Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Jun 13, 2024
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, June 13, 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 7:40 PM and returned at 7:51 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 24-0915)
Councilor Davis arrived at 7:01 PM.
Councilors Mbah and Burnley arrived at 7:02 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 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 Five City Councilor Naima Sait
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 24-0916)
Councilor McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence
in memory of Stanley “Chip” Koty, III.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 9, 2024.
Minutes
(ID # 24-0917)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor Strezo
Commending the Community Growing Center for 30 years of service and
commitment to green spaces.
Citation
(ID # 24-0906)
Councilor Strezo commended the Growing Center for their commitment to
the City of Somerville. Prior to accepting the citation on behalf of the
Growing Center, Lisa Brukilacchio gave a lengthy history of the
organization and Brandon Wilson, former Planning Director for the City,
spoke about the early years of the center. Councilor Scott noted that the
center has been a part of many peoples’ lives in Somerville.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 102 feet of conduit in
Revolution Drive from Manhole #26211 to a point of pickup at the
intersection of Revolution Drive and Assembly Square Drive.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-0862)
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:
3.2.
Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install 60
feet of conduit in Mystic Avenue from existing Eversource Manhole #22835
to a proposed Handhole, then continuing to a point of pickup at Utility Pole
#249/9 located near 75 Mystic Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-0863)
Jeff Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, 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:
3.3.
Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install 43
feet of conduit in Mystic Avenue from existing Eversource Manhole #22834
to a proposed Handhole, then continuing to Utility Pole #249/4 located near
29 Mystic Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-0864)
Jeff Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, 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:
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4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility daylight the corner of Maple Avenue and
School Street.
Order
(ID # 24-0901)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry provide this Council’s
Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations with an update on the inclusive playground swing project being
worked on in collaboration with parent advocates.
Order
(ID # 24-0911)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.3.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Administration provide this Council with an up-to-date report on
the financial activity of the Handicapped Parking Violation Fees fund.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0910)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor
Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Mbah
That the Administration hold a community meeting within the next 30 days
to address the impacts of the missing United States Postal Service mail, and
the overall lack of mail delivery in various parts of Somerville.
Resolution
(ID # 24-0902)
Councilor Clingan commented that the recent lack of mail delivery in the
city is due to a United States Postal Service labor shortage and he feels that
it’s time for the USPS to consider increasing its employees’ wages in MA to
alleviate the problem. Locally, some residents have been without mail
delivery for weeks and it’s now a quality-of-life issue affecting the delivery
of medications, Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) notices, jury duty
notices, etc. Residents are aware that specific pieces of mail are missing, and
the Postal Service is reporting that it is caught up, and at the same time
saying that they’re investigating. Councilor Strezo would like the
Administration to work with the City Council on a communication plan for
residents.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 18
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4.5.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor McLaughlin
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development update this Council on the possibility of receiving
additional federal financing for transit-oriented development through the
Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA 49)
initiative and the potential eligibility of projects in Somerville.
Order
(ID # 24-0909)
AMENDMENT: That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic
Planning and Community Development update this Council on the
possibility of receiving additional federal financing for transit-oriented
development through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and
Innovation Act (TIFIA 49) initiative, IRS 63-20 corporation financing
and Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) and the
potential eligibility of projects in Somerville.
Councilor Wilson spoke an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determination,
known as 63-20, that opens the possibilities for a public private mechanism
to create affordable housing. He also spoke about a federal financing tool for
transit-oriented development, (TIFIA 49), that might be helpful with projects
in Somerville that have stalled due to financing issues. Councilor Wilson
moved to amend this item by including IRS 63-20 and Railroad
Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF). Councilor McLaughlin
noted that this is yet another opportunity to build housing and that he would
like to see the pace of building increased.
APPROVED AS AMENDED AND SENT FOR
DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
Requesting approval of a conveyance and grant of easement for Leonard
Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0656)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, 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:
Ward Five City Councilor Sait
ABSENT:
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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 June 11, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0885)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee
and reported that the committee recommended approval of two
appointments to the Board of Health and two promotions within the Fire
Department. The City Clerk administered the oath of office to two Fire
Department Lieutenants.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alyssa DuBois to the Board
of Health.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0581)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Margaret H. Coit to the
Board of Health.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0582)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Matthew Kane to the position
of Fire Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0803)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Michael Finnegan to the
position of Fire Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0804)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development,
meeting on June 11, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0884)
Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and
recommended that her colleagues read the 2024-2028 action plans that were
recommended for approval by the committee.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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June 13, 2024
6.B.2.
