Public Meetings - New Bedford, Massachusetts

The New Bedford City Council convened on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:03 PM for a special meeting to consider and vote on amendments to the FY27 final budget, facing a projected $32 million deficit. The meeting included extensive debate over cuts to departments, positions, and services, reflecting deep divisions between the council and the administration. After over three hours of deliberation, the council adopted the general fund budget as amended by a vote of 10-1, with a total of approximately $1.75 million in cuts. The meeting adjourned at 10:10 PM. Consent Calendar - Items A through I (budget orders, appropriations, and enterprise fund orders) were approved unanimously after the main budget vote. No consent calendar was used for routine approvals. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were read or received during the meeting. The meeting was live-streamed and recorded. Discussion Items - Opening Remarks (Councillors Burgo, Oliver, Gomes, Lopes): Councillor Burgo delivered a lengthy statement criticizing the administration for a lack of collaboration, the manipulation of job titles (e.g., chief of staff vs. deputy director), and for protecting administrative positions while cutting frontline services (firefighters, police, schools). Councillor Oliver urged colleagues to cut aggressively, noting the administration indicated it would ignore many council cuts, and encouraged making reductions to force the administration to seek transfers or supplemental budgets. Councillor Gomes expressed anger over the $32 million deficit, questioned accountability, and stated he would vote no on the final budget. Councillor Lopes argued the deficit was inflated by $14 million in department enhancements and that true recurring obligations were smaller. - Vote on Specific Cuts (Items 1–181): The council voted on dozens of proposed cuts across all departments, including: - Assessors: Cut $26,087 for travel/dues (passed 6-5). - Auditors: Cut $2,000 in personal services (passed 10-1); other cuts failed. - City Council: Cut $12,000 for travel/dues (passed 6-5). - Elections: All cuts failed (1-10, 1-10, 4-7). - EMS: $50,000 cut failed 0-11. - Facilities & Fleet: Multiple cuts failed; a $200,000 cut for capital outlay passed 6-5. - Fire Department: A $2,152 cut failed 0-11. - Health & Human Services: Several cuts failed; a $3,300 cut for dues/subscriptions passed 7-4. - Labor Relations: $1,331 cut for travel/dues passed 7-4. - Library: Cuts failed 3-8 and 3-8. - Management Information Systems: Cuts of $36,955 and $10,600 in the 200 and 700 accounts passed 7-4; other cuts failed. - Mayor's Office: A $245,480 cut to eliminate a chief of staff/COO position passed 6-5; a $38,267 cut for travel/dues passed 9-2; several other cuts failed. - Planning: A $1,200 cut in the 700 account passed 8-3; a larger cut failed. - Police Department: A $288,207 cut for an assistant deputy chief and civilian chief of staff passed 6-5; other cuts (including larger ones) failed. - Public Infrastructure: A $40,000 cut for gas/oil passed 9-1; a $21,525 cut passed 7-4; a $4,500 cut passed 7-3; others failed. - Purchasing: A $1,000 cut passed 6-5; others failed. - Resilience & Environmental Stewardship: $13,000 cut passed 9-2; $2,050 cut passed 10-1. - City Solicitor: A $102,000 cut to outside legal counsel passed 9-2; a $1,800 cut passed 6-5; larger cuts failed. - Tourism & Marketing: Cuts to 400 and 700 accounts passed 6-5 and 6-5; cuts to eliminate the department (100 and 200 accounts) failed (3-8 and 4-7). - Treasurer/Collector: $2,500 cut for dues passed 6-5. - Zoo: Cuts of $25,000 and $20,000 failed 3-8. - City Utilities: $500,000 cut passed 6-5. - Debt Service: All cuts (ranging from $500,000 to $200,000) failed 1-10. - Unemployment Compensation: $150,000 cut passed 10-1. - Waste Collection: All cuts (from $1 million down to $500,000) failed 1-10. - Zootarian Theater: All proposed cuts to the Zootarian Theater (from $395,000 down to $100,000) failed (1-10, 1-10, 4-7, 2-9, 3-8, 3-8, 4-7). - Enterprise Funds (Airport, Cable, Wastewater, Water): Mostly failed except a $29,243 cut to wastewater passed 6-5; a $5,000 cut to wastewater passed 6-5; a $50,000 cut to wastewater (capital) passed 7-4; a $5,000 cut to water passed 7-4; a $50,000 cut to water (capital) passed 6-5; and a $76,776 cut for a new assistant superintendent of green space in water passed 11-0 (unanimous). Key Outcomes - Total General Fund Cuts: Approximately $1,746,618, reducing the FY27 general fund budget to $491,392,868. - Final Vote on General Fund Budget (Item B): Adopted as amended by a vote of 10-1 (Councillor Gomes dissenting). - Enterprise Fund Orders (Items C–I): All passed unanimously (11-0): - Airport budget: $1,408,557 - Arts, Culture & Tourism Fund: $133,747 - Cable access enterprise fund: $1,492,045 - Traffic handicap parking fund: $68,500 - Downtown parking account: $1,124,735 - Wastewater budget: $33,705,409 (amended by $84,243 cut) - Water budget: $23,103,096 (amended by $131,776 cut) - Next Steps: The council formally dissolved the quasi committee of the whole and adjourned.

