Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Feb 27, 2025
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, February 27, 2025
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 Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld.
The City Council entered recess at 7:50 PM and returned at 8:05 PM.
The City Council entered recess at 9:35 PM and returned at 9:42 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 25-0363)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson
Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld
Present:
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 25-0364)
Councilor Clingan requested a moment of silence in memory of Suzanne
Hughes.
Councilor Scott requested a moment of silence in memory of Martin
“Marty” Tompkins.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 23, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-0365)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 1 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor McLaughlin
Commending Cristiano Oliveira for his Youth National Team success and
continued soccer legacy.
Citation
(ID # 25-0347)
Councilor Wilson read the citation into the record and spoke of Mr.
Oliveira’s athletic skill and more importantly, hard work, that led to his
being named to the United States U-17 Youth National Team. Mr. Oliveira
thanked the Council for their support and recognition.
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.2.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Commending Fred Berman on the auspicious occasion of his retirement
from the Office of Housing Stability.
Citation
(ID # 25-0348)
Director of the Office of Housing Stability Ellen Shachter presented the
citation to Mr. Berman, praising him for his demeanor and work on behalf of
the homeless population in the city as well as for his efforts in securing
affordable housing. She read a lengthy list of his community involvement
over the years and recognized his invaluable work with the Office of
Housing Stability and for helping hundreds of families to remain in
Somerville. Mr. Berman thanked the Council for bestowing this honor upon
him and for its, and the present and past Administrations’ advocacy for
affordable housing.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor
Clingan, Councilor Sait, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld and Councilor Scott
In support of transgender and gender diverse community members.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0339)
Councilor Strezo stated that it’s important that we all live together with
dignity. Councilor Burnley noted that things are scary now and he noted that
Somerville has been a sanctuary for trans people for many years.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2026.
Communication
(ID # 25-0360)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 2 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
4.3.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on how the
Municipal Sidewalk Clearing Pilot program for Broadway and School Street
is functioning during this challenging winter.
Order
(ID # 25-0350)
Councilor Ewen-Campen would like an update on the pilot program that he
noted was put to the test this winter.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility design measures to improve pedestrian safety
at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Prospect Hill Parkway.
Order
(ID # 25-0351)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility design measures to improve pedestrian safety
at Summer Street and Porter Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0352)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Clingan
Amending Section 12-8 (a) of the Code of Ordinances by inserting the
words “including abutting curb cuts if applicable”.
Ordinance
(ID # 25-0357)
Councilor Clingan commented that this is meant to clarify who is
responsible for clearing curb cuts during snow events.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.7.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Sait, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Mbah
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Public Space
and Urban Forestry discuss the feasibility of removing snow from city
playgrounds.
Order
(ID # 25-0355)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss the process for clearing
bike lanes of snow.
Order
(ID # 25-0356)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
4.9.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator update this Council
on the current status of the Braille embosser.
Order
(ID # 25-0358)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.10.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen,
Councilor Mbah and Councilor Scott
That the Director of Engineering update this Council on the whereabouts of
the Portland Loos.
Order
(ID # 25-0359)
Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that there is an issue that needs to be
worked out with the loos before they can be installed.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.11.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah,
Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson
Supporting Teamsters Local 25 in the labor dispute with Stop & Shop.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0353)
Councilor Clingan requested that the Resolution be read into the record then
spoke about the attack on employees’ benefits by Stop and Shop. He
reported that both parties have returned to the bargaining table. He noted
that Somerville has two Stop and Shop stores that are a lifeline to residents
and provide jobs to residents. He sponsored Paul Weiskel, a member of the
Local 25 organizing team, who spoke about his Somerville story working for
both union and non-union companies. He told councilors that there are 900
union workers at the Freetown facility who were given an ultimatum to give
up healthcare benefits or lose their jobs and he asked for the Council’s
support to save union jobs.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.12.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development consider increasing permanent supportive housing
across the city.
