Worcester public meetings in 2024

Conservation Commission

The Worcester Conservation Commission voted 4-0 to approve orders of conditions for three Notices of Intent: a single-family home at 13 Holden Street, a 12-unit residential building at 10 Grosvenor Street, and a playground renovation at 125 Colburn Avenue. The commission also continued the public hearing for the Great Brook Valley Park project at 0 Northeast Cutoff to January 13, 2025, pending further staff review. Additionally, the commission postponed or continued seven other public hearings to later dates, issued a partial Certificate of Compliance for 3 Devonshire Street, ratified an emergency certificate for a fire hydrant repair at 10 New Bond Street, and elected officers for the coming year.

• Approved order of conditions for 13 Holden Street single-family home (4-0)
• Approved order of conditions for 10 Grosvenor Street 12-unit residential building (4-0)
• Approved order of conditions for 125 Colburn Avenue playground renovation (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 0 Northeast Cutoff park project to Jan 13, 2025 (4-0)
• Postponed/continued seven public hearings to later dates (4-0)
• Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for 3 Devonshire Street (4-0)
• Ratified emergency certificate for fire hydrant repair at 10 New Bond Street (4-0)
• Elected Diane Fratoni as Chair, Devin Canton as Vice Chair (3-0)

Standing Committee on Economic Development

The Economic Development Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of a resolution to file an application designating 57 Exchange St. as a Certified Project under the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) and to approve a Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement for the property. The recommendation will go to the full City Council. The committee also approved the minutes of its November 19, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended approval of HDIP Certified Project application and TIE Agreement for 57 Exchange St. (3-0)
• Approved minutes of November 19, 2024 Economic Development Committee meeting (3-0)

MCRWB Executive Committee

The MassHire Central Region Workforce Board Executive Committee met via MS Teams and unanimously approved the November 15, 2024 meeting minutes. Staff reported on federal funding developments, including a new $300K grant for ESOL and healthcare training, a $400K EPA grant for hazardous materials job training, and pending grant applications. The committee also discussed operational updates, including a planned move from social media platform X to Bluesky.

• Approved November 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Noted new $300K grant for ESOL plus healthcare training
• Noted $400K EPA grant for hazardous materials job training
• Discussed transition from X to Bluesky social media platform

City Council

The Worcester City Council voted 9-1 to authorize the Mayor to execute a new employment agreement with City Manager Eric D. Batista, continuing his role, and to advertise a salary ordinance amendment. Councilor Russell voted against both measures; Councilor Nguyen was absent. The meeting was brief and focused solely on this item, with several residents speaking in opposition during public participation.

• Approved City Manager employment contract with Eric D. Batista (9-1, Russell nay)
• Voted to advertise salary ordinance amendment for City Manager (9-1, Russell nay)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The December 19, 2024 meeting was largely procedural, with no final votes recorded in the minutes. The commission discussed several agenda items, including an update on trash cleanup at University Park, a request from Geoffrey Killebrew to expand vending in parks, and a proposal to increase golf course fees. No formal decisions were made on these items during this meeting.

• No formal votes recorded on agenda items
• Discussed trash cleanup update at University Park
• Discussed vendor expansion request (increase vendors, extend season/hours)
• Discussed golf fee increase proposal (season passes, cart rates, junior access)

Historical Commission

The Worcester Historical Commission met on December 19, 2024, and voted unanimously to continue or postpone all four pending applications to the January 9, 2025 meeting, extending constructive grant deadlines to January 24, 2025. The Commission also approved updated letters of support for state historic rehabilitation tax credits for multiple properties. No substantive decisions were made on the merits of any application.

• Continued 32 May Street slate roof replacement waiver to Jan. 9, 2025 (7-0)
• Postponed 54 West Street chimney demolition and parking reconfiguration to Jan. 9, 2025 (7-0)
• Postponed 60 William Street parking area reconfiguration to Jan. 9, 2025 (7-0)
• Continued 15 Randolph Road outbuilding demolition to Jan. 9, 2025, with site visit (7-0)
• Approved updated letters of support for historic rehabilitation tax credits for 13 properties (7-0)
• Held approval of Sept. 19, Oct. 24, and Nov. 7 minutes until next meeting

License Commission

The Worcester License Commission approved several common victualer licenses, including for Worcester Pizza, Fitbar, Rio Roast Café, Flavor and Delight of Brazil, and The Butcher Shop Casa Brasil Worcester. It also approved a change of manager for Fiddler's Pub, a transfer and pledge of license for MMCIEJKA, and the 2024 liquor renewals. The application for LEPA Sports Bar was postponed to January 9, 2025. The commission accepted the surrender of the liquor license for Blackstone Herb & Martini Bar and heard a status report on a fatal accident investigation involving that establishment.

Worcester Housing Authority

The Worcester Housing Authority Board of Commissioners approved the FY26 State Annual Plan for submission to EOHLC, along with several financial and construction items including tenant receivable write-offs, a designer contract amendment, final payment for a door upgrade project, and multiple change orders for elevator and accessibility projects. The board also acknowledged grant awards for summer camp and ESOL/HiSET programs.

• Approved minutes from November 21, 2024 meeting
• Approved Federal and State Tenant Accounts Receivable Write-offs
• Approved FY26 Worcester Housing Authority State Annual Plan to EOHLC
• Approved Amendment 1 to Designer Contract with TBA Architects Inc. for FISH 3148181 Unit Modernization
• Approved final payment and closeout for Campora Construction Co., Inc. for Door Upgrades at MA 12-1 Addison Apartments
• Approved Change Order No. 04 with Stutman Contracting, Inc. for Elevator Upgrades at MA 12-12 Belmont Tower
• Approved Change Order No. 2 with Vareika Construction, Inc. for Accessible Ramp and Replace Siding at MA 689-3 Community Residence – 309 Hamilton Street
• Approved Change Order No. 04 with Stutman Contracting, Inc. for Elevator Upgrades at MA 12-8 Lincoln Park Tower

Worcester Redevelopment Authority

The Worcester Redevelopment Authority approved Amendment No. 3 to the Terms of Conveyance with Washington Circle Realty, LLC for properties at 0, 20, and 36 Washington Square, supporting a planned hotel project. The board also authorized an RFP for MEP on-call services, approved an RFP to lease the Union Station café space, and rescinded and re-awarded a contract to Inovis Energy for EV charging stations at a higher amount. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were status reports and financial updates.

