Public Meetings - New Bedford, Massachusetts

The New Bedford City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM (session called to order at 6:03 PM) in the City Council Chambers, 133 William Street, New Bedford, MA. Mayor Jonathan F. Mitchell had been invited to discuss the future of Fire Station 9, but did not appear and sent no communication from his office, despite the Council President having called the meeting specifically to speak directly with the Mayor. A Fire Chief was available to represent the administration, but Council President Ryan Pereira stated it would not be appropriate for the Chief to answer questions on a decision made by the Mayor. No minutes were available for the meeting.

The New Bedford City Council convened on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting began with a moment of silence in remembrance of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, followed by a prayer led by Associate Pastor Jamie Wynn of Grace Harbor Church and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councillor Ian Abreu. Council President Ryan J. Pereira presided. All eleven councillors were present. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM. Hearings - Items 1–3 (Eversource – Willis Street, Maxfield Street, Pleasant Street/Tower Drive): Eversource representative Jessica Elder requested permission to install conduit and handholes for service upgrades. A public hearing was opened and closed with no public testimony. The Council unanimously voted to adopt the orders for all three items. - Item 4 (Eversource – Belleville Avenue): A separate hearing for installation of conduit and handholes to improve system reliability on Belleville Avenue. No public testimony. The Council unanimously adopted the order. Mayor's Papers - M1 – Amendment to Lease‑Purchase Agreement (32 Madison Street / PACE): Approved unanimously. The amendment allows PACE to borrow against its leasehold interest for capital improvements. - M2 – Ordinance Amendment on Data Centers: Referred to the Planning Board and the Committee on Ordinances for further review. - M3 – Appointment of Alyssa DaCunha (Executive Director, Commission for Citizens with Disabilities): Referred to the Committee on Appointments and Briefings. - M4 – Appointment of Joana Goncalves (Executive Director, Human Rights Commission): Referred to the Committee on Appointments and Briefings. Councillor Burgo criticized Mayor Mitchell for allegedly misinforming the Human Rights Commission chair that the Council had blocked appointments; Burgo said the mayor “lied” but expressed support for the appointee. - M5 – Appointment of Ymane Galotti (Zoning Board of Appeals): Already serving as an alternate, Galotti was promoted to a full‑time member. The Council voted 11‑0 to waive Rules 38 and 40 and confirmed the appointment. - M6 & M7 – Reappointment of Constables Ian Daley and Ricky Nunez: Approved unanimously. New Business - Item 5 – School Budget Transfer ($157,791 from School General Expense to Transportation): Approved unanimously. Councillor Burgo noted the transfer helps offset cuts the mayor made to the school budget. - Item 6 – Motion (Lopes) for Line‑Item Breakdown of Dues and Subscriptions in Budget Books: Referred to Mayor Mitchell, the CFO’s Office, and the Committee on Finance. - Item 7 – Motion (Abreu) for a Free Bicycle Safety Flag Program: Referred to the Committee on Finance, CFO Ekstrom, and the Administration. Councillor Abreu stated the flags could be purchased at $2 each and that a family affected by a tragedy supports the idea. - Item 8 – Motion (Burgo) to Review Lack of Public Trash Receptacles: Referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods. Councillor Burgo cited complaints and stated the administration removed barrels without replacement. - Item 9 – Motion (Burgo) for Audit of Mayor’s New Staff Hire: Referred to the Committee on Audit. Burgo alleged the position was unfunded and could constitute deficit spending. The motion passed 10‑1 (Councillor Roy dissenting). - Item 10 – Motion (Abreu/Pereira) for Odor Complaint Logs near Sewage Treatment Plant: Approved. DPI and applicable departments are to provide logs to the Special Committee on Environmental Affairs. - Item 11 – Motion (Pereira) for Audit of Health Insurance Brokers’ and Consultants’ Fees: Referred to the Committee on Audit. - Item 12 – Request (Gomes) for Plaques at Gold Star Memorial Trees (Clasky Common Park): Approved 11‑0, with a separate 11‑0 vote to waive Rule 40. - Item 13 – Demolition Review (262 Carroll Street): The Preservation Planner determined the structure is not historically significant. The Council voted unanimously to grant the partial demolition. Tabled Agenda (from March 12, 2026) - Kendra Parker – Appointment and Waiver