The New Bedford City Council Committee on Finance met on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 7:01 p.m. to 8:25 p.m. to consider several transfers and a tax exemption age change. Key items included lowering the property tax exemption eligibility age from 70 to 65, a $2,099,535 transfer from stabilization for snow removal and related repairs, a $43,000 transfer to the mayor's office personnel account, and a $750,000 transfer from multiple departments to cover city utility overruns. A $85,000 transfer from stabilization to facilities and fleet was also approved. Consent Calendar - The meeting was called to order and letters of absence were read for Councillors Pereira (late arrival), Gomes, and Choquett (unable to attend). The meeting was live-streamed. - All three items (Item 2, 3, 4, 5) were unanimously referred to the full council with favorable recommendations after discussion. Discussion Items - Senior Tax Exemption Age Change (First Agenda Item) - Councilor Oliver proposed lowering the age for the property tax exemption from 70 to 65, keeping all other eligibility requirements (income, assets, 5-year residency) unchanged. - Assistant City Assessor Sherry confirmed it is a simple council vote, effective as soon as voted, and does not require mayor approval. The exemption period is July 1 through April 1. - CFO Bob presented fiscal analysis: current exemptions for 70+ cost about $309,000/year, with $155,000 reimbursed by the state. He noted costing the change is

The New Bedford City Council met on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, presided over by Council President Ryan Pereira. The meeting included a prayer, moment of silence, and pledge of allegiance. Key actions included adoption of several budget transfers, approval of a recall ordinance for elected officials (9-1), referral of a health insurance opt-out proposal, and a hearing on Eversource conduit installation. Consent Calendar - Hearings 1 & 1A, 2 & 2A (Eversource Conduit, William Street): Public hearing opened and closed with no public comment. Orders adopted to install approximately 208 feet and 18 feet of conduit for infrastructure improvements. (Ayes unanimous) - Mayor's Papers M2: Transfer of $4,880,000 from stabilization fund to fire personal services adopted 10-0. - Mayor's Papers M3: Transfer of $164,000 from facilities and fleet to fire personal services adopted by voice vote. - Mayor's Papers M5 through M17A: Omnibus adoption of 13 budget transfers (totaling various amounts from police, fire, veterans, zoo, etc.) adopted by voice vote. - Mayor's Papers M18 & M19: Authorization of Adult Social Day Program Revolving Fund ($300,000) and Quest Center Revolving Fund ($271,500) for FY27, adopted by voice vote. - Mayor's Papers M27 & M28: Reappointments of Diane Berby and George M. Viveris to the Park Board (terms expiring May 2031) confirmed 10-0. - New Business Item 5: Petition for encroachment at 278 Union Street (canopy) adopted by voice vote. - New Business Item 6: Renewal of private liberty license for Comfort Transportation LLC granted by voice vote. - New Business Item 12: DEP public notice for vehicle access ramp at 302 Herman Melville Boulevard placed on file. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for the Eversource items. No other public comment period was held. Discussion Items - Health Insurance Opt-Out Program (New Business Item 4): Councillor Joseph Lopes introduced a motion requesting the administration to establish a voluntary municipal employee health insurance opt-out program. Lopes argued this would save the city significant money (citing potential savings of $13,000–$20,000 per employee per year) and prevent closures like fire stations, noting that other communities (Somerset, Seekonk) offer such programs. He criticized the administration for refusing to study the idea. The motion was referred to the Mitchell administration and the Committee on Ordinances by voice vote. - Recall of Elected Officers (Tabled Items 528-26): The council debated a proposed home rule petition to establish a recall process for elected officials (mayor, council, school committee). Councillor James Roy opposed the current version, arguing the signature threshold (1,800 affidavit signatures) and required turnout (15% of registered voters) were unreasonably high, making the process nearly impossible. He moved to amend the numbers (to 600 signatures and 10% turnout), but the amendments failed (each 1-9). Councillor Shane Burgo defended the ordinance, stating it protects against frivolous recalls and that input was available during committee work. Council President Pereira urged adoption as a first step, noting the recall process can be amended later. After debate, the motion to adopt the order and act was passed 9-1 (Roy opposed). - Historical Significance of United House of Prayer Area (New Business Items 10 & 11): Councillor Burgo submitted letters to the Historical Commission and Planning Board requesting review of potential historic significance of property near the United House of Prayer. He and Councillor Baptiste criticized the developer for not engaging the community and highlighted the historical significance of neighborhoods in Ward 4 (South End/West End) that were