2026-10-06 - City Council
Summary
Meeting ran 6:33 to 10:01 PM. Rosen's Optiline question was placed on file after answers from the City Manager and Solicitor. A bid to reconsider the bathrooms order failed 3-8. Gary Rosen's order for a report on whether the city can regulate Amazon's MK30 drone deliveries from Westborough was adopted as amended by King, who added a jobs-impact analysis. Mitra's order for "Welcome to Worcester" border signs was adopted 9-1 (King opposed). Rivera's proposal to start Council meetings earlier with public participation first was held by King.
Summary written from the official minutes; no transcript yet.
Issues discussed: Amazon Prime Air Drone Delivery, Optiline Enterprises at 274 Franklin Street, Downtown Public Restrooms, City Council Rules Changes
Official Minutes
Journal of the City Council, posted on PrimeGov (summary of actions, not verbatim). Page headers removed.
CITY OF WORCESTER
JOURNAL OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Esther Howland (South) Chamber
Convened: 6:33 P.M.
Adjourned: 10:01 P.M.
MAYOR
Joseph M. Petty
AT-LARGE COUNCILORS DISTRICT COUNCILORS
Morris A. Bergman Tony Economou - District 1
Khrystian E. King Robert A. Bilotta - District 2
Satya B. Mitra John P. Fresolo - District 3
Gary Rosen
Luis A. Ojeda - District 4
Kathleen M. Toomey
Jose A. Rivera - District 5
www.worcesterma.gov
CITY CLERK CITY MANAGER CITY AUDITOR
Nikolin Vangjeli Eric D. Batista Robert V. Stearns
City Hall - 455 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. STAR SPANGLED BANNER
3. ROLL CALL - All present with the Mayor as the Chair, except for Councilor King
and Councilor Toomey. Councilor King arrived at 6:36 P.M. and Councilor
Toomey arrived at 6:37 P.M.
4. PROCLAMATIONS, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, MOMENTS OF SILENCE
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
5a. Order - That the City Council of the City of Worcester hereby approves the minutes of
the City Council Meeting of September 22, 2026.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
6. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
6a. Mayor Petty read the item and recognized the following Speakers:
1. Steve Hart, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to item #12b CC
2. Abby Mortillaro, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor of nor opposed to item
#12b CC, spoke in favor of items #8a CC, #11a CC, #12q CC, #12y CC, #12z CC, and
#14a CC through #14f CC, and spoke in opposition to item #12x CC
3. Idella Hazard, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #8a CC, #12g CC, #12q CC
and #12r CC and spoke in opposition to item #12b CC
4. Gary Hunter, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #8a CC and #11a CC, spoke
neither in favor of nor opposed to item #12y CC, and spoke concerning an item not listed
on the agenda
5. Fred Nathan, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of items #8a CC and #10a CC
6. Mauro DePasquale, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #10a CC
7. Moira Dacey, Worcester resident, spoke in opposition to items #12b CC and #12w CC
and spoke in favor of item #12f CC
8. Nathalie Gibson, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #8a CC and spoke in
opposition to items #12b CC and #12w CC
9. Chrissi Bates, Worcester resident, spoke neither in favor of nor opposed to item #8a
CC
10. Christine Parcher, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #12w CC
11. Tina Bergevin, Worcester resident, spoke in favor of item #12w CC
7. HEARINGS AND ORDERS
7a. Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: 135 KENBERMA
RD.
Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: 135
KENBERMA RD.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who moved to Hold the Item Under
Privilege.
Held Under Privilege - Fresolo
7b. Hearing: CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at: LINCOLN ST.
Granting permission to CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for a conduit location at:
LINCOLN ST.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to open hearings for items #7b CC and #7c CC. Mayor
Petty’s motion was approved on a voice vote.
Mayor Petty asked if any abutters wished to be heard on the items. Hearing no speakers, Mayor
Petty moved to close the hearings. Mayor Petty’s motion was approved on a voice vote.
Mayor Petty moved to approve the items. Hearing held and Order adopted
7c. Hearing: NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a jointly-owned
pole at: BAUER ST.
Granting permission to NATIONAL GRID and VERIZON NEW ENGLAND, INC. for a
jointly-owned pole at: BAUER ST.
Hearing held and Order adopted (See Item #7b CC)
8. RECONSIDERATION
8a. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - In accordance with Rule 30 of the Rules of
City Council, Councilor Khrystian E. King requests reconsideration of the vote of the
City Council taken on September 29, 2026, in regard to the following item: ORDER of
Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of Worcester does
hereby adopt item #10g CC on the September 29, 2026 City Council agenda as amended
to read as follows: “Request City Manager help identify locations throughout the city
and beginning in District 2 to create permanent public bathrooms, in the interest of
providing necessary public health measures with respect to the human condition. Further,
while said permanent public bathroom locations are identified and built, request City
Manager determine suitable locations to install porta-potties as a temporary measure
while awaiting the permanent bathroom installations. Further, request City Manager
provide City Council with a report concerning the timeline associated with such actions.
