Malden City Council 11-18-25

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Malden City Council Meeting Minutes

Meeting Date: November 18, 2025 Governing Body: Malden City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees: Councillor Colón Hayes, Councillor Condon, Councillor Crowe, Councillor McDonald, Councillor O'Malley, Councillor Sica, Councillor Simonelli (remote), Councillor Spadafora (remote), Councillor Taylor, Councillor Winslow, Council President Linehan.

Executive Summary

The Malden City Council convened for a regular meeting on November 18, 2025. Key discussions included the recognition of Malden as an "Official Runner Friendly Community" and extensive public comment regarding proposed debt exclusion overrides and the appointment of Jeffrey Donahue to the Northeast Metro Tech School Committee. The Council voted to refer the proposed $36 million debt exclusion for the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School to the Finance Committee. Other proposed debt exclusions for lead pipe removal, Roosevelt Park remediation, an arts center, and an east side fire station were defeated. The Council also confirmed the appointment of Kevin Mollis to the License Board and enrolled amendments to the rental unit inspection and lead pipe ordinances.

I. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance

  • The meeting was called to order by Council President Linehan.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • A moment of silence was observed in honor of veterans, service members, and the recently deceased Billy Satimio of Ward 2.

II. Roll Call

  • Present: Councillor Colón Hayes, Councillor Condon, Councillor Crowe, Councillor McDonald, Councillor O'Malley, Councillor Sica, Councillor Simonelli (remote), Councillor Spadafora (remote), Councillor Taylor, Councillor Winslow, Council President Linehan.
  • Absent: None.

III. Guest Citizens Achievement and Announcements

  • Jo LeBlanc, Founder of Run Club of Malden:
    • Presented the City of Malden with a plaque from the Road Runners Club of America, officially naming Malden an "Official Runner Friendly Community."
    • Highlighted Malden's infrastructure, including the Northern Strand Community Trail, as contributing factors to the designation.
    • Announced the "Wobble Before You Gobble" Thanksgiving-themed 5K race on Sunday, November 24th, at 10 AM, with a free Kids Dash.
    • Stated that beneficiaries of the race are Bread of Life Malden and the Mystic Valley YMCA, having raised over $10,000 in previous years.
    • Councillor Taylor, as the sponsor, presented a citation from the city to Jo LeBlanc for her contributions.
    • Councillor Colón Hayes commended the Run Club for its growth and positive impact on the community.

IV. Public Comment

  • William Spadafora, 37 Prospect Street:

    • Expressed concern about the lack of consideration for Malden residents regarding increased taxes for "wish list" items.
    • Questioned the absence of discussions on budget cuts and cost-saving measures.
    • Cited examples like "REITs on lamp posts" and "mums planted across the city" as unnecessary expenses.
    • Urged the Council to vote down debt exclusions and demonstrate leadership in making difficult financial decisions.
    • Key Quote: "Before you ask us to reach deeper into our pockets, I'd like to know how many meetings have actually been held to review potential budget cuts."
  • Neil Kennan, 11 Spruce Street:

    • Cited the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, stating Malden has a "spending problem, not a revenue problem."
    • Presented data on employee growth: 1,290 in 2015, 1,361 in 2020, and 1,552 in 2024 (262 more employees).
    • Noted a 210-employee increase in schools and a 52-employee increase outside the school department.
    • Highlighted departmental spending increases over five years: City Council (4.8%), Legal Department (18.1%), City Clerk's Office (9.5%), Inspectional Services (13.1%), Police Department (11.4%), Fire Department (5.1%), Education (6.2%).
    • Argued that even with overrides, the structural problem of rising spending, particularly in education, remains unaddressed.
  • Denise Cowey, 81 Newland Street:

