Somerville public meetings in 2023

City Council

The City Council will review several municipal appointments and public hearing requests for utility installations. The meeting also includes discussions on various committee reports regarding social justice, accessibility, and community funding.

• Grant of Location: RCN Telecom to install 490 feet of conduit in Columbia Street
• Grant of Location: Comcast to install 701 feet of conduit in Columbia Street
• Grant of Location: Comcast to install 7 feet of conduit in Cross Street
• Appropriation: $170,000 from Union Square Community Benefits Stabilization Fund
• Amendment: $425,000 Community Preservation Act Grant for Somerville Hispanic Association

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will review the minutes from its November 15, 2023, meeting. A public hearing is scheduled regarding a new garage license for Greentown Labs at 444 Somerville Avenue to store vehicles.

• Approval of November 15, 2023, committee minutes
• Public hearing for a new garage license at 444 Somerville Avenue (Greentown Labs) for vehicle storage

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider multiple requests from the Mayor regarding fund appropriations and grant acceptances. Items include funding for participatory budgeting, police department programs, and small business assistance.

• $955,000 appropriation from Participatory Budgeting Stabilization Fund
• $170,000 appropriation from Union Square Community Benefits Stabilization Fund
• Contract extension for immigration legal services with Janeth Moreno of Moreno Law
• Acceptance of $116,800 grant for West Broadway Vision Zero Implementation project
• Ordinance to provide cost-of-living adjustments for School Committee and City Councilors

Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee

The committee will review several orders regarding accessibility, translation services, and community programs. Items include updates on ADA complaints and the status of Braille transcription requests. Members will also consider expanding funding for food access.

• Increasing food access funding from $55,000 to $100,000
• Updates on ADA complaints and Braille transcription services
• Discussion of the effects of Dobbs v Jackson on reproductive health
• Report on Parks and Recreation enrollment and staffing
• Status update on the citywide disparity study

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss several items regarding public safety and health. Discussions include requests for updates on homelessness services in East Somerville and reports on police officer traffic details and body camera status.

• Approval of November 2, 2023, meeting minutes
• Monthly updates on homelessness efforts in East Somerville
• Progress report on direct homeless services for Ward 1 residents
• Report on filled and unfilled traffic detail requests for construction projects
• Status update on police officer body cameras

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Planning Board to review several zoning ordinance amendments. Discussion includes adding new permitted uses, updating development standards for vegetated roofs, and reviewing requests to change zoning districts at specific addresses.

• Amendment to add Shared Workspace & Arts Education to Table 7.2.7
• Request to change 563-565 Broadway from Urban Residence (UR) to Mid-Rise 4 (MR4)
• Amendment to include vegetated roofs in Section 10.3 and Table 10.4.1
• Request to change 627 Somerville Avenue from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 3 (MR3)

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will review recommendations for various city board and commission appointments. It will also discuss an order regarding hiring updates for the Human Rights Commission.

• Reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the Board of Assessors
• Reappointment of Michael Flynn to the Board of Assessors
• Appointment of Alexis Washburn to the Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change
• Seven appointments to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities
• Update on hiring an Executive Director for the Human Rights Commission

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will discuss several orders regarding tenant rights and homeowner protections. This includes the legality of banning real estate agent fees for tenants and requiring businesses to post worker's rights. The committee will also discuss ordinances for developer harassment protection and pollution mitigation near highways.

• Discussion on banning landlords from passing real estate agent fees onto tenants
• Discussion on requiring businesses to post Worker's Rights Bills
• Proposed ordinance protecting homeowners from developer and realtor harassment
• Proposed ordinance for pollution mitigation in new housing near high transit roads

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee will discuss several infrastructure and utility items. Topics include timelines for Highland Avenue projects, water bill increases from new meters, and maintenance plans for the Poplar Street Pump Station.

• Timeline for Highland Ave utility work and redesign project
• Water bill increases from new meters and potential forgiveness period
• Ordinance amendment regarding removal of poles, conduits, and wires
• Maintenance plans for Poplar Street Pump Station and Spring Hill Sewer Separation Project
• Green Infrastructure pilot program to reduce flooding in Gilman Square

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss several orders regarding rodent activity. The discussion includes requests for the Director of Inspectional Services to address holes near the East Branch Library, inspect an alleyway near the Edgerly School, and provide a progress update on mitigation efforts.

• Approval of May 23, 2023, meeting minutes
• Request for inspection of rodent holes around the East Branch Library
• Request for an update on rodent mitigation progress
• Request for inspection of a narrow alleyway near the Edgerly School

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee of the Whole will review the minutes from the November 1, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes a discussion regarding a Police Department Staffing and Operations Analysis provided by the Director of the Department of Racial and Social Justice.

• Approval of November 1, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of Police Department Staffing and Operations Analysis

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding school building infrastructure, including HVAC systems and solar panel installation. Members will also review emergency relocation plans for specific schools and updates on the School Building Feasibility Study.

• Update on School Building Systems Feasibility Study
• Study on de-carbonizing mechanical systems and HVAC feasibility
• Plan for solar panel installation at schools without panels
• Emergency relocation plans for Winter Hill Community Innovation and Benjamin Brown schools
• Public website creation for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School plan

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review minutes from its November 14, 2023 meeting. The committee also reviewed reports regarding Home Rule Petitions to authorize rent regulation and stabilization within the city.

• Approval of November 14, 2023, committee minutes
• Home Rule Petition for Rent Stabilization
• Mayor's request for a Home Rule Petition to regulate rent in residential dwelling units

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee is discussing several orders related to traffic calming infrastructure and street maintenance. Discussions include requests for speed humps on specific streets and documentation of city processes for road selection.

• Documentation of the process for determining traffic calming locations
• Documentation of the process for Fall and partial repaving street selection
• Traffic calming infrastructure for Laurel Street
• Speed humps on School Street between Broadway and Medford Street
• Speed humps or traffic calming measures for Clarendon Avenue, Packard Avenue, and Warren Avenue

City Council

The City Council will review proposed FY 2024 tax classifications and residential exemptions. The meeting also includes several requests for fund appropriations regarding school relocation, infrastructure, and public works.

• Proposed FY 2024 residential exemption of 35% of average assessed value
• Appropriation of $2,502,191 from Parking Meter Receipts to reduce the FY 2024 Tax Rate
• Appropriation of $1,370,177 for the 90 Washington Demonstration Project legal services
• Appropriation of $56,215.42 for a BlueBike station at 74 Middlesex Avenue
• Eversource Grant of Location requests for conduit installation on Eastman Road and North Street

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding city services and infrastructure. Items include updates on spring cleanups and the potential installation of water fountains along the Community Path Extension. They will also consider proposals for job posting procedures and a new invasive species position.

• Proposal to create an Invasive Species Czar position
• Potential installation of water fountains on the Community Path Extension
• Request for updates on annual Spring Cleanups
• Orders regarding city job postings in parks and community boards

Land Use Committee

The committee will review several requests from the Mayor to amend the Somerville Zoning Ordinances regarding residential use categories, steep slopes, and building types. Members will also consider a proposal to include vegetated roofs in development standards.

• Repeal of Section 10.9 Steep Slopes
• Amendment to replace Section 9.1.1 Residential Use Categories and Table 9.1.1
• Amendment to Sections 3.1 Neighborhood Residence and 3.2 Urban Residence regarding house and triple decker building types
• Amendment to Section 10.3 and Table 10.4.1 to include vegetated roofs
• Discussion of four resident comments regarding vegetated roofs

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will review license transfers and new applications for businesses located at 166 Boston Avenue. These items include a flammables license transfer and new garage and used car dealer licenses.

• Transfer of Flammables License from John's Auto sales to Sam's Gas & Service (166 Boston Avenue)
• New Garage License for Sam's Gas and Service at 166 Boston Avenue
• New Used Car Dealer License for Sam's Auto Sales at 166 Boston Avenue

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Housing and Community Development Committee will discuss several orders including affordable housing conversions and city program updates. Discussion items include the Gilman Square Neighborhood Plan and the 100 Homes Program maintenance.

• Implementation status of the Gilman Square Neighborhood Plan
• Legality of landlords including non-disclosure agreements in leases
• Conversion of 125 Highland Ave into permanently affordable housing
• Maintenance issues regarding the 100 Homes Program
• Bedroom counts and accessible unit data for construction projects from the past three years

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several requests including contract extensions for construction and employee benefits. The agenda also includes various supplemental appropriations for school relocations, public works, and building improvements.

• Five-month extension for Suffolk Construction at Somerville High School
• Thirty-month extension for Benefit Strategies, LLC employee benefit administration
• $45,000 Community Compact Best Practices Technical Assistance grant for a Commercial Tenant Guidebook
• $1,370,177 appropriation from Free Cash to the 90 Washington Demonstration Project Account
• $2,502,191 appropriation from Parking Meter Receipts to reduce the FY 2024 Tax Rate

Legislative Matters Committee

The committee will discuss a proposal to draft a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization. It will also consider a Mayor's request regarding a Home Rule Petition to regulate rent in residential dwelling units.

• Proposal to draft a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization
• Mayor's request for a Home Rule Petition to regulate rent in residential dwelling units
• Approval of the October 30, 2023, committee meeting minutes

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding municipal building maintenance, including City Hall and the Teele Square Fire Station. Members will also review requests for road paving on Highland Avenue and updates on sewer separation work.

• Installation of a water fountain at Nunziato field
• Repairs to the Teele Square Fire Station
• Re-paving of Highland Avenue from Central Street to Walnut Street
• Sewer separation work and Poplar Street Pump Station maintenance
• Inspection of tree wells at 173 Broadway for ADA compliance

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will review the October 18, 2023, meeting minutes. The committee will also consider a Grant of Location for Comcast and a new garage license for Quick Auto Center.

• Comcast Grant of Location to install 20 feet of conduit in Beacon Street
• New Garage License for Quick Auto Center at 30 Joy Street
• Approval of the October 18, 2023, meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider mayoral requests regarding grants, budget transfers, and new personnel positions. The agenda also includes a bond request for street and sidewalk reconstruction and discussion of public comments regarding a scholarship foundation.

• $5,561,768 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction
• $108,226.70 grant for the Somerville-Cambridge Shared Public Health Service Initiative
• $32,000 transfer to fund a Clean Green Program Manager position
• Creation of a Senior Project Manager position in Engineering
• $5,925.42 transfer to fund an engineering position

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding homelessness services and outreach efforts. Discussions also include the Dark Skies ordinance enforcement and accessibility for the new East Somerville police sub-station.

• Update on Dark Skies ordinance enforcement
• Update on homelessness outreach, including hiring of four clinicians and case managers
• Proposal for a compensated community service program for unhoused residents
• Accessibility and public restroom requirements for the East Somerville police sub-station
• Updates regarding shelter requests and services for East Somerville residents

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will review several mayoral requests for personnel confirmations. These include appointments to the Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change and the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, as well as reappointments to the Board of Assessors and the City Treasurer and Collector of Taxes position.

• Appointment of Courtney Koslow to the Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change
• Reappointment of Linda Dubuque as City Treasurer and Collector of Taxes
• Reappointment of Francis J. Golden as Chief Assessor and Chair of the Board of Assessors
• Reappointment of Michael Flynn to the Board of Assessors
• Reappointment of Richard Scanlon to the Board of Assessors

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review the minutes from the October 17 meeting. Members will also discuss a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization and a Mayor's request regarding new building construction standards.

• Drafting a Home Rule Petition to establish Rent Stabilization
• Proposed ordinance amendment to restrict new buildings/renovations that are not fossil fuel-free

City Council

The City Council will review multiple municipal orders, including requests for infrastructure maintenance, public safety updates, and transit visibility. The Finance Committee is also presenting several recommendations to accept or expend various grants and fund transfers.

• Grant of Location: Comcast request to install 20 feet of conduit in Beacon Street
• Grant: $75,000 from Boston Mayor's Office of Emergency Management for Police Department EOC upgrades
• Grant: $220,560 from Massachusetts Department of Public Health for Tobacco Control Prevention
• Grant: $75,000 from MA Department of Housing and Community Development for Broadway zoning study
• Appropriation: $67,478 from Community Preservation Act to Somerville Museum for storage renovation

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board will meet jointly to consider several zoning ordinance amendments. These include requests to change residential building requirements, repeal steep slope regulations, and modify zoning district maps for specific properties.

• Amendment to permit house and triple decker types without conditions by repealing lot depth and dwelling unit requirements
• Repeal of Section 10.9 Steep Slopes
• Zoning map amendment for 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from MR3 to MR5
• Zoning map amendment for 627 Somerville Avenue from NR to MR3
• Amendment to replace residential use categories in Section 9.1.11

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will consider several new garage licenses and a request for extended operating hours at Dumpling Garden. The committee will also discuss the operation of licensed live music venues and the applicability of the Noise Ordinance.

• New garage license for Ravelo's Auto Service at 61 Washington Street
• New garage license for Quick Auto Center at 30 Joy Street
• Extended operating hours for Dumpling Garden at 273 Broadway
• Renewal of garage licenses for Dewire Family Trust on Washington Street
• Discussion regarding live music venues and the Noise Ordinance

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several requests from the Mayor regarding surveillance technology impact reports. The committee will also discuss an ordinance and resolution related to closed captioning accessibility and a request for a legal opinion on mailing traffic violation tickets.

• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Camera Ticket Enforcement
• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool
• Ordinance amending Chapter 8, Article I regarding Closed Captioning Accessibility
• Resolution supporting Closed Captioning Accessibility
• Order requesting a legal opinion on mailing traffic violation tickets via Chapter 90, Section 20A

City Council

The council will consider several applications for conduit installation by Eversource and Cambridge Network Solutions. Members also proposed various orders regarding low-hanging wires, speed humps, and school building maintenance plans. Additionally, the agenda includes reviews of committee reports on land use and legislative matters.

• Eversource applications to install conduit on Allen Street and Alpine Street
• Cambridge Network Solutions application for conduit installation near McGrath Highway
• Order for speed humps and traffic calming on Warren Avenue
• Proposed ordinance amendment regarding closed captioning accessibility
• Zoning change request for 0 and 14 White Street Place

Land Use Committee

The committee will review several items including a zoning map amendment for 200 Inner Belt Road and potential changes to density bonuses and residential occupancy rules. Members will also receive updates on the MBTA Communities Act and the status of city-purchased green space at Palmer Court.

• Zoning Map Amendment for 200 Inner Belt Road from Commercial Industry to High-Rise
• Proposed amendment for transit oriented height and density bonuses for affordable housing
• Proposed amendment to remove prohibition on more than four unrelated adults living together
• Update on zoning requirements of the MBTA Communities Act
• Status update on city-purchased property at Palmer Court

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding school building feasibility studies and the reconstruction timeline for Winter Hill Community School. Members will also consider requests for quarterly maintenance reports and a five-year assessment plan for older school buildings. Additionally, discussions include proposals for a public website for the Winter Hill project and yearly repair lists.

• Updates on the status of the School Building Systems Feasibility Study
• A requested timeline for the reconstruction of a new Winter Hill Community School
• Quarterly reports on major repairs and 311 work orders in school buildings
• A proposed five-year assessment plan for school building systems and structures
• A request for a public website dedicated to the Winter Hill Community Innovation School plan

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review recommendations for ordinances regarding closed captioning accessibility and adult use marijuana licenses. The committee will also discuss gender-neutral language in city ordinances and electric bicycle regulations.

• Ordinance amending Chapter 8, Article I regarding Closed Captioning Accessibility
• Amendment to Ordinance 2-221 regarding adult use marijuana licenses
• Discussion on changing all city ordinance pronouns to be gender-neutral
• Review of electric bicycle legislation for potential support in Somerville

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss several infrastructure orders including street paving on Highland Avenue and Otis Street. Members are also reviewing requests to address low-hanging wires at various residential addresses and discussing sewer separation work.