Order
(ID # 25-0354)
President Pineda Neufeld introduced Joyce Tavon from the Mass Housing
and Shelter Alliance who gave a presentation on supportive housing, which
is permanent and affordable housing with comprehensive services. She
noted that there are nearly 14,000 homeless households in the state and that
funding can come from federal, state, local, public, and private sources. Data
show that moving into supportive housing reduces healthcare costs for that
group of people. Currently, Massachusetts has 9,500 supportive housing
Page 4 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
units and Ms. Tavon suggested using Medicaid for tenancy support, a
supportive housing pool, master leasing, and modular construction to
quickly add more units. Municipalities can help by planning, siting, zoning,
funding, and partnering with developers and service providers.
Councilor Burnley inquired about managing space and clients and Ms.
Tavon emphasized the need for resources and professionals willing to help
or partner with an organization. Councilor Clingan asked about client
acceptance criteria, to which Ms. Tavon responded that those 55 and older
are the largest group needing housing and that it’s sometimes necessary to
relocate clients when necessary to provide appropriate care. Councilor
Wilson questioned if supportive housing should be located near
homelessness hotspots and Ms. Tavon said it depends on various factors.
Councilor Mbah inquired about language barriers and Ms. Tavon noted that
it varies by community.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Guylerna Pierre to the
position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0212)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.1 and 5.2
and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
5.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Kristopher Taylor to the
position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0215)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.1 and 5.2
and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
5.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Henry Lima to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0221)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Carvalho to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0222)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
Page 5 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
5.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brandon Coco to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0223)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Rory Gallivan to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0224)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jake Hardy to the position of
Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0225)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.8.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Todd Headley to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0226)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.9.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Gavin Tierney to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0227)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.10.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew White to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0228)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 5.3 through
5.10 and Lay them on the Table as additional paperwork is needed.
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.11.
Director of Human Resources conveying the Civil Service signing lists for
various certifications.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-0278)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 6 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on February 25, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0345)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee recommended for approval the acceptance and
expenditure of four grants, the payment of one prior year invoice and one
appropriation.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $54,400 grant with no new
match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for the
Local Cultural Council grant program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0158)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting approval to accept and expend an $18,300 grant with no new
match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for
unrestricted operating support.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0159)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,312.50 using
available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Translation
Services Account for Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART)
services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0169)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting the appropriation of $500,000 from the Community Preservation
Act Fund Open Space Reserve for the renovation of Quincy Street Park.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0170)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,000,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable
Communities to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community
Development Economic Development Division for 14-16 Sewall Street
acquisition.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0173)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 7 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
6.A.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $2,500,000 grant with no new
match required, from MA Executive Office of Economic Development to
the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Economic
Development Division for the 299 Broadway redevelopment project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0174)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the
Planning Board on February 20, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0342)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that there were two substantial votes on zoning: one that would
allow work to be performed by homeowners without going through a lot of
red tape, and one regarding bicycle parking.
He moved that items #24-1544 and #24-1461 be severed from the
committee report and marked withdrawn. The motion was approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
Planning Board conveying recommendations for item #24-0416.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-0854)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.5.
4 individuals submitting comments re: item #24-0551, an amendment to the
Zoning Ordinance to add Section 8.5 Interim Planning Overlay District
(IPOD) and the Brickbottom sub-area.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1091)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.6.
3 residents submitting comments re: item 24-0679, a Zoning Text
amendment to create the Somernova Innovation Sub-Area.
Public
Communication
(ID # 24-1221)
Page 8 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.7.
95 individuals, including 61 residents, along with Cambria Hotel, Aeronaut
Brewery, and Union Square Main Streets 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 # 24-1256)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.8.
