Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Mar 23, 2023
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, March 23, 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 7:02 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The City Council entered into recess at 7:47 PM and returned at 7:55 PM.
The City Council entered into recess at 8:03 PM and returned at 8:08 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 23-0293)
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 # 23-0375)
Councilor McLaughlin and the Entire Council requested a moment of
silence in memory of Paul Robichaud.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, February 23, 2023.
Minutes
(ID # 23-0189)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
Page 1 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install
320 feet of conduit in Beacon Street and Eustis Street, from Manhole
0515-3006 to Utility Pole 465/1 located at the rear of 296 Beacon Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0412)
CONDITION: Any work requiring the use of the street and/or sidewalk will
require a Street Occupancy Permit from the Engineering Department.
CONDITION: A Trench Restoration Plan must be provided when applying
for the Street Occupancy Permit.
Jeffrey Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, explained
the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public
hearing was closed. Councilor Scott asked to add two standard conditions:
1) that any work requiring the use of a street or sidewalk will require a
street/sidewalk occupancy permit from the Engineering Department, and 2)
that a trench restoration plan be provided when applying for a
street/sidewalk occupancy permit. Councilor Strezo commented on the
number of hazardous conditions resulting from hanging wires and she asked
the applicant to commit to cleaning up any of their wires so that they don’t
pose a hazard to pedestrians. Mr. Harrington said that he would commit and
would also try to notify other companies having hazardous wires in the area
of his project.
APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
RESULT:
3.2.
Your Space Landscape and Const. Inc applying for a Grant of Location to
install 85 feet of conduit in Professors Row, from Utility Pole 289/13 to a
point of pickup at 114 Professors Row.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0418)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
3.3.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 118 feet of
conduit in the intersection of Highland Avenue and West Street, connecting
Manhole 2578 and Manhole 18954 to a point of pickup at the rear of 371
Highland Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0413)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor
Strezo inquired about a previous request to address the issue of hazardous
wires and Ms. Duffy said that she did report the situation but has not heard
back yet. Councilor Strezo noted that the pole at Cedar and Lexington is
owned by Eversource.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 2 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
3.4.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 55 feet of conduit in
Holland Street, from Utility Pole 171/18 to a point of pickup at 211 Holland
Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0414)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.5.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 102 feet of conduit
near 51 Prospect Street and 34 Prospect Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0415)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor
Scott recused himself from this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.6.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 70 feet of conduit in
Ten Hills Road, from Utility Pole 498/10 to a point of pickup at 77 Ten Hills
Road.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0416)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.7.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install new manhole and 113
feet of conduit in the intersection of Windsor Place and Windsor Street,
from Manhole 26724 to a point of pickup at 808 Windsor Street (formerly
153 South Street).
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-0417)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo
That the City Solicitor draft an Ordinance to protect homeowners from
developer and realtor mail, phone and email harassment.
Order
(ID # 23-0461)
Councilor Strezo commented about the barrage of communications urging
homeowners to sell their property.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works immediately remove the low
hanging heavy cables dangling above the sidewalk on Line Street, and report
to this Council which entity is responsible for leaving the wires in this
condition.
Order
(ID # 23-0462)
Councilor Strezo moved to waive the reading of this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.3.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works immediately remove the wires
wrapped around a pole on Lee Street, and report to this Council who owns
the pole.
Order
(ID # 23-0463)
Councilor Strezo moved to waive the reading of this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.4.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Commissioner of Public Works remove the low hanging wires
dangling from the overhead lines on Hudson Street, between Cedar Street
and Lowell Street, and report to this Council who owns the pole.
Order
(ID # 23-0464)
Councilor Strezo moved to waive the reading of this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.5.
By Councilor Strezo
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0451)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0453)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 4 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
4.7.
By Councilor Clingan
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0475)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That this City Council discuss data from the FY 2023 budget hearings and
assess the budget hearing process for FY 2024.
Order
(ID # 23-0457)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented about last year’s budget hearings and
the level and tenor of the conversations that took place. She asked
councilors to look at the data she presented as she explained her findings.
