WESTFIELD – The Westfield City Council approved spending in support of several items related to the Elm Street Urban Renewal Plan. Appropriations approved include $358,528 from the stabilization account and a transfer of $151,322 from a short-term interest account to the Westfield Redevelopment Authority to purchase the four remaining parcels in the Elm Street block to be developed. These and other related motions granting the WRA authority to access the funds passed with only At-large Councilor Cindy C. Harris dissenting.
CINDY HARRIS
Earlier in the week, City Advancement Officer Joe Mitchell said he is hoping the city will be able to acquire the properties by July, and have the bowling alley demolished by September. He said once they get all of the approvals, they can start the Request for Proposal process to develop the whole parcel.
The biggest discussion of the meeting was on a motion originally made by Ward 1 Councilor Mary Ann Babinski to amend the city ordinance for the improper removal of public shade trees relative to the application and fine fees. The motion to raise the fine to $250 from $20 was returned with a positive recommendation by the Legislative and Ordinance Committee.
DAVID FLAHERTY
At-large Council David Flaherty moved to amend the motion and raise the fine to $500 as more of a deterrent.
“This is only when they do it without the permission of the city. This is only when you willfully violate the law,” Flaherty said.
Babinski said that Mass. General Law also has a fine of $500 that can be levied in certain cases.
“$250 is a lot of money to a lot of people,” said Harris. Other councilors agreed, and Flaherty withdrew his amendment. The motion to raise the fine to $250 passed.
The City Council also passed a motion to implement legislation that would allow the Westfield Police Department to enforce noncriminal disposition infractions for recreational and marine patrols.
This will allow the police department to write tickets and collect fines at waterways, such as Hampton Ponds, and also to issue fines on dirt bikes and off-road vehicles. Previously, only the Department of Environmental Protection could issue the fines.
