MassVoter.com← New Bedford City CouncilNew Bedford City Council · 2026–2027 Council · Meeting night
July 16, 2026
2 meetings this evening, 142 recorded votes in all, in the order they were held.
A monthly email on what it voted on, starting in November.
Your New Bedford ballot: 15 quizzes, about a minute each.
Start my ballot →6:06 p.m. · New Bedford City Council · Special (Board of Assessors vacancy) meeting
Sources: Official minutes (PDF) · City meeting page
Attendance
Present: Ian Abreu, Derek Baptiste, Shane A. Burgo, Leo Choquette, Brian K. Gomes, Shawn Oliver, Ryan J. Pereira, James Roy
Absent: Naomi R. A. Carney, Joseph P. Lopes, Scott Pemberton
11 recorded votes, 2 with disagreement. This meeting on its own page
Communication, Councillor Lopes, to City Council, notifying that he will be unable to attend the Special City Council Meeting on Thursday, July 16, 026, due to a work-related commitment.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1167).”
Communication, Councillor Pemberton, to City Council, informing that he will be unable to attend the Special City Council Meeting on Thursday, July 16, 026, due to a prior business commitment.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1168).”
Communication, City Council President Pereira, to City Clerk Farias, calling a Special City Council Meeting on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 6:00 pm City Council Chambers, Second Floor, of City Hall, for the appointment of an individual to the Board of Assessors, replacing Martin Treadup, who has…
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1169).”
Nominations, for a New Member to the Board of Assessors.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1170).”
Communication, Councillor Burgo, submitting the name of Linda M. Morad. as a Nominee to the Board of Assessors.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1171).”
Communication, Councillor Choquette, submitting the name of James W. Clark, as a Nominee to the Board of Assessors.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1172).”
Communication, Councillor Roy, submitting the name of Richard T. Porteus, Jr., as a Nominee to the Board of Assessors.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1173).”
Communication, Councillor Abreu, submitting the name of Carlos Amado, as a Nominee to the Board of Assessors.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1174).”
Election by the council
Board of Assessors vacancy: roll call ballot among four nominees (Linda M. Morad, James W. Clark, Richard T. Porteus, Jr., Carlos Amado)
Roll call ballot No. 1 to fill the Board of Assessors vacancy
Each councilor named one nominee: Abreu: Carlos Amado; Baptiste: Linda M. Morad; Burgo: Linda M. Morad; Choquette: James W. Clark; Gomes: Linda M. Morad; Oliver: Linda M. Morad; Pereira: Linda M. Morad; Roy: Linda M. Morad. Linda M. Morad received 6 votes, Carlos Amado 1, James W. Clark 1.
From the minutes
“Roll Call Nominations Ballot No. 1 was conducted, with the following results recorded: Councillor Abreu voted for Carlos Amado. Councillor Baptiste voted for Linda M. Morad. Councillor Burgo voted for Linda M. Morad. Councillor Choquette voted for James W. Clark. Councillor Gomes voted for Linda M. Morad. Councillor Oliver voted for Linda M. Morad. Councillor Pereira voted for Linda M. Morad. Councillor Roy voted for Linda M. Morad. Results from Ballot No. 1: Linda M. Morad received six (6) votes. Carlos Amado received one (1) vote. James W. Clark received one (1) vote. A majority was achieved on Ballot No. 1.”
Ordered, that in accordance with the Code Ordinances, Chapter 10, Section 10-83, Linda M. Morad has been nominated and elected to fill the vacancy temporarily until the first Monday in January following the next regular Municipal Election.
Adopted
Yes: Baptiste, Burgo, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyNo: Abreu, ChoquetteAbsent: Carney, Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Adopted – Yeas 6, Nays 2 (Councillors Abreu and Choquette OPPOSED.) (Matter #1175).”
Rule 40 Waived
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyAbsent: Carney, Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Rule 40 Waived – Yeas 8, Nays 0. (Matter #1175).”
7:07 p.m. · New Bedford City Council · Regular meeting
Sources: Official minutes (PDF) · City meeting page
Attendance
Present: Ian Abreu, Derek Baptiste, Shane A. Burgo, Naomi R. A. Carney, Leo Choquette, Brian K. Gomes, Shawn Oliver, Ryan J. Pereira, James Roy
Absent: Joseph P. Lopes, Scott Pemberton
131 recorded votes, 4 with disagreement. This meeting on its own page
Communication, Councillor Lopes, to City Council, notifying that he will be unable to attend the City Council Meeting on Thursday, July 16, 2026, due to a work-related commitment.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1176).”
