Development News for Malden, Massachusetts

Floral Avenue Pole Installation Petition Tabled for Further Investigation

The council reviewed a petition from National Grid to install a new pole and a sidewalk guy wire fixture on Floral Avenue. Concerns were raised by a resident and a councilor regarding the necessity of the new pole, the deteriorating condition of existing poles, and the process for replacing them. The resident expressed that the new pole seemed unnecessary and unattractive, suggesting repair or replacement of the existing pole. The council decided to table the petition pending further investigation into alternative solutions and more information regarding pole maintenance plans.

Council Addresses Open Meeting Law Complaint Regarding Executive Session

The council discussed an open meeting law complaint filed by Bruce Friedman against the council regarding an executive session held on May 12, 2026. The complaint alleged that the topics listed in the notice were not sufficiently specific and that the purpose of the session was improper. The assistant city solicitor presented a response stating the notice was specific enough by naming the litigation and that the case was not fully adjudicated, thus the exemption for litigation discussions still applied. The council voted to approve the legal department's submission of this response to the complainant and the Attorney General's office.

City Council Holds Public Hearing on FY2027 Budget, Residents Voice Concerns

The council held a public hearing for the proposed fiscal year 2027 annual appropriation orders for the general fund. Councillor McDonald, Chair of the Finance Committee, provided context on the budget process, noting a budget gap due to a failed tax override and proposed cuts of over 30 positions across departments, excluding schools. The hearing is for public input before the Finance Committee and full council vote next week. Residents provided feedback on various budget items, including a proposal to reduce water bill mailings to save costs and concerns about cuts to language access services. Councillor O'Malley proposed specific budget cuts to overtime, landscaping, professional services, and mayoral events to restore positions, including language access staff.

Forest Street Pole Installation Approved Pending Easement

The city council considered a petition from National Grid and Verizon New England Incorporated to install a new pole on Forest Street. The installation requires an easement for sanitary purposes, and the new pole installation is pending this easement. The council moved to grant the petition with conditions including notifying Dig Safe, restoring streets and sidewalks to the satisfaction of the director of public works, and ensuring work does not interfere with funeral processions at the cemetery. The petition was granted after a motion by Councillor Taylor, seconded by Councillor Luong.