Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Sep 25, 2025
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, September 25, 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 7:03 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis.
The City Council entered recess at 7:13 PM and returned at 7:17 PM.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 7:32 PM and returned at 7:48 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 25-1505)
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
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
Present:
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
Absent:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 25-1506)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 28, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-1507)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson
Commending the Somerville Firefighters for their life saving actions in
Summer 2025.
Citation
(ID # 25-1365)
Councilor Clingan presented the citation to Mike Jefferson, President of the
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Somerville Firefighters Union Local 76 on behalf of the City Council and
Mayor Ballantyne for their heroic actions fighting a quick spreading fire on
Wheatland Street on July 6, 2025, under extreme conditions in which 27
residents were displaced. Councilor Clingan spoke of the bravery and
professionalism of the firefighters not only at this fire and two other fires in
West Somerville and on Thurston Street, but also for their tireless service to
the city. Liaison Hutter thanked the firefighters on behalf of the mayor.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 6 feet of
conduit in Warwick Street, from Utility Pole 357/2 to a point of pickup at 13
Warwick Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1463)
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 68 feet of
conduit in Cedar Street, from Utility Pole 55/4 to a point of pickup at 33
Cedar Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1464)
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.
Verizon New England applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of
305 feet of conduit in Somerville Avenue, from existing Manhole 44/42 to a
point of pickup at existing Manhole 44/33.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1465)
Alexander Marrero, representing Verizon New England, 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:
3.4.
Verizon New England applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of
385 feet of conduit in Bow Street, from existing Manhole 44/32 to a point of
pickup at existing Manhole 44/33.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1466)
Alexander Marrero, representing Verizon New England, spoke in favor of
the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further
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speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Davis, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Sait
That the Director of Health and Human Services inform this Council which
school buildings have menstrual products available and which school
buildings have inoperable menstrual product dispensers and when they are
scheduled to be replaced.
Order
(ID # 25-1455)
Councilor Strezo noted that some of the dispensers are jamming, and she
would like corrective action taken.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council the recent
snagging of overhead wires by a semi-truck, that took out the electricity in
Ward Seven, and what plans have been put in place to prevent a similar
occurrence.
Order
(ID # 25-1456)
Councilor Strezo recalled that last month a semi took out an electric pole,
knocking out service to a neighborhood and she would like to have a
discussion on the matter. Councilor Clingan commented that wind
sometimes stretches wires to the point where they might get snagged.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.3.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Administration discuss with this Council its recent press release
announcement of a Home Rule Petition to expand procurement
opportunities for disadvantaged businesses.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1457)
Councilor Strezo requested that this item be referred to the Committee on
Housing and Community Development, where she would like to hear about
the city’s strategy and plan. President Davis noted that the item for the
Home Rule Petition is before the Council’s Legislative Matters Committee
and he would rather refer the item there to keep them together. After further
discussion, Councilor Strezo stated that should the Home Rule Petition be
approved, she would resubmit this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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4.4.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-1491)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
4.5.
By Councilor Mbah
Conveying a report of the Affordable Housing Trust.
Communication
(ID # 25-1492)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
4.6.
By Councilor Mbah
Conveying a report of the Job Creation and Retention Trust.
Communication
(ID # 25-1493)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
4.7.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson and
Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Mobility develop and install quick-build safety
infrastructure at the intersection of Webster and Prospect Streets.
Order
(ID # 25-1498)
Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that this has been a problem intersection for
years and he believes that a quick-build solution is warranted.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Mobility install a pedestrian light signal at the
intersection of Vinal Avenue and Highland Avenue.
Order
(ID # 25-1499)
Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that the crossing has been made safer, yet it
is still extremely dangerous, and he would like to have additional safety
measures put in place.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.9.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility deploy quick-build traffic calming measures
on Grant Street until permanent speed humps are installed.
Order
(ID # 25-1500)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and approve this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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4.10.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility deploy quick-build traffic calming measures
on Derby Street until permanent speed humps are installed.
Order
(ID # 25-1501)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and approve this item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.11.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Mobility install a solar powered digital YOUR SPEED
IS display sign on Shore Drive westbound.
Order
(ID # 25-1502)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking 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 23, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1503)
Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that the committee recommended for approval payment of prior
year invoices, the acceptance and expenditure of a grant, a partial
discontinuance of a portion of a roadway, a partial discontinuance of an
easement, an extension and amendment of an existing contract, an Order of
Taking, an authorization to borrow and expend funds, and a transfer of
funds. Councilor Wilson noted that the committee is taking a wait and see
approach with respect to Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) grants,
adding that the city’s values are not negotiable.
