Taunton public meetings in 2023

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority will meet to review the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan and the status of the Harvey Street property. The body will also discuss MassDevelopment loan and grant programs and the North Eastern Capstone Program.

• Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan
• Harvey Street Property status
• MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs
• North Eastern Capstone Program

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several requests for variances and special permits. These include proposals for accessory dwelling units, lot re-divisions, and commercial signage and fuel storage.

• Case #3756: Special permit and variance to re-divide 2 lots into 3 and allow 5 residential units at 4 Wilmarth St & 559 Cohannet St
• Case #3759: Special permit for Dauphinais Concrete Inc. at 120R Berkley St. to install two above-ground fuel storage tanks
• Case #3760: Variance for G&J Realty LLC & Blue Sky Donuts, Inc. to allow 104.6 sq. ft. of facade signage at 2089-2102 Bay St.
• Case #3761: Variance and special permit for 308-312 Middleboro Ave. regarding lot size, setbacks, and a single family dwelling in an Industrial District
• Case #3750: Variance for a 1,203 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 93 Craven Ct.

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners is meeting via Zoom to discuss 2024 license renewals. The session focuses on alcoholic beverage licenses for two specific entities.

• License renewal for Kitchen Partners Two, LLC d/b/a Union Straw On-Premise §12 All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license
• License renewal for Grilla, LLC §12 All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider a $12 million appropriation to replace a substation for the Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant on County Street. The body will also hold a hearing for a marijuana retail permit and vote on parking and traffic ordinances.

• Proposed $12,000,000 appropriation for Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Project 1218 on County Street
• Special Permit hearing for an 1,800 sq. ft. marijuana retailer at 446 Winthrop Street
• Ordinance to designate a stop sign on Fremont Street at the intersection of Tremont Street
• Ordinance to prohibit parking on both sides of Turner Street from 13 to 126 Turner Street
• Reappointment of Lisa Bond as First Assistant City Solicitor through December 31, 2025

City Council

The Committee on Police and License will meet to review several applications for the renewal of Class II Used Car Dealer Licenses. The committee will also discuss current tow contracts with the Police Chief and City Solicitor.

• Renewal of Class II Used Car Dealer Licenses for 10 businesses, including T.N.T. Auto Sales and Amaro Family Auto Sales
• Transfer of ownership petitions for T.N.T. Auto Sales, R & F Motors, and Taunton Auto and Truck Sales and Service
• Renewal of Hours of Operations License for Joe's Diner, Inc. at 51 Broadway
• Discussion on current Tow Contracts with the Police Chief and City Solicitor

License Commission

The Commission will review a restaurant license transfer for The Drinkery at 381 Winthrop Street and address complaints regarding T.J.’s Diner at 4 Alger Ave. The meeting also includes requests for hour changes at Talisa’s on Main and John F. Parker Municipal Golf Course, alongside 2024 license renewals.

• License transfer: The Drinkery Co. LLC from Frank’s Good Times, Inc. (381 Winthrop Street)
• Complaint review: T.J.’s Diner at 4 Alger Ave regarding noise and police incident reports
• Hour change request: Talisa’s on Main, LLC (65 Main Street)
• Hour change request: John F. Parker Municipal Golf Course
• 2024 License Renewals for alcohol, victualler, amusement, and entertainment licenses

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission will meet to discuss the ratification of three labor contracts and the 2024 Performance Review Budget for exempt management. The body will also review communications regarding employee benefits, mileage reimbursement, and staff retirements.

• Ratification of contract for Local 462C (Nov 1, 2023 – Oct 31, 2026)
• Ratification of contract for Local 462 (Jan 1, 2024 – Dec 31, 2026)
• Ratification of contract for Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Profession Employees Association (Jan 1, 2024 – Dec 31, 2026)
• 2024 Performance Review Budget for Exempt Management
• Proposed mileage reimbursement rate effective January 1, 2024

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review financial and circulation reports from November FY23. The meeting includes discussions on holiday hours, events, and building maintenance.

• November FY23 Financial Report
• November FY23 Circulation Report
• Holiday hours
• Holiday programs and events
• Building Maintenance

City Council

The City Council will review petitions for new joint utility pole locations on Hodges Street and Williams Street. The agenda also includes ordinances to designate a new stop sign at Fremont Street and prohibit parking on parts of Turner Street.

• Petition for one new joint pole location 34A on Hodges Street
• Petition for one new joint pole and anchor installation on Williams Street
• Ordinance to designate a stop sign at the intersection of Fremont and Tremont Streets
• Ordinance prohibiting parking on both sides of Turner Street from 13 to 126 Turner Street
• Establishment of a Municipal Building or Property Rental Fund Revolving Fund

City Council

Three committee meetings are scheduled for December 19, 2023, to review municipal business. Discussions include a potential $375,000 property purchase near the Public Safety Complex and an update on the Marketable Properties Program.

• Potential transfer of up to $375,000 from real estate sales for property abutting the Public Safety Complex
• Discussion regarding the area of Whittenton Street and Washington Street
• Update on the Marketable Properties Program
• Airport status update
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll

City Council

The Police and License Committee will meet to interview a police candidate.

• Interview a police candidate

Election Commission

The Election Commission will meet to welcome a new member and discuss the recap of the November election. The body will also consider the use of a board member signature stamp.

• Welcome of new commission member Melissa Langham
• Review and action on board member signature stamp
• November election recap, including Election Director report and feedback
• Approval of September 26, 2023 minutes
• Citizen input from Estelle Borges

Youth Commission

The commission is reviewing a youth survey regarding general gaps and features desired in a potential youth center. Members are also discussing potential collaborations with Project 351 and planning for an upcoming holiday ornament swap.

• Update on youth survey regarding potential youth center needs
• Potential collaboration with Project 351
• Discussion of Key Club fundraiser for preschools in Zambia
• Planning for a holiday meeting and ornament swap
• Mentorship planning for the new treasurer role

Golf Commission

The commission is reviewing updates on a pump company and waiting for a recommendation from the Building Department. Members will also discuss requesting assistance from Bristol County Flood Control regarding course wetlands.

• Update on pump company status and options
• Requesting assistance from Bristol County Flood Control for course wetlands
• Investigation of public recreation grants for the clubhouse
• Status update on reappointments

Department of Human Services / Council on Aging

The Department of Human Services Board is meeting to review the Director's report and program updates. Discussions include the Taunton Opioid Task Force and updates regarding ARPA and grant funding.

• Approval of October 11, 2023 minutes
• Updates on Elder Outreach, SHINE, and Community EMS
• Taunton Opioid Task Force report from Co-Chair Lori Gonsalves
• City, ARPA, and grant funding updates
• Personnel and relocation/renovation/repair updates

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The commission will review monthly reports from the cemetery, maintenance, and recreation supervisors. The meeting includes updates on several capital improvement projects. The body will also address special event requests.

• Walker Park capital improvement update
• Memorial Park capital improvement update
• Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion update
• Davol Park Renovations update
• Special event requests

Board of Health

The Board will review monthly reports from health agents, inspectors, and staff. Discussion includes updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill and the Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative. The Board also intends to appoint a new Chairman for 2024.

• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates
• Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative updates
• Appointment of 2024 Board of Health Chairman
• Site assignment modification for New England Waste Disposal, Inc. at 101 Prince Henry Drive

City Council

The City Council is reviewing an order to appropriate $12,000,000 for the Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant's Project 1218. The project involves replacing a substation with a new location on County Street. The council will also consider ordinances regarding special police officer wages and parking restrictions on Howard Street.

• $12,000,000 appropriation for Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Project 1218
• Ordinance establishing pay rates for Special Police Officers
• Ordinance to prohibit parking on the south side of Howard Street
• Proposed $375,000 property transfer for Public Safety Complex adjacency
• Class II License renewals for B&J Auto Sales, R & F Motors, and Taunton Auto and Truck Sales

City Council

The Committee on Police and License will review numerous Class II, III, and IV used car dealer license renewals. The Finance and Salaries Committee will review city payroll, vouchers, and financial policies, while the Council as a Whole will pre-review a petition for a marijuana retailer at 446 Winthrop Street.

• Renewal of Class II Used Car Dealer Licenses for multiple businesses including A T.N.T. Auto Sales, LLC
• Renewal of Class III Used Car Dealer Licenses for Arthur's Auto Junkyard and others
• Pre-review of petition for an 1,800 sq. ft. Marijuana Retailer at 446 Winthrop Street
• Discussion on current Tow Contracts with the Police Chief and City Solicitor
• Executive session regarding potential property acquisition or litigation

Cultural Council

The Council will nominate and elect officers and discuss the distribution of Treasurer duties. Members will also review minutes from the November 13 public input meeting and follow up on conflict of interest training.

• Election of Cultural Council officers
• Vote on FY24 grants
• Conflict of interest training follow-up for five members

Youth Commission

The Taunton Youth Commission will review officer and committee roles followed by nominations and elections. The commission is also discussing the Operation Christmas event scheduled for December 16, 2023.

• Nominations and election of officers and committee roles
• Operation Christmas event on December 16, 2023, at 1 Taunton Green
• Youth Summit at Center In Main
• Procurement of folders and T-shirts for new members

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on a zoning amendment for marijuana establishments and a special permit for an accessory dwelling unit. The board will also review site plan modifications for developments on Washington Street and Galleria Mall Drive.

• Proposed zoning amendment to allow Marijuana Establishments in the Highway Business District by Special Permit
• Special Permit request for a 1,150 sq. ft. Accessory Dwelling Unit at 136 Alanita Dr.
• Site Plan Review modification at 90 Washington Street to reduce residential units from 34 to 27 and parking from 78 to 68 spaces
• Site Plan Review modification for 994,480 s. f. of industrial/warehouse space at Galleria Mall Drive
• Roadway Improvement Plan for Maynard, Little & Hunter St. regarding the posting of monies for 7 foundations

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider a roll call vote on the FY2024 Supplemental Budget totaling $284,563,392.47 in new expenditures. The agenda also includes several ordinances regarding tow-away zones, boating regulations, and parking restrictions.

• FY2024 Supplemental Budget resolution for $284,563,392.47
• Special Permit hearing for a 28-unit multi-family development at 10-18 Porter Street
• Ordinance to establish tow-away zones on Bay Street
• Ordinance to limit watercraft speed to 25 mph on city lakes
• Reappointment of Andrew J. Marshall as Director of Parks, Cemeteries and Public Grounds

City Council

Three committees are scheduled to meet on December 5, 2023. The Finance and Salaries Committee will discuss a $12,000,000 bonding request for the TMLP and a new rental fund. The Solid Waste Committee will review trash contracts, fees, and composting initiatives.

• $12,000,000 bonding request for the TMLP
• Establishment of a Municipal Building or Property Rental Fund
• Review of Republic Contract and trash fee increases
• Composting RFP for yard and food waste
• Discussion on Aries project and small cell coverage

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a 135 SFH lot subdivision and roadway improvements. The body will also consider a new duplex construction project and review several certificates of compliance to close orders of conditions.

• Winthrop Street: Proposed infiltration basin for 135 SFH lot subdivision
• Krijo Lane: Construction of two drainage basins and grading for roadway improvements
• 1225 Somerset Ave: Construction of a duplex with decks, porches, and parking
• 39 Cortland Place: Construction of a 12’ x 16’ shed on pavers
• Certificates of Compliance for 156 Alfred Lord Blvd, 83 County Street, and 25 Shore Drive

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss the city's tax classification hearing and overlay account. The agenda also includes reviews of permits, sales, and exemptions.

• Tax Classification Hearing
• Overlay Account Discussion
• Exemptions review
• Permits and Sales review

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority will meet to review the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan and the status of the Harvey Street property. The body will also discuss MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs.

• Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan
• Harvey Street Property status
• MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will meet to review current ADA issues and the city's transition plan. The body will also discuss ADA information regarding Leisurewoods and the complaint process.

• Updates on latest ADA issues in the city
• ADA information regarding Leisurewoods
• Transition Plan outstanding items
• Review of complaint process, forms, and common ADA regulations

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will review financial and engineering reports and discuss lease updates for the restaurant and offices. The body will also consider a request from Dr. Young to build a hangar.

• Discussion regarding a fuel truck
• Request from Dr. Young to build a hangar
• Updates on restaurant and office lease rates
• Discussion on environmental needs

City Council

The City Council will decide whether to revoke a tow service contract and consider zoning changes for a multi-family development. Other items include kennel licensing, joint pole placement, and license renewals.

• Continued hearing on the possible revocation of the Tow Service Contract with Scott Souza
• Special Permit for a 28-unit multifamily development at 10-18 Porter Street
• Petition for issuance of a personal kennel license at 15 Rockland Street
• Joint pole placement proposal by Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant and Verizon on Bay Street
• Renewals of various automotive business licenses

City Council

Three committees are scheduled to meet at City Hall to discuss various municipal matters. Topics include police department funding transfers, a land purchase request, and gasoline leaks.

• Police Department request to transfer $59.81 to pay a prior year bill
• Land purchase request from the owner of 120 Sao Paolo Avenue
• Discussion on recent gasoline leaks at area gas stations
• Proposal for the Clerk of Committees to become a certified parliamentarian

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board is meeting to review two site plan modifications. These include changes to a mixed-use residential project and a proposal for industrial warehouse space.

• Site Plan Review modification for 90 Washington Street to reduce residential units from 34 to 27 and parking from 78 to 68 spaces
• Site Plan Review modification for Galleria Mall Drive for 994,480 sf of industrial/warehouse space

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider ordinances regarding wages for special police officers and new parking prohibitions on Howard Street. The meeting also includes presentations on the FY24 supplemental budget and several personal kennel license petitions.

• Ordinance for first reading: establishing pay rates for retired employees serving as special police officers
• Ordinance for first reading: prohibiting parking on the south side of Howard Street for its entire length
• Presentation of the FY24 Supplemental Budget, including a $284,563,392.47 total final city budget
• Public hearings for personal kennel licenses at 25 Silverwood Drive, 15 Rockland Street, and 72 Whitehill Street
• Reappointment of Eleanor Brennan to the Department of Human Services/Council on Aging Board

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will meet to review weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. The Committee on Police and License will meet to discuss hiring an additional officer.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll
• Discussion regarding hiring an additional police officer
• Approval of November 14, 2023 minutes for Finance and Salaries
• Approval of November 6, 2023 minutes for Police and License

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission will meet to review several major project requests and administrative warrants. The body will discuss broadband equipment, a fiber grant, and a water main replacement. An executive session is scheduled to discuss contract negotiations and competitive advantage.

• Major Project Request: ISG Broadband Equipment — Revision #1
• Major Project Request: Berkley Municipal Fiber Grant
• Major Project Request: Water Main Replacement 12 Mechanics Lane
• Local 1729 Memorandum of Agreement
• Request for Confirmatory Grant of Easement by the City of Taunton

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance requests regarding lot sizes, setbacks, and accessory dwelling units. The board will also hold an executive session with the Law Department concerning a court appeal for 210 Weir St.

• Case #3739: Request to divide one lot into two at 920 Somerset Ave
• Case #3750: Request for a 1,203 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 93 Craven Ct.
• Case #3751: Request for a 1,150 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 136 Alanita Dr.
• Case #3752: Request for 85% lot coverage and landscaping buffer reductions at 295 Broadway
• Case #3753: Request to eliminate south side and rear yard landscaping buffers at 295R Broadway

Board of Health

The Board of Health is holding a special meeting to consider the appointment of a new Executive Director. The board will vote on the appointment of Danielle Edmands.

• Vote on appointing Danielle Edmands as Executive Director

Golf Commission

The commission will receive updates on ATM replacement and pump status. Members will also meet with the Building Superintendent regarding clubhouse upgrades or replacement and discuss a potential five-year contract extension.

• Update on ATM machine replacement from CFO Patrick Dello Russo
• Discussion of clubhouse upgrades or possible replacement with Chris Carmichael
• Discussion of five-year contract extension with Procurement Officer Andrew Sukeforth
• Status report from Operator Ed Keyes

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review October financial and circulation reports. The meeting includes discussions on holiday hours, the Lighting of the Green events, and building maintenance.

• October FY23 Financial Report
• October FY23 Circulation Report
• Holiday hours
• Lighting of the green events
• Building Maintenance

City Council

The Municipal Council is reviewing ordinances to expand tow-away zones on Bay Street and establish a 25 mph speed limit for watercraft on city lakes. The agenda also includes a public hearing for a marijuana retailer at 446 Winthrop Street and the acceptance of Winthrop Lane as a public way.

• Ordinance to add tow-away zone regulations on West and East Bay Street
• Ordinance to set a 25 mph speed limit for watercraft on city lakes
• Special Permit petition for an 1,800 sq. ft. marijuana retailer at 446 Winthrop Street
• Public hearing for the acceptance of Winthrop Lane as a public way
• Joint petitions for new utility pole locations on Hodges Street and Williams Street

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The commission will discuss special event requests and review monthly reports from cemetery, maintenance, and recreation supervisors. The meeting includes updates on several capital improvement projects.

• Walker Park capital improvement update
• Memorial Park capital improvement update
• Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion update
• Davol Park Renovations update

Board of Health

The Board of Health will receive monthly reports from health agents, inspectors, and the epidemiologist. Members will discuss updates regarding the Taunton Sanitary Landfill and the Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative.

• New England Waste Disposal minor site modification at 101 Prince Henry Drive
• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates involving Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, and Opal Fuels
• Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative updates

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board is meeting to review a site plan modification for a mixed-use development at 90 Washington Street. The proposal seeks to reduce the number of residential units and parking spaces.

• Site plan modification for 90 Washington Street to reduce residential units from 34 to 27
• Reduction of parking spaces from 78 to 68 at 90 Washington Street
• Proposal submitted by Ramesh Izedian

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board is meeting to consider a Site Plan Review modification. The proposal involves 994,480 square feet of industrial/warehouse space in the Business District.

• Site Plan Review modification for property at Galleria Mall Drive (prop. LD. 126-5, 118-41, 118-39, 118-8)
• Proposal for 994,480 sf of industrial/warehouse space submitted by Portman Holdings

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will discuss the reconsideration of a poetry grant application and the status of reimbursements for FY22 and FY23. Members will also vote to reaffirm FY23 grant decisions for the official record.

• Reconsideration of Application # FY23-LLC-44763 Poetry Arts — John Holgerson
• Review of FY22 and FY23 reimbursement status
• Vote to reaffirm FY23 grant decisions
• Scheduling of future meeting to vote on FY24 grants

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding two new residential construction projects. The body will also consider certificates of compliance and a request for a shed construction.

• Public hearing: Single family dwelling at 191 Run Brook Circle
• Public hearing: Duplex construction at Lot 4 off Williams Street
• Public meeting: 12’ x 16’ shed on pavers at 39 Cortland Place
• Certificate of Compliance: 39 Cortland Place
• Certificate of Compliance: 156 Alfred Lord Blvd.

Cable Advisory Commission

The Cable Advisory Commission is reviewing a contract proposal from Verizon based on guaranteed capital monies. The commission intends to schedule an in-person meeting to complete the franchise renewal by December.

• Verizon cable franchise renewal contract proposal
• Status update on S.2200 An Act Relative to Digital Entertainment On Public Rights Of Way
• Status update on Bill H.3152 An Act To Modernize Participation in Public Meeting
• Appointment of Peter Ferr to the commission

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will meet to consider several applications regarding business licenses. The board will review requests for license transfers, manager changes, and alterations to operating hours and premises.

• Kitchen Partners Two, LLC (Union Straw, 16-18 Trescott St.) application for license transfer
• Polish American Citizen’s Club (314 Bay Street) change of manager
• Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc. (123 Dolan Circle) change in hours
• 700 Taunton, LLC (Holiday Inn, 700 Myles Standish Blvd) name change, manager change, and premises alteration
• The National, LLC (9 Taunton Green) change in hours

City Council

The City Council will hold a hearing to discuss potentially revoking Tony's Auto Wrecking's tow service contract due to multiple violations.

• Hearing to revoke Tow Service Contract with Scott Souza, Tony's Auto Wrecking at 303 Broadway

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. The Committee on Police and License will discuss hours of operation renewals and tow truck street cleaning procedures.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Hours of Operation renewal: Speedway LLC at 943 County Street
• Hours of Operation renewal: Red Shift Donuts, Inc. at 5 Washington Street
• Discussion on tow truck companies cleaning street areas after accidents

Youth Commission

The Taunton Youth Commission is meeting to appoint new members and discuss a 'Preparation Program' for college and post-grad readiness. The body is also considering participation in a youth summit at The Center on Main.

• Appointment of new members: Kayla Glynn, Genoveva Martins-Furtado, Mikayla Mbugua, Lyla Mcentire, and Luke Piscatelli
• Discussion of 'Preparation Program' including SAT/GED prep, trade school info, and resume workshops
• Proposal for college tours of six schools, including URI, PC, and J&W
• Invitation to participate in a youth summit at The Center on Main
• Expenditures of $107.53 for displays at Taunton High and Bristol-Plymouth school beautification days

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct site plan reviews for two new developments. The board will also review approved Form A plans for three local properties.

• Site plan review for a 17,250 sq. ft. machine shop at 36 Allison Ave.
• Site plan review for a 2,100 sq. ft. retail marijuana establishment at 284R Winthrop St.
• Approved Form A plans for Taunton Fish & Game at 175 Round St.
• Approved Form A plans for Aspen Prop. at 25 Johnson St.
• Approved Form A plans for Country village Condo at 600 County St.

City Council

The Committee on Police and License is scheduled to meet on November 2, 2023. The meeting purpose is to conduct interviews for police candidates.

• Interviews of police candidates

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider the appointment of Melissa Langham to the Elections Commission. The meeting also includes reviews of requests to pay prior year invoices for natural gas and fire department expenses.

• Appointment of Melissa Langham to the Elections Commission
• Request to pay $159.69 to Eversource for prior year natural gas invoices
• Request to pay $2,500.00 for prior fiscal year fire department medical and educational expenses
• Renewal of hours of operation license for Dunkin Donuts at 5 Washington St.
• Referral to DPW and Board of Health regarding dust at 120 Berkley Street

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills will review proposed ordinances for Lake Sabbatia, special police officer compensation, and wayfinding signage.

• Review of administration’s proposed ordinances for Lake Sabbatia
• Discussion of ordinance change regarding compensation for special police officers
• Discussion of ordinance for wayfinding signage
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review requests for variances and special permits regarding residential property use. The board is deciding on additions to existing homes and the legality of multi-unit housing on specific lots.

• Case #3740: Request to add 4 condo units at 176 Highland St.
• Case #3367-Mod: Modification of 'No Cut Zone' conditions for Burt St., Map 61, Lot 11
• Case #3748: Request for a living unit above a garage at 102 Longwood Ave. in an Industrial District
• Case #3749: Special permit for a 26’ x 40’ addition at 73 Orchard St.

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review and approve the minutes from September 27, 2023, and to discuss the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan, the status of the Harvey Street property, and MassDevelopment loan/grant programs. The meeting also includes other business and setting the next meeting date.

• Review and approve minutes of September 27, 2023
• Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan discussion
• Harvey Street Property status update
• MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs discussion

City Council

The City Council will vote on an order to create a separate interest-bearing account for opioid settlement proceeds. The agenda also includes several mayoral appointments to the Youth Commission and the Cultural Council.

• Order to establish an Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund
• Petition to amend zoning to allow marijuana establishments in the Highway Business District
• Reappointment of Lisette Miranda to the Taunton Cultural Council
• Appointments of five new members to the Taunton Youth Commission
• Review of parking restrictions on Florence Street

City Council

Three committees are scheduled to meet on October 24, 2023. The Committee of the Council as a Whole will discuss a successor Collective Bargaining Agreement with Public Employees Local Union 1144B (Clerical). Other meetings include reviews of city vouchers and an update on the Marketable Properties Program.

• Discussion of Memorandum of Agreement with Public Employees Local Union 1144B (Clerical)
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Update on the Marketable Properties Program
• Approval of committee minutes from previous sessions

Conservation Commission

The Taunton Conservation Commission is reviewing several site development applications, including a public safety complex on County Street and a duplex on Williams Street. The body will also vote on closing out conditions for two previous projects and granting a three-year extension for a roadway project on Logan Drive. Additionally, the commission will continue hearings for a subdivision in Dighton and drainage improvements on Krijo Lane.

• Public hearing for a public safety complex (Police and Fire) at 90 County Street
• Review of a duplex construction application at off Williams Street Lot 3
• Continued public hearing for a 135 single-family home lot subdivision on Winthrop Street
• Request for a 3-year extension for the Logan Drive Roadway project
• Approval of Certificates of Compliance for 25 Logan Drive and 488 Crane Ave. South

License Commission

The Taunton Board of License Commissioners will meet to consider several license requests, including extended closing hours for Bobby's Place on Thanksgiving Eve and New Year's Eve, a special permit for Berkley Beer, and a new all-alcoholic-beverages license for Grilla, LLC. The board will also review changes of name, manager, and premises for Rapid Refill and Holiday Inn, and a change in hours for The National. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes and old/new business.

