Somerville public meetings in 2024

City Council

The City Council will review various municipal matters including public hearing requests for utility conduit installations and several city-wide safety orders. The agenda also includes multiple grant requests for police equipment and urban forestry projects.

• Eversource Grant of Location: 251 feet of conduit on Prospect Street
• Eversings Grant of Location: 25 feet of conduit and a new manhole on Auburn Avenue
• Cambridge Network Solutions Grant of Location: 114 feet of conduit on Linwood and Fitchburg Streets
• $171,000 grant for Police Department Special Response Team rescue vehicle
• $500,000 grant for Blessing of the Bay MassTrails improvement project

The City Council approved three appropriations totaling $26,494,536 to purchase the parcel at 90 Washington Street: $12,000,000 from Free Cash, $94,536 from Supplemental State Aid, and a $14,400,000 bond. The votes were taken in Executive Session and then ratified in open session; a motion for reconsideration failed 0-11. The Council also ordained a zoning amendment to change 501 Mystic Valley Parkway from Neighborhood Residence to Urban Residence, and approved a comprehensive parking ordinance amendment effective February 1, 2025.

• Approved $12M Free Cash appropriation for 90 Washington St. purchase (11-0)
• Approved $94,536 appropriation for 90 Washington St. purchase (11-0)
• Approved $14.4M bond for 90 Washington St. purchase (11-0)
• Ordoned zoning change for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway (10-0, Strezo absent)
• Ordoned parking ordinance amendment effective Feb 1, 2025 (10-0, Strezo absent)
• Approved $171K grant for police rescue vehicle (11-0)
• Approved $500K grant for Blessing of the Bay trail project (11-0)
• Approved $340K from Union Square Community Benefits Fund (11-0)

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will review a new flammables license for 74M Property Owner, LLC. The meeting also includes recommendations for various utility conduit installations by Eversource and Comcast.

• New Flammables License: 74M Property Owner, LLC (74 Middlesex Avenue) to store 6,870 gallons
• Renewing Garage License: Dewire Family Trust (141 Beacon Street)
• Eversource Grant of Location: Install ~115 feet of conduit in Medford Street and Warren Street
• Eversource Grant of Location: Install ~4,098 feet of conduit and three manholes in McGrath Highway, Washington Street, and Joy Street
• Comcast Grant of Location: Install ~43 feet of conduit in Warren Street

The Licenses and Permits Committee approved a new flammables license, a garage license renewal with conditions, and seven grants of location for utility conduit work. It also voted to require utility representatives to appear before the Council to discuss pole removals and transfers. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved new flammables license for 74M Property Owner, LLC, 74 Middlesex Avenue (3-0)
• Approved garage license renewal for Dewire Family Trust, 141 Beacon Street, with condition to keep property clean and well managed (3-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for 115 ft conduit on Medford and Warren Streets (3-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for 4,098 ft conduit and three manholes on McGrath Highway, Washington, and Joy Streets (3-0)
• Approved Comcast grant of location for 43 ft conduit on Warren Street (3-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for 65 ft conduit on Washington Street (3-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for 53 ft conduit on Somerville Avenue (3-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for 122 ft conduit on Laurel Street and Somerville Avenue (3-0)

Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee

The Equity Committee will discuss several items including an update on water and sewer rate restructuring, a plan to prevent displacement related to water bills, and a ratepayer assistance program. They will also discuss the Surgeon General's advisory on parental mental health, free menstrual products in city bathrooms, diaper changing stations in City Hall, and the Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency Program. All items are sent for discussion; no votes are scheduled.

• Discussion of U.S. Surgeon General's advisory on parental mental health (Order 24-1396)
• Update on availability of free menstrual products in all city bathrooms (Order 24-1262)
• Resolution to install diaper changing stations in both restrooms on second floor of City Hall (Resolution 24-1183)
• Discussion of Somerville Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency Program (Resolution 24-1033)
• Update on water and sewer rate restructuring and development of ratepayer assistance program (Mayor's Communications 24-1614, 24-0674, and Resolution 24-0717)

The Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee met and recommended marking seven items as work completed, including orders on parental mental health, free menstrual products, diaper changing stations, and the Family Self Sufficiency Program. The committee also received an update on water and sewer rate restructuring, with plans for credit programs for seniors and accessibility needs, and a goal to fully implement by FY 2026. No votes were taken on substantive policy; all items were procedural or informational.

• Approved minutes of September 19, 2024 meeting (2-0, 1 absent)
• Marked order on parental mental health report as work completed
• Marked order on free menstrual products in city bathrooms as work completed
• Marked resolution on diaper changing stations in City Hall as work completed
• Marked resolution on Family Self Sufficiency Program as work completed
• Marked mayor's communication on water/sewer rate restructuring as work completed
• Marked resolution on displacement prevention related to water/sewer bills as work completed
• Marked mayor's communication on ratepayer assistance program as work completed

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing on the draft Armory Master Plan, then consider multiple financial requests including prior-year invoices, grant acceptances, contract extensions, appropriations, and an ordinance adjusting salaries for School Committee members and City Councilors.

• Public hearing on the draft Armory Master Plan (IDs 24-1691 and 24-1580)
• Accept and expend a $500,000 grant from MA DCR for the Blessing of the Bay MassTrails project (ID 24-1491)
• Appropriate $340,000 from the Union Square Community Benefits Fund for workforce development and small business technical assistance (ID 24-1649)
• Accept a $171,000 grant for a Police Special Response Team rescue vehicle (ID 24-1260)
• Ordinance to amend salary ranges providing cost-of-living adjustments for School Committee members and City Councilors (ID 23-0827)

The Somerville Finance Committee met on December 10, 2024, and approved all items on the agenda, including several prior year invoices, grant acceptances, contract extensions, and appropriations. The most significant decision was approving a $500,000 grant from the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation for the Blessing of the Bay MassTrails improvement project. The committee also recommended marking the Armory Master Plan as work completed after a public hearing, and placed a proposed ordinance for cost-of-living adjustments for elected officials on file.

• Approved $500,000 MassTrails grant for Blessing of the Bay project (5-0)
• Approved $171,000 grant for Police Special Response Team rescue vehicle (5-0)
• Approved $82,357.50 grant for Council on Aging senior programming (5-0)
• Approved $147,902 appropriation for steam trap replacement (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 for Lets Get Working Program (4-0, Clingan absent)
• Approved $340,000 from Union Square Community Benefits Fund (5-0)
• Approved prior year invoices totaling $124,026.48 (5-0)
• Recommended Armory Master Plan be marked work completed (5-0)

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee will discuss several orders and resolutions, including a request for MBTA's application to bypass ADA compliance at city-owned property, recent water outages in Ward 2, and the status of veterans monuments near the high school complex. Other items cover streetlight repairs on Mystic Avenue, elevator maintenance in city buildings, plans for the Cummings School building and Founders Memorial Skating Rink, and emergency response plans for freight train routes. No votes are scheduled; all items are sent for discussion.

• Order to discuss MBTA's application to circumvent ADA compliance (ID #24-1486)
• Order for Water and Sewer director to explain extended Ward 2 outages (ID #24-1637)
• Resolution for status update on veterans monuments affected by High School construction (ID #24-1608)
• Order to repair streetlights along Mystic Avenue between Medford line and Temple Street (ID #24-1481)
• Order to discuss emergency response plan for freight train derailment or chemical spill (ID #24-1182)

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee met and marked all seven agenda items as work completed, meaning they were discussed and no further action was required. The committee heard updates on water shutdowns in Ward 2, veterans monuments, MBTA ADA compliance at Gilman Square, streetlight repairs on Mystic Avenue, elevator status, Cummings School and Founders Rink plans, and freight train emergency preparedness. No formal votes were taken on new ordinances or contracts.

• Accepted minutes of October 30, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Marked order on Ward 2 water outages as work completed
• Marked resolution on veterans monuments as work completed
• Marked order on MBTA ADA compliance as work completed
• Marked order on Mystic Avenue streetlights as work completed
• Marked order on city elevator status as work completed
• Marked resolution on Cummings School and Founders Rink as work completed
• Marked order on freight train emergency response as work completed

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee will discuss reports on youth recreation participation and the city's composting program. The body will also consider the creation of an invasive species position for the FY 2025 budget and review clean energy goals.

• Proposal to develop a job description and allocate FY 2025 budget funding for an Invasive Species position
• Request for update on the design, cost, and timeline for the city's composting program
• Request for reports on children and teen participation in summer recreation and education programs
• Request for 2023 and 2024 enrollment data and caps for youth program offerings
• Review of Commonwealth Clean Energy Goals and Electric Sector Modernization Plan

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee met and recommended marking three orders as work completed, including reports on summer recreation participation and youth program enrollment data. It kept two items in committee: an order for an invasive species position and an update on the composting program. No final votes were taken on these recommendations.

• Approved minutes of October 3, 2024 meeting (3-0, 2 absent)
• Recommended marking order on summer recreation participation as work completed
• Recommended marking order on youth program offerings and enrollment data as work completed
• Recommended marking order on composting program update as work completed
• Kept invasive species position order in committee
• Kept clean energy goals communication in committee
• Recommended marking public communication on invasive species as work completed

Land Use Committee

The Somerville Land Use Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Planning Board to discuss several zoning amendments, including bicycle parking regulations, parking requirements, and a zoning map change for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway. The committee will also discuss electrical equipment requirements for developments and explore using the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund for housing.

• Request to amend Zoning Ordinance for bicycle parking
• Request to amend Zoning Ordinance for parking requirements
• Zoning Map Amendment for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway
• Discussion on electrical equipment for approved developments
• Exploration of MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund for housing

The Land Use Committee held public hearings and recommended approval of three zoning amendments: one to improve bicycle parking regulations, one to allow Neighborhood Residence building types in Urban Residence districts, and one to address various parking requirements with an effective date of February 1, 2025. The committee also recommended approval of a zoning map change for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway and marked several orders as work completed. No public comments were made during the hearings.

• Recommended approval of bike parking zoning amendment (ID #24-1448)
• Recommended approval of zoning amendment to allow NR building types in UR district (ID #24-1447)
• Recommended approval of parking requirements amendment with Feb 1, 2025 effective date (ID #24-1197)
• Recommended approval of zoning map change for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway (ID #24-1367)
• Marked order on electrical equipment planning as work completed (ID #24-0790)
• Marked order on TIFIA financing update as work completed (ID #24-0909)
• Marked order on accessible housing barriers as work completed (ID #24-1213)
• Marked order on underground transformers as work completed (ID #24-1312)

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee will discuss 18 items, including orders and resolutions on traffic safety, signage, parking, and enforcement. A notable resolution seeks to resume issuing tickets for serious moving violations instead of warnings. Other discussions include updates on the Citywide Parking and Curb Use report and plans for crossing guards near schools.

• Resolution to resume ticketing for speeding and red-light violations (Item 15)
• Update on Citywide Parking and Curb Use report and implementation (Items 5 and 16)
• Order for a plan to station crossing guards at critical intersections near schools (Item 7)
• Order to install speed humps on Medford Street between Central and School Streets (Item 9)
• Order to install all-way stop signs at Cedar Street and the Community Path (Item 13)

The Traffic and Parking Committee voted to mark all 18 agenda items as work completed, including orders for bicycle signals, crosswalk improvements, and crossing guard reviews. No new funding or policy changes were approved; most items were status updates on previously requested work. The meeting adjourned with a 2-0 vote, with one councilor absent.

• Approved minutes of November 4, 2024 meeting (2-0)
• Marked order for bicycle signals at Somerville Ave & Park St as work completed
• Marked order for School Street path crossing update as work completed
• Marked order for NO TRUCKS signage at Warren Ave & Bow St as work completed
• Marked resolution on Citywide Parking and Curb Use report as work completed
• Marked order for raised crosswalk at Cedar St & Community Path as work completed
• Marked order on crossing guard plan as work completed
• Marked order on Curtis St & Powderhouse Blvd crossing guard coverage as work completed

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee will consider approval of the October 2, 2024 meeting minutes. It will also review mayoral requests to confirm the appointment of Amanda Nagim‑Williams as Director of Racial and Social Justice and to promote three police officers to the ranks of captain, lieutenant, and sergeant.

• Approve minutes of the October 2, 2024 meeting (ID #24-1472)
• Confirm appointment of Amanda Nagim‑Williams as Director of Racial and Social Justice (ID #24-1620)
• Confirm promotion of Sean M. Sheehan to Police Captain (ID #24-1657)
• Confirm promotion of Paul Anderson to Police Lieutenant (ID #24-1658)
• Confirm promotion of Juan Ducasse Ayala to Police Sergeant (ID #24-1661)

The Somerville Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee accepted meeting minutes and recommended four mayoral appointment and promotion requests for approval. The committee reviewed candidates for Director of Racial and Social Justice, Police Captain, Police Lieutenant, and Police Sergeant during the session.

• Accepted October 2, 2024 committee meeting minutes (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Amanda Nagim-Williams as Director of Racial and Social Justice (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Sean M. Sheehan as Police Captain (3-1, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Paul Anderson as Police Lieutenant (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Juan Ducasse Ayala as Police Sergeant (4-0, 1 absent)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the FY2025 tax classifications and a proposed 35% residential exemption for owner-occupied properties. The agenda also includes multiple appropriation requests, including $510,000 for a 2025 Warming Center, $350,000 for a composting pilot, and $340,000 from the Union Square Community Benefits Fund. Several zoning map and text amendments, as well as appointments and promotions, are also up for discussion.

• Public hearing on FY2025 tax classifications and adoption of a 35% residential exemption (Item 3.2)
• Appropriation of $122,000 from property tax levy and $388,000 from Emergency Stabilization Fund for 2025 Warming Center (Items 7.1, 7.2)
• $350,000 appropriation for a municipal composting pilot program (Item 7.3)
• $340,000 from Union Square Community Benefits Fund for workforce and small business services (Item 7.4)
• Order to draft Home Rule Petition prohibiting forced imposition of brokers' fees onto renters (Item 10.3)

The City Council approved the FY2025 tax classification, adopting a minimum residential factor of 82.3464 and a 35% residential exemption for owner-occupied properties, shifting more tax burden to commercial properties. The Council also approved funding for the 2025 Warming Center, a composting pilot program, and several zoning ordinance changes, including a map amendment for 282 McGrath Highway and a daycare zoning amendment. Several other items were referred to committees or placed on file.

• Adopted FY2025 tax classification with minimum residential factor of 82.3464 and 35% residential exemption (10-0-1)
• Approved $122,000 appropriation for 2025 Warming Center operational costs
• Approved $388,000 appropriation from Emergency Stabilization Fund for 2025 Warming Center (10-0-1)
• Approved $350,000 for municipal composting pilot program (8-0-3)
• Ordinance ordained to rezone 282 McGrath Highway from Neighborhood Residence to Small Business Overlay (10-0-1)
• Ordinance ordained to streamline daycare zoning regulations (10-0-1)
• Approved order to draft Home Rule Petition to prohibit forced brokers' fees on renters
• Approved resolution supporting Cambridge Health Alliance SHARE workers

City Council Caucus

The Somerville City Council Caucus will hold nonbinding votes to elect a President and Vice President for the 2025 City Council. The meeting also includes roll call and adjournment. This is a procedural meeting with no other business.

• Election of 2025 City Council President (nonbinding vote)
• Election of 2025 City Council Vice President (nonbinding vote)
• Roll call and adjournment

The City Council held a caucus to elect officers for 2025. Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld was elected President with 7 votes, and Councilor Lance L. Davis was elected Vice President with 6 votes. Both elections were nonbinding votes, and all actions were procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Elected Judy Pineda Neufeld as 2025 City Council President (7-3, 1 absent)
• Elected Lance L. Davis as 2025 City Council Vice President (6-4, 1 absent)
• Closed nominations for President (10-0, 1 absent)
• Closed nominations for Vice President (10-0, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting (10-0, 1 absent)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee will discuss and vote on recommendations for multiple zoning map and text amendments, including creating the Somernova Innovation Sub-Area and rezoning properties on Park Street, Somerville Avenue, and Properzi Way. Other items include amendments to streamline daycare regulations, adjust parking requirements, and correct zoning ordinance conflicts with state building code. All items are referred for recommendation to the full City Council.

• Zoning Text Amendment to add Section 8.4.19 Somernova Innovation Sub-Area (ID# 24-0679)
• Zoning Map Amendment to include 16 properties in Somernova Innovation Sub-Area (ID# 24-0680)
• Amendment to daycare zoning regulations to allow additional daycare operations in residential and commercial districts (ID# 24-1196)
• Amendment to address parking requirements across multiple zoning sections (ID# 24-1197)
• Request to add Interim Planning Overlay District (IPOD) for Brickbottom sub-area (ID# 24-0551)

The Land Use Committee recommended approval of a zoning map amendment at 282 McGrath Highway from Neighborhood Residence to Small Business Overlay, and recommended approval of amendments to streamline daycare regulation across residential, mid-rise, and commercial districts. It also recommended approval of zoning corrections and clarifications, including limiting sign rules to commercial signs. A proposal to remove remaining minimum parking requirements was kept in committee after discussion of accessibility concerns. Several other zoning items were recommended to be placed on file, and the October 17, 2024 minutes were accepted.

• Accepted minutes of the October 17, 2024 Land Use Committee meeting (5-0)
• Recommended approval of zoning map amendment at 282 McGrath Highway from Neighborhood Residence to Small Business Overlay (5-0)
• Recommended approval of zoning amendments to streamline daycare regulation and permit more daycares in residential, mid-rise, and commercial districts (5-0)
• Recommended approval of zoning corrections and clarifications, including clarifying sign rules apply to commercial signs only (5-0)
• Kept in committee proposed amendments to remove remaining minimum parking requirements (no vote recorded)
• Recommended placing on file zoning map amendment at 200 Inner Belt Road from Commercial Industry to High-Rise (4-0, Ewen-Campen recused)
• Recommended placing on file zoning map amendment at 563-565 Broadway from Urban Residence to Mid-Rise 4 (5-0)
• Recommended placing on file amendments to remove conflicts with State Building Code (5-0)

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Housing and Community Development Committee will consider several items, including a discussion of displacement and rental assistance, a proposal to streamline affordable housing certification, the Fair Housing Commission's annual report, a density bonus incentive offering $150,000 to homeowners for building affordable housing, and support for small businesses affected by construction. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion of displacement and number of households seeking rental assistance (Order #24-0075)
• Resolution to streamline affordable housing certification and re-certification processes (Resolution #24-1009)
• Fair Housing Commission FY2023 Annual Report (Officer's Communication #24-1446)
• Potential density bonus incentive of $150,000 for homeowners to build affordable housing (Order #24-0071)
• Discussion of financial and technical support for small businesses impacted by construction (Order #24-1008)

The Somerville Housing and Community Development Committee met and heard updates on housing stability, rental assistance, and income certification processes. No final decisions were made; all items were either kept in committee or marked as work completed. The committee accepted the minutes from the October 21, 2024 meeting.