Request: Two items were removed from the table: (1) appointment of Kendra Parker as Acting Administrative Assistant to the Board of Assessors, and (2) a waiver of education/experience requirements for that position. Councillor Burgo spoke against approval, noting that a qualified person already serves. The motion to approve both items failed 0‑11. Consent Agenda - The consent agenda (C1–C63), including citations, street closings, petitions, and routine reports, was adopted by a single motion without separate discussion. Key Outcomes - 4 Eversource hearings: Orders adopted (unanimous). - M1 – Lease amendment: Adopted (unanimous). - M2 – Data center ordinance: Referred to committees. - M3 & M4 – Appointments: Referred to Appointments and Briefings. - M5 – Zoning Board appointment: Confirmed 11‑0. - M6 & M7 – Constable reappointments: Approved (unanimous). - Item 5 – School fund transfer: Adopted (unanimous). - Item 6 – Budget book detail: Referred. - Item 7 – Bicycle safety flags: Referred. - Item 8 – Trash receptacles review: Referred. - Item 9 – Audit of mayor’s new hire: Referred (passed 10‑1). - Item 10 – Odor complaint logs: Approved. - Item 11 – Insurance broker audit: Referred. - Item 12 – Gold Star plaques: Approved 11‑0 (rule waiver also 11‑0). - Item 13 – 262 Carroll Street demolition: Granted (unanimous). - Tabled items – Kendra Parker appointment and waiver: Failed 0‑11. - Consent agenda: Adopted in full.

The Public Safety & Neighborhoods Committee met on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 7:03 PM in City Council Chambers to discuss two motions concerning the City of New Bedford's use of Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. The meeting was live-streamed after initial technical difficulties were resolved. Chief of Police Jason Thody presented a comprehensive overview of the technology, acknowledged past misuse, and proposed a framework of enhanced safeguards. The committee also heard from the Police Union President Lorenzo Gonzalez. The meeting was tabled at 8:21 PM pending further input from Flock Safety and development of a working group. Consent Calendar - None; the two motions were taken up together. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Chief Thody's Presentation: Chief Thody detailed the history of ALPR technology, noting that Flock was acquired in late 2024 and that the department's initial policies and training were insufficient. He emphasized that the technology captures only point-in-time images of license plates and does not include facial recognition, GPS tracking, or interior recording. He cited a recent Bristol County Superior Court ruling (August 18, 2026) that found Flock use in Fall River did not constitute a search under the Fourth Amendment or Article 14. The chief proposed reducing data retention from 30 to 14 days (with Flock recommending 7 days), implementing a reasonable suspicion standard for searches, requiring mandatory annual training, conducting monthly professional standards audits, and imposing zero tolerance for misuse (including termination and referral for prosecution). He also noted that two cameras had been removed—one too close to a residence and one on private property—and that the Flock contract expires on November 12, 2026. - Councilor Questions: Multiple councilors questioned the chief about the original implementation, training gaps, lack of IT involvement, and the city's ability to audit the vendor. Councilor Burgo highlighted that the IT department had no role, and Councilor Abreu noted that neighboring towns (Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven) have suspended or canceled Flock. Councilor Oliver asked about the timeline for a working group (1-2 months). Councilor Baptiste asked whether the mayor could renew the contract independently; the chief stated he would not renew it in its current form and that the mayor has been supportive. Councilor Abreu asked the Police Union President Lorenzo Gonzalez about potential impacts on manpower and community policing; Gonzalez stated that the human element remains essential for investigation and community trust. Key Outcomes - Motion to Table: The committee voted to table both agenda items until a future meeting when Flock Safety representatives can appear and the chief has finalized a policy proposal. The motion was made by Councilor Burgo, seconded by Councilor Roy, and passed unanimously. - Next Steps: Chief Thody will continue gathering public input (deadline extended to September 24, 2026), form a working group including council members, community representatives, and department personnel, and present a draft policy within one to two months. The committee expects to invite Flock Safety to a future meeting, noting their eight-week notification schedule.