• Bobby's Place Inc. requests 2:00 a.m. closing on Nov 22 and Dec 31
• Berkley Beer Company special permit for Oct 28 at 5 Westcoat Drive
• MPG Corp d/b/a Rapid Refill: name/manager/premises changes
• Grilla, LLC applies for Section 12 all-alcoholic-beverages license
• 700 Taunton LLC d/b/a Holiday Inn: name/manager/premises changes

City Council

The Municipal Council will review a proposed ordinance regarding wages for special police officers and a request from the Police Chief to terminate a towing agreement. The Chief has suspended Tony's Auto Wrecking due to alleged contract violations, including failure to maintain required equipment and unpaid fees.

• Proposed ordinance establishing pay rates for retired employees serving as special police officers
• Request for a hearing to revoke the Tow Service Contract with Tony's Auto Wrecking
• Update on the Marketable Properties Program presented by the Director of Procurement
• Safety Officer report confirming replacement of no parking signs on Bay Street
• Councilor Postell request for a review of parking issues on Forest Street near Weir Street

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will review city payroll, vouchers, and a new Opioid Settlement Stabilization account. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills will discuss several traffic-related requests, while the Council as a Whole will discuss amending a Host Community Agreement for Medicine Man Solutions, LLC.

• Request to establish a new Opioid Settlement Stabilization account
• Proposed no parking on Howard Street near the TMLP building
• Draft ordinance for a yield sign on Highland Street
• Request for 'blind driveway' sign on Highland Street
• Amending Host Community Agreement for Medicine Man Solutions, LLC at 446 Winthrop Street

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes and warrants, discuss authorization and award of sealed bids, and consider a major project request for fuel unloading secondary containment repairs. The agenda also includes a semi-annual financial presentation and several thank-you communications. No major policy decisions are listed beyond routine approvals and project discussions.

• Major Project Request – Fuel Unloading Secondary Containment Repairs
• Semi-Annual Financial Presentation
• Authorization to Advertise for Sealed Bids and/or Proposals
• Award of Sealed Bids and/or Proposals
• Executive Session on Competitive Advantage and Contract Negotiations

Golf Commission

The Commission will discuss the process for replacing a pump and an ATM machine. Members will also receive a financial update from the CFO regarding requirements for the John F. Parker Golf Course contract.

• Tree removal and tee box updates
• Pump replacement discussion
• ATM machine replacement discussion
• CFO report on John F. Parker Golf Course contract financial requirements

City Council

Taunton City Council will discuss appointments, renewals, and rezoning requests. The council also plans to establish funds for community programs and address public concerns.

• Special Permit for a 28-unit multifamily development at 10-18 Porter Street
• Appointments to the Taunton Cultural Council and other city commissions
• Establishment of Helping Hand Program Fund and Special Revenue/Gift Account

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers, payroll, and a financial reporting achievement submission. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills will discuss requiring offices on Class II licensed properties and lake access ordinances.

• Proposed ordinance change for office requirements on Class II licensed properties
• Discussion on ordinances related to access to Lake Sabbatia
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discussion regarding a certificate of achievement for financial reporting excellence

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit for a common driveway on Burt Street and a site plan review for a mixed-use building with 36 residential units and 1,938 sq. ft. of commercial space at 74 Weir St. The board will also approve minutes, set 2024 meeting dates, and note approved Form A plans.

• Public hearing: Special permit for common driveway to access 3 lots on Burt Street (Map 61, Lot 11)
• Site plan review: 74 Weir St. – addition to existing one-story building for mixed-use with 36 residential units and 1,938 sq. ft. commercial
• Approved Form A plan: Richard Mellon, 1765 Bay St., 2 lots, approved 9-7-23
• 2024 Planning Board meeting dates to be set

City Council

Three committees will meet on October 3, 2023, to review city finances and public works. Discussions include a proposed sewer extension at 112 Shores Street and a new host community agreement for a marijuana delivery operator.

• Public hearing for an 8-inch sewer line extension on Shores Street
• Discussion of a Host Community Agreement for Bando Alternative Group Delivery, LLC at 30 Sherwood Drive
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discussion regarding a request to accept a donation to the Taunton Public Library
• Discussion of the Helping Hand Program model

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Taunton Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting on September 28, 2023, to consider eight requests for variances and special permits. These include proposals for a condo addition, a drive-thru restaurant, a change to light industrial use, and several lot size and setback variances. The board will also discuss waiver/reduction of filing fees and the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Case #3740: Variance and special permit for 4 additional condo units at 176 Highland St. (33,662 sq ft lot, 80 ft frontage)
• Case #3742: Variance for take-out restaurant with drive-thru at 210 Weir St.
• Case #3743: Special permit to change non-conforming use to light industrial at 210 School St.
• Case #3746: Variance to allow horse within 155 ft of adjacent residence at 455 Norton Ave.
• Discussion on waiver/reduction of filing fees

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is holding a public meeting to review and approve the minutes from August 23, 2023, and to discuss several items including the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan, the status of the Harvey Street property, MassDevelopment loan/grant programs, and a Northeastern study. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at 3 PM at Correira Insurance Inc., 123 Broadway, Taunton, MA.

• Review and approve minutes of August 23, 2023
• Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan discussion
• Harvey Street Property status update
• MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs discussion
• Northeastern study discussion

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine reports from the engineer, secretary, treasurer, and management, as well as old business items such as a ribbon cutting/open house, gate and pressure pad updates, key and swipe card access, hiring a new manager, and a leasing/restaurant update. New business includes sub-committees, followed by public input.

• Gate/Pressure Pad Update
• List of Individuals with Keys / Swipe Cards
• Hiring New Manager
• Leasing / Restaurant Update
• Ribbon cutting / Open House

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider several appointments to the ADA Commission and Historic District Commission. The agenda also includes votes to accept state laws regarding a city scholarship fund and an elderly/disabled taxation fund.

• Reappointment of Nancilee Lemaire, Diane Huggon, and Donna DiCorpo to the ADA Commission
• Appointment of Alan Medeiros to the Historic District Commission
• Vote to accept MGL Chapter 60, Section 3C for a City Scholarship or Education Fund
• Vote to accept MGL Chapter 60, Section 3D for an elderly and disabled taxation fund
• Public hearing for a new Grade 1 Personal Kennel License at 25 Silverwood Drive

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will meet to review city payroll, vouchers, and requests regarding the Helping Hand Program Fund. The Council as a Whole will discuss marijuana business licensing procedures and resolutions for manufactured housing bills.

• Request to establish a gift account for the Taunton Police Department comfort dog
• Request to transfer funds from the Social Spending Stabilization Account to the Helping Hand Program Fund
• Proposal to allocate up to $250,000 from redeemed tax liens to the Helping Hand Fund
• Discussion of resolutions endorsing House Bill 1327 and Senate Bill S875 regarding manufactured housing
• Discussion of marijuana-related business licensing procedures

Election Commission

The Taunton Election Commission is meeting to review and act on the appointment of new 2023 election workers, discuss its meeting schedule, and receive an update on early voting dates and times. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from August 29, 2023, and a period for community input.

• Appointment of new 2023 election workers
• Review of Election Commission meeting schedule and time
• Update on early voting dates and times
• Approval of minutes from August 29, 2023

License Commission

The Taunton License Commission is meeting to consider several license-related matters, including a waiver request from St. Anthony Church, a change of officers for a non-profit club, and multiple applications from businesses for license changes or special permits. The board will also receive updates on several establishments. The agenda includes standard items like minutes approval and old/new business.

• St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street – Request for Waiver of Detail Requirements for Special Permits
• Segregansett Country Club, 85 Gulliver Street – Non-Profit Club Change of Officers/Directors
• MPG Corporation d/b/a Rapid Refill, 231 Broadway – Change of Corporate Name/DBA, Change of Manager, Alteration of Premises
• Tapped Beer Truck, 120 Jackson Street, Canton, MA – Special Permit application for September 23, 2023 at 225 John Hancock Road, Taunton
• Updates on Liberty & Union Alehouse, The National, LLC, Holiday Inn, and Bar 88

Library Trustees

The Taunton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve the June FY23 minutes, financial report, and circulation report. They will also discuss new business including personnel, programming, the Veterans Day schedule, and a donation from Yelle, as well as old business on building maintenance. The meeting is open to the public.

• Approval of June FY23 minutes, financial report, and circulation report
• Discussion of Veterans Day schedule
• Discussion of Yelle donation
• Building maintenance update

City Council

Four city committees are scheduled to meet on September 19, 2023. Discussions include a $120,600 budget transfer for public building payroll, several license renewals, and proposed traffic ordinance changes.

• $120,600 budget transfer from HVAC services to miscellaneous employee payroll
• Renewals for 24-hour operating licenses at 60 Weir Street, 89 Winthrop Street, 173 Broadway, 11 Tremont Street, 175 Broadway, and 231 Broadway
• Marijuana cultivation and retailer license renewal for Commonwealth Alternative Care at 30 Mozzone Boulevard
• Proposed parking ordinance changes for Broadway, Laurel Street, and West Britannia Street
• Solar lease agreement recommendation for land at Taunton Landfill on East Britannia Street

Conservation Commission

The Taunton Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on five Notices of Intent, including a proposed four-story addition with 36 residential units at 74 Weir Street and a storage facility at 280 Winthrop Street. It will also continue hearings on a subdivision at Winthrop Street and a roadway project on Krijo Lane, and discuss a violation at 155 Field Street. The meeting begins with an executive session on pending litigation.

• 74 Weir Street: four-story addition to one-story commercial building for mixed-use with 36 residential units and first-level commercial space
• 280 Winthrop Street: construction of an 18,200 sq ft storage facility
• Winthrop Street (Assessor's 103-28): infiltration basin for a 135-lot subdivision in Dighton
• Krijo Lane: two drainage basins and grading for roadway improvement
• 35 Davis Street: septic system repair with grading and bulkhead upgrade

License Commission

The Taunton Board of License Commissioners is meeting to consider a special permit application from the Downtown Taunton Foundation for an event on September 16, 2023, at 8 Trescott Street, with an inclement weather backup location at 49 Main Street. The agenda contains only this single application item.

• Special permit application by Downtown Taunton Foundation for September 16, 2023
• Primary event location: 8 Trescott Street, Taunton
• Inclement weather location: 49 Main Street, Taunton

Golf Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Taunton Golf Commission meeting on September 14, 2023. The agenda lists standard items: new business, old business, the operator's report, public input, and adjournment, with no specific decisions or discussions detailed.

• Operator Ed Keyes Report

Youth Commission

The Taunton Youth Commission is meeting to approve minutes, appoint Emelia Leavitt, and discuss ways to increase youth engagement in Taunton, including a review of summer events. The agenda is mostly routine, with no reports from the chair, officers, or committees.

• Appointment of Emelia Leavitt
• Approval of meeting minutes from June 8, 2023
• Discussion of community engagement ideas for Taunton youth
• Update on summer events list
• Review of by-laws and committee roles

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss changing the Acting Airport Manager position to an Airport Coordinator position. The commission will also enter executive session to discuss personnel rates. The meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in the Silver City Conference Room at City Hall.

• Discussion of changing Acting Airport Manager position to Airport Coordinator position
• Executive session to discuss personnel rate

City Council

Three committees are scheduled to meet on September 12, 2023. The Finance and Salaries Committee will review payroll and discuss veteran assistance donations, while the Ordinances and Enrolled Bills Committee will discuss several plumbing and physical examination ordinance changes.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll
• Discussion on voluntary donations to municipal veterans assistance fund
• Discussion on stipends for boards, committees, and commissions
• Approval of candidate for Sealer of Weights and Measures
• Proposed ordinance changes regarding grease interceptors and gas/oil separators

The Finance and Salaries Committee approved a payroll warrant for $1,690,144.86 and an accounts‑payable warrant for $8,646,422.83. The committee also voted to recommend adopting M.G.L. Ch. 60 §3F, allowing a voluntary donation to the municipal veterans assistance fund on property‑tax and motor‑vehicle excise bills. The DPW Committee approved Craig Barter as the city’s Sealer of Weights and Measures. The Ordinances Committee removed the proposal to require the plumbing inspector at all DIRB meetings.

• Approved payroll warrant $1,690,144.86 (Finance Committee)
• Approved accounts‑payable warrant $8,646,422.83 (Finance Committee)
• Recommended adoption of M.G.L. Ch. 60 §3F veterans donation option (Finance Committee)
• Approved Craig Barter as Sealer of Weights and Measures (DPW Committee)
• Made DPW Commissioner’s letter part of the record (DPW Committee)
• Invited DPW staff to the meeting (DPW Committee)
• Removed plumbing inspector agenda item from discussion (Ordinances Committee)
• Excused parties and adjourned both committees

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission will meet to discuss the reappointment of the Commissioner for a three-year term, review special event requests, and receive regular reports on cemeteries, maintenance, and recreation. They will also get updates on capital improvements at several parks and consider old business including a special event permit and a request to allow alcohol at Liberty & Union Park.

• Reappointment of Parks Commissioner for three-year term
• Special event requests: Taunton Diversity Network vigil (10/18/23), Friends of Boyden program (10/14/23), Christ Community Church Trunk or Treat (10/29/23)
• Capital improvement updates: Walker Park, Memorial Park, Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion, Davol Park Renovations
• Old business: Special event permit for Taunton Green, alcohol request at Liberty & Union Park

City Council

The City Council will review a special permit for a 2,100 sq. ft. retail marijuana dispensary at 284R Winthrop Street. The agenda also includes a proposal to relocate a joint utility pole on Broadway and several appointments to the Golf Course Commission.

• Special Permit for a 2,100 sq. ft. retail marijuana dispensary at 284R Winthrop Street
• Relocation of one joint pole location on Broadway (Route 138)
• Personal Kennel License petition for 120 Christine Lane
• Reappointment of Judith Chambers to the Golf Course Commission
• Reappointment of Warren Offley to the Golf Course Commission

The council reviewed the proposed solar lease agreement for the Taunton Land Fill. Councilors debated whether the matter had been properly referred to the Committee on Public Property. A motion to refer the lease to that committee was made, but no vote outcome was recorded. The council took no final action on the lease.

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the appointment of John-Paul Thomas to the Airport Commission. This appointment is intended to fulfill the unexpired term of Craig Foley, which ends in August 2025.

• Appointment of John-Paul Thomas to the Airport Commission

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review permits, sales, and interim certification. The agenda also includes discussions regarding ATB tax return subpoenas and pending hearings.

• ATB tax return subpoenas
• ATB pending hearings
• Ashleigh Terrace abatements
• Tax Abatement Applications (Executive Session)

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will convene to approve minutes, continue a public hearing for a special permit for a common driveway on Burt Street, and continue a hearing for a special permit/site plan review for an auto repair shop with sales at 515 Middleboro Ave. New business includes a public hearing for an accessory dwelling unit at 36 Stevens St. and closing out the Whispering Pines subdivision. The agenda also lists approved Form A plans and informational notices from surrounding towns.

• Continued public hearing: Special Permit/Site Plan Review for 515 Middleboro Ave. — 3,320 sq. ft. auto repair shop with auto sales (58 vehicles), updated parking layout, and drainage system in Business District
• Continued public hearing: Special Permit for common driveway to access 3 lots on Burt Street (Map 61, Lot 11)
• Public hearing: Special Permit for 830 sq. ft. Accessory Dwelling Unit at 36 Stevens St. in Suburban Residential District
• Whispering Pines Subdivision close-out and finding subdivision complete
• Approved Form A plans: ALE Realty Trust (36 Mulvaney St., 2 lots) and Dale Hebert (975 Glebe St., 3 lots), approved 8-21-23

The Planning Board approved a special permit for an accessory dwelling unit at 36 Stevens St. and a special permit/site plan review for an auto repair shop and sales business at 515 Middleboro Ave. A hearing for a common driveway on Burt Street was continued to October 5, 2023.

• Approved Special Permit for 830 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 36 Stevens St. (6-0)
• Approved Special Permit/Site Plan Review for auto repair shop and sales at 515 Middleboro Ave. (6-0)
• Granted continuance to October 5, 2023, for common driveway special permit on Burt Street (6-0)
• Approved Aug. 3, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and warrants, discuss communications including a donation request for the Taunton Green lighting and a letter of appreciation, and enter executive session for competitive advantage and contract negotiations.

• Minutes of August 14, 2023
• Regular Warrants of August 17, 24, and 31, 2023
• Request from City of Taunton for donation for 110' Lighting of the Taunton Green
• Second Annual Peter Corr Day communication
• Executive session on competitive advantage and contract negotiations

City Council

The City Council will vote on a solar lease agreement for the Taunton Sanitary Landfill. The meeting also includes a proposal to establish a gift account for the Taunton Triad agency.

• Vote and presentation on Solar Lease Agreement at Taunton Landfill
• Order to establish a Taunton Triad agency gift account for various safety and support programs
• Appointment of Virginia Johnson to the Taunton Cultural Council
• Request to adopt M.G.L. CH.60 § 3F for voluntary donations to veterans assistance
• Renewal of hours of operation licenses for several local businesses

The City Council heard a presentation regarding a proposed 25-year solar lease agreement at the Taunton Landfill intended to reduce the tax burden by $9.8 million. A motion to table the vote on the agreement failed in a 4-4 tie vote. The provided minutes end before a final decision on the lease was recorded.

• Approved record of preceding meeting
• Motion to table the solar lease vote failed (4-4)

City Council

The City Council will receive a communication from the Human Services Director regarding the TRIAD program. Additionally, Councilor Borges has requested a meeting with Kevin Scanlon concerning ordinance §440-706 regarding signs.

• Communication from Human Services Director regarding the TRIAD program
• Request by Councilor Borges to meet regarding sign ordinance §440-706

City Council

Various city committees will meet to review departmental invoices, parking issues, and property requests. A continued hearing is scheduled regarding a proposed sewer pipe extension on Marvel Street.

• Continued hearing for a sewer extension on Marvel Street involving 121 feet of new pipe
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll by the Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Discussion of parking issues near fire hydrants at 17 Whitehill Street
• Request to amend an August 1, 2023 vote regarding Map 92 Lot 279 near 103 East Water Street
• Discussion regarding declaring 21 Weir Street as surplus property

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $6.5 million. The Committee on the DPW approved a sewer extension on Marvel Street and a road opening at 6 Wilson Ave. Other actions included declaring a property near East Water Street as surplus and ordering inspections of tow truck equipment.

• Approved payroll warrant of $4,018,492.60
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,568,349.30
• Referred Golf Commission cash register invoice to administration for validity investigation
• Approved transfers for Fire Department prior year invoices
• Ordered tow truck equipment inspections and creation of a complaint log
• Declared Map 92 Lot 279 near 103 East Water Street as surplus
• Approved sewer extension project on Marvel Street
• Approved road opening at 4-6 Wilson Ave with conditions

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission approved the minutes from the July 26, 2023 meeting. Members discussed ongoing ADA accessibility issues at Andy’s Market, Goldstein’s, and Flannery Playground. The commission is monitoring the construction of a new playground for the Tiger Tots program at Taunton High.

• Approved July 26, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The Municipal Council will review an ordinance to install stop signs at the intersection of Burt Street and Winthrop Street. The agenda also includes several mayoral appointments to various boards and a request for a new $100 parking fine near Bunk Pond.

• Ordinance for third reading to designate stop intersections on Burt Street
• Request from Conservation Commission for a $100 parking fine near Bunk Pond
• Fire Department request to pay $10,762.36 in FY23 year-end invoices
• Public hearing for a personal Grade 1 kennel license at 120 Christine Lane
• Appointment of several members to the Department of Human Services/Council on Aging Board

The Council passed an ordinance designating stop intersections at Burt Street and Winthrop Street. Several appointments to the Citizens for Citizens Board and Council on Aging Board of Directors were approved. The Council also referred various matters regarding public works, waste contracts, and airport needs to specific committees.

• Approved ordinance for stop signs at Burt Street and Winthrop Street (9-0)
• Approved reappointment of Mary Ann Riva to Citizens for Citizens Board
• Approved appointment of Roy Lederman to Council on Aging Board of Directors
• Approved appointment of Eleanor Brennan to Council on Aging Board of Directors
• Approved appointment of Mary Lou Gurney to Council on Aging Board of Directors
• Approved appointment of Andrew Dawley to Council on Aging Board of Directors
• Continued kennel license hearing for Mary Barchard to September 12, 2023
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,373,853.65 and accounts payable warrant of $4,381,537.09

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved the creation of a separate interest-bearing gift account for the Taunton TRIAD program to be housed in the Council on Aging. The committee also approved payroll and accounts payable warrants and reviewed the city's five-year financial forecast. A proposed sewer extension on Marvel Street was continued to September 5, 2023.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,373,853.65
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $4,381,537.09
• Approved establishment of Taunton Triad agency gift account per M G.L. c. 44 §53A
• Continued Marvel Street sewer extension hearing to September 5, 2023

Election Commission

The Taunton Election Commission is meeting to discuss and act on several election-related items, including a resignation, commission reorganization, in-person early voting, police details for elections, and communication from the City Clerk. They will also receive an update on the permanent ballot box installation and hear community input.

• Resignation letter of Daniel Mansour Barbour
• Re-organize the Commission
• In Person Early Voting
• Police Details for Elections
• Final update on Permanent Ballot Box outside City Hall

The Commission reorganized its leadership and recommended a three-day early voting schedule for October 30 to November 1, 2023. The board also recommended that the Municipal Council approve a police detail for early voting at City Hall.

• Appointed Frank Biedak as Chairman (Unanimous)
• Appointed Jason Roomes as Secretary (Unanimous)
• Recommended City Council approve early voting for Oct 30, Oct 31, and Nov 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Recommended Municipal Council approve police detail for early voting at City Hall (Unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Dan Barbour (Unanimous)
• Approved June 27, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Taunton Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting to consider several variance requests, including a major warehouse development, a residential subdivision, and multiple housing projects. The board will also enter executive session to discuss a lawsuit and consider waiving filing fees.

• Variance for 4 warehouse buildings (1,082,780 sq ft) up to 55 ft tall at 2 & 8 Galleria Mall Drive
• Variance to divide lot at 920 Somerset Ave into two undersized lots (continuance requested)
• Variance and special permit for 4 condo units at 176 Highland St.
• Variance for 10-18 Porter Street to reduce setbacks and buffers
• Executive session on Subzero Property LLC vs. ZBA (Docket No. 2373CV00319)

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance for a development at 1141 County St., allowing a cash contribution in lieu of building affordable units. The board also approved specific building height reductions and landscaping requirements. A separate variance request for warehouse heights at the former Silver City Galleria Mall site was heard but not decided in the provided text.

• Approved variance for 1141 County St. requiring $1.6M contribution to Affordable Housing Trust in lieu of 28 affordable units
• Required reduction of building #2 north side to 3 stories and relocation of 14 units
• Required provision of a playground area for younger children
• Required planting of 24 trees (minimum 25 feet tall) on the northern side of Building #2
• Approved July 27, 2023 minutes

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review minutes, discuss the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan, and get a status update on the Harvey Street property. They will also talk about MassDevelopment loan and grant programs and future planning studies. The meeting is scheduled for August 23, 2023, at 4 PM at Correira Insurance Inc., 123 Broadway, Taunton.

• Review and approve minutes of July 26, 2023
• Discussion of Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan
• Harvey Street Property status update
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs
• Future planning studies

The Authority reviewed the status of the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan and several pending planning studies. No formal votes were recorded for the items discussed.

• Tabled July 26, 2023 minutes
• Delayed TRA and City Council public hearings for Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan
• Proposed transfer of $39,000 to OECD for MEPA Study
• Placed Harvey Street perc tests on hold until September

Airport Commission

The commission held a discussion-only meeting because a quorum was not present. No formal decisions were made, and items including the minutes, secretary's report, and treasurer's report were tabled.

• No votes taken due to lack of quorum
• Tabled approval of minutes
• Tabled secretary's report
• Tabled treasurer's report
• Tabled lease discussion until next meeting

City Council

The Municipal Council will review an ordinance to designate new stop intersections on Burt Street. The agenda also includes communications regarding a new gift account for the TRIAD program and a request to appoint Scott Rodrigues to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Ordinance to add stop signs at the intersection of Burt Street and Winthrop Street
• Appointment of Scott Rodrigues as Second Alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Establishment of a gift account for the Taunton TRIAD program using transferred funds
• Request for an update on procurement activities from the Director of Procurement
• Joint petition by TMLP and Verizon New England, Inc. to relocate pole EL58 on Broadway

The City Council appointed Scott Rodrigues to a vacant second alternate position on the Zoning Board. The council also referred several financial and procurement updates to the Committee on Finance and Salaries and scheduled a public hearing for an earth removal permit.

• Appointed Scott Rodrigues to the Zoning Board second alternate position (So Voted)
• Referred procurement activities update to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Referred establishment of a $5,800 gift account for Taunton TRIAD Program to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Referred annual Five-Year Forecast to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Referred earth removal permit application for 678 Somerset Avenue to City Clerk for public hearing (So Voted)
• Referred candidate Craig Barter for Sealer of Weights and Measures to Committee on the Department of Public Works (So Voted)
• Referred odor mitigation concerns to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills (So Voted)
• Referred joint pole relocation petition for Broadway to City Clerk for public hearing (So Voted)

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will review weekly vouchers, payroll, and a $25,000 advertising fund request. The Police and License Committee will consider several new and renewal licenses for retail, food, and marijuana-related businesses.

