Watertown public meetings in 2021

School Site Council

The Hosmer School Site Council will discuss updates to the 2020-2021 School Improvement Plan goals. This update focuses specifically on the school move and building opening.

• Update on 2020-2021 School Improvement Plan goals regarding school move and building opening

Board of Assessors

The Watertown Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign the Fiscal Year 2022 actual real estate and personal property warrants. The agenda also includes reviewing a supplemental warrant from personal property audits.

• Review and sign FY2022 real estate and personal property warrants
• Review and sign supplemental warrant from personal property audits

The Board of Assessors reviewed and approved four FY2022 commitments and their warrants, totaling over $70 million, covering supplemental, water and sewer, personal property, and real estate/CPA taxes. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved supplemental commitment of $128,734.08
• Approved water and sewer commitment of $680,601.11
• Approved personal property commitment of $2,659,244.51
• Approved real estate/CPA commitment of $66,891,109.86
• Approved warrants for all four commitments

Board of Health

The Board will consider approving minutes from October 20, 2021. The meeting includes the appointment of a tobacco control agent and a review of face covering mandates. Additionally, the Watertown Biosafety Committee will address several companies located on Arsenal Street and Dexter Avenue.

• Appointment of Rotem Aloni as a tobacco control agent
• Biosafety committee review for Inzen Therapeutics (500 Arsenal Street)
• Biosafety committee reviews for companies at 200 Dexter Avenue
• Review of the COVID-19 face covering mandate
• Acceptance of minutes from October 20, 2021

The Watertown Board of Health voted 2-0 to approve a mask mandate effective December 22, 2021, at 12:01 AM, amid rising COVID cases. The board also approved four biosafety permits for Inzen Therapeutics, LIV Process, Souffle Therapeutics, and Strand Therapeutics, and appointed Rotem Aloni as Tobacco Control and Inspection Officer. Minutes from the October 20, 2021 meeting were approved with adjustments.

• Approved COVID mask mandate effective Dec 22, 2021 at 12:01 AM (2-0)
• Approved biosafety permits for Inzen Therapeutics, LIV Process, Souffle Therapeutics, and Strand Therapeutics (2-0)
• Appointed Rotem Aloni as Tobacco Control and Inspection Officer (2-0)
• Approved October 20, 2021 meeting minutes with adjustments (2-0)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will hear reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and regarding the Climate Action Plan. Members will also discuss the status of several working groups, including Net Zero and Watertown Electricity Choice.

• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Status updates on working groups such as Net Zero and Transportation
• Discussion of council meeting invitations

The WE3C committee approved the November 15, 2021 minutes and discussed several ongoing initiatives. They noted that Watertown's solar ordinance has more than doubled solar production since 2010, and that the new Hosmer School is net-zero with the high school aiming for LEED Platinum. The committee also discussed the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP), which will be reviewed in January and released in February, and agreed that WE3C should be responsible for CAP implementation. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved November 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Agreed that WE3C should be responsible for CAP implementation
• Scheduled next meeting for January 24, 2022

School Site Council

The Lowell School Site Council is meeting to discuss progress on 2021-2022 goals. The agenda also includes an update regarding the school's relocation plan.

• Update on 2021-2022 Goals
• Update on Lowell’s Relocation Plan

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to review the November 18, 2021 draft minutes. The agenda also includes discussions regarding CPA application evaluation structures and eligible project deferrals.

• Acceptance of November 18, 2021 draft minutes
• Discussion on CPA application evaluation structure
• Discussion on eligible project deferrals

The Community Preservation Committee discussed and agreed on a framework for evaluating CPA applications, deciding that members will lead discussions and submit questions to applicants via the coordinator. They also agreed to defer three eligible Parks Department projects to the next cycle, requiring new Project Eligibility Forms. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only votes were to accept the previous minutes and adjourn.

• Accepted November 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to defer three eligible Parks Department projects to next cycle
• Agreed applicants must submit new Project Eligibility Forms for deferred projects
• Set January 7, 2022 as deadline for committee comments/questions on applications
• Adjourned at 8:03 PM (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will continue a public hearing regarding the removal and replacement of siding with fiber-cement boards at 34 Marshall St. The commission will also review meeting and filing dates for 2022.

• Public hearing continued for 34 Marshall St. regarding siding replacement using fiber-cement boards
• Review of 2022 meeting and filing dates
• Acceptance of minutes from the November 18, 2021, meeting

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will consider several license applications and 2022 renewals. This includes a manager change for Porcini’s and an alcohol package goods application for Hardy Spa. The board will also address a penalty reconsideration for Conley’s Pub & Grille.

• Change of Manager for Porcini’s at 68 School Street
• All Alcohol Package Goods application for Hardy Spa at 682 Belmont St
• Penalty reconsideration for Conley’s Pub & Grille at 160-168 Belmont Street
• Review of various 2022 license renewals
• Status update on Bar 'Cino at 47-51 Main Street

The Watertown Licensing Board approved an all-alcohol package goods store license for Hardy Spa at 682 Belmont Street, subject to conditions including hours of operation and employee training. The board also approved a change of manager for Porcini's, revised a license suspension for Conley's Pub & Grille, and approved 2022 license renewals.

• Approved change of manager for Porcini's (3-0)
• Approved all-alcohol package goods license for Hardy Spa (3-0)
• Revised Conley's Pub & Grille suspension to Dec 24-25, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved 2022 license renewals (3-0)

School Building Committee

The committee will review monthly invoices and Change Order No. 10 for the Three Elementary Schools Project. Members will also discuss updates regarding Cunniff Elementary School and Hosmer Elementary School's O’Connell Field. Additionally, there is a scheduled vote regarding the High School project submission to MSBA.

• Review and approval of monthly invoices for Three Elementary Schools Project
• Review and approval of Change Order No. 10 for Three Elementary Schools Project
• Proposal to reduce construction retainage for Brait Builders at Cunniff Elementary School
• Update on O’Connell Field at Hosmer Elementary School
• Vote to proceed with High School project submission to MSBA

Commission on Disability

The Watertown Commission on Disability is discussing sidewalk improvements and detectable warning updates. The meeting includes a vote on Braille inauguration programs and the acceptance of November minutes. Members will also review MAAB variance requests for Kingsbury Street and Galen Street.

• Sidewalk improvement updates for Riverside, Capitol, and Highland Streets
• Detectable warnings at the library path and Watertown Square/Delta
• Vote to support Braille inauguration programs and ASL accessibility
• MAAB Variance request review for 2 Kingsbury Street & 66 Galen Street
• Referral of Lexington & Main Streets detectable warnings to Mass Highway

The Watertown Commission on Disability voted unanimously to authorize up to $300 for Braille programs and CART services for the town inauguration in January. The commission also accepted the November meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report for November. Updates were provided on various accessibility projects, including Riverfront Phase 2 pathways and detectable warnings, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Authorized up to $300 for Braille and CART for town inauguration (unanimous)
• Accepted November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report for November (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider permit requests for property modifications at 42 Oliver St and 115 Waverly Avenue. The board will also review a continued case regarding an access staircase at 133 School St. Additionally, the meeting includes approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Special Permit for roof and dormer changes at 42 Oliver St
• Variance for handicap-accessible additions at 115 Waverly Avenue
• Special Permit for an access staircase at 133 School St

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals approved a petition for accessibility improvements at the McSherry Gardens public housing complex at 115 Waverly Ave., voting 4-0. The board also continued a special permit petition for 42 Oliver St. to January and accepted the withdrawal of a petition for 133 School St. without prejudice. The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format.

• Approved accessibility improvements petition at 115 Waverly Ave. (McSherry Gardens) with conditions (4-0)
• Continued special permit petition for 42 Oliver St. to January 26 meeting (4-0)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of special permit petition for 133 School St. (4-0)
• Approved minutes from November 17 meeting (4-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss and vote on supporting the High School Schematic Design as recommended by the School Building Committee. The meeting also includes a public forum and announcements regarding committee member inaugurations.

• Vote on support for High School Schematic Design
• Inauguration of Committee Members on January 3

Board of Assessors

The Board will discuss the certification of the tax rate and personal property audits billing. The meeting also includes votes on previous minutes and FY22 exemption applications.

• Review/vote on FY22 exemption applications
• Signing of Boat Warrant 2021-01 and Motor Vehicle Warrant 2021-05
• Update on Tax Classification and Certification of Tax Rate
• Discussion of Personal Property Audits billing

The Board unanimously approved the October 26, 2021 meeting minutes, the 2021 Motor Vehicle Commitment #5, and the 2021 Boat Commitment. They also accepted the tax classification as recommended and discussed a solar panel exemption for FY2023, which will be applied via abatement application and auto-renew on the property. The meeting then moved into executive session to discuss confidential exemption applications and pending litigation.

• Approved October 26, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Motor Vehicle 2021 Commitment #5 (unanimous)
• Approved Boat Commitment 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted tax classification as recommended
• Discussed solar panel exemption for FY2023 (no formal vote)
• Moved into executive session for confidential exemption applications and litigation (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider orders for new easements at the intersection of North Beacon Street and Irving Street, as well as at 580 Pleasant Street. The meeting includes discussions regarding a vacancy on the Library Board of Trustees and the 2020 Re-Precincting Plan. Additionally, the council will review requests for audit services and appointments to local boards.

• Easement for highway purposes at North Beacon Street and Irving Street
• Pedestrian access easement at 580 Pleasant Street
• Consideration of the 2020 Re-Precincting Plan
• Request to appoint MelansonHeath for the Fiscal 2021 audit
• Confirmations for Watertown Housing Authority and Conservation Commission appointments

The Watertown Town Council unanimously approved the 2020 re-precincting plan, appointed MelansonHeath for the FY2021 audit, and accepted two easements. It also appropriated Transportation Network Company funds for TMA dues, Bluebike, and the Pleasant Street shuttle, and endorsed a grant letter for electric shuttle vehicles.

• Approved 2020 re-precincting plan (unanimous)
• Appointed MelansonHeath for FY2021 audit and RFP for FY2022-2024 (unanimous)
• Accepted highway easement at North Beacon and Irving Streets (unanimous)
• Accepted pedestrian easement at 580 Pleasant Street, amended to remove 'Private Way' for Paramount Place (unanimous)
• Appropriated $8,000 for TMA dues, $20,000 for Bluebike, $37,482 for Pleasant Street shuttle (unanimous)
• Endorsed letter of support for DCDP grant for electric shuttle vehicles (unanimous)
• Appointed Council President to fill Library Board of Trustees vacancy (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works will discuss the creation of a new Solid Water and Recycling Advisory Committee. The agenda also includes an update regarding an organic/food waste recycling program.

• Discussion on a New Solid Water and Recycling Advisory Committee
• Update on an Organic/Food Waste Recycling Program

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works is conducting interviews for appointments and re-appointments. These interviews concern the Stormwater Advisory Committee and the Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee.

• Interviews for Stormwater Advisory Committee appointments
• Interviews for Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee appointments

School Site Council

The council will review the first objective of the 2021-2022 School Improvement Plan. The meeting also includes a principal's update and information regarding book clubs.

• Review of 2021-2022 School Improvement Plan (SIP) Objective #1
• Book Clubs update from Susanne Dunn
• Principal's Update

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings regarding demolition applications for a house on Copeland Street and a garage on Riverside Street. The commission will also review the Demolition Delay Ordinance for potential updates and set meeting dates for 2022.

• Demolition application for a one-family house at 53 Copeland St.
• Demolition application for a 2 car garage at 119 Riverside St.
• Review of the Demolition Delay Ordinance for updates
• Acceptance of November 4, 2021 meeting minutes
• Establishment of 2022 meeting and filing dates

Public Arts and Culture Committee

This meeting is primarily procedural, focusing on the organization of the Public Arts and Culture Committee. The committee will swear in members, review the Public Arts Master Plan, and establish internal roles and a monthly meeting schedule.

• Swearing-in of committee members
• Review of the Public Arts Master Plan and committee responsibilities
• Selection of committee roles and operating procedures
• Determination of a monthly meeting day and time

The Public Arts and Culture Committee held its first meeting, elected Roberta Miller as Chair, Archy LaSalle as Vice Chair, and Dawn Evans Scaltreto as Secretary, and set a regular meeting schedule for the 4th Monday of each month at 6 PM. The committee also received an overview of the Open Meeting Law and the Public Arts Master Plan, and tabled a full discussion of operating procedures to the next meeting.

• Elected Roberta Miller as Chair (consensus)
• Elected Archy LaSalle as Vice Chair (consensus)
• Elected Dawn Evans Scaltreto as Secretary (consensus)
• Set monthly meetings for 4th Mondays at 6 PM in the 3rd Floor Conference Room (consensus)
• Tabled full discussion of general operating procedure to next meeting

School Building Committee

The School Building Committee Design Subcommittee will meet to review updated Schematic Design floor plans. The committee will also determine the date for its next meeting.