historically redlined. The items were received and placed on file. Key Outcomes - Recall Ordinance Adopted: The order and act providing for recall of elected officers passed 9–1 (Councillor Roy dissenting). The final version retains 1,800 affidavit signatures, 300 per ward distribution, 45-day collection period, and 15% voter turnout requirement for a recall election. The home rule petition will be sent to the state legislature. - Health Insurance Opt-Out Referred: Councillor Lopes' motion to study a voluntary opt-out program was referred to the administration and the Committee on Ordinances. - Budget Transfers: - M2 (Fire, $4.88M) adopted 10-0. - M3 (Fire, $164K) adopted by voice. - M4 (Facilities, $85K from stabilization) referred to Finance Committee on a 6-4 roll call (Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Carney, Schoquet, Pereira yes; Lopes, Oliver, Pemberton, Roy no). - M1 (utilities, $750K) referred to Finance. - M20-M25A (ordinance amendments for departments) referred to Ordinances Committee. - M26 (tax increment exemption for 91 Summer Street redevelopment into 44 condos) referred to Finance Committee. - Demolition Review (Item 8): The Historic Commission's determination that the Coffin Holland House (535 Brock Ave) is historically significant but not preferably preserved was referred to the Committee on Appointments and Briefings. - Eversource Installation: Orders 1A and 2A for conduit on William Street were adopted; work expected to take 3–4 days with traffic detail.

The New Bedford City Council Committee on Finance met on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 6:07 PM. The committee discussed and voted on proposed amendments to the city's wastewater rate ordinance, recommended wastewater rate increases for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, and a $20.4 million loan order for critical wastewater infrastructure projects. Councillors McCarney and Gomes were absent due to prior commitments. Ordinance Amendment to Allow Multi-Year Rate Setting - Overview: The Department of Public Infrastructure (DPI) proposed amending Section 16 of Chapter 94 of the City Code. The amendment allows the City Council to set wastewater rates for up to three years at a time (following an amendment from the initial five-year proposal) to smooth rate increases and avoid large annual fluctuations. It also establishes a minimum rate increase tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to prevent structural deficits. - Discussion: - Councilor Pereira expressed support for the concept but successfully moved to amend the ordinance to limit the multi-year setting to three years instead of five, citing concerns about long-term rate predictability and the automatic CPI adjustment when large debt service costs drop off. - Councilor Roy requested further explanation of the smoothing benefits between different rate-setting durations. DPI stated that a two- to three-year range is the "sweet spot" and that a five-year rate would not be recommended. - Councilor Carney opposed the move entirely, arguing that retaining the one-year rate setting is the council's primary mechanism to oversee rates on behalf of taxpayers and ratepayers. - Votes: - Amendment: The motion to change the maximum rate-setting period from five to three years passed (9-1). - Ordinance as Amended: The amended ordinance was approved (9-1) and referred to the full City Council. Wastewater Rate Increase and Capital Loan Order - Overview: The committee took up two items together: the proposed wastewater rate schedule for FY27 and FY28 (Item 2), and a $20.4 million loan order (Item 3) to finance projects under the city's Long-Term CSO Control and Integrated Capital Improvement Plan. - Rate Proposal: - DPI recommended a two-year "smooth" rate increase of 11.5% per year. This addresses a "catch-up year" caused by using $3.9 million in cash reserves to buy down rates in prior years, plus the debt service needed for mandated administrative order projects. - Capital Loan Order Details: - DPI detailed that a "snowpile" of projects resulted from COVID-19 delays, pushing costs into a shorter timeframe. The $20.4 million loan order is targeted at the aging treatment plant and high-risk infrastructure failures. - Major projects include rehabilitating gravity thickeners (for sludge processing, a critical permit obligation), upgrading 30-year-old emergency generators, repairing the leaking Cove Road Pump Station force main, and replacing corroding odor control ductwork at the treatment plant. - Discussion: - Councilor Carney questioned the impact of COVID-19 extensions on project timing and costs, clarifying how extension deadlines affected the overall project schedule and spending. - Councilor Roy requested detailed explanations of specific projects, such as the gravity thickeners and nitrogen optimization, to inform residents. - Councilor Pereira reiterated concerns about the automatic CPI rate mechanism and suggested a future stabilization fund to manage debt service spikes. - Votes: - Item 2 (Rate Schedule): Approved and referred to the full City Council (9-0). - Item 3 (Loan Order): Approved and referred to the full City Council (9-0). Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned at 7:01 PM.