• $25,000 additional funds request for the Procurement Department advertising line
• New Second Hand Article Licenses for PRF (46 % Davis Street) and SS&K (404 Winthrop Street)
• New Temporary Fixed Vendor Licenses for Cook In A Box and Kinfolks Award Winning Barbeque, LLC
• Renewal of 24/7 hours of operation licenses for CVS Pharmacy and Creative Fitness Solutions
• Discussion of marijuana delivery, cultivation, and retail hour amendments

The Finance and Salaries Committee approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $3.6 million. The Police and License Committee approved several new and renewal business licenses, while the Council as a Whole granted a one-year HCA extension to Tower Three, LLC.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,809,371.56
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,793,283.86
• Approved $25,000 transfer from Reserve Account to Procurement Advertising
• Tabled discussion on Weir Water District economic and cultural benefit
• Approved new licenses for PRF (Second Hand Article), SS&K (Second Hand Article), Cook In A Box (Temporary Fixed Vendor), and Kinfolks Award Winning Barbeque, LLC (Temporary Fixed Vendor)
• Approved 24/7 hours of operation renewals for CVS Pharmacy and Creative Fitness Solutions, Inc.
• Renewed license for Amaro's Family Auto Sales until December 31
• Approved one-year HCA extension for Tower Three, LLC

Conservation Commission

The Taunton Conservation Commission will review five certificates of compliance to close out orders of conditions, hold a public meeting on a driveway project, and conduct public hearings on three notices of intent for construction projects. The commission will also discuss a continued violation at 155 Field Street and other business including Bunk Pond.

• Certificates of compliance for 0 Burt Street, 6 W. Summer Street, and 135/145/155 Leona's Lane
• Public meeting: 255 Harvey Street driveway and grading for a single-family home
• Public hearing: 225 West Britannia Street duplex construction (one of two buildings)
• Public hearing: 104 Dean Street underground detention basin and parking lot work
• Public hearing: Krijo Lane roadway drainage basins and grading

The Commission approved an Order of Conditions for two duplexes on West Britannia Street and a parking lot reconfiguration on Dean Street. The board also voted to request that City Council designate Bunk Pond as a tow zone and increase parking fines to address quality-of-life issues.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 0 Burt Street, 6 W. Summer Street, 135 Leona’s Lane, 145 Leona’s Lane, and 155 Leona’s Lane
• Issued Negative Determination with Special Conditions 1-5 and 18 for 255 Harvey Street
• Voted to request City Council make Bunk Pond a tow zone
• Authorized Conservation Agent to get 3 quotes for 6’ chain link fencing and 'no access' signs at Bunk Pond
• Voted to ask City Council to substantially increase parking fines at Bunk Pond
• Approved Order of Conditions with Special Conditions 1-9, 17, 19, 21, 24-27, and 48 for 225 West Britannia Street
• Approved Order of Conditions with Special Conditions 1-9, 19, 21, and 25-27 for 104 Dean Street
• Continued Krijo Lane Roadway & Drainage project to 9/18/23 pending DEP number

License Commission

The Taunton Board of License Commissioners will meet to consider several alcohol permit applications, a license amendment, and a new victualler license. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and a letter regarding a downtown event alcohol request.

• St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street: special alcohol permits for 9/23/23, 11/11/23, 2/10/24 (5:30-11:30 p.m.) and 5/19/24 (12:00-4:00 p.m.)
• Riverhouse Weir Village, Inc., 260 West Water Street: amendment for change of officers, stock, or ownership interest
• Old Colony History Museum, 66 Church Green: special alcohol permit for Oct 21, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
• Cook in a Box, 577 Winthrop Street: application for a Common Victualler License
• Law Department letter regarding Downtown Taunton Foundation request to sell/consume alcohol at an event on a public/private way

The Board of License Commissioners approved special alcohol permits for St. Anthony Church and the Old Colony History Museum. The board also approved ownership and premises changes for Riverhouse Weir Village, Inc. and a common victualler license for Cook in a Box.

• Approved special alcohol permits for St. Anthony Church for four dates conditional on police detail waiver application (Unanimous)
• Approved alteration of premises for Riverhouse Weir Village, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved change of officers, stock, or ownership interest for Riverhouse Weir Village, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permit for Old Colony History Museum for October 21, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved common victualler license for Cook in a Box pending Board of Health paperwork (Unanimous)
• Continued discussion on Bar 88 to September 20 (Unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Holiday Inn pending submission of business plan and alteration of premises paperwork to September 20 (Unanimous)

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission will meet to consider correspondence and special event requests, including painting electrical boxes on the Taunton Green and installing a veteran marker in Mayflower Cemetery. They will also receive routine reports and updates on capital improvement projects at Walker Park, Memorial Park, Mayflower Hill Cemetery, and Davol Park.

• Request to paint electrical boxes on Taunton Green by Downtown Taunton Foundation
• Request to install veteran marker in Mayflower Cemetery by Taunton Veterans Grave Officer
• Special event: Old Colony History Museum at Church Green on 10/21/2023, 8am-6pm
• Special event: Friends of Boyden educational program at Boyden Refuge on 8/12/2023, 10am-2pm
• Capital improvement updates: Walker Park, Memorial Park, Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion, Davol Park Renovations

City Council

The City Council will hold a hearing regarding a petition by BD Management, LLC to allow the storage of 38,100 gallons of flammable liquids in aboveground tanks. The proposal covers 1925 and 1939 Bay Street and includes regular gasoline, super gasoline, and diesel. The Fire Inspector has submitted a positive recommendation for the license.

• Hearing for new flammable storage license at 1925 & 1939 Bay Street
• Storage of 38,100 total gallons of Class IB and Class II liquids
• Reappointment of Daniel Lebrun to the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board
• Request from Procurement Director for additional advertising funds
• Renewal of hours of operations for CVS Pharmacy at 284 Winthrop Street

The City Council referred a draft ordinance regarding Lake Sabbatia parking and enforcement to the Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills. The Council also referred the status of the lake's island to the Committee on Public Property. A hearing was held for a proposed gas station at 1925 & 1939 Bay Street, though no final decision was recorded in the text.

• Referred Lake Sabbatia parking ordinance draft to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills
• Referred Lake Sabbatia island status to Committee on Public Property
• Referred Church Green and Summer Street crosswalk signal issue to Safety Officer and DPW
• Approved record of preceding meeting

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will meet to review weekly payroll and vouchers for City departments. The committee will also hold a discussion regarding stipends for various boards, committees, and commissions.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discussion on stipends for boards, committees, and commissions

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved the weekly payroll and accounts payable warrants. A discussion regarding stipends for boards, committees, and commissions was postponed to a future date to allow for the CFO's presence.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,687,011.90
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $6,696,106.77
• Tabled stipend discussion for boards, committees, and commissions

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and warrants, consider sealed bids, and discuss several communications, including major project requests for ISG broadband equipment and MIS firewall refresh, a 2023 bonding request, and a voluntary contribution for FY2024. The meeting also includes an executive session for competitive advantage and contract negotiations.

• Major Project Request – ISG Broadband Equipment
• Major Project Request – MIS Firewall Refresh
• 2023 Bonding Request communication
• Voluntary Contribution FY2024 letter from Mayor
• Executive session on competitive advantage and contract negotiations

Airport Commission

The Commission appointed Craig Foley to the role of Temporary Airport Manager. The position is unpaid for the first 30 days, with compensation beginning after that period.

• Appointed Craig Foley as Temporary Airport Manager (3-2)

City Council

The Municipal Council will review a recommendation from the City Solicitor regarding new state-mandated social equity policies for marijuana businesses. The agenda also includes appointments to the Golf Course Commission and several fire department personnel actions.

• First reading of an ordinance to install stop signs at the intersection of Burt Street and Winthrop Street
• Appointment of Seth Turner and Nick Tabak to the Golf Course Commission
• Swearing in of three permanent full-time firefighters: Marc B. Charbonneau, Steven Hutchins, and Andrew Michael Trainor
• Request to pay prior year invoices for utilities totaling $471.41
• Petition for a new Grade 1 personal kennel license at 120 Christine Lane

The City Council approved several permanent appointments to the fire department, including a new Fire Chief. The meeting also included public testimony regarding safety and enforcement concerns at Lake Sabbatia.

• Approved appointment of Steven Lavigne as Fire Chief (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Gregory Karsner as Fire Captain (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Michael A. Rodriquez as Fire Lieutenant (8-0)
• Approved swearing in Marc B. Charbonneau, Steven Hutchins, and Andrew Michael Trainor as permanent full-time firefighters (8-0)
• Approved payment of prior year bills for Verizon, TMLP, and Ready Refresh
• Referred request to amend surplus of Map 92, Lot 279 to the Committee on Public Property

City Council

Three city committees are scheduled to meet on August 8, 2023. Discussions include potential city property sales, designating land behind the Leonard School as open space, and a request for alcohol consumption on Trescott Street during a downtown block party.

• Potential sale of Scaddings Street (Parcel 20-23), 30 Winthrop Lane (Parcel 88-79), and John Hancock Road (Parcel 29-21-1)
• Proposal to declare land behind the Leonard School (parcel 46-212-0) as open space
• Request for alcohol consumption on Trescott Street for the 11th Annual Block Party on 9/16/23
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll by the Committee on Finance and Salaries

The Finance and Salaries Committee approved payroll and accounts payable warrants. The Committee on Police and License approved alcohol consumption for a block party, and the Committee on Public Property authorized several property RFPs and open space designations.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,446,282.65
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $3,309,874.74
• Approved alcohol consumption on Trescott Street for Downtown Taunton Foundation block party (9/16/23)
• Declared Leonard School parcel 46-212 as open space
• Approved right of way between Leonard School parcels 46-229 and 46-235 (6-2)
• Declared Scadding Street parcel 20-23 as open space
• Authorized RFP for 30 Winthrop Lane (Parcel 88-79)
• Authorized RFP and sale of 745 John Hancock Road

Board of Health

The Taunton Board of Health is holding its monthly meeting to review reports from health agents, sanitary inspectors, the epidemiologist, and public health nurse. They will also receive updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill and the Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative, and consider a minor modification for 101 Prince Henry Drive. The agenda is largely routine, with most items being reports and updates.

• Minor Modification – 101 Prince Henry Drive
• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates (Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, Opal Fuels)
• Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative updates
• Approval of June Board Meeting Minutes
• Monthly reports from Health Agent, Sanitary Inspectors, Epidemiologist, Public Health Nurse

The Board appointed John Shea to represent the Board of Health regarding a minor modification request for New England Waste Disposal at 101 Prince Henry Drive. The Board also approved previous meeting minutes and scheduled its next session.

• Approved May and June board meeting minutes
• Appointed John Shea to represent the Board of Health for 101 Prince Henry Drive modification
• Scheduled next monthly board meeting for September 12, 2023

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will hold public hearings and site plan reviews on several development proposals, including a 286-unit multifamily complex with retail space at 1141 County St., a new convenience store with drive-thru at 1095 County St., and a 30-unit residential project at 68 Church Green. The board will also consider releasing bonds for subdivisions and extensions of special permits.

• Public hearing for special permit/site plan review at 515 Middleboro Ave. for a 3,320 sq. ft. auto repair shop with auto sales (58 vehicles) and drainage system
• Public hearing for special permit/site plan review at 1095 County St. to demolish existing kiosk, fuel pumps, canopy, car wash and construct a 3,780 sq. ft. convenience store with drive-thru, new fueling pumps, and canopy
• Public meeting for site plan review at 1141 County St. for a 286-unit multifamily development across 4 buildings with 475 parking spaces and 4,900 sq. ft. standalone retail building
• Public meeting for site plan review at 68 Church Green for a 30-unit residential development in Urban Residential District
• Request for 6-month extension of special permit for convenience store with drive-thru, car wash, and filling station at 2318 Bay St.

The Board approved a Special Permit for a two-family home on Winthrop Heights Drive with 19 specific conditions. Additionally, the Board granted a 6-month permit extension for a convenience store and filling station at 2318 Bay St.

• Approved Special Permit for duplex at Winthrop Heights Drive, Lot B (5-1)
• Granted 6-month Special Permit extension for convenience store/filling station at 2318 Bay St.
• Approved release of Millview Estates lots 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 upon receipt of $19,375 surety per lot
• Approved release of Brian’s Way lot #5 without additional surety

City Council

The Committee on the Fire Department is scheduled to meet on August 2, 2023. The meeting purpose is to conduct interviews for firefighter candidates.

• Interviews for firefighter candidates

The Committee on The Fire Department interviewed five candidates for firefighter positions. The Council voted to extend conditional offers of employment to three individuals.

• Extended conditional offers of employment to Casey Wellman, Michael Perrotta, and Thomas Richardi (8-0)

City Council

The City Council will vote on an order to purchase the property at 2 Hamilton Street for $6,000,000. The agenda also includes continued hearings for marijuana cultivation at 30 Sherwood Drive and a 30-unit residential project at 68 Church Green.

• $6,000,000 purchase of 2 Hamilton Street
• Special Permit hearing for marijuana cultivation/manufacturing at 30 Sherwood Drive
• Special Permit hearing for 30-unit multi-family residential use at 68 Church Green
• Special Permit hearing for a 2,100 sq. ft. retail marijuana dispensary at 284R Winthrop Street
• Appointment of Jay Pateakos to the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board of Trustees

Mayor O'Connell issued a proclamation designating Taunton as a Purple Heart Community and establishing August 7 as annual Purple Heart Day. The council also held a continued hearing regarding a special permit for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and delivery at 30 Sherwood Drive.

• Approved record of preceding meeting
• Proclaimed Taunton as a Purple Heart Community
• Designated August 7 annually as Purple Heart Day

City Council

The Committee of the Council as a Whole will discuss an amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care. The Committee on Public Property will meet to consider authorizing the sale of several 'Owner Unknown' properties.

• Proposed amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care at 30 Mozzone Boulevard
• Discussion of Intergovernmental Agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in executive session
• Consideration of authorizing the sale of multiple 'Owner Unknown' properties, including lots near 91 Berkley Street and 408/426 Prospect Hill Street
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll by the Committee on Finance and Salaries

The Council approved a Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care and authorized the sale of multiple 'Owner Unknown' properties. The Committee on Finance and Salaries also approved payroll and accounts payable warrants. An executive session was held to discuss an agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

• Approved payroll warrant for $1,429,680.24
• Approved accounts payable warrant for $880,541.54
• Approved Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care at 30 Mozzone Boulevard
• Declared Map 92 Lot 252 and Lot 248 as surplus for RFP sale
• Declared Map 8 Lot 58 as surplus
• Declared Map 94 Lot 199 as surplus
• Declared Map 15 Lot 32 and Map 134 Lot 93 as surplus
• Placed Map 92 Lot 279 into the abutters program

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Taunton Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting on July 27, 2023, to consider five zoning appeals and permits, including a variance request related to affordable housing requirements. The board will also meet in executive session to discuss a lawsuit filed against it, and will discuss a possible waiver or reduction of filing fees.

• Case #3733: Alliance Residential Co. seeks variance from affordable housing requirement (10% affordable units) for 5+ unit development at 1141 County St.
• Case #3734: Hazard requests variance to allow 15.5-foot rear setback (instead of 20 feet) for existing garage at 39 Shore Dr.
• Case #3735: Moura seeks special permit for 3-family use in Highway Business District at 145 Broadway.
• Case #3736: Farland requests variance for 1,200 sq. ft. tattoo parlor with existing 2-family use at 569 Bay St.
• Case #3737: Moniz seeks special permit for two-family duplexes on lots 1-8 in Millview Estates Subdivision.

The Board granted a variance for a garage setback and approved a special permit for a 3-family conversion and a tattoo parlor. A request to waive affordable housing requirements for a 284-unit project was continued for further discussion. One petition was withdrawn without prejudice.

• Approved variance for existing garage rear setback at 39 Shore Dr. (conditional on retaining wall installation)
• Approved special permit for 3-family use at 145 Broadway (Turner, Ackerman, Berube, Vieira, Moniz - Yes)
• Approved variance for 1,200 sq. ft. tattoo parlor at 569 Bay St. (conditional on hours 11 AM–7 PM Tue-Sun and 2-chair limit)
• Allowed petition for two-family duplex at Millview Estates to be withdrawn without prejudice
• Continued variance request for 1141 County St. to waive 29 affordable units and discuss payment to Affordable Trust Fund

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority will hold a regular meeting on July 26, 2023, to review minutes, discuss the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan, the Harvey Street property status, and MassDevelopment loan/grant programs. The agenda also includes other business and setting the next meeting date.

• Review and approve minutes of May 24, 2023 and June 29, 2023
• Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan discussion
• Harvey Street property status update
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

The Authority approved the minutes from May 24 and June 29, 2023. Members discussed the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan and a $39,000 MEPA scope of services from Stantec, though payment methods were not determined. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved May 24, 2023 minutes
• Approved June 29, 2023 minutes

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Taunton Commission for Individuals with Disabilities is meeting to discuss updates on ADA issues in the city, playground accessibility, the Transition Plan's outstanding items, and site plan reviews. The agenda includes roll call, minutes, and public input, with no specific decisions or votes listed.

• Discussion of latest ADA issues in the city
• Playground accessibility for schools and city facilities
• Transition Plan update on outstanding items
• Site plan reviews and common regulations

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes a discussion item regarding Charles Wright, along with reports from the engineer, secretary, treasurer, and airport manager. No votes or specific actions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Charles Wright
• Engineer's report
• Secretary's report for June 2023
• Treasurer's report for June 2023
• Airport manager's report

The commission lacked a quorum, meaning no official votes or decisions were made. The meeting consisted of public input and reports regarding airport operations and infrastructure.

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider a special permit for a 30-unit multi-family development at 68 Church Green. The meeting also includes an order to establish a special revenue account using 50% of proceeds from city-owned real estate sales for revitalization efforts.

• Special Permit for 30-unit multi-family residential use at 68 Church Green
• Establishment of a Special Revenue Account for the Taunton Leading City Initiative
• Request for continuance regarding marijuana cultivation facility at 30 Sherwood Drive
• New Host Community Agreement application for marijuana retailer at 225 Cape Hwy
• New Flammable Storage License petition for gasoline storage at 1925 & 1939 Bay Street

The City Council established a Special Revenue Account to direct 50% of proceeds from city-owned real estate sales toward the Taunton Leading City Initiative. The council also approved the appointment of a Special Assistant City Solicitor and authorized several small administrative payments.

• Established Special Revenue Account for city revitalization (6-0)
• Appointed Lisa Bond, Esq. as Special Assistant City Solicitor through Dec 31, 2023 (6-0)
• Approved $188.96 payment to Conway Technology Group
• Approved $845.75 fund transfer to pay City Hall Systems
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Lincoln Fund for Taunton Animal Shelter
• Continued Special Permit hearing for 30 Sherwood Drive to August 1, 2023
• Continued Special Permit hearing for 68 Church Green to August 1, 2023
• Referred new Flammable Storage License for 1925 & 1939 Bay Street to City Clerk for public hearing

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will discuss fund transfers for the Coyle and Cassidy property purchase. The Police and License Committee will review a marijuana license renewal, and the Council as a Whole will discuss an amended Host Community Agreement.

• Fund transfers totaling $6,000,000.00 for the Coyle and Cassidy property at 2 Hamilton Street
• Marijuana license renewal for Freshly Baked Company at 14\4 West Britannia Street
• Amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care at 30 Mozzone Boulevard
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll
• Fiscal Year 2023 End of Year Report and Capital Program Update

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved fund transfers totaling $6,000,000 for the purchase of 2 Hamilton Street. The Committee on Police and License renewed a marijuana license for Freshly Baked Company. The Council as a Whole tabled a decision on an amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,508,208.47
• Approved FY23 accounts payable warrant of $403,409.68
• Approved FY24 accounts payable warrant of $5,638,268.98
• Approved $6,000,000 in transfers for Coyle and Cassidy property purchase at 2 Hamilton Street
• Approved marijuana license renewal for Freshly Baked Company at 144 West Britannia Street
• Tabled amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care at 30 Mozzone Boulevard

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board is meeting to consider a Special Permit/Site Plan Review for a property at 1095 County Street, submitted by Kayrouz Petroleum, LLC. The proposal involves demolishing an existing kiosk, fuel pumps, canopy, and car wash, and constructing a new 3,780 sq. ft. convenience store with a drive-thru, new fueling pumps, and an overhead steel canopy. The board will also review a separate application for a filling station with a 4,000 sq. ft. convenience store and a 1,186 sq. ft. restaurant with a drive-thru, though details of that location are not specified in the agenda.

• Special Permit/Site Plan Review under Section 440 Attachment #2 for demolition and new construction at 1095 County Street
• Proposal includes 3,780 sq. ft. convenience store with drive-thru, new fueling pumps, and steel canopy
• Second application for a filling station with 4,000 sq. ft. convenience store and 1,186 sq. ft. restaurant with drive-thru
• Applicant: Kayrouz Petroleum, LLC
• Meeting at Taunton Planning Board Office, 141 Oak St., 8:45 AM

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board will meet to review two applications: a special permit and site plan for an automobile filling station with a convenience store and a drive-thru restaurant, and a site plan for a 30-unit residential development at 68 Church Green. The board will decide whether to approve these projects.

• Special permit/site plan review for auto filling station with 4,000 sq ft convenience store and 1,186 sq ft drive-thru restaurant
• Site plan review for 30-unit residential development at 68 Church Green (parcels 66-424 and 66-426)
• Applicant: Boston Capital Development Partners, LLC; owner: Taunton Church Green Realty, LLC

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss personal property depreciation and preliminary billing for Fiscal Year 2024. The agenda also includes reviewing ATB request procedures and potential tax abatement applications in executive session.

• Personal Property Depreciation discussion
• Preliminary Billing for Fiscal Year 2024
• ATB request procedures review
• Tax Abatement Applications (Executive Session)

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

This agenda is for a public meeting hosted by the Taunton Redevelopment Authority about the Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan (URP). The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 19 at 6:30 PM at Broken Chains Biker Church, 370 Bay Street. No specific agenda items are listed, so the meeting appears to be for general information and discussion.

• Public meeting on Whittenton Urban Renewal Plan
• Hosted by Taunton Redevelopment Authority
• Location: Broken Chains Biker Church, 370 Bay Street
• Contact: [email protected]

License Commission

The Commission revoked the license for OV’s Restaurant for failure to maintain stated hours and suspended the Holiday Inn's license until August 16. Several lodging house licenses and a common victualler license were approved. The Board also approved a special alcohol permit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South.

• Approved special alcohol permit for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South for Sept 9 event (Unanimous)
• Continued Riverhouse Weir Village ownership and premises matter to August 16 (Unanimous)
• Approved change of manager for Bar 88 conditional on fingerprints (Unanimous)
• Approved temporary closure of Bar 88 until August 18 (Unanimous)
• Approved Bar 88 hours for Fri, Sat, Sun from 5:00 p.m. — 12:00 a.m. (Unanimous)
• Revoked license for OV’s Restaurant for failure to keep stated hours (Unanimous)
• Suspended Holiday Inn license until August 16 (Unanimous)
• Approved lodging house licenses for 62 Broadway, 64 Broadway, 166 Winthrop St, 72 Broadway, 305 Bay St, and 44 Summer St (Unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will discuss and vote on fee waivers related to the construction at 90 County Street. Other items include public input, communications from city officers, and a request for road permission for an annual event.

• Request for fee waivers for Public Safety Facility construction
• Rodman Ride for Kids requests permission to ride on Taunton roads

The Municipal Council voted to reaffirm a decision against a plastic bag ban. The council also approved new police promotional exam weights and municipal fee waivers for the Public Safety Facility construction. Several properties were deemed excess or surplus following Committee on Public Property reviews.

• Reaffirmed decision to not move forward with plastic bag ban (5-4)
• Approved new police promotional exam weights for Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain
• Approved municipal fee waivers for Public Safety Facility construction at 90 County Street
• Approved Committee on Public Property items A, B, C, D, and I (9-0)
• Deemed Range Avenue property (Parcel I.D. 88-57) as excess (6-3)
• Deemed property item G as surplus and referred to zoning change and variance (7-2)
• Tabled Committee on Public Property items E and H (9-0)
• Approved Event Notification Form for 33rd Annual Rodman Ride for Kids

City Council

The Municipal Council committees are meeting to review city payroll, a requested sewer extension on Marvel Street, and potential property purchases. The Committee on Public Property will also consider authorizing the sale of several properties through the Marketable Property Program.

• Sewer extension request for Marvel Street
• Potential purchase of 2 Hamilton Street and 42 Adams Street
• Sale of various properties including 395A/B West Water Street and 356 West Britannia
• Executive session regarding Intergovernmental Agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll

The Council as a Whole voted unanimously to acquire property at 2 Hamilton Street for $6 million using ARPA funds, state reimbursements, and capital stabilization. The Committee on Public Property also declared several parcels as surplus for auction or RFP processes.