• Review of updated Schematic Design floor plans

School Building Committee

The Sustainability Subcommittee is discussing the process for achieving Platinum Certification. The meeting includes a review of the LEED Scorecard and an update on recent meetings with consultants.

• Review of LEED Scorecard
• Certification goals for WHS
• Update on December 1, 2021 meeting with consultants

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review past meeting minutes and receive an update from the Director regarding Senior Center activities. Marina Kirsanova will also provide a Program Advisory Group update.

• Director's Update on Senior Center Activities
• Program Advisory Group Update

The Watertown Council on Aging board approved the November 10, 2021 meeting minutes. The director reported that the City Council approved replacing the senior shuttle bus with a new model. The board discussed the snow policy for the upcoming season, deciding to keep it as is and run classes as possible, with follow-up in January. No formal votes were taken on policy changes.

• Approved November 10, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Noted City Council approval of senior shuttle bus replacement
• Kept snow policy as is, with classes run as possible

School Building Committee

The School Building Committee will review several updates regarding the High School Project, including schematic designs and a Phase 2 traffic study for WHS and Moxley. The committee will also approve minutes from the November 3 meeting and November 2021 invoices.

• Phase 2 Traffic Study review for WHS and Moxley
• Schematic Design Site Plan Update
• Review of gymnasium court sizes
• Schematic Design Cost Update
• Approval of November 2021 invoices

School Site Council

The Watertown Middle School Site Council is meeting to discuss the School Improvement Plan. The agenda includes a review of WIN Blocks and a presentation on the new math curriculum.

• Review of WIN Blocks within the School Improvement Plan
• Presentation on New Math Curriculum by Elizabeth Kaplan, K-7 Math/Science Coordinator

City Council: Committee on Climate and Energy

The Committee on Climate and Energy is holding a public meeting to present updates on the Climate and Energy Plan. The session includes a presentation on plan progress, draft goals, and strategies. The agenda also provides time for public comment and discussion.

• Presentation on Climate and Energy Plan progress, draft goals, and strategies
• Public comment and discussion

School Committee

This agenda consists of procedural information regarding where to access committee and subcommittee agendas and minutes. No substantive items are listed for decision or discussion.

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will discuss in-person versus hybrid meeting formats and the Bike/Ped Implementation Plan. The agenda also includes a MassDOT public hearing letter regarding Mt. Auburn St. and notice of an upcoming DCR construction information meeting.

• MassDOT Mt. Auburn St. public hearing letter
• Bike/Ped Implementation Plan update
• DCR Watertown Riverfront Charles River Road Phase II Construction Public Information Meeting (Dec 9, 2021)

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee decided to keep meetings virtual through March, with a reassessment at the March meeting. They approved a letter to MassDOT regarding the Mt Auburn St public hearing, written by Dan. The committee also discussed potential locations for 2-3 new BlueBikes stations, with installation planned for next spring.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Decided to stay virtual through March, reassess at March meeting
• Approved MassDOT Mt Auburn St public hearing letter
• Discussed potential BlueBikes station locations, including 80 Mt Auburn St and Arsenal St at Irving St
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 10 via Zoom

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will meet via Zoom to review registration applications from several biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. The committee will also consider approving minutes from the November 4, 2021 meeting.

• Inzen Therapeutics registration (500 Arsenal Street)
• LIV Process, Inc., Souffle Therapeutics, and Strand Therapeutics, Inc. registrations (200 Dexter Avenue)
• Constellation Pharmaceutical registration (100 Talcott Avenue)
• FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Texas LLC registration (300 North Beacon Street 102)

The committee recommended approval of five biosafety applications to the Board of Health, all by unanimous 4-0 votes: InzenTherapeutics, LIV Process, Inc., Constellation Pharmaceutical (with a contingency to provide the community member's address), Souffle Therapeutics, and Strand Therapeutics. A sixth application, from FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Texas LLC, was tabled until it could be fully reviewed. The committee also agreed that biosafety applications must be submitted two weeks before the monthly meeting for proper review.

• Tabled FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Texas LLC application until fully reviewed (4-0).
• Recommended approval of InzenTherapeutics application as submitted (4-0).
• Recommended approval of LIV Process, Inc. application as submitted (4-0).
• Recommended approval of Constellation Pharmaceutical application with contingency to provide community member's address (4-0).
• Recommended approval of Souffle Therapeutics application as submitted (4-0).
• Recommended approval of Strand Therapeutics application as submitted (4-0).
• Agreed that biosafety application deadline is two weeks prior to monthly meeting.

City Council: Special Meetings

The City Council will meet to reconsider issues related to a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Buckingham, Brown & Nichols School. This discussion concerns the development of property at Grove Street.

• Reconsideration of Memorandum of Understanding regarding Grove Street property development

Conservation Commission

The Commission is conducting public hearings regarding land use requests at Gore Place, 0 Arlington St, and 551 Rear Arsenal St. Two of these items were continued to the January meeting. The agenda also includes reports on climate plans and pollinator initiatives.

• Request for Determination of Applicability: farmstead improvements at Gore Place
• Notice of Intent: 2-story commercial building at 0 Arlington St (Williams Pond Parcel)
• Notice of Intent: improved park facilities at 551 Rear Arsenal St (Arsenal Park)
• Review of November 3, 2021 meeting minutes

The Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the Arsenal Park Phase B Notice of Intent to January 5, 2022, after reviewing updated plans and discussing technical issues. The Commission also continued two other items: a request for determination of applicability for Gore Place and a notice of intent for 0 Arlington St., both to the same January date. Minutes from the November 3, 2021 meeting were approved as modified. No final orders of conditions were issued at this meeting.

• Continued public hearing for Arsenal Park Phase B (551 Rear Arsenal St.) to January 5, 2022, for plan revisions and conditions setting.
• Continued request for determination of applicability for Gore Place improvements to January 5, 2022.
• Continued notice of intent for 0 Arlington St. (Williams Pond parcel) to January 5, 2022.
• Approved minutes from November 3, 2021, meeting as modified.
• Discussed scheduling an August 10, 2022, meeting (to be confirmed) and a possible date change for February 2, 2022, meeting.
• Adjourned meeting at 8:40 PM.

Board of Library Trustees

The Board will review financial reports, including the FY22 budget and Burke Fund. The agenda also includes updates on Red Leaf Café and proposed changes to meeting day and room policy.

• Red Leaf Café update
• FY22 Budget and financial reports
• Proposed change to meeting day
• Change to Meeting Room Policy
• Director Search

The Board of Library Trustees unanimously approved the November 8 meeting minutes as amended, the financial report, donations, and a change to the Meeting Room Policy. They discussed filling a trustee vacancy, possibly changing meeting day to the first Tuesday, and contracting with Community Paradigm Associates for the director search. No public forum was held, and no old business was discussed.

• Approved November 8, 2021 meeting minutes as amended
• Approved the FY22 financial report as read
• Approved donations as listed in the meeting packet
• Approved change to the Meeting Room Policy as written in the packet
• Discussed filling trustee vacancy by appointment, pending City Council vote
• Agreed to consider changing meeting day to first Tuesday for cable recording
• Discussed contracting with Community Paradigm Associates for director search

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will meet to discuss a recommendation concerning Transportation Network Company funds. The agenda also includes the call to order and adjournment.

• Recommendation on Transportation Network Company Funds

City Council

The City Council will vote on a $2,376,000 loan for town-wide radio infrastructure improvements. The agenda also includes the 2022 Local Road Construction Program and property tax allocations for fiscal year 2022. Additionally, the council will consider establishing a trust to support affordable housing.

• $2,376,000 loan for town-wide radio infrastructure improvements
• 2022 Local Road Construction Program including Boylston Street and Chapman Street
• Ordinance to establish a trust for affordable housing preservation
• Acceptance of $33,816 in donations to the Watertown Food Pantry
• Adoption of FY2023 Budget Policy Guidelines

The City Council unanimously adopted the residential tax shift to 159.1528% and a maximum residential exemption of 30% for FY2022, which lowers the average residential tax increase from 7.7% to 4.3%. The Council also unanimously approved a $2,376,000 loan order for town-wide radio infrastructure improvements, adopted an ordinance establishing an Affordable Housing Trust, and accepted $33,816 in gifts for the Watertown Food Pantry. Additionally, the Council adopted FY2023 Budget Policy Guidelines, instructed the City Manager to create an RFP for a public health needs assessment, and approved the 2022 road construction program.

• Adopted residential tax shift to 159.1528% and maximum residential exemption of 30% for FY2022 (unanimous).
• Approved $2,376,000 loan order for town-wide radio infrastructure improvements (unanimous).
• Adopted ordinance establishing an Affordable Housing Trust and dissolving the Watertown Housing Partnership (unanimous).
• Authorized acceptance and expenditure of $33,816 in gifts to the Watertown Food Pantry (unanimous).
• Adopted FY2023 Budget Policy Guidelines as drafted (unanimous).
• Instructed City Manager to create an RFP for a comprehensive public health and human service needs assessment (unanimous).
• Approved 2022 road reconstruction program including Boylston, Chester, Locke, Chapman streets, and long street/connector program (unanimous).
• Recommended increase in 5-year Capital Improvement Program to accelerate road and sidewalk repairs (unanimous).

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review minutes from September and October 2021 meetings. A public hearing is scheduled for 34 Marshall Street regarding a proposal to replace siding and windows. The commission will also receive an agent report.

• Public hearing for 34 Marshall Street siding and window replacement
• Acceptance of minutes from 9/23/2021 and 10/28/2021 meetings
• Agent report updates

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to accept minutes from the October 21, 2021 meeting. The committee will also receive a coordinator update regarding CPA applications and housing applications technical assistance.

• Acceptance of October 21, 2021, minutes
• Coordinator update on CPA applications
• Coordinator update on housing applications technical assistance

The Community Preservation Committee approved the October 21 minutes and discussed several project updates. The Winter St. Pocket Park application was tabled for a year to coordinate with larger planning. The committee also discussed free technical assistance from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership for reviewing housing applications and planning for the annual Community Preservation Plan update.

• Approved October 21, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Winter St. Pocket Park application for a year
• Discussed free MHP technical assistance for housing applications
• Discussed annual Community Preservation Plan update

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will consider several license applications, including a new common victualler license for 106 Main Street. The agenda also includes a show cause hearing for Conley’s Pub & Grille and the issuance of fees for 2022 renewals.

• New Common Victualler License application for Crown Café at 106 Main Street
• Transfer of Wine and Malt Package Goods License for Convenience Plus at 99 School Street
• Show Cause Hearing for Conley’s Pub & Grille at 164-168 Belmont Street
• Special license for Donohue’s Annual 5k Turkey Trot Road Race on November 25, 2021
• Issuance of fees for 2022 renewals

School Building Committee

This meeting agenda contains only a reference to where committee agendas and minutes are posted. No substantive items are listed for discussion or decision at this meeting.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review minutes from the October 20, 2021 meeting and receive COVID-19 updates. The agenda includes a Watertown Biosafety Committee discussion regarding Leyden Labs and a discussion on a letter concerning 137 School Street.

• Biosafety Committee discussion regarding Leyden Labs at 191 Dexter Avenue
• Discussion on a letter from Melissa Manoogian regarding 137 School Street
• COVID-19 updates
• Staffing and department updates

The Watertown Board of Health meeting scheduled for November 17, 2021, was canceled due to technical difficulties. No substantive decisions were made.

Commission on Disability

The Commission will discuss variance requests for properties at 66 Galen Street and 2 Kingsbury Street. The meeting also includes updates on sidewalk improvements, crosswalks, and detectable warnings throughout the town.

• Variance request for 66 Galen Street
• Sidewalk improvement updates for Riverside, Capitol, and Highland Streets
• Detectable warnings at Lexington & Main Streets
• Lighted crosswalk at Paul and North Beacon Streets
• Plans review for 2 Kingsbury Street

The Watertown Commission on Disability heard a housing specialist's update on St. Joseph's Hall, a senior living facility needing a new elevator, and discussed accessibility issues around town. The commission unanimously approved the October meeting minutes and the October treasurer's report. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous roll call)
• Approved October treasurer's report (unanimous roll call)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several requests for special permits and amendments. These include a staircase addition at 133 School St. and accessibility upgrades at 115 Waverley Ave. The board will also review site improvements for Galen Street Service Station Inc.

• Special permit for an access staircase at 133 School St.
• Accessibility additions and apartment improvements at 115 Waverley Ave.
• 765 sq. ft. addition and site improvements at 110 Galen St.
• Approval of October 27, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals held a hybrid public hearing on October 27, 2021. The board voted unanimously to continue the special permit petition for 133 School St. to the December meeting after board members raised concerns about plan inaccuracies and project intensity. The board also unanimously accepted the withdrawal without prejudice of the special permit amendment request for 110 Galen St.

