Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Feb 8, 2024
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, February 8, 2024
NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have
been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first
checking with the City Clerk.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The City Council entered recess at 8:04 PM and returned at 8:12 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 24-0163)
Councilor Scott arrived at 7:19 PM.
Councilor Mbah arrived at 8:15 PM.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson
Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld
Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
Present:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 24-0164)
Councilor Davis requested a moment of silence in memory of Charles
Daniels.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Organizational Meeting, January 2, 2024.
Minutes
(ID # 24-0165)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
1.4.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, January 11, 2024.
Minutes
(ID # 24-0166)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Extenet Systems LLC applying for a Grant of Location to install 54 feet of
conduit in Washington Street from existing Eversource Utility Pole 358/66
to a proposed small wireless facility node on existing Eversource Utility
Pole 358/66A, located near 415 Washington Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-0153)
Matthew Pricco, representing Extenet, 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:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
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City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Strezo
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development (OSPCD) update this Council on current efforts
to create a Community Center as part of the new developments in Union
Square and Boynton Yards.
Order
(ID # 24-0146)
President Ewen-Campen explained that there is a legal requirement for the
development of community space and said that the city does not have a plan
for that.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
4.2.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Engineering update this Council on the policy and plans
pertaining to repairing leaking gas pipes versus replacing them, and the
necessary transition away from gas infrastructure.
Order
(ID # 24-0148)
Councilor Clingan spoke about trees dying on Somerville Ave, attributed to
leaking gas lines, and thinks that there is agreement on utilizing this
approach. Eversource has agreed to replace 12 trees on Somerville Avenue.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
4.3.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
Opposing private jet hangar expansion at Hanscom Civil Airport and region
wide.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0147)
Councilor Wilson commented that he and Councilor Clingan were
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Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
approached by Mothers Out Front regarding this matter and he sponsored
Lyndsey Lucke to address the Council. Ms. Lucke said that part of the
challenge is to know if you’re doing the right thing, but she believes that it’s
important to reduce carbon emissions. Councilor Clingan commented that
the proliferation and use of private jets seems extravagant when other
options are available. Councilor Scott said Hanscom is the only towered
airport in the area, outside of Logan Airport and that the increase in flights at
Hanscom is in part due to the high cost of flying into and out of Logan. He
noted that there are other regional airports that could handle these flights,
albeit at a higher cost. President Ewen-Campen noted that Hanscom is next
to and encroaching on a bird habitat.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
4.4.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and
Councilor Scott
That the Director of Health and Human services create an on-call emergency
fire response unit to assist in connecting residents with available resources in
the event of a displacement or loss of property due to a fire.
Order
(ID # 24-0149)
Councilor Clingan said that there is a gap that needs to be filled and he
would like to have a discussion about it.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
By Councilor Sait, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson and Councilor
Scott
That the Director of Economic Development take the steps described within,
relative to the Armory building.
Order
(ID # 24-0090)
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February 8, 2024
Councilor Sait sponsored Stephanie Scherpf, Co-director of Arts at the
Armory, to speak. Ms. Scherpf gave a brief overview of the non-profit Arts
at the Armory and noted that about 750 events are held there each year. Ms.
Scherpf commented that the Master Plan process is stalled and negatively
impacting the organization and the community. The organization has begun
monthly meetings with staff from OSPCD and the Arts Council. Four
Master Plan community meetings have been scheduled between January and
April, with the January meeting having been poorly attended. Ms. Scherpf
has since communicated some recommendations to OSPCD and the Arts
Council to increase public participation in the process and said that Arts at
the Armory is advocating for: 1) the abandonment of the model being
proposed,
2)
adoption
of
a
3rd
party
operator
model,
3)
development/issuance of an RFP for perspective arts and culture tenants, and
4) working with a consultant to create a governance model.
Ms. Scherpf stated that the organization is in its 8th month without a lease
and that prevents them from securing loans and grants and from booking
events for future dates. The rent has been doubled and the organization has
refused to pay that increase, asking instead that it be absolved.
Ms. Scherpf took the opportunity to also address the Council about the
warming center that the city put into operation without the knowledge of
Armory staff. She noted that the city has been asked several questions about
this and that those questions were never answered. President Ewen-Campen
said an update has been received from the Administration, who is prepared
to discuss this topic at an upcoming committee meeting.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters, meeting on January 31, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0136)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee
and reported that the committee interviewed, and recommended for
approval, the appointment of 5 candidates, as follows: 3 new Police
Officers, 1 Election Commissioner and 1 Fire Department promotion.
