City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, March 13, 2025 7:00 PM NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first checking with the City Clerk. 1. OPENING CEREMONIES The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM by Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld. The City Council entered recess at 7:14 PM and returned at 7:27 PM. The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:18 PM and returned at 9:17 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 25-0485) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Present: City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah City Councilor At Large Jake Wilson Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin City Councilor At Large Willie Burnley Jr. Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis Ward Seven City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 25-0486) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 13, 2025. (ID # 25-0487) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS Page 1 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 256 (ID # 25-0421) feet of conduit in Prospect Street from Manhole 23058 to two points of pickup at 121 Prospect Street and an existing conduit. 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 Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 128 (ID # 25-0422) feet of conduit and one new Manhole 32561 in Summer Street, from Utility Pole 325/28 to a point of pickup at 162 Summer Street. 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 3.3. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-0423) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 25-0401) That the City Clerk draft a Notice of Building Sale Ordinance, as recommended by the Residential Displacement Task Force, to require landlords inform tenants of an intent to sell when they list a home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or other real estate sales platforms. Councilor Burnley said this is an example of community involvement and, as a matter of practice and decency, owners should give tenants as much notice as possible, adding that transformative change is needed on this issue. RESULT: APPROVED 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-0405) Declaring the month of March 2025 as National Social Work Month. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 4.3. Order By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-0461) That the Director of Engineering and Director of Mobility install a traffic signal light at the end of Woods Avenue and Alewife Brook Parkway. Page 2 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 Councilor Mbah spoke about how dangerous this intersection is and said he will be advocating for the traffic light. President Pineda Neufeld remarked that she has an update on this matter and that she will share it with Councilor Mbah, offline. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.4. Order By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-0462) That the Commissioner of Public Works trim the trees in front of 18 and 20 Granite Street as their branches are creating a hazard to the abutting house. RESULT: APPROVED 4.5. Resolution By Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor (ID # 25-0460) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Scott In support of immigrant rights legislation, including the Safe Communities Act and the Immigrant Legal Defense Act. Councilor Mbah said this resolution reconfirms Somerville’s commitment to ensuring that Somerville remains a welcoming city and stands against policies that would lead to the separation of immigrant families. He sponsored Maroni Minter, Political Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), who spoke about the protections of the Safe Communities Act’s provisions and said that the bills in question, known as the Immigrant Legal Defense Act, would establish a public/private fund to provide free legal services for immigrants trying to prevent deportation. Councilor McLaughlin commented that the bills should pass on the state level, and he noted that many people, however, don’t support this. He explained that it costs cities and towns money to hold people for the federal government. He also explained that if people are afraid to contact police, it creates a dangerous situation for others and that this effort is about allowing people to feel safe. He noted that the measure has been endorsed by the MA Chiefs of Police Association. Councilor Mbah asked that the Resolution be forwarded to the city’s state delegation and to the governor. RESULT: APPROVED 4.6. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-0463) That the Director of Human Resources, Director of Parking, Director of Mobility and Chief of Police respond to the recent incidents of four children being hit by cars in the past few months on their paths to school. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee Page 3 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 4.7. Order By Councilor Strezo and Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-0464) That the Chief of Police report on the current number of regularly staffed crossing guards throughout the city and the total number of crossing guard positions currently available. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 4.8. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-0466) That the Director of Parks and Recreation report on the process by which Ginny Smithers Pool patrons are promptly notified of pool cancellations or schedule changes, including any modifications that could be made to that process in light of the March 2025 temporary pool closure. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.9. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-0467) That the Director of Parks and Recreation report on the stock and condition of previously installed playground communication boards that assist nonverbal children in playtime. Councilor Strezo explained the importance of these boards and reported that some have been damaged. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 4.10. Order By Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Wilson (ID # 25-0471) That the Chief of Police prioritize Otis Street for traffic enforcement during school drop off and pick up times. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.11. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 25-0472) That the Director of Parking update the Ward 1 City Councilor on the recently installed signs prohibiting parking during snow emergencies on Otis Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee Page 4 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 4.12. Resolution By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Scott, Councilor Burnley Jr. and (ID # 25-0473) Councilor Mbah That the Administration update this Council on the status of the $528,218 received from the national opioid settlement fund to combat drug addiction and of any plans to utilize said funds. Councilor McLaughlin stated that this money has been waiting to be used for some time, leading him to think that it might be time to impose deadlines on its use. He believes that the funds were being held to be used for the creation of a safe consumption site, which he said would have happened by now if it was going to happen at all. Councilor Scott commented that this is an enormous problem across the state and that of the $91 million awarded to cities and towns, only $7 million has been put into play. Councilor Wilson stated that the following places will provide someone to stay in contact with users while they are using, so that help may be called in case of an overdose: Never Use Alone - 877-696-1196 - where volunteer operators will take your location information, and alert EMS to that location if you stop responding after using and Brave, a mobile app that connects people who use drugs alone with anonymous remote supervision. Councilor Burnley noted that he brought forward an item for similar compensation amounting to $244,891 in abatement funds and he doesn’t think any of it has been used yet. Councilor Mbah stated that he wants to know what the terms were for the opioid money when it was received by the city. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee 4.13. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-0475) That the Commissioner of Public Works install a large NO DOGS ALLOWED sign on the Thurston Street entrance gate of the Winter Hill soccer field. RESULT: APPROVED 4.14. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Sait, (ID # 25-0474) Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Mbah, Councilor Scott, Councilor Davis and Councilor Pineda Neufeld In support of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and condemning attacks on disability rights. Councilor Clingan explained that disability rights are under attack and that Section 504 is being challenged as unconstitutional and that the Somerville Persons with Disabilities Commission has asked for the Council’s support in this fight. Councilor Clingan sponsored Disability Advocate and Former Executive Director of the Arc of Massachusetts, Leo Sarkissian to speak. Page 5 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 Mr. Sarkissian said that Section 504 was the forerunner for the ADA and relates to any place where federal funding is involved, e.g., schools and medical facilities, and that the constitutional challenge is being brought by seventeen states. Councilor Clingan sponsored Harriotte Ranvig, a member of Somerville’s Commission for Persons with Disabilities, who said that 1 in 5 people have some sort of disability. She has been campaigning to have amicus briefs filed by the 33 states not involved in the lawsuit. Councilor Clingan commented that the door for this challenge was opened because of trans issues. Councilor Wilson spoke about the value of Section 504 and said that the states filing the suit should be shamed. Councilor Burnley commented that if educational funds were to be stripped away it would lead to segregation for people with disabilities and Councilor McLaughlin commented that this issue applies to people on several levels. RESULT: APPROVED 4.15. Communication By Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-0476) Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2026. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 4.16. Order By Councilor Sait (ID # 25-0477) That the Commissioner of Public Works remove the unused switch box on the sidewalk at 533-535 Medford Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.17. Order By Councilor Sait (ID # 25-0478) That the Commissioner of Public Works install two safety bollards on the sidewalk at the intersection of Medford Street and Broadway. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.18. Order By Councilor Sait (ID # 25-0479) That the Chief of Police increase traffic enforcement at the intersection of Broadway and Medford Street. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.19. Order By Councilor Sait (ID # 25-0480) That the Director of Engineering and the Director of Mobility shorten the cycle time of the traffic light at the intersection of Medford Street and Lowell Street. Page 6 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.20. Home Rule By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Davis Petition Proposing a Home Rule Petition to establish a charter for the City of (ID # 25-0482) Somerville. Councilor Davis hopes to have an updated marked-up version distributed to councilors next week for review. He reported that most of the changes are minor, however there are some key issues that remain to be worked out. Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that it represents a good faith series of compromises, and he would like to get it on the ballot as soon as possible. Councilor Scott has scheduled a meeting of the Charter Review Special Committee for March 18, 2025 at 6:00 PM. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Charter Review Special Committee 4.21. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-0465) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Henry Lima to the position (ID # 25-0221) of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Carvalho to the (ID # 25-0222) position of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Brandon Coco to the (ID # 25-0223) position of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Rory Gallivan to the position (ID # 25-0224) of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.5. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Jake Hardy to the position of (ID # 25-0225) Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE Page 7 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 5.6. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Todd Headley to the position (ID # 25-0226) of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.7. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Gavin Tierney to the (ID # 25-0227) position of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 5.8. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew White to the (ID # 25-0228) position of Firefighter. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 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 # 25-0419) Matters, meeting on March 5, 2025. Councilor Ewen-Campen summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that three promotions within the Fire Department were recommended for approval. Following approval of the report, Thomas Bellini was sworn in to the position of Fire Captain and Andrew Tkaczuk and Christopher Galvin were sworn in to the positions of Fire Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Thomas Bellini to the position (ID # 25-0218) of Fire Captain. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Andrew Tkaczuk to the (ID # 25-0219) position of Fire Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Christopher Galvin to the (ID # 25-0220) position of Fire Lieutenant. RESULT: APPROVED Page 8 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 6.B. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on March 11, 2025. (ID # 25-0469) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that three requests to use available funds to fund three positions in the Water Department were recommended NOT to be approved. The committee recommended for approval payment of two prior year invoices, one appropriation of funds, one authorization to borrow funds, five grant acceptances and expenditures, 1 contract extension and 1 easement. The committee also received an update on the citywide disparity study, received the Mid-Year Financial Report and discussed an amendment to Sections 2-322 and 2-323 of the Code of Ordinances to update categories and associated salaries for non-union positions. Councilor Burnley reported that during 2024, 324 lbs. of prescription drugs were turned into the city during its Prescription Drug Takeback Days. He also reported that the overtime budget for the Police Department is currently $100,000 over the budgeted amount and Councilor Wilson commented that this budget line may end up being in a $500,000 hole. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages (ID # 25-0258) account in the amount of $14,798.95 to fund a Utility Billing Manager position. RESULT: NOT APPROVED 6.B.3. Mayor's Request Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages (ID # 25-0260) account in the amount of $13,928.44 to fund a new Service Operations Manager position. RESULT: NOT APPROVED 6.B.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the use of available funds in the Water Enterprise Fund Wages (ID # 25-0262) account in the amount of $1,569.10 to fund a Billing Analyst position. RESULT: NOT APPROVED 6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $32.06 to Market (ID # 25-0268) Basket/Demoulas using available funds in the Parks & Recreation Food Supplies & Refreshments and Office Supplies accounts. RESULT: APPROVED Page 9 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 6.B.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $137,288 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 25-0274) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Information Technology (IT) Department Professional & Technical Account for an independent assessment of security and network infrastructure and an organizational review of all IT groups within the city. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.7. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $7,600,000 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 25-0279) the same amount for the FY 2025 Water Main Rehabilitation program as part of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority's Local Water System Assistance Program. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.B.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $335,635 grant with no new (ID # 25-0281) match required, from the Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for the Crisis Intervention Training and Technical Assistance Center. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $15,000 grant with no new (ID # 25-0282) match required, as a sub-award through the Fenway Community Health Center to the Police Department for the Post-Overdose Support Team (POST). RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $23,105 grant that requires a (ID # 25-0283) match, from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Police Department for the Metro Mayors Community Safety Initiative. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend an $87,450 grant with no new (ID # 25-0284) match required, from the Executive Office of Public Safety & Security to the Police Department for staffing. RESULT: APPROVED Page 10 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 6.B.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new (ID # 25-0299) match required, from the City of Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Elections Department for security of elections vault. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $93.61 using (ID # 25-0333) available funds in the Police Department Out-of-State Travel account for food expenses during an investigation. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a contract extension for two years until 2/28/2026 (ID # 25-0334) for TSA Consulting Group, Inc., for the administration of 457(b) plans. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of easements from JMC/STM/TGCI Union Square, (ID # 25-0349) LLC for 346 Somerville Avenue. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 6.B.16. Mayor's Conveying a forthcoming appropriation request from the Salary Contingency Communication account to various city departments to fund an update to the non-union (ID # 25-0368) salary ordinance. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.17. Mayor's Conveying an update on the next steps for recommendations on Communication compensation for Elected Officials. (ID # 25-0369) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.18. Officer's Finance Director conveying FY 2025 Mid-Year Financial Report in Communication accordance with Section 2-48 of the Code of Ordinances. (ID # 25-0371) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 11 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 6.C. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, (ID # 25-0412) meeting on March 4, 2025. Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed the Fair Housing Commission’s FY 2023 annual report, the process for developing a Teele Square commercial area plan and increasing permanent supportive housing across the city. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Officer's Fair Housing Commission conveying the FY 2023 Annual Report pursuant Communication to Section 17-7 of the Code of Ordinances. (ID # 24-1446) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.3. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld and Councilor Wilson (ID # 25-0232) That the Director of Economic Development begin the process for developing a Teele Square commercial area plan. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.4. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0354) That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development consider increasing permanent supportive housing across the city. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D. PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE 6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on (ID # 25-0468) March 10, 2025. Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed reports of inaccurate water meter readings, the possibility of placing a storm water retention tank at the Homan’s site, the Municipal Sidewalk Clearing Pilot program, the feasibility of removing snow from city playgrounds, and the process of clearing snow from bike lanes. The committee also received an update on the Portland Loo situation. Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that the water meter issue isn’t close to being settled and he believes that there are some billing irregularities that can be rectified with the installation of check valves, adding that there is more that needs to be done on the matter. Councilor Wilson stated that the city has credibility issues with the residents who have expansion tanks on Page 12 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 their heating systems and Councilor Scott said people are getting notices of leaks, leading them to hire plumbers to check for water leaks, making it hard to believe anything coming from the Water Department. Councilor Wilson noted that the city is covering the $150 cost to check meters for those having the expansion tank issue. RESULT: APPROVED 6.D.2. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Strezo, (ID # 25-0121) Councilor Wilson, Councilor Burnley Jr. and Councilor Sait That the Director of Water and Sewer appear before this Council to address resident claims that newly installed water meters are falsely registering air pockets in residential cold water lines as leaks, leading to significantly inaccurate bills. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.3. Order By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Wilson (ID # 25-0241) That the Director of Capital Projects update this Council on the potential plan to use the Homan’s site for installation of a stormwater retention tank. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.4. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 25-0350) That the Commissioner of Public Works update this Council on how the Municipal Sidewalk Clearing Pilot program for Broadway and School Street is functioning during this challenging winter. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.5. Order By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor McLaughlin, (ID # 25-0355) Councilor Sait, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Mbah That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry discuss the feasibility of removing snow from city playgrounds. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.6. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-0356) That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss the process for clearing bike lanes of snow. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.D.7. Order By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, (ID # 25-0359) Councilor Mbah and Councilor Scott That the Director of Engineering update this Council on the whereabouts of the Portland Loos. Page 13 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 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 # 25-0407) Maintenance, meeting on March 3, 2025. Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed the need of developing a Swing Space plan to accommodate students, the conversion of former lab space at the Healey School, development of the FY 2026 project plan and budget, and the installation of lockdown blinds at SHS. The committee also received an update on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process for the Winter Hill and Brown Schools. Councilor Davis moved to sever item #25-0234 from the committee report and refer it back to the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and Maintenance. The motion was approved by unanimous consent. RESULT: APPROVED 6.E.2. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0234) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management develop a Swing Space plan to accommodate Somerville Public Schools students to mitigate disruption to students, families, and staff while a school building is unavailable or during construction. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 6.E.3. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0235) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management provide an update on the conversion of the former science lab in Room 208 at the Arthur D. Healey School, to small group learning classrooms. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.E.4. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0237) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management discuss with the City Council and School Committee, the development of the FY 2026 project plan and budget in accordance with the adopted Capital Investment Plan. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 14 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 6.E.5. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0238) That the Commissioner of Public Works complete installation of any remaining lockdown blinds needed for safety at Somerville High School. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session with the City (ID # 25-0406) Solicitor and Lawyers for Civil Rights to discuss legal services in connection with any Executive Order issued by the Trump Administration regarding “sanctuary cities”. The Council voted to enter into Executive Session at 8:18 PM to discuss this matter. The Council returned from Executive Session at 9:17 PM and after reconvening the regular meeting, President Pineda Neufeld reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the motion to adjourn and return to open session. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to authorize the City of (ID # 25-0416) Somerville to establish a net zero emissions standard for new constructed buildings and major renovation projects. Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi informed the members that this item was previously recommended for approval but now needs a new approval to move it forward at the state house. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld Page 15 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to provide legal voting rights (ID # 25-0417) in municipal elections for non-citizen residents of the City of Somerville. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 64G, (ID # 25-0483) Section 3D(a), to authorize the city to impose a community impact fee of 3% of the total amount of rent upon each transfer of occupancy of “Professionally-managed units”. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the acceptance of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 64G, (ID # 25-0484) Section 3D(b), to authorize the city to impose the community impact allowed under Chapter 3D(a) of G.L. c. 64G, on each transfer of occupancy of a short-term rental unit in a two- or three-family dwelling, that includes the operator’s primary residence. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $922,609 from the Salary Contingency (ID # 25-0470) account to various departmental Salaries Accounts to fund an update to the non-union salary ordinance. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $35,000 from the Health and Human (ID # 25-0434) Services Professional and Technical Services Account to the Council on Aging Transportation (Non-School) Account for the Senior Taxi Transportation program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 16 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only extension for an additional two years (ID # 25-0285) until 12/31/2026 for the contract with Warner Larson Landscape Architects, to complete additional structural and design services at the Healey Schoolyard and Athletic Field. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $42,000 grant with no new (ID # 25-0410) match required from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for safety equipment. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,090 using (ID # 25-0400) available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department DCR-Boat House account. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $239.50 using (ID # 25-0411) available funds in the Police Department Medical and Dental Services account for a medical invoice. Legislative Liaison Yasmine Raddassi asked that this item be withdrawn. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $72.24 using (ID # 25-0168) available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Rental Water Cooler Account for the purchase of four cases of bottled water. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Hudl (ID # 25-0452) Focus cameras. Page 17 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Alfred William Rymill III as (ID # 25-0402) Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through 7.16 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 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Michael De Bethencourt (ID # 25-0403) as Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through 7.16 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 7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the re-appointment of Sean Browne as (ID # 25-0404) Somerville Housing Authority Police Officer. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the readings of items 7.14 through 7.16 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 Conveying the appointment of Matt Iglesias to the Municipal Scholarship Communication Committee. (ID # 25-0458) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 7.18. Mayor's Conveying the appointment of Sarah Beckmann, Ben Cuba, and Christine Communication Hayes to the Arts Council. (ID # 25-0459) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS Page 18 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, C.J. Doherty Inc. (ID # 25-0424) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Commonwealth Construction & Utilities, (ID # 25-0425) Inc. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Ferrante Construction LLC. (ID # 25-0426) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.4. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Hydra Tech, Inc. (ID # 25-0427) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Jason Anthony Corp. (ID # 25-0428) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, JET Excavation. (ID # 25-0429) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, McGue Excavating LLC. (ID # 25-0430) Page 19 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Metro Equipment Corporation. (ID # 25-0431) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.9. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Spencer Contracting. (ID # 25-0432) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.10. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, The Welch Corp. (ID # 25-0433) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.11. License Renewing Flammables License, Mercedes Benz of Boston, 259 McGrath (ID # 25-0435) Highway. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.12. License Renewing Flammables License, Trum Field Sunoco, 541 Broadway. (ID # 25-0436) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.13. License Renewing Garage License, Broadway Brake Corp, 45 Broadway. (ID # 25-0437) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 20 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 9.14. License Renewing Garage License, Broadway Sunoco, 258 Broadway. (ID # 25-0438) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.15. License Renewing Garage License, Modern Floors, Inc., 22 Marshall Street. (ID # 25-0440) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.16. License Renewing Garage License, Pearl Street Auto Sales, 182 Pearl Street. (ID # 25-0441) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.17. License Renewing Garage License, U-Haul of Boston, 151 Linwood Street. (ID # 25-0442) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.18. License Renewing Garage License, Webster Auto Body, 69 Webster Avenue. (ID # 25-0443) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.19. License Renewing Livery License, Med Transportation LLC, 34 Grant Street. (ID # 25-0444) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.20. License Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Luce Boutique, 56 Union Square. (ID # 25-0445) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 21 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 9.21. License New Sign/Awning License, Cookies Retail LLC, 71 Union Square, 2 Signs. (ID # 25-0446) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.22. License Renewing Taxi Medallion, HollyPaul Desravines, Med. #92. (ID # 25-0447) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.23. License Renewing Used Car Dealer Class 2 License, Broadway Sunoco, 258 (ID # 25-0448) Broadway. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.24. Public Event SomerPromise Department applying for a Public Event License for Week of (ID # 25-0451) the Young Child Celebration on April 10 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.25. Public Event Tufts Engineers without Borders applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 25-0449) Fred Berger Memorial 6K Run/Walk on April 13 from 11:00am to 1:30pm (raindates April 18, 27). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.26. Public Event St. Benedict Parish applying for a Public Event License for Good Friday (ID # 25-0450) Drama on April 18 from 3:30pm to 6:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.27. Public Tufts University conveying its Spring 2025 Accountability Report. Communication (ID # 25-0409) Page 22 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 9.28. Public Cole Rainey-Slavick submitting comments re: item #23-1461, Safe Streets Communication ordinance. (ID # 25-0453) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.29. Public Michéle Hansen and Matthias Rudolf submitting comments re: item Communication #24-1584, Zoning Map Amendment to change the zoning district of 11 (ID # 25-0454) Horace Street, 5-7, 9, 13, and 15 Ward Street, and 15 and 21 South Street from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6). RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.30. Public Abigail Walzer submitting comments re: Copper Mill project. Communication (ID # 25-0455) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.31. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-0439) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Citation By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0492) Commending 311 Somerville for nearly 20 years of dedicated service. President Pineda Neufeld congratulated the 311 team for their dedication to the residents of the city and noted that it was the first of its kind in New England. Director Craig thanked the Council for the honor and for their support. RESULT: APPROVED 10.2. Order By Councilor Sait and Councilor Wilson (ID # 25-0489) That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management work with a consultant to provide this Council with the renovation cost of the Cummings School building. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee Page 23 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 10.3. Order By Councilor Sait (ID # 25-0490) That the Director of Engineering provide an update on the construction of the Lowell Street crosswalk facing the Magoun Square Green Line station. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.4. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Sait, Councilor Wilson and (ID # 25-0509) Councilor Mbah That the Director of Human Resources report to this Council the list of all department heads who have completed, and a list of those who have not completed, all relevant trainings on interpretation and language access. Councilor Pineda Neufeld comments about training courses developed by the Office of Immigrant Affairs and she would like to have the requested information. Councilor Wilson spoke about the importance of having interpretation services for public events. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 10.5. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld (ID # 25-0511) That the Director of Mobility install speed humps on Elmwood Street. Councilor Pineda Neufeld noted that drivers are using side streets to avoid speed bumps and this has resulted in Elmwood Street experiencing fast traffic. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 10.6. Order By Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Burnley (ID # 25-0510) Jr., Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management discuss with this Council what strategies and resources are being utilized to bring Somerville’s Tannery Brook Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) into compliance with the current and future long-term CSO control plans. Councilor Ewen-Campen commented that Alewife Brook has been overlooked in the past. President Pineda Neufeld sponsored Save the Alewife Brook members Andy Visser, Kristen Anderson, David Stoff and Gene Benson to speak on the matter. Ms. Anderson noted that untreated sewage flowed into her home in the past and she gave a presentation outlining some possible solutions. She pointed out that floodwaters contain untreated sewage from Cambridge and Somerville and she spoke about the amount of raw sewage being dumped. Ms. Anderson went on to say that this is not in compliance with the Boston Harbor Cleanup court case or the Clean Page 24 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 Water Act. MA DEP has taken steps regarding floatables in the water, but things are getting worse due to neglect. Her organization is not seeing improvements for Alewife Brook even thought there is an opportunity to make things better. She asked the Council to focus its EPA funding projects for Alewife Brook. Councilor Wilson mentioned that the city will be hosting a listening session on April 3 to hear the concerns of residents. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.7. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 25-0515) That the Director of Engineering install a curb cut in front of the Edgerly Education Center's accessible entrance on Bonair Street over the summer. Councilor Burnley said that he hopes this can be accomplished over the summer. Councilor McLaughlin reported that the city is planning on doing this work during the summer. RESULT: APPROVED 10.8. License New Drainlayer's License, Umbro & Sons Construction Corp. (ID # 25-0498) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.9. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Baystate Engineering Corp. (ID # 25-0494) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.10. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, CRL Inc. (ID # 25-0495) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.11. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Mendez Masonry & Construction, Inc. (ID # 25-0496) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 25 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 10.12. License Renewing Drainlayer's License, Milltown Plumbing & Heating Inc. (ID # 25-0497) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.13. License Renewing Extended Operating Hours License, Mayer Campus Center, 44 (ID # 25-0499) Professors Row. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.14. License New Flammables License, POAH Clarendon LLC, 20 Stephenson Aman (ID # 25-0500) Street, storing 1,000 gallons. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 10.15. License Renewing Garage License, Real Auto Shop, Inc., 463 McGrath Highway. (ID # 25-0501) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.16. License Renewing Outdoor Parking License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480 (ID # 25-0502) Columbia Street. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.17. License Renewing Second Hand Dealer License, Nissenbaum Auto Parts Inc, 480 (ID # 25-0503) Columbia Street. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.18. Small Wireless Crown Castle Fiber LLC applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for Facility facilities on an existing pole at 684 Somerville Avenue. (ID # 25-0504) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 26 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 10.19. Public Event BA Events Promotion applying for a Public Event License for Race of (ID # 25-0507) Ireland on March 16 from 7am to 1:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.20. Public Event Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church applying for a Public (ID # 25-0505) Event License for Greek Independence Day Event on March 22 from 10am to 2:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.21. Public Event The Curl Bar applying for a Public Event License for The Curl Bar (ID # 25-0508) Community Event on May 24 from 6am to 7pm (raindate May 31). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.22. Public Event Veterans Department applying for a Public Event License for Memorial Day (ID # 25-0506) Parade on May 25 from 8am to 3pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.26, 10.8 through 10.13 and 10.15 through 10.22 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.23. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,073,189 from the Salary & Wage (ID # 25-0514) Stabilization Fund to various departmental Other Lump Sum Payments accounts to fund the retrospective portion of a collective bargaining settlement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Union, Unit B. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld Page 27 of 28 City Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2025 10.24. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,810,905 from the Salary Contingency (ID # 25-0513) account to various departmental Personal Services accounts to fund FY 2025 retroactive payments related to a collective bargaining settlement with the Somerville Municipal Employees Union, Unit B. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Mbah, City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Ward Six City Councilor Davis, and Ward Seven City Councilor Pineda Neufeld 10.25. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $160,000 from the Unreserved Fund (ID # 25-0456) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Department of Public Works Repairs to Buildings Account for fabrication and installation of courts at Founders Rink. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.6 through 7.10, 7.12 and 10.25 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 10.26. Public Harvard University Conveying its Spring 2025 Accountability Report. Communication (ID # 25-0512) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Housing and Community Development Committee 10.27. Public Michael Curtis submitting comments re: tree work. Communication (ID # 25-0488) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:34 PM. Page 28 of 28