Meeting Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. (convened at 6:30 p.m., adjourned at 6:45 p.m.) Location: New Bedford City Council Chambers Presiding: Chair Ian Abrew (Councillor at Large) Attendees: Ward 2 Councillor Scott Pemberton, Ward 1 Councillor Leo Shoket, Councillor at Large Naomi Carney. (Councillor Lopes absent with a letter read into the record.) This special committee meeting of the New Bedford City Council focused on two applications for new private livery licenses. Both applications received positive recommendations from the committee to the full City Council after amendments and discussions. Discussion Items Item 1: Application for New Private Livery License – Sister Express Transport - Applicants: Maria De Pina (28 Windsor Circle, Brockton) and Maria L. Pyers (60 Foster Street, Brockton), doing business as Sister Express Transport, 109 Robson Street, New Bedford. - Background: The application was originally tabled on May 11, 2026. It was removed from the table at this meeting. - Applicant Presentation: Ms. Pyers stated the business would provide medical transportation and school bus services. The application initially listed one vehicle, but the applicants clarified they intend to operate two vehicles. - Parking: The two vehicles will be parked in the driveway of the rented residence at 109 Robson Street, which has three parking spaces. The other tenant will have access to the remaining space. The landlord approved the use of the driveway. - Expansion Plans: The applicants indicated they do not plan to expand in the next year. Chair Abrew noted that any future expansion requiring additional vehicles would need to come back to the committee for appropriate parking infrastructure review. - Amendment: Because the application filed with the city clerk listed one vehicle, the committee moved to amend the application to reflect two vehicles. The motion carried unanimously. - Recommendation: The committee voted to refer the amended application to the full City Council with a positive recommendation. Item 2: Application for New Private Livery License – Gross's Solutions Transportation - Applicant: Fabio Jara de Grassa, doing business as Gross's Solutions Transportation, 175 Hemlock Street, New Bedford. - License Term: The original license was set to expire June 30, 2026. The committee amended the term to July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, to align with the upcoming fiscal year. - Applicant Presentation: Mr. de Grassa stated he intends to provide medical transportation and school bus services, starting with two vehicles. - Parking: Both vehicles will be parked in the driveway of his residence at 175 Hemlock Street. - Recommendation: The committee voted to refer the amended application to the full City Council with a positive recommendation. Item 3: Related Application – No Further Action - The committee noted that a third item (item number three) was rendered void due to the amendment on item two. The committee voted to waive the reading and take no further action on item three, referring it to the full City Council as a procedural matter. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Sister Express Transport): Amended from one to two vehicles; positive recommendation to full City Council. Final vote scheduled for June 25, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. - Item 2 (Gross's Solutions Transportation): License term amended to July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027; positive recommendation to full City Council. Final vote scheduled for June 25, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. - Item 3: No further action; referred to full City Council as void. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

This special meeting of the New Bedford Environmental Affairs Committee was called to discuss the status of a trucking and shipping agreement related to the transportation of materials through the Shaman Avenue neighborhood behind the New Bedford Airport. The agreement, stemming from a 2022 Superior Court stipulation, allowed Pico Stone to remove remaining aggregate from the A1 Asphalt property at 1861 Shaman Avenue. The meeting included public testimony, statements from legal representatives, the City Solicitor, and the Building Commissioner. The committee tabled the item pending further investigation and a site visit. Public Comments & Testimony - Gregory G. Sarroy (1930 Shaman Avenue) stated the agreement required Pico Stone to cease cleanup by January 24, 2026, and