Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Mar 13, 2025
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, March 13, 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 7:01 PM by Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld.
The City Council entered recess at 7:14 PM and returned at 7:27 PM.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:18 PM and returned at 9:17 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 25-0485)
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 Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld
Present:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 25-0486)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 13, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-0487)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
Page 1 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 256
feet of conduit in Prospect Street from Manhole 23058 to two points of
pickup at 121 Prospect Street and an existing conduit.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-0421)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.2.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 128
feet of conduit and one new Manhole 32561 in Summer Street, from Utility
Pole 325/28 to a point of pickup at 162 Summer Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-0422)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.3.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-0423)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the City Clerk draft a Notice of Building Sale Ordinance, as
recommended by the Residential Displacement Task Force, to require
landlords inform tenants of an intent to sell when they list a home on the
Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or other real estate sales platforms.
Order
(ID # 25-0401)
Councilor Burnley said this is an example of community involvement and,
as a matter of practice and decency, owners should give tenants as much
notice as possible, adding that transformative change is needed on this issue.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.2.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
Declaring the month of March 2025 as National Social Work Month.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0405)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
4.3.
By Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Engineering and Director of Mobility install a traffic
signal light at the end of Woods Avenue and Alewife Brook Parkway.
Order
(ID # 25-0461)
Page 2 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
Councilor Mbah spoke about how dangerous this intersection is and said he
will be advocating for the traffic light. President Pineda Neufeld remarked
that she has an update on this matter and that she will share it with
Councilor Mbah, offline.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Mbah
That the Commissioner of Public Works trim the trees in front of 18 and 20
Granite Street as their branches are creating a hazard to the abutting house.
Order
(ID # 25-0462)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.5.
By Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr.,
Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and
Councilor Scott
In support of immigrant rights legislation, including the Safe Communities
Act and the Immigrant Legal Defense Act.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0460)
Councilor Mbah said this resolution reconfirms Somerville’s commitment to
ensuring that Somerville remains a welcoming city and stands against
policies that would lead to the separation of immigrant families. He
sponsored Maroni Minter, Political Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant
and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), who spoke about the protections
of the Safe Communities Act’s provisions and said that the bills in question,
known as the Immigrant Legal Defense Act, would establish a public/private
fund to provide free legal services for immigrants trying to prevent
deportation.
Councilor McLaughlin commented that the bills should pass on the state
level, and he noted that many people, however, don’t support this. He
explained that it costs cities and towns money to hold people for the federal
government. He also explained that if people are afraid to contact police, it
creates a dangerous situation for others and that this effort is about allowing
people to feel safe. He noted that the measure has been endorsed by the MA
Chiefs of Police Association. Councilor Mbah asked that the Resolution be
forwarded to the city’s state delegation and to the governor.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.6.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Human Resources, Director of Parking, Director of
Mobility and Chief of Police respond to the recent incidents of four children
being hit by cars in the past few months on their paths to school.
Order
(ID # 25-0463)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
4.7.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Mbah
That the Chief of Police report on the current number of regularly staffed
crossing guards throughout the city and the total number of crossing guard
positions currently available.
Order
(ID # 25-0464)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Parks and Recreation report on the process by which
Ginny Smithers Pool patrons are promptly notified of pool cancellations or
schedule changes, including any modifications that could be made to that
process in light of the March 2025 temporary pool closure.
Order
(ID # 25-0466)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.9.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Parks and Recreation report on the stock and condition
of previously installed playground communication boards that assist
nonverbal children in playtime.
Order
(ID # 25-0467)
Councilor Strezo explained the importance of these boards and reported that
some have been damaged.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.10.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Chief of Police prioritize Otis Street for traffic enforcement during
school drop off and pick up times.
