City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, February 22, 2024 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 7:00 PM by Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 24-0207) Councilor Scott arrived at 7:13 PM. Councilor Mbah arrived at 7:36 PM. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Present: Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr. Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 24-0208) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 25, 2024. (ID # 24-0209) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 2. CITATIONS 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Wilson (ID # 24-0178) That this City Council hold a public hearing in the Committee on Finance on the community’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget priorities. Councilor Wilson noted that a public hearing regarding the FY 2025 budget priorities will be held at 7:00 PM on March 19, 2024. The meeting will be virtual and there will be a virtual connection in a city building to accommodate those not having access to the internet. Councilor Wilson also stated that interpretation services will be available. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Scott (ID # 24-0194) That the Administration provide this Council with a report on the implementation of a Universal Basic Income pilot, which was announced to be implemented with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in 2021. RESULT: APPROVED Page 2 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 4.3. Communication By Councilor Mbah (ID # 24-0202) Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 4.4. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 24-0203) That the Environmental Health Coordinator discuss the current contract with the pest control company that administers the city's rat abatement program. Councilor Clingan commented that he submitted this item because he feels that it’s important for citizens to know what to expect when using the program. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Rodent Issues Special Committee AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 4.5. Resolution By Councilor Clingan (ID # 24-0204) That the Administration fund the creation of an entire unit within the Department of Public Works tasked with battling the city's growing rodent infestation. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, Page 3 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on February 20, 2024. (ID # 24-0187) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that approval was recommended for payment of 2 prior year invoices, 2 CPA fund transfers, 2 appropriations of funds, 1 grant acceptance/expenditure and 1 request for use of available funds. Councilor Wilson also reported that a request for approval of a 30-year lease with an appropriation to fund said lease for the remainder of FY 2024 (item 24-0154) was recommended to not be approved. Councilor Burnley inquired about the use of Council funds for the purchase of furniture, books, etc., to create a more inclusive space in the Committee Room for families during City Council meetings. He asked if the Council could have input on which books are purchased. Councilor Strezo commented that the idea is for the space to be inclusive, for staff and children and she envisions residents bringing books to leave there. Clerk Wells noted that the City Clerk is the administrator for the Council and, as such, she would be ordering the books. She asked that any suggestions from councilors be sent to her. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $278.40 using (ID # 24-0127) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Plumbing Supply Account for building related plumbing materials. RESULT: APPROVED Page 4 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $638 using available (ID # 24-0128) funds in the Department of Public Works Public Safety Supplies Account for Verizon Fleet subscription services. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the transfer of $280,010 from the Community Preservation Act (ID # 24-0129) (CPA) Fund Undesignated Fund Balance to the Historic Preservation Reserve. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $650,000 from the Community Preservation (ID # 24-0130) Act (CPA) Fund for the Capital Projects Division to restore the City Hall clock tower and roof. RESULT: APPROVED Page 5 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $49,250 from the Energy Stabilization (ID # 24-0134) Fund for insulation projects for Department of Public Works steam systems. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $75,900 from the Energy Stabilization (ID # 24-0135) Fund for design services for a building project at 42 Cross Street. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $48,529.99 grant with no new (ID # 24-0140) match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for installation of access controls, card entry access, and indoor fencing. RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting the use of available funds in the amount of $24,317 from the (ID # 24-0141) Library's Personal Services account to reestablish a Librarian III West Branch Manager position. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.10.Mayor's Request Requesting the acceptance of a 30-year lease with BRE-BMR Assembly (ID # 24-0154) Innovation I LLC, and the appropriation of $171,969 from Free Cash to the Fire Department Special Items Account to fund said lease, for the Assembly Square Fire Station for the remainder of FY 2024. Councilor Wilson moved to sever this item from the Committee Report and the item was severed on a Roll Call vote of 9 in favor (McLaughlin, Davis, Wilson, Sait, Burnley, Clingan, Strezo, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 0 opposed, 2 absent (Scott, Mbah). Finance Director Ed Bean addressed the Council saying that these funds will be used to fund the first lease payment, covering the period of January 2, 2024 through June 30, 2024. He explained that in October of 2021, the City Council approved of the city entering into a 30-year lease agreement for the purpose of housing a fire station at Assembly Square. Mr. Bean informed the Council that the cost of the lease will escalate 2% per year. This wasn’t budgeted in the FY 2024 budget because construction dates were uncertain. Because of that, this appropriation request is being made. Mr. Bean stated that the annual lease payment will be fully funded in the FY 2025 budget. Special Counsel Catherine Lester Salchert clarified that only the appropriation of the funds is before the Council tonight, not acceptance of the lease itself. RESULT: APPROVED Page 7 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen NAY: Ward Two City Councilor Scott ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.B. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on February 15, 2024. (ID # 24-0185) Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that 3 items on the agenda were withdrawn by the applicants. Two Public Hearings were held, as follows: Item 24-0037 - Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to amend Article 9: Use Provisions, and the Permitted Uses tables of all zoning districts, to establish a Recreational Camp for Children use within the Recreational Services use category. This item was kept in committee and public comment will be accepted until noon of March 1, 2024. Item 24-0059 - Gregg Donovan requesting a Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning district of 321 Washington Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Commercial Industry (CI). This item was kept in committee and public comment will be accepted until noon of March 1, 2024. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 6.B.2. Public 234 Pearl Street Realty Trust and Goodpitch, LLC requesting the adoption Communication of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district (ID # 23-1810) of 234 and 236 Pearl Street from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6). RESULT: WITHDRAWN Page 8 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 6.B.3. Public 13 registered voters requesting a Zoning Map Amendment to change the Communication zoning district of 8 Park Street, 10 Park Street, 504 Somerville Avenue, and (ID # 23-1827) 7-9 Properzi Way from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District, and 15-27 Properzi Way, 29 Properzi Way, 26-32 Park Street, 8-14 Tyler Street, 40 Park Street, 15 Dane Street, 7-9 Tyler Street, 460 Somerville Avenue, 444 Somerville Avenue, 440 Somerville Avenue, 30 Dane Street, and 24-28 Dane Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.B.4. Public 15 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Communication Zoning Ordinances to add Section 8.4.19, Climate & Equity Innovation (ID # 23-1830) Sub-Area Overlay District. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on February 13, (ID # 24-0181) 2024. Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the following items were discussed: Item 22-0038 - That the Code of Ordinances be amended by requiring the Mayor to annually submit to this Council a report on the status of housing. This item was kept in committee. Item 24-1448 - That the City hereby adopt the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave. This item was kept in committee. Item 23-0075 - Amending Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 2 of the Code of Ordinances by adding a new section establishing Paid Leave for Survivors. This item was kept in committee. Item 23-0360 - Amending Section 1-19 of the Code of Ordinances to remove the phrase "Honorably Purchased from Pawtuckets - 1639" from the City seal. This item was kept in committee. Item 23-1461 - Amending Section 12-116 of the Code of Ordinances to create a Safe Streets ordinance, to expedite protected bike lanes. This item was kept in committee. Councilor Burnley advised the Council that updates have been made to the state’s Family and Medical Leave policy and that he wants this on the record, so when the city’s plan is taken up, it’s comparable or better than what the state allows. RESULT: APPROVED Page 9 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 6.D. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on February 14, (ID # 24-0183) 2024. Councilor Burnley summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that approval was recommended for 1 new garage license, 1 new billiards/bowling license and 2 new extended operating hours items. The committee is discharging 2 items, from the same applicant, without recommendations. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.D.2. License New Billiards and Bowling License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution Drive, (ID # 24-0020) for 5 billiard tables and 8 bowling lanes. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.D.3. License New Extended Operating Hours License, Dunkin, 504 Broadway, opening (ID # 24-0022) 24/7 for in store and take-out services. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah Page 10 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 6.D.4. License New Extended Operating Hours License, Lucky Strike, 325 Revolution (ID # 24-0023) Drive, opening Monday-Sunday until 2am for in-store service only. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.D.5. License New Garage License, Broadway Gulf Inc, 212 Broadway, 3 vehicles inside, (ID # 24-0024) 7 vehicles outside, for mechanical repairs and storing vehicles, Mon-Fri: 6am-10pm, Sat: 7am-3pm, Sun: closed. CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor. CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or transporting vehicles. CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the City Council for adherence to the stated conditions. CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. Councilor Burnley spoke of the concerns expressed by neighbors and noted that the committee wanted input from the ward councilor on these items. Councilor McLaughlin reported that a neighborhood meeting was held at the location yesterday, and as a result of that meeting, the following conditions are being requested: For Used Car and Garage: · CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor. · CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. · CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or transporting vehicles. For Used Car · CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence to the stated conditions. For Garage · CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the City Council for adherence to the stated conditions. Condition Approved in Committee for Used Car and Garage: · CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS Page 11 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.D.6. License New Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Broadway Gulf Inc, 212 Broadway, 3 (ID # 24-0027) vehicles inside, 10 vehicles outside, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed. CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor. CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or transporting vehicles. CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence to the stated conditions. CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. Councilor Burnley spoke of the concerns expressed by neighbors and noted that the committee wanted input from the ward councilor on these items. Councilor McLaughlin reported that a neighborhood meeting was held at the location yesterday, and as a result of that meeting, the following conditions are being requested: For Used Car and Garage: · CONDITION: That the combined total of vehicles for the Used Car and Garage licenses be 3 indoor and 7 outdoor. · CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to maintain cleanliness and snow removal, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. · CONDITION: That MacArthur Street is not used for parking or transporting vehicles. For Used Car · CONDITION: That the license be reviewed in conjunction with the Garage license renewal in April for the same business, for adherence to the stated conditions. For Garage · CONDITION: That the license renewal in April is reviewed by the City Council for adherence to the stated conditions. Page 12 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 Condition Approved in Committee for Used Car and Garage: · CONDITION: That the business owner take all available steps to mitigate rodent activity, demonstrated through periodic inspections by the Inspectional Services Department. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.D.7. License New Extended Operating Hours License, Everfitness, 14 McGrath Highway, (ID # 24-0060) opening Monday-Friday 24/5 for in-store service only. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.D.8. License New Garage License, John's Auto Sales Inc, 181 Somerville Ave, for 2 (ID # 24-0124) vehicles inside and 22 vehicles outside for mechanical repairs only, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: Closed. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.E. PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on (ID # 24-0179) February 12, 2024. Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that 2 DPW items were marked as work completed and the following items were discussed: Item 24-0039 - An item to re-install a bench in honor of longstanding Brown School principal Marilyn Haggerty. This item was kept in committee. Item# 24-0040 - An update on the plan to support residents who cannot afford the recent water bill increases. This item was kept in committee. RESULT: APPROVED Page 13 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 6.E.2. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0085) That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this City Council how the sidewalk clearing pilot program is working this winter. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 24-0118) That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management report on leaks at the Arts at the Armory Building and any exterior envelope damages in the past six months, and actions being taken to address such leaks and damages including the recently dislodged downspout. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the discontinuance of Palmer Avenue. (ID # 24-0081) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $2,240,740 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 24-0201) the same amount to participate in the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for the Lead Line Service Replacement program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $14,327.56 grant with no new (ID # 24-0189) match required, from the Department of Fire Services to the Fire Department for the purchase of firefighter safety equipment. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, Page 14 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the appointment of Natasha Frazier to Communication the position of Assistant Clerk of Committees. (ID # 24-0190) RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 8.2. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Peter Communication Forcellese, Sr. to the position of Legislative Clerk. (ID # 24-0191) RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 8.3. Officer's City Clerk requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Stephanie Communication Widzowski to the position of Clerk of Committees. (ID # 24-0192) RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9. NEW BUSINESS Page 15 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 9.1. Public Event Korean-American Citizens League of New England Inc applying for a (ID # 24-0205) Public Event License for 4th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration on March 3 from 1:30pm to 3:15pm (raindate March 10). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9.2. Public Event BA Events Promotion applying for a Public Event License for Race of (ID # 24-0196) Ireland on March 24 from 7am to 1:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9.3. Public Event St Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good (ID # 24-0198) Friday-Stations of the Cross Procession on March 29 from 4pm to 7:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen Page 16 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 9.4. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Porchfest on May 11 (ID # 24-0197) from 11am to 7pm (raindate May 12). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9.5. Public Event Union Square Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for Union (ID # 24-0206) Square Farmers Market on every Saturday, May 11 to October 26 from 6:45am to 2pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9.6. Public Event Elizabeth Hunter applying for a Public Event License for Marian, or the (ID # 24-0195) True Tale of Robin Hood on May 28-30, June 1-6, June 15-16, June 22-23 from 5pm to 9pm (raindate June 29 and June 30). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen Page 17 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 9.7. Public Chasen Williams submitting comments re: intersection at Powder House Communication Boulevard and Alewife Brook Parkway. (ID # 24-0199) President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place it on file. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 9.8. Public Four individuals submitting comments re: item 24-0089 a resolution in Communication support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza. (ID # 24-0200) President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place it on file. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0211) That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, additional funding for rodent mitigation efforts, including an Office of Rodent Prevention similar to the one proposed in Boston, with appropriate staffing. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.2. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0212) That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, funding for a home air filtration pilot program to address air pollution along Interstate 93. Page 18 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.3. Communication By Councilor Wilson (ID # 24-0214) Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 10.4. Officer's Finance Director conveying FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report in Communication accordance with Section 2-48 of the Code of Ordinances. (ID # 24-0210) Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 4.3, 4.5, 7.1 - 7.3, and 10.1-10.4 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 10.5. Public Yitzchok Segall submitting comments re: item 24-0089 a resolution in Communication support of an enduring ceasefire in Gaza. (ID # 24-0213) President Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of this item and place it on file. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 19 of 20 City Council Meeting Minutes February 22, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld, and Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 7:37 PM on a Roll Call vote of 11 in favor (McLaughlin, Davis, Wilson, Sait, Scott, Mbah, Burnley, Clingan, Strezo, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen), 0 opposed. Page 20 of 20