Additionally, 4 items were discharged with no recommendation. The
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February 8, 2024
committee also heard from Assistant City Solicitor Jason Piques who gave
an overview on the civil service appointment process.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Laurie Brandt to the
Commission for Persons with Disabilities.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1767)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.3.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Darcy Haynes as
Constable.
License
(ID # 23-1787)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.4.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Alan Bishop as Constable.
License
(ID # 23-1788)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of John Tivinis to the position
of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1797)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brian Clancy to the position
of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1798)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Igor Bitencourt to the
position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1799)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
Page 7 of 25
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February 8, 2024
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.8.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Guylerna Pierre to the
position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1801)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.9.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew Lorizio to the
position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 23-1802)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.10.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Mary Battinelli as
Constable.
License
(ID # 23-1838)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.11.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Mark Matthews to the position
of Fire District Chief.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0017)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.12.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Austin Brower to the Board
of Elections Commissioners.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0084)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward
Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.13.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the City Solicitor appear before the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters to discuss the scope and role of the
Committee in confirming various appointments.
Order
(ID # 24-0116)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on February 6, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0137)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee recommended for approval: 3 grants, 4 contract
extensions, 4 CPA items.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
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February 8, 2024
6.B.2.
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)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.3.
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)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.4.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension until 12/31/2024 for the
contract with Warner Larson Landscape Architects, to complete additional
design services and punch list work at the Healey Schoolyard and Athletic
Field.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0038)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.5.
Requesting the transfer of $75,605 from the Community Preservation Act
(CPA) Fund Undesignated Fund Balance to the Community Housing
Reserve.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0052)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,405,962 from the Community
Preservation Act (CPA) Fund Community Housing Reserve to the
Affordable Housing Trust.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0053)
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February 8, 2024
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.7.
Requesting the appropriation of $426,925 from the Community Preservation
Act (CPA) Fund to the Mystic River Watershed Association for
improvements to the Blessing of the Bay Linear Park.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0055)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.8.
Requesting the appropriation of $25,000 from the Community Preservation
Act (CPA) Fund Historic Preservation Reserve to Vida Real for a condition
assessment of the building at 404 Broadway.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0056)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.9.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension of three years for the contract
with Vida Real for restoration of the bell tower at 404 Broadway.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0057)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.10.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension until 1/1/2026 for the contract
with Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners for design services on the
Building Master Plan.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0067)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.11.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $30,000 grant with no new
match required, from MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental
Affairs to the Economic Development Division for the implementation of a
green jobs training program for nontraditional students.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0079)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
6.B.12.
Requesting approval of an extension and amendment to the contract with
Symmes Maini and McKee Associates for an additional three years to
2/28/2027, and a revised amount of $978,649, for Central Hill design and
construction administration.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0080)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to authorize the continued
employment of Acting Somerville Police Chief Charles J. Femino.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0133)
Councilor Davis said that the Administration asked for approval of this item
tonight. Councilor McLaughlin commented that he expected this item to be
sent to committee and Councilor Burnley said that he wants more
information on the search for a Police Chief and is comfortable with sending
this item to committee. Councilor Clingan asked when the current petition
runs out and Legislative Liaison Kimberley Hutter replied that it expires
June 1 and that approval of this item would extend the term for an additional
year. She noted that the search process will restart on March 1. Councilor
Pineda Neufeld commented that the city’s state delegation is concerned that
this gets done in time. Councilor Scott said this has been largely a dark
process and that multiple failures are at play here, however, is he happy to
approve the item.
President Ewen-Campen moved that the Administration appear before the
Committee on Public Health and Public Safety to update the City Council
on the status of the Police Chief search. The motion was approved on a roll
call vote of 11 in favor (McLaughlin, Davis, Wilson, Sait, Scott, Mbah,
Burnley, Clingan, Strezo, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen).
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, Ward Four City Councilor
Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City
Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr.
NAY:
7.2.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 6-59 of the Code of
Ordinances, to amend the definition of guidelines.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0144)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 13 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
7.3.