• Repaving of Highland Avenue from Central Street to Walnut Street
• Sewer separation work and Poplar Street Pump Station maintenance
• Installation of speed bumps on Myrtle Street, Lincoln Avenue, and Virginia Street
• Removal or raising of low-hanging wires at multiple residential locations
• Pothole repairs on Otis Street

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several financial requests, including funds for police vehicle replacement and COVID-19 contact tracing. The agenda also includes orders regarding street safety treatments and infrastructure reports.

• Appropriation of $513,421 to replace seven police vehicles
• $250,000 grant for sound walls near I-93 Mystic housing developments
• Ordinance to create a Safe Streets ordinance for expedited bike lanes
• $300,000 grant for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing
• Contract extension of $123,683.35 for Dilboy Park sports field improvements

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several requests including a contract amendment for Dilboy Park sports fields and various grant acceptances. The committee is also considering appropriations for police vehicle replacements and litigation settlements.

• Contract amendment with Warner Larson Incorporated for $123,683.35 for Dilboy Park auxiliary sports fields
• Transfer of $2,105.53 from Salary Contingency to Medicare Account
• Acceptance of $300,000 grant for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing
• Acceptance of $250,000 grant for I-93 sound wall study/design near Mystic housing developments
• Appropriation of $513,421 from Capital Stabilization Fund to replace seven police vehicles

Land Use Committee

The committee will consider several requests to amend the zoning map for properties on Inner Belt Road, Prospect Street, and White Street Place. The agenda also includes a proposal to include vegetated roofs in development standards.

• Zoning map amendment for 200 Inner Belt Road from CI to HR
• Zoning map amendment for 113 Prospect Street from UR to NR
• Zoning map amendments for 0 and 14 White Street Place to UR
• Amendment to include vegetated roofs in development standards

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will discuss resident displacement, rental assistance needs, and the status of tenants in the Armory building. Members will also review the effectiveness of the Community Alert System and crossing guard staffing levels.

• Discussion on housing stability and rental assistance needs
• Report on Armory building usage and vacancies
• Review of the effectiveness of the Community Alert System
• Update on crossing guard hiring for the 2022-2023 school year

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review surveillance technology impact reports for camera ticket enforcement and the GrayKey tool. The committee will also discuss an ordinance to protect homeowners from developer and realtor harassment. Additionally, members will discuss traffic violation ticketing via 311 reports.

• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Camera Ticket Enforcement
• Ordinance to protect homeowners from developer and realtor harassment
• Opinion on mailing traffic tickets identified through 311 reports
• Bicycle Advisory Committee comments regarding 311 ticketing
• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for GrayKey Digital Forensics Analysis Tool

Traffic and Parking Committee

The committee will review minutes from March and May 2023 and consider a recommendation for the Citywide Bicycle Network Plan. Discussion will also include several orders regarding traffic calming on Hudson, Summer, and Laurel Streets. Additionally, members will discuss bicycle parking expansion and wayfinding signage.

• Recommendation for the Citywide Bicycle Network Plan
• Bollards at Community Path entrances to prevent unauthorized vehicle entry
• Traffic calming on Hudson and Summer Streets
• Speed radar detector strategy for cut-through streets
• Infrastructure design for Laurel Street

City Council

The City Council is considering several grants of location for underground conduit installations by Eversource and Verizon. The agenda also includes requests to approve various budget appropriations for park renovations and grant acceptances. Additionally, the council will review several personnel appointments and police promotions.

• Grant of Location for Eversource to install 198 feet of conduit in Broadway
• Appropriation of $411,776 for Henry Hansen Park renovation
• Approval of a $48,612.38 FEMA grant for Fire Department high-visibility jackets
• Confirmation of appointments to the Housing Authority and Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Re-purposing $100,000 in CPA funds for Junction Park construction

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will review the minutes from the July 12, 2023 meeting. The committee will also consider recommendations for renewing garage licenses at 381 and 387 Washington St.

• Approval of July 12, 2023 meeting minutes
• Renewal of garage license for Dewire Family Trust at 387 Washington St.
• Renewal of garage license for Dewire Family Trust at 381 Washington St.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several requests including multi-million dollar bonds for sewer improvements and various appropriations from the Community Preservation Act. The agenda also includes requests to pay prior year invoices for public works and law department services.

• Bond authorization of $6,878,900 for MWRA I/I Local Financial Assistance Program
• Bond authorization of $4,269,990 for the FY 2024 Sewer Improvements program
• Transfer of $57,716.11 from Veterans Department maintenance to salaries
• Appropriation of $411,776 for Henry Hansen Park renovation via CPA Open Space Reserve Fund
• Appropriation of $97,000 for Brown Schoolyard renovation via CPA Open Space Reserve Fund

The committee unanimously approved two bond authorizations totaling $11,148,890 for sewer improvement projects under the MWRA program. It also approved Community Preservation Act appropriations of $98,053 for the Somerville Museum and $411,776 for Henry Hansen Park. Additionally, the committee approved a $57,716.11 transfer to fund the Veterans Project Manager position and approved payment of several prior‑year invoices, including $13,833.64 for Roca services and $16,929.60 for police‑detail fees. All items were adopted with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved $6,878,900 bond for sewer improvement projects (5‑0)
• Approved $4,269,990 bond for FY2024 sewer improvements program (5‑0)
• Approved $98,053 CPA appropriation to Somerville Museum (5‑0)
• Approved $411,776 CPA appropriation to Henry Hansen Park (5‑0)
• Approved $57,716.11 transfer from Veterans Dept to Personal Services salaries (5‑0)
• Approved payment of $13,833.64 prior‑year Roca services invoice (5‑0)
• Approved payment of $16,929.60 prior‑year police‑detail invoices (5‑0)
• Approved payment of $31.40 prior‑year Law Dept recordings invoice (5‑0)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss requests for updates regarding homelessness and shelter availability in East Somerville. Members will also review proposals for liquor law compliance checks and reports on traffic detail staffing. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions on safe consumption sites and sharps collection stations.

• Updates on homelessness increases and city responses
• Discussion of locations for temporary and long-term homeless shelter
• Proposed compliance checks on liquor establishments
• Report request regarding traffic detail fill rates for construction projects
• Updates on safe consumption sites and sharps collection stations

The committee approved the July 10, 2023, meeting minutes. Several items regarding homelessness, alcohol compliance, and health services were marked as work completed, while requests for homeless shelter updates and police traffic detail data were kept in committee.

• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Marked work completed on updates regarding homelessness increases and city responses
• Marked work completed on requests for alcohol compliance checks by the Chief of Police and SCAP
• Marked work completed on updates for Overdose Prevention Centers and sharps collection stations
• Marked work completed on the inquiry into PILOT agreements with healthcare providers
• Kept in committee request for updates on shelter for homeless residents
• Kept in committee request for homeless services in Ward 1
• Kept in committee request for traffic detail data for construction projects

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board will hold public hearings on several zoning map amendments. These include requests to change districts for properties on Inner Belt Road, Prospect Street, and White Street Place. The committee will also consider an ordinance amendment regarding vegetated roofs.

• Zoning change for 200 Inner Belt Road from CI to HR
• Zoning change for 113 Prospect Street from UR to NR
• Zoning changes for 0 and 14 White Street Place
• Ordinance amendment to include vegetated roofs in development standards

The Land Use Committee held public hearings for four separate proposals regarding zoning map amendments and a vegetated roof ordinance. No final actions were taken on any of the items; all four were kept in committee for further review.

• Kept in committee: Zoning change from Commercial Industry to High-Rise for 200 Inner Belt Road (ID # 23-0940)
• Kept in committee: Zoning change from Urban Residence to Neighborhood Residence for 113 Prospect Street (ID # 23-1070)
• Kept in committee: Zoning changes for 0 and 14 White Street Place to Urban Residential (ID # 23-1033)
• Kept in committee: Amendment to Zoning Ordinances to include vegetated roofs (ID # 23-0791)

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will review several mayoral requests for personnel actions. These include appointments to city boards and various promotions within the police department.

• Appointment of Jennifer Tsolas to the Condominium Review Board
• Appointment of Cassie Walston to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Appointment of Dennis Lemard to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners
• Promotion of Steven Scrugli to Police Sergeant
• Promotion of Samir Messaoudi to Police Sergeant

The committee recommended the approval of five police department promotions and three appointments to city boards. These recommendations require final approval by the City Council on September 14th. The committee also accepted the minutes from the July 10, 2023 meeting.

• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended appointment of Jennifer Tsolas to Condominium Review Board
• Recommended appointment of Cassie Walston to Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Recommended appointment of Dennis Lemard to Housing Authority Board of Commissioners
• Recommended promotion of Steven Scrugli to Police Sergeant
• Recommended promotion of Samir Messaoudi to Police Sergeant
• Recommended promotion of Salvatore Fusco to Police Lieutenant
• Recommended promotion of Jeffrey DiGregorio to Police Captain

City Council

The City Council is meeting to consider a 1.5-year lease for the Tufts Administration Building (TAB) running from September 1, 2023, through February 28, 2025. The Mayor has also requested a supplemental appropriation of $1,053,387 for this lease agreement on Holland Street.

• 1.5-year lease for the Tufts Administration Building (TAB)
• $1,053,387 supplemental appropriation for the Capital - Building Lease Account

The City Council approved a lease for the Tufts Administration Building (TAB) to house School Department staff and students. The Council also approved a supplemental appropriation to fund the lease agreement.

• Approved 1.5-year lease for Tufts Administration Building from Sept 1, 2023 to Feb 28, 2025
• Approved $1,053,387 supplemental appropriation for the Capital - Building Lease Account (ID # 23-1320)

City Council

The City Council will consider several Mayor's requests, including multi-million dollar bonds for sewer improvements and funds for police vehicles. Additionally, councilors proposed various measures to address rising homelessness in East Somerville.

• $6,878,900 bond authorization for sewer improvement projects
• $513,421 appropriation to replace seven police vehicles
• Resolution to declare a State of Emergency due to increasing homelessness
• $411,776 appropriation for the renovation of Henry Hansen Park
• Comcast request to install 515 feet of conduit on Columbia Street

The City Council approved a resolution requesting the Mayor declare a State of Emergency due to rising homelessness. The council also authorized several public safety and infrastructure measures, including a grant of location for Comcast and the reappointment of the City Clerk.

• Approved resolution for Mayor to declare State of Emergency regarding homelessness
• Approved reappointment of Kimberly M. Wells as City Clerk for a three-year term
• Approved Comcast grant of location for 515 feet of conduit with conditions
• Approved resolution supporting Massachusetts State House Employee Union
• Approved order for daily inspection and cleanup of City-owned properties on lower Broadway
• Approved order to investigate eminent domain of 118 Broadway for homelessness services
• Approved police officer assignments at all polling locations for Nov 7 election
• Approved Nov 1-3, 2023 as Early Voting dates

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a request for a supplemental appropriation of $108,379. This funding is intended to pay for a license agreement regarding use of space at the Tufts Administration Building on Holland Street.

• $108,379 supplemental appropriation to the Capital - Building Lease Account
• License agreement for space use at the Tufts Administration Building (TAB) on Holland Street

The City Council approved a supplemental appropriation of $108,379 to pay for a license agreement for space at the Tufts Administration Building on Holland Street. This space will house departments displaced by the vacation of the Edgerly Building.

• Approved $108,379 supplemental appropriation for Tufts Administration Building license agreement (8-0-3)

City Council

The City Council will review several Mayor's requests regarding school capital improvements. These include authorizing a $2,500,000 bond for the Edgerly Education Center and Winter Hill Community Innovation School. The council will also consider reallocating funds from stabilization funds to the Edgerly Building Improvement Project.

• Authorization of a $2,500,000 bond for Edgerly Education Center and Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Rescission of $2,500,000 in HVAC improvement bond authorization
• Appropriation of $1,361,025 from the COVID-19 Stabilization Fund to the Edgerly Building Improvement Project
• Appropriation of $460,110 from the Capital Stabilization Fund to the Edgerly Building Improvement Project
• Appropriation of $498,670 in unused bond proceeds to the Edgerly Building Improvement Project

The City Council approved five requests to fund renovations at the Edgerly Education Center to accommodate students from the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. The total budget for the work is $5,164,191, utilizing a combination of bonds, stabilization funds, and unused bond proceeds.

• Approved rescission of $2.5M bond authorization for HVAC improvements (8-0-3)
• Approved authorization to borrow $2.5M bond for Edgerly Education Center and Winter Hill Community Innovation School improvements (8-0-3)
• Approved appropriation of $1,361,025 from COVID-19 Stabilization Fund for Edgerly Building Improvement Project (8-0-3)
• Approved appropriation of $460,110 from Capital Stabilization Fund for Edgerly Education Center repairs (8-0-3)
• Approved appropriation of $498,670 in unused bond proceeds for Edgerly Education Center repairs (8-0-3)

City Council

The City Council will address various municipal matters including police policies for cyclists, road redesigns, and public health needs. The agenda also includes requests regarding school building maintenance and funding for local parks.

• Eversource Grant of Location: 158 feet of conduit on Washington Street
• Resolution: De-prioritizing enforcement against cyclists treating red lights as stop signs
• Resolution: Redesign of Highland Avenue from McGrath Highway to Central Street
• Mayor's Request: $119,032.68 for Reavis Field construction services
• Mayor's Request: $300,000 for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing

The City Council ordained an amendment to the Condominium Conversion Ordinance to remove the city's right to purchase units after a court challenge. The council also approved several board appointments and a grant of location for Eversource utility work.

• Ordained amendment to Condominium Conversion Ordinance (Sections 7-63 through 7-67)
• Approved Eversource Grant of Location for 158 feet of conduit on Washington Street
• Approved appointment of Michael Switkez and Francine Rogers to Biosafety Committee
• Approved appointment of Elizabeth Champion to Condominium Review Board
• Approved resolution declaring Somerville a Purple Heart Community
• Approved request for Police and Public Works to address trash and overgrowth near Maine Terrace and 165 Broadway
• Approved and sent to Traffic and Parking Committee: resolution to de-prioritize enforcement of 'Idaho Stops' for cyclists
• Approved and sent to Public Health and Public Safety Committee: request for sharps collection stations in public restrooms

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing regarding a new garage license for New England Collision Center Inc. The agenda also includes reviewing minutes from the June 12 meeting and considering three garage license renewals.

• Public hearing: New Garage License, 224 Somerville Ave
• Renewal: Garage License, 141 Beacon St
• Renewal: Garage License, 381 Washington St
• Renewal: Garage License, 387 Washington St

The committee approved a new garage license for 224 Somerville Ave with a limit on outdoor parking. One garage license renewal for 141 Beacon St was recommended for approval, while two other renewals for the Dewire Family Trust were kept in committee.

• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of new garage license for New England Collision Center Inc (224 Somerville Ave) with conditions: 3 cars outside and no vehicles on the sidewalk (3-0)
• Recommended approval of renewing garage license for Dewire Family Trust (141 Beacon St) (3-0)
• Kept in committee renewing garage license for Dewire Family Trust (381 Washington St)
• Kept in committee renewing garage license for Dewire Family Trust (387 Washington St)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will consider a Mayor's request for an ordinance amendment. The proposal involves changes to Sections 7-63 through 7-67 of the Code of Ordinances regarding condominium conversions.

• Amendment to Condominium Conversion Ordinance (Sections 7-63 through 7-67)

The Legislative Matters Committee approved a series of amendments to the Condominium Conversion Ordinance. These changes clarify definitions for non-paying tenants, update notice requirements, and address deed-restricted affordable units. The updates also remove the city's right to purchase converted units following a court challenge.

• Approved amendment to define non-rent paying tenant as someone who has 'never been charged for nor paid rent' (5-0)
• Approved adding 'or owner-occupied units' to Sec. 7-64.1.a (5-0)
• Approved changing 'fee' to 'relocation' and requiring amounts be posted on the city website in Sec. 7-64.5 (5-0)
• Approved changing 'an occupied' to 'a tenant occupied' in Sec. 7-65.1.a (5-0)
• Approved adding 'and former tenant(s)' to notice requirements in Sec. 7-65.1.b (5-0)
• Approved requiring an Affordable Housing Implementation Plan for units deed restricted for affordability in Sec. 7-65.3.a (5-0)
• Approved language regarding units excluded from the one-year notice period in Sec. 7-65.4.c.1 (5-0)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding police department operations and public health initiatives. Items include requests for reports on pedestrian/cyclist stops, traffic enforcement vehicle use, and firearm discharge incidents. The meeting also addresses potential gun buyback programs and safe consumption site updates.

