Meetings ▸ Agenda
City Council — Agenda, Dec 12, 2024
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
City Council Chamber and Remote
Participation
7:00 PM
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Published December 20, 2024, 1:45 PM, Revised December 12, 2024, 2:00 PM.
NOTICE: Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, this meeting of the City Council may be conducted
via remote participation. We will post an audio recording, audiovideo recording, transcript, or other
comprehensive record of these proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting on the City of
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1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
1.1.
Roll Call
(ID # 24-1750)
Call of the Roll.
1.2.
Remembrances
(ID # 24-1751)
Remembrances.
1.3.
Minutes
(ID # 24-1752)
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of
November 14, 2024.
2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
Citation
(ID # 24-1703)
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Commending Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen for his
distinguished service as President of this Council in
2024.
2.2.
Citation
(ID # 24-1704)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
Commending Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld for her
distinguished service as Vice President of this Council in
2024.
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2.3.
Citation
(ID # 24-1730)
By Councilor Wilson
Commending the Engineering Department for their
outstanding achievements in the 2024 construction
season.
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1707)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 251 feet of conduit in Prospect Street,
from Utility Pole 291/14 to a point of pickup at 118
Prospect Street.
3.2.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1708)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 25 feet of conduit and a new Manhole
32549 in Auburn Avenue, from Utility Pole 17/2 to a
point of pickup at 11 Auburn Avenue.
3.3.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1710)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 28 feet of conduit in Windsor Place, from
existing Manhole 26724 to a point of pickup at 600
Windsor Place.
3.4.
Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1711)
Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of
Location to install approximately 114 feet of conduit in
Linwood Street and Fitchburg Street, from existing
Manhole 22014 to a proposed Handhole and continuing
to a point of pickup at 1 Fitchburg Street.
3.5.
Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1709)
Withdrawn.
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
Order
(ID # 24-1731)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility develop safety measures
for the slip lane at the intersection of Elm Street,
Somerville Avenue, and Craigie Street, also known as
Wilson Park.
4.2.
Order
(ID # 24-1732)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Parking develop a comprehensive
plan to streamline the process for parking permits for
in-home elder care and health providers, including Meals
on Wheels.
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4.3.
Order
(ID # 24-1733)
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works place a new
street light at the corner of Broadway and Fenwick Street
to address dark conditions at an important pedestrian
crossing.
4.4.
Resolution
(ID # 24-1734)
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor
Clingan and Councilor McLaughlin
That the Administration pursue harm reduction
initiatives to provide alternative methods of addressing
substance abuse with wraparound supports like basic
health care, housing support, and recovery resources
during the planning process for an overdose prevention
center.
4.5.
Order
(ID # 24-1735)
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility and the Director of
Engineering create an on-demand, dedicated pedestrian
phase for the traffic signals at the intersection of
Broadway and School Street, with NO TURN ON RED
signage for both eastbound Broadway traffic and
northbound School Street traffic.
4.6.
Order
(ID # 24-1736)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility and the Director of
Engineering appear before this Council to discuss the
preparation of a change order to revert to the design of
the bike lane entrance at Washington Street and Webster
Avenue to the original 100% plans.
4.7.
Order
(ID # 24-1737)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility add the words EXCEPT
BICYCLES to the Do Not Enter and One Way signage
on Hawkins Street.
4.8.
Order
(ID # 24-1738)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility install DO NOT ENTER,
EXCEPT RESIDENTS AND BICYCLES signage at the
intersections of Ivaloo and Beacon Street and Ivaloo and
Park Street.
4.9.
Order
(ID # 24-1741)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility install a speed bump on
Tremont Street near Tremont Place.
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4.10.
Order
(ID # 24-1740)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Housing assist this Council in
drafting changes to the Condominium Conversion
Ordinance to enable the Condominium Review Board to
fulfill its intended function and prevent circumvention of
tenant's rights.
4.11.
Communication
(ID # 24-1739)
By Councilor Scott
In her capacity as Chair of the Charter Review Special
Committee, conveying an update on the status of charter
negotiations with the Mayor.
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
Citation
(ID # 24-1690)
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Ewen-Campen
Commending Reebee Garofalo on the auspicious
occasion of his 80th birthday.
