flood Resiliency and Beacham/Williams Corridor Reconstruction projects
• Acceptance of $9,814.98 gym equipment donation from Bobby Cobb for Chelsea Fire Department
• Order to create a policy charging a fee for replacement trash barrels unless the old barrel is returned
• Order to initiate negotiations to lease or purchase Saint Rose property for a community center

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed multiple communications from the City Manager, including approval of a $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for Mill Hill Fire Station, two budget transfers totaling $182,717.12 for grant compliance, and updates on the Veterans Home, Market Basket, and Malone Park projects. A proposal to study stipends for appointed board members was referred to conference. No votes were recorded; all items were accepted and filed under suspension.

• Accepted $9,814.98 gym equipment donation for Mill Hill Fire Station (unanimous suspension)
• Approved $116,621 budget transfer for Island End River LPDM grant match (unanimous suspension)
• Approved $66,096.12 budget transfer for Beacham & Williams Corridor EDA grant closeout (unanimous suspension)
• Accepted update on Veterans Home and Market Basket projects (unanimous suspension)
• Accepted update on Malone Park restoration timeline (unanimous suspension)
• Referred stipend feasibility study for appointed boards to conference (unanimous suspension)
• Accepted invitation for City Yard tour dates (unanimous suspension)
• Accepted response on Latimer Place street sign installation (unanimous suspension)

Sub - Committee on Public Works

The Sub-Committee on Public Works will discuss the Chelsea DPW City Yard renovation project. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only item.

• Discussion of Chelsea DPW City Yard renovation project

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss two items: accepting donations for the June 2025 All-America City trip, and authorizing a $103,714.70 transfer from the TNC Surcharge Distribution Fund to supplement FY2026 DPW road and sidewalk repairs.

• ID#1: Accept donations for All-America City trip (June 2025)
• ID#2: Transfer $103,714.70 from TNC Surcharge Fund to DPW Streets & Sidewalks Capital Road Improvements
• Funds from Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Fund for sidewalk and roadway repair

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will meet to approve routine minutes, hear city manager communications including the appointment of an ADA coordinator and updates on COVID-19 reimbursements, and vote on new business such as a $103,714 appropriation for sidewalk repairs and a zoning change requiring seafood businesses to be 300 feet from homes. Several councilors have also introduced orders for feasibility studies, police scooter discussions, and updates on local projects.

• Approve appointment of City of Chelsea’s ADA Coordinator
• Authorize $103,714 transfer for DPW sidewalk and roadway repairs
• Amend zoning code to require 300 ft buffer between seafood businesses and residential areas
• Appropriate Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Funds for unspecified projects
• Consider feasibility study for stipends to Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals members

The Chelsea City Council adopted a resolution declaring September 15 to October 15, 2025 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. The council also accepted and filed several communications from the City Manager, including updates on the ADA Coordinator appointment, donations for the All-America City trip, Fire Department Engine 4 operations, COVID-19 FEMA reimbursement appeals, and Garden Cemetery renovations. No substantive decisions were made beyond these procedural actions.

• Adopted resolution declaring National Hispanic Heritage Month (unanimous, under suspension)
• Accepted and filed minutes from June 23 and August 25 meetings (under suspension)
• Moved ADA Coordinator appointment to second reading (Jimenez-Rivera)
• Accepted and filed donations for All-America City trip (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed Fire Chief report on Engine 4 operation (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed update on COVID-19 FEMA reimbursement (under suspension)
• Accepted and filed update on Garden Cemetery renovations (under suspension)

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will consider approving early voting for the September 16th preliminary and November 4th municipal elections, based on a recommendation from the Board of Registrars. The council will also vote on the warrant for the September 16th preliminary election.

• ID# 25C15 – Communication from the City Clerk regarding the Board of Registrars’ recommendation to opt-in to early voting for the 2025 municipal elections.
• ID# 2584 – Order to approve early voting for the September 16, 2025 preliminary election and the November 4, 2025 municipal election.
• ID# 2585 – Order to approve the warrant for the September 16, 2025 City Preliminary Election.

The Chelsea City Council approved early voting for the September 16, 2025 preliminary election and the November 4, 2025 municipal election, as recommended by the Board of Registrars. In-person early voting will be held at City Hall on specified dates. The council also approved the warrant for the September 16 preliminary election. Both orders passed 8-0 with three members absent.

• Approved early voting for Sept. 16 preliminary election and Nov. 4 municipal election (8-0-3)
• Approved warrant for Sept. 16 preliminary election (8-0-3)

City Council

This is a special meeting of the Chelsea City Council. The agenda consists of a pledge of allegiance, a roll call, and a swearing-in and promotion ceremony for the Chelsea Police Department. No legislative or policy items are scheduled for discussion or decision.

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

The Chelsea City Council held a special meeting primarily for a police department promotion and swearing-in ceremony. No legislative or policy decisions were made; the only action was accepting the call of the meeting without objection.

• Accepted call of the special meeting without objection (Robinson)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the off-street parking requirements in the zoning ordinances. The Council will also consider second readings on appointments, community preservation funding, and a deficit appropriation of $122,177.09 from Free Cash. New business includes orders to reaffirm a property taking by eminent domain and to request updates on the Market Basket Master Plan and streetlight repairs.