    • Opposed the five proposed debt exclusion overrides, totaling an additional $91 million in temporary tax increases.
    • Questioned the affordability for Malden taxpayers given rising costs of living.
    • Specifically mentioned the $36 million override for Northeast Metro Tech, lasting until 2052 (26 years).
    • Called for alternative funding strategies, grants, phased approaches, and prioritization of existing capital funds before resorting to debt exclusions.
    • Accused councillors of waiting until after the election to pursue personal agendas.
    • Key Quote: "A debt exclusion should be a last resort, not the first answer to every capital project the city faces."
  • Maria de Esposito, 81 Floral Ave:

    • Spoke in favor of Jeff Donahue for the Northeast Vocational School Board seat.
    • Cited his background as a former Ward 4 Councillor and lifelong union tradesman as qualifications.
  • Bryn Garrity, 47 Perkins Ave:

    • Opposed Jeff Donahue's appointment, arguing it would add to budgetary issues by securing his pension without winning an election.
    • Stated Donahue lost recent elections and is using "friends on the council" to secure the position.
    • Called the appointment "rushed" and "corrupt behavior" that Malden voters rejected in recent elections.
    • Key Quote: "Jeff Donahue does not deserve to be appointed to the Northeast School Committee. Certainly doesn't deserve to have the next election waived so he can float into retirement on our taxpaying dime."
  • Scott Fitzpatrick, 68 Olivav:

    • Voiced support for Jeff Donahue's appointment to the Northeast Metro Tech seat.
    • Highlighted Donahue's public service, questioning of departmental spending, and leadership in Carpenters Local Union 218.
    • Believed Donahue would be an excellent representative during the transition to the new school facility.
  • Siobhan Callahan, 68 Olive Ave:

    • Expressed support for Jeff Donahue, emphasizing his background and experience in vocational education.
    • Cited his lifelong Malden residency, former Ward 4 City Councillor role, and professional career in the trades as relevant qualifications.
  • Jennifer Spadafora, 37 Prospect Street:

    • Expressed concern about discussing debt exclusions before clarity on Proposition 2 ½.
    • Advocated for decisions that strengthen long-term financial outlook.
    • Urged the Council to "pause, refocus, prioritize one major issue at a time" and push for structural change in Chapter 70 funding.
    • Key Quote: "The energy going into stirring up the community around these debt exclusions could have been far better spent standing with your fellow committee members and council members at the recent Chapter 70 study forums or at the State House pushing for legislature to move quickly and fix the funding issues at the root of this problem."
  • Kimberly Gillette, 7 Tough Street:

    • Expressed interest in applying for the vacant Malden representative position on the Northeast School Committee.
    • Emphasized the importance of transparency and a fair election for the seat.
    • Highlighted her qualifications as a recent Malden School Committee candidate, active participant in public school communities, tradeswoman, and small business owner.
    • Key Quote: "If the mayor missed such an obvious opportunity like me, and asking me to step up for the interim, imagine how many excited and really, really qualified candidates that we're missing out on in a democratic process."
  • Sean Salazar, 59 Bainbridge Street:

    • Expressed support for agenda items earmarking revenue for specific override projects.
    • Opposed the appointment of Jeffrey Donahue (Paper 432-25), citing Mayor Christensen's bypass of community outreach and an open, transparent search.
    • Raised concerns about "political patronage" and the mayor's justification for the nominee.
    • Urged the Council to reject the overreach and initiate an open application process.
    • Key Quote: "This is political favoritism, and it undermines the transparent process our community expects."
  • Email Summaries:

    • Nine emails supported the appointment of Jeff Donahue.
    • Eleven emails opposed the appointment of Jeff Donahue.
    • Two emails opposed the debt exclusion ballot questions.
    • Janice Rice, 103 Henry Street (opposing debt exclusion): Criticized the Mayor's Office, Finance Committee, and Council for not cutting expenses while expecting property owners to bear tax increases. Opposed a special election in February as "irresponsible and reckless."
    • Marlene Galla, 40 Webster Street (opposing debt exclusion): Expressed "override fatigue" and opposed funding a firehouse or arts center at this time. Suggested a hiring freeze and cuts, arguing homeowners would be "screwed" by multiple overrides.

