City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, May 25, 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 7:04 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. The Council entered into recess at 9:36 PM and returned at 9:45 PM. The Council entered Executive Session at 9:54 PM and returned at 10:17 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-0897) 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 Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis Absent: Ward Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-0898) Councilor McLaughlin requested a moment of silence in memory of all veterans who died fighting to defend this country. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, April 27, 2023. (ID # 23-0899) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS Page 1 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 2.1. Citation By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0895) Commending Officer Thomas Lambert for his efforts on May 18, 2023 to save a baby who was not breathing. Councilor McLaughlin reported that Officer Lambert received a call for a child in distress, and upon arrival at the scene, took immediate steps to save this child’s life. The citation will be presented at a later date. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 929 feet of (ID # 23-0863) conduit and one new manhole along Poplar, Linwood, and Joy Streets. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Scott stated his concern about an updated plan and asked if it had already been submitted and Ms. Duffy replied that it had been. Councilor Scott asked that this item be referred to the Committee on Licenses and Permits so that the plan may be reviewed. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 45 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-0864) the intersection of Norwood Avenue and Medford Street, from Manhole 7419 to a point of pickup at 494 Medford Street. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Strezo commented that she never received a phone call from Eversource regarding the numerous hanging wires that she reported recently. Ms. Duffy will send someone out to inspect the wires on Porter Street tomorrow. RESULT: APPROVED 3.3. Grant of Location Group Design Build applying for a Grant of Location to install 130 feet of (ID # 23-0865) conduit in the intersection of Prescott Street and Summer Street, from Utility Pole 325/8 to a proposed handhole then continuing to a point of pickup at 3 Prescott Street. Mr. Hernandes, representing Group Design Build, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Strezo asked that no lines be left dangling. Mr. Hernandes said that this item is to put wires underground. RESULT: APPROVED 3.4. Grant of Location Verizon applying for a Grant of Location to install 60 feet of conduit in Ten (ID # 23-0866) Hills Road, from Utility Pole 498/10 to a point of pickup at 77-79 Ten Hills Road. Page 2 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 Ross Bilodeau, representing Verizon, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. Councilor Strezo asked that no lines be left dangling. Mr.Bilodeau replied that this item is to put cables underground. Councilor Clingan also commented on the number of low hanging wires and thanked Verizon for getting this job done for the customer. RESULT: APPROVED 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-0830) That this Council conduct a public hearing pursuant to Section 7-222 of the Code of Ordinances, on the application for recognition of the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council. Councilor Clingan commented that residents worked tirelessly to get this recognition. President Ewen-Campen noted that this is the second time a Neighborhood Association has been formally recognized by the City Council. Public Hearing Christine Carlino spoke and said that the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council wants to bring everyone to the table to work collaboratively on the rehabilitation of Gilman Square. Michele Hanse commented that there will be more Neighborhood Councils coming. The Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 4.2. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0883) That the Commissioner of Public Works remove or raise above human height, the wire wrapped around a pole in front of 54 Porter Street, and report back to this City Council who owns the pole. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.3. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0884) That the Commissioner of Public Works remove or raise above human height, the wire wrapped around a street sign in front of 9 Brastow Avenue, and report back to this City Council who owns the pole. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.4. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0885) That the Director of Engineering, the Director of Water and Sewer, and the Executive Director of the Arts Council collaborate to start an "Adopt a Catch Basin" program to promote visibility and cleanliness of catch basins in creative and artistic ways. Page 3 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.5. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0888) That the Director of Engineering update the Ward 1 Councilor regarding the pavement of Otis Street, which is half completed on one side. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0887) That the Director of Mobility install speed bumps on Myrtle Street, Lincoln Avenue and Virginia Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.7. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0892) That the Director of Mobility repaint the NO BIKES ON SIDEWALKS signs along East Broadway. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.8. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0889) That the Commissioner of Public Works fill the potholes on the unfinished side of Otis Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.9. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0891) That the Commissioner of Public Works inspect the tree wells in front of 173 Broadway for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.10. Order By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor (ID # 23-0893) Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis That the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on the status of the annual Spring Cleanups for the upcoming season. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee Page 4 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 4.11. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0890) That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect the narrow alleyway near the Edgerly School for rodent activity and take appropriate measures. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee 4.12. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0886) That the Mayor allocate $65,000 to fully fund the Food for Free school market program that feeds Somerville students nutritious meals. Councilor McLaughlin informed the Council that this organization is facing a funding shortfall. Councilor Strezo requested that a copy be forwarded to the city’s state delegation. RESULT: APPROVED 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Mayor's Request Requesting to appear with consultant Donald Jacobs, to provide information (ID # 23-0778) regarding the Classification and Compensation Study. Mr.Jacobs, appearing virtually, spoke about the goals and objectives of this study, which he hoped to deliver by the end of this fiscal year. He was asked by the administration to expedite union positions before non-union positions. Mr.Jacobs informed the Council that the study will analyze salaries and benefits. Councilor Scott asked when the full results will be presented and Mr.Jacobs said it depends on the amount of time it takes to get people in agreement with the job descriptions. Following that, the grade plan and compensations levels will be set. He said that the surveys for the position of Councilors were submitted to Human Resources today. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 5.2. Public 138 registered voters submitting a petition requesting a public hearing Communication regarding transparency in the development process. (ID # 23-0724) Michele Hanse, who is a member of the Union Sq. Neighborhood Council, stated that this group of petitioners is here to challenge the city’s development process, saying that neighborhood and resident input is very often ignored by the administration sand developers, and she urged them both to cooperate with residents, neighborhoods and businesses. She said that those who work and live in Somerville now need to be protected, as planning by the administration is not ‘by or for the people’ of this city. Alyson Schultz spoke on behalf of Brickbottom residents saying that they would like a place at the table when their neighborhood is being developed. There are 250 residents in that area and their voice3s are disregarded. She cited past incidents over several years where their suggestions were ignored. Rand Wilson commented that a covenant had been reached between Scape Page 5 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 and the city, with no neighborhood input. He thinks that if the neighborhood was involved, issues such as jobs, wages, rents, and housing would have been addressed. He commented that the results of local hiring by US2 is well below expectations. Rodrigo Badaro, a representative from Local 35 Painters Union, stated that he has been involved in trying to get local residents hired on developments in Somerville. He thanked the Union Square Neighborhood Council, Somerville Stands Together and the city’s residents for pushing for local hiring. Christine Carlino said that the Gilman Sq neighborhood has been active for the past 15 years and she commented on the many changes surrounding the Green Line Extension (GLX) coming through Gilman Sq. She listed multiple dates and meetings where the neighborhood association was not provided with all of the information. She noted that delay tactics were employed and that after 15 years, nothing has been done. They want the Planning Department to listen to them and make smart community development. David Gibbs, Executive Director of the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), said the vision of SomerVision 2040 has not been realized. He said that planners are making choices based on the priorities of the largest developers. He served on the 2040 steering committee, but he found that the process was hasty and contained no analysis of the fiscal impacts of what they wanted. Bill Shelton, a member of the Union Square Neighborhood Council, spoke about three lawsuits involving Assembly Square, saying that the draft plan for that area did not address the desires of residents. Tori Antonino spoke about how Union Square residents proposed ideas for the look of the area, noting that the master developer put forth their own design, disregarding neighborhood input. She noted the high rents in the developed buildings in Union Square, saying that Somerville’s residents can’t afford to pay the $6,000/month rent in the towers. She suggested that Planning Board meetings be in person and not virtual. Ms. Antonino suggested that all covenants made with developers include a Community Benefits Agreement. She also asked for a moratorium on unaffordable development. Public Hearing · Ann Camara said she