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City Council

Regular Meeting

Somerville, MA · November 9, 2023

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Minutes

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, November 9, 2023 7:00 PM NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first checking with the City Clerk. 1. OPENING CEREMONIES The meeting was called to order at 7:04 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:16 PM and returned at 9:07 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-1688) Councilor Davis experienced some technical difficulties and joined the meeting at 7:06 PM. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-1689) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, October 12, 2023. (ID # 23-1690) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 2. CITATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 47 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1680) Albion Street, from Utility Pole 3/22 to a point of pickup at 156 Albion Street. Hannah Cooper, 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. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 147 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1681) Lowell Street, from Utility Pole 215/2 to a point of pickup at the rear of 657 Somerville Avenue. Hannah Cooper, 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. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott Page 2 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 3.3. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 160 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1682) the intersection of Broadway and Thurston Street, from Manhole 1922 to a point of pickup at 115 Thurston Street. Hannah Cooper, 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. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 3.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 10 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1683) Medford Street, from Utility Pole 228/2 to a point of pickup at 22 McGrath Highway. Hannah Cooper, 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. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Resolution By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor (ID # 23-1662) Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Strezo Supporting Somerville’s application to the Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Program. RESULT: APPROVED Page 3 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis and Councilor (ID # 23-1664) Gomez Mouakad Commending the actions taken to improve the safety of the municipal fleet. Councilor Wilson commented that the Department of Public Works is utilizing nine vehicle speed limiters and he asked that Councilors urge the administration to continue with this program and to implement other vehicle safety technology. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4.3. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1665) That the Director of Engineering relocate the western curb cut where the Community Path crosses School Street so it simply goes straight. Councilor Ewen-Campen spoke on the item saying that he doesn’t understand why the curb was cut at that particular spot. He has had conversations with various city staff about this, and despite their best efforts to explain the reason, he still doesn’t understand it. He asked that the item be sent to the Traffic and Parking Committee. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott Page 4 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 4.4. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 23-1667) Councilor Davis, Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Kelly, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Mobility either widen the newly constructed intersection at Benton Road and Summer Street or make Benton Road a one-way street. Councilor Ewen-Campen said that this intersection has curb bump outs that make it difficult to negotiate turns. He has discussed the matter with Mobility staff, who indicated their belief that the area in question was designed properly. He’s raising the issue because he thinks that the city got it wrong and that it should be fixed. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4.5. Communication By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1666) Conveying an important upcoming opportunity to support changes to the state plumbing code that will facilitate the creation of gender-neutral single occupancy restrooms. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that this is an important issue for trans people and caregivers and is really a common sense issue. As this is highly regulated by the state plumbing code, there is nothing that can be done locally. There is momentum to get this changed and there are two roads to pursue, i.e., change the state law or ask the board that oversees the plumbing code to change it. That board is holding a public hearing on the matter next Friday and Councilor Ewen-Campen urged anyone interested to attend or submit comments. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott Page 5 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 4.6. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Davis and Councilor Clingan (ID # 23-1677) That the Director of Water and Sewer explain the increases in water bills for households with new water meters and consider a forgiveness period for unexpected increases due to inaccuracies in prior metering. Councilor Gomez Mouakad commented that some residents have received huge water bills and President Ewen-Campen explained that the new meters being installed do work, but the transponder has had problems causing several property owners to get incorrect bills. He also commented that the information provided by city staff was inadequate and unclear. Councilor Clingan commented that the new meters are more accurate, which also may be a contributing factor in some bills being higher than what people were used to. He would like to see payments for these large bills stretched over time. Councilor Strezo commented that she would like to see data on how many higher bills have been received. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4.7. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad and Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1678) That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning consider a modification to the Zoning Ordinances in the Neighborhood Residence District to allow full reconstruction of roof line, or larger modifications to roof line, by right for projects that commit to meeting requirements of the new Specialized Stretch Code for Passive House and all electric standards, even when not applicable. Councilor Gomez Mouakad said the city’s zoning code is specific on how to modify roof lines and she doesn’t think this should be under the purview of zoning. She noted that basements are allowed to be modified and asked why not roof lines. Councilor Wilson thinks the proposal would help both the climate and housing goals of the city. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee Page 6 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 4.8. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor (ID # 23-1679) Clingan and Councilor Strezo That this City Council commit to facilitating and procuring interpretation when sponsoring non-English speaking speakers. Councilor Gomez Mouakad noted that, despite having access to translation services, the City Council is not being active in coordinating those services. She said that she knows firsthand that English only policy and rhetoric are rooted in our historical racism and colonialism and that social and cultural biases are embedded in our society. She said that she put this Resolution forth because diversity might be challenging, but inclusion is hard and to achieve inclusion, bias needs to be fought. She stated that language discrimination is rooted in the white supremacy and colonial paths of our society over centuries. She said that we are making a lot of progress and that it is the City Council’s collective responsibility to challenge and overcome linguistic discrimination. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 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 # 23-1643) Matters, meeting on November 1, 2023. Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that the committee recommended three candidates for approval. There were two candidates for Board of Assessors positions who had to Page 7 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 leave the meeting prior to their interviews, so those interviews will be conducted at the next committee meeting. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael Santangelo to the (ID # 23-0439) Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Courtney Koslow to the (ID # 23-1349) Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Linda Dubuque as City (ID # 23-1632) Treasurer and Collector of Taxes. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Francis J. Golden as Chief (ID # 23-1635) Assessor and Chair of the Board of Assessors. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on November 6, 2023. (ID # 23-1645) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and said that an update was received on the high school scholarship programs, grants were accepted, a personnel shift from the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development to the Office of Sustainability and Environment was approved, as was a new position in the Engineering Department. He spoke about a bonding request for street and sidewalk reconstruction noting that the plan would include five intersections and floating bus stops, and improvements to slow down vehicle turn speeds. A prioritization list is not yet available. During the Committee meeting, Councilor Scott commented that most of this work, which is regular infrastructure maintenance, is being Page 8 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 primarily funded through bonding and he was told that there’s a move to gradually transition those costs to the general fund. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $32,000 from the Office of Strategic (ID # 23-1517) Planning and Community Development Housing Division Personal Services Account to the Office of Sustainability and Environment Personal Services Account to transfer the clean green program manager position to the Office of Sustainability and Environment. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $108,226.70 grant with no new (ID # 23-1550) match required from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health and Human Services Department to support implementation of the Somerville-Cambridge Shared Public Health Service Initiative. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.4. Public David Thorpe submitting comments re: Somerville High School Scholarship Communication Foundation. (ID # 23-1552) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $5,925.42 from the Infrastructure & (ID # 23-1554) Asset Management Personal Services Account to the Engineering Personal Services Account to fund an existing position. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to create a Senior Project Manager position in the (ID # 23-1555) Department of Infrastructure and Asset Management - Engineering Division. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.7. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $5,561,768 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 23-1585) the same amount for street and sidewalk reconstruction. Page 9 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 30, (ID # 23-1642) 2023. Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and noted that the rent stabilization item was also discussed. He moved to sever the fossil fuel item in the report (item # 23-1590) and place it on file. The item was severed and placed on file. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.C.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to add (ID # 23-1590) Chapter 6 Article VII to restrict and prohibit new building construction and major renovation projects that are not fossil fuel-free. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.D. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE Page 10 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on November 8, (ID # 23-1646) 2023. Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and spoke about a Grant of Location issue where a trench was dug prior to receiving the city’s permission. After deliberating the matter, it was concluded that this instance was a good faith mistake. He also spoke about not recommending approval for a new garage license because the company had been towing vehicles to an unlicensed parking lot and had been using their garage prior to obtaining their permit as well as after being told not to by the city. The business has been shut down by the Inspectional Services Department. President Ewen-Campen commented that the Council might want to consider penalties for improperly doing construction work before permits are issued. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.D.2. 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. RESULT: NOT APPROVED 6.D.3. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 20 feet of conduit in (ID # 23-1560) Beacon Street, from Utility Pole 142/25 to a point of pickup at 205 Beacon Street. 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 # 23-1644) November 2, 2023. Councilor Kelly summarized the actions taken by the committee and spoke about dark skies issues, un-housed people in East Somerville, access to bathrooms in the Police sub-station in East Somerville. Councilor McLaughlin said that he will be requesting weekly updates on the un-housed situation. RESULT: APPROVED Page 11 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 6.E.2. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.4. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.5. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott 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: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR Page 12 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 7.1. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1314) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to add (ID # 23-1659) Chapter 6 Article VII to restrict and prohibit new building construction and major renovation projects that are not fossil fuel-free. Councilor Davis said this was discussed in the Legislative Matters Committee last week. He explained that the state has a pilot program for ten communities to participate in and Somerville would like to be one of the communities selected sometime after the beginning of the new year. To that end, having this ordinance in place would demonstrate to the state that the city wants to move in this direction. Two issues were raised in committee. One dealt with the definition of major renovation, and this was addressed by having the ordinance default to the state statute. The other dealt with the waiting period for implementation of the ordinance. Councilor Burnley expressed concern about an exception that mirrors the state language that would permit some multi-family buildings to use fossil fuels. Councilor Gomez Mouakad inquired about language to allow changes if current statutes change. Christine Blais, Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment responded that city staff tried to incorporate language that had most recently been adopted by the state. She reviewed the fire safety standards with the Somerville Fire Department and stated that she feels confident with the language. She also pointed out that the ordinance’s language would be reviewed bi-annually. Councilor Burnley noted that the city hired a consultant for this ordinance and said that there is a severability clause and a conflicting provision clause. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked if additional capacity would be needed to enforce the ordinance and Director Blais explained that item #23-1517, (on tonight’s agenda), would move a position from the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development to the Office of Sustainability and Environment, with an expanded scope, and if and when the city receives state approval, additional staff should already be available. The item was approved, enrolled and ordained. President Ewen-Campen moved for reconsideration in the hope that reconsideration fails. Reconsideration failed on a roll call vote of 0 in favor, 10 opposed (McLaughlin, Davis, Strezo, Clingan, Wilson, Burnley, Gomez Mouakad, Kelly, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 1 absent (Scott). 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 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 Page 13 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 ABSENT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $165,687 from the Energy Stabilization (ID # 23-1655) Fund to pay for the final phase of the LED conversion project at the Albert F. Argenziano School. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $56,215.42 from the Bike Share (ID # 23-1516) Stabilization Fund for installation and startup cost of a BlueBike station at the 74 Middlesex Avenue Development site. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $2,502,191 from the Receipts Reserved for (ID # 23-1661) Appropriation, Parking Meter Receipts Account to reduce the FY 2024 Tax Rate. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,370,177 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 23-1568) Balance ("Free Cash") to the 90 Washington Demonstration Project Account for additional legal services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1676) Levy to the Capital-Building Improvements Account to fund needed building improvements. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 14 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $384,858 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1670) Levy to the School Department for unbudgeted expenditures relating to the relocation of Winter Hill Community Innovation School students. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $272,970 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1671) Levy to the School Department to fund forensic services on the School Department Information Technology (IT) network. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $219,697 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1674) Levy to various Department of Public Works Accounts to fund unbudgeted expenditures related to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School move. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $49,974 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1673) Levy to the School Department School Lunch Revolving Fund for providing meal services to participants in summer programs run by the Parks & Recreation Department. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $28,200 to the Department of (ID # 23-1663) Public Works Snow Removal Account for the procurement of roadway sensors for snow removal equipment. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 15 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $8,150 from the FY 2024 Tax (ID # 23-1675) Levy to the Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access Salaries Account to correct a budget miscalculation. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $2,205 using (ID # 23-1588) available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical Services Account for employment medical screens. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $1,424 using (ID # 23-1587) available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical Services Account for employment medical screens. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $900 using available (ID # 23-1591) funds in the Parks and Recreation Transportation Account for Dilboy Field bus transportation. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $718.51 using (ID # 23-1672) available funds in the Mayor's Office Maint Contract-Office Equip Account for additional printing needed for Community Meeting materials. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 16 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $475 using available (ID # 23-1640) funds in the City Clerk's R&M - Software Account for ordinance hosting annual support fee. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $375 using available (ID # 23-1669) funds in the Mayor's Office Food Supplies and Refreshment Account for dinner for staff for FY 2024 budget hearings. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.20. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a Community Compact Best (ID # 23-1581) Practices Technical Assistance grant for $45,000 with no new match required, from the MA Department of Revenue Division of Local Services to the Economic Development Division for the development of a Commercial Tenant Guidebook. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.21. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of five months for (ID # 23-1553) Suffolk Construction, for Construction Manager services for the Somerville High School project. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.22. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a thirty-month extension to the Benefit Strategies, (ID # 23-1586) LLC contract for Flexible Spending Account employee benefit administration. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 17 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 7.23. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1570) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 7.24. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1637) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's Chief Assessor requesting to appear at this Council's November 21, 2023 Communication meeting for the Tax Classification Public Hearing and the determination and (ID # 23-1652) adoption of tax levy percentages for FY 2024. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 8.2. Officer's Commissioner of Public Works conveying updates regarding ten City Communication Council orders approved at the meeting of September 28, 2023. (ID # 23-1657) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Broadway Motor Cars, 161 (ID # 23-1684) Broadway. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. Page 18 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.2. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Joseph Talewsky & Son Inc, (ID # 23-1685) 508-512 Columbia Street. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.3. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Real Auto Shop Inc, 463 (ID # 23-1686) McGrath Hwy. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.4. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Webster Auto Sales, 61 (ID # 23-1687) Prospect Street. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 19 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.5. Public Four residents submitting comments re: item #23-1198, an amendment to Communication the Zoning Ordinances to permit the house and triple-decker building types (ID # 23-1638) without any conditions. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.6. Public Jennifer Schultz submitting comments re: item #23-1306, an amendment to Communication the Zoning Map to change the zoning district of 627 Somerville Avenue (ID # 23-1639) from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3). President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through 9.10 and Place them on File. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.7. Public Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS) submitting comments re: Communication zoning amendments, item #23-1198, item #23-1489, and item #23-1205. (ID # 23-1654) President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through 9.10 and Place them on File. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 20 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.8. Public Eight residents submitting comments re: item #23-1305, an amendment to Communication the Zoning Map to change the zoning district of 295-297 Medford Street and (ID # 23-1656) 93 Walnut Street from Mid-Rise 3 (MR3) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5). President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through 9.10 and Place them on File. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.9. Public Reverend Philip Michael Mitza submitting comments re: issues on Lower Communication Broadway. (ID # 23-1658) President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through 9.10 and Place them on File. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 9.10. Public Pat Jehlen submitting comments re: item #23-1198, an amendment to the Communication Zoning Ordinances to permit the house and triple-decker building types (ID # 23-1668) without any conditions. President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 9.6 through Page 21 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 9.10 and Place them on File. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing the City of (ID # 23-1694) Somerville to regulate rent in residential dwelling units. Jill Currier, from the Office of Housing Stability and the Anti-Displacement Task Force, gave a brief presentation on the mayor’s initiative, which was developed over the past five months. Three listening sessions were held to receive input from stakeholders. Nicole Eigbrett, Residential Displacement Committee Member, continued the presentation, explaining the Home Rule Petition process and noted that the proposal contains reasonable limits on yearly rent increases, enacts just cause eviction protection, and allows for the creation of a rent stabilization board. After state approval, it would come back to the city for ordainment of an ordinance. President Ewen-Campen noted that the text is available online. Councilor Gomez Mouakad asked that communications be made, in different languages, to those most affected by displacement to make them aware of what the city is attempting to do. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 10.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,970 using (ID # 23-1660) available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional and Technical Services Account for transcription services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $500 using available (ID # 23-1508) funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional and Technical Services Account for transcription services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.3 through 7.22 and 10.2 through 10.3 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION Page 22 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 2023 FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.4. Officer's City Solicitor requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to Communication discuss property at Matignon pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, (ID # 23-1692) Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(6). The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:16 PM and returned to open session at 9:07 PM. President Ewen-Campen stated 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 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 ABSENT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 10.5. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, United Motors, 188 Broadway. (ID # 23-1695) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 10.6. Public Event Health and Human Services Department applying for a Public Event License (ID # 23-1696) for Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.4 and 10.5 through 10.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 23 of 24 City Council Meeting Minutes November 9, 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 10.7. Public 58 residents submitting comments re: traffic calming on Ivaloo, Harrison, Communication Kent, and Morgan Streets. (ID # 23-1691) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 10.8. Public Luke Miratrix submitting comments re: brick replacement in Davis Square. Communication (ID # 23-1693) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 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 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: Ward Two City Councilor Scott 11. LATE ITEMS 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 9:33 PM. Page 24 of 24

Agenda

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Regular Meeting Agenda Thursday, November 9, 2023 7:00 PM City Council Chamber and Remote Participation Published November 7, 2023, 12:30PM, Revised November 9, 2023, 3:00PM. NOTICE: Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, this meeting of the City Council may be conducted via remote participation. We will post an audio recording, audiovideo recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of these proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting on the City of Somerville website and local cable access government channels. Register at the following website to listen to this meeting live or to testify at any public hearing: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jwk9gtAjQjm99vgd0dn81w#/registration Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e. CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance, at 617-625-6600 x2059 or ada@somervillema.gov. 1. OPENING CEREMONIES 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 23-1688) 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 23-1689) 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, (ID # 23-1690) October 12, 2023. 2. CITATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 47 (ID # 23-1680) feet of conduit in Albion Street, from Utility Pole 3/22 to a point of pickup at 156 Albion Street. 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install (ID # 23-1681) 147 feet of conduit in Lowell Street, from Utility Pole 215/2 to a point of pickup at the rear of 657 Somerville Avenue. Page 1 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 3.3. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install (ID # 23-1682) 160 feet of conduit in the intersection of Broadway and Thurston Street, from Manhole 1922 to a point of pickup at 115 Thurston Street. 3.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 10 (ID # 23-1683) feet of conduit in Medford Street, from Utility Pole 228/2 to a point of pickup at 22 McGrath Highway. 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Resolution By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Davis (ID # 23-1662) Supporting Somerville’s application to the Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Program. 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Wilson (ID # 23-1664) Commending the actions taken to improve the safety of the municipal fleet. 4.3. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1665) That the Director of Engineering relocate the western curb cut where the Community Path crosses School Street so it simply goes straight. 4.4. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1667) That the Director of Mobility either widen the newly constructed intersection at Benton Road and Summer Street or make Benton Road a one-way street. 4.5. Communication By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 23-1666) Conveying an important upcoming opportunity to support changes to the state plumbing code that will facilitate the creation of gender-neutral single occupancy restrooms. 4.6. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-1677) That the Director of Water and Sewer explain the increases in water bills for households with new water meters and consider a forgiveness period for unexpected increases due to inaccuracies in prior metering. Page 2 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 4.7. Order By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-1678) That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning consider a modification to the Zoning Ordinances in the Neighborhood Residence District to allow full reconstruction of roof line, or larger modifications to roof line, by right for projects that commit to meeting requirements of the new Specialized Stretch Code for Passive House and all electric standards, even when not applicable. 