Public Meetings - New Bedford, Massachusetts

The New Bedford City Council's Committee on Appointments and Briefings met on July 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Room 214 of City Hall Chambers. The meeting addressed a public hearing on the demolition of the historically significant Coffin Howland House, the appointment of Justin Olson to the Water Board, and ongoing violations of waste collection ordinances by private haulers. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Moraes of Valentine Street submitted written testimony read into the record. He expressed frustration over decades of neglect of the Coffin Howland House, accusing the city of systematic neglect and unrealistic binary choices. He urged the city to tear down the building but rebuild a simple restroom and visitor center in a cottage style, citing Bristol, Rhode Island as an example. - John McCoy of Lucas Street, the only member of the public to speak in person, stated his 25-year involvement with the property. He argued that the Coffin Howland House was originally a barn and is not the most historic structure in Hazelwood Park; the Stonehouse is the historically significant building. He strongly opposed rebuilding on the site, noting that the gazebo east of the barn offers a fantastic view of Clark's Cove, and urged the city not to spoil that view. He supported demolition. Discussion Items Public Hearing on Demolition of 535 Brock Avenue (Coffin Howland House) - Anne, the preservation planner representing the New Bedford Historical Commission, presented the staff report. The circa 1840-1854 carriage house, later converted to a residence, is a contributing resource to the Hazelwood Park National Register. The building suffered a significant fire decades ago, has a collapsed roof, and is boarded up due to vandalism and deferred maintenance. The Historical Commission determined it is historically significant but not preferably preserved, requiring a public hearing per city ordinance. - Councilor Abreu, a lifelong South Ender, expressed deep attachment to the property and asked about restoration alternatives. Anne explained that even 20 years ago, the building was in very poor condition and would have required rebuilding. Limited grant resources were allocated to the Stonehouse, which was structurally sound. She confirmed that reconstruction plans are only schematic, with no identified funding, and would not require further council or commission review. Councilor Abreu requested that the neighborhood be consulted through the Peninsula Neighborhood Association, emphasizing that residents should be heard. - Councilor Oliver asked about demolition costs, funding source, and timeline. Anne did not have the cost details, as the project is led by the Department of Facilities and Fleet Management (DFFM). She noted abatement is required. The timeline is expected to be soon. Councilor Oliver suggested a historical interpretive panel instead of rebuilding, which Anne agreed was a good idea. - Councilor Pemberton questioned why the city waited so long to act. Anne responded that structural assessments were done, a section was torn down in 2015, and there was always hope to find funding for rehabilitation. Once the Stonehouse planning was completed, it became clear the cottage was beyond repair. - Council President Pereira expressed personal difficulty voting for demolition, noting the building's importance to South End residents. He shared frustration echoed in public testimony. He asked how condition weighs in the recommendation. Anne stated that even if funding were found, the structure would have to be knocked down and rebuilt due to the collapsed roof and hazardous materials. Councilor Pereira requested that the costs be provided to the clerk's office. - Councilor Lopes thanked Anne for her years of effort to save the building, noting that neglect from previous administrations allowed it to deteriorate. He recalled a party in the house 30 years ago and efforts to replicate boarding, lead paint abatement, and a denied park grant in 2015. - The Historical Commission member (Mr. Louny) stated that the building is a safety hazard and must come down despite efforts to preserve it. - Councilor Abreu asked about homeless encampments. The commissioner confirmed that after a past break-in, the building was boarded up, but there have been no recent complaints. Appointment of Justin Olson to the Water Board - Justin Olson of 27 Plant Street introduced himself, noting his nearly ten years with the Department of Public Infrastructure, working alongside the water department on park maintenance, forestry, cemetery, and watershed areas around Quitticus and Lakeville. He expressed his desire to serve on the board. - Councilor Lopes praised Olson's dedication to the city and water quality. Councilor Abreu called him a class act and said the vote was an easy one. Councilor Choquette and others voiced support. Waste Collection Ordinance Violations (Item 4) - Councilor Lopes reported that after filing the motion, Republic Waste Services began cooperating after receiving citations for picking up dumpsters at 4:45-5:15 AM in residential neighborhoods, violating the city ordinance that prohibits