Agenda
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MEETING AGENDA MAY 5, 2026 6:30 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HARVEY HEARING ROOM WINTHROP TOWN COUNCIL Town Council Members Town Council President James Letterie Precinct 1 Councilor Costigan Precinct 2 Councilor Dimes Precinct 3 Councilor Romano Precinct 4 Councilor Swope Precinct 5 Councilor Reardon Precinct 6 Councilor Finn Councilor at Large Millar Councilor at Large Tassinari CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 1. MINUTES Approval of Minutes April 21, 2026 as circulated 2. GENERAL INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARING(S) Town Council Appropriate and Transfer $85,617.41/ Fund 527 Health Cycle Program to the Tipping Fees-Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Town Council Appropriate $30,000 from the Handicap Parking Fines Account /Expenses Benefit Persons with Disabilities Town Council Review Ordinance Committee Recommendations on Town Ordinances Town Council Review Ordinance Recommendation from the Tree Committee 4. PUBLIC COMMENT 5. CORRESPONDENCE 6. COMMITTEE REPORTS Finance Committee Rules & Ordinance FHBC 7. SCHOOL DEPARTMENT REPORT 8. UPDATE- POLICY MAKING COMMITTEES 9. TOWN MANAGER REPORT 10. OLD BUSINESS Town Council vote to Approve Video Recordings of Committee Meetings to be Posted Motion to Amend Town Council Rules & Procedures Rule 2 (b) (c) Town Council Appropriate and Transfer $85,617.41/ Fund 527 Health Cycle Program to the Tipping Fees-Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Town Council Appropriate $30,000 from the Handicap Parking Fines Account /Expenses Benefit Persons with Disabilities Town Council Review Ordinance Committee Recommendations on Town Ordinances Town Council Review Ordinance Recommendation from the Tree Committee 11. NEW BUSINESS Pride Month Proclamation-Councilor Dimes Update on Houseboat Ordinance Appointment Discussion -Town Council June Meeting Dates in relation to the FY27 Budget 12. PUBLIC COMMENT 13. PUBLIC RELATIONS / UPCOMING EVENTS 14. ADJOURNMENT ZOOM AVAILABLE Meeting ID: 82066827964# Passcode: 509355 Phone: 1-309-205-3325 TOWN OF WINTHROP OFFICE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL Town Hall. 1 Metcalf Square. Winthron. MA 07157 Telenhone: 617-846-174? MOTION Submitted By: Councilor Romano Date: March 19,2026 MOTION Motion: I move that the Town Council vote to approve that all multiple member body meetings that have Zoom or other virtual attendance capabilities shall be recorded and posted to an online video hosting platform or to the town’s website within 72 weekday hours after said meeting takes place, whenever doing so is reasonably possible Move to amend town council rules and procedures Rule 2 to say: b) Matters to be placed on the Agenda for the Town Council, including but not limited to any ordinance, order, appointment, or other matters of business to be presented to the members for action at a regular meeting of the Town Council shall be submitted to both the Council Clerk and Council President, in paper or electronic format, by 1:00 pm on the Thursday preceding the regular meeting at which such matter is to be considered. All matters requiring a vote shall be submitted in full and in the form of a motion. Every effort shall be made to have all matters that are submitted for placement on the agenda accompanied by materials sufficient to inform Council members of the nature and purpose of the agenda item. If the same matter is submitted by at least four councilors, then that matter shall be placed on the Agenda. The Council President or the Council Clerk shall submit the Agenda, in paper or electronic format, complete with all motions and attachments to the Town Clerk no later than 4:00 pm on the Thursday preceding the regular meeting at which such matter is to be “considered. c) Other than amendments, to existing motions, no business shall be considered by the Town Council unless: 1) There is a majority vote of the Council to waive this rule. TOWN COUNCIL RULES & PROCEDURES b) Matters to be placed on the Agenda for the Town Council, including but not limited to any ordinance, order, appointment, or other matters of business to be presented to the members for action at a regular meeting of the Town Council shall be submitted to both the Council Clerk and Council President, in paper or electronic format, by 1:00 pm on the Thursday preceding the regular meeting at which such matter is to be considered. All matters requiring a vote shall be submitted in full and in the form of a motion. Every effort shall be made to have all matters that are submitted for