Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Sep 22, 2022
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, September 22, 2022
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin.
The meeting was recessed from 7:03 to 7:06 pm and from 9:10 to 9:20 pm.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
City Councilor At Large Charlotte Kelly
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
Ward Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld
Present:
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 22-1615)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 22-1616)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, August 25, 2022.
Minutes
(ID # 22-1617)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
2.1.
By Councilor McLaughlin
Commending Rositha Durham for over 8 years of service as the Clerk of
Committees.
Citation
(ID # 22-1540)
President McLaughlin thanked Ms. Durham for her service.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 1 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
2.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin
Commending J. Brandon Wilson for over 37 years of service in the Planning
and Historic Preservation divisions.
Citation
(ID # 22-1541)
President McLaughlin reported that this citation was presented to Ms.
Wilson yesterday.
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.3.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
Commending Jessica Brayden for 15 years serving as CEO for RESPOND.
Citation
(ID # 22-1550)
Councilor Ewen-Campen explained that this would be presented to Ms.
Brayden at a later date.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 156 feet of conduit in
Lake Street, from Utility Pole 1 to a point of pickup at the rear of 346
Somerville Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1544)
Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.2.
Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 45 feet of conduit in
Sycamore Street, from Utility Pole 329/2 to a point of pickup at 8 Sycamore
Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1545)
Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.3.
Verizon applying for a Grant of Location to install 174 feet of conduit in
Broadway, from Manhole 44/302 located at the intersection of Broadway
and Lincoln Street to a Utility Pole 18/2 located at the rear of 59 Broadway.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1546)
Ross Biledeau, representing Verizon, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.4.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 60 feet of conduit in
Washington Street, from Utility Pole 358/22 to a lighting control box.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1547)
Phyllis Galloway, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the
request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
Page 2 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Chief Information Officer update this Council on the work to fix
the WiFi signals and cell phone reception at the Winter Hill School.
Order
(ID # 22-1564)
Councilor Strezo reported that she toured the school and was made aware of
these problems.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Health and Human Services discuss how to support
marginalized and under-served community members through expanded
telehealth service availability.
Order
(ID # 22-1565)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.3.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Human Resources update this Council on the hiring
process and staffing numbers for crossing guards for the 2022-2023 school
year.
Order
(ID # 22-1566)
Taken with items 22-1567 and 22-1568. Councilor Strezo sponsored Leiran
Biton to speak. He referenced a letter from the PTA and spoke of areas that
are dangerous to cross and noted that these areas are supposed to be staffed.
He informed the Council that crossing guards are grossly understaffed and
said that those who can’t accompany their children to and from school are
the most severely impacted. He urged the city to staff all 56 crossing guard
locations and to restructure the position to make the job more attractive, as
the need is critical. Councilor Kelly asked Mr. Biton to share the PTA letter
with the Council and she asked the Administration to pay the crossing
guards a living wage. Councilor Clingan agreed that the city needs to get
creative about ways to fill these vacant positions. Councilor Pineda Neufeld
acknowledged that this is a crisis situation and she implored the
Administration to treat this like the crisis that it is. Councilor Strezo
explained that crossing guards earn $40 per day for providing this part time
service and she feels that a modernization of the position is necessary.
Councilor Clingan expressed his belief that part of the problem might be
alleviated by going back to proximity schooling.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.4.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Human Resources discuss the possibility of
modernizing crossing guard positions to attract candidates and increase
hiring.
Order
(ID # 22-1567)
Taken with items 22-1566 and 22-1568.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Chief of Police inform this Council which intersections are
prioritized with crossing guards.
Order
(ID # 22-1568)
Taken with items 22-1566 and 22-1567.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Housing update this Council on maintenance issues of
the 100 Homes Program.
Order
(ID # 22-1570)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.7.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly and
Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Commissioner of Public Works take the necessary steps to remove
the cable tied around the telephone pole at Lexington Avenue and Cedar
Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1572)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Strezo
That this Council’s Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and
Vulnerable Populations hold a public hearing to discuss the feasibility of
conducting CORI and SORI checks for Crisis Pregnancy Centers.
Order
(ID # 22-1571)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.9.