Planning Board conveying recommendations for items #24-0679 and
#24-0680.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1280)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.9.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 3.2.6 Building Types of
the Zoning Ordinance to allow the building types permitted in the
Neighborhood Residence (NR) zoning district to also be permitted in the
Urban Residence (UR) zoning district.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1447)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Seven City
Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
ABSENT:
6.B.10.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.1 and 11.1 of the
Zoning Ordinance to improve the regulation of bicycle parking.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1448)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Seven City
Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
ABSENT:
6.B.11.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Articles 2, 3-6, and 9 of the
Zoning Ordinance to revise the regulations for arts and creative enterprise,
office, and residential uses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1461)
Page 9 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.12.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Articles 6, 9, and 10 of the
Zoning Ordinance to establish a new Research & Development zoning
district.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1544)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.13.
Greentown Labs 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 # 24-1577)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.14.
Planning Board conveying recommendations for items #24-1447 and
#24-1448.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-0120)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.15.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning provide the
Committee on Land Use with an opinion as to whether the City Council may
dictate standards and materials used for outdoor bike facilities.
Order
(ID # 25-0338)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on February 18,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0286)
Councilor Scott summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee received the 2024 Surveillance Technology
Annual Report and recommended approval of a Home Rule Petition to
prevent landlords from passing realtor's fees on to tenants. Councilor
Burnley commented that the payment of realtor fees is making it difficult for
people to live in Somerville and noted that Boston has passed a similar
ordinance.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
Conveying the 2024 Surveillance Technology Annual Report.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0142)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
6.C.3.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to prevent landlords from
passing realtor's fees on to tenants.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0213)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Seven City
Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
ABSENT:
6.D.
LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on February 26,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0346)
Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that two licenses for the same business, Assembly Square Auto
Sales, were approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.2.
New Garage License, Assembly Square Auto Sales, 37 Mystic Avenue, 1
vehicle inside, 18 vehicles outside for washing vehicles and storing
unregistered vehicles, 7 days a week: 8am-8pm.
License
(ID # 25-0184)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.3.
New Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Assembly Square Auto Sales, 37
Mystic Avenue, 1 vehicle inside and 18 vehicles outside, Monday - Sunday:
8am to 8pm.
License
(ID # 25-0271)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.
OPEN SPACE, ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Open Space, Environment and Energy, meeting
on February 20, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0340)
Councilor Mbah summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee discussed plans to connect more households
with the new incentives in the Mass Save Plan and also had a lengthy
discussion about the possibility of making a change to the yard waste
collection calendar.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
6.E.2.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment discuss
with this Council plans to connect more households with the new incentives
in the 2025-2027 Mass Save Plan.
Order
(ID # 25-0070)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.
RODENT ISSUES SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.F.1.
Report of the Special Committee on Rodent Issues, meeting on February 19,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0288)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee received an update on the city’s rodent control
efforts, including the testing of a new type of non SGAR bait. The
committee also had a brief discussion about the possibility of obtaining
rodent proof barrels for the compost pilot program.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.F.2.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Mbah and
Councilor Sait
That the Directors of Constituent Services, Inspectional Services and Health
and Human Services jointly prepare a written report for the next meeting of
this Council’s Special Committee on Rodent Issues, on the number of rodent
complaints received from January 1, 2024 to date, including the information
detailed within.
Order
(ID # 24-1276)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.3.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Sustainability and Environment invest in rodent proof
composting barrels in the upcoming composting pilot program.
Order
(ID # 24-1516)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.4.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Strezo,
Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Mbah
and Councilor Sait
That the Environmental Health Manager update this Council on the current
policy regarding usage of Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides
(SGARs) and any plans to remove SGARs currently deployed in bait boxes
in light of multiple recent birds of prey deaths apparently related to ingesting
rat poison.
Order
(ID # 25-0130)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
Page 12 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
6.G.1.
Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on February 24,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0344)
Councilor Sait summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported
that among the topics discussed were signal priority for MBTA busses in
Union Square, plans for a safe pedestrian crossing of Lowell Street -
including additional traffic calming measures between Summer Street and
Highland Avenue, increasing flex post usage and other pedestrian safety
measures on crosswalks along McGrath Highway and what is being done to
alleviate the increased traffic along Lombardi Street, Mystic Avenue and
Grand Union Boulevard. Councilor Ewen-Campen reported that he was
informed that a crossing guard will be stationed at Vinal and Highland
Avenues starting next week.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.G.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility discuss with this Council the feasibility of
signal priority for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)
busses in Union Square.
Order
(ID # 25-0125)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.3.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Mobility develop plans for a safe pedestrian crossing of
Lowell Street, at Bailey Park, and additional traffic calming measures
between Summer Street and Highland Avenue.
Order
(ID # 25-0126)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility work with the Massachusetts Department of
Transportation (MassDOT) to increase flex post usage and other pedestrian
safety measures on crosswalks along McGrath Highway.
Order
(ID # 25-0137)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility address the increased traffic along Lombardi
Street, Mystic Avenue and Grand Union Boulevard due to signal changes.
Order
(ID # 25-0138)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2-304 through 2-310 of
the Code of Ordinances to update the Commission on Energy Use and
Climate Change.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0257)
Page 13 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2-322 and 2-323 of the
Code of Ordinances, to update categories and associated salaries for
non-union positions.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0370)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting authorization to borrow $7,600,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the FY 2025 Water Main Rehabilitation program as
part of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority's Local Water System
Assistance Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0279)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting the appropriation of $137,288 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Information Technology (IT) Department
Professional & Technical Account for an independent assessment of security
and network infrastructure and an organizational review of all IT groups
within the city.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0274)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting approval of a contract extension for two years until 2/28/2026
for TSA Consulting Group, Inc., for the administration of 457(b) plans.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0334)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Page 14 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $335,635 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police
Department for the Crisis Intervention Training and Technical Assistance
Center.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0281)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new
match required, from the City of Boston Office of Emergency Management
to the Elections Department for security of elections vault.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0299)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.8.
Requesting approval to accept and expend an $87,450 grant with no new
match required, from the Executive Office of Public Safety & Security to the
Police Department for staffing.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0284)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $23,105 grant that requires a
match, from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Police
Department for the Metro Mayors Community Safety Initiative.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0283)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
7.10.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $15,000 grant with no new
match required, as a sub-award through the Fenway Community Health
Center to the Police Department for the Post-Overdose Support Team
(POST).
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0282)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $93.61 using
available funds in the Police Department Out-of-State Travel account for
food expenses during an investigation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0333)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $32.06 to Market
Basket/Demoulas using available funds in the Parks & Recreation Food
Supplies & Refreshments and Office Supplies accounts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0268)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval of the Municipal Election Calendar for 2025.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0290)
Election Commission Chair Nicholas Salerno briefly reviewed the schedule
for the 2025 city election cycle.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.14.
Conveying a forthcoming appropriation request from the Salary Contingency
account to various city departments to fund an update to the non-union
salary ordinance.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0368)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
7.15.
Conveying an update on the next steps for recommendations on
compensation for Elected Officials.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0369)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
City Solicitor requesting approval to retain Lawyers For Civil Rights Boston
as outside legal counsel on a pro bono basis to represent the City in
connection with any Executive Order issued by the Trump Administration
impacting sanctuary cities.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-0164)
President Pineda Neufeld reported that the city filed a lawsuit in response to
the federal government’s threat of withholding funds to sanctuary cities.
Councilor McLaughlin requested that an Executive Session be scheduled for
a later date to discuss strategy. Councilor Scott commented that he was
asked why other communities weren’t asked to join the suit.
APPROVED
RESULT:
8.2.
