Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Feb 22, 2024
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, February 22, 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.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 24-0207)
Councilor Scott arrived at 7:13 PM.
Councilor Mbah arrived at 7:36 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 # 24-0208)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 25, 2024.
Minutes
(ID # 24-0209)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 1 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Wilson
That this City Council hold a public hearing in the Committee on Finance on
the community’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget priorities.
Order
(ID # 24-0178)
Councilor Wilson noted that a public hearing regarding the FY 2025 budget
priorities will be held at 7:00 PM on March 19, 2024. The meeting will be
virtual and there will be a virtual connection in a city building to
accommodate those not having access to the internet. Councilor Wilson also
stated that interpretation services will be available.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance 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 Scott
That the Administration provide this Council with a report on the
implementation of a Universal Basic Income pilot, which was announced to
be implemented with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in 2021.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0194)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 2 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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:
4.3.
By Councilor Mbah
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.
Communication
(ID # 24-0202)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance 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:
4.4.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Environmental Health Coordinator discuss the current contract with
the pest control company that administers the city's rat abatement program.
Order
(ID # 24-0203)
Councilor Clingan commented that he submitted this item because he feels
that it’s important for citizens to know what to expect when using the
program.
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:
4.5.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Administration fund the creation of an entire unit within the
Department of Public Works tasked with battling the city's growing rodent
infestation.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0204)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
Page 3 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on February 20, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0187)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that approval was recommended for payment of 2 prior year
invoices, 2 CPA fund transfers, 2 appropriations of funds, 1 grant
acceptance/expenditure and 1 request for use of available funds. Councilor
Wilson also reported that a request for approval of a 30-year lease with an
appropriation to fund said lease for the remainder of FY 2024 (item
24-0154) was recommended to not be approved.
Councilor Burnley inquired about the use of Council funds for the purchase
of furniture, books, etc., to create a more inclusive space in the Committee
Room for families during City Council meetings. He asked if the Council
could have input on which books are purchased. Councilor Strezo
commented that the idea is for the space to be inclusive, for staff and
children and she envisions residents bringing books to leave there. Clerk
Wells noted that the City Clerk is the administrator for the Council and, as
such, she would be ordering the books. She asked that any suggestions from
councilors be sent to her.
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 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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 4 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.3.
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)
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 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)
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.5.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 5 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.6.
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)
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 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)
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.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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 6 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.9.
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)
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 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 sever this item from the Committee Report and
the item was severed on a Roll Call vote of 9 in favor (McLaughlin, Davis,
Wilson, Sait, Burnley, Clingan, Strezo, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 0
opposed, 2 absent (Scott, Mbah).
Finance Director Ed Bean addressed the Council saying that these funds will
be used to fund the first lease payment, covering the period of January 2,
2024 through June 30, 2024. He explained that in October of 2021, the City
Council approved of the city entering into a 30-year lease agreement for the
purpose of housing a fire station at Assembly Square. Mr. Bean informed the
Council that the cost of the lease will escalate 2% per year. This wasn’t
budgeted in the FY 2024 budget because construction dates were uncertain.
Because of that, this appropriation request is being made. Mr. Bean stated
that the annual lease payment will be fully funded in the FY 2025 budget.
Special Counsel Catherine Lester Salchert clarified that only the
appropriation of the funds is before the Council tonight, not acceptance of
the lease itself.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 7 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
NAY:
City Councilor At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.B.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on February 15, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0185)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that 3 items on the agenda were withdrawn by the applicants. Two
Public Hearings were held, as follows:
Item 24-0037 - Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Zoning
Ordinances to amend Article 9: Use Provisions, and the Permitted Uses
tables of all zoning districts, to establish a Recreational Camp for Children
use within the Recreational Services use category. This item was kept in
committee and public comment will be accepted until noon of March 1,
2024.
Item 24-0059 - Gregg Donovan requesting a Zoning Map Amendment to
change the zoning district of 321 Washington Street from Fabrication (FAB)
to Commercial Industry (CI). This item was kept in committee and public
comment will be accepted until noon of March 1, 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.2.
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)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
Page 8 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
6.B.3.
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)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.4.
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)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on February 13,
2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0181)
Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the following items were discussed:
Item 22-0038 - That the Code of Ordinances be amended by requiring the
Mayor to annually submit to this Council a report on the status of housing.
This item was kept in committee.
Item 24-1448 - That the City hereby adopt the provisions of the
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave.
This item was kept in committee.
Item 23-0075 - Amending Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 2 of the Code of
Ordinances by adding a new section establishing Paid Leave for Survivors.
This item was kept in committee.
Item 23-0360 - Amending Section 1-19 of the Code of Ordinances to
remove the phrase "Honorably Purchased from Pawtuckets - 1639" from the
City seal. This item was kept in committee.
Item 23-1461 - Amending Section 12-116 of the Code of Ordinances to
create a Safe Streets ordinance, to expedite protected bike lanes. This item
was kept in committee.
Councilor Burnley advised the Council that updates have been made to the
state’s Family and Medical Leave policy and that he wants this on the
record, so when the city’s plan is taken up, it’s comparable or better than
what the state allows.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 9 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.D.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on February 14,
2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0183)
Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that approval was recommended for 1 new garage license, 1 new
billiards/bowling license and 2 new extended operating hours items. The
committee is discharging 2 items, from the same applicant, without
recommendations.
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.D.2.
New Billiards and Bowling License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution Drive,
for 5 billiard tables and 8 bowling lanes.
License
(ID # 24-0020)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.D.3.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Dunkin, 504 Broadway, opening
24/7 for in store and take-out services.
License
(ID # 24-0022)
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:
Page 10 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
6.D.4.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution
Drive, opening Monday-Sunday until 2am for in-store service only.