By Councilor Strezo
That this Council discuss the attached letter from the Somerville Council of
PTAs regarding the condition of school buildings.
Order
(ID # 22-1573)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 4 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.10.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility place signs at the intersections of Central
Street and Highland Avenue and Central Street and Summer Street,
informing the public that the Somerville Museum is open during
construction.
Order
(ID # 22-1574)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.11.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Memorialization Committee commemorate the legacy of Peggy
Citarella, former Somerville resident and the first female welder at the
Charlestown Navy Yard during WWII.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1569)
Councilor Strezo mentioned that Ms. Citarella recently passed away at the
age of approximately 101.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.12.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Commissioner of Public Works report on the power outage at the
West Somerville Public School on September 7, 2022 and the measures
being taken for temporary and permanent repairs.
Order
(ID # 22-1590)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported that there was a problem with the
chiller.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.13.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Mobility and the Commissioner of Public Works assess
the need for additional bike racks in all school buildings.
Order
(ID # 22-1591)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.14.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor
Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen,
Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That this City Council hereby recognizes the period of September 15th to
October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month
Resolution
(ID # 22-1592)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about celebrating Latino pride and
criticized Vice President Harris for telling Latinos from other countries not
to come to America. She spoke about noted Latinos in the health care field,
as well as their culture, food, etc. Councilor Pineda Neufeld spoke about her
Mexican heritage and cited a poll showing that Latino business owners have
been falling on difficult times in the state.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 5 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.15.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning update this Council
on current draft zoning requirements of the MBTA Communities Act.
Order
(ID # 22-1593)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.16.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Water and Sewer update this Council on the cause of
the sinkhole near 370 Medford Street and what is being done to address this
problem.
Order
(ID # 22-1594)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.17.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management present to this
Council, a plan to fix the Somerville Media Center's roof.
Order
(ID # 22-1596)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.18.
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Racial and Social Justice present an update to this
Council on efforts to hire an Executive Director for the Human Rights
Commission.
Order
(ID # 22-1597)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 6 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.19.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson and
Councilor Kelly
That this City Council supports ending the United States blockade of Cuba.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1595)
Councilor Burnley, recently returned from a visit to Cuba, commented that
the blockade is preventing the people of Cuba to acquire the things they
need to live a dignified life. Cuba has been cut off from globalized trade
and this resolution askes that the blockade be lifted by President Biden.
Councilor Burnley said that the blockade affects Somerville, as well, as it
would benefit with our Cuban biotech counterparts. He sponsored Virginia
Faust to speak. Ms. Faust said that the blockade continues to harm the
people of Cuba. She spoke about those she met in Cuba from all walks of
life and about food shortages, a lack of medical supplies and materials to
maintain their infrastructure. The blockade prevents us from sharing
information and medical developments. Councilor Burnley said this
resolution is part of a growing movement to end the blockade. He asked that
a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Somerville’s congressional
delegation and to President Biden. Council Ewen-Campen commented that
he has many Cuban acquaintances and feels a strong connection to that
country. Councilor Gomez-Mouakad asked if this Council made a statement
about Haitian refugees or other statements made by Vice President Harris.
She is against the embargo and has friends and relatives in Cuba and is very
familiar with the way of life there. She is concerned about the timing of this
resolution and she called attention to the massive power outages currently
affecting Puerto Rico. Councilor Burnley spoke about visiting a museum in
Cuba that features aggression of the United States towards Cuba. He moved
the question to approve the resolution.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.20.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Election Commissioner update this Council on the September 6,
2022 primary, including the number of voters moved to the List of Inactive
Voters prior to this election and the number of affirmations signed by voters
on the List of Inactive Voters, with comparisons to prior years.
Order
(ID # 22-1598)
Councilor Wilson reported that he found himself on the inactive voter list,
apparently as a result of the recent redistricting.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.21.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Mobility provide documentation of the current process
for determining the locations of traffic calming measures, and communicate
this information to the public via the website.
Order
(ID # 22-1599)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 7 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.22.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Davis
That the Director of Engineering provide documentation of the current
process for determining the street selection for Fall and partial repaving, and
communicate this information via the website.
