City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, June 8, 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 7:02 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. The Council entered into recess at 7:15 PM and returned at 7:19 PM. The Council entered into recess at 8:26 PM and returned at 8:31 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-0915) 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 Five City Councilor Beatriz Gomez Mouakad Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-0856) Councilors Scott, McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence in memory of former Somerville Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Albert F. Argenziano. Councilor Gomez Mouakad requested a moment of silence in memory of Stephenson Aman on the one-year anniversary of his passing. Councilor McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence in memory of James Campano. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, May 11, 2023. (ID # 23-0930) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 2. CITATIONS 2.1. Citation By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-0978) Commending John Gullage for his actions on May 19, 2023, during a medical incident at Veterans Memorial Rink. Councilor Ewen-Campen read a letter detailing the actions of Firefighter John Gullage and presented him with a Citation in appreciation. Councilor McLaughlin related that, knowing Firefighter Gullage during his youth, he’s not surprised by his actions. Councilor Clingan recounted Firefighter Gullage’s pride and demeanor during his confirmation hearing for the Fire Department. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 30 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1015) Mount Pleasant Street, from Utility Pole 3 to a point of pickup at 24-28 Mount Pleasant Street. Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.2. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 25 feet of conduit in the (ID # 23-1016) intersection of Spring Street and Somerville Avenue, from Utility Pole 1 to a point of pickup at the rear of 599 Somerville Avenue. Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-0944) That the Commissioner of Public Works install additional bike locking infrastructure around the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 2 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 23-0972) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Administration expedite the planning, design and construction of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to ensure the re-opening of said school as soon as possible. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.3. Order By Councilor Strezo and Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0996) That the Commissioner of Public Works remove or raise above human height, the low hanging wire in front of 11 Bonair Street, and report 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 Strezo (ID # 23-1000) That the Director of Communications and Community Engagement create a regularly updated public-facing website dedicated to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School plan, with links to publicly filed documents. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.5. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0994) That the Administration work with the Director of Housing and Director of Water & Sewer to provide an affordable, benevolent landlord and subsidized landlord housing water utility assessment of all low-income housing units where residents pay their own water and sewer bills. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.6. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0995) That the Administration create and budget for a program that provides low-flow sink and toilet tools and supplies to seniors and all low and moderate income residents for free or at a significantly reduced cost. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 3 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 4.7. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0999) That the Administration provide confirmation that the supplemental information for the Statement of Interest for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School will be updated immediately, including the engineering assessments and photographs of the most recent structural failing. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.8. Resolution By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor (ID # 23-0965) Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott and Councilor Wilson That the Somerville City Council condemns antisemitism. Councilor Strezo stated that incidents of antisemitism are on the rise nationally, as well as in Somerville, and that 2022 saw the most incidents of antisemitism nationally. She said that this is a call to action, not a ‘soap box’ speech and sponsored four speakers to address the Council. Marie Axner addressed the Council saying that antisemitism is growing in Massachusetts, having the 2nd highest rate of white propaganda. The myth says that Jews run the banks and are to blame for other problems in society. Jews are working class people and some are in poverty. Ten to fifteen percent of Jews in the United States are people of color. Ms. Axner stated that antisemitism hurts people on a daily basis and said that there are reports of swastikas painted in the bathrooms in the city’s schools. Juliette Rooney-Varga said her parents are holocaust survivors. She hid her Jewish heritage and thought it was safe to bring up her children as Jewish in Somerville. She learned about some of the antisemitic incidents that were happening in the city’s schools from her Rabbi, not from the schools. The bias against Jews is different than what is shown to other groups and she asked the Council for support and to take steps to stop this before it gets worse. Rabbi Eliana Jacobowitz informed the Council that MA is 2nd after Texas in antisemitic incidents and that school children in Somerville, Cambridge and Arlington are experiencing it. Adults in Somerville are feeling less safe and are unsure about identifying as Jewish. Lynn Weisman said that antisemitism is just one of the ways specific groups are targeted. Her sons attended Somerville public schools and were exposed to more subtle form of antisemitism. She believes that there should be clear policy in place to deal with antisemitism. Councilor Pineda Neufeld recounted that she was asked why she chose such a Jewish name for her son. Councilor Davis moved that the Chief of Police report to the Council how decisions were made regarding the stickers handed out in Davis Sq. The entire Council co-sponsored the order and the motion was approved. Councilor Davis also asked that President Ewen-Campen bring up this matter at the next School Committee meeting. Page 4 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 Councilor Scott noted that Ward 2 has seen antisemitism graffiti and Councilor Wilson agreed that clearly, more needs to be done to combat this. Rabbi Jacobowitz said former Mayor Curtatone and current Mayor Ballantyne have been supportive, but there is a lack of training in the schools, Police and Fire Departments. She would like to have a reporting system for “low grade” antisemitic acts, e.g., graffiti. Councilor Strezo asked that this Resolution be sent to the city’s state delegation, the governor, the Superintendent of Schools and School Principals. RESULT: APPROVED 4.9. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-0984) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the Commissioner of Public Works present to this City Council, the building failures that took place in the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and a plan for assessing those failures. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.10. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0985) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management dedicate full time staff and/or create new position(s) to the planning, design and construction process for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and the Benjamin Brown School and include this position in the FY 2024 budget. Councilor Gomez Mouakad said that the city needs someone dedicated to school buildings and staff for mechanical systems, etc. School buildings have been neglected and need to be assessed every 5 years. A list of repairs should be made public. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.11. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0986) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management work with the School Department to create milestones for the academic programming needed for the planning and design of a new school building or for retrofitting an existing school building, and create a parallel collaboration program, meeting weekly or bi-weekly, to move this work forward. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee Page 5 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 4.12. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0987) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management explain what Request for Proposals (RFP) will be necessary for consultant services for planning and architectural services for any future school building programming and planning, and expedite those RFPs. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.13. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0988) That the Administration work with the School Department to develop emergency plans for at-risk school relocation including, but not limited to, the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and the Benjamin Brown School. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.14. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0989) That the Administration create a permanent staff position for a Superintendent of School Buildings within the Department of Public Works to oversee all maintenance, repairs and assessments of school buildings, and include this position in the FY 2024 Budget. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.15. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0990) That the Administration evaluate the need to create permanent staff positions within the Department of Public Works for school buildings that address the highest needs of our school buildings including, but not limited to: mechanical systems, plumbing systems, fire alarm and electrical systems and exterior envelope and structural systems. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.16. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0991) That the Administration include in the FY 2024 budget, $150,000 for an exterior envelope consultant to assess ongoing leaks in school buildings. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee Page 6 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 4.17. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0992) That the Administration develop a five-year assessment plan for school building systems and structures for all schools over five years old, to ensure proper funding is in place for capital repairs and to ensure the safety and undisrupted operation of schools. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.18. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-0993) That the Administration publish yearly on the city website, a list of ongoing school repairs and improvements, similar to that posted by Chelsea Public Schools, and provide a yearly report to the City Council of such repairs and improvements before and after completion. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.19. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0997) That the Director of Engineering utilize the partial paving program to address streets in East Somerville that have private trench restoration, to ensure half-paved streets are fully paved. Councilor McLaughlin noted that, due to the service divide between National Grid and Eversource, many of the streets in East Somerville have been re-paved only over the portion of the utility work, resulting in several ½ paved roads. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.20. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-0998) That the Traffic Commission make Jasper Street a ONE WAY street from Pearl Street to Gilman Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.21. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-1001) That this Council send back the FY 2024 budget until it incorporates demands of residents, including funding for a new Winter Hill School, housing security, and unarmed alternative emergency response outside of the Police Department. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE Page 7 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 4.22. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-1002) That the Director of Parks and Recreation work with the Director of Human Resources to post flyers on community boards indicating vacant job positions. Councilor Burnley noted that there are many vacant positions in the city and additional means should be employed to inform the public of those openings. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee 4.23. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1003) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. 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. Councilor Gomez Mouakad cautioned that those streets will become cut throughs. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5.2. 