V. Consent Agenda

  • Items: One appointment referred to the Personnel and Appointments Committee, and 23 petitions referred to the License Committee.
  • Motion: Councillor Sica moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Councillor Taylor.
  • Vote:
    • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
    • Councillor Condon: Yes
    • Councillor Crowe: Yes
    • Councillor McDonald: Yes
    • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
    • Councillor Sica: Yes
    • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
    • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
    • Councillor Taylor: Yes
    • Councillor Winslow: Yes
    • Council President Linehan: Yes
  • Outcome: The consent agenda was approved (11-0).

VI. Appointments and Elections

  • Paper 432-25: Joint appointment of Jeffrey Allen Donahue to the Northeast Metro Tech School Committee.
    • Communication from Mayor Gary Christensen: Recommended Jeffrey Donahue, citing his lifelong residency, former Ward 4 City Councillor role, career in trades, and passion for vocational education. Stated that an immediate appointment was preferable due to the temporary nature of the appointment and the importance of Malden's representation.
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor Sica requested Councillor Colón Hayes and Councillor O'Malley recuse themselves due to alleged personal relationships with Mr. Donahue and potential violations of Mass General Law Chapter 268A Section 23B3 and Open Meeting Law (serial deliberation).
      • Councillor O'Malley denied violating Open Meeting Law and emphasized the importance of process.
      • Councillor Colón Hayes stated the City Clerk's recommendation for a public posting and a joint meeting with the School Committee to review candidates. She denied serial deliberation and offered to have the City Solicitor address the matter.
      • Councillor Taylor emphasized the importance of a transparent process and suggested referring the matter to the Personnel Committee.
      • Councillor Simonelli cited historical precedent for mayoral appointments and argued against leaving the seat vacant given Malden's financial contribution to the vocational schools. He supported Donahue's appointment.
      • Councillor Winslow advocated for a transparent process for elected positions and supported referring the matter to the Personnel Committee.
      • Councillor Crowe noted the lack of a clear process for such vacancies and that the Mayor has historically put names forward. She suggested a direct vote on Donahue's appointment.
      • City Solicitor clarified the definition of serial deliberation and the process for addressing Open Meeting Law complaints.
      • Councillor McDonald supported referring the matter to committee to establish a process for considering other candidates.
      • Councillor O'Malley reiterated the need for a fair process and public confidence.
      • Councillor Colón Hayes emphasized the need for a process given the high interest in city positions and the joint responsibility of the Council and School Committee.
    • Motion: Councillor Taylor moved to refer Paper 432-25 to the Personnel and Appointments Committee, seconded by Councillor O'Malley.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: No
      • Councillor Crowe: No
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: No
      • Councillor Simonelli: No
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to refer Paper 432-25 to the Personnel and Appointments Committee carried (6-5).
    • Recess: A five-minute recess was called.

VII. New Business

  • Paper 433-25: Amendment to MCC 9.20.50 (Waste Provisions) regarding trash fees.

    • Sponsor: Councillor Winslow.
    • Summary: Proposed as part of an alternative to the proposed $5.4 million override.
      • Elements:
        1. Modest belt-tightening (approx. 1% reduction in FY27 budget, $1.2 million savings).
        2. Municipal Empowerment Act revenue (potential $660,000/year from meals/hotel tax).
        3. Minor use of reserves (approx. $1 million).
        4. Focus on trash fees:
          • 2026: $50 per unit surcharge for non-owner-occupied residential units (six units or less) to shift burden to absentee landlords.
          • 2027: 50% increase in trash and recycling fees (bags or tags), estimated to generate $400,000 in FY27 and $600,000 in the future.
      • Goal: Reduce the proposed override to $3.4 million and build fiscal stability.
      • Recommendation: Refer to Finance and Rules and Ordinance Committees for analysis.
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor McDonald acknowledged the proposal's alignment with Finance Committee discussions on the trash deficit. Emphasized the need for clear communication to voters regarding override proposals and the importance of dependable revenue for employment commitments.
      • Councillor Condon suggested a hiring freeze and reviewing jobs funded by ARPA money.
    • Motion: Councillor Winslow moved to refer Paper 433-25 to a joint Finance and Rules and Ordinance Committee, seconded by Councillor Condon.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to refer Paper 433-25 to a joint Finance and Rules and Ordinance Committee carried (11-0).
  • Paper 434-25: Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School ($36 million).