Director of Parking responding to item #25-0084 regarding the Citywide
Parking and Curb Use Study.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-0362)
Director of Parking Suzanne Rinfret explained the purpose of the study and
reviewed the following:
recommendations themes, the strategy matrix, clarifying curb management
roles, implementing a curb prioritization framework, implementing design
standards to reduce modal conflicts and integrating curb needs into all
roadway redesigns, expanding multimodal infrastructure, continuing to
expand loading zones, ensuring adequate access for customers and
employees of local businesses, increasing accessible parking, procuring
management and enforcement technology, piloting automated enforcement
technologies, implementing flexible curbside regulations, adding meters to
the most popular two-hour spaces to encourage turnover, enhancing
wayfinding to public parking facilities, adding off-street and on-street
electric vehicle charging stations, requiring unbundling of off-street parking
spaces, seeking shared parking opportunities during new development,
collaborating with ride-hail vendors to manage demand and operations,
formalizing and improving the communications process, completing and
refining the digitization strategy, and formalizing & streamlining the parklet
request and permitting process. She noted that this is a “living document”
and might be modified as needed.
Page 17 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
Councilor Ewen-Campen asked about increasing the cost of parking permits,
and the Director noted that the number of permits is decreasing and it would
be hard to justify an increase in cost while removing parking spaces.
Councilor Strezo commented on the digital divide preventing all voices from
being heard and asked if this would be considered when conducting a
survey. Director Rinfret replied that she is open to finding ways to include as
many people as possible. Councilor Strezo requested a greater percentage of
ADA parking, and the Director explained the process for those spots, stating
that this concern is always prioritized. Councilor Scott commented on the
unintended consequences of unbundled parking spaces. Councilor
McLaughlin inquired if fire lanes were accounted for in the study, and
Director Rinfret replied that these spaces were dictated by the Fire
Department and included some sight line and space restrictions at corners,
noting that it is against the law to park within 20 feet of an intersection, so
theoretically, those spaces weren’t really lost.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, Doherty Excavating Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0291)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, A. A. Will Corporation.
License
(ID # 25-0293)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, BSI Engineering.
License
(ID # 25-0294)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Classic Site Solutions Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0295)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 18 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
9.5.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, D&M Civil Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0296)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Insite Contracting Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0297)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Keash Excavating Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0298)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Mirra Co. LLC.
License
(ID # 25-0300)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, R. M. Pacella Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0301)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Raffaele Construction Corp.
License
(ID # 25-0302)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Sean Farrell Excavation Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0303)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
Page 19 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Tim Zanelli Excavating LLC.
License
(ID # 25-0304)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Tufts Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0305)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Vinny Mofford Excavation LLC.
License
(ID # 25-0306)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, W.L. French Excavating.
License
(ID # 25-0307)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Renewing Billiards and Bowling License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution
Drive.
License
(ID # 25-0292)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Cataldo Ambulance Service
Inc, 137 Washington Street.
License
(ID # 25-0308)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.18.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dakzen, 195 Elm Street.
License
(ID # 25-0309)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
Page 20 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.19.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution
Drive.
License
(ID # 25-0310)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.20.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, McDonalds, 14 McGrath
Highway.
License
(ID # 25-0311)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.21.
Renewing Flammables License, Metropolitan Pipe and Supply Company, 30
Inner Belt Road.
License
(ID # 25-0312)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.22.
Renewing Flammables License, Winter Hill Yacht Club, 500 Artisan Way.
License
(ID # 25-0313)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.23.
Renewing Garage License, Cataldo Ambulance Service, 4 Joy Street.
License
(ID # 25-0314)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.24.
Renewing Garage License, Drain Doctor Inc., 612 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0315)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.25.
Renewing Garage License, Gasper Ostuni, 195 Highland Avenue.
License
(ID # 25-0316)
Page 21 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.26.
Renewing Garage License, Herb Chambers I-93 Inc., 71 Linwood Street.
License
(ID # 25-0317)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.27.
Renewing Garage License, Herb Chambers I-93 Inc., 259 McGrath
Highway.
License
(ID # 25-0318)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.28.
Renewing Garage License, Mass General Brigham Inc., 399 Revolution
Drive.