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will discuss a proposed affordable housing development at 1 Rosary Drive and a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance. The meeting also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, and elevator replacement funds for St. Joseph’s Hall/2 Rosary Drive.

• Proposed affordable housing development at 1 Rosary Drive
• Draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance discussion
• Funds for elevator replacement at St. Joseph’s Hall/2 Rosary Drive
• Updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and Nexus Study

The Watertown Housing Partnership unanimously recommended Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding for Metro West Collaborative's proposed 23-unit affordable senior housing project at 1 Rosary Drive, with one member recused. The board also discussed and directed staff to revise the draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance based on member feedback. Updates were provided on several pending matters, including the emergency rental assistance program and the municipal affordable housing trust.

• Approved minutes of October 19, 2021 unanimously
• Recommended CPA funding for 1 Rosary Drive affordable senior housing (unanimous, Torey recused)
• Directed staff to draft support letter for 1 Rosary Drive CPA request
• Agreed to keep proposed ADU ordinance language on building types, with drafting fixes for owner-occupancy and principal dwelling definitions
• Agreed to defer detached ADUs until ordinance is proven effective
• Agreed to consider changing new construction ADU eligibility to buildings 5+ years old
• Requested revised ADU ordinance draft for next meeting
• Agreed to cancel December meeting unless pressing matters arise

City Council: Joint Committees

The Joint Committees on Public Works and Rules & Ordinances are meeting to make recommendations regarding a sidewalk snow shoveling ordinance.

• Recommendations on a sidewalk snow shoveling ordinance

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight will meet to discuss upcoming budget priorities. The committee is scheduled to make recommendations regarding the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Priority Guidelines.

• Recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Priority Guidelines

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hear reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and regarding the Climate Action Plan. The meeting also includes status updates on several working groups and a discussion with Town Councilor Tony Palomba.

• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Discussion of working group status including Net Zero and Transportation
• Guest discussion with Town Councilor Tony Palomba

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee approved the October 19 minutes with corrections and heard that the City Manager signed a letter supporting the net zero stretch code. The committee discussed progress on the Climate and Energy Action Plan, including a public input meeting scheduled for December 7, and reviewed updates on the Tree Ordinance, transportation, and school outreach. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved minutes of 10/19/21 meeting with corrections
• City Manager signed letter supporting net zero stretch code
• Scheduled public input meeting on Climate Action Plan for Dec. 7
• Noted three additional grants awarded for Complete Streets, path to Watertown Square, and comprehensive plan
• Discussed draft #8 of Tree Ordinance for next month
• Agreed to wait for Eversource winter prices before new electricity choice campaign

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review past meeting minutes and receive an update from the Program Advisory Group. The board will also continue discussions regarding My Active Center.

• Program Advisory Group Update
• Continued Discussion of My Active Center

The Watertown Council on Aging Board approved the minutes of the October 13, 2021 meeting, with a correction to Carole Berney's name. The board discussed moving some programs back to the Senior Center with shuttle pickup from the CVS parking lot, and reviewed the My Active Center app. The Director reported that the City Council approved purchasing a new senior shuttle, which will arrive in about 8 months. No formal votes were taken on these discussions.

• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021 meeting, with name correction (all in favor)
• Discussed moving some morning programs back to Senior Center with shuttle pickup from CVS parking lot
• Discussed My Active Center app, with introductory Zoom sessions scheduled for December 9 and 15
• Noted City Council approved purchase of new senior shuttle to replace current one
• Discussed Snow Program for 2021-2022 season, with comments to be shared with Recreation Department

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider amendments to the Watertown Zoning Ordinance. The meeting includes discussions on creating new use categories for firearm sales and short-term rentals. There is also an update regarding the AOTC Master Plan and Site Plan review.

• Public hearing on separating firearms sales from general retail use
• Public hearing on establishing short-term rentals as a use category
• Update on AOTC Master Plan and Site Plan review modifications for Buildings 1 & 2

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend a zoning amendment regulating the sale of firearms, with a modification to include associated gun ranges in the definition. The board also voted 5-0 to accept a short-term rental amendment allowing rentals by owners or lessees, forwarding it to the Town Council. No final decisions were made; both items are recommendations.

• Recommended approval of Sale of Firearms zoning amendment (5-0)
• Modified firearm amendment definition to include associated gun ranges (5-0)
• Accepted short-term rental amendment allowing owners/lessees (5-0)
• Approved minutes of 10/13/2021 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Town Council will review a proposed ordinance to establish an affordable housing trust. The meeting includes a first reading on a $2,376,000 loan order for town-wide radio infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, the council will consider appointments to the Public Arts & Culture Committee and engaging a firm for the Town Manager search.

• Proposed ordinance to establish an affordable housing trust
• $2,376,000 loan order for radio infrastructure improvements
• $108,484 transfer for a Senior Shuttle Bus purchase
• Engagement of Community Paradigm Associates LLC for the Town Manager search
• Appointments to the Public Arts & Culture Committee

The Watertown Town Council approved a $108,484 transfer to purchase a new senior shuttle bus, replacing a 2013 vehicle that was too large for local streets. The council also unanimously voted to engage Community Paradigm Associates LLC as the town manager search firm and approved a $14,000 transfer to fund that contract. Six new members were confirmed to the Public Arts & Culture Committee, and a proclamation honoring Angela "Rose" Carabello's 100th birthday was adopted. Several items, including tax levy orders and a $2,376,000 radio infrastructure loan, received first readings and will be taken up at future meetings.

• Approved $108,484 transfer for senior shuttle bus purchase (unanimous)
• Engaged Community Paradigm Associates LLC as town manager search firm (unanimous)
• Approved $14,000 transfer for town manager search firm (unanimous)
• Confirmed 6 appointments to Public Arts & Culture Committee (unanimous)
• Adopted proclamation honoring Angela "Rose" Carabello's 100th birthday (unanimous)
• Held first reading on FY2022 tax levy allocation order (no vote)
• Held first reading on FY2022 optional tax exemptions order (no vote)
• Held first reading on $2,376,000 radio infrastructure loan order (no vote)

Board of Library Trustees

The Board will discuss the FY22 Budget, Burke Fund Report, and Hatch Financials. The meeting also includes updates on the Red Leaf Café and consideration of the FY23 Action Plan.

• Red Leaf Café update
• FY22 Budget review
• Burke Fund and Hatch Financial reports
• Consideration of the FY23 Action Plan
• Acceptance of donations

The Watertown Library Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the FY23 Action Plan, the financial report, and this month's donations. The board also accepted the October meeting minutes and adjourned. Director Leone Cole announced her retirement for March 2022, and Trustee Emily Izzo resigned after being elected to the City Council.

• Accepted October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted financial report as read (unanimous)
• Accepted donations as listed in packet (unanimous)
• Accepted FY23 Action Plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:39pm (unanimous)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will discuss a letter to the School Committee and follow up on the MassDOT Mt. Auburn public hearing. Members will also address vacancies in the Complete Streets and Bike/Ped committees. Updates regarding the DPW Road Plan and Climate Action Plan are scheduled.

• Vote on a letter to the School Committee
• Vote on MassDOT Mt. Auburn public hearing follow-up
• Nomination and vote for a Complete Streets Committee vacancy
• Discussion of DCR Soldier’s Field Road road diet/bike path realignment
• Updates on the DPW Road Plan and Climate Action Plan

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee voted unanimously to send a letter to the School Building Committee with feedback on the temporary high school at Moxley Field and the new high school at Columbia Street, including recommendations for bike parking and intersection safety. They also voted unanimously to have a sub-committee draft a letter to MassDOT regarding the Mt. Auburn Street redesign, and decided to try a hybrid meeting format for 1-2 months. No other substantive decisions were made; items like the Bike/Ped Implementation Plan were postponed.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Voted to try hybrid meeting format for 1-2 months, then reassess
• Voted unanimously to send letter to School Building Committee as written
• Voted unanimously to authorize sub-committee to draft and submit letter to MassDOT on Mt. Auburn redesign
• Appointed Dan McKinley to Complete Streets Committee, Maria Saiz as backup
• Decided to postpone Bike/Ped Implementation Plan and Climate Action Plan agenda items

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will consider a registration application for Leyden Labs at 191 Dexter Avenue. The meeting includes a vote on a final draft of a procedural document. Additionally, the Health Department will provide an update on renewal and electronic applications.

• Registration application for Leyden Labs – 191 Dexter Avenue
• Vote on final draft of procedural document (ForVote_WBSC_procedure_Life_Science_9_2_21)
• Health Department update on renewal and electronic application submission

The Watertown BioSafety Committee voted to recommend approval of Leyden Labs' registration application for 191 Dexter Avenue to the Board of Health without conditions. The committee also voted to recommend approval of the final draft of Watertown's Biotechnology Regulation Applicability to Different Types of Life Science Work. Both motions passed by roll call vote.

• Recommended approval of Leyden Labs application (191 Dexter Avenue) to Board of Health without conditions (Parsons, Ramdin)
• Recommended approval of draft Biotechnology Regulation Applicability to Different Types of Life Science Work (McEwan, Ramdin)

Historical Commission

The Watertown Historical Commission will hold public hearings to determine if properties at 166 Main St and 153 Robbins Rd should be preserved or subject to demolition delays. The meeting also includes a vote on a committee appointment and a review of the Demolition Delay Ordinance.

• Public hearing: potential demolition delay for retail store at 166 Main St
• Public hearing: potential demolition delay for one-family house at 153 Robbins Rd
• Vote to appoint Matthew Walter to the Community Preservation Committee
• Review of Town Hall's 1630 & 1930 Geographical Paintings
• Discussion regarding updates to the Demolition Delay Ordinance

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review a request for farmstead improvements at Gore Place, including new barns and stormwater management. A public hearing regarding a commercial building at 0 Arlington St has been continued to December. The meeting also includes agent reports on topics such as Arsenal Park and the Climate and Energy Plan.

• Request for Determination of Applicability for Gore Place farmstead improvements
• Notice of Intent for a two-story commercial building at 0 Arlington St (Williams Pond Parcel)
• Agent reports regarding Arsenal Park, pollinators, and the Climate and Energy Plan
• Review and approval of October 6, 2021, meeting minutes

The Watertown Conservation Commission voted to continue the Gore Place farmstead improvement project to its December 1, 2021 meeting, pending a definitive statement on why the project is exempt from the Wetlands Protection Act and supplemental materials. The commission also noted a continuance request for the 0 Arlington St commercial building project. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Continued Gore Place farmstead improvements to Dec. 1, 2021 meeting
• Noted continuance request for 0 Arlington St commercial building project

City Council: Ad Hoc Committees

The Ad Hoc Subcommittee for the Town Manager Search will conduct interviews with two organizations. Following these sessions, the committee will hold a discussion and provide a recommendation.

• Interview with Community Paradigm Associates LLC
• Interview with Municipal Resources, Inc.
• Committee discussion and recommendation

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the installation of new signage at 137 Mt. Auburn St. The meeting also includes a review of minutes from the September 23, 2021 meeting and an agent update.

• Public hearing for new signage at 137 Mt. Auburn St
• Review of September 23, 2021 meeting minutes

Traffic Commission

The Watertown Traffic Commission will consider requests to amend parking regulations on Waverley Avenue and remove a handicap space on Arsenal Street. The agenda also includes proposed 'No Turn on Red' restrictions at the new 85 Walnut Street entrance.

• Amend parking regulations on Waverley Avenue from Orchard Street to Belmont Street
• Remove reserved Handicap Only parking space at 231/233 Arsenal Street
• No Turn on Red Restriction for Arsenal Street westbound at proposed 85 Walnut Street entrance
• No Turn on Red Restriction for Arsenal Street southbound at proposed 85 Walnut Street entrance

The Watertown Traffic Commission approved parking restrictions on Waverley Avenue to accommodate new bike lanes, removed a handicap parking space on Arsenal Street, and approved no-turn-on-red restrictions at the proposed 85 Walnut Street entrance. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Approved parking restrictions on east side of Waverley Avenue from Orchard Street to 40' north of Hilltop Road (unanimous)
• Approved parking restrictions on west side of Waverley Avenue from Belmont Street to Hilltop Road and from Lowell Avenue to Orchard Street (unanimous)
• Removed reserved Handicap Only parking space in front of 231/233 Arsenal Street (unanimous)
• Approved No Turn on Red restriction on Arsenal Street westbound at proposed 85 Walnut Street entrance (unanimous)
• Approved No Turn on Red restriction at proposed 85 Walnut Street entrance southbound at Arsenal Street (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals is considering new permit applications for residential and business properties. The board will also review a variance request for Molloy Street and approve previous meeting minutes. A hearing regarding 115 Waverley Ave. was postponed to November.