She highlighted the time spent asking questions of department heads and the
amount of funds being requested, through a gender lens. Councilor Burnley
stated that the conversation with the Office of Housing Stability was
supportive, and he didn’t find it to be disrespectful at all, adding that he
doesn’t want to equate the length of a conversation with negativity.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad said she sat in on these meetings and never saw
such disrespect toward department heads and to city councilors, herself
included. She said we need to recognize that we have inherent biases and
she asked councilors to look at this seriously. Councilor McLaughlin said
he hasn’t considered this from the point of gender, and he feels that things
have taken a harsher turn over recent years. He recounted that the last
budget session became a performance instead of dealing with the nuts and
bolts of the budget. He noted that the Council’s only budget power is to cut
funds, hence if the questions don’t lead to an informed discussion about
whether a department needs money or not, it shouldn’t be discussed.
Councilor Wilson said that he’ll commit to reviewing how the Finance
Committee handled last year’s budget process to see if a pattern emerged.
Councilor Pineda Neufeld acknowledged that some of last year’s questions
had to do with the workings of the departments rather than focusing on the
financial aspects and she suggested some ways to improve the process,
including having councilors submit in advance 4-5 questions for each
department head, limiting the time allotments for department discussions,
limiting responses from department heads, and being mindful about
scheduling employees having parental responsibilities. Councilor Kelly
noted that there was no follow up of the concerns she expressed during last
year’s budget process. Councilor Clingan commented that he doesn’t want
to feel constrained when questioning department heads.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 5 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
4.9.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0456)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.10.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr.,
Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor
Kelly, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Economic Development update this Council on the
implementation of the Union Square Covenant, which includes local and
veterans preference in hiring.
Order
(ID # 23-0458)
Councilor Scott recused himself from this item.
Councilor McLaughlin stated that he wants to be sure that the covenant is
being enforced.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning update this Council
on the status of the property on Palmer Court, purchased by the city for the
purpose of creating green space.
Order
(ID # 23-0459)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.12.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parking place a 20 MPH speed limit sign on
Wigglesworth Street.
Order
(ID # 23-0460)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.13.
By Councilor McLaughlin
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0474)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 6 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
4.14.
By Councilor Kelly
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0467)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.15.
By Councilor Wilson
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0468)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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 22, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0444)
Councilor Scott presented the Committee Report and said that all
recommendations from the Charter Review Committee have been reviewed.
The 2nd public hearing will be scheduled for early May.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommendation of the Charter Review Committee to write a
new and modernized Charter.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0491)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
add a group petition mechanism.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0492)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 7 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.A.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee
to maintain the vacancy process for at-large and ward City Councilors.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0493)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
maintain the current composition of the School Committee.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0494)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
keep the School Committee terms at 2 years.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0495)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.7.
By Councilor Scott
Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee to
maintain the vacancy process for School Committee members.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0496)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
By Councilor Davis
Requesting amended Charter language to ensure that candidates for Mayor
and Councilor-At-Large are required to be residents of the City of
Somerville.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0497)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters, meeting on March 15, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0442)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld presented the Committee Report saying that
among the items recommended for approval by the committee were the
confirmations of Cynthia Amara as City Solicitor and Charles Breen as the
city’s Chief Fire Engineer. Other appointments recommended for approval
were for a constable position, a position on the Community Preservation
Committee and two positions on the Urban Forestry Committee.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 8 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.B.2.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Darcy Haynes as
Constable.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-2127)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Charles J. Breen, Jr. as Fire
Chief Engineer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0059)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Cynthia L. Amara as City
Solicitor.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0060)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Ryan Kiracofe to the
Community Preservation Committee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0111)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Calla Taylor to the Urban
Forestry Committee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0122)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Dorothy Suput to the Urban
Forestry Committee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0326)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on March 21, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0443)
Councilor Wilson presented the Committee Report and listed several of the
requests that were recommended for approval. He commented that a switch
to the Zoom meeting platform is imminent. The FY 2023 mid-year report
was presented to the committee and long and short-term borrowing rates
were discussed during the presentation.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
Requesting the appropriation of $100,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund for design of a park at 217 Somerville Ave.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0176)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 9 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.C.3.
