Meetings ▸ Minutes
City Council — Minutes, Oct 13, 2022
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Thursday, October 13, 2022
NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have
been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first
checking with the City Clerk.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 22-1710)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 22-1711)
Councilor Ewen-Campen and the entire Council requested a moment of
silence for former Alderman and State Senator Sal Albano.
Councilor Clingan requested a moment of silence for Henry Augustin.
Councilor Pineda Neufeld and the entire Council requested a moment of
silence for Salvatore Casparriello.
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, September 8, 2022.
Minutes
(ID # 22-1712)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1.
Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 35 feet of conduit in
Hawthorne Street, from Utility Pole 391/3 to a point of pickup at 26
Hawthorne Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1646)
Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 1 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
3.2.
Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install a
total of 994 feet of conduit as follows: Starting from Manhole 0515-3107,
267 feet to a point of pickup at Buena Vista parking lot. From said manhole,
727 feet connecting three new handholes along Winter Street, College
Avenue, and Winslow Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 22-1647)
Jeff Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, explained the
reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing
was closed. Councilor Davis verified that the paving work will not be
damaged.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor
Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor
Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott
and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Housing discuss how anticipated increases in utility,
heating and water bills will affect affordable housing tenants.
Order
(ID # 22-1683)
Councilor Strezo gave the projected increased cost for these items and
Councilor Scott commented that water and sewer bills have long been a
concern of this and previous City Councils and he asked that when this item
is discussed in committee, representatives from the city’s Water and Sewer
Department be present as well as anyone who liaisons with the Low-Income
Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Housing and Community Development Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility establish a neighborhood traffic plan for the
area surrounding the Healey School, including Edgar Avenue, to mitigate
speeding.
Order
(ID # 22-1684)
Councilor Wilson commented that this area has a great amount of cut
through traffic and is too busy an area for crossing guards to handle without
assistance. Councilor Clingan commented that the children need to be
protected.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 2 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
4.3.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan and Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works take steps to permanently fix or
replace the leaning light posts on the pedestrian boardwalk connecting Ten
Hills to Assembly Row.
Order
(ID # 22-1685)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.4.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That this Council work with the Administration to update the Demolition
Review Ordinance and administrative process to ensure that all current
inhabitants are notified, in their native language, of any proposals to
demolish the building in which they reside.
Order
(ID # 22-1686)
Councilor. Ewen-Campen commented that some of the residents had not
been contacted about the development and were not aware of last week’s
demolition meeting. He would like to make some changes to the ordinance
to rectify this.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor
McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo
and Councilor Wilson
That the Administration update this Council on plans to establish a
Community Engagement Center.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1687)
Discussed with item 22-1739.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.6.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Engineering develop safety protocols and notification
requirements for any projects, planned or emergency, taking place within a
determined radius of a school.
Order
(ID # 22-1688)
Councilor Clingan spoke about the dangers presented at construction sites
and wants to tighten up the safety protocols for those in proximity of
schools.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 3 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
4.7.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Engineering develop a plan to redesign the intersection
of Broadway and Main Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1689)
Councilor Clingan stated that traffic enters this intersection from multiple
directions and a redesigned patters is long overdue.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.8.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Engineering repave Thurston Street and add speed
humps.
Order
(ID # 22-1690)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.9.
By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson and Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Water and Sewer appear before this Council to address
the issue of constituents reporting unusually high water bill spikes.
Order
(ID # 22-1691)
Councilor Clingan reported that several constituents have seen increases of
about $1,000 in their water bills and he would like the matter looked into to
determine if this is an anomaly or the result of some other factor.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.10.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Water and Sewer report to this Council, the account,
purchase and usage information requested within.
Order
(ID # 22-1692)
Discussed with item 22-1691.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.11.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment update
this Council on the status of household hazardous waste collection.