On September 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM, the New Bedford City Council's Committee on Ordinances met in Council Chambers to consider a written motion filed by Councillors Burgo, Abreu, and Lopes. The motion asked the committee to determine whether the appropriate policy outcome is the complete removal and abolition of automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems and other similarly invasive surveillance technologies, or alternatively, the establishment of "Municipal Automated License Plate Reader Privacy and Transparency Standards." The meeting was live-streamed and recorded. Discussion Items - Legal and Policy Framework: Attorney David Gerwatowski, legal counsel to the city council, provided analysis on the proposed ordinance. He explained that the ordinance would not cancel existing ALPR contracts but would require any renewal or new contract to go through a public process including a city council vote. Gerwatowski stated that the ordinance is likely within the council's authority as it protects the public and is not purely administrative. He also noted that the ordinance would not preempt potential state-level red light camera legislation unless state law explicitly supersedes local ordinances. - Scope of Ordinance: Councillors raised concerns about whether the definition of "mass location tracking technology" could inadvertently cover other technologies like body cameras or gunshot detection. Gerwatowski said that the definition would need to be interpreted based on the specific functions of the technology and that the council could always amend the ordinance to include or exclude technologies. The police chief, Jason Thody, confirmed that the current Flock cameras are used only for license plate reading and vehicle identification, not facial recognition. He stated that the city's subscription does not include facial recognition capabilities. - Data Governance and Access: Chief Thody recommended a data retention period of 7 to 14 days, noting that the default was 30 days and the ACLU recommends 14. He advocated for limiting access to the system to dispatch supervisors and sergeants (about 6–8 people) rather than all officers. He also proposed monthly audits by the Professional Standards Unit and a requirement that each search be supported by a police report narrative. Chief Thody committed to not turning the cameras back on until a policy and ordinance are in place, and stated that he would not renew the current contract (which expires November 2026 or January 2027) in its current form. - Amendments Proposed: Councillor Roy moved to add a broad definition of "surveillance technology" and extend the ordinance's requirements to all such technologies. The amendment failed 10–1. Councillor Lopes moved to set a fixed data retention period of 7 days; that amendment failed 9–2. Councillor Lopes moved to limit access to sergeants and above; that amendment failed 10–1. Councillor Lopes moved to require monthly audits by the Professional Standards Unit; the motion failed for lack of a second. Councillor Oliver moved to set a 14-day retention period; that amendment failed 10–1. - Procedural Motions: Multiple motions to table the ordinance were made and failed, with final votes of 6–2, 8–3, and 7–4. A motion to adjourn was also made and failed 7–4. A motion to move the previous question (end debate) passed 9–2. Key Outcomes - Referral to Full City Council: The committee voted 8–3 to refer the ordinance (as originally drafted, without amendments) to the full city council for adoption. The ordinance will appear on the September 24, 2026 council agenda for a second reading and potential further amendments. Councillors who voted in favor cited the need to establish council oversight before the current ALPR contract expires and to prevent the mayor from acting unilaterally. Councillors who opposed argued that more time was needed to review the ordinance and hear from the public and the police department. - Commitment from Police Chief: Chief Thody pledged that the Flock cameras would remain suspended and the contract would not be renewed until the council and administration have established policies and an ordinance. He also agreed to provide written recommendations to the council within a week. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting adjourned at 9:04 PM.

