The meeting began with a focus on the proposed affordable housing overlay districts. A first reading of an ordinance amendment to Chapter 131, which includes these districts on Park Avenue and Orient Way, received unanimous approval. The council also considered an amendment to Chapter 51 to ensure compliance with the Fair Housing Act, which passed without opposition. During public comments, Mr. Viviano, an attorney with offices on Orient Way, questioned the potential impact of these overlay districts on local property owners, citing concerns about construction timelines and water management. He urged the council to consider the views of property owners carefully. Another resident, Mr. Laberno, expressed skepticism about the timing and rationale behind the new zoning changes, tying them to previous proposals for a property on Orient Way and requesting more transparency.

Snow removal was another pressing topic, following a snowstorm that left approximately 30 inches of snow in the area. The council praised the Department of Public Works (DPW) for their efforts in managing the snow removal despite limited resources. The council president commended the DPW, police, fire department, and Office of Emergency Management for their coordinated response. A council member encouraged residents to clear snow from fire hydrants, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation during severe weather. The mayor noted the snowstorm’s unprecedented nature, recalling similar events from the past and requesting patience from residents as DPW staff worked under challenging conditions.

Parking regulations during snow events were also discussed extensively. Resident M. Wilson highlighted issues with one-way streets and bus traffic. He urged the council to avoid granting Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements for new developments, particularly those with low-impact housing, due to concerns about funding for the local school system.

The council also addressed procedural matters, moving to reschedule the March 9 meeting to March 11 to accommodate notice requirements and ensure proper advertising of introduced ordinances. This change was unanimously approved, along with a proposal to start the April 13 meeting an hour earlier for a closed session. These adjustments were made to improve transparency and facilitate better communication with the public.

Community support and engagement were recurring themes throughout the meeting. A council member shared a personal account of facing a significant flood, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and urging residents to offer grace and support to one another during difficult times. This sentiment was echoed by other council members, who noted how tempers can flare over issues like snow removal and encouraged constructive dialogue.

Towards the end of the meeting, a council member announced their decision not to seek reelection due to new professional commitments, expressing gratitude for the support received during their tenure. They encouraged community involvement, noting the rewarding nature of public service and providing details about the upcoming nomination process in a newsletter.

In response to concerns about the timing of closed sessions, a council member explained they were strategically scheduled to gather information before addressing public concerns on immigration and law enforcement. The Civil Rights Commission plans to host a “know your rights” session, with the police chief in attendance to answer questions.