placement on the agenda accompanied by materials sufficient to inform Council members of the nature and purpose of the agenda item. If the matter is submitted by at least four councilors, then the matter shall be placed on the agenda. The Council President or the Council Clerk shall submit the Agenda, in paper or electronic format, complete with all motions and attachments to the Town Clerk no later than 4:00 pm on the Thursday preceding the regular meeting at which such matter is to be considered. c) Other than amendments, to existing motions, no business shall be considered by the Town Council unless: 1) There is a tranimetis majority vote of the Council to waive this rule. TOWN OF WINTHROP OFFICE OF THE TOWN MANAGER ", Town Hall, 1 Metcalf Square, Winthrop, MA 02152 Telephone: 617-846-1077 Fax: 617-846-5458 Anthony Marino Town Manager Town Council Motion April 16, 2026 Fiscal Year 2026 Motion Summary Title: Solid Waste Fund Transfer — Tipping Fees Motion ID: TCM26-010 Amount: $85,617.41 Funding Source: Fund 527 Health-Recycle Program Motion Details Motion Type: Appropriate Submitted by: Anthony Marino, Town Manager Date Submitted: April 16, 2026 Text of Motion MOTION: I move that the Town Council appropriate and transfer $85,617.41 from Fund 527 “Health-Recycle Program” to the Tipping Fees account line in the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund. The funding source is a legacy fund that is where bulk item fees were deposited prior to establishing the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund, this transfer will close out that old fund, The transfer is necessary due to the increased cost for disposal of trash and recycling; or take any other action thereto. Funding Details Funding Source Funding Destination Account| Description Amount Account Description Amount 527 Health-Recycle $85,617.41 16705-529201 [Tipping Fees $85,617.41 Program Balance as of 04/16/2026 $85,617.41 Requested $85,617.44 Ending Balance $0.00 TOWN OF WINTHROP OFFICE OF THE TOWN MANAGER Town Hail, 1 Metcalf Square, Winthrop, MA 02152 Telephone: 617-846-1077 Fax: 617-846-5458 Anthony Marino Town Manager Town Council Motion April 16, 2026 Fiscal Year 2026 Motion Summary Title: Commission on Disabilities Appropriation Motion ID: TCM26-009 Amount: $30,000 Funding Source: Handicap Parking Fines Account Motion Details Motion Type: Appropriate Submitted by: Anthony Marino, Town Manager Date Submitted: April 16, 2026 Text of Motion MOTION: I move that the Town Council appropriate in the Handicap Parking Fines Account, the amount of $30,000, to be used for expenses to benefit persons with disabilities in accordance with MGL Chapter 40 Section 22G; or take any other action thereto. Funding Details Funding Source Funding Destination Account Description Amount Account Description | Amount 753-359000 Fund Balance ($30,000 17535-520000 Purchased Services f0.000 Handicap Parking Fines Fund Balance: $87,575 Amount Requested: $30,000 Handicap Parking Fines after motion approval: $57,575 TOWN OF WINTHROP OFFICE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL ‘Town Hall, 1 Metcalf Square, Winthrop, MA 02152 Telephone: 617-846-1852 MOTION Submitted by: Council President Letterie Date: 4-16-26 TEXT OF MOTION MOTION: That the Town Council vote to adopt the following Recommendation from the Ordinance Review Committee: Ordinance 10.04.010 Amendment-Traffic Definitions Ordinance 12.44.020 Amendment-Street Sweeping Ordinance 12.44.050 Amendment-Public Notifications Ordinance 13.08.030 Amendment-Construction by Town / New Construction/Replacement of Particular Sewers Ordinance 13.08.040 Amendment-Add Definition Ordinance 13.04.110 Amendment-(Title) Meter Tampering Ordinance 13.04.120 New Ordinance-Removal of Lead/Required Material for Water Services Ordinance 8.20.071 New Ordinance-Motorized Scooters/Electric Bikes Amendments to Traffic Definitions Introduction and Purpose of Amendments The following amendments to Section 10.04.010 (Definitions) of the Town of Winthrop Vehicles and Traffic Code are proposed to enhance legal clarity, ensure consistency with the Town Charter and Massachusetts General Laws, and address gaps identified in the current code. These changes are intended to improve enforcement, reduce ; ambiguity, and facilitate the effective administration of traffic and parking regulations within the Town. By updating and expanding the definitions section, the Town will better align its ordinances with prevailing legal standards and community needs. Amendment to Definitions Section (10.04.010) The definitions section of Chapter 10.04 is hereby amended as follows: |. Additions The following