• Approved Amendment No. 3 to Terms of Conveyance with Washington Circle Realty, LLC (unanimous)
• Authorized RFP for MEP engineering on-call services (unanimous)
• Approved RFP to lease Union Station café space (units 102A/102B) with $500/month minimum bid (unanimous)
• Rescinded Aug 15, 2024 contract with Inovis Energy ($97,438) and authorized new contract at $109,681 for EV charging stations (unanimous)

Building Futures, Inc. Board of Directors

The Building Futures, Inc. Board of Directors met on December 19, 2024, and approved several items. They approved the minutes from the September 19, 2024 special meeting, the financial statements through October 31, 2024, and tenant accounts receivable write-offs. The board also approved the role of Building Futures Inc. as a pass-through entity for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) allocation for the McManus Manor Redevelopment. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from September 19, 2024 special board meeting
• Approved financial statements through October 31, 2024
• Approved tenant accounts receivable write-offs
• Approved Building Futures Inc. as pass-through entity for LIHTC allocation for McManus Manor Redevelopment

School Committee

The Worcester School Committee approved a $95,000 DESE grant to support Acceleration Academies during February and April school vacation weeks. The committee also approved donations totaling over $30,000, including $20,000 for Elm Park Community School, and accepted several student advisory items referring them to administration. Multiple administrative reports and motions were approved and filed, while several items were referred to the FOG committee for further review.

• Approved $95,000 DESE grant for Acceleration Academies
• Approved $20,000 donation for Elm Park Community School
• Approved $10,001.97 donation for Biotech at Worcester Technical High School
• Approved $400 donation from WPI for STEM Week
• Referred student advisory items on restroom policies, recycling, mental health resources, and student feedback to administration
• Approved and filed reports on hands-on learning, student demographics, and school traffic survey
• Referred review of magnet school names, Head Start program, and student handbook shifts to FOG committee
• Approved prior year payment of $2,000 for miscalculated longevity

Planning Board

The Worcester Planning Board approved several site plans and special permits, including mixed-use developments at 10 Grosvenor Street and 39 Lamartine Street, and a special permit at 1078 West Boylston Street. The board also granted postponements for several public hearings and approved extensions of time for other projects. A public hearing for the Malden Woods subdivision amendment was continued to February 26, 2025.

• Approved Special Permit and Definitive Site Plan for 10 Grosvenor Street (4-0, 3-0)
• Approved Special Permit and Definitive Site Plan for 39 Lamartine Street (4-0, 3-0)
• Approved Special Permit and Definitive Site Plan for 22 Waverly Street & 54 Harrison Street (4-0, 3-0)
• Approved Definitive Site Plan for 0 Meadowbrook Road (3-0)
• Approved Definitive Site Plan for 190 & 192 Brookline Street (3-0)
• Approved Special Permit for 1078 West Boylston Street (4-0)
• Approved Special Permit and Definitive Site Plan for 225 Shrewsbury Street (4-0, 3-0)
• Continued Malden Woods Subdivision public hearing to February 26, 2025 (4-0)

Central MA Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization approved Amendment #2 to the FFY 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Highway Project Listing. The meeting also included a presentation on WRTA proposed service changes and an update on the Regional Bicycle Plan, but no other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved Amendment #2 to FFY 2025-2029 TIP Highway Project Listing

Abby Kelley Foster Charter School Board of Trustees

The board approved the FY'25 amended budget as presented, authorized up to $155,000 to supplement a state HVAC grant for elementary school units, and voted to renew the Executive Director's contract (ending June 2025) subject to terms to be negotiated and voted on by March 2025. The board also accepted the October 23, 2024 meeting minutes and approved an international student trip to France, Germany, and the Alps in Spring 2026.

• Approved FY'25 amended budget as presented
• Approved up to $155,000 to supplement HVAC grant for elementary school units
• Renewed Executive Director's contract (ends June 2025), terms to be negotiated and voted by March 2025
• Accepted October 23, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved international student trip to France, Germany, Alps in Spring 2026

Public Library Board of Directors

The Worcester Public Library Board of Directors met on December 18, 2024. The board reviewed Executive Director Jason Homer's performance, rating him between average and exceptional, and discussed upcoming nominations for board officer roles. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Reviewed Executive Director Jason Homer's performance (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed nominations for board officer roles (election set for January 2025)
• Noted two board vacancies with applications due 12/6/2024
• Approved $6,000 from Trust Funds for 'Stand with Libraries' event (Finance Committee, 11/18/2024)
• Approved November 26, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Standing Committee on Traffic and Parking

The Traffic and Parking Committee voted on numerous petitions, approving several handicap parking spaces, crosswalk installations, and signage requests, while filing or holding others. Notable approvals include a handicap parking space removal at 40 King St., a crosswalk at Woodbine St. and Beaver St., and flashing crosswalk signage on Lancaster St. The committee also filed a report on Worcester's parking past, present, and future.

• Approved removal of handicap parking space at 40 King St. (2-0)
• Approved removal of handicap parking space at 34 Newbury St. (2-0)
• Approved crosswalk painting at Woodbine St. and Beaver St. pending funding (3-0)
• Approved flashing crosswalk signage on Lancaster St. at Worcester Art Museum pending funding (2-0)
• Approved crosswalk on Woodland St. at Charlotte St. pending funding (3-0)
• Approved 20-foot No Parking Anytime zone on Birch St. at Beaver St. (3-0)
• Approved pedestrian crossing signage at crosswalks near 70 James St. (2-0)
• Approved amending winter parking ban on Lincoln St. to only when declared (2-0)

Accessibility Advisory Commission

The Accessibility Advisory Commission voted to support a variance amendment for the UMass Memorial building at 378 Plantation Street, allowing a narrower walkway section. The commission also received updates on the city's Vision Zero program, the 25 mph speed limit, and ADA transition planning. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved November 19, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Supported variance amendment for 378 Plantation Street (V23-045) (2 abstentions)

Advisory Commission on Youth

The Worcester Advisory Commission on Youth met on December 17, 2024, but the minutes contain no substantive decisions. The meeting covered routine updates from the Department of Youth Opportunities, including grants, Youth Council, Recreation Worcester, and Youth Violence Prevention. No votes or formal actions were taken; the only action item was member recruitment.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded
• Action item: member recruitment for Youth Advisory Commission

Public Library Committee on Administration

The Committee on Administration met via Zoom on December 17, 2024, to review and approve updates to library policies and the 2025 holiday schedule. The minutes do not record any final votes or decisions; the items were only discussed and considered for approval.

