In a move towards operational efficiency, the council approved a transition from physical parking stickers to a digital system for residential parking permits. The new system aims to streamline the process, allowing residents to apply online and receive confirmations via email. This change is expected to eliminate the issues of lost or damaged stickers and reduce the need for residents to visit City Hall for renewals. The council expressed optimism about the potential for improved customer service and operational efficiency, though they noted the importance of effectively communicating the new system to residents to avoid confusion. A council member remarked on the personal relief of not having to deal with the cumbersome removal of old stickers from vehicles. Another member pointed out the benefit of avoiding tickets for not displaying stickers promptly, emphasizing the convenience the new system would offer.

The council also confirmed critical appointments to the Historical Commission and the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, with unanimous support. Mr. Cameron Kirkpatrick and Ms. Nia D. Young were appointed to the Historical Commission, while Mr. Raymond Morales was appointed to the Housing Authority. The city manager highlighted the qualifications of the appointees and their potential contributions to their respective boards.

Further, the meeting included the approval of a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 25 for Department of Public Works employees. Covering the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, the agreement includes annual raises and a one-time base wage increase. The total cost of the contract is estimated at $240,000 over three years. The council discussed whether this should be reviewed further by the Ways and Means Committee. Still, the city manager clarified that the union had already ratified the contract, and council approval would finalize all outstanding labor agreements.

The council also received updates on ongoing community development initiatives. A significant highlight was the $150,000 Mass Development grant secured for a project on Fork Street. This funding will support due diligence work, including surveys and environmental assessments, crucial for a resilient redevelopment strategy. The city manager underscored the importance of these efforts in advancing the city’s infrastructure and community development goals.

Additionally, the city manager provided an update on the comprehensive master plan, which prioritizes diversity, affordable housing, and recreational spaces. The city has engaged with the community, collecting over 150 comment cards and conducting numerous resident conversations. The next phase of this plan will involve visioning workshops and further surveys, planned for the summer and fall.

The council also addressed the need for increased enforcement of overnight residential parking permits. Concerns were raised about unauthorized vehicles occupying residential spaces, with council members emphasizing the importance of alleviating parking issues. The city manager outlined the current enforcement strategy, which involves a contractor and police officer, though council members expressed a desire for more robust enforcement measures.

In other matters, the council discussed a Mass General Law procedure for addressing unpaid vendor balances and an order to remind private trash haulers not to operate before 7 a.m. due to resident complaints about early morning disturbances. Public announcements included gratitude for a recent youth festival and reminders about upcoming budget hearings and community events.