the property to cease as a contractor's yard, but noted additional contractors had moved in and Pico Stone was still moving material. He had been told by the city's first assistant that the city would oppose an extension. He questioned whether the property was unsellable due to environmental issues and noted that a 2009 study for the airport project found the runway asphalt was too contaminated to be recycled on airport property. - Tom Welsh (1878 Shaman Avenue) expressed concern that the site would revert to being an aggregate recycling facility, describing past problems with dust, dirt, traffic, and trucks coming every two minutes. He said the previous owner operated without an allowed use and the building department denied appeals, but the owner continued operating. He hoped the situation would not return to that level of disturbance. - Gregory G. Sarroy (returning) added that the agreement was made in Superior Court, not City Council, and any extension would need to be done there. He noted other businesses (cold storage, boat and camper storage) were operating, and the agreement had expired five months prior without any appeal to council or court for an extension. Discussion Items - Attorney Sean Hurley (representing the estate of Tony DeCosta and current owner Nina Matos) explained the background: a zoning lawsuit from about eight years ago was dismissed after a settlement agreement allowing removal of materials within four years. The property can still be used as a contractor's yard (permitted in Industrial B zoning). Since the owner inherited, Pico Stone bought equipment and agreed to remove remaining material. As of the meeting, 40,000 cubic yards had been removed, with about 3,000 yards left (approximately 7% of the total). He requested a six-month extension based on attorney Kevin Medeiros's suggestion. No new material has been brought in recently. The property was never listed for sale despite unsolicited offers. - Paul Maddows (8 Burke Street, Acushnet, brother of owner) confirmed he manages the property. He stated Pico Stone had done a good job and was almost done but having trouble selling processed material. He acknowledged possibly not monitoring closely enough but said no new material is being brought in. He expressed willingness to work with neighbors. - City Solicitor Eric Jakes clarified the agreement was a stipulation of dismissal, not a court-ordered judgment, so it can be amended by the parties (Zoning Board of Appeals and the owner). He noted no one from Pico Stone or the estate had contacted the city to amend the agreement. He stated the property is technically in violation of the agreement because material remains. He emphasized the agreement prohibits bringing in material (except for construction improvements) and crushing. He suggested an enforcement action could be taken if an extension is not sought. - Building Commissioner Daniel Romanowitz confirmed he had not visited the site recently but agreed to inspect it. He noted that Fernandez Masonry, which is storing materials and trucks on site, does not have a permit for that use. He stated that as a contractor's yard in IB zoning, a permit would be required for storage. - Councilor Ryan Pereira advocated for obtaining a report on current site uses and ensuring compliance with zoning. He suggested that aggregate should be removed and other uses (like boat storage) be verified as permitted. He requested a site visit with the building commissioner, the councilor, and the property manager. - Attorney Hurley (returning) clarified that Fernandez Masonry is using the property as a contractor's yard (permitted) and is not involved with aggregate processing, which is solely Pico Stone's activity. - Paul Maddows (returning) confirmed that Fernandez is only storing material and trucks and doing nothing else. Key Outcomes - The committee voted to receive and place on file the court stipulation from January 24, 2022 (motion by Councilor Pereira, seconded by Councilor Choquette). - Councilor Choquette made a motion to table the item, seconded by Councilor Pereira. The motion passed unanimously. The item will be brought back after the city budget process. - A site visit was arranged for the following Monday (June 15, 2026) with Building Commissioner Romanowitz, Councilor Choquette, and property manager Paul Maddows to assess the property and remaining material. - Councilor Pereira indicated he would submit written questions to Solicitor Jakes for further legal clarification. - The meeting adjourned at 7:36 PM.