• Accepted minutes of October 21, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Kept in committee: Order on displacement status and rental assistance (ID # 24-0075)
• Marked work completed: Resolution on streamlining affordable housing certification (ID # 24-1009)
• Kept in committee: Fair Housing Commission FY2023 Annual Report (ID # 24-1446)
• Kept in committee: Order on density bonus incentives (ID # 24-0071)
• Kept in committee: Order on small business support during construction (ID # 24-1008)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will meet to review a resolution regarding the city's commitment as a Sanctuary and Trust Act City. The committee will also vote on the approval of minutes from the October 15, 2024, meeting.

• Resolution to reaffirm Somerville’s commitment as a Sanctuary and Trust Act City for justice, equity, and inclusion

The Legislative Matters Committee discussed a resolution reaffirming Somerville as a Sanctuary and Trust Act City but did not vote on it. Members agreed to revise the resolution and send it to the City Council for approval, with Councilor Burnley offering to clean up the language. The item was kept in committee.

• Accepted minutes of October 15, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Kept Sanctuary City resolution in committee for revisions

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee is holding a joint meeting with the School Committee's Finance and Facilities Sub-Committee. The body will discuss updates regarding school construction, renovations, and specific facility maintenance needs.

• MSBA process updates for Winter Hill and Brown Schools
• Redesign plan for the Kennedy School front playground
• Condition of Somerville High School building exterior tiles
• Timeline for a new third-floor atrium classroom at Argenziano School
• Timeline for a production kitchen at Argenziano School

The joint committee meeting reviewed several school facility items. It kept in committee a resolution requesting regular MSBA updates for Winter Hill and Brown Schools, and orders for an Argenziano School classroom and production kitchen. It marked as work completed orders for the Kennedy School playground redesign, Somerville High School tile inspection, and window blinds for classrooms.

• Kept in committee resolution for MSBA updates on Winter Hill and Brown Schools (24-0466)
• Marked work completed order for Kennedy School playground redesign update (24-1591)
• Marked work completed order for Somerville High School tile inspection update (24-1593)
• Kept in committee order for Argenziano School third-floor classroom timeline (24-1594)
• Kept in committee order for Argenziano School production kitchen timeline (24-1595)
• Marked work completed order for Somerville High School window blinds procurement (24-1596)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on several Grant of Location applications from Eversource and Comcast for conduit installations. The body will also consider various orders and resolutions regarding school facility updates, public safety, and city infrastructure.

• Comcast application for 43 feet of conduit in Warren Street
• Eversource application for 4,098 feet of conduit in McGrath Highway, Washington Street, and Joy Street
• Eversource application for 122 feet of conduit in Laurel Street and Somerville Avenue
• Proposed Language Access Ordinance to codify constituent rights to language services
• Order to install a raised crosswalk at Cedar Street and the Community Path

The Somerville City Council approved a resolution reaffirming its commitment as a Sanctuary and Trust Act City, pledging support for immigrant services and non-cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The resolution was referred to the Legislative Matters Committee for further exploration of legal actions. The Council also approved numerous orders and resolutions, including several related to school facilities, traffic safety, and support for social workers.

• Reaffirmed Sanctuary City commitment, referred to Legislative Matters Committee
• Approved resolution supporting local social workers
• Approved resolution to keep Massachusetts Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)
• Approved $34,000 for porta-potties for Warming Center
• Approved $30,000 for security services for Warming Center
• Approved 3-year contract extension for PMA, LLC for Somerville High School project
• Approved 3-year contract extension for Suffolk Construction for Somerville High School project
• Approved 3-year contract extension for Symmes Maini & McKee Associates for Somerville High School project

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee will meet on November 13, 2024. The agenda includes a mayoral communication (ID #24-1308) that will be sent for discussion. Committee members will consider the recommendations on charter reform presented by the mayor. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Mayor's Communication (ID #24-1308) – discussion of charter reform recommendations

The Charter Review Special Committee met and discussed a list of the Mayor's proposed charter amendments, with no councilors speaking in favor of retaining most of the suggested language. The committee kept the item in committee, taking no final votes on the proposals, and discussed forming a working group to negotiate with the administration.

• Kept charter review recommendations in committee (8-0-3)
• No councilors supported mayor's language on Section 2-7(d) personnel policies
• No councilors supported mayor's timeline change for department head confirmations (Section 2-8(a))
• Discussed but did not decide on constable appointment change (Section 2-8(c))
• No councilors supported mayor's runner-up vacancy fill proposal (Section 2-12)
• No councilors supported mayor's special meeting notice change (Section 3-10(b))
• No councilors supported mayor's School Committee vacancy joint meeting proposal (Section 4-6)
• No councilors supported mayor's limit on multiple member body review (Section 8-6)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee will discuss several requests for administrative updates. Key topics include the establishment of an overdose prevention center, homelessness efforts, and public safety measures in Davis Square.

• Proposed updates on establishing a Warming Center at the Cummings School
• Proposed updates on the implementation of an Overdose Prevention Center
• Request for increased trash and needle pickup in Davis Square, Seven Hills Park, and the Community Path
• Request for a report on outstanding 311 requests for the Edgerly School building
• Proposed discussion on outdoor seating policies and fees for small businesses

The Somerville Public Health and Public Safety Committee accepted previous meeting minutes, kept two items in committee, and recommended fifteen items be marked work completed. City officials provided updates on homelessness responses in Davis Square, warming center preparations at the Cummings School, police staffing recommendations, and outdoor dining policies.

• Accepted minutes of September 23, 2024 committee meeting
• Kept homelessness update order (ID # 24-0062) in committee
• Recommended warming center order (ID # 24-1299) be marked work completed
• Recommended overdose prevention center orders (ID # 24-1209, ID # 24-1207) be marked work completed
• Recommended Davis Square substance use and needle disposal resolutions (ID # 24-1206, ID # 24-1204, ID # 24-1201, ID # 24-1200) be marked work completed
• Recommended police response and staffing updates (ID # 24-1414, ID # 24-0471) be marked work completed
• Kept outdoor seating policies order (ID # 24-1034) in committee
• Recommended building, ADA, and wild turkey monitoring items be marked work completed

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee is discussing several orders and resolutions related to city mobility and safety. Items include requests for updated signage, police enforcement of moving violations, and specific infrastructure changes to city streets.

• Installing bike parking next to Neighborhood Produce after Broadway at Boston Avenue work
• Updating Community Path signage to 'NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES' including scooters and mopeds
• Resuming police tickets rather than warnings for serious moving violations
• Installing speed bumps and traffic calming measures along Bonair Street by Edgerly School
• Installing a raised crosswalk at the intersection of Boston and Kidder Avenues

The Traffic and Parking Committee reviewed several mobility and traffic safety initiatives, including bike parking, signage updates, and traffic calming measures. The committee marked seven items as 'work completed' after receiving status updates from the Director of Mobility, while keeping three items in committee for further discussion.

• Approved September 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• Marked bike parking at Neighborhood Produce as work completed
• Kept bike parking for public events in committee
• Marked Highland Avenue Redesign timeline update as work completed
• Marked Community Path signage updates as work completed
• Kept police traffic enforcement policy in committee
• Marked Bonair Street traffic calming as work completed
• Kept Parking & Curb Use Study update in committee

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a petition for a municipal broadband feasibility study. The body will also discuss multiple requests for traffic, parking, and maintenance improvements on Alston Street and McGrath Highway.

• Public hearing on a petition by 76 voters regarding the Somerville Internet Task Force 2019 Report and Municipal Broadband feasibility
• Eversource application for a Grant of Location for a hip guy and anchor at Utility Pole 291/11 on Prospect Street
• Proposed 'NO THROUGH STREET' sign and parking permit enforcement on Alston Street
• Proposed inspection of exterior finishing for asbestos shingling before granting building permits
• Request for the city's emergency response plan for freight train derailments or chemical spills

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee voted 3-0 to accept the March 18, 2024 minutes and held a public hearing on municipal broadband, recommending the petition be marked work completed. Of the 21 agenda items, 17 were recommended to be marked work completed, including orders related to Alston Street, asbestos inspections, rodent activity, graffiti, and utility lines. Two items were kept in committee (Cummings School/Founders Rink update and emergency response plan for freight trains), one was withdrawn by Eversource, and one was a public hearing. No items were denied or tabled.

• Accepted March 18, 2024 committee minutes (3-0)
• Recommended municipal broadband petition be marked work completed
• Eversource withdrew Grant of Location for utility pole work on Prospect Street
• Recommended NO THROUGH STREET sign request on Alston Street be marked work completed (sign not installed; street is a through street)
• Recommended parking permit enforcement on Alston Street be marked work completed
• Recommended Alston Street Neighborways prioritization be marked work completed (unlikely to be prioritized)
• Recommended speed bump on Alston Street be marked work completed (added to list, no timeline)
• Recommended asbestos inspection order be marked work completed (inspectors to obtain asbestos certifications)

Charter Review Special Committee

The Charter Review Special Committee will approve minutes from its May 24, 2023 meeting. Councilors will discuss a resolution asking the administration to update the City Council on the status of charter reform. The mayor will present recommendations on charter reform for discussion.

• Approval of minutes (ID #23-0843) from May 24, 2023 meeting
• Resolution (ID #24-0061) to request an administration update on charter reform
• Mayor's communication (ID #24-1308) conveying charter reform recommendations

The Charter Review Special Committee voted 9-0 to accept the Mayor's charter recommendations comparison document as the working draft for negotiations. Councilors raised concerns about several items, including the 4-year term, appointment processes for the Chief Administrative Officer and City Solicitor, and filling vacancies. The administration indicated it is flexible on certain sections but not others, and the committee will continue discussions at its next meeting on November 20.

• Approved minutes of May 24, 2023 meeting (9-0)
• Marked resolution on Charter reform status as work completed
• Adopted Mayor's charter recommendations comparison as working document (9-0)
• Kept Mayor's communication on charter reform in committee

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The Somerville School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee will discuss maintenance and safety concerns at local schools, including rat infiltration, elevator reliability, and play structure repairs. The meeting will also review minutes from the previous meeting and address use restrictions at Reavis Field for athletic teams.

• Approval of minutes from September 25, 2024 meeting
• Update on rat infiltration efforts in school buildings
• Review of public address system functionality at multiple schools
• Repairs to damaged play structures at Capuano Early Education Center
• Reliability and repairs of elevators at Winter Hill and Edgerly Schools

The School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee approved two motions: one directing the Commissioner of Public Works to work with the Superintendent of Schools to present a plan to re-introduce composting in schools, and another requiring the Administration to communicate pool closure schedules to users and update city websites. All other agenda items were updates on ongoing maintenance issues and were marked as work completed.

• Approved motion for DPW and Superintendent to present a school composting re-introduction plan (3-0)
• Approved motion to communicate Ginny Smithers Sanders Pool closure schedules to users and update city websites (3-0)
• Accepted minutes of September 25, 2024 meeting (2-0, 1 absent)
• Marked rat infiltration update as work completed
• Marked PA system update as work completed
• Marked Capuano play structure repairs update as work completed
• Marked Winter Hill and Edgerly elevator repairs update as work completed
• Marked Reavis field use restrictions update as work completed

City Council

The City Council will review several funding requests for public safety, infrastructure, and community grants. The body is also considering changes to the block party approval process and the effective date of the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance.

• Appropriation of $940,000 and $233,881 for Firefighters Local 76 collective bargaining agreement
• Appropriation of $542,675 from CPA Open Space Reserve Fund for ArtFarm park improvements
• Acceptance of $500,000 grant for Blessing of the Bay MassTrails improvement project
• Proposed transfer of block party application approval from City Council to City Clerk
• New Garage License for Building 2 Owner LLC at 808 Windsor St

The Somerville City Council approved a supplemental appropriation of $940,000 from the tax levy and $233,881 from salary contingency to fund a collective bargaining agreement with Firefighters Local 76. The Council also approved several other appropriations, including $100,000 for Local Cultural Council grants, $220,120.80 for Vision Zero safety efforts, and $542,675 for the ArtFarm park improvement project. Additionally, the Council approved an ordinance change to the effective date of the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance and approved a new garage license for 808 Windsor St.

• Approved $940,000 supplemental appropriation for Firefighters Local 76 contract (8-0)
• Approved $233,881 appropriation for Firefighters Local 76 contract (8-0)
• Approved $100,000 for Local Cultural Council grants (8-0)
• Approved $220,120.80 for Vision Zero safety efforts (8-0)
• Approved $542,675 for ArtFarm park improvement project (8-0)
• Approved ordinance change to Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance effective date (8-0)
• Approved new garage license for 808 Windsor St (8-0)
• Approved order to end Council review of block party applications, effective Jan 1, 2025 (8-0)

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will meet to consider a new garage license and a license renewal. The body is reviewing requests for vehicle storage facilities at two different locations.

• New Garage License for Building 2 Owner LLC at 808 Windsor St (242 vehicles inside)
• Renewing Garage License for Dewire Family Trust at 141 Beacon Street

The committee recommended approval for a 242-vehicle commercial parking garage. A license renewal for a garage at 141 Beacon Street was kept in committee following discussions regarding community concerns and owner availability.

• Approved June 26, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of new garage license for Building 2 Owner LLC at 808 Windsor St
• Kept renewal of garage license for Dewire Family Trust at 141 Beacon Street in committee

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several Mayor's requests to approve prior year invoices, accept grants, and appropriate funds for city projects. The body will also discuss an update on ARPA grant encumbrances before the December 31, 2024 deadline.

• Grant of $310,100 for resilience hubs from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
• Grant of $250,000 from MA Department of Transportation for an East Somerville soundwall feasibility study
• Appropriation of $542,675 from the CPA Open Space Reserve Fund for the ArtFarm park improvement project
• Appropriation of $262,000 from the Prospect Street Traffic Conditions Stabilization Fund for Planning Board case PB 2019-04
• Acceptance of an easement for a pedestrian bridge over the MBTA Green Line

The Somerville Finance Committee recommended approval of 21 items, including an easement for a pedestrian bridge over the MBTA Green Line, several prior-year invoice payments, grant acceptances, and fund appropriations. The committee also received an update on ARPA fund obligations, noting that approximately $53.7 million of the $77.5 million received has been expended. All votes were 3-0 in favor, with two councilors absent.

• Approved MBTA pedestrian bridge easement (3-0)
• Approved $24,802.06 in prior-year IT invoices (3-0)
• Approved $22,633.58 in prior-year DPW gas invoices (3-0)
• Approved $48,930.22 in prior-year DPW electricity invoices (3-0)
• Accepted $15,000 equipment donation from City of Boston (3-0)
• Accepted $310,100 grant for resilience hubs (3-0)
• Accepted $250,000 grant for East Somerville soundwall study (3-0)
• Appropriated $262,000 for Prospect Street traffic safety (3-0)

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Housing and Community Development Committee will discuss updates on the Teen Center and proposed community centers in Union Square and Boynton Yards. The body will also review support for small businesses during construction and mail delivery issues.

• Request for update on permanent location and hours for the Teen Center
• Request for update on Community Center efforts in Union Square and Boynton Yards
• Discussion on financial and technical support for small businesses impacted by construction
• Proposal for a community meeting within 30 days regarding USPS mail delivery issues

The Housing and Community Development Committee met and took action on four items. It accepted the June 11, 2024 minutes, kept a resolution on a permanent Teen Center location in committee, marked an order on a Union Square/Boynton Yards community center as work completed, kept an order on small business support in committee, and marked a resolution on USPS mail delivery issues as work completed.

• Accepted minutes of June 11, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Kept resolution on Teen Center permanent location in committee
• Marked order on Union Square/Boynton Yards community center as work completed
• Kept order on small business support during construction in committee
• Marked resolution on USPS mail delivery issues as work completed

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board are holding a joint meeting to review several proposed zoning ordinance amendments. These include requests to streamline daycare regulations and update citywide parking requirements.

• Zoning Map Amendment for 282 McGrath Highway from Neighborhood Residence to Small Business Overlay District
• Zoning Ordinance amendment to streamline daycare services in Residential, Mid-Rise, and Commercial districts
• Zoning Ordinance amendment to address various parking requirements
• Zoning Ordinance amendments for corrections, clarifications, and regulatory framework improvements
• Zoning Map Amendment for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway from Neighborhood Residence to Urban Residence

The Somerville Land Use Committee held public hearings on five zoning items but kept all of them in committee without final votes. The committee accepted updated working versions with scrivener's corrections for three mayor's requests regarding daycare regulations, parking minimums, and zoning clarifications. Two zoning map amendment requests (282 McGrath Highway and 501 Mystic Valley Parkway) were also kept in committee. Public comments remain open until October 31st.

• Approved minutes of September 5, 2024 meeting (4-0, 1 absent)
• Kept in committee: Zoning map amendment for 282 McGrath Highway (NR to SB Overlay)
• Accepted scrivener's correction for daycare zoning amendment (4-0, 1 absent)
• Accepted scrivener's correction for parking minimums amendment (4-0, 1 absent)
• Accepted scrivener's correction for zoning errata and clarifications (4-0, 1 absent)
• Kept in committee: Zoning map amendment for 501 Mystic Valley Parkway (NR to UR)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will discuss a resolution to simplify the block party approval process and a request to change the effective date of the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance. The body will also review minutes from the September 17, 2024 meeting.

• Resolution to provide $100 monetary awards or grants for approved block parties
• Proposed amendment to Section 6-97 of the Code of Ordinances regarding the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance effective date

The committee decided that the City Clerk will assume final approval responsibility for block parties to streamline the process. The committee also recommended approving a change to the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance effective date to allow for a six-month buffer period.

• Approved transferring block party approval authority from City Council to City Clerk effective Jan 1, 2025 (3-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment to Section 6-97 of the Code of Ordinances regarding the Fossil Fuel Free Ordinance effective date
• Accepted minutes from the September 17, 2024 meeting

City Council

The City Council will review several zoning amendments and funding requests from the Mayor. The body is also deciding on the confirmation of the Chief of Police and other board appointments.