Order
(ID # 22-1600)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.23.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Chief of Police and the Director of Parking enforce regulations on
vehicular stopping and standing in bicycle lanes.
Order
(ID # 22-1601)
Councilor Wilson would like to have an educational component included.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.24.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment update
this Council on plans to resume the composting program in Somerville
Public Schools.
Order
(ID # 22-1602)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.25.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on the recent
closure of Lincoln Park soccer field and the condition of the playing surface.
Order
(ID # 22-1603)
Councilor Wilson reported that the park was closed after determining that
the field was unsafe.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.26.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry update this Council on
the status of current and future athletic field projects.
Order
(ID # 22-1604)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.27.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and
Community Development update this Council on any Host Community
Agreements with recreational cannabis retail operators currently in
development.
Order
(ID # 22-1605)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 8 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
4.28.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly
That the Commissioner of Public Works install speed bumps at Heath
Street, Ash Avenue, and Edgar Avenue.
Order
(ID # 22-1606)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the
Committee on Traffic and Parking.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.29.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works install speed bumps on Thurston
Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1608)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the
Committee on Traffic and Parking.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.30.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Mobility install a NO HEAVY TRUCKS sign on Shore
Drive.
Order
(ID # 22-1607)
Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the
Committee on Traffic and Parking.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.31.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad,
Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That the Somerville City Council supports Yes on 4 for Safer Roads.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1589)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld explained that this would allow immigrants to
obtain driver licenses regardless of their legal status.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.32.
By Councilor McLaughlin
In his capacity as President, conveying updated Standing and Special
Committee assignments and Commission appointments.
Communication
(ID # 22-1534)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
Page 9 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters meeting on September 13, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1577)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld reviewed the appointments that were
recommended for approval.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Neeraj Wadhera to the
Council on Aging.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1087)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the City Solicitor update this Council on the 8/11/22 Civil Service
Commission decision Fairchild, Matthew v. City of Somerville, and the
impact on the confirmations process.
Order
(ID # 22-1459)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Mark Sternman to the
Library Board of Trustees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1510)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Lamia Mamoon to the
Library Board of Trustees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1512)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Janaki Perera to the Library
Board of Trustees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1513)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.
EQUITY, GENDER, FAMILIES AND VULNERABLE POPULATIONS COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and
Vulnerable Populations, meeting on September 19, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1578)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported that the committee received updates on
various topics and noted that some items before the committee were unclear,
so they will be resubmitted with more detailed language.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That this City Council work with the Administration to explore an internship
program for high school students.
Order
(ID # 22-0286)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
6.B.3.
By Councilor Strezo
That this City Council work with the Administration and School District on
a year-round expansion of a summer jobs internship program with a focus on
addressing Out of School Time.
Resolution
(ID # 22-0287)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott and
Councilor Kelly
That the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and the
Somerville Arts Council update this Council on the Arts Space Needs
Assessment and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) report.
Order
(ID # 22-0594)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.5.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan
That the ADA coordinator deliver to this Council, any budgetary requests of
the Commission for Persons with Disabilities from the General Fund.
Order
(ID # 22-1273)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.6.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan
That the Administration provide a report of all public HP parking spaces.
Order
(ID # 22-1274)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.7.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Finance provide a report of handicap parking fine
receipts in FY 2022.
Order
(ID # 22-1275)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.8.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Parking provide a record of all parking tickets issued for
handicap parking violations in FY 2022.
Order
(ID # 22-1276)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.9.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Chief of Police provide this Council with the number of rape kits
administered in the past five years, and the number that were included as
evidence in court cases.
Order
(ID # 22-1299)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.10.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Middlesex County District Attorney provide this Council with the
number of rape kits tested and the number used as evidence in Somerville
court cases over the past five years.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1300)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Page 11 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on September 20, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1579)
Councilor Wilson reviewed the items that were reviewed and approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
Requesting authorization to borrow $993,132 in a bond, and to authorization
to appropriate the same amount for the General Fund portion of the
Clarendon Hills Infrastructure Improvements project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1439)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez
Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven
City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.C.3.
Requesting authorization to borrow $662,088 in a bond, and authorization to
appropriate the same amount for the Sewer portion of the Clarendon Hills
Infrastructure Improvements Project.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1440)
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez
Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven
City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.C.4.