Order
(ID # 22-1705)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that the DPW handles hazardous
waste collections and Councilor Wilson said that he was informed that the
lack of collection is due to a contract issue between the city and one of its
vendors. Councilor Scott suggested that the DPW come up with an interim
solution so that hazardous waste doesn’t end up being dumped in the sewer.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 4 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
CHARTER REVIEW SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 22-1699)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.B.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
Matters, meeting on October 6, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1682)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld reviewed the actions taken by the committee and
reported that there was 1 police promotion and 3 fire fighter appointments
recommended for approval. The Committee also discussed the recruitment
process for Boards and Commissions. Councilor Pineda Neufeld introduced
Officer Mackenzie Richardson who was then sworn in as a Police Sergeant.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
By Councilor Kelly
That the Administration present an update on the Board and Commission
recruitment process, as detailed within.
Resolution
(ID # 22-0674)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Mackenzie Richardson to the
position of Police Sergeant.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1257)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Mark Atwater to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1581)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.5.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Zachary Avery to the
position of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1582)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 5 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.B.6.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Joseph Nutile to the position
of Firefighter.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1584)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development,
meeting on September 29, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1696)
Councilor Strezo reported that the committee discussed the crossing guard
situation and housing instability. Councilor Burnley asked about the legality
of non-disclosure agreements in leases and Councilor Ewen-Campen stated
that the Law Department will provide an opinion on the matter. Councilor
Kelly would like to have regular updates on the number of evictions taking
place and Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented that the data is contained in
the meeting minutes. Councilor Kelly said that this is a crisis that needs to
be addressed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.2.
By Councilor Kelly
That the Director of the Office of Housing Stability discuss the response to
the ending of the eviction moratorium, and any current unmet needs of
residents who are experiencing housing instability.
Order
(ID # 22-1516)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on October 6, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1697)
Councilor Ewen-Campen reported that the committee met in Joint Session
with the Planning Board. There was an item to treat zoning for animal
services the same as services for people and there was also a request by a
property owner to rezone his property to allow for a veterinary clinic to
operate there. In referencing other matters before the committee, Councilor
Ewen-Campen commented that there seems to be a disconnect between
some state regulations with respect to the city’s ordinances.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.
PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
Page 6 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.E.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on
October 11, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1698)
Councilor Clingan reported that written responses to several items were
provided by department heads and are included in the meeting minutes. The
committee had a lengthy discussion about the recent sink hole on Medford
Street and additional details are available in the meeting minutes.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.E.2.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council the
current city contract for trash and recycling disposal services.
Order
(ID # 22-0360)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.3.
By Councilor Clingan
That representatives of Boston Carting appear before the Committee on
Public Health and Public Safety to address concerns raised in the attached
anonymous letter dated April 15, 2021.
Resolution
(ID # 22-0364)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.4.
By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Strezo
That the Commissioner of Public Works make rain barrels available, at no
cost, to any properties within the city’s flood zones.
Order
(ID # 22-0934)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.5.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Engineering explain the timeline for the installation of
the proposed Gilman Square water retention tank, as it relates to the overall
flood water management plan.
Order
(ID # 22-0936)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.6.
By Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works repair the uneven road pavement
on Sycamore Street, between Medford Street and Evergreen Avenue.
Order
(ID # 22-0960)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.7.
By Councilor Scott
That the Commissioner of Public Works provide this Council with the plan
for maintaining new tree wells along Somerville Avenue and other locations.
Order
(ID # 22-1117)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 7 of 28
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Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.E.8.
By Councilor Scott and Councilor Kelly
An order that the Commissioner of Public Works add stone or concrete
landscape features to prevent vehicles from driving over the planted
bump-out features on Beacon Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1118)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.9.
By Councilor Strezo
An order that the Commissioner of Public Works immediately replace the
three outdoor picnic tables on the plaza outside the Somerville Media Center
due to their unsafe condition.
Order
(ID # 22-1213)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.10.
By Councilor McLaughlin
An order that the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management update
the Ward 1 City Councilor on plans to renovate Tufts Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1220)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin
An order that the Director of Veterans’ Services update this Council on the
status of the veterans’ memorials previously removed due to construction of
the new high school.
Order
(ID # 22-1360)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.12.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
An order that the Commissioner of Public Works expedite the fixing of the
elevator in the Armory.