Further, request said process include community and business interfacing and feedback."
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta, who moved for a roll call vote to suspend Rule 30 of the
Rules of City Council to allow for discussion on the item. Motion denied on a roll call vote of 3
Yeas and 8 Nays (Yeas – Bilotta, King, Ojeda) (Nays – Bergman, Economou, Fresolo, Mitra,
Rivera, Rosen, Toomey, Petty).
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Reconsideration denied on a roll call vote
of 3 Yeas and 8 Nays (Yeas – Bilotta, King, Ojeda) (Nays – Bergman, Economou, Fresolo, Mitra,
Rivera, Rosen, Toomey, Petty)
9. PETITIONS
9a. Genaro Vazquez request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 11 Lodi St.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer items #9a CC through #9k CC to Traffic and
Parking Committee. Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee
9b. Councilor Robert A. Bilotta on behalf of Caitlin Fontecchio request installation of
resident permit parking on Chilmark St. from Marshall St. to Seward St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9c. Councilor Luis A. Ojeda on behalf of Jaqueline Alvarez request removal of the handicap
parking space in front of 1 Kingsbury St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9d. Henry Proko request installation of speed humps on Burncoat St. in the vicinity of 585A
Burncoat St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9e. Almas Arias request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 20 Worth St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9f. Joseph A. Ritacco request installation of stop signage at the intersection of Byron St. and
Edgeworth St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9g. Joseph A. Ritacco request installation of stop signage at the intersection of Milton St.
and Brookfield St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9h. Jennifer Memnon request installation of a handicap parking space in front of 15 Arline
St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9i. Abby Mortillaro request installation of a traffic light at the intersection of Pleasant St.
and Fruit St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9j. Councilor Tony Economou request installation of “Right Turn Only” signage, Monday
through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and excluding holidays, on Chadwick St., opposite
the end of the driveway at Francis J. McGrath Elementary School, located at 493 Grove
St.
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9k. Councilor Jose A. Rivera request the two (2) existing crosswalks in the vicinity of Heard
Street Discovery Academy, located at 200 Heard St., be reviewed for the installation of
flashing beacons at the locations (see attached for images of the crosswalks).
Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee (See Item #9a CC)
9l. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: CHADWICK ST.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to set hearings for items #9l CC through #9o CC for
October 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Hearing set for October 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
9m. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: FRANKLIN ST. & ARCTIC ST.
Hearing set for October 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. (See Item #9l CC)
9n. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: GRAFTON ST.
Hearing set for October 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. (See Item #9l CC)
9o. NATIONAL GRID for a conduit location at: PLEASANT ST.
Hearing set for October 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. (See Item #9l CC)
9p. David Webb filing an Open Meeting Law Complaint Form.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to refer the item to the Law Department to Prepare an
Answer and Respond. Referred to Law Department to Prepare an Answer and Respond
10. CHAIRMAN'S ORDERS
10a. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION -
Request City Manager work with the Worcester Chamber of Commerce to explore
principal sponsorships for WCCA TV.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt items #10a CC through #10d CC. Order adopted.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Ojeda, who moved for a roll call vote to reconsider the item.
Reconsideration approved on a roll call vote of 10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Bilotta absent).
Councilor Ojeda then spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Ojeda.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
10b. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install statutory speed limit
signage on Mountain St. West.
Order adopted (See Item #10a CC)
10c. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install Do Not Enter signage on
Lakewood St. at its intersecting roadways of Baker St., Elmer St. and Manomet St.
Order adopted (See Item #10a CC)
10d. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING - Request City Manager
request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility install statutory No Parking zone
signage on Lakewood St. at each of its intersecting roadways of Baker St., Elmer St. and
Manomet St.
Order adopted (See Item #10a CC)
11. CHAIRMAN'S RESOLUTION
11a. FROM THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE OPERATIONS -
That the City Council does hereby encourage the efforts of members of the public to get
the signatures of fifteen percent (15%) of the city’s registered voters to request that the
City of Worcester review and/or revise its present Charter, or to adopt a new Charter.
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rosen and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor and City Clerk, who responded to questions raised by
Councilor King.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of
10 Yeas and 0 Nays (Bilotta absent)
12. ORDERS
12a. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility review the
entrance to Flagg St. from Pleasant St. for the purpose of providing City Council with a
report concerning the feasibility and advisability of narrowing the road at the
intersection, in an effort to slow down speeding vehicles and make drivers in the area
more cautious (see attached). (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12b. Request Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations review the Rules
of the City Council relative to public participation to discuss the feasibility of amending
the Rules of City Council to have all City Council meetings begin at 5:30 p.m., with
public participation occurring from the set time of 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. each meeting.
(Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to Hold the Item Under Privilege.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Ojeda, who spoke concerning the item.
