5 12 2025 City Council Ordinances and Legislation

Fall River Government TV May 13, 2025 YouTube Report Issue

The Fall River City Council Ordinances and Legislation meeting on May 12, 2025, began with citizen input regarding a proposed one-way conversion for Pine Street between Seabberry and Roberson Streets. Residents David Aloea and Audrey Poris expressed opposition, citing concerns about traffic congestion, existing parking difficulties, and safety at the Roberson/Pine intersection. The Council then approved the minutes from April 7th and April 14th, 2025. A proposed ordinance for traffic handicap parking was passed through all readings with an emergency preamble. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to proposed amendments to the A2 zoning district ordinance. Dan Aguia, Director of Engineering and Planning, and Assistant City Solicitor Matt Burke explained that the amendments aimed to correct typographical errors (changing 6,000 to 600 square feet for dwelling units) and reduce minimum square footage and room requirements for apartments. This change is intended to allow for the development of smaller, more affordable units like studios and one-bedrooms, aligning A2 zoning with other multifamily districts in the city. The amendments also included adjustments to minimum land area calculations and a reduction in building height limits while maintaining lot coverage and parking requirements. The ordinance, as amended, passed through its first reading. The discussion reverted to the Pine Street one-way proposal, with Stephanie MacArthur, Director of Traffic and Parking, clarifying that the Traffic Board approved an easterly one-way direction (Seabberry to Robeson) based on Fire Chief Bacon's recommendation for emergency access. However, the Traffic Board had denied a four-way stop at Roberson and Pine due to the street's incline. Ken Lec, Executive Director of the Veteran Center, and Ferris, Director of Veteran Services, highlighted the critical need for parking for veterans, many of whom are elderly. Councilors explored alternatives, including temporary parking solutions or acquiring/leasing land for a parking lot behind the Veteran Center. Ultimately, the Pine Street one-way item was tabled to allow councilors to research potential parking solutions and verify the status of Ruggles Park land. Finally, sections related to parking prohibitions on County Street North and the removal of handicap parking on Dwelli, Hanover, Harrison, and Malbury Streets passed through first reading before the meeting adjourned.

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