• Public hearing on amending Section 34-106(j)(6) off-street parking requirements
• Appropriation of $122,177.09 from Free Cash to close out deficits in inactive accounts
• Order to reaffirm the taking of 359 Beacham Street by eminent domain
• Order requesting an update on the Market Basket Master Plan and proposed liquor store
• Resolution in support of rapid infrastructure in the Tobin Bridge Replacement Planning Process

The Chelsea City Council approved two resolutions: one urging MassDOT to include a rail transit feasibility study in the Tobin Bridge replacement planning, and another supporting the unionization of primary care physicians at Mass General Brigham. Both passed 10-1, with Councilor Taylor voting no. The council also unanimously approved appointments to the Cultural Council, Library Trustees, Planning Board, and Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board.

• Approved resolution urging MassDOT to study rail transit for Tobin Bridge replacement (10-1)
• Approved resolution supporting MGB Primary Care Physician Union, as amended (10-1)
• Approved appointment of Lilly Darr to Cultural Council (11-0)
• Approved re-appointment of Grace Lee to Board of Library Trustees (11-0)
• Approved appointment of Jordana Mather to Planning Board (11-0)
• Approved appointment of Jessica A. Wynns to Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board (11-0)
• Accepted and filed minutes of June 2, 2025 meeting
• Accepted and filed city manager responses on Veterans Home project and migrant shelter update

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss and act on four orders: awarding FY2025 Community Preservation grants, authorizing $80 in unpaid FY24 vendor balances, approving the FY26 PEG Access budget, and appropriating $122,177.09 from Free Cash to close deficits in inactive accounts identified as structurally deficient.

• ID# 25F38: Act on Community Preservation Committee report for FY2025 grant funding
• ID# 25F39: Authorize $80.00 to pay unpaid FY24 vendor balances from FY25 budget
• ID# 25F40: Approve FY26 PEG Access Budget
• ID# 25F41: Act on Community Preservation Committee report for FY26 budget
• ID# 25F42: Appropriate $122,177.09 from Free Cash to close deficits in inactive accounts

City Manager Evaluation Committee

The Chelsea City Council’s City Manager Evaluation Committee will meet to assign final ratings across performance categories and finalize its 2025 evaluation report. The meeting is open to all council members, committee members, and the public.

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council’s Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss ongoing public safety issues in the city. City Manager Fidel Maltez and Chelsea Police Department leaders are invited to attend.

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget and on taking two properties at 145 Market Street and 359 Beacham Street by eminent domain. Council will then vote on a $261.7 million General Fund appropriation for FY26, plus separate water and sewer enterprise fund budgets. Other second-reading items include a new Teamsters contract, a five-year contract with Dagle Electrical for Quiet Zone construction, and multiple prior-year expense payments.

• Public hearing on proposed FY26 budget and eminent domain takings of 145 Market Street and 359 Beacham Street
• Second reading: $261,701,228 General Fund appropriation (Salaries $62.3M, Operations $198.6M, Capital $865K)
• Second reading: five-year contract with Dagle Electrical Corporation for Public Works Quiet Zone construction
• Second reading: collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 25 covering DPW employees FY26-FY28
• New business: intermunicipal agreement with Everett to create cooling features at high-heat bus stops

CANCELLED - City Manager Evaluation Committee

The City Manager Evaluation Committee meeting scheduled for May 19, 2025, was cancelled. The agenda had included final performance ratings and a draft report.

• Meeting cancelled; no decisions made

City Council

The City Council will vote on the FY26 operating budget totaling $261,701,228, along with several appropriations from Free Cash and Overlay Surplus for capital projects, software, and events. The agenda also includes second readings on lead pipe regulations and eminent domain takings for the Island End River Flood Barrier. Communications from the City Manager cover parking enforcement, trash haulers, and affordable housing programs.

• Vote on FY26 Operating Budget: $261,701,228 (Salaries $62,257,501, Operations & Maintenance $198,578,727, Capital $865,000)
• Second reading: $3,172,287 from Overlay Surplus for Marginal Street building improvements and solar project
• Second reading: $200,000 from Free Cash for Forbes Site receivership expenses
• Second reading: Proposed ordinance amendment regulating lead pipes in residential housing (Section 30-46)
• Eminent domain takings for Island End River Flood Barrier at 145 Market Street and 359 Beacham Street

The Chelsea City Council accepted and filed multiple communications from City Manager Fidel Maltez, including updates on overnight parking enforcement, private trash hauler reminders, and a friendly eminent domain taking for the Island End River Flood Barrier. The council also moved to second reading an appointment to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board. No substantive votes on ordinances or contracts occurred; all items were procedural or informational.