Held Under Privilege – King
12c. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works provide emergency repairs
to rebuild the required portion of the sidewalk and curb on King Philip Rd., a public
way, as it intersects with Marmion Ave., a private way, to ensure the step is not 10 to 12
inches in height, in the interest of public safety (see attached). (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12d. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning Worcester
Polytechnic Institute's (WPI) notification that will require students entering the school
for the first time in the fall of 2026 and later to live on campus during their first and
second years. Said report should include how this decision will affect the Hampton Inn
and Marriott hotels the university purchased in 2024, the impact this decision may have
on property owners who have invested in student housing around the school, and how
this decision could impact businesses in the area. (Economou, Fresolo, Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou and Councilor King, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera and Councilor Ojeda, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Ojeda.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Bilotta.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Ojeda for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Order adopted on a roll call vote of 9
Yeas and 2 Nays (Yeas – Bergman, Bilotta, Economou, Fresolo, Mitra, Rivera, Rosen, Toomey,
Petty) (Nays – King, Ojeda)
12e. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works review and repair the
entire length of the sidewalk in front of 2 Biltmore Rd., which was recently replaced with
asphalt instead of concrete, and left the area wavy, uneven and damaged surrounding
concrete at the location (see attached). (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12f. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Cemetery provide
City Council with a report concerning the feasibility of hiring outside contractors to
eliminate the backlog of trees approved for removal but have not been taken down.
(Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Fresolo.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Bergman.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the
item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12g. Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning a previously
adopted Order from February 3, 2026, which read, “Request City Manager request Chief
Development Officer provide City Council with an update concerning the former St.
Vincent Hospital nursing dormitory being developed/converted into affordable housing
for senior citizens.” (Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Fresolo.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12h. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works provide City Council with
a report concerning the feasibility of installing turf, in lieu of grass, on Massasoit Rd.
when configuring each new sidewalk location on the road. Said turf should be installed
at each intersection redeveloped throughout the resurfacing/construction project on the
road. (Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12i. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works provide City Council with
a report concerning the feasibility of utilizing the city’s long patch resurfacing program
to repave Vernon St. from Windham St. to Fifth Ave. during Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27).
(Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12j. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Public Works contact MassDOT to
ensure the college/university wayfinding signage when exiting I-290 from Belmont St. is
updated to reflect that Becker College and Anna Maria College are no longer operating.
(Toomey)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12k. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility provide
City Council with a report detailing the potential of an on-street parking plan that would
allow residents to be able to park along Burncoat St., where feasible. (Economou)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12l. Request City Manager work with the Budget Director to identify and apply for federal
grant monies available to address environmental issues throughout the city. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12m. Request City Manager review and address concerns related to stormwater runoff from
Cooks Pond in the vicinity of Juniper Rd., Olean St., and the Cooks Pond Dam, where
the outflow of water has created a delta due to lack of containment or collection.
(Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rivera, who moved to amend the item to
read as follows: “Request City Manager review and address concerns related to stormwater
runoff into Cooks Pond from three (3) stormwater drains in the vicinity of Juniper Rd. and Olean
St., where the outflow of water has created a delta due to lack of containment or collection.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12n. Request City Manager review and report to City Council concerning the feasibility of
installing rain gardens in the vicinity of Circuit Ave. West and Gates Ln. (Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12o. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning whether the city
has any regulatory authority to either control or prevent Amazon from launching their
package-delivery MK30 drones, which are designed to deliver shoebox-sized products
weighing under five (5) pounds from thirteen (13) feet and are six (6) propeller,
five-by-five (5-by-5) foot machines that are capable of reaching seventy five (75) miles
per hour, from their Westborough distribution center into large portions of Worcester.
Said report should include information concerning how residents will be surveyed to
discuss the potential effects this project will have on the city’s community and
neighborhoods, including environmental, privacy, and safety concerns. (Rosen)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rosen and Councilor Bergman, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to amend the item: “Further, request City
Manager include in said report data related to the impact Amazon’s package-delivery MK30
drones have had on the human workforce in locations where the drones are currently operating, in
terms of jobs."
Councilor King then moved to, “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report related
to the city’s current and future workforce development, in response to artificial intelligence (AI)
and increased/improved technology.” (See Item #20c CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12p. Number Not Used.
No action taken
12q. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the impact of
individual Medicare insurance plans being eliminated. Further, request City Manager
include in said report information concerning transition plans available to residents to
ensure they are not negatively impacted by any loss of such plans. (Petty)
Mayor Petty read the item.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized Mayor Petty, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to amend the item: “Further, request said
report include information concerning the city’s plans to aid residents who are unhoused and
unsheltered, including the sixty (60) residents of the city who have been identified as chronically
homeless.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
12r. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the department’s
street sweeping operations. (Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12s. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Cemetery
conduct monthly cleanings of the median on Hamilton St. (Bilotta)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12t. Request City Manager consider creating and installing “Welcome to Worcester – Heart
of the Commonwealth” and “Leaving Worcester – Come Back Soon” signs at all major
entry and exit points along the city’s borders with Auburn, Holden, Leicester, Millbury,
Shrewsbury, and West Boylston. (see attached for potential locations). (Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra, who moved to amend the item to read
as follows: “Request Standing Committee on Traffic and Parking Committee discuss and consider
creating and installing “Welcome to Worcester – Heart of the Commonwealth” and “Leaving
Worcester – Come Back Soon” signs at all major entry and exit points along the city’s borders
with Auburn, Holden, Leicester, Millbury, Shrewsbury, and West Boylston. (see attached for
potential locations).” – Not Put.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to amend the item: “Further, request City
Manager utilize and review previous street signage plans and reports related to the type of signs
the city can and plans to install to determine the feasibility of installing such signage.”