• Appropriation of $1,300,000 for a feasibility study to renovate or build a new Winter Hill Community Innovation School
• Confirmation of Shumeane Benford as Chief of Police
• Appropriation of $542,675 from the CPA Open Space Reserve Fund for ArtFarm park improvements
• Zoning amendments regarding laboratory uses, bicycle parking, and Urban Residence districts
• Grant of Location requests for conduit installation by Comcast on Foley Street and Eversource on Somerville Avenue

The City Council approved a $1.3 million appropriation from the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for a feasibility study to renovate or construct a new building for the Winter Hill Community Innovation School, potentially also accommodating the Benjamin G. Brown School. The council also confirmed Shumeane Benford as Chief of Police, approved two utility conduit grants, and passed several traffic safety orders. Multiple other items were referred to committees for further discussion.

• Approved $1.3M feasibility study for Winter Hill school (unanimous)
• Confirmed Shumeane Benford as Chief of Police
• Approved Comcast conduit grant on Foley Street
• Approved Eversource conduit grant on Somerville Avenue
• Approved all-way stop signs at Cedar Street/Community Path intersections
• Approved raised crosswalk at Cedar Street/Community Path intersections
• Approved resolution supporting Ballot Question 2
• Approved $262,000 Prospect Street Traffic Fund creation (referred to Finance)

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee will approve minutes from its September 19 meeting. Councilors will hear updates on the municipal composting program, the Climate Forward Plan, summer recreation participation, and youth program offerings and enrollment data.

• Approval of minutes from the September 19, 2024 Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee meeting (ID # 24-1384).
• Discussion of updated plans and timelines for a municipal composting program (ID # 24-0042).
• Report on children and teen participation in summer recreation and education programs (ID # 24-1029).
• Discussion of next steps for implementing the Climate Forward Plan (ID # 24-1198).
• Provision of the list of youth program offerings, capacity, and enrollment data for 2023 and 2024 (ID # 24-1415).

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee voted 4-0 to recommend marking two orders as work completed: one on municipal composting plans and timelines, and one on next steps for the Climate Forward Plan. A third order on summer youth program participation was kept in committee after discussion. The committee also approved the minutes of its September 19, 2024 meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 19, 2024 meeting (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended marking composting order (ID #24-0042) as work completed (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended marking Climate Forward Plan order (ID #24-1198) as work completed (4-0, 1 absent)
• Kept summer youth program order (ID #24-1029) in committee
• Kept youth program offerings order (ID #24-1415) in committee

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee will consider three mayoral appointments for recommendation. The body will also review minutes from the July 2, 2024 meeting.

• Appointment of Shumeane Benford to Chief of Police
• Appointment of Lynn Richards to the Planning Board
• Appointment of Courtney Brunson to the Somerville Redevelopment Authority

The committee recommended approval of three mayoral appointments: Lynn Richards to the Planning Board, Courtney Brunson to the Somerville Redevelopment Authority, and Shumeane Benford as Chief of Police. Each recommendation passed with four votes in favor and one absence. Final approval will be considered by the full City Council on October 10, 2024.

• Recommended approval of Lynn Richards to the Planning Board (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Courtney Brunson to the Somerville Redevelopment Authority (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended approval of Shumeane Benford as Chief of Police (4-0, 1 absent)
• Approved minutes of July 2, 2024 meeting (3-0, 2 absent)

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will approve minutes from a prior meeting and discuss reports on residential rodent assistance requests and city-wide complaints. The committee will also review the city's rat abatement contract and the legal authority of inspectors under Ordinance 11-038.

• Approval of May 14, 2024 committee minutes
• Review of residential rodent assistance program data
• Review of city-wide rodent complaints data
• Review of rat abatement contract
• Review of Ordinance 11-038 (Rodent Control) legal authority

The Rodent Issues Special Committee met virtually and voted 2-0 to accept the May 14, 2024 minutes. The committee marked four orders as work completed, including reports on rodent control assistance requests and complaints, a review of the rodent control ordinance, and an inspection at Broadway and Glen Street. One order on rodent complaints was kept in committee. No new substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted May 14, 2024 committee minutes (2-0)
• Marked order on Residential Rodent Control Assistance Program report as work completed
• Marked order on rodent complaint report as work completed
• Marked order on City Solicitor review of Ordinance 11-038 as work completed
• Marked order on inspection at Broadway and Glen Street as work completed
• Kept order on rodent complaints report in committee

City Council

The Somerville City Council will meet to discuss and vote on several key issues, including a $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction, updates on public safety measures, library access improvements, and progress on school construction projects. The meeting will also address community concerns about traffic safety, after-school programs, and public health initiatives.

• Vote on $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction
• Public hearing on Small Wireless Facility license for 50 Brastow Avenue
• Order to resume issuing tickets for serious moving violations like speeding and running red lights
• $56,215.42 allocation from Bike Share Stabilization Fund for BlueBike station at 200 Inner Belt Road
• Resolution to address fights at Edward L. Leathers Community Park after school dismissals

The Somerville City Council approved a $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction, along with several other appropriations and contract extensions. It also ordained a new ordinance to promote safer construction practices and approved a small wireless facility license. Several orders were approved and sent to committees for further discussion.

• Approved $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved $56,215.42 from Bike Share Stabilization Fund for BlueBike station at 200 Inner Belt Road (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance adding Sections 8-375 through 8-381 for safer construction practices (unanimous)
• Approved $141,300 for SEIU/Local 888 E911 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $46,170 for E911 collective bargaining settlement (unanimous)
• Approved time-only contract extensions for Spring Hill Sewer Separation project (P Gioioso & Sons, Stantec)
• Approved $25,000 MAPC grant for sustainable zoning development
• Tabled Open Space Access Easement at 5 Middlesex Avenue until operating hours issue resolved

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee is meeting to discuss updates on school infrastructure and maintenance. The body will review the MSBA process and construction advisory group for the Winter Hill and Brown schools, as well as various facility repairs.

• MSBA process updates for Winter Hill and Brown Schools
• Construction Advisory Group update for Winter Hill and Brown school replacement
• Efforts to eliminate rat infiltration in school buildings
• Repairs to play structures at Capuano Early Education Center schoolyard
• Elevator reliability and repairs at Winter Hill and Edgerly Schools

The committee discussed the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process for the Winter Hill and Brown schools, with Director Raiche reporting that the initial MSBA meeting was held in August and the next is scheduled for Friday. The committee marked two items as work completed: the resolution requesting regular MSBA updates and the order for a Construction Advisory Group update. Several other orders were kept in committee, including updates on rat infiltration, Reavis field use restrictions, PA systems, play structures, and elevators.

• Approved minutes of May 29, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Marked resolution on MSBA updates as work completed (ID #24-0466)
• Marked order on Construction Advisory Group update as work completed (ID #24-1284)
• Kept order on rat infiltration update in committee (ID #24-1285)
• Kept order on Reavis field use restrictions in committee (ID #24-1286)
• Kept order on PA system update in committee (ID #24-1287)
• Kept order on play structure repairs in committee (ID #24-1288)
• Kept order on elevator repairs in committee (ID #24-1289)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several requests from the Mayor for funding and contract extensions. Key items include a large bond for infrastructure and a grant for sustainable zoning development.

• Authorization to borrow $6,018,969 in a bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction
• Acceptance of a $25,000 technical assistance grant from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council for sustainable and resilient zoning development
• Appropriation of $56,215.42 from the Bike Share Stabilization Fund for a BlueBike station at 200 Inner Belt Road
• Time-only contract extensions for P Gioioso & Sons Inc and Stantec Consulting Services Inc for the Spring Hill Sewer Separation project
• Payment of $770 in prior year invoices for Mayor's Office food supplies and refreshments

The Somerville Finance Committee recommended approval of a $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction, including West Broadway and Tufts Street projects and ADA upgrades. The committee also recommended approval of a $25,000 MAPC grant for sustainable zoning, prior-year invoices totaling $770, and time-only contract extensions for the Spring Hill Sewer Separation project. All votes were 4-0 with one absence.

• Approved $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction (4-0)
• Approved $25,000 MAPC technical assistance grant for sustainable zoning (4-0)
• Approved payment of $770 in prior-year invoices for food supplies (4-0)
• Approved 14-month extension for P Gioioso & Sons Inc for Spring Hill Sewer Separation (4-0)
• Approved 12-month extension for Stantec Consulting Services Inc for Spring Hill Sewer Separation (4-0)
• Approved $56,215.42 appropriation for BlueBike station at 200 Inner Belt Road (4-0)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee is discussing resources to restore full access to the Central Library and safety at library locations. The body is also reviewing youth services, including ADA compliance at 165 Broadway and safety at Edward L. Leathers Community Park.

• Request for first responder call records at all public library locations since September 1, 2023
• Discussion on resources to safely re-open the Central Library during mid-day hours
• ADA compliance measures for the second floor of 165 Broadway for youth services
• Action plan to address fights at Edward L. Leathers Community Park after school
• Proposal to explore community use of Somerville High School outside of school hours

The committee discussed plans to reopen the Central Library during after-school hours, including hiring a security vendor and installing cameras. They also reviewed incidents at libraries and challenges with youth programming spaces, including ADA compliance issues at 165 Broadway. No new ordinances or budgets were approved; all agenda items were marked as work completed.

• Approved minutes from September 11 meeting (10-0-1)
• Marked library reopening discussion (ID #24-1314) as work completed
• Marked library support resolution (ID #24-1313) as work completed
• Marked library status update resolution (ID #24-1273) as work completed
• Marked library incident report order (ID #24-1295) as work completed
• Marked library equity committee order (ID #24-1263) as work completed
• Marked ADA compliance order for 165 Broadway (ID #24-1326) as work completed
• Marked after-school program resolutions (IDs #24-1270, #24-1267, #24-1271, #24-1305) as work completed

Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee

The Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee will approve minutes from its December 2023 and May 2024 meetings. It will receive updates on the ADA Transition Plan Task Force, an inclusive playground swing project, and a Braille embosser purchased in summer 2023. The committee will discuss how to serve residents through a transit equity program after the Taxi to Health funding ends in October. It will also hear policy proposals from the Anti‑Violence Working Group.

• Approve minutes of the Dec 11 2023 and May 15 2024 committee meetings (IDs 23-1823, 24-0708)
• ADA Coordinator to update Council on the ADA Transition Plan Task Force (Order ID 24-1005)
• Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry to update on inclusive playground swing project (Order ID 24-0911)
• Administration to update on Braille embosser purchased summer 2023 (Resolution ID 24-0428)
• Director of Health and Human Services to discuss transit equity program as Taxi to Health funding ends in October (Order ID 24-1032)

The committee voted 3-0 to accept two sets of prior meeting minutes and recommended five items be marked work completed: ADA Transition Plan Task Force update, inclusive playground swing project, Braille embosser update, transit equity program update, and Anti-Violence Working Group update. The Anti-Violence Working Group item was kept in committee. No final policy decisions were made; all items were informational updates.

• Accepted minutes from Dec 11, 2023 and May 15, 2024 (3-0)
• Recommended ADA Transition Plan Task Force update marked work completed
• Recommended inclusive playground swing project update marked work completed
• Recommended Braille embosser update marked work completed
• Recommended transit equity program update marked work completed
• Kept Anti-Violence Working Group update in committee

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee will approve minutes from its May 6 meeting and consider several councilor‑requested items. Councilors will ask the Office of Sustainability and Environment for updates on the municipal composting program and on implementing the Climate Forward Plan. The committee will also hear explanations for delays at Reavis Field and reports on summer recreation participation for children and teens.

• Approval of minutes from the May 6, 2024 Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee meeting (ID #24-0650)
• Request for updated plans and timelines for a municipal composting program (ID #24-0042)
• Request for explanation of issues delaying Reavis Field opening (ID #24-0086)
• Report on children and teen participation in summer recreation and education programs (ID #24-1029)
• Discussion of next steps for implementing the Climate Forward Plan (ID #24-1198)

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee discussed municipal composting, summer recreation programs, and the Climate Forward Plan, but took no final votes on these items. It accepted the May 6, 2024 minutes and marked a resolution on Reavis Field as work completed. The composting and recreation orders were kept in committee for further discussion.

• Accepted May 6, 2024 committee minutes (3-0, 2 absent)
• Kept municipal composting order in committee (ID # 24-0042)
• Marked Reavis Field resolution as work completed (ID # 24-0086)
• Kept summer recreation programs order in committee (ID # 24-1029)
• Kept Climate Forward Plan order in committee (ID # 24-1198)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will first approve the minutes from its June 24, 2024 meeting. It will then consider the mayor's request to amend the Code of Ordinances by adding Sections 8-375 through 8-381 to promote and enforce safer construction practices. Finally, the committee will review the Surveillance Technology Impact Report concerning exterior cameras at fire stations.

• Approve minutes of Legislative Matters Committee meeting (June 24, 2024)
• Mayor's request to amend Code of Ordinances – add Sections 8-375‑8-381 for safer construction practices
• Review Surveillance Technology Impact Report on exterior cameras at fire stations

The Legislative Matters Committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval of an ordinance adding Sections 8-375 through 8-381 to the City Code, aimed at promoting and enforcing safer construction practices. The committee also accepted prior meeting minutes and recommended placing a surveillance technology impact report for exterior cameras at fire stations on file. All votes were 4 in favor, none opposed, with one councilor absent.

• Recommended approval of construction safety ordinance (4-0, 1 absent)
• Accepted minutes of June 24, 2024 meeting (4-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended placing surveillance technology impact report on file (4-0, 1 absent)

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee will approve minutes from the June 24 meeting and discuss a resolution for the Ward Six Councilor on traffic‑signal monitoring. Councilors will also consider a resolution to work with the MBTA on improving reliability of the Union Square (D‑line) Green Line branch. Several orders from Councilor Clingan propose new stop signs, solar‑powered speed signs, and speed humps on Meacham and Moreland Streets. An order asks for an update on tickets issued for illegal license covers.

• Change the intersection of Meacham and Fremont Streets to a 4‑way stop
• Install new stop signs at Meacham & Moreland Streets and Meacham & Fremont Streets
• Install solar‑powered “YOUR SPEED IS” signs on Moreland Street between Main and Meacham
• Install speed humps on Meacham Street (Edgar Ave to Fremont) and Moreland Street (Main to Mystic)
• Work with the MBTA to address service reliability on the Union Square (D‑line) Green Line branch

The Traffic and Parking Committee voted 3-0 to accept the June 24, 2024 minutes and recommended marking 10 items as work completed, including resolutions on Davis Square signal timing, Green Line service, and multiple traffic orders. No items were denied or tabled; all were forwarded with recommendations. The committee also heard updates on speed hump installations and parking enforcement.

• Accepted June 24, 2024 committee minutes (3-0)
• Recommended marking Davis Square signal timing resolution as work completed
• Recommended marking Green Line Extension communication as work completed
• Recommended marking Green Line service reliability resolution as work completed
• Recommended marking Meacham/Fremont 4-way stop order as work completed
• Recommended marking stop sign visibility order as work completed
• Recommended marking solar speed sign order as work completed
• Recommended marking illegal turn signage order as work completed

City Council

The City Council will review several grant requests and budget appropriations, including funding for infrastructure and health services. The meeting also includes public hearings for Eversource utility installations and numerous council orders regarding city services and public safety.

• Proposed $3,600,000 MassWorks grant for the Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing
• Proposed $959,500 grant from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for the Transit Pass Pilot Program
• Proposed $300,000 grant for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing
• Proposed $150,000 appropriation from the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to settle Police Department litigation
• Public hearings for Eversource conduit installations on High Street, Prospect Street, Washington Street, and Knowlton Street

The Somerville City Council approved two zoning map amendments, upzoning properties on Highland Avenue and Pearl Street to Mid-Rise 6, and denied a request to change 5 Homer Square from Neighborhood Residence to Urban Residence. The Council also approved a $6 million bond request for street and sidewalk reconstruction, referred it to the Finance Committee, and approved a $150,000 appropriation to settle police litigation. Numerous other orders and resolutions were approved and sent to committees for discussion.

• Approved zoning change to MR6 for 136 School St, 95, 97, 99-99A, 101-103, 107 Highland Ave (10-0)
• Approved zoning change to MR6 for 228-236 Pearl St (10-0)
• Denied zoning change for 5 Homer Square from NR to UR (0-10)
• Approved $6,018,969 bond for street and sidewalk reconstruction, referred to Finance Committee
• Approved $150,000 from Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to settle police litigation (10-0)
• Approved $3.6M MassWorks grant for Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing
• Approved $300,000 COVID-19 grant renewal for Health and Human Services
• Referred Eversource Grant of Location for Prospect St to Public Utilities Committee

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee is discussing requests for updates on the establishment of an Overdose Prevention Center. Members are also reviewing proposals to address open drug use, trash, and needle disposal in Davis Square and Seven Hills Park.

• Discussion on the timeline for implementing an Overdose Prevention Center
• Proposal to install or replace needle disposal receptacles in Seven Hills Park
• Request to increase trash and needle pickup in Davis Square and the Community Path
• Request for a list of all ISD tickets issued in Ward 1 on May 6, 2024
• Request for ISD to inspect Home Depot, Circuit City, and surrounding areas for code violations

The Public Health and Public Safety Committee discussed multiple resolutions and orders related to substance use, homelessness, and public safety in Seven Hills Park and Davis Square, but kept all of them in committee without a final vote. The committee also accepted the minutes from the June 5, 2024 meeting and recommended three ISD-related orders be marked as work completed.

• Accepted minutes of June 5, 2024 meeting (ID # 24-0888)
• Kept in committee: Order on Overdose Prevention Center update (ID # 24-1209)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on Overdose Prevention Center efforts (ID # 24-1207)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on Seven Hills Park substance use update (ID # 24-1206, amended)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on needle disposal receptacles (ID # 24-1204)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on trash and needle pickup (ID # 24-1201)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on open drug use discussion (ID # 24-1200)
• Kept in committee: Resolution on services for unhoused population (ID # 24-1199)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several requests from the Mayor to pay prior year invoices and approve new grant funding. The body will also consider a $150,000 appropriation for police litigation and various land easements.