• Accepted and filed response on painting 'Stop' markings at Central and Shawmut (no objections)
• Accepted and filed response on increased overnight parking enforcement (no objections)
• Accepted and filed response on reminders to private trash haulers (no objections)
• Moved to second reading appointment of Ben Cares to Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board (Jimenez-Rivera)
• Accepted and filed approval for Emergency Management to pay $2,259.75 in prior year expenses (no objections)
• Accepted and filed request for Free Cash funding for downtown and city-wide events (no objections)
• Accepted and filed update on eminent domain takings for Island End River Flood Barrier (no objections)
• Accepted and filed update on affordable housing and first-time home buyer program (no objections)

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Ways and Means subcommittee will discuss and vote on a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 25 covering DPW employees for FY26-28, approve $32,931.97 in unpaid prior-year vendor bills, support a Site Readiness Grant for the Forbes Site Redevelopment, and authorize a five-year contract with Dagle Electrical Corporation for Public Works Quite Zone construction.

• Collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 25 for DPW employees, July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028
• Authorization of $32,931.97 in unpaid FY24 vendor balances from FY25 budget
• Resolution supporting Site Readiness Grant for Forbes Site Redevelopment Program
• Five-year contract with Dagle Electrical Corporation for DPW Quite Zone construction

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed four items but took no votes or final decisions. Items included a proposed collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 25 for DPW workers (4% raise in FY26, 3.5% in FY27, 3% in FY28, plus a one-time $1,200 base wage increase, total cost ~$240,000), a $32,931.97 prior-year expense authorization for HCD to pay TND for workforce development, a resolution supporting a $150,000 Site Readiness Grant for the Forbes Site Redevelopment, and a five-year contract with Dagle Electrical Corporation for Quiet Zone construction. The meeting was informational only; no actions were taken.

• No votes or final decisions taken; all items were discussed only

City Manager Evaluation Committee Meeting

The Chelsea City Council’s City Manager Evaluation Committee will review survey submissions about the City Manager and plan the initial draft of an evaluation report. This is a procedural meeting with no decisions scheduled.

Sub - Committee on Conference (FY26 Budget)

The Chelsea Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget at a public meeting in City Council Chambers. City staff including the City Manager and Finance Director are invited to present budget details.

Sub - Committee on Conference (FY26 Budget)

The Chelsea Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget at a meeting in City Council Chambers. City Manager Fidel Maltez and finance officials are invited to present details.

Sub - Committee on Conference (FY26 Budget)

The Sub-Committee on Conference will review the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget at a meeting open to the public. City officials including the City Manager and department heads are invited to attend.

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will review four orders introduced by Councilor Taylor that authorize appropriations totaling $3,585,287. The funds would cover Forbes Site receivership costs, Marginal Street building improvements including a solar project, conference travel for the All American City Award, and new permitting software for Inspectional Services.

• $200,000 from Free Cash for Forbes Site Receivership Expenses
• $3,172,287 from Overlay Surplus for Marginal Street – Building Improvements including solar project
• $53,000 from Free Cash for All American City Award Conference Expenses
• $160,000 from Free Cash for ISD permitting and ticketing software

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed four appropriation orders: $200,000 from Free Cash for Forbes site receivership, $3,172,287 from Overlay Surplus for Marginal Street building improvements including a solar project, $53,000 from Free Cash for All-America City Award conference expenses, and $160,000 from Free Cash for ISD permitting software. No votes were taken; the meeting was a discussion-only session.

• Discussed $200,000 Free Cash appropriation for Forbes site receivership (no vote)
• Discussed $3,172,287 Overlay Surplus transfer for Marginal Street building improvements and solar project (no vote)
• Discussed $53,000 Free Cash appropriation for All-America City Award conference travel (no vote)
• Discussed $160,000 Free Cash appropriation for ISD permitting/ticketing software (no vote)

City Manager Evaluation Committee

The City Manager Evaluation Committee will meet to review survey submissions regarding the city manager's performance and to plan an initial draft of the evaluation report. This is a procedural step in the city manager's performance review process. No votes or final decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to discussion and planning.

• Review of City Manager Evaluation survey submissions
• Planning for initial report draft on the evaluation

The City Manager Evaluation Committee met to review submitted evaluation surveys from residents, community organizations, and department heads. Members discussed the first four evaluation areas: Budget and Finance, Economic Development, Neighborhood Enhancement, and Community Engagement and Leadership. The committee agreed to meet again on March 14 to review the remaining areas. No votes or final decisions were taken.

• Reviewed City Manager evaluation survey submissions from residents, community organizations, and department heads
• Discussed first half of evaluation areas: Budget and Finance, Economic Development, Neighborhood Enhancement, Community Engagement and Leadership
• Set next meeting date for March 14 to review remaining evaluation areas

Subcommittee on Conference with School Committee

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference with the School Committee will hold a joint meeting to review the annual budget for Chelsea Public Schools. The meeting is scheduled for May 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The City Manager, Superintendent, and all members of the School Committee and City Council are invited to attend.

• Review of the Annual School Department Budget

City Council

The City Council will consider several items from the City Manager, including a new union contract with Teamsters Local 25 for DPW employees, a five-year contract for Quiet Zone construction, and a proposal for digital residential parking permits. The Council will also hold a second reading on appointments to boards and commissions and vote on orders regarding prior-year expenses, a site readiness grant, and a proposed ordinance to regulate lead pipes in housing. A public hearing is scheduled for June 2 on the proposed taking of 145 Market Street and 359 Beacham Street for the Island End River Flood Barrier.

