City Council Meeting 10-27-25

Everett City Council Meeting Minutes

Meeting Date: October 27, 2025 Governing Body: Everett City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees: Councilor Guerline Alcy Jabouin, Councilor Anthony DiPierro, Councilor Holly Garcia, Councilor John Hanlon, Councilor Michael Marchese, Councilor Wayne Matewsky, Councilor Peter Pietrantonio, Councilor Katy Rogers, Councilor Stephanie Smith, Councilor Robert Van Campen, Councilor Stephanie Martins (President).

Executive Summary

The Everett City Council held a regular meeting on October 27, 2025, addressing various community concerns and administrative matters. Key discussions included the distribution of ARPA funds, with concerns raised about fairness and transparency, and the approval of several licenses for local businesses. The Council also engaged in significant debate regarding the detention of a 13-year-old by ICE and the subsequent misinformation from Homeland Security, leading to a resolution condemning the actions and requesting a public correction. Additionally, the Council discussed the impact of rodenticides, the need for an overflow trash day, and regulations for bike lanes.

Agenda Items

I. Public Hearings

Petition from Comcast (Item 1): Requesting permission to install approximately 38 feet of new underground conduit from the existing Comcast manhole on Charlton Street to 160 Broadway to provide Comcast broadband service.
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Matewsky inquired if this was for a new development, confirmed to be for Granger's at 165 Broadway.
  - Comcast representative, Dave Llewellyn, confirmed they would repair any disturbed areas.
- Outcome:
  - Motion to open public hearing: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  - No public speakers in favor or against.
  - Motion to close public hearing: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  - Motion for favorable action: Approved (Roll Call Vote: 10 Ayes, 0 Nays).
    - Councilor Alcy Jabouin: Yes
    - Councilor DiPierro: Yes
    - Councilor Garcia: Yes
    - Councilor Hanlon: Yes
    - Councilor Marchese: Yes
    - Councilor Matewsky: Yes
    - Councilor Pietrantonio: Yes
    - Councilor Rogers: Yes
    - Councilor Smith: Yes
    - Councilor Van Campen: Yes
    - Councilor President Martins: Yes
Petition from National Grid (Item 2): Requesting permission to install approximately 20 feet of 2 to 4 inch conduit from existing pole 1253-0 on Park Terrace to private property at 27 Spalding Street to provide a permanent overhead to underground siphon service.
- Discussion:
  - National Grid representative, Jose Luis Azaria, explained the conduit would provide underground service for a new residential building at 27 Spalding Street.
  - Councilor Pietrantonio confirmed it was for a new building and that the service would be underground.
  - Councilor Matewsky raised concerns about unpainted utility boxes near the post office, which had been primed after graffiti removal. Mr. Azaria committed to painting them completely.
- Outcome:
  - Motion to open public hearing: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  - No public speakers in favor or against.
  - Motion to close public hearing: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  - Motion for favorable action: Approved (Roll Call Vote: 10 Ayes, 1 Nay).
    - Councilor Alcy Jabouin: Yes
    - Councilor DiPierro: Yes
    - Councilor Garcia: Yes
    - Councilor Hanlon: Yes
    - Councilor Marchese: Yes
    - Councilor Matewsky: Yes
    - Councilor Pietrantonio: Yes
    - Councilor Rogers: No
    - Councilor Smith: Yes
    - Councilor Van Campen: Yes
    - Councilor President Martins: Yes