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.A.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1743)
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters, meeting on
December 2, 2024.
6.A.2. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1620)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Amanda
Nagim-Williams as Director of Racial and Social Justice.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.A.3. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1657)
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Sean M.
Sheehan to the position of Police Captain.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.A.4. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1658)
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Paul
Anderson to the position of Police Lieutenant.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.A.5. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1661)
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Juan
Ducasse Ayala to the position of Police Sergeant.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.B.
EQUITY, GENDER, FAMILIES AND VULNERABLE POPULATIONS COMMITTEE
6.B.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1748)
Report of the Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors,
Families and Vulnerable Populations, meeting on
December 10, 2024.
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6.B.2. Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-0674)
Conveying an update on the development of a water bill
ratepayer assistance program.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.B.3. Resolution
(ID # 24-0717)
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Davis, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Wilson
That the Administration address its plan to prevent
displacement in relation to water and sewer bills.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.B.4. Resolution
(ID # 24-1033)
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of the Somerville Housing Authority
discuss the Family Self Sufficiency Program, which
assists public housing residents to reach financial goals,
and how to expand its purpose, presence and usage.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.B.5. Resolution
(ID # 24-1183)
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Pineda Neufeld,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor
Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Clingan
That the Administration install diaper changing stations
in both restrooms on the second floor of City Hall.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.B.6. Order
(ID # 24-1262)
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Health and Human Services provide
an update on the availability of free menstrual products
in all city owned bathrooms.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.B.7. Order
(ID # 24-1396)
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Sait
That the Director of Health and Human Services discuss
with this Council the findings from the recent U.S.
Surgeon General Advisory on the Mental Health and
Well-Being of Parents and its recommendations to better
support parents and caregivers.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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6.B.8. Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-1614)
Conveying an update on water and sewer rate
restructuring.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.C.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.C.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1747)
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on
December 10, 2024.
6.C.2. Ordinance
(ID # 23-0827)
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Wilson
Amending Section 2-323 of the Code of Ordinances,
Salary Ranges, to provide cost-of-living adjustments for
School Committee Members and City Councilors.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be placed on file.
6.C.3. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1260)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $171,000
grant with no new match required, from the Boston
Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police
Department for a Special Response Team rescue vehicle.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.4. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1491)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $500,000
grant with no new match required, from MA Department
of Conservation and Recreation to the Public Space and
Urban Forestry Division for the Blessing of the Bay
MassTrails improvement project.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.5. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1543)
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling
$5,730 using available funds in the Law Department's
Legal Services Account for outside legal counsel
services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.6. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1545)
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of
three years for PMA, LLC for Owner's Project Manager
services for the Somerville High School project.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.7. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1546)
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension
for Suffolk Construction, for Construction Manager
services for the Somerville High School project.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.8. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1547)
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension
for Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc. for design
services for the Somerville High School project.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
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6.C.9. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1550)
Requesting the transfer of $5,425 from the Human
Resources Professional & Technical Services Account to
the Law Professional & Technical Services Account for
invoices for the physician on the Medical Panel Review
Board.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.10.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1562)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$38,803.02 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Natural Gas Account for natural gas
delivery services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.11.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1566)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$7,539.86 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Electricity Account for solar generation
services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.12.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1569)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$35,917.36 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Electricity Account for solar generation
services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.13.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1570)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$1,710 using available funds in the Department of Public
Works Sanitation Benches & Barrels Account for Big
Belly containers.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.14.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1571)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$2,682 using available funds in the Department of Public
Works Buildings Rental Equipment Account for
equipment rental services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.15.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1572)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$2,569.52 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Buildings HVAC R&M Account for
HVAC repair services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.16.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1573)
Requesting approval of the use of available funds in the
amount of $60,000 from the Department of Public
Works Highway Wages Account to fund the Lets Get
Working Program.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
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6.C.17.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1574)
Requesting approval to appropriate $147,902 from the
Energy Stabilization Fund to replace steam traps.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.18.Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-1580)
Conveying the draft Armory Master Plan.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.C.19.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1635)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $82,357.50
grant with no new match required from Massachusetts
Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Council on
Aging for social, educational and physical wellness
programming.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.20.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1649)
Requesting approval to appropriate $340,000 from the
Union Square Community Benefits Fund, with $200,000
for Workforce Development Services and $140,000 for
Small Business Technical Assistance Services.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.21.Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1654)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$29,074.72 using available funds in various Police
Department Ordinary Maintenance Accounts for unpaid
invoices.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.C.22.Order
(ID # 24-1684)
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
That the Director of Grants and External Funds explain
to this Council in writing whether the city can apply for a
grant through the Advanced Transportation Technologies
and Innovation (ATTAIN) Program to fund a
North-South microtransit pilot program, and apply if it is
possible.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.C.23.Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1691)
Director of Economic Development and Director of the
Arts Council requesting that this Council's Finance
Committee hold a public hearing on the draft Armory
Master Plan.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.D.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.D.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1744)
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on
December 5, 2024.
