Matters ▸ Attachment
Minutes 11.25.25 — File 26-0078
City of Somerville, Massachusetts
City Council
Meeting Minutes
7:00 PM
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have
been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first
checking with the City Clerk.
1.
OPENING CEREMONIES
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis.
The City Council entered recess at 7:56 PM and returned at 7:59 PM.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 9:50 PM and returned at 10:05 PM.
The City Council entered Executive Session at 10:07 PM and returned at 10:19 PM.
1.1.
Call of the Roll.
Roll Call
(ID # 25-1771)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
Ward Seven City Councilor Emily Hardt
City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson
Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr.
Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait
City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis
Present:
1.2.
Remembrances.
Remembrances
(ID # 25-1772)
APPROVED
RESULT:
1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of October 23, 2025.
Minutes
(ID # 25-1773)
APPROVED
RESULT:
2.
CITATIONS
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Page 1 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 10 feet of
conduit in Harvard Street, from Utility Pole 163/1 to a point of pickup at 25
Atherton Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1756)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.2.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 28 feet of
conduit in Indiana Avenue, from Manhole 8411 to a point of pickup at 8
Indiana Avenue.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1752)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. Crystal Huff spoke about local
businesses experiencing brownouts as it rains heavily in the area. Jacqui
Duffy said she would follow up with the resident about their concerns. There
being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.3.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 37 feet of
conduit in Cleveland Street, from Utility Pole 420/4 to a new Handhole next
to 11 Harvard Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1753)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.4.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 38 feet of
conduit in Warwick Street, from Utility Pole 357/3 to a point of pickup at 16
Warwick Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1754)
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.
At 8:30 PM, a resident interrupted proceedings to explain that he was unable
to enter the building earlier due to capacity issues and wanted to address this
item. President Davis moved for reconsideration and the item was
reconsidered. President Davis re-opened the Public Hearing. Matthew Penny
shared that he had questions about the necessity of the conduit. There being
no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 2 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
3.5.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 47 feet of
conduit in Berkeley Street, from Utility Pole 30/3 to a point of pickup at 24
Berkeley Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1755)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.6.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 48 feet of
conduit in Vernon Street, from Utility Pole 152/9 to a point of pickup at 70
Vernon Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1757)
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.
At 8:30 PM, a resident interrupted proceedings to explain that he was unable
to enter the building earlier due to capacity issues and wanted to address this
item. President Davis moved for reconsideration and the item was
reconsidered. President Davis re-opened the Public Hearing. Elena Vicente
spoke against this item, stating the fixture is disruptive to her mother’s
property. Tyler Barbosas, Ms. Vicente’s son, also shared their disagreement
with the installation of the conduit. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Licenses and Permits Committee
FOLLOWUP:
3.7.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 52 feet of
conduit in Bolton Street, from Utility Pole 378/1 to a point of pickup at 8
Bolton Street.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1751)
Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and
explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the
Public Hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
3.8.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 223 feet of
conduit in Broadway, from Manhole 10195 to a point of pickup at 299
Broadway.
Grant of Location
(ID # 25-1758)
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:
Page 3 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
3.9.
Chief Assessor presenting proposed FY 2026 Tax Classifications and
requesting the adoption of a minimum residential factor for FY 2026 and
acceptance of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 59 Section 5C, a
residential exemption of 35% of average assessed value for owner-occupied
properties.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1735)
Chief Assessor Frank Golden presented two motions related to the tax rate
for FY 2026.
That the City Council adopts a minimum residential factor of 82.816, the
legal minimum for the City of Somerville for FY 2026.
That the City Council accepts the provision of Chapter 59, section 5C
approving a residential exception of 35% of average assessed value for
owner occupied properties for FY 2026.
Assessor Golden explained that the city is experiencing a loss of new growth
because of the lack of interest in life science buildings, stating a general
reduction in both commercial and residential property values. He stated that
the vacant life science buildings are being taxed still and, along with the four
stable buildings, hope that the vacant ones soon become occupied. Within
his presentation he reviewed three tax options the city can choose from.
Deputy Assessor Janneke Donovan presented after where she reviewed real
estate tax exemption options. In response to a question from Councilor
Wilson about opting into the Hero Act for veterans’ benefits, she said the
benefit is already available under existing provisions and that the Hero Act
has more restrictions than is currently being offered. Councilor Mbah
inquired about the percentages of the Life Science new growth forecast.