pickup before 7 AM. The company claimed ignorance of the ordinance, but Councilor Lopes disputed that. The driver had complained about idle time, but Republic Waste has since adjusted routes and worked with the property owner to clear access. The first Monday without complaints was noted. - Councilor Roy stated that Waste Management remains a problem, with continued early morning pickups disturbing neighborhoods. He requested that representatives from all three companies (Republic Waste, E.L. Harvey, and Waste Management) be invited to a future meeting to address the issue directly. Key Outcomes - Demolition approved (Item 2): The public hearing was closed on a motion by Councilor Abreu, seconded by Councilor Roy. A motion to approve the demolition of the Coffin Howland House at 535 Brock Avenue was made by Councilor Roy, seconded by Councilor Lloyd, and referred to the full City Council. The vote was unanimous (all in favor, no opposition). The motion included a request to provide demolition costs to the clerk's office. - Water Board appointment (Item 3): The committee voted unanimously to give a positive recommendation to the full City Council for the appointment of Justin Olson to the Water Board (term expiring April 2027). The motion was made by Councilor Lopes, seconded by Councilor Abreu. Olson may be sworn in at the August 20, 2026 City Council meeting or by the clerk. - Waste collection violations (Item 4): The item was tabled on a motion by Councilor Roy, seconded by Councilor Lopes, to allow continued monitoring of Republic Waste Services and to potentially invite representatives from all waste haulers to a future meeting. The vote was unanimous.

The New Bedford City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 7:06 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of business including a public hearing on an Eversource conduit, the mayor's veto of a paid family leave ordinance, numerous financial transfers, appointments, and several policy motions. Key votes included approval of a $220.4 million CSO loan order and a split decision on accepting a pedestrian bridge easement. Consent Calendar - Items 11–25A: Waived readings and no further action, approved unanimously. - Item C14 (as amended): Motion to install speed limit signs on Cherokee Street and Pequot Street (lowering to 20 mph) was adopted. The original motion was amended to replace the specific intersections with 'along the length of' those streets. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing or offered testimony during the meeting. Discussion Items - Eversource Conduit (Item 1): A public hearing was held for approval of approximately 40 feet of conduit at Howard Avenue to serve the new Howard Avenue pumping station. Sean (DPW) explained the work is necessary for the CSO reduction project. Councilors asked about project status and bridge closures. The hearing was closed and the order approved unanimously. - Mayor's Veto of Paid Family Leave Ordinance (M1): Councilor Burgo led a lengthy discussion, reading a written response to the mayor's veto. He emphasized that the ordinance was developed over three years and that city employees have shared stories of needing to use accrued sick and vacation time for parental leave. The council voted to receive and spread the veto on the record; the override vote will occur at a later meeting. - Pedestrian Bridge Easement (Item 28): Councilor Burgo moved to discharge the item from committee to allow a dedication during Cape Verdean Heritage Month. After discharge (8-1), a motion to adopt the easement passed 7-2. Councilors Carney and Oliver opposed, citing ongoing maintenance costs and a desire for state assistance. Councilor Burgo noted that the city already bears the maintenance costs. - Whaling City Festival Security (Item 29): Councilor Gomes introduced a motion to meet with festival organizers and police to discuss future security. He and other councilors defended the festival, noting that the disturbance occurred outside the festival grounds. Councilor Baptiste reported that only nine police details were assigned on the night of the stabbing. The motion was referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods. - Winter Recovery Assistance Funds (Item 26): Councilor Abreu explained the motion requesting a detailed accounting of $713,441.91 received from the state. He noted that the administration was initially unaware of the funds. The motion was referred to the Finance Committee. - Hillman Street Layout (Item 30): A communication from the city solicitor regarding the layout and taking of Hillman Street for a realignment project. Councilor Roy asked about the appropriation amount, but the chair ruled the question for committee. The item was referred to Finance to ensure proper documentation. - Special Police Officers (Item 31): Councilor Gomes submitted an act to allow appointment of retired police officers as special police. He stated it has police chief support and would help with details. Referred to the state legislative delegation. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Eversource Conduit): Public hearing closed and order approved unanimously. - Item 2 (CSO Loan Order): $220,400,000 loan order approved 9-0. - Item 3 (Ordinance – Chapter 16 Rates): Passed to be ordained 8-1 (Councilor Carney opposed). - Items 4–6 (Appointments): Reappointment of Ricard Rosende to Licensing Board, appointment of Lara Harrington to Airport Commission, and appointment of Craig Gaspanola to Steamship Authority approved 9-0. - Item 28 (Pedestrian Bridge Easement): Discharged from committee 8-1; then adopted 7-2 (Councilors Carney and Oliver opposed). - Item 32 (Private Livery License): Renewal granted for Khalil B. Arsanios, International Transportation LLC. - All transfer orders (M2–M6) referred to the Committee on Finance. - Item 7 (CPA Budget): FY27 budget adopted. - Item 8 (Zoning – Form-Based Code): Passed to a second reading. - Item 9 (Fee Increases): Fees for vital records and business certificates increased from $40 to $50, adopted. - Item 10 (Fire Station Proposals): Referred to Committee on City Property. - Item 29 (Whaling City Festival): Referred to Public Safety and Neighborhoods Committee. - Item 30 (Hillman Street): Referred to Finance Committee. - Item 31 (Special Police Officers): Referred to state legislative delegation. - Consent Agenda: Adopted as amended. - Meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM.

This special meeting of the New Bedford City Council was held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 6:07 PM in the City Council chambers. The sole purpose was to nominate and elect a new member to the Board of Assessors following the retirement of Assessor Marty Treadup. Councillors Lopes and Pemberton were absent due to work and business commitments, respectively. The meeting was live-streamed and recorded. Nominee Presentations - Linda Morad (nominated by Councillor Burgo): A former city councillor of 20 years with 34 years in financial services. She emphasized her knowledge of municipal finance, commercial/residential real estate, and her ability to serve immediately without a learning curve. She acknowledged the other nominees and current assessors. - James Clark (nominated by Councillor Choquett): A 33-year veteran of the New Bedford Fire Department (17 years as district fire chief), licensed construction supervisor, property owner/landlord since 1990, and chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals. He stressed his knowledge of city streets, buildings, construction costs, and zoning experience. - Richard Portis (nominated by Councillor Roy): A 14-year resident, former investment professional and certified financial planner, later a public school teacher. He highlighted his experience with large data sets, regulations, and board service (New Bedford Community Health, NAACP, James Arnold Mansion). He noted he is a renter with no taxable property ownership, citing independence. - Carlos Amato (nominated by Councillor Abreu): Spent 23 years of a nearly 40-year career in assessment administration and appraisal with the City of New Bedford Assessing Department, including as administrative assistant to the Board of Assessors. He clarified the board's statutory role and emphasized his expertise. - Sean Carney (nominated by Councillor Baptiste): A lifelong resident, attorney, chair of the Conservation Commission, and board member of the YMCA. He noted his mother is a councillor who recused herself. He described himself as an ordinary taxpayer concerned about financial fairness and transparency. - Keenan Kabalu (spoke for nomination from the floor): A younger resident with no traditional assessing background, but committed to learning and representing the next generation. - Holly Allison (spoke for nomination from the floor): A store manager at Cumberland Farms, seeking to start in government service. She has no prior community service experience but pledged accountability and attendance. Discussion Items - Point of order (Councillor Baptiste): Raised concern that nominees not formally nominated might not have been given a chance to speak. The chair, after consulting legal counsel, allowed any interested individual to come forward and be nominated from the floor, which led to two additional speakers (Kabalu and Allison). Councillor Shocket objected, noting fairness to those who did not attend, but the chair proceeded. - Nominations closed: Motion by Councillor Burgo, seconded by Councillor Roy, passed unanimously. - Speeches in support: Councillor Burgo praised Linda Morad's experience, financial knowledge, and mentorship, calling her the best fit for a temporary appointment until the 2027 election. Councillor Oliver also supported Morad, citing feedback from assessors and staff that she combines political knowledge, ability to ask tough questions, and readiness to modernize. He urged all candidates to run in the next election. Key Outcomes - Election: The council voted by roll call. Results: Linda Morad – 6 votes; James Clark – 1 vote; Carlos Amato – 1 vote. Linda Morad was declared elected as the new member of the Board of Assessors. - Waiver of Rule 40: A motion to waive the 24-hour reconsideration period passed 8–0. - Swearing-in: Linda Morad was sworn in immediately by the clerk, taking the oath of office. She thanked the council and the other nominees, and apologized for any disruptions during the meeting.