• Reviewed updates to library policies (no vote recorded)
• Reviewed 2025 holiday schedule (no vote recorded)

City Council

The Worcester City Council set the FY2025 tax rate at $13.19 for residential and $28.61 for commercial property, and approved a contract for Eric D. Batista to continue as City Manager. The Council also adopted multiple orders related to the DOJ investigation of the Worcester Police Department, including a 30-day response plan and five special meetings. Several petitions and orders were referred to committees or tabled.

• Set FY2025 tax rate at $13.19 residential, $28.61 commercial (7-4)
• Approved contract with Eric D. Batista as City Manager (9-2)
• Adopted order for City Manager response to DOJ report within 30 days (11-0)
• Committed to five special meetings on DOJ investigation (11-0)
• Adopted order for performance audit of WPD including body camera review (11-0)
• Referred Project Priceless shelter petition to City Manager and committee (11-0)
• Tabled petition to release DOJ report publicly (Under Privilege)
• Referred 20+ metered parking petitions near WPI to Traffic and Parking Committee (8-3)

Human Rights Commission

The Worcester Human Rights Commission unanimously approved motions to renew requests for the City Manager to act on recommended WPD use-of-force policy changes, to send a full list of four years of recommendations to the City Manager, and to require the city to disclose civil rights complaints against the WPD since 2022. The commission also voted unanimously to require that documents discussed at meetings be attached to agendas and minutes, reversing a staff policy change that limited public access. No decisions were made on housing or homelessness, but a motion was passed to renew a request for a regional task force on affordable housing and homelessness.

• Approved November minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to attach December meeting documents to minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to require hyperlinks or PDFs for all HRC agenda and minute attachments (unanimous)
• Motion to request written policy prohibiting document attachments (unanimous)
• Motion to require CM to report civil rights complaints against WPD since 2022 (unanimous)
• Motion to renew request for CM to act on WPD use-of-force policy changes (unanimous)
• Motion to send full list of HRC WPD recommendations to CM (unanimous)
• Motion to renew request for regional task force on housing and homelessness (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals approved several special permits and variances, including a 364-unit high-rise residential project at 274-290 Franklin Street and a conversion of 60 William Street into an 8-unit multifamily dwelling. The board also approved a 5-story mixed-use building at 120 Washington Street was continued to January 6, 2025, and several other items were postponed. All votes were unanimous except where noted.

• Approved 364-unit high-rise at Franklin/Hygeia/Arctic streets with conditions (4-0)
• Approved 8-unit multifamily conversion at 60 William Street (4-0)
• Approved lot split for two 3-family dwellings at 54 & 58 Airlie Street (5-0)
• Approved residential conversion at 736 Pleasant Street (5-0)
• Approved 4 attached dwellings at 60 Wall Street (5-0)
• Approved garage addition at 8 Standish Street (5-0)
• Continued 120 Washington Street mixed-use project to Jan 6, 2025 (4-0-1)
• Approved amended special permit for Lara Deli and Grocery at 267 Lincoln Street (5-0)

Learning First Charter Public School Academic Excellence Committee

The Learning First Charter Public School Academic Excellence Committee met remotely on December 16, 2024, to receive updates on intervention blocks and MCAS blocks. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and included holiday-themed activities.

• No formal decisions were recorded; meeting was informational only.

Learning First Charter Public School Board of Trustees

The board approved the FY25 budget amendment as recommended by the Finance Committee. No other substantive decisions were made; other committee reports were informational, and the board moved into executive session.

• Approved FY25 budget amendment

Learning First Charter Public School Governance Committee

The committee approved the November governance minutes. Kim reported on strategic planning to address drops in MCAS scores for ELA and math. Other business included a potential new board member and a review of the board timeline calendar, with updates pending.

• Approved November governance minutes

Public Schools Standing Committee on Finance, Operations and Governance

The Standing Committee on Finance, Operations and Governance met on December 16, 2024, and voted to file several agenda items, including a request for a report on therapy dogs, a policy on culture and belonging, a change to the School Nutrition Program Charge Policy, and a review of Student Activity Fund testing. The committee voted to hold the item requesting information on the Doherty High School turf field and to file the related item to end artificial turf fields. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Filed request for report on therapy dogs at school sites
• Filed request to develop policy on culture and belonging
• Held gb 4-69 (turf field information request) and filed gb 3-256 (end artificial turf fields)
• Filed change to Policy EFD – School Nutrition Program Charge Policy
• Filed review of Student Activity Fund testing for FY2022 and FY2023

Standing Committee on Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation

The committee voted 2-0 to recommend approval of the Urban Forest Master Plan update, with Councilor Toomey absent. They also filed updates on the Veterans Health Clinic and Elm Park, and held items on tennis court improvements, a second basketball court at Logan Field, and lighting at Beaver Brook Dog Park. Several chairman's orders were issued for cost analyses and public hearings.

• Recommended approval of Urban Forest Master Plan update (2-0, Toomey absent)
• Filed update on 1st Annual Veterans Health Clinic
• Filed update on Elm Park
• Filed update on tennis courts at Newton Square Rotary
• Held petition for second basketball court at Logan Field
• Held petition for lighting at Beaver Brook Dog Park
• Issued order for cost analysis report on rebuilding Newton Square Rotary tennis courts
• Issued order for public hearings on additional basketball court at Logan Field

Abby Kelley Foster Charter School Education Committee

The Education Committee met on December 13, 2024, and approved the minutes from the November 8, 2024 meeting. The meeting included updates on middle school staffing, special education, academics, enrollment, and principal reports. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved November 8, 2024 meeting minutes

Worcester Arts Council

The Worcester Arts Council met virtually on December 12, 2024, but the minutes record no substantive decisions. The agenda included standard items such as approval of minutes, a budget report, grant notifications, and updates from working groups and staff, but no votes or specific actions were recorded.

Retirement Board

The Worcester Retirement Board approved six superannuation retirements, several disability pensions, and moved forward with ORAM testing and the ABL death monitoring system. All benefits are subject to final approval by PERAC. The board also approved warrants and the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Approved six superannuation retirements (collective vote)
• Approved disability pensions for Guittar, McTigue, Vorres, and Cyr; tabled Hynes
• Voted to move forward with ORAM quarterly testing and review
• Voted to move forward with ABL death monitoring system
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule
• Approved warrants totaling $509,939.48 and payroll/stipend/benefits payments
• Tabled evaluation of L. Poske until January meeting
• Filed PERAC memo on cybersecurity training and 91A cases

Worcester Retirement Board Finance Committee

The Finance Committee met to review economic and market updates, estimated system performance as of November 30, 2024, and third quarter 2024 performance. They also discussed a potential 2025 commitment to the PRIT PEVY fund and conducted an asset allocation review. No formal votes or final decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Reviewed estimated retirement system performance as of November 30, 2024
• Reviewed performance update as of October 31, 2024
• Discussed PRIT PEVY 2025 commitment
• Conducted asset allocation review
• Reviewed third quarter 2024 performance

Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board of Trustees

The December 11, 2024 meeting of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board of Trustees was cancelled. No decisions or actions were taken. The next meeting is scheduled for February 5, 2025.