• Approval of union contract with Teamsters Local 25 (DPW) for July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028
• Five-year contract with Dagle Electrical Corporation for Quiet Zone construction
• Proposed ordinance amendment to regulate lead pipes in residential housing
• Authorization of $32,931.97 in prior-year expenses from FY24
• Public hearing set for June 2 on eminent domain taking of 145 Market Street and 359 Beacham Street

CANCELED Sub - Committee on Conference w/School Committee

This meeting is a joint conference between the City Council sub-committee and the School Committee to review the annual budget for Chelsea Public Schools. The agenda lists only this single item for discussion. The meeting is canceled.

• Review of the Annual School Department Budget

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will consider approving $4.6 million in new expenditures, including funds for the Forbes property receivership, Marginal Street improvements, and software licenses. They will also vote on discontinuing Merritt Road and amending off-street parking requirements in the zoning ordinance.

• $200,000 appropriation from Free Cash for Forbes Site Receivership Expenses
• $3,172,287 from Overlay Surplus for Marginal Street building improvements including solar project
• $53,000 from Free Cash for All-American City Award Conference Expenses
• $160,000 from Free Cash for ISD permitting and ticketing software
• Discontinuation of Merritt Road between Webster Avenue and Stockton Street

The City Council accepted and filed the City Manager's proposed $261.7 million FY26 budget, referring it to conference for further review. The budget includes $110.8 million for city expenditures and $150.9 million for schools, with new public safety and public works positions. The Council also accepted and filed a communication on parking fine review and a request for $200,000 in additional receivership funds for the Forbes property, but no final votes on funding were taken at this meeting.

• Accepted and filed FY26 City Manager budget ($261.7M total), referred to conference
• Accepted and filed communication on parking fine review, no action taken
• Accepted and filed free cash balance update, no action taken
• Accepted and filed request for $200K additional receivership funds for Forbes property, no action taken
• Accepted and filed request to appropriate $3.17M from overlay reserve fund, no action taken
• Adopted Earth Day resolution under suspension
• Accepted and filed minutes of April 7, 2025 meeting
• Suspended rules to allow State Senator to address Council on proposed soccer stadium

City Manager Evaluation Committee

The Chelsea City Council’s City Manager Evaluation Committee will meet to establish the framework and next steps for evaluating the City Manager in 2025. The committee will also discuss future meeting dates.

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss three budget transfers: $32,776 from Assessing to HHS Health Department salaries, $990,692 from unexpended capital funds to the Downtown Broadway Water & Sewer Utilities project, and $3,791 to pay prior-year vendor balances. No votes are scheduled; the meeting is a discussion only.

• $990,692 transfer from unexpended FY2012-2019 capital funds to FY2024 Downtown Broadway Water & Sewer Utilities project
• $32,776 transfer from Assessing Regular Salary to HHS Health Department Regular Salary
• $3,791 in prior-year unpaid vendor balances to be authorized from FY25 budget

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means discussed and forwarded three financial orders to the full City Council. The largest action was a $990,692.24 transfer of unspent prior-year capital funds to the Downtown Broadway Water & Sewer Utilities project. The committee also approved a $32,776 salary transfer from Assessing to Health and Human Services and a $3,791.11 payment for prior-year vendor expenses.

• Forwarded $990,692.24 transfer from prior CIP projects to Downtown Broadway Water & Sewer Utilities (ID#25F16)
• Forwarded $32,776 transfer from Assessing salary account to HHS Health Department salary account (ID#25F14)
• Forwarded $3,791.11 payment for prior-year expenses including Police, DPW, and City of Revere (ID#25F15)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The City Council's Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss proposed Fiscal Year 2026 rates for sewer, water, and trash services. City Manager Fidel Maltez and DPW Commissioner Cate Fox-Lent have been invited to attend.

• Proposed FY26 Sewer, Water and Trash Rates

The Sub-Committee on Conference met to discuss proposed FY26 sewer, trash, and water rates. The City is proposing a 3.5% increase in water rates across all tiers, with sewer rate increases of 0% to 1% depending on tier, and a 10% increase in trash rates. No votes were taken; the matter was discussed only.

• Proposed FY26 water rate increase of 3.5% across all tiers (discussed only)
• Proposed FY26 sewer rate increases: 0% tier 1, 0.5% tier 2, 1% tier 3 (discussed only)
• Proposed FY26 trash rate increase of 10% (discussed only)

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

The City Council's Sub-Committee on Elder Services, Veterans’ Affairs and Community Advancement will meet to discuss the city's program for Memorial Day. Officials from Veterans' Services and Health and Human Services have been invited.

• Discussion of the City's program for Memorial Day
• Invited officials: Francisco Toro (Veterans' Services), Tracy Nowicki (Health and Human Services)

City Council

The City Council will consider several communications from the City Manager, including updates on development projects and a request to transfer nearly $1 million from old capital improvement accounts to the Downtown Broadway water and sewer project. Other items include approving prior-year expenses, a review of parking penalties, and a request for an update on the proposed soccer stadium at Encore.

