A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing and amending Paper 377-25 and Paper 407-25, both of which pertain to the licensing process. Paper 377-25 involved changes to the off-site parking fee structure, increasing the base fee from $100 to $200 for the first nine parking spaces, with an additional $20 for each subsequent space. This amendment was necessitated by a court ruling that found previous fees excessive. The council’s discussions around these amendments highlighted a broader review of the licensing process, aimed at addressing legal recommendations and ensuring fair evaluations of applicants.

Council members debated the criteria for disqualifying applicants based on criminal offenses. The ordinance outlines that applicants with pending criminal proceedings or recent convictions for nonviolent felonies, violent felonies, or alcohol and drug-related misdemeanors could be denied licenses. Additionally, applicants with multiple drug or alcohol-related offenses within a decade, or those recently released from incarceration, face disqualification. The council discussed the impact of these criteria on rehabilitation efforts and the fairness of the licensing process, particularly in light of the “ban the box” campaign, which advocates against automatic disqualification based on past criminal records.

A council member expressed concerns about the ordinance’s language, which mandates the city council to deny licenses under certain conditions. They questioned whether exceptions could be made. Another council member highlighted the importance of applicants’ ability to dispute inaccuracies in their Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) reports, advocating for a policy that allows individuals to clarify their records before being denied a license.

The council also addressed procedural changes to the CORI check process. Previously, applicants were required to submit their own checks, but the proposed amendment would allow city personnel to obtain these records directly with the applicant’s authorization. This change aims to improve confidentiality and align with legal recommendations.

In addition to licensing discussions, council members shared community updates and upcoming events. They congratulated the Malden Police Department for their swift response to recent car break-ins. Council members also announced a holiday party for seniors on December 19th, featuring food, drinks, and entertainment, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the senior community.

The council discussed the annual public safety toy drive, emphasizing its collaborative nature with the police and fire departments. Detective Renee Kelly was recognized for managing the program, which aims to provide gifts to families in need while maintaining confidentiality. Members encouraged anyone in need to reach out to Detective Kelly and expressed thanks to local organizations involved in charitable activities.

Additionally, council members acknowledged the Friends of the Malden Public Library and the Malden Historical Society for hosting a winter concert. They praised the event’s attendance and the quality of the performance, noting the significance of utilizing the historic wing of the library for community gatherings.

Further announcements included a silent witness event focused on domestic violence awareness and an upcoming appearance by Santa Claus at Pine Banks. The council also discussed the finance committee’s recent activities, particularly a recommendation regarding a Proposition 2½ tax override expected to be presented at the next council meeting. They urged the public to participate by providing comments and feedback, emphasizing the importance of transparency in decision-making.