Worcester Ballpark Commission

The Worcester Ballpark Commission approved the November 20, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0). The meeting included general discussions about event day ideas, an update on WooSox preventive maintenance and repairs, and a review of past and future events, including opening day on March 28, 2025. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved November 20, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Standing Committee on Public Works

The Public Works Committee approved several streetlight installation and street resurfacing requests, and recommended leaving one item to withdraw. It also held items related to an overpass walkway lighting request and the honorary street name policy, issuing related Chairman's Orders.

• Approved minutes of November 13, 2024 meeting
• Recommended leave to withdraw for Chevy Chase Rd. resurfacing request
• Recommended approval for Grand St., Armory St., and Moreland St. resurfacing requests
• Recommended approval for streetlight requests on West Mountain St., Virginia Rd., Richland St., Pearson St., Santuit Ln., Beeching St., Officer Many Familia Way, Lanesboro Rd., Mountain St. West, and Dallas St.
• Recommended leave to withdraw for streetlight request at Newbury St. and Pleasant St.
• Held item on Cambridge St. overpass walkway lighting, issuing orders for sidewalk review and CSX coordination
• Held honorary street name policy item, issuing order for City Clerk to inform petitioners and update website

License Commission

The License Commission approved two one-day liquor licenses for Theatre Café and Qui Cocktails, with one event cancelled. It also granted 1885 Restaurant & Bar's request to move its suspension date from December 5 to January 11, 2025. All votes were 2-0.

• Approved one-day liquor license for Theatre Café, Dec 13, 2024 (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Qui Cocktails, Dec 17, 2024 (2-0)
• Changed 1885 Restaurant & Bar suspension date to Jan 11, 2025 (2-0)

Central MA Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central MA Metropolitan Planning Organization announced a virtual public meeting to discuss proposed Amendment #2 to the 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The amendment proposes changes to the highway project listing, including funding adjustments and new projects in Worcester. No decisions were made; the meeting was for public comment, with written comments accepted until December 11, 2024.

• Proposed reducing funding for project #S12938 (Lake Avenue/Bigelow Davis Parkway intersection design) from $1,000,000 to $500,000
• Proposed adding $2,500,000 HPP funding for project #S13102 (Mill Street Planning & Design) in FFY 2025
• Proposed adding $600,000 SS4A funding for project #S13118 (SS4A Action Plan and Main Street South Demonstration) in FFY 2025

Chapter 139 Hearing

The December 10, 2024 Chapter 139 hearing agenda listed 14 properties in Worcester, including 10 condemned and 4 vacant properties. No votes or decisions were recorded; the document is an agenda for the hearing.

• Listed 103 Blackstone River Road (condemned 3-16-2022, $30,000)
• Listed 35 Bowdoin Street (condemned 6-5-2023, $30,000)
• Listed 1 & 3 Clarence Street (condemned 9-5-2024, $20,000)
• Listed 119 Dewey Street (no condemnation date listed)
• Listed 133 Dewey Street (no condemnation date listed)
• Listed 8 Everard Street (condemned 5-19-2022)
• Listed 15 Larch Street (condemned 6-3-2024, $30,000)
• Listed 96-98 Uncatena Avenue (condemned 8-26-2024, $30,000)

Chapter 139 Hearing - Vacant Properties

The Chapter 139 hearing on vacant properties was held on December 10, 2024, listing seven properties for review. No decisions or votes were recorded; the minutes only identify the properties, owners, and vacancy dates. Next meetings are scheduled for January 14, February 11, and March 11, 2025.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded in minutes
• Listed 4 Congress Street (vacant since 10/26/2017)
• Listed 3 Diamond Street
• Listed 2 Gage Street
• Listed 13 Sigel Street (vacant since 1/13/2005)
• Listed 57 Vernon Street (vacant since 6/15/2021)
• Listed 117 Vernon Street (vacant since 9/6/2019)
• Listed 6 Vesper Street (vacant since 1/24/2017)

City Council

The City Council set the Fiscal Year 2025 tax rates at $13.19 for residential property and $28.61 for commercial, industrial, and personal property, passing 7-4. The Council also approved a new three-year employment agreement for City Manager Eric D. Batista, including a 4.5% salary increase and a $1,500 monthly vehicle stipend, by a 9-2 vote. Additionally, the Council approved a $3 million loan order for a feasibility study at Burncoat High and Middle Schools, and referred a petition for metered parking near WPI to the Traffic and Parking Committee.

Citizen Advisory Council

The Citizen Advisory Council approved 13 applicants for various boards and commissions, with several unanimous votes and a few split decisions. They also approved the 2025 meeting schedule with four revised dates. Members discussed concerns about the City Manager's appointment process, noting that several unanimously recommended applicants were denied without explanation.

• Approved Michael Abelson for LGBTQ+ Affairs (7-0)
• Denied Michael Abelson for Thomas Early Scholarship Committee (2-5)
• Approved Lawrence Abramoff for Zoning Board of Appeals (5-2)
• Approved Brian Fleury for Off Street Parking (7-0) and Parks Commission (4-3)
• Approved Russell Karlstad for Civic Center Commission (7-0)
• Approved Adam Epstein for Off Street Parking (7-0)
• Approved Stuart Kirshner for Zoning Board of Appeals (7-0)
• Approved Kate Norton for Status of Women (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Worcester Conservation Commission voted 3-0 to approve a Notice of Intent for a 9-unit residential building at 0 Farrington Street, with conditions including revised plans and erosion controls. The Commission also issued a Certificate of Compliance for 14 Shoreham Street, ratified two enforcement orders, accepted a conservation restriction for Cooks Pond North Forest, and supported the transfer of 1 Spring Lane to the Commission. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved Notice of Intent for 9-unit building at 0 Farrington Street (3-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 14 Shoreham Street (3-0)
• Amended Enforcement Order at 22 Apthorp Street (3-0)
• Ratified Enforcement Order at 142-158 Wildwood Avenue (3-0)
• Ratified Enforcement Order at 51 Oriol Drive (3-0)
• Approved revised standard conditions template (3-0)
• Accepted conservation restriction for Cooks Pond North Forest (3-0)
• Supported transfer of 1 Spring Lane to Conservation Commission (3-0)

Abby Kelley Foster Charter School Governance Committee

The Governance Committee of Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School met on December 6, 2024, and approved the minutes from the September 6, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the agenda included discussion items on board recruitment, member agreements, and MCPSA support, but no votes or actions were noted.