The New Bedford City Council held a budget hearing on Monday, June 8, 2026, to review the proposed FY27 budgets for several departments, including MIS, Police, Fire, Department of Public Infrastructure (DPI), Sullivan's Ledge, Wastewater, Water, Facilities and Fleet Management (DFFM), Waste Collection, and the Zeiterion Theatre. The hearing featured presentations from department heads, extensive discussion on proposed cuts, and expressions of support and opposition from councilors. Key themes included staffing reductions, technology investments, public safety, and the impact of state aid. Consent Calendar - None explicitly designated, but several routine items were addressed without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments from non-officials were recorded. Discussion Items - MIS Department (Jonathan News, Acting IT Director): News highlighted FY26 achievements including expanded use of OpenGov, creation of online budget book, and new GIS portal. The FY27 budget increases by $421,000, driven largely by software cost increases of over 10% annually. Travel budget was cut to zero in FY26 but restored to $10,600 for conferences. A position swap was corrected: the budget book shows 3 senior IT analysts and 7 IT analysts, but the actual staffing is 4 senior and 6 IT analysts. Councilor Abreu questioned the increase. Councilor Burgo noted a $160,000 transfer from police for cybersecurity (Palo Alto firewall) accounts for part of the increase. Chair Pereira inquired about a $25,000 core infrastructure repair line for the municipal fiber ring. - Police Department (Chief Paul Thody): Chief Thody presented a proposed budget of $29,677,507 (3.3% increase). Staffing reduction of 24 sworn officers and 1 civilian intern coordinator (from 312 to 287 full-time). Highlights include rebuilding staffing from 79% to 88% in one year, new deputy chief, enhanced training, expanded camera program, and crime reduction team. Proposed cuts total $3,542,748: elimination of $150,000 sign-on bonus, elimination of ShotSpotter contract (cost per confirmed incident $4,700), reduction of 25 positions, and use of 911 grant reimbursement. Chief Thody provided data on ShotSpotter: from Jan 2021 to May 2026, 73 shootings and 228 shots-fired incidents confirmed; 791 alerts, only 171 (24%) confirmed; 65% of shots-fired and 32% of shootings had ShotSpotter activation. 90% of shootings and 76% of shots-fired had at least one 911 call. Councilor Gomes strongly opposed the cuts, supporting ShotSpotter and the 24 new officers. Councilor Abreu asked about risks: losing recruitment gains and prisoner refusal by sheriff's department. Councilor Burgo clarified the non-classified position is intern coordinator; questioned the need to fill an assistant deputy chief position during budget constraints. Councilor Baptiste asked about alternative technology. Councilor Roy asked about school resource officers. Councilor Oliver asked about management analyst positions and ShotSpotter accuracy. Chair Pereira requested job description and justification for the new chief of staff position (M20). - Fire Department (Chief Brian Madeiras): Chief Madeiras noted the department responded to over 12,000 calls in FY26. Proposed budget includes elimination of 26 positions (5 vacancies, 6th upcoming, and 20 for a frontline company) and decommissioning of Station 9. A $500,000 state earmark from Senator Montigny will delay closure by 3.5–4 months. Councilors expressed strong support for the department and opposition to the cuts. Councilor Oliver asked about alternatives; chief noted going to 3-man crews would still result in layoffs. Councilor Abreu discussed state aid inadequacy and suggested a consortium of chiefs to lobby Beacon Hill. Councilor Gomes criticized state spending priorities and lack of action on local aid. CFO Ekstrom noted that $500k in UGA increase is general fund and not specific to fire. - Department of Public Infrastructure (Commissioner Jamie Ponte): Commissioner Ponte stated the DPI (highway) budget reduces several vacant positions, including 4 special motor equipment operators (SMEO) and requests reinstatement of an electrician position cut last year. Councilor Burgo questioned the creation of a community relations specialist (unit C M8) and administrative assistant (M2) under DPI, arguing these are not transfers from Parks and Rec as claimed. CFO Ekstrom explained positions were moved from Parks and Rec to DPI as part of reorganization of Health and Human Services. Councilor Pemberton suggested parks should have gone to DPI. - Sullivan's Ledge: Commissioner Ponte explained the site is a city-owned Superfund site requiring monitoring and treatment. The plant was offline for 3-4 years but reopened due to contaminant rebound. No federal aid; costs are city's responsibility. Councilor Oliver asked about future prospects. - Wastewater and Water Enterprise Funds: Presented by Commissioner Ponte. Wastewater includes a new compliance officer for public outreach. Water budget supports treatment plant upgrades and debt service. Councilor Burgo noted a typo in position title. - Department