The most pressing topic was the council’s consideration of a proposal to adjust the salary cap for the Veterans Service Officer (VSO) position. Originally set at $72,236.54, the council debated transitioning this position from a contract role to one governed by ordinance with a “not to exceed” salary limit. The discussion was rooted in past concerns about contract positions, particularly regarding unadjustable significant raises. There was a consensus on the need to carefully navigate the city’s budget and compensation structures to ensure fair and competitive pay for the VSO role.

A council member highlighted the importance of the VSO position in assisting veterans with claims locally, emphasizing the candidate’s recent certification and potential value to the city. However, some concerns were raised about the certification process and whether it adequately equipped the VSO to handle claims effectively. The conversation also touched on the competitive compensation for the position, with comparisons drawn to similar roles in nearby communities like New Bedford, Worcester, and Brockton, where salaries reportedly exceeded those offered in Fall River.

The council proposed an amendment to establish a “not to exceed” salary of $95,000 for the VSO position. This amendment was seconded, and there was a motion for procedural clarification regarding the changes to be reflected in the ordinance. The vote in favor of this salary cap adjustment for the VSO position was unanimous.

In addition to the VSO discussion, the council also addressed various traffic and parking regulations. A proposed ordinance aimed at traffic and handicap parking regulations on streets including Healey, Kellogg, and Pox received unanimous approval with an emergency preamble. Another ordinance discussed involved reverting Naraganset Street to a two-way street based on resident complaints. The proposal included three-hour parking regulations to accommodate local business needs, such as those of a nearby tattoo parlor.

The council further deliberated on the creation of a new position for a supervisor of crossing guards, proposing an increase in pay to $20 per hour to improve retention. The role, intended to provide additional administrative support, was deemed necessary due to staffing challenges and the burdensome oversight previously managed by the police department. Concerns were raised about the budget implications of the salary increases and the new position, estimating a cost of approximately $48,240, which would require additional appropriations.

Finally, the council discussed the establishment of a library program revolving fund. The library director explained the rationale for this fund, noting inefficiencies in the current practice of funneling passport fees through a friends organization. The proposed fund aims to support programming directly, allowing for better planning and streamlined operations. The anticipated revenue of approximately $12,000 from passport applications would support the fund, with stipulations for council approval required for any increase. After some debate, the council agreed to amend the proposal to include both “library resources” and programming.