• Approved September 6, 2024 meeting minutes

Civic Center Commission

The Civic Center Commission unanimously approved a ~$240,000 network equipment upgrade and approved rental price increases (11-20% based on space type). They also approved the December 22 holiday party application and the September 26 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational updates.

• Approved ~$240,000 network equipment upgrade (5-0)
• Approved rental price increases of 11-20% based on space type (5-0)
• Approved Community Day application for DCF holiday party (5-0)
• Approved September 26, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Historical Commission

The Worcester Historical Commission voted on several demolition delay waivers, approving most with conditions. They postponed a decision on 32 May Street to allow the owner to seek financial hardship assistance. The commission also approved waivers for 139 Vernon Street, 116 Mower Street, 8 Euclid Avenue, 24-26 Clement Street, 38 May Street, and 2 Oxford Place, with specific conditions for some.

• Postponed 32 May Street roof replacement waiver to Dec 19 (5-0)
• Approved 139 Vernon Street porch/siding/window waiver with conditions (5-0)
• Approved 116 Mower Street window/door replacement with grids (5-0)
• Approved retroactive 8 Euclid Avenue porch replacement with 1-month completion (5-0)
• Approved 24-26 Clement Street roof replacement waiver (5-0)
• Approved 38 May Street four-window replacement (5-0)
• Approved 2 Oxford Place roofing replacement CNA (5-0)
• Issued positive opinion of eligibility for 16 Austin Street National Register (5-0)

License Commission

The Worcester License Commission approved one-day liquor and entertainment licenses for holiday events, common victualer licenses for several food establishments, and a transfer of an all-alcohol license. It also found a violation at 1885 Restaurant & Bar and imposed a three-day suspension with one day served. The commission postponed an application from LEPA Sports Bar to a later meeting.

• Approved one-day liquor and entertainment licenses for Craft Beer Holdings Five, LLC (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor and entertainment licenses for Craft Beer Holdings Six, LLC (3-0)
• Approved common victualer license for Parrot Pizza Worcester (3-0)
• Approved common victualer license for Residence Inn (3-0)
• Approved common victualer license for Tropical Smoothie Café (3-0)
• Approved common victualer license for Garden Pizza and Subs (3-0)
• Approved transfer of restaurant all alcohol license to Worcester Center for Performing Arts (3-0)
• Postponed LEPA Sports Bar application to December 19, 2024 (3-0)

School Committee

The Worcester School Committee approved the superintendent's mid-cycle review and accepted several grants and donations. Multiple agenda items were filed, held, or referred to committees, with several motions passing 4-0. The meeting included an executive session on collective bargaining.

• Approved Superintendent Mid-Cycle Review 2024
• Accepted DESE grant of $49,980 for Worcester Technical High School
• Accepted MA Cultural Council grant of $25,000 for Creative Projects for Schools Initiative
• Approved prior year payments for unused vacation days ($724.68 and $4,470.48)
• Filed item on CKLA curriculum update
• Filed item on DESE intervention schools plan
• Referred bus incident protocol review to FOG committee
• Referred screen time policy to Administration

Lake Quinsigamond Commission

The commission met on December 4, 2024, and approved the October 2024 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the agenda included reports and updates, but no votes on those items were noted. The next meeting is scheduled for January 29, 2025.

• Approved October 2024 meeting minutes
• Set next meeting for January 29, 2025 at Shrewsbury Town Hall

Standing Committee on Public Safety

The Public Safety Committee voted to approve the November 20, 2024 minutes (2-0) and recommended filing all five informational communications from the City Manager, covering firefighter turnout gear, fire hydrant locations, the Worcester Rodent Action Plan, Washington Heights inspections, and the Summer Impact Program. No substantive policy decisions were made; all items were placed on file after discussion.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 meeting (2-0)
• Filed communication on firefighter turnout gear status
• Filed communication on fire hydrant locations; issued orders for feasibility report on pole attachments and investigation of missing hydrant at Main & Henshaw St.
• Filed communication on Worcester Rodent Action Plan; issued order to consider WPI partnership
• Filed communication on Washington Heights 110 Periodic Inspections
• Filed communication on Summer Impact Program

Standing Committee on Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation

The committee voted to hold an order requesting cameras at Newton Hill, pending further reports on costs and feasibility. It also filed a petition for new pickleball courts, recommending public meetings and studies instead. The committee filed a petition to set Indian Lake Beach closing time at dusk and held an update on Bennett Field.

• Approved minutes of May 8, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Recommended filing petition for pickleball courts (3-0)
• Recommended filing petition to set Indian Lake Beach closing at dusk (3-0)
• Recommended holding order for Newton Hill cameras (3-0)
• Held update on Bennett Field (3-0)
• Filed update on Elm Park and Rogers-Kennedy statue (3-0)

Central MA Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization approved the WRTA Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan safety targets, the Title VI Program, and updated 4-Year Non-SOV Targets. The meeting also included a federal certification summary and an age-friendly progress update. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved WRTA safety targets
• Approved Title VI Program
• Approved updated Non-SOV Targets

Accessibility Advisory Commission

The Accessibility Advisory Commission approved the July 18, 2024 minutes unanimously. They discussed recruiting new members, debriefed on two outreach events (Downtown BID tabling and Polar Park Blind Awareness Day), and took no action on two requests for free use of Union Station because they were not disability-related. The commission also reviewed accessibility notices and applications without action.

• Approved July 18, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Denied two requests for free use of Union Station Grand Hall (not disability-related)
• No action on AAB notices and applications (501 Shrewsbury St, 51 Gage St, 2 Ionic Ave)
• No action on AAC elections (holdover item)

City Council

The Worcester City Council denied a proposed amendment to Rule 21 that would have limited councilors to five minutes per speaking turn and ten minutes total per agenda item, failing to reach the required two-thirds majority (6-5). The council also approved several orders, including seeking a legal opinion on changing the City Charter to allow the council to amend the budget, and adopted resolutions supporting the Haitian community and requesting reports on WPI's hotel purchases.

