City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, August 25, 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. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. 214153 (ID # 22-1464) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld Absent: Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. 214154 (ID # 22-1465) Councilor Wilson, on behalf of Councilor Clingan, along with the entire Council, requested a moment of silence for Stephen Conley. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, June 23, 2022. 214155 (ID # 22-1466) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS Page 1 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 3.1. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 28 feet of conduit in 214156 Central St, from Utility Pole 56/2 located at the intersection of Cypress St (ID # 22-1379) and Central St to a point of pickup at 7 Central St. Bill Conway, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 65 feet of conduit in 214157 Broadway, from Manhole 2642 located at the intersection of Broadway and (ID # 22-1377) Walker St to a point of pickup at 872 Broadway. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.3. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 20 feet of conduit in 214158 Warwick St, from Utility Pole 357/1 to a point of pickup at the rear of 171 (ID # 22-1378) Cedar St. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 160 feet of conduit in 214159 the intersection of Somerville Ave and Central St, from Manhole 8637 to a (ID # 22-1380) point of pickup at 7 Central St. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.5. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 11 feet of conduit in 214160 Hardan Rd, from Utility Pole 503/2 to a point of pickup at 10 Hardan Rd. (ID # 22-1381) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.6. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 11 feet of conduit in 214161 the intersection of Jay St and Howard St, from Utility Pole 183/1 to a point (ID # 22-1382) of pickup at 38 Jay St. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. Chris Beland is one of the residents at the location and he explained what the work is for. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.7. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 28 feet of conduit in 214162 Pennsylvania Ave, from Manhole 4698 to a point of pickup at 12 (ID # 22-1383) Pennsylvania Ave. Page 2 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.8. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 5 feet of conduit in 214163 South St, from Utility Pole 316/3 to a point of pickup at 26 South St. (ID # 22-1384) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.9. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 12 feet of conduit in 214164 Woodbine St, from Utility Pole 632/3 to a point of pickup at 19 Woodbine (ID # 22-1385) St. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked that Eversource patch roadways in a shorter time frame. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.10. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 416 feet of 214165 conduit in Middlesex Ave as follows: Starting from proposed Manhole (ID # 22-1386) 31554, connecting Manhole 20357 and 20356 to two points of pickup at 5 Middlesex Ave. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.11. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 8 feet of conduit in 214166 Aldersey St, from Utility Pole 4/2 to a point of pickup at 9 Aldersey St. (ID # 22-1387) Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.12. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 1,352 feet of 214167 conduit at the intersection of Foley St and Middlesex Ave, in Kensington (ID # 22-1388) Ave, to McGrath Hwy and for future use on Middlesex Ave, and to a point of pickup at 845 McGrath Hwy. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.13. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install two proposed 214168 manholes and a total of 327 feet of conduit in the intersection of Assembly (ID # 22-1389) Square Dr and Mystic Ave to the Somerville/Charlestown line. Page 3 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. Ms. Duffy doesn’t believe that this work would have an impact on the MBTA Orange Line shutdown transportation plan. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.14. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 22-1390) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 3.15. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 75 feet of conduit in 214188 the intersection of Oxford St and Beacon St, from Utility Pole 48/33 to a (ID # 22-1391) point of pickup at 372 Beacon St. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Ordinance By Judy Pineda Neufeld and Willie Burnley Jr. and Lance Davis and Ben (ID # 22-1461) Ewen-Campen and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly and Matthew McLaughlin and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Kristen Strezo and Jake Wilson That Chapter 2, Article VI, Section 2-319 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding bereavement leave, be amended as attached. Councilor Pineda Neufeld explained that this is an update to the city’s current policy. Loss of pregnancy has been added as a bereavement category. Binary references have also been updated. This policy would apply to non-union employees only at this time. Similar federal legislation is pending, as well. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.2. Order By Judy Pineda Neufeld 214189 That the City Solicitor update this Council on the 8/11/22 Civil Service (ID # 22-1459) Commission decision Fairchild, Matthew v. City of Somerville, and the impact on the confirmations process. Councilor Pineda Neufeld spoke about the effects of the decision on how the C of APM conducts its business (see pg. 19 of the decision). Attorney Tim Zessin, who represented the city in this matter, addressed the Council. He said that this was a difficult case and the commission had issue with the manner the C of APM conducted its interview and confirmation process, as well as the role the Council has in the process. Councilor Scott said that he was not disappointed with the outcome of the decision. Attorney Zessin agreed that conducting interviews prior to the candidates having their physical exams might alleviate some of the problems, however he stated that would be a policy decision. Councilor Davis expressed his pleasure with the Page 4 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 outcome of the decision and noted that the committee did not have access to the transcript/video between the candidate and the Police Department. He went on to say that the C of APM Committee has, for years, requested additional information about candidates, only to be denied by the Administration. Councilor McLaughlin commented that most people try to do the right thing, but sometimes mistakes are made. He said that the decision admonished the City Council and C of APM, yet never said that they did anything wrong. Over the years, he has spoken about how people are treated when appearing before committees. He believes that the City Council can only judge candidates on merit. He is taken back by the lack of remorse and he believes that Mr. Fairchild deserves an apology. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 4.3. Order By Judy Pineda Neufeld and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson and Beatriz 214190 Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1460) That the Director of Parking consider placing new resident educational literature regarding parking permits on cars in residential areas instead of ticketing during the first five days of September. Councilor Pineda Neufeld thinks that this is part of a welcoming community’s action for new residents. RESULT: APPROVED 4.4. Resolution By Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo 214191 That the Administration update this Council on the dedicated summer teen (ID # 22-1457) spaces, including how they were marketed to teens and usage of the three sites throughout the summer. Councilor Pineda Neufeld would like to hear from the Administration on this issue. RESULT: APPROVED 4.5. Resolution By Judy Pineda Neufeld 214192 That the Administration update this Council on the timeline and process for (ID # 22-1458) identifying a permanent Teen Center. Councilor Pineda Neufeld is pleased with the Administration’s commitment and would like to discuss the matter in committee. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committe 4.6. Order By Kristen Strezo and Willie Burnley Jr. and Ben Ewen-Campen 214193 That the Housing and Community Development Committee discuss the (ID # 22-1408) Democracy Collaborative’s report on Advancing Community Wealth Building in the City of Somerville. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 5 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 4.7. Order By Kristen Strezo and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Charlotte Kelly and Lance 214194 Davis (ID # 22-1409) That the Director of Health and Human Services provide free menstrual products in all restrooms in City buildings. RESULT: APPROVED 4.8. Order By Kristen Strezo and Matthew McLaughlin and Charlotte Kelly and Jake 214195 Wilson (ID # 22-1410) That the Director of Health and Human Services increase rat control efforts from Wigglesworth Street to Dana Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.9. Order By Kristen Strezo and Jesse Clingan and Charlotte Kelly and Jake Wilson 214196 That the Director of Health and Human Services immediately increase rat (ID # 22-1411) control measures in the areas of Fellsway West to Temple Street and Broadway to Jaques Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.10. Resolution By Kristen Strezo 214197 That the Administration create a housing task force to address an immediate (ID # 22-1423) pathway to low-income home ownership. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about the importance of low-income home ownership and stability. Councilor Strezo believes that the city has the ability to expand housing stability. RESULT: APPROVED 4.11. Resolution By Kristen Strezo 214198 That the Administration use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to (ID # 22-1424) expand the SomerVIP program. Councilor Strezo submitted a similar item during the budget process. The SomerVIP program incentivizes properties to be rented as Section 8 units. Councilor Burnley asked that the Administration provide more transparency on the receipt and expenditure of ARPA funds. RESULT: APPROVED 4.12. Resolution By Kristen Strezo 214199 That the Administration compile a report focusing on aging in community in (ID # 22-1425) Somerville, with the data outlined below. RESULT: APPROVED 4.13. Resolution By Kristen Strezo and Matthew McLaughlin and Jake Wilson 214200 That the Traffic Commission approve the installation of speed bumps on (ID # 22-1426) Wigglesworth Street. RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 4.14. Home Rule By Ben Ewen-Campen and Lance Davis and Willie Burnley Jr. and Jesse Petition Clingan and Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly and Matthew 214201 McLaughlin and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and (ID # 22-1476) Kristen Strezo and Jake Wilson Proposing a Home Rule Petition, with the Mayor's support, to authorize the City of Somerville to establish a net zero emissions standard for new constructed buildings and major renovation projects. Councilor Ewen-Campen explained that 10 municipalities in MA have been allowed to pursue this initiative. Somerville has been working on climate issues for several years and this petition would allow the city to move forward in banning fossil fuels in new buildings. Councilor Kelly stressed the importance of educating residents about this issue. Sponsored Randi Soltysiak from Mothers Out Front to speak. Ms. Soltysiak said that her children are concerned about climate change, and she asked the Council to approve sending the Home Rule Petition to the legislature. 