City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, July 10, 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 7:02 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance Davis. The City Council entered recess at 7:30 PM and returned at 7:36 PM. The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:31 PM and returned at 10:01 PM. The City Council entered recess at 10:26 PM and returned at 10:30 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 25-1246) Councilor Ewen-Campen arrived at 10:07 PM. Councilor Clingan arrived at 10:10 PM. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Present: 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. City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan Wilfred N. Mbah Lance L. Davis Absent: Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 25-1247) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of June 12, 2025. (ID # 25-1248) RESULT: APPROVED Page 1 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 2. ELECTION OF OFFICERS 2.1. Election Election of a President for 2025. (ID # 25-1205) MOTION: That Councilor Lance Davis be elected President of this City Council. Councilor Davis was nominated by Councilor Mbah and elected as President of the City Council for the remainder of 2025. City Clerk Kimberly Wells administered the oath of office to Councilor Davis. RESULT: APPROVED 2.2. Election Election of a Vice President for 2025. (ID # 25-1206) MOTION: That Councilor Wilfred Mbah be elected Vice President of this City Council. Councilor Mbah was nominated by Councilor Wilson and elected as Vice President of the City Council for the remainder of 2025. City Clerk Kimberly Wells administered the oath of office to Councilor Mbah. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Small Wireless Crown Castle Fiber LLC applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for Facility facilities on a new pole at 10 Hathorn Street. (ID # 25-1208) Brandi Spezzano, representing Crown Castle Fiber LLC, 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 166 (ID # 25-1210) feet of conduit in Broadway and Mount Vernon Street, from Manhole 1784 to a point of pickup at 44 Broadway. 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. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install one new Manhole and (ID # 25-1214) approximately 76 feet of conduit in Gibbens Street, from Utility Pole 383/1 through new Manhole 32650 to a point of pickup at 156 Highland Avenue. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and Page 2 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 3.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install one new Manhole and (ID # 25-1209) approximately 30 feet of conduit in Warren Street, from the new Manhole 32350 to a point of pickup at 8 Medford 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 3.5. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 40 feet (ID # 25-1211) of conduit in Moreland Street, from Utility Pole 236/9 to a point of pickup at 77 Moreland Street. CONDITION: That Eversource meet with neighbors to address concerns. Jacqui Duffy, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. Nick Piovesana, a neighbor, spoke saying that he is concerned about the terminology “approximately” and he would like to know an exact number. Ms. Duffy will arrange for a meeting with the owners of 77 and 79 Moreland Street to iron out any concerns. Councilor Wilson moved to condition the item that Eversource meet with neighbors to address concerns. The motion was approved. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS 3.6. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 5 feet (ID # 25-1212) of conduit in Prospect Street, from Manhole 23059 to a point of pickup at 86 Prospect 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 3.7. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install approximately 17 feet (ID # 25-1213) of conduit in Prospect Street, from Manhole 23058 to an approximate point of pickup near 110 Prospect 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 Page 3 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Resolution By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 25-1230) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson In support of Teamsters Local 25 in their labor dispute with Republic Services. This item was discussed with item #25-1268. Councilor McLaughlin noted that Republic Services is the second largest trash hauler in the country. He sponsored Teamsters Joint Council 10 New England Legislative Director Bridget Quinn, to speak. Ms. Quinn told the Council that 450 members of Local 25 are employed by Republic Services and that the union has been bargaining for a new contract with higher wages, health benefits and safe working conditions. According to Ms. Quinn, Republic Services is responsible for this situation, which led to 2,000 teamsters going on strike. She said that the union is seeking similar wages and benefits as are being paid by Capital Waste Management, a local company, to its employees. Councilor Strezo commented that Republic Services is showing contempt for its workforce and customers and Councilor Scott said this is fundamental to workers’ rights. He requested that the city’s administration consider what the city can do to facilitate trash pickup for those left high and dry by Republic Services. RESULT: APPROVED 4.2. Resolution By Councilor Davis (ID # 25-1231) That the Administration submit to the City Council and School Committee, the city’s contingency plan in the event of an emergency school closure during the 2025-2026 school year. Dr. Carmona said this is an area of need and he is available for any conversations on the matter. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.3. Communication By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-1233) Conveying a report of the Job Creation and Retention Trust Fund. Councilor Mbah reported that the balance in the linkage fee fund is approximately $2.2 million with another $900,000 expected from upcoming development. An allocation of $294,200 was approved for SomerPromise. Trustees encouraged broader outreach for training programs and expressed widespread concern about federal funding cuts. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 4 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 4.4. Communication By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-1234) Conveying a report of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Councilor Mbah reported that the trust has $8.2 million in non-Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds and $8.3 in CPA funds available for new commitments. Trustees funded an emergency request from the Somerville Homeless Coalition, extended the Tenant Stabilization Program, approved a 2-year contract for Just-a-Start and released funds to purchase the property at 31-35 Richardson Street. The trust met earlier today to announce its end of the fiscal year status. Councilor Mbah stated that going into FY 2026, over $13.5 million is available for new commitments. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1. Officer's Director of Economic Development requesting that this Council convene in Communication Executive Session to discuss strategy regarding the disposition of 90 (ID # 25-1168) Washington Street. Special Counsel Catherine Lester Salchert confirmed that this item is appropriate for discussion in Executive Session. The Council voted to enter Executive Session to discuss the item and the regular City Council meeting was recessed at 8:30 PM and re-convened at 10:01 PM. President Davis announced that no votes were taken in Executive Session other than the vote to adjourn. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Five City Councilor Sait, and Ward Four City Councilor Clingan 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on July 8, 2025. (ID # 25-1226) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that among the items recommended for approval were the execution of an amendment to a lease for the Grove Street parking lot, a time only contract extension, a request to enter into a contract for Blue Bikes, authorization to dispose of previously abandoned bicycles to a charity, the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Agreement for Page 5 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 the 299 Broadway project. Two easements and a Landscape Management and Maintenance Plan for 299 Broadway were recommended to be withdrawn, as the Administration has submitted updated items to replace these. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait, and Mbah 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $38,500 grant with no new (ID # 25-0848) match required, from the Boston Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for Special Response Team equipment. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to execute the Fourth Amendment to the lease (ID # 25-0978) agreement with Dana Family Series, LLC, for the Grove Street parking lot, through June 30, 2026. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only extension for the contract with Franklin (ID # 25-1001) Cummings Institute, to December 31, 2026. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait, and Mbah 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to enter into a contract of up to ten years for the (ID # 25-1068) services of an operator for the Greater Boston Bike Share program (Bluebikes). RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait, and Mbah 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to dispose of bicycles previously abandoned in the (ID # 25-1086) City of Somerville to a charitable organization. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait, and Mbah 6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the final Urban Center Housing Tax Increment (ID # 25-1160) Financing (UCH-TIF) Agreement for the 299 Broadway project. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Public Access and Maintenance Access Easement (ID # 25-1163) for 299 Broadway Property Owner LLC. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Maintenance Access Easement and Landscape (ID # 25-1164) Management and Maintenance Plan for 299 Broadway Property Owner LLC for the future Sewall Park at the 299 Broadway development. RESULT: WITHDRAWN 6.B. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, (ID # 25-1222) meeting on June 30, 2025. Councilor Strezo summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed the possibility of getting tax ID Page 7 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 number for local small businesses and the economic impact to the city’s small businesses as a result of recent federal immigration policy changes. The committee received an update on recent changes to condominium conversion and tenant protection laws and recommended for approval the HUD 2025-2026 One Year Action Plan. Councilor Strezo reminded everyone that recent legislation enabling the sealing of evictions is now in effect. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 25-0133) That the Director of Housing Stability update this Council on recent changes to condominium conversion and tenant protection laws as a result of the 2024 Housing Bond Bill and how Somerville may strengthen its protections. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.3. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 25-0134) That the Director of Housing Stability update this Council on efforts to raise awareness for eviction sealing assistance in light of recent state legislation enabling the sealing of evictions. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.4. Order By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Clingan, (ID # 25-0247) Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Pineda Neufeld, Councilor Sait, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson That the Director of Economic Development report on the economic impact to small businesses in Somerville as a result of recent federal immigration policy changes. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the 2025-2026 Housing and Urban Development (ID # 25-1005) One Year Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant, Home Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on July 1, 2025. (ID # 25-1223) Councilor Mbah assumed the Chair. Councilor Davis summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed regulations pertaining to the use of motorized bikes as well as other ways to make the community path safer. Also discussed and recommended for approval was item #25-1044, Page 8 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 (ordainment of an amendment to Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the Code of Ordinances to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments). Councilor Davis moved that this item be severed from the Committee Report and Placed on File, as the administration submitted an updated version. The motion was approved. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Order By Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Sait, Councilor Strezo, (ID # 24-1740) Councilor Davis and Councilor Clingan That the Director of Housing assist this Council in drafting changes to the Condominium Conversion Ordinance to enable the Condominium Review Board to fulfill its intended function and prevent circumvention of tenant's rights. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.3. Public Chris Dwan submitting comments re: Urban Forestry Committee Communication recommendations. (ID # 25-0077) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.4. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 25-0154) That the Director of Economic Development present to this Council a plan to ensure compliance with Section 8-18 of the Code of Ordinances. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.5. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the (ID # 25-1044) Code of Ordinances to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments. This item was severed from the Committee Report and placed on file, since the Administration submitted a new item (item #25-1237) for tonight’s meeting. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 7-64, 7-65 and 7-68 of (ID # 25-1237) the Code of Ordinances to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments. Councilor Davis explained that this item is essentially the same as item #25-1044, which was severed from the Legislative Matters Committee Report, but with the addition of an effective date. He went on to say that minor changes were made to the ordinance after concerns were brought to councilors. Councilor Scott said the fundamental problem was that, under Page 9 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 the current ordinance, it was easy to displace tenants for condo conversion. The working group recommended changes so that the ordinance does not get circumvented. Councilor Davis stated that the intended effects are to make it more attractive to keep people in their homes. He noted that he has received some feedback in opposition to the changes. Councilor Wilson commented that it makes sense to table this item until the next regular City Council meeting in order to allow councilors time to digest and fully understand the ordinance and he moved to table the item. The motion was approved. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Maintenance Agreement and Landscape (ID # 25-1238) Management and Maintenance Plan for the future Sewall Park at the 299 Broadway development. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $1,500,000 from the Salary & Wage (ID # 25-1227) Stabilization Fund to the School Department to fund collective bargaining agreements. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $1,045,000 from the Participatory (ID # 25-1245) Budgeting Stabilization Fund for the purpose of implementing the winning projects from the second Participatory Budgeting cycle. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait Page 10 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $800,000 from the Facility Construction (ID # 25-1221) and Renovation Stabilization Fund for renovations to the Cummings School for the Warming Center Project. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $3,000,000 grant with no new (ID # 25-1207) match required, from the MassWorks Infrastructure Program to the Department of Infrastructure & Asset Management for the Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing and associated project area. RESULT: APPROVED 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Dayquan Goodnow to the (ID # 25-1241) position of Police Officer. RESULT: APPROVED 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Andrew Pasqualino to the (ID # 25-1242) position of Police Officer. RESULT: APPROVED 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Benjy Antoine to the (ID # 25-1243) position of Police Officer. RESULT: APPROVED 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Victor Souza to the position (ID # 25-1244) of Police Officer. RESULT: APPROVED 7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting that this City Council schedule a joint public hearing with the (ID # 25-1239) Somerville Redevelopment Authority regarding updating the 90 Washington Street Demonstration Project Plan. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee 7.12. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1043) Page 11 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 RESULT: WITHDRAWN 7.13. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1228) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's Chief of Police conveying a bi-annual report, pursuant to Section 2-6(g) of Communication the Code of Ordinances. (ID # 25-1232) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 8.2. Officer's City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued. Communication (ID # 25-1240) Councilor Wilson asked about the availability of block party supplies, as approved in the FY 2026 budget, and City Clerk Wells responded by saying that the scope of work has been drafted and staff is sourcing vendors to obtain quotes. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Drainlayer's License, WES Construction Corp. (ID # 25-1215) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.2. License New Hawker Peddler License, Wander Cat Cola. (ID # 25-1216) Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. Public Event Portuguese-American Civic League applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 25-1217) Annual Holy Spirit Procession on July 11 from 7pm to 8:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 12 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 9.4. Public Event Chuck Lechien Jr. applying for a Public Event License for HONK! (ID # 25-1218) Community Concert on July 19 from 12pm to 5:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. Public Event Kids Like You and Me applying for a Public Event License for Underground (ID # 25-1220) Pop Arts and Performance Showcase on July 19 from 1pm to 7pm (raindate July 20). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. Public Event Office of Immigrant Affairs and India Association of Greater Boston (ID # 25-1219) applying for a Public Event License for India Flag Raising and United States Flag Honoring Ceremony on August 9 from 9am to 1pm (raindate August 10). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. Public Courtney Foster submitting comments re: item #25-1170, in support of the Communication Climate Superfund Bill. (ID # 25-1235) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9.8. Public Dan Casparriello submitting comments re: item #25-1044, amendments to Communication Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the Code of Ordinances to reduce displacement of (ID # 25-1236) tenants and update relocation payments. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 25-1251) That the Director of Mobility address in writing, the steps the department will make to assess the feasibility and need to install a speed bump on Cherry Street between Highland Avenue and Summer Street. Councilor Burnley commented that this is a safety issue and he would like an assessment performed. RESULT: APPROVED Page 13 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 10.2. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor (ID # 25-1249) Strezo, Councilor Davis and Councilor Mbah Condemning Harvard's attack on its Graduate Student Union. AMENDMENT: WHEREAS: Education, research, and academic inquiry are values intimately connected to the lives, careers, and passions of Somervillians; and WHEREAS: Whereas the Trump administration has targeted education and research including grants, funding, and academic freedom at Harvard University; and WHEREAS: Harvard University employs many residents of Somerville; and WHEREAS: Labor unions play a critical role in workplace and economic justice; and WHEREAS: Harvard University is attempting to strip union protections away from workers who are in tenuous positions in science research, including by removing hundreds of students from the Harvard Graduate Student Union; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council strongly opposes these actions by Harvard, is opposed to all forms of union busting, and urges Harvard administrators to undo these actions; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That Somerville urges Harvard Administration to seriously engage with the demands of the Harvard Graduate Students Union on issues from fair pay, to protections from harassment and discrimination, to resources for non-citizens; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Harvard University administration and president. Councilor Burnley moved to replace the text of this resolution with the latest version submitted to the City Clerk. The motion was approved, and the amended language of the item was placed before the Council. Councilor Burnley commented that he has seen some disgusting actions by Harvard University as they attempt to remove 973 people from their union because, according to Harvard, they are not workers. He spoke about the meaning of workers being in dispute far longer than Harvard has been around and said that the university is trying to bankrupt the union, and if successful, they can do it to other unions as well. He sponsored Dorothy Manovich, a graduate student and union member at Harvard. Ms. Manovich told the Council that Harvard is trying to strip union ranks and that workers are already under stress. She stated that Harvard’s actions are explicitly illegal and that these workers will lose the wage increases that were negotiated. She also noted that the union relies on dues to operate, so if these workers get cut, the revenue loss will weaken the union. She asked for the Council’s support. Councilor Wilson commented that academia is founded on the exploitation Page 14 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 of student labor and the best antidote is student unionization. Councilor Scott expressed dismay, saying that we are in an environment of conflict and he urged Harvard to de-escalate this conflict with the union. RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED 10.3. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor (ID # 25-1250) Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Mbah and Councilor Strezo In support of certain public workers right to strike. Councilor Burnley stated that the fundamental power workers have is to withhold their labor. He noted that many public institutions employ workers who do not have the right to strike and that when public bodies do the wrong thing, workers should be able to strike without being punished. He sponsored Jim Kaplan, Marianne Walles and Colette Berard to speak. Colette Berard spoke about teachers striking in Andover because of contract negotiations with the School Committee. Jim Kaplan, a former teacher in Somerville, said the division of private vs. public rights was done when labor laws were written and he stated that in MA, labor laws can be changed, but in order to effectuate change, labor needs to be engaged and risks need to be taken. Marianne Walles, Regional VP of SEIU Local 