6.27.2023 Fall River City Council

Fall River Government TV Jun 27, 2023 YouTube Report Issue

The Fall River City Council convened on June 27, 2023, addressing a range of municipal issues. The meeting began with a special citation honoring WSAR Radio for its 100th anniversary, presented by Council Vice President Pereira to James and Robert Carroll. Public hearings were held for three curb removal/extension requests from Fidel Estrella at 53 California Street, Scott and April Cabral at 402 Courtney Street, and Richard Aguiar at 1500 President Avenue, all of which were later approved. Key discussions included the future of the Bank Street Armory, with City Administrator Seth Aiken presenting the administration's recommendation to sell the building due to estimated rehabilitation costs of $10-12 million, despite Council Vice President Pereira's strong opposition and suggestion for preservation and alternative uses. The item was referred to the Committee on Real Estate. The Council also approved the transfer of $1,906,110.20 to the stabilization fund from FY22 Surplus Revenue and $23,726.06 from the reserve fund to the Bristol County Agricultural School. Appointments to the Commission on Disability for Joseph Rio and Misa Silva, Esquire, were confirmed. Grants totaling $99,650 from Mass EOEEA and $147,727.27 from FEMA were accepted. Other significant actions included the referral of a petition by Colin Dias to rename a section of Third Street to Jean Baptiste LePage Street to the Planning Committee, with an additional request for the committee to suggest alternative locations if the initial proposal is not approved. A request for Mohammed Shabbir to apply for taxicab medallions sparked debate regarding the fairness to existing taxi services and the regulation of ride-sharing companies, ultimately passing with a 6-3 roll call vote. The Council also passed ordinances related to miscellaneous traffic and the fee schedule for the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Boards. The next meetings were scheduled for July 18th and August 15th.

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