    • Proposed Ballot Question: "Shall the city of Malden be allowed to temporarily assess an additional $36 million in real estate and personal property taxes through a debt slash expenditure exclusion for the specific purpose of paying for the construction of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School for which the monies will be used for the fiscal years beginning July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2052."
    • Sponsor: Councillor O'Malley.
    • Summary: This debt exclusion is for a required expenditure that is currently coming out of the operating budget. Councillor O'Malley stated that this is a "no-brainer" as the city is already obligated to pay this amount. He also noted that the city's free cash certification came in at $21.8 million, indicating the city is not in dire financial straits.
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor O'Malley criticized the timing of the special election (February 10, 2026) as "irresponsible and reckless" and designed to suppress turnout. He emphasized that this $36 million is a required expenditure currently impacting the operating budget.
      • Councillor McDonald expressed surprise at the number of override papers, noting only this one addresses an existing budget deficit. She highlighted the $1.4 million impact this debt exclusion would have on the budget if passed.
      • Councillor Colón Hayes stated that the papers were put on the agenda to generate discussion and feedback.
      • Councillor Winslow supported discussing this debt exclusion as it addresses a voter-committed expenditure.
      • Councillor Simonelli supported this specific debt exclusion but opposed others.
    • Motion: Councillor Winslow moved to refer Paper 434-25 to the Finance Committee for further consideration, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to refer Paper 434-25 to the Finance Committee carried (10-1).
  • Paper 435-25: Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for Lead Pipe Removal, Water, Sewer, and Storm Drain System Capital Improvements ($10 million).

    • Proposed Ballot Question: "Shall the city of Malden be allowed to temporarily assess an additional $10 million in real estate and personal property taxes through a debt slash expenditure exclusion for the specific purpose of paying for the construction associated with lead pipe removal, water, sewer, and storm drain system capital improvements for which the monies will be used for the fiscal years beginning July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2037."
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor McDonald clarified that the city already approved a $17.5 million loan from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority for lead pipe replacement, funded by the Water Sewer Enterprise Fund, not the general fund.
      • Councillor Condon opposed, stating the city has an existing program for lead pipe removal.
      • Councillor O'Malley argued that maintaining assets is fiscally responsible and that debt exclusions provide a defined revenue source.
      • Councillor Winslow noted that ARPA funds were used for lead pipe removal and storm drains, addressing many chronic problems.
    • Motion: Councillor O'Malley moved to adopt the order, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: No
      • Councillor Crowe: No
      • Councillor McDonald: No
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: No
      • Councillor Simonelli: No
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: No
      • Councillor Winslow: No
      • Council President Linehan: No
    • Outcome: The motion to adopt Paper 435-25 failed (2-9).
  • Paper 436-25: Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for De-leading Roosevelt Park and Restoration ($10 million).