• Report on methodology for pedestrian and cyclist stops
• Proposal to halt unmarked patrol vehicles for traffic enforcement
• Discussion on a potential gun buyback event
• Update on the timeline for establishing a safe consumption site
• Report on firearm discharge incidents since January 1, 2018

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee recommended marking multiple items as work completed, including reports on cyclist stops, unmarked vehicles, and firearm discharge data. The committee kept two items in committee regarding PILOT agreements and traffic detail data.

• Approved May 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended work completed: Police report on pedestrian and cyclist stop methodology
• Recommended work completed: Request to halt unmarked patrol vehicles for traffic enforcement
• Recommended work completed: Urging Mayor to fill Biosafety Committee vacancies
• Kept in committee: Request for PILOT agreement info and mental health services
• Recommended work completed: Discussion on gun buyback event viability
• Kept in committee: Report on construction traffic detail fill rates
• Recommended work completed: Update on overdose prevention center progress

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the June 20, 2023 meeting. Members are also considering recommendations for several mayoral appointments to city boards.

• Approval of June 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Appointment of Elizabeth Champion to the Condominium Review Board
• Appointment of Francine Rogers to the Biosafety Committee
• Appointment of Michael Switkez to the Biosafety Committee

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee reviewed and recommended the approval of three appointments to city boards. One appointee was recommended for the Condominium Review Board and two for the Biosafety Committee.

• Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Elizabeth Champion to the Condominium Review Board (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Francine Rogers to the Biosafety Committee (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Michael Switkez to the Biosafety Committee (5-0)

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The committee is discussing several items regarding the planning, design, and construction of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. Discussions also include staffing proposals for school building oversight and emergency relocation plans for at-risk schools.

• Expediting planning and construction for Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Requesting a report on building failures at Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Proposed full-time staff for Winter Hill Community Innovation School and Benjamin Brown School
• Proposal for a permanent Superintendent of School Buildings position in the FY 2024 budget
• $150,000 for an exterior envelope consultant to assess school building leaks

The committee recommended marking several items as 'work completed,' including the expedited planning for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and the creation of a Senior Project Manager position. Other items regarding academic programming milestones, emergency relocation plans, and a five-year assessment plan were kept in committee.

• Approved minutes of May 1, 2023 meeting
• Recommended 'work completed' for expediting Winter Hill Community Innovation School planning (ID # 23-0972)
• Recommended 'work completed' for reporting Winter Hill building failures and assessment plan (ID # 23-0984)
• Recommended 'work completed' for dedicating staff to Winter Hill and Benjamin Brown School projects (ID # 23-0985)
• Kept in committee request for academic programming milestones and collaboration program (ID # 23-0986)
• Recommended 'work completed' for explaining necessary RFPs for consultant services (ID # 23-0987)
• Kept in committee request for emergency at-risk school relocation plans (ID # 23-0988)
• Recommended 'work completed' for creating a Superintendent of School Buildings position and $150,000 for an exterior envelope consultant (ID # 23-0989, 23-0990, 23-0991)

City Council

The Somerville City Council is reviewing several Mayor's requests regarding grants and infrastructure funding. Items include bond authorization for the Assembly Square Fire Station and various public safety grants. The council will also receive an update on municipal collective bargaining negotiations.

• $6,430,638 bond for Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out
• $3,321,097 in HUD grants for community development and housing programs
• $500,000 grant for regional youth substance misuse prevention
• $80,000 appropriation for bell tower restoration at 404 Broadway
• Transfer of $310,000 to fund a legal settlement (John Doe v. City of Somerville)

The City Council approved several financial requests, including a multi-year lease for the East Somerville Police Station and a $6.4M bond for the Assembly Square Fire Station. The Council also ordained an amendment to update non-union position salaries and approved various grants for fire education, youth violence prevention, and substance misuse.

• Approved $6,430,638 bond for Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out
• Approved multi-year lease agreement for East Somerville Police Station
• Ordained amendment to update non-union position categories and salaries
• Approved $310,000 transfer to fund settlement of John Doe v. City of Somerville & Josh Wairi
• Approved $80,000 CPA Fund appropriation to Vida Real for bell tower restoration at 404 Broadway
• Approved $3,321,097 for HUD Annual Action Plan programs
• Approved $500,000 grant for regional youth substance misuse prevention
• Referred cost-of-living adjustment ordinance for Councilors and School Committee to Finance Committee

Finance Committee

The committee will review several requests, including a $6.4 million bond for the Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out. Other items include grant acceptances for public health and fire prevention, as well as salary adjustments for city officials.

• $6,430,638 bond for Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out
• Approval of the $3,321,097 HUD Annual Action Plan
• $80,000 appropriation for bell tower restoration at 404 Broadway
• Dedication of 217 Somerville Avenue as open space
• Salary range adjustments for School Committee and City Council members

The committee recommended approval for several grants, a new police station lease, and a $6.4M bond for a fire station fit-out. It also approved the dedication of 217 Somerville Avenue as permanent open space. Several previous meeting minutes were accepted.

• Recommended approval of $6.4M bond for Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out
• Recommended approval of multi-year lease for East Somerville Police Station
• Recommended approval of $3,321,097 HUD Annual Action Plan (5-year plan extension)
• Recommended approval of $80,000 CPA funding for Vida Real bell tower restoration
• Recommended approval to dedicate 217 Somerville Avenue as open space in perpetuity
• Recommended approval of $500,000 grant for youth substance misuse prevention
• Recommended approval of $24,117.07 youth violence grant and $8,039.02 transfer (4-1)
• Recommended approval of First Amendment to TOWARDEX fiber optic easement

City Council

The Council will review a request to appropriate $319,923,766 for the FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget. The agenda also includes a motion to return the FY 2024 budget until specific resident demands are met. Additionally, several departmental fund transfers and water rate proposals will be considered.

• Appropriation of $319,923,766 for the FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget
• Motion to return the FY 2024 budget regarding Winter Hill School and housing security
• Proposal for the FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate
• Transfer of $188,629.10 from DPW Custodial Salaries to DPW Snow Removal
• Promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant

The City Council approved several budget transfers for the Department of Public Works to cover deficits and expenses. The Council also confirmed the promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant and approved a lease amendment for the Grove Street parking lot.

• Approved promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant
• Approved FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate proposal (7-4)
• Approved $50,000 transfer to DPW Snow Removal Account
• Approved $150,000 transfer to DPW Admin Motor Gas and Oil Account
• Approved $211,370.90 transfer to DPW Buildings Electricity Account
• Approved lease amendment with Dana Family Series, LLC for Grove Street parking lot
• Approved ceasing Veterans Memorial Ice Rink as an Enterprise Fund for FY 2024
• Approved $817,137.42 appropriation from Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund

Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing several Mayor's requests regarding the FY 2024 budget. These include a large appropriation for the General Fund and various transfers to stabilization funds. The agenda also includes proposed fee adjustments for the City Clerk’s Office.

• Request to fund the FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget with $319,923,766
• Proposal to create an Emergency Response Stabilization Fund for residents in distress
• Appropriation of $3,000,000 from Free Cash to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Request for fee adjustments in the City Clerk’s Office effective July 1, 2023
• Proposed transfers to various stabilization funds, including Sewer and Water funds

The Finance Committee approved multiple funding increases for city planning, wage theft oversight, and an alternative response program. The committee also voted to eliminate the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer position and allocate free cash to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

• Approved $1.5 million for an alternative response program (voice vote)
• Approved eliminating the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer position, reducing budget by $81,670 (voice vote)
• Approved funding for a new planner in the Planning Department (voice vote)
• Approved $86,151 for a Planner position dedicated to City Council/City Clerk’s Office (voice vote)
• Approved $86,594.57 for a Program Manager for Prevailing Wage, Living Wage, and Wage Theft Ordinance Oversight (voice vote)
• Approved $57,000 for contracted legal services for tenants (voice vote)
• Approved allocating $82,715 in free cash to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (voice vote)
• Denied elimination of the Deputy Director of Emergency Management position (5-6 roll call vote)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the FY 2024 Budget for various Department of Public Works divisions. The committee will also consider seven requests from the Mayor to transfer funds between different DPW accounts.

• Review of the FY 2024 Budget including DPW Administration, Buildings, Grounds, and Highway
• Transfer of $50,000 from DPW Admin Salaries to DPW Snow Removal
• Transfer of $150,000 from DPW Grounds Wages to DPW Admin Motor Gas and Oil
• Transfer of $35,000 from DPW Highway Salary to DPW Admin Professional & Technical
• Transfer of $211,370.90 from DPW Highway Wages to DPW Buildings Electricity

The committee reviewed FY 2024 budget requests for the Inspectional Services Department and Department of Public Works. Members discussed staffing vacancies, rodent control, and fleet management. The committee recommended approval for seven fund transfers to cover DPW deficits and expenses.

• Recommended approval of $50,000 transfer from DPW Admin Salaries to DPW Snow Removal
• Recommended approval of $150,000 transfer from DPW Grounds Wages to DPW Admin Motor Gas and Oil
• Recommended approval of $35,000 transfer from DPW Highway Salary to DPW Admin Professional & Technical
• Recommended approval of $211,370.90 transfer from DPW Highway Wages to DPW Buildings Electricity
• Recommended approval of $45,000 transfer from DPW Highway Wages to DPW Snow Removal
• Recommended approval of $11,000 transfer from DPW Highway Fence Installation to DPW Buildings Moving Services
• Recommended approval of $188,629.10 transfer from DPW Custodial Salaries to DPW Snow Removal

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will review the minutes from the May 31, 2023 meeting. The Mayor has also requested confirmation for the promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant.

• Approval of May 31, 2023, meeting minutes
• Promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant

The committee recommended the promotion of David Farino to Fire Lieutenant, pending final City Council approval on June 22, 2023. The committee also accepted the minutes from the May 31, 2023 meeting.

• Approved minutes of May 31, 2023 meeting (4-0-1)
• Recommended approval of David Farino's promotion to Fire Lieutenant (4-0-1)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is conducting a review of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The discussion includes departmental budgets for Fire, Police, Emergency Management, Animal Control, and E-911.

• Review of FY 2024 Fire budget
• Review of FY 2024 Fire Alarm budget
• Review of FY 2024 Emergency Management budget
• Review of FY 2024 Police budget
• Review of FY 2024 Animal Control and E-911 budgets

The Finance Committee conducted a review of the FY 2024 budget proposals for Fire, Fire Alarm, Emergency Management, Police, Animal Control, and E-911. No motions or resolutions were made during the meeting.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the Fiscal Year 2024 budget for several city departments and programs. This includes reviews for services such as libraries, parks and recreation, and veterans services.

• FY 2024 Budget Review: Health & Human Services
• FY 2024 Budget Review: Libraries
• FY 2024 Budget Review: Parks & Recreation
• FY 2024 Budget Review: Veterans Services
• FY 2024 Budget Review: Kennedy Pool and Dilboy Enterprises

The Finance Committee conducted a review of the proposed FY 2024 budgets for various departments, including Health & Human Services, Libraries, and Parks & Recreation. No motions were submitted or voted upon for any of the departments discussed.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is conducting a review of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. The meeting includes discussions on various city departments and programs including housing, economic development, and public space.

• Review of FY 2024 Budget: Parking
• Review of FY 2024 Budget: Community Preservation Act
• Review of FY 2024 Budget: Housing Stability
• Review of FY 2024 Budget: Economic Development
• Review of FY 2024 Budget: Public Space & Urban Forestry

The Finance Committee conducted a review of the FY 2024 budget for various departments, including Parking, Housing, and Mobility. The meeting consisted of departmental presentations and Councilor inquiries regarding staffing, project timelines, and fund allocations. No formal votes to approve or deny specific budget line items were recorded.

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee is reviewing multiple license applications for various businesses. These include new flammables, used car dealer, garage, and billiards licenses, as well as several garage and outdoor parking renewals.

• New Flammables License: John's Auto Sales, 166 Boston Avenue (7,000 gallons)
• New Used Car Dealer License Class 2: John's Auto Sales, 166 Boston Avenue
• New Garage License: Somerville Auto Center, 193 Somerville Avenue
• New Billiards and Bowling License: The Public, 563 Broadway
• New Garage License: Zone Kar, 166 Boston Ave

The Licenses and Permits Committee recommended approval for multiple auto-related licenses and a billiards license. One garage license was approved with specific operational conditions. Three garage license renewals for Dewire Family Trust were held in committee pending further applicant engagement.

• Approved April 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Flammables License for John's Auto Sales (2-0)
• Recommended approval of Used Car Dealer License for John's Auto Sales (2-0)
• Recommended approval with conditions of Garage License for Somerville Auto Center (2-0)
• Recommended approval of Billiards and Bowling License for The Public (2-0)
• Recommended approval of Garage License for Zone Kar (3-0)
• Recommended approval of four renewal licenses for Mercedes Benz of Boston and Herb Chambers (3-0)
• Tabled three renewal licenses for Dewire Family Trust pending applicant engagement

City Council

The City Council is considering multiple orders regarding the planning, design, and construction of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. Discussion includes building failures, emergency relocation plans, and requests for dedicated staff to oversee school maintenance.

• Grant of Location: Comcast conduit installation on Mount Pleasant Street
• Grant of Location: Comcast conduit installation at Spring Street and Somerville Avenue
• Resolution: $150,000 for an exterior envelope consultant to assess school leaks
• Order: Installation of bike locking infrastructure near Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Ordinance: Amendment to the Noise Ordinance regarding Saturday and evening construction

The City Council approved a resolution condemning antisemitism and sent multiple orders regarding school building maintenance and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School to the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee. Two Comcast grants of location were approved. A request for bike locking infrastructure at Winter Hill Community Innovation School was placed on file.

• Approved resolution condemning antisemitism
• Approved Comcast grant of location for 30ft conduit on Mount Pleasant Street
• Approved Comcast grant of location for 25ft conduit at Spring St and Somerville Ave
• Approved resolution to expedite Winter Hill Community Innovation School construction (sent to committee)
• Approved order for public website for Winter Hill Community Innovation School plan (sent to committee)
• Approved resolution for low-income housing water utility assessment (sent to committee)
• Approved resolution for free/reduced low-flow sink and toilet tools for seniors and low-income residents (sent to committee)
• Placed order for additional bike locking infrastructure at Winter Hill Community Innovation School on file

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the FY 2024 Budget across several city departments. The committee will also consider a recommendation regarding the FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate proposal.

• Review of the FY 2024 Budget for various city departments
• FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate proposal

The Finance Committee reviewed budget proposals for 12 city departments, including requests for new staffing positions and software upgrades. No motions or resolutions were made during the session; the meeting was procedural in nature.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. The review includes several city departments such as Executive Administration, Information Technology, and Human Resources.

• Review of FY 2024 Budget for Executive Administration
• Review of FY 2024 Budget for Office of Sustainability & Environment
• Review of FY 2024 Budget for Racial & Social Justice
• Review of FY 2024 Budget for SomerStat
• Review of FY 2024 Budget for Arts Council

The Finance Committee conducted a review of the FY 2024 budget for several departments, including Executive Administration, IT, and Human Resources. Two motions to reduce specific budget lines in the Executive Office - Administration were tabled until June 21, 2023.

• Tabled motion to reduce Executive Office - Administration Personal Services line 0112151 to $0
• Tabled motion to reduce Executive Office - Administration Ordinary Maintenance line 0112152 to $0

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The discussion includes city council items, procurement, debt service, and pension costs.