Order
(ID # 22-1374)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.13.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.E.14.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 8 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.F.
RODENT ISSUES SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.F.1.
Report of the Special Committee on Rodent Issues, meeting on September
28, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1693)
Councilor Kelly spoke about the presentation that was made at the meeting
regarding the rat problems and actions being taken by the city. Councilor
Scott stated that none of the SMART boxes were deployed in Ward 2, and
that his constituents will be expressing their concerns at the upcoming Ward
2 Fall Community Meeting on October 24.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.F.2.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Kelly
That the Commissioner of Public Works, the Director of Inspectional
Services, and the Environmental Health Coordinator address rodent issues
and overgrowth in the public access alleyway between Mt. Vernon and Mt.
Pleasant Streets and devise a long-term solution to the problem.
Order
(ID # 22-1197)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.3.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Kelly and Councilor
Wilson
That the Director of Health and Human Services increase rat control efforts
from Wigglesworth Street to Dana Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1410)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.4.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Kelly and Councilor
Wilson
That the Director of Health and Human Services immediately increase rat
control measures in the areas of Fellsway West to Temple Street and
Broadway to Jaques Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1411)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.F.5.
By Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Inspectional Services and the Environmental Health
Coordinator update this Council on the SMART box program and other
recent rodent control measures.
Order
(ID # 22-1515)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 9 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.F.6.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Inspectional Services increase measures to control the
rat population from Vinal Avenue to Walnut Street and from Highland
Avenue to Summer Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1521)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.
SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE
6.G.1.
Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and
Maintenance, meeting on September 28, 2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1695)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad said that the city is looking at the overall
systems of school buildings and discussed a feasibility study completed in
2021 for the Brown School. She spoke about the 1895 building and was
told that it would impact where the veterans memorial will be placed. Other
item discussed related to wi-fi, façades and Winter Hill School repairs.
Councilor Clingan said that the School Department has its own IT staff and
the school buildings fall under the city side and he wondered there wasn’t
just one IT department to ensure that everyone is on the same system.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.G.2.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Clingan
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Infrastructure
and Asset Management report on all major repairs and work orders for the
Winter Hill Community School and the Brown School over the past five
years.
Order
(ID # 22-1122)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.3.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Commissioner of Public Works report on all major repairs made to
school buildings during the summer.
Order
(ID # 22-1416)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.G.4.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.G.5.
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)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
6.H.1.
Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on September 26,
2022.
Committee Report
(ID # 22-1643)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported on the bike parking plan, the Highland
Avenue redesign (currently stalled), the local preference parking option, the
quick build for Broadway, the bike path extension, 20 MPH restrictions, and
speed humps.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.H.2.
By Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility update this Council on efforts to establish a 20
MPH speed limit for all neighborhood residential streets.
Order
(ID # 22-0091)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.3.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Administration provide a report for all departments using city
vehicles for non-emergency services, detailing the measures taken to ensure
that staff follow traffic regulations, including the hands free while driving
law, and maintain maximum traffic safety while driving.
Order
(ID # 22-0190)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.4.
By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan
That the Director of Parking instruct Parking Control Officers to enforce the
ban on license plate covers, in accordance with MGL c.90, §6.
Order
(ID # 22-0827)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking explore using regional residential parking
permits to reduce parking congestion on streets close to public transit.
Order
(ID # 22-1199)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
6.H.6.
By Councilor Ewen-Campen
That the Director of Parking consider a "local preference" parking permit
policy for the post-reconstruction resident parking spaces on Highland
Avenue.
Order
(ID # 22-1413)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.7.
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Mobility provide this Council with a timeline for a final
Bicycle Network Vision Plan.
Order
(ID # 22-1454)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.8.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Mobility report on the feasibility of installing
quick-build protected bike lanes on Broadway, and ways that the City plans
to enhance safety for cyclists.
Order
(ID # 22-1455)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.H.9.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Mobility Department work to clearly mark all speed bumps in the
city.
Order
(ID # 22-1471)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Adeleine Mannion to the
Somerville Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1676)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.2.
Requesting approval of the termination of the London Street easement.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1639)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 12 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
7.3.