The Special Committee on Memorials & Dedications met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers (133 William St., New Bedford, MA). The meeting was live streamed and recorded. The committee considered three memorial bench applications and one motion regarding a portrait tribute. The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Memorial Bench for Arthur C. Burton, Jr. (Fort Taber): The committee reviewed an application for a bench and plaque at Fort Taber, replacing an existing bench, in memory of Arthur C. Burton, Jr. Applicant Charlene A. Burton (318 Park St., New Bedford) testified about her close bond with her brother and their shared connection to a specific bench at Fort Taber. The committee expressed sympathy and approved the dedication. Councillor Roy and Councillor Oliver spoke in support. - Item 3 – Memorial Bench for Carl Natho (Buttonwood Park): The committee reviewed an application for a bench and plaque at the corner of Buttonwood and Lake Streets, near the Italian American Memorial, in memory of Carl Natho. Applicant Angela Natho (38 Buttonwood St.) described her husband’s daily walks picking up trash in the park and his love for the area. She requested that the bench be placed near the Fuller Parkway or greenhouse area for easier access as she ages. Councillor Lopes (not a committee member) spoke in support, advocating for placement convenient to the applicant. The committee approved the dedication. - Item 4 – Motion Regarding Portrait Tribute of Armand Marchand and George Charbonneau: Councillor Gomes’ written motion requested a meeting with the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center to discuss a portrait tribute of the founders of New Bedford Festival Theatre. The chair suggested waiving reading and taking no further action. The committee voted unanimously to waive reading and have no further action, effectively tabling the motion. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (Arthur C. Burton, Jr. bench): Approved unanimously. The application will be placed on the September 24, 2026 City Council agenda for final approval. - Item 3 (Carl Natho bench): Approved unanimously. The application will be placed on the September 24, 2026 City Council agenda for final approval. - Item 4 (Portrait tribute): No further action taken. The committee voted to waive reading and have no further action. - Item 1 (Freddie Mello bench): This item was listed on the agenda but was not discussed in the available transcript. No action or outcome is recorded in the source material.

Meeting called to order at 7:01 PM by Council President Ryan J. Pereira. This special meeting was held to resume unfinished business from the adjourned August 20, 2026 meeting. The Council addressed 24 agenda items and four tabled motions, with major discussions centered on a resolution opposing safe injection sites, the closure of Fire Station 9, and the City's use of Flock Safety cameras and ALPR technology. Consent Calendar - Item C1-C19 (Consent Agenda): Adopted en bloc, including citations, street closings, petitions, and routine communications. - Items 1, 3-9, 17-20, 22-24: Approved unanimously or by voice vote without debate. These included the call of the meeting, livery license, waiver of residency for Anna Thomas, demolition of the Coffin Howland House (535 Brock Avenue), appointment of Justin Ohlson to the Water Board, HDIP/TIE for Vanko Studio Architects, layout and taking of Hillman Street, approval of proposals for Fire Station 3 and 11, and memorial bench applications. - Item 2 (Ordinance amending Chapter 9 Zoning – Form-Based Code Districts): Passed to be ordained by a roll call vote of 11-0. - Items 10-12: Reports recommending “No Further Action” on cannabis consumption lounges, Clark Cove Beach Nourishment Project, and Ashley Park Warming House senior program were all accepted without objection. Discussion Items 1. Resolution Opposing Safe Injection Sites (Item 14) - Councillor Gomes (sponsor) moved to go on record for the third time against Massachusetts House Bill H.2196 (later corrected to H.5274) and Senate Bill S.1393, which would authorize safe injection sites. He argued such sites are illegal under federal law and that the City should help people get off drugs, not facilitate injection. He requested letters to state leaders and that the Board of Health decline any proposal. - Councillor Roy opposed the motion, stating it oversimplifies the legislation which includes broader harm reduction services. He emphasized evidence-based policy and noted the House bill number had changed; both Rep. Hendricks and