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Mitra for a second time, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
on a roll call vote of 9 Yeas and 1 Nay (Nay – King) (Bilotta absent)
12u. Request City Manager provide City Council with a report concerning the impact
separating the various functions of the Department of Public Works (DPW) into the
Department of Transportation and Mobility (DTM), the Department of Parks, Recreation
and Cemetery (DPRC), as well as the subdivisions within DPW including the Streets
Division, Water and Sewer Operations Division, and the Engineering Division, has had
on the delivery of city services. Further, request said report include 1) an inventory of
assets, equipment, vehicles, facilities, staffing functions, and maintenance
responsibilities that were previously shared within DPW; 2) how those resources and
responsibilities have been allocated among each respective department and division
since each section of the department was separated; and 3) what additional equipment,
staffing, facilities, or other operational resources may now be needed as a result of said
resources no longer being shared. (Mitra)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12v. Request City Manager provide City Council with an update concerning the status of the
overgrowth in Elm Park’s pond, including an explanation of the environmental concerns
involved, timelines for addressing those concerns, and information on any actions being
taken regarding the pond’s water level. (Ojeda)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Ojeda, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Ojeda.
Mayor Petty moved to add the entire City Council as sponsors of the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12w. Request City Manager request Commissioner of Transportation and Mobility provide
City Council with a report detailing the ninety (90) day trial period for the installation of
four-way stop signs at several locations in Worcester, including the intersection of June
St., Brownell St., and Hadwen Rd. Said report should include, but not be limited to,
information pertaining to when the ninety (90) trial period will occur, what resident input
will be used to measure the success of the stop sign controls and what criteria will be
used to determine if the stop signs are warranted on a permanent basis. (Bergman,
Rivera)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Bergman.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12x. Request City Manager consider ensuring two (2) Worcester Police Department (WPD)
police academy classes are completed and ready for work before the end of calendar year
2027. Said considerations should include using funds from Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) for
one class, and Fiscal Year 2028 (FY28) for the other. (Bergman)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Bergman, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who moved to, “Request City Manager provide City
Council with a report concerning the feasibility of any plans to complete two (2) Worcester Police
Department (WPD) police academy classes prior to the end of calendar year 2027, wherein one
class would utilize funds from Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) and other would utilize funds from Fiscal
Year 2028 (FY28). Further, request said report include an analysis of the fiscal impact of such a
decision.” (See Item #20d CC).
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized Mayor Petty, who spoke concerning the item.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions
raised by Mayor Petty.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized Councilor Mitra, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor Mitra.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou, who moved to add his name as a sponsor of the
item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman and Councilor King for second times, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Rivera.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12y. Request City Manager, in consultation with relevant city departments, outreach
providers, and people with lived experience, develop a plan to clean designated hotspots
that also responds to the needs of unsheltered residents and the housing crisis. Further,
request City Manager coordinate cleanups with respectful outreach, advance
communication where practicable, connections to shelter, services, and housing. Further,
request City Manager track the following: 1) number of cleanups; 2) 311 response times
associated with cleanups; 3) debris and overflow; 4) repeat cleanups; 5) cleanliness
scores; 6) complaints about cleanliness; 7) outreach contacts and/or service housing
connections, where available. (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
12z. Request City Manager develop clear guidance related to when businesses should contact
311 or 911 that includes information related to how said businesses can request outreach
related to emergencies involving unsheltered individuals. Further, request said guidance
ensures non-emergency concerns involving unsheltered people can be routed to trained
outreach teams, with 911 being reserved for emergencies. Further, request City Manager
consult businesses, outreach providers, relevant city departments, and people with lived
experience when developing said guidance. Further, request the following information
be tracked as part of said guidance: 1) businesses reached; 2) routing times; 3)
misdirected non-emergency calls; 4) first-visit resolutions; 5) connections to services,
shelter, or housing, when available. (King)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor King, who moved to amend the item to read
as follows: “Request City Manager provide City Council with a report detailing the development
of clear evidence-based guidance and best practices related to when businesses should contact 311
or 911 that includes information related to how said businesses can request outreach related to
emergencies involving unsheltered individuals. Further, request said guidance ensures
non-emergency concerns involving unsheltered people can be routed to trained outreach teams,
with 911 being reserved for emergencies. Further, request City Manager consult businesses,
outreach providers, relevant city departments, and people with lived experience when developing
said guidance. Further, request the following information be tracked as part of said guidance: 1)
businesses reached; 2) routing times; 3) misdirected non-emergency calls; 4) first-visit resolutions;
5) connections to services, shelter, or housing, when available. Further, request City Manager
ensure said report emphasizes that said evidence-based guidance and best practices would be used
for residents who are dysregulated and appear to be in need of a public health response.” – Not
Put, as the Councilor further clarified the amendment later in the discussion.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Councilor King then moved to amend the item: “Request City Manager provide City Council with
a report detailing the development of clear evidence-based guidance and best practices related to
when businesses, residents and people who come within the city’s borders should contact 311 or
911 that includes information related to how said businesses can request outreach related to
emergencies involving unsheltered individuals. Further, request said guidance ensures
non-emergency concerns involving unsheltered people can be routed to trained outreach teams,
with 911 being reserved for emergencies. Further, request City Manager consult businesses,
outreach providers, relevant city departments, and people with lived experience when developing
said guidance. Further, request the following information be tracked as part of said guidance: 1)
businesses reached; 2) routing times; 3) misdirected non-emergency calls; 4) first-visit resolutions;
5) connections to services, shelter, or housing, when available. Further, request City Manager
ensure said report emphasizes that said evidence-based guidance and best practices would be used
for residents who are dysregulated and appear to be in need of a public health response. Further,
request City Manager conduct a public education campaign once said guidance has been created.”