definitions shall be inserted in alphabetical order: Bicycle “Bicycle” means every device propelled by human power upon which any person may tide, having two tandem wheels, except scooters and similar devices. For purposes of this chapter, bicycles shall be subject to all applicable traffic regulations unless otherwise provided by law or ordinance. Commercial Vehicle “Commercial vehicle” means any vehicle used or maintained for the transportation of -. property or passengers for compensation, or any vehicle bearing commercial registration plates as defined by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. This ‘includes vehicles used for business purposes, delivery, or livery, but excludes vehicles registered solely for personal use. Handicapped Parking a “Handicapped parking” means any parking space designated for use by persons with disabilities, as defined by Massachusetts General Laws and regulations, and marked by official signage or curb markings in accordance with state and federal requirements. Pedestrian . “Pedestrian” means any person afoot, including those using assistive mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, or similar equipment. Resident : : “Resident” means any natural person whose principal domicile is within the Town of Winthrop, as evidenced by documentation acceptable to the revenue collections department, including but not limited tg-a.valid driver's license, motor vehicle registration, utility bill, lease agreement; or other proof of residency as may be required under Section 10.48.030. - |L Clarifications to Existing Definitions . "The following existing definitions are amended for clarity and consistency: '. Officer “Officer” means any police officer designated by the chief of police to enforce the _ .provisions of this chapter, as well as any investigator, examiner, or inspector of the _ Tegistry of motor vehicles, constable, or special officer, provided that their badge of . office is displayed. For purposes of this chapter, “officer” refers exclusively to individuals authorized to enforce traffic and parking regulations under municipal and state law. Parking “Parking” means the standing of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in loading or unloading, in obedience to an officer or traffic signs or signals, or while making emergency repairs or, if disabled, while arrangements are being made to move such vehicle. This definition shall be read in conjunction with residential parking regulations and does not supersede more restrictive provisions elsewhere in the code. Vehicle “Vehicle” means every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a street or highway, except devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. For purposes of this chapter, bicycles and other human-powered devices are subject to specific provisions as defined herein and by Massachusetts General Laws. lll. Cross-References and Construction In the event of any conflict between definitions in this section and those contained in the Town of Winthrop Charter, the Charter definitions shall prevail : for matters of governance; definitions in this section shall apply to traffic and ~~ parking enforcement except where otherwise provided. ~~~ =~" ae Any term not defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to it by Massachusetts General Laws or, if not defined therein, its ordinary meaning. All definitions shall be construed liberally to effectuate the purpose of the code and the Charter. IV. Formatting and Language All definitions shall be listed alphabefically. Gender-neutral language shall be used throughout. 3 Where a definition references another section or external law, a citation shall be included. [Drafted amendments above are to be incorporated into Section 10.04.0710 of the Town of Winthrop Vehicles and Traffic Code] Implementation and Transition -. The amendments to Section 10.04.010 shall become effective on [EFFECTIVE DATE], “following approval by the Town Council and publication in accordance with applicable ~~ municipal procedures, Notice of these changes shall be provided to all relevant town agencies, including the police department, revenue collections department, and the office of the tax collector. All related documents, enforcement protocols, and public- facing materials should be updated to reflect the revised definitions. Training and _. guidance should be provided to enforcement personnel to ensure consistent application - of the amended code. - Conclusion and Recommendations The adoption of these amendments will enhance legal clarity, promote consistent enforcement, and ensure alignment with both Massachusetts