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City Council — Minutes, Dec 14, 2023

City Council meeting, Dec 14, 2023·48 pages·📄 Original PDF (city portal)
City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes 7:00 PM Thursday, December 14, 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. The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. The City Council entered Executive Session at 7:49 PM and returned at 8:43 PM. 1. OPENING CEREMONIES 1.1. Call of the Roll. Roll Call (ID # 23-1866) 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 # 23-1867) President Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory Charles “Charlie” Burns. President Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of the lives lost and at risk in Palestine. Councilor McLauglin requested a moment of silence in memory of Kayla Driscoll. APPROVED RESULT: 1.3. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, November 9, 2023. Minutes (ID # 23-1868) APPROVED RESULT: Page 1 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 2. CITATIONS 2.1. By Councilor Ewen-Campen Commending outgoing Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad for her outstanding service to the people of Somerville as Ward 5 City Councilor from 2022 to 2023. Citation (ID # 23-1836) Councilor Gomez Mouakad was praised and thanked by her fellow councilors for her experience and diligence in serving the people of Ward 5. Her colleagues commented that she came to each meeting prepared and willing to speak her mind and she was recognized for her work in shaping the Council’s Special Committee on School Building Facilities and Maintenance. Councilors expressed their respect for her and said that she brought a unique strength to the City Council. Councilor Gomez Mouakad thanked the clerks, administration, colleagues, and the residents of Somerville for the opportunity to serve and for their support. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 2.2. By Councilor Ewen-Campen Commending outgoing Councilor Charlotte Kelly for her outstanding service to the people of Somerville as City Councilor at Large from 2022 to 2023. Citation (ID # 23-1837) Councilor Kelly was acknowledged by her colleagues as someone who is admired and who lives and breathes community and labor organizing. Councilors commented that she always brought her “A” game and was thoroughly prepared. She brought incredible value to the Council by deliberately asking tough questions in a friendly manner, her work ethic and consummate professionalism, her grasp of the issues, her sharp mind and speaking ability, and her humorous and passionate demeanor. Councilor Page 2 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Kelly thanked everyone for the life changing experience provided to her and said she is grateful for her fellow councilors and thankful for the knowledge she gained while serving. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 2.3. By Councilor Ewen-Campen Commending Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld for her distinguished service as Vice President of this Council in 2023. Citation (ID # 23-1835) President Ewen-Campen presented a plaque to Councilor Pineda Neufeld recognizing her service as Vice President. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 2.4. By Councilor Pineda Neufeld Commending Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen for his distinguished service as President of this Council in 2023. Citation (ID # 23-1834) Vice President Pineda Neufeld presented a plaque to Councilor Ewen-Campen recognizing his service as President. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS Page 3 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 3.1. RCN Telecom applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 490 feet of conduit in Columbia Street as follows: Starting from Utility Pole 362/6 located at the intersection of Tremont Street and Columbia Street, to three proposed manholes to a point of pickup at 495 Columbia Street. From third proposed manhole, install 45 feet of conduit to Utility Pole 76/4 located near 510 Columbia Street. Grant of Location (ID # 23-1839) CONDITION: Before construction starts, coordinate with Boynton Gateway and Engineering AND THE BUSINESS OWNER LOCATED AT 520 COLUMBIA ST. Access to Columbia St cannot be more restrict than it already is. Bill Conway, representing RCN Telecom, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilor Scott moved to condition the grant as follows: Before construction starts, coordinate with Boynton Gateway and Engineering AND THE BUSINESS OWNER LOCATED AT 520 COLUMBIA ST. Access to Columbia St cannot be more restrict than it already is. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 3.2. Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install three new manholes and a total of 701 feet of conduit in Columbia Street, to a point of pickup at 495 Columbia Street and 510 Columbia Street. Grant of Location (ID # 23-1841) CONDITION: Before construction starts, coordinate with Boynton Gateway and Engineering AND THE BUSINESS OWNER LOCATED AT 520 COLUMBIA ST. Access to Columbia St cannot be more restrict than it already is. Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilor Scott moved to condition the grant as follows: Before construction starts, coordinate with Boynton Gateway and Engineering AND THE BUSINESS OWNER LOCATED AT 520 COLUMBIA ST. Access to Columbia St cannot be more restrict than it already is. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS RESULT: Page 4 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 3.3. Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 7 feet of conduit in Cross Street, from proposed Comcast Manhole to existing Verizon Manhole located near 17 Cross Street. Grant of Location (ID # 23-1842) Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, 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 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. By Councilor Ewen-Campen In his capacity as President, appointing Councilor Jake Wilson to the Police Chief Selection Committee. Communication (ID # 23-1808) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 4.2. By Councilor Ewen-Campen In his capacity as President, appointing Denise Lauers and Kevin Dickinson to the Police Chief Selection Committee. Communication (ID # 23-1809) Page 5 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 4.3. By Councilor Strezo Conveying a report of the Children’s Cabinet meeting. Communication (ID # 23-1860) Councilor Strezo briefly listed some of the topics discussed at the prior two meetings of the Children’s Cabinet. PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. 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 as a Committee of the Whole on November 30, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1784) Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that two related items regarding the police staffing study were discussed in this 3+ hour meeting. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 6 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.A.2. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Racial and Social Justice provide an update on the Police Staffing Report. Order (ID # 22-1844) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.A.3. Director of the Department of Racial and Social Justice conveying the Police Department Staffing and Operations Analysis. Officer's Communication (ID # 23-1734) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.B. CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters, meeting on December 6, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1814) Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee and noted that 9 confirmations were recommended for approval (2 Board of Assessors positions, 1 Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change position, and 6 Commission for Persons with Disabilities positions). APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.2. By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly That the Director of Racial and Social Justice present an update to this Council on efforts to hire an Executive Director for the Human Rights Commission. Order (ID # 22-1597) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.B.3. Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Michael Flynn to the Board of Assessors. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1631) APPROVED RESULT: Page 7 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.4. Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the Board of Assessors. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1633) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.5. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alexis Washburn to the Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1763) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.6. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Helen Corrigan to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1765) APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: Page 8 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.7. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Ingrid Schneider to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1766) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.8. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Murshid Buwembo to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1768) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.9. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Sheila Tracy to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1769) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.10. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Nick Altschuller to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1770) APPROVED RESULT: Page 9 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.B.11. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of M. Michael Shaps to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1771) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.C. EQUITY, GENDER, FAMILIES AND VULNERABLE POPULATIONS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Report of the Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations, meeting on December 11, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1816) Councilor Gomez Mouakad summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that 23 items were discussed, among them were the Parks and Recreation enrollment processes, translation services, ADA complaints received from members of the public, status on requests for Braille transcription, timeline and process for identifying a permanent Teen Center, CORI and SORI checks for Crisis Pregnancy Centers, compliance with Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 521, Sections 3.3 and 3.5, the citywide disparity study, the training, education and policies established for officers to address violence against LGBTQ and gender non-conforming individuals, and the FileVine system. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 10 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.C.2. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Parks and Recreation report on enrollment processes, communications, matriculation data, staffing and programs offered in the past five years. Order (ID # 22-0671) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.3. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of SomerViva provide the Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations with an update on translation services. Order (ID # 22-0966) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.4. By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan That the ADA Coordinator deliver a list of ADA complaints received from members of the public in FY 2021 and FY 2022. Order (ID # 22-1272) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.5. By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan That the ADA Coordinator provide a status on requests for Braille transcription of materials. Order (ID # 22-1277) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.6. By Councilor Burnley Jr. That the ADA Coordinator coordinate with the City of Cambridge or another nearby entity that can provide Braille translations in less than 3 to 4 weeks until the City can procure a Brailler. Order (ID # 22-1306) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.7. By Councilor Pineda Neufeld That the Administration update this Council on the timeline and process for identifying a permanent Teen Center. Resolution (ID # 22-1458) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.8. By Councilor Strezo That this Council’s Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations hold a public hearing to discuss the feasibility of conducting CORI and SORI checks for Crisis Pregnancy Centers. Order (ID # 22-1571) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Page 11 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.C.9. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Kelly That the Director of the Office of Racial and Social Justice, the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development document compliance with Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 521, Sections 3.3 and 3.5. Order (ID # 22-2120) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.10. By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Scott, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services update this Council on the status of the citywide disparity study. Order (ID # 23-0080) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.11. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Parks and Recreation consider giving enrollment priority to low-income families in Parks and Recreation Programs, including but not limited to pre-registration priority. Order (ID # 23-0484) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.12. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA) provide data on the process to connect immigrant families with legal services and the waitlist to receive those services vs. the waitlist for follow-up from government immigrant agencies. Order (ID # 23-0485) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.13. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Strezo That this City Council consider options for Committee meetings like allowing schedule changes to the daytime or fixing presentation times in the evenings to facilitate flexibility for staff and Councilors who are new parents or facing childcare challenges. Order (ID # 23-0486) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.14. By Councilor Strezo That the Administration designate a small children's section in City Hall between the Council Chamber and the Subcommittee Room for parents and caregivers. Resolution (ID # 23-1295) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Page 12 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.C.15. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Strezo That the Chief of Police report on the training, education and policies established for officers to address violence against LGBTQ and gender non-conforming individuals. Order (ID # 23-1438) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.16. Conveying the FY 2023 report of SomerViva: Office of Immigrant Affairs. Mayor's Communication (ID # 23-1557) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.17. 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) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.18. 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) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C.19. 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) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.D. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on December 12, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1818) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that among the items acted on were an amendment to the CPA FY 2023 grant, an appropriation of $170,000, acceptance of an in-kind gift, a grant from the MA Department of Transportation, a contract extension and a departmental transfer of funds. APPROVED RESULT: Page 13 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 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.D.2. Requesting approval to amend the Community Preservation Act Fund's FY 2023 grant of $425,000 to the Somerville Hispanic Association for Community Development, to change the scope of the building renovations without increasing the funds. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1641) 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.3. Requesting the appropriation of $170,000 from the Union Square Community Benefits Stabilization Fund, with $100,000 for workforce development services and $70,000 for small business technical assistance services. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1718) APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 6.D.4. Requesting approval to accept an in-kind gift valued at $15,000 with no new match required, from the SUGi project to the Parks and Urban Forestry Division for materials and professional services for the Miyawaki forest planting. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1720) APPROVED RESULT: Page 14 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 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.D.5. Requesting the appropriation of $955,000 from the Participatory Budgeting Stabilization Fund for the purpose of implementing the winning projects from Somerville's first Participatory Budgeting cycle. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1721) President Ewen-Campen moved to sever this item from the Finance Committee Report. The motion was approved. Budget Analyst Meghan Huckenpahler formally requested this appropriation and explained when and why the stabilization fund was created. During the participating budget submission period, 966 ideas were submitted for consideration, all of which were reviewed with city staff by a team of 40 residents. Ms. Huckenpahler presented the top five submissions. APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 6.D.6. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $116,800 grant that requires a match, from the MA Department of Transportation to the Mobility Division for the West Broadway Vision Zero Implementation project. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1722) 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 15 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.D.7. Requesting approval to extend a contract with Janeth Moreno from Moreno Law for one year, to June 30, 2024, for the provision of immigration legal services. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1723) 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.8. Requesting approval of a transfer of $25,000 from various SomerStat Ordinary Maintenance Accounts to the SomerStat Salaries & Wages Temporary Account to fund additional temporary employee time. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1732) 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.9. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $298,280 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for the Crisis Intervention Team Training and Technical Assistance Center (CITT-TAC) jail diversion program. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1751) 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.10. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $39,398 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for jail diversion. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1752) Page 16 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 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.D.11. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,500 grant with no new match required, from the State 911 Department of Emergency Medical Dispatch to the Police Department for Emergency Medical Dispatch work with Cataldo Ambulance Service of Massachusetts. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1753) 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.12. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $120,420.65 grant with no new match required, from the State 911 Department to the Police Department for Emergency Medical Dispatch training. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1754) 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.13. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $295,463 grant with no new match required, from the State 911 Department to the Police Department for enhanced 911 Telecommunicator personnel costs. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1755) APPROVED RESULT: Page 17 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 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.D.14. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $20,000 grant with no new match required, from State Opioids Response to the Police Department for the Post-Overdose Follow-Up with First Responders program. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1756) 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.E. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the Planning Board on December 7, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1815) Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that 2 public hearings were held with no testimony being received. Recommended for approval, with amendments, was an amendment to the zoning ordinances relative to vegetated roofs. President Ewen-Campen thanked the many community organizations that worked on this initiative. APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 6.E.2. By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson Amending the Zoning Ordinances Section 10.3, Development Standards, and Table 10.4.1. to include vegetated roofs. Zoning Ordinance (ID # 23-0791) Page 18 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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.E.3. John Fragione and Agostino Feola, Trustees of Frala Realty Trust, requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance 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 # 23-1305) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 6.F. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.F.1. Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on November 28, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1779) Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the main issue before the committee was the request for approval of a Home Rule Petition to regulate rent in residential dwelling units. Two key points were raised as potential concerns: 1) what would happen if a unit goes outside of control of the ordinance, and 2) the timeframe for how new buildings would be exempt from the ordinance. APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 6.F.2. By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That this Council draft a Home Rule Petition to authorize Somerville to regulate against rent gouging by establishing Rent Stabilization. Order (ID # 23-0318) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Page 19 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.F.3. 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) Councilor Davis spoke about this being another tool in the box for housing affordability and although this proposal is not his ideal, he made his decision based on the information presented. He said that this will make a real difference to help people to stay in their rental units. Ellen Shachter, Director of the Office of Housing Stability, stated that she was grateful that this matter was taken seriously, and she urged the Council to pass it now, saying that this puts forth a bold way to regulate rent here in Somerville and to enact just cause eviction, adding that the measure reflects the many comments received from the public. She also said that a coordinated effort is needed to move this petition through the state house. Director Shachter stated that rent stabilization won’t solve the housing crisis but believes that it’s a path to a more equitable and just Somerville. Councilor Scott commented that any form of rent stabilization is a step in the right direction. Councilor Burnley commented that rising rents have caused deep debt for many people and he believes that we should fight to reinstate rent control statewide. Councilor Kelly commented that, in the end, she believes that the legislature will come around. Councilor McLaughlin commented on the significance of this petition saying that it’s moving the needle in the right direction. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about people being able to afford to live where they work and said that we need to build massive amounts of affordable housing. Councilors Clingan and Pineda Neufeld spoke about personal experiences with renting and Councilor Wilson would have liked to have seen other things in the petition, but he will work for its passage. APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 6.G. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.G.1. Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on December 5, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1813) Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that a number of items were dealt with prior to the end of this legislative session. APPROVED RESULT: Page 20 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.G.2. By Councilor Davis and Councilor McLaughlin That the City Solicitor draft an ordinance requiring pollution mitigation for new housing built along high transit roads and highways. Order (ID # 22-0036) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.G.3. By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Strezo, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Pineda Neufeld That the City Solicitor discuss this Council’s ability to ban landlords from passing real estate agent fees onto tenants. Order (ID # 22-0838) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.G.4. By Councilor Strezo That the City Solicitor draft an Ordinance to protect homeowners from developer and realtor mail, phone and email harassment. Order (ID # 23-0461) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.G.5. By Councilor Burnley Jr. That the City Solicitor work with this Council to determine the legality of requiring businesses of a certain size to post in clearly visible spaces, Worker's Rights Bills, which shall include the right to form a union without retaliation and consequences for violating workers' rights. Order (ID # 23-0622) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.H. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE 6.H.1. Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on December 13, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1819) Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and said one item received a public hearing and recommended for approval. APPROVED RESULT: Page 21 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.H.2. New Garage License, Greentown Labs, 444 Somerville Avenue, for 5 inside, 0 outside for storing vehicles, Mon-Sun: 7am-8pm. License (ID # 23-1735) APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.I. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.I.1. Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on December 11, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1817) Councilor Kelly summarized the actions taken by the committee and said among the items discussed were body worn cameras, housekeeping items, homelessness in East Somerville, and efforts to get a warming center in operation. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.I.2. By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson That the Chief of Police report to this Council, the percentage of requested traffic details for construction projects that have been filled by Somerville Police Department officers, filled by non-Somerville police officers, and unfilled, for the past three years. Order (ID # 22-2111) Page 22 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.I.3. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Administration update this Council on the progress toward providing direct homeless services to East Somerville residents in temporary and permanent locations within Ward 1. Resolution (ID # 23-1283) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.I.4. By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson That the Administration update the City Council on the status of body cameras for police officers. Resolution (ID # 23-1393) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.I.5. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Director of Health and Human Services provide the Ward 1 City Councilor with monthly updates on efforts to address homelessness in East Somerville. Order (ID # 23-1758) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J. PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE 6.J.1. Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on December 4, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1811) Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee saying that discussion was held on water bills, flooding issues, highway safety measures, the Somerville Media Center's roof, safety protocols and notification requirements for any projects taking place within a determined radius of a school. Discussions were also held regarding location for excessive snow, an update related to the Request for Proposals for the disposition of the property located at 90 Union Square, and the Somerville Internet Access Task Force's recommendation regarding Municipal Broadband. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 23 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.J.2. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Engineering and the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management consider implementing a pilot program for Green Infrastructure as a means to reduce issues of flooding in the Gilman Square Neighborhood. Order (ID # 22-0336) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.3. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Strezo That the Commissioner of Public Works work with the MA Department of Transportation to address highway safety measures along I-93 that directly abut the East Somerville neighborhood. Order (ID # 22-0450) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.4. By Councilor Burnley Jr. That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management present to this Council, a plan to fix the Somerville Media Center's roof. Order (ID # 22-1596) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.5. By Councilor Clingan That the Director of Engineering develop safety protocols and notification requirements for any projects, planned or emergency, taking place within a determined radius of a school. Order (ID # 22-1688) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.6. By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Kelly That the Commissioner of Public Works update the Ward 1 City Councilor regarding plans to find a location for excessive snow other than 90 Washington Street. Order (ID # 22-1737) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.7. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott That the Administration update this Council on actions taken related to the possible relocation of the Somerville Media Center and Massachusetts Alliance for Portuguese Speakers from the city-owned property at 90 Union Square. Resolution (ID # 22-1762) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.8. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Administration update this Council on developments related to the Request for Proposals for the disposition of the property located at 90 Union Square. Resolution (ID # 22-1763) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Page 24 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.J.9. By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Administration make information about all licenses and permits viewable without requiring a CitizenServ account. Resolution (ID # 22-1797) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.10. By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Scott That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the Director of Engineering discuss with this Council, a policy of burying utilities when a new thoroughfare is constructed. Order (ID # 22-2124) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.11. By Councilor Clingan That this Council’s Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works discuss the Somerville Internet Access Task Force's recommendation regarding Municipal Broadband. Order (ID # 23-0548) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.J.12. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Water and Sewer and the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management explain what maintenance will be required for the new Poplar Street Pump Station and Spring Hill Sewer Separation Project, and how these maintenance requirements will be staffed to ensure their proper upkeep. Order (ID # 23-1183) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.K. RODENT ISSUES SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.K.1. Report of the Special Committee on Rodent Issues, meeting on November 30, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1783) Councilor Kelly summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that an update was received regarding the ongoing problems with rats in the city, and according to the data presented, rodent activity is going down in the city. Additional smart boxes will be put into service and some will be relocated to more active areas. APPROVED RESULT: Page 25 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 6.K.2. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect the narrow alleyway near the Edgerly School for rodent activity and take appropriate measures. Order (ID # 23-0890) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.K.3. By Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Clingan That the Director of Inspectional Services update this Council on the progress of rodent mitigation. Order (ID # 23-1724) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.K.4. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Director of Inspectional Services address the rodent holes around the East Branch Library. Order (ID # 23-1761) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.L. SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.L.1. Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and Maintenance, meeting on November 29, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1782) Councilor Gomez Mouakad summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that among the items discussed were the Kennedy School chiller, renovations at the Healy and West Somerville Neighborhood Schools, school buildings without solar panels, and the School Building Feasibility Study report which should be available on December 19th. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 26 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.L.2. By Councilor Strezo That the Director of Communications and Community Engagement create a regularly updated public-facing website dedicated to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School plan, with links to publicly filed documents. Order (ID # 23-1000) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.L.3. By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Clingan That the Administration provide an update on the Edgerly building kitchen equipment, and discuss the plan to serve the Winter Hill Community Innovation School youth and future city programs. Resolution (ID # 23-1511) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.L.4. 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) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.L.5. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management provide a list of schools that do not have solar panels, and a plan including potential grant and funding sources to install solar panels in those buildings following any roof repairs and replacements. Order (ID # 23-1739) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M. TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE 6.M.1. Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on November 27, 2023. Committee Report (ID # 23-1778) Councilor Gomez Mouakad summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that there were several requests before the committee for speed bumps and other traffic calming measures for Packard Avenue, Clarendon Avenue, Broadway, Lombardi Way, Mt. Vernon Street, Laurel Street, School Street and Warren Avenue. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 27 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 6.M.2. By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly That the Director of Mobility provide documentation of the current process for determining the locations of traffic calming measures, and communicate this information to the public via the website. Order (ID # 22-1599) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.3. By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Davis That the Director of Engineering provide documentation of the current process for determining the street selection for Fall and partial repaving, and communicate this information via the website. Order (ID # 22-1600) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.4. By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson That the Mobility Department consider adding speed humps or other traffic calming measures to Packard Avenue. Order (ID # 23-0097) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.5. By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Mobility consider adding speed humps to Clarendon Avenue to slow down cut-through traffic from Broadway to Massachusetts Avenue. Order (ID # 23-0215) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.6. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Scott That the Director of Mobility prioritize the intersection of Broadway, Lombardi Way and Mt. Vernon Street for traffic calming measures. Order (ID # 23-0240) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.7. By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Pineda Neufeld That the Director of Mobility, Director of Engineering, Director of Parking, and Commissioner of Public Works establish criteria and guidelines for Council orders to be submitted for traffic calming and mobility related issues and items that should be submitted to 311 to ensure the City Council is addressing larger mobility strategic planning issues. Order (ID # 23-0902) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.8. By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly That the Director of Mobility design traffic calming infrastructure for Laurel Street, which sees large volumes of high speed, one-way traffic down a steep hill. Order (ID # 23-1281) Page 28 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.9. By Councilor Clingan That the Director of Engineering place speed humps on School Street, between Broadway and Medford Street. Order (ID # 23-1361) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.10 . By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Director of Engineering consider installing speed humps and additional traffic calming measures to address excessive speed and cut-through traffic on Warren Avenue. Order (ID # 23-1509) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.M.11 . 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) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1076) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 7.2. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1144) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 7.3. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1145) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 7.4. Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to receive an update on the status of collective bargaining negotiations with all municipal bargaining units. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1863) The Council recessed at 7:49 PM to enter into Executive Session and reconvened at 8:43 PM. President Ewen-Campen reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn and return to open session. APPROVED RESULT: Page 29 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 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: 7.5. Requesting authorization to borrow $1,500,000 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount, for a pocket park on the 217 Somerville Avenue site. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1849) APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 7.6. Requesting the appropriation of $300,000 from the Emergency Response Stabilization Fund for temporary shelter, food, and other common necessities for displaced individuals and families. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1858) Chief of Staff Nikki Spencer informed the Council that city departments have been coming together since June to determine how to use these funds. Multiple procurement options have been explored and a ready contract needs to be in place. The city is exploring RFPs with non-profits and is hoping to get the flexibility needed to deal with the issues being faced with. The hope is to have multiple contractors available to provide services. Councilor Kelly questioned why there was no documentation provided with this item and asked where the money would be going and if there were any contracts in place. Chief of Staff Spencer replied that some things are still in process and before the Council tonight because the temperatures are getting cold and the funds are needed to get things moving. She said the city is trying to move quickly as possible and noted that this is not housing and times to get into shelters will take longer now. The city is aware that, in the moment of crisis, incomes and other requirements can’t be verified. APPROVED RESULT: Page 30 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, 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: City Councilor At Large Strezo ABSENT: 7.7. Requesting an appropriation of $13,620 from the Unreserved Fund Balance ("Free Cash") to the Parks and Recreation Professional & Technical Services account, to pay prior year invoices for the Learn to Skate Youth Program. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1832) Director of Parks and Recreation Sue Yerkes explained that several invoices remain unpaid. Councilor Wilson stated that he has been working with youth hockey and city staff and said that the non-payment of these invoices (for ice time from a vendor) is causing some problems for youth hockey. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 7.8. Requesting approval of a transfer of $35,000 from the Mayor's Office Personal Services Salaries Account to the Mayor's Office Special Events Account for official events. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1859) Chief of Staff Nikki Spencer explained that attendance at some of the city’s events has increased and that these funds will be used to cover the associated increased costs of food, etc., at various events. Councilor Kelly asked that information be provided about how the funds were or will be spent. Chief of Staff Spencer noted that the entire amount requested isn’t needed right now, but the request is being made to save time down the line. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 31 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 7.9. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $500,000 grant that requires a match, from the MA Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for a pocket park on the 217 Somerville Avenue site. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1850) Public Space Planner Jon Bronenkant explained that the design process is done, three community meetings were held and that a park grant was applied for and awarded to the city. This request is to accept and expend the grant funds. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 7.10. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $135,000 grant with no new match required, from the Executive Office of Administration and Finance for the implementation of a records management system. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1846) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.11. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $37,500 grant with no new match required, from the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) to the Fire Department for maritime related training and equipment. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1776) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.12. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $15,000 grant with no new match required, from New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) to the Arts Council for training and funding for a public art project. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1777) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 32 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 7.13. Requesting approval to accept a $5,000 gift from the Cummings Foundation for the Basic Income Pilot. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1848) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.14. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $16,041.33 using available funds in the Department of Infrastructure & Asset Management Professional & Technical Services Account for the Asset Management Program. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1847) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.15. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $13,190.05 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Moving Services Account for moving of furniture and equipment. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1803) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.16. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,833.59 using available funds in the Human Resources Department Professional & Technical Services Account for investigative services. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1757) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.17. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,175.32 using available funds in the Parks and Recreation Professional & Technical Services Account for online payment services. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1772) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.18. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of John Tivinis to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1797) Page 33 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 7.19. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brian Clancy to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1798) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 7.20. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Igor Bitencourt to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1799) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 7.21. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Guylerna Pierre to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1801) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 7.22. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew Lorizio to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1802) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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 34 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 7.23. Conveying the appointment of Lori Segall to the Police Chief Selection Committee. Mayor's Communication (ID # 23-1861) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 7.24. Conveying the appointment of Paula Magnelli to the Police Chief Selection Committee. Mayor's Communication (ID # 23-1862) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Mary Battinelli as Constable. License (ID # 23-1838) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 9.2. Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Alan Bishop as Constable. License (ID # 23-1788) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 and refer them to the Committee on Page 35 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.3. Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Darcy Haynes as Constable. License (ID # 23-1787) Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.18 through 7.22 and 9.1 through 9.3 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: 9.4. Renewing Lodging House License, Walnut Hill Properties, 126 Packard Ave. License (ID # 23-1851) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.5. Renewing Lodging House License, Walnut Hill Properties, 14 Sawyer Ave. License (ID # 23-1853) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 36 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 9.6. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, 28 Motorsports Inc, 486R Columbia St. License (ID # 23-1796) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.7. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Automotive Transport Service, 40 Joy St. License (ID # 23-1789) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.8. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Barnes and Walsh Company, 224 Somerville Ave. License (ID # 23-1800) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 37 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 9.9. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Broadway Auto Sales, 525 Broadway. License (ID # 23-1845) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.10. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 1, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 259 McGrath Hwy. License (ID # 23-1792) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.11. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 1, Mercedes Benz of Boston Commercial Vans, 161 Linwood St. License (ID # 23-1790) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 38 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 9.12. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Nissenbaum Auto Parts, 480 Columbia St. License (ID # 23-1793) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.13. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Nissenbaum Auto Parts, 0 Windsor St. License (ID # 23-1794) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.14. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 1, Smart Center Boston, 257 McGrath Hwy. License (ID # 23-1791) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 39 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 9.15. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Union Gulf Service, 231 Washington St. License (ID # 23-1795) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.16. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Valente Enterprise, 154 Glen St. License (ID # 23-1865) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.17. Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Web Motor Sales, 5 Middlesex Ave. License (ID # 23-1854) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 40 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 9.18. BA Events Promotions applying for a Public Event License for Jingle Bell 5K on December 17 from 6am to 1:30pm. Public Event (ID # 23-1843) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.19. Janine Fay applying for a Public Event License for Dancing in the Dark on December 21 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. Public Event (ID # 23-1844) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.20. 234 Pearl Street Realty Trust and Goodpitch, LLC requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 234 and 236 Pearl Street from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6). Public Communication (ID # 23-1810) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.21. 