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item as amended. Order adopted as amended
13. RESOLUTION
13a. That the City Council of the City of Worcester does hereby go on record commending
MassDOT District 3 Highway Director for Central Massachusetts Barry J. Lorion for his
support in ensuring the portion of McKeon Road under I-290 be resurfaced. (Fresolo)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Fresolo, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty moved for a roll call vote to adopt the item. Resolution adopted on a roll call vote of
11 Yeas and 0 Nays
14. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS
14a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Order of Councilor Gary Rosen, Councilor Morris A.
Bergman, Councilor Robert A. Bilotta, Councilor Tony Economou, Councilor John P.
Fresolo, Councilor Khrystian E. King, Councilor Satya B. Mitra, Councilor Luis A.
Ojeda, Councilor Jose A. Rivera, Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey and Mayor Joseph M.
Petty - Request Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations hold a
public hearing to determine the feasibility and advisability of the City Council initiating
and/or supporting efforts to review the current modified Plan E City Charter, which was
implemented in 1987 and amended in 2022: recommend Order be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #14a CC through #14f CC. Accepted
14b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Clerk transmitting an
informational communication relative to various options available for making changes to
the City Charter: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #14a CC)
14c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Clerk transmitting an
informational communication detailing possible charter changes that could be done
without the creation of a Charter Review Commission, charter changes that require
approval of such a commission, as well as City Council’s role in passing ordinance
changes: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #14a CC)
14d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Clerk transmitting an
informational communication relative to the process required to place a non-binding
question on the ballot of the upcoming local election: recommend Communication be
placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #14a CC)
14e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Clerk transmitting an
informational communication relative to advertisements for the Standing Committee on
Municipal and Legislative Operations meeting on Monday, September 28, 2026 related
to a discussion of the City Charter: recommend Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #14a CC)
14f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AND LEGISLATIVE
OPERATIONS Upon the Communication of the City Clerk transmitting an
informational communication concerning resident testimony brought forth at the
Monday, August 17, 2026 Standing Committee on Municipal and Legislative Operations
meeting related to the discussion of a potential review of the City Charter: recommend
Communication be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #14a CC)
15. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION
15a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION
Upon the Order of Councilor Gary Rosen - Request City Manager provide City Council
with an update concerning the current state of negotiations for a new cable contract with
Spectrum. The previous agreement, which expired in October 2023, was marred by
Spectrum's contract violations, poor customer service, poor cable reliability and failure
to provide contractual senior discounts, among others: recommend adoption of the
accompanying Order.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept and adopt the item. Accepted and Adopted
15b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION
Upon the Report of the Committee on Public Service and Transportation Upon the Order
of Councilor Morris A. Bergman and Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson - Request Standing
Committee on Public Service and Transportation Committee hold a public discussion
with the WRTA Administrator relative to the removal of a bus route that passes the
EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way: recommend Report be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept the item. Accepted
16. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING
16a. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the
Communication of the City Manager recommending adoption of the proposed ordinance
amendment to establish a tow zone on portions of Albany Street and Fantasia Drive:
recommend passage of the accompanying proposed Ordinance.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved for a roll call vote to advertise the proposed Ordinance.