Councilor Burnley commented that a memo has been received from the Law
Department regarding the USAI grants. The issue is that the federal
government has added new priorities to the grants which may require
communities to put at least 10% of the grant funds towards cooperation with
federal immigration enforcement. Presently, there is federal litigation
pending which may determine the legality of that requirement.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.A.3.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting approval of the discontinuance of a portion of Sewall Court.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1382)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.5.
Requesting approval of the partial termination of the City Utility Easement
on Sewall Court.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1383)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.6.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.7.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.9.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.A.10.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.11.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.12.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.13.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
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6.A.14.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.15.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.16.
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)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
6.B.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on September 18, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1477)
Councilor Ewen-Campen asked that the report be accepted as submitted.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
15 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the
Zoning Ordinance sections 3.1.8c, 3.1.9c, 3.1.10c, 3.1.13k, 3.1.13l, 3.2.12l.
and 3.2.12m.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-0200)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.B.3.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Inspectional Services and the Director of Planning,
Preservation and Zoning discuss with this Council, Type IV heavy timber
construction now permitted in the 10th edition of Massachusetts State
Building Code 780 and potential impacts on inspections, development, and
the Zoning Ordinance.
Order
(ID # 25-0246)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
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6.B.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning provide the
Committee on Land Use with an opinion as to whether the City Council may
dictate standards and materials used for outdoor bike facilities.
Order
(ID # 25-0338)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and
Maintenance, meeting on September 15, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1448)
Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and
reported that among the items discussed were procedures for testing and
maintaining the Ginny Smithers Pool and a contingency plan in the event of
an emergency school closure.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
By Councilor Davis
That the Administration report to this Council on the cause of the reported
chemical imbalance at the Ginny Smithers Pool and the process being used
to address the imbalance.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0727)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.3.
By Councilor Davis
That the Administration develop a new process to address ongoing
maintenance at the Ginny Smithers Pool and report to this Council to
describe that process.
Resolution
(ID # 25-0729)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
By Councilor Sait and Councilor Mbah
That the Director of Parks and Recreation report to this Council on the cause
of the chemical spill at the Ginny Smithers Pool and the process to address
the cause of the spill and prevent a future occurrence.
Order
(ID # 25-1132)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.5.
By Councilor Davis
That the Administration submit to the City Council and School Committee,
the city’s contingency plan in the event of an emergency school closure
during the 2025-2026 school year.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1231)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
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6.C.6.
Conveying an update regarding work completed during Summer 2025 on
Somerville Public Schools buildings.
Mayor's
Communication
(ID # 25-1333)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to discuss the
proposed settlement of opioid litigation involving the Purdue Pharma
bankruptcy case.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1432)
The Council voted to enter into Executive Session to discuss this matter
after being advised by Assistant City Solicitor Jason Piques that said action
meets the criteria set forth in the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 7:32 PM.
The regular meeting was reconvened at 7:48 PM. President Davis
announced that no votes were taken in Executive Session, other than the
vote to adjourn.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
7.2.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to raise the maximum amount
of fines for violations allowed by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40,
Section 21D.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1429)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 7 and Section 1-11(b)
of the Code of Ordinances to require notification to tenants of parking
permit restrictions in transit areas.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1460)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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7.4.
Requesting approval to appropriate $2,286,090 from the Salary & Wage
Stabilization Fund to the Police Department Other Lump Sum Payments
Account to fund retroactive payments in accordance with the collective
bargaining agreement with the Somerville Police Superior Officers
Association.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1496)
This item was discussed with item #25-1497.
Labor Counsel Matthew Sirigu explained that the funds will be used to
satisfy conditions of the recently approved labor agreement and noted that it
does not include bonus funds for wearing body cameras as they have not
been placed in use.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City
Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four
City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor
At Large Mbah
ABSENT:
7.5.
Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Encore Artist and
Cultural Support Stabilization Fund to support Local Cultural Council grants
to artists, organizations, and schools.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1459)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting the appropriation of $240,664.10 from the Transportation
Network Company Special Revenue Fund for FY 2026 Vision Zero safety
efforts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1449)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting the appropriation of $97,160 from the Salary Contingency
Account to various Police Department Personal Services Accounts to fund a
Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Somerville Police Superior
Officers Association.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1497)
This item was discussed with item #25-1496.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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7.8.