• Review of the FY 2024 Budget
• Discussion of Procurement & Contracting Services
• Discussion of Debt Service and Pension costs

The Finance Committee conducted a review of various components of the FY 2024 budget, including departmental requests and revenue projections. No motions or resolutions were made during the meeting.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is conducting a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. This meeting is scheduled as a Committee of the Whole via remote participation.

• Public Hearing: FY 2024 Budget

The committee held a public hearing regarding the FY 2024 Budget and received updates on temporary classroom locations for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. No votes were taken on budget approvals or funding allocations during this meeting.

• Kept the FY 2024 Budget Public Hearing open for written comments until June 21, 2023

City Council

The City Council will meet to review the Mayor's proposed budget for the 2024 fiscal year. The presentation includes requests for general fund operations, enterprise funds, and various transfers from the Unreserved Fund Balance.

• $319,923,766 appropriation for the FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget
• $3,283,713 in estimated FY 2024 Community Preservation Act (CPA) revenue
• $7,796,452 transfer to the Facility Renovation and Reconstruction Stabilization Fund
• $4,676,448 transfer to the Street Reconstruction and Renovation Stabilization Fund
• $1,600,000 transfer to the Sewer Stabilization Fund

Mayor Ballantyne presented a proposed FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget of $319,923,766, which includes scaling up city staff and increasing the School Department budget by 7.8%. The Council referred the operating budget and several other appropriation requests to the Finance Committee for recommendation.

• Referred FY 2024 General Fund Operating Budget request ($319,923,766) to Finance Committee
• Referred FY 2024 Community Preservation Act revenue request ($3,283,713) to Finance Committee
• Referred FY 2024 departmental Revolving Funds expenditure limitations to Finance Committee
• Referred Facility Renovation and Reconstruction Stabilization Fund request ($7,796,452) to Finance Committee
• Referred Street Reconstruction and Renovation Stabilization Fund request ($4,676,448) to Finance Committee
• Referred Sewer Stabilization Fund request ($1,600,000) to Finance Committee
• Referred FY 2024 Kennedy School Pool Enterprise Fund budget requests to Finance Committee
• Referred FY 2024 Dilboy Field Enterprise Fund budget request ($40,000) to Finance Committee

Traffic and Parking Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Mayor's request to approve the Citywide Bicycle Network Plan. This item is referred to the committee for recommendation.

• Public Hearing on the Somerville Bike Network Plan (Item #23-0585)

The committee held a public hearing regarding the Mayor's request to approve the Citywide Bicycle Network Plan, which proposes 88 miles of bicycle facilities at an estimated cost of $9,540,000. The plan was kept in committee following testimony from 30 individuals. The record for written comments remains open until June 14, 2023.

• Kept Citywide Bicycle Network Plan (ID # 23-0585) in committee

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will consider several mayoral requests for city appointments and promotions. These include candidates for the Historic Preservation Commission, the Urban Forestry Committee, and the police department.

• Appointment of Daniel Coughlin to the Historic Preservation Commission
• Appointment of Denise Price to the Historic Preservation Commission
• Appointment of Colin Curzi to the Historic Preservation Commission
• Appointment of Doris Jenkins to the Urban Forestry Committee
• Promotion of James E. Torres to Police Sergeant

The Committee recommended the approval of three appointments to the Historic Preservation Commission and one appointment to the Urban Forestry Committee. It also recommended the promotion of one officer to Police Sergeant. All recommendations are subject to final City Council approval on June 8, 2023.

• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Daniel Coughlin to Historic Preservation Commission (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Denise Price to Historic Preservation Commission (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Colin Curzi to Historic Preservation Commission (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Doris Jenkins to Urban Forestry Committee (4-0)
• Recommended approval of James E. Torres for promotion to Police Sergeant (4-0)

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding a Community Center in Union Square, including its strategy and feasibility study. Members will also review the Parks and Recreation wait list process and potential Sunday swim lessons at Ginny Smithers Pool. Additionally, the committee will discuss a report on community wealth building.

• Update on strategy and timeline for a Community Center in Union Square
• Consideration of opening Ginny Smithers Pool on Sundays for swim lessons
• Review of Parks and Recreation program enrollment wait list process
• Discussion of Democracy Collaborative’s report on Advancing Community Wealth Building

The Housing and Community Development Committee approved the minutes from April 19, 2023, and recommended marking four separate orders as work completed. The committee kept a report on community wealth building in committee for further consideration.

• Approved April 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Kept Democracy Collaborative report on Community Wealth Building in committee
• Recommended marking work completed on Parks and Recreation wait list process explanation
• Recommended marking work completed on Ginny Smithers Pool Sunday hours consideration
• Recommended marking work completed on Union Square Community Center strategy update
• Recommended marking work completed on Community Center Task Force progress update

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review minutes from the May 16 meeting. Members will consider a proposal to restrict construction noise on Saturdays and evenings, discuss a request regarding the Rental Registration and Energy Disclosure Ordinance, and review a surveillance technology report.

• Proposed amendment to Section 9-116 of the Noise Ordinance regarding Saturday and evening construction
• Discussion of the Rental Registration and Energy Disclosure Ordinance
• Request for approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for FLIR MC300C marine camera

The committee recommended approval of an amended noise ordinance prohibiting disruptive construction on Saturdays and evenings. It also recommended approval of a surveillance report for a thermal marine camera. A request to resubmit a rental registration ordinance was kept in committee.

• Approved minutes from May 16, 2023
• Recommended approval of amended Noise Ordinance (ID # 23-0607) to prohibit disruptive construction on Saturdays and evenings (3-0)
• Added subsection to Sec. 9-114 to exempt noise from city capital projects (3-0)
• Kept Rental Registration and Energy Disclosure Ordinance (ID # 22-0048) in committee
• Recommended approval of Surveillance Technology Impact Report for FLIR MC300C marine camera (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will review proposed charter text and various municipal orders. The agenda includes several Grant of Location requests for utility installations and multiple departmental requests regarding public safety, infrastructure, and food security.

• Eversource Grant of Location: 929 feet of conduit and one manhole on Poplar, Linwood, and Joy Streets
• Resolution to fund Food for Free school market program with $65,000
• Bikeshare Stabilization fund appropriation of $104,247.14 for new stations
• Mayor's request to borrow $6,430,638 for Assembly Square Fire Station fit-out
• Public hearing requested for the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council recognition

The City Council approved a resolution to allocate $65,000 to the Food for Free school market program. Several utility grants of location were approved, and a public hearing was authorized for the recognition of the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council.

• Approved $65,000 allocation for Food for Free school market program
• Approved public hearing for recognition of Gilman Square Neighborhood Council
• Approved Eversource grant of location for conduit at Norwood Ave and Medford St
• Approved Group Design Build grant of location for conduit at Prescott St and Summer St
• Approved Verizon grant of location for conduit in Ten Hills Road
• Referred Eversource grant of location for Poplar, Linwood, and Joy Streets to Licenses and Permits Committee
• Approved citation commending Officer Thomas Lambert
• Approved minutes of the April 27, 2023 meeting

Charter Review Special Committee

The committee will continue a public hearing on recommendations and proposed text for the City Charter. The agenda also includes reviewing amendments to address scrivener's errors and discussing a resolution regarding biennial reconfirmation of the City Solicitor.

• Public hearing on proposed charter text and recommendations
• Amendments to address scrivener's errors in the charter
• Resolution for biennial reconfirmation of the City Solicitor
• Approval of May 10, 2023, meeting minutes

The Charter Review Special Committee approved a series of technical and procedural amendments to the proposed city charter. Decisions included updating definitions, changing the threshold for municipal voter petitions, and adjusting requirements for calling special meetings.

• Approved scrivener’s errors document as the working text (9-0)
• Amended Section 1-7 definitions for business day, General Laws, majority vote, and multiple member body (10-0)
• Amended Section 2-5 (d) to require 6 members to call a special meeting (10-0)
• Approved amendments to Section 2-7 regarding city clerk appointment and term (10-0)
• Approved amendments to Section 2-8 (b) and (c) regarding multiple member body and constable appointments (10-0)
• Amended Section 2-11 to lower the petition threshold from 100 to 50 municipal voters (10-0)
• Amended Section 3-1 (b) to change four to two regarding mayoral term intent (10-0)
• Approved minutes from May 10, 2023 meeting (10-0)

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss updates on rodent control programs. Discussion includes the implementation of SMART box phases and their distribution throughout East Somerville.

• Approval of January 30, 2023, committee minutes
• Update on spring rodent mitigation programs and SMART box phases
• Proposal for Smart Box distribution in East Somerville
• Report on progress regarding internal rodent control meetings

The committee accepted the minutes from January 30, 2023. Members reviewed updates on SMART box capture rates and spring mitigation programs, recommending that three separate orders regarding rodent control and departmental reporting be marked as work completed.

• Approved Rodent Issues Special Committee Minutes of January 30, 2023 (Accepted)
• Recommended marking work completed for Order ID # 23-0797 regarding spring rodent mitigation and SMART box updates
• Recommended marking work completed for Order ID # 23-0238 regarding SMART boxes in East Somerville
• Recommended marking work completed for Order ID # 22-0057 regarding internal rodent control and joint departmental meetings

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review grant acceptances, budget transfers, and contract extensions. The agenda includes proposals for new bikeshare stations and cost-of-living adjustments for city officials. The committee will also discuss the FY 2024 Water & Sewer Rate proposal.

• $104,247.14 appropriation for new bikeshare stations at 5 Middlesex Ave and 10-50 Prospect St
• $17,950 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources for food security coalition restructuring
• Ordinance amending salary ranges for School Committee Members and City Councilors
• $15,000 transfer to expand digital accessibility of city ordinances
• Contract extension with Mystic River Watershed Association for park revitalization

The committee recommended approval for two new bike docking stations and several grants and fund transfers. Members also discussed a proposed FY 2024 Water & Sewer rate increase and the development of a city assistance program.

• Recommended approval of $104,247.14 for bike stations at 5 Middlesex Ave and 10-50 Prospect St
• Recommended approval of $5,063.14 Barr Foundation grant for conference attendance
• Recommended approval of $17,950 grant for food security coalition restructuring
• Recommended approval of 24-month contract extension for Blessing of the Bay Park Revitalization Phase 2
• Recommended approval of $15,000 transfer for digital archiving of Code of Ordinances
• Recommended approval of $15,000 transfer for digital archiving of Zoning Ordinances
• Accepted minutes from May 9, 2023 meeting
• Kept minutes from May 23, 2023 meeting in committee

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board will review several zoning ordinance amendments. These include updates following the 2022 Somerville Linkage Nexus Study and changes to affordable housing standards. The committee will also consider rezoning requests for specific addresses on Medford Street and Walnut Street.

• Rezoning request for 295-297 Medford Street and 93 Walnut Street from MR3 to MR5
• Zoning amendment based on the 2022 Somerville Linkage Nexus Study recommendations
• Request by Union Square One Development, LLC regarding build out regulations in the CC5 District
• Amendment to Section 8.1 of the Zoning Ordinances concerning affordable housing standards

The committee held public hearings on proposed housing linkage fee increases and zoning amendments for Union Square and affordable housing. No final decisions were made on these items, and one zoning map amendment request was withdrawn.

• Approved minutes from May 4, 2023 meeting
• Kept in committee: Proposal to increase housing linkage fee from $11.23 to $22.46 (Item #23-0506)
• Approved replacing the current Zoning Ordinance submission with a revised PDF (5-0)
• Recommended to be withdrawn: Zoning district change for 295-297 Medford St and 93 Walnut St (Item #23-0634)
• Kept in committee: Zoning text amendment for Union Square One Development (Item #23-0635)
• Kept in committee: Amendment to Section 8.1 regarding affordable housing dimensional standards (Item #23-0660)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several orders regarding city ordinances and official recognitions. Discussions include reporting on vulnerable road users and potential new requirements for annual housing status reports.

• Report on enforcement of the Ordinance to Safeguard Vulnerable Road Users
• Amendment requiring an annual report on the status of housing
• Amendments to Code of Ordinances related to Fair Housing
• Proposed inclusion of nondiscrimination provisions based on relationship status
• Formal recognition of the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council

The Legislative Matters Committee approved a requirement for the Director of Housing to report annually on the number of Fair Housing complaints. The committee also marked two orders as work completed and discharged a request to recognize the Gilman Square Neighborhood Council to a public hearing.

• Approved requirement for Director of Housing to report yearly Fair Housing complaint numbers (5-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for reporting on Ordinance to Safeguard Vulnerable Road Users
• Recommended marking work completed for nondiscrimination provisions based on relationship status
• Discharged request to recognize Gilman Square Neighborhood Council with no recommendation (5-0)
• Kept in committee order requiring Mayor to submit annual housing status report
• Accepted minutes from March 28, 2023 meeting

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several requests for reports from city departments. These include information regarding firearm discharges, traffic detail staffing, and the Taxi to Health program.

• Report request on all firearm discharge incidents since January 1, 2018
• Data request on police traffic details for construction projects over three years
• Report request on the Taxi to Health program
• Update on plans for a Community Engagement Center
• Request to install emergency contraception dispensers in city bathrooms

The Committee recommended marking three items as work completed regarding the Taxi to Health program, the Community Engagement Center, and emergency contraception dispensers. Three other items regarding police reports and a safe consumption site were kept in committee.

• Approved minutes from April 4, 2023 meeting
• Kept in committee: Request for police report on firearm discharges since 2018
• Kept in committee: Request for police report on traffic detail fill rates
• Recommended work completed: Report on Taxi to Health program
• Recommended work completed: Update on Community Engagement Center
• Recommended work completed: Installation of emergency contraception dispensers
• Kept in committee: Update on safe consumption site timeline

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several proposed amendments to the city charter regarding budget timelines and employee compensation. The agenda also includes requests for fund transfers, grant acceptances, and public hearings for utility installations.

• Public hearing for Verizon to install 50 feet of conduit in Willow Avenue
• Charter revision regarding municipal employee compensation reviews
• Transfer of $60,000 from Fire Department Salaries to Fire Alarm Overtime
• Transfer of $17,590.52 from OSPCD Economic Development to OSPCD Administration
• Acceptance of a $65,040 grant for the Police Department traffic safety program

The City Council approved a grant of location for Verizon to install conduit on Willow Avenue. Multiple orders regarding the removal of dangling wires and the painting of a crosswalk were approved and sent to committees for further discussion. The Council also requested administration updates on guaranteed income and safe consumption sites.

• Approved Verizon grant to install 50 feet of conduit in Willow Avenue
• Approved order to paint crosswalk at Washington and Franklin Streets (sent to Traffic and Parking Committee)
• Approved multiple orders to remove or raise dangling wires at 88 Foskett St, 336 Washington St, 67-69 Merriam St, 143 Hudson St, 43 Hudson St, and 21 Properzi Way (sent to Public Utilities and Public Works Committee)
• Approved resolution for update on Universal Basic Income/Guaranteed Income implementation (sent to Housing and Community Development Committee)
• Approved order for update on spring rodent mitigation and SMART box phases (sent to Rodent Issues Special Committee)
• Approved resolution for update on safe consumption site timeline (sent to Public Health and Public Safety Committee)
• Referred zoning ordinance amendment for vegetated roofs to Land Use Committee
• Appointed Alessandra Seiter, Catherine MacLean, and Alexandre Galimberti to advisory boards/task forces

Charter Review Special Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the April 26, 2023 meeting and hold a public hearing regarding Item #22-1520. The committee is also discussing recommendations and proposed Charter text for transmission to the city.

• Public Hearing on Item #22-1520
• Proposed amendment to Section 5-3 regarding municipal employee compensation review every 5 years

The committee approved several amendments to the proposed City Charter, including new deadlines for budget submissions and financial reviews. It also decided that the Chief Administrative Officer must undergo reconfirmation every two years.