Requesting the acceptance of a 30-year lease with BRE-BMR Assembly
Innovation I LLC, and the appropriation of $171,969 from Free Cash to the
Fire Department Special Items Account to fund said lease, for the Assembly
Square Fire Station for the remainder of FY 2024.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0154)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting approval to appropriate $75,900 from the Energy Stabilization
Fund for design services for a building project at 42 Cross Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0135)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting approval to appropriate $49,250 from the Energy Stabilization
Fund for insulation projects for Department of Public Works steam systems.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0134)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting the transfer of $280,010 from the Community Preservation Act
(CPA) Fund Undesignated Fund Balance to the Historic Preservation
Reserve.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0129)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting the use of available funds in the amount of $24,317 from the
Library's Personal Services account to reestablish a Librarian III West
Branch Manager position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0141)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 14 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
7.8.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $48,529.99 grant with no new
match required, from the Boston 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 # 24-0140)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $638 using available
funds in the Department of Public Works Public Safety Supplies Account
for Verizon Fleet subscription services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0128)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $278.40 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Plumbing
Supply Account for building related plumbing materials.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0127)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Conveying the 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-0145)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
Page 15 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Memorialization Committee conveying the naming of a new park as part of
the 74 Middlesex Ave development in honor of former State Senator
Salvatore "Sal" R Albano.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0132)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Automatic Amusement Device, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution Drive,
for 117 devices.
License
(ID # 24-0155)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1, 9.4 through 9.6
and 10.14 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.2.
New Billiards and Bowling License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution Drive,
for 5 billiard tables and 8 bowling lanes.
License
(ID # 24-0156)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.2 through 9.3 and
refer them to the Licenses and Permits Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.3.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution
Drive, opening Monday-Sunday until 2am for in-store service only.
License
(ID # 24-0157)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.2 through 9.3 and
refer them to the Licenses and Permits Committee.
Page 16 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.4.
Transferring Taxi Medallion License, from Silcor Transportation Company
Inc to BAETDA Transportation Service LLC for Medallions #51, 77, 93.
License
(ID # 24-0158)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1, 9.4 through 9.6
and 10.14 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.5.
Transferring Taxi Medallion License, from Ormond Transportation
Company Inc to Bostonshuttles.com LP for Medallion #89.
License
(ID # 24-0159)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1, 9.4 through 9.6
and 10.14 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.6.
Community Growing Center applying for a Public Event License for Maple
Boil 2024 on March 1 and 2 from 7:30am to 7:30pm (raindate March 8 and
9).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0162)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1, 9.4 through 9.6
and 10.14 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 17 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.7.
Danny Dicamillo submitting comments re: BlueBikes.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0142)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.8.
Tadhg Pearson submitting comments re: sidewalks.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0143)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.9.
984 individuals, including 7 residents submitting comments re: item
24-0089 a resolution in support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0160)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 18 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
9.10.
Representative Mike Connolly submitting comments re: item 24-0089 a
resolution in support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0161)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr.,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor
Strezo and Councilor Sait
That the Environmental Health Coordinator discuss alternatives to the use of
bait traps containing poison to dispatch rats.
Order
(ID # 24-0150)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Rodent Issues Special Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.2.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Water and Sewer address the use of threatening
notifications as part of the water meter replacement project.
Order
(ID # 24-0151)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Page 19 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.3.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Housing and the Director of the Office of Housing
Stability discuss the parameters of qualification used by building owners and
managers in selecting lottery winners for awarding lower income units.
Order
(ID # 24-0152)
Councilor Clingan commented that some of the criteria has to do with
specific buildings and he would like to understand how these programs
work.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.4.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor McLaughlin
Commending Nicole Eigbrett for the relentless pursuit of housing justice as
the Director of Community Organizing for the Community Action Agency
of Somerville (CAAS).
Citation
(ID # 24-0173)
Councilor Burnley spoke of Ms. Eigbrett’s work as an organizer on behalf of
the people of Somerville, describing how she gave hope to all residents
fearing the future of the city as it became more unaffordable. Ms. Eigbrett
spoke saying she is honored that CAAS and the city took a chance on her.
She spoke about leveraging the resources available in the community and
about working to achieve economic justice, language justice, disability
justice, racial justice, queer justice, and housing justice, adding that the work
has transformed the city. Ms. Eigbrett also spoke about funding for housing
and the city’s Home Rule Petition regarding rent control and said that
housing must be a human right in Somerville. She closed her remarks by
asking the Council to support the transformative power of community
organizing. Councilors McLaughlin, Pineda Neufeld, Sait, Wilson and
President Ewen-Campen thanked Ms. Eigbrett for her service.