The committee met on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM in Room 214 of City Hall to consider two license applications and a motion regarding cannabis consumption establishments. Chair Ian Abrew presided, joined by Councillors Scott Pemberton, Lear Choquette, and Naomi Carney. Councillor Lopes was absent due to a work commitment, and his absence was duly noted and filed. Discussion Items - Item 1: Private Livery License for George Almeida (All Needs Transportation) – Mr. Almeida, a retired individual who has been driving for about a year, applied for a private livery license to operate two vehicles from his home at 32 Liberia Lane. He stated the business would focus on medical transportation (dialysis) and not school or airport runs. Councillor Carney inquired about the number of vehicles and parking arrangements; Mr. Almeida confirmed off-street parking. Chair Abrew advised on MassPort certification requirements for Logan Airport runs. The committee voted unanimously to approve the application with a favorable recommendation to the full City Council. - Item 2: Waiver of Residency for Second‑Hand Dealer License (Anna Thomas, All Things With Anna) – Ms. Thomas requested a residency waiver under Section 15‑38 of the city code to operate a thrift store at 127 West Rodney French Boulevard (Kilburn Mill). She described previous experience running a flea market booth, a hair salon, and a cleaning company. The store will sell second‑hand clothing, household goods, and toys. No opposition was voiced. The committee voted unanimously to approve the waiver and license with a favorable recommendation to the full City Council. - Item 3: Cannabis Consumption Establishments (Motion by Councillors Abrew and Oliver) – This item, which had been tabled since March 19, 2026, was removed from the table. The committee heard updates from: - Police Chief Jason Thody: Expressed concerns about the lack of reliable roadside or blood tests for THC impairment, the difficulty of identifying overserved patrons, the cash‑heavy nature of cannabis businesses (attracting burglary/robbery), and the strain on short‑staffed police resources. He stated he is not “anti‑cannabis” but highlighted enforcement challenges. - Health Director Stephanie Sloan: Reported that the Massachusetts Health Officers Association met with the state Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) but received vague timelines. The CCC indicated no routine compliance inspections would be performed, and local enforcement would likely be necessary. She noted that many other large cities are also in a “wait‑and‑see” posture. - Solicitor Eric Jakes: Noted that the CCC has been slow to act—for example, it has not yet responded to New Bedford’s social equity policy submitted in August 2025. He questioned the state’s ability to conduct compliance checks and advised against moving forward at this time. - Councillor Carney: Stated she is “not ready to see cannabis cafes in New Bedford anytime soon” and agreed that implementation is premature. No formal ordinance was proposed. The committee voted unanimously to refer the motion to the full City Council with a recommendation of no further action. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Approved favorably; final vote scheduled for the full City Council meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 7:00 PM. - Item 2: Approved favorably; final vote scheduled for the same August 20, 2026 meeting. - Item 3: Referred to the full City Council for no further action, effectively halting the proposal for now. The committee will revisit the topic if and when the state provides clearer guidance. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:31 PM.