• Approved requiring CAO reappointment and reconfirmation every two years (5-3)
• Approved requiring the mayor to submit a capital improvement program by October 15 (8-0)
• Approved requiring the financial review presentation to be held on November 1 (8-0)
• Approved changing the timeline for soliciting Councilors' budget input to the first regular meeting of the calendar year (7-1)
• Denied requirement for annual publication of a summary of departmental program improvement requests (3-5)
• Approved moving the General Fund and School Committee budget submission deadline to May 15 (6-3)
• Accepted minutes from the April 26, 2023 meeting

Finance Committee

The committee will review several Mayor's requests regarding grant acceptances and budget transfers. Items include funding for a supervised consumption plan and police traffic safety. The committee will also discuss using general funds for medical debt relief.

• $26,279.51 appropriation from the Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund for the Supervised Consumption Plan
• $65,040 grant acceptance for a Police Department traffic safety program
• $60,000 transfer from Fire Department Salaries to cover a Fire Alarm Overtime deficit
• $17,950 grant for Mobile Market produce via the Health and Human Services Department
• Discussion on using General Funds for a mass medical debt relief program

The Finance Committee recommended approval for several funding requests, including a police traffic safety grant and a supervised consumption plan appropriation. The committee also approved transfers for fire department overtime and OSPCD staffing, while one grant for the Mobile Market was withdrawn.

• Recommended approval of $26,279.51 from Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund for Supervised Consumption Plan
• Recommended withdrawal of $17,950 grant for Mobile Market produce (ID # 23-0661)
• Recommended approval of $65,040 grant for Police Department traffic safety program (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $60,000 transfer for Fire Alarm Overtime account
• Recommended approval of $17,590.52 transfer for OSPCD grants and procurement analyst position (3-2)
• Recommended approval of $27,200 transfer for OSPCD special counsel vacancy
• Recommended approval of time-only contract extension for PMA Consultants LLC
• Recommended marking work completed for order regarding medical debt relief program

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding environmental and sustainability initiatives. Topics include municipal composting plans, solar panel installation timelines, and increasing trees in Foss Park. Members will also review updates on community gardens and historic property electrification.

• Plans to increase the number of trees in Foss Park
• Updates on a potential municipal composting program
• Solar panel installation timelines and process bottlenecks
• Strategies for electrification and weatherization in Historic Properties
• Communication regarding black swallow-wort removal and disposal

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee voted 4-0 to approve the February 2023 minutes. Six orders were recommended to be marked as work completed, covering invasive species removal, tree planting in Foss Park, community gardens, photovoltaics in historic properties, municipal composting, and solar panel permitting. One order on weatherization funding was kept in committee for further information.

• Approved February 2023 committee minutes (4-0)
• Recommended order on black swallow-wort education be marked work completed
• Recommended order on Foss Park tree planting be marked work completed
• Recommended order on community gardens be marked work completed
• Recommended order on photovoltaics in historic properties be marked work completed
• Recommended order on municipal composting be marked work completed
• Recommended order on solar panel permitting be marked work completed
• Kept order on weatherization funding in committee

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding the height and removal of overhead wires at specific residential addresses and intersections. Members will also discuss a report on municipal building system failures and recommendations for municipal broadband.

• Report on leaks and building system failures causing municipal building shutdowns
• Discussion of Somerville Internet Access Task Force recommendation on Municipal Broadband
• Removal or height adjustment of wires at 76 Curtis Street
• Removal or height adjustment of cables at 54 Ten Hills Road
• Removal or height adjustment of cables at Harvard and Monmouth Streets

The committee heard presentations from broadband advocates about municipal broadband networks (MBN) and discussed costs, funding options, and next steps. Chair Clingan stated it is time to move forward but noted a feasibility study would require a request from the Mayor. The item was kept in committee for further discussion.

• Approved minutes of March 2, 2023 meeting (2-0-1)
• Kept in committee: Order for DPW report on municipal building shutdowns (ID #23-0610)
• Kept in committee: Order to discuss Somerville Internet Access Task Force recommendation on municipal broadband (ID #23-0548)
• Kept in committee: Order to address overhead wires at 76 Curtis Street (ID #23-0525)
• Kept in committee: Order to address cables at 54 Ten Hills Road (ID #23-0524)
• Kept in committee: Order to address cables at Harvard and Monmouth Streets (ID #23-0328)
• Recommended to be marked work completed: Order to remove wires at 57 Atherton Street (ID #23-0327)

Land Use Committee

The committee will discuss several proposed orders regarding zoning amendments and development plans. Topics include affordable housing in Union Square, MBTA Communities Act requirements, and density incentives for NetZero buildings. The meeting also includes a review of the Somerville Linkage Nexus Study Final Report.

• Affordable housing plans for Union Square 'D2.4' and 'D4.3' parcels
• Zoning updates for the MBTA Communities Act
• Amendment to remove limits on more than four unrelated adults living together
• Status of Palmer Court property for green space creation
• Density incentives for NetZero/Passive House development

The Land Use Committee voted 4-0 to accept the March 30 meeting minutes. All 11 orders and one mayor's communication were either kept in committee or, in the case of the Union Square hiring update, recommended to be marked work completed. No substantive decisions were made; all items remain under discussion.

• Accepted March 30, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Kept in committee: order on durability of materials for zoning compliance (ID 22-0669)
• Kept in committee: order on affordable housing in Union Square parcels D2.4 and D4.3 (ID 22-0050)
• Kept in committee: order on arts and creative workspace zoning (ID 22-0567)
• Kept in committee: order on MBTA Communities Act zoning (ID 22-1593)
• Kept in committee: order to remove prohibition on more than four unrelated adults living together (ID 23-0052)
• Kept in committee: mayor's communication on Linkage Nexus Study (ID 23-0356)
• Recommended work completed: order on Union Square Covenant hiring update (ID 23-0458)

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

This joint meeting includes discussions regarding updates on the School Building Systems Feasibility Study and the Winter Hill and Brown School renovation. Members are also seeking information on mechanical system noise at East Somerville Community School and maintenance of the High School Field House.

• Update on School Building Systems Feasibility Study
• Phases for Winter Hill and Brown School Renovation/Reconstruction
• Building Conditions Analysis of Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Noise reading compliance for East Somerville Community School mechanical systems
• High School Field House track flooring and bleacher issues

The committee reviewed the status of the School Building Systems Feasibility Study and the renovation process for the Winter Hill and Brown schools. Several maintenance items were marked as work completed, including noise level testing at East Somerville Community School and repairs to the High School Field House track flooring.

• Approved February 1, 2023 joint meeting minutes
• Recommended marking work completed for Winter Hill and Brown School renovation phase clarifications
• Recommended marking work completed for Winter Hill Community Innovation School building analysis schedule
• Recommended marking work completed for staff allocation identification for the Feasibility Study
• Recommended marking work completed for East Somerville Community School roof noise compliance verification
• Recommended marking work completed for High School Field House track and bleacher repairs
• Recommended marking work completed for school park and playground surface material explanations
• Kept in committee: updates on School Building Systems Feasibility Study, study budget expenditures, and quarterly repair reports

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several proposed amendments to the city charter regarding appointments and procedures. The agenda also includes requests for multi-million dollar bonds for water main rehabilitation and streetscape projects. Additionally, the council will consider various grant acceptances and budget transfers.

• $7,110,000 bond request for Water Main Rehabilitation projects
• $4,200,000 bond request for Somerville Ave Streetscape & Utilities project
• $1,618,683 appropriation to the Affordable Housing Trust
• Proposed Charter amendments regarding appointments and constables
• Comcast Grant of Location for Linwood Street

The City Council approved several revisions to the proposed City Charter, including new confirmation requirements for Police and Fire appointments. The Council also authorized several million dollars in bonds for streetscape, building improvements, and water main projects.

• Approved $4.2M bond for Somerville Ave Streetscape & Utilities project
• Approved $2M bond for Somerville Ave Streetscape & Utilities project
• Approved $2.84M bond for FY 2023 Building Improvements program
• Approved $7.11M bond for Water Main Rehabilitation projects
• Approved $1,618,683 appropriation for the Affordable Housing Trust
• Approved Charter revision requiring City Council confirmation for Police and Fire appointments
• Approved Charter revision establishing a three-year term for constables
• Approved two Comcast Grants of Location for conduit installation on Linwood and Tufts Streets

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee will discuss the committee's recommendations and proposed Charter text. The meeting also includes a review of minutes from the April 12, 2023, meeting.

• Approval of April 12, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of charter review recommendations and proposed Charter text

The Committee approved several amendments to the proposed Charter text, including new rules for filling long-term vacancies on multiple member bodies and confirmation requirements for Police, Fire, and Constable appointments. The committee also established a simple majority requirement for the administrative code.

• Amended Section 2-8 (a) to limit Council rejection of appointments to lack of experience, training, or education (8-0)
• Updated Section 1-7 (18) definition of 'posting or post' to include city website, city hall, and local newspapers (8-0)
• Amended Section 2-8 (b) to allow Council President to recommend three candidates for vacancies open over one year (8-0)
• Approved requirement for Mayor to post multiple member body vacancies twice annually in February and August (8-0)
• Approved language requiring City Council confirmation for Police and Fire appointments and promotions (8-0)
• Amended Section 2-8 (c) to require City Council confirmation for Constable appointments (7-0)
• Requested language for a three-year Constable term and timely submission for confirmation (8-0)
• Approved simple majority requirement for the administrative code and updated approval timelines in Section 5-1 (8-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several mayoral requests regarding budget transfers, grant acceptances, and fund appropriations. The agenda includes multiple requests for bond authorizations to fund water rehabilitation and streetscape projects.

• $7,110,000 bond for Water Main Rehabilitation projects
• $4,200,000 bond for Somerville Ave Streetscape & Utilities project
• $2,840,000 bond for FY 2023 Building Improvements program
• $1,618,683 appropriation to the Affordable Housing Trust
• $180,000 appropriation for Substance Use Prevention Coordinator position

The committee recommended several appropriations, including a significant transfer to the Affordable Housing Trust and funding for a new Health and Human Services Finance Manager. They also approved grants for library events and mattress recycling, along with various DPW equipment and security transfers.

• Recommended approval of $1,618,683 from CPA Affordable Housing Reserve to Affordable Housing Trust
• Recommended approval of $14,154.88 for a new HHS Finance Manager position (3-1)
• Recommended appropriation of $180,000 for Substance Use Prevention Coordinator (FY 2024-2025)
• Recommended appropriation of $135,050.89 for Union Square Plaza and Streetscape 25% design services
• Approved $2,500 Massachusetts Cultural Council grant for Library Comix Con
• Approved $18,840 DEP grant for mattress recycling
• Approved $30,000 transfer from DPW Electrical to DPW Fleet for street sweeper repairs
• Approved $12,729.52 transfer for buzzer and camera system at the Edgerly Building

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will discuss strategies to identify new housing construction or renovation that could lead to tenant displacement. Other discussions include Parks and Recreation wait lists, Sunday hours for Ginny Smithers Pool, and crossing guard recruitment.

• Identifying housing construction/renovation linked to tenant displacement
• Opening Ginny Smithers Pool on Sundays for swim lessons
• Parks and Recreation program wait list process
• Modernizing crossing guard positions to increase hiring
• Progress update on a Community Center Task Force

The committee accepted the minutes from the March 1, 2023 meeting. All other discussed orders regarding city programs and staffing were kept in committee.

• Approved minutes of the March 1, 2023 meeting
• Kept in committee: Order to create Teen Snow Shoveling participation survey (ID # 23-0274)
• Kept in committee: Order to explain Parks and Recreation wait list process (ID # 23-0483)
• Kept in committee: Order to consider opening Ginny Smithers Pool on Sundays (ID # 23-0482)
• Kept in committee: Order to modernize crossing guard positions (ID # 22-1567)
• Kept in committee: Order for update on Community Center Task Force (ID # 22-1826)
• Kept in committee: Order to discuss strategies to identify tenant displacement (ID # 23-0648)

City Council

The City Council is considering various orders regarding public safety, including firearm discharge reports and gun buyback programs. The agenda also includes requests for infrastructure maintenance, zoning amendments, and several municipal fund appropriations.

• Public hearing for Eversource to install 6 feet of conduit in Bow Street
• Ordinance to prohibit loud construction on Saturdays and evenings
• Appropriation of $54,445 from the Street Tree Stabilization Fund for ash tree treatment
• Appropriation of $600,000 from Water and Sewer Retained Earnings to Capital Outlay
• Grant of $79,500 from MA Executive Office of Public Safety for police staffing

The City Council approved a resolution condemning anti-union behavior at Northeastern University. Several orders were sent to committees for further discussion regarding public safety, zoning, and workers' rights. The Council also approved two grants of location for conduit installation.

• Approved resolution condemning Northeastern University's anti-union behavior
• Approved Eversource grant of location for conduit in Bow Street
• Approved Your Space Landscape and Const. Inc grant of location for conduit in Professors Row
• Approved order to draft zoning amendments for transit oriented height and density bonuses (sent to Land Use Committee)
• Approved order to discuss viability of a gun buyback event (sent to Public Health and Public Safety Committee)
• Approved order to determine legality of requiring businesses to post Worker's Rights Bills (sent to Legislative Matters Committee)
• Approved order for Director of Engineering to pave the second half of Otis Street
• Referred proposed Noise Ordinance amendment prohibiting Saturday and evening construction to Legislative Matters Committee

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee is meeting to review the minutes from the March 22, 2023, meeting. The committee will also discuss recommendations and proposed Charter text sent for discussion.

• Approval of March 22, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of Charter Review Committee recommendations and proposed Charter text

The Charter Review Special Committee approved an amendment to Section 2-7 (a) regarding the process for securing secondary legal opinions. The committee also discussed proposed changes to the city budget timeline and the confirmation process for department heads.

• Approved minutes from March 22, 2023 meeting
• Denied amendment to Section 2-7 (a) regarding advisory legal counsel (4-6)
• Approved amendment to Section 2-7 (a) requiring consultation between city solicitor and advisory counsel (8-2)

Finance Committee

The committee will consider several appropriation requests, including funding for ash tree treatment and immigrant legal services. Members will also review grant acceptances for police staffing and recycling programs. Additionally, the committee will discuss an accounting of cable franchise fee expenditures.

• $54,445 appropriation for 2023 Ash Tree Treatment Program
• $600,000 transfer to Water and Sewer Capital Outlay account
• $50,000 appropriation for immigrant and asylum seeker legal services
• $79,500 grant for Police Department staffing costs
• Request for accounting of cable franchise fee expenditures

The committee recommended several appropriations, including funds for ash tree treatment and immigrant legal services. It also approved the acceptance of grants for police staffing and recycling. A request to return $435,000 to the Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund was recommended for approval.

• Recommended approval of $600,000 for Water and Sewer Department emergency repairs (4-0)
• Recommended approval of $54,445 for 2023 Ash Tree Treatment Program (4-0)
• Recommended approval of $50,000 for immigrant and asylum seeker legal services (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $79,500 MA Executive Office of Public Safety grant for police staffing (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $28,000 MassDEP grant for Recycle Dividend Program (4-0)
• Recommended rescission of $435,000 to the Medical Marijuana Stabilization Fund (4-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for cable franchise fee accounting request (4-0)
• Approved minutes from March 21 and March 29 meetings (4-0)

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will review several license applications. These include requests for extended operating hours for two food establishments and a new used car dealer license.

• Extended operating hours for Alfredo's Italian Kitchen at 288 Broadway (Fri & Sat until 3am)
• Extended operating hours for Chow N Joy at 626 Somerville Ave (Sun-Thurs until 1am, Fri-Sat until 2am)
• New Class 2 Used Car Dealer License for Top Speed Vehicle at 631 Somerville Ave

The Licenses and Permits Committee recommended approving extended hours for Alfredo's Italian Kitchen and Chow N Joy. The committee recommended denying a used car dealer license for Top Speed Vehicle due to a lack of a valid lease or owner authorization.

