Finance Committee — Minutes, May 20, 2025

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Finance Committee Meeting Minutes 6:00 PM Tuesday, May 20, 2025 This meeting was held via Zoom and was called to order by Chair Wilson at 6:04 pm and adjourned at 8:18 pm on a roll call vote of 5 in favor (Councilors Wilson, Scott, Clingan, Burnley and Mbah), 0 opposed, and 0 absent. Councilor Burnley joined the meeting at 8:15 pm. Others present: Sean Tierney - Assistant Fire Chief, Karin Carroll – Director of Health and Human Resources, Danielle Palazzo – Deputy Director of Finance and Administration, Jill Lathan – Commissioner, Emily Wisdom – Director of Finance and Administration, Kathy Cole – Financial Manager, Alan Inacio – Director of Finance and Community Development, Andy Reider - Building Systems Manager, Jason Piques – Assistant City Solicitor, Kimberley Hutter - Legislative Liaison and Delaney Fisher-Cassiol – Clerk of Committees. Roll Call City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan and City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah Present: City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr. Absent: 1. Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting of May 6, 2025. Committee Minutes (ID # 25-0937) ACCEPTED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Grants and Gift Acceptances 2. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $11,400 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for fire education for school students and senior residents. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0902) This item was discussed with 25-0849. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Page 1 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 3. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $30,000 grant that requires a match, from the RIZE Massachusetts Foundation to the Health and Human Services Department for public health vending machines. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0852) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 4. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $36,000 grant with no new match required, from Department of Environmental Protection to the Department of Public Works for the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0860) Councilor Mbah asked if there is a dedicated bank account for these funds and Danielle Palazzo, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration, noted that Somerville has received this grant for many years and that there is already a dedicated account for managing these funds. She also clarified that the funds do not expire. DPW Commissioner Jill Lathan also confirmed that the grant funds will be used exclusively for waste and recycling-related initiatives, including the production of educational guides, the purchase of toters and public mailings. She emphasized that the funds will not be redirected to any unrelated projects. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 5. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $122,681.25 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Community First Partnership to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for an Energy Advisor and outreach materials. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0813) Finance Manager Kathy Cole explained that this three-year grant would extend funding for the City’s Energy Advisor, who began in the role six months ago. The advisor is currently funded through a separate two-year grant, and this new funding would provide a third year of salary support as well as funds for additional outreach materials. Councilor Mbah expressed strong support for the program and Page 2 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 recommended approval. He inquired about the number of residents and properties that have benefitted from the program so far. Manager Cole noted that while she did not have the specific numbers on hand, she would follow up with the data. She emphasized that the program is gaining momentum and that participation is expected to increase as awareness increases. Councilor Mbah highlighted the importance of the program’s impact on homeowners, renters, and small businesses and noted that being able to share specific outcomes and success stories would tell a powerful story. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 6. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $38,500 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for Special Response Team equipment. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0848) This item was taken up with 25-0849. KEPT IN COMMITTEE RESULT: 7. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $127,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for Special Response Team equipment and training. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0849) Emily Wisdom, Director of Finance and Administration, explained that this funding will be used to replace aging equipment and enhance operational capabilities for the Police Department’s Special Response Team. They are looking to purchase new shields, night vision technology, and ball cameras. The ball cameras are $5,000 each and offer 360-degree video capabilities and are designed to enhance situational awareness by allowing officers to see around barriers, such as walls or doors. The grants will also support overtime and backfill costs, with the remaining funds allocated to the purchase of equipment. Chair Wilson raised questions about the surveillance capabilities of the ball cameras and Director Wisdom offered to provide a memo detailing their technical specifications and potential privacy impacts. Chair Wilson emphasized that any surveillance-related technology must be reviewed and approved before purchase. Councilor Clingan echoed this concern. Director Wisdom clarified that the cameras are intended for tactical, situational Page 3 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 awareness during emergency responses, but she will follow up with detailed information regarding their surveillance classification. KEPT IN COMMITTEE RESULT: Prior Year Invoices 8. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $583.03 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Fleet Motor Parts and Accessories Account for the purchase of vehicle parts. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0662) Councilor Scott inquired whether the Department currently has a Fleet Director. Commissioner Lathan responded that a new Fleet Director has been hired and is scheduled to begin in June. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 9. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $270 using available funds in the Department of Public Works R&M Vehicles Account for vehicle inspections. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0663) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 10. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,137.70 using available funds in the Department of Public Works R&M Parks and Playgrounds Account for irrigation services. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0664) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 11. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $504 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Administration Police Details Account for police detail services. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0665) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Page 4 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 12. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $90 using available funds in the Police Department Professional and Technical Services Account for case management for workers' compensation. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0850) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 13. Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $8.87 using available funds in the Police Department Professional and Technical Services Account for managed care services for workers' compensation. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0863) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Transfers 14. Requesting approval of a transfer of $400,000 from the Department of Public Works Highway Wages Account to the Snow Removal Account. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0861) This item was taken up with 25-0862 and 25-0873. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 15. Requesting approval of a transfer of $600,000 from various Department of Public Works Personal Services Accounts to various Department of Public Works Ordinary Maintenance Accounts to fund projected budget shortfalls. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0862) This item was taken up with 25-0861 and 25-0873. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 16. Requesting approval of a transfer of $363,000 from the Department of Public Works Grounds Wages Account to the Snow Removal Account. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0873) Director Palazzo explained that the transfers are primarily intended to cover a $763,000 snow removal deficit. Councilor Scott added that the shortfalls have come from money that was put aside for salaries for positions that have remained vacant. Deputy Director Palazzo detailed how the $600,000 in Item 15 is being distributed: Page 5 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 $300,000 from building wages to interior maintenance $100,000 from building wages to support HVAC projects $200,000 from highway wages to support repairs and maintenance of vehicles, with work being done by Hillside Auto in Stoneham. Councilor Scott asked whether the transfers were related to recent incidents of vandalism or break-ins at vacant schools, such as at the Winter Hill School at 115 Sycamore. Commissioner Lathan clarified that these transfers were unrelated and primarily address aging camera systems in schools. Chair Wilson asked whether any of the transferred funds for vehicle repairs would be used to fix the police cruisers damaged in collisions. Commissioner Lathan explained that the focus is currently on repairing and maintaining the aging DPW fleet. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 17. Requesting the transfer of $200,000 from the Community Preservation Act Undesignated Fund Balance to the Open Space Reserve. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0854) This item was taken up with 25-0855. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 18. Requesting approval of a transfer of $5,777 from the Police Overtime Account to the Police Grant Match Account for the FY 2025 Shannon Grant match requirement. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0666) Director Wisdom stated that this is a housekeeping item to transfer funds between accounts in order to run proper reports for grant management. The funds were originally used for overtime, and this transfer ensures they are correctly reflected in the grant match account. This is not a new appropriation. It is just an internal movement of funds. Chair Wilson added that the Council had previously approved an appropriation to fund this through the year, and this transfer covers the overage discussed back in February. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: Page 6 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Funds and Accounts 19. Requesting approval to amend the purpose of the Street Tree Stabilization Fund to align with the Tree Preservation Ordinance. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0892) This item was taken up with 25-0836. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Appropriations 20. Requesting approval to appropriate $228,000 from the Medicinal Marijuana Stabilization Fund for the salary and fringe of three positions related to youth-serving staff in FY 2026. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0857) Karin Carroll, Director of Health and Human Resources, explained that this request would fund five existing positions using the Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund. These positions have been instrumental in working with schools and community partners to diversify and expand out-of-school programming for K-8 students, ensuring access to culturally relevant activities. The request includes continued funding for two full-time positions and an expansion of a current half-time Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Specialist to a full-time role. Councilor Scott expressed appreciation for the work these existing positions support and stated he was grateful for their continuation. Chair Wilson inquired about the long-term sustainability of funding for these positions. Director Carroll responded that the Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund currently holds over $3.5 million, and she believes it can sustain these roles moving forward. Councilor Clingan emphasized that this is a request to re-fund existing positions rather than add new ones. He raised concerns about services for at-risk youth and asked if any of the roles involve after-school hours. Director Carroll clarified that the Out-of-School Time Coordinator does work beyond regular school. She noted there is room to expand as these programs continue to develop. Councilor Clingan encouraged exploring that expansion further. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: Page 7 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 21. Requesting approval to appropriate $450,000 from the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for the replacement of the Brown School Boiler. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0874) Manager Reider explained that the heating plant at the Brown School failed inspection and would be costly to repair. As a result, both boilers will be replaced, along with piping and potentially the chimney flue lining. While boilers of this type are typically expected to last around 30 years, Somerville’s water is harsh on steam systems, which likely contributed to the reduced lifespan. Councilor Scott asked whether other buildings, such as City Hall, using temporary boilers are under review for future replacement. Manager Reider noted that City Hall is on a different schedule and follows a separate protocol for boiler repairs and replacements. Chair Wilson expressed appreciation for the permanent fix at the Brown School, noting that temporary boilers often negatively impact air quality and cause noise issues. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 22. Requesting approval to appropriate $350,000 from the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund to replace the Department of Public Works Water Department Boiler System. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0875) Andy Reider - Building Systems Manager, explained that the Department of Public Works (DPW) complex contains three boiler plants, and the boiler serving the Water Department failed inspection last year. Due to the high cost of repairs, replacement is more cost-effective. The new boiler system will be installed in the existing location to allow reuse of as much of the current infrastructure as possible. Manager Reider noted that the system did not last the 30 years that were originally expected. Councilor Mbah inquired about the current maintenance and inspection process for boiler systems, whether they meet industry standards, and what measures are being taken to ensure future systems last longer. Page 8 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 Commissioner Lathan responded that the addition of a building systems management position has been valuable in addressing aging infrastructure across the city. Manager Reider has been proactive in identifying and addressing issues. However, many building systems still require attention, and resolving all outstanding needs will take time. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 23. Requesting approval to appropriate $45,000 from the Street Tree Stabilization Fund for FY 2025 Ash tree treatments. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0836) Director Alan Inacio explained that the original agreement did not include installation costs or maintenance language. This appropriation will allow the funds to be used during the current fiscal year to cover those elements. Councilor Mbah expressed support for the request. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 24. Requesting the appropriation of $200,000 from the Community Preservation Act Fund Open Space Reserve for the design of the Kennedy Schoolyard. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0855) Director Inacio explained that this is an off-cycle funding request intended to advance the Kennedy School project design. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 25. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $274,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response (ASHER) training. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0846) Director Wisdom explained that this grant will fund Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response (ASHER) training for both police and fire personnel. The training is designed to enhance preparedness and improve coordination Page 9 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 between first responders in the event of a complex emergency such as an active shooter or hostile incident. The goal is to reduce injury and loss of life. This program has been adopted by both the Commonwealth and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is considered a proactive investment in public safety. Councilor Scott emphasized that this supports training for personnel and coordinated response efforts between departments. He requested clarification to ensure the training is focused on responder preparedness rather than expanding active shooter scenarios in schools. Director Wisdom agreed to follow up with additional details about the training scope and upcoming sessions. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 26. Requesting the appropriation of $151,502 from the Unreserved Fund Balance ("Free Cash") to the Law Department, Legal Services Account for additional outside legal counsel services. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0922) RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: Contracts and Easements 27. Requesting approval of a lease agreement at 50 Tufts Street. Mayor's Request (ID # 25-0919) Assistant City Solicitor Piques explained that this is where the city has been storing contaminated soil resulting from a chlorinated volatile organic compounds spill. The property owner at 50 Tufts Street has offered the space at no cost to the city. Kimberley Hutter, Legislative Liaison, requested that the item be withdrawn, stating that an updated version will be submitted for consideration. RECOMMENDED TO BE WITHDRAWN RESULT: Communications and Discussions Page 10 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 28. By Councilor Burnley Jr. Conveying the cost of changes to identity documents, in support of item #24-1686. Communication (ID # 25-0270) This item was taken up with 25-0336 and 24-1686. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 29. Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition submitting comments re: item #24-1686, creation of an LGBTQ Legal Services Stabilization Fund. Public Communication (ID # 25-0336) This item was taken up with 25-0270 and 24-1686. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Orders and Resolutions 30. By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott That the City Solicitor confirm whether an LGBTQ Legal Services Stabilization Fund can be created to pay fees associated with gendered document changes and potential court sealing of records associated with such documents. Order (ID # 24-1686) Assistant City Solicitor Piques explained that a stabilization fund may be created for any lawful public purpose. The Law Department believes that the creation of an LGBTQ Legal Services Stabilization Fund is valid, though it may be subject to differing interpretations by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. While the fund would assist private individuals, it would still be considered a public purpose if it serves the broader community’s welfare. Solicitor Piques referenced the city’s immigrant legal services fund as an example of how legal assistance to individuals can fulfill a public purpose. He also cited a state statute establishing the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation, which provides legal aid to low-income residents while delivering a broader public benefit. Given the disproportionate barriers faced by the LGBTQ+ community in accessing legal support for identity document changes and court processes, this fund should meet the standard of serving the public good. Councilor Scott expressed agreement with the legal reasoning and recommended the item be marked as work complete. Page 11 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 Councilor Wilson asked how similar funds have been supported in the past and confirmed with Attorney Piques that the creation of this fund is consistent with the city’s prior stabilization fund practices. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 31. By Councilor Pineda Neufeld That the city hereby adopts Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987, An Act Increasing Local Control Over The Annual School Budget. Order (ID # 25-0905) Councilor Clingan recused himself from the discussion due to a family member’s employment with the school department. Deputy Solicitor David Shapiro explained that while a general statute exists regarding school budget authority, a special act, Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987, specifically requires adoption by both the City Council and the Mayor. This special act prevails over the general law, meaning both the Council and the Mayor must approve it for it to take effect. Councilor Scott inquired whether the City Council could override a mayoral refusal to sign the act with a vote of 2/3 of the Council, as is sometimes possible in other matters. Deputy Solicitor Shapiro clarified that in this case, no override is permitted and the act must be signed by both the Council and the Mayor to be enacted. Councilor Scott expressed disappointment and he noted that the Mayor has indicated she does not intend to sign the measure, but he maintained that it is still meaningful for the Council to voice its support and recommend approval. Councilor Mbah supported advancing the order through committee, emphasizing that elected officials have a duty to represent the voices of their constituents. He underscored that this is a pivotal moment to stand with educators and noted that the current compensation for teachers is insufficient. He reiterated the need to make a statement, even if the Mayor does not ultimately sign the measure. Page 12 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 Chair Wilson expressed interest in reviewing a budget proposal developed by the School Committee and thinks it would be an important contribution to the conversation. Councilor Scott requested that a solicitor be present at the next City Council meeting to provide further clarification. He also expressed the need for a stronger balance of powers between the City Council and the Mayor and noted the limited power of public pressure and Council pressure on the Mayor. RECOMMENDED TO BE APPROVED RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Ward Four City Councilor Clingan RECUSED: 32. 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) RECOMMENDED TO BE DISCHARGED WITH NO RECOMMENDATION RESULT: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. and City Councilor At Large Mbah AYE: 33. By Councilor Mbah That the Director of Housing include a line item contribution to the Affordable Housing Trust’s FY 2026 ordinary maintenance budget in order to sustain its funding for affordable housing development and assistance to households facing rent or mortgage arrears. Order (ID # 25-0568) This item was taken up with 25-0569 and 25-0570. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Page 13 of 14

Finance Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 34. By Councilor Mbah That the Director of Housing Stability calculate and present a budget proposal for sufficient funding that will enable it to continue its programs of municipal flex funding, legal assistance and related housing search services for residents facing displacement and homeless families and individuals in FY 2026. Order (ID # 25-0569) This item was taken up with 25-0568 and 25-0570. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 35. By Councilor Mbah That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment clarify the situation regarding the federal grant application for composting and, depending on its likely fulfillment, calculate a budget line item to insure that the small-scale pilot program can continue into FY 2026 and expand to more households. Order (ID # 25-0570) Councilor Mbah raised concerns about the sustainability of funding for affordable housing and housing stability programs, especially in light of recent federal policy changes that have impacted off-budget funding sources. He emphasized the importance of including dedicated funding in the FY 2026 budget to maintain key housing support services and affordable housing initiatives. Regarding composting, Councilor Mbah noted that although the federal funding application has not been successful, the goal remains to launch the pilot program at a smaller scale. He expressed hope that the program can expand to more households over time once it is operational and initial funding is secured. RECOMMENDED TO BE MARKED WORK COMPLETED RESULT: Referenced Documents: • Finance - 2025-05-20 Mayor Response (with 25-0905) • Finance - 2025-05-20 Law Supp Appropriation Memo (with 25-0922) • Finance - 2025-05-20 Lease Agreement - 50 Tufts Street (tracked changes) (with 25-0919) Page 14 of 14