Communication, Councillor Pemberton, to City Council, informing that he will be unable to attend the City Council Meeting on Thursday, July 16, 2026, due to a prior business commitment.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1177).”
Hearing, Nstar Electric Company d/b/a Eversource Energy for location of approximately 40’ Conduit at Howard Avenue, this work is necessary to provide service to 99 River Road.
Hearing Held
Petition Placed on File
From the minutes
“Petition Placed on File. (Matter #1178).”
An Order,
Adopted and ordered recorded
From the minutes
“Adopted and ordered recorded. (Matter #1179).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting a Veto of the Ordinance, amending Chapter 19 of the City Code, Relative to Paid Family Leave. (Veto received in the City Council Office – July 10, 2026.) Veto Received and Placed on File.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1180).”
Communication, submitting a copy of his Press Release, dated July 16, 2026, and statement in response to Mayor Mitchell’s Veto of the proposed Paid Family Leave Ordinance.
Received and Placed on File. (#1180a)
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (#1180a).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order for the Transfer of $37,154.00 from Mayor Purchase of Services to Mayor Other Charges & Expenses.
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1181).”
An Order,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1182).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order for the Transfer of $2,000.00 from Assessors Purchase of Services to Assessors Other Charges & Expenses.
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1183).”
An Order,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1184).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order for the Transfer of $650.00 from Labor Relations Purchase of Services to Labor Relations Other Charges & Expenses.
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1185).”
An Order,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1186).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order for the Transfer of $157,791.00 from School General Expense to School Transportation.
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1187).”
An Order,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1188).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order for the Transfer of $395,000.00 from Zeiterion Theatre Supplies to Zeiterion Theatre Purchase of Services.
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1189).”
An Order,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1190).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting the Appointment of Gerald L. Ribeiro, New Bedford, as a Constable.
Referred to the Special Committee on Special Permits and Licensing
From the minutes
“Referred to the Special Committee on Special Permits and Licensing. (Matter #1191).”
An Application,
Referred to the Special Committee on Special Permits and Licensing
From the minutes
“Referred to the Special Committee on Special Permits and Licensing. (Matter #1192).”
A Bond Order to Authorize A Borrowing to Pay the Costs of Projects Outlined in the City’s Long Term Cso Control and Integrated Capital Improvements Plan Including Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements, Pumping Station Improvements, and General System Improvements. Be It Ordered, by the City…
Adopted
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Carney, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Adopted – Yeas 9, Nays 0. (Matter #0622).”
An Ordinance, amending Chapter 16, Municipal Utilities and Services, Section 16-94 – Rate Charges.
Passed to be Ordained
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyNo: CarneyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Passed to be Ordained – Yeas 8, Nays 1. (Councillor Carney OPPOSED.) (Matter #0618).”
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending to the City Council Approval of the Reappointment of Ricard Rezendes, New Bedford, MA to the Licensing Board.
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1193).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting the Reappointment of Ricard Rezendes, New Bedford, MA to the Licensing Board; this term will expire in June 2032.
Reappointment Confirmed, Rule 40 Waived
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Carney, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Reappointment Confirmed, Rule 40 Waived – Yeas 9, Nays 0. (Matter #0893).”
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending to the City Council Approval of the Appointment of Lara Harrington, New Bedford, MA to the Airport Commission.
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1194).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting the Appointment of Lara Harrington, New Bedford, MA to the Airport Commission, Ms. Harrington will be replacing Christina E. Cotsoridis, who resigned in January 2025; this term will expire in December 2027.
Appointment Confirmed, Rule 40 Waived
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Carney, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Appointment Confirmed, Rule 40 Waived – Yeas 9, Nays 0. (Matter #0894).”
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending to the City Council Approval of the Appointment of Kreg R. Espinola, New Bedford, MA to the Steamship Authority Board of Governors.
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1195).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting the Appointment of Kreg R. Espinola, New Bedford, MA to the Steamship Authority Board of Governors, to fill the seat vacated by Moira Tierney.
Appointment Confirmed, Rule 40 waived
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Carney, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Appointment Confirmed, Rule 40 waived – Yeas 9, Nays 0. (Matter #0896).”
Report, Committee on Finance, recommending to the City Council Approval of the CPA annual budget for fiscal year 2027, for Committee administrative expenses and Community Preservation Projects in fiscal year 2027.