Order
(ID # 25-0471)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking update the Ward 1 City Councilor on the
recently installed signs prohibiting parking during snow emergencies on Otis
Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0472)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 4 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
4.12.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Burnley Jr. and
Councilor Mbah
That the Administration update this Council on the status of the $528,218
received from the national opioid settlement fund to combat drug addiction
and of any plans to utilize said funds.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0473)
Councilor McLaughlin stated that this money has been waiting to be used
for some time, leading him to think that it might be time to impose deadlines
on its use. He believes that the funds were being held to be used for the
creation of a safe consumption site, which he said would have happened by
now if it was going to happen at all. Councilor Scott commented that this is
an enormous problem across the state and that of the $91 million awarded to
cities and towns, only $7 million has been put into play.
Councilor Wilson stated that the following places will provide someone to
stay in contact with users while they are using, so that help may be called in
case of an overdose:
Never Use Alone - [phone removed] - where volunteer operators will take your
location information, and alert EMS to that location if you stop responding
after using and
Brave, a mobile app that connects people who use drugs alone with
anonymous remote supervision.
Councilor Burnley noted that he brought forward an item for similar
compensation amounting to $244,891 in abatement funds and he doesn’t
think any of it has been used yet. Councilor Mbah stated that he wants to
know what the terms were for the opioid money when it was received by the
city.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.13.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works install a large NO DOGS
ALLOWED sign on the Thurston Street entrance gate of the Winter Hill
soccer field.
Order
(ID # 25-0475)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.14.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Sait,
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr.,
Councilor Mbah, Councilor Scott, Councilor Davis and Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
In support of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and condemning
attacks on disability rights.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0474)
Councilor Clingan explained that disability rights are under attack and that
Section 504 is being challenged as unconstitutional and that the Somerville
Persons with Disabilities Commission has asked for the Council’s support in
this fight. Councilor Clingan sponsored Disability Advocate and Former
Executive Director of the Arc of Massachusetts, Leo Sarkissian to speak.
Page 5 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
Mr. Sarkissian said that Section 504 was the forerunner for the ADA and
relates to any place where federal funding is involved, e.g., schools and
medical facilities, and that the constitutional challenge is being brought by
seventeen states.
Councilor Clingan sponsored Harriotte Ranvig, a member of Somerville’s
Commission for Persons with Disabilities, who said that 1 in 5 people have
some sort of disability. She has been campaigning to have amicus briefs
filed by the 33 states not involved in the lawsuit. Councilor Clingan
commented that the door for this challenge was opened because of trans
issues. Councilor Wilson spoke about the value of Section 504 and said that
the states filing the suit should be shamed. Councilor Burnley commented
that if educational funds were to be stripped away it would lead to
segregation for people with disabilities and Councilor McLaughlin
commented that this issue applies to people on several levels.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.15.
By Councilor Clingan
Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2026.
Communication
(ID # 25-0476)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.16.
By Councilor Sait
That the Commissioner of Public Works remove the unused switch box on
the sidewalk at 533-535 Medford Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0477)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.17.
By Councilor Sait
That the Commissioner of Public Works install two safety bollards on the
sidewalk at the intersection of Medford Street and Broadway.
Order
(ID # 25-0478)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.18.
By Councilor Sait
That the Chief of Police increase traffic enforcement at the intersection of
Broadway and Medford Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0479)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.19.
By Councilor Sait
That the Director of Engineering and the Director of Mobility shorten the
cycle time of the traffic light at the intersection of Medford Street and
Lowell Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0480)
Page 6 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.20.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Davis
Proposing a Home Rule Petition to establish a charter for the City of
Somerville.
Home Rule
Petition
(ID # 25-0482)
Councilor Davis hopes to have an updated marked-up version distributed to
councilors next week for review. He reported that most of the changes are
minor, however there are some key issues that remain to be worked out.
Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that it represents a good faith series of
compromises, and he would like to get it on the ballot as soon as possible.
