9.22.2026 City Council - Ordinances and Legislation

The Fall River City Council Ordinances and Legislation Committee met on September 22, 2026, to discuss several traffic-related ordinances and other legislative matters. Key procurement-related discussions included proposed ordinances on handicap parking, parking prohibitions during certain hours, and loading zones to accommodate local businesses such as Shoreline Solutions and Azor's Market. The committee voted to pass some sections while tabling others for further review, particularly concerning parking restrictions and loading zone hours. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposed ordinance regulating all-night parking of commercial vehicles, with input from the Chief of Police and the Director of Traffic and Parking. The Chief provided a detailed case study and recommended revisions to the ordinance, including clear towing authority and enforcement guidelines. The committee expressed frustration over the absence of Corporation Counsel, who had not yet reviewed the ordinance, and voted to send a letter requesting their presence at future meetings. The committee agreed to table the commercial vehicle parking ordinance pending further review and collaboration with Corporation Counsel. Other items, such as amendments to the city code regarding the police chief's civil service status and the authority to retain outside legal counsel, were also discussed, with motions to pass or table as appropriate. Overall, the meeting involved several motions and votes related to traffic ordinances affecting local businesses and residents, with an emphasis on refining enforcement policies and ensuring legal review before final adoption.