• Denied amendment to Rule 21 limiting councilor speaking time (6-5)
• Adopted order to seek legal opinion on charter change for budget amendment authority (11-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Haitian and immigrant communities (11-0)
• Adopted order to explore external diversity training (11-0)
• Adopted order to create PILOT taskforce (11-0)
• Adopted order to report on WPI hotel purchases and tax impacts (11-0)
• Adopted order to establish mid-block pedestrian crossing pilot program (11-0)
• Adopted order to create Worcester Rodent Action Plan (11-0)

Board of Election Commissioners

The Board of Election Commissioners discussed preparations for the November 5th State Election, including poll worker conduct, early and mail-in voting, and advanced removal/counting of ballots. They set advanced ballot processing to begin Friday, November 1st at 8:30 AM at Worcester City Hall, Levi Lincoln Chamber. A public hearing on relocating Ward 3 - Precinct 3 to Forest Grove Middle School was scheduled for September 26, 2024. No formal votes were recorded on these items.

• Set advanced removal/counting of mail-in and early voting ballots to begin Friday, November 1st at 8:30 AM at Worcester City Hall, Levi Lincoln Chamber
• Scheduled public hearing on relocating Ward 3 - Precinct 3 to Forest Grove Middle School for September 26, 2024, 5:30 PM-6:30 PM
• Discussed poll worker code of conduct for November 5th election
• Discussed communication to polling locations about unlocking facilities at 5:30 AM on Election Day
• Discussed early and mail-in voting for November 5th election
• Discussed preparation for November 5th State Election

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits and variances for several housing projects, including a 9-unit building at 7 & 9 Richards Street, a 4-unit building at 36 Fifth Avenue, a 10-unit development at 34 Lakeside Avenue, a lot split at 29 Tennyson Street, and a duplex conversion at 17-19 Pocasset Avenue. The board continued the 36 Butler Street project to October 7, 2024, and also continued the 15 Gardner Street project to October 28, 2024, after a straw poll showed opposition. All continuances and postponements for other items were granted.

• Approved special permit and variances for 7 & 9 Richards Street (5-0)
• Approved special permit and variances for 36 Fifth Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special permit and variances for 34 Lakeside Avenue (5-0)
• Continued 36 Butler Street to October 7, 2024 (4-0)
• Continued 15 Gardner Street to October 28, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved variances for 29 Tennyson Street (5-0)
• Approved variances for 17-19 Pocasset Avenue (5-0)
• Accepted scrivener's error for 65 Cedar Street (5-0)

Learning First Charter Public School Governance Committee

The Learning First Charter Public School Governance Committee met remotely on September 16, 2024, and approved the June governance minutes. The committee discussed board recruitment needs, succession planning, and the FY25 board calendar, with plans to diversify the board and increase member engagement in school activities.

• Approved June governance minutes
• Discussed board recruitment focus on diversity, local government officials, and fundraising skills
• Reviewed board terms and planned for upcoming expirations
• Reviewed FY25 board calendar crosswalk document

Retirement Board

The Worcester Retirement Board voted 4-1 to raise the COLA base from $16,000 to $23,000 over seven years in $1,000 annual increments. The decision will be sent to the City Manager for consideration. The board also approved six superannuation retirement benefits and two warrants, and handled disability cases in executive session.

• Approved raising COLA base to $23,000 over 7 years in $1,000 increments (4-1)
• Approved superannuation benefits for 6 retirees (collective)
• Approved warrants 24-33 and 24-34 totaling $108,362.19
• Approved August retiree benefits of $8,565,811.60
• Approved involuntary accidental disability for Robert Antul (executive session)
• Tabled involuntary accidental disability for Elizabeth Rooney (executive session)
• Accepted ordinary disability for Jonathan Daige (executive session)

Abby Kelley Foster Charter School Education Committee

The Education Committee met and approved the minutes from the May 10, 2024 meeting. No other formal decisions were recorded; the agenda included updates on instruction, principals, IB test results, enrollment, discipline/attendance, and ELL testing, but no votes or actions were noted for these items.

• Approved May 10, 2024 meeting minutes

Worcester Arts Council

The Worcester Arts Council met virtually on September 12, 2024, with a routine agenda covering minutes, public questions, budget report, grant notifications, NEA updates, final reports, working group updates, staff updates, and upcoming funded events. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Election Commissioners

The Board discussed preparations for the November 5th State Election, including poll worker conduct, early and mail-in voting, and advanced ballot counting. It set advanced removal/counting of mail-in and early voting ballots to begin Friday, November 1st at 8:30 AM at Worcester City Hall. A public hearing on relocating Ward 3 Precinct 3 from Worcester Center for Craft to Forest Grove Middle School was scheduled for September 26, 2024.

• Set advanced removal/counting of mail-in and early voting ballots to begin Nov. 1 at 8:30 AM at Worcester City Hall
• Scheduled public hearing on Ward 3 Precinct 3 relocation for Sept. 26, 5:30-6:30 PM at Levi Lincoln Chamber
• Approved minutes of August 29th meeting
• Discussed poll worker code of conduct for Nov. 5 election

Retirement Board

The Worcester Retirement Board met on September 12, 2024, and approved six superannuation retirements, accepted minutes from prior meetings, and received reports on disability cases. The board also discussed old and new business items, including a cybersecurity update, COLA, and PERAC memos, but no other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved superannuation retirement for Carolynn Brunell (WPS, 23 yrs, Option B, eff. 09/20/2024)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Terry Casamasina (WPS, 25 yrs, eff. 06/19/2024)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Dwain O'Connor (POLICE, 28 yrs, Option B, eff. 09/04/2024)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Ermira Topi (Library, 24 yrs, Option B, eff. 09/06/2024)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Judy Reed (WPS, 24 yrs, Option A, eff. 09/06/2024)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Thomas Walsh (WPS, 32 yrs, Option C, eff. 09/20/2024)
• Accepted minutes of August regular, finance, and executive meetings
• Received reports on involuntary and ordinary disability cases

Urban Forestry Tree Commission

The Urban Forestry Tree Commission approved the Urban Forestry Master Plan with conditions that specified edits be made before moving forward. The plan will next go to the Parks & Recreation Commission and then to City Council for review. The commission also filed the MA State Champion Trees item and approved the May 1, 2024 minutes.

• Approved Urban Forestry Master Plan with conditions (4-0)
• Filed MA State Champion Trees item (4-0)
• Approved May 1, 2024 minutes (4-0)

Worcester Ballpark Commission

The Worcester Ballpark Commission met on September 11, 2024, and accepted the minutes from the June 12, 2024 meeting. The commission discussed ballpark event ideas, received an update on WooSox preventive maintenance and repairs, and reviewed past and future event highlights. No formal votes or decisions were recorded beyond the minutes acceptance.

