City Council

City of Somerville, Massachusetts City Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, September 25, 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 7:03 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered recess at 7:13 PM and returned at 7:17 PM. The City Council entered Executive Session at 7:32 PM and returned at 7:48 PM. 1.1. Roll Call Call of the Roll. (ID # 25-1505) 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 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 Absent: Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah 1.2. Remembrances Remembrances. (ID # 25-1506) RESULT: APPROVED 1.3. Minutes Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 28, 2025. (ID # 25-1507) RESULT: APPROVED 2. CITATIONS 2.1. Citation By Councilor Clingan, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wilson (ID # 25-1365) Commending the Somerville Firefighters for their life saving actions in Summer 2025. Councilor Clingan presented the citation to Mike Jefferson, President of the Page 1 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 Somerville Firefighters Union Local 76 on behalf of the City Council and Mayor Ballantyne for their heroic actions fighting a quick spreading fire on Wheatland Street on July 6, 2025, under extreme conditions in which 27 residents were displaced. Councilor Clingan spoke of the bravery and professionalism of the firefighters not only at this fire and two other fires in West Somerville and on Thurston Street, but also for their tireless service to the city. Liaison Hutter thanked the firefighters on behalf of the mayor. RESULT: APPROVED 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 6 feet of (ID # 25-1463) conduit in Warwick Street, from Utility Pole 357/2 to a point of pickup at 13 Warwick 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 3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 68 feet of (ID # 25-1464) conduit in Cedar Street, from Utility Pole 55/4 to a point of pickup at 33 Cedar 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. Grant of Location Verizon New England applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of (ID # 25-1465) 305 feet of conduit in Somerville Avenue, from existing Manhole 44/42 to a point of pickup at existing Manhole 44/33. Alexander Marrero, representing Verizon New England, 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 3.4. Grant of Location Verizon New England applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of (ID # 25-1466) 385 feet of conduit in Bow Street, from existing Manhole 44/32 to a point of pickup at existing Manhole 44/33. Alexander Marrero, representing Verizon New England, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further Page 2 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. RESULT: APPROVED 4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS 4.1. Order By Councilor Strezo, Councilor Davis, Councilor Wilson and Councilor Sait (ID # 25-1455) That the Director of Health and Human Services inform this Council which school buildings have menstrual products available and which school buildings have inoperable menstrual product dispensers and when they are scheduled to be replaced. Councilor Strezo noted that some of the dispensers are jamming, and she would like corrective action taken. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee 4.2. Order By Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-1456) That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council the recent snagging of overhead wires by a semi-truck, that took out the electricity in Ward Seven, and what plans have been put in place to prevent a similar occurrence. Councilor Strezo recalled that last month a semi took out an electric pole, knocking out service to a neighborhood and she would like to have a discussion on the matter. Councilor Clingan commented that wind sometimes stretches wires to the point where they might get snagged. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Public Utilities and Public Works Committee 4.3. Resolution By Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-1457) That the Administration discuss with this Council its recent press release announcement of a Home Rule Petition to expand procurement opportunities for disadvantaged businesses. Councilor Strezo requested that this item be referred to the Committee on Housing and Community Development, where she would like to hear about the city’s strategy and plan. President Davis noted that the item for the Home Rule Petition is before the Council’s Legislative Matters Committee and he would rather refer the item there to keep them together. After further discussion, Councilor Strezo stated that should the Home Rule Petition be approved, she would resubmit this item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 3 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 4.4. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1491) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 4.5. Communication By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-1492) Conveying a report of the Affordable Housing Trust. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 4.6. Communication By Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-1493) Conveying a report of the Job Creation and Retention Trust. RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE 4.7. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor Wilson and (ID # 25-1498) Councilor Burnley Jr. That the Director of Mobility develop and install quick-build safety infrastructure at the intersection of Webster and Prospect Streets. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that this has been a problem intersection for years and he believes that a quick-build solution is warranted. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.8. Order By Councilor Ewen-Campen (ID # 25-1499) That the Director of Mobility install a pedestrian light signal at the intersection of Vinal Avenue and Highland Avenue. Councilor Ewen-Campen noted that the crossing has been made safer, yet it is still extremely dangerous, and he would like to have additional safety measures put in place. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 4.9. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-1500) That the Director of Mobility deploy quick-build traffic calming measures on Grant Street until permanent speed humps are installed. Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and approve this item. RESULT: APPROVED Page 4 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 4.10. Order By Councilor Clingan (ID # 25-1501) That the Director of Mobility deploy quick-build traffic calming measures on Derby Street until permanent speed humps are installed. Councilor Clingan moved to waive the reading and approve this item. RESULT: APPROVED 4.11. Order By Councilor Clingan and Councilor Strezo (ID # 25-1502) That the Director of Mobility install a solar powered digital YOUR SPEED IS display sign on Shore Drive westbound. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES 6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE 6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on September 23, 2025. (ID # 25-1503) Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee recommended for approval payment of prior year invoices, the acceptance and expenditure of a grant, a partial discontinuance of a portion of a roadway, a partial discontinuance of an easement, an extension and amendment of an existing contract, an Order of Taking, an authorization to borrow and expend funds, and a transfer of funds. Councilor Wilson noted that the committee is taking a wait and see approach with respect to Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) grants, adding that the city’s values are not negotiable. Councilor Burnley commented that a memo has been received from the Law Department regarding the USAI grants. The issue is that the federal government has added new priorities to the grants which may require communities to put at least 10% of the grant funds towards cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Presently, there is federal litigation pending which may determine the legality of that requirement. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $330 using available (ID # 25-1294) funds in the Office of Sustainability and Environment Professional and Technical Services Account for monitoring the Argenziano School solar array. RESULT: APPROVED Page 5 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $50,000 grant with no new (ID # 25-1295) match required, from Commonwealth of MA Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for a study investigating possible zoning incentives to increase the ability to comply with the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the discontinuance of a portion of Sewall Court. (ID # 25-1382) RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the partial termination of the City Utility Easement (ID # 25-1383) on Sewall Court. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to extend and amend a contract with Eastern Bank for (ID # 25-1384) an additional year until 8/31/2026, for the banking services of the Treasury Department. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $545.31 using (ID # 25-1387) available funds in the Police Department Equipment Maintenance Account for electronic access door service. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting the adoption of an Order of Taking for the acquisition of Lot 3 at (ID # 25-1400) 299 Broadway for municipal purposes including parking. RESULT: APPROVED Page 6 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $4,300,000 in a bond, and to appropriate (ID # 25-1411) the same amount for the design of the Morrison Avenue Linear Storage Sewer Separation project. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.A.10.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $350,048 from the Department of (ID # 25-1412) Infrastructure and Asset Management (IAM) Ordinary Maintenance Professional & Technical Services Account to the IAM Capital Outlay Professional & Technical Services Account. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.11.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $10,452.22 using (ID # 25-1413) available funds in the Department of Infrastructure & Asset Management Ordinary Maintenance Professional & Technical Account for Strategic Asset Management Plan. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.12.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $596.25 using (ID # 25-1414) available funds in the Department of Public Works Repairs-Comm Equipment, Repairs-Fire Alarm, and Reimbursement of Licenses Accounts. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.13.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $23.41 using (ID # 25-1415) available funds in the Emergency Management Public Safety Supplies Account for public safety supplies. RESULT: APPROVED Page 7 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 6.A.14.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $137.77 using (ID # 25-1416) available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for office supplies. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.15.Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $71.88 using (ID # 25-1417) available funds in the Emergency Management Office Supplies Account for office supplies. RESULT: APPROVED 6.A.16.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of temporary and permanent easements over Lot 3 of (ID # 25-1433) 299 Broadway in favor of 299 Broadway Property Owner, LLC. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 6.B. LAND USE COMMITTEE 6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on September 18, 2025. (ID # 25-1477) Councilor Ewen-Campen asked that the report be accepted as submitted. RESULT: APPROVED 6.B.2. Public 15 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Communication Zoning Ordinance sections 3.1.8c, 3.1.9c, 3.1.10c, 3.1.13k, 3.1.13l, 3.2.12l. (ID # 25-0200) and 3.2.12m. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 6.B.3. Order By Councilor Wilson and Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-0246) That the Director of Inspectional Services and the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning discuss with this Council, Type IV heavy timber construction now permitted in the 10th edition of Massachusetts State Building Code 780 and potential impacts on inspections, development, and the Zoning Ordinance. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 8 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 6.B.4. Order By Councilor McLaughlin (ID # 25-0338) That the Director of Planning, Preservation and Zoning provide the Committee on Land Use with an opinion as to whether the City Council may dictate standards and materials used for outdoor bike facilities. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C. SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE SPECIAL COMMITTEE 6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Special Committee on School Building Facilities and (ID # 25-1448) Maintenance, meeting on September 15, 2025. Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that among the items discussed were procedures for testing and maintaining the Ginny Smithers Pool and a contingency plan in the event of an emergency school closure. RESULT: APPROVED 6.C.2. Resolution By Councilor Davis (ID # 25-0727) That the Administration report to this Council on the cause of the reported chemical imbalance at the Ginny Smithers Pool and the process being used to address the imbalance. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.3. Resolution By Councilor Davis (ID # 25-0729) That the Administration develop a new process to address ongoing maintenance at the Ginny Smithers Pool and report to this Council to describe that process. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.4. Order By Councilor Sait and Councilor Mbah (ID # 25-1132) That the Director of Parks and Recreation report to this Council on the cause of the chemical spill at the Ginny Smithers Pool and the process to address the cause of the spill and prevent a future occurrence. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 6.C.5. 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. RESULT: WORK COMPLETED Page 9 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 6.C.6. Mayor's Conveying an update regarding work completed during Summer 2025 on Communication Somerville Public Schools buildings. (ID # 25-1333) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED 7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR 7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to discuss the (ID # 25-1432) proposed settlement of opioid litigation involving the Purdue Pharma bankruptcy case. The Council voted to enter into Executive Session to discuss this matter after being advised by Assistant City Solicitor Jason Piques that said action meets the criteria set forth in the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. The City Council entered Executive Session at 7:32 PM. The regular meeting was reconvened at 7:48 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 Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to raise the maximum amount (ID # 25-1429) of fines for violations allowed by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40, Section 21D. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee 7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 7 and Section 1-11(b) (ID # 25-1460) of the Code of Ordinances to require notification to tenants of parking permit restrictions in transit areas. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee Page 10 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $2,286,090 from the Salary & Wage (ID # 25-1496) 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 Superior Officers Association. This item was discussed with item #25-1497. Labor Counsel Matthew Sirigu explained that the funds will be used to satisfy conditions of the recently approved labor agreement and noted that it does not include bonus funds for wearing body cameras as they have not been placed in use. RESULT: APPROVED AYE: City Councilor At Large Wilson, Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, City Councilor At Large Burnley Jr., Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, and Ward Six City Councilor Davis ABSENT: Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin, and City Councilor At Large Mbah 7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Encore Artist and (ID # 25-1459) Cultural Support Stabilization Fund to support Local Cultural Council grants to artists, organizations, and schools. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $240,664.10 from the Transportation (ID # 25-1449) Network Company Special Revenue Fund for FY 2026 Vision Zero safety efforts. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $97,160 from the Salary Contingency (ID # 25-1497) Account to various Police Department Personal Services Accounts to fund a Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Somerville Police Superior Officers Association. This item was discussed with item #25-1496. RESULT: APPROVED Page 11 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to use available funds in the Law Department Personal (ID # 25-1494) Services accounts in the amount of $6,296.88 to increase the annual salary of the Municipal Hearing Officer. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to extend and amend a contract with City Hall Systems (ID # 25-1462) for an additional two years until 12/17/2027, for online bill payment services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $54,400 grant with no new (ID # 25-1447) match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for the Local Cultural Council grant program. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 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 $121,818.23 using (ID # 25-1479) available funds in various Department of Public Works Accounts for various services. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $527 using available (ID # 25-1452) funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Equipment Rental Account for truck rental. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. Page 12 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $159.96 using (ID # 25-1419) available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies Account for picnic blankets. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $94.75 using (ID # 25-1453) available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies Account for carbon dioxide tank refill at Dilboy Pool. Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.5, 7.6 and 7.8 through 7.14 and refer them to the Finance Committee. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Richard Lavey Jr. to the (ID # 25-1488) position of Police Deputy Chief. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 promotion of Michael R. Perrone to the (ID # 25-1480) position of Police Captain. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Rico Isidoro to the position of (ID # 25-1481) Police Lieutenant. Page 13 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Marc DiFava to the position of (ID # 25-1483) Police Lieutenant. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 7.19. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Joseph Teves to the position of (ID # 25-1484) Police Sergeant. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 7.20. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Jason Costa to the position of (ID # 25-1485) Police Sergeant. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 7.21. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Patrick Canty to the position of (ID # 25-1486) Police Sergeant. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 and refer them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters. Page 14 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee 7.22. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the promotion of Cassandra Campers to the (ID # 25-1487) position of Police Sergeant. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 7.23. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the (ID # 25-1440) Board of Assessors. RESULT: APPROVED 7.24. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the reappointment of Michael Flynn to the (ID # 25-1441) Board of Assessors. RESULT: APPROVED 7.25. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Nick Pittman to the (ID # 25-1450) Affordable Housing Trust Fund. RESULT: APPROVED 7.26. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Coralie Cooper to the (ID # 25-1475) Planning Board. Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.15 through 7.22 and 7.26 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 7.27. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1461) RESULT: WITHDRAWN Page 15 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 7.28. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1476) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 7.29. Withdrawn Withdrawn. (ID # 25-1482) RESULT: WITHDRAWN 8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS 8.1. Officer's City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued. Communication (ID # 25-1458) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. License New Garage License, Roman Auto Repair LLC, 45 Mystic Avenue, 5 (ID # 25-1467) Vehicles inside, 4 Vehicles outside, Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm, Sat: 7am-12pm, Sun: closed. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of item 9.1 and refer it to the Committee on Licenses and Permits. RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee 9.2. Public Event Mobility Division applying for a Public Event License for Western Pearl (ID # 25-1474) Street Reconstruction Updated Design Open House on October 4 from 11am to 2:30pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.3. Public Event Zinnia Smith applying for a Public Event License for Poetry in the Park on (ID # 25-1473) October 10 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm (raindate October 17). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED Page 16 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 9.4. Public Event Kids Like You and Me applying for a Public Event License for KLYAM (ID # 25-1469) Autumnal Music Spectacular on October 18 from 1pm to 8pm (raindate October 19). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.5. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Monster Mash on (ID # 25-1472) October 19 from 11:30am to 8pm (raindate October 26). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.6. Public Event Federal Realty Investment Trust applying for a Public Event License for 5th (ID # 25-1471) Annual Halloween Family Bike Ride on October 26 from 9am to 4pm (raindate November 2). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.7. Public Event Somerville Road Runners applying for a Public Event License for 29th (ID # 25-1470) Annual Gobble Gobble Gobble Road Race on November 27 from 6am to 1pm. Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 9.8. Public Katie Pilat submitting comments re: bike lanes. Communication (ID # 25-1468) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE Page 17 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 10.1. Order By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor (ID # 25-1513) Sait, Councilor Davis and Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs discuss with this Council the most critical content to include in an immigrant defense Know Your Rights document and how best to make it available in the preferred languages of residents. Councilor Burnley stated that his goal is to have a discussion regarding this matter as he believes that all community members should know what their rights are. He feels that the best way to reach people is through a citywide mailing. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 10.2. Resolution By Councilor Burnley Jr., Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor (ID # 25-1512) Sait, Councilor Davis and Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Mayor allocate funds for a citywide immigrant defense Know Your Rights mailing, and make this document available in Somerville's most prominent languages. This item was discussed with item #25-1513. RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee 10.3. Public Event Groundwork Somerville applying for a Public Event License for Harvest (ID # 25-1516) Festival on October 4 from 9am to 6pm (raindate October 5). Councilor Burnley moved to waive the reading of items 9.2 through 9.7 and 10.3 and approve them this evening. RESULT: APPROVED 10.4. Public Bill Valletta submitting comments re: item #25-1344, an Order that the Communication Director of Finance provide a comprehensive accounting of all stabilization (ID # 25-1514) accounts. Councilor Scott noted the work done by Mr. Valletta and he asked that this item be sent to the Finance Committee for further discussion. RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee Page 18 of 19 City Council Meeting Minutes September 25, 2025 10.5. Public Crystal Huff submitting comments re: items #25-1445 and #25-1446, Orders Communication regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and ShotSpotter. (ID # 25-1515) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was Adjourned at 8:21 PM. Page 19 of 19