Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Apr 25, 2024
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, April 25, 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 7:02 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen.
The Council entered recess at 7:50 PM and returned at 7:53 PM.
The Council entered recess at 9:03 PM and returned at 9:15 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 24-0604)
Councilor Scott arrived at 7:26 PM.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
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:
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 24-0605)
Councilor McLaughlin requested a moment of silence in memory of
Franklin Dalembert.
President Ewen-Campen acknowledged the many residents from the public
school community in the audience tonight and noted that they held a rally
outside City Hall in support of fully funding public schools in the city
budget. He explained that there was nothing on tonight’s Council agenda
related to that issue and he assured everyone that the Council is paying
attention and that this issue is a Council priority.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 28, 2024.
Minutes
(ID # 24-0606)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 10 feet of conduit in
Quincy Street, from Utility Pole 296/6 to a point of pickup at 30 Quincy
Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-0552)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor
Sait, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor
Wilson
In support of An Act Relative to the Future of Clean Heat in the
Commonwealth and An Act Establishing a Moratorium on New Gas System
Expansion.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0583)
Councilor Clingan recognized Mothers Out Front for their work on this
matter and he sponsored Lindsey Lucke from Mothers Out Front to speak on
the item. Ms. Lucke said that it looks like Somerville will be the first
community in the state to pass this Resolution which is designed to put
pressure on the state legislature to pass legislation that would make this
transition equitable and affordable for everyone. She went on to explain that
as more people cease using gas, the cost of maintaining its infrastructure and
delivery will be borne by fewer people, making it more expensive for those
still using gas. Ms. Lucke also explained that utility companies can build
geothermal, and other, infrastructures which ultimately would be paid for by
ratepayers.
Councilor Clingan also sponsored Edward Woll, a member of Gas
Transition Allies and Mothers Out Front, to address the Council. Mr. Woll
told the members that one of the bills, S.2105, was reported out favorably on
March 28th. He spoke briefly about some of the key provisions of the bills,
e.g.,
·Providing a pathway for gas utilities to stay in business of providing energy,
but not with gas,
·Not requiring the Department of Public Utilities to approve a pipeline but
rather it would require a utility company show that there is no alternative to
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April 25, 2024
gas before they may install a pipeline,
·Moving a percentage of gas customers off gas use each year, and
·Providing training for gas workers who lose their jobs because of the
transition.
He noted that Somerville has received a $50,000 grant to determine its next
geo-thermal district.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott and Councilor
Wilson
In support of The I AM bill: An Act to Increase Access to Disposable
Menstrual Products in Prisons, Homeless Shelters and Public Schools.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0584)
Councilor Strezo shared why she thinks that menstrual products should be
free and available in every public bathroom in the city, state and nation,
saying that this is a public health issue.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor
Sait, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Scott and Councilor Ewen-Campen
In support of increased safety for sex workers.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0585)
AMENDMENT: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the
Somerville City Council supports the passage of An Act to Prevent
Human Trafficking and Improve the Health and Safety of Sex Workers
(S.1046 and H.1758) and urges our state house delegation to support
these bills.
Councilor Burnley stated that sex work is real work and sex workers need
protection to help stop the pain that is happening to friends in our
community. He said that sex workers use their body autonomy to earn a
living and pursue economic stability. He sponsored Jessica Van Mier and
Mary Carol to speak on the matter.
Ms. Van Mier has been researching this topic for 10 years and said that any
form of criminalization puts sex workers at risk. Passage of these bills
would create an amnesty provision to report crime without fear of arrest for
sex work, repeal a third strike law for “common nightwalking,” create a
human trafficking project and create a committee to study policies relative to
sex work. Ms. Van Mier spoke about another bill, the Nordic model, before
the legislature that is not being supported by sex workers because although
the intent is fine, it is not borne out in practice and it increases police
surveillance of sex workers.
Ms. Carol stated that she is an independent scholar of sex work and has
benefitted immensely as a sex worker. She said that all sex workers are
stigmatized, leading to difficulty accessing many basics in life. She supports
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April 25, 2024
the bill because it allows sex workers to report crimes without fear of
repercussions but is opposed to the Nordic model because it seeks to
eliminate sex workers.
Councilor Clingan commented that he sees the bills as a way to lessen the
harm to sex workers. Councilor Scott commented that this is a first step and
he referenced a City Council resolution from 2019 that asked that
Somerville Police decline to arrest or seek prosecution for consensual sex
work.
