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City Council — Agenda, Dec 12, 2024

City Council meeting, Dec 12, 2024·21 pages·📄 Original PDF (city portal)
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 Somerville website and local cable access government channels. Register at the following website to listen to this meeting live or to testify at any public hearing: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SoEmaMuPSVa-u1gcHjHvhQ Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e. CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance, at [phone removed] x2059 or ada@somervillema.gov. 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. Page 1 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 2 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 3 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 4 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 5 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 6 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 7 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 8 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 9 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 10 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 11 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 12 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 13 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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. Page 14 of 21
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda December 12, 2024 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 December 12, 2024 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