Fall River City Council keeps Camara as president, taps Pereira new vice-president; council secretary retires

On Tuesday evening the Fall River City Council voted in a new vice-president.

During a meeting that began at approximately 6:10 p.m., Joe Camara was voted to be president until the end of the year and Linda Pereira vice-president.

Council President Voting:

Shawn Cadime: Dionne
Joe Camara: Camara
Michelle Dionne: Dionne
Brad Kilby: Camara
Pam Laliberte: Not present
Leo Pelletier: Camara
Linda Pereira: Camara
Andrew Raposo: Dionne
Washington: Camara

Camara thanked the councilors for their support and stated the importance of improving public safety, education, and infrastructure in the city. Camara also stated that the council needs to support city department heads. The council president also reiterated that it is important for there to be respectful and honest debate on issues.

Camara became the president in a special meeting in September after Pam Laliberte stepped down while facing a criminal case.

Council Vice-President Voting:

Shawn Cadime: Raposo
Joe Camara: Pereira
Michelle Dionne: Raposo
Brad Kilby: Pereira
Pam Laliberte: Not present
Leo Pelletier: Pereira
Linda Periera: Pereira
Andrew Raposo: Raposo
Washington: Pereira

Pereira, who takes the post from Michelle Dionne, also thanked her colleagues. The new vice-president called on her fellow councilors to work together and be united for the good of the people of Fall River.

City Council Secretary Colleen Taylor was recognized for her 29 years of service. Today was her last council meeting and her last day working at city hall will be Friday. President Camara acknowledged Taylor’s temperament and her ability to make the councilors look good.