The Committee on Ordinances met on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 7:05 PM to consider several ordinance amendments submitted by Mayor Mitchell to consolidate multiple city departments under a new Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The proposed consolidation would bring together the Health Department, Licensing, Veterans Services, Community Services, Recreation, and the Council on Aging under a single HHS umbrella. Director Stephanie Sloan presented the rationale, citing strategic advantages in funding eligibility, community resilience, and operational efficiencies. Several city councilors expressed concerns about the impact on services, loss of positions, and the process by which the proposal was developed. After extensive discussion, the committee voted to table the items. Consent Calendar - Four letters of absence were read into the record from Council President Pereira, Councillor Choquett, and Councillor Abro (three letters read; agenda indicates four, but transcript lists three). The letters cited personal or work commitments. - The committee received and placed on file the communications and ordinances (items 1 through 6A) related to the HHS reorganization. Discussion Items - Presentation by Director Stephanie Sloan: She outlined strategic advantages of consolidation, including shared scope across health, licensing, veterans, recreation, and community services; enhanced funding eligibility for HHS systems; improved community resilience; and early successes in supporting departments since the FY27 budget approval. She cited examples of aligning permitting workflows and joint grant applications. - Questions and Concerns from Councilors: - Councillor Gomes expressed skepticism, recalling a previous attempt that did not work. He questioned the relevance of veterans and licensing to health, and asked about the "one-stop" service experience. Director Sloan argued that all departments contribute to well-being and that digitalization and workflow alignment would improve efficiency. - Councillor Carney voiced opposition, seeking clarification on the role of the Board of Health and oversight. Director Sloan clarified that the Board of Health would remain under HHS but would not oversee other boards like licensing or veterans. - Councillor Royan asked about projected savings: Director Sloan stated $1.2 million total ($1 million from cuts and positions, plus $200,000 from COLAs and freezes). - Councillor Gomes (second round) asked about providing leadership for employees without directors, and whether grants would go to specific departments. Director Sloan explained that grant funds would be allocated based on the grant's purpose. - Councillor Oliver asked about the timeline of development and whether the administration had discussed the consolidation with councilors during earlier budget meetings. Chief of Staff Connolly (COO) said the idea had been considered for years but was finalized during budget development; they did not discuss it with councilors earlier because it was not yet finalized. - Councillor Roy asked about the possibility of adding back positions if gaps are found. Chief Connolly said it would be possible if funding allowed, but he did not foresee major gaps. - Testimony from Department Heads: - Director Gomes (Veterans Services) expressed openness to the model but noted the loss of a clerk with 38 years of experience as a significant challenge. He stated he would ensure continued quality service. - Director Amaral (Licensing) expressed confidence that the consolidation would work, citing existing collaboration with the health department. - Councillor Oliver's closing remarks: She argued for a pause, noting that the consolidation seemed rushed and that there was insufficient data to guarantee success. She moved to table the items. Key Outcomes - Motion to Table: Councillor Oliver moved to table all items (1 through 6A), seconded by Councillor Carney. The motion passed unanimously (all in favor, no opposed). The meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.