• Transfer of $990,692.24 from stagnant CIP accounts to Downtown Broadway Water & Sewer project
• Authorization of $3,791.11 in prior-year unpaid expenses
• Update on Forbes Development, Market Basket Development, Commuter Rail Quiet Zone, and Broadway Housing Projects
• Request for update on proposed soccer stadium at Encore
• Review of traffic and parking penalty structure, focusing on overnight parking without a residential sticker

Sub - Committee on Conference

The City Council's Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss a proposed Home Rule Petition that would limit property tax increases for senior citizen homeowners. The meeting is open to the public and will include the City Manager, City Solicitor, Chief Assessor, and all Council members.

• Proposed Home Rule Petition to limit property tax increases for senior citizen homeowners (ID# 2548)

The Sub-Committee on Conference discussed a proposed Home Rule Petition to limit property tax increases for senior citizen homeowners to 1% annually. The Chief Assessor noted that Chelsea's tax rates are already lower than neighboring communities and that the tax reduction would shift costs to younger taxpayers, while also raising concerns about administrative burden and privacy issues in determining eligibility. Members expressed concerns and preferred to work within existing tax relief programs rather than pursue the petition. No vote was taken.

• Discussed proposed Home Rule Petition ID# 2548 to limit senior property tax increases to 1% annually
• No vote or formal action taken on the petition

Sub - Committee on Public Health

The Sub-Committee on Public Health will discuss a proposed Lead Service Line Replacement Ordinance. City officials and the public are invited to attend.

• Discussion of a proposed Lead Service Line Replacement Ordinance

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Public Health met to discuss a proposed Lead Service Line Replacement Ordinance. City staff reported that the city currently replaces 30-80 lead service lines per year, with about 3,000 unknown lines remaining. The committee recommended increased community outreach but took no formal action, leaving an ordinance as a future option if needed.

• No formal decisions or votes were taken
• Discussed current lead service line replacement policy and progress
• Recommended additional community outreach for verification/replacement program
• Ordinance remains an option if property owner compliance becomes necessary

Sub - Committee on Labor and Workforce Development

The Sub-Committee on Labor and Workforce Development will discuss a proposal to allow unionization of City Council office employees. The meeting is open to the public and includes the City Solicitor and all Council members.

• Proposal ID#24144 to allow unionization of City Council office employees

The Sub-Committee on Labor and Workforce Development discussed a proposal to allow unionization of City Council office employees (ID# 24144). The City Solicitor noted that council staff already have the right to unionize under state law, and the committee decided to continue the meeting at a later date to review the city's exempt employee policy, employee handbook, and Legislative Code with council staff. No vote was taken; the committee will recommend a draft City Council Staff Handbook to the full Council for final approval.

• Continued discussion of unionization proposal (ID# 24144) to a later meeting
• Agreed to include council staff in reviewing exempt employee policy, employee handbook, and Legislative Code
• Will recommend a draft City Council Staff Handbook to full Council for revision and final approval

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will meet to discuss and vote on several financial and capital projects, including transfers of unspent funds totaling over $11.2 million, approval of a $300,000 budget reallocation for City Hall renovations, and endorsements for grants and small business support. The meeting also includes updates on major developments like the Forbes project and Market Basket, as well as public hearings on the FY26–FY30 Capital Improvement Plan.

• Public hearing on FY26–FY30 Capital Improvement Plan
• Vote on $7.5M transfer from Free Cash to General Stabilization Account and $2.5M to School Capital Stabilization Account
• Approval of $300,000 reallocation from City Hall Attic Expansion to Public Buildings Renovations
• Allocation of $100,000 each to Chelsea Chamber of Commerce for small business support and storefront improvement program
• Endorsement of $333,333.25 flood resilience project with $333,333.25 city cost share from Free Cash

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will discuss six orders, including transferring $1,092,947.60 from completed capital projects to a new School Buildings Renovation project for Chelsea Opportunity Academy, increasing the School Department budget by $317,032 due to final Cherry Sheet calculations, and appropriating $100,000 from Free Cash for small business support related to the Reimagining Broadway project. Other items include $100,000 for a storefront improvement program, endorsing a flood resilience project with a $333,333.25 city cost share, and accepting donated sports equipment with a $151.46 shipping fee.

• Transfer $1,092,947.60 from unexpended capital funds to a new Fiscal Year 2025 School Buildings Renovation project for Chelsea Opportunity Academy at 26 County Road
• Increase School Department appropriation by $317,032 to $140,624,848 based on final Cherry Sheet calculations
• Appropriate $100,000 from Free Cash to support small businesses impacted by the Reimagining Broadway project
• Appropriate $100,000 from Free Cash for a storefront improvement program
• Endorse flood resilience project and appropriate $333,333.25 from Free Cash for city's cost share

The sub-committee discussed six financial orders, including a $1,092,947.60 transfer from prior capital projects to renovate Chelsea Opportunity Academy, a $317,032 increase to the school budget due to higher state aid, two $100,000 allocations from Free Cash for small business support and storefront improvements, a $333,333.25 match for a FEMA flood resilience grant, and acceptance of donated sports equipment. No votes were recorded; the items were only discussed and will proceed to the full City Council.

