City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, July 14, 2022 7:00 PM 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. Present: 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 Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld Absent: Ward Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. 214062 (ID # 22-0230) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. 214063 (ID # 22-0232) President McLaughin and Councilor Clingan requested a moment of silence for Danny McInnis. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, June 9, 2022. 214064 (ID # 22-0233) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS Page 1 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 2.1. Citation By Matthew McLaughlin 214065 Commending Frank Wright on the occasion of his retirement from the Law (ID # 22-0231) Department after over 22 years of distinguished service. President McLaughin spoke about the cooperation extended by City Solicitor Frank Wright and wished him well as he leaves his position. RESULT: APPROVED 2.2. Citation By Matthew McLaughlin 214066 Commending Eileen McGettigan on the occasion of her retirement from the (ID # 22-0234) Law Department after 10 years of distinguished service. President McLaughin spoke about the cooperation extended by Special Counsel Eileen McGettigan and congratulated her on her retirement. RESULT: APPROVED 2.3. Citation By Matthew McLaughlin 214067 Commending George Proakis on his selection as City Manager of (ID # 22-0235) Watertown. President McLaughin congratulated George Proakis as he moves on to a position in Watertown. Mr. Proakis thanked everyone for their dedication and time given to the city and said that OSPCD remains in good hands. RESULT: APPROVED 2.4. Citation By Matthew McLaughlin 214068 Commending Mary Skipper on her selection as Superintendent of Boston (ID # 22-0242) Public Schools. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Ordinance By Ben Ewen-Campen and Jesse Clingan and Jake Wilson and Willie 214069 Burnley, Jr. and Charlotte Kelly (ID # 22-0246) Proposing Amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance (Chapter 7, Article IX) to encourage the formation of such neighborhood councils. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke about the process leading up to the establishment of Neighborhood Councils. He and Councilor Clingan have prepared a draft that they would like to take up in committee. The purpose is to encourage community groups to develop in open and transparent ways. The draft has been shared with the neighborhood group and their feedback will be considered. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 2 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 4.2. Resolution By Ben Ewen-Campen and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Jake Wilson 214070 That the Administration work with this Council to ensure that the GLX (ID # 22-0247) Construction project is held accountable for the damage caused to backyards along Willoughby Street. Councilor Ewen-Campen explained that the GLX excavation wasn’t shored up, resulting in residents fences sliding down. GLX officials have been unresponsive to the residents’ concerns. RESULT: APPROVED 4.3. Order By Kristen Strezo and Jake Wilson and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott 214071 That the City Solicitor provide an opinion on the legality of landlords (ID # 22-0378) including non-disclosure agreements in leases. Councilor Strezo said she is concerned that these agreements might be detrimental to renters in the city and she would like to explore the options the city might take to protect residents. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.4. Order By Kristen Strezo 214072 That the Director of Economic Development discuss the ability of small (ID # 22-0251) businesses to access loading zones in heavy traffic areas while outdoor dining is present. Councilor Strezo noted that some restaurants are struggling to receive deliveries. RESULT: APPROVED 4.5. Order By Kristen Strezo 214073 That the Director of Communications create an annual fall campaign to (ID # 22-0252) inform the public about the "Dutch Reach" to prevent cyclist injuries. RESULT: APPROVED 4.6. Order By Kristen Strezo and Judy Pineda Neufeld 214074 That the Director of Health and Human services discuss the potential effects (ID # 22-0410) of the recent Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health on Somerville women, pregnant women, pregnant people and reproductive health. Councilor Strezo said the recent Supreme Court ruling on abortion was an attack on women’s reproductive health. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committe 4.7. Order By Kristen Strezo 214075 That the Chief of Police provide this Council with the number of rape kits (ID # 22-0411) administered in the past five years, and the number that were included as evidence in court cases. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION Page 3 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committe 4.8. Resolution By Kristen Strezo 214076 That the Middlesex County District Attorney provide this Council with the (ID # 22-0136) number of rape kits tested and the number used as evidence in Somerville court cases over the past five years. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committe 4.9. Resolution By Kristen Strezo and Willie Burnley, Jr. 214077 That the Administration schedule a Commissions and Boards Recruitment (ID # 22-0259) Fair once per season with a focus on reaching underrepresented residents. RESULT: APPROVED 4.10. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Jake Wilson and Kristen Strezo 214078 That the Commissioner of Public Works install additional lighting near the (ID # 22-0260) Union Square MBTA stop crosswalk to increase visibility at night. Councilors Burnley, Strezo, Kelly and Wilson have all received complaints from constituents on this matter. RESULT: APPROVED 4.11. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Matthew McLaughlin and Jake Wilson and 214079 Charlotte Kelly (ID # 22-0261) That the Commissioner of Public Works install and maintain a port-a-potty in Chuckie Harris Park. Councilor Burnley thinks that facilities should be available where unhoused people tend to congregate, such as Chuckie Harris Park. Councilor Kelly encouraged councilors to contact HHS for placement of port-a-potties. Councilor Burnley spoke about the need to care for less fortunate people in the city and meeting their most basic needs. RESULT: APPROVED 4.12. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 214080 That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council, the (ID # 22-0262) number of portable toilets that can be deployed in critical areas. RESULT: APPROVED 4.13. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 214081 That the Director of Health and Human Services, with expertise from the (ID # 22-0263) Somerville Homeless Coalition, draft a written report for this Council detailing which areas most severely need public restrooms accommodations and how the Administration will meet those needs. RESULT: APPROVED Page 4 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 4.14. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 214082 That the ADA Coordinator coordinate with the City of Cambridge or (ID # 22-0137) another nearby entity that can provide Braille translations in less than 3 to 4 weeks until the City can procure a Brailler. Councilor Burnley spoke about the need to accommodate blind individuals in the city and said that under the city’s plan, it would take 3-4 weeks to have a documented translated into Braille. He noted that the City of Cambridge has a Braille machine and he would like Somerville to make an effort to use it. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committe 4.15. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 214083 That the Chief of Police provide this Council with a written report on the (ID # 22-0388) number of calls for service related to un-housed individuals, the nature of those calls, and the number directed toward or responded to in collaboration with the Somerville Homeless Coalition. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.16. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Jake Wilson and Charlotte Kelly and Kristen 214084 Strezo (ID # 22-1308) That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry provide this Council with a map detailing the locations of all Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) and the policies that this Council could adopt to mandate that POPS conspicuously display signage stating that the area is available to the public. Councilor Burnley commented that the city has such spaces, yet they remain largely inaccessible. He would like to increase the availability of these spaces to the public. RESULT: APPROVED 4.17. Resolution By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Ben Ewen-Campen and Charlotte Kelly and Jake 214085 Wilson and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Jesse Clingan and Judy (ID # 22-0265) Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo and Matthew McLaughlin That the Administration provide transparency in its use of funds by creating a page on the website to track ARPA money received and expended, for what purposes, and how residents may request that funds be allocated for a particular purpose. Councilor Burnley spoke about the lack of transparency with regard to ARPA funds. RESULT: APPROVED 4.18. Resolution By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Matthew McLaughlin and Jesse Clingan and Ben 214086 Ewen-Campen and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson and Jefferson Thomas (ID # 22-0266) (J.T.) Scott and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo In Support of Funding a Supervised Consumption Site. Page 5 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 Councilor Burnley commented that this has been an important issue for the city for several years. He stated that legislation is being discussed which would allow for a pilot program to be implemented. He noted that 108 Somerville residents have died from opioid abuse over the past several years. RESULT: APPROVED 4.19. Communication By Matthew McLaughlin 214087 In his capacity as President, conveying an updated list of Standing and (ID # 22-0267) Special Committee assignments. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 4.20. Communication By Matthew McLaughlin 214088 In his capacity as President, cancelling this Council's Regular meetings (ID # 22-0268) scheduled for July 28 and August 11. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 4.21. Communication By Matthew McLaughlin 214089 In his capacity as President, rescheduling the Regular Meeting scheduled for (ID # 22-0269) Thursday October 27, 2022 to Tuesday October 25, 2022 to accommodate early voting. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel 214090 Matters, meeting on June 29, 2022. (ID # 22-1314) Councilor Pineda Neufeld presented the Committee Report and briefly spoke about the appointments that were before the committee that evening. Two of the Police Department appointments, previously approved and returned to committee, were approved. Councilor Scott moved to sever item #214034 from the committee report. The item was severed and came before the Council. Councilor Scott said he has concerns and would like to table the item until a future date when an Executive Session may be held. The motion was approved. Councilor Scott motioned that the candidate be notified of the Executive Session. The motion was approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting confirmation of the appointment of William Ruocco to the 213393 position of Police Officer. (ID # 22-0617) Page 6 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Gianna Ferrara to the 213395 position of Police Officer. (ID # 22-0619) RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting confirmation of the appointment of Keighla McAloney to 213396 the position of Police Officer. (ID # 22-620) RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting confirmation of the promotion of Timothy Van Nostrand 214034 to the position of Police Sergeant. (ID # 22-28964) RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting confirmation of the appointment of Katherine Garavaglia 214035 to the position of Full Member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. (ID # 22-28968) RESULT: APPROVED 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on July 12, 2022. 