Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Oct 26, 2023
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, October 26, 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 7:01 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The City Council entered recess at 7:46 PM and returned at 7:55 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 23-1614)
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 # 23-1615)
President Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of K-9
Officer Lobo.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, September 28, 2023.
Minutes
(ID # 23-1616)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Commending Ken Fields for his musical contributions to the arts and arts
community.
Citation
(ID # 23-1610)
Councilor Burnley spoke about the creativity of the Arts community in
Somerville and spoke about Mr. Field’s contributions to the city. He
sponsored Johann Correa, President of the Carnival Society of Boston, to
speak. Councilor Burnley will present the Citation to Mr. Field at a later
date.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 20 feet of conduit in
Beacon Street, from Utility Pole 142/25 to a point of pickup at 205 Beacon
Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-1560)
Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. Resident Chris Dwan asked if this was
the work that started yesterday, and Mr. Flewelling stated that Comcast
hadn’t begun the work yet. Councilor Scott reported that a trench was, in
fact, dug yesterday and he would like to table the item to obtain additional
information. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.
Prior to adjournment, this item was taken off the table and Councilor Scott
said that he provided photos of the work to the City Clerk and he asked that
this item be referred to the Licenses and Permits Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Clingan and
Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Somerville City Council supports the passage of H.1255, An Act
requiring menstrual products in buildings on public higher education
campuses, H.3018 An Act requiring menstrual products in all state
buildings, and S.2481, An Act to increase access to disposable menstrual
products.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1592)
Councilor Strezo said this would end menstrual poverty and she asked that
the item be forwarded to the state delegation.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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October 26, 2023
4.2.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the Director
of Finance explain to this Council the steps and processes in the School
Building Master Plan for a ballot vote on Proposition 2½ in reference to
funding a School Building project.
Order
(ID # 23-1594)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.3.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning conduct an historic
demolition review to identify buildings over 75 years old, to determine
structures that could potentially be designated historic, and to expedite
demolition reviews for buildings that are not potential candidates for historic
preservation.
Order
(ID # 23-1595)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
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 Administration provide an update on the Compensation Study,
including a definite delivery timeline, at the November 9, 2023 meeting of
this City Council.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1593)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that municipal workers have not received
a salary increase in several years. She spoke of the important work that these
people perform on a daily basis, saying that when work is outsourced, the
work isn’t taken to heart, adding that often, outsourced workers don’t know
the city as well as the city’s employees. She went on to say that it’s been 7
months since the Compensation Study (CS) began without an end in sight.
She sponsored Somerville Municipal Employees Union (SMEA) President
and 30-year city employee, Ed Halloran, to speak. Mr. Halloran spoke about
the various jobs that the union’s members perform around the city and said
that their contract expired on June 30, 2022. Negotiations came to a halt
because the city didn’t have market information of job salaries because the
CS hadn’t been completed.
He noted that some of the city’s union members/employees make 25-33%
less than their counterparts in Cambridge, Arlington and Waltham. He
reviewed several positions, comparing salaries to other communities and
said that employees are leaving the employment of Somerville due to the
low pay. Presently, there are over 40 vacant positions in the city, 14 of
which are for positions in the Sewer Department that have remained unfilled
for 2 years. Mr. Halloran said that the city frequently outsources work at
twice the rate that city employees are being paid, adding that the CS delay is
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October 26, 2023
the latest insult perpetrated on the union by the city. He urged Mayor to
release the CS so negotiations may continue and he asked Councilors and
residents to become active in this matter.
Reference Librarian Meg Ragland was also sponsored to address the
Council. Ms. Ragland, a union and bargaining representative spoke about an
equipment repair request from two and a half years ago. She explained that
there was a broken dehumidifier in basement of the library and that a 311
request was submitted to have it repaired. The work order was closed 9
months later with no apparent repairs having been made, resulting in mold
beginning to grow, so she raised the issue during contract negotiations and
asked that a safety committee be established with the SMEA. The city
conceded that the repair was not made because there were no plumbers on
staff. Ms. Ragland urged the Mayor to release the CS.
The final sponsored speaker was Inspectional Services Department Housing
Inspector Stephanie Estrella, who said that the substantial increases in taxes,
water and sewer rates, make it hard to live in Somerville and that the union
has been without a contract for 16 months while work is being outsourced at
a higher cost.
Councilor Clingan commented that the CS should bring salaries to
competitive rates. Councilor Scott noted that he has complained about this
for 6 years and said outsourcing is five times higher than the in-house cost
for sewer salaries. He said that the lack of maintenance is corrosive to the
residents of the city and that the message is clear - that this city does not care
about its current residents. He said that we don’t need a study to know how
bad things really are and nobody will take better care of the city than the
people who live here. It’s offensive to talk about the community we’re
building in a place where labor has to be imported. President Ewen-Campen
said wages are negotiated and everyone is waiting for the CS to be
completed, adding that this situation is embarrassing and frustrating. He
apologized to the city workers for what’s happening.
Courtney O’Keefe, a 43-year resident and city employee said that those
closest to the problem are closest to the solution and that all the
administration had to do was to sit down and have a conversation with the
workers.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.5.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works install a water fountain for people
and dogs at Nunziato field.
Order
(ID # 23-1596)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the City Solicitor advise this Council on the city's ability to take steps
to combat predatory towing practices by adopting similar legislation as the
City of Boston.
Order
(ID # 23-1598)
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Councilor Burnley said the state’s towing laws are obscure and the public
needs to be aware of what can be done.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.7.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parking publicize how residents can file complaints
related to illegal towing, namely through the Department of Public Utilities
Transportation Oversight Division.
Order
(ID # 23-1599)
Councilor Burnley commented that this may be a way for people to obtain
restitution for being illegally towed.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor
Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment work with
this Council and Green and Open Somerville to consider the creation of an
Invasive Species Czar position to spearhead outreach, education, and
citywide invasive plant species removal.
Order
(ID # 23-1600)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.9.
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
In Support of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 32BJ's
cleaning contract campaign.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1597)
Councilor Burnley commented that this body should stand with any group
attempting to secure better working conditions. He pointed out that some of
these workers work and live in Somerville and their contract expires in 3
weeks. He asked that the Council stand united on this matter. He sponsored
Roanne Riviera from Boston to speak. Ms. Riviera explained that the master
contract covers 12,000 employees who provide janitorial services at multiple
locations, including Somerville High School. Janitors will conduct a strike
vote this Saturday to make a statement to make the public aware of their
efforts. Councilor Burnley sponsored Aida Mena, who addressed the
Council. Ms. Mena lives in Somerville and works in Burlington and has a
daughter attending Somerville High School. She asked for the Council’s
support of their efforts to secure better working conditions, saying that the
janitorial staff did the work during the pandemic, disinfecting and cleaning
workplaces for others and in return, they need the ability to care for their
own families now and in the future.
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Councilor Gomez Mouakad recognized the value that these employees bring
to workplaces. Councilor Clingan asked who is at the other end of the
negotiations and was told that there are about 60 contractors who are a part
of the master contract.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.10.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility advertise alternate walking paths to the
intersection of Broadway and McGrath Highway.
Order
(ID # 23-1606)
Councilor McLaughlin said this intersection has always been an issue and in
the short term, a solution is needed. He noted that the McGrath Highway
overpass is available as is the Gilman Street underpass. He would like these
alternate routes publicized with signage.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility increase signage and visibility of the newly
installed rotaries along Pearl Street, Oliver Street and Glen Street.
Order
(ID # 23-1601)
Councilor McLaughlin said he has received mixed reviews about these
rotaries, and he thinks that additional signage would be helpful. The one at
Pearl and Glenn Streets is being re-adjusted.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.12.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility assess loading zone and metered parking at the
intersection of Pearl and Cross Streets and report back to the Ward 1
Councilor.
Order
(ID # 23-1602)
Councilor McLaughlin noted that spots have been lost to fire lanes and he
would like a solution to help the businesses situated there.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.13.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works trim the trees by 89 Cross Street.
Order
(ID # 23-1603)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.14.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works address the broken bench in
Symphony Park.
Order
(ID # 23-1604)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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4.15.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works continue to remove trash from
Chuckie Harris Park on a daily basis.
Order
(ID # 23-1607)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.16.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works repair the manhole cover and
surrounding road at the entryway of the Cobble Hill homes.
Order
(ID # 23-1608)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.17.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Water and Sewer inspect the sewers on Otis Street, east
of McGrath Highway, and determine if they need to be cleaned.
Order
(ID # 23-1605)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.18.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Engineering inspect the sinkhole in the road directly in
front of the entrance to the Cobble Hill homes.
Order
(ID # 23-1609)
APPROVED
RESULT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 24, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1582)
Councilor Wilson commented that the city will be paying for parking spots
at the Tufts Administration Building (TAB). He spoke about the city’s cost
for providing booster shots and said that the city will not be offering RSV
shots due to their high cost. Other items discussed by the committee
included portable restrooms, Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds
invested in the Somerville Museum and concerns about GrayKey.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $75,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management
to the Police Department to support the Emergency Operations Center
(EOC) sustainability and upgrades.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1263)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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October 26, 2023
6.A.3.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $220,560 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to the
Health and Human Services Department for Tobacco Control Prevention.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1341)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting the use of $1,500 in available funds in the Inspectional Services
Staff Development Account to establish a Food and Refreshments Account,
to provide food and refreshments for staff during quarterly training sessions.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1398)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $29,780 from the Health and Human
Services Professional and Technical Services Account to the Council on
Aging Professional and Technical Services Account for nutritional
counseling and education at the Senior Center.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1401)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $75,000 grant with no new
match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community
Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community
Development Administration Division for a partnership with the City of
Medford to examine the zoning and economic development potential of the
parcels along Broadway that are split by the municipal boundary.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1402)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.7.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $11,059.72 from the Health and Human
Services Professional and Technical Account to the Department of Public
Works Building Rentals Account for three additional seasonal, portable
bathrooms.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1403)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,625 using
available funds in the Office of Strategic Planning and Community
Development Parks and Urban Forestry Division Account for Wedding
Nook and Quincy Street open space production.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1404)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.9.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 2-373 of the Code of
Ordinances, to establish a Vaccine Revolving Fund.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1407)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
RESULT:
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October 26, 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.A.10.
Requesting approval to authorize a FY 2024 expenditure limitation of
$60,000 for the Vaccine Revolving Fund.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1408)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.11.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,207.50 using
available funds in the Fire Department Professional & Technical Account
for medical case management costs.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1419)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.12.
Requesting approval to accept and expend an $18,400 grant with no new
match required, from Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for
unrestricted operating support.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1424)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.13.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,250 using
available funds in the Human Resources Arbitration Services Account for
arbitration services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1425)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.14.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $440 using available
funds in the Human Resources Professional & Technical Services Account
for language testing services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1426)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.15.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,298.83 using
available funds in the Human Resources Arbitration Services Account for
arbitration transcription services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1427)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.16.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $44,167.81 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Electricity Account for
solar net metering.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1474)
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October 26, 2023
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.17.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $25,418.02 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Electricity Account for
solar net metering.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1475)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.18.
By Councilor Scott
That the Chief of Police provide a written explanation, and any
accompanying documentation, of the Police Department’s receipt of
GrayKey surveillance technology from Urban Areas Security Initiative
(UASI)/Boston without requiring a grant acceptance from the City Council.
Order
(ID # 23-1480)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.A.19.
Requesting the appropriation of $67,478 from the Community Preservation
Act Historic Preservation Reserve Fund to the Somerville Museum for
storage area renovation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1492)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.20.
Requesting the appropriation of $113,440 from the Community Preservation
Act Historic Preservation Reserve Fund to Just A Start for restoration and
reinstallation of a historic window at 24 Webster Ave.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1493)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.21.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $26,721.10 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Electricity Account for
solar net metering.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1496)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.22.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $4,729.64 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Natural Gas Account for
natural gas supply services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1497)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.23.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,436.40 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Grounds R&M Facility,
Parks & Playgrounds for irrigation system repair and maintenance.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1498)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.A.24.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $280 using available
funds in the Department of Public Works Employee Training Account for
Construction Supervisor continuing education.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1499)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.25.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $371.44 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Motor Parts &
Accessories Account for pump replacement parts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1500)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.26.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a grant with no new match
required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for
the reimbursement of Hazardous Material Response Team members.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1501)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.27.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $30,020 from the Parking Department
Parking Meter Receipts Account to the Capital-Building Lease Account for
rental of parking spaces per the lease agreement between the Trustees of
Tufts College and the City of Somerville.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1538)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the
Planning Board on October 19, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1576)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the items before the committee and read
some of the public comments received at the public hearings.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 17,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1571)
Councilor Davis noted that two Surveillance Impact Report resubmissions
were recommended for approval as was an ordinance regarding closed
captioning. He noted an omission in the Committee Minutes that will be
before the committee at its next meeting. (The omission has no bearing on
this Committee Report.) Councilor Scott commented that he is not
supporting the GrayKey item and asked to sever item #23-1531 from the
Committee Report so that his vote may be recorded.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.C.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the City Solicitor and the Director of Parking provide this Council with
an opinion on whether the adoption of Chapter 90, Section 20A of the
Massachusetts General Laws would allow the City to mail tickets for traffic
violations, including those identified through 311 reports.
Order
(ID # 22-1449)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor
Clingan, Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott
Amending Chapter 8, Article I of the Code of Ordinances by adding a new
section regarding Closed Captioning Accessibility.
Ordinance
(ID # 23-0076)
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.C.4.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor
Clingan, Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott
Supporting Closed Captioning Accessibility.
Resolution
(ID # 23-0078)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.5.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for
Camera Ticket Enforcement.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0234)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.C.6.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for
GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1354)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.C.7.
City Clerk conveying information regarding item #23-0076, amending the
Code of Ordinances by adding a new section regarding Closed Captioning
Accessibility.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1507)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.8.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for
GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1531)
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October 26, 2023
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large
Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, 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., Ward One City
Councilor McLaughlin, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott
NAY:
6.C.9.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for
Camera Ticket Enforcement.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1532)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on October 18,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1574)
Councilor Burnley presented the report and noted that item #23-0583 was
not approved because the applicant had not appeared before the committee
after several invitations to do so. He also explained some of the issues with
tow companies and asked to sever item #23-1339 and refer it back to the
Licenses and Permits Committee.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.2.
Renewing Garage License, Dewire Family Trust, 381 Washington St.
License
(ID # 23-0583)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.3.
Renewing Garage License, Dewire Family Trust, 387 Washington St.
License
(ID # 23-0584)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.4.
New Garage License, Ravelo's Auto Service, 61 Washington St, 3 vehicles
inside, 4 vehicles outside for mechanical repairs and autobody work,
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed.
License
(ID # 23-1210)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.D.5.
New Garage License, Quick Auto Center, 30 Joy Street, 0 cars inside, 40
cars outside, for charging money to store vehicles, maintaining and
operating a tow vehicle, and storing unregistered vehicles,
Mon-Fri:8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, and Sun: closed.
License
(ID # 23-1339)
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October 26, 2023
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
6.D.6.
New Garage License, Ravelo's Auto Service, 61 Washington Street, 3 cars
inside, 4 cars outside, for mechanical repairs, autobody work, and charging
money to store vehicles, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, and Sun:
closed.
License
(ID # 23-1340)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.7.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Dumpling Garden, 273 Broadway,
opening Sunday-Saturday from 10am to 2am for in-store, take-out and
delivery service.
License
(ID # 23-1479)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.8.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Inspectional Services, the Chief of Police and the City
Clerk meet with this Council to discuss the operation of duly licensed live
music venues in the city, and the applicability of the Noise Ordinance as
written.
Order
(ID # 23-1486)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to add
Chapter 6 Article VII to restrict and prohibit new building construction and
major renovation projects that are not fossil fuel-free.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1590)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting authorization to borrow $5,561,768 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for street and sidewalk reconstruction.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1585)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4 through 7.6,
and 10.10 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $52,403 from the Salary Contingency
account to Police Personal Services accounts to fund a collective bargaining
settlement with Local 888 - Crossing Guards.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1584)
Budget Director Mike Mastrobuoni explained the purpose of the item to the
Council saying that the hourly rate will be raised to $24/hour from
$20.25/hour and will include a sick leave benefit. The contract will run to
Page 14 of 23
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October 26, 2023
2026. Councilor Kelly commented that she hopes the pay rate will increase
in the next budget. Matt Sirigu, Assistant City Solicitor and labor counsel,
noted that the union dues provision is fairly standard in labor contracts and
Councilor Pineda Neufeld voiced her displeasure about the 6-month
employment requirement in order to access the sick leave benefit.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.4.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $32,000 from the Office of Strategic
Planning and Community Development Housing Division Personal Services
Account to the Office of Sustainability and Environment Personal Services
Account to transfer the clean green program manager position to the Office
of Sustainability and Environment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1517)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4 through 7.6,
and 10.10 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $5,925.42 from the Infrastructure &
Asset Management Personal Services Account to the Engineering Personal
Services Account to fund an existing position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1554)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4 through 7.6,
and 10.10 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting approval to create a Senior Project Manager position in the
Department of Infrastructure and Asset Management - Engineering Division.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1555)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4 through 7.6,
and 10.10 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval for specified City Employees to work the November 7,
2023 City Election.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1559)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.8.
Conveying the FY 2023 report of SomerViva: Office of Immigrant Affairs.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 23-1557)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 23
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October 26, 2023
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Planning Board conveying recommendations for item #23-0940.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1547)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, New England Construction Managers Inc.
License
(ID # 23-1558)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Outdoor Goods License, 130 Broadway LLC, 130 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-1611)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Taxi Stand License, Green and Yellow Cab, 295 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-1580)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Taxi Stand License, Green and Yellow Cab, 1 Davis Sq.
License
(ID # 23-1579)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Taxi Stand License, Green and Yellow Cab, 22-26 Union Sq.
License
(ID # 23-1578)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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9.6.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Hillside Service Center, 45
Mystic Ave.
License
(ID # 23-1612)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Somerville Motors Inc, 182
Washington St.
License
(ID # 23-1613)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Samuel Feller applying for a Public Event License for Neighborhood Chili
Cookoff on October 27 from 10am to 5pm (raindate November 3).
Public Event
(ID # 23-1561)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Tiffany Cayarga applying for a Public Event License for Kingston St BP on
October 28 from 4pm to 10pm (raindate October 29).
Public Event
(ID # 23-1562)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Kelsey Coffin applying for a Public Event License for Partridge Ave
Halloween BP on October 29 from 4pm to 9pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-1563)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Danielle Angelillo applying for a Public Event License for Pleasant Ave BP
on October 31 from 3pm to 9pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-1564)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Adrienne Agarwal applying for a Public Event License for Hall St BP on
November 4 from 2:30pm to 7pm (raindate November 5).
Public Event
(ID # 23-1565)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 17 of 23
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October 26, 2023
9.13.
Alliance for Safe Streets applying for a Public Event License for World Day
of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on November 19 from 3pm to
7pm (raindate November 20).
Public Event
(ID # 23-1566)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for 27th
Annual Gobble Gobble Gobble Road Race on November 23 from 6am to
1pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-1567)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Harvard University conveying its Fall 2023 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1551)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.16.
David Thorpe submitting comments re: Somerville High School Scholarship
Foundation.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1552)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.17.
Digital Fourth submitting comments re: item #23-1354, Surveillance
Technology Impact Report for GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1556)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.18.
Yizhi You submitting comments re: homelessness in East Somerville.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1572)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.18 through
9.20 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.19.
Bill Valletta submitting comments re: City Council Orders, item #22-1593
and item #23-0612.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1573)
Page 18 of 23
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Meeting Minutes
October 26, 2023
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.18 through
9.20 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.20.
Tufts University conveying its Fall 2023 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1589)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.18 through
9.20 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor
Burnley Jr. and Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Parks and Recreation provide additional play and
athletic equipment for the outdoor recess area at the Edgerly School.
Order
(ID # 23-1618)
APPROVED AS AMENDED AND SENT FOR
DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Parks and Recreation provide an outdoor storage box at
the Edgerly School for additional equipment.
Order
(ID # 23-1619)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Gomez
Mouakad
That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect the Edgerly building for
noise issues during class time, and provide necessary adjustments to
classrooms to address acoustic issues.
Order
(ID # 23-1620)
APPROVED AS AMENDED AND SENT FOR
DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Scott and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Engineering provide this Council with an update on the
2013 Pedestrian Accessibility Study and the progress made in the 10 years
since its release.
Order
(ID # 23-1621)
Page 19 of 23
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Meeting Minutes
October 26, 2023
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Gomez
Mouakad
That the Director of the Office of Racial and Social Justice update this
Council on the implementation of the FileVine system that was procured to
track Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaints.
Order
(ID # 23-1622)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.6.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
That the Director of the Office of Racial and Social Justice update this
Council on the status of the procurement of a Braille embosser to
accommodate requests for materials in Braille.
Order
(ID # 23-1623)
Councilor Clingan sponsored resident Holly Simione, Co-Chair of the
Commission for Persons with Disabilities, to speak. Ms. Simione explained
that it’s a big task to format data for brailling and that they’re using a
process that reduces the volume of documents and reduces costs. She briefly
explained that in order to utilize this process, there is some standardization
that would need to be done to the original documents.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility add a speed bump to Shore Drive at Governor
Winthrop Road.
Order
(ID # 23-1624)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.8.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Amending Section 7.2.7 of the Zoning Ordinances to add Shared Workspace
& Arts Education to Table 7.2.7 Permitted Uses.
Zoning Ordinance
(ID # 23-1625)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.9.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Administration increase the $55,000 allotted to support food access
to $100,000, in accordance with its promise to pledge $1 million for
participatory budgeting.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1626)
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Meeting Minutes
October 26, 2023
Councilor Burnley noted that this amount represents the unused portion of
the promised $1 million allotment for participatory budgeting.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.10.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $108,226.70 grant with no new
match required from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health
and Human Services Department to support implementation of the
Somerville-Cambridge Shared Public Health Service Initiative.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1550)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2, 7.4 through 7.6,
and 10.10 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.11.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Linda Dubuque as City
Treasurer and Collector of Taxes.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1632)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 10.11
through 10.14 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.12.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Francis J. Golden as Chief
Assessor and Chair of the Board of Assessors.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1635)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 10.11
through 10.14 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.13.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Michael Flynn to the
Board of Assessors.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1631)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 10.11
through 10.14 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 21 of 23
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Meeting Minutes
October 26, 2023
10.14.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the
Board of Assessors.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1633)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 10.11
through 10.14 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.15.
Chief of Police conveying supplemental information regarding Somerville's
participation in the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region (MBHSR).
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1627)
Councilor Kelly commented that this is the information she requested and
Councilor Scott spoke about resolutions prohibiting the city from
participating in the federal government’s surplus military programs.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.16.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, V.I.N.L. Transportation Inc., Med. #65.
License
(ID # 23-1628)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.17.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Ed's Used Auto Parts, 516
Columbia St.
License
(ID # 23-1629)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.18.
Theia Henderson applying for a Public Event License for Holyoke Rd BP on
October 28 from 11am to 6pm (raindate October 29).
Public Event
(ID # 23-1634)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.19.
J.T. Scott applying for a Public Event License for Springfield St BP on
October 31 from 4pm to 10:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-1636)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.14
and 10.16 through 10.19 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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October 26, 2023
10.20.
Charles Zammuto requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning
Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 563-565 Broadway from
Urban Residence (UR) to Mid-Rise 4 (MR4).
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1617)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
11.
LATE ITEMS
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:27 PM.
Page 23 of 23