Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Sep 11, 2025
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, September 11, 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 Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis.
The City Council entered recess at 7:09 PM and returned at 7:13 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 25-1434)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
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
Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Present:
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 25-1435)
Councilor Scott requested a moment of silence in memory of David White.
President Davis requested a moment of silence in memory of those who lost
their lives as a result of the attacks on the United States on September 11,
2001.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 10, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-1436)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.4.
Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of July 30, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-1437)
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APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor Davis
Commending participants of the inaugural Municipal Civics Academy for
their commitment to civic engagement and devotion to the city.
Citation
(ID # 25-1430)
City Council Legislative and Policy Analyst Brendan Salisbury spoke briefly
about the Municipal Civics Academy, which provided members of the
public a view into the workings of city government. Participants were
presented with citations recognizing their participation in this program.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 10 feet of
conduit in Aldersey Street, from Utility Pole 4/3 to a point of pickup at 17
Aldersey Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1388)
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 a total of 40 feet of
conduit in Hinckley Street, from Utility Pole 170/6 to a point of pickup at 35
Richardson Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1389)
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.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 104 feet of
conduit in Glenwood Road, from Manhole 7417 to a point of pickup at 72
Glenwood Road.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1390)
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:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
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4.1.
By Councilor Strezo
That this Council discuss the Somerville Special Education Parents
Advisory Council (SSEPAC) report sent to the Massachusetts Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in response to the upcoming
DESE district review of Somerville Public Schools for the 2025-2026
school year.
Order
(ID # 25-1421)
President Davis was recused and Vice President Mbah assumed the Chair
for this item.
Councilor Strezo, the Council’s representative on the School Construction
Advisory Group (CAG), spoke about the how considerations for special
needs students were not being advocated for and she expressed concern for
where the A.I.M Program (Adapt / Include / Motivate), specially designed
for students on the autism spectrum, might fit into the new 900 student
school.
She spoke about the Somerville Special Education Parent Advisory Council
(SSEPAC), saying that it is a legally created body whose purpose is to
advocate for the needs of children with special needs, and she sponsored Liz
Eldridge, President of SSEPAC to speak on the item. Ms. Eldridge spoke
about a district review by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education (DESE) and a report that was submitted to them from
SSEPAC. Ms. Eldridge expressed concern that there is a gap in the services
being provided and noted that 9 of 10 students with disabilities are not
achieving grade level benchmarks. She also noted that parents have to fight
for the rights of their children because Somerville runs an aspirational plan
and an operational plan, which simply means that the needs are not being
met. She closed by stating that this matter is about the need for structural
change to meet the needs of students.
Councilor Strezo asked colleagues to review the information.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works provide information regarding the
installation, safety and accessibility of a railing on the concrete stairs
between the play structures and the soccer field at the Winter Hill
Community Innovation School playground.
Order
(ID # 25-1422)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.3.
By Councilor Mbah
That the City Clerk implement the hiring practices detailed within for
positions in the City Council and City Clerk Departments.
Order
(ID # 25-1423)
Councilor Mbah commented that Somerville is committed to equity and
diversity and that the main goal of this order is for government to reflect the
people it represents. Essentially, the order calls for any hiring process for
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positions within the City Council or the City Clerk’s Office, to the extent
practicable, include at least one person of color from Somerville’s
community, including but not limited to current council staff, councilors, or
qualified residents, as part of the hiring committee or interview panel, as
well as including at least one qualified candidate of color, as determined
through the standard hiring criteria, in any finalist pool for positions within
the City Council or City Clerk’s Office.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson and
Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility and the Director of Engineering collaborate to
install crosswalks across Walnut Street and Wigglesworth Street near
Sunnyside Avenue to protect Winter Hill Community Innovation School
students, families, and educators using the Otis Street footbridge.
Order
(ID # 25-1424)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor
Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah and Councilor Sait
That the City Clerk provide this Council with an update regarding
promulgation from the state Cannabis Control Commission of regulations
and licensure procedures related to the operation of cannabis consumption
lounges.
Order
(ID # 25-1426)
Councilor Scott noted that the city still does not have this information and
City Clerk Wells reported that the Cannabis Control Commission just closed
comments on its draft regulations and the city is awaiting final regulations in
order to move forward. She informed the Council that the regulations and
procedures should be forthcoming before the end of the year, but an exact
date is not known.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait and
Councilor Davis
That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry discuss with this
Council, a policy for use of open space on municipal property around city
buildings for community gardens.
