The meeting began with a moment of silence to honor retired Chief Fire Inspector Danny Manfredi, former election department employee Mary Oliv, and longtime Conservation Commission member Toby Cassidy. The council then moved to public hearings, focusing primarily on an ordinance regarding the display of flags and the use of City Hall. The City Solicitor’s office presented the ordinance, aimed at establishing rules to celebrate the city’s diverse cultural heritage while ensuring legal compliance.

Several proponents and opponents voiced their perspectives on the flag ordinance. Wayne Rose argued against flying any flags other than military and American flags, stating, “if we can’t hang all the flags besides the military and the American flag, we shouldn’t hang any flags.” Stephanie Desisto emphasized “institutional neutrality,” suggesting that the city should avoid determining which flags are acceptable to prevent “viewpoint discrimination” and potential legal challenges.

In opposition to the ordinance, Steve Morbido, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the city, claimed it diminished the city’s diversity. He argued that the original ordinance allowed for the celebration of the community’s diverse backgrounds by permitting various flags. “We are a city made up of many stories, many faces, and many flags,” he insisted, urging the council to retain the original proposal. Other opponents, such as Brian Gau and Aaron Heninger, echoed Morbido’s sentiments, advocating for the display of all flags to represent the community’s identity fully.

Council discussions revealed a lack of support for the restrictive approach. Councilor Marc Silvestri clarified that the council did not propose the ordinance but was responding to a motion from the city’s DEI office. He expressed agreement with the public speakers. Councilor Michelle Kelley highlighted the legal complications surrounding the issue, referencing a case in Boston that influenced the proposal to limit municipal flag pole use for public expression. The council decided to refer the ordinance for further deliberation.

The council also debated an ordinance governing Veterans Memorial polls, proposing an amendment to include eligibility for individuals with 20 years of active duty service. Julia Cantes, the Veteran Service Officer, supported the ordinance and encouraged thoughtful consideration of the proposed changes. The matter was referred to the legislative affairs subcommittee for further discussion.

In another significant segment, the council discussed a proposed ordinance amending veterans’ services, which included provisions for combat veterans. Council members expressed gratitude to the Veterans Office for streamlining the process and expressed support for the overdue ordinance.

The council swiftly referred a public hearing on an ordinance amending the city’s zoning ordinances by repealing the definition and use of mechanical parking systems to the zoning subcommittee, as no proponents or opponents came forward.

The focus then shifted to a public hearing on an ordinance related to marijuana establishments. Various proponents, including a representative from the solicitor’s office and a member of the local Chamber of Commerce, advocated for the inclusion of marijuana businesses, citing economic diversification and tax revenue generation. A city CFO supported the ordinance, arguing that new recurring revenue could benefit projects like a new high school.

Opponents raised health concerns about introducing marijuana products while the city was working to eliminate tobacco products. They also referenced a previous motion from 2017 that sought to ban marijuana establishments. Councilors debated the merits of the ordinance, emphasizing the need for revenue to support city projects while considering community health and historical context. Potential amendments, including provisions for community impact fees and increased buffer zones for dispensaries, were discussed.

The meeting also addressed a public hearing for a special permit application for a health club on Broadway. Proponents described the project as a “gym Boutique” offering group classes and diverse workout options. Councilor Paul Argenzio supported the health club, highlighting its potential to fill a long-vacant space and cater to a small number of participants without overwhelming the area with traffic. The project was referred to the zoning subcommittee for further consideration.

A petition from National Grid for the installation of underground conduits for new electrical service on Beach Street was discussed, with councilors raising concerns about the planning process and community awareness. Improved communication from National Grid to the neighborhood was called for, along with attention to a leaning utility pole on Malden Street.

The council also considered a motion concerning a flagpole donation from the owners of Murray’s Tavern, proposed for placement at the corner of Page Street and Broadway. Councilors expressed enthusiasm for the proposal, emphasizing the pride it would bring to the city and the positive contributions of the tavern’s owners.

Finally, the meeting addressed a motion calling for the owner of a hotel under construction on Square Road to provide a construction update, as concerns had arisen regarding the apparent lack of progress. Councilors highlighted community worries about potential blighted properties and sought clarity on the construction schedule.