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 Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld ABSENT: Ward Four City Councilor Clingan 4.15. Order By Ben Ewen-Campen 214202 That the Director of Mobility provide this Council with an updated schedule (ID # 22-1412) for the redesign of Highland Avenue. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that the design work has not yet been completed. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.16. Order By Ben Ewen-Campen 214203 That the Director of Parking consider a "local preference" parking permit (ID # 22-1413) policy for the post-reconstruction resident parking spaces on Highland Avenue. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke about the work involved to improve Highland Ave and the parking challenges that will ensue. The idea is that residents of the affected areas could obtain a local preference parking permit to try to alleviate parking shortages. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 7 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 4.17. Resolution By Ben Ewen-Campen and Willie Burnley Jr. and Lance Davis and Beatriz 214204 Gomez Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly and Matthew McLaughlin and Judy (ID # 22-1427) Pineda Neufeld and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Kristen Strezo and Jake Wilson That this City Council supports Senate Bill S.1323 "An act to update the Public Shade Tree law", which would increase the penalty for the illegal removal of public shade trees from the current maximum of $500, to the actual replacement value of the trees. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted the recent cutting down of 4 public shade trees. The maximum penalty allowed by state law is $500 and he doesn’t think that is enough. There is legislation being advanced at the state level to raise the maximum to the replacement value of the tree. RESULT: APPROVED 4.18. Communication By Ben Ewen-Campen 214205 Conveying recommendations for an effective body worn camera Use Policy (ID # 22-1428) in Somerville. Councilor Ewen-Campen explained that this communication sets out the minimum requirements for such a policy. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.19. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Kristen Strezo and Matthew McLaughlin 214206 and Lance Davis (ID # 22-1414) That the Director of Planning and the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry report on how land is being set aside to meet Somervision 2040’s goal of 105 new acres. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that the goal is for 105 acres of open space, with 60 acres in transformational areas. She spoke about true open space and thinking of how to keep our ecosystems in balance. RESULT: APPROVED 4.20. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Lance Davis 214207 That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management present the (ID # 22-1415) Brown School final report and explain how the findings will be integrated into future school building feasibility studies. RESULT: APPROVED 4.21. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 214208 That the Commissioner of Public Works report on all major repairs made to (ID # 22-1416) school buildings during the summer. Councilor Gomez Mouakad said that problems are still being seen at the city’s school buildings and she would like more effort put into rectifying them, long-term. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee Page 8 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 4.22. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 214209 That the Commissioner of Public Works provide quarterly reports to the (ID # 22-1417) School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee on any major repairs and 311 work orders in school buildings. Discussed with agenda item 4.21. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.23. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Matthew McLaughlin 214210 That the Commissioner of Public Works report on planned repairs for the (ID # 22-1418) East Somerville Community School facade failures. Discussed with agenda item 4.21. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.24. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Kristen Strezo 214211 That the Director of Housing include in the inclusionary preference, a (ID # 22-1419) priority for families with children enrolled in Somerville Public Schools. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about witnessing this program in action and she believes that displacement of our youth helps in causing them to lose their future. RESULT: APPROVED 4.25. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 214212 That the Director of Housing report on the percentage of inclusionary units (ID # 22-1443) that are occupied by those applicants with a Somerville Live/Work preference. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that for 57% of applicants, Somerville Live/Work preference does not apply and she asked what kind of outreach the city is performing to increase acceptance of applicants. RESULT: APPROVED 4.26. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad 214213 That the Director of Housing report on expansion of outreach to residents (ID # 22-1444) who qualify for a Somerville Live/Work preference and to non-English speaking residents. Discussed with agenda item 4.25. RESULT: APPROVED 4.27. Order By Beatriz Gomez Mouakad and Jake Wilson 214214 That the Director of Inspectional Services report on the status of the (ID # 22-1445) enforcement of Section 11-111 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding Registration and maintenance of vacant property. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that the code of ordinances is not being enforced due to a lack of staff and that, as a result, there are many vacant properties that could be taken for affordable housing developers. President Page 9 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 McLaughlin commented that this has been discussed for several years in the city. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.28. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. and Jake Wilson and Charlotte Kelly and Ben 214215 Ewen-Campen (ID # 22-1446) That the Director of Human Resources provide a preliminary report on staff feedback regarding the Commonwealth's Paid Family and Medical Leave policy. Councilor Burnley spoke about supporting the city’s employees by providing more robust protections for Family and Medical Leave. He is submitting several items on this issue and hopes to hear from the various parties involved, including the Administration. Councilor Scott would like to see all employees, including Councilors, included. Councilor Kelly commented that many companies’ plans are inadequate, in light of COVID. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.29. Resolution By Willie Burnley Jr. and Ben Ewen-Campen 214216 That the relevant committee hold a hearing regarding the adoption of the (ID # 22-1447) provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave. Discussed with agenda item 4.28. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.30. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. and Ben Ewen-Campen (ID # 22-1448) That the City hereby adopt the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave. Discussed with agenda item 4.28. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.31. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. and Jake Wilson 214217 That the City Solicitor and the Director of Parking provide this Council with (ID # 22-1449) an opinion on whether the adoption of Chapter 90, Section 20A of the Massachusetts General Laws would allow the City to mail tickets for traffic violations, including those identified through 311 reports. Councilor Burnley spoke about people breaking rules and the city’s inability to address those incidents. By making the proposed changes, the city might have an avenue for enforcement, ultimately leading to safer streets. Councilor Strezo has concerns about 311 complaints and possible retaliation. She would like to discuss increasing traffic/parking staff for enforcement. President McLaughlin would like additional information on the nature of the 311 calls. Page 10 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.32. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. (ID # 22-1452) That the City hereby rescinds its adoption of the provisions of Chapter 90, Section 20A½ of the Massachusetts General Laws. Discussed with agenda item 4.31. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.33. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. (ID # 22-1453) That the City hereby adopts the provisions of Chapter 90, Section 20A of the Massachusetts General Laws. Discussed with agenda item 4.31. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.34. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. 214218 That the Director of Communications publicize proposed changes to bus (ID # 22-1450) routes in multiple languages, and provide flyers that are available physically and electronically. Councilor Burnley believes that the city is being personally aggrieved by the state with respect to the MBTA. He commented that many residents don’t have the opportunity to attend meetings regarding the MBTA’s plans. He spoke about the difficulty traversing the city by the MBTA. He’s asking for information to be made available to inform the public so that their concerns might be heard. Councilor Pineda Neufeld also spoke about the unacceptable bus routes in the city and she would prefer to hold off on this action until the MBTA’s next plan is ready. RESULT: APPROVED 4.35. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. and Jake Wilson and Charlotte Kelly 214219 That the Director of Mobility provide this Council with a timeline for a final (ID # 22-1454) Bicycle Network Vision Plan. Councilor Burnley mentioned the recent cycling accident that resulted in the death of the cyclist and wants to have discussions about bicycle safety, including improved roadways, protected bike lanes, and traffic re-designs. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.36. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. 214220 That the Director of Mobility report on the feasibility of installing (ID # 22-1455) quick-build protected bike lanes on Broadway, and ways that the City plans to enhance safety for cyclists. Discussed with agenda item 4.35. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION Page 11 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.37. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. 214221 That the Director of Mobility provide an update on the timeline for the (ID # 22-1456) Community Path extension. Discussed with agenda item 4.35. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Citation By Matthew McLaughlin 214068 Commending Mary Skipper on her selection as Superintendent of Boston (ID # 22-1292) Public Schools. RESULT: APPROVED 5.2. Order By Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott 214148 That this Council meet in Executive Session pursuant to MGL c30A s21(a) (ID # 22-1372) (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. Assistant City Solicitor Jason Piques confirmed that this item is suitable for discussion in Executive Session. Councilor Scott motioned that the Council move into Executive Session to discuss this matter. The motion was approved and this meeting was recessed at 9:54 pm to convene an Executive Session. The Council returned from Executive Session at 10:19 pm and reconvened the regular meeting. President McLaughlin stated that no votes were taken in Executive Session, except the vote to adjourn and return to open session. 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 Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld ABSENT: Ward Four City Councilor Clingan 5.3. Mayor's Request Mayor requesting confirmation of the promotion of Timothy Van Nostrand 214034 to the position of Police Sergeant. (ID # 22-1258) RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 5.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of Police Officer assignments at Polling Places on 214096 Election Day as required by the VOTES Act. (ID # 22-1320) RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Somerville Zoning (ID # 22-1430) Ordinance Article 3, Residence Districts and Article 9, Use Provisions, to permit the adaptive reuse of commercial building types in the NR and UR zoning districts. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Somerville Zoning (ID # 22-1431) Ordinance Articles 4 (Mid Rise Districts), 5 (High Rise Districts), 6 (Commercial Districts), 8 (Overlay Districts), and 9 (Use Provisions) to permit additional uses for any ground story commercial space fronting a Pedestrian Street. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $993,132 in a bond, and to authorization to appropriate the same amount for the General Fund portion of the (ID # 22-1439) Clarendon Hills Infrastructure Improvements project. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $662,088 in a bond, and authorization to appropriate the same amount for the Sewer portion of the Clarendon Hills (ID # 22-1440) Infrastructure Improvements Project. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant of $750,000, with no new match (ID # 22-0477) required, from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA), Division of Conservation Services (DCS) to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for the renovation of Conway Park. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Page 13 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $295,463 grant with no new match required, from State E911 to the Police Department for E911 (ID # 22-1421) Telecommunicator personnel costs. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $108,226.71 grant from Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) to the Health & Human (ID # 22-1441) Services for the Public Health Shared Services Grant. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $104,951.96 grant with no new match required, from State E911 to the Police Department for E911 Training (ID # 22-1422) and Certification of 911 Telecommunicators. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,500 grant with no new match required, from State E911 to the Police Department for E911 (ID # 22-1420) emergency medical dispatch services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $357,881.73 using available funds in the Department Public Works Administrative, Highway, (ID # 22-0432) and Sanitation Accounts for the purposes of resolving outstanding invoices. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 14 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $29,820 using available funds in the Law Department Outside Legal Counsel Services (ID # 22-1438) Account for Legal Services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $371.24 using available funds in the Health and Human Service Professional and Technical (ID # 22-1437) Account for Service Labor Cost for Mobile Market Van. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $207.69 using available funds in the Fire Department and Vehicle Repairs Account for the (ID # 22-1433) purchase of automotive parts. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $60.06 using available funds in the Fire Department and Vehicle Repairs Account for (ID # 22-1434) supplies for the repair shop. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Proclaiming that The City of Somerville recognizes the week of September Communication 4 - 10, 2022 as National Suicide Prevention Week. 214222 (ID # 22-1432) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 7.16. Mayor's Conveying an update regarding work completed during Summer, 2022 to Communication Somerville Public Schools buildings. 214223 (ID # 22-1462) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 15 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 7.17. Mayor's Conveying a joint Memorandum from the Mayor and Fire Chief with an Communication update regarding the new Assembly Square Fire Station. 