• Mudroom addition at 186 Common St.
• 765 sq. ft. addition and site improvements at 110 Galen St.
• Pervious driveway variance for 23-25 Molloy St.
• Approval of September 22, 2021, minutes

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals approved a Special Permit for a mudroom addition at 186 Common St. with conditions, including matching exterior materials. The Board continued a request to amend a Special Permit at 110 Galen St. for a new 765-square-foot service bay to the November 17th meeting due to unresolved concerns about zoning compliance, parking, and a Class 2 license. A variance petition for 23-25 Molloy St. was withdrawn without prejudice.

• Approved Special Permit for mudroom addition at 186 Common St. with conditions (5-0)
• Continued Special Permit amendment for 765 sq ft service bay at 110 Galen St. to Nov. 17 meeting (5-0)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of variance petition for 23-25 Molloy St. (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will review minutes from the September 28, 2021 meeting and sign Warrant MV 2021-04. The agenda includes updates on Department of Revenue approvals and personal property audits. The Board will also vote on FY22 exemption applications during an executive session.

• Signing of Warrant – MV 2021-04
• Review/vote on FY22 exemption applications
• Department of Revenue Approvals update
• Personal Property Audits update
• Approval of September 28, 2021 minutes

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved increasing the residential exemption to 30% for Fiscal Year 2022, up from the current 25%, to offset an atypical tax increase for residential taxpayers. The board also approved the September 28, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed the upcoming classification hearing and personal property audits. The meeting moved into executive session to discuss confidential exemption applications and litigation.

• Approved September 28, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved 30% residential exemption for FY22 (3-0)
• Moved into executive session for confidential exemption applications and litigation (3-0)

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning is conducting confirmation interviews for three candidates. These interviews concern appointments to the Public Arts and Culture Committee.

• Confirmation interview for Leah Craig
• Confirmation interview for Carole Katz
• Confirmation interview for Dawn Evans Scaltreto

City Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on a proposed $4,733,900 loan order for new water meters and an amendment to the FY2022 budget. The Council will also consider action regarding expanding diversity in the town's workforce. Additionally, members will review the 2020 Re-Precincting Plan.

• $4,733,900 loan order for purchasing and installing new water meters
• Action to direct the Personnel Department to broaden job searches for workforce diversity
• Proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget
• Consideration of the 2020 Re-Precincting Plan
• Appointment of Cambria Ung to the Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Watertown Town Council unanimously approved a $4,733,900 loan order to purchase and install new water meters, and a $6,893,133 amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The council also unanimously adopted a motion to use the MAPC list as a resource in filling job vacancies to broaden diversity in the workforce. The 2020 Re-Precincting Plan was tabled due to issues with precinct drawing.

• Approved $4,733,900 loan order for new water meters (unanimous)
• Approved $6,893,133 FY2022 budget amendment (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to use MAPC list as a resource in hiring to expand workforce diversity (unanimous)
• Tabled 2020 Re-Precincting Plan
• Adopted minutes of October 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Confirmed proclamation honoring Dr. John Straus (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will conduct confirmation interviews for three individuals to join the Public Arts and Culture Committee. The candidates are Roberta Miller, Erin Webb, and Archy LaSalle.

• Confirmation interview for Roberta Miller to the Public Arts and Culture Committee
• Confirmation interview for Erin Webb to the Public Arts and Culture Committee
• Confirmation interview for Archy LaSalle to the Public Arts and Culture Committee

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will continue discussions regarding project eligibility and historic preservation. The committee will also consider the acceptance of minutes from the October 7, 2021 meeting.

• Acceptance of October 7, 2021 minutes
• Discussion on project eligibility
• Discussion on historic preservation

The Community Preservation Committee deemed the Filippello 2021 project eligible for CPA funding, with concerns about limiting activities to capital improvements and requiring public participation details. The committee deemed the Rand House Window Replacement at the Church of the Good Shepherd ineligible based on a town attorney's legal analysis. The Historic Bell Tower Rehabilitation at Belmont-Watertown United Methodist Church was held in abeyance pending further review by the Watertown Historical Commission. Eight projects advanced to the CPA Funding Application stage.

• Deemed Filippello 2021 project eligible for CPA funding
• Deemed Rand House Window Replacement (Church of the Good Shepherd) ineligible
• Held Historic Bell Tower Rehabilitation (Belmont-Watertown United Methodist Church) in abeyance
• Accepted 2021-10-7 minutes with revisions (7-0-1)

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will consider several special license applications for food and entertainment. This includes requests for Buttermilk & Bourbon Restaurant, Vitality Bowls, and a cheese festival. The board will also approve minutes from the September 16, 2021, meeting.

• Entertainment License for Buttermilk & Bourbon Restaurant at 1 Arsenal Yards Boulevard
• One Day Wine & Malt License for Roche Bros New England Cheese Festival
• Common Victualler License for Vitality Bowls at 310 Bond Street
• Acceptance of September 16, 2021, meeting minutes

The Watertown Licensing Board approved a one-day wine and malt license for Gordon's Fine Wine & Liquors for the New England Cheese Festival at Arsenal Yards on October 30, 2021, subject to police conditions. It also granted a Common Victualer License to Vitality Bowls at 130 Bond Street and a 6-day entertainment license to Buttermilk & Bourbon at 1 Arsenal Yards Boulevard, both unanimously and with conditions. The board accepted the September 16, 2021 minutes 3-0.

• Approved one-day wine & malt license for Gordon's Fine Wine & Liquors for Oct 30 event (unanimous)
• Granted Common Victualer License to Vitality Bowls at 130 Bond St (unanimous)
• Granted 6-day entertainment license to Buttermilk & Bourbon (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of September 16, 2021 (3-0)

Board of Health

The Board will consider permit approvals for several biotechnology companies under the Watertown Biosafety Committee. The meeting also includes a review of the indoor mask mandate.

• Permit reviews for Vertex Cell & Genetic Therapies at 490 Arsenal Way
• Permit reviews for Corner Therapeutics at 300 North Beacon Street
• Permit reviews for Dyno Therapeutics at 343 Arsenal Street
• Permit reviews for Treeline Biosciences at 500 Arsenal Street
• Review of the indoor mask mandate

The Watertown Board of Health approved five biosafety permit applications recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, all with conditions met, for Vertex Cell & Genetic Therapies, Corner Therapeutics, Dyno Therapeutics, Treeline Biosciences, and Affini-T Therapeutics. The board also approved the September 15, 2021 meeting minutes with adjustments. No public comment was received, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:08 pm.

• Approved September 15, 2021 meeting minutes with adjustments (3-0)
• Approved Vertex Cell & Genetic Therapies biosafety permit with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Corner Therapeutics biosafety permit without conditions (3-0)
• Approved Dyno Therapeutics biosafety permit with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Treeline Biosciences biosafety permit with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Affini-T Therapeutics biosafety permit with conditions (3-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hear from Town Clerk Janet Murphy and review September meeting minutes. The agenda includes updates on sidewalk improvements and accessibility issues at several intersections.

• Sidewalk improvement updates for Riverside, Capitol, and Highland Streets
• Construction discussion regarding the intersection of Dexter and Nichols Avenues
• Safety updates for detectable warnings at Lexington and Main Streets
• Accessibility review for the intersection at Lexington and Orchard

The Watertown Commission on Disability voted unanimously to donate $1,500 to each of two local food pantries, totaling $3,000. The commission also accepted the September meeting minutes and treasurer's report, and discussed election accessibility, sidewalk improvements, and other accessibility issues.

• Approved $1,500 donation to each of two food pantries, totaling $3,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted September treasurer's report (unanimous)

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will consider amending the FY22 Action Plan to use HOME funds for an elevator replacement at 2 Rosary Drive. The meeting also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and a proposed project at 103 Nichols Avenue.

• Amendment of FY22 Action Plan for elevator replacement at St. Joseph’s Hall/2 Rosary Drive using HOME funds
• Proposed Housing Authority project at 103 Nichols Avenue
• Continued discussion on Accessory Dwelling Units
• Updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Housing Partnership approved an amendment to the FY22 WestMetro HOME Consortium Annual Action Plan to allocate $145,897.85 of Watertown's FY19 HOME Program Income funds for elevator replacement at St. Joseph's Hall/2 Rosary Drive, contingent on HUD approval. The Partnership also unanimously recommended CPA funding for a proposed special needs housing project at 103 Nichols Ave, with a support letter to be drafted. Updates were provided on rental assistance, affordable housing trust, nexus study, and local preference policy, with no final decisions on those items.

• Approved $145,897.85 HOME funds for elevator replacement at St. Joseph's Hall (unanimous)
• Recommended CPA funding for 103 Nichols Ave special needs housing (unanimous, Mike recused)
• Authorized Larry to communicate with Budget Oversight Committee on ARPA funds for housing (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 21, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Public Safety

The Committee on Public Safety will continue its discussion regarding the current operations and services provided by the Watertown Police Department. The meeting also includes an update on State Police reform.

• Discussion of Watertown Police Department operations and services
• Update on State Police reform

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works will review and make recommendations regarding the 2022 Local Road Construction Program. The meeting is scheduled for October 18, 2021.

• Review and recommendation of the 2022 Local Road Construction Program

City Council: Committee on Media and Public Outreach

The committee is continuing plans to increase resident awareness of the Charter Review Committee results. This effort involves working with the IT Department, Town Clerk, and community organizations. The campaign aims to provide information that will appear on the November election ballot.

• Campaign to increase resident awareness of Charter Review Committee results
• Information regarding the November election ballot

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and Climate Action Plan. Members will also discuss the status of several working groups. A vote is scheduled regarding support for the Sierra Club Report on the MBTA.

• Vote on support of the Sierra Club Report on the MBTA
• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Status updates on working groups including Net Zero and School Building

The committee approved a two-year electricity contract with a default rate of 12.99 cents per kWh, with 50% renewable content. The contract was negotiated during a challenging market, and the committee noted that rates will be higher than Eversource's basic rate. The committee also discussed the Climate Action Plan, pollinator gardens, and a new co-chair is needed after Emma Clement announced she is moving.

• Approved 10/18/2021 minutes as amended
• Approved two-year electricity contract with default rate of 12.99 cents/kWh (50% renewable)
• Approved motion to end the meeting

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review minutes from two September 2021 meetings. The commission is also scheduled to discuss recommendations for updating the Demolition Delay Ordinance.

• Review of September 9, 2021, meeting minutes
• Review of September 30, 2021, special meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding updates to the Demolition Delay Ordinance

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will discuss the replacement of the senior shuttle bus and receive a presentation about the My Active Center component of My Senior Center. The meeting also includes updates from the Program Advisory Group and the Director’s Report.

• Discussion of replacement of Senior Shuttle Bus
• Presentation about the My Active Center component of My Senior Center
• Program Advisory Group Update
• Director’s Report

The Council on Aging board approved moving forward with replacing the 2013 Senior Shuttle Bus, funded with $150,000 from the FY22 Capital Improvement Plan. The board also reviewed and approved the September 8, 2021 meeting minutes. A presentation on the My Active Center online registration system was discussed, and the board agreed to discuss it further at the November meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved moving forward with senior shuttle bus replacement (all in agreement)
• Agreed to discuss My Active Center at November meeting (motion by Carol Airasian, seconded by Tom Lewis)

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will continue discussions with Department of Public Health staff to explore expanding the department's capacity. The committee aims to identify unmet needs and determine if they can be addressed within the existing budget or if additional resources are required.

• Discussion regarding expanding the capacity of the Health Department
• Evaluation of unmet health needs and potential resource requirements

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to special permits for 110 Galen St. The request by Galen Street Service Station Inc. includes a 765 sq. ft. addition and site improvements, including improved stormwater management systems.

• Proposed 765 sq. ft. addition and site improvements at 110 Galen St.

The Watertown Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend that the Zoning Board of Appeals approve an amendment to special permits for 110 Galen Street, allowing a new service bay and site improvements. The recommendation includes conditions from the staff report and an added condition that the parapet height match the rest of the structure. The board also approved the minutes of the September 8, 2021 meeting.

• Approved minutes of 9/8/2021 meeting (5-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment to Special Permits ZBA-97-07 & ZBA-68-908 for 110 Galen Street (5-0)

City Council

The Town Council will vote on a $1,250,000 loan for a new fire department ladder truck. The agenda also includes first readings for water meter funding and firearm business zoning amendments.

• $1,250,000 loan order for a new Fire Department ladder truck
• $4,733,900 loan order for new water meter installation
• Zoning amendment regarding firearm business regulations
• Proposal to hire a management consultant for the Personnel Department

The Watertown Town Council approved a $1.25 million loan order to purchase and equip a new ladder truck for the Fire Department, with funding over 15 years. The council also moved forward with a zoning amendment to regulate firearms businesses, referring it to the Planning Board for a public hearing. Additionally, it accepted a report to hire a management consultant to review the Personnel Department and referred appointments to the Public Arts & Culture Committee for further review.

