THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MARCH 29, 2024 Page 7 City officials answer councillors’ infrastructure questions C By Neil Zolot ouncillor-at-Large Guerline Alcy Jabouin asked city officials how they would handle infrastructure improvements, particularly related to water, wastewater and sewage services as a result of rapid development, at the City Council meeting on Monday, March 25. “Everybody wants to build in Everett and we feel we’re being suffocated and won’t be able to breathe,” she said. “I feel like I’ll wake up and won’t be able to turn on my water.” “We have plans to accommodate future needs,” stated City Engineer Erik Swanson. “We’re focused on areas with new development. Additional development in already established areas is not as critical as areas of new development, such as the Commercial Triangle south of Revere Beach Parkway/Route 16. There’s enough redundancy in areas already developed, but not in areas south of Revere Beach Parkway.” He also said existing pipes are “substantial. The pipes were installed with a build-out in mind. Pipes are sized to accommodate a full build-out. We’re working with consultants to understand our needs. That study isn’t done yet.” “We’re working with developers to tell us what we need to do for future development,” Swanson said regarding a question related to any future development. “It’s being worked on now. There are also plans to replace existing pipes in existing sections. There are plans to replace lead service lines in the next 18 months. Plans are not finished for undeveloped sections.” Jabouin asked about financial obligations to homeowners should pipe replacement be deemed necessary. The City’s Chief Financial Officer, Eric Demas, answered, “The City is fully insured.” “If it’s determined it’s the City’s fault, the City would be financially responsible,” City Solicitor Colleen Mejia added. “If it’s determined it’s the homeowner’s responsibility, the City wouldn’t be.” The determination would be made by City officials and insurance adjusters. “Where do the City and homeowners’ pipes meet?” asked Councillor-at-Large Michael Marchese, who, ironically, has owned multiple properties throughout the city for many years. Swanson answered that homeowners are responsible for pipes for their house to the main. After the meeting, Jabouin felt frustrated. “I feel like we’re not getting ready for what’s about to happen,” she said. “I’m not against development, but I’m against having all these new units no one can afford and want to know if we’re dealing with the infrastructure to accommodate all the development. What are our plans? Everett is an old city and we’ll have backups because of all the additional development our infrastructure won’t be able to handle.” Also addressed at the meeting, the councillors approved Mayor asks all residents to participate in annual Earth Day Cleanup All are welcome to register to help plant 3,000 trees M and clean up at Gateway Park and Glenwood Cemetery In addition to planting trees that the City of Everett will host the annual Earth Day Cleanup on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Gateway Park (inside the Gateway Center: 1 Mystic View Rd.) and Glenwood Cemetery (Washington Avenue). In celebration of Earth Day, which is recognized every year on April 22 to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement, the City will join with community members and local organizations to plant 3,000 trees at Gateway Park. In order to reach this goal, the Mayor is asking all residents to join in on this community effort to help improve Everett’s environment. Participants will have the opportunity to mulch and plant trees that will help improve the environment and the public park’s green space. Some of the benefits of planting trees include reducing energy usage, removing air pollutants, filtering stormwater and cooling urban areas by providing shade and releasing water vapor. at Gateway Park, those who wish to participate can choose to help beautify Glenwood Cemetery upon registering. This option is limited to 30 volunteers. Following the cleanup and ayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce planting efforts, the City will be hosting a free barbecue at 12 p.m. at Gateway Park for all who participated in the event. Those who wish to participate must register prior to the event by visiting cityofeverett. com/events/earth-day-2024. Eastern Bank Building on Rte. 1S 605 Broadway, #301 * Saugus (781) 233-6844 www.bostonnorthdental.com a proposal for the Police Department to execute a contract with software developers Equature for five years for servicing and maintaining the 911 Dispatch equipment. On Monday, March 18, the Ways and Means Subcommittee recommended approval on the matter, which was referred to them at a full Council meeting on Monday, March 11. The cost ANSWER | SEE PAGE 8 Dr. Priti Amlani Dr. Bhavisha Patel * Restorative Dentistry * Cosmetic Dentistry * Implant Restoration * Zoom Whitening * Teeth in a Day - All on 6 * Invisalign * CEREC Crowns (Single Visit Crowns) * Root Canal Treatment * Sedation Dentistry ~ Full Mouth Rehabilitation ~ Before After
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