Recommended by the Committee on Finance
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1196).”
Communication, Community Preservation Committee, submitting the CPA annual budget for fiscal year 2027, for Committee administrative expenses and Community Preservation Projects in fiscal year 2027.
CPA Budget Approved
Report, Committee on Ordinances, recommending to the City Council Approval of an Ordinance, Amending Chapter 9, Zoning – establishing Form-based Code Districts.
Recommended by the Committee on Ordinances
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1197).”
An Ordinance, Amending Chapter 9, Zoning – establishing Form-based Code Districts.
Passed to a Second Reading
From the minutes
“Passed to a Second Reading. (Matter #0441).”
Report, Committee on Ordinances, recommending to the City Council Adoption of an Order increasing the Administrative and Recording Fees for Vital Record Amendments from $40 to $50 and for Business Certificates/DBA Licenses from $40 to $50.
Recommended by the Committee on Ordinances
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1198).”
Ordered, that the City Council increase the Administrative and Recording Fees for Vital Record Amendments from $40 to $50, and for Business Certificates/DBA Licenses from $40 to $50.
Adopted
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending to the City Council Approval of the Proposal submitted by South Coast Investments, Inc. for the development of Fire Station #3, located at 834 Kempton Street, and Approval of the Proposal submitted by Gwozdz Development for the development of Fire…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Referred to the Committee on City Property
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on City Property. (Matter #1200).”
An Order, that the City Property Committee recommend approval of the sale of 834 Kempton Street, former Fire Station #3, and 754 Brock Avenue, former Fire Station #11, pursuant to the proposals selected by the Committee and hereto attached; and further, that the City Council authorize the Mayor and…
Referred to the Committee on City Property
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on City Property. (Matter #1201).”
Proposal, submitted by South Coast Investments, Inc., for the development of Fire Station #3, located at 834 Kempton Street. Received by the Committee on City Property – May 11, 2026.
Referred to the Committee on City Property
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on City Property. (Matter #1202).”
Proposal, submitted by Gwozdz Development, for the development of Fire Station #11, located at 754 Brock Avenue. Received by the Committee on City Property – May 11, 2026.
Referred to the Committee on City Property
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on City Property. (Matter #1203).”
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Gomes and Markey, requesting, that the City Council go on record in opposition to Parallel Products, Inc., of New England, 100 Duchaine Boulevard, New…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1204).”
Written Motion, Councillors Gomes and Markey, requesting, that the City Council go on record in opposition to Parallel Products, Inc., of New England, 100 Duchaine Boulevard, New Bedford, being issued any type of permitting from the City of New Bedford or the Massachusetts Office of Environmental…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Gomes, Abreu, Markey, Carney, Coelho, Dunn, Giesta, Lima, Lopes, Council President Morad and Councillor Rebeiro, on behalf of the residents and businesses in…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1204).”
Written Motion, Councillors Gomes, Abreu, Markey, Carney, Coelho, Dunn, Giesta, Lima, Lopes, Council President Morad and Councillor Rebeiro, on behalf of the residents and businesses in the immediate area of the New Bedford Business Park, requesting that the City Council go on record as being in…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillor Markey, requesting, that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings meet with Members of South Coast Neighbors United and Attorney Kirstie Pecci, the…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1206).”
Written Motion, Councillor Markey, requesting that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings meet with Members of South Coast Neighbors United and Attorney Kirstie Pecci, the Director of Conservation Law Foundation’s Zero Waste Products, to discuss Phase 1 and 2 of Parallel Products project…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Gomes, Giesta, Lima, Council President Abreu and Councillor Morad, requesting that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings hold a meeting with Officials…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1207).”
Written Motion, Councillor Gomes, Giesta, Lima, Council President Abreu and Councillor Morad, requesting that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings hold a meeting with Officials from Parallel Products, the Mitchell Administration and the City Solicitor for the purpose of explaining the…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Gomes and Oliver, requesting that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings meet with MBTA South Coast Rail officials for the purpose of discussing the…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1208).”
Written Motion, Councillors Gomes and Oliver, requesting that the Committee on Appointments and Briefings meet with MBTA South Coast Rail officials for the purpose of discussing the safety of the Purchase Street Train corridor; the installation of safety fencing from Minuteman Car Wash, south and…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Appointments & Briefings, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillor Gomes, requesting, that the Committee on Appointments & Briefings meet with James Marshall, Director of Cable Access, for the purpose of discussing why the…
Recommended by the Committee on Appointments & Briefings
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1209).”
