City Council 06/23/2026

• Date: June 23, 2026
• Governing Body: Worcester City Council
• Meeting Type: Regular Meeting
• Attendees:
  • Mayor Joseph M. Petty
  • Councilor Morris Bergman
  • Councilor Robert Bilotta
  • Councilor Tony Economou
  • Councilor John Fresolo
  • Councilor Khrystian King
  • Councilor Satya Mitra
  • Councilor Luis Ojeda
  • Councilor Jose Rivera
  • Councilor Gary Rosen
  • Councilor Kathleen Toomey

WAVES New Age Creative Lab, Inc.

Mayor Joseph M. Petty issued a proclamation recognizing the contributions of WAVES New Age Creative Lab, Inc., founded by Jerabelle and Emmanuel Karbu, for their work in creative arts and youth empowerment.

• Official Action: Resolved that June 27th be recognized as 'WAVES New Age Creative Arts and Fashion Education Day' in the City of Worcester.
• Key Quote: Jerabelle Karbu stated, "Sewing is more than just making clothes. Sewing is a life skill. It teaches patience, confidence, problem solving, and creativity."

The following residents provided testimony on agenda items:

• Gary (District 5): Expressed frustration regarding the delay in the Charter Review (Item 17G), noting it has been two years since the initial motion. He also commented on bike paths (Item 17D) and supported the investigation into systemic racism in public safety (Item 16D).
• Idella (City of Worcester): Spoke on Item 16D, acknowledging systemic racism, and Item 17B, arguing that discontinuous bicycle paths are dangerous for both cyclists and motorists.
• Nelly Medina (District 5): Supported Item 16D and requested immediate repainting of crosswalks at Lakeside and Lovell Street for student safety. She criticized the Council for delays in implementing safety measures at Goddard Science and Technology School, stating, "Their safety and advocacy have been ignored and this committee's disregard has been noted."

National Grid Location

• Subject: National Grid condo location on Russell Street.
• Action: Hearing opened and the order was adopted without opposition.

• Item 8A: Petition for sidewalk resurfacing on Lovell Street; referred to the Public Works Committee.
• Items 8B through 8I: Referred to the Traffic and Parking Committee.
• Item 8F: Councilor Rosen requested the installation of two duck crossing signs at the entrances of the Shaw's parking lot at 68 Stafford Street. Rosen noted, "I think it does alert people to the fact that you know be careful ducks might be crossing."

Infrastructure and Public Safety

• Item 10A: Request for the Commissioner of Public Works to complete immediate emergency repairs to the sidewalk on the odd side of Lovell Street in front of Columbus Park Preparatory Elementary School. Outcome: Adopted.
• Item 10B: Request for the Police Chief to provide increased enforcement of double parking violations on Boylston Street near Chino Ave. Councilor Economou noted the area is dangerous as it forces traffic over the double yellow line. Outcome: Adopted.
• Item 10C: Request for the Police Chief to provide increased enforcement related to the public consumption of alcohol in the vicinity of 8 Boylston Street.
  • Discussion: Councilor Toomey proposed an amendment to involve the courts and diversion programs. Councilor King expressed concerns regarding the lack of clarity in the amendment's wording.
  • Vote on Amendment: Initially passed, but Councilors King, Rivera, and Ojeda requested to be recorded as "No" due to lack of clarity. Outcome: Main order adopted; amendment status disputed.

• Items 11A, 11B, and 11C: Held under privilege by Councilor King.
• Item 15A: Request for a report detailing a full financial audit and accounting of work at Beaverbrook Dog Park. Councilor Rivera moved to hold the item under privilege to allow for further progress with local residents. Outcome: Held under privilege (Roll Call: 11-0).

The Council recognized this as the final meeting for staff member Afton, thanking her for her service to the City of Worcester. The meeting was adjourned.