    • Proposed Ballot Question: "Shall the city of Malden be allowed to temporarily assess an additional $10 million in real estate and personal property taxes through a debt slash expenditure exclusion for the specific purpose of paying for the construction associated with de-letting Roosevelt Park to a full three foot depth and for the restoration of natural grass a natural grass field and drainage system for which the monies will be used for the fiscal years beginning July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2037."
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor McDonald stated that a Section 108 loan from the federal government is already being used for the de-leading process at Roosevelt Park.
      • Councillor Condon opposed, citing past community opposition to projects at Roosevelt Park.
      • Councillor O'Malley supported, emphasizing the importance of a lead-free environment for children.
      • Councillor Winslow noted that the city is working to de-lead the park to come into compliance.
    • Motion: Councillor O'Malley moved to adopt the order, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: No
      • Councillor Condon: No
      • Councillor Crowe: No
      • Councillor McDonald: No
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: No
      • Councillor Simonelli: No
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: No
      • Councillor Winslow: No
      • Council President Linehan: No
    • Outcome: The motion to adopt Paper 436-25 failed (1-10).
  • Paper 437-25: Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for an Art Center at the Old Malden District Courthouse ($10 million).

    • Proposed Ballot Question: "Shall the city of Malden be allowed to temporarily assess an additional $10 million in real estate and personal property taxes through a debt slash expenditure exclusion for the specific purpose of paying for the construction associated with the outfit of an art center at the old Malden District Courthouse on Summer Street for which the monies will be used for the fiscal years beginning July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2037."
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor McDonald stated that there is no specific project attached to this figure and that the original plans for the courthouse are being re-evaluated.
      • Councillor Condon opposed, stating $10 million would not be enough to address the courthouse's condition.
      • Councillor Winslow suggested building community support for the project when funds are not available for construction.
    • Motion: Councillor O'Malley moved to adopt the order, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: No
      • Councillor Condon: No
      • Councillor Crowe: No
      • Councillor McDonald: No
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: No
      • Councillor Simonelli: No
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: No
      • Councillor Winslow: No
      • Council President Linehan: No
    • Outcome: The motion to adopt Paper 437-25 failed (1-10).
  • Paper 438-25: Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for an East Side Fire Station ($25 million).

    • Proposed Ballot Question: "Shall the city of Malden be allowed to temporarily assess an additional $25 million in real estate and personal property taxes through a debt slash expenditure exclusion for the specific purpose of paying for the construction associated with an east side fire station for which the monies will be used for the fiscal years beginning July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2052."
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor McDonald stated that there is only a preliminary estimate and no identified property for a new fire station.
      • Councillor Condon opposed, questioning the need for a new station when existing ones are functioning.
      • Councillor Winslow stated that the priority should be to keep existing fire stations open before building new ones.
    • Motion: Councillor O'Malley moved to adopt the order, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: No
      • Councillor Condon: No
      • Councillor Crowe: No
      • Councillor McDonald: No
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: No
      • Councillor Simonelli: No
      • Councillor Spadafora: No
      • Councillor Taylor: No
      • Councillor Winslow: No
      • Council President Linehan: No
    • Outcome: The motion to adopt Paper 438-25 failed (1-10).
  • Paper 439-25: Communication from the Climate Action and Sustainability Commission (CASC) on FY26 Strategic Priorities.

    • Motion: Councillor McDonald moved to receive the communication, seconded by Councillor Winslow.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to receive the communication carried (11-0).
    • Summary of Communication:
      • CASC's FY26 priorities: renewable energy, community engagement, flood mitigation, and data reporting.
      • Renewable Energy: Achieve SolSmart Silver or better designation to streamline solar panel installations.
      • Community Engagement: Establish a Clean Energy Coaches program to provide free peer-to-peer guidance on clean energy transition.
      • Flood Mitigation: Identify solutions in high-risk areas, particularly the eastern parts of the city.
      • Data Reporting and Strategy: Update the city's greenhouse gas emissions inventory to monitor progress and inform strategic planning.
      • Key Collaborations: Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), Malden Inspectional Services Department, Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSBCD), local community partners, SolSmart, MassSave, MassCEC.
    • Discussion:
      • Councillor O'Malley congratulated CASC and Councillor McDonald for their work.
      • Councillor Winslow expressed pleasure at the focus on flooding and storm drainage, offering to share information on regional efforts.
      • Councillor McDonald highlighted the focus on grants, technical assistance from MAPC, and the Clean Energy Coaches program's goal of equitable access to clean energy for renters and non-English speakers.
  • Paper 440-25: Committee Report from the Standing Committee on Personnel and Appointments.