• Acceptance of a $3,600,000 MassWorks grant for the Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing
• Appropriation of $150,000 from the Salary & Wage Stabilization Fund to settle Police Department litigation
• Acceptance of a $959,500 grant from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for transit and traffic projects
• Payment of $62,400 for playground surface repairs via the Department of Public Works
• Approval of a $300,000 grant renewal for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing

The Somerville Finance Committee unanimously recommended approval of all 25 agenda items, including prior-year invoices, appropriations, contracts, easements, and grants. Notable approvals include a $3.6M MassWorks grant for the Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing design, a $150,000 appropriation to settle police union litigation, and a $959,500 Massachusetts Gaming Commission grant for transit and intersection safety projects. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved $3.6M MassWorks grant for Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing design (5-0)
• Approved $150,000 appropriation to Police Department for litigation settlement (5-0)
• Approved $959,500 Gaming Commission grant for Transit Pass Pilot, signal pre-emption, and Mystic Ave intersection (5-0)
• Approved $300,000 DPH grant renewal for infectious disease tracing (5-0)
• Approved $237,939.81 MAPC grant for shared public health services (5-0)
• Approved $99,886.56 grant for digital navigator for Mystic housing residents (5-0)
• Approved $62,400 for playground surface repairs (5-0)
• Approved 12 prior-year invoice payments totaling $99,555.30 (5-0)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend zoning map amendments for multiple addresses. The committee will review requests to change zoning districts for properties on Pearl Street, School Street, Highland Avenue, and Homer Square.

• Zoning Map Amendment for 228, 230, 232, 234, 236 Pearl Street from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6)
• Zoning Map Amendment for 136 School Street (UR to MR6), 95 Highland Avenue (NR to MR6), and 97, 99-99A, 101-103, 107 Highland Avenue (MR5 to MR6)
• Zoning Map Amendment for 5 Homer Square from Neighborhood Residence (NR) to Urban Residence (UR)
• Planning Board recommendations for items #24-0551, #24-0642, #24-0607, and #24-0641

The Somerville Land Use Committee recommended approval of a zoning map amendment to upzone multiple parcels near the YMCA (136 School Street, 95 Highland Avenue, and 97-107 Highland Avenue) from various districts to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6), with a 5-0 vote. The committee also recommended not approving a separate spot-zoning request for 5 Homer Square (NR to UR) and discharged a Pearl Street rezoning request (MR4 to MR6) without recommendation, referring it to the City Solicitor for a spot-zoning opinion. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Recommended approval of zoning map amendment for YMCA-area parcels (136 School St, 95 Highland Ave, 97-107 Highland Ave) to MR6 (5-0)
• Recommended not approving zoning change for 5 Homer Square from NR to UR (5-0)
• Discharged Pearl Street rezoning request (228-236 Pearl St) with no recommendation, referred to City Solicitor for spot-zoning opinion (5-0)
• Marked public comments and Planning Board communications as work completed (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several mayoral requests, including accepting a $3,600,000 MassWorks grant for the Inner Belt and Brickbottom pedestrian crossing and appropriating funds for school kitchen renovation and police litigation. Council members will also vote on utility location grants for Eversource, Comcast, Verizon and others, and on resolutions to hire a senior‑resident liaison and install signage at Reavis Field. Public hearings will be held on multiple conduit and small wireless facility applications. The council will review updates on climate plans, overdose prevention, and needle‑pickup programs.

• Mayor's request to accept and expend a $3,600,000 MassWorks grant for the Inner Belt & Brickbottom Pedestrian Crossing (ID #24-1078)
• Mayor's request to appropriate $200,000 from the Facilities Stabilization Fund for renovation of the Argenziano School kitchen (ID #24-1077)
• Grant of Location applications: Eversource 913 ft conduit on Middlesex Avenue & Cummings Street; Comcast 55 ft conduit on Beacon Street; Verizon 243 ft conduit on Broadway (IDs #24-1093, #24-1094, #24-1121)
• Resolution to hire a liaison dedicated to senior residents (ID #24-1178)
• Order for the Director of Capital Projects to create and install standard signage for Reavis Field (ID #24-1179)

The City Council approved placing an amendment to the Community Preservation Act on the November 5, 2024 ballot to allow voters to decide on increasing the surcharge. The Council also approved several funding requests for school renovations and union settlements, and granted numerous utility and event licenses.

• Approved placing Community Preservation Act surcharge amendment on Nov 5 ballot
• Appropriated $200,000 for Argenziano School kitchen renovation
• Appropriated $313,738 for SEIU/Local 888 collective bargaining settlement
• Appropriated $37,041 for Local 76 Fire Alarm Union settlement
• Approved multiple Grants of Location for Eversource, Comcast, RCN, and Verizon
• Approved various public event licenses for September and October
• Approved $8,261 for Intramural Basketball Referees
• Sent requests for senior liaison and Teen Center updates to committee discussion

City Council

The Somerville City Council will review a proposal to increase the Community Preservation Act surcharge, which funds local community initiatives. Members will also hold public hearings on utility conduit work across multiple streets, approve a deed agreement for Leonard Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street, and consider councilor orders regarding transit equity after October, outdoor seating fees for small businesses, and summer recreation programs.

• Public hearing on Comcast installing 55 feet of conduit on North Street
• Public hearing on Eversource installing 1,488 feet of conduit across Prospect Street, Webster Avenue, Tremont Street, Windsor Place, and Columbia Street
• Mayor's request for a deed and maintenance agreement for Leonard Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street
• Councilor orders requesting reports on transit equity after the Taxi to Health program ends in October and outdoor seating policies for small businesses
• Personnel actions to confirm a new firefighter appointment and promote a deputy police chief

The City Council approved several public event licenses and utility grants of location. It reaffirmed its opposition to lateral hires in the Fire Department and approved a $39,000 grant for fire station security cameras. Several orders regarding transit equity, housing programs, and outdoor seating fees were sent to committees for further discussion.

• Reaffirmed opposition to lateral hires in the Fire Department
• Approved $39,000 UASI grant for fire station security cameras
• Approved Deed and Maintenance Agreement for Leonard Grimes Park
• Approved appointment of Christopher Johnson as Firefighter
• Approved promotion of James M. Donovan to Deputy Police Chief
• Approved grants of location for Comcast and Eversource
• Approved resolutions supporting social cannabis consumption and natural psychedelics therapy
• Approved multiple public event licenses for summer and fall 2024

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Planning Board to consider several zoning ordinance and map amendments. These items include requests for new sub-areas, rezoning specific residential properties, and updating ordinances to align with the State Building Code.

• Amendment to add Section 8.5 Interim Planning Overlay District (IPOD) and Brickbottom sub-area
• Zoning Map Amendment for 5 Homer Square from NR to UR
• Zoning Map Amendment for 136 School Street, 95 Highland Avenue, and multiple Highland Avenue addresses
• Zoning Map Amendment for 228-236 Pearl Street from MR4 to MR6
• Zoning Text Amendment to add Somernova Innovation Sub-Area section 8.4.19

The Land Use Committee held public hearings on six zoning and map amendment requests, including proposals for the Brickbottom area and the YMCA. All items were kept in committee for further consideration; no zoning changes were approved or denied.

• Approved minutes from March 21, 2024 meeting
• Approved minutes from May 2, 2024 joint meeting
• Kept Brickbottom Interim Planning Overlay District request in committee
• Kept 5 Homer Square rezoning request in committee
• Kept YMCA (Highland Ave/School St) rezoning request in committee
• Kept Pearl Street rezoning request in committee
• Kept Somernova Innovation Sub-Area requests in committee
• Kept Zoning Ordinance amendments regarding State Building Code in committee

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will review the minutes from the June 11, 2024 meeting. Members will also consider recommendations for a new firefighter appointment and a deputy police chief promotion.

• Approval of June 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Confirmation of Christopher Johnson as Firefighter
• Confirmation of James M. Donovan as Deputy Police Chief

The committee recommended the appointment of Christopher Johnson as a firefighter and the promotion of James M. Donovan to Deputy Police Chief. Both recommendations require final approval by the City Council on July 11, 2024.

• Approved June 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Christopher Johnson for Firefighter (5-0)
• Recommended approval of James M. Donovan for Deputy Police Chief (5-0)

City Council

The Somerville City Council is reviewing committee reports, considering budget transfers and grants, and evaluating a $1,271,785 bond for a new fire pumper. The agenda also covers proposed traffic safety measures on residential streets, a public hearing for an Eversource utility installation, and proposed fee adjustments. These items affect local infrastructure funding, emergency response capabilities, and neighborhood traffic patterns.

• Public hearing on Eversource’s request to install conduit on Mount Pleasant Street
• Mayor’s request for a $1,271,785 bond to purchase a fire pumper apparatus
• Multiple budget transfers and grants, including $100,000 for traffic safety at Alewife Brook Parkway and Broadway, and $75,000 for a multi-use trail at Blessing of the Bay park
• Orders to install speed humps, STOP signs, and solar speed signs on Moreland and Meacham Streets
• Proposed adjustment to City Clerk fees effective July 1, 2024, and a taxicab meter rate increase request

The City Council approved a large slate of finance items, including a $1,271,785 bond authorization to buy a Fire Pumper apparatus and $1,001,750.89 from the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for continuing building design services. It also approved a $103,190 appropriation for a Memorandum of Agreement with the Firefighters Association Local 76 Fire Alarm Unit, and approved a taxicab meter rate increase to $3.80 for the first 1/8 mile. Several traffic-related orders were approved and sent to committee, and a Deed and Maintenance Agreement for Leonard Grimes Park was laid on the table.

• Approved $1,271,785 bond authorization and appropriation for Fire Pumper apparatus
• Approved $1,001,750.89 appropriation from Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund for building design services
• Approved $103,190 appropriation for Firefighters Association Local 76 Fire Alarm Unit agreement
• Approved taxicab meter rate increase to $3.80 first 1/8 mile, $0.50 each additional 1/8 mile, $32/hour waiting
• Approved $40,662.50 from Street Tree Stabilization Fund for Tree Inventory Update
• Approved Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Unmanned Aerial System at Junior Police Academy
• Approved Surveillance Technology Impact Report for exterior cameras at fire stations
• Laid on the table Deed and Maintenance Agreement for Leonard Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will meet to approve the May 22, 2024, meeting minutes. The committee will also hold a public hearing regarding a new flammables license application.

• Approval of May 22, 2024, meeting minutes
• Public hearing for New Flammables License: Building 2 Owner LLC, 808 Windsor Street (storing 3,549 gallons)

The Licenses and Permits Committee accepted the minutes of its May 22, 2024 meeting and held a public hearing on a new flammables license for Building 2 Owner LLC at 808 Windsor Street. The petitioner's representative said the building is complete with a certificate of occupancy but no tenants, and that less than 793 gallons of flammables would be stored, though the license request was for 3,549 gallons. The committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of the license; Chair Burnley told the representative not to store flammables until the license is in hand.

• Accepted minutes of the May 22, 2024 Licenses and Permits Committee meeting (3-0)
• Recommended approval of a new flammables license for Building 2 Owner LLC, 808 Windsor Street, storing 3,549 gallons (3-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to approve the proposed FY 2025 municipal and enterprise fund budgets, including related appropriations and transfers. This includes a request from the Mayor to supplement the Water Enterprise Fund.

• Approval of proposed FY 2025 municipal and enterprise fund budgets
• Request to appropriate $1,590,949 from the Unreserved Fund Balance to the FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund budget

The City Council approved a request to appropriate $1,590,949 from the Unreserved Fund Balance to supplement the FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund budget. A motion for reconsideration of this item failed with a 0-9 vote.

• Approved $1,590,949 appropriation for Water Enterprise Fund (9-0)
• Motion for reconsideration of water fund appropriation denied (0-9)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:07 PM (10-0)

Finance Committee

The Somerville City Council Finance Committee recommended approval of a $1,271,785 bond to buy a replacement Fire Pumper apparatus for Engine 1, replacing a 2009 pump. It also recommended a $60,067 state public safety grant for police traffic safety programs on a 3-2 vote, with Councilors Scott and Burnley opposed. Most other items — grants, appropriations, transfers, prior-year invoices and a settlement — were recommended for approval by 5-0 votes, while three items were placed on file to be withdrawn and one lease amendment was kept in committee.

• Recommended approval of $1,271,785 bond for Fire Pumper apparatus (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $60,067 police traffic safety grant (3-2; Scott and Burnley opposed)
• Recommended approval of $18,000 generator gift from Boston Office of Emergency Management to DPW (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $4,573.32 Recycling Dividend Program grant from Dept. of Environmental Protection to DPW (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $3,000 Barr Foundation grant for NACTO Designing Cities 2024 conference registrations (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $78,148.40 appropriation from Street Reconstruction Stabilization Fund and matching transfer (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $1,001,750.89 appropriation from Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund and related transfers (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $7,182 settlement of a pending claim and related transfer (5-0)

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee will discuss several items including construction parking policies, street signage, and traffic light timing. The committee will also consider a taxicab meter rate increase request from Green Cab Company, Inc.

• Discussion of restricted parking sign policy during construction
• Proposal for SLOW CHILDREN and NOT A THROUGH STREET signs on Alston Street at Cross Street
• Proposal to daylight the corner of Maple Avenue and School Street
• Public process discussion regarding traffic management on Benton Road
• Taxicab meter rate increase request from Green Cab Company, Inc. to $3.80 for the first 1/8 mile

The Traffic and Parking Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of Green Cab Company's request to raise taxicab meter rates to $3.80 for the first 1/8 of a mile, $0.50 for each additional 1/8 of a mile, and $32 per hour waiting time. The committee also accepted the minutes of its April 29, 2024 meeting and recommended five council orders be marked work completed, including orders on construction parking signs, signs on Alston Street, daylighting at Maple Avenue and School Street, traffic on Benton Road, and the traffic light timing at Main Street and Broadway. No final decisions were made on those orders; the committee only recommended they be marked work completed.

• Recommended approval of Green Cab meter rate increase to $3.80 first 1/8 mile, $0.50 each additional 1/8 mile, $32/hour waiting (3-0)
• Accepted minutes of the April 29, 2024 Traffic and Parking Committee meeting (3-0)
• Recommended order on construction restricted parking signs be marked work completed
• Recommended order on SLOW CHILDREN / NOT A THROUGH STREET signs on Alston Street be marked work completed
• Recommended order on daylighting Maple Avenue and School Street be marked work completed
• Recommended order on Benton Road traffic process tied to Central Street one-way change be marked work completed
• Recommended order on Main Street and Broadway traffic light timing be marked work completed

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several items referred by the Mayor. These include impact reports for drone use at a police academy and exterior fire station cameras, as well as an amendment to the Code of Ordinances regarding construction practices.

• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Unmanned Aerial System use at Junior Police Academy
• Ordinance amendment to add Sections 8-375 through 8-381 for safer construction practices
• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for exterior cameras at fire stations
• Approval of the May 28, 2024, meeting minutes

The Legislative Matters Committee recommended approval of a Surveillance Technology Impact Report for a one-day drone demonstration at the 2024 Somerville Police Department Junior Police Academy, with Boston Police Department operating the FAA-licensed drone. It also approved a motion recommending the Council approve a revised Surveillance Technology Impact Report for exterior cameras at fire stations. A proposed ordinance amendment adding Sections 8-375 through 8-381 to require OSHA-compliant safety plans before building permits was kept in committee. The committee also accepted the minutes of its May 28, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended approval of Surveillance Technology Impact Report for drone use at 2024 Junior Police Academy (3-1, Burnley nay, Scott absent)
• Approved motion recommending Council approve revised Surveillance Technology Impact Report for fire station exterior cameras (4-0, Scott absent)
• Kept in committee proposed ordinance amendment adding Sections 8-375 through 8-381 on OSHA-compliant construction safety plans
• Accepted minutes of May 28, 2024 Legislative Matters Committee meeting

City Council

The City Council is meeting to consider proposed FY 2025 municipal and enterprise fund budgets. The agenda includes numerous requests for appropriations from the Unreserved Fund Balance to various stabilization funds and specific city programs.

• $342,878,129 appropriation for the FY 2025 General Fund Operating Budget
• $31,947,141 appropriation for the FY 2025 Sewer Enterprise Fund budget
• $21,398,392 appropriation for the FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund budget
• $736,255 appropriation for the FY 2025 Kennedy School Pool Enterprise Fund budget
• $237,000 appropriation for the FY 2025 Dilboy Fields Enterprise Fund budget

The Somerville City Council approved the FY 2025 General Fund Operating Budget appropriation of $342,878,129 and numerous enterprise fund budgets. The Council rejected the Mayor's proposed water and sewer rate increases, instead approving a resolution to re-submit rates with a 9.5% water increase and 0% sewer increase. The Council also approved the creation of a Community Composting Program Stabilization Fund and an ordinance updating non-union position salaries.

• Approved $342,878,129 appropriation for FY 2025 General Fund Operating Budget
• Rejected Mayor's proposed water/sewer rate increases (5-6 vote)
• Approved resolution to re-submit rates: 9.5% water increase, 0% sewer increase
• Approved $31,947,141 appropriation for FY 2025 Sewer Enterprise Fund
• Approved $21,398,392 appropriation for FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund
• Approved creation of Community Composting Program Stabilization Fund
• Ordained amendment to Code of Ordinances updating non-union salary categories
• Approved $2,000,000 appropriation to Affordable Housing Trust Fund

Finance Committee

The committee will review the FY 2025 budget, including 'cut night' and miscellaneous items. The agenda includes many requests from the Mayor to appropriate funds from the Unreserved Fund Balance for various city services and stabilization funds.

• $342,878,129 to fund the FY 2025 General Fund Operating Budget
• $31,947,141 to fund the FY 2025 Sewer Enterprise Fund budget
• $21,398,392 to fund the FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund budget
• Appropriation of $725,000 and $700,000 for Fire Alarm Alerting System
• Appropriation of $2,000,000 for Affordable Housing Trust Fund rental assistance

The committee approved a revised FY 2025 water rate proposal with a 9.5% water rate increase and 0% sewer rate increase. Several budget reductions were approved, including a cut to the Chief Administration Officer line, while a proposal to freeze executive salaries failed.