Requesting the appropriation of $60,155 from the CPA Undesignated Fund
Balance for restoration of 181 Broadway.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1637)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $24,000 to the Law Department
Salaries Account to fund an anticipated deficit.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1563)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting authorization to borrow $1,477,738 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for participation in the FY23 MWRA Lead Line
Replacement Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1665)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting authorization to borrow $1,730,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the annual recurring FY23 Sewer System Evaluation
and Infiltration/Inflow Assessment.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1664)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting authorization to borrow $4,390,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the recurring FY23 Sewer Improvements program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1662)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 13 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
7.8.
Requesting authorization to borrow $7,110,000 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the recurring FY23 Water Main Rehabilitation
program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1663)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to create the Immigrant Legal Services Stabilization
Fund.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1671)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting approval to create the BikeShare Stabilization Fund and accept a
payment to the Fund of $75,000 from developer contributions to sponsor
new Bike Share Stations.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1557)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.11.
Requesting approval to establish a Consolidated Gift Account to accept
donations for the Vietnam Moving Wall event on Veterans Day Weekend.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1674)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting approval to appropriate $75,000 from the Bike Share
Stabilization Fund for installation and startup costs of a BlueBike station at
the 100 Chestnut Development site.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1559)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 14 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
7.13.
Requesting approval to appropriate $60,000 from the Immigrant Legal
Services Stabilization Fund to fund legal services for immigrants seeking
permanent residency.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1672)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.14.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $121,500 from the Salary Contingency,
Salaries Account to the DPW Highway, Other Lump Sum Benefits account
to fund an agreement with the Somerville Municipal Employees
Association.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1678)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $60,000 from the SomerViva
Professional & Technical Services Account to the Immigrant Legal Services
Stabilization Fund to provide funding for immigrant legal defense services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1670)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $15,000 from the Salary Contingency,
Salaries Account to the Law Department Judgments & Settlements Account
to fund an Agreement with the Somerville Municipal Employees
Association.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1679)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.17.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $200,000 grant with no new
match required, from the City of Boston Office of Emergency Management
to the Police Department for First Responder portable radios.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1667)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 28
City Council
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October 13, 2022
7.18.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $16,900 grant with no new
match required, from Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for
unrestricted operating support.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1538)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.19.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,000 donation from Iron
Workers Local 7 Union to fund the Vietnam Moving Wall event November
10-14.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1673)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.20.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $255,097.62 using
available funds in various Department of Public Works Accounts.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1666)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.21.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $62,020 using
available funds in the Department of Public Works Grounds Account for
tree services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1677)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.22.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $13,770.21 using
available funds in the Parking Department's Credit Card Convenience
Account for May 2022 credit card fees.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1629)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 16 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
7.23.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $5,418.98 using
available funds in the Parking Department Professional Services Account for
Ticket/Permit Processing Vendor, Conduent State & Local Solutions.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1669)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the
Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.24.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $950 using available
funds in the City Clerk's Books & Bookbinding Account for Municode
renewal fee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1633)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.25.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $365 using available
funds in the IAM-Engineering Repairs & Maintenance-Highway Account
for off-contract line painting and pavement markings.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1652)
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.26.
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension with Over, Under
Incorporated for Art Farm Design Services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1641)
Councilor Scott noted that this is a time only extension for a contract that
began in 2015.
APPROVED
RESULT:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Planning Board proposing an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances Section
15.1.3, Neighborhood Meeting.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 22-1645)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Land Use Committee
FOLLOWUP:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.
New Outdoor Goods License, Clover Food Lab, 330 Foley Street, 1
A-Frame.
License
(ID # 22-1648)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 17 of 28
City Council
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October 13, 2022
9.2.
New Sign/Awning License, Cohn Legal PLLC, 697 Broadway, 1 wall sign.
License
(ID # 22-1661)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
Renewing Taxi Medallion License, God's Blessing Cab, Med #60.
License
(ID # 22-1713)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Devan Calabrez applying for a Public Event License for Short Animated
Film Series on October 15, October 29, and November 12 from 5:30pm to
8:30pm (raindates October 16, October 30 and November 13).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1707)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.5.
