City of Somerville header
Meeting Name: City Council Agenda status: Final
Meeting date/time: 8/24/2023 7:00 PM Minutes status: Final  
Meeting location: City Council Chamber and Remote Participation
Published agenda: Agenda Agenda Published minutes: Minutes Minutes  
Meeting video:  
Attachments:
File #Ver.Agenda #TypeTitleActionResultAction DetailsVideo
23-1304 11.1.Roll CallCall of the Roll.Placed on file  Roll call Video Video
23-1303 11.2.RemembrancesRemembrances.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1273 11.3.MinutesApproval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, June 22, 2023.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1300 11.4.MinutesApproval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting, June 28, 2023.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1242 13.1.Grant of LocationComcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 515 feet of conduit as follows: Starting from Utility Pole 362/6 at the intersection of Columbia Street and Webster Avenue, 300 feet to Utility Pole 76/5 at the intersection of Columbia Street and Windsor Place, from Utility Pole 76/5, 55 feet to a proposed manhole, and from said manhole, 160 feet to a point of pickup at 495 Columbia Street.Approved with conditionsPass Action details Video Video
23-1206 14.1.OrderThat this City Council hereby reappoints Kimberly M. Wells to the position of City Clerk for a three-year term.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1281 14.2.OrderThat the Director of Mobility design traffic calming infrastructure for Laurel Street, which sees large volumes of high speed, one-way traffic down a steep hill.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1280 14.3.ResolutionIn support of the Massachusetts State House Employee Union.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1286 14.4.OrderThat the Chief of Police conduct compliance checks on liquor stores.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1287 14.5.OrderThat the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Health and Human Services coordinate daily inspection and cleanup of all City-owned properties along lower Broadway.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1288 14.6.OrderThat the Community Outreach, Help and Recovery (COHR) team work in conjunction with the Homeless Coalition to address homelessness in East Somerville open spaces.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1289 14.7.OrderThat the Director of Housing and the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council regarding repeated requests to provide shelter to homeless residents.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1290 14.8.OrderThat the Director of Health and Human Services engage Somerville Cares About Prevention to conduct compliance checks on establishments serving liquor to prevent over-serving of alcohol.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1292 14.9.OrderThat the Director of Inspectional Services conduct regular inspections of liquor stores in East Somerville to ensure cleanliness outside of the properties, and fine businesses in violation accordingly.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1293 14.10.OrderThat the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development investigate the possibility of seizing by eminent domain, 118 Broadway, aka the East End Grill, for the purpose of providing homelessness services.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1294 14.11.OrderThat the Director of Health and Human Services update this Council on the progress of Safe Consumption sites.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1283 14.12.ResolutionThat the Administration update this Council on the progress toward providing direct homeless services to East Somerville residents in temporary and permanent locations within Ward 1.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1284 14.13.ResolutionThat the Administration update this Council regarding increases in homelessness and the direct responses taken by the city to address those increases.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1291 14.14.ResolutionThat the Administration update this Council regarding progress toward Portland Loos.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1282 14.15.ResolutionThat the Mayor declare a State of Emergency due to rapidly increasing homelessness in the city.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1285 14.16.CommunicationConveying numerous locations suitable for temporary and long-term shelter for the homeless population.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1295 14.17.ResolutionThat the Administration designate a small children's section in City Hall between the Council Chamber and the Subcommittee Room for parents and caregivers.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1205 17.1.Mayor's RequestRequesting ordainment of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to repeal Section 10.9 Steep Slopes.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1230 17.2.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to allow the Chief of Police to assign police officers at all polling locations for the November 7, 2023 Municipal Election, as required by the VOTES Act.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1231 17.3.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval of November 1, 2023 through November 3, 2023 as the dates for Early Voting.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1232 17.4.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to change the polling location for Ward 4 Precinct 2 and Ward 4 Precinct 2A from the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to the Senior Building at 240 Pearl Street, and the polling location for Ward 4 Precinct 3 from the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to the Brazilian Presbyterian Church at 212 School Street.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1240 17.5.Mayor's RequestRequesting authorization to borrow $6,878,900 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount for various sewer improvement projects as part of participation in the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) I/I Local Financial Assistance Program, Phases 9-11.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1239 17.6.Mayor's RequestRequesting authorization to borrow $4,269,990 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount for the recurring FY 2024 Sewer Improvements program.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1298 17.7.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to appropriate $513,421 from the Capital Stabilization Fund to replace seven police vehicles.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1202 17.8.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to appropriate $411,776 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Open Space Reserve Fund to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for renovation of Henry Hansen Park.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1204 17.9.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to appropriate $150,000 from the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to the Police Department - Personnel Services - Other Lump Sum Benefits Account to settle pending litigation.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1146 17.10.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to re-purpose $100,000 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds awarded to the Parks and Urban Forestry Division for the design of Junction Park, to be used for construction.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1203 17.11.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to appropriate $98,053 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Historic Preservation Reserve Fund to the Somerville Museum for restoration of the collection storage area.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1201 17.12.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to appropriate $97,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Open Space Reserve Fund to the Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for renovation of the Brown Schoolyard.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1229 17.13.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval of a transfer of $57,716.11 from the Veterans Department's Ordinary Maintenance - Veterans Benefits account to the Personal Services - Salaries account to fund the Veterans Project Manager position though the end of FY 2024.