City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, October 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. (ID # 22-1841) Councilor Burnley arrived at 7:01PM RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 22-1842) Councilor Scott requested a moment of silence for David Vieira. President McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence for Barbara Cassesso. President McLaughlin requested a moment of silence for Jim Bretta. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, September 22, 2022. (ID # 22-1843) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS 2.1. Citation Commending Adda Santos on receipt of the award of Massachusetts History (ID # 22-1804) Teacher of the Year. Councilor Strezo sponsored Carrie Normand to speak on the item. Ms. Normand read a statement about Ms. Santos, highlighting some of her many involvements with the city. She went on to relate how Ms. Santos interacts with and is respected by her students. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS Page 1 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 3.1. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 10 feet of conduit in (ID # 22-1790) Hawkins Street, from Utility Pole 164/1-1 to a point of pickup at 3 Hawkins Street. Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Scott asked for confirmation that the conduit will be underground and that the sidewalk panel be replaced with concrete. RESULT: APPROVED 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 8 feet of conduit in the (ID # 22-1791) intersection of Princeton Street and Alpine Street, from Utility Pole 7/8 to a point of pickup at 4 Princeton Street. Phyllis Galloway, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. Councilor Gomez Mouakad confirmed that the work would be on the sidewalk and then into the private property. She asked that any surfaces be repaired properly. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 22-1793) That the Director of the Office of Housing Stability discuss the potential impact of the anticipated January 2023 Social Security cost of living increase on affordable housing. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.2. Order By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 22-1794) That the Director of Mobility discuss the possible implementation of Neighborways painting on Edgar Street. Councilor Strezo would like to investigate this as a short-term traffic calming measure. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that there are federal funds available through the Department of Transportation. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 2 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 4.3. Communication By Councilor Strezo (ID # 22-1795) Conveying a report on the Children's Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, October 11, 2022. Councilor Strezo reported that some long-awaited work is coming to fruition. Teen centers will be opening on November 1st at the Edgerly School for youth aged 12 through 18 and will include several activities. She thanked members of the community for their support in advocating for this center. She also stated that the Powder House building at Powderhouse Square will be opened as a LGBTQ safe haven and will offer events, movies and road trips. An $897,000 award was given to Somerville for early childhood education. Councilor Burnley asked if the Children’s’ Cabinet has interfaced with the Department of Racial and Social Justice. Councilor Strezo replied that equity is a constant conversation and she directed Councilor Burnley to SomerPromise for an answer to his question. She said that the goal of the Children’s Cabinet is to make the lives of children in the city better. Director Sahni reported that the administration’s efforts to keep teens involved is a continuation of a process started during the summer. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 4.4. Order By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 22-1796) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Inspectional Services develop a policy requiring all redevelopments to post the information detailed within on the outer perimeter of the property. Councilor Clingan said that there should be a permit number listed so that the public may look up details of the project. Councilor Scott stated that this is a requirement under zoning that is not being enforced. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.5. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 22-1797) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Administration make information about all licenses and permits viewable without requiring a CitizenServ account. Councilor Clingan said that there is value in making the information available without a CitizenServ account. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee Page 3 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 4.6. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 22-1826) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Economic Development update this Council on progress toward a Task Force for creation of a Community Center. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that there is a community group working on this and he would like to move the process forward, since the space is being built now. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.7. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Strezo (ID # 22-1827) That the Director of Mobility work with the Ward 3 Councilor to make Benton Road one-way from Highland Ave to Summer Street. Councilor Ewen-Campen stated that he has received many requests from constituents for this and he believes that, due to the amount of traffic on this street, it is warranted. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.8. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson (ID # 22-1828) That the Director of Parking place a "Yield to Pedestrians" sign in the temporary crosswalk across Somerville Ave at Spring Street. RESULT: APPROVED 4.9. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 22-1798) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Administration update this Council on efforts to use District Improvement Financing to capture new tax growth, specifically for new affordable housing. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that the city has used DIF for Assembly Sq and Union Sq. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 4 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 4.10. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 22-1829) That the Administration create an electric bicycle incentive program for public employees. Councilor Ewen-Campen said that he believes that e-bikes will dramatically reduce the number of car trips for many people. The cost is high for these bikes and he would like a program to make them more accessible. RESULT: APPROVED 4.11. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Clingan, (ID # 22-1830) Councilor Scott and Councilor Davis That the Director of Mobility present to this Council on where heavy commercial vehicles are restricted per Traffic Regulations Section 7-27 Operation of Heavy Commercial Vehicles. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that trucks are traversing roads that they should not be. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.12. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1831) That the Director of Parking, Director of Mobility, and Police Chief present to this Council on enforcement of Traffic Regulations Section 7-27(a). See item 22-1830. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.13. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott and (ID # 22-1832) Councilor Kelly That the Director of Parking, Director of Mobility, and Director of Engineering present to this Council on engagement and consideration of business needs regarding curbside changes. See item 22-1834. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 5 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 4.14. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1834) That the Director of Mobility and Director of Engineering present to this Council on documentation of vehicle types, timing and frequency, and turning movements when determining on-street loading zones. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about the parking problems being seen around the city. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.15. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1835) That the Director of Mobility provide an update on the businesses surveyed regarding Highland Ave improvements and share the data collected. See item 22-1834. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.16. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Davis (ID # 22-1836) That the Director of Constituent Services add a 311 Service Request category for reporting parking in bicycle lanes. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.17. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Wilson (ID # 22-1837) That the Director of Mobility evaluate cut through traffic on Vernon Street and Trull Street and provide recommendations for traffic calming. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.18. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Wilson (ID # 22-1838) That the Director of Mobility explore traffic calming options on Porter Street. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that this impacts a person with a disability. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 6 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 4.19. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1839) That the Director of Mobility respond to the petition regarding traffic calming and additional bicycle parking at the Kennedy School. Councilor Gomez Mouakad stated that she has had numerous requests for traffic calming and bike parking. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.20. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1840) That the Director of Engineering report on how schools are notified of road construction projects or work that impacts bus routes within a half mile radius. Councilor Clingan spoke about the sewer work happening near the Healey School without the school being notified. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Order By Councilor Scott (ID # 22-1765) That Outside Counsel Timothy Zessin update this Council on the 10/6/22 Civil Service Commission decision Kiely, Michael v. City of Somerville, and the impact on the confirmations process. Councilor Scott sponsored outside Counsel Timothy Zessin to speak on this matter. Attorney Zessin stated that this case was discussed at length in committee, with the committee recommending against promoting Mr. Kiely. He said that the Civil Service Commission noted that the City Council should have some roll on these decisions. His takeaway is that the City Council would be held to the same requirements as the appointing authority, i.e., the Mayor. Councilor Ewen-Campen asked for verification that when an appointment is denied, the City Council should produce a letter explaining the reasons for the bypass. Councilor Davis asked why the committee was able to see information in one case (the Kiley Case, but not the other (the Fairchild case). Attorney Zessin commented that he did not have an answer to the question. Councilor Scott asked about the procedure of the promotion process on pages 25 and 26 and asked if the onus for providing a bypass letter is on the Mayor. Attorney Zessin doesn’t think that the Civil Service Commission really cares who writes the letter, since it may be appropriate in some cases for the letter to come from the City Council. RESULT: APPROVED 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Page 7 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 20, 2022. (ID # 22-1781) Councilor Wilson presented the Committee Report and listed the items that were recommended for approval. Councilor Kelly spoke about the discussion around a defense fund for immigrants. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $36,000 grant with no new (ID # 22-1535) match required, from the MA Department of Environmental Protection to the Department of Public Works for the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $16,900 grant with no new (ID # 22-1538) match required, from Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for unrestricted operating support. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to create the BikeShare Stabilization Fund and accept a (ID # 22-1557) payment to the Fund of $75,000 from developer contributions to sponsor new Bike Share Stations. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $75,000 from the Bike Share (ID # 22-1559) Stabilization Fund for installation and startup costs of a BlueBike station at the 100 Chestnut Development site. RESULT: APPROVED Page 8 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $24,000 to the Law Department (ID # 22-1563) Salaries Account to fund an anticipated deficit. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $60,155 from the CPA Undesignated Fund (ID # 22-1637) Balance for restoration of 181 Broadway. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the termination of the London Street easement. (ID # 22-1639) 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $4,390,000 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 22-1662) the same amount for the recurring FY23 Sewer Improvements program. RESULT: APPROVED Page 9 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.10.Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $7,110,000 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 22-1663) the same amount for the recurring FY23 Water Main Rehabilitation program. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.11.Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $1,730,000 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 22-1664) the same amount for the annual recurring FY23 Sewer System Evaluation and Infiltration/Inflow Assessment. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.12.Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $1,477,738 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 22-1665) the same amount for participation in the FY23 MWRA Lead Line Replacement Program. RESULT: APPROVED Page 10 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.13.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $255,097.62 using (ID # 22-1666) available funds in various Department of Public Works Accounts. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.14.