214224 (ID # 22-1463) Councilor Wilson asked if it might be appropriate to have a ladder truck at Assembly Square RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's Planning Board Chair conveying the Planning Board's recommendations for Communication proposed amendments to the Somerville Zoning Ordinance, items #213430, 214225 #213601, #213705, #213807, and #213886. (ID # 22-1442) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Public Boynton Yards LandCo LLC requesting approval of the attached Land Communication Conveyance petition for Boynton Yards. (ID # 22-1407) RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 9.2. License Renewing Garage License, Assembly Row 5B LLC, 455 Grand Union Blvd. 214169 (ID # 22-1401) RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Garage License, Mass Inspection, 712 Mystic Ave. 214170 (ID # 22-1402) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License New Sign/Awning License, La Cosecha, 85 Broadway, LED channel letters 214171 sign. (ID # 22-1403) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Transferring Taxi Medallion License, from Ormond Transportation 214172 Company Inc to Early Bird Transportation LLC Medallion #49. (ID # 22-1404) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. Page 16 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Transferring Taxi Medallion License, from Ormond Transportation 214173 Company Inc to Renaissance Taxi Service LLC Medallion #50. (ID # 22-1405) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Transferring Taxi Medallion License, from Alewife Transportation 214174 Company Inc to Charlie's Family LLC Medallion #80. (ID # 22-1406) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. Public Event Jade Lu applying for a Public Event License for Thrift Store Prom on 214175 August 27 from 5pm to 10:30pm (raindate September 3). (ID # 22-1392) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. Public Event Arthur D. Healey School applying for a Public Event License for Welcome 214176 Back to School on August 29 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm (raindate September (ID # 22-1451) 15). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. Public Event Ryan Well applying for a Public Event License for Craft demo on August 29 214177 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm (raindate September 5). (ID # 22-1393) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. Public Event City of Somerville applying for a Public Event License for Military Health 214178 and Wellness Day on September 10 from 9am to 3pm (raindate September (ID # 22-1394) 11). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. Public Event Society of S.S. Cosmas & Damian applying for a Public Event License for 214179 Procession for S.S. Cosmas & Damian on September 11 from 2:30pm to (ID # 22-1400) 6:30pm (raindate September 18). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 17 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 9.13. Public Event Alex Feldman applying for a Public Event License for Rogers Ave Block 214180 Party on September 17 from 4pm to 8:30pm (raindate September 18). (ID # 22-1395) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. Public Event East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for Foodie 214181 Crawl on September 20 from 2pm to 10:30pm (raindate September 21). (ID # 22-1396) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. Public Event HONK! applying for a Public Event License for HONK! Festival on October 214182 7 from 2pm-9:30pm, October 8 from 10am-10pm, and October 9 from (ID # 22-1397) 10am-2pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. Public Event Elisabeth Adams applying for a Public Event License for Berkeley St Block 214183 Party on October 15 from 2pm to 8pm (raindate October 16). (ID # 22-1398) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. Public Event Jim Adams applying for a Public Event License for Hudson St Block Party 214184 on October 22 from 2pm to 8pm (raindate October 23). (ID # 22-1399) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Resolution By Jake Wilson and Matthew McLaughlin and Jesse Clingan and Willie 214226 Burnley Jr. and Lance Davis and Ben Ewen-Campen and Beatriz Gomez (ID # 22-1467) Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly and Judy Pineda Neufeld and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Kristen Strezo That the Somerville City Council hereby designates August 31, 2022, as Overdose Awareness Day in the City of Somerville. Councilor Kelly acknowledged the work done by the Safe Consumption Site team. RESULT: APPROVED 10.2. Order By Willie Burnley Jr. 214227 That the Mobility Department work to clearly mark all speed bumps in the (ID # 22-1471) city. Page 18 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 Councilor Burnley reported that a fire fighter was injured while riding in a fire engine that traversed over a speed bump and he asked that speed bumps be made more visible. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.3. Resolution By Willie Burnley Jr. 214228 That the appropriate City Department provide work with the Fire (ID # 22-1470) Department and Local 76 to move the Highland Avenue station's kitchen to the second floor. RESULT: APPROVED 10.4. Order By Lance Davis 214229 That the Commissioner of Public Works repair the sprinkler/splash pad at (ID # 22-1472) Lexington Park as soon as possible. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.5. License New Drainlayer's License, High Quality Excavating Inc. 214185 (ID # 22-1475) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.6. Small Wireless Extenet applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for facilities on an Facility existing pole near 51 Beacon Street. 214186 (ID # 22-1474) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 10.7. Public Event Somerville Education Foundation applying for a Public Event License for 214187 Back to School Jam on August 31 from 11:30am to 1:30pm (raindate (ID # 22-1473) September 1). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Resolution By Willie Burnley Jr. and Lance Davis and Ben Ewen-Campen and Beatriz 214230 Gomez Mouakad and Charlotte Kelly and Matthew McLaughlin and Judy (ID # 22-1477) Pineda Neufeld and Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott and Kristen Strezo and Jake Wilson That the entire City Council commends the City Clerk's Office, IT staff, and everyone else who played a role in transitioning City Council business to the new Legistar online platform. RESULT: APPROVED Page 19 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2022 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:36 PM. Page 20 of 20