Rep. Cabral are co-sponsors. He stated that taking public health tools off the table preemptively is unwise. - Councillor Burgo supported harm reduction but said the motion should advocate for local legislative approval rather than outright opposition. He offered to support an amendment requiring both Board of Health and City Council approval. He voted no on the motion because it asked for a letter opposing any site in New Bedford. - Council President Pereira allowed the bill number to be corrected to H.5274 without objection. - Vote on adoption of the motion (as amended to correct bill number): 6-5 in favor (Abreu, Carney, Choquette, Gomes, Lopes, Oliver yes; Baptiste, Burgo, Pemberton, Pereira, Roy no). Rule 40 was then waived 11-0 to allow immediate effect. 2. Homelessness, Drugs, and Mental Health Strategy (Item 15) - Councillor Gomes proposed a comprehensive strategic plan to address homelessness, substance use, and mental health issues downtown and citywide, using $1.5 million from the opioid lawsuit settlement. He advocated for a “one-stop shop” model to centralize services. - Councillor Baptiste noted the link between mental health, addiction, and housing. He highlighted a 7-months-pregnant woman unable to get help and criticized the lack of coordination among service providers. - Councillor Pemberton agreed, noting over $30 million in grants over the past decade have not improved the situation. - Result: Referred to the Committee on Public Safety & Neighborhoods. 3. South Terminal Development (Item 16) - Councillor Gomes requested a plan from the Administration for the South Terminal (former Vineyard Wind staging area), pressing for job creation and economic development. - Result: Referred to the Committee on City Property. 4. Fire Station 9 Petitions (Item 21) - Councillor Burgo submitted petitions from residents opposing the closure of Fire Station 9. He presented appropriation orders for $1.3 million ($1 million for fire personnel services and $300,000 for health insurance) to keep the station open, noting $500,000 had already been secured by Senator Montigny. - Councillor Choquette urged the Mayor to act, stating the $500,000 is temporary. - Result: The Council voted 11-0 to receive and file the petitions and forward the appropriation orders to Mayor Mitchell. 5. Flock Safety Cameras and ALPR Technology (Tabled Items) Four tabled motions from the August 20 meeting were removed from the table and debated sequentially. - Motion 1 (Gomes): Requesting a meeting with Police Chief Thody, Mayor’s office, and Flock Safety to strengthen policies and community trust. Referred to Public Safety & Neighborhoods 11-0. - Motion 2 (Burgo, Lopes, Abreu): Requesting a broader review of all surveillance technologies, policies on data retention, sharing, and privacy safeguards. Referred to Public Safety & Neighborhoods 11-0. - Motion 3 (Burgo, Abreu, Lopes): Requesting the Ordinances Committee consider either abolishing ALPR systems or establishing privacy standards. Referred to Ordinances 11-0. Councillor Burgo stated he is drafting an ordinance to terminate the contract and any continued use. Councillor Roy argued for a comprehensive ordinance governing all surveillance technologies. Councillor Abreu raised Fourth Amendment concerns and the need for constitutional protections. Councillor Baptiste passionately called for immediate removal, citing misuse and lack of transparency. Councillor Choquette referenced the Fourth Amendment and criticized the Flock company. Councillor Gomes urged hearing from the entire city before a decision. - Motion 4 (Choquette): Requesting immediate cessation of Flock cameras citywide until permanent legislation is enacted. Amended to require the police department to “take down or physically obstruct or cover all ALPR technology equipment.” Then referred to Mayor Mitchell and Chief Thody. The amendment and referral were both approved unanimously after debate. Key Outcomes - Ordinance Amending Chapter 9 Zoning (Item 2): Passed and ordained 11-0. - Resolution Opposing Safe Injection Sites (Item 14): Adopted 6-5 after amendment; Rule 40 waived 11-0. Letters to be sent. - Fire Station 9 Appropriation Orders (Item 21): Forwarded to the Mayor with a request to submit for Council approval. - Flock Cameras: All four tabled motions passed unanimously. The Council requested Mayor Mitchell and Chief Thody to immediately remove or cover all ALPR equipment citywide pending enactment of permanent legislation. - All other routine items (licenses, appointments, reports, referrals) were approved as noted. Meeting adjourned at 8:41 PM.

