The most debate of the night revolved around the proposal for a 24/7 Emergency Response Ambulance service. Initially intended to be under the police department but later clarified to be housed under the fire department, the motion sparked notable discussions among council members and a representative from the local firefighters’ union. A councilor emphasized the growing demand from residents for better emergency services.

Captain Kevin O’Hara from the Revere Fire Fighters Local 926 voiced strong opposition. He argued that the current fire department already provides comprehensive emergency services and can respond to calls within 48 minutes. O’Hara referenced broader national issues. He urged the council to vote against the motion, arguing that adding an ambulance would not necessarily guarantee faster service due to potential delays from patient transport times.

Following a detailed exchange, the councilor moved to withdraw the motion, suggesting it be placed on file, which Captain O’Hara supported.

In another significant agenda item, the council addressed the issue of school safety, prompted by community concerns. Council President Anthony Cogliandro presented a motion calling for the mayor, chief of police, and superintendent of schools to explore hiring a security company or adding more student resource officers at Revere High School. Multiple councilors cited increased anxiety among residents, particularly seniors, regarding mail safety and general public safety.

Councilors discussed the challenges of employing private security versus using union police officers, expressing concerns about outsourcing jobs and emphasizing the importance of community ties. Vice Chair Monteroso of the school committee advocated for alternative measures to improve school safety, such as increasing community engagement and support systems rather than resorting to private security or metal detectors. Councilors also highlighted the need for more comprehensive mental health resources and support systems to address underlying issues, especially in a post-COVID environment.

Public comments were particularly notable, with educators expressing concerns about safety and resource allocation. Chris Kingston, an educator with nearly 28 years of experience, emphasized the necessity for metal detectors in schools and the importance of establishing positive relationships between School Resource Officers (SROs) and students. Siobhan Kepin, an elementary school teacher, shared her distressing experience during a lockdown drill, highlighting the emotional toll on students. Jane Shapen, co-president of the Rivera Teachers Association, called for proactive solutions and additional social workers to address mental health needs.

The council also discussed a motion by Councilor McKenna regarding the enforcement of a previously passed ordinance banning polystyrene foodware and packaging, proposing a deadline of July 1, 2025, for compliance. McKenna highlighted the environmental and health impacts of polystyrene, and the director of Municipal Inspections, Michael Wells, assured that businesses would be informed well in advance of the enforcement date.

Another notable topic was the municipal aggregation plan for Revere, aimed at providing residents with alternative electricity supply options. Branded as “Revere Power Choice,” the plan would allow residents to switch their electricity supplier while retaining National Grid for utility services. The chief of planning and community development outlined the regulatory steps taken and introduced consultants from the Massachusetts Power Group to explain the plan further. The plan includes automatic enrollment for residents with National Grid’s basic service unless they opt-out, with options for renewable energy sources also available. Concerns were raised about outreach plans for vulnerable populations, particularly elderly residents, with assurances given that outreach would include senior centers and hard copies of materials.

Council members expressed concerns about public access to subcommittee meetings, with discussions about amending the ordinance to allow subcommittees to meet earlier than the currently mandated 5:00 PM, although the proposed amendment failed.

Public health communications were also addressed, with a motion requesting the mayor to utilize the emergency alert system to notify residents about West Nile Virus cases in Revere. The importance of providing this information in multiple languages was emphasized to ensure accessibility for all residents.