Samuel Feller applying for a Public Event License for Bond St BP: Chili
Cook-off on October 22 from 10am to 5pm (raindate November 5).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1649)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.6.
Elizabeth Peabody House applying for a Public Event License for Fall
Festival on October 22 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate October 29).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1650)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.7.
Konstancja Myszkowska applying for a Public Event License for School
Street BP on October 22 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate October 23).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1706)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.8.
Tareq Rantisi applying for a Public Event License for World Music Concert
Series on October 22 from 12:30pm to 4:30pm (raindate October 23 and
November 5).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1709)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 18 of 28
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October 13, 2022
9.9.
Commission for Women applying for a Public Event License for Domestic
Violence Vigil on October 26 from 4:30pm to 7pm.
Public Event
(ID # 22-1708)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.10.
Jesse Greenstein applying for a Public Event License for Burnham St BP on
October 29 from 12pm to 8:30pm (raindate October 30).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1654)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.11.
East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for
Halloween BP and Pet Parade on October 29 from 2pm to 7pm (raindate
October 30).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1655)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.12.
Kelsey Coffin applying for a Public Event License for Partridge Ave
Halloween BP on October 29 from 4pm to 10pm (raindate if October 30).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1656)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.13.
Kim Durniak applying for a Public Event License for Norwood Ave
Neighborhood BP on October 30 from 2pm to 7pm (raindate November 6).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1657)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.14.
Ani Ajemian applying for a Public Event License for Halloween on Heath
on October 30 from 3pm to 8pm.
Public Event
(ID # 22-1658)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.15.
Kelsey Kent applying for a Public Event License for Lexington Ave
Halloween on October 31 from 4pm to 8pm (raindate November 1).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1659)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 19 of 28
City Council
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October 13, 2022
9.16.
Julia Gibney applying for a Public Event License for Indiana Ave Halloween
BP on October 31 from 4pm to 10pm (raindate November 1).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1660)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.17.
Andrew Puglia submitting comments re: on-street parking restrictions on
Professor's Row and upper-Packard Avenue.
Public
Communication
(ID # 22-1630)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the
Commissioner of Public Works provide an update on preventive
maintenance plans for all school buildings.
Order
(ID # 22-1715)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.2.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Chief Information Officer
provide an update on ongoing issues with Wi-Fi services for all schools.
Order
(ID # 22-1716)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that the high school is also having wi-fi
issues.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.3.
By Councilor Gomez Mouakad
That the Director of the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs provide an
update on the proposed 5-year language plan and how this plan will be
implemented in the next five years.
Order
(ID # 22-1717)
Councilor Gomez Mouakad expressed concern about evictions for
non-English speakers and noted the importance of making information
available in multiple languages, adding that she doesn’t think this can wait
for 5 years. Councilor Scott asked that translators be available when this
item comes before the Equity Committee for discussion.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable
Populations Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 20 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
10.4.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Engineering update this Council on plans to renovate
Tufts Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1722)
Councilor McLaughlin stated that there is an east/west divide in the city with
respect to the resources being made available to East Somerville. He spoke
about waiting years to get some basic resources to make navigating the
streets in East Somerville safer. Councilor Scott added that he has similar
experiences in his ward.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.5.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Mobility update this Council on plans to place a stop
light near the new East Somerville Green Line station.
Order
(ID # 22-1723)
Councilor McLaughlin said that he has been promised a stop light there for
years, with no action being taken.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.6.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parking place a STOP sign on Tufts Street’s
intersection with Washington Street and ensure its visibility to vehicle
operators.
Order
(ID # 22-1724)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.7.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Commissioner of Public Works address the malfunctioning
streetlight on the corner of Knowlton and Morton Streets.
Order
(ID # 22-1725)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.8.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Commissioner of Public Works address the inconsistently lit
streetlights on East Broadway.
Order
(ID # 22-1726)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.9.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Commissioner of Public Works address the leaning electrical pole
at Tufts and Knowlton Streets.