• Approved minutes from March 6, 2023 meeting (2-0)
• Recommended approval of extended hours for Alfredo's Italian Kitchen at 288 Broadway (2-0)
• Recommended approval of extended hours for Chow N Joy at 626 Somerville Ave (2-0)
• Recommended denial of Used Car Dealer License for Top Speed Vehicle at 631 Somerville Ave (2-0)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding public health and safety. Topics include the feasibility of annual fire displacement reporting and updates on warming center progress for unhoused residents. The committee will also discuss the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency.

• Feasibility of annual reporting on fire causes and resident displacement (ID # 23-0501)
• Update on warming center efforts for unhoused individuals (ID # 23-0237)
• Progress update regarding the establishment of a Warming Center (ID # 23-0163)
• Discussion on the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency (ID # 23-0216)

The committee recommended marking several orders as work completed, including requests for updates on warming centers for unhoused residents and the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency. The committee also moved to close a request to assess the feasibility of annual fire displacement reporting.

• Approved minutes from February 27, 2023 meeting
• Recommended to mark work completed on annual fire reporting feasibility (ID # 23-0501)
• Recommended to mark work completed on warming center updates (ID # 23-0237)
• Recommended to mark work completed on warming center establishment progress (ID # 23-0163)
• Recommended to mark work completed on COVID-19 public health emergency impact discussion (ID # 23-0216)

Land Use Committee

The committee will discuss several items including a request to change the zoning district for 14 White Street Place. Members will also review proposals regarding electrical infrastructure, affordable housing in Union Square, and updates on various zoning ordinances.

• Zoning change for 14 White Street Place from NR to MR4
• Somerville Linkage Nexus Study Final Report
• Development of a citywide Electrical Infrastructure Master Plan
• Affordable housing plans for Union Square 'D2.4' and 'D4.3' parcels
• Zoning amendment regarding arts and creative workspace subcategories

The committee approved marking the citywide Electrical Infrastructure Master Plan and the request for 2014 Zoning Overhaul materials as work completed. A zoning amendment request for 14 White Street Place was withdrawn. Several other items, including the MBTA Communities Act and Union Square redevelopment, remain in committee for further discussion.

• Approved minutes of February 16, 2023 meeting
• Recommended withdrawal of zoning amendment for 14 White Street Place
• Recommended marking Electrical Infrastructure Master Plan as work completed
• Recommended marking request for 2014 Zoning Overhaul materials as work completed
• Kept Somerville Linkage Nexus Study in committee
• Kept request to remove prohibition on more than four unrelated adults living together in committee
• Kept Union Square affordable housing parcel plans in committee
• Kept review of Zoning Ordinance Section 10.7.4 materials in committee

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss updates to the FY 2023 City Council budget requests and review various budget priorities for FY 2024. Multiple councilors have submitted communications regarding their specific budget requests and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.

• FY 2023 City Council budget request updates
• FY 2024 budget priority requests from various councilors

The Committee passed five resolutions to support funding for affordable housing, out-of-school programs, rodent control, youth outreach, and alternative emergency response. Several budget priority communications from the Mayor and Councilors were recommended to be marked as work completed.

• Passed resolution to reaffirm commitment to affordable housing
• Passed resolution to support increased funding for out-of-school programs
• Passed resolution to support rodent mitigation efforts
• Passed resolution to support acquisition of a van and two staff for youth outreach
• Passed resolution for increased FY 2024 funding for social workers and mental health professionals for alternative emergency response
• Recommended marking work completed for Mayor's budget communication (ID # 23-0159)
• Recommended marking work completed for budget priority communications from Councilors McLaughlin, Davis, Scott, Strezo, Clingan, Ewen-Campen, Burnley Jr., Kelly, and Pineda Neufeld

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will review minutes from the March 15 meeting. Members will consider recommendations for two mayoral appointments and discuss resolutions regarding firefighter hiring processes.

• Appointment of Michael Smith to the Public Library Board of Trustees
• Appointment of Michael Santangelo to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners
• Discussion on efforts to hire more firefighters
• Discussion on updating the firefighter hiring process following the elimination of the reserve list

The committee recommended the appointment of Michael Smith to the Public Library Board of Trustees and marked two resolutions regarding firefighter hiring as work completed. One appointment to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners was kept in committee.

• Approved minutes from March 15, 2023
• Recommended approval of Michael Smith to Public Library Board of Trustees
• Kept appointment of Michael Santangelo to Housing Authority Board of Commissioners in committee
• Recommended marking work completed for resolution to update Council on hiring more firefighters (ID # 23-0241)
• Recommended marking work completed for resolution to update Council on firefighter hiring process (ID # 23-0242)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several items including a real estate transfer fee and Right to Purchase legislation. The committee will also consider amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance and Fair Housing ordinances.

• Proposed amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance
• Request for authorization of Sunday morning alcohol sales
• Home Rule Petition for a real estate transfer fee
• Home Rule Petition for Right to Purchase legislation
• Amendments to the Code of Ordinances related to Fair Housing

The Legislative Matters Committee recommended approval of Home Rule Petitions for Right to Purchase legislation and a real estate transfer fee. The committee also recommended amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance and approved a request for specific Sunday and holiday alcohol sales hours.

• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for Right to Purchase legislation (4-0-1)
• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for a real estate transfer fee as amended (4-0-1)
• Recommended approval of amendments to Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance (4-0-1)
• Recommended approval of alcohol sales between 10:00 AM and 12:00 noon on Sundays, the last Monday in May, and Christmas day (4-0-1)
• Kept Fair Housing ordinance amendments (ID # 22-1994) in committee
• Accepted minutes from March 14, 2023 meeting (4-0-1)

Traffic and Parking Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding traffic calming and infrastructure safety. Proposed items include an equity study for fare-free bus routes and various installations on Medford Street.

• Equity study of bus routes to determine targets for fare-free buses
• Installation of flexible bollards at Community Path entrances
• Replacement of a No Left Turn sign at Mt. Pleasant Street and Perkins Street
• Installation of speed humps on Medford Street between Sycamore and School Streets
• Installation of spring-loaded pedestrian crosswalk signs on Medford Street

The committee recommended marking several items as work completed, including a bus route equity study and a sign replacement. A proposal to install bollards on the Community Path was kept in committee due to safety concerns regarding emergency access and pedestrian risk.

• Recommended marking equity study of bus routes for fare-free targets as work completed
• Kept proposal for high visibility flexible bollards on Community Path in committee
• Recommended marking replacement of 'No Left Turn' sign at Mt. Pleasant and Perkins Streets as work completed
• Recommended marking installation of speed humps on Medford Street as work completed
• Kept proposal for pedestrian crosswalk signs on Medford Street in committee
• Recommended marking installation of protective guard on Medford Street bridge expansion joint as work completed
• Recommended marking update on Beacon Street HAWK signals as work completed

City Council

The City Council will consider several resolutions regarding the modernization of the City Charter and vacancy processes. The agenda also includes requests for Community Preservation Act funds for various park projects. Additionally, the council will hold public hearings for utility conduit installations.

• Resolutions to modernize the City Charter and update vacancy processes
• $400,000 appropriation from the Community Preservation Act for Junction Park construction
• $350,000 appropriation from the Community Preservation Act for Henry Hansen Park construction
• Public hearings for utility conduit installations by Eversource and Cambridge Network Solutions
• Appointment of Charles J. Breen, Jr. as Fire Chief Engineer

The City Council ordained amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding relationship status, intimate personal relationships, and biased-based policing. The Council also approved several Community Preservation Act fund appropriations for parks and historic preservation, and confirmed multiple city appointments.

• Ordained amendments to Code of Ordinance adding definitions for relationship status and intimate personal relationship
• Ordained amendment to Code of Ordinances regarding the definition of biased based policing
• Approved $827,000 from Unreserved Fund Balance for a safe consumption site
• Approved $425,000 from CPA Fund for historic preservation of Grace Baptist Church
• Approved $400,000 from CPA Fund for construction of Junction Park
• Approved $350,000 from CPA Fund for construction of Henry Hansen Park
• Confirmed Cynthia L. Amara as City Solicitor and Charles J. Breen, Jr. as Fire Chief Engineer
• Approved Home Rule Petition to appoint an alternate member to the Licensing Commission

Charter Review Special Committee

The committee will review the minutes from its March 8, 2023 meeting. Members will also discuss recommendations and proposed Charter text sent by the Charter Review Committee.

• Approval of March 8, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Charter Review Committee recommendations and proposed Charter text

The Charter Review Special Committee approved a recommendation to write a new City Charter rather than continuing to amend the existing document. The committee also approved several recommendations regarding petition mechanisms, vacancy processes, and School Committee composition.

• Approved recommendation to write a new and modernized Charter (11-0)
• Approved adding a group petition mechanism requiring public hearings for petitions signed by 100 municipal voters (11-0)
• Approved maintaining the vacancy process for at-large and ward City Councilors (11-0)
• Approved maintaining current School Committee composition (11-0)
• Approved keeping School Committee terms at 2 years (11-0)
• Approved maintaining the vacancy process for School Committee members (11-0)
• Approved request for amended language requiring Mayor and Councilor At Large candidates to be Somerville residents (11-0)
• Accepted minutes from March 8, 2023 meeting

Finance Committee

The committee will consider several Mayor's requests regarding fund appropriations and grant acceptances. Items include funding for various local parks, historic preservation, and public safety equipment.

• $827,000 appropriation for a safe consumption site construction and furnishing
• $400,000 from the CPA Fund for Junction Park construction
• $100,000 grant for traffic engineering at Alewife Brook Parkway and Broadway
• Three-year lease extension for Nibble Community Kitchen
• $79,500 grant to the Police Department for staffing costs

The Finance Committee recommended approval for several Community Preservation Act fund requests for parks and historic preservation, as well as $827,000 for a modular safe consumption site. The committee also approved a transition to the Zoom platform for city meetings and a lease extension for Nibble Community Kitchen. One grant for police staffing was kept in committee for further discussion.

• Recommended approval of $400,000 for Junction Park, $350,000 for Henry Hansen Park, and $100,000 for a park at 217 Somerville Ave
• Recommended approval of $250,000 for Blessing of the Bay Park path design and $425,000 for Grace Baptist Church preservation
• Recommended approval of $151,000 for Somerville Museum collections conservation
• Recommended approval of $827,000 from Free Cash for a modular safe consumption site
• Recommended approval of $20,125 transfer to procure Zoom platform for city business
• Recommended approval of a three-year lease extension for Nibble Community Kitchen
• Recommended approval of $100,000 DCR grant for traffic design at Alewife Brook Parkway and Broadway
• Kept in committee $79,500 grant for Police Department staffing costs

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will review various personnel matters including city solicitor and fire chief engineer appointments. The agenda includes requests for appointments to the Urban Forestry Committee and the Community Preservation Committee.

• Re-appointment of Darcy Haynes as Constable
• Appointment of Ryan Kiracofe to the Community Preservation Committee
• Appointment of Calla Taylor to the Urban Forestry Committee
• Appointment of Dorothy Suput to the Urban Forestry Committee
• Appointment of Cynthia L. Amara as City Solicitor

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee reviewed and recommended the approval of six appointments, including the City Solicitor and Fire Chief Engineer. These recommendations require final approval by the City Council on March 23rd.

• Recommended approval of Darcy Haynes as Constable
• Recommended approval of Ryan Kiracofe to the Community Preservation Committee
• Recommended approval of Calla Taylor to the Urban Forestry Committee
• Recommended approval of Dorothy Suput to the Urban Forestry Committee
• Recommended approval of Cynthia L. Amara as City Solicitor (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Charles J. Breen, Jr. as Fire Chief Engineer (3-2)
• Accepted minutes from the February 15, 2023 meeting

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several proposed amendments to the City Code of Ordinances. Discussion includes surveillance technology in public schools, fair housing, and establishing paid leave for survivors.

• 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report regarding Somerville Public Schools
• Ordinance amending Section 1-4 to add definitions for relationship status
• Ordinance amending Section 10-102 regarding biased based policing
• Home Rule Petition to appoint an alternate member to the Licensing Commission
• Ordinance establishing Paid Leave for Survivors

The committee recommended approval of several ordinance amendments adding definitions for relationship status and intimate personal relationships. It also recommended approval of a Home Rule Petition to appoint an alternate member to the Licensing Commission. Several items regarding paid leave for survivors were kept in committee.

• Recommended approval as amended of ordinances adding relationship status definitions (ID # 22-1992, 22-1993, 22-1996) (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for Licensing Commission alternate member (ID # 23-0256) (4-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report (ID # 23-0107)
• Recommended placing on file ordinance regarding Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Financial Disclosure (ID # 22-1995) (4-0)
• Kept in committee ordinance regarding Fair Housing (ID # 22-1994)
• Kept in committee Paid Leave for Survivors ordinance and resolution (ID # 23-0075, 23-0077, 23-0218)
• Recommended marking work completed for OPEN public communication (ID # 23-0299)
• Approved committee minutes from January 31 and February 14, 2023

City Council

The City Council is considering several financial requests, including funding for affordable housing, public toilets, and legal settlements. Members are also discussing tenant protections, speed humps on Medford Street, and municipal employee compensation.

• Order to draft a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization
• Order to install speed humps on Medford Street between Sycamore and School Streets
• Appropriation of $1,847,374 for the Municipal Voucher Program
• Appropriation of $805,675 for prefabricated public toilets
• Appropriation of $137,500 for the Carlos Melo v. City of Somerville settlement

The City Council approved repurposing $3.5 million in COVID-19 funds for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and authorized $2,068,800 for a lead service replacement program. The Council also approved several smaller grants for historic preservation and public safety, and voted to draft a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization.

• Approved $3.5M transfer from COVID-19 Stabilization Fund to Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Approved $2,068,800 bond for Lead Service Replacement program
• Approved draft Home Rule Petition to establish Rent Stabilization
• Approved $805,675 for prefabricated outdoor public toilets
• Approved $1.8M from Free Cash for Municipal Voucher Program
• Approved $300,000 for Elizabeth Peabody House window restoration
• Approved $137,500 and $702,500 for legal settlements (Melo and McDaid)
• Approved 2023 Municipal Election Calendar

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee is meeting to review the minutes from February 22, 2023. The committee will also discuss its recommendations and proposed Charter text.

• Approval of the February 22, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of recommended and proposed Charter text

The Charter Review Special Committee approved the establishment of a Participatory Budgeting Study Committee and an Equitable Compensation Committee. The committee also discussed potential changes to the budget timeline and the Council's budgetary powers, but these items remain under review.

• Approved minutes from February 22, 2023 meeting
• Approved establishment of a Participatory Budgeting Study Committee (9-0-2)
• Approved establishment of an Equitable Compensation Committee and periodic employee compensation reviews (11-0-0)
• Kept budget timeline and reallocation power discussions in committee for further research

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several requests to move funds from the Unreserved Fund Balance to specific accounts. Discussion includes updates on free cash certification, stabilization funds, and multiple legal settlements.

• $805,000 appropriation for prefabricated standalone public toilets
• $1,847,374 appropriation for the Municipal Voucher Program
• $702,500 appropriation for Kathryn McDaid v. City of Somerville settlement
• $137,500 appropriation for Carlos Melo v. City of Somerville settlement
• $300,000 appropriation for Elizabeth Peabody House window restoration

The Finance Committee recommended several appropriations from free cash, including funding for a municipal voucher program and public toilets. The committee also recommended approval for legal settlements, historic preservation grants, and a police substation lease.

• Recommended approval of $1,847,374 for the Municipal Voucher Program
• Recommended approval of $805,000 for three prefabricated public toilets
• Recommended approval of $702,500 and $137,500 for legal settlements (McDaid and Melo)
• Recommended approval of $300,000 for Elizabeth Peabody House window restoration
• Recommended approval of $15,000 for Mudflat Pottery School facade study
• Recommended approval of a 3-year lease for West Somerville Police Substation
• Recommended approval of $75,000 and $20,000 grants for youth and overdose support
• Recommended approval of $21,982 for an additional Case Manager position

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will hold public hearings regarding new dealer and extended operating hour licenses. The meeting also includes a request for utility conduit installation on Kent Street.

