City Council in brief: Councilors recognize teachers, public employees

The Waltham City Council at its Monday night meeting approved resolutions observing both Public Service Recognition Week and Teacher Appreciation Week, which each happen annually during the first week of May.

Ward 8 Councilor Cathyann Harris introduced the Public Service Recognition Week resolution, commending Waltham’s municipal employees for their dedication and professionalism. The resolution highlighted the city’s workers across departments such as public safety, public works, education, libraries and more. Harris praised their resilience, emphasizing the essential services they provide to maintain the health, safety and well-being of the community. 

“Waltham has some of the finest public servants in the commonwealth, and they deserve our recognition,” said Harris. “On behalf of the City Council, I just want to thank all of our public employees. I know sometimes the job is a tough one, but you do it with grace and style.”

The council also passed a resolution for Teacher Appreciation Week, recognizing Waltham’s educators for their exceptional contributions to students’ academic, emotional and social development. Harris acknowledged teachers’ adaptability, particularly during times of challenge, and their ability to foster a supportive learning environment. 

In a statement read by the City Council clerk, Harris said: “Waltham’s educators play a vital role in shaping the future of our community, encouraging every student to achieve their fullest potential. The city of Waltham wishes to recognize the tremendous fabric of those individuals who give so much of themselves in service to students and families.”

Additional items of note

In other City Council action, members reviewed a civic project by McDevitt Middle School students, who have been addressing the issue of littering around the Charles River. The students recommended the installation of a new smart trash recycling system and a no-littering sign to help reduce waste in the area. 

Also, the council unanimously approved a five-year lease extension for the city’s ice rink, securing its continued operation. 

The council additionally approved an ownership change of the class II motor vehicle license for Waltham Auto Gallery at 712 Moody St. The license was transferred from Jofi Enterprises Inc. to Lehnen & Ristov Enterprise LLC, doing business as Waltham Auto Gallery. The new owners will continue operations at the same location.

Eversource Energy successfully petitioned the City Council to install approximately 7 feet of conduit on Ash Street to support new electric vehicle charging stations and lighting for the parking lot at 625 Moody St. An Eversource representative said the trench would be about 4 feet wide and all staging would occur within a designated area to minimize disruption. The petition now moves to the Licenses and Franchises Committee for further review.