• Discussed $1,092,947.60 transfer from old capital projects to Chelsea Opportunity Academy renovation
• Discussed $317,032 increase to FY2025 school budget from Cherry Sheet adjustments
• Discussed $100,000 from Free Cash to Chamber of Commerce for Broadway construction impact
• Discussed $100,000 from Free Cash for storefront improvement program
• Discussed $333,333.25 from Free Cash as local match for FEMA flood resilience grant
• Discussed acceptance of donated basketballs and soccer balls with $151.46 shipping cost

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will consider multiple financial orders, including $10 million in free cash appropriations for stabilization accounts, a $300,000 fund transfer for City Hall attic expansion design, and a $741,376 transfer for Downtown Broadway Streetscape improvements. The council will also vote on a $100,000 grant for small businesses impacted by the Reimagining Broadway project, a $100,000 storefront improvement program, and a $333,333 cost share for a flood resilience project. Additionally, the council will discuss a property tax waiver for Broadway businesses due to construction, a home rule petition to limit property tax increases for elderly homeowners, and an intermunicipal agreement with Everett and Melrose for tree trenches.

• $7.5M from free cash to General Stabilization, $2.5M to School Capital Stabilization
• $741,376 transfer for Downtown Broadway Streetscape and Roadway Improvements
• $100,000 grant to Chelsea Chamber of Commerce for small businesses impacted by Reimagining Broadway
• $333,333 city cost share for Mill Creek Resilience Project flood resilience
• Order to waive property taxes for Broadway businesses from Fifth to Second Street due to construction

Public Hearing

The Chelsea Department of Housing and Community Development will hold a public hearing to gather input on its proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for Fiscal Year 2025. Residents can comment on past and proposed uses of CDBG funds, including infrastructure improvements on Cottage Street and renovations at Voke Park’s Tot Lot and Chelsea Housing Authority buildings.

• FY2025 CDBG application submission to Massachusetts Department of Housing and Livable Communities
• Public input on remaining FY22/23 CDBG funds for Cottage Street infrastructure
• Proposed FY2025 projects: Tot Lot renovation at Voke Park and Chelsea Housing Authority building improvements
• FY2024 CDBG award for Bloomingdale Street infrastructure and public social services
• Comment period open until March 28, 2025 via email or written submission

Special Committee to Hire an Independent Attorney

The Special Committee to Hire an Independent Attorney will discuss the scope, timeline, and process for selecting an outside lawyer. No votes or decisions are expected at this initial organizational meeting.

• Establish meeting structure and guidelines for the committee
• Discuss timeframe for the contract process
• Define desired uses for an independent attorney
• Plan next steps and future meeting dates

The Special Committee to Hire an Independent Attorney met to discuss the process for hiring an outside attorney. Members decided to create a Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining qualifications and duties, with a draft to be developed jointly with the City Solicitor. The attorney will be a contracted position, not a city employee. No final decisions were made; the RFP and rules for attorney use will be reviewed in future meetings before full City Council approval.

• Decided to create and post a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an independent attorney
• Determined attorney will be a contracted position, not a direct city employee
• City Solicitor suggested contracting on a retainer basis with municipal law experience
• Draft RFP to be jointly developed by Committee and City Solicitor
• Rules for attorney consultation and vote procedure to be presented to Rules and Administration Committee

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. City Manager, Deputy City Manager for Finance, and other officials are invited to attend. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.

• Discussion of the Capital Improvement Plan FY26–FY30

The sub-committee discussed the proposed FY26–FY30 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) totaling $19,840,000, with funding from Free Cash (40.5%), General Obligation Bonds (22.6%), Retained Earnings (10.4%), and other sources. The plan covers Parks and Open Space ($6.45M), Public Buildings ($5.09M), Utility Enhancement ($3.725M), Surface Enhancement ($1.95M), Equipment Acquisition ($1.49M), and Public Safety ($1.135M). No votes were taken; the meeting was a discussion-only session.

• Discussed proposed FY26–FY30 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $19,840,000
• No votes or formal actions taken; meeting was informational only

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Chelsea Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will decide on several financial actions, including grants for community preservation projects, transfers to fund union contracts, and free cash appropriations totaling $10 million. The meeting will also discuss deferring $300,000 from an unstarted City Hall expansion project and reallocating $741,376.39 for downtown Broadway streetscape improvements.

• Award $7.5M in Community Preservation grants per FY2025 plan
• Transfer $7.5M from Salary Reserve to fund union collective bargaining agreements
• Appropriate $10M in Free Cash: $7.5M to General Stabilization, $2.5M to School Capital Stabilization
• Defer $300K from unstarted City Hall Attic Expansion to FY2025 Public Buildings Renovations
• Reallocate $741,376.39 for Downtown Broadway Streetscape and Roadway Improvements

The Ways and Means subcommittee discussed six financial orders, including $10M in Free Cash transfers to stabilization accounts, $300,000 for a City Hall generator replacement, and $741,376 for downtown streetscape improvements. No votes were taken; the items will go to the full City Council for action.

