City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, June 13, 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. The City Council entered recess at 7:40 PM and returned at 7:51 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 24-0915) Councilor Davis arrived at 7:01 PM. Councilors Mbah and Burnley arrived at 7:02 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 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 Absent: Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 24-0916) Councilor McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence in memory of Stanley “Chip” Koty, III. RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 9, 2024. (ID # 24-0917) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 2. CITATIONS 2.1. Citation By Councilor Strezo (ID # 24-0906) Commending the Community Growing Center for 30 years of service and commitment to green spaces. Councilor Strezo commended the Growing Center for their commitment to the City of Somerville. Prior to accepting the citation on behalf of the Growing Center, Lisa Brukilacchio gave a lengthy history of the organization and Brandon Wilson, former Planning Director for the City, spoke about the early years of the center. Councilor Scott noted that the center has been a part of many peoples’ lives in Somerville. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 102 feet of conduit in (ID # 24-0862) Revolution Drive from Manhole #26211 to a point of pickup at the intersection of Revolution Drive and Assembly Square Drive. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.2. Grant of Location Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install 60 (ID # 24-0863) feet of conduit in Mystic Avenue from existing Eversource Manhole #22835 to a proposed Handhole, then continuing to a point of pickup at Utility Pole #249/9 located near 75 Mystic Avenue. Jeff Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.3. Grant of Location Cambridge Network Solutions applying for a Grant of Location to install 43 (ID # 24-0864) feet of conduit in Mystic Avenue from existing Eversource Manhole #22834 to a proposed Handhole, then continuing to Utility Pole #249/4 located near 29 Mystic Avenue. Jeff Harrington, representing Cambridge Network Solutions, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED Page 2 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Wilson (ID # 24-0901) That the Director of Mobility daylight the corner of Maple Avenue and School Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.2. Order By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0911) That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry provide this Council’s Committee on Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations with an update on the inclusive playground swing project being worked on in collaboration with parent advocates. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 4.3. Resolution By Councilor Clingan (ID # 24-0910) That the Administration provide this Council with an up-to-date report on the financial activity of the Handicapped Parking Violation Fees fund. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 4.4. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor (ID # 24-0902) Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Mbah That the Administration hold a community meeting within the next 30 days to address the impacts of the missing United States Postal Service mail, and the overall lack of mail delivery in various parts of Somerville. Councilor Clingan commented that the recent lack of mail delivery in the city is due to a United States Postal Service labor shortage and he feels that it’s time for the USPS to consider increasing its employees’ wages in MA to alleviate the problem. Locally, some residents have been without mail delivery for weeks and it’s now a quality-of-life issue affecting the delivery of medications, Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) notices, jury duty notices, etc. Residents are aware that specific pieces of mail are missing, and the Postal Service is reporting that it is caught up, and at the same time saying that they’re investigating. Councilor Strezo would like the Administration to work with the City Council on a communication plan for residents. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee Page 3 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 4.5. Order By Councilor Wilson and Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0909) That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development update this Council on the possibility of receiving additional federal financing for transit-oriented development through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA 49) initiative and the potential eligibility of projects in Somerville. AMENDMENT: That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development update this Council on the possibility of receiving additional federal financing for transit-oriented development through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA 49) initiative, IRS 63-20 corporation financing and Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) and the potential eligibility of projects in Somerville. Councilor Wilson spoke an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determination, known as 63-20, that opens the possibilities for a public private mechanism to create affordable housing. He also spoke about a federal financing tool for transit-oriented development, (TIFIA 49), that might be helpful with projects in Somerville that have stalled due to financing issues. Councilor Wilson moved to amend this item by including IRS 63-20 and Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF). Councilor McLaughlin noted that this is yet another opportunity to build housing and that he would like to see the pace of building increased. RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a conveyance and grant of easement for Leonard (ID # 24-0656) Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, 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 ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait Page 4 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 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 # 24-0885) Matters, meeting on June 11, 2024. Councilor Pineda Neufeld summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee recommended approval of two appointments to the Board of Health and two promotions within the Fire Department. The City Clerk administered the oath of office to two Fire Department Lieutenants. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alyssa DuBois to the Board (ID # 24-0581) of Health. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Margaret H. Coit to the (ID # 24-0582) Board of Health. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Matthew Kane to the position (ID # 24-0803) of Fire Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Michael Finnegan to the (ID # 24-0804) position of Fire Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, (ID # 24-0884) meeting on June 11, 2024. Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and recommended that her colleagues read the 2024-2028 action plans that were recommended for approval by the committee. RESULT: APPROVED Page 5 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the proposed 2024-2028 Department of Housing and (ID # 24-0636) Urban Development 5-Year Consolidated Plan, One Year Action Plan, and Community Participation Plan for Community Development Block Grant, Home Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant programming. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.3. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 24-0664) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management address the structural safety and rodent issues with the city-owned building on Skilton Avenue. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.4. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 24-0665) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management devise and share with this Council a long-term plan for the city-owned building at 10 Skilton Avenue. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on May 28, 2024. (ID # 24-0881) Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that, after several meetings, an amended Safe Streets Ordinance was approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Ordinance By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 23-1461) Amending Section 12-116 of the Code of Ordinances to create a Safe Streets ordinance, to expedite protected bike lanes. Councilor Burnley commented that this ordinance was born in response to residents’ demands that the city do better to provide safety for its residents. He thanked the many individuals and groups who had a hand in creating this ordinance. He sponsored two speakers to address the Council on this matter. The first speaker shared some experiences walking and biking in the city. The second speaker said that this ordinance will make Somerville a healthier and safer place to live. Councilors Scott and Mbah thanked Councilor Burnley for taking the lead on this matter. RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED Page 6 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 AYE: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, City Councilor At Large Wilson, 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 ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 6.D. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on (ID # 24-0883) June 5, 2024. Councilor McLaughlin summarized the actions taken by the committee and said the main focus of the meeting was the homelessness situation in the city. The committee also received a presentation about a survey on the operation of the warming center at the Armory. The availability of masks and COVID test kits was also discussed. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D.2. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 24-0451) That the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on the plan to prioritize the deployment of masks and tests to reduce the spread of COVID-19. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E. SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and (ID # 24-0882) Maintenance, meeting on May 29, 2024. Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and said an update on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process for the Winter Hill and Brown Schools was received. The constitution of the School Building Committee has been completed and the committee will guide the project from design to construction. Other topics discussed included a problem with rodents at the Edgerly School and a gas situation at the West Somerville Neighborhood School. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E.2. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0534) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management provide a report to the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee with a risk assessment identifying and analyzing major risks to projects the department is currently overseeing. Page 7 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.3. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0535) That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Administration discuss with the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee, the status of science lab spaces at Somerville Public Schools and what is being done to safely reopen any closed lab features following a gas leak reported at the West Somerville Neighborhood School. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.4. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0536) That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee, the installation of a floor cover for the gymnasium at Somerville High School to prevent damage to the floor and to expand the gym’s usability to non-athletic events. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.5. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 24-0537) That the Commissioner of Public Works report to the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee on the timeline and progress toward installing water and electrical access at the Benjamin G. Brown School schoolyard. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to add (ID # 24-0716) Sections 8-375 through 8-381 to promote and enforce safer construction practices. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $1,271,785 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 24-0876) the same amount for the purchase of Fire Pumper apparatus. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,001,750.89 from the Facility Renovation (ID # 24-0859) Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 Page 8 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $78,148.40 from the Street Reconstruction (ID # 24-0860) Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and pavement condition assessment and design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of four months for (ID # 24-0769) PMA, LLC for Owner's Project Manager services for the Somerville High School project. RESULT: APPROVED 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of four months with (ID # 24-0770) Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc. for design services for the Somerville High School project. RESULT: APPROVED 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension of five months for (ID # 24-0771) Suffolk Construction for Construction Manager services for the Somerville High School project. RESULT: APPROVED 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $927,590.89 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 24-0857) Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Engineering & Architecture Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $109,428 from the Office of Strategic (ID # 24-0900) Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Planning, Preservation and Zoning Division Professional Services account to the OSPCD Administration Division Legal Services account to pay outstanding legal fees related to the 90 Washington Street litigation. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 Page 9 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $78,148.40 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 24-0856) Asset Management (IAM)-Engineering & Architecture Account to the Street Reconstruction Stabilization Fund for continuing street, sidewalk, and pavement condition assessment and design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $74,160 from the Infrastructure and (ID # 24-0858) Asset Management (IAM)-Capital Projects Professional & Technical Account to the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $4,573.32 grant with no new (ID # 24-0853) match required, from the Department of Environmental Protection to the Department of Public Works (DPW) for the Recycling Dividend Program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a non-monetary grant with no (ID # 24-0852) new match required, from the Department of Energy Resources to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for technical assistance for writing a municipal building decarbonization roadmap. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $750 using available (ID # 24-0896) funds in the Human Resources Advertising account for advertising costs of vacant positions. Page 10 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $181.92 using (ID # 24-0897) available funds in the Human Resources Professional and Technical Services account for confidential paper shredding services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of James M. Donovan to the (ID # 24-0895) position of Deputy Police Chief. Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.16 through 7.17 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Johnson to the (ID # 24-0894) position of Firefighter. Councilor Pineda Neufeld moved to waive the readings of items 7.16 through 7.17 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jacob Luria to the Municipal (ID # 24-0861) Job Creation and Retention Trust Fund Board of Trustees. RESULT: APPROVED 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for use (ID # 24-0912) of an Unmanned Aerial System at the 2024 Somerville Police Department Junior Police Academy. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 11 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 7.20. Mayor's Proclaiming the week of May 12 through May 19, 2024 to be Taiwanese Communication American Heritage Week. (ID # 24-0813) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 7.21. Mayor's Proclaiming that Saturday, June 22, 2024 is Arbor Day in the City of Communication Somerville. (ID # 24-0904) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment conveying Communication information regarding item #24-0575, a grant from the Massachusetts Clean (ID # 24-0776) Energy Center. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8.2. Officer's Planning Board conveying recommendations for item #24-0416. Communication (ID # 24-0854) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 8.3. Officer's Director of Water and Sewer conveying the FY 2025 Water & Sewer Rate Communication proposal. (ID # 24-0913) Director of Water and Sewer (W&S) Demetrios Vidalis presented the proposed FY 2025 water and sewer rates, saying that it is what the city needs and that efforts are being made to try to avoid higher rates in the future. The Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds were created to take some of the burden off taxpayers. He explained the charges imposed by the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority (MWRA) and spoke about the city’s aging infrastructure, as well as a number of projects, e.g., lead service line replacement. The Poplar Steet pumping station will provide immediate flood mitigation for the Union Square area once it comes line. The Director said that the budget for W&S is comprised of MWRA costs, capital investments and debt service, personnel, and maintenance, with 85% of the budget ($45.2 million) being fixed costs. He said that without the proposed increase, there would be a $3 million deficit. The proposed rate works out to an average 6% increase which amounts to an additional $60 per year on average and he said that he understands this may be a hardship for some. The department will be taking steps to increase its communication outreach. Director Vidalis reported that the meter replacement program is 90% Page 12 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 complete and that 6% of ratepayers saw significant increases due to the catchup readings. 170 bills have been adjusted, representing a decrease of $480,000 to ratepayers. Councilor Scott asked about staffing in W&S and the Director said there are no Heavy Machine Equipment Operator (HMEO) staff in the department. Councilor Scott asked if the ratepayer assistance program has been implemented yet and the Director replied that it has not. Councilor Burnley questioned the sequencing, saying it seems to imply that rates have to be raised before they can be restructured, and he asked if after approving the proposed rates the department would implement another set of structures in January. Director Vidalis said that the hope is to come before the Council before the end of this year to present a new structure to be implemented in January. Councilor Mbah expressed concern about people on fixed incomes and the Director said that there are steps that can be taken by residents to conserve water. Councilor McLaughlin noted that this 6% increase equates to $3 million, and he pointed out that the FY 2025 city budget has increased by $20 million. He went on to say that the city received approximately $78 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and $1 million has not been spent yet. Councilor Scott asked for a detailed accounting of the additional revenue this proposal would bring in and he wants to know what happened to the $1 million for ratepayer assistance. Councilor Clingan asked for the rate changes for the past 4 years. Councilor Strezo commented that she is already hearing from tenants that increases are being put into their leases and she asked when landlords and tenants will be apprised of their rights and responsibilities. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Drainlayer's License, MC Excavation Inc. (ID # 24-0865) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License Renewing Flammables License, Cumberland Farms #2469, 701 Somerville (ID # 24-0868) Ave. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Flammables License, Speedway #02513, 709 McGrath Hwy. (ID # 24-0867) Page 13 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License Renewing Flammables License, Winter Hill Yacht Club, 500 Artisan Way. (ID # 24-0866) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Garage License, Boston Sand and Gravel Company, 492R (ID # 24-0871) Rutherford Ave. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Garage License, Drain Doctor, Inc, 612 Broadway. (ID # 24-0870) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Garage License, Four Wheels Auto, 83A Albion St. (ID # 24-0869) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License New Outdoor Parking License, DM Collision Center LLC, 30 Joy St., 40 (ID # 24-0874) vehicles. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. License Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Star Markets Company #2575, 275 (ID # 24-0875) Beacon St., 3 vehicles Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 14 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 9.10. License Renewing Taxi Medallion, Early Bird Transportation, LLC, Med. #49. (ID # 24-0872) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. License Renewing Taxi Medallion, Sadel and G Transportation, Inc., Med. #70. (ID # 24-0873) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. Public Event Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for PFC John J. (ID # 24-0908) Hayden, Jr. Hero Square Dedication on June 1 from 10am to 12pm. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.13. Public Event Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for Mary F. (ID # 24-0907) MacDougall Considine Hero Square Dedication on June 1 from 12pm to 2pm. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.14. Public Event Rosa Carson applying for a Public Event License for Friday Dance Hour on (ID # 24-0893) June 14, June 28, July 5, July 12, July 19, August 2, August 9, and August 30 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. Public Event Janine Fay applying for a Public Event License for Dancing in the Street on (ID # 24-0891) June 20 from 5pm to 9:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. Public Event Koryn Zammuto applying for a Public Event License for 4th of July (ID # 24-0914) Celebration at The Public on June 27 from 2pm to 10:30pm (raindate June 28). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 15 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 9.17. Public Event Camberville Community Music applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 24-0879) Marion St. BP on June 30 from 10am to 8pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. Public Event Glen Maganzini applying for a Public Event License for Kids Like You and (ID # 24-0892) Me's Summer Showdown! on July 6 from 12pm to 7pm (raindate July 7). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. Public Event St. Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for A Mile with (ID # 24-0880) Jesus on July 7 from 12pm to 1:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. Public Event Aaron Greiner applying for a Public Event License for Parkdale St BP on (ID # 24-0878) July 13 from 11am to 7pm (raindate July 14). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.21. Public Event East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 24-0877) Summer in the Park on July 27 from 1pm to 7pm (raindate July 28). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.11 and 9.14 through 9.21 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.22. Public Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) conveying the Communication alteration of location of a section of State highway. (ID # 24-0855) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.23. Public Emily Duquette submitting comments re: item #24-0641, a Zoning Map Communication Amendment for the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). (ID # 24-0898) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee Page 16 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 9.24. Public 13 individuals, including 9 residents, submitting comments re: items Communication #24-0680 and #24-0679, a Zoning Map and Zoning Text amendment to (ID # 24-0899) create the Somernova Innovation Sub-Area. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0923) That the Commissioner of Public Works replace the trash barrel on Broadway and Macarthur Street. Councilor McLaughlin reported that he was informed that the Department of Public Works removed the barrel because it was being used excessively. He noted that people are still leaving trash there, even without the barrel. RESULT: APPROVED 10.2. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0920) That the Director of Inspectional Services provide the Ward 1 City Councilor with any tickets and fines associated with the Home Depot, Circuit City, and the surrounding area in the past ten years. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.3. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0921) That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect the Home Depot, Circuit City, and surrounding area for code violations and report back to the Ward 1 City Councilor. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.4. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0924) That the Director of Inspectional Services (ISD) provide the Ward 1 City Councilor with a list of all ISD tickets issued in Ward 1 on May 6, 2024. Councilor McLaughlin commented that he is just looking for the data. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 10.5. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0922) That the Director of Parking place SLOW CHILDREN and NOT A THROUGH STREET signs on Alston Street by the corner of Cross Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 17 of 18 City Council Meeting Minutes June 13, 2024 10.6. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 24-0925) That the Director of Parking discuss the policy around restricted parking signs during construction and how to limit negative impacts in the community. Councilor McLaughlin stated that signs are being put up in the area of the Nunnery grounds when no work is being done. Additionally, he was made aware that contractors are being allowed to fill out the restriction times on the signs and he wants to see more accurate postings. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,847.47 using (ID # 24-0905) available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Natural Gas account for Edgerly School natural gas. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.2 through 7.4, 7.8 through 7.15, and 10.7 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.8. Public Alexander Mathews submitting comments re: rent control. Communication (ID # 24-0918) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.9. Public Susan Lee submitting comments re: items #24-0680 and #24-0679, a Zoning Communication Map and Zoning Text amendment to create the Somernova Innovation (ID # 24-0919) Sub-Area. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 10.10. Public Karen Thurston submitting comments re: parking. Communication (ID # 24-0926) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 9:00 PM. Page 18 of 18