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $200,000 grant with no new (ID # 22-1667) match required, from the City of Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for First Responder portable radios. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.15.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $60,000 from the SomerViva (ID # 22-1670) Professional & Technical Services Account to the Immigrant Legal Services Stabilization Fund to provide funding for immigrant legal defense services. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.16.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to create the Immigrant Legal Services Stabilization (ID # 22-1671) 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.17.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $60,000 from the Immigrant Legal (ID # 22-1672) Services Stabilization Fund to fund legal services for immigrants seeking permanent residency. RESULT: APPROVED Page 11 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.18.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,000 donation from Iron (ID # 22-1673) Workers Local 7 Union to fund the Vietnam Moving Wall event November 10-14. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.19.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to establish a Consolidated Gift Account to accept (ID # 22-1674) donations for the Vietnam Moving Wall event on Veterans Day Weekend. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.20.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $62,020 using (ID # 22-1677) available funds in the Department of Public Works Grounds Account for tree services. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.21.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $121,500 from the Salary Contingency, (ID # 22-1678) Salaries Account to the DPW Highway, Other Lump Sum Benefits account to fund an agreement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Association. RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.A.22.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $15,000 from the Salary Contingency, (ID # 22-1679) Salaries Account to the Law Department Judgments & Settlements Account to fund an Agreement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Association. 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.B. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, (ID # 22-1779) meeting on October 19, 2022. Councilor Strezo presented the Committee Report and said that members of the artist community were present for a public hearing on the Armory and an update on the matter was provided by OSPCD staff. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Order By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-0169) That the Director of Economic Development discuss the city's maintenance plan for tenants and occupants of the Arts at the Armory. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.3. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and (ID # 22-0501) Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Economic Development update this Council on the efforts to hire a consultant regarding the Armory. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 13 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 6.B.4. Public 55 voters submitting a petition calling for a public hearing re: the Arts at the Communication Armory building. (ID # 22-1032) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on October 20, 2022. (ID # 22-1780) Councilor Ewen-Campen presented the Committee Report and spoke about 2 items that would allow animal services in pedestrian streets. He also spoke about a land conveyance to the city and a requirement for electric vehicle charging stations. Councilor Davis explained that pedestrian street zoning stipulates what may be located on the ground floor and he thinks that perhaps 2 distinctions may be needed. Items 22-1407, 22-1430, and 22-143 were severed and tabled for the next City Council - meeting. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Ordinance By Councilor Scott (ID # 22-0467) Proposing a zoning map amendment to change the zoning district of the contiguous parcels containing 250-256 Somerville Avenue and 5-27 Allen Street (odd side only: 5-7, 9, 11, 13, 17, 21-23, and 27) from Urban Residence (UR) to Neighborhood Residence (NR). RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.C.3. Ordinance By Councilor Scott (ID # 22-0468) Proposing a zoning map amendment to change the zoning district of the contiguous or abutting-across-a-public-way parcels of 29-31, 33-35, and 37-39 Allen Street (odd side only) and 34 Allen Street from Urban Residence (UR) to Commercial Business (CB). RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.C.4. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Strezo (ID # 22-0668) That the Director of Mobility consider including Electric Vehicle charging station requirements in Section 11 of the Zoning Ordinances. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.5. Public Boynton Yards LandCo LLC requesting approval of the attached Land Communication Conveyance petition for Boynton Yards. (ID # 22-1407) RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE Page 14 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 6.C.6. 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: LAID ON THE TABLE 6.C.7. 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: LAID ON THE TABLE 6.C.8. Officer's Planning Board Chair conveying the Planning Board's recommendations for Communication proposed amendments to the Somerville Zoning Ordinance, items #213430, (ID # 22-1442) #213601, #213705, #213807, and #213886. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.D. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 18, (ID # 22-1778) 2022. Councilor Davis presented the Committee Report and spoke about the discussion on the bereavement leave item, saying that the committee amended the item. The committee also discussed the removal of poles, conduits and wires and will take this matter up at a future committee meeting. Lastly, Councilor Davis spoke about extending the exclusive period for Group A and Group B Priority Marijuana License applicants. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of Police Officer assignments at Polling Places on (ID # 22-1320) Election Day as required by the VOTES Act. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 15 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 6.D.3. Ordinance By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, (ID # 22-1461) Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That Chapter 2, Article VI, Section 2-319 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding bereavement leave, be amended as attached. RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED 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, Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.D.4. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances, Section (ID # 22-1714) 2-221, to extend the exclusive period for Group A and Group B Priority Marijuana License applicants. RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 6.1 Commercial (ID # 22-1771) Districts: Fabrication of the Somerville Zoning Ordinance to permit additional uses for ground story commercial spaces fronting a Pedestrian Street. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $38,752,085.12 American (ID # 22-1823) Rescue Plan Act of 2021 grant from the United States Treasury. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Kelly J. Cooper to the (ID # 22-1825) Election Commission. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee Page 16 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 7.4. Mayor's Conveying a memorandum regarding the Condominium Conversion Communication Ordinance. (ID # 22-1833) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the appointment of Stephanie Communication Widzowski to the position of Clerk of Committees. (ID # 22-1748) RESULT: APPROVED 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Drainlayer's License, Alfa Excavation Inc. (ID # 22-1786) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License New Drainlayer's License, Bassco Excavating. (ID # 22-1787) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Insite Contracting Inc. (ID # 22-1788) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License Renewing Garage License, Herb Chambers, 259 McGrath Hwy. (ID # 22-1789) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED Page 17 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 9.5. Public Event Mayor's Office applying for a Public Event License for Truck O' Treat on (ID # 22-1801) October 27 from 4pm to 8pm. Councilor McLaughlin sponsored Director Sahni to speak on the item. Director Sahni announced the Truck O’Treat event, as well as some others to be held in the city over the next several days in celebration of Halloween. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. Public Event Denis Malkov applying for a Public Event License for Murdock St BP on (ID # 22-1792) October 29 from 11am to 5pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. Public Event Danielle Angelillo applying for a Public Event License for Halloween BP on (ID # 22-1799) October 31 from 3pm to 9pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. Public Event JT Scott applying for a Public Event License for Springfield St Halloween (ID # 22-1802) BP on October 31 from 4pm to 10pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. Public Event Dominique Stassart applying for a Public Event License for Halloween BP (ID # 22-1800) on Prospect Hill on October 31 from 4pm to 10:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. Public Event Veteran's Department applying for a Public Event License for Vietnam (ID # 22-1803) Veterans Moving Wall on November 10-14. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and requested that the item be approved. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 9.11. Public David Einis requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Communication Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 14 White Street Place from (ID # 22-1769) Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 4 (MR4). RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 9.12. Public Harvard University conveying its Fall 2022 Accountability Report. Communication (ID # 22-1770) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.13. Public 63 registered voters submitting comments regarding bicycle and bus lanes. Communication (ID # 22-1777) Councilor Pineda Neufeld sponsored resident Kim Rego to speak on this item. Ms. Rego addressed the Council and spoke about the changing demographic and changes to the city. Ms. Rego commented that there is a perception that decisions are being made from the top down without solving an identified nor fulfilling a majority want. Traffic changes have been advancing at a rapid pace and it seems that the community has not been involved, i.e., public meetings feel like presentations where citizens can hear what has already been decided. She commented that bike lanes have been added without offering sufficient safety for bike riders, vehicle operators and pedestrians, and noted the chronic elimination of parking for insufficient alterations that underserve everyone is a disservice to the city’s small businesses, as well. Ms. Rego said that the city needs to slow down this process and consider how best to create optimal usage for everyone. Councilor Burnley stated that the patchwork of bike lanes in the city are unsafe. He said the city has been working on a comprehensive bike plan and he would like to see increased transparency and accessibility. He noted that many businesses need larger loading zones. He commented that everyone’s needs should be met and that everyone should be able to move about the city in a safe manner. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about a Curbside Study for decision making. Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented that much of the requested data is available but has not been shared via the city’s website. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.14. Public Bill Valletta submitting comments regarding Item #214069, proposed Communication amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance (Chapter (ID # 22-1772) 7, Article IX). RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 19 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1844) That the Director of Racial and Social Justice provide an update on the Police Staffing Report. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 10.2. Communication By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 22-1845) Conveying an update on the All-Ward Community Meeting in Spanish on October 18, 2022. Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported that a majority of the meeting was conducted in Spanish. Topics included the lack of 2 and 3-bedroom housing units, the Welcoming City Ordinance, Community Policing, rat infestations, and racism within the community. She commented how many immigrants are made to feel inferior during their daily interactions with others and she stated that people to be aware of this. She also commented that the Zoom connection was not working properly and how that was viewed as a slight to the immigrant community. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.3. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 22-1848) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That this Council discuss municipal broadband, and the implementation of the Somerville Internet Access Task Force. Councilor Ewen-Campen stated that a community group has asked to present before a Council Committee. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 10.4. Public Tufts University conveying its Fall 2022 Accountability Report. Communication (ID # 22-1846) Councilor Wilson noted that Tufts enrollment has increased by 25% since 2015 and he would like to see them build additional student housing. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 20 of 21 City Council Meeting Minutes October 25, 2022 10.5. Public Max Meinhold submitting comments regarding bicycle and bus lanes. Communication (ID # 22-1847) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Communication By Councilor Clingan (ID # 22-1852) Conveying information regarding the Councilor Clingan Halloween Safety Brigade. Councilor Clingan asked his colleagues to join the brigade to assist crossing children on Halloween to keep them safe. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting recessed at 7:10 PM and Reconvened at 7:13 PM to allow Ms. Santos to take some photos. The meeting recessed at 8:58 PM and Reconvened at 9:10 PM. The meeting was Adjourned at 9:51 PM. Page 21 of 21