Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Mar 9, 2023
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, March 9, 2023
NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have
been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first
checking with the City Clerk.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The City Council entered into recess at 8:59 PM and returned at 9:10 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 23-0357)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
City Councilor At Large Charlotte Kelly
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
Ward Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld
Present:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 23-0362)
Councilor Clingan and the entire Council requested a moment of silence in
memory of Maryann Meacham, Esq.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad requested a moment of silence in memory of
former Somerville Firefighter William “Bill” Ellis.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, February 9, 2023.
Minutes
(ID # 23-0363)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
Page 1 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That this Council draft a Home Rule Petition to authorize Somerville to
regulate against rent gouging by establishing Rent Stabilization.
Order
(ID # 23-0318)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld assumed the Chair. Councilor Ewen-Campen
noted that since 1994, rent control has been banned by the state and there is
nothing that can be done at the municipal level to change that, although
some smaller steps have been taken by the city. He submitted this item
because he believes that the mood has changed and that it’s time to try to
move the issue forward. He sponsored State Representative Mike Connolly
to speak on the matter. Representative Connolly stated that rent control has
always been a type of political third rail and remains an uphill battle. He
said that steps need to be taken to fund housing in the public sector and he
encouraged the Council to look at what the City of Boston did yesterday
with its Home Rule Petition (HRP). Representative Connolly believes that
HRP’s from Somerville and Cambridge should mirror Boston’s. He said
that a balance needs to be found to support low income residents and he
thinks this is the perfect time to move on a HRP. Councilor Ewen-Campen
said the mayor’s office is supportive of the efforts and he hopes to have draft
legislation ready in a few months. Councilor Wilson commented that this is
what’s needed to bring back sensible rental policies. Councilor Gomez
Mouakad spoke about the need for more workforce housing to allow people
to live near where they work. (Councilor Ewen-Campen assumed the
Chair.)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
Re-affirming support for An Act Enabling Local Options for Tenant
Protections, also known as the Tenant Protection Act (HD.3922 &
SD.2368).
Resolution
(ID # 23-0319)
See item 4.1 (23-0318).
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 2 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
4.3.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility install speed humps on Medford Street,
between Sycamore and School Streets.
Order
(ID # 23-0320)
Councilor Clingan commented on the amount of traffic at this location.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility place in-street spring-loaded pedestrian
crosswalk signs on Medford Street at Sycamore, Thurston, and Dartmouth
Streets.
Order
(ID # 23-0321)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Housing discuss the practice of monthly fees being
charged to tenants in affordable housing units.
Order
(ID # 23-0322)
Councilor Clingan has heard reports of erroneous fees being levied upon
tenants and he would like more information on this matter.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works immediately remove the wires
wrapped around the pole near 57 Atherton Street and report to the City
Council who owns the pole.
Order
(ID # 23-0327)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.7.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works immediately remove, or raise to a
safe height, the cables attached to a pole at the intersection of Harvard and
Monmouth Streets, and report to the City Council who owns the pole.
Order
(ID # 23-0328)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Executive Director of the Arts Council inform this City Council of
plans to include writers in arts community initiatives.
Order
(ID # 23-0330)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
4.9.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 23-0329)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CHARTER REVIEW SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Special Committee on Charter Review, meeting as a
Committee of the Whole on March 8, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0309)
Councilor Scott presented the Committee Report and said that no formal
language was put forth on any of the recommendations.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
establish a Participatory Budgeting Study Committee.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0324)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
add a periodic review of compensation of all city employees to ensure
compensation is distributed equitably and to the greatest extent possible
compensation is sufficient to live in the city, and to establish an Equitable
Compensation Committee.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0372)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
EQUITY, GENDER, FAMILIES AND VULNERABLE POPULATIONS COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and
Vulnerable Populations, meeting on February 28, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0304)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad presented the Committee Report and
commented that ADA accessibility is often an afterthought as she spoke
about the lengthy discussion on this topic.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 4 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.B.2.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs provide an
update on the proposed 5-year language plan and how this plan will be
implemented in the next five years.
Order
(ID # 22-1717)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor
Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott
and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parks and Recreation eliminate equity barriers for
residents signing up for recreation programs.
Order
(ID # 22-1884)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Kelly,
Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator, the Director
of Inspectional Services, and the Director of Planning, Preservation &
Zoning explain to this Council how the City provides oversight for
compliance with Fair Housing Act Design Guidelines, the Massachusetts
Architectural Access Board CMR 521 and the ADA Standards for
Accessible Design, from plan review through building and occupancy
permits.