• Approved $6M purchase of 2 Hamilton Street (9-0)
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,379,190.34
• Approved FY23 accounts payable warrant of $3,659,483.27
• Approved FY24 accounts payable warrant of $543,431.31
• Tabled sewer extension request on Marvel Street until August 29
• Deemed Parcel 20-23 on Scaddings Street as open space
• Declared 5 and 7 Nickerson Avenue as surplus for public auction
• Declared 395A and 395B West Water Street as surplus for RFP process

TMLP Commission

This is a regular meeting of the Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission, scheduled for July 18, 2023 at 4:00 PM at 55 Weir Street. The agenda contains only the meeting notice and no listed agenda items, so it is procedural boilerplate with no specific decisions or discussions detailed.

Development Impact Review Board

The Development Impact Review Board will meet to review two proposals: a special permit and site plan for an automobile filling station with a convenience store and drive-thru restaurant, and a site plan for a 286-unit multifamily development with retail space at 1141 County St. The board will consider these applications and may approve, deny, or condition them.

• Special permit/site plan for auto filling station with 4,000 sq ft convenience store and 1,186 sq ft drive-thru restaurant
• Site plan for 286-unit multifamily development across 4 buildings with 475 parking spaces
• 4,900 sq ft standalone retail building as part of the multifamily project
• Applicant for multifamily project: Alliance Realty Partners / 1141 County St, LLC

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved several Orders of Conditions for residential and infrastructure projects, including a multi-building development on County Street despite neighbor concerns. It also issued Certificates of Compliance for five properties and Negative Determinations for three smaller projects.

• Approved Order of Conditions for four residential and one retail building at 1141 County Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for a duplex at 0 Marvel Street with a requirement to plant 10-12 arborvitaes
• Approved Order of Conditions for a detention basin off Williams Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for a common driveway at 0 Burt Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for a duplex at 242 School Street
• Issued Negative Determinations for projects at 47 Wayland Avenue, 74 Cortland Place, and 146 Segreganset Road
• Issued Certificates of Compliance for 789 Whittenton St, 113 Dean St, 48 Sydney’s Way, 405 Norton Ave, and 183 Caswell St
• Voted to install a game camera and fence at Bunk Pond to address trash and safety issues

License Commission

The License Commission is considering a request from Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc. located at 123 Dolan Circle. The applicant seeks to increase the maximum occupancy of the premises to 399 people.

• Occupancy increase request for 123 Dolan Circle (Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc.) to 399 people

The Board of License Commissioners approved a request from Deep Pond Farm and Stable, Inc. to increase its total occupancy to 399 people. The Board also granted a conditional waiver for police details, requiring them for events with live entertainment expecting over 100 people.

• Approved occupancy increase to 399 people for Deep Pond Farm and Stable, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional waiver of police detail for Deep Pond Farm and Stable, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Denied request to serve alcohol on Wednesdays on an as-needed basis

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The commission will review reports regarding cemetery burials, maintenance, and recreation. The agenda also includes discussions on capital improvements for several local parks and cemeteries.

• Walker Park capital improvements
• Memorial Park capital improvements
• Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion
• Davol Park Renovations
• Monthly Burial Report

City Council

The Taunton City Council is meeting to consider several items, including a public hearing on accepting four streets as public ways, appointments and reappointments to city boards, and a request to approve the purchase of the former Coyle & Cassidy High School property from the Roman Catholic Bishop of Fall River. The council will also discuss a site plan review for a 286-unit multifamily development and a request for an executive session regarding an intergovernmental agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

• Public hearing on accepting Steve Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Bryan Drive, and Manken Road as public ways
• Purchase of 2 Hamilton St. and 42 Adams St. (former Coyle & Cassidy High School) from the Roman Catholic Bishop of Fall River
• Appointment of five permanent full-time police officers: Hannah Fonseca, Tyler Pietrzyk, Cameron P. Williams, Amanda Claire Martell, Claudia Santos
• Site plan review for 286-unit multifamily development at 1141 County St. with 475 parking spaces and 4,900 sq ft retail
• Request for executive session on intergovernmental agreement with Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe

The Council accepted Bryan Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Manken Road, and Steve Drive as public ways. It also approved a Determination of Uniqueness to proceed with the purchase of the former Coyle & Cassidy High School. Additionally, five police officers and four board members were appointed or reappointed.

• Accepted Bryan Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Manken Road, and Steve Drive as public ways
• Approved Determination of Uniqueness for the purchase of former Coyle & Cassidy High School
• Approved appointment of 5 police officers (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Lisette Miranda to Taunton Cultural Council
• Approved reappointment of Jason Roomes to Election Commission
• Approved reappointment of Debra Ann Botellio to Conservation Commission
• Approved reappointment of Alison Rosa to Taunton Housing Authority
• Voted 4-4 on recommendation to not move forward with a plastic bag ban

City Council

Several city committees are scheduled to meet regarding financial reviews, waste management, and local ordinances. The Council as a Whole will conduct pre-reviews for two special permit petitions involving marijuana cultivation and multi-family residential use.

• Potential acquisition of two parcels on Ashleigh Terrace (Assessors’ parcels 80-45 and 80-47)
• Special Permit petition for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and delivery at 30 Sherwood Drive
• Special Permit petition for a 30 unit multi-family residential use at 68 Church Green
• Proposed ordinance to reduce use of single use plastic bags
• Discussion regarding recycling at condominiums

The Committee on the Ordinances and Enrolled Bills voted to reject a proposed ordinance to ban single-use plastic bags. Other committees approved several million dollars in payroll and accounts payable warrants and authorized year-end budgetary and fund transfers.

• Denied ban on single-use plastic bags (2-1)
• Approved payroll warrant for $1,431,816.60
• Approved FY23 accounts payable warrant for $1,869,929.20
• Approved FY24 accounts payable warrant for $5,735,278.50
• Approved budgetary transfers totaling $2,694,545.65
• Approved fund transfers totaling $1,863,769.30

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider multiple public hearings regarding special permits, site plan reviews, and frontage waivers. Items include proposed commercial expansions, accessory dwelling units in rural residential districts, and a mobile food truck operation.

• 95 Summer St.: 5,000 s.f. office and 15,175 s.f. storage for contracting business
• 280 Winthrop St.: 18,200 s.f. building and two 4,400 s.f. storage buildings
• 123 Dolan Circle: Mobile food truck and 1,600 sq.ft. temporary tent area
• 73 Fremont St.: Waiver of frontage requirements
• Round St., lot 8-3: 840 sf. accessory dwelling unit

The Planning Board approved a contracting business site plan at 95 Summer St. and a lot frontage waiver for 73 Fremont St. The board also granted special permits for two accessory dwelling units and a renewal for another.

• Approved special permit/site plan for 5,000 sf office and 15,175 sf storage at 95 Summer St. (5-0)
• Approved Form J frontage requirement waiver for 73 Fremont St. (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 840 sf accessory dwelling unit on Round St. (5-0)
• Approved renewal of accessory dwelling unit special permit at 1171 Glebe St. (5-0)
• Voted to keep the agenda deadline at one week prior to meetings (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Planning Board will consider multiple public hearings regarding accessory dwelling units, commercial expansions, and new business structures. The meeting also includes a discussion on the agenda deadline and a roadway improvement plan off Williams Street.

• Special Permit/Site Plan Review: 95 Summer St. for 5,000 s.f. office and 15,175 s.f. storage
• Waiver of frontage requirements: 73 Fremont St.
• Special Permit: Accessory Dwelling Unit (840 sf.) at Round St., lot 8-3
• Special Permit: Renewal of accessory dwelling unit at 1171 Glebe St.
• Special Permit/Site Plan Review: 280 Winthrop St. for 18,200 s.f. building and two 4,400 s.f. storage buildings

City Council

The City Council will discuss a request from the OECD to transfer a tax possession property at 5 Chester Court for non-profit organizations to purchase and renovate as affordable housing units.

• Transfer of Tax Possession Property at 5 Chester Court

The City Council referred a request to transfer a tax possession property at 5 Chester Court to the OECD for affordable housing. The Council also adopted recommendations from the Finance and Salaries and Public Property committees.

• Referred transfer of 5 Chester Court to Committee on Public Property (So Voted)
• Approved FY23 accounts payable warrant of $1,288,761.38 (So Voted)
• Approved FY24 accounts payable warrant of $12,754.53 (So Voted)
• Approved payroll warrant in absentia (So Voted)
• Endorsed Adopt-a-Spot program concept; DPW and Parks and Recreation to propose policy in 60 days (So Voted)
• Received and filed invitation from Holy Ghost Society (So Voted)

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries is scheduled to meet on July 3, 2023. The meeting purpose is to review weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments

The Committee on Finance and Salaries met to review weekly vouchers and payroll. The committee approved the payroll warrant and two accounts payable warrants for FY23 and FY24.

• Approved payroll warrant
• Approved FY23 accounts payable warrant in the amount of $1,288,761.38
• Approved FY24 accounts payable warrant in the amount of $12,754.53

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority met on June 29, 2023, to review minutes and discuss the Urban Renewal Plan. The agenda included a specific request regarding the Harvey Street property to facilitate its deed transfer to the City. The body also discussed MassDevelopment loan and grant programs.

• Harvey Street Property Request: Next steps with the City to get it deeded over
• Update on Urban Renewal Plan
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

The Authority discussed scheduling for the Urban Renewal Plan and noted that new regulations may require a MEPA study costing between $40,000 and $50,000. A loan/grant application was submitted for Reed & Barton. May 24, 2023 minutes were tabled.

• Tabled May 24, 2023 minutes
• Submitted Mass Development Loan/Grant program application for Reed & Barton

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will discuss recent ADA issues within the city. The meeting includes updates on the Transition Plan and reviews of site plans and school playground proposals.

• Updates on latest ADA issues in the city
• Proposed playground plans for schools
• Transition Plan update
• Site Plan Reviews and discussion on common regulations

The Commission accepted the minutes from the May 31, 2023 meeting. Members discussed ADA compliance at several city sites and reviewed site plans for Deep Pond Farm and Amaro’s Auto Sales.

• Approved May 31, 2023 meeting minutes
• Reviewed site plans for Deep Pond Farm and Amaro’s Auto Sales

Airport Commission

The Commission will review reports from the Secretary, Treasurer, and Airport Manager. Discussion includes old business regarding septic systems, cold storage assets, and a hangar purchase, alongside new business items such as a hangar area restoration plan.

• AAS Septic System
• Cold Storage Asset Purchase
• Purchase of 16 Westcoat Drive Hangar
• Hangar 9 area restoration plan
• Tenant rental request in Admin Building

The Commission elected a new Chairman and Vice Chairman and confirmed signatory authority for those roles. The board also approved a new tenant for the terminal building and voted to return to a monthly meeting schedule.

• Elected Steve Turner as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Steve Rogers as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Confirmed signatory authority for the Chair and Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved Dr. James Ross as a tenant for a terminal office (unanimous)
• Approved May secretary report (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Voted to return to monthly meetings (6-1)
• Approved motion to invite parties to the table regarding American Aero septic system (unanimous)

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider establishing special revenue accounts for student activities at several elementary and middle schools. The agenda also includes reviewing a petition to accept specific streets and lots into the city.

• Establishment of Special Revenue Accounts for student activities at Bennett, Chamberlain, East Taunton, Galligan, Leddy Preschool, Mulcahtey, Parker, E. Pole, Friedman, and Martin schools
• Appointment of Mark Pacheco as Director of the Elections Department for a three-year term
• Petition to accept Steve Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Bryan Drive, and Manken Road into the city
• Potential acquisition of two lots on Ashleigh Terrace (parcels 80-45 and 80-47)
• Renewal of various licenses including billiard tables, junk dealers, and marijuana retailers

The City Council approved the creation of Special Revenue Accounts for 11 local schools to accept monetary donations for student activities. The Council also confirmed the appointment of Mark Pacheco as Director of the Elections Department.

• Approved Special Revenue Accounts for 11 schools to accept student activity donations (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Mark Pacheco as Director of the Elections Department (3-year term)
• Proclaimed June 2023 as PTSD Awareness Month in Taunton
• Referred appointment of three permanent full-time firefighters to Committee on Fires and Wires
• Referred M. Perry & Son Construction's conveyance of two lots to Committee on Public Property
• Approved Election Commission request to accept MGL c. 41 § 11 OA for registration scheduling flexibility
• Referred Finance Department's Quarterly Investment and Collection Update to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Received and filed Comcast correspondence regarding Starz Channel price increase

City Council

Various city committees will meet to discuss several items, including numerous Water Enterprise fund transfers and marijuana license renewals. The Finance and Salaries Committee will also consider a spending limit for the Lake Sabbatia Revolving Fund.

• Multiple budget transfers within the Water Enterprise, including $378,000 for Water Main Improvements
• Renewals for various business licenses, including billiard tables and junk dealers
• Discussion of marijuana retailer, delivery, cultivation, and manufacturer license renewals
• Proposed ordinance to reduce use of single-use plastic bags
• Proposal to establish an Adopt-a-Spot program for area maintenance

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $12.9 million and authorized multiple fund transfers for the Department of Public Works. The Committee on Police and License renewed several business licenses and granted conditional or short-term renewals for marijuana licenses based on financial and odor compliance.

• Approved payroll warrant of $2,517,841.94
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $10,477,472.10
• Approved 18 fund transfer requests (items a-r) for the Department of Public Works
• Set spending limit on Lake Sabbatia revolving fund at $25,000 (2-1)
• Approved license renewals for Taunton Eagles Soccer Club, Burnham’s Converter, Bowsers Basement, Bob Cats, and Taunton Antique Center
• Approved marijuana retailer license renewal for Bask, Inc.
• Renewed Bracts & Pistils delivery license for 60 days pending financial reports within 30 days
• Extended Commonwealth Alternative Care license for 90 days pending an odor mitigation plan

Election Commission

The commission will receive an update on the incoming Elections Director, Mark Pacheco, who begins July 10, 2023. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the political calendar, permanent ballot box installations, and the acceptance of MGL 41.110a.

• Update on new Elections Director starting July 10, 2023
• Discussion of Political Calendar
• Acceptance of MGL 41.110a
• Update on Permanent Ballot Box Installation

The Commission approved the publication of the political calendar in the Taunton Daily Gazette for July 12, 2023. Members were notified that Mark Pacheco will start as the new Director of Elections on July 10, 2023.

• Approved May 23, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved posting political calendar in Taunton Daily Gazette on July 12, 2023

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board will consider several variance requests involving residential units, accessory dwelling units, parking lots, and digital signage. The meeting also includes the acceptance of previous minutes and a discussion on filing fees.

• Case #3722: Variance and Special Permit for 8 residential units at 79 W. Britannia St.
• Case #3729: Variance for an accessory dwelling unit exceeding 30% floor area at 36 Stevens St.
• Case #3730: Variance to allow a parking lot with 6 handicap spaces at 123 Dolan Cir.
• Case #3731: Variance for a 43-foot tall digital illuminated sign at 729 County St.
• Case #3732: Variance and Special Permit for two family use on one lot at 237 Williams St.

The Board approved a 161-space parking lot for Deep Pond Farm & Stable with a capacity limit of 399 people. The Board also voted to reduce several filing fees based on recommendations from the Mayor and Law Department.

• Approved reduction of filing fees per Mayor's recommendations, excluding extension fees
• Approved reimbursement of fees for all cases on the June 22 agenda
• Granted variance for two-family use at 237 Williams St. (4-1)
• Granted variance for 161-space parking lot at 123 Dolan Circle with 399-person capacity limit
• Allowed withdrawal of petition for 8 residential units at 79 1/2 W. Britannia St. with $400 refund
• Granted variance for accessory dwelling unit at 36 Stevens St.

License Commission

The Commission will discuss special permits for the Downtown Taunton Foundation and review several license applications. The agenda includes requests for temporary closures, changes in hours of operation, and new licenses for a common victualler and a lodging house.

• Downtown Taunton Foundation: discussions regarding special permits
• Taunton Portuguese American Civic Club, Inc., 175 School Street: request to close July 1–8
• The National, LLC, 9 Taunton Green: notification of temporary closure
• Brack’s Grille & Tap, 2097 Bay Street: change in hours of operation
• Compass at General Dynamics, 400 John Quincy Adams Road: Common Victualler’s License application

The Board approved a new Common Victualler’s license and a lodging house license. It also granted requests for temporary closures and updated operating hours for local businesses. The Board voted to notify four inactive establishments that their licenses may be suspended or revoked.

• Approved Art Jam event date change to July 22, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved temporary closure for cleaning for Taunton Portuguese American Civic Club (Unanimous)
• Approved temporary closure for The National, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved change in operating hours for Brack’s Grille & Tap (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler’s License for Compass at General Dynamics (Unanimous)
• Approved lodging house license for Plain Street Realty Trust (Unanimous)
• Voted to issue warning letters to TGI Friday's, Bar 88, OV’s Restaurant, and Holiday Inn regarding inactive status (Unanimous)
• Tabled special permit discussions for Downtown Taunton Foundation (Unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Taunton Public Library Board of Trustees will approve the May FY23 minutes, financial report, and circulation report. New business includes personnel matters and a proposal to add yoga programming. Old business involves a discussion on security cameras.

• Approval of May FY23 Minutes
• Review of May FY23 Financial Report
• Review of May FY23 Circulation Report
• Discussion of Personnel matters
• Proposal for Yoga programming

The Board approved the use of the donation account to fund bi-monthly yoga classes. Trustees also accepted the May 2023 financial and circulation reports. The Board noted that security camera installation is complete.

• Approved May 2023 minutes
• Approved May 2023 financial report
• Approved May 2023 circulation report
• Approved use of donation account to pay for yoga class program

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission will hold a regular meeting on June 21, 2023. The meeting is scheduled for 4:00 PM at the commission office located at 55 Weir Street.

City Council

The Mayor's administration is presenting the 'Taunton Leading City' (TLC) initiative, which includes a new program to manage city-owned property and a request for a special revenue fund. The council will also consider a special permit for an 18-unit hotel at 49 Weir Street and a 30-unit residential project at 68 Church Green.

• Special Permit: 18-unit hotel at 49 Weir Street
• Special Permit: 30-unit multi-family residential use at 68 Church Green
• Reappointment of Manny Massa as Animal Control Officer for a four-year term
• Establishment of the TLC special revenue fund, proposed to be funded by 50% of proceeds from city land sales
• Renewal of marijuana cultivator, retailer, and manufacturer license for Commonwealth Alternative Care, Inc. at 30 Mozzone Boulevard

The City Council conducted a hearing regarding a petition for a special permit and parking waiver to establish an 18-unit hotel at 49 Weir Street. The proposal includes a cafe bistro and the revitalization of a historic building. No final vote on the permit was recorded in the provided text.

• Approved record of preceding meeting

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers, payroll, and requests for several new student activity accounts. The Committee of the Council as a Whole will discuss a new Host Community Agreement for a marijuana manufacturer at 30 Sherwood Drive.

• Host Community Agreement application for KBD Associates, LLC at 30 Sherwood Drive
• Establishment of student activity accounts for ten local schools
• Proposal to establish a Septic Loan Revolving Fund
• Proposal for an Adopt-a-Spot program
• Request from the Election Commission regarding registration scheduling flexibility

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved several financial warrants and established a revolving fund for septic loans. The committee also affirmed the City's FY2024 Consolidated Financial Policies and referred a proposal for new student activity accounts to the full Council.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,499,066.35
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,467,296.13
• Approved establishment of student activity accounts for 10 schools and referred to full Council
• Established Septic Loan Revolving Fund with $400,000 spending limit and 3.5% interest rate for FY24
• Directed HR Director to meet with Clerk of Committees and COTMA regarding parliamentarian certification
• Affirmed FY2024 Consolidated Financial Policies
• Tabled Adopt-a-Spot program discussion until next week

Department of Human Services / Council on Aging

The Department of Human Services Board will meet via Zoom to review various program updates. Discussion topics include elder outreach, senior center activities, and the Taunton Opioid Task Force.

• Approval of November 9, 2022 minutes
• Review of Board Vacancies
• Elder Outreach/SHINE program updates
• Senior Center Activities updates
• City, ARPA and Grant Funding updates

The Board of Directors for the Department of Human Services accepted previous meeting minutes and received reports on senior services and grant funding. No new policies were voted on, and the board will skip July and August meetings to review applicants for two vacant seats.

• Approved November 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Department of Human Services / Council on Aging

The Department of Human Services Board will meet via Zoom to review program updates and department business. The agenda includes reports on elder outreach, senior center activities, and the Taunton Opioid Task Force.

• Approval of November 9, 2022 minutes
• Discussion of board vacancies
• Program updates for Elder Outreach/SHINE and Senior Center Activities
• Updates on City, ARPA, and Grant Funding
• Updates on relocation, renovation, and repairs

City Council

The City Council will review several petitions for license renewals and ownership transfers. The agenda also includes an order to establish a separate interest-bearing account to accept donations for the Public Safety Complex.

• Establishment of a gift account for construction, furnishing, and equipment for the Public Safety Complex
• Special permit request for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and delivery at 30 Sherwood Drive
• Transfer of Flammable Storage License ownership to P&A Saad Realty, LLC
• Renewal of Marijuana Retailer License for Bask, Inc. at 400 Winthrop Street
• Request for a $15,000 revolving account limit for the Department of Human Services & Council on Aging

The City Council approved a $15,000 limit for the Department of Human Services and Council on Aging revolving account for FY2024. The Council also approved the weighting process for police promotional exams for Captain, Lieutenant, and Sergeant. Several financial requests were referred to the Committee on Finance and Salaries.

• Approved $15,000 revolving account limit for Dept of Human Services and Council on Aging (So Voted)
• Approved police promotional exam weighting for Captain, Lieutenant, and Sergeant (So Voted)
• Referred FY2024 Consolidated Financial Policies presentation to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Referred review of student activity account changes to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Referred request to establish Septic Loan Revolving Fund to Committee on Finance and Salaries (So Voted)
• Received and filed communication regarding escheated check funds (So Voted)
• Received and filed Comcast correspondence regarding Broadcast TV fee price decrease (So Voted)
• Received and filed safety railing installation report for Water Treatment Plant (So Voted)

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The commission will review reports regarding cemetery burials, maintenance, and recreation. The agenda includes discussions on capital improvements for several parks and cemeteries, as well as a request to allow alcohol in Liberty and Union Parks.

• Capital Improvements: Walker Park
• Capital Improvements: Memorial Park
• Capital Improvements: Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion
• Capital Improvements: Davols
• Request to allow alcohol within Liberty and Union Park

Board of Health

The Taunton Board of Health is holding its monthly meeting to approve prior minutes, receive reports from health agents and inspectors, and discuss updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill. The board will also consider appointing Jennifer Do-Teixeira as the Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Agent.

• Approval of April & May meeting minutes
• Health Agent/Septic Plan Review Agent monthly report
• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates from Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, and Opal Fuels
• Appointment of Jennifer Do-Teixeira as Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Agent
• Monthly reports from sanitary inspectors and public health nurse

The Board appointed Jennifer Do-Teixeira as the Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Agent. The board also approved the April meeting minutes and scheduled the next meeting for August 8, 2023.

• Approved April minutes
• Appointed Jennifer Do-Teixeira as Western Tobacco Prevention Agent
• Scheduled next meeting for August 8, 2023

City Council

The Council as a Whole approved a one-year extension for two Host Community Agreements for a marijuana retail and cultivation site at 0 Hart Street. The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved city payroll and accounts payable warrants. A discussion regarding the Clerk of Committees' certification was tabled.

• Approved payroll warrant of $15,183,403.14
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $9,470,211.85
• Tabled proposal for Clerk of Committees to become a certified parliamentarian
• Granted one-year extension to two Host Community Agreements for SAN Holdings, LLC (7-1)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review several Notices of Intent for residential construction, including duplexes and multi-story buildings. The agenda also includes an amendment regarding mechanical harvesting at Sabbatia Lake and various Certificates of Compliance to close out previous orders.

• Amendment for mechanical harvesting of water chestnut at Sabbatia Lake
• RDA for gravel entrance and stormwater swales at Stevens Street
• RDA for 18’ diameter above ground pool at 469 County Street
• NOI for a 135 SFH lot subdivision and infiltration basin on Winthrop Street
• NOI for four multi-story residential buildings and one retail building at 1141 County Street

The Commission issued several Orders of Conditions for residential developments and site improvements. It also approved a $100 donation for an Eagle Scout project and an amendment for water chestnut harvesting at Sabbatia Lake.

• Approved $100 donation from wetland filing fee account for Eagle Scout project (voted)
• Approved project for Westville Conservation Area repairs (voted)
• Approved Amendment to Order of Conditions for mechanical harvesting of water chestnut at Sabbatia Lake (voted)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 90 County Street (voted)
• Issued Certificates of Compliance for 871 Whittenton Street, 60 Hodges Avenue, and three lots at Taunton Municipal Airport (voted)
• Issued Negative Determination for Stevens Street gravel entrance and 469 County Street pool (voted)
• Approved Orders of Conditions for 0 Hamlen Street, 70 Henrietta Way, 40 Titus Way, and 123 Dolan Circle (voted)
• Continued hearings for Winthrop Street, Off Williams Street, and 1141 County Street to future dates (voted)

Youth Commission

The commission will review the May 11th meeting minutes and receive an update on a gift card giveaway. Members are also discussing ways to increase youth engagement in town and reviewing summer events.

• Report on gift card giveaway
• Appointment of Leah Surabian
• Review of $2,000.00 TYC account balance
• Discussion of WhatsApp group communication

City Council

The Municipal Council will review the FY24 preliminary city budget and an ordinance to establish stipends for various elected and appointed board members. The agenda also includes several marijuana license renewals and host community agreement requests.