4.8. Resolution By Councilor Gomez Mouakad (ID # 23-1679) That this City Council commit to facilitating and procuring interpretation when sponsoring non-English speaking speakers. 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 (ID # 23-1643) Appointments and Personnel Matters, meeting on November 1, 2023. 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Michael (ID # 23-0439) Santangelo to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be placed on file. 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Courtney (ID # 23-1349) Koslow to the Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Linda (ID # 23-1632) Dubuque as City Treasurer and Collector of Taxes. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Francis (ID # 23-1635) J. Golden as Chief Assessor and Chair of the Board of Assessors. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on (ID # 23-1645) November 6, 2023. Page 3 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $32,000 from the (ID # 23-1517) Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Housing Division Personal Services Account to the Office of Sustainability and Environment Personal Services Account to transfer the clean green program manager position to the Office of Sustainability and Environment. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.B.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $108,226.70 (ID # 23-1550) grant with no new match required from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health and Human Services Department to support implementation of the Somerville-Cambridge Shared Public Health Service Initiative. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.B.4. Public David Thorpe submitting comments re: Somerville High Communication School Scholarship Foundation. (ID # 23-1552) RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. 6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $5,925.42 from the (ID # 23-1554) Infrastructure & Asset Management Personal Services Account to the Engineering Personal Services Account to fund an existing position. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.B.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to create a Senior Project Manager (ID # 23-1555) position in the Department of Infrastructure and Asset Management - Engineering Division. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.B.7. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $5,561,768 in a (ID # 23-1585) bond, and to appropriate the same amount for street and sidewalk reconstruction. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting (ID # 23-1642) on October 30, 2023. 6.C.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of (ID # 23-1590) Ordinances to add Chapter 6 Article VII to restrict and prohibit new building construction and major renovation projects that are not fossil fuel-free. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. Page 4 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 6.D. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, (ID # 23-1646) meeting on November 8, 2023. 6.D.2. License New Garage License, Quick Auto Center, 30 Joy Street, (ID # 23-1339) 0 cars inside, 40 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. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be not approved. 6.D.3. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 20 (ID # 23-1560) feet of conduit in Beacon Street, from Utility Pole 142/25 to a point of pickup at 205 Beacon Street. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be approved. 6.E. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public (ID # 23-1644) Safety, meeting on November 2, 2023. 6.E.2. 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. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. 6.E.3. 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. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. 6.E.4. 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. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. Page 5 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 6.E.5. 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. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. 6.E.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott and (ID # 23-1373) Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Director of Inspectional Services update this Council on enforcement of the Dark Skies ordinance that restricts light pollution and reduces energy consumption. RECOMMENDED: Recommended to be marked work completed. 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1314) 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of (ID # 23-1659) Ordinances to add Chapter 6 Article VII to restrict and prohibit new building construction and major renovation projects that are not fossil fuel-free. 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $165,687 from the (ID # 23-1655) Energy Stabilization Fund to pay for the final phase of the LED conversion project at the Albert F. Argenziano School. 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $56,215.42 from the (ID # 23-1516) Bike Share Stabilization Fund for installation and startup cost of a BlueBike station at the 74 Middlesex Avenue Development site. 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $2,502,191 from the (ID # 23-1661) Receipts Reserved for Appropriation, Parking Meter Receipts Account to reduce the FY 2024 Tax Rate. 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,370,177 from the (ID # 23-1568) Unreserved Fund Balance ("Free Cash") to the 90 Washington Demonstration Project Account for additional legal services. 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 (ID # 23-1676) from the FY 2024 Tax Levy to the Capital-Building Improvements Account to fund needed building improvements. Page 6 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $384,858 (ID # 23-1670) from the FY 2024 Tax Levy to the School Department for unbudgeted expenditures relating to the relocation of Winter Hill Community Innovation School students. 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $272,970 (ID # 23-1671) from the FY 2024 Tax Levy to the School Department to fund forensic services on the School Department Information Technology (IT) network. 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $219,697 (ID # 23-1674) from the FY 2024 Tax Levy to various Department of Public Works Accounts to fund unbudgeted expenditures related to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School move. 