Requesting the appropriation of $250,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund to the Mystic River Watershed Association to design a shared use
community path at Blessing of the Bay Park.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0177)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
Requesting the appropriation of $350,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund for the construction of Henry Hansen Park.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0179)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $400,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund for the construction of Junction Park.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0180)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.6.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $17,821.96 grant with no new
match required, from the MA Department of Fire Services to the Fire
Department for the purchase of ballistic vests, helmets and medical
equipment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0184)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $67,050 grant with no new
match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for
unrestricted operational support.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0195)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.8.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new
match required, from the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation to
the Mobility Division for traffic engineering design and related
implementation at the intersection of Alewife Brook Parkway and
Broadway.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0198)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.9.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $306.05 from the IAM-Engineering
Personal Services-Overtime Account to the Department of Public Works
Custodians Personal Services-Overtime Account for DPW staff time related
to Engineering work.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0243)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.C.10.
Requesting approval of a three-year extension to the lease with BwB-Square
LLC for Nibble Community Kitchen.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0268)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large
Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City
Councilor McLaughlin, 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:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., and Ward Two City
Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.C.11.
Finance Director conveying the FY 2023 Mid-Year Financial Report in
accordance with Section 2-48 of the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-0283)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.C.12.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.13.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.14.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.15.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.C.16.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.17.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.18.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.19.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.20.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.21.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.22.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 12 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large
Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City
Councilor McLaughlin, 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:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., and Ward Two City
Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.D.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on March 14,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-0441)
Councilor Davis presented the Committee Report and said that the
committee recommended approval of an item to provide for an alternate
member on the Licensing Commission. He also spoke about three
amendments to the Code of Ordinance regarding biased based policing,
personnel programs and relationship status/intimate personal relationships.
Councilor Burnley spoke about the work involved in getting these important
items moved forward and commented about the discrimination experienced
by polyamorous individuals. Councilor Scott sponsored Professor
Alexander Chen to speak. Professor Chen stated that this is a landmark
moment and shows how government reflects the way people live. He said
that if a relationship is legalized, it’s not just sexual. Councilor Scott
sponsored Diana Adams, from Chosen Family Law Center, to speak. Diana
Adams said that this is a tremendous step forward in defining families in
different ways. Councilor Scott asked for the support of the Council for
these items.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
Amending Section 1-4 of the Code of Ordinance to add definitions for
relationship status and intimate personal relationship.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1992)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
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:
Page 13 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
6.D.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
Amending Section 2-326 of the Code of Ordinances, related to the Personnel
program.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1993)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
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:
6.D.4.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
Amending Section 15-31 of the Code of Ordinances, related to the Code of
Conduct, Ethics, and Financial Disclosure.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1995)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.D.5.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
Amending Section 10-102 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding the
definition of biased based policing.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1996)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
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:
6.D.6.
Conveying the 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report as it relates to
Somerville Public Schools.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 23-0107)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.7.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition Authorizing the City to
Appoint an Alternate Member to the Somerville Licensing Commission.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0256)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 14 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
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:
6.D.8.
Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy (OPEN)
submitting comments re: nondiscrimination provisions in ordinances based
on relationship structure.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0299)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing the City of
Somerville to impose a real estate transfer fee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0454)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing the City of
Somerville to enact Right to Purchase legislation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0455)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting the appropriation of $600,000 from the Water and Sewer
Department Retained Earnings account to the Water and Sewer Department
Capital Outlay account for anticipated contractual obligations.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0369)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.3 - 7.6 and asked
that they be referred to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting the rescission of $435,000 from the Medical Marijuana
Stabilization Fund appropriation of $591,442 approved on February 24,
2022.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0450)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.3 - 7.6 and asked
that they be referred to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
7.5.
Requesting approval to appropriate $54,445 from the Street Tree
Stabilization Fund for the 2023 Ash Tree Treatment Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0298)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.3 - 7.6 and asked
that they be referred to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $28,000 grant with no new
match required, from MassDEP to the Office of Sustainability and
Environment for the Recycle Dividend Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0377)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.3 - 7.6 and asked
that they be referred to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael Smith to the Public
Library Board of Trustees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0376)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the reading of this item and refer
it to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.8.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael Santangelo to the
Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0439)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the reading of this item and refer
it to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, JP Vara Co Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0387)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 16 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Alfa Excavation Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0379)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Bartletta Heavy Division Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0380)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Bassco Excavating.