214091 (ID # 22-1315) Councilor Wilson presented the Committee Report and summarized the actions taken on several items, including GLX funds and several grants. Councilor Kelly moved to sever items #213854 & #213854 from the Committee report. The items were severed and came before the Council. Director Sahni noted that the update was provided to the Committee members today. Chief Femino addressed the Council and explained the Shannon Grant funds are used to reduce gun violence. The application was completed last fall, so some of the language in it might be different now. He gave a breakdown of the hours attributed to ‘hot spot’ policing and explained that any extra hours would be diverted to youth programs. Chief Femino noted that there have been 15 shootings in the Mystic Housing area. There are Community Policing programs being developed. Chief Femino acknowledged that some answers weren’t provided, as requested, since the SPD crime analyst was unavailable. The SPD is planning several basketball games at the Mystic Development, funded by the Shannon Grant. Chief Femino spoke about a program for tutoring, public speaking, etc.. The bulk of hours would be put towards community awareness and youth programs. Councilor McLaughlin spoke on the item and indicated his support for it. He noted that there was no item submitted by any councilor, other than himself, referencing gangs. He shared some personal experiences of Page 7 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 interaction with police. He also pointed out that Teen Empowerment was brought to Somerville as a result of the Shannon Grant. He commented that people want 24-hour police presence in their neighborhoods. Rejecting this grant will to little but accepting the grant may make a big difference to youth in the city. He made a motion to approve the acceptance of #213854 and #213856. Councilor Clingan commented that the gang database should be done away with and Councilor Scott explained that the gang database is CopLink and he doesn’t believe that Somerville should participate in using it. Councilor Strezo stated that many residents are terrified because of the shooting incidents. The motion was approved and the items were approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Kristen Strezo and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and 212987 Judy Pineda Neufeld and Charlotte Kelly and Lance L. Davis and Ben (ID # 22-0211) Ewen-Campen An order that the Director of Economic Development and the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services work with community partners to assess, report, and provide recommendations for improving the city's procurement rates in order to support local businesses. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.3. Mayor's Request Mayor acceptance of a $45,904.98 grant with no new match required, from 213493 the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police (ID # 22-0717) Department for the purchase of security software and equipment to enhance physical security for city property and buildings. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.4. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval to appropriate and transfer $5,335,164 in 213626 unallocated COVID-19 monies from the COVID-19 Stabilization Fund to (ID # 22-0850) the Somerville High School Construction Fund to pay costs of the construction of the Somerville High School, thereby reducing the amount authorized to be borrowed for the project by a like amount. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.B.5. Officer's Director of Infrastructure & Asset Management conveying the Water & Communication Sewer Capital Investment Plan update for May 2022. 213818 (ID # 22-28780) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.6. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval of a transfer of $7,076 from the Police Overtime 213854 Account to the Grant Match Account for the Metro Mayors Coalition (ID # 22-28810) Shannon Grant match requirement. RESULT: APPROVED Page 8 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 AYE: 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, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld NAY: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis 6.B.7. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting acceptance of a $22,692 grant, with required match, from 213856 the Metro Mayors Coalition Shannon Initiative to the Police Department for (ID # 22-28809) youth violence prevention. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS AYE: 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, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld NAY: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis 6.B.8. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $75,000 grant 213857 with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency (ID # 22-28811) Management to the Police Department for Special Response Team expenditures and overtime. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.9. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 213896 An order that the Director of Finance report on the process to reallocate (ID # 22-28863) funds reimbursed from the Green Line Extension Project. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.10 Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval to re-purpose the Green Line Extension (GLX) . 213940 Stabilization Fund to create an "Early Action" Affordable Housing Program (ID # 22-28905) and transfer the balance of the GLX Stabilization Fund to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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 Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld Page 9 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis 6.C. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, 214092 meeting on June 28, 2022. (ID # 22-0289) Councilor Strezo reported that the Committee discussed displacement of residents, rental assistance, wireless internet in communal areas, on-site food pantries for SHA buildings and approved the 2022-2023 Housing and Urban Development One Year Action Plan, for Community Development Block Grant, Home Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Resolution By Kristen Strezo and Judy Pineda Neufeld 213064 A resolution that the Executive Director of the Housing Authority discuss (ID # 22-0288) the possibility of providing wireless internet in communal areas. 6.C.3. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval of the 2022-2023 Housing and Urban 213756 Development One Year Action Plan, for Community Development Block (ID # 22-0980) Grant, Home Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.4. Order By Judy Pineda Neufeld 214152 That the Executive Director of the Somerville Housing Authority, the (ID # 22-29102) Director of the Office of Food Access and Healthy Communities, and a representative from the Somerville Community Fridges discuss how to address food insecurity of residents at Housing Authority buildings and how to provide greater resources. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 6.D. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on June 28, 2022. 214093 (ID # 22-0290) Councilor Ewen-Campen presented the Committee Report and noted that there was an in-depth discussion regarding the Active Shooter Detection System. Councilor Ewen-Campen explained how the technology works and stated that it does not record audio or video. Additionally, this system has no human interaction in the loop. The School Department has advocated for this system and has used it in the old high school building. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to sever item #213947. The item was severed and Page 10 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 came before the Council. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to refer item #213947 to Legislative Matters. Councilor Scott would like to approve the item now, rather than having the city’s labor counsel weigh in on the matter. The motion was approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D.2. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report 213489 for Guardian Indoor Active Shooter Detection System. (ID # 22-0713) RESULT: APPROVED 6.D.3. Ordinance By Ben Ewen-Campen and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly 213947 and Jake Wilson and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Jesse Clingan and (ID # 22-28926) Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo and Lance L. Davis and Matthew McLaughlin and Willie 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. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 6.D.4. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval of the attached Dog Rules and Dog Park Rules. 214036 (ID # 22-28961) RESULT: APPROVED 6.E. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on 214094 July 11, 2022. (ID # 22-0291) Councilor Kelly presented the Committee Report and spoke about the COVID listening sessions, port-a-potties, warming/cooling centers and an overdose prevention facility. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E.2. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 213811 An order that the ADA Coordinator discuss with this Council how the (ID # 22-1035) Administration is accommodating the needs of visually impaired residents through the use of braille in commissions and elsewhere. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Charlotte Kelly 213812 An order that the ADA Coordinator discuss with this Council how the (ID # 22-1036) Administration is providing access and services for residents who are deaf or hard of hearing. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 11 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 6.E.4. Order By Judy Pineda Neufeld 213945 An order that the Director of Health and Human Services share with this (ID # 22-28915) Council, a report summarizing the themes shared at the recent COVID-19 listening sessions with residents. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.5. Order By Lance L. Davis and Willie Burnley, Jr. and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and 213990 Ben Ewen-Campen and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson and Jefferson (ID # 22-28982) Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Jesse Clingan and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo and Matthew McLaughlin An order that the Commissioner of Public Works replace the port-a-potties in and around Davis Square, including Seven Hills Park, regularly maintain them, and leave them in place regardless of complaints from neighbors. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.6. Order By Lance L. Davis and Matthew McLaughlin and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 213993 and Ben Ewen-Campen and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson and Jefferson (ID # 22-28984) Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Jesse Clingan and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo and Willie Burnley, Jr. An order that the Director of Health and Human Services immediately secure space and open a warming/cooling center for people to seek shelter from the summer heat and winter cold. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.7. Order By Lance L. Davis and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson and Ben 213994 Ewen-Campen (ID # 22-28985) An order that the Director of Health and Human Services move forward with an overdose prevention facility, using a mobile facility as an initial, immediate option until permanent brick and mortar locations can be opened. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.F. SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.F.1. Committee Report Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and 214095 Maintenance, meeting on June 30, 2022. (ID # 22-0292) Councilor Clingan reported on the inaugural meeting of this Committee. Among the topics discussed were playground designs and plans for the Brown School and West Somerville Neighborhood School, school building maintenance systems and staff, design issues related to ineffective shades and placement of projector equipment in the high school auditorium, building maintenance and capital improvements for the Winter Hill School and the status of the 1895 building. RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 6.F.2. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Jesse Clingan 213114 An order that the Commissioner of Public Works identify, and provide the (ID # 22-0338) information requested within, staff who are designated to school building maintenance and management. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.F.3. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Jesse Clingan 213115 An order that the Commissioner of Public Works identify vendors (ID # 22-0339) contracted for school building maintenance and the scope of their contracts. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of Police Officer assignments at Polling Places on (ID # 22-0236) Election Day as required by the VOTES Act. Commissioner Salerno explained that the VOTES Act requires local government bodies to vote on having police officers at polling places. He is unaware of a specific reason for this ruling. Councilor Burnley explained that the Council may now decide if this is the best use of police resources. He would like this item referred to committee. He took an unofficial poll of residents and said that most respondents were not in favor of having police at polling places. Councilor Kelly said there is some ambiguity in the law regarding assigning officers to polling places and she thinks this should be discussed in the Legislative Matters Committee. Commissioner Salerno said that police officers serve a useful purpose throughout an election day. They deliver the ballots to and from City Hall, assist in polling location setup, and provide security. Councilor Wilson asked how many incidents required intervention of a police officer over the past several years. Commissioner said that actions of police officers are documented in each precinct log throughout the day. Commissioner Salerno said that during the course of an election, there could be 2 to 6 incidents per precinct. Councilor Ewen-Campen expressed his confusion & n of what is being requested. Director Sahni explained that the requirement to have police officers at polling places has always been state law. Councilor Kelly commented that the Council should not abdicate the authority just given to it in this matter. Councilor Scott suggested that the Council approve a similar requirement for the September 6th election. Councilor Burnley stated that he wants to understand the legal ramification of approving this item. Councilor Strezo moved to approve the item. Councilor Scott requested that Councilor Strezo recall her motion, which she refused to do. President McLaughlin supports approving this item. Councilor Scott invoked Charter Section 15 and the item was laid on the table. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $100,000 from the Community Preservation 214097 Act Undesignated Fund to the Somerville Museum for unanticipated cost (ID # 22-0237) increases for the Elevator and Collection Storage projects. Page 13 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 Roberta Cameron, Community Preservation Act Manager, spoke on this item and explained the reason for the request. The project entails waterproofing the entire 1st floor and makes the first floor HP accessible and reconfigures space. The funds will be used for materials and construction costs. RESULT: APPROVED 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to seek funding and enter into related agreements 214098 with the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) (ID # 22-0239) grant, appropriate funding, and dedicate Henry Hansen Park to open space and recreational use in perpetuity. Arn Franzen explained that this is a grant made available through the state and the city has received a considerable amount of money over the years. An authorization by the Council is required in order for the city to move forward in securing the grant. The grant deadline is today. RESULT: APPROVED 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $750,000 grant with no 214099 new match required, from MA Department of Energy and Environmental (ID # 22-0240) Affairs to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for costs related to Conway Park remediation and construction. RESULT: APPROVED 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $298,280 grant with no 214100 new match required, from the MA Department of Mental Health to the (ID # 22-0241) Police Department for Crisis Intervention Team training. Councilor Kelly inquired who the grant would be spent on. Director Contente said that 54 other police departments would be involved in this regional training. Approximately 3-4 Somerville officers would attend the training classes. There are 3 grant funded positions through this grant. RESULT: APPROVED 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $241,666 grant with no 214101 new match required, from MA Department of Public Health to Health and (ID # 22-0243) Human Services for overdose and substance misuse prevention. Councilor Kelly asked about sub-contractor list and Director Carroll explained the grant is regional and based on population size. The city is the host agent and would contract out work to other communities in a coordinated fashion. RESULT: APPROVED 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $37,315 grant with no 214102 new match required, from the MA Department of Mental Health to the (ID # 22-0244) Police Department for the Jail Diversion Program. Director Contente gave a breakdown of how the funds would be used. The Police Department also utilized the DA’s diversion program, at no cost to the city. Page 14 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED 7.8. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval to accept and expend a $23,482.12 grant with no 214103 new match required, from UASI to the Fire Department for a new boat (ID # 22-0099) motor. RESULT: APPROVED 7.9. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting approval to accept and expend a $9,205.03 grant with no 214104 new match required, from UASI to the Fire Department for reimbursement (ID # 22-0113) of Rescue Recruit Training costs. RESULT: APPROVED 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $4,000 grant with no 214105 new match required, from MA Office of the Attorney General to Health and (ID # 22-0249) Human Services for the Healthy Summer Jobs Program. RESULT: APPROVED 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $32.85 using 214106 available funds in the Public Library's Ordinary Maintenance Water Cooler (ID # 22-0250) Rental line. RESULT: APPROVED 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Drainlayer's License, James W. Flett Co. 214107 (ID # 22-0082) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License New Drainlayer's License, Keash Excavating Inc. 214108 (ID # 22-1332) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Baystate Engineering Corp. 214109 (ID # 22-0081) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 15 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 9.4. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Galway Excavation LLC. 214110 (ID # 22-0083) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Peter Amorello Construction & Demolition. 214111 (ID # 22-1335) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Garage License, Triumvirate Environmental, 191 Inner Belt Rd. 214112 (ID # 22-1336) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. Public Event Avir Waxman applying for a Public Event License for Summit Ave Block 214113 Party on July 23 from 10am to 10pm (raindate July 30). (ID # 22-0110) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. Public Event Janine Fay applying for a Public Event License for Dancing in the Street on 214114 July 28 from 4:30pm to 10pm (raindate July 29). (ID # 22-0095) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. Public Event Michele Mobilia applying for a Public Event License for Chester Ave Block 214115 Party on July 30 from 9am to 10pm (raindate August 6). (ID # 22-1339) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Yart Sale 214116 on August 13 from 11:30am to 6:30pm (raindate August 14). (ID # 22-0114) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. Public Event Christin Rills applying for a Public Event License for Summer Block Party 214117 on August 13 from 4pm to 10:30pm. (ID # 22-0108) Page 16 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Evolution 214118 of Hip Hop on August 20 from 2pm to 9:30pm (raindate August 21). (ID # 22-0104) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. Public Event Tadhg Pearson applying for a Public Event License for Munroe St Block 214119 Party on August 21 from 1:30pm to 7pm. (ID # 22-0100) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. Public Event Kelsey Kent applying for a Public Event License for Lexington Ave Block 214120 Party on August 28 from 4pm to 9pm (raindate September 4). (ID # 22-0097) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. Public Event Tufts University applying for a Public Event License for Discover Davis 214121 Square on September 4 from 11am to 6pm. (ID # 22-0111) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Rock and 214122 Roll Yard Sale on September 4 from 8am to 6pm (raindate September 11). (ID # 22-0103) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Somer Fest 214123 on September 9 from 2pm to 11pm (raindate September 16). (ID # 22-0107) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. Public Event Ryan Harrington Foundation applying for a Public Event License for Ryan 214124 Harrington Cornhole Tournament on September 10 from 8am to 6pm. (ID # 22-0394) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 17 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 9.19. Public Event Kevin Fitzpatrick applying for a Public Event License for Greene St Block 214125 Party on September 10 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate September 17). (ID # 22-0096) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. Public Event Stephanie Galaitsi applying for a Public Event License for Morrison Ave 214126 Block Party on September 10 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate September 17). (ID # 22-0098) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.21. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for 214127 SomerStreets: Strike up the Bands on September 11 from 12pm to 8pm. (ID # 22-0105) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.22. Public Event Pearl Emmons applying for a Public Event License for Glenwood Rd Block 214128 Party on September 17 from 12pm to 9:30pm (raindate September 18). (ID # 22-0392) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.23. Public Event Mark Chenevert applying for a Public Event License for Belmont St South 214129 Block Party on September 18 from 1:30pm to 6:30pm (raindate September (ID # 22-1353) 25). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.24. Public Event Somerville Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Air 214130 Residency Program Dance on September 23 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate (ID # 22-0393) September 30). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.25. License New Sign/Awning License, Kong Dog, 236 Elm Street, 1 wall sign. 214131 (ID # 22-1355) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 9.26. Public Anthony Pasquale requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Communication Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 34 Allen Street from 214132 Neighborhood Residential (NR) to Small Business (SB) Overlay. (ID # 22-0320) Councilor Scott expressed his full support for this item. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 2,281 feet of 214133 conduit and 3 new manholes along Washington, Joy, and Chestnut Streets. (ID # 22-0391) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the work involved. There being no opposition and no other speakers, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Scott asked to condition the permit so that Fitchburg St. is not completely shut down. The abutter notices were mailed out last week by the city. RESULT: APPROVED 10.2. Order By Matthew McLaughlin 214134 That the Commissioner of Public Works address the sink hole in front of 71 (ID # 22-0293) Florence Street. RESULT: APPROVED 10.3. Order By Matthew McLaughlin 214135 That the Community Outreach, Help and Recovery (COHR) team work in (ID # 22-0389) conjunction with the Homeless Coalition to address homelessness in East Somerville open spaces. President McLaughlin commented that the issue of individuals living in abandoned buildings continues. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.4. Order By Matthew McLaughlin 214136 An order that the Director of Veterans’ Services update this Council on the (ID # 22-0228) status of the veterans’ memorials previously removed due to construction of the new high school. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 10.5. Order By Matthew McLaughlin 214137 That the city recognize the bicentennial of Frederick Law Olmsted, in honor (ID # 22-1361) of his many contributions to open space in the Boston area and nationwide. President McLaughlin noted some of the spaces designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Page 19 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED 10.6. Mayor's Request Requesting acceptance of, and approval to expend, a $73,101.60 grant that 214138 requires a match which will be provided by Groundworks, from Metro North (ID # 22-0254) Workforce Board to Health and Human Services for youth employment. RESULT: APPROVED 10.7. Officer's Conveying the appointment of Austin Cole to the Wage Theft Advisory Communication Committee. 214139 (ID # 22-0255) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.8. Public Event Slaughter House applying for a Public Event License for Slaughter House 214140 Dance on July 17 from 12:30pm to 4:30pm (raindate August 7). (ID # 22-0106) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.9. Public Event Ocean River Institute applying for a Public Event License for Ocean River 214141 Tabling on August 9 from 10am to 1pm (raindate August 10). (ID # 22-0101) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.10. Public Event Alta Revolution applying for a Public Event License for Alta Revolution 214142 Block Party on August 14 from 10am to 5pm. (ID # 22-1366) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.11. Public Event FRIT applying for a Public Event License for Riverfest on September 10 214143 from 10am to 10pm (raindate September 11). (ID # 22-0102) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.12. Public Event Somerville Arts Council and Union Square Main Streets applying for a 214144 Public Event License for What the Fluff on September 17 from 12pm to (ID # 22-0112) 9pm (raindate September 18). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.13. License New Sign/Awning License, 872 Broadway LLC, 872 Broadway, for 4 214145 balconies over public way. (ID # 22-1369) Page 20 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.14. Public Bill Valletta submitting comments re: Item #213430, an amendment to the Communication Zoning Ordinances to repeal references to a Certificate of Zoning 214146 Compliance. (ID # 22-0295) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Resolution By Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott 214147 That the City Council authorize a Police Officer to be assigned at Polling (ID # 22-0426) Places on September 6, 2022 and authorizes the Chief of Police to assign Police Officers to the listed Polling Places on September 6, 2022. Councilor Scott made a motion, which was approved on a voice vote, That the City Council authorize a Police Officer to be assigned at Polling Places on September 6, 2022 and authorizes the Chief of Police to assign Police Officers to the listed Polling Places on September 6, 2022. RESULT: APPROVED 11.2. Order By Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott 214148 That this Council meet in Executive Session pursuant to MGL c30A s21(a) (ID # 22-0428) (1), to review protected personnel information or to discuss matters related to individual candidates, regarding Item #214034, confirmation of the promotion of Timothy Van Nostrand to the position of Police Sergeant. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 11.3. Order By Jake Wilson and Ben Ewen-Campen and Charlotte Kelly and Willie 214149 Burnley, Jr. (ID # 22-0390) That the Director of Health and Human Services and the Director of Community Outreach, Help and Recovery appear before the Public Health and Public Safety Committee to discuss an alternative emergency response program. Councilor Wilson would like to have an in-depth discussion on this item in PHPS. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 11.4. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. 214150 An order that the Commissioner of Public Works expedite the fixing of the (ID # 22-0229) elevator in the Armory. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee Page 21 of 22 City Council Meeting Minutes July 14, 2022 11.5. Order By Willie Burnley, Jr. and Kristen Strezo 214151 That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry update this Council (ID # 22-0427) regarding tracking publishing the number of trees that are cut down or die, especially related to gas leaks. RESULT: APPROVED 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:26 PM. Page 22 of 22