Requesting acceptance of an additional $500,000 grant with no new match
required, from the MA Executive Office of Housing and Economic
Development for Clarendon Hill Project infrastructure improvements.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1509)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.D.
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on September 13,
2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1576)
Councilor Davis reviewed the items before the committee and spoke about
the discussion surrounding body worn cameras. He moved to sever item
22-1461 and send it back to the Legislative Matters Committee to clarify
some language.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 12 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
6.D.2.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly,
Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Pineda
Neufeld, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Davis, Councilor McLaughlin and
Councilor Burnley Jr.
Proposing an amendment to the Surveillance Oversight Ordinance (Chapter
10, Article III, Sec 10.63) to remove the exemption for body-worn cameras.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1171)
ORDINANCE ORDAINED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At
Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor
At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez
Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven
City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
Ward Two City Councilor Scott
ABSENT:
6.D.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis,
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly,
Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor
Wilson
That Chapter 2, Article VI, Section 2-319 of the Code of Ordinances,
regarding bereavement leave, be amended as attached.
Ordinance
(ID # 22-1461)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
6.D.4.
Requesting the acceptance of Section 84 of Chapter 179 of the Acts of 2022
for local approval of the provisions of the Clean Energy and Offshore Wind
Act.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1494)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.
RULES SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Rules, meeting on September 12, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1575)
Councilor Burnley reviewed the items before the committee. He expressed
his views on saying a prayer at the start of meetings, stating that he is against
such a practice. Councilor Davis noted that the Council’s rules had already
been changed with respect to gender and prayer.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.2.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Administration provide paper copies for any reports before this
Council for approval, unless Councilors have opted-out.
Order
(ID # 22-0162)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Page 13 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
6.E.3.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson and Councilor Davis
That this Council amend its rules to include gender neutral language rather
than gender binary language such as "he/she".
Order
(ID # 22-0502)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.E.4.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That this Council amend Rule 31 to remove the mention of a mandatory
prayer at the beginning of each Council meeting.
Order
(ID # 22-0503)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $286 using available
funds in the Fire Department Computer Supplies Account for the purchase
of ink for the graphics printer.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1526)
Councilor Wilson moved for approval.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.2.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Mark Atwater to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1581)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Zachary Avery to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1582)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Joseph Nutile to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1584)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 14 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
7.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Mark Scullari to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1585)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Tirrell to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1586)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alex Artinian to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1587)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.8.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brian Langton to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1588)
Councilor Pineda-Neufeld moved to waive the reading and refer the item to
the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting that the City Council authorize a Police Officer to be assigned at
Polling Places on November 8, 2022 and authorize the Chief of Police to
assign Police Officers to the listed Polling Places on November 8, 2022.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1614)
Director Sahni explained that this request is being made due to a change in
state law. Solicitor Shapiro stated that he contacted the legal counsel for the
Election Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, who stated that
the City of Somerville must dispatch a sufficient number of detail police
officers at polling places in the city. If the Council denies this request or did
not take a vote on the item, the state could order the city to comply.
Councilor Burnley commented that he has many questions about this and
that he will vote NO on the item. Councilor Kelly pointed out that there is
an item on the Votes Act in the Legislative Matters Committee, where a
larger conversation will take place.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 15 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large
Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City
Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City
Councilor Clingan, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez
Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven
City Councilor Pineda Neufeld
AYE:
City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr.
NAY:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, D&M Civil Inc.
License
(ID # 22-1553)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
9.2.
Renewing Drainlayer's License, Hercules C + G Drain Inc.
License
(ID # 22-1543)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Flammables License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 259 McGrath
Hwy.
License
(ID # 22-1611)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Renewing Garage License, Herb Chambers I-93, 71 Linwood St.
License
(ID # 22-1610)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Renewing Garage License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 19 Joy St.
License
(ID # 22-1612)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Renewing Garage License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 161 Linwood St.
License
(ID # 22-1609)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 16 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
9.7.
Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 161
Linwood St.