The New Bedford City Council convened at 7:02 PM on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a resolution commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, a successful veto override of the paid family leave ordinance, multiple appropriations and appointments, and a contentious debate over Flock Safety cameras that led to an early adjournment at 7:53 PM due to lack of decorum. Consent Calendar - Citations honoring Joseph W. Hebert (100th birthday, WWII Navy veteran), newly appointed police officers, the United House of Prayer for All People (100th convocation), and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (30th annual feast) were adopted and ordered presented later. - Street closing requests for various events (block party, AHA! New Bedford, community health fair, back-to-school night, scallop festival, reggae concert, bike show, Hispanic Heritage Month block party, and a barbershop event) were ratified as provisionally granted by the City Council President. - A petition for a projecting sign at 116B Tarkiln Hill Road was provisionally granted. - Routine communications regarding ordinance notifications, meeting minutes from various boards, and numerous street obstruction, disturbance, and dumpster permits were received and placed on file or ratified. - Eversource energy conduit petitions were received and hearings ordered for September 10, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No member of the public provided formal testimony during the meeting. However, audience disruptions occurred during debate on Flock Safety camera motions, prompting a recess and eventual adjournment. Discussion Items - Veto Override – Paid Family Leave Ordinance (M1): Councillor Burgo led debate on overriding the mayor's veto of an ordinance amending Chapter 19 to provide paid family leave for city employees (Unit C). Burgo argued the veto was bad faith, that the ordinance did not violate state/federal law, and that it would not create a new budget line item because salaries are already appropriated. The council voted 11-0 to override the veto, ordaining the ordinance. - Appropriation for Hillman/Purchase Intersection (M2): An order to appropriate $39,303.75 from the HousingWorks grant for layout and taking damages for a signalized intersection was adopted 11-0. - Lease Assignment (M3): An order approving a lease assignment between Friend Street Realty LLC and Comcast LLC was adopted. - Sewer Abatements (M4–M6): Abatements for Tarkiln Hill Realty Corp ($26,574.44), Tamara Ramsay ($1,607.07), and Shavoryia McElroy ($235.00) were granted 11-0. - Conservation Commission Reappointments (M7–M8): Scott Grant and Rebeca Linhart were reappointed to the Conservation Commission, terms expiring June 2029, by an 11-0 vote. - Election Commission Appointment (M9): The appointment of Brian J. Sousa to the Election Commission was referred to the Committee on Appointments & Briefings. Councillors Burgo and Oliver criticized the mayor's office for submitting the name late (the night of a state primary week) despite receiving recommendations months earlier, emphasizing the need for a proper screening. - Constable Reappointment (M10): Joseph Latimer was reappointed as constable by an 11-0 vote. - Flock Safety Cameras and Surveillance Technology (Items 14–17): These items were taken out of order. Councillor Gomes moved to refer his motion (Item 14) to the Committee on Public Safety & Neighborhoods to meet with police, the mayor's office, and Flock Safety to enhance policies and community trust. Items 15 and 16 (from Councillors Burgo, Lopes, Abreu) called for broader review of surveillance technologies and possible abolition or standards. Item 17 (Councillor Choquette) demanded immediate cessation of Flock cameras until legislation is enacted. During debate, Councillor Lopes argued for removal of cameras, citing misuse. Councillor Roy supported hearings and review but questioned Flock's suitability. Councillor Gomes supported cameras with proper safeguards but criticized the administration's lack of public notice. Audience disruptions led to a short recess. After reconvening, further outbursts caused the council president to table the items and adjourn at 7:53 PM. Key Outcomes - Veto overridden: Paid family leave ordinance ordained (11-0). - Appropriations approved: $39,303.75 for intersection improvements; sewer abatements totaling $28,416.51. - Appointments confirmed: Scott Grant, Rebeca Linhart (Conservation Commission), Joseph Latimer (Constable). Brian Sousa's appointment referred to committee. - Flock camera motions tabled: Items 14–17 were tabled due to the unscheduled adjournment caused by lack of decorum; no action taken. Further committee review expected. - All consent calendar items were ratified or received as listed.