President Davis opened the public hearing.
There being no speakers, the public hearing was closed.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large
Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
4.
ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS
4.1.
By Councilor Davis and Councilor Wilson
That the Code of Ordinances be amended to prohibit the use of tax-payer
funds for self-promotion.
Ordinance
(ID # 25-1762)
Councilor Wilson commented that this ordinance reflects good policy being
codified.
Page 4 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.2.
By Councilor Davis
That the City Attorney's Office is authorized to respond to the Open Meeting
Law complaint by Osnat Hoffman on behalf of the City Council.
Order
(ID # 25-1716)
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.3.
By Councilor Davis
That the Commissioner of Public Works provide an update on how snow
and ice is removed from different types of surfaces in schoolyards, including
any limitations based on surface type.
Order
(ID # 25-1722)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.4.
By Councilor Davis
That the Administration and the School Department discuss with this
Council the budgetary and planning impact of snow days, and how
adaptation to climate change may affect future snow day planning.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1721)
APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION
RESULT:
School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
4.5.
By Councilor Davis
In his capacity as President, cancelling the Regular Meeting of this Council
scheduled for December 25, 2025.
Communication
(ID # 25-1719)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
4.6.
By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Sait
In support of Climate Forward 2024.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1720)
This item was discussed with item #25-1699.
APPROVED
RESULT:
4.7.
By Councilor Strezo
That this City Council discuss the safety of the Summer Street bike lane
design around or near Putnam Street to Benton Road and how and if
additional safety modifications can be made.
Order
(ID # 25-1770)
LAID ON THE TABLE
RESULT:
Page 5 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
4.8.
By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Mbah
Supporting the resale of certain city owned property.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1763)
Councilor McLaughlin commented on a meeting he held with residents of
Cobble Hill about available green space for seniors. He shared his idea for
Corcoran Jennison to buy back the land, that way they will have access to
the parking lot that already exists and will not have to take away more green
space.
APPROVED
RESULT:
5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5.1.
By Councilor Burnley Jr.
In support of democratic divestment action regarding Ballot Question 3.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1700)
Councilor Burnley reiterated his support for the resolution, emphasizing the
community attention it has continued to generate and the importance of
listening to what the Somerville voters want. He sponsored Mo Katz-Christy
to speak. They spoke of growing up within the Jewish community and the
collective trauma held by Jewish residents. They spoke of their current work
with Jewish families and working through the trauma that can be held in
people’s bodies, and the trauma people are currently facing in Gaza. They
ended the remarks by advocating for the divestment of funds as outlined in
ballot question 3. Councilor Burnley sponsored Sarah Halawa to speak.
Sarah detailed her families experience in Somerville of being silenced when
trying to discuss their Palestinian heritage and described events in Israel that
she linked to genocide and ongoing racism towards Palestinians. She also
closed her remarks by calling for the divestment of funds that is detailed in
ballot question 3 that overwhelmingly supported the constituents.
Councilor Strezo sponsored Sam Gechter to speak. He addressed
anti-Zionism and hate during his remarks. Most of his remarks focused on
the fact that this ballot question is taking resources and time away from the
issues that plague constituents on a daily basis and urged the council to
focus on local concerns. Councilor Mbah shared his thoughts that he will be
supporting the resolution as it has been shown it is the will of the people. He
sponsored Kate Opitz to speak. She is a long time Somerville resident who
spoke out against antisemitic acts and that the Boycott, Divestment,
Sanctions (BDS) movements is largely performative. She also stated that the
divestment as written is unenforceable and asked that the council not take
such divisive action.
Many Councilors shared their thoughts on the resolution. Councilors
Ewen-Campen and Sait expressed their unguarded support for the
resolution. Councilor Strezo shared her disagreement and continued her
arguments that the ask is outside what is legal in the city. Councilor Hardt
said she was unable to support as she is brand new to the council and cannot
make a fully informed decision at this time. Councilor McLaughlin closed
remarks that he would support the resolution as it is evident of the
Page 6 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
importance to the community but also acknowledged the concerning funds
currently in the pension fund and recognized the complexities that lie ahead.
APPROVED
RESULT:
City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City
Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott,
Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At
Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward
Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large
Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, and City Councilor At
Large Strezo
NAY:
5.2.