• New Used Car Dealer License Class 2 at 631 Somerville Ave
• Extended Operating Hours License for Falafel Place at 1 Main St
• Extended Operating Hours License for Chow N Joy at 626 Somerville Ave
• Eversource Grant of Location to install 102 feet of conduit in Kent St

The committee recommended approval for a restaurant to extend operating hours and for Eversource to install electrical conduit. Two other license applications were kept in committee due to a missing lease and the applicant's absence.

• Recommended approval for Falafel Place extended operating hours until 3 a.m. (Aye)
• Recommended approval for Eversource to install 102 feet of conduit in Kent St (Aye)
• Kept in committee: New Used Car Dealer License for Top Speed Vehicle
• Kept in committee: New Extended Operating Hours License for Chow N Joy

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss the contract renewal process with TZE. Additionally, officials will discuss notification protocols for water shutoffs and street work.

• Discussion of the contract renewal process with TZE
• Discussion regarding notification protocols for street work and water shutoffs

The committee approved the February 13 meeting minutes and marked a resolution regarding the TZE contract renewal process as work completed. An order to discuss notification protocols for street work and water shutoffs remains in committee.

• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Marked resolution for Administration update on TZE contract renewal process as work completed
• Kept order for Director of Engineering and Superintendent of Water and Sewer to discuss street work and water shutoff notifications in committee

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Committee will discuss several items regarding housing stability, including resident displacement and tenant rights in inclusionary units. Discussions also include potential modifications to Tier 3 Rental ADU multipliers and the use of affordable housing linkage payments.

• Discussion on residents facing displacement and households seeking rental assistance
• Discussion on the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination backlog
• Discussion on tenant rights in inclusionary housing units
• Discussion on Tier 3 Rental ADU multiplier at 110% AMI
• Discussion on combining affordable housing linkage payments with the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The committee approved the February 2, 2023 minutes and recommended several items be marked as work completed, including reports on 311 staff demographics and the Community Land Trust. The committee kept items regarding housing displacement and rental ADU multipliers under review. Discussions were held on the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination backlog and the Somerville Bike Kitchen.

• Approved February 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• Kept in committee: Discussion on residents facing displacement and rental assistance
• Kept in committee: Letter regarding Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination backlog
• Recommended work completed: Informing tenants in inclusionary housing of rights
• Recommended work completed: Youth bicycle repair program collaboration
• Kept in committee: Tier 3 Rental ADUs multiplier for inclusionary units
• Recommended work completed: Combining affordable housing linkage payments
• Recommended work completed: Community Land Trust progress update

Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding city services and accessibility standards. Discussions include reproductive health impacts, ADA compliance reports, and language plan updates.

• Eliminating equity barriers for recreation program sign-ups
• Update on the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs 5-year language plan
• Discussion on effects of Dobbs v. Jackson on reproductive health in Somerville
• Report on ADA complaints from FY 2021 and FY 2022
• Status update on requests for Braille transcription of materials

The committee recommended marking work as completed for orders regarding recreation program equity barriers, the 5-year language plan, and ADA compliance oversight. Several other items, including ADA complaint lists and reproductive health effects, were kept in committee for further action.

• Recommended work completed: eliminate equity barriers for recreation program sign-ups
• Recommended work completed: update on 5-year language plan implementation
• Recommended work completed: oversight for ADA and Fair Housing Act compliance
• Kept in committee: effects of Dobbs v Jackson on reproductive health
• Kept in committee: list of FY 2021 and FY 2022 ADA complaints
• Kept in committee: status of Braille transcription materials
• Kept in committee: documentation of compliance with CMR 521
• Kept in committee: status of citywide disparity study

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee will discuss alternative emergency response methods and non-police options used by other municipalities. The agenda also includes a request for health and human services directors to present on an alternative emergency response program.

• Approval of February 13, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of alternative emergency response methods with local mental health providers
• Request for Directors of Health and Human Services to discuss an alternative emergency response program
• Discussion of non-police emergency response methods used by other municipalities

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee heard presentations from mental health providers and officials from Denver, Amherst, and Northampton regarding non-police emergency response. The committee recommended marking three orders related to these discussions as work completed.

• Approved minutes from February 13, 2023 meeting
• Recommended marking Order 23-0278 (discussing alternative emergency response methods) as work completed
• Recommended marking Order 22-1373 (appearance of Health and Human Services and COHR directors) as work completed
• Recommended marking Order 23-0279 (discussing non-police response methods in other municipalities) as work completed

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee will discuss several proposed orders regarding transit and road safety. These include a potential equity study of bus routes and various requests for traffic calming. The committee will also review items related to street lighting, pedestrian accessibility, and bridge safety.

• Proposed equity study of bus routes for fare-free targets
• Traffic calming and bicycle parking at Kennedy School
• Safety and pedestrian accessibility improvements on Cedar Street
• Protective guard installation for Medford Street bridge expansion joint
• Replacement of HAWK signals with RYG stoplights on Beacon Street

The committee recommended marking five orders as work completed, including lighting and traffic calming at Pearl and Franklin Streets. Several other items regarding school safety and bus route equity were kept in committee for further study or data.

• Approved February 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended marking work completed for Cedar Street safety improvements (ID # 23-0083)
• Recommended marking work completed for Pearl and Franklin Streets lighting and traffic calming (ID # 22-2117)
• Recommended marking work completed for Beacon and Washington bus stop placement (ID # 22-2144)
• Recommended marking work completed for Lake St driveway access (ID # 22-2146)
• Recommended marking work completed for Ward 2 speed bump prioritization (ID # 22-2148)
• Recommended marking work completed for resident parking subsidies in development plans (ID # 22-2145)
• Kept in committee orders for bus route equity study, Kennedy School traffic calming, and Medford Street bridge guard

City Council

The Council will review several Mayor's requests to transfer funds from the Unreserved Fund Balance to specific city accounts. These include appropriations for the Municipal Voucher Program, public toilets, and legal settlements. The agenda also includes zoning amendments and committee reports.

• $1,847,374 appropriation for the Municipal Voucher Program
• $805,000 appropriation for prefabricated standalone public toilets
• Zoning amendments regarding commercial signs and neighborhood meetings
• $45,406.77 grant for Fire Department maritime equipment
• Re-appointment of several Constables

The City Council approved a tax increment financing agreement for the Winter Hill Star Market site and passed several zoning amendments. The Council also expressed support for 311 operators joining the Somerville Municipal Employees Association.

• Approved Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing (UCH-TIF) for Winter Hill
• Approved lease agreement with MBTA for Alternative Transportation Corridor
• Ordained zoning amendments for neighborhood meetings, commercial districts, and signs
• Ordained amendment to codify traffic and parking fines
• Approved resolution supporting 311 operators joining SMEA Unit B
• Approved $3,348.18 and $45,406.77 UASI grants for Fire Department equipment
• Approved appointment of Michael Potere as Assistant Clerk of Committees
• Approved public event licenses for Union Square Farmers Market and Race of Ireland 5K

Charter Review Special Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the February 8, 2023 meeting. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding recommendations and proposed Charter text sent by the Charter Review Committee.

• Approval of February 8, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of recommended and proposed Charter text

The Charter Review Special Committee approved shifting the appointment of the independent auditor to the City Council. The committee also approved the implementation of a Capital Improvement Plan with a modified resolution process. Other proposed changes regarding budget timelines and board appointments were discussed but not decided.

• Approved mandating the appointment of the independent auditor by the City Council (10-0)
• Approved implementing a Capital Improvement Plan, amended to allow the City Council to 'adopt or reject' the plan by resolution (10-0)
• Accepted the February 8, 2023, committee minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing for Winter Hill. The committee will also review a lease agreement with the MBTA and two grants for Fire Department equipment.

• Public hearing on Winter Hill UCH-TIF Zone, Plan, and Form of Agreement
• Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement with the MBTA
• $45,406.77 grant for Fire Department maritime equipment
• $3,348.18 grant for Fire Department residential lock boxes

The committee recommended approval of a lease agreement with the MBTA for an Alternative Transportation Corridor and two security grants for the Fire Department. It also recommended support for an amended housing tax incentive agreement for Winter Hill.

• Approved Finance Committee Minutes of February 7, 2023 (5-0)
• Recommended support for an amended Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing (UCH-TIF) agreement for Winter Hill (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement with the MBTA (5-0)
• Recommended approval to accept $45,406.77 UASI grant for Fire Department maritime equipment (5-0)
• Recommended approval to accept $3,348.18 UASI grant for Fire Department residential lock boxes (5-0)

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding on-street electric vehicle fast charging stations and the use of meters at charging locations. The meeting also includes discussions on potential municipal composting programs and increasing the number of trees in Foss Park.

• Pilot of on-street direct current fast charging stations (ID # 23-0070)
• Use of meters and time-based charges at EV charging stations (ID # 23-0092)
• Plans for a municipal composting program (ID # 22-0951)
• Increasing the number of trees in Foss Park (ID # 22-0828)

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee reviewed updates on electric vehicle charging, municipal composting, and park tree planting. No items were approved or denied; all four discussed orders were kept in committee.

• Kept in committee: Request for update on on-street DC fast charging stations pilot (ID # 23-0070)
• Kept in committee: Request for discussion on EV charging station meters and idling charges (ID # 23-0092)
• Kept in committee: Request for update on municipal composting program plans (ID # 22-0951)
• Kept in committee: Request for update on increasing trees in Foss Park (ID # 22-0828)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee will review several requests to amend the Somerville Zoning Ordinance. These include proposals regarding commercial sign regulations, neighborhood meeting procedures, and ground-floor uses on Pedestrian Streets.

• Rezoning 14 White Street Place from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Mid-Rise 4 (MR4)
• Amendment to permit additional uses for ground-story commercial spaces on Pedestrian Streets
• Proposal to permit commercial signs by right under Section 10.8
• Proposed amendment to Section 15.1.3 regarding Neighborhood Meetings

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will consider several appointments, including constables and members of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. The meeting also includes a request for an update from Human Resources regarding current job vacancies and positions filled in 2022.

• Re-appointment of Alan Bishop, Darcy Haynes, Catello Battinelli II, and Mary Battinelli as Constables
• Appointment of Deborah Haber, Pauline Downing, and Harriotte Ranvig to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities
• Appointment of F. Kelley Landolphi and Michael Potere as Assistant Clerks of Committees
• Request for a Human Resources report on job vacancies and 2022 hiring

The committee recommended the appointment of three constables, three members to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and one Assistant Clerk of Committees. One constable appointment was kept in committee, and one candidate for Assistant Clerk withdrew. All recommended appointments require final City Council approval on February 23.

• Recommended re-appointment of Alan Bishop as Constable (4-1)
• Kept re-appointment of Darcy Haynes as Constable in committee
• Recommended re-appointment of Catello Battinelli II as Constable (4-1)
• Recommended re-appointment of Mary Battinelli as Constable (4-1)
• Recommended appointment of Deborah Haber to Commission for Persons with Disabilities (5-0)
• Recommended appointment of Pauline Downing to Commission for Persons with Disabilities (5-0)
• Recommended appointment of Harriotte Ranvig to Commission for Persons with Disabilities (5-0)
• Recommended appointment of Michael Potere as Assistant Clerk of Committees (5-0)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee is reviewing several proposed changes to the City's Code of Ordinances, including new nondiscrimination provisions based on relationship status. The committee will also consider updates to fair housing, personnel, and policing definitions. Additionally, requests regarding camera-based parking enforcement and traffic fine codification are on the agenda.

• Amendments for relationship status nondiscrimination provisions
• Updates to Fair Housing and Personnel Code of Ordinances sections
• Changes to the definition of biased policing
• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for camera parking enforcement
• Amendment to codify Traffic & Parking fines

The committee recommended approval of an amendment to codify traffic and parking fines. Several proposed nondiscrimination ordinance amendments and a surveillance report for camera parking enforcement were kept in committee.

• Recommended approval of amendment to Section 1-11 to codify Traffic & Parking fines (5-0)
• Approved motion to change 'relationship status' to 'family and relationship structure' in several proposed ordinance amendments (5-0)
• Kept in committee: Amendments to Sections 1-4, 2-326, 7-41, 7-43, 7-44, 7-47, 15-31, and 10-102 regarding relationship structure
• Kept in committee: Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Camera Ticket Enforcement

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding cable franchise contract negotiations with Comcast. Other items include orders for wire removal at 19 Church Street and 9 Pearl Street Place, as well as reports on street light maintenance and hazardous waste collection.

• Removal of wires at 19 Church Street and 9 Pearl Street Place
• Report on street and traffic light maintenance schedules
• Update on Armory building maintenance plans
• Plans for household hazardous waste collection
• Updates on cable franchise contract negotiations with Comcast

The Committee approved the December 5, 2022 minutes and recommended marking several orders and resolutions as work completed. These included wire removals, street light maintenance, Armory building plans, and cable franchise contract updates.

• Approved December 5, 2022 meeting minutes
• Recommended marking work completed for wire removal at 19 Church Street (ID # 23-0143)
• Recommended marking work completed for wire removal at 9 Pearl Street Place (ID # 23-0142)
• Recommended marking work completed for street and traffic light maintenance report (ID # 23-0061)
• Recommended marking work completed for Armory building maintenance update (ID # 23-0149)
• Recommended marking work completed for household hazardous waste collection update (ID # 23-0071)
• Recommended marking work completed for Comcast cable franchise contract update (ID # 23-0056)
• Recommended marking work completed for cable provider contract update (ID # 23-0138)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee will discuss a resolution supporting the eradication of medical debt. The committee will also consider orders requesting updates on a Safe Consumption Site and potential measures to address reports of spiked drinks in the region.

• Resolution supporting the eradication of medical debt
• Order requesting progress updates on a Safe Consumption Site
• Order regarding reports of spiked drinks in the region

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee reviewed updates on medical debt relief, safe consumption sites, and drink spiking prevention. The committee recommended marking all three items as work completed.

• Recommended marking resolution on Eradication of Medical Debt as work completed
• Recommended marking order for Safe Consumption Site update as work completed
• Recommended marking order regarding drink spiking reports as work completed
• Approved January 23, 2023 committee minutes

City Council

The Somerville City Council is considering several financial requests, including a $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs. The agenda also includes public hearings for utility conduit installations and various orders regarding rodent mitigation and public safety.

• $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs
• Creation of the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund
• Verizon Grant of Location for conduit at Herbert St and Chester St
• Eversource Grant of Location for conduit on Kent St
• $6,318.46 payment for IT supplies and services

The City Council ordained an increase in taxicab meter rates and approved a Home Rule Petition to continue the employment of Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino. The council also established an Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund and approved several utility conduit grants.

• Approved taxicab meter rate increase to $1.95 for first 1/8 mile (Unanimous)
• Approved Home Rule Petition for Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino (10-1)
• Approved creation of Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund (Unanimous)
• Approved $91,211.79 Fire Department staffing grant (Unanimous)
• Approved Verizon and Eversource conduit installation grants (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting Payment In Lieu of Taxes legislation (Unanimous)
• Approved access to information provision for Charter Review (Unanimous)
• Approved public event licenses for Maple Boil and Family Bike CPX Ride (Unanimous)

Charter Review Special Committee

The Committee of the Whole will review recommendations and proposed text for the City Charter. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from January 25, 2023.

• Review of recommended Charter text and proposals
• Approval of January 25, 2023 meeting minutes

The committee approved a recommendation to add an access to information provision to the City Charter. Members discussed potential changes to legal counsel hiring and department head appointment structures, but no final decisions were made on those items.

• Approved recommended language for adding an access to information provision (11-0)
• Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Kept in committee: proposed changes to department head hiring structure

Finance Committee

The committee will consider a $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing and the creation of an Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund. Members will also review several contract extensions for park engineering and streetscape improvements. Additionally, orders were submitted to review cable franchise fee expenditures and free cash usage.

• $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs
• Creation of the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund
• MBTA Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement
• Contract extension for Conway Park engineering services
• Accounting of cable franchise fees over the past five years

The committee recommended approval for a new Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund and a $91,211.79 fire department grant. Several time-only contract extensions for city projects were also recommended for approval. A TIF zone for Winter Hill and an MBTA lease agreement were kept in committee for further review.