The Finance Committee met to discuss multiple budget transfer orders, a motion regarding the MBTA settlement funds for pedestrian bridge maintenance, and an order for layout and taking of Hillman Street. Several items were tabled due to early fiscal year timing, and one item was referred to the full City Council. Hillman Street Layout and Taking (Item 7) - The committee considered an order to layout and take Hillman Street to realign it for a new signalized intersection. Councillor Baptiste expressed support, noting the improvement for safety. The item was referred to the full City Council for its August 20, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items - Item 1 – MBTA Settlement ($3.5 million): City Solicitor Eric Jakes explained that the majority of the settlement was allocated to other entities, leaving approximately $460,000 for the city, which was already expended in a prior fiscal year and cannot be placed in a revolving fund. Councillor Pereira requested a breakdown of where the $460,000 was spent. The item was tabled. - Item 2 – Mayor's Transfer ($37,154): Transfer from Mayor Purchase of Services to Other Charges due to coding errors. Auditor Quillan Lowney confirmed no immediate bill delays. Tabled. - Item 3 – Assessors Transfer ($2,000): Similar coding error; auditor noted the assessors' account is negative but no charges planned. Tabled on a 7–1 roll call vote (Councillor Roy opposed). - Item 4 – Labor Relations Transfer ($650): Auditor confirmed no negative impact. Tabled on a 6–2 roll call vote (Councillors Carney and Roy opposed). - Item 5 – School Transfer ($157,791): Assistant Superintendent David Flynn stated the transfer is for accounting purposes to match net school spending minimum, but the school department faces a $2 million shortfall in transportation. He committed to managing without affecting classroom instruction. The item was referred to the full City Council on a 7–1 vote (Councillor Roy opposed). - Item 6 – Zeiterion Theatre Transfer ($395,000): Transfer from Supplies to Purchase of Services to correct account coding. Auditor stated payments could proceed even if tabled. Motion to table passed 6–2 (Councillors Lopes and Roy opposed). Key Outcomes - Referred to full City Council: Hillman Street layout (Item 7) and School transfer (Item 5). - Tabled: MBTA settlement discussion (Item 1), Mayor's transfer (Item 2), Assessors transfer (Item 3), Labor Relations transfer (Item 4), and Zeiterion Theatre transfer (Item 6). - Votes as recorded above. - Meeting adjourned at 7:42 PM. No public comments were made.

This meeting of the New Bedford City Property Committee was held on August 11, 2026, at 7:03 PM in City Council Chambers, Room 214. The committee considered proposals for the redevelopment of two former fire stations (Fire Station 3 at 834 Kempton Street and Fire Station 11 at 754 Brock Avenue), heard presentations from three developers, and voted on the selection of developers for each property. The meeting also addressed two other agenda items. The meeting adjourned at 7:51 PM. Consent Calendar - Items 4 (Communication regarding the Clark Cove Beach Nourishment Project) and 5 (Written motion regarding the Ashley Park Warming House) were moved to be waived of reading and referred to the full City Council for no further action. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Fire Station 3 (834 Kempton Street): Two developers presented proposals. - Gwozdz Development (Christian Gwozdz Silvera): Proposed six apartments, a tenant common garden, laundry, and donated space to the South Coast Business Alliance. Included a building permit contingency and a financing contingency. Stated his company has over 20 years of experience and is DCAM certified. Questions from Councilor Burgle focused on parking (12 spaces claimed) and timeline (1.5 years to move-in). - Divine Contractors, Inc. / Freedom Realty Group (Gary Gagney): Proposed eight apartments with no financing or permit contingencies. Offered $75,000 purchase price (vs. $50,000 from Gwozdz). Claimed private financing secured, no risk to the city. Timeline estimated at 18 months. Cited 18 completed projects in New Bedford since 2024. Questions from Councilor Burgle about feasibility of eight units and parking. - Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Avenue): Two developers presented proposals. - South Coast Investments, Inc.: Presented a proposal for eight residential apartments with one garage space per unit and two visitor spaces (total 10). Stated the proposal had been vetted and selected twice by the committee. Emphasized $15,000 pre-development investment, collaboration with city departments, and two years of work. Councilor Burgle noted the proposal had been presented before and asked about bank financing. - Divine Contractors, Inc. / Freedom Realty Group (Gary Gagney): Again offered no contingencies, highest purchase price ($75,000), and private financing. Emphasized no risk to the city and faster timeline. Also mentioned site plans and parking agreements. Councilor Gomes clarified that the extra funds from the sale are not dedicated to any specific purpose. Key Outcomes - Fire Station 3 (834 Kempton Street): - Motion to select Divine Contractors/Freedom Realty Group failed 6-2 (Councilors Burgle and Roy in favor; all others opposed). - Motion to select South Coast Investments, Inc. passed 6-2 (Councilors Burgle and Roy opposed; all others in favor). - Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Avenue): - Motion to select Divine Contractors/Freedom Realty Group failed 6-2 (Councilors Burgle and Roy in favor; all others opposed). - Motion to select Gwozdz Development passed 6-2 (Councilors Burgle and Roy opposed; all others in favor). - The committee will report these recommendations to the full City Council for final approval. - Items 4 and 5 were referred to the full City Council with a recommendation for no further action.