Order
(ID # 25-1427)
Councilor Scott commented that he had raised this issue with the with
mayor’s staff on several occasions as some people feel that there is still
space that is not being used.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
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Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.7.
By Councilor Scott
That the Administration, including the Director of Mobility, discuss with
this Council a process for establishing municipal standards for furnishings at
bus stops and shelters.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1425)
Councilor Scott noted that the benches installed at the bus shelters along the
Washington Street bike lanes have hostile architecture and he would like
standards put in in place for the future.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Scott, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Sait and Councilor Mbah
That the Mayor update this Council on any plans to issue a requirement for
federal law enforcement agents acting within the City of Somerville to
provide identification upon request and preventing the use of
identity-concealing masks within the city by federal agents.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1428)
Councilor Scott reported that there have been a dozen Immigration and
Customs Enforcement (ICE) incidents in the city this week and he would
like to discuss this matter further. Councilor McLaughlin commented that he
doesn’t know what can be done about this but he feels that face coverings
should not be used, and that he is disheartened that the government is
allowing this.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on September 9, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1431)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee recommended for approval payment of 11 prior
year invoices, two appropriations, four acceptance and expenditure of grants,
and one transfer of funds.
Items #25-1305 and #25-1309 were incorrectly marked as “recommended to
be approved” instead of “withdrawn”. Councilor Wilson moved to sever
these items from the committee report and mark them as withdrawn. The
motion was approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.A.2.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $323.75 using
available funds in the CityTV R&M - Audio/Visual Equipment Account for
on-site engineering services and travel expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1271)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $840 using available
funds in the Communications Department Food Supplies & Refreshment
Account for Slice of the City events pizza orders.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1274)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $91.62 using
available funds in the Office of Immigrant Affairs Neighborhood
Improvement Council Account for snacks for Community Get Together
event.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1277)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $19,188.01 using
available funds in the Information Technology Maintenance Software and
Computer Equipment Accounts for monitoring software and Uninterruptible
Power Supply hardware.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1279)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $2,630,071 from the Community
Preservation Act Affordable Housing Reserve to the Affordable Housing
Trust.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1280)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.7.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,497.50 using
available funds in the Communications Department Food Supplies &
Refreshment Account for Civic Day event food.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1283)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $925 using available
funds in the Parks & Recreation Equipment Rental Account for equipment
rentals during Family Fun Day event.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1284)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.A.9.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $212,842.26 grant with no new
match required, from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health
and Human Services Department for a Shared Services Coordinator and a
Clinical Community Health Worker.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1285)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.10.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $98.39 using
available funds in the Parks & Recreation Athletic Supplies Account for tag
belts for a teen flag football program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1286)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.11.
Requesting approval to appropriate $56,601 from the Salary & Wage
Stabilization Fund to the Non-Contributory Pension Account to fund an
increased pension amount.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1289)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.12.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $8,748.66 using
available funds in the Police Department Maintenance Software,
Professional & Technical Services, and In-State Travel accounts for various
items.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1298)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.13.
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 # 25-1299)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.14.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $128,500 grant with no new
match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the
Police Department for target hardening at the Police Department
headquarters.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1300)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.15.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $4,015 using
available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical
Services Account for medical screening services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1301)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.16.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $100.08 using
available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical
Services Account for confidential shredding services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1302)
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APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.17.
Requesting the appropriation of $240,664.10 from the Receipts
Reserved-Transportation Network Company Revenue Fund to the
Transportation Network Company Special Revenue Fund for Vision Zero
safety efforts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1303)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.A.18.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $55,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police
Department for Crisis Intervention Training and technical assistance for
personnel and program expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1304)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.A.19.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $10,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police
Department for Jail Diversion Program personnel expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1305)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.A.20.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $25.69 using
available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for
office supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1309)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.21.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $71.88 using
available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for
office supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1332)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.22.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,100,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to the Office
of Strategic Planning and Community Development and Police Department
for the development of the Union Square Plaza and Streetscape Phase 1.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1339)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on September 4, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1401)
Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that concepts for an up-zoning proposal for Gilman Square were
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discussed and that this item will be on the committee’s September 18 agenda
for further discussion.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
Sublime Systems submitting comments re: items #24-1460, #25-0128,
#25-0129, and #25-0131, amendments to the Zoning Ordinance for
laboratory, research and development, and arts uses.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0975)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
Bill Valetta submitting comments re: item #25-0085, an Order regarding
zoning for bonuses for additional affordable housing and other enumerated
community benefits.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0976)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on September 8,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1420)
Councilor Scott summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee recommended approval of item #25-1317 which
would allow current wine and malt beverages license holders to apply to
convert to a non-transferable all forms
alcohol license.