13 registered voters requesting a Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning district of 8 Park Street, 10 Park Street, 504 Somerville Avenue, and 7-9 Properzi Way from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District, and 15-27 Properzi Way, 29 Properzi Way, 26-32 Park Street, 8-14 Tyler Street, 40 Park Street, 15 Dane Street, 7-9 Tyler Street, 460 Somerville Avenue, 444 Somerville Avenue, 440 Somerville Avenue, 30 Dane Street, and 24-28 Dane Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District. Public Communication (ID # 23-1827) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Page 41 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.22. 15 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Zoning Ordinances to add Section 8.4.19, Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District. Public Communication (ID # 23-1830) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.23. Mike Epstein and Beth Pisarik submitting comments re: 166 Boston Ave. Public Communication (ID # 23-1775) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.24. Malte Hoffmann submitting comments re: sidewalk at Broadway and Boston Ave. Public Communication (ID # 23-1807) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 9.25. Michael Goodnow and Amy Pollard submitting comments re: item #23-1694, a Home Rule Petition authorizing regulation of rent in residential dwelling units. Public Communication (ID # 23-1833) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: Page 42 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1719) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.2. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1764) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.3. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1806) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.4. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1804) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.5. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1805) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.6. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 23-1855) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 10.7. Requesting approval of a grant of easement and maintenance agreement for US Union Square D2.1 Owner LLC for 10 Prospect Street and Somerville Avenue. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1864) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Page 43 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.8. Requesting the appropriation of $185,774 from the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to the DPW - School Custodians Other Lump Sum Payments Account to fund the retrospective portion of a collective bargaining settlement with the Firemen and Oilers, Local 3, Service Employees International Union. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1872) This item was taken up with item 23-1873. Budget Director Mike Mastrobuoni explained that there are two appropriations since one is to fund the prior year portion and other is to fund the FY 2024 portion of the agreement. APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld AYE: 10.9. Requesting the appropriation of $65,211 from the Salary Contingency Account to various DPW - School Custodians Accounts to fund a collective bargaining settlement with the Firemen and Oilers, Local 3, Service Employees International Union. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1873) This item was taken up with item 23-1872. Budget Director Mike Mastrobuoni explained that there are two appropriations since one is to fund the prior year portion and other is to fund the FY 2024 portion of the agreement. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 10.10. Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of eight months with Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc. for design services for the Somerville High School project. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1828) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. Page 44 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.11. Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of eight months for PMA, LLC for Owner's Project Manager services for the Somerville High School project. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1829) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.12. Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $75,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for Special Response Team expenditures and overtime. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1852) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.13. Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $48,529.99 grant with no new match required, from the Boston's Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for installation of access controls, card entry access, and indoor fencing. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1840) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.14. Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $42,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for partial payment of the police storage structure. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1857) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.15. Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $35,300 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for partial payment of the police storage structure. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1856) Page 45 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.16. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1632.31 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Roofing R&M Account for roof repairs. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1876) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.17. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $420 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Fire Alarm R&M Account for alarm monitoring. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1875) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.18. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $325 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Towing Account for towing services. Mayor's Request (ID # 23-1877) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.17. 10.7, and 10.10 through 10.18, and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.19. Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development applying for a Public Event License for Flag Raising at Prospect Hill on January 1 from 8am to 1:30pm. Public Event (ID # 23-1874) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.4 through 9.19 and 10.19 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Page 46 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 10.20. 24 residents submitting comments re: proposed Zoning Ordinance Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District. Public Communication (ID # 23-1869) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 10.21. Amine Yakine and Perri Sheinbaum submitting comments re: item #23-1694, a Home Rule Petition authorizing the City of Somerville to regulate rent in residential dwelling units. Public Communication (ID # 23-1870) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 10.22. Heidi Meyer submitting comments re: rent stabilization and green roofs. Public Communication (ID # 23-1871) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 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: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: 11. LATE ITEMS 12. ADJOURNMENT Page 47 of 48
City Council Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023 The meeting was Adjourned at 11:19 PM. Page 48 of 48