City Council — Minutes, Mar 12, 2026

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes 7:00 PM Thursday, March 12, 2026 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 7:05 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:05 PM and returned at 9:28 PM with all Councilors present. 1.1. Call of the Roll. Roll Call (ID # 26-0366) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 1.2. Remembrances. Remembrances (ID # 26-0367) Councilor Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of Barbara McEachern. Councilor McLaughlin requested a moment of silence in memory of Daniel Matthews. Councilor Scott requested a moment of silence in memory of the 20 individuals who died in Immigration and Customs Enforcement captivity. Councilor Scott requested a moment of silence in memory of the more than 100 school children and first responders killed February 28, 2026by a missile strike at the Shajarah Tayyebeh elementary school building. APPROVED RESULT: 1.3. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 12, 2026. Minutes (ID # 26-0368) APPROVED RESULT: 2. CITATIONS Page 1 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 2.1. By Councilor Wheeler and Councilor Clingan Commending the Kendall Wanderers Football Club on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. Citation (ID # 26-0347) Councilor Wheeler read the Citation into the record. Johnathan Kilpatrick accepted the award on behalf of the football club. Mayor Wilson spoke about role played by the club in welcoming immigrants over the years. APPROVED RESULT: 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 20 feet of conduit in Allen Street, from Utility Pole 3 to a point of pickup at 13-17 Allen Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0304) Rod Rutland, representing Comcast, 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. Dagle Electrical applying for a Grant of Location to install 57 feet of conduit and one new charging station in the City Hall Concourse, from the War Memorial to a point of pickup at the proposed electrical vehicle charging station. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0305) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. APPROVED RESULT: 3.3. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to relocate existing Utility Pole 60/40 four feet northerly of its current location, near 3 Chester Avenue. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0306) 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: 3.4. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 164 feet of conduit and one new Manhole in Grant Street, from an existing Manhole 1900 to a point of pickup at 299 Broadway. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0312) 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. Page 2 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 APPROVED RESULT: 3.5. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 82 feet of conduit in MacArthur Street, from Utility Pole 122/2 to a point of pickup at 17 MacArthur Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0309) 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: 3.6. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 64 feet of conduit in Stone Avenue, from existing Manhole 14068 to a point of pickup at 11 Stone Avenue. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0307) 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: 3.7. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 6 feet of conduit in Chandler Street, from Utility Pole 227/6 to a point of pickup at 53 Chandler Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0310) 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: 3.8. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 6 feet of conduit in Line Street, from Utility Pole 211/7 to a point of pickup at 62 Line Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0311) 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. Councilor Scott noted pole 211/6 has been on Eversource’s list of poles to be removed for over three years and he requested that this item be conditioned on having pole 211/6 addressed. He requested that this item be sent to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Licenses and Permits Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 3 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 3.9. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 5 feet of conduit in Heath Street, from Utility Pole 165/13 to a point of pickup at 16 Edgar Avenue. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0308) 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. Councilor Hardt noted her concern with the amount of work going on in the area and asked that this item be sent to the Committee on Licenses and Permits so that work schedules can be coordinated. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Licenses and Permits Committee FOLLOWUP: 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. By Councilor Mbah Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0335) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.2. By Councilor Davis That Rule 4 of the Rules of the City Council be amended to update submission deadlines for agenda items, consistent with the provisions of the Open Meeting Law. Order (ID # 26-0354) Councilor Davis noted that this will align the internal deadlines better with the actual law. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Legislative Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.3. By Councilor Davis That this City Council appoints Jessica Smith to the Public Financing of Campaigns Committee. Order (ID # 26-0340) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 4 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 4.4. By Councilor Davis That this City Council appoints James Leo Bedard to the Ranked Choice Voting Committee. Order (ID # 26-0341) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.5. By Councilor Davis That this City Council appoints Crystal Huff to the Ranked Choice Voting Committee. Order (ID # 26-0342) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.6. By Councilor Davis That this City Council appoints Derrick Rice to the Review of Multiple Member Bodies Committee. Order (ID # 26-0343) City Clerk Wells informed the Council that this item is time sensitive due to the recently passed ordinance creating this body, and asked the Council to approve this evening so the Committee can begin convening. APPROVED RESULT: 4.7. By Councilor Davis In his capacity as President, conveying this Council's updated Standing Committee assignments and Commission appointments for 2026. Communication (ID # 26-0339) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 4.8. By Councilor Davis Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0351) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 5 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 4.9. By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler That the Director of Inspectional Services discuss with this Council how to ensure that temporary dumpster permits do not conflict with handicapped parking spaces, or that temporary handicapped parking spaces are relocated for the duration of the dumpster permit. Order (ID # 26-0336) This item was discussed with items #02-0337 and #26-0338. Councilor Ewen-Campen asked if the dumpster permits are reviewed prior to being issued. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.10. By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council how to ensure that handicapped parking spaces are not used for snow storage and are cleared at the same time as other spaces. Resolution (ID # 26-0337) This item was discussed with items #26-0336 and #26-0338. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that snow was piled in a handicapped parking spot. He sponsored Holly Simione to speak on the matter. She said that there needs to be a conversation to resolve this problem and that the law dictates that handicapped parking spaces remain clear of snow. She would like the Commission for Persons with Disabilities to have a seat at the table to discuss this matter. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.11. By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council how to ensure that accessible sidewalk ramps are cleared following snowstorms, and ensure that 311 reports on this issue are promptly responded to. Resolution (ID # 26-0338) This item was discussed with items #26-0336 and #26-0337. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that he received several calls about accessible sidewalks not being cleared, even after being reported. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 6 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 4.12. By Councilor Ewen-Campen Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0344) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.13. By Councilor Sait Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0345) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and refer them to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.14. By Councilor Link, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Davis, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Sait, Councilor Wheeler, Councilor Mbah and Councilor Clingan In support of House Bill H.965 and Senate Bill S.2721, an Act restricting the use of rodenticides in the environment. Resolution (ID # 26-0350) Councilor Link moved to amend the item in the fourth clause to insert "FGARs (First Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides) and" after the text "H.965/S.2721 would restrict the sale and use of.". The amendment was approved by unanimous consent. APPROVED AS AMENDED RESULT: 4.15. By Councilor Link Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0349) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.16. By Councilor Hardt That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council, the policy of prohibiting parking on alternating sides of the street during a snow emergency, and whether it is the best way to meet snow removal needs. Order (ID # 26-0352) APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Page 7 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.17. By Councilor Hardt That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council the frequency of street sweeping throughout the period of April through November. Order (ID # 26-0353) Councilor Hardt would like to discuss reducing the frequency of street cleaning during the summer months to alleviate the parking situation. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.18. By Councilor Strezo Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0355) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.19. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler In support of Senate Bill S.2975, an Act protecting access to justice. Resolution (ID # 26-0356) Councilor McLaughlin sponsored State Senator Lydia Edwards and State Representative Christine Barber to address the Council. Senator Edwards spoke about the number of individuals arrested by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) in courthouses, leading some people to forego their court appearances. She noted that people are being arrested on civil charges and sometimes taken out of court. Senator Edwards stated that courts in Massachusetts (MA) will be governed by MA laws. This bill requires that ICE have a judicial warrant from a judge to arrest someone while in a courthouse. Persons making arrests must identify themselves, state their purpose and not be wearing a mask, unless for health reasons. There will be a hearing in the Judiciary Committee in about a month and once the bill is passed, it will take effect immediately. State Representative Christine Barber addressed the Council on the matter, saying that there were 600 ICE arrests in MA last year. Organizing around the bill is working and the Protect Act incorporates part of this bill, as well. Representative Barber stated that this bill would be enforceable by the state Attorney General and that this is the right moment to keep the momentum up. APPROVED RESULT: Page 8 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 4.20. By Councilor Wheeler That this City Council calls on the Massachusetts Legislature and Governor to increase Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) by at least 6% in Fiscal Year 2027. Resolution (ID # 26-0358) Councilor Wheeler commented that state aid to cities and towns has not kept pace with the cost of providing services and he feels that this increase would ease the financial burden on taxpayers. APPROVED RESULT: 4.21. By Councilor Wheeler, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait and Councilor Strezo That this City Council calls on the Massachusetts Legislature and Governor to fully fund the Student Opportunity Act, and maintain the $150 per pupil minimum aid increase in Fiscal Year 2027. Resolution (ID # 26-0359) APPROVED RESULT: 4.22. By Councilor Wheeler Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0360) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.23. By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Mbah That the Administration create a publicly accessible dashboard tracking progress toward planning and development goals in Gilman Square. Resolution (ID # 26-0362) Councilor Clingan explained that a dashboard on the website for the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council would provide visual timelines for the public. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Housing, Community Development and Equity Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.24. By Councilor Clingan That Director of Mobility evaluate opportunities for improved pedestrian safety at the intersection of Broadway and Main Street. Resolution (ID # 26-0363) Councilor Clingan spoke about the danger experienced by parents and children while walking to the Healey School. Page 9 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Traffic and Parking Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.25. By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Link That the Director of Housing provide data on units produced through the city’s inclusionary housing program, including length of occupancy, unit refusal by lottery winners and other data to demonstrate the health of the program. Resolution (ID # 26-0364) Councilor Clingan spoke about the different charges that are sometimes added to the overall monthly cost of some of these properties, which ultimately lead some individuals to refuse acceptance of a property after being selected to participate in the inclusionary housing program. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Housing, Community Development and Equity Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.26. By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler Recognizing March 2026 as National Social Work Month. Resolution (ID # 26-0365) Councilor Clingan spoke about the importance of social workers in society and praised them for the work they perform in an often unseen and quiet manner. He sponsored Marianne Walles and Cokiena Fuller. Ms. Walles and Ms. Fuller thanked Councilor Clingan for bringing this item forward and thanked him for the recognition. APPROVED RESULT: 4.27. By Councilor Clingan Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0357) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 75 feet of conduit in Prospect Street, from Utility Pole 291/12 to a point of pickup at 91 Prospect Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0185) Page 10 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 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. Councilor Scott requested that this item be sent to the Committee on Licenses and Permits since a project for this work does not exist. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Licenses and Permits Committee FOLLOWUP: 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on March 10, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0332) Councilor Wheeler summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that there was a discussion about the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Tool (UCH-TIF) and that the committee recommended for approval three grants and one appropriation. Councilor Scott moved to sever items #25-0849, #26-0169 and #26-0271 from the committee report and requested a roll call vote on each item. He spoke about item #26-0271 and its requirement that the city participate in the Cop-Link system where information is shared. Regarding item #26-0169, Councilor Scott expressed his concerns about the use of Blue Voice, which is a type of artificial intelligence (AI), to assist in writing police reports. Lastly, Councilor Scott noted that the funds associated with item #25-0849 could be used for helmets, shields, and chemical weapons, adding that police departments across the nation are utilizing this gear when opposing protesters. Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi explained that Blue Voice is a closed system and will not be used to generate police reports. Councilor Link noted his concerns about use of AI but said that if it is used as a search engine, he is less concerned. Councilor Wheeler noted that the city shares data already, but any data collected under item #26-0271 will not be shared with the federal government. Councilor Clingan commented that these funds have a positive impact on the city’s youth through various programs, adding that if the Council is opposing this grant out of an abundance of caution, then this body must be completely irresponsible in its actions. Councilor Hardt stated she was against accepting the grant (item #26-0271) but urged the mayor to allocate the same amount of funding into the FY 2027 budget for youth programming. Mayor Wilson informed the Council that the city’s relationship with Cop-Link has existed for some time, and that Cop-Link will not change based on how the Council votes on these items, rather, it would just amount to the Council refusing money offered to the city. Page 11 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.2. 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) Councilor Scott moved to sever this item from the Committee Report for further discussion. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis AYE: Ward Two City Councilor Scott NAY: 6.A.3. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $43,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for software. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0169) Councilor Scott moved to sever this item from the Committee Report for further discussion. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis AYE: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, and City Councilor At Large Mbah NAY: 6.A.4. Director of Economic Development conveying the potential use of an Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Tool (UCH-TIF) to incentivize housing production. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0201) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.A.5. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $31,000 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Environmental Protection to the Department of Public Works for upgrades to the Hazardous Household Waste Facility. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0268) APPROVED RESULT: Page 12 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 6.A.6. Requesting approval to appropriate $56,339.46 from the Bike Share Stabilization Fund for installation and startup costs of a Blue Bike station at the Boynton Union Connect Transportation Management Association development site. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0270) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis AYE: 6.A.7. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $22,800.08 grant that requires a match, from the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition Community Safety Initiative to the Police Department for youth violence prevention. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0271) Councilor Scott moved to sever this item from the Committee Report for further discussion. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis AYE: City Councilor At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, and City Councilor At Large Mbah NAY: 6.B. HOUSING, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND EQUITY COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Report of the Committee on Housing, Community Development and Equity, meeting on March 4, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0331) Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that a public hearing was held regarding Out of the Blue’s Community Arts Space at the Armory. APPROVED RESULT: 6.B.2. That this City Council hold a public hearing on the petition submitted by 52 registered voters regarding Out of the Blue Community Arts Space at Arts at the Armory, pursuant to Section 2-11 of the City Charter. Public Communication (ID # 26-0265) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 6.C. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE Page 13 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 6.C.1. Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on March 11, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0333) Councilor Hardt summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the sole agenda item was for a Grant of a Location for Eversource. APPROVED RESULT: 6.C.2. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 62 feet of conduit in Ivaloo Street, from Utility Pole 179/5 to a point of pickup at 38 Ivaloo Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0181) APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS RESULT: 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to receive an update on collective bargaining negotiations. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0334) Labor Counsel Matt Sirigu appeared before the Council and confirmed that this item is appropriate for Executive Session. The Council entered Executive Session at 8:05 PM and returned to the regular meeting at 9:28 PM. President Davis reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis AYE: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and City Councilor At Large Strezo ABSENT: 7.2. Requesting approval to appropriate $75,000 from the Bike Share Stabilization Fund for installation and startup costs of a Blue Bike station at the 16-20 Medford Street development site. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0202) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 14 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 7.3. Requesting the appropriation of $1,167,395 from the Community Preservation Act Fund Community Housing Reserve to the Affordable Housing Trust. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0298) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.4. Requesting the appropriation of $399,255 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Undesignated Fund Balance to the CPA Fund Community Housing Reserve. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0297) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.5. Requesting the appropriation of $200,000 from the Community Preservation Act Fund Open Space Reserve to the Open Space Land Acquisition Fund. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0299) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.6. Requesting the appropriation of $100,766 from the Community Preservation Act Fund Historic Preservation Reserve to the Somerville Museum to conserve artifacts in its collection. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0300) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.7. Requesting the appropriation of $50,000 from the Community Preservation Act Budgeted Reserve to the Housing Authority for improvements to the open space at the Mystic River/View developments. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0323) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 15 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 7.8. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $47,580 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for overtime and backfill for Crisis Intervention Training certification and recertification. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0301) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.9. Requesting approval to establish a Grant Match Account with a $15,000 transfer from the Department of Veterans' Services Grounds Maintenance Account to the Department of Veterans' Services Special Items Account for the Massachusetts General Court and the State Historical Records Advisory Board Grant match requirement. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0325) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.10. Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Courtney Reece to the position of Police Sergeant. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0321) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.11. Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Ashley Catatao to the position of Police Sergeant. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0322) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.12. Conveying the appointment of Chris Dwan to the Review of Multiple Member Bodies Committee. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0361) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: Page 16 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 7.13. Conveying the 2025 Surveillance Technology Annual Report. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0302) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Legislative Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.14. Conveying the 2026 Safe Streets Ordinance Annual Report. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0303) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Traffic and Parking Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.15. Conveying Public Safety for All findings and current initiatives. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0348) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Public Health and Public Safety Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.16. Proclaiming 2026 to be the Year of the Neighbor. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0346) Mayor Wilson commented that we need to come together as a community in these difficult times. He reflected on a recent neighborhood meeting where speakers were heckled, and he urged people to listen to others who have different opinions from their own. He reported that his administration is bringing back neighborhood cleanups and looking for more creative ways for people to connect with each other. He asked for the Council’s support in this initiative. Councilor Strezo suggested having a corporate sponsor for the community cleanups to which the mayor replied that a search for a sponsor has already begun. Councilor Sait commented that it’s important for neighbors to get together, now, more than ever. PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0324) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: Page 17 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 8.2. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 26-0203) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Dormition of the Virgin Mary applying for a Public Event License for Greek Independence Day Celebration 2026 on March 28 from 10am to 1:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0316) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.2. St. Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good Friday Stations of the Cross on April 3 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0315) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.3. Tufts Engineers without Borders applying for a Public Event License for Fred Berger Memorial 6K Run/Walk on April 12 from 10:30am to 3pm (raindate April 19). Public Event (ID # 26-0319) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.4. Office of Immigrant Affairs applying for a Public Event License for Nepali National Flag Raising Ceremony 2026 on April 12 from 1pm to 4:30pm (raindate April 19). Public Event (ID # 26-0318) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.5. SomerPromise applying for a Public Event License for Week of the Young Child Celebration 2026 on April 16 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0320) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: Page 18 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 9.6. Mystic River Watershed Association applying for a Public Event License for Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle on May 17 from 6am to 3pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0317) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.7. Mass Farmers Markets applying for a Public Event License for Davis Square Farmers Market every Wednesday from May 20 to November 25. Public Event (ID # 26-0314) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.8. The Curl Bar applying for a Public Event License for The Curl Bar Community Event 2026 on May 30 from 6am to 7pm (raindate May 31). Public Event (ID # 26-0313) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.9. 29 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend Zoning Ordinance Section 15.7.2.d Zoning Board of Appeals Board Rules. Public Communication (ID # 26-0327) Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 9.9 through 9.12 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning Board. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.10. 14 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend Zoning Ordinance Section 12.2.2 regarding affordable dwelling units. Public Communication (ID # 26-0328) Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 9.9 through 9.12 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning Board. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 19 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 9.11. 14 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Zoning Ordinance Section 3.1.12 Backyard Cottage. Public Communication (ID # 26-0329) Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 9.9 through 9.12 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning Board. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.12. 29 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend Zoning Ordinance Section 3.1.12 Backyard Cottage. Public Communication (ID # 26-0330) Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 9.9 through 9.12 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning Board. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 9.13. Tufts University conveying its Spring 2026 Accountability Report. Public Communication (ID # 26-0326) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Housing, Community Development and Equity Committee FOLLOWUP: 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. By Councilor Hardt Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2027. Communication (ID # 26-0371) Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of items 4.1, 4.8, 4.12, 4.13, 4.15, 4.18, 4.22, 4.27, and 10.1 and place them on file with a copy to the Finance Committee. PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Finance Committee FOLLOWUP: 10.2. By Councilor Wheeler That this Council review construction-related parking in the area of Oak Street and Bolton Street. Order (ID # 26-0373) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Traffic and Parking Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 20 of 21

City Council Meeting Minutes March 12, 2026 10.3. 62 individuals, including 60 residents, submitting comments re: item #26-0114, Fiscal Year 2027 budget priorities. Public Communication (ID # 26-0369) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 10.4. Thouis Jones submitting comments re: bike lanes. Public Communication (ID # 26-0370) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 10.5. Courtney Pollack submitting comments re: items #26-0055, #26-0156, and #26-0168, requests regarding public safety grants. Public Communication (ID # 26-0377) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:49 PM. Page 21 of 21