of Facilities and Fleet Management (Director Jennifer Vieira): Director Vieira presented a budget with $947,000 in pre-council reductions, losing 8 positions (from 78 to 70). Cuts include vacant welder, maintenance person, carpenter, diesel engineer repairman, and plumber positions. Enhancements requested but not funded: pedestrian bridge maintenance ($41,600) and mobile lifts for fire apparatus repairs ($64,254). The department saves the city an estimated $2.4 million annually through in-house trades. Recycling center may reduce hours due to cuts. Councilor Pemberton asked about transfer station status. Councilor Burgo clarified that the position reductions were all vacant. Councilor Roy asked about enhancements. Councilor Oliver questioned pedestrian bridge ownership and maintenance costs. - Waste Collection and Disposal (Director Vieira): New trash contract with Capital Waste results in a $4 million increase. Yard waste pickup reduced from 37 weeks to 20-21 weeks (saving $316,000). Councilor Burgo questioned the contract term (3 years with two 1-year options), suggesting longer term could have locked in lower rates. CFO Ekstrom noted the budget is based on the apparent low bid; if council cuts below base, the city may face contract issues. Chair Pereira requested bid documents and contract. Councilor Burgo expressed frustration at lack of council involvement in negotiations. - Zeiterion Theatre: Director Vieira presented $395,000 support agreement per previous council authorization. Councilor Burgo clarified this is a reduction from last year's $495,000. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken during this hearing; it was informational for councilors to prepare for the final budget deliberation ("cut night"). - Councilors expressed intent to fight to restore positions in police and fire departments, particularly the 24 police officers and Station 9. - Chair Pereira requested additional information: job description for police chief of staff, breakdown of position reclassifications, and the trash contract documents. - CFO Ekstrom emphasized that the waste contract requires full appropriation to be executed; cuts could lead to emergency services at higher cost. - The meeting concluded with thanks to finance staff and a note that the next step is the final budget council meeting.

The New Bedford City Council held a special meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 6:03 PM in the council chambers. Council President Ryan Pereira presided. Seven councillors were present: Ian Abreu, Scott Pemberton, Brian Gomes, James Roy, Naomi Carney, Sean Oliver, and Shane Burgo. Councillors Derek Baptiste, Leo Shiket, and Joseph Lopes were absent due to prior commitments, a medical procedure, and a work-related commitment, respectively. The meeting was called to order and adjourned at 6:08 PM. Key Outcomes - Ordinance Amending Chapter 9, Appendix A (Table of Principal Use Regulations): Passed to be ordained by a vote of 8 to 0. The ordinance had been passed to a second reading on May 12, 2026. - Ordinance Amending Chapter 9, Appendix B (Table of Dimensional Regulations – Residential, Infill Development, and Multiple Buildings per Lot): Passed to be ordained by a vote of 8 to 0. This ordinance also had been passed to a second reading on May 12, 2026. No public comments or discussion items were recorded.

The New Bedford City Council held its fourth budget hearing on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Vice President Burgo presided in the absence of Council President Ryan Pura, who submitted a letter noting his late arrival. The hearing reviewed proposed FY27 budgets for several departments: Purchasing, Resilience and Environmental Stewardship, City Utilities, Zoological Society, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Inspectional Services, Auditor's Office, Treasurer's Office, Debt Service, and the Airport Enterprise Fund. Discussion Items - Purchasing Department (Director Gilfeather Rodriguez): No significant changes; team of five. Requested $3,200 for BidNet (online bidding platform) offset by reductions in supplies and training. Reported $4 million in savings from lowest vs. second-lowest bids on construction projects. Average bids per solicitation improved from 2 to 3, targeting 4. Outreach to disadvantaged business enterprises (DBE) and women-owned enterprises continues. Councillor Lopes asked about object code classification for BidNet and DocuSign ($10,500) under repairs and maintenance vs. contractual services; CFO XRM noted that object codes can vary but consistency is desirable. Also mentioned a capital improvements map being developed. - Resilience and Environmental Stewardship (Director Michelle Paul): Presented extensive work on conservation, energy, brownfields, and Superfund coordination. Two enhancement requests: $2,510 for Sullivan's Ledge five-year review (lab analysis) and $13,000 for Shawmet Avenue Landfill postclosure monitoring plus $6,700 for a gas well repair. Director Paul noted these are required costs, not true enhancements. No questions from council. - City Utilities (Manager Tyler Reese): Oversees 475 electric/gas accounts. Library utility bill discrepancy explained by a $75,000 budget cut, not usage increase. Councilor Abraham expressed frustration with Eversource rate increases and urged a coalition of municipalities to push back. Manager Reese confirmed they are organizing a letter with other cities. Projected a 5% increase for electricity and 7% for gas, with solar savings estimated between $500,000 and $900,000. Councilor Gomes offered support. - Zoological Society (Director Shara Raposa): Zoo remains AZA-accredited through 2029. Attendance up 1.7%; social media reach grew from 880,000 to 3.81 million. Proposed FY27 budget of $2,061,050 was reduced by 4.7% ($97,488) through cuts including elimination of a building maintenance position and reductions in supplies, training, and animal shipments. Reclassifications of two zookeepers to senior keepers and other title changes were noted. Councillor Lopes acknowledged the department's honesty about reclassifications but criticized the administration for prioritizing some areas over others. Councillor Burgo highlighted that the zoo received a larger percentage cut than the library. Director Raposa emphasized that animal care staffing is now adequate but cuts will increase reliance on other departments. - Emergency Medical Services (Director Michael Thomas): Stressed the need for adequate funding to maintain response times. Operates seven ambulances daily; mutual aid calls reduced from 1,400 to 600 annually. Revenue $11.6 million in FY26, projected $12 million in FY27, with a budget of $6.4 million. Councillor Carney noted the department generates more revenue than its budget. Councillor Gomes defended overtime as essential for public safety standbys and extended shifts. CFO XRM warned that cutting overtime would reduce revenue by a factor of 2:1. Councilor Burgo noted that the council had approved a $265,000 transfer for EMS earlier in the year. Discussion on enterprise fund concept; CFO XRM stated it is unlikely and would increase property taxes. - Inspectional Services (Commissioner Romanowitz): Two positions eliminated: building inspector (vacant all year) and compliance officer (recently vacated). Commissioner noted difficulty hiring due to pay. Councillor Burgo criticized the administration for reclassifying positions in other departments while cutting inspectional services, which is revenue-generating. Councillor Lopes commended the department's work and revenue generation. - Auditor's Office (City Auditor Quillen): Two positions eliminated: assistant city auditor (retiring August 2026) and project coordinator (vacant since April). Requesting $3,000 in contractual services for outside help. Budget described as lean. - Treasurer's Office (City Treasurer John Taxiarcos): 13 funded positions. Notable accomplishments: $800,000 additional delinquent real estate tax collection, 62% increase in tax title payment agreements, and implementation of ACH vendor payments. Three promotions (reclassifications) were noted: executive finance operations specialist, payroll supervisor, and administrative coordinator. Budget increase of 4.5%. - Debt Service (presented by Treasurer Taxiarcos): Proposed FY27 budget $12,755,657, an increase of $2.5 million attributed to interest on a short-term loan ($1.3 million) and new bond payments for school projects and clean water loans. Councillor Carney expressed concern about rising debt and its impact on taxpayers. - Airport Enterprise Fund (Director Scott Service): Airport is one of nine commercial airports in Massachusetts, ranking 6th in operations. Received $70 million in grants over 10 years with 4.3% city cost. Economic impact $29.6 million. Revenue $1.2 million; budget request includes subsidy from general fund projected at $125,000 (up from $47,000 last year). Enhancement requests: $7,500 for public safety (fire monitoring, HVAC) and $20,000 for vehicle maintenance. Director Service noted that the airport pays back $448,000 to the general fund for services (pension, health insurance, utilities, etc.) plus $64,000 in indirect costs. Councillor Gomes emphasized the need for terminal and roadway improvements to attract business. Chair Burgo expressed concern about the increasing subsidy but acknowledged the airport's economic value and stated he would support supplemental appropriations if revenue exceeds projections. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; this was a hearing to gather information. - Council members expressed support for EMS, the zoo, and inspectional services, noting their revenue-generating capacity. - Councillor Burgo and others raised concerns about the administration's reclassification of positions in some departments while cutting in others, calling for more transparency. - The City Utilities department will continue organizing a coalition of municipalities to address Eversource issues. - The Airport Enterprise Fund will provide additional information on the debt service line item classification and a pending transfer request. - The meeting adjourned after the airport presentation.