• FY24 Total Preliminary Budget review
• Ordinance establishing compensation for various boards and commissions
• Marijuana retailer license renewal for GTE Taunton LLC at 297 Broadway
• Marijuana retailer license renewal for LMCC, LLC at 83 County Street
• Marijuana delivery license renewal for Bracts & Pistils, LLC at 144 West Britannia Street

The City Council approved the FY24 Total Preliminary Budget and associated transfers via roll call vote. The council also enacted mandatory non-essential water use restrictions through September 30, 2023. Several marijuana license renewals and host community agreements were referred to committees for further review.

• Approved FY24 Total Preliminary Budget (7-0)
• Approved budget transfers required by Department of Revenue (7-0)
• Enacted non-essential water use restrictions through Sept 30, 2023
• Approved certification for five police officers from the July 1, 2023 list
• Referred 7 marijuana retailer, delivery, and cultivation license renewals to Committee on Police and License
• Referred 4 Host Community Agreement renewals/applications to committees
• Referred request to adopt M.G.L. Chapter 138, Section 12 for liquor licenses to Committee on Police and License
• Approved Committee reports for Finance and Salaries, Police and License, and Council as a Whole

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will review city payroll, vouchers, and a public safety complex gift account. The Police and License Committee will review several license renewals and a new marijuana cultivation application. The Council as a Whole will discuss a host community agreement extension and a special permit for an 18-unit hotel.

• Proposal for a gift account for the public safety complex
• Billiard Table License renewal for Portuguese-American Civic Club at 175 School Street
• Junk Collector’s License renewal for Debrum Salvage at 57 Stevens Street
• Temporary Fixed Vendor License renewal for RJ Trees at 404 Winthrop Street
• Marijuana Cultivation and Products Manufacturer License for Greater Goods, LLC at 445 Myles Standish Boulevard

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $2.4 million. The Council as a Whole extended a Host Community Agreement for Greater Goods, LLC, and the Police and License Committee approved several license renewals.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,614,861.28
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $819,267.68
• Approved request to establish a gift account for the public safety complex
• Approved Billiard Table License renewal for Portuguese-American Civic Club
• Approved Junk Collector's License renewal for Debrum Salvage
• Approved Temporary Fixed Vendor License renewal for RI Trees
• Approved Marijuana Cultivation and Products Manufacturer License for Greater Goods, LLC (contingent on HCA)
• Extended Host Community Agreement for Greater Goods, LLC until June 30, 2024

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review multiple new business proposals including an office and storage facility at 95 Summer St. and a filling station with a convenience store and restaurant at 1925 and 1939 Bay St. Other items include outdoor storage on Stevens Street and a takeout restaurant on Broadway.

• Public Hearing: 5,000 sq. ft. office and 15,175 sq. ft. storage at 95 Summer St.
• Public Hearing: Automobile filling station, 4,000 sq. ft. convenience store, and 1,186 sq. ft. restaurant at 1925 and 1939 Bay St.
• Public Meeting: 10,000 sq. ft. outdoor storage area and 50 parking spaces on Stevens Street (parcel 119-63)
• Public Meeting: 120 sq. ft. takeout restaurant at 262 & 264 Broadway
• Old Business: Update on Logan Drive basin and Hart St. Estates lot 3 release

The Board approved a special permit for an automobile filling station and convenience store at 1925 and 1939 Bay St. The project includes a drive-thru restaurant and aboveground fuel tanks. A separate lot release for Hart St. Estates was also approved.

• Approved installation of outlet control structure for Logan Drive
• Approved release of lot 3 at Hart St. Estates (Titus Way) upon receipt of $24,203
• Granted continuance to July 6th for 95 Summer St. project due to lack of quorum
• Approved Special Permit/Site Plan review for gas station and convenience store at 1925 and 1939 Bay St.

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will discuss current ADA issues within the city. The agenda includes updates on the Transition Plan and proposed playground updates for schools.

• Discussion of latest ADA issues in the city
• Proposed playground updates for schools
• Transition Plan update
• Site Plan Reviews and common regulations discussion

The commission approved the April 26, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed monitoring five school playground updates for ADA compliance and reviewing new site plans to identify issues before construction. The commission also identified a sidewalk on Bay Street and parking in the Industrial Park for future assessment.

• Approved minutes of April 26, 2023
• Agreed to monitor five school playground updates for ADA compliance
• Agreed to review new site plans for ADA issues prior to construction
• Identified sidewalk in front of Goldsteins on Bay Street for commission action
• Agreed to assess handicapped parking throughout the Industrial Park

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will review weekly city vouchers and payroll. The Council as a Whole will discuss the appointment of David Ingargiola as Electrical Inspector and hold an executive session regarding an agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll
• Appointment of David Ingargiola as Electrical Inspector
• Executive session update on Inter-Governmental Agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved the weekly payroll and accounts payable warrants. The Council as a Whole discussed the appointment of an Electrical Inspector and held an executive session regarding an agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

• Approved payroll warrant of $5,583,817.14
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $3,278,576.97
• Moved forward appointment of David Ingargiola as Electrical Inspector
• Entered and exited executive session to discuss Inter-Governmental Agreement with Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe

City Council

The City Council approved the creation of two separate interest-bearing gift accounts for veterans' services and Purple Heart donations. The Council also advanced an ordinance to set annual stipends for various city boards and commissions.

• Approved establishment of a veterans' services gift account (7-0)
• Approved establishment of a Purple Heart gift account (7-0)
• Passed ordinance for board and commission stipends to a third reading
• Approved appointment of Steven Turner as Airport Commissioner
• Approved flammable storage license ownership transfer for 315 Broadway
• Approved $5,583,817.14 payroll warrant
• Approved $3,278,576.97 accounts payable warrant
• Approved request for civil service list for three firefighters

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss permits, sales, property exemptions, low-value land, and Chapter 61 values.

• Review of permits and sales
• Discussion on property exemptions
• Evaluation of land with low assessed values
• Chapter 61 value assessments

The Board of Assessors approved a non-profit application and increased the land of low value limit. The board also released new Chapter 61 values from the DOR and reported on permit approvals.

• Approved 153 non-profit application (3ABC)
• Increased land of low value limit to $26,417
• Released Chapter 61 new values from DOR
• Accepted previous meeting minutes

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review several variance requests regarding residential units, lot divisions, and building setbacks. The agenda also includes a request to withdraw a case for a mixed-use building at 49 Weir St. and a discussion on filing fees.

• Case #3701 Soares: Request to withdraw without prejudice regarding an 18 unit group residence at 49 Weir St.
• Case #3723 Snow-Phillips: Variance for a school bus exceeding 7,000 lbs. at 75 Dighton Ave.
• Case #3724 Cabral: Variance for the division of a lot into two smaller lots at 73 Fremont St.
• Case #3726 Thomas: Variance and Special Permit for a single family house at 417 Winthrop St.
• Case #3727 Grilla LLC: Variance for an expansion of a commercial restaurant at 224 Broadway

The Board approved two requests for residential variances regarding lot size and frontage. A proposal for a mixed-use building was withdrawn by the petitioner, and the Board discussed a proposal to lower filing fees.

• Approved variance for 73 Fremont Street to divide one lot into two (5-0)
• Approved variance for So. Walker St. (89-88) regarding lot frontage (5-0)
• Case # 3701 (49 Weir St.) withdrawn by petitioner
• Accepted April 27th minutes

Airport Commission

The Commission will meet to conduct roll call and receive a report from the Secretary regarding March and April 2023. The agenda includes an update from the Airport Manager and discussion of the Crosswinds Lease.

• Crosswinds Lease

The Commission approved a one-year probationary contract for interim airport manager Andrew Estus. Members also confirmed the signatory authority of the Chair and Vice-Chair for commission contracts and legal documents.

• Approved one-year probationary contract for interim airport manager Andrew Estus (5-0)
• Confirmed Chair and Vice-Chair have signatory authority to execute contracts and legal documents (5-0)
• Approved March/April 2023 Secretary Report

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is meeting to approve prior minutes, get an update on the Urban Renewal Plan, and discuss next steps with the city to deed over the Harvey Street property. The board will also talk about MassDevelopment loan and grant programs. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of March 22, 2023 and April 17, 2023
• Update on Urban Renewal Plan
• Harvey Street Property Request — next steps with the city to get it deeded over
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

The Authority approved the minutes from March and April 2023 and decided to move all accounts to Bristol County Savings. Members received updates on the Urban Renewal Plan and engineering progress on Harvey Street.

• Approved minutes for March 22, 2023 and April 17, 2023
• Decided to move all accounts to Bristol County Savings

City Council

The Taunton Municipal Council will hold a first reading of the city's FY2024 salary and wage budget, which totals over $325 million across departments. The council will also consider the mayor's appointment of Andrew Sukeforth as Director of Procurement for a three-year term, and receive reports on traffic safety, ADA compliance, and license renewals.

• First reading of FY2024 Salary & Wage Budget totaling $325,000,000+
• Appointment of Andrew Sukeforth as Director of Procurement (3-year term)
• Safety Officer reports on Plain Street speeding, no-parking on West Britannia St., stop signs on Deer Track Dr./Sir Josephs Ct.
• License renewals: DeBrum Salvage (junk collector), Portuguese-American Civic Club (billiard table)
• Request to extend Host Community Agreement for Greater Goods, LLC

The City Council appointed a new Director of Procurement and advanced a budget order to a second reading. The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved a payroll warrant of $1,487,948.98 and an accounts payable warrant of $2,118,637.60.

• Appointed Andrew Sukeforth as Director of Procurement for a three-year term
• Passed budget order for first reading to a second reading
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,487,948.98
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,118,637.60
• Approved $48,870.80 in transfers from Reserve Account for printing and professional services
• Referred no-parking ordinance for West Britannia Street to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills
• Referred stop sign ordinance for Deer Track Drive and Sir Josephs Court to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills
• Approved procession permit for St. Andrew the Apostle Church for June 10, 2023

City Council

Three city committees are scheduled to meet on May 23, 2023. Discussions include various business license renewals, public works requests for roads and sidewalks, and financial transfers within the Treasurer/Collector’s Office.

• $28,870.80 transfer from Reserve Account to Printing/Mailing
• $20,000.00 transfer from Reserve Account to Professional/Technical
• License for Platinum City Gaming at 294 Winthrop Street to operate until 2:00 AM
• Request to open the road at 89 Baker Road
• Request to install sidewalks on Burt Street

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $3.6 million. The Committee on Police and License granted multiple business licenses, including a license for A.T.N.T. Auto Sales and extended hours for Platinum City Gaming. The DPW Committee approved a street name change and a sewer easement request.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,487,948.98
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,118,637.60
• Approved $28,870.80 and $20,000.00 transfers from Reserve Account for printing and professional services
• Granted license to A.T.N.T. Auto Sales at 391 Winthrop Street
• Approved extended hours (until 2:00 AM) for Platinum City Gaming at 294 Winthrop Street
• Approved new licenses for M Bazaar and City Pawn
• Recommended DPW grant sewer easement on Silversmith Way for 89 Baker Road
• Approved renaming a portion of Johnson's Court to Bobby's Way

TMLP Commission

The Commission will review minutes from the April 24, 2023 meeting and approve several regular warrants. The agenda includes communications regarding a lineman's rodeo and personnel retirement notifications.

• Minutes of April 24, 2023
• Regular Warrant of April 27, 2023
• Regular Warrant of May 4, 2023
• Regular Warrant of May 11, 2023
• Regular Warrant of May 18, 2023

Election Commission

The Election Commission will conduct a roll call and review the April 18, 2023 minutes. The meeting includes discussion regarding MGL 41.110a.

• Discussion of MGL 41.110a

The commission approved the meeting minutes from April 18, 2023. Members discussed the progress of a request for City Council adoption of MGL 41.110a and agreed to cancel the July meeting.

• Approved April 18, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to have no Elections Commission meeting in July

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review several Certificates of Compliance to close out Orders of Conditions. The meeting also includes discussions regarding property violations at 27 Blinn’s Court, 16 Park Street, and 3 Clay Street.

• Certificate of Compliance: 396 Berkley Street
• Continued Certificate of Compliance: 162 Dunbar Street
• Continued Certificate of Compliance: 890 Glebe Street
• Continued Certificate of Compliance: 38 Winthrop Street
• Continued Certificate of Compliance: 1404 Cohannet Street and 1414 Cohannet Street

The Commission approved the removal of violations for properties at 3 Clay Street and 16 Park Street. Six Certificates of Compliance were approved to close out Orders of Conditions for various addresses. The board also requested fence repairs at Bunk Pond and a stipend increase for commission members.

• Approved signing of building permit for 27 Blinn’s Court pending DEP recording
• Removed violation at 3 Clay Street with requirements for fence and buffer zone (3-2)
• Removed violation at 16 Park Street
• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 162 Dunbar St, 890 Glebe St, 38 Winthrop St, 1404 Cohannet St, 1414 Cohannet St, and 396 Berkley St
• Requested DPW contact the state to repair the fence at Bunk Pond on the 495 side
• Approved request for a letter seeking stipend parity with ZBA and PB

License Commission

The Commission will consider several alcohol license applications and changes to operating hours or officers. The agenda also includes a discussion on expanding the types of alcohol available under Section 12 licenses.

• Talisa’s on Main, LLC (65 Main Street) wine and malt beverage license application
• Taunton Eagles Soccer Club Holy Ghost Brotherhood (29 Oak Street) special alcohol permit for June 2-4
• Italian Social Club of Taunton, Inc. (2 Columbus Blvd.) change of officers/directors and manager
• Italian Social Club of Taunton, Inc. waiver request for police detail requirements
• Entertainment One Stop Shop, LLC (Platinum City Gaming) change in hours

The Board approved a new wine and malt beverage license for Talisa’s on Main and a special permit for the Taunton Eagles Soccer Club. It also granted an entertainment license extension and a conditional police detail waiver to Platinum City Gaming. Additionally, the Board requested that City Council allow Section 12 license holders to sell liqueurs and cordials.

• Approved on-premise section 12 wine and malt beverage license for Talisa’s on Main (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permit for Taunton Eagles Soccer Club Holy Ghost Brotherhood for June 2-4 (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional waiver of police detail for Italian Social Club (Unanimous)
• Approved change of officers, directors, and manager for Italian Social Club of Taunton, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Amended Platinum City Gaming entertainment license to 2:00 a.m. closing and issued conditional police detail waiver (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler and Entertainment Licenses for T.J.’s Diner pending Board of Health sign off (Unanimous)
• Requested City Council allow Section 12 wine and malt license holders to sell liqueurs and cordials (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on Downtown Taunton Foundation special events until June 21 (Unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Board voted to remove the requirement for CORI checks for program performers, noting that performers are supervised and not alone with children. The Board also accepted the April 2023 minutes, financial report, and circulation report.

• Rescinded requirement for CORI checks for program performers
• Approved April 2023 minutes
• Approved April 2023 financial report
• Approved April 2023 circulation report

City Council

The Taunton City Council is meeting to consider an ordinance establishing annual stipends for elected and appointed board, committee, and commission members, with amounts ranging from $700 to $16,631.08. The council will also review appointments, including Jay Pateakos as Executive Director of Economic and Community Development, and discuss a request to advertise uncashed checks for $28,870.80 to recover up to $750,000. Several license renewals and a new marijuana cultivation application are on the agenda.

• Ordinance to set stipends for boards and commissions, including City Council $10,000 (7/1/23-12/31/23) and $16,631.08 (1/1/2024)
• Appointment of Jay Pateakos as Executive Director of Office of Economic and Community Development for 3 years
• Treasurer requests $28,870.80 to advertise uncashed checks to recover up to $750,000
• New marijuana cultivation and products manufacturer license for Greater Goods, LLC at 445 Myles Standish Boulevard
• Kennel license application withdrawn by Barbara Cleary

The City Council approved the appointment of Jay Patikas to lead the Office of Economic and Community Development. The Council also processed a kennel license withdrawal and referred a request regarding uncashed checks to the Committee on Finance and Salaries.

• Approved appointment of Jay Patikas as Executive Director of the Office of Economic and Community Development (8-0)
• Approved withdrawal of kennel license application for 5 Hopewell Street
• Referred request to spend $28,870.80 to advertise uncashed checks since 1999 to the Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Received and placed on file Site Plan Review for outdoor storage at Stevens Street
• Received and placed on file Site Plan Review for takeout restaurant at 262 & 264 Broadway
• Received and placed on file Special Permit/Site Plan Review for filling station and convenience store at 1925 and 1939 Bay Street
• Received and placed on file Special Permit/Site Plan Review for office and storage at 95 Summer Street

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $6 million and several budget transfers. The Committee on Public Property's recommendation for a new permitting policy for the Taunton Green was rejected by the full Council.

• Approved payroll warrant for $4,001,838.25
• Approved accounts payable warrant for $2,070,868.28
• Approved $200,000 transfer from Reserve Account to Workers Compensation
• Approved $26,000 transfer from Reserve Account to Animal Control
• Approved $4,500 transfer from Reserve Account to Tax Title
• Approved $2,000 transfer from Reserve Account to Tax Possession
• Approved two $20,000 transfers from Golf Retained Earnings for grounds and building repair
• Rejected proposed permitting policy for 1st Amendment activity on the Taunton Green (3-5)

City Council

The Taunton Municipal Council is meeting as a Committee of the Whole to hold a fiscal year 2024 budget hearing with the Chief Financial Officer and Budget Director. This is the sole agenda item, focused on discussing the upcoming budget.

• Fiscal year 2024 budget hearing with Chief Financial Officer and Budget Director

The Council conducted a budget hearing for the fiscal year 2024 budget request of $283,895,593. Most departmental budgets were taken under advisement after review. Two specific funding items were referred to the supplemental budget.

• Referred funding for Parliamentarian position and training to the supplemental budget
• Referred filling the TEMA Assistant Director position to the supplemental budget
• Took budgets for 38 departments under advisement

Department of Human Services / Council on Aging

The Taunton Department of Human Services and Council on Aging board will meet via Zoom to approve prior minutes, discuss board vacancies, and hear the director's report. Updates will cover elder outreach, senior center activities, community relations, and the Taunton Opioid Task Force, along with funding, personnel, and facility matters.

• Approval of minutes from November 9, 2022
• Discussion of board vacancies
• Program updates: Elder Outreach/SHINE, Senior Center Activities, Community Relations/Emergency Fund
• Taunton Opioid Task Force update by Lori Gonsalves
• Funding updates: City, ARPA, and grants

City Council

The council will consider a special permit for a mixed-use building at 74 Weir Street and a potential new agenda format featuring a consent agenda. Other business includes appointments, license renewals, and funding requests.

• Special Permit hearing for 36 residential units and 1,938 sq. ft. of commercial space at 74 Weir Street
• Special Permit hearing for an 18-unit hotel at 49 Weir Street
• Appointment of Bruce Thomas to the Taunton Municipal Light Plant Commission
• $40,000 funding request from the Golf Course Commission for improvements
• License renewals for antique dealers, junk collectors, livery services, and food trucks

The Council opened a hearing regarding a petition to modify a special permit for 74 Weir Street from a group home to a mixed-use building with 36 residential units and commercial space. The proposal includes a request for a parking waiver to allow 11 spaces instead of the required 43. No final decision was recorded in the provided text.

• Approved record of preceding meeting
• Opened hearing for special permit modification at 74 Weir Street

City Council

The Taunton Municipal Council committees are meeting on May 9, 2023, to handle routine financial oversight and discuss two specific items. The Finance and Salaries Committee will review weekly vouchers and payroll, and consider establishing a gift account for the Veterans Department. The Public Property Committee will meet with Madden Planning Group regarding a grant study for the Taunton Nursing Home.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Request to establish a gift account for the Veterans Department
• Meeting with Madden Planning Group regarding Taunton Nursing Home grant study

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $7 million and created two gift accounts for the Veterans Department. The Committee on Public Property reviewed a grant study for the former Taunton Nursing Home site and took the presentation under advisement.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,516,899.25
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,526,610.60
• Approved establishment of Purple Heart gift account for signs, poles, and celebration
• Approved establishment of a second Veterans office gift account for programming
• Voted to review multiple properties (including Leonard School and Fraga Farm) to determine best locations for affordable housing and recreation
• Took Taunton Nursing Home grant study presentation under advisement

Board of Health

The Taunton Board of Health is holding its monthly meeting to approve minutes, receive reports from health agents and inspectors, and discuss updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill. They will also consider a discussion on blood pressure and glucose clinics. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of April Board Meeting Minutes
• Health Agent/Septic Plan Review Agent Monthly Report
• Sanitary Inspectors Monthly Reports (Daniel Ross, Eileen North, Diane Heath)
• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates with Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, Fortistar
• Discussion on blood pressure and glucose clinic by Michelle Borrello

The Board of Health postponed the acceptance of the April minutes due to staff absence. Members received monthly reports from sanitary inspectors, the public health nurse, and the assistant executive director. The board scheduled its next meeting for June 13, 2023.

• Postponed acceptance of April minutes (All in favor)
• Scheduled next monthly board meeting for June 13, 2023 (All in favor)

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission is meeting to review routine reports and discuss capital improvements at several parks and cemeteries. The agenda includes a special events request, cemetery and burial reports, and updates from commissioners and staff. Capital improvement discussions will cover Walker Park, Memorial Park, Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion, and Davols.

• Special Events Request
• Capital Improvements: Walker Park
• Capital Improvements: Memorial Park
• Capital Improvements: Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion
• Capital Improvements: Davols

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will convene on May 4, 2023, to handle old business including street acceptance recommendations and subdivision releases, and to hold public hearings on a special permit for an auto repair shop at 515 Middleboro Avenue (requesting a 3-month continuance) and an accessory dwelling unit at 16 Creeping Jenny Lane. The board will also discuss a site plan review for Thrasher Street and approve Form A plans for several lots.

• Public hearing: 515 Middleboro Avenue – special permit/site plan review for 3,320 sq ft auto repair shop with auto sales (58 vehicles), requesting 3-month continuance
• Public hearing: 16 Creeping Jenny Lane – special permit for 1,200 sq ft accessory dwelling unit in Rural Residential District
• Old business: Ashleigh Estates I & II and Steve Drive – release covenant on remaining 2 lots, street acceptance recommendation for Ashleigh Terrace, Manken Rd., Bryan Drive, Steve Drive
• Old business: E-5 Winthrop Lane – completion of subdivision, release of all 3 lots
• Approved Form A plans: 7 plans totaling 15 lots (e.g., 245 Harvey St., 775 John Quincy Adams Rd., 242 School St., 2183 County St., 27 Jefferson St., Myricks St.)

The board voted to release the remaining two lots in Ashleigh Estates, with the condition they be sold as single-family lots and proceeds used for street repairs. It also forwarded a positive recommendation to the Municipal Council for acceptance of Bryan Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Steve Drive, and Manken Road as public ways. Other actions included completing the Winthrop Lane subdivision, assigning an outside consultant for Gracey Estates, granting a continuance for a Middleboro Avenue auto repair shop, and approving an accessory dwelling unit at 16 Creeping Jenny Lane.

• Released remaining 2 lots in Ashleigh Estates, conditioned on single-family sale and proceeds for street repairs (unanimous)
• Forwarded positive recommendation to Municipal Council for acceptance of Bryan Drive, Ashleigh Terrace, Steve Drive, Manken Road as public streets (unanimous)
• Released all 3 lots and found Winthrop Lane subdivision complete, releasing all monies (unanimous)
• Forwarded positive recommendation for Winthrop Lane street acceptance (unanimous)
• Assigned Greenman Pedersen Inc. as outside consultant for Gracey Estates, with $7,000 posting and $4,000 replenishment threshold (unanimous)
• Granted 3-month continuance for 515 Middleboro Avenue auto repair shop special permit (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for accessory dwelling unit at 16 Creeping Jenny Lane (6-0)
• Approved sewer easement instead of homeowners association for Thrasher Street site plan (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council approved a zoning map amendment to change parcel 9-2-0 on Joseph I. Quinn Road from Suburban Residential to Industrial District, following a positive recommendation from the Planning Board. The Mayor reported that voters approved a debt exclusion for the Taunton Public Safety Facility Complex by nearly 66% in a special election. Two appointments were made to the Taunton Cultural Council, and several license renewals and petitions were referred to committees.

• Approved zoning map amendment for parcel 9-2-0 on Joseph I. Quinn Road from Suburban Residential to Industrial (unanimous)
• Appointed Sandy Thomas to Taunton Cultural Council for term expiring April 2026
• Appointed Heather Braga to Taunton Cultural Council for term expiring April 2026
• Referred establishment of Purple Heart gift fund account to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred establishment of Veterans Services gift account to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred internal audit program plan to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred billiard table license renewals (3) to Committee on Police and License
• Referred sewer moratorium waiver petition to Committee on Department of Public Works

City Council

The Committee on Police and License will meet with Detective Rutherford to review several license renewal petitions. These include antique dealer, billiard table, junk collector, livery, pawn broker, and second hand article licenses.