• Approved $1.25M loan order for new fire ladder truck (unanimous)
• Moved forward with zoning amendment for firearms businesses, referred to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Referred firearms zoning amendment to Planning Board for public hearing (unanimous)
• Accepted report to hire management consultant for Personnel Department review (unanimous)
• Referred Public Arts & Culture Committee appointments to Economic Development and Planning Committee (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of September 28, 2021 (unanimous)

Community Preservation

The committee will review the minutes from the September 16, 2021 meeting. Members will discuss improvements to eligibility forms and issues regarding CPA funding applications. The committee will also discuss using administrative funds for historic resources.

• Acceptance of September 16, 2021 minutes
• Discussion on eligibility forms and CPA funding applications
• Discussion on use of administrative funds for historic resources

The Community Preservation Committee reviewed eligibility for several projects, determining Walker Pond as conditionally eligible pending property acquisition, while the Watertown Affordable Housing Trust was deemed eligible pending its legal formation. The committee also found outdoor recreation projects at Irving Park, Saltonstall, and Winter St. eligible, with some components ineligible, and deferred historic preservation applications from religious institutions pending legal analysis.

• Approved 2021-9-16 minutes with changes (7-0-1)
• Found Irving Park (North/South) and Saltonstall 2021 projects eligible, with streetscape outside park perimeter ineligible
• Found Winter St. Pocket Park clearly eligible
• Found Walker Pond project conditionally eligible subject to property acquisition
• Found Watertown Affordable Housing Trust project eligible pending legal entity formation
• Found Rosary Senior Housing project eligible
• Found 103 Nichols Ave. project eligible
• Deferred historic preservation applications from religious institutions pending legal analysis

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown BioSafety Committee will review biosafety permit applications for five different entities. The committee will also consider approving the minutes from the September 2, 2021 meeting.

• Biosafety permit application: Vertex Cell & Genetic Therapies at 490 Arsenal Way
• Biosafety permit application: Corner Therapeutics at 300 North Beacon Street
• Biosafety permit application: Dyno Therapeutics at 343 Arsenal Street
• Biosafety permit application: Treeline Biosciences at 500 Arsenal Street
• Biosafety permit application: Affini-T Therapeutics, Inc. at 343 Arsenal Street

The Watertown BioSafety Committee recommended approval of five biosafety applications to the Board of Health, with conditions for some. The applications were from Vertex Cell & Genetic Therapies, Corner Therapeutics, Dyno Therapeutics, Affini-T Therapeutics, and Treeline Biosciences. The committee also discussed submission and renewal process guidelines.

• Recommended approval of Vertex application with conditions (confirm organisms, Certificate of Liability naming Town of Watertown)
• Recommended approval of Corner Therapeutics application as submitted
• Recommended approval of Dyno Therapeutics application with conditions (larger floor plan, Certificate of Liability)
• Recommended approval of Affini-T Therapeutics application with conditions (larger floor plan, Certificate of Liability)
• Recommended approval of Treeline Biosciences application with conditions (final Chemical Hygiene plan, occupational health agreement)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:47 PM

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will review a proposed policy change regarding patron misconduct and suspension lengths. The meeting also includes consideration of the FY23-FY25 Strategic Plan and applications for Community Preservation Funds.

• Proposed policy change regarding patron misconduct and length of suspensions
• Consideration of the FY23-FY25 Strategic Plan
• Application for Community Preservation Funds
• Red Leaf Café update
• Request for additional work on the outdoor locker project

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed two-story commercial building and parking lot at the Williams Pond parcel. The agenda also includes an informational briefing on MWRA wastewater siphon maintenance and a notice of intent for electric vehicle charging stations at 480 Pleasant Street.

• Public hearing for a two-story commercial building and parking lot at 0 Arlington St
• Notice of Intent for EV charging station installation at 480 Pleasant Street
• Informational briefing on MWRA wastewater siphon rehabilitation project
• Updates on Arsenal Park and the Mount Auburn Cemetery vernal pool project

The Watertown Conservation Commission approved an Abbreviated Notice of Intent for electric vehicle charging stations at 480 Pleasant Street, and continued the public hearing for the proposed commercial building at 0 Arlington St (Williams Pond parcel) to November 3, 2021. The commission also received an informational briefing on an MWRA wastewater siphon maintenance project and approved the September 1, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approved EV charging station installation at 480 Pleasant Street (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 0 Arlington St commercial building to November 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 1, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:45 PM (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Town Cultural Council will meet to discuss the formation of new committees. The council also plans to score 2021-22 grants using an evaluation sheet and schedule a time for grant evaluation. Additionally, members will discuss outstanding final reports from previous year's grants.

• Discussion of new Watertown Cultural Council committees
• Scoring 2021-22 grants using a grant evaluation sheet
• Scheduling a time for the 2021-22 Grant Evaluation
• Discussion of outstanding final reports for last year's grants

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee will review several project updates, including Faire on the Square and the Bike Ped Implementation Plan. The meeting also includes a presentation on an online work order request system by Chief Information Officer Chris McClure.

• Presentation on online work order request system
• Approval of September 13, 2021 minutes
• Faire on the Square update
• Review of High School Planning Committee discussion
• Bike Ped Implementation Plan update

The committee heard from Chief Information Officer Chris McClure about the town's new online work order system, set to launch after the November 2 election, and approved the September minutes. They also discussed bike parking success at Faire on the Square, plans for future events, and a draft letter on high school transportation ideas to be voted on in November.

• Approved September meeting minutes
• Discussed new online work order system with CIO Chris McClure
• Agreed to create a sub-group for Yard Art bike presence
• Dan McKinley volunteered to draft a letter on high school transportation ideas for November vote

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold a public hearing regarding 77 Riverside St. The commission will review a proposal to modify the rain gutter system and eave/cornice work using historically appropriate materials.

• Public hearing for modification of rain gutter system and cornice work at 77 Riverside St.

Traffic Commission

The Commission is reviewing multiple resident requests for changes to parking restrictions and traffic signage. Proposals include new crosswalks, stop signs, and speed limit signage on Maple and Hunt Streets. The meeting also includes a one-year review of town meter rates and time limits.

• Parking and signage proposals for Avon Road and Belmont Street
• Requests for new crosswalks, stop signs, and speed signage on Maple and Hunt Streets
• Request to convert two spaces at 218 Waverley Avenue to 15-minute parking
• Request for handicap-only parking at 22/24 Birch Road
• One-year review of town meter rates and time limits

Board of Assessors

The Board will review the August 24, 2021 minutes and receive updates on DOR submissions and property audits. The agenda also includes a policy discussion regarding the Residential Exemption Percentage and a review of FY22 exemption applications.

• Vote on August 24, 2021 minutes
• Policy discussion of Residential Exemption Percentage
• Review/vote on FY22 exemption applications
• Review of Appellate Tax Board Cases

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the August 24, 2021 meeting minutes and adopted the language in a handout regarding the Residential Exemption Percentage, which currently stands at 25% with a suggested adjustment of 2.5% to 3%. The board also discussed the Senior Work-off Program, noting that decisions on work hours and monetary limits rest with the Town Council, and moved into executive session to discuss confidential exemption applications and open litigation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved August 24, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adopted language on Residential Exemption Percentage as written in handout (3-0)
• Moved into executive session for confidential exemption applications and litigation strategy (3-0)

City Council

The Watertown Town Council will vote on several loan orders for capital projects, including replacing the Town Hall chiller and purchasing new DPW equipment. The agenda also includes public hearings on zoning amendments regarding firearm businesses and short-term rentals. Additionally, the council will review reports concerning affordable housing initiatives.

• $1,628,000 loan order for DPW equipment including a street sweeper and snow trucks
• $1,250,000 first reading for a new Fire Department ladder truck
• $423,826 loan order to replace the Town Hall chiller
• Zoning amendments for firearm businesses and short-term rentals
• $410,000 loan order for DPW sidewalk and utility duct projects

The Watertown Town Council unanimously approved a $5,201,221 amendment to the FY2022 budget to fund design and feasibility work for a new Watertown High School, using bridge funding from the New High School Stabilization Fund. The Council also unanimously approved three loan orders totaling $2,461,826 for replacing the Town Hall chiller, DPW building and utility improvements, and DPW equipment purchases. Additionally, the Council moved forward with creating a Watertown Affordable Housing Trust and referred a short-term rental zoning amendment to the Planning Board.

• Approved $5,201,221 FY2022 budget amendment for new high school design (unanimous)
• Approved $423,826 loan order for Town Hall chiller replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $410,000 loan order for DPW sidewalks, parking lots, and underground duct work (unanimous)
• Approved $1,628,000 loan order for DPW equipment purchases (unanimous)
• Released covenant to build/maintain fence on Bacon Street parcel (unanimous)
• Referred short-term rental zoning amendment to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Adopted affordable housing trust ordinance and dissolution of Housing Partnership (unanimous)
• Requested Nexus Study for affordable housing linkage fees (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and Town Organization will meet to discuss the results of an equity study provided by the Watertown Personnel Department. No other substantive agenda items are listed for this meeting.

• Review and discussion of the Watertown Personnel Department's equity study results

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review minutes from the May 27, 2021 meeting. The commission will also discuss a driveway addition and fence replacement at 18 Palfrey St. An agent update is scheduled.

• Driveway addition and fence replacement at 18 Palfrey St
• Review of May 27, 2021 meeting minutes
• Agent update

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will discuss the FY22 budget, financial reports, and an update on the Red Leaf Café. The meeting also includes discussions regarding patron ban durations and the library's strategic plan.

• Red Leaf Café update
• FY22 budget and financial reports
• Acceptance of donations
• Patron ban duration maximum
• MLS requirement impact on candidate pool

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals will review a special permit request for a single-family dwelling at 200 Palfrey St. on a lot with less than required street frontage. Two other scheduled items regarding Waverley Ave. and Molloy St. were not heard because the petitioners requested continuances.

• Special Permit request for construction at 200 Palfrey St.
• Approval of July 28, 2021, meeting minutes
• Continuance requested for accessibility improvements at 115 Waverley Ave.
• Continuance requested for driveway variance at 23-25 Molloy St.

City Council: Committee on Media and Public Outreach

The Committee on Media and Public Outreach is discussing the continuation of a campaign to increase resident awareness. This effort involves partnering with the IT Department, Town Clerk, and community organizations. The goal is to communicate Charter Review Committee results and information regarding the November election.

• Campaign to increase awareness of Charter Review Committee results and November election ballot information

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will discuss Accessory Dwelling Units and funding for an elevator replacement at St. Joseph’s Hall. The meeting also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust.

• Discussion on Accessory Dwelling Units
• Funds for St. Joseph’s Hall elevator replacement
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program update
• Municipal Affordable Housing Trust/CPA application update
• Nexus study and Local Preference Policy updates

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and Climate Action Plan. Members will also discuss a letter to the Town Council regarding inviting councilors to meetings. Additionally, the committee will discuss working group statuses, including Watertown Electricity Choice contract parameters.

• Vote on a letter to Town Council regarding Brian's proposal to invite councilors to meetings
• Discussion of bid and contract parameters for Watertown Electricity Choice
• Review of Climate Action Plan Report
• Planning for Faire in the Square on September 25
• Status updates on working groups including Net Zero, School Building, and Transportation

The Watertown Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee approved sending an invitation to Town Council President Mark Sedaris for council members to attend future WE3C meetings. The committee also unanimously authorized the Watertown Electricity Choice (WEC) working group to accept indicative pricing for a recommended two-year contract. The meeting included reports on the Climate Action Plan, the Environmental Planner's draft, and updates on solar installations at schools.

• Approved sending invitation to Town Council President Mark Sedaris (unanimous)
• Authorized WEC to accept indicative pricing for a two-year contract (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 7/19/2021 meeting
• Net Zero Working Group to speak on behalf of WE3C (motion and vote)

City Council: Joint Committees

The joint committees on Economic Development and Planning and Human Services will review various affordable housing proposals. These include establishing a municipal housing trust and reviewing a draft community preference policy. The meeting will also discuss potential ordinances for affordable dwelling units and a rental assistance program.

• Review of Municipal Affordable Housing Trust establishment
• Nexus Study for Linkage Fee Program feasibility
• Review of Draft Community Preference Policy
• Discussion on ordinance for Affordable Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Discussion on a Permanent Rental Assistance Program

Community Preservation

The committee will hear a presentation on municipal bonding by Tom Tracy, the Town Auditor. Members will also review updated CPA financial information and receive an update from the Community Preservation Coordinator.

• Presentation on Watertown bonding by Tom Tracy
• Review of updated CPA financial information
• Acceptance of August 19, 2021 meeting minutes
• Community Preservation Coordinator update

The Community Preservation Committee heard a presentation on the town's bonding capacity, with an estimated $20 million available for CPA projects over a 20-year term. The committee approved the August 19, 2021 meeting minutes with an addition. They also discussed potential projects from workshop attendees and agreed to add a discussion of historic resources to the October 7th agenda.