Written Motion, Councillor Gomes, requesting, that the Committee on Appointments & Briefings meet with James Marshall, Director of Cable Access, for the purpose of discussing why the Educational Channel was changed from 9 to 96 and why the Government Access Channel was changed from 18 to 97; and…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Ordinances, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Ordinance, amending Chapter 19, Personnel, Section 19-7(c) of the City Code to create the position of “Assistant Superintendent of Green…
Recommended by the Committee on Ordinances
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1210).”
An Ordinance, amending Chapter 19, Personnel, Section 19-7(c) of the City Code to create the position of “Assistant Superintendent of Green Space” at pay grade “M-11”; the position fully paid out by the Water Enterprise.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on Ordinances, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillor Lopes and Council President Pereira, requesting, that the City Solicitor, in conjunction with the Administration, draft a Home Rule Petition for submission to the…
Recommended by the Committee on Ordinances
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1211).”
Written Motion, Councillor Lopes and Council President Pereira, requesting, that the City Solicitor, in conjunction with the Administration, draft a Home Rule Petition for submission to the Massachusetts General Court authorizing the City of New Bedford to establish an early retirement incentive…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Communication, Councillor Giesta, submitting a letter from Blair Bailey, General Counsel for the New Bedford Port Authority, regarding the Port Authority’s vote to sell the real property known and…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1212).”
Communication, Councillor Giesta, submitting a letter from Blair Bailey, General Counsel for the New Bedford Port Authority, regarding the Port Authority’s vote to sell the real property known and numbered as 276 MacArthur Drive, incorporating New Bedford Assessors Map 59, Lots 170, 171, 173, 149…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Order, submitted by Mayor Mitchell, along with the fifteen-year Ground Lease Agreement, between the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission d/b/a New Bedford Port Authority and Massachusetts…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1213).”
An Order,
NO FURTHER ACTION
Ground Lease Agreement, City of New Bedford acting by and through the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission d/b/a New Bedford Port Authority as Landlord and Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center as Tenant. Referred to the Committee on City Property (Councillor Morad Opposed.) – September…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Communication, Councillors Giesta and Morad, submitting a copy of a Communication/Email from the Honorable Richard T. Moses, in opposition to the fifteen-year Extended Lease Proposal for the…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1214).”
Communication, Councillors Giesta and Morad, submitting a copy of a Communication/Email from the Honorable Richard T. Moses, in opposition to the fifteen-year Extended Lease Proposal for the Homers Wharf parking lot to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Requests for Proposals (Drafts), submitted by Mayor Mitchell, for the disposition and development of the former Horatio A. Kempton School, located at 135 Shawmut Avenue, and the former William H.…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1215).”
Request for Proposals, (Draft), for the disposition and development of the former Horatio A. Kempton School, located at 135 Shawmut Avenue.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Request for Proposals, (Draft), for the disposition and development of the former William H. Taylor School, located at 620 Brock Avenue.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Communication, Councillors Giesta and Morad, submitting a Petition of opposition relating to the 15-year lease agreement of the Homer’s Wharf parking area to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1216).”
Communication, Councillors Giesta and Morad, submitting a Petition of opposition relating to the 15-year lease agreement of the Homer’s Wharf parking area to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Carney, Abreu and Giesta, requesting that City Solicitor Eric Jaikes appear before the Committee on City Property to explain the delay with the Purchase and Sale…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1217).”
Written Motion, Councillors Carney, Abreu and Giesta, requesting that City Solicitor Eric Jaikes appear before the Committee on City Property to explain the delay with the Purchase and Sale Agreements, which were awarded to Gwozdz Development, Inc., South Coast Investments, Inc., and Historic…
NO FURTHER ACTION
Report, Committee on City Property, recommending that the City Council take “No Further Action” on the Written Motion, Councillors Pemberton and Oliver, requesting, that the Committee on City Property meet to begin the process of disposition for the Phillips Avenue Elementary School, located at 249…
Recommended by the Committee on City Property
Recommendation Followed
From the minutes
“Recommendation Followed. (Matter #1218).”
Written Motion, Councillors Pemberton and Oliver, requesting, that the Committee on City Property meet to begin the process of disposition for the Phillips Avenue Elementary School, located at 249 Phillips Avenue.