General Laws and the Town of Winthrop Charter. It is recommended that the definitions section, along with related ordinances, be reviewed periodically—at least every five years as required by the Charter—to maintain ongoing relevance and compliance with evolving legal standards. These measures will support effective govemance and protect the interests of the Town and its residents. Steet Swe pir For this purpose please edit 12.44.020 to add the specific language as seen below: 42.44.0205 Town-wide street sweeping regulations. “The director of public works shall oversee the street sweeping program. The dents, on their regularly scheduled trash day during the program requires that resi ~ Jast full week of each month and who own a vehicle, remove their vehicles from the public ways from JAM -.3PM so not to impede the street sweeper from cleaning the public way. AS scheduled by the director of public works, the program requires that all vehicles be removed from business centers and ' "municipal lots so not to impede the street sweeper, which may fall on the first, - second, or third week of each month. a so we should also update the langua e foy12.44.0507Pu a only include the follow =) O blic Notifications" to A. haa sign boards will be displayed at each entrance to the Town al ing residents of the scheduled town-wide sweeping operation. These sign bo S will be deployed on the Friday prior to the scheduled sweeping week will remain in place for the duration of the Sweeping operation. one B. The specific dates for the sweepi . | operations for the f will be posted on the Town web-site ‘ specific calendar year : d broadcasted on WCAT. 8 *13.08.030>Construction by town" is outdated and inaccurate. . Please re-tie this ordinance to "508.030 > New Construction [ Replacement of Particular Sewers" and strike all existing language and re-word as follows: - 8.08030 New Construction / Replacement of Particular Sewers ' » Fan applicant requests a permit from DPW to build a new particular sewer or to replace an existing particular sewer, the new sewer lateral must be constructed of __a'six inch fully gasketed push joint system installed to the specifications set forth by the Director of Public Works. All such work must be performed by a licensed drain layer sted on the permit application. _4. Add definitions to the lanquage of13.08.040 ht speaks to the _Tmainfenance and repair responsibilities for private sewer laterals. The current Tanguage is as follows: All particular sewers shall be maintained and kept clean by the owner of the on particular sewers occasioned by defects or obstructions in the common sewer shall be paid for by the town. For clarity purposes, please add the following two definitions to the ordinance | Definitions: . A. The particular sewer isthe privately owned sewer lateral that connects the Common sewer to a particular building's internal plumbing. . - a B. The common sewer is the Town owned sewer main that collects and conveys: sewage to the treatment facility. ; Please correct the Title for 13.04.1 "Meter tampering} - stallation of unauthorized service values" fo "Meter tampering/instaliation of authorized service valves" 6."We need to create a new ordinance 13.04.120 titled "Removal of Lead/ Required Material For Water Services" in in order to comply with the DEP mandates _ for the Lead and Copper Rule which is a sub section of DEP's Clean Water Act. As you know, the Town has been spending a lot of money to remove lead services throughout our water distribution system due to DEP's mandates. As such, I'd like to create this new ordinance with the following language: 13.04.120 - Removal of Lead / Required Material For Water Services ‘For all "New Construction” a continuous copper water service must be installed at the owner's expense from the basement of the new home to the Town's water main in the street. For all "Full Gut" renovation projects a continuous copper water service must be installed at the owner's expense from the basement of the home to the Town's water main in the street. if a full copper service already exists prior to the “full gut” renovation, it will be the homeowner's obligation and _ responsibility to prove that lead no longer remains within, the service line in order _ * to 0 close out their permit requirements and receive a nfull c occupancy” status. Mew ke. : $20,071 Motion to Prohibit Electric Bicycles and Motorized Scooters on Natural Surface Trails and in Town Parks Motion: I move that the Town Council adopt the following policy and direct Rules and Ordinance Committee to implement corresponding amendments to the Municipal Code. WHEREAS, - Town parks and