Order
(ID # 23-0082)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on March 7, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0308)
Councilor Wilson presented the Committee Report and said that 20 items
were discussed and that an executive session was held on 2 items.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
By Councilor Kelly, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Finance and the Budget Director update this Council on
the progress of the free cash certification and any anticipated plans for
additional free cash use.
Order
(ID # 22-1517)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 5 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.C.3.
Requesting approval to use available funds in the Health and Human
Services Salaries Account in the amount of $21,982 to fund an additional
Case Manager position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0162)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
Requesting approval of a multi-year lease agreement with Hanhal Realty for
a West Somerville Police Substation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0165)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor
Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
ABSENT:
6.C.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $300,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund to the Elizabeth Peabody House for historic building window
restoration.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0178)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $15,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund to Mudflat Pottery School, Inc. for a Facade Restoration Study.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0181)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $75,000 grant with no new
match required, from the MA Department of Elementary & Secondary
Education to the Health and Human Services SomerPromise Division for
LGBTQIA Out-of-School Time Youth Programming.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0213)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.8.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension to the contract with Colliers
Project Leaders USA NE LLC for Owner's Project Manager Services on the
Public Safety Facility project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0231)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 6 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.C.9.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension to the contract with Consigli
Construction Co. Incorporated for Construction Manager At-Risk Services
on the Public Safety Facility project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0232)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.10.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension to the contract with Context
Architecture Incorporated for Architectural & Engineering Services on the
Public Safety Facility project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0233)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.11.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $20,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Fenway Community Health Center to the Police
Department for staffing costs related to the post overdose support team
program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0251)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.12.
Requesting the appropriation of $805,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Capital Projects Stabilization Fund to purchase
and install prefabricated standalone public toilets.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0258)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.13.
City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session with attorneys from
Brody, Hardoon, Perkins & Kesten, LLP, to discuss Carlos Melo v. City of
Somerville.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0269)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.14.
City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session with attorneys from
Brody, Hardoon, Perkins & Kesten, LLP, to discuss Kathryn McDaid v. City
of Somerville, et al.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0270)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 7 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.C.15.
Director of Infrastructure & Asset Management presenting the FY2023
Capital Investment Plan update.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0271)
This item was severed from the Committee Report. Director Raiche gave a
presentation of the Capital Investment Plan (CIP) explaining its purpose and
how it is funded and managed. The plan is regularly updated for intent of
expenditures. He commented that the CIP spreadsheet is outdated in form
and content and, to that end, a new process has been established. The city’s
financial capacity has evolved over time allowing it to raise more funds than
prior years. Much of the city’s infrastructure has deteriorated and is being
overburdened to provide additional services. He spoke about reducing the
city’s carbon footprint and re-prioritizing right-of-way space. Director
Raiche noted the importance of data transparency to meet the needs of an
engaged public. He also spoke about project lifecycles, aggregation of
investments, cost forecasting, prioritizing investments and financial analysis
to determine if the city can afford projects over time. The CIP needs to be
able to adapt to the changing needs of the city and will be updated yearly.
The four main categories of the CIP are: 1) Buildings (Assembly Sq. Fire
Station build out and fire station rehabilitations, 1895 Building Master Plan
to be a 1 stop location for city services, community center, and
renovations/replacements of WHCS and Brown), 2) Parks and Open Space
(schoolyards, Dilboy Field, ArtFarm, pumping station, veterans monuments
restorations), 3) Streetscapes (street resurfacing, sidewalks, Clarendon Hill
traffic pattern, sewer separation project, Highland Avenue redesign,
Broadway Vision Zero) and 4) Vehicles - equipment & real estate.
Several councilors commented about the difficulty in tracking budget
changes without the CIP spreadsheet and asked that it be made available and
Director Raiche will try to accommodate that request. Councilor Kelly
asked how CIP projects impact the general fund and Budget Director
Mastrobuoni explained how to find the info on ClearGov.
Additional details are available at
<https://city-somerville-ma-budget-book.cleargov.com/5132/capital-improv
ements/cip-summary>
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.C.16.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,847,374 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Account for
supplemental funding for the Municipal Voucher Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0272)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 8 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.C.17.
By Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Finance provide a written report detailing all
Stabilization Funds and the current balance in each fund.
Order
(ID # 23-0280)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.18.
Requesting the appropriation of $805,675 from the Capital Stabilization
Fund for the purchase and installation of outdoor prefabricated toilet
facilities.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0282)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor
Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
ABSENT:
6.C.19.
Requesting the appropriation of $137,500 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Law Department's Damages to Persons and
Property Account to fund the settlement of Carlos Melo v. City of
Somerville.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0284)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.20.