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6.D.2. Order
(ID # 24-0790)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson and
Councilor Scott
That the Director of Engineering appear before the
Committee on Land Use to discuss how required
electrical equipment can modify the plans for
already-approved new developments, such as at 379
Somerville Avenue.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.D.3. Order
(ID # 24-0909)
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.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.D.4. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1197)
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections
1.1.4, 2.1.1, 3.1.18, 3.2.17, 4.1.15, 4.2.15, 4.3.15, 4.4.16,
5.1.17, 6.1.13, 6.2.15, 6.3.13, 6.4.16, 7.2.9, 7.3.9, 8.2.4.c,
9.2.3, 9.2.6, 11.2.4, 11.2.5, 11.2.6, 11.3, 12.1.7, 15.2.1,
and Table 9.1.1 of the Zoning Ordinance to address
various parking requirements.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved as
amended.
6.D.5. Order
(ID # 24-1213)
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Planning, Preservation, and Zoning
work with this Council to determine how to remove
legislative barriers to increasing accessible housing,
particularly when residents wish to add accessible
features to their home.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.D.6. Order
(ID # 24-1312)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning
collaborate with this Council on updating the Zoning
Ordinance to require all new construction to place
electrical transformers below ground.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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6.D.7. Order
(ID # 24-1315)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning
reconsider the policy of allowing lot splits and mergers
as administrative approvals rather than special permits.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.D.8. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1367)
Charles DeCecca requesting a Zoning Map Amendment
to change the zoning district of 501 Mystic Valley
Parkway from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Urban
Residence (UR).
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.D.9. Resolution
(ID # 24-1480)
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah,
Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld,
Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Wilson
That the Administration explore opportunities to utilize
the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
(MBTA) Communities Catalyst Fund to spur new
housing acquisition or production, particularly in the
Winter Hill, Gilman Square, and East Somerville
neighborhoods.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.E.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
6.E.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1749)
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits,
meeting on December 11, 2024.
6.E.2. License
(ID # 24-1109)
Renewing Garage License, Dewire Family Trust, 141
Beacon Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved with
conditions.
6.E.3. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1554)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 115 feet of conduit in Medford Street and
Warren Street, starting from Utility Pole 228/4 to a point
of pickup at 16 Medford Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.4. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1555)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 4,098 feet of conduit and three new
manholes in McGrath Highway, Washington Street, and
Joy Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
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6.E.5. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1556)
Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 43 feet of conduit in Warren Street,
starting from Utility Pole 1 to a point of pickup at 16
Medford Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.6. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1557)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 65 feet of conduit in Washington Street,
from Utility Pole 358/29 to a point of pickup at 192
Washington Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.7. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1558)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 53 feet of conduit in Somerville Avenue,
from existing Manhole 28941 to an approximate point of
pickup at 557 Somerville Avenue.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.8. Grant of Location
(ID # 24-1559)
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install
approximately 122 feet of conduit in Laurel Street and
Somerville Avenue, from Utility Pole 199/0 to an
approximate point of pickup at a proposed handhole at
515 Somerville Avenue.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.9. License
(ID # 24-1560)
New Flammables License, 74M Property Owner, LLC,
74 Middlesex Avenue, storing 6,870 gallons.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.E.10. Resolution
(ID # 24-1777)
By Councilor Scott
That representatives from Eversource, Comcast, RCN,
Verizon and any other service providers appear before
this Council to discuss transfers, pole removals and any
other overhead service.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved.