License
(ID # 23-0381)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Borges Sewer & Drain LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0471)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, BSI Engineering.
License
(ID # 23-0382)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Capitol Services LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0476)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 17 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.8.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Caruso & McGovern Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0383)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, CRL Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0384)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, D&M Civil Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0385)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Ferrante Construction LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0469)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Garrett Construction Co Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0386)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, J.R. Sons Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0470)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 18 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.14.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, K.B. Aruda Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0388)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, LaMountain Brothers Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0397)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, M.T. Mayo Corp.
License
(ID # 23-0390)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Minkin Construction.
License
(ID # 23-0389)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.18.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, New England Style Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0391)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.19.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Riccio Excavation.
License
(ID # 23-0398)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 19 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.20.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Sean Farrell Excavation Inc.
License
(ID # 23-0440)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.21.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Spencer Contracting.
License
(ID # 23-0434)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.22.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Tim Zanelli Excavating LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0399)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.23.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Your Space Landscape and Construction
LLC.
License
(ID # 23-0400)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.24.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Alfredo's Italian Kitchen, 288
Broadway, opening Fri & Sat until 3am for take-out and delivery services.
License
(ID # 23-0466)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.25.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dakzen, 195 Elm St.
License
(ID # 23-0392)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.26.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dumpling Kitchen, 217
Highland Ave.
License
(ID # 23-0393)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 20 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.27.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Pepi's Pizzeria, 516B
Medford St.
License
(ID # 23-0394)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.28.
Renewing Flammables License, Boston Closet Company, 229 Lowell St.
License
(ID # 23-0395)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.29.
Renewing Flammables License, Mobil Mart Plus, 379 Alewife Brook Pkwy.
License
(ID # 23-0396)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.30.
Renewing Flammables License, Teele Square Auto, 1284 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-0401)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.31.
Renewing Garage License, Auto Plus, 229 Lowell St.
License
(ID # 23-0402)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.32.
Renewing Garage License, Barnes and Walsh Company, 224 Somerville
Ave.
License
(ID # 23-0403)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 21 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.33.
Renewing Garage License, DM Auto Services, Inc, 45 Webster Ave.
License
(ID # 23-0404)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.34.
Renewing Garage License, Drain Doctor Inc, 612 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-0435)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.35.
Renewing Garage License, Four Wheels Auto, 83A Albion St.
License
(ID # 23-0405)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.36.
Renewing Garage License, Gasper Ostuni, 195 Highland Ave.
License
(ID # 23-0406)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.37.
Renewing Garage License, Gene Automotive Repair, 56 Joy St.
License
(ID # 23-0465)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.38.
Renewing Garage License, Green Automotive Inc, 600 Windsor Pl.
License
(ID # 23-0477)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 22 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.39.
Renewing Garage License, Hillside Service Center, 45 Mystic Ave.
License
(ID # 23-0407)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.40.
Renewing Garage License, Modern Floors Inc, 22 Marshall St.
License
(ID # 23-0436)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.41.
Renewing Garage License, Real Auto Shop Inc, 463 McGrath Hwy.
License
(ID # 23-0408)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.42.
Renewing Garage License, Teele Square Auto, 1284 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-0409)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.43.
Renewing Garage License, Tracer Technologies Inc, 20 Assembly Sq.
License
(ID # 23-0410)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.44.
Renewing Garage License, U-Haul of Boston, 151 Linwood St.
License
(ID # 23-0411)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 23 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.45.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Day/Dover Parking Lot, 55 Day St.
License
(ID # 23-0419)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.46.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480
Columbia St.
License
(ID # 23-0420)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.47.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Atlas Metal Inc, 475 Columbia St.
License
(ID # 23-0424)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.48.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Metamorphosis, 93 Holland St.
License
(ID # 23-0449)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.49.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480
Columbia St.
License
(ID # 23-0425)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.50.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Talewsky Enterprises Inc, 508
Columbia St.
License
(ID # 23-0426)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 24 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.51.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Country Club Transportation Inc, Med.
#5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 46.
License
(ID # 23-0427)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.52.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Early Bird Transportation LLC, Med.
#49.
License
(ID # 23-0431)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.53.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Green and Yellow TNC of Somerville,
Med. #27, 36, 37, 38, 53, 54, 67.
License
(ID # 23-0428)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.54.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, HollyPaul Desravines, Med. #92.
License
(ID # 23-0433)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.55.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Honey Cab Inc, Med. #82.
License
(ID # 23-0432)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.56.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Jolina Taxi Inc, Med. #52.
License
(ID # 23-0478)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 25 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.57.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Lafoi Taxi Inc, Med. #20.
License
(ID # 23-0473)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.58.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Mount Pleasant Taxi Inc, Med. #30, 39,
40, 41, 42.
License
(ID # 23-0429)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.59.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Yolande Trans Inc, Med. #15.
License
(ID # 23-0472)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.60.
St Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good Friday
Procession on April 7 from 4pm to 7:20pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-0421)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.61.
SomerPromise applying for a Public Event License for Week of the Young
Child Celebration on April 12 from 4pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-0452)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.62.
Independent Film Society of Boston applying for a Public Event License for
Independent Film Festival Boston on April 26-May 2 from 10am to 12am.
Public Event
(ID # 23-0422)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 26 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
9.63.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on May 13
from 11am to 7pm (raindate May 14).
Public Event
(ID # 23-0437)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.64.
Bow Market applying for a Public Event License for Bow Market Annual
Vintage Market on May 21 from 9am to 9pm (raindate June 4).
Public Event
(ID # 23-0423)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through
9.23 and 9.25 through 9.64 and approve the items tonight.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.65.
The Greater Boston Labor Council nominating Gabriel Camacho to the
Wage Theft Advisory Committee.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0430)
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.66.
Crystal Huff submitting comments re: voting methods.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0373)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.67.
Mutual Aid Medford and Somerville (MAMAS) submitting comments re:
use of Free Cash for affordable Housing.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0374)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.68.
Asexuality Visibility and Education Network (AVEN), the Organization for
Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy (OPEN), and the Polyamory Legal
Advocacy Coalition (PLAC) submitting comments re: nondiscrimination
provisions in ordinances based on relationship structure.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0378)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.69.
Winter Hill Community Innovation School and Healy School Parent
Teacher Associations submitting comments re: student ideas on reducing
violence.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0438)
Councilor Wilson commented about the shootings this past Tuesday and
noted that it’s not normal and it’s not right and that we need to figure out
how to stop the cycle of violence.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 27 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management clarify the phases
for the programming, design and development of the Winter Hill and Brown
School Renovation/Reconstruction in the CIP Presentation shared with this
Council on March 9, 2023.
Order
(ID # 23-0479)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that the information provided is
unclear, as noted in the text of this item.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management detail how funds
for the School Building Feasibility Study budgeted for FY 2023 have been
expensed to date.
Order
(ID # 23-0480)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management identify
department staff allocated to the School Building Feasibility Study, and the
projected time commitment of this staff for the duration of the study.
Order
(ID # 23-0481)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parks and Recreation consider opening the Ginny
Smithers Pool on Sundays to expand swim lesson opportunities, including
consideration of engaging an outside vendor or organization to provide the
swim lessons.
Order
(ID # 23-0482)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 28 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.5.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Parks and Recreation explain the wait list process for
enrollment in Parks and Recreation programs.
Order
(ID # 23-0483)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.6.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Parks and Recreation consider giving enrollment
priority to low-income families in Parks and Recreation Programs, including
but not limited to pre-registration priority.
Order
(ID # 23-0484)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA)
provide data on the process to connect immigrant families with legal
services and the waitlist to receive those services vs. the waitlist for
follow-up from government immigrant agencies.
Order
(ID # 23-0485)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad expressed her frustration about the status of
immigrants and their exploitation, say that the city needs to assist them with
the legal process in the most effective way to help them achieve legal status.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.8.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Strezo
That this City Council consider options for Committee meetings like
allowing schedule changes to the daytime or fixing presentation times in the
evenings to facilitate flexibility for staff and Councilors who are new parents
or facing childcare challenges.
Order
(ID # 23-0486)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that we need to be conscious of the
needs of staff and be more empathetic.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 29 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.9.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That this City Council supports the School Committee's resolution to submit
to the Massachusetts School Building Authority, a statement of interest for
the Benjamin Brown and the Winter Hill Schools.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0488)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad urged the Council to support this resolution.
Councilor Davis said that the School Committee decided to engage
stakeholders by this action, adding that it’s not clear if the administration is
in line with this. He urged the administration to move forward in order to
take advantage of the opportunity presented. Councilor Wilson explained
that if the project is done with city funds, there would be fewer restrictions.
Councilor Clingan noted that the administration was willing to support this
and Chair Ewen-Campen also noted that the administration is fully behind
moving this forward. Councilor Gomez Mouakad said students and teachers
deserve a proper environment.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.10.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Parks and
Recreation light City Hall, Prospect Hill Tower, and Powder House in light
blue, light pink, and white on March 31, 2023 in honor of Transgender Day
of Visibility.
Order
(ID # 23-0500)
Councilor Burnley spoke about a mental health crisis in our community,
particularly for gender queer and trans children and expressed his feeling
that we should be shining a light to show that we do care about them.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.11.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
That the Fire Chief, Inspectional Services Director, and Director of the
Office of Housing Stability work with this Council to assess the feasibility
of annual reporting on the number of fires, the causes of those fires, the
number displaced by each fire, and if those displaced were able to relocate
within Somerville.
Order
(ID # 23-0501)
Councilor Burnley noted the number of recent fires in the city and would
like to know how the city is doing with getting displaced residents relocated
in the city.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 30 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.12.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That the City of Somerville recognizes the week of May 7-13, 2023 as
Children's Mental Health Week.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0499)
Councilor Burnley noted that the Pulse Check survey was important and
should be continued.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.13.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0498)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.14.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning and the City
Solicitor assist the City Council to draft language requiring that
departmental review conditioned by the Planning Board contains a
requirement for public outreach when concerning modifications by private
developers within the public realm.
Order
(ID # 23-0503)
Councilor Scott commented that as street designs are done by developers,
the final appearance of the street is often different from what was proposed
and he thinks that a public process is needed to provide some clarity.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.15.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That this City Council pursue legislative action to prohibit lateral transfer
hires into Civil Service positions.
Order
(ID # 23-0504)
Councilor Scott said that this is an abuse of the Civil Service process and
that it denies Somerville residents from being considered for positions.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 31 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.16.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis and Councilor
Strezo
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning assist the City
Council in modifying the density incentives for NetZero/Passive House
development in light of the recently adopted Specialized Stretch Code.
Order
(ID # 23-0505)
Councilor Scott stated that incentives have biased development of smaller
units, and he would like other incentives to entice developers to build 2-3
bedroom units.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.17.
By Councilor Scott
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2024.
Communication
(ID # 23-0502)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.5-4.7, 4.9,
4.13-4.15, 10.13, and 10.17 and asked that they be referred to the Committee
on Finance.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.18.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 12.2 of the Zoning
Ordinances to reflect the recommendations in the 2022 Somerville Linkage
Nexus Study.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0506)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.19.
Requesting the appropriation of $50,000 from the Immigrant Legal Services
Stabilization Fund for legal services for immigrants and asylum seekers
seeking permanent residency.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0487)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of item 10.19 and asked that
it be referred to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.20.
New Sign/Awning License, Kumon Somerville-Prospect Hill Center, 438
McGrath Hwy, 1 wall sign.
License
(ID # 23-0508)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.21.
Alex Rich-Shea submitting comments re: Cambridge Taylor Rental.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0489)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 32 of 33
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2023
10.22.
Jacob M. Grossman submitting comments re: 1 Union Square.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-0490)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
11.1.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking address the defective traffic light at Mystic Ave
and Revolution Dr outside Home Depot in Assembly Square.
Order
(ID # 23-0509)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:52 PM.
Page 33 of 33