On a night that was largely dedicated to setting the new property tax rate, the City Council also set aside some time Monday to recognize two former volunteer board members as well as four retiring firefighters.
The council recognized Ed Callahan, a longtime former city councilor, and Mary Giles. Both are stepping down from the Conservation Commission.
Ward 2 Councilor Ed Tarallo said Callahan served more than 20 years as a city councilor in the ward he now represents, and also was a council president. Callahan has been a member of the Conservation Commission since 1999.
"He's done everything that this city could have certainly asked of any one individual," Tarallo said.
Giles had been on the commission since 1997.
"I'm not retiring, I'm just moving on," Giles said. "It's been wonderful working for the city and I've enjoyed it very much."
Meanwhile, Councilor at large Kathleen McMenimen authored four resolutions honoring retiring Waltham firefighters Kevin Eagan and Norman Poirier, both of who have been with the Fire Department since 1979; Lt. Ronald Belinda, who has been with the department since 1984, and Deputy Stephen Mahoney has served with the department since 1977.
McMenimen said when council members say a prayer for troops serving overseas, it's also important to remember the firefighters in the same vein.
"We all know when the firefighters leave the station, they deserve a quiet whisper of prayer and good luck," she said.
Don't take it for "grant"ed
The Waltham Police Department has been awarded three separate grants totaling about $57,000 that will help pay for a finger and palm print scanner, ramping up traffic enforcement and training.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance grant will give the department $13,039 to purchase the scanner that captures forensic quality images. About $14,000 in federal drug forfeiture funds will be also used to help purchase the system, according to a memo from Police Chief Thomas LaCroix.
Police also received a grant for $17,000 to help pay for traffic enforcement efforts; part of the money is earmarked to help with future mobilizations and for equipment.
Also, the department was approved for a $25,000 grant that will help pay for E911 training.
The council's Finance Committee will vote next month on whether to accept the grants.