II. Special Recognitions

Town Clerk's Birthday: Acknowledged the Town Clerk's 40th birthday.
Italian Heritage Month Recognition - Dale Palmer:
- Recipient: Dale Palmer, Director of the Senior Center.
- Presented by: Councilors Marchese, Pietrantonio, and Hanlon.
- Citation: "Be it hereby known to all that the Everett City Council, in his honor, Mayor, offer his sincerest congratulations to Dale Palmer in honor of Italian Heritage Month and recognition of over 20 years of public service to the city of Everett winning running and expanding programs to serve our senior community while preserving and celebrating Italian culture and pride. The entire city government extends its very best wishes on its memorial occasion and expresses the hope for continued good fortune going forward, given this 27th day of October, 2025."
- Remarks: Councilors praised Mr. Palmer's dedication and service to the senior community. Mr. Palmer thanked his staff and the Council on Aging.
Massachusetts Bar Admission - Councilor Holly Garcia:
- Recipient: Councilor Holly Garcia.
- Presented by: Councilor Robert Van Campen.
- Citation: "Be it Hereby known to all that the Everett City Council and his honor the mayor offer their sincerest congratulations to Holly Garcia in celebration of your dedication and admission to the bar as a Massachusetts attorney. The entire city government extends its very best wishes on this memorable occasion and expresses the hope for continued good fortune given this 27th day of October 2025."
- Remarks: Councilor Van Campen highlighted Councilor Garcia's resilience. Councilor Garcia expressed gratitude to her family, friends, and mentors, emphasizing the importance of chasing dreams despite obstacles.
Blue Jay Mural - Kevin Angulo:
- Recipient: Kevin Angulo.
- Presented by: Councilor Katy Rogers.
- Citation: "Be it hereby known to all that the Everett City Council and his Honor the Mayor offer their sincerest congratulations to Kevin Angiolo in recognition of your artwork that has been displayed featuring the Blue Jay mural. You are a talented artist whose work has significantly enriched the cultural landscape here in Everett. The entire city government extends its very best wishes on this memorable occasion and expresses the hope for continued good fortune in going forward given this 27th day of October 2025."
- Remarks: Councilor Rogers praised Mr. Angulo's work on the mural at Walgreens on Broadway, a project sponsored by the Everett Cultural Council. Mr. Angulo thanked the Cultural Council and various individuals for their support, explaining the mural's theme of perseverance.

III. Public Participation

Peggy Serino (Everett): Raised concerns about ARPA funds distribution, alleging political motivations and mismanagement. Questioned the $10 million roof renovation at the old high school and supported Councilor Marchese's resolution regarding mayoral legal defense fund contributors.
Reverend DeRocha: Requested the City Council's assistance in removing EHCC's name as a sub-recipient of ARPA funds ($464,721.53) as they declined the funds due to potential conflict of interest.
Paulistaree: Criticized the Mayor's spending and business practices, specifically mentioning curb cuts at Rich Street, the cost of an overflow trash day versus homecoming events, and the handling of ARPA funds. Applauded Reverend DeRocha for speaking out.
Joanna Guerin (Ward 2): Spoke in favor of the resolution condemning Tricia McLaughlin's misinformation regarding the 13-year-old boy detained by ICE. Emphasized the sealing of juvenile records and the dangers of government officials labeling individuals as criminals without due process.
David Fortin (Ward 4): Expressed concern about the 13-year-old detained by ICE, questioning rumors about ICE agents at the police station and potential lawsuits.
Jeff Parenti: Supported the resolution condemning Tricia McLaughlin's statements regarding the detained 13-year-old. Criticized the administration for lying about the minor on a national stage.
Cynthia Salazar (Ward 4): Commended the Council for investigating ARPA fund transparency, highlighting disparities in distribution. Criticized the public posting of the 13-year-old's picture while individuals who allegedly stole over $200,000 from the city remain in charge.
Azbel Lopez (53 Cleveland Ave): Described an ongoing sewer problem for over two years caused by a wire rod from a pole on her sidewalk. Stated the Engineering Department and National Grid had not resolved the issue despite promises.
Peggy Serino (Everett): Read a letter alleging the Mayor is using homecoming for political benefit in an election year, with expenses paid by the Mayor's office instead of the school department. Questioned the source of funds and lack of Council vote on expenditures.
Tina Marie Oliveri: Expressed concern about the subpar living conditions at Glendale Towers for elderly, veterans, and disabled residents, citing evidence of cockroaches, bed bugs, and mice. Questioned accountability and the return of $2.3 million in ARPA funds in 2021.
Paula Sturee: Reiterated concerns about ARPA fund mismanagement, including the return of $2.3 million in CARES money and the payment of $100,000 to George Regan for PR while school COVID expenses went unpaid. Criticized the payment of legal expenses for a lawsuit without an unredacted version.
Bill Thompson (142 School Street, Sacro Plaza, Ward 6): Encouraged residents to vote in the upcoming election, emphasizing that complaining without voting is unproductive.
Dave Fortin (Ward 4): Raised concerns about scooter and bicycle safety, particularly a recent incident where a boy on an electric scooter nearly caused an accident. Advocated for a safety program and police involvement.
Jeff Ferentzi: Called on the City Council to urge state representatives and the governor to be proactive in preventing the use of the Massachusetts State Guard for federal deployments that antagonize citizens.