• Renewal of Antique Dealer Licenses for Eantiquebroker Consulting Services and Memorable Memorabilia
• Renewal of Billiard Table Licenses for Atlantic Cafe, Bobby's Place, David F. Adams Post #611 Athletic Association Inc., Frank's Good Times, Inc., Italian Naturalization Club, Inc., and Willy J's Pub
• Renewal of Junk Collector License for Arthur G. Pimenta, Jr.
• Renewal of Junk Dealer License for Scrap Bros. Recycling
• Renewal of Livery License for Link Transportation, Inc.

The City Council's Committee of the Whole heard presentations from Taunton Public Schools and Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School on their proposed FY24 budgets. Councilors expressed support for funding Taunton Public Schools at 100% of net school spending, and the budget presentation was referred to the budget hearing. The Finance Committee approved payroll ($3,954,655.86) and accounts payable ($2,694,216.68) warrants. The Police and License Committee approved multiple license renewals and tabled a new hours of operation request for Platinum City Gaming.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,954,655.86 (unanimous)
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,694,216.68 (unanimous)
• Referred FY24 school budget presentation to budget hearing (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of antique dealer licenses for Eantiquebroker Consulting Services and Memorable Memorabilia (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of 7 billiard table licenses (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of junk collector, junk dealer, livery, old gold, pawn broker, and second-hand article licenses (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of temporary fixed vendor license for Platinum City Gaming (unanimous)
• Tabled new hours of operation license for Platinum City Gaming to allow License Commission review (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on a 135-lot subdivision infiltration basin and a detention basin for Maynard and Hunter Streets. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for several properties to close out existing Orders of Conditions.

• Public hearing for 135 SFH lot subdivision infiltration basin on Winthrop Street
• Public hearing for detention basin off Williams Street to capture stormwater from Maynard & Hunter Streets
• Public hearing for septic system replacement at 205 Myricks Street
• Public hearing for single family home construction on Willis Pond Road
• Review of after-the-fact filing for storage buildings at 388 Harvey Street

The Commission approved an Order of Conditions for a new subsurface sewage system and a single-family home construction. It also issued Negative Determinations for two storage structures and granted a three-year extension for a project on Hamlen Street.

• Approved Order of Conditions for subsurface sewage system at 205 Myricks Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for single-family home at Willis Pond Road
• Issued Negative Determination for storage buildings at 388 Harvey Street
• Issued Negative Determination for shed at 1561 Glebe Street
• Approved three-year extension to Order of Conditions for 55 Hamlen Street
• Approved Amendment to Order of Conditions for pylon sign at 391 Winthrop Street
• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 46 Hamlen Street and 1337 Bay Street
• Continued public hearings for Winthrop Street and Off Williams Street to 6/12/23

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider variance and special permit requests for residential developments and a commercial modification for a farm. The board will review proposals for adding housing units at three different locations and expanding operations at a farm and stable.

• Case #3720: Request for a single family house addition at 179 Washington St.
• Case #3712: Modification for a food truck, outdoor events for up to 310 people, and retail at 123 Dolan Cir.
• Case #3721: Modification of a special permit for 3 family use at 94 Tremont St.
• Case #3722: Request for 8 residential units at 79 1/4 West Britannia St.

The Board approved a roof extension at 5 Purchase St. and a garage variance at 74 Cortland Place. Variance requests for a lot division at 76 Plain St. and a garage addition at 18 Short St. were denied. Other cases were continued to future meetings.

• Approved special permit for roof over existing deck at 5 Purchase St. (5-0)
• Denied variance to divide one lot into two at 76 Plain St. (5-0)
• Approved variance for garage and breezeway at 74 Cortland Place (4-1)
• Denied variance for garage leanto addition at 18 Short St. (5-0)
• Continued case for mixed use building at 49 Weir St. to next month
• Continued case for 8 residential units at 79 ½ W. Britannia St. to June 22nd

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will meet to review the city's Transition Plan and site plan review regulations. The body will also discuss updates regarding handicapped parking tickets and funds, as well as proposed playground updates.

• Update on handicapped parking tickets/funds
• Proposed playground updates
• Transition Plan update
• Discussion on common regulations for Site Plan Reviews

The Commission accepted the minutes from the March 29, 2023 meeting. Members discussed monitoring ADA input for school playground upgrades and the status of handicapped parking ticket funds. The body will explore temporary paths for city events and accessibility grants.

• Approved March 29, 2023 meeting minutes

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission will meet to review airport engineering projects and manager reports. The body will discuss the hiring of an airport manager and the Crosswinds lease.

• Airport Manager hiring
• Crosswinds Lease
• American Aero Septic System
• Fuel survey: $6.30 Avgas and $5.95 Jet A w/ Prist
• State Ethics Review

The Commission approved the March treasurer's report and established a bimonthly meeting schedule. Members voted to activate a 30-day notice for Crosswind if no response is received by May 5 and approved the requirement for documentation regarding hangar transfers after death.

• Approved March Treasurer's report pending audit (All in favor)
• Approved activation of 30-day notice for Crosswind if no response by May 5 (All in favor)
• Approved requirement for documentation on hangar transfers after death (All in favor)
• Approved transition to bimonthly commission meetings (All in favor)
• Approved motion to have DuPont and legal counsel approach the table regarding American Aero septic system (All in favor)

City Council

The Council tabled a proposal by Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant and Verizon New England to relocate poles on Scaddings Street due to resident concerns regarding property access and tree preservation. The matter was referred to the Law Department and the Mayor's Office for further inquiry with Mass D.O.T. and Verizon.

• Tabled relocation of poles 69, 70, 73, 74 and push brace at pole 75 on Scaddings Street
• Reappointed Anne Alexander to Taunton Cultural Council (term expires Oct 2025)
• Reappointed Patricia Francis to Taunton Cultural Council (term expires Oct 2025)
• Approved 2023 Poll Worker appointments for April 29 election
• Referred amended Host Community Agreement for Commonwealth Alternative Care to Committee of the Council as a Whole
• Referred proposal for veterans housing at Taunton Nursing Home site to Public Property Committee, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, and Mayor's Office
• Referred Antique Dealer License renewal for Antiquebroker Consulting Services to Committee on Police and License
• Referred Billiard Table License renewals for Bobby's Place Inc., Atlantic Cafe LLC, and David F. Adams Post #611 to Committee on Police and License

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved the payroll and accounts payable warrants. The Council as a Whole held a pre-review hearing for a mixed-use building proposal at 74 Weir Street, with no final decision made.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,363,486.15
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,400,277.75
• Approved making the Q3 quarterly financial update presentation part of the record

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission will meet to review several major project requests and interoffice communications. The agenda includes discussions on a new substation and the termination of a power purchase agreement.

• Major Project Request for New 115KV fo 13.8 KV Substation #22
• Revision #1 to Major Project #1138
• Termination of Power Purchase Agreement with Palmer Renewable Energy
• Unit #9 Stack Repair Change Order to ICC Commonwealth
• IPV4 Subnet Purchase

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to receive updates on engineering projects and fuel pricing. The body will enter executive session to discuss restaurant and employee contract negotiations and a potential legal litigation matter.

• Fuel survey: $5.95 Jet A and $6.30 Avgas
• Airside inspections update for tiedowns, lights, and fuel farm
• Executive session for restaurant contract negotiations
• Executive session for employee contract negotiations
• Executive session regarding a potential legal litigation matter

Library Trustees

The Board approved a requirement for performers to provide their own CORI checks as part of the auditorium application process. Trustees also voted to consolidate the library card application to include all services, removing the separate internet use form.

• Approved March 2023 minutes
• Approved March 2023 financial report
• Approved March 2023 circulation report
• Approved requirement for performers to provide their own CORI as part of the auditorium application process
• Approved motion that a library card includes all library services, removing the separate internet use form

City Council

The City Council approved a special permit for Lunar Xtracts, LLC to operate a 4,260 sq. ft. marijuana manufacturing establishment at 144 West Britannia Street. The approval includes a condition requiring the installation of odor mitigation controls within 90 days of a verified complaint.

• Approved special permit for Lunar Xtracts, LLC marijuana manufacturing at 144 West Britannia Street
• Conditioned permit on installing odor mitigation within 90 days of a verified complaint by the Board of Health or Building Department

City Council

Several city committees are scheduled to meet on April 18, 2023. Discussions include potential license renewals for local businesses, a request regarding Linden Street, and the placement of a veterans association sign.

• Request to open Linden Street from a 5-year moratorium
• Second Hand Article License petition for The Finds Exchange at 32 Plain Street
• Second Hand Article License petition for Vars World, LLC at 437 Somerset Ave., Apt. 1
• Hackney Carriage License renewals for Taunton Cartage Co, LTD (Checker Cab and Cozy Cab)
• Livery License renewal for Taunton Motorized Carriage Company, Inc.

The Municipal Council committees approved over $9 million in payroll and accounts payable. Several business licenses for second-hand articles and taxi services were granted, and a request to open Linden Street for gas line installation was approved.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,939,782.57
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,230,696.43
• Approved Second Hand Article License for The Finds Exchange at 32 Plain Street
• Approved Second Hand Article License for Vars World, LLC at 437 Somerset Ave., Apt. 1
• Approved Hackney Carriage License renewals for Taunton Cartage Co, LTD (Checker Cab and Cozy Cab)
• Approved Livery License renewal for Taunton Motorized Carriage Company, Inc.
• Requested draft language for notifying abutters regarding temporary vendor licenses
• Approved May 13 dedication date for 'Welcome to Taunton, a Proud Veterans Community' sign

Election Commission

The Election Commission will meet to approve the March 21, 2023, meeting minutes and provide an election update. The meeting includes a period for community input.

• Approval of March 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Election update

The Commission approved the minutes from the March 21, 2023 meeting. The Director provided updates on the Public Safety Building Election schedule and the status of a permanent outside ballot box installation.

• Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is meeting to interview two firms regarding the Harvey Street Property. The agenda also includes other business and adjournment, with no other substantive items listed.

• Interviews for 2 firms regarding the Harvey Street Property
• Other Business
• Adjournment

The Authority interviewed two firms for the Harvey Street project. Members voted unanimously to select North County Group.

• Selected North County Group for the Harvey Street project (unanimous)

License Commission

The Taunton License Commission will vote on several liquor and food service licenses, including a new all-alcoholic beverage license for Deep Pond Farm & Stable. The board will also consider special alcohol permits for church and society events, license amendments, and common victualler applications.

• New Section 12 On-Premise Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License, Entertainment License, and Common Victualler for Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc., 123 Dolan Circle
• Special Alcohol Permits for St. Anthony Church (July 14-15) and Holy Ghost Society (July 7-9)
• Multiple amendments for Italian Social Club (change of officers/directors/manager)
• Waiver requests for police detail requirements for Italian Social Club and Italian Naturalization Club
• Common Victualler applications: Brack's Taunton food truck, Islands Café & Bakery, Jasmine Garden, and 99 Restaurant & Pub change of officers

The Board approved several special alcohol permits for community events and granted a new restaurant alcohol license to Deep Pond Farm & Stable with a 96-person capacity. The Commission also issued common victualler licenses to three businesses and a conditional police detail waiver for the Italian Naturalization Club.

• Approved special alcohol permit for St. Anthony Church for July 14-15 pending insurance certificate (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permit for Holy Ghost Society of East Taunton for July 7-9 (Unanimous)
• Approved Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages License for Deep Pond Farm & Stable with 96-person capacity (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler and Entertainment licenses for Deep Pond Farm & Stable (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional waiver of police details for Italian Naturalization Club for groups under 100 (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler licenses for Islands Café & Bakery and Jasmine Garden, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler license for Brack’s Taunton, LLC pending Board of Health Permit (Unanimous)
• Approved change of officers/directors/LLC manager for 99 West, LLC (Unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing ordinances to establish two departmental revolving funds for school maintenance and Lake Sabbatia initiatives. The body is also considering several license renewals and a new personal kennel license request.

• Proposed School Department Maintenance and Supplies Revolving Fund using 80% of surplus item sale proceeds
• Proposed Lake Sabbatia Revolving Fund using parking lot revenue
• New Grade 1 Personal Kennel License request for 5 Hopewell Street
• Flammable Storage License ownership transfer for 113 Dean Street
• Livery and Hackney Carriage license renewals for Taunton Motorized Carriage Company and Taunton Cartage Co. LTD

The City Council passed two ordinances to a second reading establishing revolving funds for the School Department and Lake Sabbatia. The Council also referred several license renewals and a new kennel license petition to committees or the City Clerk.

• Passed to second reading ordinance for School Department Maintenance and Supplies Revolving Fund
• Passed to second reading ordinance for Lake Sabbatia Revolving Fund
• Approved $1,328,351.43 payroll warrant (Finance Committee)
• Approved $5,498,437.17 accounts payable warrant (Finance Committee)
• Referred three livery/hackney carriage license renewals to Committee on Police and License
• Referred new Grade 1 Personal Kennel License petition for 5 Hopewell Street to City Clerk
• Approved change of ownership for Flammable Storage License at 113 Dean Street
• Authorized Law Department to draft ordinance for elected/appointed official compensation

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers, payroll, and banking initiatives. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills will discuss a process for setting stipends for elected and appointed officials.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Update on banking initiatives, collection, and investment activity
• Discussion of an ordinance regarding stipends for elected and appointed officials

The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills authorized the Law Department to draft an ordinance regarding stipends for elected and appointed officials. The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants and received updates on city banking and collections.

• Approved payroll warrant for $1,328,351.43
• Approved accounts payable warrant for $5,498,437.17
• Authorized Law Department to draft official compensation ordinance within 3 weeks

Board of Health

The Taunton Board of Health is holding its monthly meeting, primarily reviewing routine reports from staff and discussing updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill. The agenda includes approvals of prior minutes, monthly reports from health and sanitary inspectors, and old business items.

• Approval of March Board Meeting Minutes
• Health Agent/Septic Plan Review Agent Monthly Report
• Taunton Sanitary Landfill updates with Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, and Fortistar
• Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative updates

The Board approved the March meeting minutes and scheduled the next monthly meeting for May 9, 2023. Staff provided monthly reports on septic inspections, sanitary inspections, and public health nursing. Executive Director Heather Gallant announced her departure from the City after 16 years.

• Approved March minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next monthly board meeting for May 9, 2023 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission issued Certificates of Compliance for two properties and approved an Order of Conditions for a new in-ground pool. Two garage construction projects received Negative Determinations, and a stormwater detention basin project was continued to May 1, 2023.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 207 Hart Street (B-P Regional Technical School)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 90 Rocky Woods Street (Theilker)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 20' x 40' in-ground pool at 90 Rocky Woods Street
• Issued Negative Determination for garage, deck, and shed removal at 195 Dunbar Street
• Issued Negative Determination for garage and breezeway at 39 Sydneys Way
• Continued public hearing for detention basin at Off Williams Street to 5/1/23
• Continued violation hearing for 16 Park Street to 5/1/23
• Approved Friends of Boyden programs for April and May

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit/site plan review for a 3,320 sq. ft. auto repair shop with auto sales at 515 Middleboro Avenue. The board will also consider releasing bonds and deposits for several subdivisions, and review decisions from neighboring towns' planning boards.

• Public hearing: 515 Middleboro Ave – special permit for 3,320 sq. ft. auto repair shop with auto sales (58 vehicles) and drainage system
• Release of $183,000 plus $21,000 Mylar deposit for Leona's Lane last lot
• Release of $191,714 bond plus $12,000 Mylar deposit for Brian's Way last lot
• Release of $55,400 cash and $300,000 bond for Run Brook Circle (2 lots)
• Release of $196,000 bond plus $12,000 Mylar deposit for Dora Estates last lot

The Board approved a storage yard expansion at 150 John Hancock Rd and a new 2,500 sq. ft. restaurant at 2089-2101 Bay St. It also recommended a zoning change to Industrial for a parcel on Joseph I. Quinn Road and granted several lot releases for residential developments.

• Approved storage yard expansion at 150 John Hancock Rd (6-0)
• Approved site plan for restaurant at 2089-2101 Bay St (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Recommended zoning change from Suburban Residential to Industrial for Parcel I.D. 9-2-0 on Joseph I. Quinn Road (6-0)
• Approved modification to Brian's Way subdivision to replace plantings with 6-foot fencing (6-0)
• Released last lot at Leona’s Lane upon receipt of $403,000 additional surety (6-0)
• Released last lot at Brian’s Way upon receipt of $191,362 additional surety (6-0)
• Released 2 lots at Run Brook Circle with no additional surety (6-0)
• Released last lot at Dora Estates upon receipt of $40,000 additional surety (6-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a special meeting to conduct an executive session regarding a personnel matter. The meeting is scheduled for 1:00 P.M. at the Silver City Conference Room.

• Executive Session to discuss personnel matter

City Council

The Taunton City Council will hear communications from city officers, including a proposal to direct 100% of recreational marijuana Host Community Fees to public safety facility costs, a request to present the annual budget, and DPW proposals for yard waste disposal fees and a senior mattress drop-off program. The council will also consider a kennel license transfer and a new second-hand article license. Committee meetings will discuss stipends for officials and a special permit for a marijuana manufacturing facility.

• Proposal to direct 100% of recreational marijuana Host Community Fees to public safety facility debt/repair
• Request to present annual budget on May 10, 2023
• DPW proposal for yard waste disposal fees at Convenience Center ($2.00 per bag, $25.00 per truck/trailer)
• Senior Mattress Drop-off Tag Program for residents 65+ (one free disposal per fiscal year)
• Special permit pre-review for 4,260 sq. ft. marijuana manufacturing at 144 West Britannia Street

The City Council approved a new fee-based yard waste disposal service at the City's Convenience Center and a mattress drop-off tag program for eligible seniors. The Council also authorized the disposal of two obsolete city vehicles and scheduled the annual budget presentation for May 10.

• Approved yard waste disposal at 340 East Britannia Street with fees ranging from $2.00 to $25.00
• Approved Senior Mattress Drop-off Tag Program for residents 64+ meeting specific income or tax criteria
• Approved listing a 1987 E One Hush Fire Engine and 2000 Chevrolet Transport Bus as surplus or scrap
• Scheduled Annual Budget presentation for May 10, 2023, at 5:30pm
• Referred proposal to direct 100% of recreational Marijuana Host Community Fees to public safety building costs to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred request for Portuguese flag raising ceremony at City Hall to the Mayor's Office
• Approved payroll warrant of $3,971,172.07 and accounts payable warrant of $1,328,654.98
• Referred fire protection cistern water main expansion to Department of Public Works

City Council

The City Council is holding committee meetings to review city payroll and stipends for officials. The Committee of the Council as a Whole will conduct a pre-review of a special permit for a marijuana manufacturing facility.

• Pre-review of Special Permit for Lunar Xtracts, Inc. for a 4,260 sq. ft. marijuana manufacturing establishment at 144 West Britannia Street
• Discussion of an ordinance regarding the process for setting stipends for elected and appointed officials
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• CFO update on revenue trends and the internship program

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved the payroll and accounts payable warrants. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills tabled a discussion on stipends for elected and appointed officials, and the Council as a Whole held a pre-review for a marijuana manufacturing permit.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,971,172.07
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,328,654.98
• Tabled discussion on ordinance for setting official stipends
• Added Attorney Peter Winters' March 31 letter to the record

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will meet to review updates on handicapped parking tickets, sidewalks, and the Transition Plan. The body will also discuss site plan reviews and the Martin bathroom updates.

• Update on handicapped parking tickets, sidewalks, and funds
• Updates regarding Martin bathroom
• Transition Plan update
• Site Plan Reviews

The Commission accepted the minutes from the January 25, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the completion of the Martin bathroom construction and the request for a specific update on the Transition Plan. The Commission also noted it will provide input on plans submitted to the planning board.

• Approved minutes of January 25, 2023 meeting

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission will review project updates from Airport Engineers and Airport Solutions Group. The body will also hold an executive session to discuss potential litigation and restaurant RFP contract negotiations.

• ASOS update
• Airport Engineers and Airport Solutions Group project updates
• Crosswinds lease documents update
• American Aero septic system update
• Fuel survey: $6.30 Avgas and $5.95 Jet A w/ Prist

The Commission approved the February Secretary and Treasurer reports. The board also voted to implement an answering service and noted that hangar projects for Abers and Terra are moving to the law department.

• Approved February Secretary Report (All in favor)
• Approved February Treasurer's report pending audit (All in favor)
• Approved answering service implementation (All in favor)

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission will review project updates from Airport Solutions Group and the status of the Crosswinds lease. The body will also enter executive session to discuss potential litigation and restaurant RFP contract negotiations.

• Airport Solutions Group projects update
• Crosswinds lease documents update
• American Aero septic system update
• Fuel survey: $6.30 Avgas and $5.95 Jet A w/ Prist
• Executive session for restaurant RFP contract negotiations

The Commission approved the February Secretary and Treasurer reports. Members authorized the implementation of an answering service and noted that hangar projects for Abers and Terra are moving to the law department.

• Approved February Secretary Report (All in favor)
• Approved February Treasurer's report pending audit (All in favor)
• Approved answering service implementation (Motion by Jonathan LeMaire)
• Approved Sondra LaPlante payout (Motion by Vice Chairman Rogers)

City Council

The Municipal Council will hold a hearing on a special permit for a marijuana cultivation and manufacturing facility. The body is also considering an ordinance to create a sustainability revenue account and a title change for the procurement department.

• Special permit hearing for an 11,498 sq. ft. marijuana facility at 445 Myles Standish Boulevard
• Proposed Special Revenue Account up to $250,000 for sustainability projects
• Special permit modification for 36 residential units and 1,938 sq. ft. of commercial space at 74 Weir Street
• Petition for a new Second Hand Article License for The Finds Exchange at 32 Plain St.
• Joint petition to relocate poles 69, 70, 73, and 74 starting at 257 Scadding Street

The City Council granted a special permit for an 11,498 sq. ft. marijuana cultivation and manufacturing facility at 445 Myles Standish Boulevard subject to three conditions regarding ventilation and bonding. The Council also approved several city appointments and established a special revenue account for sustainability projects.

• Approved special permit for Greater Goods LLC marijuana facility (7-1)
• Approved $40,000 bond requirement for facility ventilation system
• Approved Special Revenue Account up to $250,000 for sustainability projects (9-0)
• Approved ordinance changing 'Chief Procurement Officer' to 'Director of Procurement' (9-0)
• Appointed Amy Kazlauskas as Director of Human Resources
• Appointed Kristian White as Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer
• Appointed Ally Rodriguez as Director of Veterans Services (9-0)
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,429,459.89 and accounts payable warrant of $5,328,654.36

City Council

The Taunton City Council committees meet on March 28, 2023, to discuss several operational and policy items. The Finance and Salaries Committee reviews weekly vouchers and payroll and hears a software/cybersecurity update. The Police and License Committee considers a Memorial Day Parade request. The Public Property Committee discusses potential reuse of the Taunton Nursing Home with youth organizations. The Solid Waste Committee covers multiple waste and recycling topics, including composting, anaerobic digestion, textile recycling, mattress disposal, condominium recycling, senior trash bags, and curbside service challenges.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for city departments
• Discussion of software and cyber security improvements with Finance Department
• Request for Memorial Day Parade on May 29 at 1:15 PM
• Discussion with youth organizations on reuse of Taunton Nursing Home
• Composting RFP for yard and food waste; anaerobic digestion; textile recycling; mattress disposal in senior trash program; recycling at condominiums; senior trash bag program; curbside service challenges

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $6.7 million. Other committees discussed the potential reuse of the Taunton Nursing Home for youth sports and the inclusion of mattress recycling in the senior trash bag program.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,429,459.89
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,328,654.36
• Approved Memorial Day Parade request for May 29 (referred to Police, Fire, and Safety Officer)
• Approved including mattress recycling in the senior bag program
• Voted to meet with Park and Recreation Director and CFO regarding Taunton Nursing Home reuse
• Voted to schedule executive sessions for condominium recycling and curbside service challenges

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The commission will review monthly burial and maintenance reports. The agenda includes discussions on capital improvements for Walker Park, Memorial Park, Mayflower Hill Cemetery expansion, and Davols.

• Special Events Requests: Taunton River Watershed Alliance, Friends of Boyden, and Downtown Taunton Foundation
• Capital Improvements: Walker Park
• Capital Improvements: Memorial Park
• Capital Improvements: Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion
• Capital Improvements: Davols

The Commission unanimously approved updated Cemetery Rules and Regulations and a revised Marker, Monument and Foundation Installation Policy. Several special event requests for city parks were approved, and a donation for a park bench at Walker Park was authorized.

• Adopted revised Cemetery Rules and Regulations (Unanimous)
• Adopted revised Marker, Monument and Foundation Installation Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved donation of a park bench at Walker Park (Unanimous)
• Approved Music in the Grove at Boyden Wildlife Refuge for May 21, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved River Festival at WEIR Riverfront Park for June 11, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved two educational programs at Boyden Wildlife Refuge for April 29 and May 20, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Taunton Art Jam for May 20, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Downtown Taunton Foundation concert for July 28 and Pumpkin Extravaganza for Oct 27-Nov 1, 2023 (Unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance requests for residential and commercial properties. Decisions include a lot division at 76 Plain St. and a use variance for a tattoo parlor at 429 Bay St.