Requesting approval of the proposed 2024-2028 Department of Housing and
Urban Development 5-Year Consolidated Plan, One Year Action Plan, and
Community Participation Plan for Community Development Block Grant,
Home Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant
programming.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0636)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management address the
structural safety and rodent issues with the city-owned building on Skilton
Avenue.
Order
(ID # 24-0664)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management devise and share
with this Council a long-term plan for the city-owned building at 10 Skilton
Avenue.
Order
(ID # 24-0665)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on May 28, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0881)
Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that, after several meetings, an amended Safe Streets Ordinance
was approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Amending Section 12-116 of the Code of Ordinances to create a Safe Streets
ordinance, to expedite protected bike lanes.
Ordinance
(ID # 23-1461)
Councilor Burnley commented that this ordinance was born in response to
residents’ demands that the city do better to provide safety for its residents.
He thanked the many individuals and groups who had a hand in creating this
ordinance. He sponsored two speakers to address the Council on this matter.
The first speaker shared some experiences walking and biking in the city.
The second speaker said that this ordinance will make Somerville a healthier
and safer place to live. Councilors Scott and Mbah thanked Councilor
Burnley for taking the lead on this matter.
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
RESULT:
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Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, 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:
Ward Five City Councilor Sait
ABSENT:
6.D.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on
June 5, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0883)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and
said the main focus of the meeting was the homelessness situation in the
city. The committee also received a presentation about a survey on the
operation of the warming center at the Armory. The availability of masks
and COVID test kits was also discussed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on the
plan to prioritize the deployment of masks and tests to reduce the spread of
COVID-19.
Order
(ID # 24-0451)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.
SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and
Maintenance, meeting on May 29, 2024.
Committee Report
(ID # 24-0882)
Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and said
an update on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process
for the Winter Hill and Brown Schools was received. The constitution of the
School Building Committee has been completed and the committee will
guide the project from design to construction. Other topics discussed
included a problem with rodents at the Edgerly School and a gas situation at
the West Somerville Neighborhood School.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management provide a report
to the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee with a
risk assessment identifying and analyzing major risks to projects the
department is currently overseeing.
Order
(ID # 24-0534)
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June 13, 2024
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.3.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Administration discuss
with the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee, the
status of science lab spaces at Somerville Public Schools and what is being
done to safely reopen any closed lab features following a gas leak reported at
the West Somerville Neighborhood School.
Order
(ID # 24-0535)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.4.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with the School Building
Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee, the installation of a floor
cover for the gymnasium at Somerville High School to prevent damage to
the floor and to expand the gym’s usability to non-athletic events.
Order
(ID # 24-0536)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.5.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works report to the School Building
Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee on the timeline and progress
toward installing water and electrical access at the Benjamin G. Brown
School schoolyard.
Order
(ID # 24-0537)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to add
Sections 8-375 through 8-381 to promote and enforce safer construction
practices.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0716)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting authorization to borrow $1,271,785 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the purchase of Fire Pumper apparatus.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0876)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,001,750.89 from the Facility Renovation
Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0859)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
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through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting the appropriation of $78,148.40 from the Street Reconstruction
Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and pavement condition
assessment and design services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0860)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of four months for
PMA, LLC for Owner's Project Manager services for the Somerville High
School project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0769)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.6.
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of four months with
Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc. for design services for the
Somerville High School project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0770)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.7.