Councilor Burnley made a motion to correct the bill numbers in the last
section of the Resolution by changing them to S.1046 and H.1758. That
motion was approved.
APPROVED AS AMENDED
RESULT:
4.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Sait,
Councilor Mbah and Councilor Strezo
That the Administration utilize American Rescue Plan Act money to address
excessive water bills for residents.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0586)
Councilor McLaughlin explained that users are being back-charged for water
usage and he spoke about one bill brought to his attention that was just
under $25,000. He is suggesting that some ARPA money be used to at least
pay water bills until such time as the city figures out how to handle water
bills in the future or for at least 1 year. Councilor Wilson commented that he
and the Council’s Legislative and Policy Analyst have been speaking with
the Administration, city staff and the city’s state delegation about what
might be able to be done.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Mbah, Councilor
Strezo, Councilor Sait and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Administration develop a program to recruit and train Somerville
High School students to become firefighters and police officers in
Somerville.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0587)
Councilor McLaughlin briefly referenced the issue of lateral hiring and
noted that both the city’s Police and Fire Departments are disproportionately
white but that the city’s schools are mostly non-white. He mentioned a city
program, (since cut from the budget), that involved getting local students
interested in police or fire fighting work. Noting that the framework for the
program already exists, he feels that implementing such a program could
address diversity issues and help the city’s youth to become police officers
and fire fighters by, at the very least, letting them know when the tests are.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
Conveying an update on Police and Fire hiring.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-0455)
President Ewen-Campen noted that this was discussed as part of a different
item during a previous City Council meeting and that some Councilors have
asked that the Administration provide updates on this matter. Speaking on
the item for the city, were HR Director Anne Gill, SFD Chief Charles Breen
and Chief Administrative Officer Lammis Vargas. A brief presentation was
given, and Director Gill said that we share a common concern for public
safety. She went on to explain the hiring tools available to the city under
civil service rules, noting that the lateral transfer is one such tool. She
assured the Council that the city has no intention of veering away from civil
service regulations and that when recruiting, the city looks for the widest
range of candidates possible. She explained that civil service has a lengthy
multi-step process that must be followed for each candidate and that the
lateral transfer process would take less time than the list process.
Chief Breen told the Council that his priority is to open the Assembly
Square fire station and that the only lens he’s using is a public safety lens.
He said that using the civil service list will not allow that station to open on
time. Additionally, working overtime on a daily basis to staff that location
could affect the quality of service to the public. He noted that there are
challenges when hiring for overtime shifts, possibly up to 6 shifts a day,
since many employees refuse overtime in favor of spending time with their
families.
Director Gill noted that there are 15 steps to the civil service process and
commented on some of the inherent problems and reviewed the Assembly
Square station planning timeline. She noted that a new civil service list came
out April 1st and believes that there are some veterans on it, adding that the
city will also be using that list. She said that the city is not abandoning any
avenue available to it, but if only the lateral transfer method is used, staffing
would be ready for the expected February 2025 station opening, however, if
only the civil service list method is used, the station would not be
permanently staffed until September 2025. She also advised the Council that
the backlog for attending classes at the Fire Academy is 3-4 months.
Councilor Clingan noted that the department’s rank and file don’t want to
lateral transfers and he asked when it became the policy to have staff from
the city’s Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) Department sit in during hiring
interviews, since private citizens were used in the past. Director Gill said
that the city is trying to involve RSJ to make sure the correct questions are
being asked, since they’ve been involved in the community. Councilor
Clingan wondered what RSJ would bring to the table and he stated his
opposition to any lateral hiring.
Councilor Wilson inquired which of the 15 civil service process steps would
be skipped by lateral transfer hiring and Director Gill said that the city
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would not have to conduct 25 interviews and that candidates wouldn’t have
to go to the academy. Chief Breen commented that he would want to see an
approval letter from the chief executive of the community that any lateral
transfer would be coming from before interviewing any lateral candidates.
There was a brief discussion about the various civil service lists, e.g., gender
list, language list, which could be requested, and Chief Breen noted that
there have been problems with them in other communities.
Councilor Scott asked what other steps in the list process would be
eliminated and was told that there were none. He then asked if a candidate
could be eliminated for failing a drug test before being interviewed and
Director Gill affirmed that, leading Councilor Scott to comment that the
drug test is step 10 but the interview is step 5. Director Gill said the process
is sequential and she corrected her statement. Councilor Scott said that he
doesn’t think it would take 7 months to do 20 interviews and also said that
he favors using the certification list.