Voted to advertise proposed Ordinance on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
16b. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Daily Toribio request installation of a handicap parking space with ADA accessible curb
cut at 62 Circuit Ave. North: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to accept items #16b CC through #16t CC. Accepted
16c. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of Sheila Reid request traffic enforcement of the
stop signs at the intersection of Beechmont St. and Bancroft Tower Rd., in the interest in
public safety: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16d. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of Bill Hurley request increased speed enforcement
on West Chester St., in the interest of public safety: recommend Petition be placed on
file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16e. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Christine Dolat request increased speed and traffic
enforcement on Delawanda Dr., in an effort to deter speeding and illegal vehicle use in
the neighborhood: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16f. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of Ronald Prapuolenis request increased speed
enforcement on Mountain St. West between West Boylston St. and Pullman St.:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16g. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou on behalf of Ronald Prapuolenis request installation of
“Thickly Settled” signage on Mountain St. West in the vicinity of West Boylston St. and
Pullman St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16h. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jenny Pacillo request installation of traffic calming signage at the intersection
of Saxon Rd. and Westbrook Rd.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16i. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Francel Hollins et al. request installation of resident permit parking on the odd side of
Providence St. from Dorchester St. to South St. Further, request installation of No
Parking Anytime signage on the even side of Providence St. from Dorchester St. to South
St. (Amended August 19, 2026): recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16j. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Jillian St. Pierre request removal of "No Parking Anytime" restriction on Theodore
Tonna St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16k. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor John P. Fresolo on behalf of Devan Wilson request “No Parking Anytime”
signage on the even side of McGill St. be removed: recommend Petition be placed on
file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16l. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Francis Dufault request installation of a four-way stop sign at the intersection of Grove
St. and Chester St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16m. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Kim Ashe request installation of a green right arrow on Stafford St. at its intersection
with James St.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16n. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Thomas Vincent request the traffic lights at the intersection of Shore Dr. and Norton Dr.
be reviewed for the purpose of extending the Shore Dr. light turning onto Norton Dr.:
recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16o. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Thomas Vincent request the green left turn signal on Shore Dr. at its intersection with
Holden St. be extended: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16p. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Mike Rejaey request installation of a designated right turn lane on Bigelow Davis
Parkway at its intersection with Lake Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16q. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Jose A. Rivera on behalf of Caitlyn Austin request installation of resident
permit parking on Beaver Brook Pkwy: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16r. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou request installation of “No Left Turn” signage on Grove St.
for access to Lansing Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16s. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Tony Economou request installation of “No Left Turn” signage on Holden St.
for access to Lansing Ave.: recommend Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
16t. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC AND PARKING Upon the Petition of
Councilor Kathleen M. Toomey on behalf of Catherine Flagg request Fales St. at its
intersection with Leeds St. be reviewed for speed calming measures, including the
potential for the installation of speed humps and additional stop signs: recommend
Petition be placed on file.
Accepted (See Item #16b CC)
17. HELD UNDER PRIVILEGE
17a. ORDER of Councilor Gary Rosen - Request City Manager and Chief Development
Officer explain to the City Council at its September 22, 2026 meeting why Optiline
Enterprises, a commercial drywall and metal framing subcontractor with documented
violations of labor and employment laws, is being allowed to work on the 364-unit
residential complex being built on 274 Franklin St., which is a project heavily supported
by $11 million in local property tax relief over fifteen (15) years, as Optiline was
previously banned from taxpayer-funded projects in Worcester in June 2025 due to
documented violations including wage theft, paying employees under the table, failing to
pay proper overtime rates to tradespeople working over forty (40) hours a week, and
tax/insurance fraud. Said explanation should address whether Optiline's work on the
aforementioned project is in violation of Worcester's Responsible Development
Ordinance, a law mandating that developers receiving municipal tax relief or Tax
Increment Exemption (TIE) benefits cannot hire contractors with documented labor or
wage violations within the past three years. (Held Under Privilege - Rosen September 22,
2026 and Held Under Privilege - King September 29, 2026)
Mayor Petty read the item and recognized Councilor Rosen, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager and City Solicitor, who responded to questions raised
by Councilor Rosen.
Councilor Rosen then moved to place the item on file.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Mayor Petty moved to place the item on file. Placed on file
17b. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request City Manager help identify locations
throughout the city and beginning in District 2 to create permanent public bathrooms, in
the interest of providing necessary public health measures with respect to the human
condition. Further, while said permanent public bathroom locations are identified and
built, request City Manager determine suitable locations to install porta-potties as a
temporary measure while awaiting the permanent bathroom installations. (Held Under
Privilege - King September 22, 2026 and September 29, 2026)
Leave to Withdraw (See Item #17c CC)
17c. ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby adopt item #10g CC on the September 29, 2026 City Council as
amended to read as follows: “Request City Manager consider a process to help identify
locations throughout the city and beginning in District 2 to create permanent public
bathrooms, in the interest of providing necessary public health measures with respect to
the human condition. Further, while said permanent public bathroom locations are being
considered, identified and built, request City Manager consider a process to determine
suitable locations to install porta-potties as a temporary measure while awaiting the
permanent bathroom installations. (Held Under Privilege - King September 29, 2026)
Mayor Petty read the item and moved to take the item up collectively with items #17b CC and
#17d CC.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bergman and Councilor King, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor King.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized Mayor Petty, who spoke concerning the item.