• Approved FY25 water rates: 9.5% water rate increase, 0% sewer rate increase, no change in base charges (6-5)
• Approved $185,466 reduction to the Executive Office Chief Administration Officer line (9-2)
• Approved $30,778 reduction to Human Resources Personal Services Salary (11-0)
• Approved $67,840 allocation to Health & Human Resources for an additional Case Manager (10-1)
• Approved $185,466 allocation to Health and Human Services for a transit equity program (Voice vote)
• Denied motion to cut Executive Administration Personal Services budget by $299,459 (5-6)
• Recommended 36 Mayor's Requests for appropriation/budgeting to be discharged with no recommendation

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the Fiscal Year 2025 budget across several departments including Information Technology, DPW, and Engineering. The committee will also consider a proposal from the Director of Water and Sewer regarding FY 2025 Water & Sewer rates.

• Review of FY 2025 Budget for various city departments
• FY 2025 Water & Sewer Rate proposal

The Finance Committee reviewed the FY25 budget for various city departments, including IT, Infrastructure, and Public Works. The committee tabled the proposed water and sewer rate increase, which would have raised rates by an average of less than 6%. Several councilors expressed concerns about affordability and department staffing, while the Director of Water and Sewer noted that the Enterprise Funds are designed to be self-sustaining.

• Tabled FY25 water and sewer rate proposal (kept in committee)
• Reviewed FY25 IT budget (Personal Services up 8.4%)
• Reviewed FY25 Infrastructure budget (proposed new construction liaison)
• Reviewed FY25 Water and Sewer budget (discussed vacant positions)
• Reviewed FY25 DPW Administration budget ($1.9M, up 7.4%)
• Reviewed FY25 Solid Waste budget ($9.2M, up 4%)
• Reviewed FY25 Highway and Fleet Management budgets
• Chair Wilson requested ARPA funds be considered for Poplar Street project

City Council

The City Council will review various city business including public hearings for utility conduit installations and several personnel appointments. The agenda includes requests for bond authorization to purchase fire equipment and multiple fund transfers for design services.

• Bond authorization of $1,271,785 for Fire Pumper apparatus
• Grant of Location for Eversource to install 102 feet of conduit in Revolution Drive
• Grant of Location for Cambridge Network Solutions to install conduit on Mystic Avenue
• Appropriation of $1,001,750.89 from the Facility Renovation Stabilization Fund
• Appropriation of $78,148.40 from the Street Reconstruction Stabilization Fund

The City Council ordained an amended Safe Streets ordinance (item 23-1461) to expedite protected bike lanes, with all ten present councilors voting aye and Ward Five Councilor Sait absent. The council also approved a conveyance and grant of easement for Leonard Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street, and approved the 2024-2028 HUD Consolidated Plan and related action plans. Several financial items, including a $1,271,785 bond for Fire Pumper apparatus and various fund transfers, were referred to the Finance Committee for recommendation rather than decided. The council also approved numerous licenses and public event permits, and referred the FY 2025 Water & Sewer rate proposal to the Finance Committee after a presentation.

• Ordained amended Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes (10-0, Sait absent)
• Approved conveyance and grant of easement for Leonard Grimes Park at 31 Tufts Street (10-0, Sait absent)
• Approved 2024-2028 HUD Consolidated Plan, One Year Action Plan, and Community Participation Plan
• Approved two Board of Health appointments (Alyssa DuBois, Margaret H. Coit) and two Fire Lieutenant promotions (Matthew Kane, Michael Finnegan)
• Approved time-only contract extensions for Somerville High School project: PMA, LLC (4 months), Symmes Maini & McKee Associates (4 months), Suffolk Construction (5 months)
• Referred $1,271,785 bond for Fire Pumper apparatus to Finance Committee
• Referred FY 2025 Water & Sewer rate proposal (average 6% increase, ~$60/year) to Finance Committee
• Approved numerous licenses and public event permits (drainlayer, flammables, garage, parking, taxi medallions, and events)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several departments and funds as part of the FY 2025 Budget process. Discussion includes community engagement, human resources, and various municipal services.

• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Communications and Community Engagement
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Human Resources, Health, Life Insurance and Medicare, and Workers Compensation
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Libraries, Parks and Recreation, and Veterans' Services
• Review of Kennedy Pool Enterprise Fund
• Review of Dilboy Pool Enterprise Fund

The Finance Committee reviewed the FY 2025 budget for multiple city departments, including Communications, Elections, Human Resources, and Parks. Chair Wilson moved to reduce the Human Resources personal services salary line by $30,778.33, but this motion was tabled until the 'cut night' meeting on June 18. No final budget approvals or denials were recorded in these minutes, which primarily document departmental presentations and committee questions.

• Motion to reduce HR salary line by $30,778.33 tabled until June 18
• FY 2025 budget reviews conducted for 15+ departments
• Committee adjourned at 9:25pm with 5-0 roll call vote

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will review the May 7, 2024, meeting minutes and a request regarding federal housing grant plans. Members will also discuss structural safety and long-term planning for the city-owned building at 10 Skilton Avenue.

• Approval of May 7th, 2024, committee minutes
• Proposed 2024-2028 HUD 5-Year Consolidated Plan and One Year Action Plan
• Discussion regarding structural safety and rodent issues at Skilton Avenue building
• Discussion regarding a long-term plan for 10 Skilton Avenue

The committee recommended approval of the 2024-2028 HUD 5-Year Consolidated Plan and related action plans for federal grant programming. Two orders regarding a city-owned building on Skilton Avenue were recommended to be marked as work completed.

• Approved May 7th meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of 2024-2028 HUD Consolidated Plan, One Year Action Plan, and Community Participation Plan
• Recommended marking work completed for order to address structural safety and rodent issues at city-owned building on Skilton Avenue
• Recommended marking work completed for order to devise long-term plan for city-owned building at 10 Skilton Avenue

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will consider several personnel matters including two appointments to the Board of Health. Additionally, the committee will review requests for two promotions to the position of Fire Lieutenant.

• Confirmation of Margaret H. Coit to the Board of Health
• Confirmation of Alyssa DuBois to the Board of Health
• Confirmation of Michael Finnegan's promotion to Fire Lieutenant
• Confirmation of Matthew Kane's promotion to Fire Lieutenant
• Approval of May 1, 2024 meeting minutes

The committee recommended the appointments of two members to the Board of Health and the promotion of two Fire Lieutenants. These recommendations require final approval by the City Council on June 13, 2024.

• Approved May 1, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended appointment of Margaret H. Coit to the Board of Health
• Recommended appointment of Alyssa DuBois to the Board of Health
• Recommended promotion of Michael Finnegan to Fire Lieutenant
• Recommended promotion of Matthew Kane to Fire Lieutenant

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. The discussion includes various departments such as housing, planning, and economic development.

• Review of Community Preservation Act
• Review of Parking and Mobility
• Review of Planning, Preservation and Zoning
• Review of Office of Housing Stability
• Review of Economic Development and Redevelopment Authority

The Finance Committee met on June 10, 2024, to review FY 2025 budget requests from the Community Preservation Act, Parking, OSPCD Administration, Mobility, Planning, Housing, Office of Housing Stability, Economic Development, Redevelopment Authority, and Public Space and Urban Forestry. Department heads presented figures and answered questions, but the minutes record no votes, approvals, denials, or formal decisions on any budget item. The meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM on a 5-0 roll call vote.

• No substantive decisions recorded; meeting was a review of FY 2025 budget requests
• Adjourned at 8:33 PM on roll call vote of 5 in favor, none against (Clingan, Burnley, Ewen-Campen, Scott, Wilson)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a review of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. The discussion includes several city departments such as Police, Fire, and Health and Human Services.

• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Health and Human Services
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Inspectional Services
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Emergency Management
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Fire, Fire Alarm, and Police
• Review of FY 2025 Budget for Animal Control and E911

The committee conducted budget reviews for Health and Human Services, Inspectional Services, Emergency Management, Fire, Fire Alarm, Police, Animal Control, and E911. No formal votes were taken to approve or deny the budget requests during this meeting.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for several executive administration offices. This includes reviewing departments such as the Office of Sustainability and Environment, the Arts Council, and Treasury.

• Review of FY 2025 Budget: Executive Administration
• Review of FY 2025 Budget: Chief Administration Officer
• Review of FY 2025 Budget: Office of Sustainability and Environment
• Review of FY 2025 Budget: Arts Council
• Review of FY 2025 Budget: Treasury

The Finance Committee conducted a review of the FY 2025 budget for various administrative offices, including Executive Administration, Sustainability, and Law. The meeting consisted of departmental presentations and council inquiries; no formal votes to approve or deny budget line items were recorded.

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss several orders regarding city services. Discussions include updates on homelessness efforts, COVID-19 mask and test deployment, and a roadmap for police staffing and operations.

• Approval of April 17, 2024, meeting minutes
• Monthly updates from Director of Health and Human Services regarding homelessness
• Updates on COVID-19 mask and test deployment plans
• Update on the police staffing and operations report roadmap
• Discussion on monitoring wild turkey populations

The committee requested that the Director of Health and Human Services provide monthly updates on efforts to address homelessness. Members discussed the performance of the Somerville Warming Center and the allocation of $400,000 for additional shelter beds and services.

• Approved request for monthly homelessness updates from Health Director
• Approved minutes from April 17, 2024 meeting
• Kept in committee: request for COVID-19 mask and test deployment update
• Recommended as work completed: request for Police Staffing and Operations roadmap
• Kept in committee: resolution to monitor wild turkey population

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. The committee will also review various budget items including debt service, pensions, and state assessments.

• Public Hearing regarding the FY 2025 Budget
• Review of City Council, Clerk of Committees, and City Clerk budgets
• Review of Licensing Commission and Revolving Funds
• Review of PAYGO, Debt Service, State Assessments, Unemployment Compensation, and Pension items

The Finance Committee held a public hearing and departmental review of the proposed FY 2025 budget. Chair Wilson directed that no motions be taken during this meeting; instead, action on budget items is scheduled for June 18. The committee reviewed departmental presentations including City Council, Clerk, Licensing, Revolving Funds, PAYGO, Debt Service, State Assessments, Unemployment, and Pension.

• Public hearing on FY 2025 budget opened and closed; record open for written comments until June 17
• Motions on budget items deferred until June 18 action date
• Departmental budget reviews completed for City Council, Clerk, Licensing, Revolving Funds, PAYGO, Debt Service, State Assessments, Unemployment, and Pension
• No votes taken on budget amendments or approvals during this meeting

City Council

The City Council will meet to review the Mayor's proposed FY 2025 budget and related financial appropriations. The agenda includes requests for various fund transfers, stabilization funds, and specific program funding.

• $342,878,129 appropriation for the FY 2025 General Fund Operating Budget
• $31,947,141 appropriation for the FY 2025 Sewer Enterprise Fund budget
• $21,398,392 appropriation for the FY 2025 Water Enterprise Fund budget
• $736,255 appropriation for the FY 2025 Kennedy School Pool Enterprise Fund budget
• $237,000 appropriation for the FY 2025 Dilboy Fields Enterprise Fund budget

The City Council received Mayor Ballantyne's proposed FY 2025 budget, including a $342,878,129 General Fund Operating Budget request, and referred it and roughly two dozen related appropriation requests to the Finance Committee for recommendation. No appropriations were approved or denied at this meeting; all items were referred. The meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM on an 11-0 roll call vote.

• Referred Mayor's $342,878,129 FY2025 General Fund Operating Budget request to Finance Committee
• Referred $31,947,141 FY2025 Sewer Enterprise Fund request to Finance Committee
• Referred $21,398,392 FY2025 Water Enterprise Fund request to Finance Committee
• Referred $3,436,205 in estimated FY2025 CPA revenue request to Finance Committee
• Referred $2,000,000 Free Cash appropriation to Affordable Housing Trust Fund to Finance Committee
• Referred $149,051 Racial & Social Justice Fund request for Alternative Emergency Response Program Manager to Finance Committee
• Item 7.22 recorded as withdrawn
• Adjourned at 8:00 PM on 11-0 roll call vote

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a review of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Discussion items include the School Department, salary contingency, and revenue questions.

• Review of the FY 2025 Budget
• School Department budget discussion
• Salary Contingency review
• Revenue Questions

The Somerville City Council Finance Committee met on May 30, 2024, to review the FY 2025 budget, focusing on the School Department, salary contingency, revenue questions, and miscellaneous items. Superintendent Carmona presented the school budget, which includes a 6.7% increase over the previous year, with proposed personnel costs of $88 million (up 7.25%) and non-salary operations and maintenance of $18.6 million (up 3.9%). The committee discussed various topics including enrollment, programs, and revenue projections, but no decisions or votes were recorded in these minutes. The meeting adjourned on a roll call vote of 10 in favor, none against, and 1 absent.

• Meeting adjourned at 10:16 PM by roll call vote (10-0, 1 absent)

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

This is a joint meeting with the School Committee's Finance and Facilities Subcommittee. The committee will discuss requests for regular MSBA process updates, project risk assessments, science lab safety, and gymnasium floor protection.

• Updates on the MSBA process for Winter Hill and Brown Schools
• Risk assessment report for current infrastructure projects
• Status of science lab spaces following a gas leak at West Somerville Neighborhood School
• Installation of a floor cover for the Somerville High School gymnasium
• Timeline for water and electrical access at the Benjamin G. Brown School schoolyard

The committee accepted minutes from its March 25, 2024 meeting and reviewed five items. Director Raiche reported that the School Building Committee is formed and the Educational Profile (EPQ) draft will be submitted to the MSBA on June 3, with a decision on combining the Brown School with another school targeted for September 2025. Items on a risk assessment report, science lab gas status, a gym floor cover, and Brown School schoolyard utilities were each recommended to be marked work completed. No new motions were approved or denied; the MSBA update item was kept in committee.

• Accepted minutes of the March 25, 2024 meeting (2 aye, 1 absent)
• MSBA update on Winter Hill and Brown schools kept in committee
• Risk assessment report order recommended to be marked work completed
• Science lab gas status order recommended to be marked work completed
• Gym floor cover order recommended to be marked work completed
• Brown School schoolyard utilities order recommended to be marked work completed

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review the minutes from the May 20, 2024 meeting. The committee is also considering a proposed Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes and a report regarding exterior cameras at fire stations.

• Approval of May 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes (ID # 23-1461)
• Surveillance Technology Impact Report for exterior cameras at fire stations (ID # 24-0693)

The Legislative Matters Committee approved amendments to a Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes. The committee also reviewed a request for exterior surveillance cameras at fire stations but kept the item in committee for further discussion.

• Approved minutes of May 20, 2024 meeting
• Recommended approval of amended Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes (4-0)
• Kept Surveillance Technology Impact Report for fire station cameras in committee

City Council

The City Council will review several financial requests including a $3.01 million bond for building improvements and various grants. Discussions also include the impact of water and sewer rate increases on residents and traffic management changes on Benton Road.

• $3,010,000 bond for FY 2024 Building Improvements
• $250,000 transfer to Law Department Legal Services Account
• $100,000 grant for Alewife Brook Parkway and Broadway traffic safety
• Discussion of water and sewer rate increases and resident displacement
• Traffic management process for Benton Road regarding Central Street changes

The City Council authorized a $3.01 million bond for the FY 2024 Building Improvements program. The council also approved several grants for geothermal research, recycling, and water bill assistance, and granted multiple business and public event licenses.

• Approved $3,010,000 bond for FY 2024 Building Improvements program
• Approved $50,000 grant for geothermal network feasibility study
• Approved $28,000 grant for Recycle Dividend Program
• Approved up to $60,000 grant for water bill assistance for eligible ratepayers
• Approved $250,000 appropriation for Law Department outside legal counsel
• Approved extended operating hours licenses for Eat Greek Gyros and Papa John's
• Approved new garage license for BRE-BMR Assembly Innovation I LLC
• Confirmed appointment of Madalyn Letellier as Legislative Services Manager

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee will meet to review several license applications. These include requests for extended operating hours at Eat Greek Gyros and Papa John's, as well as a new garage license for BRE-BMR Assembly Innovation I LLC.

• Extended operating hours for Eat Greek Gyros at 215 Elm St until 2am
• Extended operating hours for Papa John's at 622 Somerville Ave until 1am Sun-Thur and 2am Fri-Sat
• New garage license for BRE-BMR Assembly Innovation I LLC at 122 Assembly Park Drive for 306 vehicles

The Licenses and Permits Committee recommended the approval of extended operating hours for two restaurants and a new garage license for a facility in Assembly Square. These recommendations require final approval from the City Council and the Mayor.

• Approved May 8, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended approval of extended hours until 2am for Eat Greek Gyros at 215 Elm St (3-0)
• Recommended approval of extended hours for Papa John's at 622 Somerville Ave (3-0)
• Recommended approval of garage license for BRE-BMR Assembly Innovation I LLC at 122 Assembly Park Drive (3-0)

Finance Committee

The committee will review several mayoral requests regarding appropriations, grants, and transfers. These items include funding for legal services, building improvements, and various grant acceptances.

• Authorization to borrow $3,010,000 for the FY 2024 Building Improvements program
• Appropriation of $250,000 from 'Free Cash' for Law Department legal services
• Acceptance of a $50,000 grant for a geothermal feasibility study
• Acceptance of up to $60,000 in water assistance grants for low-income ratepayers
• Transfer of $80,000 within DPW accounts for grounds maintenance expenses

The committee recommended approval for several funding requests, including a multi-million dollar bond for school repairs and grants for geothermal research and water bill assistance. It also approved appropriations for legal services and various departmental transfers and prior-year invoices.

• Recommended $3.01M bond for FY 2024 Building Improvements (5-0)
• Recommended $250,000 appropriation for Law Department legal services (5-0)
• Recommended $1,913.40 to fund a Legislative Services Manager position (5-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $50,000 geothermal feasibility study grant (5-0)
• Recommended acceptance of up to $60,000 for water bill assistance (5-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $28,000 Recycle Dividend Program grant (5-0)
• Recommended $80,000 transfer for DPW grounds maintenance (5-0)
• Approved payment of prior year invoices totaling $40,000+ across DPW and Parks and Rec (5-0)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review the minutes from the April 30, 2024 meeting. The committee will also consider a recommendation to adopt provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M regarding Family and Medical Leave.

• Approval of April 30, 2024 meeting minutes
• Adoption of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave

The committee discussed a proposal to adopt Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M regarding Family and Medical Leave. The proposed policy would provide 8 weeks of paid parental and/or medical leave at 100% pay for non-union employees. The committee decided to keep the item in committee.

• Approved minutes from April 30, 2024 meeting (4-0)
• Kept proposal to adopt Family and Medical Leave provisions (ID # 22-1448) in committee

Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee

The Committee of the Whole will conduct a public hearing regarding how rising water and sewer rates are affecting residents. City departments are requested to attend this discussion.

