Worcester City Manager Eric Batista Responds to WRRB Civilian Review Board Report

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Radio Worcester

WORCESTER, MA– Worcester City Manager Eric Batista joined Hank Stolz on Talk of the Commonwealth to address the recently released Worcester Regional Research Bureau (WRRB) report recommending that the city establish a civilian police oversight board. The report, which Batista commissioned in partnership with the bureau, outlined fourteen recommendations for how such a board could be structured and operate effectively.

Batista explained that the effort began under the previous administration. “Many in the community and on the council wanted an independent analysis,” he said. “Rather than having the administration write it—which might be perceived as biased—it made sense to have the Research Bureau, as an objective third party, do a comprehensive review.”

Batista said the report contained no major surprises. “I’ve spent years studying civilian review boards and their impact,” he told Stolz. “I think it provides a solid foundation of information, and now I’ll work with departments to evaluate next steps.”

When asked whether a civilian review board could interfere with the city’s ongoing police reforms, Batista said the impact would depend on the model adopted. “Every community designs its board differently,” he noted. “What I can say is that our work with Chief Saucier and the equity office over the past few years has been transformative. We’re making structural, systemic changes—not just performative ones.”

Empowering the Human Rights Commission

Batista also addressed the role of the city’s Human Rights Commission (HRC), which some have suggested could serve as the oversight body. He emphasized that empowering the HRC had always been part of his plan.
“My intent from day one has been to strengthen the HRC within the limits of its ordinance,” he said. “There was some misunderstanding when I asked the HRC to pause police-related investigations until the Department of Justice and racial equity audit reports were released. My goal was coordination, not obstruction.”

He pointed out that the HRC’s jurisdiction focuses on civil discrimination cases and that its investigators now work closely with the city’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office. “We’ve added a third investigator so they can operate more effectively,” Batista said.

Advisory Board in the Works

Batista confirmed that Police Chief Paul Saucier has begun outreach to residents about forming a citizen advisory council, originally authorized by executive order under former City Manager Ed Augustus. The group would provide feedback on policy and community relations. “It hasn’t been finalized yet,” Batista said, “but the chief is building the framework.”

Batista plans to deliver his own report to the City Council soon, outlining his response to the WRRB’s findings, detailing current initiatives, and recommending next steps.

Preparing for Winter and Snow Operations

Turning to winter readiness, Batista said staffing and equipment improvements were a priority. “We’ve doubled our number of mechanics,” he said, noting that having more technicians ensures plow trucks can quickly return to service. “We’ve also held job fairs and purchased additional equipment to strengthen our snow operations.”

He added that contractor shortages are a statewide problem, with the number of private snowplow contractors declining about 10 percent annually. “We’re offering competitive pay tied to actual snow events,” he explained. “Our goal is simple: keep roads safe and open for everyone.”

Housing Development Momentum

On housing, Batista said Worcester is seeing steady progress across affordability levels. “In just a few weeks, we’ve celebrated ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings totaling nearly 700 new affordable units,” he said. “We’re preserving existing stock, supporting homeownership, and even exploring tiny home projects.”

He emphasized that the city’s approach must include variety. “We need movement in the housing market,” he said. “When higher-income earners move into luxury units, it opens up more moderately priced options. Worcester’s mix of affordable, market-rate, and senior housing shows that development momentum is strong.”

Spectrum Negotiations and Senior Discounts

Asked about the stalled Spectrum contract, Batista said talks continue but the city won’t settle for less than it deserves. “We’re not wavering from our demands,” he said. “We want a contract that benefits residents. All options are on the table if we don’t get fair terms.”

One major sticking point, Batista noted, is the senior discount. “We’re holding firm on that,” he said. “These discounts are disappearing nationally, but we know how vital they are to Worcester’s seniors.”

Holden Lawsuit and State Responsibility

Batista closed by confirming that Worcester has appealed its case with the town of Holden to the Supreme Court while also engaging in settlement discussions. “We believe the state bears responsibility,” he said. “Both cities have contracts with the Commonwealth, not with each other. The state owns part of the infrastructure, so it must honor its obligations to both communities.”