• Discussed $72,620 Community Preservation grant for Sunflower Garden (no vote)
• Discussed $593,000 in salary reserve transfers for union contracts (no vote)
• Discussed $10M Free Cash transfers to stabilization accounts (no vote)
• Discussed $300,000 transfer from attic design to public building renovations (no vote)
• Discussed $741,376 transfer to Downtown Broadway Streetscape project (no vote)
• Discussed $617,000 in various Free Cash appropriations (no vote)

City Council

The City Council will consider transferring $1,092,947.60 from old capital projects to renovate the Chelsea Opportunity Academy, approve a $317,032 school budget increase, and authorize an inter-municipal agreement for a regional 911 dispatch center with Revere and Winthrop. Other items include a proposed ordinance for property management companies, discontinuation of Merritt Road, and multiple orders addressing Broadway construction impacts on businesses and parking.

• Transfer of $1,092,947.60 from unexpended CIP funds to a new School Buildings Renovation project at Chelsea Opportunity Academy, 26 County Road
• Approval of Inter-Municipal Agreement for Regionalized 911 Center with Revere and Winthrop
• School Department budget increase of $317,032 to $140,624,848 for FY2025
• Proposed ordinance regulating property management companies
• Discontinuation of Merritt Road (paper street)

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council’s Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss a proposal to regionalize E911 operations, potentially sharing emergency dispatch services with neighboring communities. City Manager Fidel Maltez, Emergency Management Director Steve Staffier, and City Solicitor Cheryl Watson Fisher are invited to present details.

• Proposed regionalization of E911 operations

The Sub-Committee on Conference heard a presentation on proposed regionalization of E911 operations with the Metro North Regional Dispatch Center. City Manager Fidel Maltez and state officials outlined a 40-year intermunicipal agreement, with state grants covering initial costs and future costs based on population and call volume. No vote was taken; the matter was discussed only.

• No decisions made; item was discussed only

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to discuss the number of real estate abatements received by the city. Officials including the City Manager, Deputy City Manager for Finance, Chief Assessor, and City Solicitor have been invited. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion of the number of real estate abatements received by the City of Chelsea

The Sub-Committee on Conference meeting was canceled because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made or discussed.

City Council

The City Council will consider several financial orders, including $10 million in free cash appropriations to stabilization accounts and a $741,376 transfer for Downtown Broadway Streetscape improvements. The council will also vote on naming the park at 88 Clinton Street "Jamie M. Hernandez Park" and receive updates on opioid funds, bollard installation, and a five-year financial forecast.

• $7.5M from Free Cash to General Stabilization Account and $2.5M to School Capital Stabilization Account
• $741,376 transfer for Downtown Broadway Streetscape and Roadway Improvements
• $300,000 fund transfer from FY23 City Hall Attic Expansion to FY25 Public Buildings Renovations
• Naming of park at 88 Clinton Street as "Jamie M. Hernandez Park"
• Re-appointment to the Planning Board and other board appointments

The City Council voted 8-0 to name the new park at 88 Clinton Street as 'Jaime M. Hernandez Park.' The park, acquired with Community Preservation funds, is designed for climate resilience and community gathering. The Council also received updates on opioid fund allocations, bollard installation, parking garage feasibility, and a Planning Board reappointment.

• Approved naming 88 Clinton Street park as 'Jaime M. Hernandez Park' (8-0)
• Received City Manager's update on $2M opioid abatement grant program
• Received City Manager's response on installing bollards at Central Ave & Shawmut St after snow season
• Received City Manager's update on municipal parking garage feasibility and $5M earmarked
• Received City Manager's recommendation to reappoint William (Tuck) Willis to Planning Board

Sub - Committee on Conference

The City Council's Sub-Committee on Conference will meet to receive an update from the Council's delegate on the ongoing court case involving Northeast Metro Tech, as well as a new road proposal and enrollment numbers. The meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall.

The Sub-Committee on Conference met but lacked a quorum, so no decisions were made. The only agenda item was an update on the Northeast Metro Tech court case, road proposal, and enrollment, but no discussion or action occurred.

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will hold a special meeting to swear in and promote members of the Chelsea Fire Department. The ceremony is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Swearing-In and Promotion Ceremony for Chelsea Fire Department

The Chelsea City Council held a special meeting solely for a swearing-in and promotion ceremony for the Chelsea Fire Department. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural only.

• Approved call of the special meeting without objection
• Conducted swearing-in and promotion ceremony for Deputy Chief Richard Carroccino, Captain Daniel DeJordy, Lieutenant Sean Byron, and Firefighters Ivan Soto-Heyer, Ryan Motta, and Kevin Rosado

City Council

The Chelsea City Council will convene to receive communications from the City Manager on topics including the FY26–FY30 Capital Improvement Plan, emergency 911 regionalization, and a feasibility study for a new community center. The meeting will also include committee reports, approval of prior-year expenditures totaling $1,522.62, and new business such as a $500,000 youth jobs allocation and updates on opioid funds and Broadway construction.