IV. Minutes Approval

Motion: To approve the minutes of the regular City Council meetings on September 8, 2025, and September 22, 2025.
Outcome: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

V. Order Requesting Approval to Adopt City's Municipal Aggregation Plan (Item 3)

Resolution: An order requesting approval to adopt the city's municipal aggregation plan attached herein and authorize the city administration to take any and all necessary action to prepare the plan for submission to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities pursuant to Mass General Law Chapter 164, Subsection 134.
Discussion: Jonathan Frias from the Planning Department was present to answer questions. This is a vote to send the previously approved plan to the Department of Public Utilities.
Outcome: Motion to refer to the Committee on Legislative Affairs and Elections: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

VI. Petitions and Licenses

Petition for New Mechanical Repair License - Everett Auto Center, Inc. (Item 4): At 35 Orient Ave.
Petition for New Class II Motor Vehicle Dealer License - Interior Auto Sales Corp. (Item 5): At 70 Chelsea Street.
- Outcome (Items 4 & 5): Motion to refer to the Committee on Business Development: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Petition for Renewal of Class II Motor Vehicle Dealer License - Everett Auto Gallery (Item 6): At 1847 Revere Beach Parkway.
- Outcome: Motion for favorable action: Approved (Roll Call Vote: 11 Ayes, 0 Nays).
  - Councilor Alcy Jabouin: Yes
  - Councilor DiPierro: Yes
  - Councilor Garcia: Yes
  - Councilor Hanlon: Yes
  - Councilor Marchese: Yes
  - Councilor Matewsky: Yes
  - Councilor Pietrantonio: Yes
  - Councilor Rogers: Yes
  - Councilor Smith: Yes
  - Councilor Van Campen: Yes
  - Councilor President Martins: Yes
Petition for New Tire Repair License - Mel's Tire and Auto Service (Item 7): At 1865 Riviera Beach Parkway.
- Discussion: Recommended for favorable action by the Community Business Development Committee.
- Outcome: Motion for favorable action: Approved (Roll Call Vote: 11 Ayes, 0 Nays).
  - Councilor Alcy Jabouin: Yes
  - Councilor DiPierro: Yes
  - Councilor Garcia: Yes
  - Councilor Hanlon: Yes
  - Councilor Marchese: Yes
  - Councilor Matewsky: Yes
  - Councilor Pietrantonio: Yes
  - Councilor Rogers: Yes
  - Councilor Smith: Yes
  - Councilor Van Campen: Yes
  - Councilor President Martins: Yes