natural surface trails are intended to provide safe, quiet, and environmentally sustainable recreational opportunities for pedestrians, hikers, runners, and non- motorized users; and -Electric bicycles (e-bikes) and motorized scooters are capable of higher speeds and acceleration than traditional non-motorized bicycles, increasing the risk of collisions and injuries on narrow or unimproved paths; and . The operation of motorized devices on natural surfaces can cause soil erosion, trail widening, vegetation damage, and degradation of sensitive habitats; and -Many park users, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, reasonably expect a low-speed, low-noise environment in parks and on natural surface trails; and - . The Town has a legitimate interest in protecting public safety, preserving natural resources, and maintaining the intended character of its parklands; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT MOVED that: 1. Prohibition. The operation of electric bicycles, electric scooters, and other motorized personal mobility devices shall be prohibited on: * All natural surface trails; and * Allbeaches . . o. * All parkland, including but not limited to parks, conservation areas, greenways, and nature preserves, except where expressly designated by the Town. 2. Definitions. For purposes of this section: * Electric bicycle (e-bike) means a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance or "propulsion. * Motorized scooter means a device designed to transport one person, with handlebars, a standing or seated platform, and powered by an electric or other motor. * Natural surface trail means any trail composed of ~ grass, dirt, gravel, mulch, or other unpaved material. -3, Exemptions. This prohibition shall not apply to: * Mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); * Town, emergency, or maintenance vehicles operated in the course of official duties. 4, Enforcement. MGL Chapter 277 Section 70C Violations shall be enforced as a civil infraction, subject to fines or penalties as established by ordinance, and may include warnings during an initial education period. 5. Signage and Public Notice. The Department of Parks and Recreation, in coordination with the Town Manager, shall install clear signage at park entrances, natural trail surface paths, and conduct public outreach regarding the new restrictions. © 6. Effective Date. a. This policy shall take effect **/**/? ** following adoption. G20.67/ TOWN OF WINTHROP OFFICE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL ‘Town Hail, 1 Metcalf Square, Winthrop, MA 02152 Telephone: 617-846-1852 MOTION Submitted by: Council President Letterie Date: 4-16-26 TEXT OF MOTION MOTION: That the Town Council vote to adopt the following Recommendation from the Tree Committee _ Ordinance 17.44.060 Amendment 17.44.060 - Materials for review—Required (for multifamily, commercial and industrial projects only). ‘modified The applicant shall submit one or more of the following additional materials as may be required by the APRC: - A. Surface Water Pollution: A report on the impact of stormwater runoff on adjacent and downstream surface water bodies, subsurface groundwater and the water table. B. Soils: The potential dangers of erosion and sedimentation caused by the operation and maintenance of the proposed development. C. General Environmental Impact: A report on the relationship of the proposed development to the major botanical, geological and hydrological resources of the site, and compatibility of the proposed development with adjacent or surrounding land uses and neighborhoods. The applicant shall submit such material as may be required regarding design features intended to integrate the proposed new development into the existing landscape and environment, to enhance aesthetic assets, and to screen objectionable features from neighbors. If applicable, a shadow study and an assessment report pursuant to Chapter 21E of the M.G.L. D. Traffic impact: A report on existing traffic volume, composition, peak hour levels, and existing street capacities, estimated average daily traffic generation, composition peak hour levels, and directional flows resulting from the proposed development, proposed methods to mitigate the estimated traffic impact, and the methodology and sources used to derive existing data and estimations. E. Aplan for the control of erosion and sedimentation caused by the proposed construction. F. Water and Sewerage: A report on the impact of the water and sewer system. G. Developer Tree Plan: A Developer Tree Plan that has been approved by the Tree Warden and that is consistent with Section 13 of “Title 12 - STREETS SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES, Chapter 12.48 — TREES”. Proposed Section 12: Developer Tree Pian (previous Section 12 to be renumbered Section 13) In conformance with 17.44.060, applicants seeking to construct multifamily, commercial, and industrial projects must submit a Developer Tree Plan, which shall be subject to review and approval of the Tree Warden, that includes the following: a) The total cumulative DBH of all trees with a DBH greater than 2.4” to be removed from the project site as a result of the project. This shall include the cumulative DBH of any trees removed from the site in the 2 years prior to filing of the project application. b) For Multifamily projects: A Developer Tree Plan that indicates the species, size, and location of trees, which shall be subject to approval by the Tree Warden, to be planted as a part of the Multifamily project. The plan shall include 3 trees for every 8 residential units, but no less than 1 tree, and 1 tree for every 2.5” of cumulative DBH as calculated pursuant to section a. Subject to approval from the Tree Warden, the Developer Tree Plan may include the planting of street trees in the vicinity of the project. c) For Commercial projects: A Developer Tree Plan that indicates the species, size, and location of trees, which shall be subject to approval by the Tree Warden, to be planted as a part of the Commercial project. The plan shall include 1 tree for 1000 sqft of commercial space, but no less than 3 trees, and 1 tree for every 2.5” of cumulative DBH as calculated pursuant to section a. Subject to approval from the Tree Warden, the Developer Tree Plan may include the planting of street trees in the vicinity of the project. d) For Industrial projects: A Developer Tree Plan that indicates the species, size, and location of trees, which shall be subject to approval by the Tree Warden, to be planted as a part of the Industrial project. The plan shall include 3 trees for 500 sqft of the lot, but no Jess than 1 tree, and 1 tree for every 2.5” of cumulative DBH as calculated pursuant to section a. Subject to approval from the Tree Warden, the Developer Tree Plan may include the planting of street trees in the vicinity of the project. For projects requiring a Developer Tree Plan no certificate of occupancy shall be granted until the Tree Warden certifies that all trees specified in a Developer Tree Plan have been planted in accordance with the Developer Tree Plan. A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING PRIDE MONTH MOTION Submitted by: Councilor Kim Dimes, Precinct 2 Date: April 30, 2026 (Agenda Item May 5, 2026 Town Council Meeting) TEXT OF MOTION I move that the Winthrop Town Council approve the following Proclamation Recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month in Winthrop. PROCLAMATION WHEREAS The Town of Winthrop is committed to fostering a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive community where all residents, employees, visitors, and families are treated with dignity and fairness; and WHEREAS diversity of background, experience, and perspective strengthens the social, cultural, and civic life of the Town and contributes to a healthier and more vibrant community; and WHEREAS ensuring that all individuals feel safe, valued, and supported is essential to promoting civic engagement, mutual understanding, and equal opportunity; and WHEREAS the Town Council recognizes the importance of affirming shared values of respect, compassion, and inclusion, and of encouraging ongoing dialogue, education, and community connection; and WHEREAS the month of June provides an opportunity to reaffirm the Town’s commitment to these principles and to reflect on the importance of standing against discrimination in all its forms; NOW, THEREFORE the Winthrop Town Council does hereby proctaim June 2™ through June 15", 2026 as The Town of Winthrop Pride Celebration and authorize the ceremonial raising of the Pride Flag at the E.B. Newton School on June 2" 2026 at 5:30pm in recognition of this observation, and encourage residents to acknowledge its significance and to celebrate inclusion, affirm the dignity and worth of every individual, and encourage all residents to contribute to a community grounded in respect, equity, and understanding for all. BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that the Town Council encourages residents, organizations, and local institutions to observe this month through reflection, learning, and acts that promote kindness, unity, and mutual respect throughout the Town of Winthrop. Voted on this Date by the Winthrop Town Council: