Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Nov 9, 2023
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, November 9, 2023
NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have
been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first
checking with the City Clerk.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
The meeting was called to order at 7:04 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:16 PM and returned at 9:07 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 23-1688)
Councilor Davis experienced some technical difficulties and joined the
meeting at 7:06 PM.
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 23-1689)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, October 12, 2023.
Minutes
(ID # 23-1690)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 1 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 47 feet of conduit in
Albion Street, from Utility Pole 3/22 to a point of pickup at 156 Albion
Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-1680)
Hannah Cooper, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
3.2.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 147 feet of conduit in
Lowell Street, from Utility Pole 215/2 to a point of pickup at the rear of 657
Somerville Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-1681)
Hannah Cooper, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
Page 2 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
3.3.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 160 feet of conduit in
the intersection of Broadway and Thurston Street, from Manhole 1922 to a
point of pickup at 115 Thurston Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-1682)
Hannah Cooper, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
3.4.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 10 feet of conduit in
Medford Street, from Utility Pole 228/2 to a point of pickup at 22 McGrath
Highway.
Grant of Location
(ID # 23-1683)
Hannah Cooper, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor
Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor
Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor
Strezo
Supporting Somerville’s application to the Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration
Program.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1662)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 3 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.2.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis and Councilor
Gomez Mouakad
Commending the actions taken to improve the safety of the municipal fleet.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1664)
Councilor Wilson commented that the Department of Public Works is
utilizing nine vehicle speed limiters and he asked that Councilors urge the
administration to continue with this program and to implement other vehicle
safety technology.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.3.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Engineering relocate the western curb cut where the
Community Path crosses School Street so it simply goes straight.
Order
(ID # 23-1665)
Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke on the item saying that he doesn’t
understand why the curb was cut at that particular spot. He has had
conversations with various city staff about this, and despite their best efforts
to explain the reason, he still doesn’t understand it. He asked that the item be
sent to the Traffic and Parking Committee.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
Page 4 of 24
City Council
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November 9, 2023
4.4.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo and Councilor
Wilson
That the Director of Mobility either widen the newly constructed
intersection at Benton Road and Summer Street or make Benton Road a
one-way street.
Order
(ID # 23-1667)
Councilor Ewen-Campen said that this intersection has curb bump outs that
make it difficult to negotiate turns. He has discussed the matter with
Mobility staff, who indicated their belief that the area in question was
designed properly. He’s raising the issue because he thinks that the city got
it wrong and that it should be fixed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.5.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
Conveying an important upcoming opportunity to support changes to the
state plumbing code that will facilitate the creation of gender-neutral single
occupancy restrooms.
Communication
(ID # 23-1666)
Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that this is an important issue for trans
people and caregivers and is really a common sense issue. As this is highly
regulated by the state plumbing code, there is nothing that can be done
locally. There is momentum to get this changed and there are two roads to
pursue, i.e., change the state law or ask the board that oversees the plumbing
code to change it. That board is holding a public hearing on the matter next
Friday and Councilor Ewen-Campen urged anyone interested to attend or
submit comments.
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
Page 5 of 24
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November 9, 2023
4.6.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Davis and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Water and Sewer explain the increases in water bills for
households with new water meters and consider a forgiveness period for
unexpected increases due to inaccuracies in prior metering.
Order
(ID # 23-1677)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that some residents have received
huge water bills and President Ewen-Campen explained that the new meters
being installed do work, but the transponder has had problems causing
several property owners to get incorrect bills. He also commented that the
information provided by city staff was inadequate and unclear. Councilor
Clingan commented that the new meters are more accurate, which also may
be a contributing factor in some bills being higher than what people were
used to. He would like to see payments for these large bills stretched over
time. Councilor Strezo commented that she would like to see data on how
many higher bills have been received.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.7.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning consider a
modification to the Zoning Ordinances in the Neighborhood Residence
District to allow full reconstruction of roof line, or larger modifications to
roof line, by right for projects that commit to meeting requirements of the
new Specialized Stretch Code for Passive House and all electric standards,
even when not applicable.
Order
(ID # 23-1678)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad said the city’s zoning code is specific on how to
modify roof lines and she doesn’t think this should be under the purview of
zoning. She noted that basements are allowed to be modified and asked why
not roof lines. Councilor Wilson thinks the proposal would help both the
climate and housing goals of the city.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 6 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
4.8.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor
Clingan and Councilor Strezo
That this City Council commit to facilitating and procuring interpretation
when sponsoring non-English speaking speakers.
Resolution
(ID # 23-1679)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that, despite having access to translation
services, the City Council is not being active in coordinating those services.
She said that she knows firsthand that English only policy and rhetoric are
rooted in our historical racism and colonialism and that social and cultural
biases are embedded in our society. She said that she put this Resolution
forth because diversity might be challenging, but inclusion is hard and to
achieve inclusion, bias needs to be fought. She stated that language
discrimination is rooted in the white supremacy and colonial paths of our
society over centuries. She said that we are making a lot of progress and that
it is the City Council’s collective responsibility to challenge and overcome
linguistic discrimination.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters, meeting on November 1, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1643)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee
and said that the committee recommended three candidates for approval.
There were two candidates for Board of Assessors positions who had to
Page 7 of 24
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Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
leave the meeting prior to their interviews, so those interviews will be
conducted at the next committee meeting.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.A.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael Santangelo to the
Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-0439)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Courtney Koslow to the
Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1349)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Linda Dubuque as City
Treasurer and Collector of Taxes.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1632)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on November 6, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1645)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and said
that an update was received on the high school scholarship programs, grants
were accepted, a personnel shift from the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development to the Office of Sustainability and Environment
was approved, as was a new position in the Engineering Department. He
spoke about a bonding request for street and sidewalk reconstruction noting
that the plan would include five intersections and floating bus stops, and
improvements to slow down vehicle turn speeds. A prioritization list is not
yet available. During the Committee meeting, Councilor Scott commented
that most of this work, which is regular infrastructure maintenance, is being
Page 8 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
primarily funded through bonding and he was told that there’s a move to
gradually transition those costs to the general fund.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.B.2.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
David Thorpe submitting comments re: Somerville High School Scholarship
Foundation.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1552)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.7.
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)
Page 9 of 24
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November 9, 2023
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 30,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1642)
Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and noted
that the rent stabilization item was also discussed. He moved to sever the
fossil fuel item in the report (item # 23-1590) and place it on file. The item
was severed and placed on file.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.C.2.
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)
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.D.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
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November 9, 2023
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on November 8,
2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1646)
Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and
spoke about a Grant of Location issue where a trench was dug prior to
receiving the city’s permission. After deliberating the matter, it was
concluded that this instance was a good faith mistake. He also spoke about
not recommending approval for a new garage license because the company
had been towing vehicles to an unlicensed parking lot and had been using
their garage prior to obtaining their permit as well as after being told not to
by the city. The business has been shut down by the Inspectional Services
Department. President Ewen-Campen commented that the Council might
want to consider penalties for improperly doing construction work before
permits are issued.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.D.2.
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)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.3.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on
November 2, 2023.
Committee Report
(ID # 23-1644)
Councilor Kelly summarized the actions taken by the committee and spoke
about dark skies issues, un-housed people in East Somerville, access to
bathrooms in the Police sub-station in East Somerville. Councilor
McLaughlin said that he will be requesting weekly updates on the un-housed
situation.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 24
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November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.E.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Housing and the Director of Health and Human
Services update this Council regarding repeated requests to provide shelter
to homeless residents.
Order
(ID # 23-1289)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.3.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works ensure that the new Police
sub-station in East Somerville is easily accessible to the public and includes
public restrooms.
Order
(ID # 23-1367)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Davis
That the Director of Health and Human Services create a homeless worker
program, similar to the Roca program, that offers compensated community
cleanup and other community service jobs to the un-housed.
Order
(ID # 23-1370)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on
homelessness outreach efforts, including the hiring of four clinicians, case
managers and home visitations.
Order
(ID # 23-1372)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.6.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Inspectional Services update this Council on
enforcement of the Dark Skies ordinance that restricts light pollution and
reduces energy consumption.
Order
(ID # 23-1373)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
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7.1.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 23-1314)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
7.2.
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 # 23-1659)
Councilor Davis said this was discussed in the Legislative Matters
Committee last week. He explained that the state has a pilot program for ten
communities to participate in and Somerville would like to be one of the
communities selected sometime after the beginning of the new year. To that
end, having this ordinance in place would demonstrate to the state that the
city wants to move in this direction. Two issues were raised in committee.
One dealt with the definition of major renovation, and this was addressed by
having the ordinance default to the state statute. The other dealt with the
waiting period for implementation of the ordinance.
Councilor Burnley expressed concern about an exception that mirrors the
state language that would permit some multi-family buildings to use fossil
fuels. Councilor Gomez Mouakad inquired about language to allow changes
if current statutes change. Christine Blais, Director of the Office of
Sustainability and Environment responded that city staff tried to incorporate
language that had most recently been adopted by the state. She reviewed the
fire safety standards with the Somerville Fire Department and stated that she
feels confident with the language. She also pointed out that the ordinance’s
language would be reviewed bi-annually. Councilor Burnley noted that the
city hired a consultant for this ordinance and said that there is a severability
clause and a conflicting provision clause.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked if additional capacity would be needed to
enforce the ordinance and Director Blais explained that item #23-1517, (on
tonight’s agenda), would move a position from the Office of Strategic
Planning and Community Development to the Office of Sustainability and
Environment, with an expanded scope, and if and when the city receives
state approval, additional staff should already be available.
The item was approved, enrolled and ordained.
President Ewen-Campen moved for reconsideration in the hope that
reconsideration fails. Reconsideration failed on a roll call vote of 0 in favor,
10 opposed (McLaughlin, Davis, Strezo, Clingan, Wilson, Burnley, Gomez
Mouakad, Kelly, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 1 absent (Scott).
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 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 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
7.3.
Requesting approval to appropriate $165,687 from the Energy Stabilization
Fund to pay for the final phase of the LED conversion project at the Albert
F. Argenziano School.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1655)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting approval to appropriate $56,215.42 from the Bike Share
Stabilization Fund for installation and startup cost of a BlueBike station at
the 74 Middlesex Avenue Development site.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1516)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $2,502,191 from the Receipts Reserved for
Appropriation, Parking Meter Receipts Account to reduce the FY 2024 Tax
Rate.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1661)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,370,177 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the 90 Washington Demonstration Project Account
for additional legal services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1568)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to the Capital-Building Improvements Account to fund needed
building improvements.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1676)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 14 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
7.8.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $384,858 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to the School Department for unbudgeted expenditures relating to the
relocation of Winter Hill Community Innovation School students.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1670)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $272,970 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to the School Department to fund forensic services on the School
Department Information Technology (IT) network.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1671)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $219,697 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to various Department of Public Works Accounts to fund unbudgeted
expenditures related to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School move.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1674)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $49,974 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to the School Department School Lunch Revolving Fund for providing
meal services to participants in summer programs run by the Parks &
Recreation Department.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1673)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $28,200 to the Department of
Public Works Snow Removal Account for the procurement of roadway
sensors for snow removal equipment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1663)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
7.13.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $8,150 from the FY 2024 Tax
Levy to the Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access Salaries
Account to correct a budget miscalculation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1675)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $2,205 using
available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical
Services Account for employment medical screens.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1588)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $1,424 using
available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical
Services Account for employment medical screens.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1587)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $900 using available
funds in the Parks and Recreation Transportation Account for Dilboy Field
bus transportation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1591)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $718.51 using
available funds in the Mayor's Office Maint Contract-Office Equip Account
for additional printing needed for Community Meeting materials.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1672)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
7.18.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $475 using available
funds in the City Clerk's R&M - Software Account for ordinance hosting
annual support fee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1640)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.19.
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $375 using available
funds in the Mayor's Office Food Supplies and Refreshment Account for
dinner for staff for FY 2024 budget hearings.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1669)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.20.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a Community Compact Best
Practices Technical Assistance grant for $45,000 with no new match
required, from the MA Department of Revenue Division of Local Services
to the Economic Development Division for the development of a
Commercial Tenant Guidebook.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1581)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.21.
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of five months for
Suffolk Construction, for Construction Manager services for the Somerville
High School project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1553)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.22.
Requesting approval of a thirty-month extension to the Benefit Strategies,
LLC contract for Flexible Spending Account employee benefit
administration.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1586)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 17 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
7.23.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 23-1570)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
7.24.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 23-1637)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Chief Assessor requesting to appear at this Council's November 21, 2023
meeting for the Tax Classification Public Hearing and the determination and
adoption of tax levy percentages for FY 2024.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1652)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
8.2.
Commissioner of Public Works conveying updates regarding ten City
Council orders approved at the meeting of September 28, 2023.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1657)
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Broadway Motor Cars, 161
Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-1684)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
Page 18 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.2.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Joseph Talewsky & Son Inc,
508-512 Columbia Street.
License
(ID # 23-1685)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.3.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Real Auto Shop Inc, 463
McGrath Hwy.
License
(ID # 23-1686)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.4.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Webster Auto Sales, 61
Prospect Street.
License
(ID # 23-1687)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 19 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.5.
Four residents submitting comments re: item #23-1198, an amendment to
the Zoning Ordinances to permit the house and triple-decker building types
without any conditions.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1638)
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.6.
Jennifer Schultz submitting comments re: item #23-1306, an amendment to
the Zoning Map to change the zoning district of 627 Somerville Avenue
from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3).
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1639)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through
9.10 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.7.
Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS) submitting comments re:
zoning amendments, item #23-1198, item #23-1489, and item #23-1205.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1654)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through
9.10 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 20 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.8.
Eight residents submitting comments re: item #23-1305, an amendment to
the Zoning Map to change the zoning district of 295-297 Medford Street and
93 Walnut Street from Mid-Rise 3 (MR3) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5).
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1656)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through
9.10 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.9.
Reverend Philip Michael Mitza submitting comments re: issues on Lower
Broadway.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1658)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through
9.10 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
9.10.
Pat Jehlen submitting comments re: item #23-1198, an amendment to the
Zoning Ordinances to permit the house and triple-decker building types
without any conditions.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1668)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through
Page 21 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
9.10 and Place them on File.
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing the City of
Somerville to regulate rent in residential dwelling units.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1694)
Jill Currier, from the Office of Housing Stability and the Anti-Displacement
Task Force, gave a brief presentation on the mayor’s initiative, which was
developed over the past five months. Three listening sessions were held to
receive input from stakeholders. Nicole Eigbrett, Residential Displacement
Committee Member, continued the presentation, explaining the Home Rule
Petition process and noted that the proposal contains reasonable limits on
yearly rent increases, enacts just cause eviction protection, and allows for the
creation of a rent stabilization board. After state approval, it would come
back to the city for ordainment of an ordinance. President Ewen-Campen
noted that the text is available online. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked that
communications be made, in different languages, to those most affected by
displacement to make them aware of what the city is attempting to do.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,970 using
available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional
and Technical Services Account for transcription services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1660)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $500 using available
funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional and
Technical Services Account for transcription services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1508)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22
and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Page 22 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
City Solicitor requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to
discuss property at Matignon pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws,
Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(6).
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 23-1692)
The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:16 PM and returned to
open session at 9:07 PM. President Ewen-Campen stated that no votes were
taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
10.5.
Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, United Motors, 188 Broadway.
License
(ID # 23-1695)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
10.6.
Health and Human Services Department applying for a Public Event License
for Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20 from 4:30pm to
6:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 23-1696)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and
10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 23 of 24
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 9, 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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
10.7.
58 residents submitting comments re: traffic calming on Ivaloo, Harrison,
Kent, and Morgan Streets.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1691)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
10.8.
Luke Miratrix submitting comments re: brick replacement in Davis Square.
Public
Communication
(ID # 23-1693)
PLACED ON FILE
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 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:33 PM.
Page 24 of 24