License
(ID # 25-0319)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.29.
Renewing Garage License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 161 Linwood Street.
License
(ID # 25-0320)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.30.
Renewing Garage License, Original Auto Body and Mechanic, Inc., 12 Joy
Street.
License
(ID # 25-0321)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.31.
Renewing Garage License, Teele Square Auto, 1284 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0322)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 22 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
9.32.
Renewing Garage License, Tracer Technologies Inc., 20 Assembly Square
Drive.
License
(ID # 25-0323)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.33.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 161
Linwood Street.
License
(ID # 25-0324)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.34.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Star Markets Company #2575, 275
Beacon Street.
License
(ID # 25-0325)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.35.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Atlas Metals Inc., 475 Columbia
Street.
License
(ID # 25-0326)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.36.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Buffalo Exchange Ltd., 238 Elm
Street.
License
(ID # 25-0327)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.37.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Jean B. Victor, Med #85.
License
(ID # 25-0328)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.38.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, LTK Inc., Med. #66.
License
(ID # 25-0329)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 23 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
9.39.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Renaissance Taxi Service LLC, Med.
#50.
License
(ID # 25-0330)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.40.
Theatre@First applying for a Public Event License for The Tempest on
various dates between April 30 and June 22 from 5pm to 9pm (raindates
June 27, June 28 and June 29).
Public Event
(ID # 25-0332)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.41.
Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for M.O.M.'S
5K Run and Walk for Cancer on May 11 from 7am to 2pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0331)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.42.
Branden Kornell and Simona Gokhin submitting comments re: Copper Mill
project.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0335)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.43.
Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition submitting comments re:
item #24-1686, creation of an LGBTQ Legal Services Stabilization Fund.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0336)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.44.
Jenn Harrington submitting comments re: Anti-Displacement Task Force.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0337)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Commending Michael Feloney for ten years of dedicated service in the
Housing Division.
Citation
(ID # 25-0397)
Page 24 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
The citation was read into the record, however Mr. Feloney was not present.
Director Galligani spoke about Mr. Feloney’s ambition to make the city
better every day by working to increase affordable housing in Somerville.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.2.
By Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Health and Human Services submit in writing monthly
updates to this Council regarding ongoing efforts to address homelessness.
Order
(ID # 25-0367)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.3.
By Councilor Mbah
Conveying a report of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
Communication
(ID # 25-0366)
Councilor Mbah reported that a $3,350,000 early acquisition loan to the
Somerville Community Land Trust was approved to purchase the vacant lot
at 259 Medford Street to make way for the construction of a 50-unit, 100%
affordable residential housing development. In addition, another $125,000
was approved to cover the cost of managing the 100 Homes Program.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.4.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
Amending the Code of Ordinances by adding Section 2-325 to Chapter 2,
Article VI, Division 3 related to compensation for elected officials.
Ordinance
(ID # 25-0375)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
Councilor Ewen-Campen explained that this proposal would tie the salaries
of elected officials to those of city staff by providing cost of living
adjustments that are not tied to inflation, i.e., when staff receives these
adjustments, elected officials would, as well.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
By Councilor Scott
That the Director of Mobility address the dangerous conditions with the bike
lane entrance at Washington Street and Webster Avenue.
Order
(ID # 25-0378)
Councilor Scott commented that new problems have been presented
resulting from the recent snowfalls and noted that the drainage is deeply
flawed causing an icing problem.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 25 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
10.6.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Sait
That the Director of Inspectional Services enforce Section 11-111 of the
Code of Ordinances - Registration and maintenance of vacant property, in
light of the recent collapse of 316 Somerville Avenue.