Vice Chairperson Councilor King recognized Councilor Mitra, who moved to, “Request City
Manager explore the possibility of installing rented, mobile bathrooms and showers in the city’s
municipal parking lots until such a time that permanent bathrooms and showers are reviewed and
completed.” (See Item #20a CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Bilotta, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Toomey, who moved to, “Request City Manager provide City
Council with a report concerning the costs associated with installing temporary and/or permanent
bathroom and shower facilities in the city. Further, request said report also include information
concerning funding sources and/or grants available for the installation of such facilities.” (See
Item #20b CC).
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rivera, who spoke concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized the City Manager, who responded to questions raised by Councilor
Rivera.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Rosen and Councilor Economou, who spoke concerning the
item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King and Councilor Mitra for second times, who spoke
concerning the item.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor King for a third time, who moved to withdraw item #17b CC.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Order adopted
17d. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a copy of the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District (BID)
“Downtown Worcester Quality of Life” study, which includes an analysis of the
potentiality of opening a public restroom in the downtown area. (Held Under Privilege -
King September 29, 2026)
Order adopted (See Item #17c CC)
18. TABLED ITEMS
18a. ORDER of Councilor Konstantina B. Lukes - Request City Manager request City
Solicitor provide City Council with a legal opinion regarding the process of instituting a
residential rent control program and the resulting impact of implementing such a
program. (Held Under Privilege - Lukes September 17, 2019 and September 24, 2019
and Tabled - Lukes October 15, 2019)
No action taken
18b. RESOLUTION of Councilor Khrystian E. King - That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby support Representative Rebecca Rauch and Senator Sonia
Chang-Diaz’s SD 699 HD 1283, An Act effectuating equity in COVID-19 Vaccination
Bill. (Held Under Privilege - Bergman February 9, 2021 and Tabled - Bergman February
23, 2021)
No action taken
18c. ORDER of Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and Councilor Thu Nguyen - Request City Manager
work with appropriate departments and stakeholders to establish an Office of Housing
Stability in an effort to prevent the involuntary displacement of city residents who are in
the process of being evicted or at the risk of losing their housing, as well as to enact
policies to combat displacement, homelessness and enhance tenants’ rights. (Held Under
Privilege - Haxhiaj July 18, 2023 and Tabled - Haxhiaj August 22, 2023)
No action taken
18d. PETITION of Gordon Davis request City Council request Standing Committee on Public
Safety investigate the issue of systemic racism and public safety with public hearings
included. (Tabled - Toomey May 14, 2024)
No action taken
18e. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King - Request City Manager conduct an equity audit
of all city departments every five (5) years. (Held Under Privilege - Mero-Carlson
December 10, 2024 and Held Under Privilege - Toomey December 17, 2024 and Tabled -
Nguyen January 7, 2025)
No action taken
18f. COMMUNICATION of the City Manager transmitting informational communication
relative to how the U.S. Department of Justice's report on the Worcester Police
Department differs from the account of the municipality. (Held Under Privilege - King
April 29, 2025 and May 6, 2025 and Tabled - King May 13, 2025)
No action taken
19. BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under
suspension at the September 29, 2026 City Council meeting.
19a. ORDER of Councilor Luis A. Ojeda – Request City Manager work with the Police Chief
and Superintendent of Public Schools to provide youth in the city with helmets, as part
of an educational pilot program to ensure they are traversing in the city’s streets in a safe
manner. – Item #13a CC Order adopted on a roll call vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
19b. ORDER of Councilor Satya B. Mitra – Request City Manager request Fire Chief work
with the Commissioner of Public Works to ensure there is a notification on the city’s
website explaining the city is in good standing with its fire hydrants and equipped to act
in an emergency situation anywhere in the city, in an effort to ensure residents are not
alarmed if they are located in close proximity to a fire hydrant that is not functioning. –
Item #13b CC Order adopted
19c. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work with the Fire
Chief and Commissioner of Public Works to provide City Council with a report detailing
data related to the city’s maintenance/repair program for fire hydrants. Said data should
be sorted in terms of levels of need/concern. – Item #13c CC Order adopted
19d. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager work with the Fire
Chief and Commissioner of Public Works to provide City Council with a report detailing
whether there is a tiering program related to the risk or inoperability of the city’s
thirty-nine (39) non-functioning fire hydrants. – Item #13d CC Order adopted
19e. ORDER of Councilor Luis A. Ojeda – Request City Manager work with the Fire Chief
and Commissioner of Public Works to provide City Council with a list detailing the
location of each fire hydrant in the city that is currently inoperable. – Item #13e CC
Order adopted
19f. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a report detailing any potential advantages associated with installing speed
cushions, in lieu of speed humps, in an effort to allow public safety vehicles the
opportunity to more effectively navigate city streets. – Item #13f CC Order adopted
19g. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager request Commissioner
of Transportation and Mobility provide City Council with a report concerning the