• Accepted June 12, 2024 meeting minutes

Public Library Committee on Administration

The Committee on Administration met on September 11, 2024, to discuss Sunday hours and the Executive Director's self-evaluation. The committee then moved into executive session to discuss the self-evaluation. No formal decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Discussed Sunday hours (no action recorded)
• Discussed Executive Director self-evaluation (no action recorded)
• Moved to executive session for self-evaluation discussion

Public Schools Standing Committee on Finance, Operations and Governance

The joint standing committees met to consider the Greater Worcester Research Bureau report 'Building the Future; Investing in Worcester Public Schools' and an update on library programs and librarian use. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the items were discussed as general business.

• Considered Greater Worcester Research Bureau report on WPS investment (no vote)
• Discussed update on library programs and librarian use (no vote)

Standing Committee on Education

The Education Committee voted to file a Worcester Regional Research Bureau report on school facilities after discussion, and issued two Chairman's Orders requesting the City Manager work with the Superintendent to provide reports on schools in poor condition and update the 2017 Facility Master Plan. The committee also filed a communication on Worcester Public Library services and issued orders to study expanding libraries in all WPS schools and prioritize library services in negotiations. Minutes from March 18, 2024 were approved, and a request for a joint meeting with the School Committee's finance committee was held.

• Approved minutes of March 18, 2024 (3-0)
• Held request for joint meeting with School Committee finance committee (3-0)
• Filed WRRB school facilities report (3-0)
• Issued order for report on schools in poor condition
• Issued order to update 2017 Facility Master Plan
• Filed WPL services communication (2-0, King absent)
• Issued order to study expanding libraries in all WPS schools
• Issued order to prioritize library services in negotiations

Standing Committee on Public Safety

The Public Safety Committee approved the August 20, 2024 minutes (2-0) and filed three informational communications from the City Manager: the Smart911 to RapidSOS transition, the new South Division Fire Station status, and community policing foot patrols. The committee also issued three Chairman's Orders requesting reports on GPS usage across city departments, roadway changes near the fire station, and the Summer Impact program. No substantive policy decisions were made; all items were filed as informational.

• Approved minutes of August 20, 2024 meeting (2-0)
• Filed communication on Smart911 to RapidSOS transition
• Filed communication on South Division Fire Station status
• Filed communication on community policing foot patrols
• Issued order for report on city GPS usage and plans
• Issued order for report on roadway changes near South Division Fire Station
• Issued order for report on Summer Impact program

Chapter 139 Hearing

The September 10, 2024 Chapter 139 hearing agenda listed 13 properties in Worcester, MA, that are either condemned or vacant. No votes or decisions were recorded in the minutes; the document only provides the agenda with property addresses, owners, condemnation/vacancy dates, and MBL numbers. The next meetings are scheduled for October 8, November 12, and December 10, 2024.

• No formal decisions recorded; agenda only
• Listed 13 properties for Chapter 139 hearing
• Scheduled next meetings: Oct 8, Nov 12, Dec 10, 2024

Chapter 139 Hearing - Vacant Properties

The Chapter 139 hearing on September 10, 2024, reviewed six vacant properties in Worcester, MA, with owners and addresses listed for each. No decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting appears to be a procedural listing of properties for future action. Next hearings are scheduled for October 8, November 12, and December 10, 2024.

• Listed 4 Congress Street as vacant since 10/26/2017
• Listed 57 Vernon Street as vacant since 6/15/2021
• Listed 117 Vernon Street as vacant since 9/6/2019
• Listed 139 Vernon Street as vacant since 9/28/2020
• Listed 6 Vesper Street as vacant since 1/24/2017
• Listed 41 Wellington Street as vacant since 06/19/2017

City Council

The City Council voted 11-0 to advertise and adopt an ordinance establishing a 25 mph statutory speed limit citywide in thickly settled or business districts and authorizing 20 mph safety zones. The council also voted 11-0 to support Question 2, which would replace the MCAS graduation requirement. Several related orders were adopted, including requests for reports on speed limit implementation and safety zones.

• Adopted 25 mph citywide speed limit ordinance and 20 mph safety zones (11-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Question 2 to replace MCAS graduation requirement (9-0, Toomey absent, Ojeda recused)
• Adopted resolution supporting expedited 25 mph speed limit and Complete Streets improvements (11-0)
• Confirmed reappointments to four city boards/commissions (11-0 each)
• Adopted ordinance repealing special speed regulation on Belmont Street (11-0)
• Accepted and adopted TIF amendment for 340 Main Street (10-0, Toomey absent)
• Adopted order to convert first 41 feet of Evergreen Ln. to public street (10-0, Toomey absent)
• Adopted 11 orders from Aug. 27 meeting, including reports on private street repairs and speed humps (11-0)

Green Worcester Advisory Committee

The Green Worcester Advisory Committee met on September 9, 2024, and approved the July 15, 2024 minutes. The committee discussed but did not vote on adopting the City's recommended open meeting law regulations, with members raising concerns about factual errors and potential restrictions on public participation. The item was not added to the next agenda. No other formal decisions were made; other items were informational updates.

• Approved July 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred decision on adopting open meeting law regulations (no vote taken)
• Agreed not to add open meeting law discussion to next agenda

Board of Health

The Board of Health unanimously approved a motion encouraging the Worcester Police Department to distribute gun locks at licensure, the Worcester School Department to introduce a gun safety program for fifth graders, housing inspections to include a check for guns in the home, and continued gun buybacks. The board also voted to support the City Council's declaration of road safety and traffic violence as a public health crisis. A proposed amendment to reduce the speed limit to 25 mph was rejected, and a motion to add a youth representative was tabled.

• Approved motion to encourage WPD gun lock distribution at licensure, school gun safety program, housing gun checks, and continued gun buybacks (unanimous)
• Approved support for City Council's Road Safety and Traffic Violence Crisis as a Public Health Crisis (4-1, Rosen no)
• Rejected amendment to support 25 mph speed limit reduction (no second)
• Tabled motion to add youth representative to Board of Health
• Approved amended minutes from August 12, 2024 (unanimous)

Hope Cemetery Commission

The Hope Cemetery Commission meeting on September 9, 2024, was held with agenda items including the Assistant Commissioner's report, old business (5-year capital plan, budget, barn project, perpetual care), and new business (green burial options). No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded in the minutes; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded
• Discussed 5-year capital plan
• Discussed budget
• Discussed barn project
• Discussed perpetual care and endowed lots
• Discussed green burial options in Worcester

Conservation Commission

The Worcester Conservation Commission approved Notices of Intent for projects at 0 New York Street, 5 & 7 Aldena Road, 34 Lakeside Avenue, and 538 Lake Avenue, and issued amended orders for 378 and 382 Plantation Street. It denied a Certificate of Compliance for 462 Salisbury Street due to invasive plants in the buffer zone. The Commission also issued a $100 fine and amended an enforcement order for 86 Webster Street.