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of five months for
Suffolk Construction for Construction Manager services for the Somerville
High School project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0771)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.8.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $927,590.89 from the Infrastructure and
Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Engineering & Architecture
Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing
building design services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0857)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $109,428 from the Office of Strategic
Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Planning, Preservation
and Zoning Division Professional Services account to the OSPCD
Administration Division Legal Services account to pay outstanding legal
fees related to the 90 Washington Street litigation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0900)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
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through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $78,148.40 from the Infrastructure and
Asset Management (IAM)-Engineering & Architecture Account to the Street
Reconstruction Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and
pavement condition assessment and design services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0856)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $74,160 from the Infrastructure and
Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Professional & Technical
Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing
building design services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0858)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $4,573.32 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Environmental Protection to the
Department of Public Works (DPW) for the Recycling Dividend Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0853)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a non-monetary grant with no
new match required, from the Department of Energy Resources to the
Office of Sustainability and Environment for technical assistance for writing
a municipal building decarbonization roadmap.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0852)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $750 using available
funds in the Human Resources Advertising account for advertising costs of
vacant positions.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0896)
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Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $181.92 using
available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical
Services account for confidential paper shredding services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0897)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of James M. Donovan to the
position of Deputy Police Chief.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0895)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.16
through 7.17 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Johnson to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0894)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.16
through 7.17 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.18.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jacob Luria to the Municipal
Job Creation and Retention Trust Fund Board of Trustees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0861)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.19.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for use
of an Unmanned Aerial System at the 2024 Somerville Police Department
Junior Police Academy.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0912)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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7.20.
Proclaiming the week of May 12 through May 19, 2024 to be Taiwanese
American Heritage Week.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-0813)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
7.21.
Proclaiming that Saturday, June 22, 2024 is Arbor Day in the City of
Somerville.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-0904)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment conveying
information regarding item #24-0575, a grant from the Massachusetts Clean
Energy Center.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0776)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.2.
Planning Board conveying recommendations for item #24-0416.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0854)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.3.
Director of Water and Sewer conveying the FY 2025 Water & Sewer Rate
proposal.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0913)
Director of Water and Sewer (W&S) Demetrios Vidalis presented the
proposed FY 2025 water and sewer rates, saying that it is what the city needs
and that efforts are being made to try to avoid higher rates in the future. The
Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds were created to take some of the burden
off taxpayers. He explained the charges imposed by the Massachusetts
Water Resource Authority (MWRA) and spoke about the city’s aging
infrastructure, as well as a number of projects, e.g., lead service line
replacement. The Poplar Steet pumping station will provide immediate flood
mitigation for the Union Square area once it comes line. The Director said
that the budget for W&S is comprised of MWRA costs, capital investments
and debt service, personnel, and maintenance, with 85% of the budget
($45.2 million) being fixed costs. He said that without the proposed
increase, there would be a $3 million deficit. The proposed rate works out to
an average 6% increase which amounts to an additional $60 per year on
average and he said that he understands this may be a hardship for some.
The department will be taking steps to increase its communication outreach.
Director Vidalis reported that the meter replacement program is 90%
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complete and that 6% of ratepayers saw significant increases due to the
catchup readings. 170 bills have been adjusted, representing a decrease of
$480,000 to ratepayers.
Councilor Scott asked about staffing in W&S and the Director said there are
no Heavy Machine Equipment Operator (HMEO) staff in the department.
Councilor Scott asked if the ratepayer assistance program has been
implemented yet and the Director replied that it has not. Councilor Burnley
questioned the sequencing, saying it seems to imply that rates have to be
raised before they can be restructured, and he asked if after approving the
proposed rates the department would implement another set of structures in
January. Director Vidalis said that the hope is to come before the Council
before the end of this year to present a new structure to be implemented in
January.
Councilor Mbah expressed concern about people on fixed incomes and the
Director said that there are steps that can be taken by residents to conserve
water. Councilor McLaughlin noted that this 6% increase equates to $3
million, and he pointed out that the FY 2025 city budget has increased by
$20 million. He went on to say that the city received approximately $78
million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and $1 million has not
been spent yet. Councilor Scott asked for a detailed accounting of the
additional revenue this proposal would bring in and he wants to know what
happened to the $1 million for ratepayer assistance. Councilor Clingan asked
for the rate changes for the past 4 years. Councilor Strezo commented that
she is already hearing from tenants that increases are being put into their
leases and she asked when landlords and tenants will be apprised of their
rights and responsibilities.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, MC Excavation Inc.
License
(ID # 24-0865)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Flammables License, Cumberland Farms #2469, 701 Somerville
Ave.
License
(ID # 24-0868)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Flammables License, Speedway #02513, 709 McGrath Hwy.
License
(ID # 24-0867)
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Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Flammables License, Winter Hill Yacht Club, 500 Artisan Way.
License
(ID # 24-0866)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Garage License, Boston Sand and Gravel Company, 492R
Rutherford Ave.
License
(ID # 24-0871)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Garage License, Drain Doctor, Inc, 612 Broadway.