Councilor Scott has scheduled a meeting of the Charter Review Special
Committee for March 18, 2025 at 6:00 PM.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Charter Review Special Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.21.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-0465)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Henry Lima to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0221)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Carvalho to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0222)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brandon Coco to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0223)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Rory Gallivan to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0224)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jake Hardy to the position of
Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0225)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
Page 7 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
5.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Todd Headley to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0226)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Gavin Tierney to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0227)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
5.8.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew White to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0228)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters, meeting on March 5, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0419)
Councilor Ewen-Campen summarized the actions taken by the committee
and reported that three promotions within the Fire Department were
recommended for approval. Following approval of the report, Thomas
Bellini was sworn in to the position of Fire Captain and Andrew Tkaczuk
and Christopher Galvin were sworn in to the positions of Fire Lieutenant.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Thomas Bellini to the position
of Fire Captain.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0218)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Andrew Tkaczuk to the
position of Fire Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0219)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Christopher Galvin to the
position of Fire Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0220)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 8 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
6.B.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on March 11, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0469)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that three requests to use available funds to fund three positions in
the Water Department were recommended NOT to be approved. The
committee recommended for approval payment of two prior year invoices,
one appropriation of funds, one authorization to borrow funds, five grant
acceptances and expenditures, 1 contract extension and 1 easement. The
committee also received an update on the citywide disparity study, received
the Mid-Year Financial Report and discussed an amendment to Sections
2-322 and 2-323 of the Code of Ordinances to update categories and
associated salaries for non-union positions.
Councilor Burnley reported that during 2024, 324 lbs. of prescription drugs
were turned into the city during its Prescription Drug Takeback Days. He
also reported that the overtime budget for the Police Department is currently
$100,000 over the budgeted amount and Councilor Wilson commented that
this budget line may end up being in a $500,000 hole.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages
account in the amount of $14,798.95 to fund a Utility Billing Manager
position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0258)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages
account in the amount of $13,928.44 to fund a new Service Operations
Manager position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0260)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages
account in the amount of $1,569.10 to fund a Billing Analyst position.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0262)
NOT APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.5.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 9 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
6.B.6.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.7.
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)
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
6.B.8.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.9.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.10.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.11.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
6.B.12.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.13.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.14.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.15.
Requesting approval of easements from JMC/STM/TGCI Union Square,
LLC for 346 Somerville Avenue.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0349)
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
6.B.16.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.17.
Conveying an update on the next steps for recommendations on
compensation for Elected Officials.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0369)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.18.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
6.C.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development,
meeting on March 4, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0412)
Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee discussed the Fair Housing Commission’s FY
2023 annual report, the process for developing a Teele Square commercial
area plan and increasing permanent supportive housing across the city.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
Fair Housing Commission conveying the FY 2023 Annual Report pursuant
to Section 17-7 of the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 24-1446)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Economic Development begin the process for
developing a Teele Square commercial area plan.
Order
(ID # 25-0232)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.
PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on
March 10, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0468)
Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee discussed reports of inaccurate water meter
readings, the possibility of placing a storm water retention tank at the
Homan’s site, the Municipal Sidewalk Clearing Pilot program, the feasibility
of removing snow from city playgrounds, and the process of clearing snow
from bike lanes. The committee also received an update on the Portland Loo
situation.
Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that the water meter issue isn’t close
to being settled and he believes that there are some billing irregularities that
can be rectified with the installation of check valves, adding that there is
more that needs to be done on the matter. Councilor Wilson stated that the
city has credibility issues with the residents who have expansion tanks on
Page 12 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
their heating systems and Councilor Scott said people are getting notices of
leaks, leading them to hire plumbers to check for water leaks, making it hard
to believe anything coming from the Water Department. Councilor Wilson
noted that the city is covering the $150 cost to check meters for those having
the expansion tank issue.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Strezo,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Sait
That the Director of Water and Sewer appear before this Council to address
resident claims that newly installed water meters are falsely registering air
pockets in residential cold water lines as leaks, leading to significantly
inaccurate bills.
Order
(ID # 25-0121)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.3.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Capital Projects update this Council on the potential
plan to use the Homan’s site for installation of a stormwater retention tank.
Order
(ID # 25-0241)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.4.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.5.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.6.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss the process for clearing
bike lanes of snow.
Order
(ID # 25-0356)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.7.
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)
Page 13 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.
SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and
Maintenance, meeting on March 3, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-0407)
Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee discussed the need of developing a Swing Space
plan to accommodate students, the conversion of former lab space at the
Healey School, development of the FY 2026 project plan and budget, and
the installation of lockdown blinds at SHS. The committee also received an
update on the Massachusetts
School Building Authority (MSBA) process for the Winter Hill and Brown
Schools.
Councilor Davis moved to sever item #25-0234 from the committee report
and refer it back to the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and
Maintenance. The motion was approved by unanimous consent.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.2.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management develop a Swing
Space plan to accommodate Somerville Public Schools students to mitigate
disruption to students, families, and staff while a school building is
unavailable or during construction.
Order
(ID # 25-0234)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
6.E.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management provide an update
on the conversion of the former science lab in Room 208 at the Arthur D.
Healey School, to small group learning classrooms.
Order
(ID # 25-0235)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.4.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management discuss with the
City Council and School Committee, the development of the FY 2026
project plan and budget in accordance with the adopted Capital Investment
Plan.
Order
(ID # 25-0237)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 14 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
6.E.5.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Commissioner of Public Works complete installation of any
remaining lockdown blinds needed for safety at Somerville High School.
Order
(ID # 25-0238)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session with the City
Solicitor and Lawyers for Civil Rights to discuss legal services in
connection with any Executive Order issued by the Trump Administration
regarding “sanctuary cities”.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0406)
The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 8:18 PM to discuss this
matter.
The Council returned from Executive Session at 9:17 PM and after
reconvening the regular meeting, President Pineda Neufeld reported that no
votes were taken in Executive Session other than the motion to adjourn and
return to open session.
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
7.2.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to authorize the City of
Somerville to establish a net zero emissions standard for new constructed
buildings and major renovation projects.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0416)
Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi informed the members that this item
was previously recommended for approval but now needs a new approval to
move it forward at the state house.
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
Page 15 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
7.3.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to provide legal voting rights
in municipal elections for non-citizen residents of the City of Somerville.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0417)
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
7.4.
Requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 64G,
Section 3D(a), to authorize the city to impose a community impact fee of 3%
of the total amount of rent upon each transfer of occupancy of
“Professionally-managed units”.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0483)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 64G,
Section 3D(b), to authorize the city to impose the community impact
allowed under Chapter 3D(a) of G.L. c. 64G, on each transfer of occupancy
of a short-term rental unit in a two- or three-family dwelling, that includes
the operator’s primary residence.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0484)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $922,609 from the Salary Contingency
account to various departmental Salaries Accounts to fund an update to the
non-union salary ordinance.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0470)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $35,000 from the Health and Human
Services Professional and Technical Services Account to the Council on
Aging Transportation (Non-School) Account for the Senior Taxi
Transportation program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0434)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
7.8.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension for an additional two years
until 12/31/2026 for the contract with Warner Larson Landscape Architects,
to complete additional structural and design services at the Healey
Schoolyard and Athletic Field.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0285)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $42,000 grant with no new
match required from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management
to the Police Department for safety equipment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0410)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,090 using
available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department DCR-Boat House
account.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0400)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $239.50 using
available funds in the Police Department Medical and Dental Services
account for a medical invoice.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0411)
Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi asked that this item be withdrawn.
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
7.12.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $72.24 using
available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Rental Water
Cooler Account for the purchase of four cases of bottled water.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0168)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Hudl
Focus cameras.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0452)
Page 17 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alfred William Rymill III as
Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0402)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through
7.16 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and
Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Michael De Bethencourt
as Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0403)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through
7.16 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and
Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Sean Browne as
Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0404)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through
7.16 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and
Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Conveying the appointment of Matt Iglesias to the Municipal Scholarship
Committee.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0458)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
7.18.
Conveying the appointment of Sarah Beckmann, Ben Cuba, and Christine
Hayes to the Arts Council.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-0459)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
Page 18 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, C.J. Doherty Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0424)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Commonwealth Construction & Utilities,
Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0425)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Ferrante Construction LLC.