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1260 17.14.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval of a transfer of $2,105.53 from the Salary Contingency Account to the Medicare Account for Medicare tax reimbursement.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1234 17.15.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $250,000 grant with no new match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Mobility Division for the study/design of sound walls for interstate-93 near the Mystic housing developments.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1207 17.16.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Administration Division for the study of energy efficiency opportunities in affordable housing for low and moderate income households.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1208 17.17.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $100,000 grant with no new match required, from MA Department of Housing and Community Development to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Administration Division for focus groups and a feasibility study related to the development of a rental registry and energy retrofitting housing.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1261 17.18.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $95,000 grant with no new match required, from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program 2.0 Planning Grant.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1263 17.19.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $75,000 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department to support the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) sustainability and upgrades.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1050 17.20.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $48,612.38 grant that requires a match, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the Fire Department for the purchase of high visibility jackets.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1262 17.21.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $13,616.79 grant with no new match required, from the Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management to the Police Department for the purchase of ten motorcycle operator headsets that include microphones.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1255 17.22.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $4,980 grant with no new match required, from Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to the Fire Department for the purchase of emergency response equipment.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1252 17.23.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $3,830 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General to the Health and Human Services Department for the FY 2024 Healthy Summer Youth Jobs program.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1238 17.24.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $16,929.60 using available funds in the Engineering Repairs & Maintenance - Highways Account for Police details.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1196 17.25.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $13,833.64 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Admin Professional and Technical account for FY 2022 Roca services.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1160 17.26.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,867.08 using available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional & Technical Services Account for revenue management consulting services.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1197 17.27.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $440 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Repair & Maintenance Vehicles Account for vehicle inspections.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1241 17.28.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $31.40 using available funds in the Law Department's Ordinary Maintenance Recordings Account for public access to court electronic recordings.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1299 17.29.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the promotion of Christopher J. Ward to the position of Deputy Police Chief.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1256 17.30.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the promotion of Jeffrey DiGregorio to the position of Police Captain.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1257 17.31.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the promotion of Salvatore Fusco to the position of Police Lieutenant.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1258 17.32.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the promotion of Samir Messaoudi to the position of Police Sergeant.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1259 17.33.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the promotion of Steven Scrugli to the position of Police Sergeant.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1237 17.34.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the appointment of Cassie Walston to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1235 17.35.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the appointment of Dennis Lemard to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1209 19.1.LicenseRenewing Drainlayer's License, Environic Solutions Inc.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1210 19.2.LicenseNew Garage License, Ravelo's Auto Service, 61 Washington St, 3 vehicles inside, 4 vehicles outside for mechanical repairs and autobody work, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1226 19.3.LicenseNew Second Hand Dealer License, Luce Boutique, 56 Union Square, buying and selling women's accessories and clothing.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1227 19.4.LicenseRenewing Taxi Medallion License, Charlie's Family LLC, Med. #80.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1228 19.5.LicenseRenewing Taxi Medallion License, SSR Cab Inc, Med. #81.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1276 19.6.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 136 Curtis St.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1270 19.7.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 176 Curtis St.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1267 19.8.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 12 Dearborn Rd.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1269 19.9.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 29 Latin Way.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1278 19.10.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 43 Latin Way.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1236 19.11.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 98 Packard Ave.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1271 19.12.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 8 Professors Row.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1296 19.13.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 14 Professors Row.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1275 19.14.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 28 Professors Row.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1279 19.15.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 92 Professors Row.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1243 19.16.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 98 Professors Row.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1268 19.17.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 13 Sawyer Ave.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1272 19.18.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 37 Sawyer Ave.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1274 19.19.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 45 Sawyer Ave.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1277 19.20.LicenseRenewing Lodging House License, Tufts University, 21 Whitfield Rd.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1301 19.21.Public EventElizabeth Devane applying for a Public Event License for Community Corporation Annual Summer BBQ on August 26 from 9am to 2pm (raindate August 27).