Item #25-1373 was discharged without a recommendation and Councilor
Scott briefly explained that the item has to do with providing the public with
information on ballot measures. He also spoke about the timeline concerns
involved.
After approval of the Committee Report, item #25-1373 was placed before
the Council.
Councilor Scott stated his inclination to approve the item and explained that
this is a state law that may be adopted by municipalities and that without its
adoption, the city would be prohibited from sending out a mass mailing to
provide information on ballot questions. Councilor Ewen-Campen
commented that he believes that the city should send out as much
information as possible on ballot questions, however, he feels that it is not
advisable to do for this election cycle due to timelines and early and mail-in
voting. Councilor Mbah commented that this provision should have been
adopted in the past as it provides transparency, however, he would like to
have more information on unintended consequences. He sponsored Harriotte
Ranvig to speak on the item. Ms. Ranvig said that there are legal, creative
ways to make the ballot question information available other than a mass
mailing and she suggested that copies of any such information be available
at polling locations in braille, for those people who are unable to see. She
also requested that plain language be used in explaining the charter
questions.
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Councilor McLaughin reported that the proposed charter passed the state
senate and is awaiting the governor’s signature. He believes that the issue
here is logistics, saying that it’s important to understand the implications of
the provision. He noted that the current and proposed charters are on the
city’s website. He would like the item sent back to the Legislative Matters
Committee. Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that the administration
does have a communication plan for getting the information out to the
public. Councilor Wilson stated his support for adoption but doesn’t want to
rush its approval. Legislative Liaison Raddassi informed the Council that the
Administration is working with the Law and Communication Departments
to devise ways to legally get ballot information out to the public. Councilor
Strezo asked if text messaging and/or robo calls are acceptable ways to get
the information out to those who would sign up to receive it and Liaison
Raddassi replied that she would defer to the Law Department for an opinion.
Councilor McLaughlin sponsored Bev Schwartz, a community
representative to the Charter Review Committee, who said that 5 members
of the charter committee will be doing outreach to get information out to the
public.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
Licensing Commission requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General
Laws, Chapter 138, Section 12D, to allow current wine and malt beverages
license holders to apply to convert to a non-transferable all forms alcohol
license.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1317)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and
Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr.
ABSENT:
6.C.3.
Former Mayor Eugene C. Brune, former Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay, and
former Alderman John "Jack" Connolly submitting comments re: Chapter
53, Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1335)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
By Councilor Mbah
That the City of Somerville hereby accepts the provisions of Chapter 53
Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Order
(ID # 25-1373)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to raise the sound business
practices and written quote contract thresholds under Massachusetts General
Laws Chapter 30B for city contracts with certified disadvantaged businesses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1407)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting approval of the discontinuance of a portion of Sewall Court.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1382)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting approval of the partial termination of the City Utility Easement
on Sewall Court.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1383)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting authorization to borrow $4,300,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the design of the Morrison Avenue Linear Storage
Sewer Separation project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1411)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting approval to extend and amend a contract with Eastern Bank for
an additional year until 8/31/2026, for the banking services of the Treasury
Department.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1384)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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7.6.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $350,048 from the Department of
Infrastructure and Asset Management (IAM) Ordinary Maintenance
Professional & Technical Services Account to the IAM Capital Outlay
Professional & Technical Services Account.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1412)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $301,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police
Department for Crisis Intervention Training and technical assistance for
personnel and program expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1385)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.8.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $295,463 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts State 911 Department to the Police
Department for enhanced 911 telecommunicator personnel costs.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1409)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $155,271.38 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts State 911 Department to the Police
Department for training costs for 911 certification.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1408)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $50,000 grant with no new
match required, from Commonwealth of MA Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for a
study investigating possible zoning incentives to increase the ability to
comply with the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1295)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
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Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $50,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police
Department for Jail Diversion Program personnel expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1386)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.12.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,500 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts State 911 Department to the Police
Department for emergency medical dispatch.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1410)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $10,000 grant with no new
match required, from the Fenway Community Health Center to the Police
Department for post-overdose support.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1418)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $10,452.22 using
available funds in the Department of Infrastructure & Asset Management
Ordinary Maintenance Professional & Technical Account for Strategic Asset
Management Plan.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1413)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $596.25 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Repairs-Comm
Equipment, Repairs-Fire Alarm, and Reimbursement of Licenses Accounts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1414)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
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City Council
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September 11, 2025
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $545.31 using
available funds in the Police Department Equipment Maintenance Account
for electronic access door service.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1387)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $330 using available
funds in the Office of Sustainability and Environment Professional and
Technical Services Account for monitoring the Argenziano School solar
array.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1294)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.18.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $137.77 using
available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for
office supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1416)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.19.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $71.88 using
available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for
office supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1417)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.20.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $23.41 using
available funds in the Emergency Management Public Safety Supplies
Account for public safety supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1415)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
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City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 11, 2025
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.21.