President Ewen-Campen commented that he thinks that the Administration
is acting in good faith and believes that their preference is more fiscally
responsible, however, he thinks that the resolve of the Council is being
underestimated. Chief Administrative Officer Vargas told the Council that
the Administration is not shying away from the civil service list but is opting
to utilize the lateral transfer tool that is available as well, adding that the city
wants interviews to be consistent, therefore the same interview panelists will
be used.
Councilor Burnley inquired how candidates from other departments would
be vetted and Director Gill responded by saying that the city would still do
its due diligence and would ask for their personnel files.
Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented that the presentation doesn’t address
the concerns expressed at the last City Council meeting and that the lateral
transfer proposal is playing with peoples’ lives. Director Gill said that the
city understands people are upset, but the Administration is looking at this as
a public safety matter.
Councilor McLaughlin stated his opposition to the lateral transfer option and
asked who would represent the City Council when the city gets sued over
this. Solicitor Amara said it would depend on what the suit was and that she
would represent the city. She doesn’t see this as an issue at this point, but if
it should occur, it will get it worked out. Chief Breen clarified that the
information he presented tonight about the academy is up to date as of April
5th and Councilor McLaughlin said that, according to the information he
received, it’s not as difficult as it seems.
Councilor McLaughlin made a motion that the City Council goes on record
in opposition to lateral hiring within the Fire Department. That motion
was approved.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
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6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on April 23, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0568)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that 13 items were recommended for approval, including
appropriations, borrowing, transfers, Big Belly contract, prior year invoice
payments, conveyance and easements.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting approval to appropriate $302,720 from the Energy Stabilization
Fund to use as a Green Communities grant match to fund energy
improvements for 42 Cross Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0412)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Two City
Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.A.3.
Requesting authorization to borrow $7,310,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the FY 2024 Water Main Rehabilitation program as
part of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority's Local Water System
Assistance Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0476)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Two City
Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.A.4.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $108,373.07 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Natural Gas Account for
natural gas expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0485)
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APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $307.97 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Admin Postage Machine
Rental Account for postage machine lease expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0486)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,780 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Rental Buildings
Account for the lease of conduit to carry Fire Alarm equipment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0487)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.7.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $224.67 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Bituminous Supplies
Account for the purchase of asphalt.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0488)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $493.08 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Fleet Motor Parts and
Accessories Account for vehicle repair parts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0489)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.9.
Requesting approval to enter into an 84- and 89-month contract renewal
term with Big Belly for existing equipment and deliverables, and enter into a
new 96-month contract term with Big Belly for new units.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0490)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.10.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $42,500 from the Office of Strategic
Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Housing Personal
Services Account to the OSPCD Public Space and Urban Forestry Personal
Services Account to cover a projected year-end salary deficit.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0492)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.11.
Requesting authorization to borrow $1,800,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the annual recurring FY 2024 Sewer System Evaluation
& Infiltration/Inflow Assessment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0495)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Two City
Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.A.12.
Requesting approval of a pedestrian access easement on Charlestown Place,
approval of a grant of easements over certain alleys located in the D2.2
parcel, and approval of a grant of license from the City to Union Square
RELP.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0540)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
ABSENT:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
RECUSED:
6.A.13.
Requesting approval of the Conveyance and Easement for Parcel D2.2
(Union Square) Civic Space Lot 2A.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0541)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, 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:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
ABSENT:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
RECUSED:
6.B.
OPEN SPACE, ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Open Space, Environment and Energy, meeting
on April 18, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0567)
Councilor Mbah summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that among the items discussed were city-wide curbside composting
and the progress of adding new open spaces in the city.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.B.2.
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Parks and Recreation and the Director of Public Space
and Urban Forestry report to this Council’s Committee on Open Space,
Environment and Energy on the status of the parks and open spaces that
have been completed or are under construction and planning as part of
redevelopment projects.
Order
(ID # 24-0091)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Scott
That the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on the
condition of Conway Field and the displacement of infill that is occurring
there during extreme rainfall events, as well as the schedule for regular
grooming and maintenance of the City’s artificial turf athletic fields.
Order
(ID # 24-0472)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on
April 17, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0566)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee received an updates on homelessness and the
displacement of people residing under a portion of Route 93, issues of
violence near the Stop and Shop, the dark skies ordinance, the vacant
property ordinance and its enforcement, the building collapse at 16 Bonair
Street, opioid settlement funds, and PorchFest safety/security.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 24-28 Broadway, the former Taco Loco
site, due to repeated cleanliness and business violations within the last two
years.