• Case #3714: Variance for 76 Plain St. to divide one lot into two with Lot 2 at 9,301 sq. ft.
• Case #3715: Use variance for an 800 sq. ft. tattoo parlor at 429 Bay St. with parking requirement waivers
• Case #3716: Special permit and variance for a 123,453 sq. ft. storage company at 33 Chandler Ave
• Case #3717: Variance for a 1,200 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 16 Creeping Jenny Lane

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for a tattoo parlor and a storage facility expansion. A variance for an accessory dwelling unit was also granted. One case regarding a lot division was continued to next month.

• Approved use variance for tattoo parlor at 429 Bay St with 8AM-8PM hours and 3 chairs (5-0)
• Approved variance and special permit for storage company expansion at 33 Chandler Ave, including parking waiver for 50 spaces (5-0)
• Approved variance for 1,200 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 16 Creeping Jenny Lane (5-0)
• Granted continuance for lot division case at 76 Plain St to next month (5-0)

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Authority approved the minutes from the February 22, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the Urban Renewal plan schedule and the process for transferring Harvey Street land to the TRA. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Approved February 22, 2023 meeting minutes
• Agreed to wait for engineering completion before transferring Harvey Street land to the TRA

City Council

The Committee of the Council as a Whole is meeting to conduct a disciplinary hearing for a civil service employee. This meeting may be held in executive session.

• Civil service employee disciplinary hearing

Cable Advisory Commission

The Cable Television Committee is holding a public hearing to determine the city's cable-related needs and interests. This proceeding is part of the renewal process for the Verizon cable television license.

• Public hearing on Verizon cable license renewal (expires December 20, 2023)

City Council

The City Council passed ordinances updating the licensing and fees for transient and temporary fixed-location vendors. The Council also approved a request for in-person early voting for the April 24 special election. Additionally, a parking restriction was ordained for the south side of Governor Street.

• Approved in-person early voting for April 24 special election
• Ordained parking prohibition on south side of Governor Street (8-0)
• Updated Chapter 337 vendor licenses with fees of $200 for transient and $250 for fixed-location vendors (8-0)
• Approved $4,203,488.92 payroll warrant
• Approved $10,722,436.70 accounts payable warrant
• Approved Canyon Harvey as manager for Greatest Hits Marijuana Dispensary
• Approved Eric Tavares as manager for Botera Marijuana Dispensary
• Approved reciprocal easements for Union Block Project at 15-31 Main Street and 22 Merchants Lane

City Council

The Taunton City Council committees will meet on March 21, 2023, to review weekly vouchers and payroll, discuss a request for purchase order records, consider an onsite manager for a marijuana dispensary, and get updates on a building project. These are discussion items, not final votes.

• Review weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discuss request for copies of purchase orders over $10,000 and bid documents over $50,000
• Proposed onsite manager for Botera Marijuana Dispensary at 295 Broadway
• Update on business operations and building projects at 144 West Britannia Street

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved city payroll and accounts payable warrants. The Council as a Whole approved a manager for Botera Marijuana Dispensary and ordered notification of an expired special permit for a property on West Britannia Street.

• Approved payroll warrant of $4,203,488.92
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $10,722,436.70
• Approved Eric Tavares as onsite manager for Botera Marijuana Dispensary
• Referred the process for approving marijuana managers to the Committee of the Council as a Whole
• Voted to notify an individual that their special permit for 144 West Britannia Street has expired

Election Commission

The Commission voted to request a police detail from the City Council for in-person early voting. Members also reviewed the Votes Act and determined that April 27, 2023, did not qualify as a date for in-person early voting.

• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved request for City Council to provide police detail for in-person early voting (unanimous)
• Approved making a letter regarding early voting dates a public record (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review several Notices of Intent regarding septic systems and residential development. The meeting includes a continued hearing for a stormwater detention basin on Williams Street.

• Detention basin construction off Williams Street (Mason/Eastside Development, LLC)
• Septic system repair at 2278 County Street
• Single family home construction at Round Street (41-70)
• Single family home construction at Round Street (41-92)
• Certificate of Compliance for 259 Alfred Lord Boulevard

The Commission approved an Order of Conditions for a septic system repair and two single-family home constructions on Round Street. One project on Williams Street was continued to the April 10, 2023, meeting.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 259 Alfred Lord Boulevard
• Continued public hearing for detention basin at Off Williams Street to 4/10/23
• Approved Order of Conditions for septic system repair at 2278 County Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for single family home at Round Street (41-70)
• Approved Order of Conditions for single family home at Round Street (41-92) with special condition to slope driveway and create a swale

TMLP Commission

The Commission will review several regular warrants and discuss a major project request for a new substation. The meeting includes a presentation on proposed changes to TMLP bill presentment.

• Major Project Request: New L15KYV to 13.8 KV Substation
• Emergency Repair Authorization Request for CM Towers Cooling Tower
• Presentation regarding Bundled vs. Unbundled proposed changes to TMLP Bill Presentment
• Review of Regular Warrants from February 23, March 2, March 9, and March 16, 2023

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will consider several new license applications for restaurants and clubs. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a Taunton Police Report incident involving Yamato Japanese Steakhouse.

• Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc. (123 Dolan Circle) restaurant and entertainment license application
• Irmandade do Espirito Santo de Santissma Trindade de Taunton special alcohol permit for June 23-25
• Yamato Japanese Steakhouse discussion of Police Report Incident #23-002365
• Torched Kitchen & Bar (15 School St.) Common Victualler's License application
• Common Victualler License applications for West Congregational Church, 7-Eleven, Inc., and Weir Dogs

The Board suspended alcohol sales at Yamato Japanese Steakhouse for five days after underage individuals were served at the bar. Several local clubs and restaurants were granted conditional waivers for police detail requirements, and a special alcohol permit was approved for a June event.

• Issued 5-day alcohol sales suspension to Yamato Japanese Steakhouse from April 15 to April 19 (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permit for Irmandade do Espirito Santo de Santissma Trindade de Taunton for June 23-25 (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional police detail waivers for Taunton Sports Club, Segregansett Country Club, Holy Ghost of East Taunton, Home Plate, New Ward Five Inc., and David F. Adams Post 611 (Unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler License for Torched Kitchen & Bar (Unanimous)
• Approved late Common Victualler applications for West Congregational Church, 7-Eleven, and Weir Dogs (Unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Deep Pond Farm & Stable, Inc. license applications to April meeting (Unanimous)
• Changed meeting schedule to the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. (Unanimous)
• Accepted February 15, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review February 2023 financial and circulation reports. The meeting includes discussions on personnel, programming, and an ongoing carpet project.

• February FY23 Financial Report
• February FY23 Circulation Report
• Personnel and programming updates
• Carpet Project

The Board approved the February 2023 minutes, financial report, and circulation report. Trustees determined that two vacant library assistant positions must be filled as soon as possible to avoid staffing hardships. Discussions were held regarding a new application process and CORI check requirements for auditorium use.

• Approved February 2023 minutes
• Approved February 2023 financial report
• Approved February 2023 circulation report
• Decided to submit job requisition forms to fill two vacant library assistant positions

City Council

The Municipal Council is reviewing ordinances to regulate temporary and transient vendors and a proposal to create a sustainability special revenue account. The body is also considering a zoning change for a property on Joseph I. Quinn Road.

• Zoning change petition for Parcel 9-2-0 on Joseph I. Quinn Road from Suburban residential to Industrial
• Proposed Special Revenue Account for sustainability projects not to exceed $250,000
• Ordinance establishing $200 fee for transient vendor licenses and $250 fee for temporary fixed-location vendor licenses
• Parking ordinance amendment for the south side of Governor Street
• Reappointment of Robert Pirozzi as Building Commissioner and Paul White as Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer

The City Council ordered an administrative program review of the Taunton Municipal Airport and approved conditional employment offers for three firefighter candidates. The Council also advanced ordinances regarding parking on Governor Street and vendor licensing, while rejecting a motion to move the plastic bag ban discussion to the Council as a Whole.

• Approved conditional employment offers for Marc Charbonneau, Steven Hutchins, and Andrew Trainor (9-0)
• Approved administrative program review of Taunton Municipal Airport
• Approved reappointment of Robert Pirozzi as Building Commissioner
• Approved reappointment of Paul White as Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer
• Approved $70,388.72 transfer from Reserve Account to Bristol Agricultural School Assessment
• Passed to second reading: Special Revenue Account for Sustainability projects (max $250,000)
• Passed to third reading: Parking prohibition on South side of Governor Street
• Passed to third reading: Updated vendor licensing regulations (Chapter 337)

City Council

Various city council committees are meeting to review financial transfers, local ordinances, and licensing petitions. The sessions include discussions on public property easements and the management of a marijuana dispensary.

• Proposed transfer of $70,388.72 from Reserve Account to Bristol Agricultural School Assessment
• Discussion of an ordinance to reduce single use plastic bags
• Renewal of Fortune Teller License for Bissie’s Palm Reading at 103 Main Street
• Proposed onsite manager for Greatest Hits Marijuana Dispensary at 9 Cape Road
• Reciprocal easements for Union Block Project at 15-31 Main Street and 22 Merchants Lane

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $3 million and created a revolving fund for Lake Sabbatia using parking revenue. The Council also approved a manager for a marijuana dispensary and reciprocal easements for the Union Block Project. A proposal to restrict single-use plastic bags was defeated in a roll call vote.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,340,998.06
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,733,985.72
• Approved $70,388.72 transfer from Reserve Account to Bristol Agricultural School Assessment
• Established revolving fund for Lake Sabbatia initiatives funded by $8/day parking revenue
• Referred board and committee stipends matter to the Ordinance Committee
• Approved Fortune Teller License renewal for Bissie’s Palm Reading
• Approved Canyon Harvey as manager for Greatest Hits Marijuana Dispensary
• Approved reciprocal easements for Union Block Project (1, 15-31 Main Street and 22 Merchants Lane)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review monthly reports from health agents, sanitary inspectors, and nursing staff. The meeting includes updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill and a proposal to revise tobacco sale regulations to align with state laws.

• Updates on Taunton Sanitary Landfill involving Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, and Fortistar
• Proposed revision of Board of Health regulations restricting the sale of tobacco products
• Monthly reports from Health Agent/Septic Plan Review Agent, Sanitary Inspectors, Public Health Nurse, and Executive Directors

Youth Commission

The commission is reviewing progress on a college tour and social media initiatives. Members are also discussing potential city skate parks and upcoming basketball events.

• Appointment of Nathan Machado as Treasurer
• College Tour progress report by Dayna Mbugua
• Social media progress report by Isaiah Windle
• Mayor's League teen basketball sponsored by the YMCA
• Basketball tournament at BP on March 13, 14, and 15

City Council

The Committee on The Fire Department interviewed eight candidates for firefighter positions. The committee voted to extend conditional offers of employment to three of the candidates.

• Approved conditional offers of employment to Marc Charbonneau, Steven Hutchins, and Andrew Trainor (9-0)

Cable Advisory Commission

The Cable Advisory Commission is coordinating a public hearing for the renewal of the Verizon cable franchise contract. The city is officially in the ascertainment window for these negotiations. The commission is also monitoring two state-level bills regarding digital entertainment and public meeting participation.

• Public hearing notice for Verizon Contract Renewal posted at City Hall
• Legal notice for Verizon hearing scheduled for publication in the Taunton Daily Gazette on March 7, 2023
• Monitoring S.2200: An Act Relative to Digital Entertainment On Public Rights Of Way
• Monitoring H.3152: An Act To Modernize Participation in Public Meeting
• Search for a fifth Commissioner to fully staff the commission

Parking Commission

The Taunton Parking Commission is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss parking matters. The agenda includes discussions regarding Lake Sabbatia and Galligan's Court.

• Lake Sabbatia parking
• Galligan's Court

The Commission revised parking fees at the Sabbatia Lake Boat Ramp to a flat rate. Members also received a project update regarding Galligan’s Court and pending sewer work.

• Approved minutes from February 21, 2023 meeting
• Revised regulation 301-07 to set Sabbatia Lake Boat Ramp parking fees at $8.00 per day for all vehicles

City Council

The City Council will hold a continued public hearing on a special permit for a 10-unit group home with a parking waiver at 74 Weir Street. The petitioner has requested a continuance to August 15, 2023. The Council will also consider a budget transfer of $70,388.72 for the Bristol Agricultural School assessment, a retirement buyout payment of $23,426.62, and a first reading of an ordinance changing the title 'Chief Procurement Officer' to 'Director of Procurement'.

• Continued hearing on special permit for 10-unit group home at 74 Weir Street with parking waiver
• Request to transfer $70,388.72 from Reserve Account to Bristol Agricultural School assessment
• Retirement buyout of $23,426.62 for Jeff Riccitelli from Veterans Service Department
• First reading of ordinance to rename 'Chief Procurement Officer' to 'Director of Procurement'
• Request to accept $100 donation for elder services in memory of Marie Breen

The City Council passed a first reading of an ordinance to rename the Chief Procurement Officer position to Director of Procurement. The council also approved a retirement buyout for a Veterans Service Department employee and a $100 donation for elders.

• Passed first reading of ordinance to rename Chief Procurement Officer to Director of Procurement
• Approved retirement buyout for Jeff Riccitelli in the amount of $23,426.62
• Approved $100.00 donation in memory of Marie Breen to assist elders
• Approved payroll warrant of $3,807,577.15
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,429,553.00
• Continued hearing for 10-unit group home special permit at 74 Weir Street to August 15, 2023
• Referred $70,388.72 Bristol Agricultural School assessment fund transfer to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred request for Lake Sabbatia revolving fund to Committee on Finance and Salaries

City Council

The Committee on Finance and Salaries will review weekly vouchers and payroll. The Committee on Public Health and Environmental Affairs will discuss creating a special revenue account for taxes from the sale and conversion of Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B land.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discussion on special revenue account for rollback and conveyance taxes from Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B land sales

The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved two warrants for city payments. The Committee on Public Health and Environmental Affairs discussed creating a special revenue account for rollback taxes and referred the item to a future agenda.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,807,577.15
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $5,429,553.00
• Voted to add the proposal for a sustainability special revenue account to next week's agenda with potential amendments

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for three new development proposals. The body will also review requests for certificates of compliance and one amendment to an existing order of conditions.

• Public hearing for site access, parking, and utilities at Hart Street
• Public hearing for a 4,800 sf auto service shop and office at Cape Road
• Public hearing for a storm water detention basin off Williams Street
• Amendment request for paver walkways, steps, and deck at 6 West Summer Street
• Executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding a violation at 27 Blinn’s Court

The Commission issued Orders of Conditions for site development on Hart Street and an auto service shop on Cape Road. Two Certificates of Compliance were issued, while two others were continued due to unstable vegetation. A project off Williams Street was continued pending revised drainage plans.

• Issued Order of Conditions for Hart Street site development (approved)
• Issued Order of Conditions for Cape Road auto service shop (approved)
• Approved amendment for paver walkways, steps, and deck at 6 West Summer Street (4-1)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 90 Prince Henry Drive (approved)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 469 Cohannet Street (approved)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance for 1404 Cohannet Street to May 1, 2023
• Continued Certificate of Compliance for 1414 Cohannet Street to May 1, 2023
• Continued NOI for Williams Street detention basin to March 20, 2023

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will hold public hearings on two major site plan reviews: a 3,320 sq ft auto repair and sales facility at 515 Middleboro Avenue, and a 7,000 sq ft marijuana cultivation and retail facility at Hart Street. The board will also consider approving minutes from the previous meeting and hold an executive session on pending litigation.

• Public Hearing: Special Permit/Site Plan Review for auto repair and sales facility at 515 Middleboro Avenue (3,320 sq ft, 58 vehicles)
• Public Meeting: Site Plan Review for marijuana cultivation and retail facility at Hart Street (7,000 sq ft, 2 stories)
• Approval of minutes from February 2, 2023
• Executive session with Law Department regarding pending litigation

The Planning Board approved a site plan for a 7,000 sq. ft. marijuana cultivation and retail facility on Hart Street, including several landscaping waivers. A request for a special permit for an auto repair shop at 515 Middleboro Avenue was continued to April 6, 2023.

• Approved site plan for 7,000 sq. ft. marijuana cultivation and retail facility at Hart Street (7-0)
• Granted landscaping waivers for Hart Street project including 50% reduction of side yard landscaping to 12.5 feet
• Approved minutes of Feb. 2, 2023
• Continued public hearing for 515 Middleboro Avenue auto repair shop to April 6, 2023 (7-0)

City Council

The Municipal Council is reviewing proposed ordinances to regulate temporary and transient vendors, including new fee structures. The body is also considering a special permit for a marijuana manufacturing site and addressing city claims and equipment disposal.

• Special permit request for a 4,260 sq. ft. marijuana manufacturing establishment at 144 West Britannia Street
• Proposed ordinance for transient vendor licenses with a $200 fee and temporary fixed-location vendor licenses with a $250 fee
• Proposed parking prohibition on the south side of Governor Street
• Request from Director of Technology to dispose of old IT equipment including Dell desktops and Lenovo laptops
• Claims for automobile damages from potholes at 545 Middleboro Ave. and 59 Old Colony Ave.

The Council passed two ordinances to a second reading regarding parking on Governor Street and the licensing of temporary and transient vendors. The body also referred several airport-related financial requests and a marijuana manufacturing permit to further review.

• Passed ordinance to a second reading prohibiting parking on the south side of Governor Street
• Passed ordinance to a second reading updating licensing and fees for temporary and transient vendors
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,243,948.90 and accounts payable warrant of $1,380,127.71
• Approved disposition of old IT equipment
• Referred marijuana manufacturing permit for 144 West Britannia Street to City Clerk for public hearing
• Referred request for Airport Enterprise Account and 2022-2023 airport payments to City Treasurer and Auditor
• Referred request for Law Offices of Anderson & Kreiger expenditures to City Auditor
• Approved replacing non-ISO compliant handicapped parking signs

City Council

The Municipal Council's various committees are scheduled to meet on February 28, 2023. Discussions include solid waste management, a proposed procurement title change, and ADA transition updates.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll
• Proposed title change from Chief Procurement Officer to Director of Procurement
• ADA 2nd Quarter transition report and implementation updates
• Discussion on composting RFP for yard and food waste
• Discussion regarding trash trucks using Bassett Street as a cut through

The Finance and Salaries Committee approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $2.6 million. The Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills approved a title change for the Chief Procurement Officer to Director of Procurement. The ADA Committee ordered the replacement of non-compliant parking signs and requested TCID representation on the Public Safety Building Committee.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,243,948.90
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,380,127.71
• Approved title change from Chief Procurement Officer to Director of Procurement
• Approved replacement of handicapped parking signs lacking ISO symbols
• Approved contacting Safety Officer regarding sidewalk parking at Planet Petroleum
• Approved request for Mayor to include two TCID representatives on Public Safety Building Committee
• Referred Bassett Street trash truck traffic issue to the Safety Officer
• Combined multiple solid waste file items regarding the Aries project

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several applications for special permits and variances. These items include requests for residential lot divisions, sign size changes, and new business uses.

• Special Permit for two-family use on 6 lots on Brookside Avenue
• Special Permit for a tattoo parlor at 144 Cohannet St.
• Variance for a seasonal food truck and outdoor events at 123 Dolan Circle
• Variance to demolish an existing home and build a 3-family dwelling at 5 Albro Ave.
• Variance for a 64 sq. ft. sign at 391 Winthrop St.

The Board granted several petitions for business use variances, including a tattoo studio and a farm event venue. Residential approvals were given for a three-family dwelling and lot divisions, while one request for a lot division was continued to March.

• Granted 6-month extension for 3 Barnum Street
• Approved Special Permit for tattoo/body piercing studio at 144 Coahannet St (5-0)
• Approved dry area variance for single family home at Willis Pond Rd (4-0)
• Approved use variances for food truck, entertainment, and retail at 123 Dolan Circle (4-1)
• Approved demolition and construction of 3-family dwelling at 5 Albro Ave (5-0)
• Approved sign variance for 391 Winthrop St and refunded $200 filing fee (5-0)
• Approved two-family use on 6 lots at Brookside Ave with drainage conditions (5-0)
• Approved lot division for single family dwelling at 81 Cotley St (4-0)

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority is meeting to receive a final presentation on the Northeastern Student Reed and Barton Project. The body will also discuss the transfer of the Harvey Street property and MassDevelopment funding programs.

• Final presentation on Northeastern Student Reed and Barton Project
• Discussion on future Northeastern Student Project submittal
• Next steps to deed the Harvey Street Property to the Authority
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

Airport Commission

The Commission will receive updates on engineering projects from Airport Solutions Group and review the January 2023 Secretary and Treasurer reports. The meeting includes discussions regarding Crosswinds lease documents and the American Aero septic system.

• Airport Engineers Projects Update (Airport Solutions Group)
• Crosswinds Lease Documents Update
• American Aero Septic System Update
• Fuel Survey: $6.30 Avgas and $5.95 Jet A w/ Prist

The Commission approved the January 2023 Secretary Report and the January 2023 Treasurer's Report pending audit. Members received updates on an aeronautical study for Runway 12-30 and the status of several airport infrastructure projects.

• Approved January 2023 Secretary Report (unanimous)
• Approved January 2023 Treasurer's Report pending audit (unanimous)

Parking Commission

The Taunton Parking Commission is meeting to review parking management and infrastructure. Discussions include surveillance for the parking garage and regulations for oversized vehicles in municipal lots.

• Parking Garage cameras
• Lake Sabbatia parking
• Parking of campers, motorhomes and trailers in municipal lots
• Charging stations at the Pleasant Street lot
• Galligan’s Court

The Commission approved a $30,000 camera system for the Leonard Street Parking Garage and established new parking regulations and fees for Lake Sabbatia. Additionally, a new regulation was adopted to prohibit overnight parking for campers, trailers, and car carriers in municipal lots.

• Approved approximately $30,000 for a new camera system at Leonard Street Parking Garage
• Adopted regulation §301-06 regarding Lake Sabbatia boat ramp launching and parking guidelines
• Adopted regulation §301-07 setting Lake Sabbatia parking fees at $8.00/day and $35.00 for non-Massachusetts vehicles
• Adopted regulation §301-05 prohibiting overnight parking of campers, trailers, and car carriers in municipal lots between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. without permission
• Accepted minutes from the January 10, 2023 meeting

Election Commission

The Taunton Election Department will hold a meeting on February 21, 2023, to consider new business including in-person early voting, a vote-by-mail receptacle, and the April 29 referendum. The commission will also discuss MGL 41.110a under old business. Public comment will be taken at the start of the meeting.

• In-person early voting procedures
• Vote by mail receptacle
• April 29 referendum
• Discussion of MGL 41.110a

The Election Commission approved a schedule for in-person early voting for the Public Safety Building referendum and recommended the plan to City Council. The commission also recommended that City Council adopt Mass General Law Chapter 41 Sect. 110A.

• Approved meeting minutes of January 17, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved including 2022 statistical voting information into the record (unanimous)
• Approved in-person early voting for the April 29 Public Safety Building referendum (unanimous)
• Approved early voting hours: Mon 8am-2pm, Tue 8am-7pm, Wed 8am-2pm, Thu 8am-2pm, Fri no early voting (unanimous)
• Voted to send letter to City Council recommending approval of the early voting schedule (unanimous)
• Voted to send letter to City Council recommending adoption of MGL 41.110a (unanimous)

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission will meet to review project requests and administrative appointments. The body will consider a SCADA upgrade and a system impact study for a major project.

• Major Project Request for SCADA Upgrade
• Major Project Request for System Impact Study
• Appointment of Outside Director from Energy New England
• Presentation from Leddy School
• Retirement of William Strojny effective March 17, 2023

City Council

The Municipal Council is reviewing the appointment of two permanent full-time police officers and a legal opinion regarding a School Committee stipend increase from $6,000 to $12,000. The body is also considering the Mayor's authority to remove appointed board members.

• Appointment of two (2) permanent full-time police officers
• Legal review of School Committee stipend increase from $6,000 to $12,000
• Request from GTAAVC President Ernest Cardoza to conduct a Memorial Day Parade on May 29, 2023
• Proposed transfer of $683,000, $136,000, and $1,181,000 to Bennett School Sewer Extension
• Discussion of a proposed Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance

The Municipal Council approved transferring $2 million from sewer enterprise and retained earnings funds to extend sewers to Bennett School and Oakland Fire Station. The Council also moved to modernize the Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance and referred several administrative and licensing matters to committees.

• Approved $2M transfer for Bennett School Sewer Extension
• Approved $3,941,057.31 payroll warrant
• Approved $1,517,339.22 accounts payable warrant
• Approved creation of a revolving fund for School Department maintenance and supplies
• Approved renewal of Fortune Teller's License for Dawn Lorraine
• Approved first reading of Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance with fee kept at $200
• Denied motion to require business plans for all cannabis retail licenses/HCAs
• Tabled title change of 'Chief Procurement Officer' to 'Director of Procurement'

City Council

Three city council committees are meeting to review financial transfers, licensing petitions, and proposed ordinances. The Finance and Salaries Committee will consider moving funds for the Bennett School Sewer Extension. Other discussions include parking safety on West Water Street and a new Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance.