NO FURTHER ACTION
Communication, Councillor Abreu, submitting a communication from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue/Division of Local Services, regarding the FY 2026 Snow and Ice Removal Deficit and Special Accounting Treatment for Commonwealth Reimbursement.
Referred to the Committee on Finance, the Mitchell Administration and Chief Financial Officer Rober Ekstrom
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance, the Mitchell Administration and Chief Financial Officer Rober Ekstrom. (Matter #1220).”
Written Motion, Councillor Lopes, requesting, that the City of New Bedford Election Commission and the Mitchell Administration provide the Committee on Appointments & Briefings with an update regarding the City's compliance with the requirements of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 51, Section 6,…
Referred to the Committee on Appointments & Briefings, the Election Commission, and the Mitchell Administration
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Appointments & Briefings, the Election Commission, and the Mitchell Administration. (Matter #1221).”
Written Motion, Councillor Burgo, requesting, that the Committee on Finance be discharged from further consideration of the following matters of a Communication, an Order, and Easement, submitted by Mayor Mitchell, that the City accept a grant of easement from the Massachusetts Department of…
Adopted
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Choquette, Gomes, Oliver, Pereira, RoyNo: CarneyAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Adopted – Yeas 8, Nays 1. (Councillor Carney OPPOSED.) (Matter #1222).”
Communication, Mayor Mitchell, to City Council, submitting an Order, that the Mayor and City Council President are authorized on behalf of the City to accept a grant of easement from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for the new pedestrian bridge over Route 18.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1812).”
An Order,
Adopted
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Choquette, Gomes, Pereira, RoyNo: Carney, OliverAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Adopted – Yeas 7, Nays 2. (Councillors Carney and Oliver OPPOSED.) (Matter #1813).”
Easement, between the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the City of New Bedford.
Adopted
Yes: Abreu, Baptiste, Burgo, Choquette, Gomes, Pereira, RoyNo: Carney, OliverAbsent: Lopes, Pemberton
From the minutes
“Adopted – Yeas 7, Nays 2. (Councillors Carney and Oliver OPPOSED.) (Matter #1814).”
Written Motion, Councillor Gomes, requesting, that the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods meet with Whaling City Festival President, Michael Sylvia, along with the New Bedford Police Chief Thody and his command staff for the purposes of discussing future security procedures during the…
Referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods. (Matter #1223).”
Communication, Ryan A. Pavao, First Assistant City Solicitor, submitting Orders for the Layout and Taking of Hillman Street, variable width, from Sta. 72+32.80, at the terminus of Pleasant Street 41.74 feet easterly to terminus at Sta. 72+74.52 at Purchase Street, for the purpose of realigning…
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1224).”
Registered Land,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1225).”
Recorded Land,
Referred to the Committee on Finance
From the minutes
“Referred to the Committee on Finance. (Matter #1226).”
Communication, Councillor Gomes, submitting An Act, Amending Chapter 418 of the Acts of 2018 Authorizing the Appointment of Special Police Officers in the City of New Bedford.
Referred to our State Legislative Delegation
From the minutes
“Referred to our State Legislative Delegation. (Matter #1227).”
Communication, City Clerk/Clerk of the City Council, submitting an Application for Renewal of a Private Livery License, on behalf of Khalil B. Arsanios, d/b/a International Transportation, LLC, 1220 Pleasant Street, New Bedford, MA. (Term of License July 01, 2026 – June 30, 2027.) Livery License…
) Livery License Granted
From the minutes
“) Livery License Granted (Matter #1228).”
Communication, Manuel DeBrito, Board of Election Commissioners, to City Council, submitting the Primary Election Warrant for Tuesday, September 1, 2026, this warrant has been signed by the majority of the City Council and will be posted on the 7th day prior to the Election date as mandated by…
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1229).”
Communication, Department of Parks, Recreation and Beaches, submitting a Memorial Park Bench and Tree Dedication Program Application for a bench and plaque to be located along the new pathway on Brownell Avenue, at the foot of Sheldon Street, in honor of Freddie Mello.
Referred to the Special Committee on Memorials and Dedications
From the minutes
“Referred to the Special Committee on Memorials and Dedications. (Matter #1230).”
Communication, City Clerk/Clerk of the City Council Dennis Farias, submitting a copy of a letter sent to the Office of the Attorney General pertaining to Ordinances recently adopted regarding Chapter 9 of the Code of Ordinances.