This meeting of the City Property Committee covered the disposition of multiple city-owned properties, including a Port Authority parcel, five former municipal buildings, and two fire stations. The committee heard presentations from city officials, discussed changes to the RFP process to improve developer flexibility, and voted on recommendations. Consent Calendar - Items 4 through 12 were waived and taken with no further action by unanimous consent. Discussion Items - Item 1: Port Authority Property Sale at 276 MacArthur Drive – Blair Bailey, General Counsel for the New Bedford Port Authority, presented plans to issue an RFP for the sale of the maritime terminal property. The property currently generates $12,000 per year in rent, but the city estimates it would require $25 million in investment to extend the lease 45 more years. The Port Authority is prioritizing rebuilding Leonard's Wharf and Homer's Wharf. The property will be sold 'as-is, where-is' with the existing lease in place, and the buyer assumes all maintenance and liability. Councilors Lopes and Pereira expressed support for the process but sought assurances regarding assistance with permitting, particularly for the current tenants. The committee voted to refer the matter to no further action (motion by Councilor Pereira, second by Councilor Lopes). - Item 2: RFPs for Five City-Owned Properties – Josh (Director of Housing and Community Development) presented revised RFPs for the former police station (170 Cove Street), the New Bedford Armory (989 Pleasant Street), and three former schools (Phillips Avenue, Horatio A. Kempton, William H. Taylor). He explained that previous RFPs were pulled due to restrictive clawback language that deterred bank lending. The new approach removes strict clawback provisions and introduces a two-step process: council approval to issue the RFP, followed by a negotiation phase for a purchase and sale agreement, with a final council vote. This allows for flexibility on timelines and financing. Councilors Lopes and Pereira raised concerns about ensuring the city retains adequate recourse to avoid prolonged legal battles (e.g., the Civil Defense building case). Pereira requested a formalized committee to evaluate proposals, including members from planning, building, and community development. Josh noted the RFPs prioritize housing, with a preference for market-rate development to speed up timelines, but the armory may require subsidies. The Taylor School RFP explicitly requires 80% market-rate units. The committee voted to authorize the release of the RFPs for items 2A through 2E (motion by Councilor Lopes, second by Councilor Gomes). - Item 3: Proposals for Fire Station 3 and 11 – Josh presented the evaluation of proposals received after reissuing RFPs for Fire Station 3 (834 Kempton Street) and Fire Station 11 (745 Brock Avenue). A three-person review committee (Ashley Eaton, Jordan Latham, and Ann Lauro) unanimously recommended awarding Fire Station 3 to South Coast Investments and Fire Station 11 to Gavuj Development, both rated 'highly advantageous.' Competing proposals from Divine Contractors/Freedom Realty Group were rated 'advantageous' but lacked detail in budgets and timelines. The winning firms offered $50,000 per building versus $75,000 from the competitor, but the committee prioritized preparation and feasibility. Councilor Lopes requested future inclusion of the scoring matrix. The committee voted to accept the recommendations (motion by Councilor Lopes, second by Councilor Abreu). Key Outcomes - Item 1: Motion to refer to no further action passed unanimously. - Item 2: Motion to authorize the release of RFPs for five properties passed unanimously. - Item 3: Motion to award Fire Station 3 to South Coast Investments and Fire Station 11 to Gavuj Development passed unanimously. - Items 4-12: Waived and no further action taken. - The meeting adjourned at 7:47 PM.

The New Bedford City Council met on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 7:07 PM, with 10 members present (later joined by Councillor Carney). The meeting concluded at 7:44 PM. Key actions included the adoption of several ordinances, approval of financial transfers, and discussion of paid family leave and a petition opposing the closure of Fire Station 9. Mayor's Papers (Financial Transfers) - M1: Transfer of $1,728,450 from wastewater free cash to special projects fund. Adopted 9–1 (Councillor Burgo opposed). - M2: Transfer of $2,842,750 from water free cash to Water Stabilization Fund. Adopted unanimously. - M3: Transfer of $334,000 from Stabilization Fund to debt service. Adopted unanimously. - M4: Transfer of $250,000 from City Utilities Purchase of Services to debt service. Adopted 6–4 after debate. Councillor Lopes criticized the mayor for calling the council’s budget cut “frivolous” while the administration raised an excess. Councillor Burgo noted the transfer was responsible for FY26. - M5: Transfer of $177,033 from various departments to debt service. Adopted 10–0. Councillor Burgo clarified this was not the same situation as the previous budget dispute. New Business: Ordinances (Final Adoption) All six ordinances were adopted unanimously (10–0): 1. Ordinance amending Chapter 9, Section 4100A relative to municipal facility conversion. 