City Council - Regular Meeting

Welcome, everyone. Madam Clerk, please call the roll call.

Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo?

Present.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderwa is absent. Councilor Davidson? Majority Leader Espinel?

Present.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonzales is absent. Councilwoman Graves? Deputy Majority Leader Harris? Present. Councilwoman Peterson? Present. Councilor Royas?

Present.

Councilwoman Ryan? Present. Majority Whip Sanchez? Present. Councilman Taylor? Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Present. Councilman Oscar Vargas?

Present.

You have 12 present and 3 absent. You have a quorum.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. This evening the invocation will be given by Councilor Justin Royas. Thank you, Mr. President.

Tonight, before we begin the people's business, I invite my colleagues here in the community, according to your own tradition, spirit, or way of making meaning in this world, to join in prayer, meditation, reflection, or simply a moment of silence. I offer this prayer in the name of Jesus, who taught us that whatever we do for the least among us, we do for him. Jesus proclaimed good news to the poor. And so, in that spirit, let us be guided in this chamber tonight. So let us pray. God of the weary tenant, God of the bus stop and the night shift, God of the triple deckers, the bodegas, and candles burning in kitchen windows, God who walks Broad Street and Charles Street alike, be with us tonight, because the rent keeps rising like a tide that never retreats, and too many people in this city are standing ankle deep in uncertainty, wondering how much longer they can hold on to home. And last week, When many prayed for relief, that prayer met a veal. But God, you have never confused legality with justice. There was a law for Pharaoh too, and there was a law for the money changers too. There were officials and signatures and procedures when they nailed Jesus to the cross. So save us tonight from the temptation to mistake power for righteousness. and disturb every politic that protects property more fiercely than people. Disturb every comfortable lie that tells working families displacement is just a price of progress. In the name of Jesus, homeless Messiah, table turner, enemy of indifference, give us the courage to build a province where the lights stay on, where the doors stay open, and where the people who carry the city on their backs are not sacrificed to the altar of profit. In Jesus' name, amen.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America will be led by Councilwoman Joanne Ryan.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you. Item number three.

Item number three is election of one member to the Providence External Review Authority.

Are there any nominations? Mr. President?

I nominate Rebecca Bucci for a member of Providence External Review Authority.

Second, Mr. President.

There is a second. Any discussion? Are there any further nominations? Are there any further nominations? Are there any further nominations? There being none, Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll.

The vote is open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo.

Present. Yes.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderbaugh is absent. Councilor Davidson. Majority Leader Espinal.

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonzales is absent. Councilwoman Graves. Deputy Majority Leader Harris. Councilwoman Peterson? Aye. Councilor Royas?

Proud, aye.

Councilwoman Ryan? Majority Whip Sanchez?

Aye.

Councilman Taylor? Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas? Aye. Councilman Vargas, can you put your electronic vote in? Aye. Your electronic vote.

Thank you.

That is 12 ayes and 3 absent.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Madam Clerk, please cast one ballot for Rebecca Bucci as a member of the Providence External Review Authority.

So noted.

Thank you.

Item number four. Mr. President, I want you to weigh the reading of item four and move approval.

Second, Mr. President.

There is a second. Madam Clerk, open the vote.

The vote is open. Councilwoman Ryan.

And the vote is closed.

That is 12 ayes and three absent. The motion carries and the minutes are approved.

Thank you. Item number five. Mr. President, motion to waive the reader of item five and six. Second, Mr. President.

Thank you. Any discussion? If there are none, the motion carries. Please note the items received. Item 5 and 6.

Item number 7. Mr. President, motion to weigh the reading of items 7 through 11 and pass for the second time and a roll call vote.

Second.

There is a second. Any discussion? If there's none, Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll.

The vote is open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo?

Yes.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderbois is absent. Councilor Davidson? Aye. Majority Leader Espanol?

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonsalves is absent. Councilwoman Graves? Aye. Deputy Majority Leader Harris? Aye. Councilwoman Peterson? Aye. Councilor Royas?

Aye.

Councilwoman Ryan? Majority Whip Sanchez? Aye. Councilman Taylor? Aye. Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas?

Aye.

Councilwoman Vargas, can you put in your electronic vote? Thank you. That is closed. You have 12 ayes and three absent. The motion carries. The matters are approved for the second time on a roll call vote.

Thank you, Madam President. Item number 12. Mr. President, motion to weigh the reading of item 12 and pass for the second time on a roll call vote.

Second.

The motion has been moved and seconded. Any discussion? Chairwoman Mary Kay Harris.

I want to rise the second time around this urban redevelopment and the funds that went out the door. I want to again thank the city for being able to put $5.4 million into the community and into organizations that definitely need it, especially with the struggling of things that we are here have happened. I want to thank everybody who participated. I want to thank the clerks who were very, very on point. I want to thank Emily Freeman and Alyssa McDermott. Get it out in a second. Just trying to remember. And all the committee members. for all their dedication. Most of all, I want to thank Kyle Delgado and Robert Baptista from the perspective of the council. I also want to thank the mayor's office for how we collectively worked together with the vice chairman, who we all decided what was priorities for this funding that needed to go out into the community. To me, this was the best process to have taken place. It was done smoothly, I think, for the urgency and for the things that the community need. I think it was done really great, and I just want to thank my colleagues here as well, because you got your projects in on time, so we were able to deliver this budget back to our planning department on time, and I just want to thank you again. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Any further discussion? Councilman Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to quickly rise and give Chairwoman Harris a huge amount of gratitude and recognition. Chairwoman Harris has been leading this committee for a couple years now. And it's not an easy task. There is a high need, a high demand for CDBG dollars in all of our communities in this whole city. And this committee, alongside all the partners that the chairwoman mentioned, work very committed very thorough my I see Alyssa here from the housing department thank you for all your work around this but we're definitely gonna miss your services As a city as a whole, Chairwoman, but especially in this committee, you led with your heart at the forefront of everything that you do. So I just want to give you your flowers in recognition and thank you very much for everything that you've done around CDBG. Thank you. Thank you.

Any further discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor? Any opposed? It passes, however. Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll. Would you like to speak on this matter? Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll.

The vote is open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo.

Yes.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderbaugh is absent. Councillor Davidson. He's accused. Majority Leader Espanol.

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonzales is absent. Councilwoman Graves. Aye. Deputy Majority Leader Harris. Aye. Councilwoman Peterson. Aye. Councillor Royas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Ryan. Aye. Majority Whip Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilman Taylor. Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas? Aye. Voting is closed. We have 11 ayes, 1 recuse, and 3 absent. The motion carries. The matter is passed for the second time on a roll call vote.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Item number 13.