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1231).”
Written Motion, Councillors Choquette, Gomes and Abreu, requesting, that the Traffic Commission install signs to lower the speed limit to no more than 20 Miles Per Hour at along the length of Cherokee Street and Acushnet Avenue and along the length of Pequot Street and Acushnet Avenue in the City…
Referred to the Traffic Commission, as Amended
From the minutes
“Referred to the Traffic Commission, as Amended. (Matter #1232).”
Citation, Councillor Gomes, honoring Maureen Sylvia Armstrong, Alera Group Insurance – Sylvia Group, in recognition of her retirement after 40 years of committed, dedicated insurance service to the Greater New Bedford area.
Adopted, to be presented at a later date
From the minutes
“Adopted, to be presented at a later date. (Matter #1233).”
Citation, Councillor Gomes, honoring Joseph W. Hebert, Wwii Navy Veteran, in recognition of his 100th birthday, and with heartfelt gratitude for his sacrificial service to our great Country and his 25 years of dedicated service to the City of New Bedford.
Adopted, to be presented at a later date
From the minutes
“Adopted, to be presented at a later date. (Matter #1234).”
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, on behalf of Aha! New Bedford, that the following street(s) Be Closed: Barker’s Lane, from Acushnet Avenue to North Second Street, on Thursday, July 09, 2026, from 3:00 P.m. to 11:00 P.m., for the purpose of Aha! Kids Rule. Granted Provisionally by…
Received and Action of the City Council President Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Council President Ratified. (Matter #1235).”
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, on behalf of the New Bedford Fishing Heritage that the following street(s) be Closed: William Street, from North Second Street to Bethel Street at 2:00 P.m. to 9:00 P.m.; Johnny Cake Hill, from William Street to Union Street at 2:00 P.m. to 9:00…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Pemberton, requesting, on behalf of the Senhor Da Pedra Club and Feast Committee, that the following street(s) be Closed: Tinkham Street, from Madeira Avenue to Funchal Place (Hope Street); Webster Court, from Madeira Avenue to Funchal Place (Hope Street); on Friday,…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, on behalf of the City of New Bedford Health Department, that the following street(s) be Closed: William Street, from North Sixth Street to Acushnet Avenue; Pleasant Street, from Market Street to William Street; and Acushnet Avenue, from William…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Lopes, requesting, that the following street(s) be Closed: Ash Street, from East Clinton Street to Arnold Street, on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 2:00 P.m. to 7:00 P.m., for the purpose of SouthCoast Places for People. Please Note: Rain Date of Saturday, August 29, 2026.…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, on behalf of Aha! New Bedford, that the following street(s) be Closed: Acushnet Avenue, from Union Street to William Street, on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 3:00 P.m. to 11:00 P.m., for the purpose of New Bedford Cultures. Permission Granted.
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, on behalf of Whaling History Alliance, Inc., that the following street(s) be Closed: a portion of Acushnet Avenue, from William Street to Union Street, on Thursday, July 23, 2026 and Thursday, August 06, 2026, from 4:00 P.m. to 9:00 P.m., for the…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Pemberton, requesting, on behalf of Derek Mendes, Casa do Benfica, that the following street(s) be Closed: Beetle Street, from North Front Street to Beetle Court, on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 3:00 P.m. to Saturday, August 22, 2026, 12 Midnight for the purpose of the…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillor Baptiste, requesting, that the following street(s) be Closed: South Sixth Street, from Union Street to Spring Street, at Abolition Row Park, on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 8:00 A.m. to 10:00 P.m., for the purpose of the 3rd Eye Open Hip Hop Festival. Permission…
Permission Granted
Written Motion, Councillors Lopes and Gomes, requesting, that the Traffic Commission install “no parking here to corner” signs at the corner of Hawthorn Street and Ash Street, as well as the corner of Hawthorn Street and Orchard Street.
Referred to the Traffic Commission
From the minutes
“Referred to the Traffic Commission. (Matter #1245).”
Communication, Councillor Pemberton submitting a petition from residents of Manomet Place, located at 170 Riverside Avenue, requesting the installation of a safety flashing crosswalk system and speed limit signs.
Referred to the Traffic Commission
From the minutes
“Referred to the Traffic Commission. (Matter #1246).”