Order
(ID # 25-0379)
Councilor Scott noted that the vacant property ordinance has never been
enforced in the city and that vacant properties are inherently more dangerous
and provide harborage for rats. Councilor Burnley noted that the city
received a complaint on July 8, 2024 regarding the building at 316
Somerville Avenue. It was reported that the complaint was resolved the
following day. He would like to learn more about the follow up that was
done.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
By Councilor Scott
Conveying information on a sophisticated new scam targeting Somerville
residents, purporting to be the Middlesex Sheriff's Office.
Communication
(ID # 25-0376)
Councilor Scott explained this scam purports to be about missed jury duty
and appears to be legitimate and alarming in its sophistication. He advised
anyone who receives such a call to contact the Middlesex County Sheriff’s
Office to report it.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.8.
By Councilor Scott
Conveying an update on the status of Charter negotiations with the Mayor.
Communication
(ID # 25-0377)
Councilor Scott reported that the working group met with staff and that
negotiations seem to be stuck on the proposed term length for the mayor and
the hiring of the city solicitor.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.9.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility and Director of Engineering discuss with this
Council the effectiveness of speed cushions as a traffic calming measure and
potential applications on key Fire Department response routes.
Order
(ID # 25-0394)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.10.
By Councilor Wilson
In his capacity as Chair of the Finance Committee, conveying a
communication on FY 2026 budget priorities.
Communication
(ID # 25-0395)
Councilor Wilson reminded councilors to submit their budget priorities by
March 27 for discussion at the April 2 Finance Committee meeting.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 26 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
10.11.
By Councilor Sait, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson
That the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and Eversource do
everything within their power to reduce the burden of rising natural gas costs
for Somerville residents.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0396)
Councilor Sait commented that some people’s bills have doubled and that
the city’s state delegation is working to get some relief.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.12.
Requesting approval of easements from JMC/STM/TGCI Union Square,
LLC for 346 Somerville Avenue.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0349)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.13.
Finance Director conveying FY 2025 Mid-Year Financial Report in
accordance with Section 2-48 of the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-0371)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.12,
7.15, 10.4, and 10.12 through 10.13 and refer items 7.2 through 7.12, 10.4,
and 10.12 to the Finance Committee, and Place on File items 7.15 and 10.13
with a copy to the Finance Committee.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.14.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Anderson Construction & Excavation Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0381)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.15.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Edward Ahern.
License
(ID # 25-0384)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 27 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
10.16.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, K.B. Aruda Construction Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0382)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.17.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Minkin Construction.
License
(ID # 25-0383)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.18.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Tascon Corporation.
License
(ID # 25-0385)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.19.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, USA Excavating Inc..
License
(ID # 25-0386)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.20.
Renewing Garage License, Goodyear Auto Service Center, 1 Bow Street.
License
(ID # 25-0387)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.21.
Renewing Garage License, Greentown Labs, 444 Somerville Avenue.
License
(ID # 25-0388)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.22.
Renewing Garage License, Mass General Brigham, 21 Third Avenue.
License
(ID # 25-0389)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 28 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
10.23.
Renewing Livery License, Boston Novelty Limo LLC, 333 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0390)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.24.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Martha Lee Trust, 147 Highland
Avenue.
License
(ID # 25-0391)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.25.
New Taxi Medallion License, Joseph Aime, Med. #78.
License
(ID # 25-0380)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.26.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Joseph Nicolas, Med. #79.
License
(ID # 25-0392)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.27.
Crown Castle Fiber LLC applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for
facilities on an existing pole at 41 Union Square.
Small Wireless
Facility
(ID # 25-0393)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.41
and 10.14 through 10.27 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.28.
Three residents submitting comments re: 11 Ward Street zoning.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0372)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
11.1.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael Tran to the position
of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1761)
Page 29 of 30
City Council
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2025
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to discharge items #24-1761 and #24-1763
from the Committee on Confirmations of Appointments and Personnel
Matters and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
11.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Victor Romero Palomo to
the position of Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 24-1763)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to discharge items #24-1761 and #24-1763
from the Committee on Confirmations of Appointments and Personnel
Matters and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:46 PM.
Page 30 of 30