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $49,974 (ID # 23-1673) from the FY 2024 Tax Levy to the School Department School Lunch Revolving Fund for providing meal services to participants in summer programs run by the Parks & Recreation Department. 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $28,200 to (ID # 23-1663) the Department of Public Works Snow Removal Account for the procurement of roadway sensors for snow removal equipment. 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $8,150 from (ID # 23-1675) the FY 2024 Tax Levy to the Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access Salaries Account to correct a budget miscalculation. 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling (ID # 23-1588) $2,205 using available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical Services Account for employment medical screens. 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling (ID # 23-1587) $1,424 using available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical Services Account for employment medical screens. 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling (ID # 23-1591) $900 using available funds in the Parks and Recreation Transportation Account for Dilboy Field bus transportation. Page 7 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling (ID # 23-1672) $718.51 using available funds in the Mayor's Office Maint Contract-Office Equip Account for additional printing needed for Community Meeting materials. 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling (ID # 23-1640) $475 using available funds in the City Clerk's R&M - Software Account for ordinance hosting annual support fee. 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling (ID # 23-1669) $375 using available funds in the Mayor's Office Food Supplies and Refreshment Account for dinner for staff for FY 2024 budget hearings. 7.20. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a Community (ID # 23-1581) Compact Best Practices Technical Assistance grant for $45,000 with no new match required, from the MA Department of Revenue Division of Local Services to the Economic Development Division for the development of a Commercial Tenant Guidebook. 7.21. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of (ID # 23-1553) five months for Suffolk Construction, for Construction Manager services for the Somerville High School project. 7.22. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a thirty-month extension to the (ID # 23-1586) Benefit Strategies, LLC contract for Flexible Spending Account employee benefit administration. 7.23. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1570) 7.24. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 23-1637) 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's Chief Assessor requesting to appear at this Council's Communication November 21, 2023 meeting for the Tax Classification (ID # 23-1652) Public Hearing and the determination and adoption of tax levy percentages for FY 2024. 8.2. Officer's Commissioner of Public Works conveying updates Communication regarding ten City Council orders approved at the (ID # 23-1657) meeting of September 28, 2023. Page 8 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Broadway (ID # 23-1684) Motor Cars, 161 Broadway. 9.2. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 3, Joseph (ID # 23-1685) Talewsky & Son Inc, 508-512 Columbia Street. 9.3. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Real Auto (ID # 23-1686) Shop Inc, 463 McGrath Hwy. 9.4. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Webster (ID # 23-1687) Auto Sales, 61 Prospect Street. 9.5. Public Four residents submitting comments re: item #23-1198, Communication an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to permit the (ID # 23-1638) house and triple-decker building types without any conditions. 9.6. Public Jennifer Schultz submitting comments re: item Communication #23-1306, an amendment to the Zoning Map to change (ID # 23-1639) the zoning district of 627 Somerville Avenue from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3). 9.7. Public Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS) Communication submitting comments re: zoning amendments, item (ID # 23-1654) #23-1198, item #23-1489, and item #23-1205. 9.8. Public Eight residents submitting comments re: item #23-1305, Communication an amendment to the Zoning Map to change the zoning (ID # 23-1656) district of 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from Mid-Rise 3 (MR3) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5). 9.9. Public Reverend Philip Michael Mitza submitting comments re: Communication issues on Lower Broadway. (ID # 23-1658) 9.10. Public Pat Jehlen submitting comments re: item #23-1198, an Communication amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to permit the (ID # 23-1668) house and triple-decker building types without any conditions. 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition authorizing (ID # 23-1694) the City of Somerville to regulate rent in residential dwelling units. Page 9 of 10 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023 10.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling (ID # 23-1660) $1,970 using available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional and Technical Services Account for transcription services. 10.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling (ID # 23-1508) $500 using available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Professional and Technical Services Account for transcription services. 10.4. Officer's City Solicitor requesting that this Council convene in Communication Executive Session to discuss property at Matignon (ID # 23-1692) pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(6). 10.5. License Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, United (ID # 23-1695) Motors, 188 Broadway. 10.6. Public Event Health and Human Services Department applying for a (ID # 23-1696) Public Event License for Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. 10.7. Public 58 residents submitting comments re: traffic calming on Communication Ivaloo, Harrison, Kent, and Morgan Streets. (ID # 23-1691) 10.8. Public Luke Miratrix submitting comments re: brick Communication replacement in Davis Square. (ID # 23-1693) 11. LATE ITEMS 12. ADJOURNMENT Page 10 of 10

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