City Council — Minutes, Apr 23, 2026

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes 7:00 PM Thursday, April 23, 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 7:03 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered recess at 7:14 PM and returned at 7:17 PM. The City Council entered recess at 7:35 PM and returned at 7:40 PM. The City Council entered Executive Session at 9:56 PM and returned at 11:15 PM. 1.1. Call of the Roll. Roll Call (ID # 26-0716) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo City Councilor At Large Ben Wheeler Ward Seven City Councilor Emily Hardt Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis Present: Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen City Councilor At Large Jon Link Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait Absent: 1.2. Remembrances. Remembrances (ID # 26-0717) Councilors McLaughlin, Clingan and Mbah requested a moment of silence in memory of Larry Ianello. Councilor Clingan requested a moment of silence in memory of Charles Lasage, Jr. APPROVED RESULT: 1.3. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 12, 2026. Minutes (ID # 26-0718) APPROVED RESULT: Page 1 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 2. CITATIONS 2.1. By Councilor Strezo Commending Gary Rogers, Community Action Agency of Somerville, Office of Housing Stability, and DeNovo Legal Services for their work with housing justice. Citation (ID # 26-0714) Councilor Strezo spoke about how Mr. Rogers challenged practices intended to remove long-time residents from their homes. She sponsored Mr. Rogers and other housing advocates to address the Council. Mr. Rogers accepted the citation, saying that, with this citation, he believes he won more than he expected. He encouraged anyone fighting to stay in their homes, to know their rights and to be unafraid to seek housing justice. APPROVED RESULT: 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 3,520 feet of conduit and 4 new Manholes 32441, 32442, 32443 and 32444 in Prospect Street, Charlestown Street, South Street, Windsor Street and Medford Street from 9 Medford Street to a point of pickup at 51 Prospect Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0659) Rick Franka, 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 was recused from this item as an abutter. APPROVED RESULT: 3.2. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 60 feet of conduit in MacArthur Street, from Utility Pole 122/1 to a point of pickup at 8 MacArthur Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0657) 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 49 feet of conduit in Somerville Avenue, from existing Manhole 20630 to a point of pickup at 737 Somerville Avenue. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0661) 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 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 APPROVED RESULT: 3.4. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 28 feet of conduit in Horace Street, from Utility Pole 173/3-1/2 to a point of pickup at 31 Horace Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0658) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. Mary Mello, the owner of the properties at 60 Medford Street and 31 Horace Street, spoke on the item and asked for clarification, since the grant request did not mention 60 Medford Street. Ms. Duffy explained that the grant is to provide service to 60 Medford Street. Eversource is presently working on an easement, and Ms. Duffy did not have a timeline for the work but offered to speak to Ms. Mello offline about work dates. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. APPROVED RESULT: 3.5. Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 25 feet of conduit in Pearl Street, from existing Manhole 18868 to a point of pickup at 181 Pearl Street. Grant of Location (ID # 26-0660) 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 4.1. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Director of Inspectional Services update this Council on enforcement of the vacant properties ordinance. Order (ID # 26-0645) APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Housing, Community Development and Equity Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.2. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler That the Mayor appoint a City Council representative to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Resolution (ID # 26-0646) APPROVED RESULT: Page 3 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 4.3. By Councilor McLaughlin That the Administration update this Council on the ordering and maintenance of firefighter equipment such as fire engines, ladder trucks and all other fire apparatus. Resolution (ID # 26-0647) Councilor McLaughlin sponsored Mike Jefferson, President of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 76, who spoke about the impact of traffic‑calming measures on fire apparatus. He praised department mechanics but noted they cannot keep up with the increased wear caused by hundreds of speed humps, raised tables, and flex posts, each of which can delay emergency response by 3-10 seconds. Fire engines weigh about 36,000 pounds and cost $1 million, while ladder trucks weigh about 70,000 pounds and cost $2 million. In 2025, the department responded to nearly 16,000 calls, exposing its vehicles to thousands upon interactions with the city’s traffic calming devices, subjecting them to repeated stress. Mr. Jefferson explained that fire apparatus is not designed for constant speeding and slowing, and crossing speed humps damages suspension, brakes, alignment, and undercarriage components. He said navigating city streets has become increasingly difficult and that drivers are often forced to run over flex posts, causing further damage. Input has not been sought from the drivers of fire trucks to obtain first-hand information about the concerns. He thanked Mayor Wilson for riding along with Ladder 3 and invited other councilors to do the same to see what firefighters have to contend with when traversing city streets. Mr. Jefferson warned that morale suffers when firefighters must use equipment from other communities due to out‑of‑service vehicles. He noted the city’s investment in four new pieces of apparatus expected to be delivered next year and urged the Council to treat the issue as a matter of public safety. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Public Health and Public Safety Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.4. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wheeler and Councilor Hardt That the Commissioner of Public Works invest in trash barrels with latches to address rodent issues. Resolution (ID # 26-0708) Councilor McLaughlin noted that this has been discussed for years, and he explained that it appears that holes in trash barrels are made by rats chewing their way out, not in. Barrels with latches, which cost about $60 more than what is in use now, could address this issue. He proposed investigating this solution to help manage the rodent problem. APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Public Health and Public Safety Committee FOLLOWUP: Page 4 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 4.5. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Mbah In support of the THRIVE Act, Senate Bill S.374, empowering students and schools to thrive. Resolution (ID # 26-0644) APPROVED RESULT: 4.6. By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Scott and Councilor Wheeler In support of Harvard Academic Workers. Resolution (ID # 26-0648) Councilor McLaughlin spoke about the struggle many people feel to make ends meet and he sponsored Ally Stanton, from the Harvard Academic Workers Union, who spoke about the value of being a union member and her belief that a better world is possible for everyone. Ally Stanton told the Council that the union has been bargaining with Harvard for 22 months, with little movement. Councilor Mbah commented that this resolution reflects Somerville’s long history of support for organized labor. APPROVED RESULT: 4.7. Withdrawn. Withdrawn (ID # 26-0711) WITHDRAWN RESULT: 4.8. By Councilor Davis In his capacity as President, recommending the appointment of Courtney Henderson to the position of City Clerk. Order (ID # 26-0713) REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.9. By Councilor Davis That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management update this Council and the School Committee about safety improvements to security cameras, enclosed schoolyard fencing, balconies, and other infrastructure at the Argenziano School. Order (ID # 26-0710) APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.10. By Councilor Davis That the Administration report to the School Committee and this Council, on indoor air quality conditions at the Kennedy School, specifically regarding mold and humidity levels, and outline steps being taken to address them. Resolution (ID # 26-0709) Page 5 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee FOLLOWUP: 4.11. By Councilor Wheeler In their capacity as Chair of the Finance Committee, conveying information on the FY 2027 budget review process. Communication (ID # 26-0712) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Davis That the Director of Parks and Recreation and the Commissioner of Public Works coordinate with local stakeholders, including the Somerville Garden Club and other community volunteers, to evaluate the feasibility of transforming the currently unused lawn space located at the small white church across from the West Branch Library into a community gardening space. Resolution (ID # 26-0642) APPROVED RESULT: 5.2. Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to authorize the appointment of special police officers. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0602) This item was discussed with item #26-0725. Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi informed the Council that the Administration would like to withdraw this item and replace it with item #26-0725, which includes updated language. WITHDRAWN RESULT: 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on April 21, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0705) Councilor Wheeler moved to sever item #26-0512, from the committee report. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. Councilor Wheeler then summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee recommended for approval the acceptance and expenditure of five gifts and grants, one time-only contract extension, four funding transfers, one appropriation, two requests to borrow and appropriate funds, one Community Preservation Act (CPA) appropriation, and one request to reduce borrowing authorization for the Kennedy Schoolyard Renovation Project. An item requesting approval to accept and expend a $231,635 grant to the Police Department for a body-worn camera program was kept in Page 6 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 committee, awaiting further information. APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.2. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $30,000 gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York to the Public Library for library operations. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0506) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.3. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $300 gift from James and Linda Hyson to the Public Library for materials for the West Branch Library. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0507) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.4. Requesting the approval of a time-only contract extension until 5/31/2029 for the Mystic River Watershed Association for the Community Preservation Act FY 2023 grant for design of the Blessing of the Bay Linear Park improvements. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0509) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.5. Requesting approval of a transfer of $325,000 from the Police Department Salaries Account to the Police Department Medical and Dental Services Account for medical procedures for current and retired employees injured in the line of duty. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0510) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.6. Requesting approval of a transfer of $35,000 from the Police Department Salaries Account to the Police Department Animal Control Salaries Account for an expected deficit. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0511) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.7. Requesting approval of a five-year extension to the lease with BwB-Square LLC for Nibble Community Kitchen. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0512) Councilor Wheeler moved to sever this item #26-0512, from the committee report. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi informed the Council that the Administration would like to withdraw this item due to an error. A replacement item #26-0726, has been submitted for approval. WITHDRAWN RESULT: Page 7 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 6.A.8. Requesting approval to appropriate of $46,500 from the Street Tree Stabilization Fund for FY 2026 Ash Tree treatments. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0513) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 6.A.9. Requesting authorization to borrow $8,284,000 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount for the recurring FY 2026 Water Main Rehabilitation program. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0515) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 6.A.10. Requesting authorization to borrow $2,000,000 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount for the annual FY 2026 Sewer System Rehabilitation - McGrath Corridor. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0516) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 6.A.11. Requesting approval of a transfer of $228,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Undesignated Fund Balance to the CPA Open Space Reserve. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0517) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.12. Requesting the appropriation of $400,000 from the Community Preservation Act Fund for improvements to the Kennedy Schoolyard. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0518) Page 8 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.13. Requesting approval to reduce the borrowing authorization for the Kennedy Schoolyard Renovation Project from $2,000,000 to $1,600,000. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0519) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 6.A.14. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $30,380 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for firefighter safety equipment. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0523) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.15. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $48,866.25 grant with no new match required, from the Urban Areas Security Initiative to the Fire Department for the purchase of a vehicle for the Fire Department Auxiliary. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0524) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.16. Requesting approval to accept and expend a $125,000 grant that requires a match, from the Department of Energy Resources to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for light retrofitting at Dilboy Field. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0601) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.17. Requesting approval of a transfer of $31,800 from the Communications and Community Engagement Salaries Account to the Communications and Community Engagement Professional and Technical Services and Printing and Stationary Accounts for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and program signage. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0603) APPROVED RESULT: 6.A.18. Alexandra Thorn and Daniel Wong submitting comments re: item #26-0378, grant for body-worn camera program. Public Communication (ID # 26-0636) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.B. HOUSING, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND EQUITY COMMITTEE Page 9 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 6.B.1. Report of the Committee on Housing, Community Development and Equity, meeting on April 15, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0656) Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that over a five-month period from October 2025 to February 2026, the city’s Office of Housing Stability (OHS) received 505 requests for assistance across 471 households. Of these, 37% were at risk of displacement, and roughly half spoke a language other than English The committee also received information that development in Somerville is primarily within Neighborhood Residential districts and that larger-scale development has shifted away from Assembly Square with more recent activity concentrated in Union Square. Although the Small Property Additional Unit Program (SPOT) was intended to encourage homeowners to add units, only five units had been approved and two built due to administrative barriers. APPROVED RESULT: 6.B.2. By Councilor Strezo That the Director of Housing report to this Council how many new housing units have been approved for development, year-by-year, since adoption of SomerVision 2040, and of those numbers, how many are permanently affordable, and how the department defines affordability. Order (ID # 26-0049) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.B.3. Fair Housing Commission conveying the FY 2024 Annual Report pursuant to Section 17-7 of the Code of Ordinances. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0141) WORK COMPLETED RESULT: 6.C. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the Planning Board on April 16, 2026. Committee Report (ID # 26-0704) Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that public hearings were held regarding dormers and amendments pertaining to backyard cottages and accessory dwelling units. APPROVED RESULT: 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR Page 10 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 7.1. Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to receive an update on collective bargaining negotiations. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0689) Assistant City Attorney Matt Sirigu confirmed for the City Council that the subject matter was appropriate for executive session. The City Council entered Executive Session at 9:56 PM and returned at 11:15 PM with 8 members present (Scott, Clingan, Strezo, Wheeler, Hardt, McLaughlin, Mbah, Davis), 3 absent (Ewen-Campen, Link, Sait). President Davis announced that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 7.2. Requesting the appropriation of $719,817 from the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to various departmental Personal Services accounts to fund the retrospective portion of a collective bargaining settlement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Union, Unit D. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0715) APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 7.3. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Rafael Santos to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0652) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.4. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brandon Pavao to the position of Police Officer. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0653) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: Page 11 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 7.5. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Carlven Gervais to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0616) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.6. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matteo Mustone to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0617) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.7. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Robert Paul Lyons IV to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0618) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.8. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Tsering W. Gesar to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0619) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.9. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Joseph Desmond to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0620) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.10. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Zyair Bolling to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0621) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: Page 12 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 7.11. Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Timothy Joseph Cedrone to the position of Firefighter. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0622) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.11 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 7.12. Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Dennis Sullivan to the position of Fire District Chief. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0698) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.12 through 7.14 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: 7.13. Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Sean Marquis to the position of Fire Lieutenant. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0701) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.12 through 7.14 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: 7.14. Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Michael J. Marino to the position of Fire Captain. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0702) Councilor Mbah moved to waive the readings of items 7.12 through 7.14 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION RESULT: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee FOLLOWUP: 7.15. Proclaiming April 2026 to be Arab American Heritage Month. Mayor's Communication (ID # 26-0651) The Proclamation was read into the record. Mayor Wilson addressed the Council saying that everyone should feel proud about who they are, where Page 13 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 they come from and what they’re contributing to the city and society. He sponsored Alma Richeh, Executive Director of the Center for Arabic Culture (CAC), who thanked the Mayor and City Council for this recognition. She noted that since 2006, the CAC has been working as a force of change through arts and culture to support the community and had been supported by the city in meaningful ways. APPROVED RESULT: 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Planning Board conveying recommendations for item #26-0204. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0649) PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION RESULT: Land Use Committee FOLLOWUP: 8.2. Director of Infrastructure & Asset Management conveying the April 2026 draft Combined Sewer Overflow Plan. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0650) Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Rich Raiche presented the Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Draft Plan, which outlines a multi-faceted approach to address critical water infrastructure challenges in our community. The plan focuses on achieving meaningful long-term improvements in stormwater management, flood mitigation, and reduction of inflow and infiltration, alongside necessary upgrades to both local and Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) systems. Despite technical and financial constraints, regulatory requirements necessitate moving forward with the CSO plan at this time. The financial impact will be shared among ratepayers, reflecting the community-wide benefits and obligations of these improvements. Director Raiche shared that the primary objective is to implement targeted projects to reduce CSO events, protect water quality, and upgrade again infrastructure to increase resilience against severe weather and climate change. The project aims to safeguard public health while ensuring equitable cost-sharing and transparent communication with stakeholders. Key considerations for success include a dual approach to stormwater management and prioritizing flood mitigation in vulnerable areas to minimize property and environmental damage. The plan focuses on coordinating with the MWRA to ensure compatibility. Moving forward, the next steps involve continued community engagement, refining project prioritization, and adjusting strategies to adapt to challenges. PLACED ON FILE RESULT: Page 14 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 8.3. City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0703) PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 8.4. Director of Economic Development conveying an update on the 90 Washington Street Request for Proposals. Officer's Communication (ID # 26-0706) Senior Planner Ben Demers gave an update saying that two proposals were received and the technical portions of those proposals are being reviewed. The relevant documents are attached to this item and are also available online at https://www.somervillema.gov/90-washington-redevelopment . Councilor Wheeler expressed his disappointment that only two bids were received and, in the future, he would like to make the network casting as wide as possible to attract all interested parties. PLACED ON FILE RESULT: 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Renewing Billiards and Bowling License, Diesel Cafe, 257 Elm Street. License (ID # 26-0662) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.2. Renewing Drainlayer's License, American Site Corp. License (ID # 26-0663) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.3. Renewing Drainlayer's License, Ferrante Construction LLC. License (ID # 26-0664) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.4. Renewing Drainlayer's License, Garrett Construction Co Inc. License (ID # 26-0665) Page 15 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.5. Renewing Drainlayer's License, Garrick Santo Landscape. License (ID # 26-0666) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.6. Renewing Drainlayer's License, J. Marchese and Sons Inc. License (ID # 26-0667) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.7. Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dakzen, 195 Elm Street. License (ID # 26-0668) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.8. Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dumpling Kitchen, 215 Highland Avenue. License (ID # 26-0669) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.9. Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Dunkin Donuts, 282 Somerville Avenue. License (ID # 26-0670) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.10. Renewing Flammables License, Broadway Gulf, 212 Broadway. License (ID # 26-0671) Page 16 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.11. Renewing Flammables License, Broadway Sunoco, 258 Broadway. License (ID # 26-0672) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.12. Renewing Flammables License, Cumberland Farms #2469, 701 Somerville Avenue. License (ID # 26-0673) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.13. Renewing Flammables License, POAH Clarendon LLC, 20 Stephenson Aman Street. License (ID # 26-0674) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.14. Renewing Flammables License, POAH Clarendon LLC, 20 Stephenson Aman Street. License (ID # 26-0675) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.15. Renewing Flammables License, U-Haul Company of Boston, 600 Mystic Valley Parkway. License (ID # 26-0676) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.16. Renewing Flammables License, Valvoline Instant Oil Change AB0001, 182 Washington Street. License (ID # 26-0677) Page 17 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.17. Renewing Garage License, GE Auto Repair, 631 Somerville Avenue. License (ID # 26-0678) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.18. Renewing Garage License, U-Haul of Boston, 151 Linwood Street. License (ID # 26-0679) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.19. Renewing Open Air Vendor License, The Somerville Flea, Buena Vista parking lot. License (ID # 26-0680) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.20. Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Kay Jewelers Outlet #2962, 360 Artisan Way. License (ID # 26-0681) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.21. Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Metamorphosis, 93 Holland Street. License (ID # 26-0682) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.22. Renewing Taxi Medallion License, God's Blessing Cab Inc, Med. #60. License (ID # 26-0684) Page 18 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.23. Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Jean B. Victor, Med #85. License (ID # 26-0685) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.24. Renewing Taxi Medallion, Jolina Taxi, Inc., Med. #52. License (ID # 26-0683) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.25. Uncle Yak Global applying for a Public Event License for Blindfolded Bicycle Ride by Uncle Yak and his Magic Comeback on April 25 from 12:30pm to 2pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0700) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.26. Friends of the Community Growing Center applying for a Public Event License for Somerville Community Growing Center 2026 Calendar of Events from April to December for various times. Public Event (ID # 26-0690) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.27. Charles River Irish Collaborative applying for a Public Event License for Outdoor Session at Tunes on the Charles Traditional Irish Music Festival on April 30, May 1, May 2, and May 3 for various times. Public Event (ID # 26-0699) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: Page 19 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 9.28. The Somerville Foundation applying for a Public Event License for Down in Davis every Friday from May 1 to October 16 from 5pm to 9pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0691) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.29. Mobility Division and Office of Sustainability and Environment applying for a Public Event License for Mossland Street Block Party on May 2 from 11:30am to 5:30pm (raindate May 3). Public Event (ID # 26-0693) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.30. Office of Sustainability and Environment applying for a Public Event License for Finished Compost Giveaway on May 5 from 11:30am to 6pm (raindate May 12). Public Event (ID # 26-0696) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.31. Communications and Community Engagement Department applying for a Public Event License for Slice of the City Series on various days from May 5 to June 3 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0694) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.32. Office of Sustainability and Environment applying for a Public Event License for Arbor Day Picnic in the Park on May 8 from 2pm to 7pm (raindate May 15). Public Event (ID # 26-0686) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.33. Bronwyn Restaurant applying for a Public Event License for Weihenstephan Tiny Biergarten on various days from May 14 to September 20 from 8am to 11:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0695) Page 20 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.34. Somerville Sports Club applying for a Public Event License for Somerville Sports Club Holy Spirit Procession on May 17 from 10am to 1:30pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0697) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.35. Horizons Trio applying for a Public Event License for Horizons: An Exploration Through Music on June 13 and August 8 from 1pm to 3:30pm (raindate June 20). Public Event (ID # 26-0692) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 9.36. Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for ArtBeat 2026 on July 18 from 8am to 11pm (raindate July 19). Public Event (ID # 26-0687) Councilor Hardt moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.36 and approve them this evening. APPROVED RESULT: 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing the appointment of special police officers. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0725) Assistant City Attorney/Labor Counsel Matthew Sirigu explained that this Home Rule Petition (HRP) creates a process for the city to appoint special police officers through the mayor, with City Council approval. These officers would be restricted under the amendments discussed by stakeholders and members of the City Council, to Somerville Housing Authority (SHA) properties and properties occupied by SHA tenants. He noted that the prior city charter contained a provision for these appointments, however the current city charter does not, so this HRP would recreate that provision with some clear guidelines. Councilor Scott commented that this new language is narrowly tailored so that it does not run afoul of the civil service process. His understanding is that this is a step to ultimately bring these SHA officers under the authority of the Somerville Police Chief. Councilor Clingan asked how this might affect the 2006 Page 21 of 22

City Council Meeting Minutes April 23, 2026 special act regarding detail officers and Assistant City Attorney Sirigu explained that this HRP would have no effect on that act. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 10.2. Requesting approval of a five-year lease, with option for renewal, with BwB-Square LLC for Nibble Community Kitchen. Mayor's Request (ID # 26-0726) Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi noted that this item replaces item #26-0602and asked for immediate approval of this item, since it was discussed by the Finance Committee. APPROVED RESULT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor At Large Link, and Ward Five City Councilor Sait ABSENT: 10.3. Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for MOM's Run 5K Run and Walk for Cancer on May 10 from 7am to 2pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0720) APPROVED RESULT: 10.4. Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest 2026 on May 9 from 10:30am to 7pm. Public Event (ID # 26-0721) APPROVED RESULT: 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 11:41 PM. Page 22 of 22