Requesting the appropriation of $702,500 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Law Department's Damages to Persons and
Property Account to fund the settlement of Kathryn McDaid v. City of
Somerville, et al.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0285)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development,
meeting on March 1, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0305)
Councilor Strezo presented the Committee Report and spoke about the Bike
Kitchen, Somerville Community Land Trust, and enforcement of the Fair
Housing Act.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 9 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.D.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That representatives of the Community Land Trust update this Council’s
Housing and Community Development Committee on its progress and how
the Council can help implement the Trust’s goals.
Resolution
(ID # 22-0090)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.3.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Housing, the Director of the Office of Housing
Stability, and the Director of Planning and Zoning discuss the challenges
associated with and potential modifications to the Tier 3 Rental ADUs
multiplier at 110% AMI for inclusionary units.
Order
(ID # 22-0170)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.4.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development work with the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to
consider combining the affordable housing linkage payments for commercial
development as a funding source for a development that will result in the
creation of affordable units.
Order
(ID # 22-0173)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.5.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of the Office of Housing Stability discuss proactive
measures to inform tenants in inclusionary housing units of the rights and
resources available to them.
Order
(ID # 22-0174)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.6.
Fair Housing Commission Staff Liaison conveying the Fiscal Year 2021 Fair
Housing Commission Annual Report.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0036)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.7.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Pineda Neufeld,
Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott
That this City Council's Committee on Housing and Community
Development discuss the attached letter from the Somerville Fair Housing
Commission regarding the current Massachusetts Commission Against
Discrimination backlog.
Order
(ID # 23-0064)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.D.8.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Human Resources provide a written demographic
breakdown, including the age, gender, and race/ethnicity of Customer
Service Representatives in the Constituent Services Department (311).
Order
(ID # 23-0281)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on March 6,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0307)
Councilor Burnley presented the Committee Report and said that 4 items
were discussed with 2 being recommended for approval and 2 remaining in
committee.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.2.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Falafel Place, 1 Main St, opening
Mon-Sun until 3am for in-store, take-out, and delivery services.
License
(ID # 23-0221)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.3.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 102 feet of conduit in
Kent St, from Utility Pole 191/3 to a point of pickup at 22 Kent St.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0224)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.F.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
6.F.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on
February 27, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0302)
Councilor Kelly presented the Committee Report and noted that speakers
were present from across the country on the topic of alternative emergency
responses. The committee received some examples of how this matter is
being treated by other communities. Councilor Wilson, who is not a
member of this committee, encouraged everyone to watch the video of the
meeting.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.F.2.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Kelly and
Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Health and Human Services and the Director of
Community Outreach, Help and Recovery appear before the Public Health
and Public Safety Committee to discuss an alternative emergency response
program.
Order
(ID # 22-1373)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.3.
By Councilor Kelly, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That this Council discuss alternative emergency response methods with local
mental health care providers.
Order
(ID # 23-0278)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.4.
By Councilor Kelly, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That this Council discuss alternative emergency response and/or other
non-police emergency response methods that other municipalities have
pursued.
Order
(ID # 23-0279)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.
PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
6.G.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on
March 2, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0306)
Councilor Clingan presented the Committee Report saying that the bulk of
the meeting had to do with the process of monitoring contracts.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.G.2.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Administration update this Council on the contract renewal process
with TZE and discuss how the process works.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0057)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
6.H.1.
Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on February 27,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0303)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad presented the Committee Report and said that
topics discussed included bus routes, traffic calming, traffic signaling, and
pedestrian safety.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 12 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
6.H.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility increase lighting and short-term traffic
calming measures on the corner of Pearl and Franklin Streets, to address
safety concerns while the construction of Pearl Street is delayed.
Order
(ID # 22-2117)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.3.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility respond to constituent complaints regarding
the bus stop placement westbound at Beacon and Washington.
Order
(ID # 22-2144)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.4.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility address resident parking subsidies in
negotiated Transportation Management Plans for major developments.
Order
(ID # 22-2145)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.5.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility work with residents on Lake St to ensure that
the parking plan for ongoing projects does not block driveway access.
Order
(ID # 22-2146)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.6.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility update the Ward 2 Councilor on the
prioritization of speed bump installation on the requested streets.
Order
(ID # 22-2148)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.7.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility consider improvements to deficient conditions
impacting the safety and pedestrian accessibility of Cedar Street.
