City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, September 14, 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 Executive Session at 8:28 PM and returned at 9:10 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-1386) Councilor Gomez Mouakad arrived at 7:07 p.m. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Present: City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr. 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 Absent: City Councilor At Large Charlotte Kelly 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-1387) Councilors McLaughlin and Clingan requested a moment of silence in memory of Adeline Angiulo. Councilor Strezo and the entire Council requested a moment of silence in memory of Emanuel Carlo. President Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of Howard Horton. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, July 13, 2023. (ID # 23-1388) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 1.4. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting, July 20, 2023. (ID # 23-1389) RESULT: APPROVED 1.5. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting, August 3, 2023. (ID # 23-1390) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS 2.1. Citation By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1333) Commending John Wilson on the conclusion of his mind-boggling HBO series, "How To with John Wilson". President Ewen-Campen recognized former resident John Wilson for his achievement and urged people to watch his series, which ran for 3 seasons. RESULT: APPROVED 2.2. Citation By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1350) Commending Edra Mercer on the auspicious occasion of her 100th birthday. President Ewen-Campen recognized Edra Mercer, a Somerville resident since 1955, who was active in the community. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install 63 (ID # 23-1335) feet of conduit in Medford Street, from existing Verizon Manhole 26/515 to a point of pickup at 35 Medford Street. Jeffrey Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 198 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1336) Broadway, from Manhole 1922 located at the intersection of Broadway and Fenwick Street to a point of pickup at 366 Broadway. Jacqueline Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilor Strezo asked Ms. Duffy to follow up on her requests to repair broken light fixtures in the city. RESULT: APPROVED Page 2 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 3.3. Grant of Location Verizon applying for a Grant of Location to install 429 feet of conduit along (ID # 23-1337) Somerville Avenue and Poplar Street, from Manhole 44/252 in Somerville Avenue to Manhole 44/20 located at the intersection of Poplar Street and Linwood Street. CONDITION: None of the existing pedestrian infrastructure, including planters, shall be removed from Poplar Street as part of this work. Steve Klaubert, representing Verizon, 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 expressed concern about the lack of a reasonable exit in that area and asked that the item be conditioned so that none of the planters, etc., used for pedestrian exit, be removed. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS 3.4. Grant of Location Verizon applying for a Grant of Location to install 209 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1338) Somerville Avenue, from Manhole 44/42 to existing Extenet handhole located near 345 Somerville Avenue. CONDITION: Brick sidewalk must be restored. Steve Klaubert, representing Verizon, 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 requested that the item be conditioned so that the brick sidewalk be restored to pristine condition. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 23-1355) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Engineering re-pave Highland Avenue from Central Street to Walnut Street this year instead of waiting until 2024. Councilor Pineda Neufeld assumed Chair. Councilor Ewen-Campen stated his case for repaving the roadway now, saying that it is unviable. Councilor Davis made a motion that the Administration report to this Council on the ability to require further repairs on Highland Ave, and if none, an explanation on whether that complies with road engineering regulations. He asked that a copy of the order be sent to the Law Department. Councilor Gomez Mouakad has questions concerning roadway patching and she would like the item referred to Public Utilities and Public Works. Councilor Clingan commented that this is a safety issue for students at the high school, as well. Page 3 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.2. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson and (ID # 23-1356) Councilor Gomez Mouakad That the Director of Mobility and Director of Engineering install a quick-build two-way protected bicycle facility on School Street, between Highland Avenue and the Community Path. Councilor Ewen-Campen commented about people travelling the wrong way to get to the bike path and he would like to get started on this as soon as possible. Councilor McLaughlin spoke about the Neighborways Program and its usefulness in traversing the city. RESULT: APPROVED 4.3. Resolution By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor Davis and (ID # 23-1357) Councilor Clingan That the Mayor hire a minimum of four Department of Public Works Grounds Division staff to increase maintenance of public spaces and new native planting projects, in advance of the Pollinator Action Plan. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke about the plantings undertaken by the city and he believes that additional labor is necessary in order to maintain them. Councilor Scott said this is a request to add capacity in the Department of Public Works and return the work in-house as opposed to outsourcing it. RESULT: APPROVED 4.4. Order By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1358) That the Director of Economic Development appear before this Council to discuss the current status of the implementation of the Gilman Square Neighborhood Plan. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.5. Order By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1359) That the Director of Capital Projects provide this Council with a printed timeline for the reconstruction of a new Winter Hill Community School. Councilor Clingan noted that parents are having anxiety about what’s going to happen at the school and the lack of information that has been provided. He would like to have some sort of guide or timeline for the project. Councilor Wilson commented that communication about the process has been an issue. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION Page 4 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.6. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-1361) That the Director of Engineering place speed humps on School Street, between Broadway and Medford Street. Councilor Clingan asked that this be put on the list of speed hump work. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.7. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-1362) That the Director of Mobility place in-street spring-loaded pedestrian crosswalk signs on Medford Street at Sycamore, Thurston, and Dartmouth Streets. Councilor Clingan noted that this is the second request and said that he will also bring the matter to the attention of 311. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.8. Resolution By Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-1360) That the Administration declare the second week of October as de-"RAT"ification week on an annual basis, with a robust public education campaign that includes events and announcements and the full use of the city’s communication apparatus. Councilor Clingan commented that the Administration did not embrace his earlier request for a September campaign, so he is trying again. He noted that the rat problem is continuing and will continue to grow unless the public is educated in ways to combat them. RESULT: APPROVED 4.9. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-1363) That the Commissioner of Public Works raise the low-hanging wires in front of 50 Chandler Street so that they do not get snagged on cars. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.10. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-1364) That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning discuss the potential for density bonus incentives, such as $150,000 for homeowners to build affordable housing for rent, or homeownership. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 5 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 4.11. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-1366) That the Director of Sustainability and Environment discuss the plan for outreach for the online Climate Survey and how residents without computers are brought into the conversation. Councilor Strezo commented that an entire group of people is being excluded due to their lack of online resources. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 4.12. Order By Councilor Strezo and Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1385) That the Commissioner of Public Works take the appropriate measures to repair the broken light fixtures at New Hampshire and Pennsylvania Avenues and file a complaint for Eversource to address the situation. RESULT: APPROVED 4.13. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 23-1365) That the Administration discuss the progress of the parking plan within the lease of the Tufts Administration Building (TAB). Councilor Strezo pointed out that the parking rate there is $2.50 per hour and that access to handicap parking is only available after entering the lot by paying the fee, causing some visitors to park on neighborhood streets. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 4.14. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1367) That the Commissioner of Public Works ensure that the new Police sub-station in East Somerville is easily accessible to the public and includes public restrooms. Councilor McLaughlin said that the current station is very inaccessible to the public and he’s requesting that the new station be accessible and include public restrooms. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.15. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1368) That the Commissioner of Public Works address the overgrowth and trash on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Mt. Vernon Street. RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 4.16. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1369) That the Commissioner of Public Works address the graffiti on the sidewalk in front of 75 Washington Street. RESULT: APPROVED 4.17. Order By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Davis (ID # 23-1370) That the Director of Health and Human Services create a homeless worker program, similar to the Roca program, that offers compensated community cleanup and other community service jobs to the un-housed. Councilor McLaughlin said the city used this program before and he would like to address two problems at the same time and he hopes that this order generates some action by the Administration. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.18. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1371) That the Commissioner of Public Works ensure that the port-a-potties in East Somerville are consistently cleaned. RESULT: APPROVED 4.19. Order By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1372) That the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on homelessness outreach efforts, including the hiring of four clinicians, case managers and home visitations. Councilor McLaughlin noted that the city has many resources available, but they’re not connecting to on the ground situations. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.20. Order By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1373) That the Director of Inspectional Services update this Council on enforcement of the Dark Skies ordinance that restricts light pollution and reduces energy consumption. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.21. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1375) That the Director of Engineering consider installing water fountains along the Community Path Extension. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee Page 7 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 4.22. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1376) That the Director of Engineering consider adding speed humps and other traffic calming measures to Victoria Street to mitigate the impact of cut-through traffic on this residential neighborhood. Discussed with item 4.23 (ID # 23-1377) Councilor Pineda Neufeld spoke about construction in the area leading to Victoria Street having increased traffic. She has spoken to the Mobility and Traffic Department about this and would like to discuss the matter in committee. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.23. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1377) That the Director of Mobility add additional signage on Victoria Street to reduce speeds. See item 4.22 (ID #23-1377). RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.24. Resolution By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-1374) That the Administration update this Council on the recipients of the $10 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocation for the nonprofit funding round. Councilor Pineda Neufeld asked for an update and Councilor Burnley commented that he has been informed that some ARPA funds could be used to reduce medical debt. RESULT: APPROVED 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 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 # 23-1321) Matters, meeting on September 6, 2023. Councilor Pineda Neufeld reported that eight appointments were recommended for approval, as follows: one to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, one to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, one to the Condominium Review Board and eight promotions within the Police Department. RESULT: APPROVED Page 8 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Dennis Lemard to the (ID # 23-1235) Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Cassie Walston to the (ID # 23-1237) Affordable Housing Trust Fund. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Jeffrey DiGregorio to the (ID # 23-1256) position of Police Captain. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Salvatore Fusco to the position (ID # 23-1257) of Police Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Samir Messaoudi to the (ID # 23-1258) position of Police Sergeant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Steven Scrugli to the position (ID # 23-1259) of Police Sergeant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Christopher J. Ward to the (ID # 23-1299) position of Deputy Police Chief. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jennifer Tsolas to the (ID # 23-1307) Condominium Review Board. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on September 12, 2023. (ID # 23-1379) Councilor Wilson reported that the Committee recommended for approval, several items, including a sidewalk easement/maintenance agreement, acceptance and expenditures of grant funds, re-purposing and appropriation of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds, payment of prior year Page 9 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 invoices, departmental fund transfers and borrowing funds in a bond and appropriating same. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Sidewalk Easement and Maintenance Agreement (ID # 23-0779) at 100 Chestnut Street. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., 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 ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Kelly, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.B.3. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.4. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.5. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.6. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.7. 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. RESULT: APPROVED Page 10 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 6.B.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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.9. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.10. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.11. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.12. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.13. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.14. 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. RESULT: APPROVED Page 11 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., 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 ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Kelly, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.B.15. 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. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., 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 ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Kelly, and Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.B.16. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.17. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.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. RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 6.B.19. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.20. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.21. 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. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting in Joint Session with the (ID # 23-1253) Planning Board on September 7, 2023. Councilor McLaughlin reported that much of the meeting was focused on changing the zoning district of 200 Inner Belt Road from Commercial to High-Rise. Other items dealt with amending the Zoning Ordinances Section 10.3, and changes to the zoning map. Three public hearings were held. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on September (ID # 23-1380) 13, 2023. Councilor Burnley reported that the two items before the Committee were kept in committee for further review. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on (ID # 23-1378) September 11, 2023. Councilor Davis reported that a number of issues were discussed, among them homelessness assistance and warming places, compliance checks for the over serving of liquor, traffic details, and the status of an overdose prevention center. RESULT: APPROVED Page 13 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 6.E.2. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-0618) That the Director of Health & Human Services work with this Council and community partners to determine if the city has a current PILOT agreement with Mass General Brigham and other healthcare providers, and how mental health services can be a component of such agreements, particularly as part of a mental health gun buyback program. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. Resolution By Councilor Kelly and Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1172) That the Administration update this Council on locations of sharps collection stations and work with the Commissioner of Public Works to install sharps collection stations in all public restrooms. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.4. 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: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.5. Communication By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1285) Conveying numerous locations suitable for temporary and long-term shelter for the homeless population. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 23-1286) That the Chief of Police conduct compliance checks on liquor stores. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.7. 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: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.8. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR Page 14 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Encore Artist and (ID # 23-1351) Cultural Support Stabilization Fund to support Local Cultural Council grants to artists, organizations, and schools. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 and 7.2 and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $118.44 using (ID # 23-1348) available funds in the Department of Infrastructure and Management Office Supplies Account for office supplies. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 and 7.2 and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Courtney Koslow to the (ID # 23-1349) Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change. President Ewen-Campen waived the reading of items 7.3 and referred the items to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for (ID # 23-1354) GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.5. Mayor's Conveying information regarding Somerville's upcoming first-ever Civic Communication Day celebration. (ID # 23-1392) Courtney Henderson, from SomerViva, informed the members that the celebration is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th and she asked members of the Council to participate in the event. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS Page 15 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 8.1. Officer's City Solicitor requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to Communication discuss property at Matignon pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws (ID # 23-1352) Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(6). The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 8:28 PM to discuss this matter. The regular Council meeting reconvened at 9:11 PM. President Ewen-Campen reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., 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 ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Kelly 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Garage License, Quick Auto Center, 30 Joy Street, 0 cars inside, 40 (ID # 23-1339) cars outside, for charging money to store vehicles, maintaining and operating a tow vehicle, and storing unregistered vehicles, Mon-Fri:8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, and Sun: closed. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.1 and 9.2 and asked that they be referred to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 9.2. License New Garage License, Ravelo's Auto Service, 61 Washington Street, 3 cars (ID # 23-1340) inside, 4 cars outside, for mechanical repairs, autobody work, and charging money to store vehicles, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, and Sun: closed. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.1 and 9.2 and asked that they be referred to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 9.3. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 32 Dearborn Rd. (ID # 23-1324) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 16 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 9.4. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 39R Latin Way. (ID # 23-1342) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 40A Latin Way. (ID # 23-1325) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 75 Packard Ave. (ID # 23-1347) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 125 Powder House (ID # 23-1326) Blvd. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License Renewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 8 Whitfield Road. (ID # 23-1343) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. Public Event Haley Suarez applying for a Public Event License for Riverfest on (ID # 23-1327) September 16 from 10am to 10pm (raindate September 17). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. Public Event Gil Cayford applying for a Public Event License for Rock in the Park on (ID # 23-1328) September 16 from 4pm to 10pm. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. Page 17 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. Public Event David Margolin applying for a Public Event License for Highland Rd BP on (ID # 23-1345) September 17 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate October 1). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. Public Event John Long applying for a Public Event License for Chandler St BP on (ID # 23-1323) September 23 from 2:30pm to 7:30pm (raindate September 24). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. Public Event Kelsey Kent applying for a Public Event License for Lexington Ave BP on (ID # 23-1329) September 23 from 3pm to 9pm. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.14. Public Event Adam Parker applying for a Public Event License for Foundation for (ID # 23-1344) Animals: Dog Festival on September 24 from 7am to 5pm. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. Public Event Communications & Community Engagement Department applying for a (ID # 23-1330) Public Event License for Civic Day on September 30 from 8:30am to 6:30pm. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. Public Event Brandon Wilson applying for a Public Event License for Josephine Ave BP (ID # 23-1331) on September 30 from 2pm to 9:30pm (raindate October 1). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 9.17. Public Event Marcy Goldstein-Gelb applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 23-1346) Boston-Prichard Ave BP on October 1 from 3pm to 10pm (raindate October 22). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. Public Event Zachary Baum applying for a Public Event License for Annual Vintage (ID # 23-1332) Market on October 8 from 9am to 9pm (raindate October 29). Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 9.3 - 9.18 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. Public Ert Dredge submitting comments re: item #23-1162, a resolution regarding Communication the "Idaho Stop". (ID # 23-1317) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1393) That the Administration update the City Council on the status of body cameras for police officers. Councilor McLaughlin noted that it has been a few years since this was negotiated, yet not implemented. President Ewen-Campen would like the Administration to work out a new use policy. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.2. Order By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 23-1397) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management update this Council on the sewer separation work and any opportunities for prioritizing problematic areas of the city. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 10.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to extend and amend a contract with Warner Larson (ID # 23-1316) Incorporated for an additional three years, and a revised amount of $123,683.35, for the redesign and improvements of the Auxiliary Sports Fields at Dilboy Park. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of item 10.3 and refer the item to the Committee on Finance. Page 19 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes September 14, 2023 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for an amendment to License BL22-000036, a Grant of (ID # 23-1391) Location for 205 Beacon Street. Jacqueline Duffy, representing Eversource, explained that the customer changed the plans, thus requiring this amendment. Councilor Scott said this is a change from underground work to above ground work and he has several questions. He would like to lay this item on the table. Ms. Duffy requested a copy of the documentation stating that Eversource is not permitted to install pad mounted transformers. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.5. License New Drainlayer's License, Form Up Sitework LLC. (ID # 23-1394) Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 10.5 and 10.6 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.6. Public Event Kelsey Kent applying for a Public Event License for Lexington Ave BP on (ID # 23-1395) September 24 from 4pm to 9pm. Councilor Burnley waived the reading of items 10.5 and 10.6 and asked that they be approved this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Order By Councilor Davis (ID # 23-1399) That the Administration report to this Council on the ability to require further repairs on Highland Ave, and if none, an explanation on whether that complies with road engineering regulations. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 9:40 PM. Page 20 of 20