License
(ID # 24-0870)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Garage License, Four Wheels Auto, 83A Albion St.
License
(ID # 24-0869)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
New Outdoor Parking License, DM Collision Center LLC, 30 Joy St., 40
vehicles.
License
(ID # 24-0874)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Star Markets Company #2575, 275
Beacon St., 3 vehicles
License
(ID # 24-0875)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 14 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
June 13, 2024
9.10.
Renewing Taxi Medallion, Early Bird Transportation, LLC, Med. #49.
License
(ID # 24-0872)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Taxi Medallion, Sadel and G Transportation, Inc., Med. #70.
License
(ID # 24-0873)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for PFC John J.
Hayden, Jr. Hero Square Dedication on June 1 from 10am to 12pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0908)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.13.
Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for Mary F.
MacDougall Considine Hero Square Dedication on June 1 from 12pm to
2pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0907)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.14.
Rosa Carson applying for a Public Event License for Friday Dance Hour on
June 14, June 28, July 5, July 12, July 19, August 2, August 9, and August
30 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0893)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Janine Fay applying for a Public Event License for Dancing in the Street on
June 20 from 5pm to 9:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0891)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Koryn Zammuto applying for a Public Event License for 4th of July
Celebration at The Public on June 27 from 2pm to 10:30pm (raindate June
28).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0914)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 15 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
June 13, 2024
9.17.
Camberville Community Music applying for a Public Event License for
Marion St. BP on June 30 from 10am to 8pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0879)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.18.
Glen Maganzini applying for a Public Event License for Kids Like You and
Me's Summer Showdown! on July 6 from 12pm to 7pm (raindate July 7).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0892)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.19.
St. Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for A Mile with
Jesus on July 7 from 12pm to 1:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 24-0880)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.20.
Aaron Greiner applying for a Public Event License for Parkdale St BP on
July 13 from 11am to 7pm (raindate July 14).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0878)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.21.
East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for
Summer in the Park on July 27 from 1pm to 7pm (raindate July 28).
Public Event
(ID # 24-0877)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11
and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.22.
Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) conveying the
alteration of location of a section of State highway.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0855)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.23.
Emily Duquette submitting comments re: item #24-0641, a Zoning Map
Amendment for the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA).
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0898)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
June 13, 2024
9.24.
13 individuals, including 9 residents, submitting comments re: items
#24-0680 and #24-0679, a Zoning Map and Zoning Text amendment to
create the Somernova Innovation Sub-Area.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0899)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works replace the trash barrel on
Broadway and Macarthur Street.
Order
(ID # 24-0923)
Councilor McLaughlin reported that he was informed that the Department of
Public Works removed the barrel because it was being used excessively. He
noted that people are still leaving trash there, even without the barrel.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services provide the Ward 1 City
Councilor with any tickets and fines associated with the Home Depot,
Circuit City, and the surrounding area in the past ten years.
Order
(ID # 24-0920)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect the Home Depot, Circuit
City, and surrounding area for code violations and report back to the Ward 1
City Councilor.
Order
(ID # 24-0921)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Inspectional Services (ISD) provide the Ward 1 City
Councilor with a list of all ISD tickets issued in Ward 1 on May 6, 2024.
Order
(ID # 24-0924)
Councilor McLaughlin commented that he is just looking for the data.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking place SLOW CHILDREN and NOT A
THROUGH STREET signs on Alston Street by the corner of Cross Street.
Order
(ID # 24-0922)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 17 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
June 13, 2024
10.6.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking discuss the policy around restricted parking
signs during construction and how to limit negative impacts in the
community.
Order
(ID # 24-0925)
Councilor McLaughlin stated that signs are being put up in the area of the
Nunnery grounds when no work is being done. Additionally, he was made
aware that contractors are being allowed to fill out the restriction times on
the signs and he wants to see more accurate postings.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,847.47 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Natural Gas
account for Edgerly School natural gas.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-0905)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8
through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.8.
Alexander Mathews submitting comments re: rent control.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0918)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.9.
Susan Lee submitting comments re: items #24-0680 and #24-0679, a Zoning
Map and Zoning Text amendment to create the Somernova Innovation
Sub-Area.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0919)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.10.
Karen Thurston submitting comments re: parking.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0926)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
11.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:00 PM.
Page 18 of 18