• Proposed transfer of $683,000, $136,000, and $1,181,000 to Bennett School Sewer Extension
• Proposed creation of a revolving fund for School Department maintenance and supplies
• Petition to renew Fortune Teller’s License for Dawn Lorraine at 159 Silverwood Drive
• Proposed Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance
• Review of no parking, speeding, and safety issues on West Water Street from Fifth to Third Streets

The Council approved over $2 million in sewer fund transfers for school and fire station extensions and authorized a new revolving fund for school supplies. A revised Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance was moved to first reading with fees held at $200. The Police and License Committee ordered the DPW to install missing parking signs on West Water Street.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,941,057.31
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,517,339.22
• Approved transfer of $1,900,000 to Bennett School Sewer Extension
• Approved creation of revolving fund for School Department maintenance and supplies
• Approved renewal of Fortune Teller's License for Dawn Lorraine
• Ordered DPW to install parking signs on West Water Street within two weeks
• Moved Temporary and Transient Vendor Ordinance to first reading (fee kept at $200)
• Tabled title change of Chief Procurement Officer to Director of Procurement

Library Trustees

The Taunton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve the January FY23 minutes, financial report, and circulation report. New business includes personnel and programming updates, while old business covers the carpet project. The meeting is open to the public.

• Approval of January FY23 Financial Report
• Approval of January FY23 Circulation Report
• Discussion of Carpet Project (old business)
• Personnel and programming updates (new business)

The Board approved a contract with Metro Floor Covering Inc. for carpeting in the director's office, literacy office, and two meeting rooms. Trustees also accepted the January 2023 financial report and minutes, and the December 2022 circulation report.

• Approved $9,991 quote from Metro Floor Covering Inc. for carpet project
• Approved January 2023 minutes
• Approved January 2023 financial report
• Approved December 2022 circulation report

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will consider a new all-alcohol license and a special permit for wine and malt beverages. The board will also review several late applications for common victualler licenses and requests to waive police detail requirements.

• New On-Premises Section 12 All Alcohol License application for Torched Kitchen & Bar at 15 School Street
• Special Alcohol Permit for Wine/Malt Beverages for Old Colony History Museum at 66 Church Green
• License transfer hearing for Joao Vaz Restaurant LLC at 4 Alger Avenue
• Common Victualler License applications for Jade Lee Kitchen, Hometown Tacos Locos, Wendy's, Edible Arrangements, Uplifted Nutrition, Tex Berry's, and Associates for Human Services
• Police detail requirement waiver requests for Sherwood Entertainment, Taunton Portuguese American Civic Club, Holy Ghost of East Taunton, Taunton Lodge of Elks #150, Brack's Taunton, and Taunton Eagles Soccer Club

The Board approved a new all-alcohol license for Torched Kitchen & Bar and a license transfer for Joao Vaz Restaurant LLC. Several organizations received conditional waivers for police detail requirements, and seven common victualler licenses were approved.

• Approved On-Premises Section 12 All Alcohol License for Chaddy’s LLC d/b/a Torched Kitchen & Bar (Unanimous)
• Approved license transfer from Ilhia Brava, Inc. d/b/a T J’s Diner to Joao Vaz Restaurant, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permits for Old Colony History Museum for 7 dates (Unanimous)
• Approved police detail waiver for Sherwood Entertainment, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional police detail waiver for Taunton Portuguese American Civic Club (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional police detail waiver for Taunton Lodge of Elks #150 (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional police detail waiver for Brack’s Taunton, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional police detail waiver for Taunton Eagles Soccer Club (Unanimous)

Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission

The Parks, Cemeteries & Public Grounds Commission is meeting to review cemetery reports and policies. The body will also discuss capital improvements for several city parks and cemeteries.

• Cemetery Policies revisions and Pre Need Sales
• Walker Park capital improvements
• WIER Riverfront Park Splash Pad capital improvements
• Mayflower Hill Cemetery Expansion
• Memorial Park capital improvements

The Commission approved a request for Zumba classes at Hopewell Park Pavilion from July 5 to September 27, 2023. Members also reviewed reports on cemetery burials, maintenance, and recreation, and received updates on several capital projects.

• Approved Zumba Class request for Hopewell Park Pavilion (Unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will receive monthly reports from health agents, sanitary inspectors, and the executive director. The meeting includes updates on the Taunton Sanitary Landfill and a specific local upgrade request for a property line setback.

• Updates on Taunton Sanitary Landfill involving Kevin Duquette, Waste Management, and Fortistar
• Local upgrade request for a property line setback at 91 Berkley Street
• Updates on Western Bristol County Tobacco Prevention Collaborative

City Council

The Municipal Council will consider a DPW request to transfer $2 million from Sewer Enterprise funds to extend sewer service to Bennett Elementary School and Oakland Fire Station, replacing septic systems. The council will also hear a request from Eversource to start gas main construction a month early, and a request from St. Anthony's Church to hold its 21st annual walking prayer pilgrimage on March 25.

• DPW requests $2M transfer from Sewer Enterprise funds for sewer extension to Bennett Elementary School and Oakland Fire Station
• Eversource requests early start to 2023 construction season for gas main replacements on Floral, Granite, and Maple streets
• St. Anthony's Church requests permission for 21st annual Walking Prayer Pilgrimage on March 25
• Councilor Duarte proposes creating a special revenue account for Chapter 61 land conversion taxes
• Planning Board notifies council of two upcoming hearings: auto repair shop at 515 Middleboro Ave. and marijuana facility on Hart Street

The City Council approved a requirement for the City Clerk and Clerk of Committees to provide cannabis business plans and documentation to the Council one week before meetings. The Council also approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $5.9 million.

• Approved requirement for cannabis business plans to be provided one week before meetings
• Approved payroll warrant of $1,472,773.90
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $4,509,882.89
• Approved 21st Annual Walking Prayer Pilgrimage for March 25, 2023
• Granted Eversource Energy permission for early construction season starting March 6, 2023
• Referred $2,044,000 sewer extension request for Bennett Elementary and Oakland Fire Station to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred request for maintenance and supplies revolving fund to Committee on Finance and Salaries
• Referred procurement department title change to Committee on Ordinances and Enrolled Bills

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss a proposal requiring cannabis license holders and HCAs to provide business plans to the Council and Police and License. The Committee on Finance and Salaries will also review weekly vouchers and payroll.

• Proposal for cannabis license holders and HCAs to submit business plans
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments

The Committee of the Council as a Whole voted to require the City Clerk and Clerk of Committees to provide business plans and documentation for cannabis licenses one week before meetings. Additionally, the Committee on Finance and Salaries approved payroll and accounts payable warrants.

• Approved payroll warrant in the amount of $1,472,773.90
• Approved accounts payable warrant in the amount of $4,509,882.89
• Voted to request City Clerk and Clerk of Committees provide cannabis business plans and documentation to Council one week before meetings

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is reviewing several Notice of Intent (NOI) applications for residential construction and parking lot resurfacing. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for four properties to close out Orders of Conditions.

• Public hearing for a 135 SFH lot subdivision infiltration basin on Winthrop Street
• Public hearing for a SFH with attached garage and landscaping on Saco Street
• Public hearing for resurfacing and asphalt removal at 397 Winthrop Street
• Public hearing for resurfacing and asphalt removal at 400 Winthrop Street
• Executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding a violation at 27 Blinn’s Court

The Commission approved Orders of Conditions for a new home on Saco St and parking lot resurfacing at two Winthrop St locations. Several certificates of compliance and a subdivision hearing were continued to future dates. Steven Turner and Debra Botellio were elected Chair and Vice Chair for 2023.

• Approved Order of Conditions with Special Conditions for SFH construction at Saco St (SE 73-3033)
• Approved Order of Conditions with Special Conditions for parking resurfacing at 397 Winthrop St (SE 73-3034)
• Approved Order of Conditions with Special Conditions for parking resurfacing at 400 Winthrop St (SE 73-3035)
• Issued an ORAD for resource area delineation at 1141 County Street (SE73-3019)
• Elected Steven Turner as Chair and Debra Botellio as Vice Chair for 2023
• Approved minutes of January 23, 2022
• Continued certificates of compliance for 162 Dunbar St, 38 Winthrop St, 890 Glebe St, and 46 Hamlen St
• Continued Executive Session and 27 Blinns Court violation hearing to March 6, 2023

Department of Human Services / Council on Aging

The Department of Human Services Board will meet via Zoom to review the Director's report and discuss program updates. The body will address COVID-19 impacts, grant funding, and personnel updates.

• Approval of November 9, 2022 minutes
• Updates on Elder Outreach/SHINE and Senior Center activities
• Community Relations Program/Emergency Fund report
• Taunton Opioid Task Force update
• Updates on City, ARPA, and grant funding

City Council

The City Council is meeting to review city payroll and vouchers. Members will also discuss the proposed expansion of the Tax Deferral Program and the City's right of first refusal for 456 Tremont Street.

• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Proposed expansion of the Tax Deferral Program
• City's right of first refusal for 456 Tremont Street

The Municipal Council approved three changes to the Tax Deferral and Recovery Program to increase eligibility and lower interest rates. The Council also voted to decline the city's right of first refusal to purchase a 4.7-acre parcel at 456 Tremont Street.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,815,170.05
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $9,915,526.64
• Increased Tax Deferral Program poverty threshold to $35,341 (married) and $29,014 (single) (9-0)
• Reduced Tax Deferral Program interest rate from 8% to 4% (9-0)
• Voted to seek home rule petition to lower Tax Deferral Program age from 65 to 60 (9-0)
• Declined right of first refusal to purchase 456 Tremont Street for $650,000 (8-1)

City Council

The Taunton City Council will hold a hearing on a special permit for a 10-unit group home at 74 Weir Street and consider a request from the mayor to appropriate $79.1 million for a new Public Safety Complex at 90 County Street, including a $67.7 million debt exclusion that would go to voters on April 29, 2023. The council will also hear a petition from Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant to install a new street light on Washington Street.

• Request for $79.1 million appropriation for a new Public Safety Complex at 90 County Street, with $67.7 million debt exclusion to be put to voters
• Special permit hearing for a 10-unit group home with parking waiver at 74 Weir Street
• Petition to place one new electric street light on Washington Street by Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant
• Communication from City Planner submitting ADA Transition Update
• Proposed Home Rule Petition for a property tax deferral for seniors

The Council voted to appropriate $67.7 million for a new public safety building, pending voter approval in a special election on April 29, 2023. Additionally, the Council expanded the senior tax deferral program and approved a new street light on Washington Street.

• Appropriated $67.7M for new public safety building (9-0)
• Approved ballot question for debt exclusion for public safety building (9-0)
• Increased senior tax deferral poverty threshold to $35,341 married / $29,014 single (9-0)
• Reduced senior tax deferral interest rate from 8% to 4% (9-0)
• Decreased senior tax deferral entry age from 65 to 60 via Home Rule petition (9-0)
• Approved TMLP petition for one new electric street light on Washington Street
• Denied right of first refusal to purchase 456 Tremont Street
• Continued special permit hearing for 10-unit group home at 74 Weir Street to March 7, 2023

Airport Commission

The Taunton Municipal Airport Commission (TMAC) will hold a special meeting on January 25, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. The agenda includes an executive session for restaurant RFP contract negotiations, an update from airport engineers on projects, and the airport manager's report on fuel prices and airside inspections. No public input is scheduled.

• Executive session for Restaurant RFP Contract Negotiations
• Airport Engineers Projects Update
• Fuel Survey: Jet A $5.95, Avgas $6.30
• Airside Inspections: Tiedowns, Lights, Fuel Farm update
• Next regular meeting: February 22, 2023

The Commission entered executive session to review the language of a restaurant Request for Proposals (RFP) document. After discussing necessary updates, omissions, and additions, the Commission voted to accept the RFP subject to those changes.

• Approved restaurant RFP subject to identified changes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Taunton Planning Board will hold a public meeting on a site plan review for demolishing the existing school building and track at 207 Hart Street and constructing a new 416,000-square-foot school with parking and athletic fields, submitted by Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical School. The board will also hold public hearings on special permits for accessory dwelling unit renewals at 220 Segreganset Road and 4 Nelton Avenue, and for converting two commercial units into five residential units and one office at 274 Broadway/5 Whittenton Street. Old business includes a request for a six-month extension on a special permit and site plan review for a convenience store with drive-thru, car wash, and gas station at 2318 Bay Street.

• 207 Hart Street: Site plan review for demolition of existing school and construction of new 416,000 sq. ft. school building, parking, and athletic fields
• 274 Broadway (5 Whittenton St.): Special permit to convert 2 commercial units into 5 residential units and 1 office in an existing mixed-use building
• 220 Segreganset Road: Public hearing on renewal of an accessory dwelling unit special permit (Wade Reyes)
• 4 Nelton Avenue: Public hearing on renewal of an accessory dwelling unit special permit (Phyllis Harraghy, executor of Eva Thornley Estate)
• 2318 Bay Street: Request for 6-month extension on special permit and site plan review for convenience store with drive-thru, car wash, and gas station

City Council

The Taunton Municipal Council will consider reappointing Thomas Bernier and Roland Robillard to the Golf Course Commission, receive the Calendar Year 2023 Retirement Expense Budget and FY2024 Pension Fund Appropriation, and discuss a request to renew a Host Community Agreement for a medical cannabis facility. The council will also hear a request from Councilor Larry Quintal to support a 'Welcome to Taunton, a Proud Veterans Community' sign.

• Reappointment of Thomas Bernier to the Golf Course Commission for a term expiring August 2025
• Reappointment of Roland Robillard to the Golf Course Commission for a term expiring July 2024
• Calendar Year 2023 Retirement Expense Budget of $2,394,000 submitted for informational purposes
• FY2024 Pension Fund Appropriation certified at $20,118,228
• Notice of Intent to Renew Host Community Agreement for medical cannabis facility at 30 Mozzone Boulevard

The City Council and its committees approved several business licenses, commission reappointments, and financial warrants. The Committee on Finance and Salaries approved a payroll warrant of $1,355,431.23 and an accounts payable warrant of $1,145,902.65.

• Approved payroll warrant for $1,355,431.23
• Approved accounts payable warrant for $1,145,902.65
• Reappointed Thomas Bernier and Roland Robillard to the Golf Course Commission
• Approved 9am-10pm daily hours of operation for Bask
• Approved license renewals for Cumberland Farms #6766 and Taco Bell Store #40880
• Approved Class ID Used Car Dealer licenses for Insurance Auto Auctions and Tony's Auto Wrecking
• Approved Second Hand Article License for Mirror Mirror a Unique Boutique
• Approved Host Community Agreement extension for LMCC, LLC until July 12

City Council

The Finance and Salaries Committee will review weekly vouchers, payroll, and the Q2 financial update. The Police and License Committee will review several hours of operation and dealer license renewals. The Council as a Whole will discuss a Host Community Agreement renewal for LMCC, LLC.

• Q2 quarterly financial update with CFO and Budget Director
• Hours of Operation renewal: Cumberland Farms #6766 at 660 County Street
• Hours of Operation renewal: Taco Bell Store #40880 at 700 County Street
• Class III Used Car Dealer License renewals: Insurance Auto Auctions (580 Myricks Street) and Tony’s Auto Wrecking (303 Broadway)
• New Second Hand Article License for Mirror Mirror at 322 Bay Street

The Finance and Salaries Committee approved payroll and accounts payable warrants and reviewed the Q2 financial update. The Police and License Committee approved several business operating hours and dealer licenses. The Council as a Whole extended a Host Community Agreement for LMCC, LLC.

• Approved payroll warrant of $1,355,431.23
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $1,145,902.65
• Approved Bask hours of operation as 9am-10pm, 7 days a week
• Approved renewal of hours of operation for Cumberland Farms and Taco Bell
• Approved renewal of Class ID Used Car Dealer Licenses for Automotive Recovery Services, Inc. and Tony's Auto Wrecking
• Approved Second Hand Article License for Mirror Mirror
• Approved Host Community Agreement extension for LMCC, LLC until July 12

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on several variance and special permit requests. The board will also elect a chairman and clerk and discuss the public hearing advertisement process with the City Law office.

• Case #3701: Variance for 18-unit group residence, restaurant, and pawn shop at 49 Weir St.
• Case #3704: Variance to divide one lot into two buildable lots at Crane Ave. So.
• Case #3705: Variance for a zero foot rear landscaped buffer at Cape Rd. 71-43
• Case #3706: Special Permit for two-family use with 6 parking spaces at Dean St. 56-62

The Board approved a lot division on Crane Avenue South, a landscaping buffer waiver on Cape Road, and a special permit for a two-family home on Dean Street. Two items, including a mixed-use building proposal at 49 Weir St., were continued to future meetings.

• Elected Dennis Ackerman as Chairman and Steve Vieira as Clerk
• Approved variance for lot division at Crane Ave. South with driveway and fencing conditions
• Approved variance for zero foot rear landscaped buffer at Cape Rd. (71-43)
• Approved special permit for two-family use with 6 parking spaces at Dean St. (56-62)
• Approved $300 filing fee refund for Barbour Enterprises
• Continued Case #3701 (49 Weir St.) to April 27th
• Continued public hearing advertisement process discussion to March 23rd
• Forwarded request for board member stipend increase to City Planner

Taunton Redevelopment Authority

The Taunton Redevelopment Authority will meet to receive a final presentation on the Northeastern Student Reed and Barton Project. The body will also discuss the transfer of the Harvey Street property from the city.

• Final presentation on Northeastern Student Reed and Barton Project
• Discussion on future Northeastern Student Project submittals
• Next steps for deeming the Harvey Street property to the Authority
• Discussion of MassDevelopment Loan/Grant Programs

The Authority voted to renew the contract of consultant Dennis Ackerman with adjustments. Members also discussed the transfer of a Harvey Street property and the progress of the Urban Renewal Plan.

• Approved minutes of November 30, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Voted to renew contract for consultant Dennis Ackerman with adjustments
• Decided to submit a future project to Northeastern students

Americans with Disabilities Act Commission

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities will meet to review updates on handicapped parking tickets and sidewalks. The body will also discuss the Martin bathroom and the Transition Plan. The meeting includes a review of site plan procedures.

• Update on handicapped parking tickets and sidewalks
• Updates regarding Martin bathroom
• Transition Plan update
• Site plan review procedures

The Commission for Individuals with Disabilities accepted the minutes from November 30, 2022, and voted to appoint its leadership roles. Members discussed parking signage issues and the construction timeline for the Martin bathroom.

• Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes
• Elected Donna DiCorpo as Chairperson
• Elected Nancilee Lemaire as Vice-Chairperson
• Elected Dianne Huggon as Secretary
• Elected Scott Martin as Treasurer
• Elected Robert Folcik as Communications and Public Relations

City Council

The Committee on the Fire Department will meet in executive session to discuss a grievance. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 25 at 6:00 PM at Taunton City Hall. A full Municipal Council meeting may occur concurrently.

• Executive session to discuss a grievance (Fire Department)

City Council

The City Council will discuss proposals from Mayor O'Connell to expand the tax deferral program by increasing income thresholds, lowering interest rates, and reducing the eligibility age. The body will also hold hearings for personal kennel licenses and review business license renewals.

• Proposed increase of poverty threshold for tax deferral to $35,341 (married) and $29,014 (single)
• Proposed reduction of tax deferral interest rate from 8% to 4%
• Proposed home rule petition to lower tax deferral eligibility age from 65 to 60
• Kennel license hearings for 376 Tremont Street and 75 Dighton Avenue
• Hours of Operation license renewals for Cumberland Farms (660 County St) and Taco Bell (700 County St)

The City Council approved a state act providing cost-of-living adjustments for retirees. The council also approved two personal kennel licenses and a lease reaffirmation for the Taunton Art Association.

• Approved MGL Ch. 269 cost-of-living adjustments for retirees (9-0)
• Approved Grade 1 Kennel License for Janet Ellis at 376 Tremont Street
• Approved Grade 1 Kennel License for Melissa Snow Phillips at 75 Dighton Avenue
• Approved lease reaffirmation for Taunton Art Association at 42 Williams Street
• Approved settlement for Greater Goods, LLC vs. City of Taunton (6-2-1)
• Approved $3,954,385.01 payroll warrant
• Approved $2,723,510.68 accounts payable warrant
• Granted one-year Host Community Agreement extension to Medicine Man Solutions, LLC

City Council

The City Council will hold several committee meetings to review city payroll and discuss specific departmental requests. The Council as a Whole will review a special permit for a group home and a business agreement renewal.

• Renewal of Host Community Agreement for Medicine Man Solutions, LLC at 144 West Britannia Street
• Special Permit petition for a 10 unit group home with a parking waiver at 74 Weir Street
• Request to remove parking meters on Governor Street
• Review of weekly vouchers and payroll for City departments
• Discussion on Civil Service tie-ranking for Fire Department applicants

The Council as a Whole approved a legal settlement regarding Greater Goods, LLC and granted a one-year Host Community Agreement extension to Medicine Man Solutions, LLC. Other committees approved city payroll and accounts payable warrants and referred a parking meter removal request to the Law Department.

• Approved payroll warrant of $3,954,385.01
• Approved accounts payable warrant of $2,723,510.68
• Referred ordinance to remove parking meters on Governor Street to Law Department
• Approved one-year Host Community Agreement extension for Medicine Man Solutions, LLC
• Approved settlement for Greater Goods, LLC vs. City of Taunton Municipal Council (6-2-1)

TMLP Commission

The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant Commission is meeting to elect officers and approve several payment warrants. The body will also discuss a major project request for 15 Mechanics Lane and a sponsorship policy update.

• Election of officers
• Major project request for 15 Mechanics Lane
• TMLP sponsorship policy update for outside organizations
• 2023 performance review budget for exempt management
• Donation request from Edward F. Leddy Preschool

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several development projects, including a new high school at 207 Hart Street and nine self-storage buildings on Myricks Street. They will also vote on a new chair and co-chair for 2023 and address violations at 27 Blinn's Court and 155 Field Street.

• 207 Hart Street: demolition of current high school and construction of new building and athletic fields
• Myricks Street: construction of nine self-storage buildings totaling 84,775 square feet
• 567 Tremont Street: septic system repair
• 100 Revolutionary Drive: continued hearing for a 234,260 sq ft building
• Vote for 2023 Chair and Co-Chair

The Commission issued several Orders of Conditions for residential and commercial construction, including a new high school building and storage facilities. It also dismissed a violation at 6 West Summer Street and requested DEP intervention for a violation at 27 Blinn’s Court.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 234,260 sf building at 100 Revolutionary Drive
• Approved Order of Conditions for high school demolition and construction at 207 Hart Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for nine self-storage buildings at Myricks Street
• Approved Order of Conditions for single-family homes at 198 Fremont Street, Norton Ave Lot 2, and Willis Pond Road Lot 1
• Approved Order of Conditions for in-ground pool at 100 Field Street and in-law addition at 2 Roundtable Lane
• Issued Negative Determination with Special Conditions for septic repair at 567 Tremont Street
• Dismissed violation at 6 West Summer Street
• Voted to request DEP representative at February 13 meeting regarding 27 Blinn’s Court violation

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss tax deferrals, exemptions, and online forms, as well as review permits and sales. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as approving minutes and addressing any other matters.

• Tax Deferral discussion
• Exemptions discussion
• Online forms discussion
• Form of List - Commercial discussion
• Executive session for tax abatement applications and ATB cases

The Board of Assessors voted unanimously to reduce the tax deferral interest rate and align income requirements with senior exemptions. The board also accepted the previous meeting's minutes and reviewed exemption counts for seniors, veterans, and the blind.

• Accepted last meeting minutes
• Changed tax deferral interest from 8% to 4% (Unanimous)
• Changed tax deferral income to match senior exemption (Unanimous)

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners is meeting to consider special alcohol permits for two organizations and a license transfer for a restaurant. The board will also review late applications for common victualler licenses.

• Special alcohol permit application for Downtown Taunton Foundation at 8 Trescott Street for six dates in 2023
• License transfer amendment for Joao Vaz Restaurant LLC (T J’s Diner) at 4 Alger Avenue
• Special alcohol permit for wine and malt beverages for Annunciation of the Lord Parish at 282 Somerset Avenue on April 22, 2023
• Late common victualler license applications for Taco Bell (700 County Street), Kev’s Ice Cream and Burger LLC (478 Middleboro Ave.), and Maria’s Place (67 Main Street)

The Board approved special alcohol permits for the Downtown Taunton Foundation and Annunciation of the Lord Parish. Late applications for Common Victualler Licenses were approved for three businesses. The Board also held an executive session regarding a license transfer for Joao Vaz Restaurant LLC.

• Approved special alcohol permits for 6 events at 8 Trescott Street (Unanimous)
• Approved special alcohol permit for Annunciation of the Lord Parish for April 22, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved late Common Victualler License applications for Taco Bell, Kev’s Ice Cream, and Maria’s Place (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter executive session regarding Joao Vaz Restaurant LLC (3-0)
• Approved motion to exit executive session (3-0)
• Accepted minutes from October 26, November 16, and December 21, 2022 meetings (Unanimous)

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners is meeting to discuss changes to the City of Taunton Rules and Regulations regarding beverage licenses.

• Discussion of amending City of Taunton Rules and Regulations regarding beverage licenses

The Board of License Commissioners decided to meet individually with establishments requesting waivers of police detail requirements. Applicants must provide details on entertainment types, event dates, and anticipated event frequency broken down by quarter.