Madam President. Mr. President, motion to weigh the reading of item 13 and pass for the second time on a roll call vote.

Second.

Motion has been seconded. Any discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll.

The vote is open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo.

Yay.

Deputy Majority Whip Vanderbilt is absent. Councilor Davidson.

Aye.

Majority Leader Espinel.

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonsalves is absent. Councilwoman Graves. Deputy Majority Leader Harris. Aye. Councilwoman Peterson. Councilor Royas. Aye. Councilwoman Ryan. Majority Whip Sanchez. Councilman Taylor. Councilwoman Ana Vargas. That an aye? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas. Aye. The vote is closed. And we have 12 ayes and 3 absent. The motion carries. The matter is approved for the second time on a roll call vote.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Item number 14.

Mr. President, motion to weigh the reading of item 14 passed for the first time on a roll call vote and referred to the committee and audience. Second.

There is a second. Any discussion?

Yes. Discussion? Mr. President, as you know, we have... Thank you for the opportunity. As you know, we now have an ordinance which we will be voting on shortly, which will allow for the expansion of incidental entertainment. So this is more like the companion bill, which will allow for the enforcement of licensing when it comes to extended incidental entertainment. So we'd like to vote it on tonight and send it to the committee so come back in June at the same time.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. Any further discussion? Councilman Vargas.

Thank you, Mr. President. I raise to support this ordinance because the constituents and the people have been waiting for more than, I would say, more than a year. And this will be a perfect time to work on it. I ask humbly to all those members of the Hope Committee to please make a consideration and pass it. Thank you.

Thank you. Any further discussion? I see none. Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll.

The vote is open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo.

Yay.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderbois is absent. Councilor Davidson? Aye. Majority Leader Espanol?

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonsalves is absent. Councilwoman Graves?

Aye.

Deputy Majority Leader Harris? Aye. Councilwoman Peterson? Aye. Councilor Royas?

Nay.

Councilwoman Ryan?

Stay.

Majority Whip Sanchez? Councilman Taylor? Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas?

Aye.

The vote is closed. We have 10 ayes, 1 nay, 1 abstention, and 3 absent. The motion carries. The matter is passed for the first time on a roll call vote and referred to the Committee on Ordinances.

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

Item number 15. Mr. President, a motion to weigh the reading of item 15.

Second.

There is a second. Any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor? Any abstentions? Any nays? The ayes have it. The item number 15 is referred to Special Committee on Hope.

So noted.

Thank you. Item number 16.

Mr. President, motion to weigh the reading of items 16 through 18 and pass on a voice vote.

Second, Mr. President.

The motion has been seconded. Any discussion on item 16?

May I have the resolution read, please?

Councilwoman Dickerson would like the resolution read. Madam Clerk, please read.

Whereas Janice O'Donnell, a cherished community leader and an enduring advocate for the children of the state of Rhode Island, passed away on May 10, 2026. And whereas, through her ardent advocacy for free play rather than structured activities and screen time, O'Donnell saw in every child an agent of their own learning, their own growth, and their own fun. And whereas, during her 29-year tenure as executive director of the Providence Children's Museum, O'Donnell created and supported a haven for wonder, imagination, and play. And whereas, With lines for the museum wrapping around the block, O'Donnell oversaw its relocation to the Jewelry District and the successful expansion of original exhibitions, innovative programming, and collaborations with local artists. And whereas, O'Donnell also helped launch and lead Play Corps, a parks department program that encouraged children to get outdoors and direct their own play at more than a dozen parks across the city. And whereas, Through collaborations with community partners and programs, including Head Start and DCYF, O'Donnell always ensured that children's programming and free play was available for the children who need it most. And whereas O'Donnell has earned well-deserved recognition from our community, including awards from the Rhode Island Foundation and University of Rhode Island Alumni Association. Now therefore, be it resolved, that the City Council of the City of Providence hereby honors the life and legacy of Janice O'Donnell, whose belief in our children's agency, creativity, and fortitude has forever changed how children play and learn in our city. Be it further resolved that this resolution be transmitted to the office of Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the Providence Children's Museum, and the family of Janice O'Donnell.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Councilwoman Davison?

Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to add a few words. First of all, I want to warmly welcome Janice O'Donnell's family and friends tonight. Thank you so much for joining us. And my own thoughts are that we moved here in the very cold and snowy winter of 2005. I had a five-year-old and a two-year-old, and a kind friend gave us one of the best gifts we ever received, which was a family pass to the Providence Children's Museum. We soon added a kid and all three spent many, many happy hours playing and learning at the museum with us, their grateful, tired, but happy parents. At the time, I didn't know who Janice O'Donnell was, nor did I yet know how grateful I would be to Janice for playing such an instrumental role in creating this iconic space for our city's young people. Time marches on. Many of the kids who grew up playing and learning in that wonderful space that everybody knows because Nori the Dragon is on the outside now bring the kids in their lives to play and learn. So thank you, Janice. We're creating so many hours of delight and fun for all of us. Janet was a smart, thoughtful, and equity-focused innovator. She opened the Providence Children's Museum to all families, not just those who could afford to pay. During her leadership, the Providence Children's Museum built a partnership with DCYF to bring families separated by court order to the museum for visitation. The museum employed its own social workers to run this program and it served more than 10,000 families. After her time at the museum ended, Janet worked with the city with the Providence Parks Department and created PlayCore, a free summer play program. To this day, that program is still activating parks across the city with free play, art, and creative exploration while providing access to free summer meals. I was really fortunate to meet Janice when we both wrote for the online publication Kiddo Info, and it's fitting to conclude this recognition of her life here with her own words that she published there in 2014. This is what Janice said. Children's free play has declined alarmingly in the past decade or more. Affluent children are sent to after school and weekend lessons and organized sports. Poor kids are in structured out of school time programs. With high stakes testing, schools emphasize academics and homework has expanded. The ubiquitous screen claims huge amount of kids' time. Days with FreePlay with neighborhood kids till the street lights come on are over, and that's a tragedy. FreePlay is so critical to children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. I want to give FreePlay back to kids. You did, Janice. On behalf of grateful Providence families, thank you for your work, your passion for play, and for your legacy.

Welcome. Thank you. Any further discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, open the vote on items 16, 17, and 18.

The vote is open. We have 12 ayes, 3 absent. The motion carries. The matters are approved on a voice vote.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Item 19. Mr. President, motion to weigh the reader of item 19 and 20. Second. The motion has been seconded. Any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor? Aye. Any abstention? Any nays? Please have it. Item 19 is referred to Special Committee on Hope. Item number 20.