2. Ordinance amending Chapter 10, Section 10-86.1 for voluntary electronic email delivery of tax bills. 3. Ordinance amending Chapter 19, Section 19-7.2 for temporary delay of step increases in FY2027. 4. Ordinance amending Chapter 19, Section 19-7D suspending annual COLA for Unit C Management positions for FY27. 5. Ordinance amending Chapter 19 relative to paid family leave. Councillor Burgo spoke in support, noting it was three years in the making and would allow employees to bond with newborns without using earned leave. He emphasized it does not create new departments or significant taxpayer burdens. 6. Ordinance amending Chapter 19, Section 19-7, Article 1 relative to personnel. Reports and Orders - Items 7–8: Private livery licenses for Sister Express Transport and Grass' Solutions Transportation approved unanimously. - Item 9: Ordinance amending wastewater rate setting flexibility passed to second reading. - Item 10: Wastewater rates for FY27–28 adopted. - Item 11: Loan order for $20.4 million for CSO control plan passed to second reading. - Item 12: Tax exemption eligibility changed from age 70 to 65. - Items 13–16A: Multiple transfers from stabilization fund and other adjustments adopted 8–0 (Councillor Carney not recorded voting). Councillor Burgo criticized the administration for deficits in the mayor’s office and mismanagement, but voted yes to fund them, warning it would not be allowed next year. - Items 17–18A: Waived reading and no further action taken. Motions and Communications - Item 19: Councillor Gomes motion to establish an ordinance regulating electric bikes, scooters, and mini-bikes, citing safety concerns. Referred to the Committee on Ordinances. - Item 20: Renewal of private livery license for Portillos Transportation granted. - Item 21: Adoption of CPI increases for various tax exemptions as submitted by Board of Assessors. - Item 22: Petitions opposing closure of Fire Station 9 received and placed on file. Councillor Burgo stated the council is listening to residents and will continue fighting for Ward 1. Tabled Items and Adjournment - Tabled items were taken up and adopted on consent. - Meeting adjourned at 7:44 PM. Councillor Burgo noted the start of Cape Verdean Heritage Month and upcoming events.

The Committee on Ordinances of the New Bedford City Council met on June 24, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting was live-streamed and recorded. Chairman Shane Burgo presided over members Councillors Scott Pemberton (Ward 2), Leo Choquette (Ward 1), Joseph Lopes (Ward 5), Ryan Pereira (Ward 6 and Council President), James Roy (Councilor at Large), and Naomi Carney (Councilor at Large, Second Vice President). Absent were Councillors Baptiste and Abel due to prior commitments. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m. Consent Calendar - A letter from Councillor Baptiste explaining his absence was received and placed on file. Motion by Councillor Lopes, seconded by Councillor Pemberton, passed unanimously. - A communication from City Clerk Dennis W. Farrier requesting fee increases for vital record amendments and business certificates (DBA licenses) was considered. The committee voted to refer to the full City Council with a recommendation to increase the vital records amendment fee from $40 to $50 and the DBA license fee from $40 to $50. A motion to table the portion regarding junk collector/dealer fees (pending changes due to new state regulations) was passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Armando Pereira (architect/developer, Comprehensive Design Build Services, 227 Union Street) spoke in favor of the form-based code. He stated the new code would make undevelopable lots buildable, reduce pocket parks that attract nuisance, increase the tax base, and provide a clear menu for developers. He expressed support for the pilot program and urged approval. - Gary Gagney (Divine Contractors) spoke in favor, echoing Mr. Pereira. He highlighted the housing supply shortage, noting that vacant lots and burned-out properties are handcuffing developers. He stated that adding housing supply is the only way to lower rents and that the form-based code will revitalize the city. - No members of the public spoke in opposition. Discussion Items - Form-Based Code Zoning Districts (Public Hearing continued): Planning Director Jennifer Carloni and Assistant Director Ann Laurel presented modifications to the proposed ordinance (Chapter 9, zoning). Based on feedback from the Planning Board and neighborhood concerns, the originally proposed 14-story height limit in downtown and along Kempton/County Street was reduced to 8 stories in the core, stepping down to 6 and 4 stories westward to create a gradual transition. Councillors discussed the reduced heights: Councillor Lopes questioned why 10 stories was not chosen, noting the New Bedford Hotel is 11 and Olympia Towers 