• Recommended approval of $91,211.79 MA Executive Office of Public Safety grant for Fire Department staffing
• Recommended approval to pay $6,318.46 in prior year IT invoices
• Recommended approval to create the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Stabilization Fund
• Recommended time-only contract extension for Weston and Sampson Engineering (Conway Park) to 12/31/2023
• Recommended time-only contract extension for CBA Landscape Architects (Henry Hansen Memorial Park) to 9/30/2024
• Recommended 15-month contract extension for Barletta Heavy Division (Somerville Avenue project) to 6/30/2024
• Recommended extension of Invoice Cloud contract for credit card processing
• Kept in committee: Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement with MBTA and Winter Hill UCH-TIF Zone

Traffic and Parking Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding traffic calming, parking regulations, and street safety. These discussions involve reviewing commercial vehicle restrictions and potential improvements for various local streets and bridges.

• Green Cab Company, Inc. request to increase taxicab meter rates
• $100,000 state funding plan for Route 16 and Broadway traffic study
• Proposed 311 category for reporting parking in bicycle lanes
• Special senior parking designation near Holland Street
• Protective guard installation for Medford Street bridge expansion joint

The committee recommended approving a taxicab meter rate increase for Green Cab Company, Inc. Several orders regarding traffic studies, commercial parking, and traffic calming were marked as work completed, while others remained in committee.

• Recommended approval of Green Cab Company meter rate increase to $1.95 for first 1/8 mile (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for Route 16 and Broadway traffic study funding (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for 311 bike lane parking reporting category (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for heavy commercial vehicle restriction report (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for curbside business needs engagement (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for Vernon and Trull Street traffic calming evaluation (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for Highland Road speed hump installation (3-0)
• Kept in committee: special parking designation for Holland Street (3-0)

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will discuss resident displacement, rental assistance needs, and the impact of rising utility costs on affordable housing tenants. The agenda also includes a review of community wealth building and potential bicycle repair programs.

• Resident displacement and rental assistance status
• Impact of Social Security cost of living increases on affordable housing
• Effects of utility, heating, and water bill increases on tenants
• Data request for inclusionary homes built after 2016
• Recruitment for the Teen Snow Shoveling Program

The committee approved the October 19, 2022 minutes and marked several orders as work completed, including reviews of utility bill impacts on affordable housing and teen snow shoveling recruitment. Other items regarding resident displacement and bicycle repair programs were kept in committee for further action.

• Approved October 19, 2022 committee minutes
• Kept in committee: Discussion on resident displacement and rental assistance (ID # 22-0085)
• Marked work completed: Impact of Social Security cost of living increase on affordable housing (ID # 22-1793)
• Marked work completed: Impact of utility, heating, and water bill increases on affordable housing tenants (ID # 22-1683)
• Kept in committee: Democracy Collaborative report on Community Wealth Building (ID # 22-1408)
• Marked work completed: Data on inclusionary homes built after 2016 (ID # 22-0273)
• Marked work completed: Recruitment and retention for Teen Snow Shoveling Program (ID # 22-0290)
• Kept in committee: Development of a youth bicycle repair program (ID # 22-0051)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee will review several requests to amend the Somerville Zoning Ordinance. These include proposals regarding commercial uses on Pedestrian Streets and rules for commercial signs. The committee will also consider a request to rezone 14 White Street Place.

• Rezoning 14 White Street Place from NR to MR4
• Amendment for ground story commercial uses on Pedestrian Streets
• Proposal to permit commercial signs by right
• Amendment to Section 15.1.3 regarding Neighborhood Meetings

The committee accepted the minutes from November 17, 2022. Four separate zoning and ordinance amendment requests were discussed during public hearings, all of which were kept in committee for further review.

• Approved Land Use Committee Minutes of November 17, 2022
• Kept in committee: Amendment to Section 6.1 Commercial Districts regarding ground story commercial spaces
• Kept in committee: Zoning change for 14 White Street Place from NR to MR4
• Kept in committee: Amendment to Section 15.1.3 regarding Neighborhood Meetings
• Kept in committee: Amendment to Section 10.8 to permit commercial signs by right

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The committee is meeting jointly with the School Department to discuss various school building updates. The agenda includes requests for reports on feasibility studies, preventive maintenance plans, and specific repairs at several schools.

• Updates on the School Building Systems Feasibility Study
• Report on planned repairs for East Somerville Community School facade failures
• Update on Wi-Fi services for all schools
• Discussion of maintenance and capital improvements for Winter Hill School
• Status update on the 1895 building

Legislative Matters Committee

The committee will discuss the 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Reports and a proposed amendment regarding automated traffic cameras. Members will also consider a request to extend Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino's employment. Other discussions include towing enforcement revisions and cannabis delivery procedures.

• Amendment to Surveillance Technology Ordinance for automated traffic/parking cameras
• Home Rule Petition for continued employment of Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino
• Proposed amendments to the Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance
• Order to allow towing vehicles blocking crosswalks, bike lanes, or ADA ramps
• Request for update on Short-Term Rental Ordinance compliance

The Legislative Matters Committee recommended approval of a petition to continue the employment of Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino. The committee also recommended updates to the Surveillance Technology Ordinance regarding traffic and parking enforcement cameras. Several other administrative requests were marked as work completed.

• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for Acting Police Chief Charles J. Femino (3-1)
• Recommended adoption of changes to Surveillance Technology Ordinance for traffic/parking cameras (4-0)
• Recommended marking 2022 Surveillance Technology Annual Report as work completed
• Recommended marking request for Short-Term Rental Ordinance compliance update as work completed
• Recommended marking request for towing ordinance revisions as work completed
• Recommended marking request for cannabis delivery language as work completed
• Recommended marking Clean and Open Elections Task Force report as work completed
• Kept Neighborhood Council Designation Ordinance amendments in committee for revision

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will review the minutes from September 28, 2022. The meeting also includes discussions regarding updates on rodent mitigation plans, potential financial relief for low-income residents, and reports of vehicle damage caused by rats.

• Approval of the Rodent Issues Special Committee Minutes from September 28, 2022
• Updates on rodent mitigation plans and the SMART box program
• Potential financial relief for low-income residents facing rodent-related expenses
• Sewer baiting plan for Pennsylvania Avenue near water pipeline renovation
• Inspections of Chuckie Harris Park, General Insulation building, and 161 Broadway

The committee reviewed updates from the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) regarding rodent mitigation plans, SMART box data, and sewer baiting. Following these reports and discussions, the committee recommended marking ten separate orders related to rodent control and reporting as work completed.

• Approved September 28, 2022 meeting minutes
• Recommended marking order 22-0296 (rodent mitigation plans update) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 23-0131 (SMART box program update) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 22-0346 (financial relief for rodent damage) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 23-0063 (reports of rat-damaged cars) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 23-0069 (rodent hormonal birth control update) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 23-0062 (rat control funding in Community Benefits Agreements) as work completed
• Recommended marking order 22-2037 (baiting sewers on Pennsylvania Avenue) as work completed

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several financial requests, including a multi-million dollar bond for infrastructure reconstruction. Members are also discussing charter review recommendations and home rule petitions regarding voting rights for 16 and 17-year-olds. A public hearing is scheduled for Eversource utility work on Morrison Avenue.

• $4,545,827 bond for streets and sidewalk reconstruction
• $75,000 appropriation for a Blue Bike Station at Boynton Yards
• $100,000 appropriation for Local Cultural Council grants
• Public hearing for Eversource to install conduit on Morrison Avenue
• Amendment to add a registry component to the short-term rentals ordinance

The City Council authorized a $4.5M bond for infrastructure repairs and adopted the Specialized Energy Code. The council also approved several Home Rule Petitions, including one to grant municipal voting rights to 16 and 17-year-olds. Additionally, a new registry component was added to the short-term rentals ordinance.

• Approved $4.5M bond for streets and sidewalk reconstruction
• Adopted Specialized Energy Code (225 CMR, Sections 22 and 23)
• Approved Home Rule Petition for municipal voting rights for residents aged 16-17
• Ordained registry component for short-term rentals ordinance
• Approved $100,000 for Local Cultural Council grants
• Approved $75,000 for Blue Bike Station at Boynton Yards
• Approved Home Rule Petition requiring Institutional Master Plans
• Approved Home Rule Petition defining Affordable Housing Trust purposes

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee will review minutes from its January 11, 2023 meeting. The committee is also scheduled to discuss recommendations and proposed text for the City Charter.

• Approval of January 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of recommended charter text and proposals

The Charter Review Special Committee approved recommendations to maintain the Mayor-Council system, the current City Council structure, and 2-year council terms. The committee rejected a proposal to increase the mayoral term to 4 years, instead voting to keep it at 2 years. A proposal to add a Chief Administrative Officer was kept in committee for further study.

• Approved maintaining Mayor-Council system of governance (11-0)
• Approved retaining current City Council structure (11-0)
• Approved retaining 2-year City Council terms (11-0)
• Denied increasing mayoral term to 4 years (4-7)
• Approved retaining 2-year mayoral term and revising vacancy process (11-0)
• Kept proposal to add Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) in committee
• Approved minutes from 1/11/23 meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is considering several Mayor's requests regarding city appropriations and contracts. Proposed items include a multi-million dollar bond for streets and sidewalks, funding for cultural grants, and a new Blue Bike station at Boynton Yards. The committee will also discuss updates on affordable housing financing and free cash use.

• $4,545,827 bond for streets and sidewalk reconstruction
• $100,000 appropriation for Local Cultural Council grants
• $75,000 for a Blue Bike Station at 101 South Street
• Contract extension with Community Action Agency of Somerville for housing services
• MBTA Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement

The committee recommended approval for a $4.5 million bond for infrastructure improvements and several smaller appropriations for arts and bike sharing. They also approved various prior-year invoices and a contract extension for housing services. One MBTA lease agreement was kept in committee.

• Recommended approval to borrow $4,545,827 for streets and sidewalk reconstruction
• Recommended approval to appropriate $100,000 for Local Cultural Council grants
• Recommended approval to appropriate $75,000 for a Blue Bike Station at 101 South Street
• Recommended approval to accept a $1,050 gift for the Council on Aging
• Recommended approval to extend Community Action Agency of Somerville contract to 2/29/2023
• Recommended approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $108,175.96 across DPW, HR, City Clerk, and OSE
• Recommended approval to transfer $5,000 within the Office of Sustainability and Environment for interns
• Kept Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement with MBTA in committee

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee reviewed several orders regarding pandemic response and emergency management. Discussions included vaccination strategies, police protocols for unhoused encampments, and the use of ARPA funding to address chronic homelessness.

• Request for masking plans during COVID-19 surge
• Resolution to designate a contact for mass displacement events like fires or floods
• Police report on protocols for addressing unhoused encampments
• Review of ARPA funding use for chronic homelessness
• List of confirmed shootings between April 2018 and April 2022

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee reviewed 17 items, recommending that 16 of them be marked as work completed. These items covered COVID-19 masking and vaccination strategies, emergency response protocols for mass displacement, and homelessness outreach. The committee also approved the minutes from the July 11, 2022, meeting.

• Approved July 11, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed on COVID-19 masking and vaccination plans (ID # 23-0094, # 22-1767)
• Recommended marking work completed on Board of Health annual report (ID # 23-0081)
• Recommended marking work completed on mass displacement response and fire notification protocols (ID # 22-1934, # 22-1933, # 22-1932)
• Recommended marking work completed on homelessness shelter and outreach updates (ID # 22-1739, # 22-1359, # 22-1757, # 22-1307, # 22-1761, # 22-1055)
• Recommended marking work completed on public health violation and vacant property enforcement (ID # 22-0058, # 22-1445)
• Recommended marking work completed on police report of shootings 2018-2022 (ID # 22-0959)
• Recommended marking work completed on COVID-19 wastewater testing feasibility (ID # 22-2123)

Legislative Matters Committee

The committee will consider several Mayor's Requests, including updates to the energy code and short-term rental ordinances. Members will also discuss orders for the Police Chief to report on ShotSpotter gunshot detections. Additionally, Home Rule Petitions regarding youth voting rights and affordable housing will be reviewed.

• Request for a registry component in short-term rentals ordinance
• Adoption of the Specialized Energy Code
• Home Rule Petition for 16 and 17-year-old voting rights
• Police reporting on ShotSpotter gunshot detections and false reports
• Home Rule Petition defining Affordable Housing Trust purposes

The committee recommended approval of a short-term rental registry with a $250 fee and a primary residence requirement. It also recommended Home Rule Petitions for municipal voting rights for 16 and 17-year-olds and the adoption of Institutional Master Plans. A request to adopt the Specialized Energy Code was kept in committee.

• Recommended approval of short-term rental registry with $250 fee and April 1 effective date
• Recommended adoption of Chapter 90, Section 20A for automated parking enforcement
• Recommended rescinding Chapter 90, Section 20A½ (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for 16 and 17-year-old municipal voting rights
• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition for Institutional Master Plans
• Recommended approval of Home Rule Petition defining Affordable Housing Trust purposes
• Kept Specialized Energy Code adoption request in committee
• Marked work completed for ShotSpotter reporting orders (22-1056, 22-1057, 23-0085)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several orders, including a proposal to amend zoning laws regarding unrelated adults living together. The agenda also includes requests from the Mayor for infrastructure funding and budget appropriations. Additionally, councilors are discussing speed limit reductions on state roads and updates on water shutoff protocols.

• $4,545,827 bond request for street and sidewalk reconstruction
• Proposed zoning amendment to allow more than four unrelated adults to live together
• Petition to lower speed limits on all state roads in Somerville to 25 mph
• $100,000 appropriation for Local Cultural Council grants
• Ordinance establishing Paid Leave for Survivors

The City Council approved resolutions to expand municipal voting rights to non-citizen residents and 16- and 17-year-old residents. The Council also petitioned the state to lower speed limits on all state roads in the city to 25 mph and called for the city to reverse the removal of two community partners from a city-owned building.

• Approved expanding voting rights to non-citizen residents
• Approved expanding voting rights to 16- and 17-year-old residents
• Approved petition to MA DOT to lower speed limits on all state roads in Somerville to 25 mph
• Approved resolution to reverse removal of Somerville Media Center and MAPS from 90-92 Union Square
• Approved reducing signature requirements for several elected officials
• Approved re-appointment of Stephanie Widzowski as Clerk of Committees
• Approved re-appointment of Peter Forcellese, Sr. as Legislative Clerk
• Approved 17 various business license renewals

Charter Review Special Committee

The committee will review minutes from its December 7, 2022 meeting. A public hearing is scheduled regarding recommendations and proposed text for the City Charter.

• Approval of December 7, 2022 meeting minutes
• Public hearing on proposed Charter text and recommendations

The Charter Review Special Committee approved several recommendations to expand voting rights to non-citizens and 16- to 17-year-olds. The committee also voted to reduce signature requirements for most elected offices and add City Council and School Committee representation to future study committees.

• Approved minutes from December 7, 2022
• Approved expanding voting rights to non-citizen residents
• Approved expanding voting rights to 16- and 17-year-old residents
• Approved reducing signature requirements for all elected offices except Mayor
• Approved adding City Council President/designee and School Committee Chair/designee to all study committees

City Council Organizational Meeting

The City Council held its organizational meeting to elect leadership and establish operating rules for 2023. The council approved the adoption of 2022 rules and revived pending business from the previous year. Administrative authorizations for the City Treasurer were also approved.

• Elected Councilor Ewen-Campen as President (Approved)
• Elected Councilor Pineda Neufeld as Vice President (Approved)
• Adopted 2022 Rules of the City Council for 2023 (Approved)
• Revived all pending business from 2022 and recommitted items to Council or Committees (Approved)
• Accepted and approved bonds of the City Treasurer/Tax Collector (Approved)
• Authorized City Treasurer to appoint Deputy Tax Collectors (Approved)