VII. Unfinished Business

Resolution Regarding Construction Debris on Bailey Street (Item 9): Offered by Councilors Katie Rogers, Guerline Alcy Jabouin, and Wayne Matewsky.
- Discussion: Councilor Rogers reported receiving correspondence from Eric Swanson, Director of Engineering, stating he would meet with the contractor to discuss the schedule and debris removal. Councilor Matewsky expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting the removal of pipes would create 10 parking spots.
- Outcome: Motion to refer back to sponsor: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Business ARPA Grant Application Decisions (Item 10): Offered by Councilors Stephanie Martins and Guerline Alcy Jabouin.
- Discussion: Ms. Erin Devaney, Chief of Staff, provided an update.
  - Three of six previously incomplete applications remain non-responsive despite multiple outreach efforts. Accenture will proceed with awards for eligible applicants.
  - Checks will be issued via a special check run once agreements are acknowledged.
  - Councilor Alcy Jabouin questioned why a small business (Bakes and Cakes on Norwood Street) was deemed ineligible due to not being in a "qualified census tract," while one owner could receive $73,296 for four businesses. She also questioned the Chamber of Commerce's role in managing the grant while also receiving funds.
  - Ms. Devaney clarified that eligibility was based on federal definitions and that the Chamber of Commerce's role was outreach, not eligibility determination.
  - Councilor Garcia inquired about notification for non-awarded grants and where to direct future questions (ARPA email on city website).
  - Councilor Hanlon clarified the status of the six incomplete applications (three now responsive, three non-responsive).
  - Councilor Rogers confirmed that all $745,000 allotted for this portion of spending would be distributed to eligible applicants, even if not all requested maximum amounts could be met.
  - Councilor Alcy Jabouin suggested hiring in-house staff for future grant management to avoid issues.
  - Ms. Devaney confirmed that the city received $13 million in initial ARPA funding, with an additional $33 million from the state due to advocacy, and all funds must be spent by December 2026.
- Outcome: Motion to postpone to the next meeting for updates on disbursement: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Old High School Roof Renovation Project (Item 16): Offered by Councilor Stephanie Martins.
- Discussion: Chief Procurement Officer was present.
  - Councilor Martins questioned the $10 million cost.
  - Chief Procurement Officer clarified the original contract sum was $5.6 million, with current spending trending at $6.1 million including consultants.
  - Net change orders to date are $70,377.19.
  - The project is not expected to reach $10 million, with approximately $3.8 million remaining.
  - Anticipated completion date is the second week of November, no later than the 15th.
  - Councilor Smith inquired about the fate of unspent ARPA funds.
- Outcome: Motion to postpone to the next meeting for further review of paperwork: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Status of Using Rodenticides in Massachusetts (Item 15): Offered by Councilor Katie Rogers.
- Discussion: State Senator Sal DiDomenico and State Representative Judith Garcia were present.
  - Senator DiDomenico explained that the proposed bill aims to ban or restrict chemicals in rodenticides that are harmful to other animals (e.g., cats, dogs, birds of prey). He noted it is a highly co-sponsored bill but part of 6,000 bills filed annually.
  - Representative Garcia added that the bill (Bill 965) requires clear labeling, written justification, and post-use reporting. She mentioned a hearing was held today under the Joint Committee of Environment and Natural Resources and encouraged written testimony from councilors and residents.
  - Councilor Hanlon inquired about the distribution of commercial-grade rodenticides and the impact of a single bite on other animals.
  - Councilor Pietrantonio asked about the duration of awareness regarding the problem.
  - Councilor Rogers questioned whether the city should create a local ordinance or wait for state action. Senator DiDomenico advised that local ordinances are difficult to enforce but cited Lowell as an example.
- Outcome: Motion to refer back to sponsor: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on ARPA Funds Advertising and Distribution (Item 11): Offered by Councilor Stephanie Martins.
- Discussion: No additional updates were provided.
- Outcome: Motion to postpone to the next meeting for updates: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Order to Appropriate $185,000 from Capital Stabilization Account (Item 12): Offered by Councilor Stephanie Martins.
- Purpose: For three DPW one-ton pickup trucks.
- Discussion: Councilor Hanlon questioned the high cost. Councilor Matewsky noted that information requested by the Council was delayed by administration managers, contributing to perceived slowdowns.
- Outcome: Motion for favorable action: Approved (Roll Call Vote: 11 Ayes, 0 Nays).
  - Councilor Alcy Jabouin: Yes
  - Councilor DiPierro: Yes
  - Councilor Garcia: Yes
  - Councilor Hanlon: Yes
  - Councilor Marchese: Yes
  - Councilor Matewsky: Yes
  - Councilor Pietrantonio: Yes
  - Councilor Rogers: Yes
  - Councilor Smith: Yes
  - Councilor Van Campen: Yes
  - Councilor President Martins: Yes
Resolution on November 4th Election Information (Item 13): Offered by Councilors Guerline Alcy Jabouin and Peter Pietrantonio.
- Purpose: Requesting the Director of Elections to explain how to get election information without coming to City Hall and plans for city-wide visibility.
- Discussion: Councilor Alcy Jabouin acknowledged a written response and noted some signs had appeared but advocated for banners for future elections. Councilor Pietrantonio reiterated the need for banners.
- Outcome: Motion to refer back to sponsor: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on 23 Ridge Street Curb Cut and Apron (Item 14): Offered by Councilor Peter Pietrantonio.
- Discussion: Councilor Pietrantonio received a communication from Mr. Scott Martinelli, Operations Manager from DPW.
  - Summary of Communication: Mr. Martinelli stated that his crew had restored a driveway at 23 Ridge Street based on pictures provided by the resident, believing it was an existing driveway. Upon learning there was no permit, the sidewalk and curb were repaired and replaced to their original state.
- Outcome: Motion to refer back to sponsor: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Rules and Regulations for Bike Lanes (Item 17): Offered by Councilors Michael Marchese, Katie Rogers, and Holly Garcia.
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Marchese clarified his intent for bike lanes to be used only by pedal-powered bikes, not motorized scooters or bikes, and to prevent sidewalk usage.
  - Councilor Garcia recounted an incident where a motorized scooter sideswiped her parked car and advocated for more ordinances, noting children riding unsafely. She plans to speak directly with the Traffic Commission.
  - Councilor Rogers emphasized the danger of bikes on sidewalks, particularly on Ferry Street and Broadway, and suggested signage to discourage this.
  - Councilor Martins suggested referring the matter to the Traffic Commission and attending their meetings.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Traffic Commission: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