License
(ID # 25-0426)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Hydra Tech, Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0427)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Jason Anthony Corp.
License
(ID # 25-0428)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, JET Excavation.
License
(ID # 25-0429)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, McGue Excavating LLC.
License
(ID # 25-0430)
Page 19 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Metro Equipment Corporation.
License
(ID # 25-0431)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Spencer Contracting.
License
(ID # 25-0432)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, The Welch Corp.
License
(ID # 25-0433)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Renewing Flammables License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 259 McGrath
Highway.
License
(ID # 25-0435)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Renewing Flammables License, Trum Field Sunoco, 541 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0436)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Renewing Garage License, Broadway Brake Corp, 45 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0437)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 20 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
9.14.
Renewing Garage License, Broadway Sunoco, 258 Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0438)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Renewing Garage License, Modern Floors, Inc., 22 Marshall Street.
License
(ID # 25-0440)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.16.
Renewing Garage License, Pearl Street Auto Sales, 182 Pearl Street.
License
(ID # 25-0441)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Renewing Garage License, U-Haul of Boston, 151 Linwood Street.
License
(ID # 25-0442)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.18.
Renewing Garage License, Webster Auto Body, 69 Webster Avenue.
License
(ID # 25-0443)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.19.
Renewing Livery License, Med Transportation LLC, 34 Grant Street.
License
(ID # 25-0444)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.20.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Luce Boutique, 56 Union Square.
License
(ID # 25-0445)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 21 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
9.21.
New Sign/Awning License, Cookies Retail LLC, 71 Union Square, 2 Signs.
License
(ID # 25-0446)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.22.
Renewing Taxi Medallion, HollyPaul Desravines, Med. #92.
License
(ID # 25-0447)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.23.
Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Broadway Sunoco, 258
Broadway.
License
(ID # 25-0448)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.24.
SomerPromise Department applying for a Public Event License for Week of
the Young Child Celebration on April 10 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0451)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.25.
Tufts Engineers without Borders applying for a Public Event License for
Fred Berger Memorial 6K Run/Walk on April 13 from 11:00am to 1:30pm
(raindates April 18, 27).
Public Event
(ID # 25-0449)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.26.
St. Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good Friday
Drama on April 18 from 3:30pm to 6:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0450)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.27.
Tufts University conveying its Spring 2025 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0409)
Page 22 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.28.
Cole Rainey-Slavick submitting comments re: item #23-1461, Safe Streets
ordinance.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0453)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.29.
Michéle Hansen and Matthias Rudolf submitting comments re: item
#24-1584, Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning district of 11
Horace Street, 5-7, 9, 13, and 15 Ward Street, and 15 and 21 South Street
from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6).
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0454)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.30.
Abigail Walzer submitting comments re: Copper Mill project.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0455)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.31.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-0439)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Commending 311 Somerville for nearly 20 years of dedicated service.
Citation
(ID # 25-0492)
President Pineda Neufeld congratulated the 311 team for their dedication to
the residents of the city and noted that it was the first of its kind in New
England. Director Craig thanked the Council for the honor and for their
support.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.2.
By Councilor Sait and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management work with a
consultant to provide this Council with the renovation cost of the Cummings
School building.
Order
(ID # 25-0489)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 23 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
10.3.
By Councilor Sait
That the Director of Engineering provide an update on the construction of
the Lowell Street crosswalk facing the Magoun Square Green Line station.
Order
(ID # 25-0490)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Sait, Councilor Wilson and
Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Human Resources report to this Council the list of all
department heads who have completed, and a list of those who have not
completed, all relevant trainings on interpretation and language access.
Order
(ID # 25-0509)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld comments about training courses developed by
the Office of Immigrant Affairs and she would like to have the requested
information. Councilor Wilson spoke about the importance of having
interpretation services for public events.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Mobility install speed humps on Elmwood Street.