Page 20 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.5.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Web Content and Development include the Wage Theft
Advisory Committee on the "Departments, Boards, Commissions, and
Authorities" page, and compile the agendas and minutes therein.
Order
(ID # 24-0169)
Councilor Burnley commented on the difficulty in locating this information,
noting that it is something that the public is interested in. He would like to
make its availability easier.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.6.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Mbah, Councilor Pineda Neufeld,
Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Scott
That the Director of Health and Human Services work with the
Administration to allocate funding to secure COVID-19 rapid tests to be
distributed at Public Libraries.
Order
(ID # 24-0168)
AMENDMENT: Insert "and masks" after "rapid tests".
Councilor Burnley spoke about the seriousness of COVID variants and
about residents who feel abandoned since the city is not providing free tests.
He sponsored Margaret Hughes to address the Council on this topic. Ms.
Hughes told members that she has had COVID five times in the last year and
that the pandemic is not over for her and won’t be over for the elderly or for
disabled/chronically ill individuals if the protections, i.e., COVID tests and
masks, keep disappearing. She would like to have free N95 masks and free
rapid test kits made available in the city.
Councilor Burnley moved to amend the order by adding “and free masks”
after ‘rapid test’. The motion was approved.
Page 21 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.7.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor
Wilson
Recognizing February as Black History Month.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0167)
Councilor Burnley asked his colleagues to recommit themselves to racial
justice in the city. Councilor Mbah thanked Councilor Burnley for putting
this item forward, saying that it’s something that probably was long overdue.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.8.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Sait
Requesting approval of a transfer of $1,000 from the City Council Legal
Services Account to the City Council Office Supplies Account for the
purchase of furniture and supplies to create a space for children in the City
Council Chamber.
Order
(ID # 24-0174)
Councilor Strezo spoke about making spaces welcoming to children and
their caregivers and suggested including books and other items that children
might enjoy. Councilor Mbah said that families in the city are a minority
voting block and the only way to incentivize them is by creating
infrastructure such as this.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 22 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
10.9.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Parking establish alternative drop off zones, including
reverse direction drop off zones, in front of the City Hall concourse from the
hours of 7:30 AM to 8:15 AM and 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM while portions of
Highland Avenue are under active construction near the High School, City
Hall and the Central Library.
Order
(ID # 24-0170)
Councilor Strezo said she is trying to alleviate bumper to bumper traffic
during the construction period.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.10.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility and the Director of Parking discuss if and
where additional Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) walking routes and
ADA parking spots have been designated for visitors to the High School,
City Hall and the Central Library while Highland Avenue construction is
underway and while current routes and ADA parking spots may be
inaccessible due to construction.
Order
(ID # 24-0171)
Councilor Strezo spoke about the small number of ADA parking spots and
asked that the city address this shortage.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.11.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Ewen-Campen
and Councilor Scott
That the Director of Health and Human Services discuss the availability of
free city-funded COVID tests going forward after temporary relief funds
have evaporated, including any plans and/or consideration of potential
sources of COVID testing supplies provided through community partners.
Order
(ID # 24-0172)
Page 23 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Councilor Strezo said that a backup plan is needed if the city isn’t using
ARPA funds for these tests and she suggested that perhaps hospitals or other
community partners might be able to help out.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.12.
By Councilor Wilson
In his capacity as Chair of the Committee on Finance, outlining the process
for this Council to determine and convey its shared budget priorities for the
Fiscal Year 2025 budget.
Communication
(ID # 24-0175)
Councilor Wilson explained the process and key dates and urged members
to submit their requests as soon as possible. He would ultimately like the
Council to speak as one body with regard to its budget priorities.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
10.13.
Requesting the appropriation of $650,000 from the Community Preservation
Act (CPA) Fund for the Capital Projects Division to restore the City Hall
clock tower and roof.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0130)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.10
and 10.13 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.14.
New Livery License, Boston Novelty Limo LLC, 333 Broadway, operating 1
vehicle.
License
(ID # 24-0176)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1, 9.4 through 9.6
and 10.14 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 24 of 25
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
11.
LATE ITEMS
11.1.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Administration appear before the Committee on Public Health and
Public Safety to update the City Council on the status of the Police Chief
search.
Order
(ID # 24-0177)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor
Ewen-Campen
AYE:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:08 PM on a roll call vote of 11 in favor (McLaughlin, Davis, Wilson,
Sait, Scott, Mbah, Burnley, Clingan, Strezo, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 0 opposed.
Page 25 of 25