City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, August 24, 2023 7:00 PM NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first checking with the City Clerk. 1. OPENING CEREMONIES The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-1304) Councilor Gomez-Mouakad arrived at 7:07pm 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 # 23-1303) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, June 22, 2023. (ID # 23-1273) RESULT: APPROVED 1.4. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting, June 28, 2023. (ID # 23-1300) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS Page 1 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 515 feet of conduit as (ID # 23-1242) follows: Starting from Utility Pole 362/6 at the intersection of Columbia Street and Webster Avenue, 300 feet to Utility Pole 76/5 at the intersection of Columbia Street and Windsor Place, from Utility Pole 76/5, 55 feet to a proposed manhole, and from said manhole, 160 feet to a point of pickup at 495 Columbia Street. Coordinate with the management at Royal Hospitality and any open auto businesses on the street. Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilor Scott commented that this impacts one of the city’s largest employers. He asked to condition approval upon Comcast’s coordination with neighboring businesses to keep roadways open. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1206) That this City Council hereby reappoints Kimberly M. Wells to the position of City Clerk for a three-year term. RESULT: APPROVED 4.2. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo, Councilor (ID # 23-1281) Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Kelly That the Director of Mobility design traffic calming infrastructure for Laurel Street, which sees large volumes of high speed, one-way traffic down a steep hill. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.3. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 23-1280) Councilor Davis, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson In support of the Massachusetts State House Employee Union. President Ewen-Campen sponsored Morgan Simko, a State House employee and union organizer, to speak on the item. This resolution acknowledges the right for state house staffers to decide whether or not to join a union. Ms. Simko spoke about the duties performed by staffers and she asked the Council to support passage of this resolution. RESULT: APPROVED Page 2 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 4.4. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1286) That the Chief of Police conduct compliance checks on liquor stores. Councilor McLaughlin noted that establishments that serve liquor have a responsibility to ensure that people are not over-served. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.5. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1287) That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Health and Human Services coordinate daily inspection and cleanup of all City-owned properties along lower Broadway. Councilor McLaughlin spoke abut the need for more consistent cleanup efforts. RESULT: APPROVED 4.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1288) That the Community Outreach, Help and Recovery (COHR) team work in conjunction with the Homeless Coalition to address homelessness in East Somerville open spaces. RESULT: APPROVED 4.7. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1289) That the Director of Housing and the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council regarding repeated requests to provide shelter to homeless residents. Councilor McLaughlin noted that this request has been made for a number of years. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.8. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1290) That the Director of Health and Human Services engage Somerville Cares About Prevention to conduct compliance checks on establishments serving liquor to prevent over-serving of alcohol. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.9. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1292) That the Director of Inspectional Services conduct regular inspections of liquor stores in East Somerville to ensure cleanliness outside of the properties, and fine businesses in violation accordingly. Page 3 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED 4.10. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1293) That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development investigate the possibility of seizing by eminent domain, 118 Broadway, aka the East End Grill, for the purpose of providing homelessness services. Councilor McLaughlin noted that someone died in this building due to the elements. RESULT: APPROVED 4.11. Order By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-1294) That the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on the progress of Safe Consumption sites. Councilor McLaughlin is optimistic that this will come to fruition and his desire is to get drugs off the street and out of the parks. He urged consideration of unintended consequences. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.12. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1283) That the Administration update this Council on the progress toward providing direct homeless services to East Somerville residents in temporary and permanent locations within Ward 1. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.13. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1284) That the Administration update this Council regarding increases in homelessness and the direct responses taken by the city to address those increases. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.14. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor (ID # 23-1291) Ewen-Campen That the Administration update this Council regarding progress toward Portland Loos. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 4 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 4.15. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor (ID # 23-1282) Clingan, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Scott, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis That the Mayor declare a State of Emergency due to rapidly increasing homelessness in the city. Councilor McLaughlin sponsored Kate Byrne to speak on behalf of Pastor Jordan Harris. Ms. Byrne detailed multiple experiences of some of the city’s homeless population and noted that recently, 21 people were sleeping in Chuckie Harris Park. She noted that Somerville is failing to meet its values in this city and said that East Somerville is the most under-served area of the city. On behalf of Pastor Harris, she asked that everyone stand up to correct the problem of homelessness. Councilor McLaughlin spoke about growing up in Somerville and is astonished that the homeless situation is worse than it has ever been here in Somerville, a city that is now considered to be affluent. His constituents want this matter treated as a real emergency to save lives. He asked for a physical location in East Somerville to be used as a shelter for homeless individuals. He went on to list a series of recent crimes perpetrated in East Somerville in just the last month. Councilor McLaughlin said that day-to-day issues need to be addressed instead of being ignored. Standards need to be upheld in the community, and to that end, individuals need to be given the tools to lift themselves up. Councilor Davis spoke about increasing aid to our community partners to help address the problem. Councilor Scott commented on the degradation of services over the years in the city and he believes that the city has the capacity to address the problem and provide for our neighbors. Councilor Pineda Neufeld commented on the state and federal aid cuts that the city has seen and she would like the city to commit its available funds to work on the problem. Councilor Wilson commented that homelessness is the result of a policy failure.Councilor Kelly asked Liaison Singh if the administration has considered appropriating funds from the $300,000 emergency response stabilization fund and Liaison Singh replied that the administration is looking at all options. Councilor Gomez Mouakad spoke about where and how the city could make space for residents, noting that there are several vacant buildings in the city. RESULT: APPROVED 4.16. Communication By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1285) Conveying numerous locations suitable for temporary and long-term shelter for the homeless population. Councilor McLaughlin submitted a list of properties that might be suitable for short and long-term shelter that he would like the administration to consider and he asked the administration to sweep the city to find and secure additional properties, as well. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION Page 5 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.17. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-1295) That the Administration designate a small children's section in City Hall between the Council Chamber and the Subcommittee Room for parents and caregivers. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to repeal (ID # 23-1205) Section 10.9 Steep Slopes. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to allow the Chief of Police to assign police officers at (ID # 23-1230) all polling locations for the November 7, 2023 Municipal Election, as required by the VOTES Act. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Kelly, City Councilor At Large Strezo, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, 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 NAY: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr. ABSENT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of November 1, 2023 through November 3, 2023 as the (ID # 23-1231) dates for Early Voting. RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to change the polling location for Ward 4 Precinct 2 (ID # 23-1232) and Ward 4 Precinct 2A from the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to the Senior Building at 240 Pearl Street, and the polling location for Ward 4 Precinct 3 from the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to the Brazilian Presbyterian Church at 212 School Street. RESULT: APPROVED 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $6,878,900 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 23-1240) the same amount for various sewer improvement projects as part of participation in the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) I/I Local Financial Assistance Program, Phases 9-11. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $4,269,990 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 23-1239) the same amount for the recurring FY 2024 Sewer Improvements program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $513,421 from the Capital Stabilization (ID # 23-1298) Fund to replace seven police vehicles. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $411,776 from the Community (ID # 23-1202) Preservation Act (CPA) Open Space Reserve Fund to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for renovation of Henry Hansen Park. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $150,000 from the Salary & Wage (ID # 23-1204) Stabilization Fund to the Police Department - Personnel Services - Other Lump Sum Benefits Account to settle pending litigation. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, Page 7 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to re-purpose $100,000 in Community Preservation Act (ID # 23-1146) (CPA) funds awarded to the Parks and Urban Forestry Division for the design of Junction Park, to be used for construction. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $98,053 from the Community (ID # 23-1203) Preservation Act (CPA) Historic Preservation Reserve Fund to the Somerville Museum for restoration of the collection storage area. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $97,000 from the Community (ID # 23-1201) Preservation Act (CPA) Open Space Reserve Fund to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for renovation of the Brown Schoolyard. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $57,716.11 from the Veterans (ID # 23-1229) Department's Ordinary Maintenance - Veterans Benefits account to the Personal Services - Salaries account to fund the Veterans Project Manager position though the end of FY 2024. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $2,105.53 from the Salary Contingency (ID # 23-1260) Account to the Medicare Account for Medicare tax reimbursement. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION Page 8 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $250,000 grant with no new (ID # 23-1234) match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Mobility Division for the study/design of sound walls for interstate-93 near the Mystic housing developments. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new (ID # 23-1207) match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Administration Division for the study of energy efficiency opportunities in affordable housing for low and moderate income households. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new (ID # 23-1208) match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Administration Division for focus groups and a feasibility study related to the development of a rental registry and energy retrofitting housing. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $95,000 grant with no new (ID # 23-1261) match required, from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program 2.0 Planning Grant. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 9 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $75,000 grant with no new (ID # 23-1263) match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department to support the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) sustainability and upgrades. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.20. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $48,612.38 grant that requires a (ID # 23-1050) match, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the Fire Department for the purchase of high visibility jackets. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.21. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $13,616.79 grant with no new (ID # 23-1262) match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for the purchase of ten motorcycle operator headsets that include microphones. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.22. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $4,980 grant with no new match (ID # 23-1255) required, from Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to the Fire Department for the purchase of emergency response equipment. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.23. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $3,830 grant with no new match (ID # 23-1252) required, from the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General to the Health and Human Services Department for the FY 2024 Healthy Summer Youth Jobs program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 10 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 7.24. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $16,929.60 using (ID # 23-1238) available funds in the Engineering Repairs & Maintenance - Highways Account for Police details. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.25. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $13,833.64 using (ID # 23-1196) available funds in the Department of Public Works Admin Professional and Technical account for FY 2022 Roca services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.26. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,867.08 using (ID # 23-1160) available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional & Technical Services Account for revenue management consulting services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.27. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $440 using available (ID # 23-1197) funds in the Department of Public Works Repair & Maintenance Vehicles Account for vehicle inspections. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.28. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $31.40 using (ID # 23-1241) available funds in the Law Department's Ordinary Maintenance Recordings Account for public access to court electronic recordings. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 11 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 7.29. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Christopher J. Ward to the (ID # 23-1299) position of Deputy Police Chief. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.30. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Jeffrey DiGregorio to the (ID # 23-1256) position of Police Captain. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.31. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Salvatore Fusco to the position (ID # 23-1257) of Police Lieutenant. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.32. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Samir Messaoudi to the (ID # 23-1258) position of Police Sergeant. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.33. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Steven Scrugli to the position (ID # 23-1259) of Police Sergeant. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION Page 12 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.34. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Cassie Walston to the (ID # 23-1237) Affordable Housing Trust Fund. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.35. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Dennis Lemard to the (ID # 23-1235) Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.29 through 7.35 and refer those items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Environic Solutions Inc. (ID # 23-1209) RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License New Garage License, Ravelo's Auto Service, 61 Washington St, 3 vehicles (ID # 23-1210) inside, 4 vehicles outside for mechanical repairs and autobody work, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 9.3. License New Second Hand Dealer License, Luce Boutique, 56 Union Square, buying (ID # 23-1226) and selling women's accessories and clothing. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 13 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 9.4. License Renewing Taxi Medallion License, Charlie's Family LLC, Med. #80. (ID # 23-1227) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Taxi Medallion License, SSR Cab Inc, Med. #81. (ID # 23-1228) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 136 Curtis St. (ID # 23-1276) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 176 Curtis St. (ID # 23-1270) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 12 Dearborn Rd. (ID # 23-1267) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 29 Latin Way. (ID # 23-1269) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 43 Latin Way. (ID # 23-1278) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 14 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 9.11. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 98 Packard Ave. (ID # 23-1236) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 8 Professors Row. (ID # 23-1271) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 14 Professors Row. (ID # 23-1296) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 28 Professors Row. (ID # 23-1275) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 92 Professors Row. (ID # 23-1279) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 98 Professors Row. (ID # 23-1243) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 13 Sawyer Ave. (ID # 23-1268) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. Page 15 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 37 Sawyer Ave. (ID # 23-1272) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 45 Sawyer Ave. (ID # 23-1274) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 21 Whitfield Rd. (ID # 23-1277) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.21. Public Event Elizabeth Devane applying for a Public Event License for Community (ID # 23-1301) Corporation Annual Summer BBQ on August 26 from 9am to 2pm (raindate August 27). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.22. Public Event Emma Garfinkel applying for a Public Event License for Pomi's Park (ID # 23-1211) Playdate on August 26 from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.23. Public Event Julia Tenney applying for a Public Event License for Boston Area Puzzle (ID # 23-1212) Hunt on August 27 and September 10 from 10am to 7pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.24. Public Event Saladin Islam applying for a Public Event License for Groundwork Harvest (ID # 23-1302) Festival on August 27 from 10am to 8pm. Page 16 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.25. Public Event Rocco Dirico applying for a Public Event License for Tufts Discover Davis (ID # 23-1245) Square on September 3 from 10:30am to 6pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.26. Public Event Veteran's Department applying for a Public Event License for Veteran's (ID # 23-1213) Health and Wellness Day on September 9 from 10am to 4pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.27. Public Event Helen Corrigan applying for a Public Event License for Irving St Block (ID # 23-1214) Party on September 9 from 11:30am to 8pm (raindate September 10). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.28. Public Event Rob Maher applying for a Public Event License for Spring Hill Block Party (ID # 23-1215) on September 9 from 12pm to 11pm (raindate September 16). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.29. Public Event Kevin Fitzpatrick applying for a Public Event License for Greene St Block (ID # 23-1216) Party on September 9 from 1pm to 10pm (raindate September 23). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.30. Public Event Lorna McKenzie-Pollock applying for a Public Event License for Prospect (ID # 23-1247) Hill Block Party on September 9 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate September 10). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 17 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 9.31. Public Event Alex Feldman applying for a Public Event License for Rogers Ave Block (ID # 23-1217) Party on September 16 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate September 17). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.32. Public Event Beth Kevles applying for a Public Event License for Hancock Neighborhood (ID # 23-1248) Block Party on September 17 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate September 24). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.33. Public Event Lindsay Allen applying for a Public Event License for East Somerville Main (ID # 23-1218) Streets Foodie Crawl on September 19 from 2pm to 10:30pm (raindate September 20). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.34. Public Event Parks and Recreation Department applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 23-1219) Fall Festival on September 23 from 10am to 5pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.35. Public Event Anton Tutter applying for a Public Event License for Outside on Oxford (ID # 23-1220) Block Party on September 23 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate September 24). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.36. Public Event Aaron Bickel applying for a Public Event License for Cycle 4 CMT Boston (ID # 23-1221) on September 24 from 7:30am to 9:30am. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.37. Public Event Nelson Salazar applying for a Public Event License for Virginia St Block (ID # 23-1222) Party on September 24 from 2:30pm to 8pm (raindate October 1). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 9.38. Public Event James Adams applying for a Public Event License for Hudson St Block (ID # 23-1223) Party on October 7 from 1pm to 7pm (raindate October 14). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.39. Public Event Joe Wright applying for a Public Event License for School St Block Party on (ID # 23-1249) October 14 from 11am to 6pm (raindate October 21). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.40. Public Event Meredith Jones applying for a Public Event License for Trull St Block Party (ID # 23-1224) on October 14 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate October 15). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.41. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for SomerStreets: Monster (ID # 23-1225) Mash on October 22 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate October 29). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.3 through 9.41 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.42. Public Carol Rego submitting comments re: rent stabilization. Communication (ID # 23-1194) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.43. Public Katherine Kaufmann submitting comments re: Armory building. Communication (ID # 23-1195) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.44. Public Chris Dwan submitting comments re: city lawsuit against Newport Communication Construction for improper removal of trees on Beacon Street. (ID # 23-1233) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee Page 19 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 9.45. Public 18 residents submitting comments re: item #23-1162, a resolution regarding Communication the "Idaho Stop". (ID # 23-1250) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Order By Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1297) That the Director of Mobility work with relevant departments and divisions to install wayfinding signage on the Community Path, including freeway exit-style signage on the Community Path Extension, given that segment’s limited access. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.2. Order By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1312) That the Director of Mobility update this Council on plans to expand bicycle parking in the city, with a focus on Davis Square and Union Square including potentially using intersection daylighting spaces for bike racks. That the Director of Mobility update this Council on plans to expand bicycle parking in the city, with a focus on Davis Square, Union Square, and Ball Square including potentially using intersection daylighting spaces for bike racks. Councilor Davis spoke about safety measures sometimes making it more difficult for businesses to operate and he thinks this might be an easy fix for cyclists. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked that Ball Square be included in the Order. The order was amended to add Ball Square. RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.3. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor (ID # 23-1308) Ewen-Campen and Councilor Strezo That the Director of the Arts Council and the Director of Economic Development take the steps outlined within, relative to the Armory building. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 10.4. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor (ID # 23-1309) Ewen-Campen and Councilor Strezo That the Director of Economic Development take the steps described within, relative to the Armory building. Page 20 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 10.5. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor (ID # 23-1310) Ewen-Campen and Councilor Strezo That the Administration report to this Council on the usage of the Armory building by existing tenants, city tenants, and what have been the vacancies. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 10.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $61,710 grant that requires a (ID # 23-1244) match, from Metro North Regional Employment Board to the Health and Human Services Department for YouthWorks Summer Program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $6,285 using (ID # 23-1264) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Elevator Repair & Maint Account for repairs to the High School elevators. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $4,509.75 using (ID # 23-1265) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Interior Maint Account for asbestos testing. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,867.08 using (ID # 23-1246) available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional and Technical Services Account for Public Consulting Group for Medicaid billing services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 21 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 10.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,684 using (ID # 23-1251) available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional and Technical Services Account for The Throne Depot for portable restrooms. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $980 using available (ID # 23-1266) funds in the Buildings Fire Alarm Repair & Maint Account for Fire Alarm testing and services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5 through 7.28, and 10.6 through 10.11, and refer those items to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.12. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jennifer Tsolas to the (ID # 23-1307) Condominium Review Board. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of item 10.12 and refer the item to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 10.13. Mayor's Conveying an update on the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. Communication (ID # 23-1313) Mayor Ballantyne gave an update and said that the first day of school is August 30 and that the school buildings will be ready for students. Approximately 430 students and staff are being relocated because of the issues at the Winter Hill Community Innovation School (WHCIS). Work at the Edgerly School is still underway and on schedule to welcome students back. At the Edgerly, classroom space has been created, including music and art rooms, as well as outside recess areas. Staff began moving in yesterday (August 23). Tours of the facility are being planned for the families whose children will attend school there. There will be an orientation for students being relocated to the Capuano School. Mayor Ballantyne stated that the administration’s commitment to the WHCIS community continues and that progress continues to be made on needs assessments. Engineers and architects have completed a broader study of the school and a report should be ready in September. Additional phases of the project will come in the fall. The Mayor thanked the Council for Page 22 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 approving the necessary funding for this project. Updates are available at https://www.somervillema.gov/WHCIS. Councilor Strezo asked about transportation of students and School Superintendent Dr. Rubén Carmona explained that service will be provided for students with special needs or homeless challenges. The criteria is in place for transportation of students and those will be transmitted to the families. Approximately 110 students will be provided with transportation. Councilor Clingan asked Superintendent Carmona to reach out to the Mystic Learning Center to discuss and coordinate transportation. Councilor Kelly asked what was being done to ensure that everything is done by this fall and Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Richard Raiche replied that all targets have been hit to date, adding that the same process applies to the Brown School. Councilor Clingan asked about asbestos in the WHCIS and when the school would be back online. He also inquired about food services. Director Raiche said that the finish line is in sight, but there is no definitive date. Assistant Superintendent of Operations Chad Mazza stated that the East Somerville and Argenziano Schools are being considered for food services. The plan is to renovate the entire kitchen at the Edgerly to service the school for hot meals. The School Department is partnering with a company in Malden to provide hot food until the kitchen renovation is complete. Councilor Strezo asked about the plan for the teen center and Chief of Staff Nikki Spencer said that hours and programs in other locations are being ramped up and that some services will be available at the Edgerly in the evenings. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.14. Public Event Council on Aging applying for a Public Event License for Mayor (ID # 23-1315) Ballantyne's Senior Picnic on September 14 from 8:30am to 2pm (raindate September 15). RESULT: APPROVED 10.15. Public John Fragione and Agostino Feola, Trustees of Frala Realty Trust, Communication requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to (ID # 23-1305) change the zoning district of 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from Mid-Rise 3 (MR3) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5). RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 10.16. Public Mai Lau, 635 Somerville Avenue LLC, requesting the adoption of an Communication amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of (ID # 23-1306) 627 Somerville Avenue from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3). RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee Page 23 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes August 24, 2023 10.17. Public Jeffrey Maciak submitting comments re: cleaning up Somerville. Communication (ID # 23-1311) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. LATE ITEMS 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 9:13 PM. Page 24 of 24