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. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5.3. 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. Councilor Gomez Mouakad said there are a lot of big issues that need the Council’s attention and that she is utilizing the 311 system for the tool that it is, referring “smaller” issue there for resolution, prior to requesting Council action. Page 8 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5.4. 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 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel (ID # 23-0959) Matters, meeting on May 31, 2023. Councilor Pineda Neufeld reported on the actions taken by the committee. Three confirmations to the Historic Preservation Commission, one confirmation to the Urban Forestry Committee and one promotion in the Police Department were recommended for approval. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Colin Curzi to the Historic (ID # 23-0792) Preservation Commission. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Denise Price to the Historic (ID # 23-0793) Preservation Commission. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Daniel Coughlin to the (ID # 23-0795) Historic Preservation Commission. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Doris Jenkins to the Urban (ID # 23-0831) Forestry Committee. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of James E. Torres to the position (ID # 23-0882) of Police Sergeant. RESULT: APPROVED Page 9 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 6.B. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, (ID # 23-0957) meeting on May 30, 2023. Councilor Strezo reported on the actions taken by the committee. Topics discussed included creating community wealth and opening the Ginny Smithers Pool on Sundays. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.3. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 23-0482) Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Parks and Recreation consider opening the Ginny Smithers Pool on Sundays to expand swim lesson opportunities, including consideration of engaging an outside vendor or organization to provide the swim lessons. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.4. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-0483) That the Director of Parks and Recreation explain the wait list process for enrollment in Parks and Recreation programs. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.5. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-0546) That the Director of Economic Development update this City Council regarding the strategy and projected timeline for a Community Center in Union Square, including plans for a feasibility study. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on May 30, 2023. (ID # 23-0923) Page 10 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 Councilor Davis reported on the actions taken by the committee, which included the approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for FLIR MC300C marine camera and an amendment to Section 9-116 of the Code of Ordinances. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Ordinance By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Kelly, Councilor (ID # 23-0607) Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Scott and Councilor Strezo Amending Section 9-116 of the Code of Ordinances, the Noise Ordinance, by prohibiting loud and disruptive construction activities on Saturdays and evenings. 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.C.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for FLIR (ID # 23-0876) MC300C marine camera. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D. TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on May 31, 2023. (ID # 23-0958) Councilor Gomez Mouakad reported on the actions taken by the committee and presented a summary of the comments that came from the public hearing on the bike network. RESULT: APPROVED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting revocation of the provisions of Chapter 44, Section 53F 1/2 of (ID # 23-0857) the Massachusetts General Laws, ceasing the Veterans Memorial Ice Rink as an Enterprise Fund, effective fiscal year 2024. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION Page 11 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting the rescission of $13,232,471 of authorized but un-issued (ID # 23-0926) borrowings. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $103,382 as an amendment to the proposed (ID # 23-0976) FY 2024 General Fund Budget, for a Senior Project Manager in the Department of Infrastructure and Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects, to support the K-8 Master Plan and Winter Hill Community Innovation School interim solutions. Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Rich Raiche explained the need for this position and said that an internal candidate is ready to start on July 1. This is a new position that was not included in the proposed FY 2024 budget, currently before the Finance Committee. RESULT: APPROVED 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to create the Emergency Response Stabilization Fund (ID # 23-0974) for maintaining, distributing, and providing food, temporary shelter, and other common necessaries of life for residents displaced by public exigency, emergency, or distress, as codified in the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, Section 19. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,300,000 from the Facility Renovation (ID # 23-0977) Stabilization Fund for a Feasibility Study to create new building space to accommodate the Benjamin Brown School, the Winter Hill Community Innovation School, and additional educational programs defined by the enrollment study. See item 7.16. RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 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 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $817,137.42 from the Facility Renovation (ID # 23-0906) Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $248,419.50 from the Facility Renovation (ID # 23-0904) Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $151,252.50 from the Street Reconstruction (ID # 23-0907) Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and pavement condition assessment and design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $69,184.64 from the Facility Renovation (ID # 23-0908) Stabilization Fund for continuing asset management program and planning services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 13 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,300,000 from the Sewer Enterprise (ID # 23-0982) Retained Earnings Account to the Sewer Capital Stabilization Fund to build reserves for the Water-Sewer Capital Improvement Program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $200,000 from the Water Enterprise (ID # 23-0983) Retained Earnings Account to the Water Stabilization Fund to support the Water-Sewer Capital Investment Plan. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $3,000,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0968) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to support flexible rental assistance programs. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $2,383,367 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0927) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Rainy Day Stabilization Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $2,000,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0928) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 14 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,500,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0969) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Trust Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,300,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0979) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for a Feasibility Study to create new building space to accommodate the Benjamin Brown School, the Winter Hill Community Innovation School, and additional educational programs defined by the enrollment study. This is for the process and specialized needs for SPED programming. The outcome will be a preliminary design and cost estimate to be brought to the voters for consideration of a Proposition 2 ½ override. RESULT: APPROVED 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,000,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0929) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Compensated Absence Liability Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $500,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0967) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Open Space Acquisition Stabilization Fund to acquire new publicly accessible open space. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $300,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0973) Balance ("Free Cash") to fund the Emergency Response Stabilization Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 15 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 7.20. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $259,382 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0966) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Energy Stabilization Fund for projects that reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.21. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $170,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0971) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Capital Stabilization Fund for additional monies for site preparation, construction, and furnishing of a safe consumption site. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.22. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $80,000 from the Community Preservation (ID # 23-0947) Act (CPA) Fund Undesignated Fund to Vida Real for continued restoration of the bell tower at 404 Broadway. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.23. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a multi-year lease agreement for the East Somerville (ID # 23-0667) Police Station. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.24. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to execute the Second Amendment to the lease (ID # 23-0829) agreement with Dana Family Series, LLC, for the Grove Street parking lot, through June 30, 2024. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. Page 16 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.25. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $1,750,036 from the Salary (ID # 23-0980) Contingency Account-Salaries to the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.26. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $248,419.50 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 23-0878) Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Engineering & Architecture Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.27. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $151,252.50 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 23-0880) Asset Management (IAM)-Engineering & Architecture Account to the Street Reconstruction Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and pavement condition assessment and design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.28. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $69,184.64 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 23-0881) Asset Management (IAM) Professional & Technical Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing asset management program and planning services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 17 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 7.29. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $12,800 from the Unemployment (ID # 23-0975) Compensation Account to the Recreation/Youth Program Salaries & Wages Temporary Account to provide additional staff support for the displaced Winter Hill Community Innovation School students. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.30. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $11,000 from the Department of Public (ID # 23-0964) Works (DPW) Highway Fence Installation Account to the DPW Buildings Moving Services Account for school related moving services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.31. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $20,284.55 using (ID # 23-0952) available funds in the Department of Public Works Hazardous Waste Removal Account for removal services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.32. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,536.63 using (ID # 23-0955) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Natural Gas Account for gas in city buildings. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.33. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,042.75 using (ID # 23-0953) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Fire Alarm R&M Account for fire extinguisher maintenance services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. Page 18 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.34. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $800 using available (ID # 23-0954) funds in the Department of Public Works Rubbish Removal Account for removal of concrete debris. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.35. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept the 2023-2024 U.S. Department of Housing (ID # 23-0951) and Urban Development Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant, Home Investment Partnership and Emergency Solutions Grant programs, totaling $3,321,097. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.36. Mayor's Conveying the appointment of Kevin Dickinson, Thomas Gorman, James Communication Marques, Ellen Sullivan and Jodi Vachon, to the Veteran's Commission. (ID # 23-0950) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Public NRL WSC 200 Inner Belt Prop, LLC requesting a Zoning Map Amendment Communication to change the zoning district of 200 Inner Belt Road from Commercial (ID # 23-0940) Industry (CI) to High-Rise (HR). RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 9.2. Public Green Cab conveying a change of address, pursuant to the Code of Communication Ordinances, Section 13-47. (ID # 23-0970) Councilor Scott urged all councilors to read the letter from Green Cab regarding displacement. Page 19 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.3. License New Livery License, Ibsa Transportation, 29 Illinois Avenue, operating 1 (ID # 23-1017) vehicle. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Edward Ahern. (ID # 23-1024) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, NCCL Enterprises. (ID # 23-1004) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Lemon Thai Cuisine, 215 (ID # 23-1005) Highland Ave. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Flammables License, Silicon PropCo 2021 LLC, 101 South St. (ID # 23-1006) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License Renewing Flammables License, Valvoline Instant Oil Change AB0001, 182 (ID # 23-1007) Washington St. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. License Renewing Garage License, Arco Tire Auto Service Repair LLC, 18 (ID # 23-1008) Clarendon Ave. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 Page 20 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. License Renewing Garage License, Assembly Row 5B LLC, 455 Grand Union Blvd. (ID # 23-1013) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. License Renewing Garage License, Federal Realty Investment Trust, 355 Artisan (ID # 23-1009) Way. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. License Renewing Garage License, Federal Realty Investment Trust, 445 Artisan (ID # 23-1010) Way. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. License Renewing Garage License, Federal Realty Investment Trust, 479 Canal St. (ID # 23-1011) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. License Renewing Garage License, Federal Realty Investment Trust, 333 Great River (ID # 23-1014) Rd. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. License Renewing Garage License, SRI Assembly Row B8 LLC, 485 Foley St. (ID # 23-1012) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. Public Event Jayden Ddhir applying for a Public Event License for Rockland Trust (ID # 23-1027) Lemonade Stand on June 9 from 11am to 4:30pm (raindate June 15). Page 21 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. Public Event Aaron Holman applying for a Public Event License for Harrison St BP on (ID # 23-1025) June 10 from 12pm to 5pm (raindate June 17). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. Public Event Claudia Martin applying for a Public Event License for Life Drawing! on (ID # 23-1018) June 11 from 10:30am to 3:30pm (raindate June 18). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. Public Event Janine Fay applying for a Public Event License for Dancing in the Street on (ID # 23-1019) June 21 from 5:30pm to 9:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. Public Event Zachary Fritzhand applying for a Public Event License for Claremon St BP (ID # 23-1028) on June 24 from 2pm to 6:30pm (raindate June 25). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.21. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Fourth of July (ID # 23-1020) Celebration on June 29 from 1pm to 11pm (raindate June 30). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.22. Public Event Stephanie Galaitsi applying for a Public Event License for Morrison Ave BP (ID # 23-1026) on July 22 from 2pm to 7pm (raindate July 23). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED Page 22 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 9.23. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Yart Sale on August 12 (ID # 23-1021) from 11:30am to 7pm (raindate August 13). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.24. Public Event Arts Council and Gilman Square Neighborhood Association applying for a (ID # 23-1022) Public Event License for Gilman Square Arts and Music Festival on September 9 from 11am to 7pm (raindate September 10). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.25. Public Event Felicity Beal applying for a Public Event License for Somerville Homeless (ID # 23-1023) Coalition's 28th Annual 5K Road Race on September 30 from 6:30am to 11am. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 9.26. Public 23 residents submitting comments re: item #23-0585, the Citywide Bicycle Communication Network Plan. (ID # 23-0981) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-0874) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 10.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $817,137.42 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 23-0879) Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Professional & Technical Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 23 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 10.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of David Farino to Fire (ID # 23-1035) Lieutenant. Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the reading of item 10.3 and refer it to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 10.4. Mayor's Conveying information regarding the Winter Hill Community Innovation Communication School. (ID # 23-1037) Mayor Ballantyne gave an update on the situation and reported that the displaced students returned to school today at 3 different locations. The city is committed to either a complete renovation or rebuild of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School (WHCIS) and will allocate all needed resources with urgency. Quality classrooms will be available for the start of school in the fall. Mayor Ballantyne told the Council that they will need to approve the needed funding. The city is meeting with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) next week and has also been in communication with the archdiocese of Boston regarding the Matignon High School facility. The Mayor went on to say that people are right to be upset. There is much to be done and details are developing rapidly. President Ewen-Campen said there’s a sense of concern for next year and wants a public, transparent process and the Mayor stated that a community meeting will be scheduled. Councilor Clingan commented that the sooner a decision is made regarding what to do with building, the better. Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Rich Raiche said it’s premature to rule anything out, and that the city wants to determine what is possible or impossible. Councilor Wilson commented that there’s a real issue with trust and that transparency is needed. He thinks that representatives from teachers and parents should be involved and have a seat at the table during discussions. Councilor Scott said he’s concerned that MSBA phases are being followed which may be irrelevant if the city is not going that route, thus, an abbreviated process could be pursued. Mayor Ballantyne explained that there are two parallel paths currently. Money has been put aside to fund a feasibility study while still pursuing the MSBA option. An enrollment study shows student population is declining but Special Needs programming is increasing. Councilor Scott said a third option would be to look at any sites that may be available. The Mayor said that a community process is needed to answer several questions. Director Raiche said meeting with the MSBA will lead to a conclusion of how the city may move forward. Councilor Kelly noted that this is the same exact conversation discussed a year ago. The city was asked, last year, to address the issues at the school and problems still exist today. The sooner answers are provided, the sooner fears can be allayed. She hopes that when the FY Page 24 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 2024 budget is passed, it will have an answer to where students will be in the fall. Councilor Pineda Neufeld suggested that this matter be treated as a crisis, like COVID was, and that by giving the community some opportunity to know what decisions are being made, trust may start to be rebuilt. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that there are two issues: 1) communication and a lack of trust in the building and 2) how does the city diagnose and expedite a resolution. She stated that we are all to blame and that plans for bike lanes, curbs, etc., are advocated for but when it comes to the schools, the advocacy wanes. Councilor Wilson commented that a good step would be to get a clear explanation of how things might work, with timelines, for people to understand the process. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.5. License New Drainlayer's License, Albanese Brothers Inc. (ID # 23-1030) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 10.6. License New Drainlayer's License, Metro Equipment Corporation. (ID # 23-1031) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 10.7. Public Event Department of Racial and Social Justice applying for a Public Event License (ID # 23-1029) for Juneteenth Flag Raising Commemoration on June 12 from 4pm to 7:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 10.8. Public Event East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for East (ID # 23-1032) Somerville Festival Series on July 23, August 20, and September 10 from 3pm to 8pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.3 through 9.25 and 10.5 through 10.8 and approve them tonight. RESULT: APPROVED 10.9. Public David Einis requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Communication Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 0 White Street Place from (ID # 23-1033) Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Urban Residential (UR) and 14 White Street Place from Neighborhood Residential (NR) to UR. Page 25 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 10.10. Public Two residents submitting comments re: item #23-0635, a Zoning Text Communication Amendment to permit variations to build out regulations by special permit in (ID # 23-1034) the CC5 District, USQ sub-area. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.11. Public Eight residents submitting comments re: item #23-0585, the Citywide Communication Bicycle Network Plan. (ID # 23-1036) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.12. Communication By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1038) Conveying information related to naloxone administration. Councilor McLaughlin spoke about Somerville being one of first cities to carry naloxone. He had a friend who overdosed and was revived by Fire Department staff, who were carrying naloxone (Narcan). The communication deals with the number of lives saved by police using Narcan. Councilor McLaughlin noted that when a call is received at 911, the alert is sent to all first responders and who ever reaches the victim first can use the Narcan to save a life. He gave some statistics indicating that there is an overdose every week in the city. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.13. Communication By Councilor Wilson and Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1040) Inviting the community to Carnaval in East Somerville on Sunday from 2 PM to 6 PM. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $188,629.10 from the Department of (ID # 23-1039) Public Works (DPW) Custodial Salaries Account to the DPW Snow Removal Account to cover a deficit. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.6 through 7.15, 7.17 through 7.35, 10.2 and 10.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 11. LATE ITEMS Page 26 of 27 City Council Meeting Minutes June 8, 2023 11.1. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 11.2. 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. Arts Council Director Greg Jenkins spoke on the item, saying that there has been a regional closure of dance space and that pop-up spaces have been used to address the shortage. This item is for leased space at $20 per square foot. Councilor Davis asked about the time sensitivity and Director Jenkins said that the item was submitted in May and he would like it approved before the Council’s summer recess. Councilor Scott moved for approval. 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 Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Gomez Mouakad 11.3. Order By Councilor Davis (ID # 23-1049) That the Chief of Police report to this Council on the decision regarding investigation of anti-Semitic stickers placed on vehicles. RESULT: APPROVED 11.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $7,796,452 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-0933) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Facility Renovation and Reconstruction Stabilization Fund to support the FY 2023 5-Year Capital Investment Plan. RESULT: APPROVED 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:25 PM. Page 27 of 27