• Approved NOI for two duplexes at 0 New York Street (5-0)
• Approved NOI for two single-family homes at 5 & 7 Aldena Road (5-0)
• Approved NOI for two multi-family buildings at 34 Lakeside Avenue (5-0)
• Approved NOI for single-family home at 538 Lake Avenue (5-0)
• Approved amended order for healing garden at 378 Plantation Street (5-0)
• Approved amended order for hydroponic farm at 382 Plantation Street (5-0)
• Denied Certificate of Compliance for 462 Salisbury Street (5-0)
• Issued $100 fine and amended enforcement order for 86 Webster Street (5-0)

Abby Kelley Foster Charter School Governance Committee

The Governance Committee of Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School met on September 6, 2024. The only formal decision was to approve the minutes from the June 7, 2024 meeting. Other agenda items were discussed but no votes or decisions were recorded.

• Approved June 7, 2024 meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The September 5, 2024 meeting of the Worcester Historical Commission was canceled. All agenda items, including a leave to withdraw for 260 Pleasant Street, a demolition delay waiver for 32 May Street, a certificate of non-applicability for 18 Oxford Street, and a certificate of appropriateness for 3 Marston Way, will be taken up at the next regularly scheduled meeting on September 19, 2024. No decisions were made.

• Meeting canceled; no actions taken
• All agenda items deferred to September 19, 2024 meeting

Standing Committee on Economic Development

The Economic Development Committee recommended approval of an amendment to the Tax Increment Exemption Agreement for 340 Main Street, with a 3-0 vote. It also held a proposal for a UCH-TIF zone and plan for 34-46 Lakeside Avenue, and filed informational reports on TIF/TIE and economic development initiatives. The committee issued a Chairman's Order requiring developers to attend meetings when their projects are discussed.

• Approved minutes of August 6, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Recommended approval of TIF amendment for 340 Main Street (3-0)
• Held UCH-TIF zone and plan for 34-46 Lakeside Avenue
• Filed semi-annual TIF/TIE report for period ending Dec 31, 2023 (3-0)
• Filed semi-annual TIF/TIE report for period ending June 30, 2023 (3-0)
• Filed update on Economic Development Initiatives (3-0)
• Issued Chairman's Order: developers must attend committee meetings for their projects

Planning Board

The Worcester Planning Board approved several Definitive Site Plans, including a single-family dwelling at 538 Lake Avenue, a two-family dwelling at 30 Farmington Road, and the Lakeside Apartments Phase 2 project at 52 & 54 Circuit Avenue South. The board also approved a Special Permit extension and site plan for 393-397 Shrewsbury Street, and recommended a zoning map amendment for 0 Grafton Street. The public hearing for the 225 Shrewsbury Street project was continued to September 25, 2024.

• Approved Definitive Site Plan at 538 Lake Avenue (5-0)
• Approved Definitive Site Plan at 30 Farmington Road (5-0)
• Approved MTOB Plan and Definitive Site Plan for Lakeside Apartments Phase 2 at 52 & 54 Circuit Avenue South (5-0)
• Approved Special Permit Extension and Definitive Site Plan for 393-397 Shrewsbury Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Zoning Map Amendment for 0 Grafton Street (5-0)
• Approved Definitive Site Plan Extension for Lakeside Apartments Phase 1 at 34-46 Lakeside Avenue (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 225 Shrewsbury Street to 9/25/24 (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plans for 30 Valmor St, 4 Fairbanks St, 20 Reactory Dr, and 22 Elm St (5-0)

Status of Women Advisory Committee

The meeting was largely procedural and discussion-focused. The committee reviewed and approved the August 6, 2024 meeting minutes, discussed the mentorship program and outreach template, considered recruitment recommendations for a brochure and website, and planned a community discussion on gender-based violence, including deciding on panelists, moderator, and location. No formal votes or final decisions were recorded.

• Approved August 6, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussed mentorship program details and outreach template
• Reviewed recruitment recommendations for brochure and website
• Planned gender-based violence community discussion, including panelists, moderator, and location

Board of Election Commissioners

The Board of Election Commissioners announced advanced processing of early voted ballots for the September 3, 2024 State Primary Election, as permitted by the 2022 VOTES Act. Sessions are scheduled for August 31 and, if necessary, September 1 at Worcester City Hall. No results will be released until after polls close on September 3.

• Scheduled advanced removal and depositing of early voted ballots on Aug 31, 8:30 AM–8:00 PM
• Scheduled optional advanced processing session on Sept 1, 8:30 AM–8:00 PM if necessary
• Required observers to register by emailing [email protected] in advance
• Prohibited determining or announcing results until after polls close on Sept 3

Worcester Arts Council

The Worcester Arts Council met virtually on August 29, 2024, and the only substantive action was voting on priorities from the Community Input Survey. The meeting then adjourned. No other decisions were made.

• Voted on Community Input Survey priorities

Board of Election Commissioners

The Board of Election Commissioners met and approved the assignment of Worcester Police Officers at early voting sessions and all polling locations for the September 3rd State Primary, including spare officers for traffic enforcement and election operations. The board also discussed preparations for the primary, including poll worker recruitment and vote-by-mail processes. No other substantive decisions were made at this meeting.

• Approved Worcester Police Officers at polls for early voting and Election Day
• Approved removal/counting of mail-in ballots on August 31 at 8:30 am (from June 27 minutes)
• Approved early voting locations and schedule for Nov 5th State Election (from June 27 minutes)

Historical Commission

The commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 54 West Street, requiring the petitioner to restore six windows to their original size and location, and also approved a related demolition delay waiver (4-1). Other actions included approving a solar panel installation at 4 Quincy Street, a mini split heat pump at 42 Indian Hill Road, and a metal roof replacement at 60 William Street. A demolition waiver for 1 Hancock Street was withdrawn without prejudice, and the 117 Vernon Street demolition request was continued to October 10.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 54 West St window changes (6-0)
• Approved Building Demolition Delay Waiver for 54 West St (4-1)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for solar panels at 4 Quincy St (5-0)
• Approved Building Demolition Delay Waiver for mini split at 42 Indian Hill Rd (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for metal roof at 60 William St (5-0)
• Approved Building Demolition Delay Waiver for roof at 60 William St (5-0)
• Granted leave to withdraw without prejudice for 1 Hancock St vinyl siding (5-0)
• Continued 117 Vernon St demolition request to October 10 (5-0)