City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, January 12, 2023 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 7:01 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. The City Council entered into recess at 9:04 PM and returned at 9:15 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-0089) Councilor Strezo arrived at 7:04PM. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-0090) Councilor McLaughlin requested a moment of silence for Alfred “Al’ and Joan Snow. President Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence for Sayed Faisal. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, November 22, 2022. (ID # 23-0091) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS Page 1 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.1. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-0055) That the Director of Engineering and the Superintendent of Water and Sewer appear before this Council’s Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works to discuss the notification protocols for street work and water shutoffs. Councilor Clingan wants to address the timeliness of notification given to residents so that they can plan for the lack of water. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 23-0056) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Administration update this Council on the cable franchise contract negotiations with Comcast and explain what the process entails. Councilor Clingan noted that negotiations have been ongoing for months and he is seeking information on the process and what the city is getting in return, as this is in the public interest. The current contract expires March 31, 2023. Council Scott spoke about some areas of the city have only one provider, while some areas have two and he believes that this is a result of franchise negotiations. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.3. Resolution By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-0057) That the Administration update this Council on the contract renewal process with TZE and discuss how the process works. Councilor Clingan noted that TZE is the city’s general contractor and he thinks that they are taking some liberties with how things are done in Somerville. He wants to know what factors are in the contract renewal and who is monitoring TZE’s actions. Councilor Wilson spoke about the number of late invoices submitted to the city by TZE. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee Page 2 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.4. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley (ID # 23-0052) Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That this City Council's Committee on Land Use work with the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning to draft an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to remove the prohibition on more than four unrelated adults living together. Councilor Pineda Neufeld assumed the Chair. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke on the item and made a series of arguments why the prohibition should be removed. He commented that the law is unevenly enforced throughout the city and believes that it is discriminatory to low-income people and students. Councilor Wilson asked how this might interact with the state’s Lodging House laws. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that this is one way to make housing more affordable. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 4.5. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 23-0054) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Mobility formally petition the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to lower the speed limits on all state roads in Somerville to 25 miles per hour. Councilor Pineda Neufeld assumed the Chair. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke on the item saying that City Councils may now petition MA DOT to have speed limits lowered within their municipalities. Councilor Wilson commented that lower speed limits would make the city better and safer. RESULT: APPROVED Page 3 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.6. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, (ID # 23-0053) Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That this City Council calls on the Administration to reverse its decision to remove the Somerville Media Center and the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers from the city-owned building at 90-92 Union Square, and to work with these community partners to find them suitable homes in Somerville before any further action is taken. Councilor Pineda Neufeld assumed the Chair. Councilor McLaughlin spoke on the item saying that the point has been reached where someone will get hurt. He spoke about how the Media Center was influential in his life growing up in Somerville and he thinks that this is basically a tenant/landlord issue, with the city being the landlord. He said that the Media Center and MAPS needs a home and that they are being forced out by the city to make room for a new non-profit entity. He pointed out that the Media Center is a Somerville organization that has benefited the city. He said that if this isn’t resolved, he won’t support the FabLab coming into the city and he will take steps to keep the building vacant. Councilor Scott noted that the disrepair of the building has been going on for 5 years and he believes that the city has used this strategy to displace MAPS and the Media Center. Councilor Ewen-Campen acknowledged that the current city administration inherited this problem from the prior administration. Councilor McLaughlin pointed out that the city has several properties that were taken by eminent domain, so he feels that there are options available. Legislative Liaison Carrillo stated that the Administration is committed to resolving this situation. RESULT: APPROVED 4.7. Order By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Pineda Neufeld, (ID # 23-0064) Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott That this City Council's Committee on Housing and Community Development discuss the attached letter from the Somerville Fair Housing Commission regarding the current Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination backlog. Councilor Strezo noted that there is a backlog of complaints at MCAD. Councilors Wilson and Scott commented on the possibility of passing enabling legislation to help to relieve the problem. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 4 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.8. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0061) That the Commissioner of Public Works report on the maintenance schedule of street and traffic lights, including the number damaged or burned out. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.9. Order By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Kelly, Councilor (ID # 23-0062) Wilson and Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and the Environmental Health Coordinator discuss the feasibility of including neighborhood-specific rat control funding in Community Benefits Agreements. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.10. Order By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott (ID # 23-0063) and Councilor Clingan That the Environmental Health Coordinator and the Director of Inspectional Services discuss resident reports of cars damaged by rats over the past five years. Councilor Kelly queried how much residents are paying to repair the damages and believes that the city should be responsible. Several Councilors related stories of constituents having vehicles damaged by rats. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.11. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0067) That the Director of Housing discuss the feasibility of small home pocket neighborhoods to help address the affordable housing crisis. Councilor Strezo explained that these are small home collaboratives and might be useful as a way to aid the housing shortage. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 5 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.12. Order By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 23-0066) That the Director of Parking create a special parking designation for the area surrounding Holland Street, to accommodate seniors visiting the Council on Aging between the hours of 8 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday. Councilor Clingan commented that Tufts has been enforcing parking rules at their lot and he feels that they should be making concessions for seniors visiting the Council on Aging facility. Councilor Pineda Neufeld noted that there will be a meeting next Tuesday to discuss possible options. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.13. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-0065) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 4.14. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Kelly, (ID # 23-0082) Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson That the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator, the Director of Inspectional Services, and the Director of Planning, Preservation & Zoning explain to this Council how the City provides oversight for compliance with Fair Housing Act Design Guidelines, the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board CMR 521 and the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, from plan review through building and occupancy permits. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about an issue at 165 Cedar Street, saying that the relevant departments are not on the same page. She feels that accessibility needs to be looked at during the planning process. Councilor Scott sponsored Holly Simione, Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities, to address the Council. Ms. Simione spoke about the things that could be done to make areas accessible and noted that there is a tremendous backlog in the city of areas needing accessibility and said that some of the corrections might have been avoided, had things been done right the first time. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee Page 6 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.15. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0083) That the Director of Mobility consider improvements to deficient conditions impacting the safety and pedestrian accessibility of Cedar Street. Councilor Gomez Mouakad listed several deficiencies and would like to bring them to the attention of the Traffic Commission. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.16. Ordinance By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0075) Amending Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 2 of the Code of Ordinances by adding a new section establishing Paid Leave for Survivors. Councilor Burnley spoke about the number of domestic violence incidents reported in MA. He feels that Somerville needs to do more than it’s doing to assist survivors of violence. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.17. Ordinance By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor (ID # 23-0076) Clingan, Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott Amending Chapter 8, Article I of the Code of Ordinances by adding a new section regarding Closed Captioning Accessibility. Councilor Burnley explained that this would be a way to reduce communication barriers for people with hearing loss. He sponsored Holly Simione, who spoke in favor of the proposal and about the importance of being able to communicate when you can’t hear. She acknowledged that closed captioning has its limitations, but said it is a valuable resource. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked what it would take to have the city change to the Zoom platform, so that closed captioning made be used. City Clerk Kimberly Wells responded that the city is close to signing a contract for closed captioning and expects it to be available for the February Council meetings. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.18. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-0081) That the Board of Health deliver its annual report to this City Council in January, in compliance with Section 6-20 of the Code of Ordinances, with emphasis on the work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee Page 7 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.19. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Scott, Councilor (ID # 23-0080) Ewen-Campen and Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services update this Council on the status of the citywide disparity study. Councilor Scott commented that the Administration has not been moving this matter forward. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 4.20. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-0077) In Support of Survivors. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.21. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson, Councilor (ID # 23-0078) Clingan, Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Scott Supporting Closed Captioning Accessibility. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 4.22. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Kelly, Councilor Clingan, Councilor (ID # 23-0079) Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson Supporting the Eradication of Medical Debt. Councilor Burnley spoke about people drowning in medical debt through no fault of their own, adding that the impacts are disproportionately felt by Black, Latino and veteran populations. He believes that the city should take steps to eradicate medical debt by using ARPA funds, adding that the city has a moral obligation to do so. He believes that this would be a win for Somerville and its residents and he called on the city administration to work on this. Councilor Kelly asked for support from the Council to urge the administration to allocate funding for this proposal. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee Page 8 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.23. Order By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Kelly and Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 23-0068) That the Director of Mobility and the Director of Engineering update this Council on the possibility of increasing installation of traffic calming measures beyond the number of projects currently planned for 2023. Councilor Wilson noted the increase in speed humps in the city and he would like to ramp up the number this year. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.24. Order By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0069) That the Environmental Health Coordinator update this Council on any past pilots and any future plans for use of rodent hormonal birth control. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.25. Order By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 23-0070) That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment update this Council on plans for a pilot of on-street direct current fast charging stations for electric vehicles. Councilor Wilson comment on the need for having available charging stations. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee 4.26. Order By Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0071) That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment and the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on plans for household hazardous waste collection. Councilor Wilson would like to hear the city’s long-term plans on this issue. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.27. Order By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0072) That the Director of Human Resources update this Council on the number of current job vacancies and the number of positions filled in 2022. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee Page 9 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 4.28. Resolution By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 23-0073) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Scott That the Administration and School Department prioritize fully meeting Somerville Public Schools families’ demand for after school and vacation programming in the 2023-24 school year, including expanding the offerings of after-school enrichment clubs. Councilor Wilson wants to begin a conversation on this well before budget season. He sees a huge demand that exceeds capacity and he wants to explore alternative of ways of funding community schools. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted the lack of staff for after school programs. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. CHARTER REVIEW SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Charter Review Special Committee, meeting as a Committee (ID # 23-0047) of the Whole on January 11, 2023. Councilor Scott presented the Committee Report and spoke about the voting recommendations of the Review Committee. The next meeting will deal with some balance of power issues. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Resolution By Councilor Scott (ID # 23-0098) Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee on expanding voting rights to non-citizen residents. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Resolution By Councilor Davis (ID # 23-0099) Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee on expanding voting rights to 16- and 17-year old residents. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-0100) Supporting the recommended language by the Charter Review Committee on reducing signature requirements for several elected officials. RESULT: APPROVED Page 10 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 6.A.5. Resolution By Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0102) That language be added to the Charter that the City Council President or designee and School Committee Chair or designee be included in the composition of all study committees. RESULT: APPROVED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances, Section (ID # 23-0087) 1-11 (Penalties and violations), to codify Traffic & Parking fines. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting the adoption of the Specialized Energy Code, 225 CMR, (ID # 23-0084) Sections 22 and 23, including Appendices RC and CC, in their entirety as the minimum energy code for the City. Liaison Carrillo noted that the expected implementation date is July 1st and the Administration would like to begin discussions on the matter next week. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Cynthia L. Amara as City (ID # 23-0060) Solicitor. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Charles J. Breen, Jr. as Fire (ID # 23-0059) Chief Engineer. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $4,545,827 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 23-0049) the same amount for streets and sidewalk reconstruction. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 11 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Encore Artist and (ID # 23-0016) Cultural Support Stabilization Fund to support Local Cultural Council grants to artists, organizations, and schools. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $5,000 from the Office of Sustainability (ID # 23-0037) and Environment Ordinary Maintenance Account to the Office of Sustainability and Environment Personal Services Account to reallocate approved funding for interns to the appropriate budget line. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,050 gift with no new match (ID # 23-0043) required, from Tufts University Technology Support Center to the Council on Aging to reduce the cost of a luncheon for older adults. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $95,474.26 using (ID # 23-0046) available funds in various Department of Public Works Ordinary Maintenance Accounts for various services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred 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 $3,332 using (ID # 23-0017) available funds in the Office of Sustainability and Environment Ordinary Maintenance Professional and Technical Services Account for preventative maintenance of solar arrays. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 12 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $796.67 using (ID # 23-0044) available funds in the City Clerk Office Supplies Account for various supplies. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to extend a contract with the Community Action (ID # 23-0035) Agency of Somerville for an additional four months to 2/29/2023 for housing search and stabilization services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading and asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting that the City Council petition the Massachusetts Department of (ID # 23-0048) Transportation to modify the posted speed limit on State Route 38 in Somerville. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting that the City Council petition the Massachusetts Department of (ID # 23-0050) Transportation to modify the posted speed limit on State Route 28 in Somerville. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting that the City Council petition the Massachusetts Department of (ID # 23-0051) Transportation to modify the posted speed limit on State Route 16 in Somerville. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 7.16. Mayor's Conveying the 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report. Communication (ID # 23-0086) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 13 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Stephanie Communication Widzowski to the position of Clerk of Committees. (ID # 23-0038) RESULT: APPROVED 8.2. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Peter Communication Forcellese, Sr. to the position of Legislative Clerk. (ID # 23-0039) RESULT: APPROVED 8.3. Officer's Chief of Police conveying a response to item 22-1056, an order that the Communication Chief of Police report to this Council, any verified or suspected false reports (ID # 23-0085) of gunshots by ShotSpotter. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 8.4. Officer's Fair Housing Commission Staff Liaison conveying the Fiscal Year 2021 Fair Communication Housing Commission Annual Report. (ID # 23-0036) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Top Speed Vehicle, 631 Somerville (ID # 23-0032) Ave, 8 cars inside, 6 outside, Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-2pm, Sun Closed. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 9.2. License Renewing Automatic Amusement Devices License, Lucky Strike, 325 (ID # 23-0018) Revolution Dr. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Dog Kennel License, Riverdog Daycare, 321 Somerville Ave. (ID # 23-0019) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 14 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 9.4. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, F.E. French Construction. (ID # 23-0034) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Garage License, Master Used Cars, 121 Prospect St. (ID # 23-0020) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Open Air Vendor License, Next Wave-Full Circle School, 8 (ID # 23-0021) Bonair St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Aris Auto, 3 Craigie St. (ID # 23-0022) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Automotive Transport Service, (ID # 23-0023) 40 Joy St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Gene Automotive, 56 Joy St. (ID # 23-0024) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Intercar, 39 Webster Ave. (ID # 23-0025) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 15 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 9.11. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Joy St Motors, 24 Joy St. (ID # 23-0033) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Master Used Cars, 121 (ID # 23-0026) Prospect St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Motorcycles & More, 109 (ID # 23-0027) Bailey Rd. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Nissenbaum Auto Parts, 480 (ID # 23-0028) Columbia St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Nissenbaum Auto Parts, 0 (ID # 23-0029) Windsor St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Somerville Motors, 182 (ID # 23-0030) Washington St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Web Motor Sales, 5 Middlesex (ID # 23-0031) Ave. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 16 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 9.18. License Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Raymy Inc, Med #59. (ID # 23-0045) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. Public The Metro Building Trades Council nominating Rodrigo Badaro to the Communication Wage Theft Advisory Committee. (ID # 23-0015) RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. Public The Welcome Project nominating Emilio Cruz to the Wage Theft Advisory Communication Committee. (ID # 23-0014) RESULT: APPROVED 9.21. Public Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission (PERAC) Communication submitting the required Fiscal Year 2024 retirement system appropriation. (ID # 23-0013) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Communication By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0088) Conveying a reporting of the Children's Cabinet. Councilor Strezo reported that the Cambridge Health Alliance opened community based mental health centers at Cambridge Hospital, Boston Medical Center and 1 other location, to treat acute mental health problems. The crisis line phone number is 833-222-3030 and is available 24 hours per day. Walk-in services are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Councilor Strezo also reported that the recently opened teen center has been seeing about 50 youths per day and has added life skills programming. She is concerned about the sustainability of the program since ARPA funds will be running out. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 17 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 10.2. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0092) That the Directors of Mobility and Traffic and Parking discuss with this Council the use of meters at electric vehicle charging stations and ability for the City's vendor to impose a monetary charge after a certain amount of time that the vehicle is parked there. Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented that some vehicles have been left at charging stations after being charged, which ties up spaces for other users. This is an effort to address that problem. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee 10.3. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-0093) and Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Mobility share and discuss with this Council, the plan to use the $100,000 in funding secured from the state for a traffic study of the intersection of Route 16 and Broadway. Councilor Pineda Neufeld reported that the state recently told the city that it (the city) should perform the study rather than the state. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.4. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Kelly, Councilor Burnley Jr., (ID # 23-0094) Councilor Strezo and Councilor Scott That the Director of Health and Human Services share with this Council any plans to encourage or require indoor masking in light of the recent COVID-19 surge. Councilor Pineda Neufeld noted that some communities and schools are reinstituting mask policies and she would like an update from HHS. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.5. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0097) That the Mobility Department consider adding speed humps or other traffic calming measures to Packard Avenue. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to require the adoption of (ID # 23-0101) Institutional Master Plans. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 18 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes January 12, 2023 10.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to provide legal voting rights (ID # 23-0103) in municipal elections for residents aged 16 and 17 years old. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 10.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition further defining the purposes (ID # 23-0104) of the Affordable Housing Trust. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 10.9. Mayor's Conveying the 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report as it relates to Communication Somerville Public Schools. (ID # 23-0107) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 10.10. Mayor's Conveying information regarding item 23-0084, a Mayor's Request Communication requesting the adoption of the Specialized Energy Code. (ID # 23-0106) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 10.11. Officer's Commissioner of Public Works conveying responses to agenda items listed Communication within. (ID # 23-0108) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. LATE ITEMS 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:03 PM. Page 19 of 19