    • Motion: Councillor Crowe moved to accept the committee report, seconded by Councillor Taylor.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to accept the committee report carried (11-0).
    • Paper 383-25: Mayoral Appointment of Kevin Mullis to the License Board.
      • Summary: Former Police Chief Kevin Mollis was recommended to fulfill the unexpired term of Paul Lee. Mollis has 42 years of service to the Malden Police Department and served as liaison to the Liquor Board.
      • Discussion:
        • Councillor O'Malley supported the appointment but questioned if the position was publicly posted, referencing Councillor Spadafora's ordinance.
        • Councillor Crowe clarified that Councillor Spadafora's ordinance applies to jobs, not boards and commissions, and that License Board positions are partisan by statute.
        • Councillor Colón Hayes inquired if the position was paid and if it made the appointee a city employee.
        • Council President Linehan confirmed that stipended boards are typically statutory and that most boards and commissions are posted.
      • Motion: Councillor Crowe moved to confirm the appointment, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
      • Vote:
        • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
        • Councillor Condon: Yes
        • Councillor Crowe: Yes
        • Councillor McDonald: Yes
        • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
        • Councillor Sica: Yes
        • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
        • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
        • Councillor Taylor: Yes
        • Councillor Winslow: Yes
        • Council President Linehan: Yes
      • Outcome: The appointment of Kevin Mollis to the License Board was confirmed (11-0).
  • Paper 441-25: Committee Report from the Standing Committee on Rules and Ordinance.

    • Motion: Councillor McDonald moved to accept the committee report, seconded by Councillor Winslow.

    • Vote:

      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to accept the committee report carried (11-0).

    • Paper 276-25: Amendment to MCC 9.16 (Rental Units Inspection Required).

      • Summary: This ordinance creates an annual registry of landlords and units, requiring inspections when tenancy turns over. It shifts from a per-inspection fee to a lower annual per-unit fee. It also requires a resident agent within 25 miles for absentee landlords. Malden Housing Authority units are exempt.
      • Amendments: Typographical clarifications from legal counsel regarding "owners and agents" and the applicability to non-owner-occupied units within a building.
      • Motion: Councillor Crowe moved to amend, seconded by Councillor Taylor.
      • Vote:
        • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
        • Councillor Condon: Yes
        • Councillor Crowe: Yes
        • Councillor McDonald: Yes
        • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
        • Councillor Sica: Yes
        • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
        • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
        • Councillor Taylor: Yes
        • Councillor Winslow: Yes
        • Council President Linehan: Yes
      • Outcome: The motion to amend carried (11-0).
      • Motion: Councillor McDonald moved to enroll, seconded by Councillor Taylor.
      • Vote:
        • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
        • Councillor Condon: Yes
        • Councillor Crowe: Yes
        • Councillor McDonald: Yes
        • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
        • Councillor Sica: Yes
        • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
        • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
        • Councillor Taylor: Yes
        • Councillor Winslow: Yes
        • Council President Linehan: Yes
      • Outcome: Paper 276-25, as amended, was enrolled (11-0).
    • Paper 277-25: Amendment to MCC 9.24.10 (Regulation of Lead Pipes in Residential Housing).

      • Summary: Requires property owners to obtain a one-time certificate from engineering confirming no lead service lines. Allows for approval of rental unit permits if a plan to replace lead lines within a year is in place.
      • Motion: Councillor McDonald moved to enroll, seconded by Councillor Winslow.
      • Vote:
        • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
        • Councillor Condon: Yes
        • Councillor Crowe: Yes
        • Councillor McDonald: Yes
        • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
        • Councillor Sica: Yes
        • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
        • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
        • Councillor Taylor: Yes
        • Councillor Winslow: Yes
        • Council President Linehan: Yes
      • Outcome: Paper 277-25 was enrolled (11-0).
  • Paper 442-25: Committee Report from the Standing Committee on License.