509, said that her union is being “held at gunpoint” because it has no ability to fight for its members. Councilor McLaughlin spoke about the struggle for labor continuing today and he stressed that workers take risks when on strike. Councilor Scott commented that people in public sector jobs often earn less than those in the private sector and that removing the risk and impediments to striking will make public service better. Councilor Mbah assumed Chair. Councilor Davis stated that this is a fundamental issue for millions of workers in MA and the country and he hopes that Beacon Hill takes this matter seriously. He also said that the left needs to do a better job in collaborating with those holding other viewpoints. RESULT: APPROVED 10.4. Communication By Councilor Burnley Jr. (ID # 25-1252) Conveying information regarding the reconstitution of the Wage Theft Advisory Committee. Councilor Burnley gave a reminder that candidates for positions on this committee are to be submitted by the City Council President and approved by the City Council and he said that, after the Council’s summer recess, he will have a number of suggestions of who might fill the vacant seats. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Public Access and Maintenance Access Easement (ID # 25-1254) for 299 Broadway Property Owner LLC. Page 15 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 10.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $3,892,796 from the Salary & Wage (ID # 25-1229) Stabilization Fund to the Police Department, Other Lump Sum Payments account to fund retroactive payments in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement with the Somerville Police Employees Association. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: 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., City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, Mbah, and Davis ABSENT: Ward Five City Councilor Sait 10.7. Mayor's Conveying a communication to Republic Services urging expeditious Communication resolution to contract negotiations. (ID # 25-1268) This item was taken up with item #25-1230. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.8. Public Event Portuguese-American Civic League applying for a Public Event License for (ID # 25-1260) The Annual Holy Spirit Feast on July 11-13 from 6pm to 12:30am. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.9. Public Event Department of Racial and Social Justice applying for a Public Event License (ID # 25-1269) for Disability Pride Flag Celebration on July 24 from 4pm to 6:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.10. Public Event Public Library applying for a Public Event License for Comixcon on July 26 (ID # 25-1256) from 9am to 5pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. Page 16 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 RESULT: APPROVED 10.11. Public Event Leila Skiner applying for a Public Event License for Community Gathering (ID # 25-1259) for Peace on July 26 from 11am to 8pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.12. Public Event Somerville Public Schools applying for a Public Event License for Get (ID # 25-1262) Ready for School Fair on August 20 from 2:30pm to 7pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.13. Public Event Health and Human Services Office of Prevention Services applying for a (ID # 25-1261) Public Event License for Overdose Awareness Day Event on August 28 from 5pm to 7:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.14. Public Event The Somerville Foundation applying for a Public Event License for Davis (ID # 25-1258) Square Community Event on September 4-5 from 2pm to 10pm (raindate September 7). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.15. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Somerville Rock and (ID # 25-1255) Roll Yard Sale an ArtsUnion Event on September 7 from 8am to 7pm (raindate September 14). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.16. Public Event Society of S.S. Cosmas & Damian of Somerville & Cambridge applying for (ID # 25-1257) a Public Event License for Procession for S.S. Cosmas & Damian on September 7 from 3pm to 6pm (raindate September 14). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 9.1 through 9.6 and 10.8 through 10.16 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 17 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 10.17. Public Margaret Sapir submitting comments re: ceasefire. Communication (ID # 25-1263) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.18. Public The Somerville Chamber of Commerce submitting comments re: item Communication #25-1044, amendments to Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the Code of Ordinances (ID # 25-1264) to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.19. Public John M. (Jack) Connolly submitting comments re: item #25-1044, Communication amendments to Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the Code of Ordinances to reduce (ID # 25-1265) displacement of tenants and update relocation payments. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.20. Public Fernando Bento and Niranjan Gawli submitting comments re: item Communication #25-1044, amendments to Sections 7-64 and 7-65 of the Code of Ordinances (ID # 25-1266) to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 10.21. Public John Angelone submitting comments re: Davis Square. Communication (ID # 25-1267) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 10.22. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1174) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 10.23. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1175) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 11. LATE ITEMS 11.1. Resolution That this Council congratulates Councilor Sait and her family and welcomes (ID # 25-1270) Masten Cypress to Somerville. President Davis offered the congratulations of the Council to Councilor Sait on the recent birth of her child. RESULT: APPROVED Page 18 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 10:40 PM. Page 19 of 19