License
(ID # 24-0023)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.D.5.
New Garage License, Broadway Gulf Inc, 212 Broadway, 3 vehicles inside,
7 vehicles outside, for mechanical repairs and storing vehicles, Mon-Fri:
6am-10pm, Sat: 7am-3pm, Sun: closed.
License
(ID # 24-0024)
CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and
Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor.
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic
inspections by the Inspectional Services Department.
CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or
transporting vehicles.
CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the City
Council for adherence to the stated conditions.
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by
the Inspectional Services Department.
Councilor Burnley spoke of the concerns expressed by neighbors and noted
that the committee wanted input from the ward councilor on these items.
Councilor McLaughlin reported that a neighborhood meeting was held at the
location yesterday, and as a result of that meeting, the following conditions
are being requested:
For Used Car and Garage:
·
CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car
and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor.
·
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through
periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department.
·
CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or
transporting vehicles.
For Used Car
·
CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the
Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence
to the stated conditions.
For Garage
·
CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the
City Council for adherence to the stated conditions.
Condition Approved in Committee for Used Car and Garage:
·
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the
Inspectional Services Department.
APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
RESULT:
Page 11 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.D.6.
New Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Broadway Gulf Inc, 212 Broadway, 3
vehicles inside, 10 vehicles outside, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm,
Sun: closed.
License
(ID # 24-0027)
CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and
Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor.
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic
inspections by the Inspectional Services Department.
CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or
transporting vehicles.
CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the
Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence to
the stated conditions.
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by
the Inspectional Services Department.
Councilor Burnley spoke of the concerns expressed by neighbors and noted
that the committee wanted input from the ward councilor on these items.
Councilor McLaughlin reported that a neighborhood meeting was held at the
location yesterday, and as a result of that meeting, the following conditions
are being requested:
For Used Car and Garage:
·
CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car
and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor.
·
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through
periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department.
·
CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or
transporting vehicles.
For Used Car
·
CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the
Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence
to the stated conditions.
For Garage
·
CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the
City Council for adherence to the stated conditions.
Page 12 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
Condition Approved in Committee for Used Car and Garage:
·
CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to
mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the
Inspectional Services Department.
APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
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.D.7.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Everfitness, 14 McGrath Highway,
opening Monday-Friday 24/5 for in-store service only.
License
(ID # 24-0060)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.D.8.
New Garage License, John's Auto Sales Inc, 181 Somerville Ave, for 2
vehicles inside and 22 vehicles outside for mechanical repairs only,
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: Closed.
License
(ID # 24-0124)
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.E.
PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on
February 12, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0179)
Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that 2 DPW items were marked as work completed and the
following items were discussed:
Item 24-0039 - An item to re-install a bench in honor of longstanding Brown
School principal Marilyn Haggerty. This item was kept in committee.
Item# 24-0040 - An update on the plan to support residents who cannot
afford the recent water bill increases. This item was kept in committee.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 13 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.E.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this City Council how
the sidewalk clearing pilot program is working this winter.
Order
(ID # 24-0085)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.3.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Infrastructure
and Asset Management report on leaks at the Arts at the Armory Building
and any exterior envelope damages in the past six months, and actions being
taken to address such leaks and damages including the recently dislodged
downspout.
Order
(ID # 24-0118)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting approval of the discontinuance of Palmer Avenue.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0081)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting authorization to borrow $2,240,740 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount to participate in the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
for the Lead Line Service Replacement program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0201)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $14,327.56 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department
for the purchase of firefighter safety equipment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0189)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
Page 14 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
City Clerk requesting confirmation of the appointment of Natasha Frazier to
the position of Assistant Clerk of Committees.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0190)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.2.
City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Peter
Forcellese, Sr. to the position of Legislative Clerk.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0191)
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:
8.3.
City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Stephanie
Widzowski to the position of Clerk of Committees.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0192)
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.
NEW BUSINESS
Page 15 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
9.1.
Korean-American Citizens League of New England Inc applying for a
Public Event License for 4th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration on March
3 from 1:30pm to 3:15pm (raindate March 10).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0205)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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.
BA Events Promotion applying for a Public Event License for Race of
Ireland on March 24 from 7am to 1:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0196)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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:
9.3.
St Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good
Friday-Stations of the Cross Procession on March 29 from 4pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0198)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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:
Page 16 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
9.4.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on May 11
from 11am to 7pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0197)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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.
Union Square Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for Union
Square Farmers Market on every Saturday, May 11 to October 26 from
6:45am to 2pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0206)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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.
Elizabeth Hunter applying for a Public Event License for Marian, or the
True Tale of Robin Hood on May 28-30, June 1-6, June 15-16, June 22-23
from 5pm to 9pm (raindate June 29 and June 30).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0195)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 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:
Page 17 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
9.7.
Chasen Williams submitting comments re: intersection at Powder House
Boulevard and Alewife Brook Parkway.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0199)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place
it on file.
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.
Four individuals submitting comments re: item 24-0089 a resolution in
support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0200)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place
it on file.
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 McLaughlin
That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, additional funding
for rodent mitigation efforts, including an Office of Rodent Prevention
similar to the one proposed in Boston, with appropriate staffing.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0211)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, funding for a home
air filtration pilot program to address air pollution along Interstate 93.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0212)
Page 18 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 2024
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor Wilson
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.
Communication
(ID # 24-0214)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance 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.
Finance Director conveying FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report in
accordance with Section 2-48 of the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0210)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3,
and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance 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:
10.5.
Yitzchok Segall submitting comments re: item 24-0089 a resolution in
support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0213)
President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place
it on file.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 19 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 22, 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.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 7:37 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 20 of 20