6.F.
OPEN SPACE, ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY COMMITTEE
6.F.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1746)
Report of the Committee on Open Space, Environment
and Energy, meeting on December 9, 2024.
6.F.2. Order
(ID # 24-0370)
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and
Environment update this Council on the design, cost, and
implementation timeline for the city's composting
program.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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6.F.3. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-0457)
Green & Open Somerville and Earthwise Aware
submitting comments re: invasive plant species.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.F.4. Order
(ID # 24-1029)
By Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Parks and Recreation, the Director
of SomerPromise and the Out of School Time
Coordinator, report to the City Council on the status of
children and teen participation in the summer recreation
and education programs.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.F.5. Order
(ID # 24-1415)
By Councilor Sait and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Parks and Recreation provide this
Council with the list of youth program offerings, their
cap and their enrollment data in 2023 and 2024.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.
PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
6.G.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1745)
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public
Works, meeting on December 9, 2024.
6.G.2. Order
(ID # 24-1182)
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Emergency Management discuss the
city’s emergency response plan for freight train routes
and action plans in the event of a derailment or chemical
spill.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.3. Resolution
(ID # 24-1306)
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Scott
That the Administration update this Council on plans for
the Cummings School building and Founders Memorial
Skating Rink this fiscal year.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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6.G.4. Order
(ID # 24-1398)
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr. and
Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works provide this
Council with a list of the elevators in all city buildings,
the operational status of each elevator, and the
maintenance and inspection records for each.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.5. Order
(ID # 24-1481)
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works repair the
streetlights along Mystic Avenue between the Medford
line and Temple Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.6. Order
(ID # 24-1486)
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Inspectional Services appear before
this Council to discuss the Massachusetts Bay
Transportation Authority (MBTA)’s application to the
Mass Architectural Access Board, on behalf of the City
of Somerville, to circumvent Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) compliance.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.7. Resolution
(ID # 24-1608)
By Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor
Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis,
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Pineda Neufeld,
Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Wilson
That the Administration provide this Council with a
comprehensive status update of all Veterans Monuments
affected by the construction and renovations around the
High School complex.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.G.8. Order
(ID # 24-1637)
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Water and Sewer appear before this
Council to discuss recent extended outages in Ward 2
and mitigation plans for future work.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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6.H.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
6.H.1. Committee Report
(ID # 24-1742)
Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting
on December 2, 2024.
6.H.2. Resolution
(ID # 24-1274)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Sait
That the Administration update this Council on the status
of implementing the recommendations of the Parking &
Curb Use Study, and respond to the July 2024
recommendations of the Somerville Alliance of Safe
Streets (SASS).
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.3. Order
(ID # 24-1392)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Davis,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Sait, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Clingan
That the Chief of Police resume the practice of issuing
tickets rather than warnings for serious moving
violations that endanger public safety, including speeding
and running red lights.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.4. Resolution
(ID # 24-1400)
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Administration facilitate bike parking for large
licensed public events in the city.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.5. Order
(ID # 24-1464)
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Sait
That the Director of Parking and the Director of Mobility
install ALL-WAY STOP signs and safety measures at
the Cedar Street intersection with the Community Path.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.6. Order
(ID # 24-1466)
By Councilor Sait
That the Director of Mobility explore ways to make the
intersection of Gilman and Aldrich Streets safer,
including adding clear signage and painting.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
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Regular Meeting Agenda
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6.H.7. Order
(ID # 24-1482)
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility install STOP signs making
the intersections of Temple Street and the following
streets 4-way stops: Bailey Road, Governor Winthrop
Road, Puritan Avenue, Putnam Street, and Ten Hills
Road.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.8. Order
(ID # 24-1483)
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility install a flashing STOP
sign on Puritan Avenue at its intersection with Temple
Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.9. Order
(ID # 24-1484)
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility install speed humps on
Medford Street between Central and School Streets.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.10.Order
(ID # 24-1529)
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Chief of Police provide an explanation