Order
(ID # 25-0511)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld noted that drivers are using side streets to avoid
speed bumps and this has resulted in Elmwood Street experiencing fast
traffic.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.6.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley
Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Mbah, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and
Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management discuss with this
Council what strategies and resources are being utilized to bring
Somerville’s Tannery Brook Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) into
compliance with the current and future long-term CSO control plans.
Order
(ID # 25-0510)
Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that Alewife Brook has been
overlooked in the past. President Pineda Neufeld sponsored Save the
Alewife Brook members Andy Visser, Kristen Anderson, David Stoff and
Gene Benson to speak on the matter. Ms. Anderson noted that untreated
sewage flowed into her home in the past and she gave a presentation
outlining some possible solutions. She pointed out that floodwaters contain
untreated sewage from Cambridge and Somerville and she spoke about the
amount of raw sewage being dumped. Ms. Anderson went on to say that this
is not in compliance with the Boston Harbor Cleanup court case or the Clean
Page 24 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
Water Act. MA DEP has taken steps regarding floatables in the water, but
things are getting worse due to neglect. Her organization is not seeing
improvements for Alewife Brook even thought there is an opportunity to
make things better. She asked the Council to focus its EPA funding projects
for Alewife Brook. Councilor Wilson mentioned that the city will be hosting
a listening session on April 3 to hear the concerns of residents.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Engineering install a curb cut in front of the Edgerly
Education Center's accessible entrance on Bonair Street over the summer.
Order
(ID # 25-0515)
Councilor Burnley said that he hopes this can be accomplished over the
summer. Councilor McLaughlin reported that the city is planning on doing
this work during the summer.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.8.
New Drainlayer's License, Umbro & Sons Construction Corp.
License
(ID # 25-0498)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.9.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Baystate Engineering Corp.
License
(ID # 25-0494)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.10.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, CRL Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0495)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.11.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Mendez Masonry & Construction, Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0496)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 25 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
10.12.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Milltown Plumbing & Heating Inc.
License
(ID # 25-0497)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.13.
Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Mayer Campus Center, 44
Professors Row.
License
(ID # 25-0499)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.14.
New Flammables License, POAH Clarendon LLC, 20 Stephenson Aman
Street, storing 1,000 gallons.
License
(ID # 25-0500)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.15.
Renewing Garage License, Real Auto Shop, Inc., 463 McGrath Highway.
License
(ID # 25-0501)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.16.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480
Columbia Street.
License
(ID # 25-0502)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.17.
Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480
Columbia Street.
License
(ID # 25-0503)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.18.
Crown Castle Fiber LLC applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for
facilities on an existing pole at 684 Somerville Avenue.
Small Wireless
Facility
(ID # 25-0504)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 26 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
10.19.
BA Events Promotion applying for a Public Event License for Race of
Ireland on March 16 from 7am to 1:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0507)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.20.
Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church applying for a Public
Event License for Greek Independence Day Event on March 22 from 10am
to 2:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0505)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.21.
The Curl Bar applying for a Public Event License for The Curl Bar
Community Event on May 24 from 6am to 7pm (raindate May 31).
Public Event
(ID # 25-0508)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.22.
Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for Memorial Day
Parade on May 25 from 8am to 3pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-0506)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26,
10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.23.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,073,189 from the Salary & Wage
Stabilization Fund to various departmental Other Lump Sum Payments
accounts to fund the retrospective portion of a collective bargaining
settlement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Union, Unit B.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0514)
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
Page 27 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2025
10.24.
Requesting the appropriation of $1,810,905 from the Salary Contingency
account to various departmental Personal Services accounts to fund FY 2025
retroactive payments related to a collective bargaining settlement with the
Somerville Municipal Employees Union, Unit B.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0513)
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, Ward Six City
Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda
Neufeld
AYE:
10.25.
Requesting the appropriation of $160,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Department of Public Works Repairs to
Buildings Account for fabrication and installation of courts at Founders
Rink.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-0456)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10,
7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.26.
Harvard University Conveying its Spring 2025 Accountability Report.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0512)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.27.
Michael Curtis submitting comments re: tree work.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0488)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
11.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:34 PM.
Page 28 of 28