Requesting approval to use available funds in the Law Department Personal
Services accounts in the amount of $6,296.88 to increase the annual salary
of the Municipal Hearing Officer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1494)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to extend and amend a contract with City Hall Systems
for an additional two years until 12/17/2027, for online bill payment
services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1462)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $54,400 grant with no new
match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for the
Local Cultural Council grant program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1447)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $121,818.23 using
available funds in various Department of Public Works Accounts for various
services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1479)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $527 using available
funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Equipment Rental Account for
truck rental.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1452)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
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REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $159.96 using
available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies
Account for picnic blankets.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1419)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $94.75 using
available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies
Account for carbon dioxide tank refill at Dilboy Pool.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1453)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8
through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Richard Lavey Jr. to the
position of Police Deputy Chief.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1488)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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 promotion of Michael R. Perrone to the
position of Police Captain.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1480)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Rico Isidoro to the position of
Police Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1481)
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Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.18.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Marc DiFava to the position of
Police Lieutenant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1483)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.19.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Joseph Teves to the position of
Police Sergeant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1484)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.20.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Jason Costa to the position of
Police Sergeant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1485)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.21.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Patrick Canty to the position of
Police Sergeant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1486)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of
Appointments and Personnel Matters.
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REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.22.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Cassandra Campers to the
position of Police Sergeant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1487)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.23.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the
Board of Assessors.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1440)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.24.
Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Michael Flynn to the
Board of Assessors.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1441)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.25.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Nick Pittman to the
Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1450)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.26.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Coralie Cooper to the
Planning Board.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1475)
Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through
7.22 and 7.26 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:
7.27.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-1461)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
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September 25, 2025
7.28.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-1476)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
7.29.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-1482)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1458)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Garage License, Roman Auto Repair LLC, 45 Mystic Avenue, 5
Vehicles inside, 4 Vehicles outside, Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm, Sat: 7am-12pm,
Sun: closed.
License
(ID # 25-1467)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of item 9.1 and refer it to the
Committee on Licenses and Permits.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.2.
Mobility Division applying for a Public Event License for Western Pearl
Street Reconstruction Updated Design Open House on October 4 from 11am
to 2:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1474)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Zinnia Smith applying for a Public Event License for Poetry in the Park on
October 10 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm (raindate October 17).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1473)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
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9.4.
Kids Like You and Me applying for a Public Event License for KLYAM
Autumnal Music Spectacular on October 18 from 1pm to 8pm (raindate
October 19).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1469)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Monster Mash on
October 19 from 11:30am to 8pm (raindate October 26).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1472)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Federal Realty Investment Trust applying for a Public Event License for 5th
Annual Halloween Family Bike Ride on October 26 from 9am to 4pm
(raindate November 2).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1471)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for 29th
Annual Gobble Gobble Gobble Road Race on November 27 from 6am to
1pm.
Public Event
(ID # 25-1470)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Katie Pilat submitting comments re: bike lanes.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1468)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
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City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 25, 2025
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor
Sait, Councilor Davis and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs discuss with this
Council the most critical content to include in an immigrant defense Know
Your Rights document and how best to make it available in the preferred
languages of residents.
Order
(ID # 25-1513)
Councilor Burnley stated that his goal is to have a discussion regarding this
matter as he believes that all community members should know what their
rights are. He feels that the best way to reach people is through a citywide
mailing.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor
Sait, Councilor Davis and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Mayor allocate funds for a citywide immigrant defense Know Your
Rights mailing, and make this document available in Somerville's most
prominent languages.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1512)
This item was discussed with item #25-1513.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
Groundwork Somerville applying for a Public Event License for Harvest
Festival on October 4 from 9am to 6pm (raindate October 5).
Public Event
(ID # 25-1516)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and
10.3 and approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.4.
Bill Valletta submitting comments re: item #25-1344, an Order that the
Director of Finance provide a comprehensive accounting of all stabilization
accounts.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1514)
Councilor Scott noted the work done by Mr. Valletta and he asked that this
item be sent to the Finance Committee for further discussion.
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
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Meeting Minutes
September 25, 2025
10.5.
Crystal Huff submitting comments re: items #25-1445 and #25-1446, Orders
regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and ShotSpotter.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1515)
PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
11.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 8:21 PM.
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