Item 20 was included.

Item number 20 is included also. Item number 20 is referred to committee on city property.

So noted. Item 21. Mr. President, I motion to waive the reading of item 21 and pass on a voice vote.

Second.

The motion is on the floor and is seconded in discussion. Any discussion?

Councilman Oscar Vargas. And the discussion is that I would like this resolution to be sent to Public Works Committee. I don't have no information on this one, and a phone call will make a big difference. Everybody in the city has a cell phone that is being paid by the taxpayers, and they didn't pick up the phone to let know the chair of public works.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Majority Leader? This item, the councilman asked to ever refer to public works. No objection. So you would have to withdraw your motion. Make a motion to withdraw the motion and then it has to be seconded. So motion to withdraw.

Withdraw my second.

The motion has been made to withdraw item 21 on the voice vote and it has been seconded. Any discussion? Seeing none.

Mr. President.

Discussion. Councilwoman Joanne Ryan.

Who is the sponsor of this? And can we have an explanation as to what it is?

Majority Leader? Who sponsored it? Yes. Who is the sponsor? One second. Very good.

just asking mr. president the sponsor for an explanation of what it is what it does and why it's before us thank you

Councilwoman Grace, if you could please use the microphone. I'm sorry. This is for the school, for the easement. I apologize. Yes, this is for the school. So, yes. And you are the sponsor? Yes, I am. And I think this is something that they said they need done while they repair the school building. Um, like when I say father and his pop, Harry Kazarian school, my understanding.

Thank you very much, Mr. President.

One second, please. That's a woman. Graves.

Thank you. Councilman graves. I understand it's a transformer. It's a matter of urgency because they're in the middle of construction. I was just trying to give this sponsor an opportunity to articulate that it is a matter of urgency.

versus sending it to committee I think that the request is to pass it on the floor if if I'm wrong I yield to the sponsors request thank you thank you for that clarification so the motion on the floor right now is that was moved by majority leader was to withdraw his motion to pass on a voice vote and so the question at this time and there was a Also, discussion of a member asking for it to be referred to public works. With the majority leader, how would you like to proceed?

Apologies for that. So the motion now will be motion to waive the original item 21. And then you will make a determination as to where it goes. Per request of Council Member Vargas.

All right.

Seeing none. Any further clarification on that?

This is in my ward.

That's a woman, Grace. I'm sorry.

This is in my ward, and this is something that needs to be done, and it's kind of at the urgency because, as you know, those monies will go back if they don't complete these schools at a certain amount of time. So this is an urgent thing. It shouldn't be going back and forth through different committees. So this is something that really needs to be done.

All right.

Thank you.

Mr. President, I understand the discrepancy and the need with all respect to my colleagues. That's why we have a process to follow. A phone call will make the difference. As a chair of DPW, I don't know anything about this resolution. And I've been doing a lot of easements for the Rhode Island Energy and the Ragansett Electric Company. I've been doing a lot in the last four years. By doing this is going over the committee No respect. If that's the case, we can invent every resolution and just send it to the floor. We can have a discussion here. We can be here until midnight discussing all the changes and what we can do. But it's a process to follow. It's a process. I don't know anything about this. And I'd be glad to work. That's why I have a committee. And we go through there every time that we have a committee. And that's the reason I'm opposed to this way to do business in this chamber.

Thank you, Councilman Skobaric. Constable Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. Chairman, just to be clear, this is a request from the administration. So the administration should have gave you a call beforehand. But just to also add my voice on this, I think this is something that we should pass on the floor with regards to the concerns of that the chairman has I fully respect and understand as as members of committees we definitely want the the right process to take place but I would urge the chairman to allow this exception because this has to do with school construction and school construction is tied with very tight schedules in terms of reimbursement so to not have the potential of losing millions of dollars in reimbursements, I would ask the committee and the president to please allow this exception and pass this on the floor today. Thank you.

Thank you. Majority Leader, you make the motion to withdraw your motion.

We already made a motion to withdraw and then the second motion was to weigh the reading of item 21.

But presently, you made another motion. So right now, I have to vote on the second motion that you made, which was to determine if it was going to be referred to a committee. So at this time, make the motion to withdraw the motion. And then you can restate, again, the motion to waive the reading of the item.

We could probably do a roll call.

Yeah, right after that.

All right, so motion to withdraw their second Second there is a second.

I'm withdrawing the motion Any discussion seeing none? Might have clerked up no need for a roll call on that one all those in favor Any nays? The a's have it now on item two with the reading all right now that that needs to be revisited I don't think there was any clarity on what everyone was voting for can we please revisit that item madam clerk in council the motion that was made and that you just voted on was to withdraw the motion of That was the second motion to withdraw the, to waive the reading on item 21 and pass on a voice vote.

No.

Clarify that. Mr. President, if you allow me. Give me one second. If you allow, okay.

One second. Madam Clerk.

So there was, The initial motion was to waive the reading and pass on the voice vote, and that was withdrawn. The second motion was to waive the reading, and that was withdrawn. So now there is no motion before the council as of yet.

Mr. President.

Give me one second, madam.

There's no motion. Is that correct?

Councilwoman.

Mr. President.

Councilwoman, I'm going to clarify. I would like to rise. If you don't mind, after the explanation from the clerk, there is no motion on the floor, and the Majority Leader can make the motion again, and then we'll go proceed with it.

Mr. President, I would like to make the motion to pass item 21 on a voice vote.

Mr. President.

I get you to do that motion. There is a motion. Usually, the motions are made directly on these items by the Majority Leader. If the motion is on the floor.

I was recognized, sir, and I made a motion. So there's a motion on the floor. Please correct me, Madam Clerk, if I'm wrong.

Madam, Councilwoman Duran-Ryan, if you let me finish, I was in the process of recognizing the fact that you've made the motion. So therefore, the motion on the floor is to waive the reading of item 21 and pass and I vote both.

Second.

And so the motion is on the floor and there's a second. There's a second. Councilwoman Harris, any discussion?

Mr. President, I don't know who dropped the ball, but somebody dropped the ball in this resolution. It's unrespectful that the administration didn't make the phone call or anybody else to the chairperson. I don't have anything against the school, against Eastman's, because last week we met to do the people's work to pass the bridge, the black bridge that we have down the river. And if this resolution wasn't on the floor or was before us, why didn't they bring the resolution to me that day? And now they just want to pass it like overnight, like right by? Something's wrong here with this process.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Councilwoman Ryan.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am supporting this because my councilwoman from the area that this impacts has put it before us for a vote. I'm supporting the ward request. There's no cost to the city of Providence that is free. As my other colleague had commented, School of construction, as we know, is a tight timeline, very tight timeframe. This impacts our kids, and I know, and I can go to bank on this, that every single one of us, we may disagree on a lot of things, but when it comes to our kids, we're all spot on. This is about turning on electricity in the school, and Councilwoman Graves-Ward, I wasn't challenging you, Councilwoman, I just wanted you to speak to the attributes of it, It's about installing a transformer, not costing the city a dime. I am putting that testimony before you all and on the record. Councilwoman Graves is asking for a vote tonight in affirmative to pass this thing so that construction can go forward. Thank you.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, open the vote.

The vote is open. The vote is closed. We have 11 ayes, one abstention. The motion carries and the matter is passed on a voice vote.

Item number 22.

Mr. President. Motion to weigh the reading matter 22 through 24. Second, Mr. President.

The motion has been seconded. Any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor?

Aye.

Aye. All those opposed? The aides have it. Item 22 will be referred to Committee on City Property. Item 23, refer to Committee on City Property. Item 24, refer to Special Committee on State Legislative Affairs.

So noted.

Thank you. Item 25.

Mr. President, a motion to weigh the reading on item 25 and pass on a voice vote.

Second.

There is a second. Any discussion? Madam Clerk, would you mind reading this resolution?

Whereas the history and perseverance of the Sipan Kwampanoag are inextricably tied to the history of Providence and of Rhode Island, with significant portions of the land upon which the Seekonk Wampanoag historically resided and the towns and cities of the East Bay were founded, conveyed by deed to or due to the negotiation of Roger Williams, founder of Providence and of Rhode Island. And whereas the Seekonk Wampanoag tribe is part of the larger Wampanoag people, including the Aquina, Mashpee, Herring Pond, Asanet, Chappaquiddick, and Pecasset communities, and descended from Anawan, a chief and war leader of the Wampanoag, executed at the end of King Philip's War, a war that saw the Wampanoag and other allied nations dispersed, enslaved, and suppressed. And whereas, as with other Wampanoag communities, the Seekonk Wampanoag were dispersed and enslaved both in what became the United States and elsewhere and were subsumed into other identities with their identity and culture suppressed. And whereas, on October 1st, 1996, The descendants of Anawan, having survived centuries of oppression and discrimination, and recognizing their heritage and traditions, convened and formed the Seekonk Wampanoag tribe. And whereas, the Massachusetts Commission on Indian Affairs recognized Seekonk Wampanoag in 1997 due to the advocacy of Chief Willie Eagleheart Green, a South Providence native and dedicated leader. And whereas, the Seekonk Wampanoag have persisted in their revival of their culture, traditions, and beliefs, as well as their struggle for recognition by the state of Rhode Island. And whereas, the Providence City Council wishes to honor the indigenous people whose presence on the land constituting Providence and Rhode Island generally endures. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Providence City Council honors the Seekonk Wampanoag, their continuing presence in Rhode Island, and their enduring legacy. Be it further resolved that upon passage, copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Seekonk Wampanoag tribe, the Rhode Island delegation to the United States Congress, Governor of Rhode Island Daniel J. McKee, Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island Sabina Matos, and Secretary of State of Rhode Island Gregory M. Omori.

Thank you. Madam Clerk, open the vote.

The vote is open. The vote is closed. We have 12 ayes, 3 absent. The motion carries. The matter is approved on a voice vote.

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

Item 26. Mr. President, motion to waive the veto of item 26.

Second.

Motion has been second any discussion? Seeing none all those in favor Any attention any nays? Yes, have it item 26 referred to the committee on her Item 27 Mr. President motion to weigh the reader matter 27 passing a voice vote second motion has been second item 27

Whereas National Military Appreciation Month was established by the United States Congress in 1999 to ensure the nation collectively pauses to honor, remember, and appreciate profound sacrifices made by those who protect American freedoms. And whereas the city of Providence is home to a proud community of veterans, active duty service members, and military families whose contributions are vital to the fabric, safety, and character of our capital city. And whereas the month of May serves as a dedicated period to unite the citizens of Providence in a shared expression of gratitude, encompassing several pivotal military-centered observances that highlight distinct areas of service and sacrifice. Military Spouse Appreciation Day, recognizing the profound strength, resilience, and daily sacrifices of military families and spouses who support the backbone of our armed forces. And Armed Forces Day, celebrating and honoring the men and women who are currently serving on active duty across all branches of the United States military. And Memorial Day, a sacred and solemn day dedicated to remembering and honoring those heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in service to their country. and whereas meaningful support for our military community can be demonstrated locally through volunteerism at Veterans Affairs hospitals, contributions to accredited military charities like the Wounded Warrior Project, Operation Stand Down, and utilization of research and educational resources provided by institutions. And whereas, the Providence business community can further acknowledge the service by offering specialized military discounts, promotions, and community outreach initiatives throughout the month of May. And whereas, simple acts of personal outreach such as extending a direct thank you or sending a message of gratitude remain powerful ways for individual residents to show their appreciation. Now therefore, be it resolved, that Councilor Juan M. Pichardo, the Special Commission on Veterans Affairs, and the Providence City Council do hereby officially recognize the month of May as National Military Appreciation Month in the City of Providence, and call upon all residents, businesses, and community organizations to actively participate in honoring our active duty personnel, veterans and military families through service, outreach and remembrance. And be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to local veteran organizations, Governor Dan McKee, Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos, the members of the Rhode Island Congressional Delegation, the Rhode Island House Veterans Affairs Committee, the Rhode Island Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs Committee, and the Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services on behalf of Councilman Juan M. Pichardo and the entire Providence City Council as a token of our enduring respect and gratitude.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Madam Clerk, open the vote.

The vote is open. Councilwoman Vargas. You have 12 ayes, three abstentions. The motion carries. The matter is approved on a voice vote.

Thank you. Item 28.

Mr. Franklin.

Motion to weigh the written right at 28.

Second.

Motion has been seconded. Any discussion? No discussion. All those in favor? Any abstentions? Any nays? The ayes have it. One abstention, Councilwoman Duran-Ryan. The item passes, 28, and is referred to Special Committee on Ways and Means. So noted. Thank you.

Item 29. Mr. President. At this point, I'd like to make a motion to continue this matter. The reason is that we have an amendment, a friendly amendment, I believe it is. And I think that with this amendment, I believe it would probably most likely be passed unanimously by the members. Also, I want to say... Councilman. I want to make a motion to continue.

I HAVE NOT RECOGNIZED YOU.

I WILL MAKE A MOTION TO CONTINUE THIS ITEM, NUMBER 29.

I HAVE NOT RECOGNIZED YOU. SECONDED MOTION, MR. PRESIDENT.

ITEM 29, MAJORITY LEADER ESPINAL.

WELL, HERE WE ARE. I MEAN, A MOTION WAS MADE IN SECOND. MADAM CLERK, HOW DO WE PROCEED?

May we have an opinion from the solicitor? There's a motion that's been seconded on the floor.

Negative.

Mr. President?

According to the rules, the member has to be recognized and recognized at this time, Mr. President, Councilman Espinali, Majority Leader.

Well, I can certainly understand the importance of this.

Do you have a motion or a discussion? Point cannot be this discussion.

What was that about a clerk?

I called I called on you for item 29 Wasn't the way the reader about in 21 back for the first time in a local 29 The motion has been made and second. Any discussion?

Yes. Councilman Espinal. Thank you, Mr. President. And I can certainly understand my colleague and others that has expressed strong interest in having this item continue and perhaps that's what caused some confusion. Last week we had a Committee on Ordinance where this item was in the process of being vetted. We had public comments, which actually took about two hours. Everybody had an opportunity to take as long as they could, because I truly understand and I appreciate the people that come forward and that want to be heard, and especially items that are this important. Normally, we don't take a vote right after discussion, right after public hearing. because that produces a lot of data, that produces a lot of information. We get calls, we get letters sent in, and people's testimony, we feel that that is extremely important. So there was letters sent, one of the letters was sent from police department, the chief of police, Oscar Perez, who could not be here because it was on a personal duty. what is family. And there were things on there that caused pause and concerns. So I say, well, why don't we continue understanding how important this is? Why don't we continue this meeting to a date that is certain? And what I proposed at our time in committee was that we continue to the 26th, which would have been next week. Unfortunately, the majority of the members of our committee felt that they were ready to send it to the floor. Well, today I still need more information. I feel that it's premature to be on the floor because of the volume of concerns. Some members were begun being crafted that make a lot of sense because, you see, I think that we all want to get there. I personally support civilian oversight, but we can make it where it works for everyone. When you govern, you can't just one side something that is so critical and so important, especially if you have to work collectively with that department. We could pass it here today. We could pass it next week. The mayor can sign it. But is it going to be sustainable? Is it going to work? And this is we want to pass something that works. And most people here are supported and understand it. So because I feel that I need more information, I feel that it could be better, I will be abstaining. And it hurts me because I really want to vote for something like this because it's something that I believe on. But I will not be myself considered a responsible legislator if I'm lacking information and I'll be voting on something that I cannot fully explain because there's still concerns about this. So therefore, when it comes to a vote, I will be abstaining. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. President. Councilman James Davis.

Okay, I'm acknowledged. All right. So the reason I made that motion was before any motion was made, because I believe there is an amendment that is in. I've read the amendment, and I was happy with that amendment. I don't believe, unfortunately, the president's not here. and half of the leadership isn't here. So I wanted to address them, but without them being here, that's why I wanted to make the motion to continue, but was shot down. So I will also be abstaining, even though I think it should be done, but I think this amendment, like I stated, would be an unanimous decision of the council instead of splitting the council yet again on a vote for no reason when everything seems to be rushed. I understand it came out of committee. I wanted to talk to the president. Unfortunately, she's not here. The senior majority leader's not here. The deputy majority leader. And I just don't think that we should be voting on this. But whatever happens, I will be abstaining as it is written right now. Thank you.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Councilman Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. With all due respect to my colleagues, Mr. President, this ordinance and all these collaboration conversations have been going on for over a year. There's members of the community here, our para director, have been more than willing to collaborate for over a year. And the fact that some folks have an amendment that I haven't been sent. If folks wanted to push an amendment forward today, it should have been sent to counselors. Counselors, raise your hand if you have an amendment in your inbox.

Point of order, Mr. President, please.

Right, I don't think any council needs to be put on the spot.

So back to what I was saying, Mr. President, I think there is a fundamental difference on opinion on this ordinance. At the end of the day, this is bare minimum transparency for our community. This isn't taking any powers away from the police department. This isn't giving constitutional powers to an external board. All it's doing is allowing a board of citizens of the city of Providence to be able to access records and files to possibly give a recommendation to the police department. The police department doesn't have to do anything with that recommendation if they don't want to. At the end of the day, all this is doing is giving a board that we all have elected to put members on to hold Our city Officers accountable if there is unjust there was more than enough testimony last week I wasn't I heard it and even the representative from the police department Seemed to not be fully aware of what was in the ordinance This doesn't allow para to run a parallel investigation as the police department all this is doing is once the police investigation is done then the para can do what they need to do. At the end of the day, I'm not sure what's going on here. It seems a little shady, but that's neither here or there. What we need to do as elected officials that are here is move this piece of legislation forward, because our community is demanding it from us. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Councilwoman Ryan? Councilwoman Harris.

Councilwoman Ryan. Thank you, Mr. President. It's been years and years and years and years of Providence City Council trying to get this right. We have a body who have been working for quite a while on what is the problems that is prohibiting them from doing the work that they need to do to be able to get their investigation, their material and stuff that they need to be able to do a proper investigation. I believe the city of Providence do not want power to go away. If that was the case, there was lots of opportunities for that to happen way before today, where people continue to throw stumbling blocks. And I just don't understand. The Providence Police have been offered to sit at the table to also be a part of Para. and the voice that needs to be, whatever needs to be happening, whatever communication they need to have. The AG's been at the table around the same issue, parallel investigation. That's not the case. That was what was presented to us in the ordinance meeting, and we said, no, that's not what the ordinance is saying. I am upset tonight. I am very upset because The way this was done is similar to what Councilman Vargas was saying about the issue earlier, the easement. This was brought to me just a little before lunchtime. I was a part of the committee. I sit here and I listen. I understood what was going on in the committee. I also understood that Majority Leader and the Council President have been working both with police and power board to bring these issues to the table. I also understand that a lot of other things have been changed and a lot of amendments have went into this. I feel bad that the city of Providence continue to push back on something that is so very important to this city. I remember the days when Minneapolis stood here and vouch and testify about the internal process of a civilian oversight. Minneapolis do not have a civilian oversight. Minneapolis is like hell that's burning right now because of all the unrest of the people that keep going through the issues. I can say that our Providence Police Department have become a better from the issue in the time that i've been working on police accountability and police complaints a better department because they all complement each other i believe pirate compliments the police department police department compliments para and i believe they can work together but the city council gotta stop uh interfering in ways that they are not being very proactive towards what really needs to happen. You need to listen to the director. The director's been there for a while. We trust his opinion. There have been people like, on that board for a while, Susan Derrida, Ms. Deborah Ray, quite a few people who have went through this whole process long before the director came. So these issues that they are bringing to you are really concerns. I can't say any more other than I don't like the idea of how this just happened tonight. All of a sudden, this change came about and how it was brought about. Thank you for allowing me to speak.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilwoman. Councilwoman Ryan?