• Public hearing on water and sewer rate increases

The Somerville City Council Equity, Gender, Seniors, Families and Vulnerable Populations Committee held a public hearing on May 15, 2024, to hear residents' concerns regarding high water and sewer bills and rate increases. Numerous residents shared testimonies about extreme bills, unaddressed meter problems, and lack of municipal communication. The committee approved two motions requiring the administration to report on displacement prevention plans and potential ARPA fund allocations for bill relief.

• Conducted a public hearing on water and sewer rate impacts (Order ID # 24-0477)
• Approved motion requiring the administration to address plans to prevent displacement related to water and sewer bills (8-0)
• Approved motion requesting a report on committed ARPA dollars and potential relief for water and sewer bills (8-0)

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will review the minutes from the February 27, 2024 meeting. The committee will also hear a presentation regarding the 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan.

• Approval of February 27, 2024, meeting minutes
• Discussion of the 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan

The committee reviewed the City's 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan and discussed strategies for rodent mitigation, including commercial trash enforcement and a birth control pilot program. Members discussed the potential for a curbside composting pilot program in high-infestation neighborhoods.

• Approved minutes from February 27, 2024 meeting
• Recommended the request for the Environmental Health Coordinator to present the 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan be marked work completed

City Council

The City Council approved over $2 million for Edgerly School renovations and $400,000 for emergency shelter services. It also passed resolutions supporting TNC/DNC worker protections and climate resilience in schools, and updated council rules to allow remote participation.

• Appropriated $2,041,000 for Edgerly School renovations
• Appropriated $400,000 for emergency shelter services
• Approved $237,468 for Dilboy Pool repairs
• Approved $248,111 for DPW natural gas deficit remediation
• Approved amendment to Council Rules for remote participation
• Approved resolution supporting TNC and DNC worker protections
• Approved resolution for climate change health and resilience in schools
• Approved promotion of Charles D. Richardson to Fire Captain

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing regarding a new garage license for Mercedes Benz of Boston at 161 Linwood St. The meeting also includes a discussion on informing business owners about the newly implemented closed captioning ordinance.

• New garage license application for Mercedes Benz of Boston, 161 Linwood St
• Discussion regarding updates on the closed captioning ordinance
• Approval of March 27, 2024, committee minutes

The committee recommended approval for a license modification to allow spray painting at 161 Linwood St. A request for an update on closed captioning ordinance outreach was kept in committee.

• Approved March 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of garage license addition for spray painting at 161 Linwood St (Mercedes Benz of Boston)
• Kept in committee: Request for Director of Economic Development update on closed captioning ordinance outreach

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Housing and Community Development Committee will discuss potential incentives for homeowners to build affordable housing. Members will also review reports on fair housing enforcement, lottery qualification parameters for lower income units, and commercial displacement mitigation.

• Discussion of $150,000 density bonus incentives for homeowners building affordable housing
• Feasibility report on fair housing enforcement
• Review of qualification parameters for awarding lower income rental units
• Update on the 'Mitigating Commercial Displacement in Somerville' report

The Housing and Community Development Committee accepted minutes from its March 20, 2024 meeting and reviewed four housing and economic development orders. Councilor Strezo's proposal for density bonus incentives, such as $150,000 for homeowners to build affordable housing, was kept in committee after Planning Director Lewis raised legal and program-design questions. Three other orders — on fair housing enforcement, lottery qualification criteria for lower-income units, and the December 2023 commercial displacement report — were recommended to be marked work completed. No funding was approved and no ordinances were adopted.

• Accepted minutes of the March 20, 2024 committee meeting (3-0)
• Density bonus incentive proposal ($150,000 for homeowners to build affordable housing) kept in committee
• Fair housing enforcement feasibility order recommended to be marked work completed
• Lottery qualification criteria order recommended to be marked work completed
• Commercial displacement report update order recommended to be marked work completed
• Adjourned at 7:46 PM on a roll call vote of 3 in favor, none against

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several requests for fund appropriations and transfers. These include funding for Edgerly School renovations, emergency shelter services, and maintenance for the Dilboy Pool.

• $243,094 grant from Massachusetts Clean Energy Center for residential decarbonization
• Pedestrian Access Sidewalk Easement and Maintenance License at 599 Somerville Avenue
• $400,000 appropriation for the Emergency Response Stabilization Fund
• $400,000 appropriation from the Emergency Stabilization Fund for shelter services
• $2,041,000 appropriation for Edgerly School renovations

The Finance Committee recommended approval of several appropriations, including $2,041,000 for Edgerly School renovations to house Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms, and $400,000 to expand emergency shelter beds via the Somerville Homeless Coalition. The committee also recommended accepting a $243,094 clean energy grant, approving a sidewalk easement at 599 Somerville Avenue, and appropriating funds for Dilboy Pool repairs and police sub-station improvements. Additionally, the committee recommended marking an order regarding water main bidding processes as work completed.

• Recommended approval of $243,094 clean energy grant for decarbonization outreach
• Recommended approval of sidewalk easement at 599 Somerville Avenue
• Recommended approval of $400,000 appropriation for emergency shelter expansion (10 beds)
• Recommended approval of $2,041,000 appropriation for Edgerly School renovations
• Recommended approval of $237,468 appropriation for Dilboy Pool repairs
• Recommended approval of $150,000 appropriation for East Somerville Police sub-station improvements
• Recommended approval of $1,095,000 transfer to cover DPW electricity deficit
• Recommended marking Order 24-0337 (water main bidding update) as work completed

Rules Special Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the September 12, 2022 meeting. Additionally, they will consider a recommendation regarding an amendment to the Rules of the City Council to facilitate accessibility and remote participation.

• Approval of the Rules Committee Minutes of September 12, 2022
• Recommendation on City Clerk amendment for remote participation and accessibility

The committee approved amendments to Rules 5, 14, and 27 to accommodate remote participation. The changes allow councilors to vote by voice if video is not reasonably practicable. These updates are intended to align with the Open Meeting Law.

• Approved Rules Committee Minutes of September 12, 2022 (3-0)
• Recommended approval of amendments to Rules 5, 14, and 27 to allow voice-only voting if video is not practicable (3-0)

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss requests for updates on municipal composting program plans and timelines. Members are also reviewing a proposal to create an invasive species position with funding in the FY 2025 budget. Additionally, the committee will address delays regarding Reavis Field.

• Request for updates on municipal composting program plans and timelines
• Proposal for an Invasive Species position and FY 2025 budget allocation
• Inquiry into the opening process and delays for Reavis Field
• Review of community comments regarding invasive plant species
• Approval of April 18, 2024, meeting minutes

The Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee approved the minutes from April 18, 2024. Several orders and resolutions regarding a municipal composting program, the opening of Reavis Field, and the creation of an invasive species position were kept in committee for further review.

• Approved April 18, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Kept Order ID # 24-0042 regarding municipal composting plans and timelines in committee
• Kept Resolution ID # 24-0086 regarding Reavis Field opening delays in committee
• Kept Order ID # 24-0106 regarding an invasive species job position in committee
• Kept Order ID # 24-0370 regarding composting program design and cost in committee
• Kept Public Communication ID # 24-0457 regarding invasive plant species in committee

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board will hold a joint meeting for a public hearing. The committee is considering a request from the Mayor to amend several articles of the Zoning Ordinances. This proposal seeks to resolve conflicts between local zoning laws and the State Building Code.

• Public hearing on Mayor's Request (ID # 24-0416) to amend Articles 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 10 of the Zoning Ordinances

The Land Use Committee and Planning Board held a joint public hearing on a mayoral request (ID # 24-0416) to amend several articles of the Zoning Ordinance to remove conflicts with the State Building Code. City staff presented the "Sustainable Zoning 2024" plan and said the goal is to reconcile the City ordinance with the Specialized Energy Code adopted in 2023. Public comment focused on whether the density bonus would be revoked; many speakers asked for a grace period and no retroactive changes. No vote on the amendment was taken — the item was kept in committee, and the public comment period remains open until 12 noon on May 10, 2024.

• Kept zoning amendment (ID # 24-0416) in committee; no vote taken
• Extended public comment period to 12 noon on May 10, 2024
• Adjourned at 7:30pm by roll call vote of 5-0 (Wilson, Pineda Neufeld, Ewen-Campen, Davis, McLaughlin)

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee will consider mayoral requests regarding the Board of Health and the fire department. The committee will also review minutes from its April 3, 2024 meeting.

• Appointment of Alyssa DuBois to the Board of Health
• Appointment of Margaret H. Coit to the Board of Health
• Promotion of Charles D. Richardson to Fire Captain
• Approval of April 3, 2024 meeting minutes

The committee recommended the promotion of Charles D. Richardson to Fire Captain, pending final City Council approval on May 9, 2024. Two appointments to the Board of Health were kept in committee. The committee also approved the minutes from the April 3, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended approval of Charles D. Richardson for promotion to Fire Captain (5-0)
• Approved April 3, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Kept appointment of Alyssa DuBois to Board of Health in committee
• Kept appointment of Margaret H. Coit to Board of Health in committee

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will discuss two ordinances referred by Councilor Burnley Jr.: one proposing a Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes, and another adjusting quorum rules for the Wage Theft Advisory Committee. Members will also review the city’s 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report and approve minutes from its April meeting. The committee is not voting on these items; it will only draft recommendations for the full City Council.

• Ordinance #23-1461: Proposed amendment to Section 12-116 creating a Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes
• Ordinance #24-0543: Proposed amendment to Section 9-35 to meet quorum requirements for the Wage Theft Advisory Committee
• Discussion of the Mayor’s Communication regarding the 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report

The committee recommended marking the 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report as work completed. A proposed Safe Streets ordinance to expedite bike lanes was kept in committee for further clarification. A proposal to amend quorum requirements for the Wage Theft Advisory Committee was recommended to be placed on file.

• Approved April 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report be marked work completed
• Kept Safe Streets ordinance (ID # 23-1461) in committee
• Recommended Wage Theft Advisory Committee quorum amendment (ID # 24-0543) be placed on file

Traffic and Parking Committee

The Traffic and Parking Committee will discuss several orders regarding citywide traffic management and infrastructure. Discussions include the rollout of Safety Sticks, commuter traffic on Temple Street and Fellsway West, and the preservation of the McGrath Highway pedestrian footbridge.

• Citywide rollout and enforcement priorities for Safety Sticks
• Commuter traffic mitigation on Temple Street and Fellsway West
• Return of a temporary parking sign to Washington and Myrtle Streets
• Preservation of the McGrath Highway pedestrian footbridge
• Pedestrian crosswalk pavement markings on South Street between Medford Street and Windsor Street

The Traffic and Parking Committee accepted the minutes of its February 26, 2024 meeting and reviewed six orders. Five orders were recommended to be marked work completed, covering the citywide Safety Sticks rollout, cut-through traffic on Temple Street and Fellsway West, a temporary parking sign near Washington and Myrtle/Florence Streets, preserving the McGrath Highway pedestrian footbridge, and refreshing crosswalk markings on South Street. One order, on ticketing vehicles with illegal license covers, was kept in committee because the City's Parking Department does not ticket for that violation; Director Rinfret offered to contact the Somerville Police Department. No formal votes on the orders themselves are recorded in the minutes.

• Accepted minutes of the February 26, 2024 Traffic and Parking Committee meeting
• Safety Sticks citywide rollout (ID # 24-0544): recommended to be marked work completed; Director Rinfret said rollout will be running in the next 3 weeks
• Cut-through traffic on Temple Street and Fellsway West (ID # 24-0470): recommended to be marked work completed; no vote on banning right turns 7-9 AM weekdays
• Temporary parking sign at Washington and Myrtle/Florence Streets (ID # 24-0468): recommended to be marked work completed, with amendment replacing 'Myrtle Street' with 'Florence Street'
• Preserving McGrath Highway pedestrian footbridge (ID # 24-0467): recommended to be marked work completed; MassDOT allocating $90 million, construction expected 2028
• Ticketing vehicles with illegal license covers (ID # 24-0450): kept in committee; Parking Department does not ticket this violation
• Crosswalk markings on South Street between Medford Street and Windsor Street (ID # 24-0339): recommended to be marked work completed; work underway, expected complete in 1-2 months
• Meeting adjourned at 6:52pm by roll call vote of three in favor (Wilson, Pineda Neufeld, Sait), none opposed, none absent

City Council

The City Council will review several financial requests, including a $7.3 million bond for water main rehabilitation and $2 million for Edgerly School renovations. The agenda also includes public hearings for utility work on Quincy Street and various committee reports regarding city inspections and public safety.

• $7,310,000 bond for FY 2024 Water Main Rehabilitation
• $1,800,000 bond for FY 2024 Sewer System Evaluation & Infiltration/Inflow Assessment
• $2,041,000 appropriation for Edgerly School renovations
• Eversource Grant of Location for conduit installation on Quincy Street
• $302,720 appropriation for energy improvements at 42 Cross Street

The Somerville City Council approved a resolution opposing lateral hiring in the Fire Department, following a presentation on Police and Fire hiring. The Council approved a $7,310,000 bond for the FY 2024 Water Main Rehabilitation program and a $302,720 appropriation from the Energy Stabilization Fund for energy improvements at 42 Cross Street. It also approved resolutions supporting state bills on clean heat, menstrual products, and sex worker safety, and referred the Mayor's $2,041,000 Edgerly School renovation appropriation and other funding requests to the Finance Committee. Numerous licenses and public event permits were approved, including Porchfest events and a garage license conditioned on pedestrian sensor installation.

• Approved resolution opposing lateral hiring in the Fire Department
• Approved $7,310,000 bond for FY 2024 Water Main Rehabilitation program
• Approved $302,720 from Energy Stabilization Fund for energy improvements at 42 Cross Street
• Approved resolution supporting state clean heat and gas expansion moratorium bills
• Approved resolution supporting the I AM bill for disposable menstrual products
• Approved as amended resolution supporting state bills on sex worker safety (S.1046, H.1758)
• Referred $2,041,000 Edgerly School renovation appropriation to Finance Committee
• Approved garage license for FRIT, 333 Great River Rd, with condition to install pedestrian sensors

Finance Committee

The committee recommended approval for several infrastructure bonds, including funds for water main and sewer assessments. It also recommended approving various prior-year invoices and land easements in Union Square.

• Recommended approval of $7.31M bond for Water Main Rehabilitation (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $1.8M bond for Sewer System Evaluation & Infiltration/Inflow Assessment (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $302,720 from Energy Stabilization Fund for 42 Cross Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Big Belly contract renewals and new units (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Union Square Civic Space Lot 2A conveyance and easement (4-0, 1 recused)
• Recommended approval of pedestrian access easements and licenses for Union Square RELP (4-0, 1 recused)
• Recommended approval of $42,500 transfer to OSPCD Public Space and Urban Forestry (5-0)
• Recommended approval of prior-year invoices totaling $113,110.69 for DPW expenses (5-0)

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding the municipal composting program and the status of parks in redevelopment projects. Members will also review requests for information on Reavis Field and Conway Field maintenance. Additionally, a proposal for an invasive species position and related funding will be considered.

• Proposal for an Invasive Species position and FY 2025 budget allocation
• Updates on municipal composting program plans and timelines
• Status of parks and open spaces in redevelopment projects
• Inquiry into Reavis Field opening delays
• Maintenance of artificial turf fields and Conway Field conditions

The committee recommended marking work completed on requests for reports regarding the status of city parks and the maintenance of artificial turf fields. Several items regarding municipal composting, invasive species staffing, and Reavis Field were kept in committee for further review.

• Approved November 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended marking work completed on report for parks and open spaces status (ID # 24-0091)
• Recommended marking work completed on update for Conway Field and turf grooming (ID # 24-0472)
• Kept in committee request for municipal composting plans and timelines (ID # 24-0042)
• Kept in committee request for update on Reavis Field opening (ID # 24-0086)
• Kept in committee request for invasive species position and funding (ID # 24-0106)
• Kept in committee request for composting program design and cost (ID # 24-0370)
• Kept in committee public communication regarding invasive plant species (ID # 24-0457)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding property inspections and enforcement by the Department of Inspectional Services. Members also requested updates on homelessness efforts and the use of $244,891.15 in opioid abatement payments.

• Update on $244,891.15 in Massachusetts Municipal Opioid Abatement Payments
• Inspection of 16 Bonair Street following a house collapse
• Enforcement updates for the Dark Skies Ordinance
• Implementation of the Vacant Properties Ordinance
• Inspections and fine reviews for properties at 112, 176-182, and 24-28 Broadway

The committee recommended marking 15 separate items as work completed, primarily regarding Inspectional Services updates on property violations and building collapses. The committee kept a request for monthly homelessness updates in committee and discussed safety planning for Porchfest.

• Approved March 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Kept request for monthly homelessness updates in committee
• Recommended marking Dark Skies Ordinance enforcement update as work completed
• Recommended marking 16 Bonair Street collapse updates as work completed
• Recommended marking ISD reporting and fine database updates as work completed
• Recommended marking Vacant Properties Ordinance implementation update as work completed
• Recommended marking Opioid Abatement fund updates as work completed
• Recommended marking Porchfest safety plan update as work completed

City Council

The City Council will review several personnel appointments for the Fire Department and Public Library. The meeting includes discussions on various municipal grants, property purchases, and budget requests.

• Grant of Location: Verizon installation of 216 feet of conduit in Broadway
• Grant of Location: Cambridge Network Solutions installation of 188 feet of conduit in Mystic and Middlesex Avenue
• Appropriation of $450,000 for engineering and streetscape work in the Western Washington Street area
• Acceptance of $1,873,000 HUD grant for window replacement at Mystic River and Mystic View developments
• Appropriation of $2,300,000 each from Open Space and Acquisition Stabilization and Parks Stabilization funds to purchase 508-512 Columbia Street

City Council

The City Council and School Committee will hold a joint special meeting. The Finance Director is scheduled to review the City's financial condition, including revenue and expenditure forecasts, before the FY 2025 budget process begins.

• Review of City financial condition and FY 2025 budget forecasts (ID # 24-0494)

The Finance Director and School District CFO presented reports on city revenue, expenditure trends, and projections for the FY 2025 budget process. The Council placed the Finance Director's communication on file.

• Placed Finance Director's report on financial condition on file (9-0-2)

Finance Committee

The committee recommended approving the purchase of two parcels at 508-512 Columbia Street for a new park using stabilization funds. It also recommended several grant acceptances for housing, parks, and public safety, while denying a youth violence prevention grant and its associated fund transfer.