By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson
That the Administration inform this Council of the process, action and
communication used to consider acquiring the closed school building
privately owned by the Archdiocese of Boston, on Thurston Street, after the
Winter Hill Community Innovation School was deemed unsuitable for use.
Resolution
(ID # 25-1438)
Councilor Clingan stated this topic is not one for public, the conversation of
property taking is more for the next administration to take the lead on.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
6.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
6.A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on November 19, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1730)
Councilor Wilson presented the committee report and noted that item
#25-1739 replaces the item marked as withdrawn to fix a text error.
Councilor Wilson asked that the report be accepted as submitted.
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.2.
Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management conveying the draft
Combined Sewer Overflow Plan.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1451)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.A.3.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $15,500 from various SomerStat
Ordinary Maintenance Accounts to the SomerStat Salaries & Wages
Temporary Account to fund additional temporary employee time.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1620)
Page 7 of 18
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Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.4.
Requesting approval to accept and expend an $87,450 grant with no new
match required, from the Massachusetts Office of Grants & Research to the
Police Department for public safety staffing.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1621)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.5.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,765.28 using
available funds in the Police Department Professional and Technical
Services Account for case management services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1622)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.6.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $729 from the Communications
Department Community Outreach Account to the Somerville High School
(SHS) Salaries Account for SHS staff participation in the new PK-8 School
Building Planning Focus Group Session.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1624)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
6.A.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $109,296 grant, with no new
match required, from Executive Office of Public Safety to the Fire
Department for staffing costs.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1636)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.8.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $125.43 using
available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Computer
Equipment Account for freight charges.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1638)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.9.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $5,285.77 using
available funds in the Police Department Computer Supplies Account for
computer supplies.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1640)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.10.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,547.55 using
available funds in the Police Department Animal Control Professional and
Technical Services Account for veterinary services.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1646)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.11.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $271 using available
funds in the Police Department Badges, Emblems, Trophies Account for
educational achievement award bars.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1648)
Page 8 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.12.
Requesting approval of a Pedestrian Access Easement and grant of a
Maintenance License for 495 Columbia Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1649)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large
Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
6.A.13.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $54 using available
funds in the Police Department Badges, Emblems, Trophies Account for a
hat badge.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1651)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.14.
Requesting the appropriation of $403,980 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Debt Service, Interest on Notes/BANS Account
for payment of interest for the 90 Washington Street property acquisition.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1679)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.15.
Requesting the appropriation of $407,090 from the Water Enterprise Fund
Retained Earnings Account to the Water Enterprise Fund Debt Service
Account to fund debt service for a Massachusetts Water Resource Authority
loan.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1680)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.A.16.
Requesting the appropriation of $100,000 from the Community Benefits
Stabilization Fund to the Armory Revolving Fund to prepare the Armory for
onboarding and support of tenants.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1698)
APPROVED
RESULT:
Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large
Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
6.B.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Page 9 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development,
meeting on November 18, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1729)
Councilor Strezo presented the committee report and asked that the report be
accepted as submitted
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.B.2.
By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson
That the Director of Parks and Recreation discuss how inclusive playground
accessibility is being considered in future playground plans and redesign
projects.
Order
(ID # 24-0070)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.3.
By Councilor Pineda Neufeld
That the Director of Economic Development discuss with this Council ways
to provide small businesses with financial and technical support when
impacted by construction and other emergencies.
Order
(ID # 24-1008)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.B.4.
By Councilor Strezo
That the Director of Economic Development appear before this Council’s
Committee on Housing and Community Development to discuss the
immediate plans and short-term response efforts to best support and sustain
small businesses, post-COVID.
Order
(ID # 24-1488)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.C.
LAND USE COMMITTEE
6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on November 20, 2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1731)
Councilor McLaughlin presented the committee report and asked that the
report be accepted as submitted.
Economic Development Planner Ben Demers shared that the items related to
90 Washington Street were approved by the Redevelopment Authority. He
reviewed the next steps in the process and the plan to release a Request for
Proposals early next year. Councilor Hardt asked about short-term parking.
Planner Demers clarified this is for large surface area parking, there is still
opportunity to allow for short-term parking later in the planning process.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 10 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
6.C.2.
Requesting approval of the amended 90 Washington Street Demonstration
Project Plan.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1594)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.3.
Requesting approval of an amendment to the Memorandum of Agreement
between the City Council and Redevelopment Authority regarding the
redevelopment of 90 Washington Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1595)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.4.