Order
(ID # 22-1727)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 21 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
10.10.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Engineering repaint the crosswalk at Tufts and
Washington Streets.
Order
(ID # 22-1728)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.11.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Engineering ensure that the bus lane on Washington
Street, before the train bridge, is visible.
Order
(ID # 22-1729)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.12.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility and the Chief of Police work with city and
state officials to implement short-term pedestrian safety measures at the
listed I-93 intersections.
Order
(ID # 22-1730)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.13.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility prioritize a stop light on Grand Union Blvd.
and Artisan Way.
Order
(ID # 22-1732)
Councilor McLaughlin said that he has been promised a stop light at this
location for years, with no action being taken.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.14.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Mobility update this Council on plans to place a ramp
on Walnut Street, by Leather’s Park, as part of the Neighborways program.
Order
(ID # 22-1733)
Councilor McLaughlin said this has a simple fix and just needs a curb cut or
an ADA ramp, yet nothing has been done.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.15.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Engineering renovate Alston Street to address broken
sidewalks and the lack of trees.
Order
(ID # 22-1734)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 22 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
10.16.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Kelly
That the Director of Parking consider using metered parking spots by
restaurants at Assembly Row for food delivery vehicles.
Order
(ID # 22-1735)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.17.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Parking remove the NO LEFT TURN sign at Pearl and
Mt. Vernon Streets as it confuses drivers and leads to traffic congestion.
Order
(ID # 22-1736)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.18.
By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Kelly
That the Commissioner of Public Works update the Ward 1 City Councilor
regarding plans to find a location for excessive snow other than 90
Washington Street.
Order
(ID # 22-1737)
Councilor McLaughlin said that city plans to keep dumping snow at this
location and has no plan for using other areas. Councilor Wilson noted that
this site is going to be developed and the city is potentially contaminating it
by dumping snow (along with what is collected with it) there.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.19.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan,
Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad,
Councilor Kelly, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor
Strezo and Councilor Wilson
That the Election Commissioner identify locations outside of the City
Council Chamber to conduct early voting for future elections.
Order
(ID # 22-1738)
Councilor McLaughlin noted that some Councilors have voiced
experiencing a lack of respect by the administration and he said that this is
just one example. The Chamber and Committee Room are under the
domain of the City Council and although he believes in inter-departmental
cooperation, he noted that the administration would not allow Council
members to use another office space for an executive session meeting.
Councilor Gomez Mouakad urged members to advocate for getting the 1895
building renovation underway. Councilor Scott related that he has
repeatedly been told that he could not use the Committee Room for Council
business.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 23 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
10.20.
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Director of Housing and the Director of Health and Human
Services update this Council regarding repeated requests to provide shelter
to homeless residents.
Order
(ID # 22-1739)
Councilor McLaughlin noted that this is a recurring problem that has had a
lack of response and that people need a place to go. Councilor Burnley said
it’s time to provide shelter to the homeless, but he has been told that this is
not on track, so he would like to use ARPA funds to address the problem.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.21.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances, Section
2-221, to extend the exclusive period for Group A and Group B Priority
Marijuana License applicants.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1714)
Councilor Scott related that this ground-breaking legislation is about to
expire.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
10.22.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Zac Zaremba to the Zoning
Board of Appeals.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1718)
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:
10.23.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brian Cook to the Zoning
Board of Appeals.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1719)
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:
10.24.
Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Sisia Daglian to the Zoning
Board of Appeals.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 22-1720)
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 24 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
10.25.
New Drainlayer's License, Raffaele Construction Corp.
License
(ID # 22-1745)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.26.
Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for SomerStreets: Monster
Mash on October 30 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate November 6).
Public Event
(ID # 22-1731)
APPROVED
RESULT:
11.
LATE ITEMS
By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly and Councilor Davis
That the ARPA Specialist update this Council on the City's plans to use
ARPA funding to address chronic homelessness.
Order
(ID # 22-1757)
Discussed with item 22-1739.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
By Councilor Scott
That the City Solicitor update this Council on the 8/25/22 Civil Service
Commission decision Lima, Henry v. City of Somerville, and its impact on
the appointments approved by the City Council on 10/13/22, as well as
future firefighter appointments.