• Recommended approval to appropriate $4.6M from stabilization funds to purchase 508-512 Columbia Street
• Recommended approval of $1.873M HUD grant for windows at Mystic River and Mystic View housing
• Recommended approval of $375,224 PARC grant for Henry Hansen Park renovation
• Recommended approval of $450,000 from Traffic Safety Stabilization fund for Western Washington Street
• Recommended approval of $35,000 CPA fund appropriation for Kennedy Schoolyard design
• Denied $24,150 Metropolitan Mayors Coalition grant for youth violence prevention (2-2)
• Denied $8,050 transfer to fund the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition grant match (2-2)
• Recommended discontinuance of Palmer Avenue to be converted to open space

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The Committee will consider several personnel recommendations including firefighter appointments and a deputy chief promotion. It will also review the appointment of an assistant clerk and a library trustee.

• Confirmation of Natasha Frazier as Assistant Clerk of Committees
• Confirmation of six Firefighter appointments: Sergio Rodriguez, William Deeks, Nicholas Cantone, John Tivinis, Jack Haigis, and Derek Doane
• Confirmation of Kenneth Silva's promotion to Fire Deputy Chief
• Confirmation of Anandavalli Thiagarajan to the Public Library Board of Trustees
• Approval of January 31, 2024, meeting minutes

The committee recommended the approval of six firefighter appointments, one fire deputy chief promotion, and one assistant clerk of committees appointment. These recommendations are subject to final City Council approval on April 11, 2024. One library board appointment was discharged without a recommendation.

• Approved January 31, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Natasha Frazier as Assistant Clerk of Committees
• Recommended approval of Sergio Rodriguez as Firefighter
• Recommended approval of William Deeks as Firefighter
• Recommended approval of Nicholas Cantone as Firefighter
• Recommended approval of John Tivinis as Firefighter
• Recommended approval of Jack Haigis as Firefighter
• Recommended approval of Derek Doane as Firefighter

Open Space, Environment and Energy Committee

The committee will discuss updates on municipal composting plans and the status of Reavis Field. Members will also review progress on parks within redevelopment projects and a proposed invasive species position.

• Request for updated municipal composting program plans and timelines
• Discussion regarding issues delaying the opening of Reavis Field
• Report on status of parks and open spaces in redevelopment projects
• Proposal for an Invasive Species position and FY 2025 budget allocation

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review requests to update the Code of Ordinances regarding the water and sewer department's names, titles, and operations. The committee will also consider a proposed Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes.

• Proposed amendment for water/sewer department names, titles, and operations (ID # 24-0331)
• Proposed amendment regarding water/sewer operations and rate forecast models (ID # 24-0324)
• Proposed Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes (ID # 23-1461)
• Approval of February 27, 2024, meeting minutes

The committee recommended approval of amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding Water and Sewer Department operations and rate forecast models. A proposal to update department names and titles was placed on file, and a Safe Streets ordinance remains in committee.

• Approved February 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Recommended to be placed on file: amendment to reflect Water and Sewer Department names and titles (ID # 24-0331)
• Recommended to be approved as amended: amendment to Water and Sewer Department operations and rate forecast models (ID # 24-0324)
• Approved replacing old Safe Streets ordinance draft with new proposal (4-0)
• Kept in committee: Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes (ID # 23-1461)

City Council

The City Council approved several resolutions to prioritize funding for housing stabilization, homeless services, and rodent mitigation in the FY 2025 budget. The Council also ordained a zoning amendment to allow recreational camps for children and approved various business licenses.

• Approved FY 2025 budget priorities for housing stabilization, homeless services, and rodent mitigation
• Ordained zoning amendment to establish Recreational Camp for Children use
• Approved Eversource Grant of Location for conduit in Alewife Brook Parkway
• Denied zoning map amendment for 321 Washington Street
• Approved new Billiards and Bowling and Extended Operating Hours licenses for Lucky Strike
• Approved new Used Car Dealer Class 2 license for Ravelo's Auto Sales
• Approved 12 drainlayer, garage, and taxi medallion license renewals
• Tabled update on Police and Fire hiring

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will review recommendations for several new business licenses. These include billiard and bowling operations, extended operating hours, and a used car dealer license.

• Lucky Strike (325 Revolution Drive): New Billiards and Bowling License for 5 tables and 8 lanes
• Lucky Strike (325 Revolution Drive): New Extended Operating Hours License until 2am
• Ravelo's Auto Sales (61 Washington St): New Used Car Dealer Class 2 License

The Licenses and Permits Committee approved new licenses for Lucky Strike at 325 Revolution Drive, covering billiards, bowling, and extended operating hours until 2am. The committee also recommended approval for a new used car dealer license for Ravelo's Auto Sales at 61 Washington St. All items passed with unanimous votes from the three present councilors.

• Approved minutes from Feb 14 meeting (3-0)
• Recommended approval of Lucky Strike billiards/bowling license transfer (3-0)
• Recommended approval of Lucky Strike extended hours license until 2am (3-0)
• Recommended approval of Ravelo's Auto Sales used car dealer license (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss various budget priorities and requests for the 2025 fiscal year. The committee will also consider resolutions regarding funding for a new Department of Public Works unit to address rodent infestation and a home air filtration pilot program.

• Resolution to fund a new unit within the Department of Public Works for rodent infestation
• Resolution to include FY 2025 funding for an Office of Rodent Prevention
• Resolution to include FY 2025 funding for a home air filtration pilot program near Interstate 93
• Discussion of various FY 2025 budget priorities and requests from several councilors
• Approval of committee meeting minutes from March 12, 19, and 26, 2024

The committee passed multiple resolutions requesting the inclusion of specific priorities in the FY 2025 budget. These priorities focus on housing, emergency response, and municipal services. Several individual resolutions were kept in committee.

• Approved support for Housing Stabilization (9-0)
• Approved support for homeless services, including a permanent brick-and-mortar location (9-0)
• Approved submitting Alternative Emergency Response items to the Mayor (9-0)
• Approved support for housing affordability and an Acquisition Fund (9-0)
• Approved support for municipal composting (9-0)
• Approved support for increased rodent mitigation funding and staffing (9-0)
• Approved support for medical debt forgiveness, building decarbonization, out-of-school programming, and an overdose prevention center (9-0)
• Adopted rule requiring two-thirds vote for budget priority resolutions (10-0)

School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee

The committee will discuss financial comparisons for new school scenarios at Winter Hill and Brown School sites. Members will also receive updates on Benjamin Brown School leaks, school decarbonization plans, and Edgerly School basement renovations.

• Discussion of costs for new usages at Winter Hill and Brown School sites
• Report on leaks and exterior envelope damages at the Benjamin Brown School
• Update on plans to decarbonize current and future school buildings
• Update on scope, costs, and ADA compliance for Edgerly School basement renovations

The committee voted to receive regular updates on the MSBA process for Winter Hill and Brown schools. Administration officials reported on school leak repairs, decarbonization funding opportunities, and ADA compliance challenges at the Edgerly School.

• Approved making MSBA process updates for Winter Hill and Brown School a standing item (3-0)
• Approved minutes from November 29, 2023 meeting
• Recommended marking work completed on report of leaks at Benjamin Brown School
• Recommended marking work completed on school building decarbonization update
• Recommended marking work completed on Edgerly School basement renovation update

Land Use Committee

The committee will review minutes from the February 15 meeting. Discussion includes resident comments on a proposed Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District and a request to change the zoning of 321 Washington Street.

• Five resident comments regarding Zoning Ordinance Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District
• Zoning Map Amendment for 321 Washington Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Commercial Industry (CI)
• Amendment to Article 9 to establish a Recreational Camp for Children use within the Recreational Services category

The committee recommended denying a zoning map amendment for 321 Washington Street and approved a request to establish a Recreational Camp for Children use category. One zoning amendment request was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Approved minutes from February 15, 2024 meeting
• Recommended Zoning Ordinance Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District comments be marked work completed
• Recommended not approved zoning change from Fabrication to Commercial Industry at 321 Washington Street
• Recommended approved amendment to establish Recreational Camp for Children use in Zoning Ordinances
• Recommended withdrawn zoning change from Neighborhood Residence to Mid-Rise 3 at 627 Somerville Avenue

Housing and Community Development Committee

The Housing and Community Development Committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss several city orders. Discussion topics include inclusive playground design, the feasibility of fair housing enforcement, and water utility billing for low-income housing units.

• Discussion on inclusive playground accessibility in future projects
• Report on the feasibility of fair housing enforcement
• Proposal for optional water utility assessments in low-income and subsidized housing

The committee recommended marking a resolution regarding affordable water utility assessments in low-income housing as work completed. Two other orders regarding playground accessibility and fair housing enforcement were kept in committee for further review.

• Approved minutes from February 28, 2024 meeting
• Kept order on inclusive playground accessibility in committee
• Kept order on fair housing enforcement feasibility in committee
• Recommended marking resolution on affordable water utility assessments as work completed

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss several items including the status of the Police Chief search and future COVID-19 testing plans. Members will also review requests for inspectional services regarding properties on Broadway and updates on homelessness efforts.

• Status update on the Police Chief search
• Discussion of free city-funded COVID tests and distribution at Public Libraries
• Creation of an on-call emergency fire response unit
• Inspections of 112 Broadway, 176-182 Broadway, and 24-28 Broadway
• Monthly updates regarding efforts to address homelessness

The committee recommended marking several items as work completed, including updates on the Police Chief search and the availability of city-funded COVID tests and masks. Several requests for inspections and fine reports on Broadway properties were kept in committee.

• Approved minutes of February 29, 2024 meeting
• Recommended marking Police Chief search update as work completed
• Recommended marking COVID-19 test and mask availability update as work completed
• Recommended marking request for emergency fire response unit as work completed
• Kept request for Rent-A-Center trash violation address in committee
• Kept requests for inspections at 112, 176-182, and 24-28 Broadway in committee
• Kept requests for fine reports on 176-182, 112, and 24-28 Broadway in committee
• Kept request for monthly homelessness updates in committee

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the community's budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2025. This item was sent for discussion by Councilor Wilson.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2025 budget priorities

The Finance Committee held a public hearing on Fiscal Year 2025 budget priorities. Thirty-seven members of the public provided testimony regarding housing, transportation, and social services. The hearing was marked as work completed, with no specific budget items voted on during this session.

• Public hearing on FY2025 budget priorities held (37 speakers)
• Hearing marked as work completed
• Committee of the Whole adjourned (10-0-1)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report. This item was sent for discussion by the Finance Director in accordance with the City Code of Ordinances.

• FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report (ID # 24-0210)

The committee reviewed the FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report and staffing updates. The item was recommended to be marked as work completed.

• Recommended FY 2024 Mid-Year Financial Report (ID # 24-0210) be marked work completed

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss several items including water meter replacement project notifications and policies regarding leaking gas pipes. Members will also review a plan for residents facing water bill increases and the re-installation of a bench at the Brown School.

• Discussion on water meter replacement project notifications
• Update on repairing versus replacing leaking gas pipes
• Written update on support for residents regarding water bill increases
• Request to re-install a memorial bench on the Brown School grounds

The Public Utilities and Public Works Committee accepted its February 12, 2024 minutes and recommended marking three orders/resolutions as work completed: water meter replacement notifications, gas pipe repair vs. replacement, and water bill affordability support. A new bench honoring former Brown School principal Marilyn Haggerty will be provided, with delivery estimated at 6-8 weeks; Councilor Strezo asked that item remain in committee until installation. The committee adjourned at 6:36 PM on a 3-0 roll call vote.

• Accepted minutes of the February 12, 2024 committee meeting (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed: water meter replacement notification order (ID # 24-0151)
• Recommended marking work completed: gas pipe repair vs. replacement order (ID # 24-0148)
• Recommended marking work completed: water bill affordability resolution (ID # 24-0040)
• Kept in committee: Brown School bench order (ID # 24-0039) pending installation
• Adjourned at 6:36 PM (3-0)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing various financial transfers, grant acceptances, and bond authorizations. Items include funding for water main repairs, school building renovations, and public safety equipment.

• Bond authorization of $2,240,740 for the Lead Line Service Replacement program
• Grant of $1,873,000 for window replacements in Mystic River and Mystic View developments
• Grant of $131,920 for the Argenziano LED conversion project
• Grant of $79,500 for Police Department overtime coverage
• Grant of $39,000 for fire station security cameras

The City Council authorized a $2,240,740 bond for the Lead Line Service Replacement program. The Council also approved several grants for firefighter equipment and housing window replacements, and moved to collaborate on a zoning ordinance to remove mandatory parking minimums.

• Approved $2,240,740 bond for Lead Line Service Replacement program
• Approved $14,327.56 grant for firefighter safety equipment
• Approved resolution to draft zoning ordinance removing mandatory parking minimums
• Approved $1,000 transfer for children's space in City Council Chamber
• Approved grants of location for Verizon and Eversource conduit installations
• Approved confirmation of Nicholas Salerno as Elections Commissioner
• Approved resolution supporting racially inclusive curriculum and higher education for all
• Approved daylighting at Medford and Bartlett Streets to improve safety

Licenses and Permits Committee

The committee will review license applications for Lucky Strike at 325 Revolution Drive. These include requests for a new billiards and bowling license and extended operating hours until 2am for in-store service only.

• New Billiards and Bowling License for Lucky Strike (5 tables, 8 lanes)
• Extended Operating Hours License for Lucky Strike until 2am, Monday-Sunday
• Approval of February 14, 2024, meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several requests including a bond for lead line replacements and a grant for firefighter safety equipment. The committee will also consider a fund transfer to provide furniture and supplies for the City Council Chamber.

• $2,240,740 bond for Lead Line Service Replacement program
• $14,327.56 grant from Department of Fire Services for firefighter safety equipment
• $1,000 transfer from City Council Legal Services to Office Supplies for chamber furniture

The Finance Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a $2,240,740 bond authorization to participate in the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for the Lead Line Service Replacement program. It also recommended approval of a $14,327.56 Department of Fire Services grant for firefighter safety equipment, with no new match required. A $1,000 transfer from the City Council Legal Services Account to the Office Supplies Account for a children's space in the Council Chamber was recommended for approval, though Councilor Scott requested a written legal opinion on use of the Legal Services Account and Councilor Burnley requested a written explanation of council fund procedures. The committee also accepted the minutes of its February 20, 2024 meeting. All items were recommendations to the full City Council, not final approvals.

• Recommended approval of $2,240,740 bond authorization for Lead Line Service Replacement via the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $14,327.56 Department of Fire Services grant for firefighter safety equipment, no new match required (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $1,000 transfer from City Council Legal Services Account to Office Supplies Account for children's space in Council Chamber (5-0)
• Accepted minutes of the February 20, 2024 Finance Committee meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned at 6:34 pm by roll call vote, all in favor (5-0)

Public Health and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review minutes from the December 11, 2023 meeting. An order has been sent for discussion requesting monthly updates from the Director of Health and Human Services regarding ongoing efforts to address homelessness.

• Approval of the December 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Order for monthly updates on homelessness efforts

The committee discussed homelessness data, shelter usage, and displacement risks related to upcoming MassDOT work under I-93. An order requesting monthly updates from the Director of Health and Human Services on homelessness efforts was kept in committee.

• Approved minutes from December 11, 2023 meeting (3-0)
• Kept in committee: Order for Director of Health and Human Services to provide monthly homelessness updates

Housing and Community Development Committee

The committee will discuss resident displacement and rental assistance needs with the Office of Housing Stability. Members also plan to review Warming Center rollout details and Armory building maintenance. Additionally, officials will discuss playground accessibility and crossing guard appreciation.

• Discussion on housing displacement and rental assistance
• Update on Warming Center communication and security
• Review of inclusive playground accessibility plans
• Maintenance plan for the Armory building
• Resolution for Crossing Guard Appreciation week

The committee recommended marking work as completed for updates regarding the Armory warming center and building maintenance. Other items regarding inclusive playgrounds and rental assistance were kept in committee for further discussion.

• Approved minutes from November 15, 2023 (3-0)
• Recommended marking work completed for Warming Center rollout and security (ID # 24-0072)
• Recommended marking work completed for Armory building maintenance plan (ID # 24-0076)
• Recommended marking work completed for Crossing Guard Appreciation events (ID # 24-0044)
• Kept in committee: Discussion on residents facing displacement and rental assistance (ID # 24-0075)
• Kept in committee: Discussion on inclusive playground accessibility (ID # 24-0070)

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review the 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report. The committee will also consider a request to amend the definition of guidelines in Section 6-59 of the Code of Ordinances.

• Approval of February 13, 2024, meeting minutes
• Discussion of the 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report
• Recommendation for an amendment to Section 6-59 of the Code of Ordinances

The committee recommended approval of an amendment to the Code of Ordinances regarding safety guidelines for Biosafety Level 3 labs. The 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report was kept in committee following discussion on ShotSpotter and public complaints.

• Recommended approval of amendment to Section 6-59 regarding Biosafety Level 3 lab guidelines (5-0)
• Kept 2023 Surveillance Technology Annual Report in committee
• Accepted minutes from February 13, 2024 meeting (4-0, 1 absent)

Rodent Issues Special Committee

The Rodent Issues Special Committee will meet to review previous meeting minutes and discuss rodent control methods. The discussion focuses on hearing from the Environmental Health Coordinator regarding options other than using poison-filled bait traps.

• Approval of November 30, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of alternatives to poisoned rat bait traps

The Rodent Issues Special Committee heard presentations on Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs) from environmental advocates and from city Environmental Health staff, then voted to mark the order as work completed. No ordinance, contract, or policy change was decided. City staff said the Mayor's Office has called for SGARs to be discontinued, that rodenticides will not be phased out this year, and that the city's exterminator contract is up for renewal in 2026.

• Accepted minutes of the November 30, 2023 Rodent Issues Special Committee meeting (3-0)
• Order on alternatives to poison bait traps marked work completed (3-0)
• No vote taken on restricting or banning rodenticides

Traffic and Parking Committee

The committee will discuss several orders regarding pedestrian and vehicle access near the High School, City Hall, and Central Library. Discussions include designated walking routes, alternative drop-off zones, and parking accommodations for visitors with disability placards.