Communication, City Clerk/Clerk of the City Council, to the City Council, notifying that the Office of the City Clerk has received Meeting Minutes from the Board of Assessors for meetings held on May 14, 2026 and June 11, 2026; the Community Preservation Committee for a meeting held on May 26,…
Received and Placed on File
From the minutes
“Received and Placed on File. (Matter #1247).”
Application, Rj Canessa Excavating, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 22 Nautilus Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 23, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1248).”
Application, Circle Earth Excavation, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 193 - 197 Union Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 26, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1249).”
Application, Jlc Construction, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 105 South Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1250).”
Application, Msr Utility Maintenance Corp., for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 71 - 73 Brigham Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1251).”
Application, Rj Canessa Excavating, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 22 Nautilus Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 23, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1248).”
Application, Able Asphalt, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 244 Wilbur Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1252).”
Application, Msr Utility Maintenance Corp., for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 209 State Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1253).”
Application, M & S Excavation, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at Ss Jireh Street, Plot 119/Lot 134, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1254).”
Application, Rj Canessa Excavating, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 366 Hathaway Road, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 01, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1255).”
Application, Jlc Construction, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 84 Swift Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 08, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1256).”
Application, Jlc Construction, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 1026 Shelburne Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 10, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1257).”
Application, Mike Andrade Excavation, LLC, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at Es County Street 114+/-S X Linden Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 10, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1258).”
Application, Rj Canessa Excavating, to Disturb the Surface, of 22 Nautilus Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 23, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1259).”
Application, Circle Earth Excavation, to Disturb the Surface, of 193 - 197 Union Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 26, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1260).”
Application, Jlc Construction, to Disturb the Surface, of 105 South Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1261).”
Application, Msr Utility Maintenance Corp., to Disturb the Surface, of 71 - 73 Brigham Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1262).”
Application, Able Asphalt, to Disturb the Surface, of 244 Wilbur Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1263).”
Application, Msr Utility Maintenance Corp., to Disturb the Surface, of 209 State Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1264).”
Application, M & S Excavation, to Disturb the Surface, of Ss Jireh Street, Plot 119/Lot 134, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1265).”
Application, Rj Canessa Excavating, to Disturb the Surface, of 366 Hathaway Road, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 01, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1266).”
Application, Jlc Construction, to Disturb the Surface, of 84 Swift Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 08, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1267).”
Application, Jlc Construction, to Disturb the Surface, of 1026 Shelburne Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 10, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1268).”
Application, Mike Andrade Excavation LLC, to Disturb the Surface, of Es County Street 114+/-S X Linden Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 010, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1269).”
Application, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, of Brigham Street, Hawthorn Street to Allen Street (including all intersections), provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 26, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1270).”
Application, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, of 49 Borden Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1271).”
Application, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, of 87 Hathaway Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1272).”
Application, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, of 893 Shawmut Avenue, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1273).”
Applications, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 01, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council as follows: State Street, Penniman Street – Austin Street (including all intersections) (#1274) River Road, Wood Street – 20 River…
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified..”
Applications, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 02, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council as follows: 844 Acushnet Avenue (#1276) 551 Belleville Avenue (#1277) 1293 - 1295 Acushnet Avenue (#1278) 139 Mt. Pleasant Street…
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified..”
Applications, Eversource Gas, to Disturb the Surface, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on July 10, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council as follows: 279 County Street (#1281) 340 Purchase Street (#1282) 241 Belleville Avenue (#1283) Ashley Boulevard, working from Coffin…
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified..”
Application, Vaz Construction, Inc., for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction at 605 Union Street, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 26, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council.
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified. (Matter #1286).”
Applications, El Harvey New Bedford, for permission to maintain a Street Obstruction, provisionally granted by the City Clerk on June 29, 2026, subject to ratification by the Mayor and City Council as follows: 1669 - 1673 Acushnet Avenue (#1287) 901 - 911 Brock Avenue (#1288)
Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified
From the minutes
“Received and Action of the City Clerk Ratified..”
From the official minutes kept by the New Bedford City Clerk (agendas and minutes). The minutes are text documents; we read every action, check every roll-call count against the councilors named, and quote the exact wording. Most items pass by voice vote, and the minutes record only the result for those; how each councilor voted is shown only for roll calls. MassVoter never grades officials; votes and attendance are shown exactly as the minutes record them. Councilor photos: cropped from the City of New Bedford's official 2026 City Council photo (newbedford-ma.gov). The 2024–2025 group photo, and the photos of Maria E. Giesta and Linda M. Morad cropped from it: City of New Bedford, provided by the City Clerk.
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