Morgan Hunte

The committee reviewed project updates for the Malden River Works Salt Shed & Boathouse, noting the completion of Phase 1 construction and successful management of soil contamination. Discussions focused on construction cost estimates, which total approximately $4,168,600, and explored potential cost-saving measures including material changes and modifications to procurement strategies. The committee scheduled a follow-up meeting to finalize decisions regarding these cost-reduction options to facilitate the progression of construction documents.

The council reviewed two statements from the Malden Police Department concerning the use of Flock cameras and immigration enforcement. Discussions regarding Flock cameras focused on their deployment, data collection, access controls, and policies against sharing information with federal agencies. Regarding immigration enforcement, the council sought clarification on the jurisdiction of the local police department and the extent of their interactions with federal agencies such as ICE.

The committee discussed various sign applications, including denials for Mystic Valley Regional Charter School, Wing Stop, and Malden Cosmetic Dentistry and Implants due to zoning or compliance issues. Approvals were granted for sign applications from Markita Beauty and Route 99 Auto Collision, with conditions applied to the former. The committee also reviewed several compliance updates regarding businesses that installed signs without permits, including the issuance of tickets and requests for the removal of prohibited pennants.

The board accepted the treasurer's report regarding trust income and received a superintendent's report detailing recent burials, preparations for Memorial Day, ongoing water system repairs, landscaping initiatives, and building maintenance. Additionally, the board held an election of officers to reappoint the president and secretary and discussed the deferment of a proposed bench project.

The commission voted to approve the annual license renewal for Eastern Cannabis, noting updates to operational hours and the implementation of a new host agreement. Updates were provided on existing operations for Misty Mountain Shop and DMS Trinity, as well as legal developments concerning Benevolent. The commission discussed proposed ordinance changes aimed at capping the number of cannabis shops and reviewed industry updates regarding new state legislation, federal reclassification of cannabis, and ongoing permit and regulatory matters, including revised possession and purchase limits.