regarding why there was no police assistance or crossing
guard coverage at the intersection of Curtis Street and
Powderhouse Boulevard during school drop-off hours on
October 23, 2024.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.11.Order
(ID # 24-1530)
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Chief of Police, in collaboration with the
Director of Mobility, develop and present a plan to
ensure that crossing guards are adequately stationed at
critical intersections near schools during high-traffic
hours and that, in the absence of crossing guards, police
officers are deployed to ensure the safety of students and
families.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.12.Order
(ID # 24-1592)
By Councilor Sait and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Mobility install a raised crosswalk at
the intersection of Cedar Street and the Community Path.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
Page 15 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
December 12, 2024
6.H.13.Resolution
(ID # 24-1597)
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr.,
Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Wilson
That the Administration provide an update to this
Council on the Citywide Parking and Curb Use report
and what recommendations, if any, have been
implemented.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.14.Order
(ID # 24-1607)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility re-evaluate and strengthen
the NO TRUCKS signage at the corner of Warren
Avenue and Bow Street in the aftermath of the
18-wheeler that became seriously stuck and blocked
traffic on November 10-11, 2024.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.15.Order
(ID # 24-1609)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Engineering update this Council on
the timeline to straighten the community path crossing of
School Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.16.Order
(ID # 24-1610)
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility install bicycle traffic lights
and appropriate YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS signage at
the intersection of Somerville Avenue and Park Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
6.H.17.Order
(ID # 24-1673)
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo,
Councilor Clingan, Councilor Sait and Councilor Davis
That the Director of Parking discuss with this Council
how to ensure that permit-only parking is available to
non-resident parents with shared custody of children
enrolled in Somerville Public Schools.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
Page 16 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
December 12, 2024
6.H.18.Order
(ID # 24-1674)
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Davis and
Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Parking install signage indicating the
grace period, during daycare pickup and drop-off hours,
during which parking tickets will not be issued in front
of 99A Dover Street.
RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work
completed.
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1723)
Requesting that this Council convene in Executive
Session to discuss and act upon satisfaction options in
the matter of Cobble Hill Center, LLC v. Somerville
Redevelopment Authority.
7.2.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1694)
Requesting authorization to borrow $4,757,000 in a
bond, and to appropriate the same amount for the
recurring FY 2025 Sewer Improvements program.
7.3.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1712)
Requesting approval to appropriate $20,900 from the
Energy Stabilization Fund to add attic insulation to the
Recreation Department at 16 Walnut Street.
7.4.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1713)
Requesting the appropriation of $110,000 from the
Unreserved Fund Balance ("Free Cash") to the 90
Washington Demonstration Project Account for ongoing
litigation costs.
7.5.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1756)
Requesting approval to use available funds in the
SomerViva Salaries account in the amount of $36,911 to
fund an increase of the Legal Services Coordinator and
Immigration Policy Analyst position from part-time to
full-time.
7.6.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1718)
Requesting approval of a transfer of $60,159 from the
Public Space and Urban Forestry Capital Account to the
Public Space and Urban Forestry Ordinary Maintenance
Account for Tree Keeper/311 Integration expenses.
7.7.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1727)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $295,463
grant with no new match required, from Executive Office
of Public Safety and Security to the Police Department
for 911 personnel costs.
Page 17 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
December 12, 2024
7.8.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1728)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $133,427.11
grant with no new match required, from Massachusetts
Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to the
Police Department for training and recertification and
additional staffing support.
7.9.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1697)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $75,350
grant with no new match required, from Massachusetts
Office on Disability to the Department of Racial and
Social Justice for the completion of an Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) Self-Evaluation and Transition
Plan.
7.10.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1659)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $60,000
grant with no new match required, from Executive Office
of Public Safety and Security to the Police Department
for traffic safety enforcement.
7.11.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1660)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $40,021
grant with no new match required, from Department of
Mental Health to the Police Department for the
continuation of partial funding for the Jail Diversion
Coordinator position.
7.12.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1655)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $26,502.44
grant with no new match required, from University of
Massachusetts Chan Medical School to the Health and
Human Services Department for Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach assistance.
7.13.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1643)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$2,063.40 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Buildings Fire Alarm R&M Account for
fire alarm equipment programming.