• Approved the 8/19/2021 meeting minutes with an addition requested by Elodia Thomas.
• Added 'discussion of historic resources' to the October 7th meeting agenda.
• Heard that the town's debt limit is $345 million, with an estimated $20 million bonding capacity for CPA projects.
• Discussed potential projects from workshop attendees, including a bell tower preservation and Town Hall mural restoration.
• Noted that the Watertown Free Public Library and Historical Commission are interested in historic resource inventories.

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board is reviewing several applications for special event licenses and business ownership changes. This includes an alcohol license transfer for Condesa Restaurant and a premise alteration for the Mosesian Center for the Arts. The board will also consider manager and owner changes for local businesses.

• Alcohol license transfer for Condesa Restaurant and Tequila Bar at 80 Arsenal Yards Blvd
• All-alcohol premise alteration for Dorothy & Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts
• Change of owner for Direct Tire auto repair license at 126 Galen Street
• Manager change for Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana at 24 Eldridge Avenue
• Special event licenses for Arsenal Yards and Watertown Boys & Girls Club

Board of Health

The Board will consider permitting for Apellis, Kisbee Therapeutics, and Bakx Therapeutics, Inc. The meeting also includes a variance request for 137 School Street TAS and COVID-19 updates.

• Permitting consideration for Apellis, Kisbee Therapeutics, and Bakx Therapeutics, Inc
• Variance request for Melissa Manoogian at 137 School Street TAS
• COVID-19 updates
• Review of August 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Board of Health approved three biosafety permit applications (Apellis, Kisbee Therapeutics, and Bakx Therapeutics) as recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, with all votes 3-0. The board also approved minutes from August 18 and August 23, 2021, with an adjustment, and discussed a chicken coop variance request for Melissa Manoogian at 137 School Street, noting conditions to be met before a permit is issued. No public comment was received, and the meeting included updates on COVID-19 testing clinics, a staffing promotion, and local West Nile Virus cases.

• Approved minutes for August 18 and August 23, 2021, with adjustment (3-0)
• Approved Apellis biosafety permit application with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Kisbee Therapeutics biosafety permit application without conditions (3-0)
• Approved Bakx Therapeutics biosafety permit application with conditions (3-0)
• Discussed chicken coop variance for 137 School Street; permit contingent on meeting requirements

Commission on Disability

The Commission will discuss sidewalk improvements on Riverside, Capitol, and Highland Streets. The agenda also includes updates on the AOTC Butcher Box project and safety concerns at Lexington and Orchard. Additionally, members will discuss approving expenses for Fair on the Square.

• Sidewalk improvement updates for Riverside, Capitol, and Highland Streets
• AOTC Butcher Box project at 311 Arsenal Street
• Expense approval for Fair on the Square
• Safety and access discussion regarding Lexington and Main Streets
• Intersection concerns at Lexington and Orchard

The Watertown Commission on Disability voted unanimously to write a letter of support to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board for a variance at the Butcher Block Project at 311 Arsenal St., allowing a LULA lift instead of a full elevator. The commission also approved up to $750 for Faire on the Square supplies, endorsed the indoor mask mandate (7-0-1), and agreed to help fund accessible Charter review materials (7-0-1).

• Approved letter of support to MAAB for Butcher Block variance (unanimous)
• Approved up to $750 for Faire on the Square supplies (unanimous)
• Endorsed indoor mask mandate with statement (7-0-1)
• Approved funding for accessible Charter review materials (7-0-1)
• Accepted August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted August Treasurer's Report (unanimous)

City Council

The Town Council will review several first-reading loan orders for capital projects, including equipment purchases and chiller replacement. The meeting also includes public hearings regarding Eversource Energy utility work and an executive session on real property negotiations.

• $423,826 loan order to replace the Town Hall chiller
• $1,628,000 loan order for DPW equipment including trucks and a street sweeper
• $410,000 loan order for DPW sidewalk and utility duct improvements
• Public hearings for Eversource Energy conduit installations on Main Street and Coolidge Hill Road
• $5,000 gift from Watertown Savings Bank for Faire on the Square 2021

The Watertown Town Council approved two Eversource conduit installation grants (Main Street and Coolidge Hill Road), accepted a $5,000 gift from Watertown Savings Bank for the Faire on the Square, and confirmed Jeffrey Brown and Jason Cohen to the Planning Board. The council also adopted a resolution on the FY2023 budget process, a proclamation honoring Afghanistan War veterans, and a $19,549 fund transfer for Town Manager compensation. Several loan orders and a budget amendment were introduced for first reading only, with action scheduled for September 28.

• Approved Eversource conduit installation on Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved Eversource conduit installation on Coolidge Hill Road (unanimous)
• Accepted $5,000 gift from Watertown Savings Bank for Faire on the Square (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution on FY2023 budget process (unanimous)
• Adopted proclamation honoring Afghanistan War veterans (unanimous)
• Confirmed Jeffrey Brown to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Confirmed Jason Cohen to Planning Board (7-1, Kounelis opposed)
• Authorized $19,549 transfer for Town Manager compensation (unanimous)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will discuss progress on the Community Path Arsenal/Taylor St. section and preparations for Faire in the Square. Members will also review action steps for Resilient Watertown and updates regarding a 311 system for issue reporting.

• Progress report on the Community Path Arsenal/Taylor St. section
• Planning for Faire in the Square on September 25
• Selection of three action steps from the Bike-Ped Plan for Resilient Watertown
• Update on a 311 system for request and issue reporting
• Update on Little Greenough Blvd

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee met via Zoom and reviewed plans for the new Watertown High School and the temporary swing space at Moxley Field, including bike parking, a Bluebikes station, and a Linear Park extension. The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining agenda items were moved to the next meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed high school redesign bike/pedestrian plans (no vote)
• Discussed Faire on the Square bike rack logistics (no vote)
• Discussed Little Greenough bike station and rodeo (no vote)
• Moved remaining agenda items to next month

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review minutes from the August 12, 2021 meeting and discuss updates to the Demolition Delay Ordinance. The agenda includes a project review for ADA and fire protection improvements at Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Members will also discuss the process for requesting historical significance findings for Community Preservation Act applications.

• Project Review: ADA and Fire Protection Improvements at Mt. Auburn Cemetery-Story Chapel/Administration Building
• Review of Demolition Delay Ordinance updates and recommendations
• Discussion on finding historical significance for Community Preservation Act applications
• Update on Historical Research Training with David Russo

Council on Aging

The Watertown Council on Aging Board meeting consists of procedural items and updates. The agenda includes a review of past minutes and reports regarding Senior Center activities.

• Director’s update on Senior Center activities
• Program Advisory Committee update

City Council: Committee on Media and Public Outreach

The Committee on Media and Public Outreach is discussing a campaign to increase resident awareness of the Charter Review Committee results. This effort involves partnering with the IT Department, Town Clerk, and community organizations regarding information appearing on the November ballot.

• Campaign planning for Charter Review Committee results
• Coordination with the IT Department, Town Clerk, and community organizations
• Information dissemination for the November election

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a special permit request from the Watertown Housing Authority regarding 115 Waverly Avenue. The proposal includes adding three one-story additions for common facilities and upgrading two apartments to be handicap-accessible. The plan also involves converting two parking spaces into accessible spots.

• Special permit request for accessibility at 115 Waverly Avenue
• Review of July 14, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a special permit finding for the Watertown Housing Authority's project at 115 Waverly Avenue (McSherry Gardens). The project, which includes two handicap-accessible units and facility upgrades, will be reviewed by the Zoning Board of Appeals. The recommendation is subject to conditions in the staff report.

• Approved minutes of 7/14/2021 meeting (5-0)
• Recommended approval of special permit finding for 115 Waverly Avenue project (5-0)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will review reports on a community survey and the creation of board subcommittees. The meeting also includes training regarding the upcoming grants cycle and drop box.

• Report on Community Survey
• Training for upcoming grants cycle and drop box
• Report on grant tracking sheet
• Report on creation of Board Subcommittees

City Council: Special Meetings

The Watertown Town Council will discuss feedback from the Attorney General’s Office regarding the City Charter. The Council may vote on proposed changes and decide how to present amendments to voters for the November 2, 2021, election.

• Discussion of Attorney General's Office feedback on the Charter
• Potential vote to approve Charter changes
• Decision on presenting amendments via G.L. c.43B or Home Rule process
• Authorization for Town Manager regarding voter mailings

The Town Council voted unanimously to accept Attorney General-required changes to the proposed Charter revisions, including changing the special election vacancy period from 60 to 64 days and revising the Town Manager's term language. The Council also approved revised language for Section 8-4 regarding rule adoption. It then voted 7-1 to place two questions on the November 2, 2021 ballot: one on changing the town's name to city, and one covering all other charter revisions including the Preamble.

• Approved changing Section 2-9 (a) and (b) to require 64 days between calling and holding a special election, per state law.
• Approved the Attorney General's proposed change to Section 3-1 (a) regarding the Town Manager's term of office.
• Adopted revised language for Section 8-4 clarifying that city agencies, except the school department and library, need council authorization to adopt rules.
• Voted to place the proposed charter revisions on the November 2, 2021 ballot.
• Voted 7-1 to submit two ballot questions: one on changing the name from Town to City, and one covering all other revisions including the Preamble.
• Moved to distribute voter information no later than three weeks before the election, with final timing to be confirmed at the September 28 meeting.

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will review registration applications for Apellis, Kisbee Therapeutics, and Bakx Therapeutics, Inc. The committee will also approve minutes from meetings held in December 2020, January 2021, and August 2021.

• Registration application: Apellis
• Registration application: Kisbee Therapeutics
• Registration application: Bakx Therapeutics, Inc
• Approval of minutes from Dec 3, 2020, Jan 7, 2021, and Aug 5, 2021

The Watertown BioSafety Committee voted to recommend approval of three biosafety applications to the Board of Health: Apellis at 65 Grove Street (with conditions), Kisbee Therapeutics at 300 North Beacon Street (as submitted), and Bakx Therapeutics at 200 Dexter Avenue (with conditions). All recommendations passed by roll call vote. No public comments were received.

• Recommended approval of Apellis application to Board of Health with condition: updated EAP (roll call)
• Recommended approval of Kisbee Therapeutics application to Board of Health as submitted (roll call)
• Recommended approval of Bakx Therapeutics application to Board of Health with conditions: written agreement to Arsenal Labs EAP/chemical hygiene, more detail on community member, more detailed floor plan (roll call)
• Approved minutes for December 3, 2020, January 7, 2021, and August 5, 2021 (roll call)
• Adjourned at 8:39 PM (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The commission will discuss vernal pool updates and EV charging station installation at 480 Pleasant Street. A public hearing for a commercial building at 0 Arlington St has been requested to continue until October.

• Notice of Intent: 2-story commercial building and parking lot at 0 Arlington St (requested continuance)
• Abbreviated Notice of Intent: EV charging stations at 480 Pleasant Street
• Informational Update: Vernal pool at Mount Auburn Cemetery
• Public Hearing: DCR Charles River Lower Basin Aquatic Management Program

Board of Assessors

The Watertown Board of Assessors will meet to approve July 27 minutes and sign warrants. The agenda includes updates on personal property audits and cyclical reinspections. The Board will also enter executive session to review FY22 exemption applications and Appellate Tax Board cases.

• Approval of July 27, 2021 minutes
• Signing of warrants
• Updates on personal property audits and cyclical reinspections
• Review of FY22 exemption applications
• Review of Appellate Tax Board cases

The Watertown Board of Assessors approved the July 27, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. The board discussed office updates, including new staff and a personal property audit, and scheduled the next meeting for September 28, 2021. The board then voted unanimously to enter executive session to review a confidential abatement application and discuss open litigation, and the public meeting did not reconvene.

• Approved July 27, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Moved into executive session to review abatement application #42 and discuss open litigation (3-0)

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning is conducting interviews for two individuals seeking reappointment to the Planning Board. The terms for these positions expire on February 15, 2024.

• Interview with Jeffrey W. Brown for Planning Board reappointment
• Interview with Jason D. Cohen for Planning Board reappointment

Board of Health

The Watertown Board of Health will hold a remote meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes an order regarding wearing face coverings indoors for August 2021.

• Order on wearing face coverings indoors

The Watertown Board of Health voted 3-0 to approve an indoor face covering mandate for public spaces, effective August 25, 2021. The mandate applies to individuals aged 5 and over, including private clubs and houses of worship, and will remain in effect until CDC risk classification changes and the board modifies or rescinds it. The decision was based on rising COVID-19 cases, including breakthrough infections.

• Approved indoor face covering mandate for public spaces (3-0)
• Set mandate age threshold at 5 years and older
• Mandate includes private clubs and houses of worship
• Order effective August 25, 2021, until CDC risk classification changes

Community Preservation

The committee will hear a presentation regarding bonding for CPA projects. Members will also discuss 'Faire on the Square – CPA Table' and review updated financial information.

