Central to the meeting was the approval of an appropriation necessary to fund a contract with the Revere Public Works Department, represented by AFSCME Council 98 Local 880, for the period from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr. presented the contract, highlighting the successful negotiations conducted entirely in-house. He emphasized the importance of representing both the city’s interests and those of its employees in reaching a satisfactory agreement. The union president for the Department of Public Works, Steve Penta, expressed gratitude for the fair negotiations and noted that the contract was well-received by union members. Councilor Paul Argenzio praised the contract as “excellent” and thanked the mayor for considering the needs of the DPW employees. The council unanimously approved the appropriation, reflecting broad support for the contract.

Another discussion focused on a motion introduced by Councilors Joanne McKenna and Anthony Cogliandro. The motion requested that the mayor ask the state delegation to file legislation to implement discounted toll rates for private passenger vehicles registered in Revere when using the Sumner Tunnel, Ted Williams Tunnel, and Tobin Memorial Bridge. Councilor McKenna recalled a previous attempt in 2016 to reduce tolls, which was unsuccessful, and emphasized the severe traffic congestion faced by Revere residents. He argued that, similar to other cities with toll discounts, Revere residents deserve consideration for reduced toll rates, given the influx of vehicles from other areas that contribute to pollution and accidents. The motion received strong support from the council, with several members echoing the sentiment that Revere residents should not be treated unfairly compared to those in surrounding communities.

Public safety was another area of focus, with a motion introduced by Councilors Marc Silvestri and Joanne McKenna to install proper lighting or police detail on Bennington Street, where the road has been reduced to one lane. Councilor Silvestri underscored the urgency of the motion, stating that the current configuration poses a dangerous risk to vehicles traveling in the area. The motion received unanimous support from the council, highlighting the priority placed on ensuring the safety of Revere’s residents.

The meeting also included discussions on various other topics, such as the awarding of certificates of appreciation to individuals involved with the Revere boxing program, which has made a positive impact on the community through its volunteer coaching efforts. The council voted unanimously in favor of this motion, recognizing the dedication and contributions of the program’s coaches.

In addition, the council addressed amendments to the City Council Rules of Order, aimed at enhancing meeting efficiency by allowing a public comment section at the beginning of meetings. This change would enable residents to voice their thoughts on agenda items without interruption. The council moved to suspend existing rules to expedite the approval of these proposed changes.

Lastly, the council received a communication from the board of assessors requesting a public hearing on November 25 to establish the minimum residential factor and set the tax rate for fiscal year 2024. This was ordered for a public hearing.