License
(ID # 22-1613)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Parks and Recreation applying for a Public Event License for Fall Festival
on September 24 from 12pm to 4:30pm (raindate September 25).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1548)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.9.
David Margolin applying for a Public Event License for Highland Rd BP on
September 24 from 2pm to 8pm (raindate October 2).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1554)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Ignite Festival on
October 1 from 2pm to 11pm (raindate October 2).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1580)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
Beth Kelves applying for a Public Event License for Hancock St BP on
October 2 from 12pm to 7:30pm.
Public Event
(ID # 22-1561)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Tiffany Cayarga applying for a Public Event License for Blocktober Fest on
October 15 from 5pm to 10pm (raindate October 16).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1556)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Zachary Baum applying for a Public Event License for Annual Vintage
Market on October 16 from 9am to 9pm (raindate October 23).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1555)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for 26th
Annual Gobble Gobble Gobble Race on November 24 from 6am to 1pm.
Public Event
(ID # 22-1549)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Page 17 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
10.1.
By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Parks and Recreation update this Council on staffing
challenges at the Ginny Smithers Sanders Pool.
Order
(ID # 22-1618)
Councilor Wilson is interested in hearing about the challenges at the pool.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported that there is a shortage of 10 lifeguards
in addition to the pool manager’s position.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.2.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Finance update this Council on the impact to long-term
municipal revenue projections from the state law change lowering the
Community Impact Fee for cannabis retail businesses.
Order
(ID # 22-1619)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Conveying an update from the ARPA Advisory Committee meeting of
September 21, 2022.
Communication
(ID # 22-1623)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld reported that the ARPA website is live and details
how and where ARPA funds were used by the city.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.4.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $36,000 grant with no new
match required, from the MA Department of Environmental Protection to
the Department of Public Works for the Sustainable Materials Recovery
Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1535)
Councilor Wilson moved to refer the item to the Committee on Finance.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 18 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
10.5.
Requesting approval to enter into a new solar net metering agreement
(IndustriPlex Class III) with ECA NEMA Brightfields II, LLC.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1560)
Taken with item 22-1562 The city’s Energy Manager, Erik Larson
explained that this item supports the city’s energy policies and will save the
city thousands of dollars in energy costs. Councilor Burnley commented
that 94 pages of documents pertaining to these items were provided to the
Council just four hours prior to this meeting. He asked why contractors
would be reimbursed 90% of the city’s savings.
Two representatives from ECA were on-hand to address questions. Mr.
Larson explained how the arrangement was structured. One of the
representatives said that the value of the electricity produced equals 90% of
the cost of developing, installing and maintaining the solar panels. The
other 10% is the city’s savings. Somerville always saves 10% of whatever
the NSTAR rate is. The modules that reach their end of life could be
recycled. Councilor Kelly inquired about four other agreements this
company has with the city and asked Mr. Larson how long this negotiation
has been going on. He replied that it started in March and that there is an
urgency to get the ground installations completed prior to any frost. An
EAC representative said that much of the equipment is ready to be installed.
Councilor Kelly expressed her displeasure at the lateness of receiving the
request to approve these items when they have been worked on since March.
Director Sahni said the Administration’s goal is to get information to the
Council at least 48 hours prior to a Council meeting, but often, that’s not
possible. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked if there would be costs to the
city if this were not approved tonight and Mr. Larson said that the city’s
savings would be lost. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved for approval.
Councilor Burnley stated that he said earlier that he wanted this to go to
committee and President McLaughlin explained that councilors cannot make
motions to send items to committees. City Clerk Wells, when asked,
clarified that councilors can make a motion to send items to committees.
Councilors Burnley and Ewen-Campen agreed to table their motions. ECA
would like to have the projected completed by the end of the year.
Councilor Scott criticized the administration for not reading in at least one
councilor. President McLaughlin expressed his frustration with the process
of moving these items forward. Councilor Ewen-Campen’s motion to
approve was approved.
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.6.
Requesting approval to enter into a new solar net metering agreement
(IndustriPlex Class II) with ECA NEMA Brightfields II, LLC.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1562)
Taken with item 22-1560.
APPROVED
RESULT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
Page 19 of 20
City Council
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2022
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:28 PM.
Page 20 of 20