VIII. New Business

Point of Information - Mayor's Longevity Case: Councilor Smith informed the Council that on October 23, 2025, Attorney General Andrea Campbell, on behalf of the Office of the Inspector General, filed a notice of motion to dismiss in the Mayor's case against the Inspector General.
Resolution Condemning Misinformation from Homeland Security (Item 18): Offered by Councilor Katie Rogers.
- Purpose: Formally condemning misinformation posted by Tricia McLaughlin and demanding an immediate public correction from Homeland Security concerning the detention of a juvenile arrested by the Everett Police Department.
- Discussion: Councilor Rogers read a prepared statement, detailing how Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, publicly claimed the minor was in possession of a firearm, contradicting statements from Mayor DiMaria and Chief Strong. She highlighted the selective sharing of a partial police report, doxing of a minor, and undermining of city leadership. Councilor Rogers cited a letter from US Senator Christopher Murphy regarding a similar pattern of misinformation from Ms. McLaughlin in a Chicago incident. She emphasized the need for truth, trust, and a public retraction/apology from Homeland Security.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Department of Homeland Security with requests to amend information and to inform Governor Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Senator Ed Markey, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Overflow Trash Day (Item 19): Offered by Councilor Stephanie Smith.
- Co-sponsor: Councilor Holly Garcia (added by motion).
- Purpose: Requesting an update from the administration on when the overflow trash day will be held, as discussed during budget hearings.
- Discussion: Councilor Smith reminded the Council that during budget discussions, the Mayor and DPW Director agreed to look into using surplus DPW funds for an overflow day. She noted the increasing trash problem in the city. Councilor Garcia added that the issue was raised in the spring and that a plan is needed, especially with the upcoming holiday season.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the administration for a written response at the next meeting: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution Regarding Status of Louis Oswaldo (Item 20): Offered by Councilor Katie Rogers.
- Co-sponsor: Councilor Guerline Alcy Jabouin (added by motion).
- Purpose: Requesting information on the status of Louis Oswaldo, reportedly detained by ICE in Everett on September 10th, and general protocol for detentions.
- Discussion: Councilor Rogers expressed concern that she could not find any record of Louis Oswaldo with Homeland Security or the Everett Police Department, despite video evidence of his detention by masked men. She questioned the lack of police awareness during such detentions, raising concerns about due process, safety, and potential abductions. Councilor Alcy Jabouin echoed concerns about community safety and the need for police awareness of detentions.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Mayor and Police Chief for applicable information and general protocol, with an update for the next meeting: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on United States Post Office Mailbox Upgrades (Item 21): Offered by Councilor Katie Rogers.
- Co-sponsor: Councilor Wayne Matewsky (added by motion).
- Purpose: Requesting the United States Post Office to upgrade mailboxes with digital keys to improve security.
- Discussion: Councilor Rogers explained that her neighbor experienced mail theft and learned that physical keys can be copied, while digital keys offer better security. She requested all mailboxes be upgraded.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Postmaster with the request: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Ramp Curbing at Ferry and Sycamore Streets (Item 22): Offered by Councilor Anthony DiPierro.
- Purpose: Requesting an update on plans to address the ramp curbing at the intersection of Ferry and Sycamore Streets.
- Discussion: Councilor DiPierro received a response from Mr. Swanson stating that the city can correct the corner after MassDOT releases the vendor and turns the street back to the city in the spring. Councilor DiPierro requested DPW to mark the raised sections with bright paint, flower boxes, or trash receptacles to prevent tripping hazards.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to DPW to take action to mark the raised sections: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Parking Placards for Greats Episcopal Church (Item 23): Offered by Councilor Michael Marchese.
- Purpose: Requesting the Traffic Commission to consider issuing 25 parking placards to the Greats Episcopal Church for usage on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Discussion: Councilor Marchese explained the church's need for parking for its congregation during specific hours.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Traffic Commission: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
Resolution on Mayor's Legal Defense Fund (Item 24): Offered by Councilor Michael Marchese.
- Purpose: Requesting that all parties/businesses contributing to the Mayor's legal defense fund not profit from the city.
- Discussion: Councilor Marchese expressed concern about large donations ($50,000, $25,000, $10,000) to legal defense funds, viewing them as a form of bribery that buys influence. He suggested an overhaul of the system and that recipients of such funds should be disallowed from profiting from the city. Councilor DiPierro noted that political donations are protected under the First Amendment.
- Outcome: Motion to refer to the Office of Campaign and Public Finance (OCPF): Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

IX. Adjournment

Motion: To adjourn.
Outcome: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

The meeting was adjourned.

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