• Discussion of ADA walking routes and parking spots during Highland Avenue construction
• Proposal for alternative drop off zones near City Hall concourse
• Request for permanent pedestrian crossing signage at Vinal and Highland Avenues
• Proposal to reserve parking meters in front of the Tufts Administration Building for visitors with disability placards

The Traffic and Parking Committee reviewed five outstanding orders regarding ADA parking access, Highland Avenue construction impacts, and pedestrian safety. Director of Mobility Brad Rawson provided updates on existing parking inventories, construction plans, and interim safety measures like flex posts. The committee recommended that all five items be marked as work completed, with specific follow-up tasks assigned to staff regarding signage and sidewalk accessibility.

• Approved minutes from November 27, 2023 meeting
• Marked Order 24-0171 (ADA routes during Highland Ave construction) as work completed
• Marked Order 24-0170 (Alternative drop-off zones at City Hall) as work completed
• Marked Order 24-0088 (Pedestrian signage at Vinal and Highland) as work completed
• Marked Order 24-0041 (ADA parking at Tufts Administration Building) as work completed
• Assigned follow-up tasks for signage clarity and sidewalk accessibility near Bright Horizons

City Council

The City Council will review several financial requests, including funds for the City Hall clock tower and energy stabilization. The agenda also includes discussions on rodent mitigation, zoning amendments, and public event licenses.

• $650,000 appropriation to restore the City Hall clock tower and roof
• $280,010 transfer from the CPA Fund to the Historic Preservation Reserve
• $49,250 appropriation for DPW steam system insulation projects
• $75,900 appropriation for design services at 42 Cross Street
• Bond authorization of $2,240,740 for the Lead Line Service Replacement program

The Somerville City Council approved several financial requests, including $650,000 from the Community Preservation Act fund to restore the City Hall clock tower and roof. The Council also approved a $171,969 appropriation to fund the first lease payment for the Assembly Square Fire Station, with one councilor voting against. Additionally, the Council approved a garage license for Broadway Gulf Inc with strict conditions regarding vehicle limits and rodent mitigation, and referred multiple budget-related items to the Finance Committee for further discussion.

• Approved $650,000 appropriation for City Hall clock tower and roof restoration
• Approved $171,969 appropriation for Assembly Square Fire Station lease (9-1 vote)
• Approved garage and used car licenses for Broadway Gulf Inc with conditions
• Approved $280,010 transfer from CPA Fund to Historic Preservation Reserve
• Approved $48,529.99 grant for Police Department access controls
• Approved $24,317 for Librarian III West Branch Manager position
• Referred $2.24M bond request for lead line replacement to Finance Committee
• Referred rodent mitigation and air filtration budget requests to Finance Committee

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several requests for fund appropriations, transfers, and lease acceptances. These items include funding for library personnel, energy stabilization projects, and police department grants.

• $650,000 appropriation from the CPA Fund to restore City Hall clock tower and roof
• 30-year lease acceptance and $171,969 appropriation for Assembly Square Fire Station
• $75,900 for design services at 42 Cross Street via Energy Stabilization Fund
• $48,529.99 grant for Police Department access controls and indoor fencing
• $24,317 to reestablish a Librarian III West Branch Manager position

The Finance Committee recommended approving several appropriations, including $650,000 from the Community Preservation Act Fund for City Hall clock tower and roof repairs. The committee voted 2-2 to recommend against approving a 30-year lease for the Assembly Square Fire Station due to concerns over lease terms and costs. A proposal to create a children's space in the City Council Chamber was kept in committee for legal review.

• Recommended approving $650,000 for City Hall clock tower and roof restoration (4-0)
• Recommended approving $75,900 for decarbonization design at 42 Cross Street (4-0)
• Recommended approving $49,250 for DPW steam system insulation (4-0)
• Recommended approving $24,317 for Library Librarian III position (4-0)
• Recommended approving $48,529.99 grant for Police Department access controls (4-0)
• Recommended NOT approving Assembly Square Fire Station lease (2-2)
• Kept in committee $1,000 transfer for Council Chamber children's space
• Recommended approving prior year DPW invoices totaling $916.40 (4-0)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee will hold public hearings on several proposed zoning changes, including a text amendment to create a Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District and map amendments affecting multiple addresses along Park Street, Somerville Avenue, Properzi Way, Tyler Street, and Dane Street. The committee will also review requests to rezone 234–236 Pearl Street from Mid-Rise 4 to Mid-Rise 6, rezone 321 Washington Street from Fabrication to Commercial Industry, and consider a mayor’s request to permit recreational camps for children under existing use provisions. These rezonings would alter what types of buildings and businesses are allowed on affected properties. No final votes are scheduled, as the committee will gather public input and refer all items for recommendation.

• Public hearing on a zoning text amendment to add Section 8.4.19, Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District
• Public hearing on map amendments rezoning multiple addresses (including Park Street, Somerville Avenue, Properzi Way, Tyler Street, and Dane Street) from Mid-Rise 4 or Fabrication districts to the new overlay district
• Public hearing on a request by 234 Pearl Street Realty Trust and Goodpitch, LLC to rezone 234–236 Pearl Street from Mid-Rise 4 (MR4) to Mid-Rise 6 (MR6)
• Mayor’s request for an ordinance amendment to Article 9 to establish a Recreational Camp for Children use within the Recreational Services category
• Public hearing on a zoning map amendment to rezone 321 Washington Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Commercial Industry (CI)

The committee held public hearings on zoning amendments for recreational camps for children and a property at 321 Washington Street. Both items were kept in committee for further consideration. Three other zoning requests were withdrawn by the applicants.

• Approved minutes from December 7, 2023 meeting
• Recommended withdrawal of Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District text amendment
• Recommended withdrawal of Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District map amendment
• Recommended withdrawal of zoning change for 234 and 236 Pearl Street from MR4 to MR6
• Kept in committee: amendment to establish Recreational Camp for Children use
• Kept in committee: zoning change for 321 Washington Street from Fabrication (FAB) to Commercial Industry (CI)

Licenses and Permits Committee

The Licenses and Permits Committee is reviewing several applications for new business licenses. These include requests for extended operating hours at Everfitness, Lucky Strike, and Dunkin. The committee will also consider new vehicle dealer and garage permits.

• Extended operating hours license for Everfitness at 14 McGrath Highway
• New used car dealer and garage licenses for Broadway Gulf Inc at 212 Broadway
• Extended operating hours and billiards/bowling license for Lucky Strike
• 24/7 extended operating hours license for Dunkin at 504 Broadway
• New garage license for John's Auto Sales Inc at 181 Somerville Ave

Legislative Matters Committee

The Legislative Matters Committee will review several proposed ordinances and orders. Discussion includes a requirement for annual housing status reports and the adoption of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M regarding Family and Medical Leave.

• Order to require an annual report on the status of housing
• Adoption of provisions for Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave
• Ordinance establishing Paid Leave for Survivors
• Ordinance to remove text from the City seal
• Safe Streets ordinance to expedite protected bike lanes

The committee approved minutes from two previous meetings. All other substantive items, including proposals regarding housing reports, paid leave, the city seal, and bike lanes, were kept in committee for further review or revision.

• Approved minutes from November 28, 2023 meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes from December 5, 2023 meeting (5-0)
• Kept in committee: Order to require annual Mayor's report on housing status
• Kept in committee: Order to adopt MA General Laws Chapter 175M: Family and Medical Leave
• Kept in committee: Ordinance establishing Paid Leave for Survivors
• Kept in committee: Ordinance to remove 'Honorably Purchased from Pawtuckets - 1639' from city seal
• Kept in committee: Ordinance to create a Safe Streets ordinance for protected bike lanes

Public Utilities and Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss reports regarding leaks at the Arts at the Armory Building and the performance of the winter sidewalk clearing pilot program. Members will also request a written update on support for residents facing recent water bill increases.

• Report on leaks and exterior damage at Arts at the Armory Building
• Evaluation of the winter sidewalk clearing pilot program
• Plan to support residents unable to afford recent water bill increases
• Re-installation of a memorial bench at Brown School grounds

The committee recommended marking work as completed for reports on Arts at the Armory leaks and the sidewalk clearing pilot program. Requests regarding a memorial bench at Brown School and water bill assistance were kept in committee.

• Approved December 4, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended marking work completed for report on Arts at the Armory leaks (ID # 24-0118)
• Recommended marking work completed for sidewalk clearing pilot program discussion (ID # 24-0085)
• Kept in committee request to re-install Marilyn Haggerty memorial bench (ID # 24-0039)
• Kept in committee resolution for water bill increase resident support plan (ID # 24-0040)

City Council

The council will review several financial appropriations, including over $1.4 million for the Affordable Housing Trust. Members will also discuss updates on community centers and gas infrastructure replacement policies. A public hearing is scheduled regarding wireless facility installation on Washington Street.

• Appropriation of $1,405,962 to the Affordable Housing Trust
• $426,925 appropriation for Blessing of the Bay Linear Park improvements
• Contract amendment for Central Hill design and construction ($978,649)
• Public hearing for wireless facility installation near 415 Washington Street
• Resolution opposing private jet hangar expansion at Hanscom Airport

The City Council approved several Community Preservation Act (CPA) fund appropriations for affordable housing and park improvements. The Council also confirmed multiple police officer appointments and referred a request to extend the Acting Police Chief's term to committee for further updates on the search process.

• Appropriated $1,405,962 from CPA Fund to Affordable Housing Trust
• Appropriated $426,925 from CPA Fund for Blessing of the Bay Linear Park improvements
• Approved Grant of Location for Extenet Systems LLC conduit on Washington Street
• Approved appointments of 3 Police Officers, 1 Election Commissioner, and 1 Fire District Chief
• Approved resolution opposing private jet hangar expansion at Hanscom Civil Airport
• Approved $978,649 contract amendment for Central Hill design and construction
• Approved $30,000 grant for green jobs training program
• Referred Home Rule Petition for Acting Police Chief's employment to committee

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several grant acceptances and fund appropriations. Items include funding for the Affordable Housing Trust, park improvements, and police storage. The committee will also review various contract extensions for city projects.

• $1,405,962 appropriation to the Affordable Housing Trust
• $426,925 appropriation for Blessing of the Bay Linear Park improvements
• $978,649 contract amendment for Central Hill design and construction administration
• Two grants totaling $77,300 for a police storage structure
• $30,000 grant for green jobs training implementation

The Finance Committee recommended approval of four Community Preservation Act appropriations and transfers totaling $1,933,492, including $1,405,962 to the Affordable Housing Trust and $426,925 to the Mystic River Watershed Association. It also recommended approval of time-only contract extensions for several city projects, including the Central Hill war memorial relocation and the Building Master Plan. Two Police Department grant requests totaling $77,300 were recommended to be withdrawn. All votes recorded were 5-0 in favor, with none against and none absent.

• Recommended approval of $30,000 state grant for green jobs training program (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $25,000 CPA Historic Preservation funds to Vida Real for 404 Broadway condition assessment (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $426,925 CPA funds to Mystic River Watershed Association for Blessing of the Bay Linear Park (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $1,405,962 CPA Community Housing Reserve funds to the Affordable Housing Trust (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $75,605 transfer from CPA Undesignated Fund Balance to Community Housing Reserve (5-0)
• Recommended approval of 3-year time-only contract extension with Vida Real for 404 Broadway bell tower restoration (5-0)
• Recommended approval of time-only extension to 12/31/2024 for Warner Larson Landscape Architects at Healey Schoolyard and Athletic Field (5-0)
• Recommended approval of time-only extension to 1/1/2026 for Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners for Building Master Plan (5-0)

Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee

The committee will consider several mayoral requests for city appointments and promotions. This includes interviews for five police officer candidates and a promotion for Fire District Chief. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the committee's scope with the City Solicitor.

• Confirmation of Austin Brower to the Board of Elections Commissioners
• Promotion of Mark Matthews to Fire District Chief
• Appointments for five police officer candidates
• Re-appointments of three Constables
• Appointment of Laurie Brandt to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee recommended approval of Austin Brower for the Board of Elections Commissioners, Mark Matthews for Fire District Chief, and police officer candidates Matthew Lorizio, Igor Bitencourt and Brian Clancy. Two police officer items, Guylerna Pierre and John Tivinis, were placed on file after the city said it was no longer moving forward with those candidates. Four items — constable re-appointments for Mary Battinelli, Alan Bishop and Darcy Haynes, plus Laurie Brandt for the Commission for Persons with Disabilities — were discharged with no recommendation so the full City Council can take them up. The committee also met in executive session on three police items and took no votes there.

• Recommended approval of Austin Brower for Board of Elections Commissioners (4 aye, McLaughlin absent)
• Recommended approval of Mark Matthews as Fire District Chief (4 aye, McLaughlin absent)
• Recommended approval of Matthew Lorizio as Police Officer (4 aye, Burnley nay)
• Recommended approval of Igor Bitencourt as Police Officer (4 aye, Burnley nay)
• Recommended approval of Brian Clancy as Police Officer (4 aye, Burnley nay)
• Guylerna Pierre police officer appointment placed on file (4 aye, McLaughlin absent)
• John Tivinis police officer appointment placed on file (4 aye, McLaughlin absent)
• Constable re-appointments (Battinelli, Bishop, Haynes) and Laurie Brandt disability commission appointment discharged with no recommendation (5 aye)

City Council

The Council is reviewing several financial requests, including grants for police equipment and records management. Members also proposed discussions regarding density bonuses for affordable housing and updates on the city's warming center. Additionally, multiple orders were submitted concerning local business inspections and street maintenance.

• $135,000 grant for a records management system
• $75,000 grant for Police Department Special Response Team expenditures
• $48,529.99 grant for police access controls and fencing
• Proposed $150,000 density bonus incentive for affordable housing
• $37,500 grant for Fire Department maritime training and equipment

The City Council passed an amended resolution supporting an enduring ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The council also approved several grants, municipal licenses, and a zoning change to allow shared workspace and arts education.

• Approved resolution supporting enduring ceasefire in Gaza (9-2)
• Ordained zoning change to add Shared Workspace & Arts Education to permitted uses
• Approved $260,836.34 appropriation for 100 Chestnut Pedestrian Bridge representative
• Approved $135,000 grant for records management system implementation
• Approved $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs
• Approved new lodging house license for Tufts University at 29 Sawyer Ave
• Approved confirmation of Jason Mackey, Martin Polignone, and Elyse Best to Human Rights Commission
• Approved confirmation of Mallory Carroll to the Commission for Women

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several financial requests including a $260,836.34 appropriation for the 100 Chestnut Pedestrian Bridge. The agenda also includes contract extensions for the Somerville High School project and various grant acceptances for city departments.

• $260,836.34 appropriation for 100 Chestnut Pedestrian Bridge owner's project representative
• Eight-month contract extension for Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc. (Somerville High School)
• Eight-month contract extension for PMA, LLC (Somerville High School)
• Easement and maintenance agreement for 10 Prospect Street and Somerville Avenue
• $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs

The Finance Committee recommended approval for several grant acceptances, including funds for police and fire departments and the Council on Aging. The committee also recommended approving an appropriation for a pedestrian bridge and several contract extensions. One grant for community health worker training was recommended to be withdrawn.

• Recommended approval of $260,836.34 for 100 Chestnut Pedestrian Bridge representative
• Recommended 8-month contract extensions for Somerville High School project services
• Recommended approval of easement and maintenance agreement for 10 Prospect Street
• Recommended approval of $135,000 grant for records management system
• Recommended approval of $123,529.99 in grants for Police Department security and response teams
• Recommended approval of $113,467 in grants for Council on Aging programming and transport
• Recommended approval of $5,000 gift for Basic Income Pilot
• Recommended withdrawal of $122,627 grant for Community Health Workers

City Council

The City Council will consider several grant approvals for community health, fire services, and senior programming. The agenda also includes requests for updates on housing stability, municipal composting, and homelessness efforts. Additionally, the council will review various business license renewals and new applications.

• $260,836.34 appropriation for 100 Chestnut Pedestrian Bridge project representative
• Eversource application for a manhole and conduit on Columbia Street
• $122,627 grant for Community Health Worker training
• Zoning amendment to establish a 'Recreational Camp for Children' use
• $91,211.79 grant for Fire Department staffing costs

The Somerville City Council approved a conditional grant of location for Eversource to install a manhole and conduit on Columbia Street. Several new and renewed business licenses were approved immediately, while others were referred to committee for review. The Council also passed various orders requesting updates on housing, water bills, and public works issues.

• Approved Eversource Grant of Location for Columbia Street conduit (with conditions)
• Approved new amusement and dog kennel licenses; referred others to committee
• Approved orders for water bill support and ADA parking updates (sent for discussion)
• Approved order for ten-year displacement prevention progress report
• Approved orders to address trash at Symphony Park and East Broadway
• Approved resolution to reconstitute neighborhood cleanups
• Referred $260,836.34 appropriation for 100 Chestnut Bridge to Finance Committee
• Referred zoning amendments for 321 Washington Street to Land Use Committee

City Council Organizational Meeting

The Somerville City Council will hold its 2024 organizational meeting to elect a President and Vice President. The agenda also includes adopting council rules and approving bonds for the City Treasurer and Tax Collector.

• Election of 2024 City Council President
• Election of 2024 City Council Vice President
• Adoption of 2024 City Council Rules
• Approval of bonds for the City Treasurer and Tax Collector
• Authorization for the City Treasurer to appoint Deputy Tax Collectors

At its January 2, 2024 organizational meeting, the Somerville City Council certified the November 7, 2023 election results and swore in the councilors present. Ben Ewen-Campen was unanimously elected President for 2024 and Judy Pineda Neufeld unanimously elected Vice President; both were sworn in by City Clerk Kimberly Wells. The Council also adopted its 2024 rules (as approved February 10, 2022), accepted the City Treasurer's bonds, authorized the Treasurer to appoint Deputy Tax Collectors, and held a drawing of seats. Councilors At Large Willie Burnley Jr. and Jake Wilson were recorded absent.

• Elected Ben Ewen-Campen as City Council President for 2024 (unanimous; Burnley Jr. and Wilson absent)
• Elected Judy Pineda Neufeld as City Council Vice President for 2024 (unanimous; Burnley Jr. and Wilson absent)
• Adopted the Rules of the City Council as approved February 10, 2022 (approved)
• Accepted and approved the City Treasurer's bonds (approved)
• Authorized the City Treasurer to appoint Deputy Tax Collectors (approved)
• Certified the November 7, 2023 election results and swore in councilors present
• Held drawing of seats for 2024; Ewen-Campen drew seat 11, Pineda Neufeld seat 10