7.14.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1642)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$1,725.65 using available funds in the Department of
Public Works Administration In State Travel Account for
EZ pass.
7.15.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1689)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alfred
Rymill III as Housing Authority Police Officer.
7.16.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1696)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Lauren
Chapman to the Human Rights Commission.
7.17.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1698)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brian
Sokol to the Human Rights Commission.
Page 18 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
December 12, 2024
7.18.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1700)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alex
Barbat to the Commission for Women.
7.19.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1699)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jenny
Bonham Carter to the Human Rights Commission.
7.20.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1701)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Katelin
Firth to the Commission for Women.
7.21.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1715)
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Mary
Battinelli as Constable.
7.22.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 24-1726)
Conveying changes to the reappointment policy for
boards, commissions and committees.
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1695)
Planning Board conveying recommendations for items
#24-1197 and #24-1367.
8.2.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1702)
City Clerk conveying an update on the block party
license process.
8.3.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1719)
Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning &
Community Development conveying an update on
market conditions and available tools to stimulate
growth.
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
License
(ID # 24-1714)
Renewing Automatic Amusement Device License, Lucky
Strike, 325 Revolution Drive.
9.2.
License
(ID # 24-1705)
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Keash Excavating, Inc.
9.3.
License
(ID # 24-1717)
Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Broadway
Auto Sales, 525 Broadway.
9.4.
License
(ID # 24-1716)
Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Motorcycles
& More LLC, 109 Bailey Road.
9.5.
License
(ID # 24-1706)
Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Web Motor
Sales, 5 Middlesex Avenue.
Page 19 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
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9.6.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1724)
Jonathan Silverstein and Peter Mullane submitting
comments re: item #24-1315, an order regarding lot
splits and mergers.
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
Resolution
(ID # 24-1753)
By Councilor Strezo
That the Administration discuss how it plans to keep city
employees and residents safe from sexual harassment
and previous ways it has done so in recent years.
10.2.
Ordinance
(ID # 24-1754)
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Amending Sections 9-31 through 9-44 of the Code of
Ordinances to support the end of wage theft.
10.3.
Resolution
(ID # 24-1755)
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
Calling for integrity and accountability in the workplace.
10.4.
Communication
(ID # 24-1758)
By Councilor Sait
Conveying information regarding the rental registry.
10.5.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1729)
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,500
grant with no new match required, from Massachusetts
Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to the
Police Department for ambulance service.
10.6.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1725)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling
$545.03 using available funds in the Human Resources
Professional & Technical Services for reimbursement of
expenses relating to the Chief of Police interview
process.
10.7.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1761)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael
Tran to the position of Police Officer.
10.8.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1762)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Ryan
Westgate to the position of Police Officer.
10.9.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1763)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Victor
Romero Palomo to the position of Police Officer.
10.10. Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1757)
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Sarah
Pascarella to the Library Board of Trustees.
10.11. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1231)
Withdrawn.
10.12. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1395)
Withdrawn.
Page 20 of 21
City Council
Regular Meeting Agenda
December 12, 2024
10.13. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1553)
Withdrawn.
10.14. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1633)
Withdrawn.
10.15. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1634)
Withdrawn.
10.16. Withdrawn
(ID # 24-1653)
Withdrawn.
10.17. License
(ID # 24-1760)
Renewing Automatic Amusement Device License, The
Public, 563 Broadway.
10.18. License
(ID # 24-1775)
Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, John's Auto
Sales, 181 Somerville Ave.
10.19. Public Event
(ID # 24-1759)
Mayor's Office applying for a Public Event License for
Annual Menorah Lighting on December 26 from 4pm to
8pm (raindate December 30).
10.20. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1772)
Adriane Brayton and Jess White submitting comments
re: item #24-1580, draft Armory Master Plan.
10.21. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1773)
Three residents submitting comments re: West Branch
Library.
10.22. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1774)
Cole Rainey-Slavick submitting comments re: item
#24-1674, parking for daycare pick-up and drop-off.
10.23. Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1776)
Kim Schmahmann and Alyson Schultz submitting
comments re: item #24-1711, Cambridge Network
Solutions applying for a Grant of Location for 1
Fitchburg Street.
11.
ADJOURNMENT
Page 21 of 21