has been through all stages of Somerville and that city staff says one thing and does something else. The administration is not following the required criteria. She wants streets fixed and local residents hired for development jobs in the city. · Alan Stiehl said a plan was proposed for Assembly Square 24 years ago, known as the 30/30/30, and in 2000, a resolution was passed to implement it. After that, two administrations tried to delay its implementation and were sued. Mr. Stiehl commented that the city’s planning staff enables developers. Page 6 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 · Bill Cavellini said planning should be for the people and by the people and he gave examples of how the planning staff has thwarted community benefit agreements. He expressed his belief that the urban design framework has the potential for allowing planning staff to introduce bias into plans. · Meredith Porter spoke about residents moving out due to high prices and said that there is a lot of misdirection from the planning staff. He asked who the planning staff’s customers are - residents or developers? He pointed out that requests have been filed to obtain information and that people aren’t informed when meetings are scheduled. Mr. Porter commented that developers use tricks to bypass occupancy regulations. · Wig Zamore said SomerVision 2030 was a good plan, but that district design is difficult. There is no process to have a robust staff engage the community to optimize the community outcome. · Marie-Elle Merchant spoke about cultural issues with the Planning Board. She commented that the Director of Capital Projects had stated that the community was agnostic on some of the development, but said it was really good for the tax base. She noted that three developers have submitted their qualifications, but residents don’t know who is in the selection pool. · Isabella Drago spoke about the primacy of economics vs. primacy of politics and said that the administration’s actions favor the primacy of economics. · Ramone Bueno spoke about people supporting development but said that scale matters. He doesn’t see integrated design. He believes that the city has leverage and should use it for the benefit of residents. · Joyce Chen, who considers herself an ‘affluent newcomer’, loves the neighborhood and local businesses and she is surprised to see some businesses shuttered. · Andy Greenspon said that the planning staff is overwhelmed and shouldn’t be gaslighting everyone. He believes that the community needs to set a precedent here for activism. · Roger Levy stated that no outreach was done regarding putting high-rise buildings next to residential. He said that no one in the neighborhood was aware of the rezoning of their block. He noted that Planning staff was difficult to get answers from or to meet with and the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) made inaccurate statements about what the neighborhood wanted. · Amy Eastment commented that it’s crushing when you participate in something and your concerns aren’t taken seriously. · Sam Alterman said grad workers are not being serviced by developers and that they’re being pushed out of the city. He warned that without meaningful change, grad students will become commuters. · Leigh Meunier stated that there is no accountability in the planning Page 7 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 process and asked if there is a process to evaluate staff based on service to the residents. · Crystal Huff thanked neighbors and Councilors and supported the comments shared, in particular expanding staff. · Janine Fay said some people think they have a divine right to make money. · Silvia Cuervo spoke about wanting to stay in Somerville and the need for rent control. · Kate Byrne spoke about the lack of will to care for unhoused people. · Jane Bestor said city and the Mystic View Task Force have been pro development since the early days and she asked why the city and City Council have played into the hands of developers. · Christine Carlino said it doesn’t take a lot of staff to listen to the community and until the culture changes, residents won’t be heard. She stated that a complete overhaul is needed. · Isabella Milanowski commented that artist identity has been co-opted in favor of developers. The Public Hearing was closed. Councilor McLaughlin spoke about selling out on a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) in Union Square and Councilor Scott said the movement is building. Councilor Clingan commented that this needs to be fixed and President Ewen-Campen noted that it’s important to realize that this struggle isn’t pointless. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. CHARTER REVIEW SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Special Committee on Charter Review, meeting as a (ID # 23-0837) Committee of the Whole on May 24, 2023. Councilor Scott reported on the actions taken by the committee. The public hearing from the previous meeting was concluded at the meeting. All recommendations of the Charter Committee have been reviewed. The final result of the Committee’s review has been referred to the Mayor for administrative review. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Officer's Charter Review Committee conveying its recommendations and proposed Communication Charter text. (ID # 22-1520) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 8 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 6.A.3. Officer's City Clerk submitting amendments to the proposed charter to address Communication scrivener's errors. (ID # 23-0794) RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED 6.A.4. Resolution By Councilor Davis (ID # 23-0826) That language be added to the appropriate section of the Charter Review Committee's proposed Charter text to include a provision subjecting the City Solicitor to reappointment and reconfirmation every two years. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.A.5. Order By Councilor Scott (ID # 23-0916) That this City Council transmit the proposed charter, as amended by the City Council, to the Mayor for consideration. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on May 23, 2023. (ID # 23-0836) Councilor Wilson reported on the actions taken by the committee. He listed the items before the committee and their resulting actions. Full details are available in the committee report. Item 23-0550 was severed from the report and referred back to the Finance Committee. Item 23-0827 was severed from the report and Councilor McLaughlin stated that he is uncomfortable will voting himself a raise, adding that he would rather wait for the compensation study to be completed. He would like to table this item until such time. Councilor Davis stated that he was surprised that this item was recommended by the Finance Committee so quickly and he’s not convinced that this is the right thing to pursue. Councilor Clingan stated that we don’t need a study to keep up with inflation and he stands by his statement that he shouldn’t be voting on his raise. Councilor Scott explained that the figures he submitted are in line with historical data. He went on to say that only the Council can grant this raise. Councilor Burnley stated that the salary for a City Councilor is not enough to be able to remain in Somerville. Councilor Wilson stated that every year without a raise effectively amounts to a cut in pay. Councilor McLaughlin clarified that this is not a negotiation - it’s the Council telling the administration to pay them more. Councilor McLaughlin moved to reject this item. President Ewen-Campen would rather send the item back to the Finance Committee. Councilor Kelly agrees with the spirit of the item but agrees with sending the item back to the Finance Committee. Page 9 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 Councilor Strezo favors returning the item to committee. Councilor McLaughlin withdrew his motion. The item was referred back to the Finance Committee. Councilor McLaughlin made a motion to review the Council’s role in granting themselves raises. The motion was approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Officer's Director of Water and Sewer conveying the FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate Communication proposal. (ID # 23-0550) RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 6.B.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $5,063.14 grant, with no new (ID # 23-0606) match required, from the Barr Foundation for staff attendance at the Designing Cities 2023 conference. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $104,247.14 from the Bikeshare (ID # 23-0718) Stabilization fund for new stations at 5 Middlesex Ave and 10-50 Prospect St. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to extend the contract with the Mystic River Watershed (ID # 23-0725) Association for Blessing of the Bay Park Revitalization Phase 2 for an additional 24 months. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $17,950 grant with no new (ID # 23-0772) match required, from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to the Health and Human Services Department to restructure the food security coalition. Page 10 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $15,000 from the City Clerk Salaries (ID # 23-0812) Account to the City Clerk R&M - Software Account to expand the digital accessibility and archiving of the Code of Ordinances and Zoning Ordinances. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $15,000 from the Clerk of Committees (ID # 23-0823) Salaries - Monthly Account to the City Clerk R&M - Software Account to expand the digital accessibility and archiving of the Code of Ordinances and Zoning Ordinances. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.9. Ordinance By Councilor Scott and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0827) Amending Section 2-323 of the Code of Ordinances, Salary Ranges, to provide cost-of-living adjustments for School Committee Members and City Councilors. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 6.C. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the (ID # 23-0834) Planning Board on May 18, 2023. Councilor McLaughlin reported on the actions taken by the committee. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Public John Fragione and Agostino Feola, requesting the adoption of an Communication amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of (ID # 23-0634) 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from MR3 to MR5. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.D. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on May 16, 2023. (ID # 23-0833) Councilor Davis reported on the actions taken by the committee and noted that an amendment related to Fair Housing was recommended for approval. RESULT: APPROVED Page 11 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 6.D.2. Order By Councilor Davis (ID # 22-0043) That the Commissioner of Public Works, the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services, and the Director of Mobility report to the Legislative Matters Committee on enforcement of and annual reporting on the Ordinance to Safeguard Vulnerable Road Users. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.3. Order By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, (ID # 22-1271) Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That this City Council and the City of Somerville formally recognize the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council. President Ewen-Campen severed item 6.D.3 from the committee report. Councilor Davis moved to approve this item. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.D.4. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott (ID # 22-1991) That the City Solicitor work with this Council to amend the Code of Ordinances to include nondiscrimination provisions based on relationship status. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.5. Ordinance By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Scott (ID # 22-1994) Amending Sections 7-41, 7-43, 7-44, and 7-47 of the Code of Ordinances, related to Fair Housing. 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, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld Page 12 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 6.D.6. Order By Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0858) That the Director of Housing submit a report to the City Council on the yearly number of Fair Housing complaints filed, sorted by those that are MCAD-protected and those that are not. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on (ID # 23-0832) May 15, 2023. Councilor Kelly reported on the actions taken by the committee. Details are available in the Committee Report. The safe consumption site issue will be discussed at the July meeting of the committee. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E.2. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 22-1529) That the Director of Health and Human Services take steps to install emergency contraception dispensers in designated city bathrooms. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 22-1687) 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 plans to establish a Community Engagement Center. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.4. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 22-1760) That the Director of Food Access & Healthy Communities provide this Council with a report on the Taxi to Health program. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.F. RODENT ISSUES SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.F.1. Committee Report Report of the Special Committee on Rodent Issues, meeting on May 23, (ID # 23-0835) 2023. Councilor Kelly reported on the actions taken by the committee. RESULT: APPROVED Page 13 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 6.F.2. Order By Councilor Kelly (ID # 22-0057) That the Director of Inspectional Services and the Director of Health and Human Services report on progress regarding planned internal rodent control meetings and regular joint departmental meetings. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.F.3. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0238) That the Director of Inspectional Services provide Smart Boxes throughout East Somerville to address rodent issues. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.F.4. Order By Councilor Kelly, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0797) That the Director of Inspectional Services and the Environmental Health Coordinator update this Council on spring rodent mitigation programs and SMART box phases. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $6,430,638 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 23-0844) the same amount for the Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $211,370.90 from the Department of (ID # 23-0873) Public Works (DPW) Highway Wages Account to the DPW Buildings Electricity Account for May & June expenses. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $150,000 from the Department of (ID # 23-0870) Public Works (DPW) Grounds Wages Account to the DPW Admin Motor Gas and Oil Account to fund invoices on hand and May & June expense. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 14 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $50,000 from the Department of Public (ID # 23-0845) Works (DPW) Admin Salaries Account to the DPW Snow Removal Account to cover a deficit. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $45,000 from the Department of Public (ID # 23-0875) Works (DPW) Highway Wages Account to the DPW Snow Removal Account to cover a deficit. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $35,000 from the Department of Public (ID # 23-0872) Works (DPW) Highway Salary Account to the DPW Admin Professional & Technical Account to cover May & June expenses. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $25,000 from the Parks and Recreation (ID # 23-0853) Professional & Technical Services Account to the Parks & Recreation Salaries & Wages Temp Account for school staff coaching of intramural sports. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $18,000 from the Parks & Recreation (ID # 23-0854) Fields Personal Services Account to the Parks & Recreation Rec/Youth Program Personal Services Account to cover the remainder of the fiscal year for teen spaces. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 15 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $8,039.02 from the Police Department (ID # 23-0847) Personal Services Overtime Account to the Police Department Special Items Grant Match Account to fund the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition Community Safety Initiative Shannon Grant match. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $550 from the Engineering Personal (ID # 23-0852) Services Account to the Infrastructure & Asset Management (IAM) Personal Services Account to fund IAM Somerville Municipal Employees Association (SMEA) staff holiday and longevity pay. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,117.07 grant that requires a (ID # 23-0846) match, from the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition Community Safety Initiative to the Police Department for youth violence prevention. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $6,781 Student Awareness of (ID # 23-0813) Fire Education (SAFE) grant, with no new match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for fire prevention education for students. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $2,677 Senior Student (ID # 23-0814) Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) grant, with no new match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for fire prevention education for older adults. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 16 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,592.59 using (ID # 23-0877) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Elevator R&M Account for elevator service. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of James E. Torres to the position (ID # 23-0882) of Police Sergeant. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.15 and 7.16 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Doris Jenkins to the Urban (ID # 23-0831) Forestry Committee. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.15 and 7.16 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for FLIR (ID # 23-0876) MC300C marine camera. The reading was waived and the item was referred to the Legislative Matters Committee. Councilor Davis commented that this item will be on the committee’s May 30th agenda. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's City Clerk submitting recommendations for adjustments to certain fees Communication charged by the City Clerk’s Office, effective July 1, 2023. (ID # 23-0824) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. Page 17 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Keash Excavating Inc. (ID # 23-0860) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License Renewing Flammables License, Metropolitan Pipe and Supply Company, 30 (ID # 23-0861) Inner Belt Rd. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Garage License, Brazil Auto Repair, 621 Somerville Ave. (ID # 23-0862) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License Renewing Garage License, Valvoline Instant Oil Change, 182 Washington (ID # 23-0871) St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Martha Lee Trust, 147 Highland Ave. (ID # 23-0867) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Great Eastern Vintage, 236 Pearl (ID # 23-0869) St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 9.7. Public Event Tracy Wishon applying for a Public Event License for Walker St/Leonard St (ID # 23-0894) BP on June 3 from 10am to 6pm (raindate June 4). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. Public Event Jess Willis applying for a Public Event License for Taste of Somerville on (ID # 23-0868) June 14 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate June 15). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. Public David Gutierrez submitting comments re: street closures during Porchfest. Communication (ID # 23-0848) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.10. Public Gurhan Ozen submitting comments re: notifications for street closures. Communication (ID # 23-0849) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.11. Public Christine and David Homsi submitting comments re: water and sewer rates. Communication (ID # 23-0850) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.12. Public Stephen Mackey submitting comments re: response to Linkage Nexus Study Communication report. (ID # 23-0851) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.13. Public Jenn Harrington submitting comments re: meeting with musicians and Communication promoters. (ID # 23-0859) Councilor Strezo spoke about the lack of musician spaces and sponsored Jenn Harrington to address the Council. Ms. Harrington spoke of how inequity and violence rises when a small group isn’t cared for. She said that she wants the Council to hear from musicians in a forum setting. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS Page 19 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 10.1. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-0900) That the Director of Mobility and the Director of Engineering integrate traffic calming measures on Hudson and Summer Streets and plan for the work to be implemented prior to the start of the Highland Avenue improvement construction. President Ewen-Campen tabled items 10.1 through 10.3 at the request of Councilor Gomez Mouakad. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.2. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-0901) That the Director of Mobility develop a strategy for the implementation of speed radar detectors on north-south cut-through streets throughout the city, including but not limited to Central Street and Cedar Street. President Ewen-Campen tabled items 10.1 through 10.3 at the request of Councilor Gomez Mouakad. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.3. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 23-0902) That the Director of Mobility, Director of Engineering, Director of Parking, and Commissioner of Public Works establish criteria and guidelines for Council orders to be submitted for traffic calming and mobility related issues and items that should be submitted to 311 to ensure the City Council is addressing larger mobility strategic planning issues. President Ewen-Campen tabled items 10.1 through 10.3 at the request of Councilor Gomez Mouakad. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.4. Order By Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0912) That the Chief of Police halt the use of unmarked patrol vehicles for all traffic enforcement. Councilor Kelly stated cyclists have been pulled over by unmarked vehicles for unclear reasons and indiscriminate stops. She noted a conversation in 2022 when she was informed that the Somerville Police Department doesn’t engage in speed traps, however, she believes that using unmarked vehicles for traffic enforcement is pretty close to a speed trap. She thinks that it’s important to know the methodology for pulling over cyclists and pedestrians, especially if the funds supporting that practice are from a grant that was to be used for educational purposes. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee Page 20 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 10.5. Order By Councilor Kelly (ID # 23-0913) That the Chief of Police and the Director of Mobility report to this Council on the methodology used for pedestrian and cyclist stops made by Police Department officers. See Item 10.4 (23-0912). RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.6. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 23-0914) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson Demanding the end of anti-union activities by Starbucks. Councilor Burnley explained that employees at the 711 Somerville Avenue Starbucks filed an application on February 24th to hold an election for union representation and, to date, have not had that election. Employees favoring union representation have been subjected to various punitive and disciplinary actions by the company. RESULT: APPROVED 10.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a five year lease, with option for renewal, with 561 (ID # 23-0522) Windsor Street Owner LLC for dance space. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $646.08 using (ID # 23-0903) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Plumbing R&M Account for asbestos sampling. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1 to 7.14, 8.1 and 10.7 through 10.8 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.9. Mayor's Conveying the appointment of Ada Ren-Mitchell, Joe Burgio and Becky Communication Donner to the Arts Council. (ID # 23-0909) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.10. Mayor's Conveying the appointment of Marianne Walles to the PILOT Advisory Communication Task Force. (ID # 23-0910) Page 21 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.11. Mayor's Conveying the appointment of John Long and Rositha Durham to the Communication Municipal Compensation Advisory Board. (ID # 23-0911) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.12. Officer's City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session pursuant to MGL Communication Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(3) regarding Cobble Hill Center, LLC v. (ID # 23-0905) Somerville Redevelopment Authority. The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 9:54 PM to hear an update on this matter. The Council returned from Executive Session and reconvened the regular meeting at 10:17 PM. President Ewen-Campen reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than 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 Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 10.13. Officer's School Committee conveying a resolution passed on May 8, 2023, regarding Communication school facility challenges. (ID # 23-0896) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.14. Officer's Affordable Housing Trust conveying the FY 2018-2019 Affordable Housing Communication Trust Fund report. (ID # 23-0855) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.15. License New Flammables License, John's Auto Sales, 166 Boston Avenue, 7,000 (ID # 23-0919) gallons. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.15 through 10.17 and refer them to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee Page 22 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 10.16. License New Garage License, Somerville Auto Center, 193 Somerville Avenue, 18 (ID # 23-0917) cars inside only, for autobody work and spray painting, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed. 1) The spray booth must be used at all times for spray painting, and maintained in good condition to prevent paint fumes in the neighborhood. 2) This license allows no overnight exterior parking of vehicles being serviced at this location. 3) The hours of operation for this business are to be strictly observed to prevent disruption in the neighborhood. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.15 through 10.17 and refer them to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 10.17. License New Used Car Dealer License Class 2, John's Auto Sales, 166 Boston (ID # 23-0918) Avenue, 28 cars outside, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.15 through 10.17 and refer them to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0920) That this City Council discusses the power of the City Council to give itself a raise before completing its revisions to the proposed charter. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Charter Review Special Committee Resolution By Councilor Scott (ID # 23-0921) Urging the Mayor to fill the two vacancies on the Biosafety Committee and restore it to a functional body. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 11.3. Order By Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0922) That the City Solicitor appear in executive session pursuant to MGL Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(3) to update this council on the status of collective bargaining negotiations with all municipal bargaining units. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 12. ADJOURNMENT Page 23 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes May 25, 2023 The meeting was Adjourned at 11:57 PM. Page 24 of 24