Requesting approval of an exemption for Johnathan Tsirigotis as required by
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 268A, Section 20(b).
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1374)
APPROVED
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1405)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, Mackay Construction Services Inc.
License
(ID # 25-1391)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
Crown Castle Fiber LLC applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for
facilities on an existing pole at 8 Central Street.
Small Wireless
Facility
(ID # 25-1392)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Neighborways Design applying for a Public Event License for Assembly
Mobility Hub Paint Day on June 18 from 4pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1371)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Federal Realty applying for a Public Event License for Riverfest on
September 13 from 9am to 11pm (raindate September 14).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1397)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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City Council
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9.5.
Davis Square Village applying for a Public Event License for Davis Square
Village Community Event on September 13 from 11am to 5pm (raindate
September 14).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1395)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
BluBoiBooking applying for a Public Event License for Astrofest on
September 20 from 12pm to 10pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1393)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Office of Immigrant Affairs applying for a Public Event License for
ChocoMingle: Level Up on September 25 from 2:30pm to 6:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1394)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Ignite Festival on
September 27 from 2pm to 10pm (raindate September 28).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1396)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
Mobility Division applying for a Public Event License for Western Pearl
Street Reconstruction Updated Design Open House on October 1 from
3:30pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1398)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Elizabeth Peabody House applying for a Public Event License for Winter
Hill Community Event on October 18 from 8am to 6pm (raindate October
19).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1399)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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City Council
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September 11, 2025
9.11.
Michael Vaglica submitting comments re: bike lanes.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1403)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.12.
Greta Pintacuda submitting comments re: bird feeding.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1404)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.13.
Lindsay Macasay submitting comments re: Davis Square.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1406)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Administration inform this Council of the process, action and
communication used to consider acquiring the closed school building
privately owned by the Archdiocese of Boston, on Thurston Street, after the
Winter Hill Community Innovation School was deemed unsuitable for use.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1438)
Councilor Clingan reported that the city is aware of the former St. Ann
School building but isn’t sure if it’s under lease, so its availability needs to
be determined. Councilor Strezo noted that this matter has been brought up
by Construction Advisory Group (CAG) members several times and she
would like to have some documentation that the city had a discussion with
the archdiocese.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Strezo and Councilor Scott
That the City Clerk work with this Council to amend the Code of
Ordinances to better regulate the sale of second-hand goods.
Order
(ID # 25-1439)
Councilor Wilson commented that a business owner brought to his attention
that the language in the ordinance is vague and would like it amended.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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10.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the City Solicitor update this Council on the new Immigration and
Customs Enforcement cooperation requirements attached to forthcoming
Urban Area Security Initiative grants.
Order
(ID # 25-1445)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.4.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Chief of Police or the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region
representative update this Council on the strategy for applying for Urban
Area Security Initiative or any other federal grants that require Immigration
and Customs Enforcement cooperation.
Order
(ID # 25-1446)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
Requesting the adoption of an Order of Taking for the acquisition of Lot 3 at
299 Broadway for municipal purposes including parking.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1400)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.6.
Requesting approval of temporary and permanent easements over Lot 3 of
299 Broadway in favor of 299 Broadway Property Owner, LLC.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1433)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.6, 7.8
through 7.10, 7.12 through 7.20 and 10.05 through 10.6 and refer them to
the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
New Livery License, Med Transportation, 34 Grant Street, operating 2
vehicles.
License
(ID # 25-1444)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.10
and 10.7 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
11.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 8:39 PM.
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