The meeting opened with a presentation from the director of parking control, who detailed the department’s integration with the crossing guard program and the addition of 37 crossing guards and two supervisors, resulting in a notable salary increase. Emphasis was placed on the transition to digital parking permits, expected to slash the cost of the program by two-thirds, and the inclusion of license plate readers to streamline enforcement.

The fire department’s chief reported on the department’s advancements, including the hiring of a civilian apparatus mechanic, securing a grant for a backup generator, and ordering new engines and a ladder truck. The fiscal year’s achievements also encompassed purchasing new firefighting apparatus, installing HVAC systems at a fire station, and obtaining ballistic gear for active shooter scenarios.

The Regional Emergency Communication Center, shared between the town of Winthrop and the City of Revere, was discussed, with a focus on the benefits of relocating to the McKinley School. The assessment for the center’s operations was based on population and call volume from both communities.

The Building Commissioner reported an increase in permit applications and construction costs, emphasizing the importance of responding to 311 complaints and the effective work of the safe housing task force. The necessity of better communication about building codes and the legalization of existing illegal apartments was highlighted.

Discussions ensued with the Inspectional Services Department and the Public Works Administration, where the Inspectional Services Department’s enforcement of regulations and the adoption of an on-call system for inspectors were commended. The Public Works Administration’s achievements, including a new facility and a new timekeeping system, were recognized. Additionally, the Public Works Highway Division’s street maintenance and staff training were noted, with concerns raised about signage, missing veteran signs, and noise ordinances.

The meeting also addressed concerns about stagnant overtime figures in various departments, with a particular focus on the water enterprise’s overtime account. A city official explained the necessity of balancing fixed operation costs with vacancies and turnover, and plans for a Saturday shift to mitigate overtime expenses were discussed. The Parks and Open Space Department’s accomplishments, such as park improvements and mulching, were acknowledged, as were the drainage issues at McMackin Field and efforts to address them, including mosquito control.

The Facilities Department’s office renovations and support for the veteran food pantry were recognized. Furthermore, the street lighting audit conducted to ensure accuracy in National Grid’s LED lighting charges was discussed, as were the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund’s efforts in replacing water mains and upgrading sewer systems.

The Municipal Inspections Department provided updates on the rat control program and the challenges of regulating short-term rentals. A debate ensued regarding the rise in short-term rentals and the need for more resources to enforce regulations. The possibility of prohibiting single-family homes from being used as short-term rentals was also explored.

The meeting concluded with the police department’s budget presentation, where the chief discussed the department’s mission, achievements, and initiatives, including officer recruitment and training, and addressing mental health and substance abuse issues. Questions about funding for the clerk to the traffic commission and the Police Activities League were raised, leading to a motion to refer the remainder of the budget to a committee of the whole.