Order
(ID # 24-0093)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.3.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 112 Broadway, formerly the East End
Grill, for any violations within the last ten years.
Order
(ID # 24-0094)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
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6.C.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 176-182 Broadway, formerly Patsy's
Pastries, in the last ten years.
Order
(ID # 24-0095)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect 112 Broadway, 176-182
Broadway, and 24-28 Broadway for violations and report the findings to the
Ward 1 City Councilor.
Order
(ID # 24-0096)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.6.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services address trash and other violations
by the Rent-A-Center on Broadway.
Order
(ID # 24-0097)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.7.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Administration update this Council on plans for the $244,891.15
received as part of the Massachusetts Municipal Opioid Abatement
Payments.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0371)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.8.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect 112 Broadway, 176-182
Broadway, and 24-28 Broadway for violations and report the findings to the
Ward 1 City Councilor.
Order
(ID # 24-0384)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.9.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 176-182 Broadway, formerly Patsy's
Pastries, in the last ten years.
Order
(ID # 24-0385)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.10.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 112 Broadway, formerly the East End
Grill, for any violations within the last ten years.
Order
(ID # 24-0386)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
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6.C.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor
regarding any fines associated with 24-28 Broadway, the former Taco Loco
site, due to repeated cleanliness and business violations within the last two
years.
Order
(ID # 24-0387)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.12.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen,
Councilor Scott, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Sait
That the Director of Inspectional Services appears before the Committee on
Public Health and Public Safety to discuss implementation of the Vacant
Properties Ordinance, and provide the Ward 1 Councilor with a list of
registered properties, the dates they were registered and any fees and fines
associated with the properties.
Order
(ID # 24-0388)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.13.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services appear before the Committee on
Public Health and Public Safety to discuss the department's methods of
reporting, inputting and organizing fines within their databases.
Order
(ID # 24-0389)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.14.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Executive Director of the Arts Council appear before the Housing
and Community Development Committee to present a Porchfest safety plan
that addresses pedestrian safety concerns, promotion of street closures,
intersection crossing safety and the prevention of aggressive and dangerous
driver behavior during the active event hours.
Order
(ID # 24-0417)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.15.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 City Councilor
on the recent collapse of a house at 16 Bonair Street.
Order
(ID # 24-0429)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.16.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 City Councilor
on the status of any permits issued to contractors associated with 16 Bonair
Street.
Order
(ID # 24-0430)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
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6.C.17.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Inspectional Services update the Ward 1 Councilor on
enforcement of the Dark Skies Ordinance.
Order
(ID # 24-0469)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Somerville Zoning
Ordinance to add Section 8.5 Interim Planning Overlay District (IPOD) and
the Brickbottom sub-area.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0551)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting the appropriation of $2,041,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Facility Renovation and Reconstruction
Stabilization Fund for continued renovations to the Edgerly School to
accommodate Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms for the Winter Hill
Community Innovation School students.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0577)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting the appropriation of $400,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Emergency Response Stabilization Fund to
provide temporary shelter, food, and other common necessaries of life to
displaced individuals and families.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0579)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting the appropriation of $248,111 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Department of Public Works Buildings Natural
Gas Account for the remediation of an expected year end deficit.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0574)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $237,468 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Department of Public Works Buildings Interior
Building Maintenance Account for repairs to the Dilboy Pool.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0572)
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Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $150,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Facility Renovation and Reconstruction
Stabilization Fund for building improvements at 77 Broadway for the East
Somerville Police sub-station.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0576)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval to appropriate $2,041,000 from the Facility Renovation
and Reconstruction Stabilization Fund for continued renovations to the
Edgerly School to accommodate Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms for the
Winter Hill Community Innovation School students.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0578)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.8.
Requesting approval to appropriate $400,000 from the Emergency
Stabilization Fund to support critical emergency shelter services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0580)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $1,095,000 from various Department of
Public Works personal services accounts to the Department of Public Works
Buildings Electricity Account to cover a deficit.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0573)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $13,800 from the Police Salaries
Account to the Police Special Items Rental Buildings Account to pay the
remaining East Substation lease payments for FY 2024.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0564)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
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and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $243,094 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to the Office
of Sustainability and Environment, for a residential decarbonization
outreach campaign and two-year Energy Advisor position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0575)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.11
and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alyssa DuBois to the Board
of Health.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0581)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Margaret H. Coit to the
Board of Health.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0582)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Caruso & McGovern Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0553)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Edward Ahern.