• $1,522.62 in prior-year expenditures authorized for payment
• $15,000 grant from Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc. accepted
• $500,000 requested for year-round youth jobs
• Phase 2 of Broadway construction project discussed
• Status of opioid funds and entrepreneur’s program updates requested

The Chelsea City Council adopted a resolution recognizing February 2025 as Black History Month and accepted several communications from the City Manager, including updates on the Pennrose development, traffic intersection analysis, and a feasibility study for a new community center. No substantive decisions were made beyond accepting reports and moving an appointment to second reading.

• Adopted resolution recognizing Black History Month (unanimous)
• Accepted and filed minutes of Jan 6 special and regular meetings
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on Pennrose development
• Accepted and filed City Manager's response on Marginal/Williams Street intersection
• Moved appointment of Michael Trethewey to Economic Development Board to second reading
• Accepted and filed City Manager's communication on community center feasibility study, referred to conference
• Accepted and filed City Manager's overview of E911 regionalization

Sub - Committee on Ways and Means

The Sub-Committee on Ways and Means will decide on three spending actions: payment of $1,522.62 in unpaid vendor bills from prior fiscal years, acceptance of a $15,000 grant from Mystic Valley Elder Services, and approval of FY2025 Community Preservation project grants.

• Authorize $1,522.62 in unpaid FY22 and FY24 vendor costs
• Accept $15,000 grant from Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc.
• Approve FY2025 Community Preservation project grants per MGL Chapter 44B

Sub - Committee on Conference

The Chelsea City Council's Sub-Committee on Conference will discuss the proposed regionalization of E911 operations. City officials and union representatives have been invited to attend.

• Discussion of proposed regionalization of E911 operations
• City Manager Fidel Maltez invited
• Director of Emergency Management Steve Staffier invited
• City Solicitor Cheryl Watson Fisher invited
• New England Police Benevolent Association Local 192 invited

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to Section 34-300 of the Zoning Ordinances to allow enclosed seafood processing, packing, loading, and distribution in the Industrial District by Special Permit. The Council will also consider a Home Rule Petition to cap property tax increases for homeowners aged 65 and older, and receive updates on pedestrian safety at Broadway, Shurtleff, and Marlborough streets, as well as Community Preservation Committee grant recommendations.

• Public hearing on zoning amendment to allow enclosed seafood processing in Industrial District
• Home Rule Petition to limit property tax increases for homeowners aged 65+
• Order to investigate pedestrian safety improvements at Broadway, Shurtleff, and Marlborough streets
• Community Preservation Committee report on FY2025 grant funding recommendations
• Council order to forgive parking tickets for councilors on city business

The Chelsea City Council approved two appointments to boards and commissions by a 10-0-1 roll call vote, and accepted and filed multiple communications from the City Manager, including updates on Market Basket redevelopment, Pennrose development at the Veterans Home, and pedestrian safety at Broadway/Shurtleff/Marlborough. A resolution recognizing Martin Luther King Jr. Day was adopted. A public hearing on a zoning amendment for seafood processing in the Industrial Zone was opened and closed with no speakers. No substantive decisions were made beyond the appointments and procedural acceptances.

• Approved appointments of Ramonita Rosado to Council of Elder Affairs and Richard Pantano to Economic Development Board (10-0-1, Garcia absent)
• Adopted resolution recognizing January 20, 2025 as Martin Luther King Jr. Day (suspension, Brown)
• Accepted and filed City Manager communications on Market Basket, Pennrose, pedestrian safety, and State of the City address
• Accepted and filed Community Preservation Committee grant recommendations
• Accepted and filed committee report from Sub-Committee on Conference
• Public hearing on zoning amendment for seafood processing in Industrial Zone opened and closed with no speakers

City Council

The Chelsea City Council holds a special meeting to elect its 2025 president, vice president, and delegate to the School Committee, and to approve seating assignments, roll call order, and rules for the year.

• Election of Council President, Vice President, and School Committee Delegate for 2025
• Approval of 2025 seating assignments, roll call order, and rules and regulations

The Chelsea City Council held a special meeting to elect officers for 2025. Councilor Norieliz DeJesus was elected President (9-0-2), Councilor Todd Taylor was elected Vice President (8-0-2-1), and Councilor Kelly Garcia was elected Delegate to the School Committee (8-0-2-1). The council also approved continuing the 2024 rules and regulations, roll call order, and seating arrangement for 2025 until a subcommittee meets.

• Elected Norieliz DeJesus as City Council President for 2025 (9-0-2)
• Elected Todd Taylor as Vice President for 2025 (8-0-2-1)
• Elected Kelly Garcia as Delegate to the School Committee for 2025 (8-0-2-1)
• Approved continuing 2024 Rules and Regulations for 2025 until subcommittee meets (without objection)
• Approved 2025 Roll Call Order as drawn on Dec 16, 2024 (without objection)
• Approved 2025 Seating Arrangement as drawn on Dec 16, 2024 (without objection)

2025 Schedule

The City Council President has set 20 regular meeting dates for 2025, all at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 500 Broadway. No agenda items or decisions are listed.

• 20 regular meetings scheduled for 2025
• All meetings at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers, Chelsea City Hall, 500 Broadway