Requesting approval of the development objectives for the redevelopment of
90 Washington Street.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1596)
APPROVED
RESULT:
6.C.5.
Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community
Development conveying a summary of the 90 Washington process review
and development objectives.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1607)
WORK COMPLETED
RESULT:
6.D.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
6.D.1.
Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on November 17,
2025.
Committee Report
(ID # 25-1718)
Councilor Sait presented the committee report and asked that the report be
accepted as submitted.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.
COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR
7.1.
Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to discuss the
potential settlement of a claim against a former employee.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1765)
The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 10:07 PM to discuss
this item on a roll call vote of 11 in favor (Hardt, Wilson, Ewen-Campen,
Scott, McLaughlin, Burnley, Sait, Strezo, Clingan, Mbah, Davis), 0 opposed.
The Council reconvened the regular meeting at 10:19 PM. President Davis
reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to
adjourn.
APPROVED
RESULT:
Page 11 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, City Councilor At Large
Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward
Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor
McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward
Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large
Mbah, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis
AYE:
7.2.
Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 12-178 of the Code of
Ordinances to remove the prohibition on sourcing neonicotinoid-treated
plants.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1714)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Legislative Matters Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.3.
Requesting approval of a utility easement for NStar Electric Company at 0
Windsor Place (Boynton Yards).
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1728)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.4.
Requesting approval to accept a gift of real property located at 17 Inner Belt
Road (9 New Washington Street) from Ralph C. DeVitto, Jr. and A Bram,
Trustee, RCD Foundation.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1737)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.5.
Requesting authorization to borrow $3,057,826 in a bond, and to appropriate
the same amount for the Fiscal Year 2026 Street Resurfacing Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1742)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.6.
Requesting approval to appropriate $3,000,000 from the Street
Reconstruction & Resurfacing Stabilization Fund for the FY 2026 Street
Resurfacing Program.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1743)
Page 12 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.7.
Requesting approval to appropriate $250,000 from the Immigrant Legal
Services Stabilization Fund for legal services for immigrants and asylum
seekers seeking permanent residency.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1746)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.8.
Requesting approval to appropriate $250,000 from the Community Benefits
Stabilization Fund Account to the Immigrant Legal Services Stabilization
Fund Account for legal services for immigrants and asylum seekers seeking
permanent residency.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1745)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.9.
Requesting approval to appropriate $6,750 from the Medicinal Marijuana
Stabilization Fund for additional duties related to the Out of School time
activities for FY 2026.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1732)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.10.
Requesting the appropriation of $205,000 from the Dilboy Field Enterprise
Fund Retained Earnings to the Dilboy Field Enterprise Fund Electricity
Account for delinquent electricity bills.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1747)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 13 of 18
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Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
7.11.
Requesting the appropriation of $225,000 from the Unreserved Fund
Balance ("Free Cash") to the Dilboy Field Enterprise Fund Electricity
Account for delinquent electricity bills.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1748)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.12.
Requesting the appropriation of $10,643 from the Unreserved Fund Balance
("Free Cash") to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund to
recompense the fund for unallowable expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1744)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.13.
Requesting the appropriation or reserve of $7,260,181 in estimated FY 2026
Community Preservation Act (CPA) revenue for CPA projects and
expenses.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1750)
Director Inacio clarified this item is for the CPA budget appropriation now
that the final tax increment has been determined.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.14.
Requesting authorization to establish a consolidated Gift Account for the
Veteran Services Department to accept donations for Veterans Holiday
Season uses and veterans in need of financial assistance.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1736)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.15.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $150 from the Office of Immigrant
Affairs Neighborhood Improvement Council Account to the Somerville
Public Schools Food Services Account for the Latin American and
Caribbean Heritage Celebration.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1697)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Page 14 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.16.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $304,954.10 grant with no new
match required, from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable
Communities to the Health and Human Services department for the
2025-2026 Winter Warming Center.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1734)
Director Carroll stated the Warming Center is set to open on December 8,
2025. This grant will cover operational costs from January - April 2026.
Councilor Burnley clarified there is a capacity of 35 beds. Director Carroll
shared the Warming Center will be at the Cummings School and renovations
to the bathrooms to make them accessible and adult sized fixtures are
on-going. For residents with questions the email to contact is
warmingcenter@somervillema.gov.