Order
(ID # 22-1768)
APPROVED
RESULT:
By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Economic Development, Director of Mobility, and
Director of Parking explore North-South microtransit routes and report to
this Council regarding feasibility and cost.
Order
(ID # 22-1758)
Councilor Burnley spoke about possibly running a pilot program that aligns
with the city’s climate goals and lack of parking. Councilor Kelly said that
she spoke to hundreds of people who told her how difficult it is to walk to
and from Market Basket via Walnut Street and she thinks that this would
allow residents to get to the services they need. She also noted that these
routes do exist in the city now, but are operated by the private sector,
therefore not available to the public. Councilor Burnley modeled his plan on
the one used in Cambridge, with some changes. Councilor Gomez Mouakad
would like to tie this into the school routes.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Traffic and Parking Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 25 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Budget Director update this Council on the status of the at least
$200,000 in unallocated funding that this Council resolved be allocated to
unarmed, alternative emergency response.
Order
(ID # 22-1759)
Councilor Burnley stated that when the Council speaks on an issue, the
Administration has the responsibility to inform the Council why it may
choose not to support the item. Councilor Wilson said that the Public
Health and Public Safety committee will be having a discussion with local
and national individuals on alternative emergency response methods.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Director of Food Access & Healthy Communities provide this
Council with a report on the Taxi to Health program.
Order
(ID # 22-1760)
Councilor Burnley said that the information would be useful in helping to
build a better infrastructure in the city.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
That the Chief of Police work with the Office of Housing Stability to submit
a written report answering the questions contained within.
Order
(ID # 22-1761)
Councilor Burnley said that this has been used nationally to harm people
involved in domestic violence situations and Councilor Strezo reported that
the nuisance law is not enforceable in Somerville, however, Councilor
Burnley feels that it would be worth it to look at the law on the books.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 26 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott
That the Administration update this Council on actions taken related to the
possible relocation of the Somerville Media Center and Massachusetts
Alliance for Portuguese Speakers from the city-owned property at 90 Union
Square.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1762)
Councilor McLaughlin commented that there are plans for this building that
many may not be aware of and he is bringing attention to this in an attempt
to be able to protect SCAT and MAPS from losing their spaces in the
building. Councilor Clingan reported that city plans to put bids out for the
roof repairs and Councilor McLaughlin stated that repairs will be made, but
not to the benefit of the people currently there. Councilor Scott said the
condition of the building is disgraceful and he would like to have a
discussion on this before the full Council.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Administration update this Council on developments related to the
Request for Proposals for the disposition of the property located at 90 Union
Square.
Resolution
(ID # 22-1763)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
FOLLOWUP:
By Councilor McLaughlin
That the Commissioner of Public Works clean Chuckie Harris Park.
Order
(ID # 22-1764)
APPROVED
RESULT:
By Councilor Scott
That Outside Counsel Timothy Zessin update this Council on the 10/6/22
Civil Service Commission decision Kiely, Michael v. City of Somerville,
and the impact on the confirmations process.
Order
(ID # 22-1765)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
Page 27 of 28
City Council
Meeting Minutes
October 13, 2022
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
Conveying an update on the MBTA Bus Network Redesign project.
Communication
(ID # 22-1766)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld reported that representatives of the MBTA met
with residents of Clarendon Hill Towers last week. The re-design update
will be out next month and another meeting with the MBTA is scheduled for
November 2. The MBTA made a commitment to expand bus service by
25% over the next 5 years. Councilor Burnley said that if the MBTA plans
on eliminating some bus routes, the community needs to be ready to oppose
that.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Health and Human Services report to this Council on
COVID and flu vaccination clinics and strategies to increase opportunities
for residents to access vaccines.
Order
(ID # 22-1767)
Councilor Pineda Neufeld would like to get an update on the availability of
vaccine clinics.
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
Public Health and Public Safety Committee
FOLLOWUP:
12.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 9:37 PM.
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