• Presentation on Bonding CPA Projects by Stuart Saginor
• Updated CPA Financial Information
• Discussion: Faire on the Square – CPA Table
• Acceptance of July 15, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Community Preservation Committee met remotely and approved a motion to create a subcommittee to plan the committee's table at the Faire on the Square event, with a budget not to exceed $500. The committee also heard a presentation on bonding CPA projects, deferred an updated financial report to next month, and approved the July 15 meeting minutes.

• Approved subcommittee to plan Faire on the Square table with budget up to $500 (8-0)
• Approved July 15, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 present, 1 abstention)

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board is reviewing various special licenses for upcoming events at 465 Mt Auburn Street and 47 Nichols Ave. The board will also consider applications for new common victualler licenses and transfers of all-alcohol licenses.

• Special event licenses for St James Armenian Church and AEC
• All Alcohol Common Victualler license for Nzuko at 60 Howard Street
• Common Victualler License applications for 93 School Street, 1 Crawford Street, and 100 Bond Square
• All-alcohol license transfers for Bar ‘Cino, Cha Yen Thai, and Condesa Restaurant & Tequila Bar

Board of Health

The Watertown Board of Health will review meeting minutes from July 21, 2021. The agenda includes updates on COVID-19 community status and masking in public buildings. The Board will also consider biosafety permitting for Selecta Biosciences.

• Permit approval for Selecta Biosciences at 65 Grove Street
• Review of July 21, 2021 meeting minutes
• COVID-19 community status update and masking in public buildings

The Board of Health approved the Selecta Biosciences biosafety permit application, as recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, with all conditions met. The board also approved the July 21, 2021 meeting minutes with an adjustment. A vote on a mask mandate for public buildings was scheduled for August 23, 2021, but no decision was made at this meeting.

• Approved Selecta Biosciences biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved July 21, 2021 meeting minutes with adjustment (3-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission will discuss street accessibility issues, including detectable warnings at Lexington and Main Streets. The meeting also features a guest speaker from Veterans Services.

• Guest speaker Patrick George, Veterans Services Officer
• Detectable warnings at Lexington & Main Streets
• Intersection safety at Lexington and Orchard
• Watertown Faire on the Square update

The Watertown Commission on Disability met via Zoom and unanimously accepted the May meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report for May. The meeting featured a guest presentation from Patrick George, the Veteran Service Officer, who discussed benefits for disabled veterans. No substantive policy decisions were made; the commission discussed upcoming outreach at the Watertown Faire on the Square and ongoing sidewalk issues.

• Accepted May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report for May (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The commission is scheduled to discuss recommendations for updating the Demolition Delay Ordinance. The meeting also includes updates on the Historic Plaque Program and a discussion regarding historic significance within the Community Preservation Act Plan.

• Review of Demolition Delay Ordinance updates
• Updates on Historic Plaque Program and Historical Research Training
• Discussion on historic significance for the Community Preservation Act Plan
• Review of June 10, 2021, meeting minutes

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will meet to discuss its plans for the 2021-22 year. The discussion will include priorities, grants, surveys, and future planning.

• Discussion of 2021-22 priorities
• Discussion of grants
• Discussion of surveys
• Discussion of future plans

City Council

The Town Council will consider proposed charter amendments and hold a public hearing regarding an ordinance to amend the Town Manager’s compensation. The agenda also includes reviewing pedestrian easements and accepting gifts for local programs.

• Vote on proposed charter amendments to be sent to the Attorney General
• Public hearing on an ordinance amending Town Manager compensation
• Acceptance of a $5,000 gift for the Pequossette Summer Program
• Order accepting pedestrian and bicycle easements at 330, 340, and 350 Pleasant Street
• Resolution to accept a $150 gift for 'Faire on the Square 2021'

The Watertown Town Council voted 7-1 to accept proposed charter revisions from the Charter Review Committee and send them to the Attorney General for review, with subsequent submission to voters in the November election. The council also unanimously approved a 2% salary increase and 1.5% performance bonus for the Town Manager for FY21, and a 2% salary increase for FY22. Several gifts of funds and pedestrian/bicycle easements were accepted unanimously.

• Accepted Charter Review Committee report as amended (unanimous)
• Approved proposed charter revisions (7-1, Kounelis opposed)
• Sent charter amendments to Attorney General for review and voter submission (7-1, Kounelis opposed)
• Approved Town Manager compensation ordinance with 2% raise and 1.5% bonus (unanimous)
• Accepted $150 gift for Faire on the Square 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted $5,000 gift for Pequossette Summer Program (unanimous)
• Accepted pedestrian/bicycle easements at 330-350 Pleasant Street (unanimous)
• Proceeded with Town Manager search RFP as amended (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will discuss municipal practices regarding zoning and licensing regulations for firearms businesses. The committee will also consider recommendations for Watertown.

• Discussion of municipal practices on zoning and licensing regulations for firearms businesses
• Consideration of recommendations for Watertown

BioSafety Committee

The committee will review a registration application for Apellis Bio. Members will also discuss draft procedural documents regarding how biotechnology regulations apply to different types of life science work.

• Registration application for Apellis Bio
• Review of draft biotechnology regulation procedural document
• Approval of meeting minutes from December 2020, January 2021, June 2021, and July 2021

The Watertown BioSafety Committee approved Selecta Biosciences' registration application for 65 Grove Street, recommending approval to the Board of Health with conditions requiring expanded IBC minutes and risk management details by August 13, 2021. The committee tabled minutes approvals for December 2020 and January 2021 until September, and tabled the Arpellis registration review until September. No public comments were received.

• Approved Selecta Biosciences application with conditions (4-0)
• Tabled Arpellis registration review until September 2021
• Tabled minutes approvals for Dec 3, 2020 and Jan 7, 2021 until September 2021
• Approved minutes for June 3, 2021 and July 8, 2021

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will discuss feedback from KP Law and the Collins Center regarding proposed charter changes. The committee is scheduled to vote on recommended changes to send to the Council and on a final report. Members will also review and edit the text of the final report.

• Vote on recommended charter changes to send to Council
• Vote on the final report
• Discussion of feedback from KP Law and the Collins Center
• Review and approval of meeting minutes from April, June, and July 2021

The Charter Review Committee met remotely and approved minutes from prior meetings. They discussed and voted on several proposed charter changes, including adding a timeline for establishing a Human Rights Commission. The committee also reviewed edits to various sections, such as definitions and vacancy procedures, but did not finalize the full set of changes or the final report.

• Approved minutes from April 6, June 15, June 29, and July 6, 2021 (13-0-1)
• Adopted amendment requiring City Council to adopt Human Rights Commission ordinance by June 30, 2023 (unanimous)
• Discussed but did not resolve whether consultants should be included in analysts section (2-7c)
• Discussed but did not finalize changes to vacancy wording in sections 2-9(c) and (d)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will review July meeting minutes and receive updates on several projects, including the Bike Ped Implementation Plan and Little Greenough Blvd. The committee will also discuss preparations for Faire in the Square and a Farmers' Market transportation table.

• Purchasing bike racks for Faire in the Square
• Bike Ped Implementation Plan update
• Resilient Watertown and Little Greenough Blvd updates
• Farmers’ Market Transportation Table on September 8

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee met via Zoom and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They discussed several initiatives, including securing bike parking at the Faire on the Square, providing input on new wayfinding signage and Bluebikes station locations, and planning a bike repair and rodeo event on Little Greenough. No formal votes were taken; all items were discussions or updates.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Secured two parking spaces for bike parking at Faire on the Square
• Discussed renting bike racks or valet for Faire on the Square
• Planned to request cost info for buying bike racks
• Discussed input on wayfinding signage locations
• Discussed decision on Bluebikes station locations by October
• Tentatively scheduled Little Greenough bike event for 9/18 with rain date 9/19
• Invited Christy Murphy to September meeting to discuss bike/ped access to new schools

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals is reviewing a request for a three-story research and development laboratory building at 23-29 Elm Street. The board also reviewed minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting. Two other petitions regarding School Street and Molloy Street were continued without being heard.

• Special Permit for a three-story research & development laboratory at 23-29 Elm St
• Request to increase floor-area ratio at 133 School St (continued)
• Variance request for driveway and parking at 23-25 Molloy St (continued to Sept 22, 2021)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting. The agenda also includes a presentation regarding the conversion of 50 apartments to Limited Liability Company status.

• Vote on acceptance of June 22, 2021 meeting minutes
• Watertown Housing Authority presentation on converting 50 apartments to LLC status

The Watertown Board of Assessors met on July 27, 2021, and voted to accept the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting. The board also received a presentation from the Watertown Housing Authority regarding the conversion of 50 apartments to Limited Liability Company status. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Accepted minutes of June 22, 2021 meeting
• Heard Watertown Housing Authority presentation on conversion of 50 apartments to LLC status

City Council: Special Meetings

The Town Council will discuss and take action on a citizens' petition concerning a Memorandum of Understanding with Buckingham, Browne and Nichols. The Council will also consider referring a public awareness campaign for the November election to the Committee on Media and Public Outreach.

• Discussion and action on Citizens’ Petition regarding MOU with Buckingham, Browne and Nichols
• Referral of Charter Review awareness campaign to the Committee on Media and Public Outreach

Board of Health

The Board will review minutes from the June 9, 2021 meeting and hear public comments on health matters. The agenda includes consideration of permit approvals for various biosafety committee entities. Staffing and department updates are also scheduled.

• Approval of June 9, 2021 meeting minutes
• Permit approvals for Sai Life Sciences, Addgene, Kymera Therapeutics, Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics, Inc, KeyBio Systems LLC, and Exo Therapeutics

The Watertown Board of Health approved six biosafety permit applications recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, covering Sai Life Sciences, Addgene, Twenty-Eight Seven Therapeutics, Kymera Therapeutics, KeyBio Systems, and Exo Therapeutics. The board also approved the June 9, 2021 meeting minutes. No public comment was made, and the meeting ended early due to a scheduling conflict with Watertown Cable Access.

• Approved Sai Life Sciences biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved Addgene biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved Twenty-Eight Seven Therapeutics biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved Kymera Therapeutics biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved KeyBio Systems biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved Exo Therapeutics biosafety permit (3-0)
• Approved June 9, 2021 meeting minutes (2-0)

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will hold a presentation and discussion regarding Accessory Dwelling Units. The meeting also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, and Local Preference Policy.

• Presentation/discussion on Accessory Dwelling Units
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program update
• Municipal Affordable Housing Trust update
• Local Preference Policy update
• Approval of June 15, 2021 meeting minutes

City Council: Ad Hoc Committees

The Ad Hoc Subcommittee for the Town Manager Search will meet to discuss developing a Request for Proposal. This action is intended to begin the process of searching for a new Town Manager.

• Development of a Request for Proposal to begin the Town Manager search process

City Council: Committee on Public Safety

The Committee on Public Safety will continue discussions regarding the current operations and services provided by the Watertown Police Department. The agenda includes reviews of police reform proposals, use of force policies, and community advisory board proposals.

• Discussion of Watertown Police Department operations and services
• Review of police reform proposals from Watertown Citizens for Black Lives
• Proposals for a Police Community Advisory Board (PCAB)
• Review of WPD use of force policy changes
• Discussion of Kingian Response Team training and community pledge proposals

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and regarding the Climate Action Plan. Members will also discuss the status of several working groups, including school outreach and electricity choice.

• Approval of minutes from June 21, 2021 meeting
• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Status discussion of working groups including Net Zero and Electricity Choice

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee approved the minutes from its June 21 meeting. Members discussed plans for a table at Faire in the Square on September 25, an upcoming Climate Action Plan stakeholder meeting on July 27, and progress on the Watertown Electricity Choice campaign. The committee agreed to consider inviting town councilors to future meetings, with details to be discussed at the next meeting on September 20.

• Approved the minutes of the June 21, 2021 meeting
• Agreed to have a table at Faire in the Square on September 25, 2021
• Discussed plans for a Climate Action Plan stakeholder meeting on July 27, 2021
• Agreed to consider inviting town councilors to future meetings, with details to be discussed at the next meeting

Community Preservation

The Committee will discuss the CPA Project Evaluation Matrix and address Community Preservation Coalition membership renewal. The agenda also includes the acceptance of meeting minutes from June 3 and June 17, 2021.

• Discussion regarding the CPA Project Evaluation Matrix
• Community Preservation Coalition membership renewal
• Acceptance of June 3, 2021, and June 17, 2021, meeting minutes

The Community Preservation Committee approved the revised Application Evaluation Matrix, adding 'appropriate' before 'public access' in the first criterion under Community Needs and Values. They also renewed their Community Preservation Coalition membership for $4,350 and voted to resume remote meetings via Zoom until further notice, with one member voting against. The minutes from June 3 and June 17 were accepted with amendments.