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1211 19.22.Public EventEmma Garfinkel applying for a Public Event License for Pomi's Park Playdate on August 26 from 9:30am to 12:30pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1212 19.23.Public EventJulia Tenney applying for a Public Event License for Boston Area Puzzle Hunt on August 27 and September 10 from 10am to 7pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1302 19.24.Public EventSaladin Islam applying for a Public Event License for Groundwork Harvest Festival on August 27 from 10am to 8pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1245 19.25.Public EventRocco Dirico applying for a Public Event License for Tufts Discover Davis Square on September 3 from 10:30am to 6pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1213 19.26.Public EventVeteran's Department applying for a Public Event License for Veteran's Health and Wellness Day on September 9 from 10am to 4pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1214 19.27.Public EventHelen Corrigan applying for a Public Event License for Irving St Block Party on September 9 from 11:30am to 8pm (raindate September 10).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1215 19.28.Public EventRob Maher applying for a Public Event License for Spring Hill Block Party on September 9 from 12pm to 11pm (raindate September 16).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1216 19.29.Public EventKevin Fitzpatrick applying for a Public Event License for Greene St Block Party on September 9 from 1pm to 10pm (raindate September 23).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1247 19.30.Public EventLorna McKenzie-Pollock applying for a Public Event License for Prospect Hill Block Party on September 9 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate September 10).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1217 19.31.Public EventAlex Feldman applying for a Public Event License for Rogers Ave Block Party on September 16 from 3pm to 8pm (raindate September 17).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1248 19.32.Public EventBeth Kevles applying for a Public Event License for Hancock Neighborhood Block Party on September 17 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate September 24).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1218 19.33.Public EventLindsay Allen applying for a Public Event License for East Somerville Main Streets Foodie Crawl on September 19 from 2pm to 10:30pm (raindate September 20).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1219 19.34.Public EventParks and Recreation Department applying for a Public Event License for Fall Festival on September 23 from 10am to 5pm.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1220 19.35.Public EventAnton Tutter applying for a Public Event License for Outside on Oxford Block Party on September 23 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate September 24).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1221 19.36.Public EventAaron Bickel applying for a Public Event License for Cycle 4 CMT Boston on September 24 from 7:30am to 9:30am.ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1222 19.37.Public EventNelson Salazar applying for a Public Event License for Virginia St Block Party on September 24 from 2:30pm to 8pm (raindate October 1).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1223 19.38.Public EventJames Adams applying for a Public Event License for Hudson St Block Party on October 7 from 1pm to 7pm (raindate October 14).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1249 19.39.Public EventJoe Wright applying for a Public Event License for School St Block Party on October 14 from 11am to 6pm (raindate October 21).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1224 19.40.Public EventMeredith Jones applying for a Public Event License for Trull St Block Party on October 14 from 12pm to 9pm (raindate October 15).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1225 19.41.Public EventArts Council applying for a Public Event License for SomerStreets: Monster Mash on October 22 from 12pm to 8pm (raindate October 29).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1194 19.42.Public CommunicationCarol Rego submitting comments re: rent stabilization.Placed on filePass Action details Video Video
23-1195 19.43.Public CommunicationKatherine Kaufmann submitting comments re: Armory building.Placed on filePass Action details Video Video
23-1233 19.44.Public CommunicationChris Dwan submitting comments re: city lawsuit against Newport Construction for improper removal of trees on Beacon Street.Placed on file and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1250 19.45.Public Communication18 residents submitting comments re: item #23-1162, a resolution regarding the "Idaho Stop".Placed on file and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1297 110.1.OrderThat the Director of Mobility work with relevant departments and divisions to install wayfinding signage on the Community Path, including freeway exit-style signage on the Community Path Extension, given that segment’s limited access.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1312 110.2.OrderThat the Director of Mobility update this Council on plans to expand bicycle parking in the city, with a focus on Davis Square and Union Square including potentially using intersection daylighting spaces for bike racks.Approved as amended and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1308 110.3.OrderThat the Director of the Arts Council and the Director of Economic Development take the steps outlined within, relative to the Armory building.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1309 110.4.OrderThat the Director of Economic Development take the steps described within, relative to the Armory building.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1310 110.5.ResolutionThat the Administration report to this Council on the usage of the Armory building by existing tenants, city tenants, and what have been the vacancies.Approved and sent for discussionPass Action details Video Video
23-1244 110.6.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to accept and expend a $61,710 grant that requires a match, from Metro North Regional Employment Board to the Health and Human Services Department for YouthWorks Summer Program.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1264 110.7.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $6,285 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Elevator Repair & Maint Account for repairs to the High School elevators.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1265 110.8.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $4,509.75 using available funds in the Department of Public Works Buildings Interior Maint Account for asbestos testing.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1246 110.9.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $3,867.08 using available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional and Technical Services Account for Public Consulting Group for Medicaid billing services.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1251 110.10.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $2,684 using available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional and Technical Services Account for The Throne Depot for portable restrooms.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1266 110.11.Mayor's RequestRequesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $980 using available funds in the Buildings Fire Alarm Repair & Maint Account for Fire Alarm testing and services.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1307 110.12.Mayor's RequestRequesting confirmation of the appointment of Jennifer Tsolas to the Condominium Review Board.Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1313 110.13.Mayor's CommunicationConveying an update on the Winter Hill Community Innovation School.Placed on filePass Action details Video Video
23-1315 110.14.Public EventCouncil on Aging applying for a Public Event License for Mayor Ballantyne's Senior Picnic on September 14 from 8:30am to 2pm (raindate September 15).ApprovedPass Action details Video Video
23-1305 110.15.Public CommunicationJohn Fragione and Agostino Feola, Trustees of Frala Realty Trust, requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from Mid-Rise 3 (MR3) to Mid-Rise 5 (MR5).Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1306 110.16.Public CommunicationMai Lau, 635 Somerville Avenue LLC, requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 627 Somerville Avenue from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3).Referred for recommendation  Action details Video Video
23-1311 110.17.Public CommunicationJeffrey Maciak submitting comments re: cleaning up Somerville.Placed on filePass Action details Video Video