    • Motion: Councillor Sica moved to accept the committee report, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: The motion to accept the committee report carried (11-0).
    • Petitions (387-25 through 397-25):
      • 387-25: Amusement Machines, GLS Associates, Inc., 50 Holden Street, Malden (5 Machines, Renewal).
      • 388-25: Class 2, Joe Ciampa Auto Body Inc., 322 Eastern Avenue, Malden (4 Vehicles, Renewal).
      • 389-25: Class 2, Jordan Motors, Inc., DBA, Malden Auto Sales, 147 Ferry Street, Malden (24 Vehicles, Renewal).
      • 390-25: Extended Hours, Votaborg, Boston, LLC, 90 Pleasant Street, Malden (Occasional Saturday and Sunday Events 12 a.m. to 9 a.m., Renewal).
      • 391-25: Extended Hours, Ellen K. Billiards, Inc., 77 Exchange Street, Malden (7 Days, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Renewal).
      • 392-25: Extended Hours, MRM, Donuts Corp, DBA, Dunkin' Donuts, 617 Broadway, Malden (7 days, 4 a.m. to 9 p.m., Renewal).
      • 393-25: Extended Hours, Walgreens Store Number 03130, 185 Center Street, Malden (7 Days, 24 Hours, Renewal).
      • 394-25: Livery Company, HPL Group, LLC, 500 Broadway, Apartment 4139, Malden (One Vehicle, New).
      • 395-25: Livery Driver, Homme Pierre Louis, 500 Broadway, Apartment 4139, Malden (New).
      • 396-25: Livery Company, YHS Transportation, LLC, 137 Highland Avenue, Malden (one vehicle, new).
      • 397-25: Livery Driver, Yves Henry Said, 137 Highland Avenue, Malden (New).
    • Motion: Councillor Sica moved to grant all petitions, seconded by Councillor Crowe.
    • Vote:
      • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
      • Councillor Condon: Yes
      • Councillor Crowe: Yes
      • Councillor McDonald: Yes
      • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
      • Councillor Sica: Yes
      • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
      • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
      • Councillor Taylor: Yes
      • Councillor Winslow: Yes
      • Council President Linehan: Yes
    • Outcome: All petitions were granted (11-0).

VIII. Personal Privilege

  • Councillor O'Malley: Announced a Malden Arts "Public Art of Malden Trolley Tour" on Sunday, November 23rd, at 1 PM, departing from 158 Canal Street. Tickets available at givebutter.com/trolleytour.
  • Councillor Winslow: Announced upcoming events at the Malden Public Library:
    • Winter Holiday Concert: December 7th, 2-4 PM, in the historic Converse Art Gallery.
    • Holiday Book Sale: December 13th, 10 AM - 2 PM (hardcovers $2, softcovers $1, children's books 3 for $1).
  • Councillor McDonald: Reminded the community about the public forum on the proposed override paper tomorrow, November 19th, at 6 PM, live-streamed via UMA and in-person at the Senior Center. Explained the format for questions and encouraged participation.

IX. Adjournment

  • Motion: Councillor O'Malley moved to adjourn, seconded by Councillor Colón Hayes.
  • Vote:
    • Councillor Colón Hayes: Yes
    • Councillor Condon: Yes
    • Councillor Crowe: Yes
    • Councillor McDonald: Yes
    • Councillor O'Malley: Yes
    • Councillor Sica: Yes
    • Councillor Simonelli: Yes
    • Councillor Spadafora: Yes
    • Councillor Taylor: Yes
    • Councillor Winslow: Yes
    • Council President Linehan: Yes
  • Outcome: The meeting was adjourned (11-0).

Last updated: Nov 25, 2025