License
(ID # 24-0554)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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9.3.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, JNJ Sacca Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0555)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, LaMountain Brothers Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0556)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, New England Style Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0557)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, P. Gioioso & Sons Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0558)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Garage License, Greentown Labs, 444 Somerville Ave.
License
(ID # 24-0559)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Renewing Garage License, K Professional Auto Detailing, 682 Mystic Ave.
License
(ID # 24-0560)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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9.9.
Renewing Garage License, Teele Square Auto, 1284 Broadway.
License
(ID # 24-0561)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Buffalo Exchange Ltd, 238 Elm St.
License
(ID # 24-0562)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Michael H. Garvey, Med. #57.
License
(ID # 24-0563)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
New Outdoor Parking License, John's Auto Sales, 216 McGrath Hwy, store
23 vehicles on premises.
License
(ID # 24-0588)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
New Sign and Awning License, Toca Chida, 333 Great River Rd, 3 awnings.
License
(ID # 24-0589)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
Friends of the Community Growing Center applying for a Public Event
License for Somerville Community Growing Center 2024 Event Calendar
on May through December from various times.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0590)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
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APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Somerville Open Studios applying for a Public Event License for Open
Studios informational table on May 4 and 5 from 11:30am to 6:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0591)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Jason Oberstein applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest for Flying
Turtle on May 11 from 11am to 3pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0593)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Jonathan Bernhardt applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on
Charnwood on May 11 from 1pm to 4pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0595)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.18.
Nate Kaufman applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on
Highland Rd on May 11 from 1pm to 5pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0596)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.19.
Dave Rothfarb applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on
Aberdeen on May 11 from 1:30pm to 4:30pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0592)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.20.
Liz Hewitt applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on Craigie on
May 11 from 1:30pm to 4:30pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0594)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
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APPROVED
RESULT:
9.21.
Jeff Kaufman applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on Morrison
on May 11 from 1:30pm to 4:30pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0597)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.22.
Nels Nelson applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on Munroe
on May 11 from 3pm to 7pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0599)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.23.
Claire Crowther applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on
Morgan on May 11 from 3:30pm to 6pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0598)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.24.
Alexandra Weiner applying for a Public Event License for Calvin Street BP
on May 25 from 10am to 8pm (raindate May 26).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0600)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.25.
Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for Memorial Day
Parade on May 26 from 8am to 3pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0602)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.26.
Maria M. Carreiro-Luis applying for a Public Event License for Ermandade
do Devino Espirito Santo on May 26 from 9am to 3pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0603)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
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APPROVED
RESULT:
9.27.
Somerville Community Corporation nominating Gonzalo J. Puigbo to the
Wage Theft Advisory Committee.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0601)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
Requesting approval of a Pedestrian Access Sidewalk Easement and
Maintenance License at 599 Somerville Avenue.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0565)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of item 10.1 and refer it to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, CRL Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0608)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.3.
New Extended Operating Hours License, Eat Greek Gyros, 215 Elm St, for
in-store, take-out, and delivery services until 2am.
License
(ID # 24-0609)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
Renewing Garage License, FRIT, 355 Artisan Way.
License
(ID # 24-0610)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.5.
Renewing Garage License, FRIT, 445 Artisan Way.
License
(ID # 24-0611)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
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evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.6.
Renewing Garage License, FRIT, 479 Canal St.
License
(ID # 24-0612)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.7.
Renewing Garage License, FRIT, 455 Grand Union Blvd.
License
(ID # 24-0613)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.8.
Renewing Garage License, FRIT, 333 Great River Rd.
License
(ID # 24-0614)
CONDITION: Pedestrian sensors must be installed.
Councilor Burnley moved to condition the license to require that pedestrian
sensors must be installed. The motion was approved.
APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
RESULT:
10.9.
Gary Rowe applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on Bailey on
May 11 from 11:30am to 2:30pm (raindate May 12).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0616)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.10.
Toriah Mimms applying for a Public Event License for The Curl Bar BP on
May 26 from 8am to 8pm (raindate June 8).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0615)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.2, 10.4 through 10.7, and 10.9 through 10.10 and approve them this
evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.11.
Mo Rizkallah requesting a Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning
district of 5 Homer Square from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Urban
Residence (UR).
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0607)
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REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
11.
LATE ITEMS
11.1.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That this City Council opposes the use of lateral hiring in the Fire
Department.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0617)
APPROVED
RESULT:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:31 PM.
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