feasibility of piloting a hybrid beacon system at crosswalks along Lake Ave., including
in the vicinity of Madulka’s Ice Cream, located at 193 Lake Ave. – Item #13g CC Order
adopted
19h. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a report detailing evidence-based research of the pros and cons of using “ghost”
police vehicles as a traffic calming tactic in the city. – Item #13h CC Order adopted
19i. ORDER of Mayor Joseph M. Petty – Request City Manager provide City Council with a
report concerning how the Worcester Police Department (WPD) is maintaining and
recruiting additional police officers in the city. Further, request said report include
information concerning any available grant funding that could be available to aid the
department in their recruitment efforts. – Item #13i CC Order adopted
19j. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager request Police Chief
provide City Council with a report concerning Cadet Programs used in other
municipalities that may be a more effective model than what was used in the city’s
program that is no longer utilized. – Item #13j CC Order adopted
19k. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a report detailing the efforts of the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) to
advocate for more funding to support school building projects in gateway cities,
including the Burncoat School Building Project. – Item #13k CC Order adopted
19l. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a report concerning the projected annual payments required of the city’s taxpayers
due to anticipated obligations associated with the city’s fifteen-million-dollar
($15,000,000.00) commitment to the New High School Fund, which will financially
prepare the city to pay for a new Burncoat School Building Project. – Item #13l CC
Order adopted
19m. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a report detailing the prior organization and role of the CSX Neighborhood
Improvement Fund Advisory Committee. – Item #13m CC Order adopted on a roll call
vote of 11 Yeas and 0 Nays
19n. ORDER of Councilor Morris A. Bergman – That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby adopt item #10g CC on the September 29, 2026 City Council as
amended to read as follows: “Request City Manager consider a process to help identify
locations throughout the city and beginning in District 2 to create permanent public
bathrooms, in the interest of providing necessary public health measures with respect to
the human condition. Further, while said permanent public bathroom locations are being
considered, identified and built, request City Manager consider a process to determine
suitable locations to install porta-potties as a temporary measure while awaiting the
permanent bathroom installations.” – Item #13n Held Under Privilege
19o. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby adopt item #10g CC on the September 29, 2026 City Council as
amended to read as follows: “Request City Manager help identify locations throughout
the city and beginning in District 2 to create permanent public bathrooms, in the interest
of providing necessary public health measures with respect to the human condition.
Further, while said permanent public bathroom locations are identified and built, request
City Manager determine suitable locations to install porta-potties as a temporary measure
while awaiting the permanent bathroom installations. Further, request City Manager
provide City Council with a report concerning the timeline associated with such actions.
Further, request said process include community and business interfacing and feedback.”
– Item #13o Order denied on a roll call vote of 5 Yeas and 6 Nays
19p. ORDER of Councilor Khrystian E. King – Request City Manager provide City Council
with a copy of the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District (BID)
“Downtown Worcester Quality of Life” study, which includes an analysis of the
potentiality of opening a public restroom in the downtown area. – Item #13p Held Under
Privilege
20. NEW BUSINESS UNDER SUSPENSION OF RULES - Items brought forth under
suspension at the October 6, 2026 City Council meeting.
20a. Motion Mitra @ #17c CC – Request City Manager explore the possibility of installing
rented, mobile bathrooms and showers in the city’s municipal parking lots until such a
time that permanent bathrooms and showers are reviewed and completed.
Order adopted (See Item #17c CC)
20b. Motion Toomey @ #17c CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning the costs associated with installing temporary and/or permanent bathroom
and shower facilities in the city. Further, request said report also include information
concerning funding sources and/or grants available for the installation of such facilities.
Order adopted (See Item #17c CC)
20c. Motion King @ #12o CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
related to the city’s current and future workforce development, in response to artificial
intelligence (AI) and increased/improved technology.
Order adopted (See Item #12o CC)
20d. Motion King @ #12x CC – Request City Manager provide City Council with a report
concerning the feasibility of any plans to complete two (2) Worcester Police Department
(WPD) police academy classes prior to the end of calendar year 2027, wherein one class
would utilize funds from Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) and other would utilize funds from
Fiscal Year 2028 (FY28). Further, request said report include an analysis of the fiscal
impact of such a decision.
Order adopted (See Item #12x CC)
20e. Motion Economou – Suspension of Rules – That the City Council of the City of
Worcester does hereby go on record recognizing the students and faculty at Francis J.
McGrath Elementary School, Midland Street Elementary School, Worcester Arts Magnet
School, and Columbus Park Preparatory Elementary School for earning state recognition
for their academic progress toward accountability targets in English Language Arts and
Mathematics, while ranking above the twentieth percentile of schools statewide.
Mayor Petty recognized Councilor Economou, who introduced the item.
Mayor Petty moved to adopt the item. Resolution adopted
Transcript
Transcript pending: YouTube captions can't be retrieved yet (see the Worcester playbook).