10. Ms. Laurel explained that 8 stories was a compromise recommended by a planning board member and that future changes can be made via zoning. Councillor Baptiste inquired about the impact on residential neighborhoods and the Purchase Street corridor. Ms. Laurel confirmed that future expansion into neighborhoods would focus on retaining character with lower heights. The public hearing was closed. - Early Retirement Incentive Program (Home Rule Petition): Councillors Lopes and Pereira introduced a motion requesting a home rule petition for an early retirement incentive for eligible municipal employees (age 50+ with 25+ years of service). Councilor Lopes revised the proposed age to 55, matching state practices. Council President Pereira noted the administration had not communicated its position. City Solicitor Jakes stated that after discussions, the Mitchell administration is focusing on health insurance and pension reform and does not wish to pursue an early retirement incentive at this time. The committee moved to take no further action. - Assistant Superintendent of Green Space Position: A communication from the mayor proposing an ordinance to create this position (pay grade M11, funded by water enterprise) was referred out to the full City Council for no further action without discussion. Key Outcomes - Fee Increase for Vital Records and DBA Licenses: Motion passed to refer to full council with a recommendation to increase fees from $40 to $50 each. (Motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councilor Lopes; voted aye, no opposition.) - Junk Dealer Fees Tabled: The committee voted to table the junk collector/dealer fee increase until a broader ordinance update incorporating new state regulations can be developed. (Motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councilor Pemberton; passed unanimously.) - Form-Based Code Amendments: The public hearing was closed. The committee passed a motion to instruct the Planning Department to provide the modified height map (reducing 14 stories to 8 stories and creating a transition zone) to the committee chair at her earliest convenience. The entire ordinance (including all other form-based code provisions) was then referred to the full City Council for a substitution amendment at the July 2026 meeting. (Motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councilor Gomes; passed unanimously.) - Early Retirement Incentive Motion: After hearing the administration's position, the committee voted to take no further action on the home rule petition. (Motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councilor Lopes; passed unanimously.) - Green Space Position: Referred out to the full City Council for no further action. (Motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councillor Baptiste; passed unanimously.)

The New Bedford Committee on Finance met on June 24, 2026, at 6:31 PM to consider the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) budget for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting was chaired by Councilor Joseph Lopes, with attendance including Councilors Scott Pemberton, Leo Shouquette, Ryan Pereira, James Roy, Sean Oliver, Shane Burgo, and Councilor Carney (joined later). A letter from Councilor Baptiste explaining his absence was read into the record. The committee unanimously voted to recommend the proposed budget to the full City Council. Discussion Items - CPC Budget Presentation: Jan (CPC representative) presented a budget of $1,999,887, based on surcharge revenue of $1,743,165 and a projected state match of $256,722. The budget includes program administration (5% – $99,995), open space and recreation reserve ($199,989), community housing reserve ($199,989), and a budgeted reserve ($1,299,925). - State Match Calculation: Councilor Pemberton questioned the stagnant state match. Jan and CPC staff explained that the match is based on the previous year’s local surcharge revenue and a 15.5% formula, and that the number of participating communities (now 201 out of 351 in Massachusetts) affects the distribution. Councilor Lopes noted that even a small match is beneficial because prior to adopting CPA 14 years ago, the city received nothing. - Outreach and Project Pipeline: Councilor Carney raised concerns about the same entities repeatedly applying for funds and asked what the city does to promote CPA to new applicants. CPC staff responded that they rely on community awareness, a workshop in September, and individual assistance. They also noted that 166 projects have been awarded $16,921,854 since 2016, leveraging an additional $12,917,570, for a total impact of over $28 million. Councilor Carney encouraged public awareness and acknowledged limited resources for promotion. CPC staff offered to attend neighborhood meetings to explain the program. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously (motion by Councilor Pemberton, second by Councilor Oliver) to recommend the proposed CPC budget of $1,999,887 to the City Council for approval. The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM.