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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-10-03 Government Operations Committee Minutes Government Operations Committee Minutes Monday, October 3, 2022 Councilors in Attendance: Hawes (Chair), Yacoubagha,Tremble, Okafor, Davitt Non-Committee Member Councilors: Sprague, Leonard, Fournier Staff in Attendance: C. O'Donnell, D. Laurie, D. Szewczyk The meeting was called to order by Committee Chair Hawes at 5:40 p.m. 1. Homelessness Series Wrap-Up Assistant City Manager O'Donnell reviewed a spreadsheet compiled based on agencies who came before the committee to share information about the services their agencies offer. There was much discussion amongst the Council about the value of the agencies, identifying barriers, coordination being key, collaboration, and a lot of dedicated folks in our community. Councilor Sprague expressed frustration over lack of a comprehensive strategy between all the agencies and the services provided. There was also discussion about State resources. City Manager Laurie spoke about Dorothea Dix Facility and how it is under the full control of the legislature but session is back in soon and it may be appropriate to request more information for potential options. 2. Built for Zero Hub 7 Update HUB 7 Coordinator Jennifer Weatherbee was present to provide an update on her efforts. She outlined work on updating local provider network, providing support to individuals and identifying needs and gaps, and efforts to pilot a coordinating entry system. There was discussion about prevention and diversion, preventative measures, encampments, and a request for updates as information becomes available. 3. Draft Ordinance:Tenant's Rights Solicitor Szewczyk reviewed the draft ordinance requested by Council based on concerns received by the Council related to rent increases, limited housing, etc. The draft ordinance has language to increase notice period for rent increase, restrict application fees, and provide access to tenant's rights information. Councilor Tremble shared that he didn't believe it was overly restrictive, concern over rental application piece not being restrictive enough. Based on discussion, the item is expected to return in November for further discussion. 4. Ordinance: Amending Food Sovereignty& Related Fees Asst. City Solicitor Thomas reviewed a need to update the food sovereignty ordinance to include a licensing provision to add accountability. This was in line with the original ask and through internal discussions and feedback, staff is making the recommendation to make the change. At the same time, fees would need to be updated to include a $25 application fee. A motion to approve and move to full Council was made by Councilor Davitt, seconded by Councilor Okafor, all in favor. 5. Policy: Updating Remote Meeting Policy Assistant City Manager O'Donnell provided an updated policy that allows members of all boards and committees to participate remotely, not to exceed once in a row unless extenuating circumstances approved by Council Chair. The public will continue to be allowed to participate remotely. A motion to approve and move to full Council was made by Councilor Davitt, seconded by Councilor Yacoubagha, all in favor. Meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:56 pm.