APPROVED
RESULT:
7.17.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $22,570 grant with no new
match required, from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to
the Police Department for mobile data terminals.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1740)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.18.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $370 gift from the Tufts
University Softball team to the Health and Human Services Mobile Farmers
Market Revolving Fund for market needs.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1741)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
7.19.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $147.86 using
available funds in the Department of Health and Human Services Program
Supplies and Materials Account for meeting snacks.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1733)
Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.12,
7.14, 7.15, and 7.17 through 7.19 and refer them to the Finance Committee.
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Finance Committee
FOLLOWUP:
Page 15 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
7.20.
Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Andrew Patriquin to the
position of Fire Captain.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1726)
REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION
RESULT:
Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
Committee
FOLLOWUP:
8.
COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS
8.1.
Condominium Review Board conveying the FY 2023 Annual Report,
pursuant to Section 7-70 of the Code of Ordinances.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1509)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.2.
The Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment conveying
Climate Forward 2024.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1699)
This item was taken up with item #25-1720.
Councilor Mbah and Councilor Sait shared comments about the submitted
resolution’s goal to further the work being done with Climate Forward 2024.
Office of Sustainability and Environment Director Christine Blais presented
on the climate plan to mitigate and adapt to the challenges that are present in
the city. The plan addresses flooding, extreme heat, and emissions.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.3.
SomerStat Director conveying an update on the Happiness Survey 2025.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1738)
SomerStat Director Anna Gartsman gave a presentation on the Happiness
Survey data that was collected in 2025. All data and information from the
survey is available online and any questions can be directed to
data@somervillema.gov. Councilor Burnley made observations on the
different ways they lived experience is portrayed through race, gender
identity, and the differences between renters and homeowners.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
8.4.
City Attorney conveying a clarification on the purpose of item #25-1639.
Officer's
Communication
(ID # 25-1764)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.
NEW BUSINESS
Page 16 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
9.1.
New Drainlayer's License, Elite Construction Management Inc.
License
(ID # 25-1759)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of item 9.1 through 9.3 and
approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.2.
New Sign/Awning License, 59-61 Bow St LLC, 59-61 Bow Street, 6
Balconies and 12 Bays.
License
(ID # 25-1761)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of item 9.1 through 9.3 and
approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.3.
New Sign/Awning License, Bakery and Cafe Komugi, 68 Prospect Street, 2
Signs.
License
(ID # 25-1760)
Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of item 9.1 through 9.3 and
approve them this evening.
APPROVED
RESULT:
9.4.
Osnat Hoffman submitting an Open Meeting Law complaint against this
City Council. Note that the Council may enter executive session pursuant to
M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(1) to discuss.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1715)
The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 9:50 PM to discuss this
item on a roll call vote of 11 in favor (Hardt, Wilson, Ewen-Campen, Scott,
McLaughlin, Burnley, Sait, Strezo, Clingan, Mbah, Davis), 0 opposed.
The Council reconvened the regular meeting at 10:05 PM. President Davis
reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to
adjourn.
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
9.5.
Bill Valletta submitting comments re: item #25-1698, regarding the Armory
Revolving Fund.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1749)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
10.1.
Requesting the appropriation of $2,400,000 from the Receipts Reserved for
Appropriation, Parking Meter Receipts Account to reduce the FY 2026 Tax
Rate.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1781)
Finance Director Ed Bean stated this number has not changed since the
presentation of the budget.
Page 17 of 18
City Council
Meeting Minutes
November 25, 2025
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.2.
Requesting approval of a transfer of $729 from the Communications
Department Community Outreach Account to the Somerville Public Schools
Professional Salaries Account for staff participation in the PK-8 School
Building Planning Focus Group Session.
Mayor's Request
(ID # 25-1739)
APPROVED
RESULT:
10.3.
Davis Square Neighborhood Council submitting comments re: item
#25-1539, a Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning district of 363
Highland Avenue from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5) and from
MR4 to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6), and 110 Willow Avenue MR4 to MR6.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1774)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.4.
Daniel Wong submitting comments re: 90 Washington Street.
Public
Communication
(ID # 25-1775)
PLACED ON FILE
RESULT:
10.5.
Withdrawn.
Withdrawn
(ID # 25-1727)
WITHDRAWN
RESULT:
11.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:45 PM.
Page 18 of 18