Well, thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Councilwoman Harris, and thank you for your work on this topic for so many years. I've listened to you, I've worked with you, and I hear your passion. Quite honestly, I'm confused. We had the majority leader stand up and call for a vote on this, but then stood up and asked for it to be continued. So I guess I want to start out by saying, does the majority leader want to change his motion and ask for this matter to be continued? I'm speaking to you, Mr. President, as the rules provide. But that's my first point. My second point is, is the lead sponsor isn't here. It's the council president. I think when there's so many of us that are asking for a continuance on such an important matter, the lead sponsor has a duty and obligation to be here and speak to the council, speak to the body that needs to make decisions. I would love to have that happen tonight. I'm also concerned about this because I know that the input that the police department provided was not incorporated in this version. I am not disparaging. I will never disparage my colleagues, as others have intended to do. But I want to say, I want to go on the record, I support strong civilian oversight. I stand with my colleague Harris on that. Increase transparency in efforts to strengthen public trust in policing. At the same time, several serious concerns raised by the police and the city solicitor remain unresolved in the current version of this ordinance. And that's why we're hearing people say, let's have a continuance. Why? Because it's important that we get it right. The ordinance raises questions about access to sensitive investigative information involving victims, witnesses, and ongoing investigations. Those issues carry real safety, legal, and operational implications for the city. Because it is being handled separately, leadership may not be able to respond appropriately or take necessary action. I believe additional amendments and continued collaboration are necessary, not only necessary, but essential, so that the final ordinance is legally sound, operational, workable, and capable of achieving intended goals. Let's put something together that this whole body can stand behind and feel good about. Let's not once again break up this council body. I ask that you recant your motion and ask for a continuance.

Mr. President, just...

Thank you, Councilwoman Ryan. Thank you. Just for clarification, I think that the chairman...

chairman can clarify i i believe that he also made that he was going to be abstaining not to i'd like to clarify chairman espinal yeah um i follow the protocol of the agenda that's before me which i must uh just to open up for discussion uh the result of tonight is the collective effort of the body thank you any further discussion

Any further discussion? Councilwoman Graves.

I think I'm a little bit confused. There was information that came out later today. I was in meetings all day today, so I did not get anything that came out this afternoon. I don't think that was fair to the rest of us. to not get that, and I understand because, like I said, I didn't get a chance to open it up. So I think maybe we would have to continue because I do want to know what's going on. And if there is something that legally we cannot do that is in the ordinance, I want to know what they are. and how we can change the language. I just want to make something really clear. I support para. I think we all need, every city needs something, you know, a private citizen thing to oversee some things. I also support our police department, because we all know we need them. And we all know that all of them are not bad, I'm going to be truthful with you. I think on the whole, Providence Police Department is good. Because I've been in some cities where it's been horrible. So I was going to say yes and let you guys work on changing the wording to this before, but if there's something that came out after, in the afternoon, I cannot. wholeheartedly say yes, that I'm gonna vote on that. I think we should continue to, oh, I too will have to abstain because I don't, and I never abstain, but if I don't have the information before me, I can't vote honestly.

Point of clarification.

Thank you, Councilwoman Graves.

Thank you.

The councilwoman alluded to the city solicitor's office having remaining questions, and I'd actually like to confirm that that's actually the case. We didn't hear that when we had committee previously, so I'm uncertain if that's actually true. While I've heard from our police in regards to what's happening, I do have the question with regards to the city solicitor's office since it was stated here.

Councilwoman Peterson, can you restate your clarification for the city solicitor?

Absolutely.

Before us is the resolution that came out of committee, chaired by

chairman espinal which you're also a member and if you could just clarify your question to be clarified in discussion thank you uh... mr president in discussion it was it was referred to that the city solicitor's office also had remaining questions and i'd like to actually confirm that that's the case because that was not conveyed during our public hearing and if that's actually something that's still pending, I would like to know as we made a decision based on the full clarity of what was presented to us during committee, which that was not.

Thank you.

Mr. President, I know there were concerns in several of the drafts. I don't know if there were specific concerns in the final iteration of the report, and I would not be able to hear them again. So I don't know if there were specific questions, or if there were yet. Perhaps the chair may know, but I don't know. I know there were questions in this one.

Mr. Chairman, would you like to... Information is still involved, still coming in. There's been back and forth. So it's just very overwhelming, confusing at this point with the volume of information coming in.

So at this point, continue the conversation. Congressman Royals.

Thank you, Mr. President. Just a few points of clarity here. First point is that we are falling for a ploy here by the administration at the 11th hour again. And four years we have been through this, and I'm tired of it. Point number two is before the Ordinance Committee heard this initially, we had promoted this for two weeks. I want my colleagues to know that. Two weeks the administration knew about this ordinance. Then we meet as an ordinance committee. I don't know what this amendment says, but that should have been brought before the ordinance committee. What we did spend a lot of time on was this question of can we run parallel investigations? That was the main point of contention that the administration had. And what was verified and clarified in committee was that, and it says explicitly in ordinance, colleagues, that that is not possible under this law. This is an absolute ploy at the 11th hour. I respect members of the administration. I respect the chief. And I don't know who's behind this, truly. I don't think it's him. But this is not okay, and we are falling for it. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Chairman?

Yes, I... You know, hearing the level of confusion and discussion, I think it's only proper for me to withdraw my motion.

At this time... At this time...

The motion was to waive the reading of writing 21 and pass for the first time on a roll call vote. I am waiving... One second, Mr. Chairman. One second.

Mr. Chairman? Yes. You would have to... Before... That question is posed. Any other discussion? Discussion? Councilman Sanchez?

No?

All right. At this time, the Chairman and Majority Leader made a motion to withdraw the item 21, as it was presented. 29. 29, as it was presented.

I will withdraw my second.

Councilwoman Harris also withdraws her second. So therefore, at this time, it has been second and withdrawn. Any discussion? Any discussion? Is there any clarity that needs to be made in order for you to make a vote on the withdrawal? Councilwoman Ryan.

I'm going to sit on the withdrawal.

Thank you. So, all those in favor? Aye. Any abstention? Any nays? And the withdrawal. So, everybody, by now voting, all right? So, the motion has been withdrawn.

Mr. President. Mr. President. One second.

Mr. President. Councilman Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to make a motion to approve as is item 29.

Mr. President. Is there a second? There is a motion on the floor. Second.

Why are you not yielding to the majority leader?

It is the same motion that we just withdrew, Mr. President. There is no difference. So we just withdrew a motion. So my colleague gets to make the same motion. Are we just gonna go around and around?

One second.

A motion is on the floor.

I recognize Councilman Sanchez for discussion. He made a motion based on the rules and based on protocols. Once a motion is made, it's either gotta be second or not seconded at all and then it dies.

The same motion just was defeated.

The motion was defeated. Point of order. Point of order. The motion was not defeated. Can we ask the city solicitor?

Right, but my, just a point of clarification. What is in question here is that the motion that I made was withdrawn. Right. that past it was withdrawn but my colleague has made the same motion that I that I just withdrew is that proper mr. president so so there is a motion on the floor is there a second second in second mr. president one second

The motion has been seconded by Councilman Justin Royce and Councilwoman Harris. Is there any discussion on the motion, which is on item 29? Mr. President. Councilman Vargas.

Thank you. For clarification, I want to ask the solicitor what happens with the motion of Councilman or my colleague Taylor to continue. Thank you.

Further discussion on the motion? On 29. Any discussion?

Chairman Espinel.

I think it's... Let me just get up.

Because I think what is developing here and what's going on here is completely very, although democratic, very unnecessary. I mean, we've been here for three and a half years in this term. We work together on so many items. Look at the agenda tonight. I don't know, it's 39, 40 items. This is one. But it's one that is further creates issue among colleagues. We'll be here tomorrow. We'll be here next week. We have to work together. Why is it wrong that we give ourselves a little bit of time to make sure that everyone's concern is addressed and is heard? What is the rush? Why are we stirring this up? If we come back next week, yeah, we come back next week. But we come back with all the answers. I'm not going to come back next week and say, well, I still have questions. I still have this and that. This is the way the democratic process works. There is no need to live tonight with so much that has not been said. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman. Councilwoman Harris.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would agree with Majority Leader if... the process would have been done right. I believe that we have enough discussion in committee. I show up at committees and I give my time in committees and I put my interest in committees and I try to figure out what is going on in the committees to make decisions out of the committees, not to make a phone call to the majority leader only to find out these amendments were taking place. This is not the way democracy, this is not what democracy is. I don't believe it is. So I strongly oppose the amendments, the way they came to the floor. If we open up the floor to do that, every vote that we take out of committee, this is gonna happen all the time. And again, I just don't like the process and the way it was done. I feel like it was a lot of backroom deals that was taking place right there. To me, I'm only speaking about how I'm feeling about the issue, because I don't get upset over things unless it's worth getting upset over. So thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. Councilwoman Peterson.

Thank you. I just want to echo the sentiments of my fellow councilwoman here. I think what we have today is a lost opportunity to continue working together when this was all put in front of us at the 11th hour. We had an entire week, week and a half between committee and now to be able to continue discussing what potentially could be happening today. and it all came today. That's unfair, it's unfair to the process, it's unfair to the people, as Councilwoman Harris has mentioned, that dedicated their time to listening for hours for the public hearing and the testimony of people on both sides of the situation. Not only that, But it becomes, as we're continuing to do this process, this is only going to continue happening because what I find is that it's now becoming disrespectful to the colleagues that are here. When we agree on something, it's fine, but when we disagree on something, or perhaps the administration disagrees on something, we're getting something at the 11th hour that becomes something that becomes unfair to us. So while I understand the point and I appreciate the point, what happens is that when we have to make decisions like this, then none of us can get anything done. And that's not fair to the external review board that has been working on this for over three years. This has been presented to me three years ago with the possibility of an opportunity. And now we're here. And to belabor this any longer is just unfair to the system that we have of democracy, but also to the people that have put the work in.

Thank you. Any further discussion? Councilwoman Ryan.

Question, please, for the chair of the ordinance committee. At the public hearing, sir, I'm sorry.

You may proceed.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. Was this voted on the evening of the public hearing?

Yes, yes.

Okay.

But the valuable concerns were raised during that hearing, and I asked for time during that hearing.

Point of order. This amendment was not put forward in the public hearing.

I'm not referring to amendments. I'm not referring to amendments. Order. Order.

Order.

point of clarification.

You addressed the point of clarification. Mr. Chairman, one second. I would recognize everyone. Everyone has the authority to speak. We set rules. Please recognize and not speak over each other. Wait until I recognize individual to answer. Appreciate it. Thank you. Madam Clerk. Just for clarification, Mr. Chairman, you probably stated or restated that the hearing that took place, it was a public hearing, public meeting with committee members and also public comments. So if you could just restate what was before you and how it came out.

Correct. I was just my colleague Ryan referenced and she asked if this was voted on. What I understood was if this was voted out of committee, and it was, but there was no amendments that we voted on that came up new or any of that. And at that time, I did express the concerns that we had. I asked for extra time. I put out a date, but that did not go anywhere. So those concerns were raised during committee. I did that. It's live on YouTube. You can watch it. So I'm deeply offended when references are made of backroom deals because that's not who we are and that's not what we do. Thank you. Thank you for that clarification.

Council President, that was the beginning of my comment.

One second, Councilwoman Ryan. One second. Further clarification from the clerk's office.

Just to clarify, when this matter was voted out of committee, it was at a regular committee meeting, not a public hearing, but public comment was allowed. I misspoke.

May I continue, Mr. President?

Thank you Madam Clerk for that clarification. Thank you.

I just wanted to hear from the Chair because as I understood there was public comment at a committee meeting on my concern and my question to the Chair through the Council President is did the items that were raised in public comment and otherwise get entered into the ordinance that is sitting before us on a vote? That's all I'm asking.

The letters of concern and any any any thing that was before were legitimately entered into the records.

Thank you. Any further comments? So the motion?

Mr. President. Congressman Vargas. Thank you very much. I feel the pain, and everybody feels the pain, like the easement that we have passed. It looks like that we're getting resolutions in the last minute, and we don't follow the process. I understand that we got this amendment today, and I understand my colleagues that they need more time and they They want to pass this tonight. I was there in that committee. And I hear the chair saying that he needs more time to make another meeting. But my colleagues decide to send it to the floor. We respect that. And that's why we have it here. Now we're asking for more time to continue. But all depends. and my colleagues who make the motion and who second it. My confusion is, are we voting without the amendment, or are we voting with the amendment? Question goes to my colleague who make the motion.