Order
(ID # 23-0083)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 138,
Section 33B, to confirm the authorization of licensees under section twelve
to sell alcoholic beverages between the hours of 10:00 AM and 12:00 noon
on Sundays, the last Monday in May and on Christmas day or on the day
following when said day occurs on Sunday.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0323)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 13 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
7.2.
Requesting approval of a grant of easement and maintenance agreement for
BRE-BMR Assembly I Innovation LLC and BRE-BMR Middlesex LLC.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0332)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting authorization to borrow $2,068,800 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount to participate in the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
for Lead Service Replacement program and rescind Docket #214477,
authorization to borrow $1,477,738 in a bond for participation in the FY23
MWRA Lead Line Replacement Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0300)
Director Raiche explained that by switching the funding source, the city
would save money by taking advantage of the loan forgiveness included in
the program. He commented that no less than 30% of the amount of the
program would be forgiven and that it’s possible that the city could get
100% forgiveness. This is a time sensitive item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor
Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward
Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
7.4.
Requesting the appropriation of $827,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Capital Stabilization Fund for site preparation,
construction, and furnishing of a safe consumption site.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0325)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $425,000 from the Community Preservation
Act (CPA) Fund to the Somerville Hispanic Association for community
development for continued historic preservation of Grace Baptist Church.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0312)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 14 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
7.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $151,000 from the Community Preservation
Act (CPA) Fund to the Somerville Museum for collections conservation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0310)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval to repurpose $3,500,000 in unused COVID-19
Stabilization Fund appropriations for affordable housing opportunities for
low-income residents.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0316)
Director Feloney explained the request is to repurpose these funds for
affordable housing as part of the 100 Homes Program. SCC submitted an
ARPA application that wasn’t granted and this item serves as an alternative
funding source. This has been approved by the Affordable Housing Trust
subject to approval by the Council.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.8.
Requesting approval of an inter-fund transfer of $3,500,000 from the
COVID-19 Stabilization Fund to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to
provide affordable housing opportunities for low-income residents.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0317)
See item 7.7 (23-0316).
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor
Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward
Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
7.9.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $20,125 from the Information
Technology Department Salaries Account to the Information Technology
Department Maintenance Software Account to procure and standardize on
the Zoom platform for remote meetings.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0311)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
7.10.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $5,761.47 grant with no new
match required, from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to the
Fire Department for equipment to develop emergency operations capacity.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0296)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $5,234.59 grant with no new
match required, from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to the
Fire Department for the purchase of protective equipment to support active
threat preparedness initiatives.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0315)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $2,982.40 grant with no new
match required, from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to the
Fire Department for equipment to develop emergency operations capacity.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0297)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $65,686.35 using
available funds various Public Works Ordinary Maintenance accounts for
various services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0301)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $480 using available
funds in the Engineering Capital Outlay Engineering/Architecture Account
for the FY22 Pavement & Sidewalk Assessment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0313)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
7.15.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $289.68 using
available funds in the Elections Department Office Supplies Account for
index dividers, ledger paper, and water.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0290)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6
and 7.9 through 7.15 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Dorothy Suput to the Urban
Forestry Committee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0326)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Conveying the Somerville Linkage Nexus Study Final Report.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 23-0356)
Councilor Wilson expressed concern for those whose jobs are going to be
eliminated. Councilor Kelly noted that the Afford Housing Trust is
interested in this item.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Chief of Police conveying a memorandum regarding implementation of an
Ordinance Securing the Rights of Individuals Seeking Gender Affirming
Care and Reproductive Healthcare, pursuant to Section 2-10 (j) (3) of the
Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0331)
Councilor Burnley commented on draconian attitudes towards gender
affirmation and abortion issues.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.2.
Chief of Police conveying a bi-annual report, pursuant to Section 2-10 (h) of
the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0333)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 17 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
8.3.
Chief of Police conveying a bi-annual report, pursuant to Section 2-6 (g) of
the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0334)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, A.A. Will Corporation.
License
(ID # 23-0358)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, A.P. Flowers & Son LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0343)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Baystate Engineering Corp.
License
(ID # 23-0366)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, C.M. Conway Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0344)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Insite Contracting Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0346)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 18 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
9.6.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, James W. Flett Co., Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0345)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Mirra Co., LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0347)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, P. Gioioso & Sons, Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0348)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, R.M. Pacella Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0349)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Super Service Today Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0350)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Tufts Constructions Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0351)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
9.12.
Renewing Garage License, Dino, 308 McGrath Hwy.
License
(ID # 23-0353)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Renewing Garage License, Original Auto Body and Mechanic Inc, 12 Joy
St.