Thank you, Congressman. I made the motion, Mr. President.

Congressman Sanchez.

Thank you, can I address my colleague? to approve as is, so no amendments, nothing as is, as you heard it in your committee last Wednesday. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Thank you.

Any further discussion? Seeing no further discussion, Madam Clerk, open the vote and call the roll on item 29 with no amendments.

council president miller is absent acting council president pichardo yay deputy majority with vanderbilt is absent councillor davidson aye majority leader espinal abstain senior deputy majority leader gonzalez is absent councilwoman graves Abstain. Deputy Majority Leader Harris? Aye. Councilwoman Peterson? Aye. Councilor Royas?

Aye.

Councilwoman Ryan? No. On this ordinance. Majority Whip Sanchez?

Aye.

Councilman Taylor is absent. Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Councilman Oscar Vargas.

I was thinking.

The vote is closed.

Point of order, council president. Why is the chief of staff at the rostrum during the vote? Point of order.

You have six ayes, one nay, four abstentions, and four absent. The motion carries. The matter is approved for the first time on a roll call vote.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Item 30.

Mr. President, motion to waive the reading of item 30 and pass for the first time on a roll call vote.

Second, Mr. President.

There is a second.

Any discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, open the vote. And call the roll. Madam Clerk?

Waiting for the vote to open, which is now open. Council President Miller is absent. Acting Council President Pichardo?

Aye.

Deputy Majority Whip Anderbois is absent. Councilor Davidson? Aye. Majority Leader Espanol.

Aye.

Senior Deputy Majority Leader Gonsalves is absent. Councilwoman Graves. Deputy Majority Leader Harris. Aye. Councilwoman Peterson. Councilor Arroyo.

Just a point of clarification.

We're in the middle of a roll call vote.

Okay. Nay.

Councilwoman Ryan is absent. Majority with Sanchez. Councilman Taylor is absent. Councilwoman Ana Vargas? Aye. Councilman Oscar Vargas? Aye. Councillor Pichardo, can you put in your vote, please? Thank you. The vote is closed. You have nine ayes, one nay, five absent. The motion carries. The matter is approved for the first time on a roll call vote.

Thank you. Item 31. Mr. President, motion to weigh the reader at 31 and 32 and pass on a voice vote.

Second, Mr. President. The motion has been seconded. Any discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, open the vote.

The vote is open. The vote is closed. We have 10 ayes. The matters are approved on a voice vote.

Thank you. Item 33.

Mr. President, motion to weigh the winner, item 33 through 38. Second. There is a second. Any discussion?

Discussion? All those in favor? Mr. President. Discussion?

Councilman Vargas. Thank you very much, Mr. President. This resolution is a, I want to say thank you to all my colleagues who supported this one. We're getting a bridge, but it's an old one. Which one?

Oh, I'm so sorry. These are the items, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37. 32. We already did that. 32. Would you like to read?

Yes. Thank you, Mr. President.

Just for clarification, this is on 32. We already spoke on that. We already passed that one, Chairman. So we're on 33, 34, 35, 36. Easy. We're almost done. We're done? Yes. I'm sorry, Mr. President. Thank you. Appreciate it. Further discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor? Aye. Any abstentions, any nays? The ayes have it. Item 33 is received. Item 34, referred to committee on public works. 35, referred to committee on public works. 36, severely referred to committee on claims and pending suits. 37 is received. 38 is received.

So noted.

39.

Mr. President, motion to waive the reading of item 39 and pass on a voice vote. Second.

There is a second. Any discussion?

Councilman Sanchez. Just clarity. Can I use a point of personal expression?

After we dispense with this matter.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. And then we conclude. On item 39. None all those in favor. Hi any attention in name the age having Done some incentives.

Thank you. Mr. President. Thank you colleagues members of the public for this very interesting meeting But today I want to rise and recognize someone That's very special to all of us this person With collaboration with the rest of the clerks, helps us keep our meetings moving forward, has upgraded a lot of technology, and is going to be missed very much. And this person that, and might be the best dressed person in City Hall, too. This person I'm speaking about is Darius.

Yeah.

Okay.

Yeah.

Darius is chasing other dreams and we have nothing but respect and support. Darius know that you'll always have friends and family here in the Providence City Council. So whenever you want to come back, we're more than happy to open you with open arms. But we really appreciate you, brother. Everything that you've done and continue to do to make our job better, but more importantly, make the meetings that we do here more accessible with the technology upgrades. I'm always going to appreciate the committee where you were documenting our meetings in a very Netflix style. I know the members of the public really appreciate that. But for literally two, three hours, a couple meetings, he was moving the camera around manually. So that's something I always appreciate, brother. But just to show the gratitude that this body and the city has, I want to read this certificate of recognition. Be it hereby known that all the Providence City Council hereby offers its sincerest congratulations to Darius Henderson, our Special Project Manager in the City Clerk's Office, in recognition of your outstanding service to the City of Providence, your professionalism and commitment to running council and committee meetings, audio, visual, and the voting systems, have been very helpful and have moved our city forward with a lot of gratitude. We thank you for your valuable contributions and wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Darius, thank you so much, brother.

Thank you, Darius. Thank you, Congressman Sanchez. Any further comments? Just wanted to thank everyone for their due diligence tonight. I also, in the audience, I know we took a little longer. People wanted to leave earlier. But there were a couple of people that I wanted to just at least shout out. They were sitting there with a Rhode Islander, a Providence native, Max Lora, Maximo Lora, as he's known, who lives in Florida now. He's back to celebrate his mom, La Juvia, 85th birthday. So I wanted to recognize him and welcome him to the city council. applause for him yeah right he never forgets his roots the other young lady that we had here today was a high school student at PCTA Maria Cical who is a junior and is rocking it and she actually is a welder, but really a good one. She just recently returned from San Diego, who provided a tremendous opportunity for her to display her talent, and she had won the one of the competitions she placed fourth in the country right here from PCTA and took first place in 2026 SkillsUSA State Welding Sculpture Competition. This June she will be heading out to SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference to showcase her sculpture on the national stage. I know she's also someone that I met in the schools. She's also a resident in Councilman Oscar Vargas. And when she returns with that prize, we're going to give her the nice welcome. So I just wanted to acknowledge her. So an applause for her, for all her dedication and her commitment. So with no further business, Major Leader Espinal. Motion to adjourn. There's a motion. There is a second, no discussion? Meeting adjourned. All in favor? Happy Memorial Day. But it's also to recognize the fact that many sacrificed.