License
(ID # 23-0352)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
New Sign/Awning License, BrightView, 401 Highland Ave, 1 awning and 2
wall mounted signs.
License
(ID # 23-0354)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, God's Blessing Cab Inc., Med. #60.
License
(ID # 23-0355)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Joseph Nicolas, Med. #79.
License
(ID # 23-0364)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Renaissance Taxi Service LLC, Med.
#50.
License
(ID # 23-0365)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.17
and approve them tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 20 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
9.18.
Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy (OPEN)
submitting comments re: nondiscrimination provisions in ordinances based
on relationship structure.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0299)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Amending Section 1-19 of the Code of Ordinances to remove the phrase
"Honorably Purchased from Pawtuckets - 1639" from the City seal.
Ordinance
(ID # 23-0360)
Councilor Burnley spoke about the city’s flag and the language written upon
it. He believes that it is a disingenuous way to look at history. This matter
has been discussed by previous Council members and he would like to begin
a longer conversation to highlight an indigenous telling of how Somerville
became Somerville.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly
That the City Solicitor advise this Council regarding the city's ability to use
General Funds for a mass medical debt relief program.
Order
(ID # 23-0359)
Councilor Burnley noted that he is looking for clarification on this matter.
Councilor Strezo, noting that there is a limited amount of resources available
in municipal government, stated her opposition to using municipal funds to
reduce medical debt, adding that it’s a travesty that this country does not
have a national health care program. She noted that hospitals charge
exorbitant fees with no repercussions. She went on to say that this order
does not address the cause of medical debt. Councilor Strezo was noted as
being opposed to the order. Councilor Burnley cited examples of other
communities where this is happening and said that the ask would be for
about $200,000.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 21 of 23
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
10.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs and other
appropriate staff report to this Council what steps are taken when migrants
arrive in the city unexpectedly, and confirm whether a written policy or plan
exists for this contingency.
Order
(ID # 23-0361)
Councilor Burnley commented that several hundred migrant children were
absorbed into the city’s school system in the past year. Councilor Pineda
Neufeld said that the city should NOT have a written policy in place that is
distributed to the public as this is a safety issue for undocumented
immigrants and unaccompanied minors. She offered an amendment to
delete the words “, and confirm whether a written policy or plan exists for
this contingency ” from the order and asked for understanding of the impact
it would have to have written documentation of what the plan is. She
continued by saying that we are protecting the identities of undocumented
immigrants and unaccompanied minors by insuring that nothing is written
about where they go and what happens as a result.
Councilor Burnley opposed the amendment and asked that the item be
referred to the Equity, Gender, Families, Seniors and Vulnerable Populations
Committee. President Ewen-Campen stated that he was inclined to approve
the item and ask the SOIA Director to reach out to Councilor Burnley
directly and answer his questions, and if those answers are not satisfactory,
to think of a way to have a conversation about the item in a respectful and
responsible way in committee.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad suggested that Councilor Burnley speak to the
Director of SOIA for additional information. Councilor Burnley asked that
this item be sent to committee to give him time to get some answers off-line.
Chair Ewen-Campen denied the request to send the item to committee and
informed Councilor Burnley that, should he not received adequate answers,
he should submit the order again. Councilor Burnley moved to override the
Chair’s ruling and send item to committee. The motion to override was not
approved on a roll call vote of 3 in favor (Scott, Burnley, Kelly), 7 opposed
(Davis, Strezo, Clingan, Wilson, Gomez Mouakad, Pineda Neufeld,
Ewen-Campen) and 1 absent (McLaughlin).
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.4.
By Councilor Davis
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0371)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 22 of 23
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Meeting Minutes
March 9, 2023
10.5.
Tufts University conveying its Spring 2023 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0367)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.6.
Harvard University conveying its Spring 2023 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0370)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.7.
Crystal Huff submitting comments re: use of Free Cash for affordable
housing.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0368)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
11.1.
Requesting approval of the Municipal Election Calendar for 2023.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0187)
The item was discharged from committee and placed before the Council for
discussion. Election Commissioner Salerno addressed the Council and said
that there’s nothing different in the schedule than in previous years.
Councilor Pineda Neufeld noted that the last day for filing for a recount falls
on Yom Kippur and she asked that it be changed, if possible. The item was
tabled to allow Commissioner Salerno to check if that date is able to be
moved. After reviewing the schedule, the item was removed from the table
and Commissioner Salerno reported that the date parameter is dictated by
state law. He said that if the date of the election were changed, the request
could be accommodated. Councilor Pineda Neufeld stated her preference to
keep the date of the election as scheduled.
APPROVED
RESULT:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:57 PM.
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