• Approved the revised Application Evaluation Matrix as amended with the word 'appropriate'.
• Renewed Community Preservation Coalition membership at a cost of $4,350.
• Voted to resume remote meetings via Zoom until further notice (7-1, Dennis Duff opposed).
• Accepted the June 3, 2021 meeting minutes with proposed changes.
• Accepted the June 17, 2021 meeting minutes as amended.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:54 PM.

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will consider applications for one-day wine and malt licenses at 440 Talcott St for upcoming summer events. The board will also review the minutes from the June 17, 2021 meeting.

• One Day Wine & Malt License for opera concerts at Commanders Mansion
• One Day Wine & Malt License for a concert, comedy, and literary series at Commanders Mansion
• Acceptance of June 17, 2021 meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The Watertown Conservation Commission will hold a virtual meeting to continue public hearings for two major development projects near the Charles River. The agenda includes a proposal for a two-story commercial building on the Williams Pond parcel and interior renovations at 64 Pleasant Street. Additionally, the commission will hear from the DCR regarding the Charles River Lower Basin Aquatic Management Program and review updates on the Climate and Energy Plan.

• Public Hearing (Continued): Notice of Intent for 64 Pleasant Street for interior renovations and parking reconfiguration
• Public Hearing (Continued): Notice of Intent for 0 Arlington St (Williams Pond Parcel) to construct a 2-story commercial building
• Certificate of Compliance: 0 Arlington St (Sawins Pond Parcel) to close out expired Order #321-0145
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for DCR Charles River Lower Basin Aquatic Management Program
• Agent Report: Updates on Climate and Energy Plan, Pollinator update, and Arsenal Park phase B

Planning Board

The Watertown Planning Board voted 4-0 to approve an amendment to the existing Campus Master Plan for 311 Arsenal Street, including conditional approval of Buildings 1 and 2, as detailed in the amended staff report. The board also approved a Site Plan Review for 64 Pleasant Street, also by a 4-0 vote, with 22 conditions. Both decisions were made at the regular monthly meeting on July 14, 2021.

• Approved the amendment to the Campus Master Plan for 311 Arsenal Street, with conditional approval of Buildings 1 and 2, as stated in the amended staff report (4-0).
• Approved the Site Plan Review for 64 Pleasant Street under Section 9.03, with 22 conditions (4-0).
• Approved the minutes of the 6/9/2021 Planning Board meeting as amended (4-0).
• Approved the minutes of the 6/14/2021 Planning Board meeting as amended (4-0).

City Council

The Town Council will consider a $1.5 million loan order for reconstructing Waverley Avenue, including sidewalks and bike lanes. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding water and sewer rates for fiscal year 2022. Additionally, the council will review several fund transfers and appointments to local boards.

• $1,500,000 loan order for Waverley Avenue reconstruction
• Public hearing and vote on FY2022 water and sewer rates
• $2,000,000 transfer to Land/Open Space Stabilization Fund
• $30,000 transfer for a new '311' Customer Service System contract
• First reading of ordinance amending Town Manager compensation

The Town Council unanimously approved a 3.2% increase in water and sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2022, along with a $1.5 million loan order for reconstructing Waverley Avenue. Several fund transfers were approved, including $390,000 for energy efficiency projects, $30,000 for a 311 system, $500,000 for a new high school stabilization fund, and $2 million for land/open space acquisition. The council also confirmed appointments to the Planning Board and Board of Health, and referred ARPA spending prioritization to a committee.

• Approved FY2022 water and sewer rate increase of 3.2% (unanimous)
• Approved $1.5M loan order for Waverley Avenue reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved $390,000 transfer to ESCO Capital Project Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 transfer for 311 Customer Service System (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 transfer to New High School Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000,000 transfer to Acquisition of Land/Open Space Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Confirmed Abigail Hammett to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Confirmed Dr. Barbara Beck to Board of Health (unanimous)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will introduce new members and approve June 7 minutes. Members will discuss future meeting formats and plans for the September 25 Faire in the Square. The committee will also receive updates on the Bike Ped Implementation Plan, Bluebikes data, and Little Greenough Blvd.

• Introductions of new members Hannah Rakoff and Dan McKinley
• Planning for bike access at Faire in the Square on September 25
• Updates on Bike Ped Implementation Plan and Bluebikes data
• Updates on Little Greenough Blvd and New School Buildings

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee voted to hold future meetings in a hybrid format, meeting in person with remote participation, pending room availability. They also decided to explore providing expanded bike parking at the September 25 Faire on the Square instead of having a table, and approved the June 7 minutes.

• Approved June 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• Voted to meet in person/hybrid in August, pending Lower Hearing Room readiness
• Decided to explore bike corral options for Faire on the Square, with a sub-group to investigate
• Agreed to have Laura discuss Bluebikes availability at nearby stations for the Faire
• Noted DPW's new online reporting system and upcoming Town 311 system for maintenance issues
• Discussed Bluebikes ridership shortfall and two new station installations
• Agreed to resend a letter to the School Building Committee about bike-friendly school designs

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will review biosafety permit applications for multiple companies. The committee also plans to schedule a special meeting to continue discussing WBSC procedures.

• Permit application: Sai Life Sciences
• Permit application: Addgene
• Permit application: Kymera Therapeutics
• Permit application: Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics, Inc
• Permit application: KeyBio Systems LLC

The Watertown BioSafety Committee recommended approval of six biosafety lab applications to the Board of Health, each with specific conditions such as training outlines, larger floor plans, and certificates of liability. All votes were 4-0 in favor. The committee tabled minutes approval until August 5, 2021, and noted that Vertex's application was incomplete.

• Recommended approval of Sai Life Sciences application with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Addgene application with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Kymera Therapeutics application with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of 28-7 Therapeutic Inc application with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of KeyBio Systems LLC application with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Exo Therapeutics application with conditions (4-0)
• Tabled minutes approval until August 5, 2021
• Noted Vertex application incomplete, requiring IBC minutes for next month

Charter Review Committee

The committee will discuss remaining priority items including the Preamble, City/Town Designation, and Manager powers. Members will also continue discussions on definitions, transition provisions, and various charter articles. The meeting includes a review of the final report text.

• Discussion of Preamble, City/Town Designation, and Manager powers
• Continuation of discussion on Definitions and Transition Provisions
• Review of Articles 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9
• Review and editing of the Final Report text
• Communications Committee update

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted on several proposed changes to the town charter. It adopted a preamble with a new guiding principle, changed references from 'town' to 'city', adjusted the charter review cycle, and approved new language on manager appointments, community engagement, and data reporting. Several other proposals were rejected or withdrawn.

• Adopted Preamble with added 'Accountability and Transparency' principle (13-1)
• Changed charter references from 'Town' to 'City' (10-4)
• Adopted Collins Center language for Charter Review Committee composition (12-2)
• Changed charter review year from ending in '0' to ending in '6' (13-1)
• Adopted language for town council to appropriate funds for committee review (unanimous)
• Adopted language requiring town manager to meet with council before department head searches (unanimous)
• Adopted creation of Community Engagement Officer position (9-5)
• Adopted data and performance management initiative language (unanimous)

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will hold a special hearing regarding two special license applications. The items include a cultural event at St. James Armenian Church and a fundraiser at 47 Nichols Ave.

• Special license for cultural event at 465 Mt Auburn Street
• Special license for fundraiser at 47 Nichols Ave
• Comments by Board Clerk and Police Department

The Watertown Licensing Board approved two one-day alcohol license requests for events at Commander's Mansion, both subject to clear signage requirements. Two other license applications were continued to August 19, 2021, due to incomplete notification or notice posting issues. The board also agreed to hold its August meeting in person.

• Approved one-day alcohol licenses for Opera/Concert Series at Commander's Mansion, July 22-25, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved one-day alcohol licenses for Concert/Comedy/Literary Series at Commander's Mansion, July 28 and August 4, 2021 (3-0)
• Continued Chikama Phase 2 LLC d/b/a Nzuko Restaurant's All Alcohol Common Victualer License hearing to August 19, 2021
• Continued Condesa Watertown, LLC's transfer of All Alcohol Common Victualer License hearing to August 19, 2021
• Agreed to hold August 2021 board meeting in person

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee will meet to discuss how to share the Final Charter Report with voters. The committee will consider options such as cable, website, and social media. They will also discuss a timeline for these efforts.

• Expectations for disseminating information on the Final Charter Report
• Options for providing information via cable, website, and social media
• Discussion of a communications timeline

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will meet remotely to continue discussions on Article 2 and Article 3 topics. Members will also begin discussing Articles 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The agenda includes an initial discussion of a draft preamble and an update from the Preamble Committee.

• Approval of June 1, 2021 minutes
• Completion of Article 2 discussions
• Completion of Article 3 discussions
• Initial discussion of draft preamble
• Discussion of Articles 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted unanimously to add a new Section 2-11 to the charter, establishing a Human Rights Commission by ordinance. The committee also approved several other charter amendments, including language for Section 2-5 (v) regarding public comments and requests for information, and a revision to Section 2-7 (d) requiring a five-member vote to remove the town auditor or clerk. A motion to change the appointment of Planning and Zoning Board members from the town manager to the town council failed.

• Approved Section 2-5 (v) as amended, requiring public comments and replies to be posted on the town website.
• Approved revisions to Section 2-7 (d), requiring a five-member affirmative vote to remove the town auditor or clerk.
• Approved a new Section 2-11, establishing a Human Rights Commission by ordinance.
• Approved language for Section 2-8, requiring the clerk to post all council votes, resolutions, and orders on the town website.
• Failed a motion to have the town council appoint Planning and Zoning Board members (3-10).
• Failed a motion to change the town auditor's term to five years (3-10).
• Tabled a motion to refer to Watertown as a city, pending further clarification.
• Approved the minutes of the June 1, 2021 meeting.

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will conduct an interview with Abigail Hammett. The interview is to consider her appointment to the Planning Board for an unexpired term ending February 15, 2022.

• Interview with Abigail Hammett for appointment to the Planning Board

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and Town Organization will meet to consider issues regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Watertown government. The meeting is scheduled for June 28, 2021, via remote access.

• Consideration of diversity, equity, and inclusion in Watertown government

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will meet remotely to discuss policy guidance regarding potential regulations and zoning rules for firearms businesses. The meeting will be held via remote access with public participation opportunities through Zoom, television, or phone.

• Discussion of possible regulations and zoning rules for firearms businesses

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding several property requests. These include a special permit for a laboratory building at 23-29 Elm Street and residential additions at 47 Waltham Street. The board will also review a variance request for parking at 23-25 Molloy Street.

• Special Permit for a three-story research & development laboratory at 23-29 Elm St.
• Special Permit Finding for a new roof, dormer, and addition at 47 Waltham St.
• Variance request for a pervious driveway and parking at 23-25 Molloy St.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the petition for 47 Waltham St. with conditions, as outlined in the staff report, after the applicant revised plans to add landscaping and reorient parking. The board also approved the April and May meeting minutes. The petition for 23-25 Molloy St. was continued to the September meeting to allow the applicant to revise plans and address board concerns.

• Approved the April minutes by a 4-0 roll call vote.
• Approved the May minutes by a 3-0-1 roll call vote, with the Chair abstaining.
• Approved the petition for 47 Waltham St. with conditions, by a 4-0 roll call vote.
• Continued the petition for 23-25 Molloy St. to the September meeting.

Board of Assessors

The Board will vote on the May 25, 2021 meeting minutes and sign warrants for FY22 preliminary real estate and personal property taxes. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Watertown Housing Authority conversion of 50 apartments to LLC status.

• Vote on acceptance of May 25, 2021 meeting minutes
• Signing of FY22 preliminary real estate and personal property tax warrants
• Motor Vehicle commitments for 2020 and 2021
• Discussion on Watertown Housing Authority conversion of 50 apartments to LLC status
• Update on 1st Quarter Bill and Department of Revenue submissions

The Watertown Board of Assessors met on June 22, 2021, and unanimously approved the May 25, 2021 meeting minutes. The Board approved and signed all warrants, including motor vehicle commitments and preliminary FY22 real estate and personal property tax warrants. They agreed to schedule a presentation by Watertown Housing Authority Executive Director Michael Lara on the proposed conversion of 50 units into an LLC, and to invite the assessing department's legal representative. The Board also reviewed Department of Revenue submissions and noted that first quarter bills would go out the last week of June. The meeting adjourned to executive session to review abatement application #42 and open litigation.

• Approved May 25, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved and signed all warrants, including motor vehicle and preliminary FY22 real estate and personal property tax warrants
• Agreed to schedule a presentation by WHA Executive Director on the 50-unit LLC conversion at the next meeting
• Agreed to extend an invitation to the assessing department's legal representative for the presentation
• Moved into executive session to review abatement application #42 and open litigation

City Council

The Town Council will review a $1.5 million loan order for Waverley Avenue improvements and several large fund transfers for streets and schools. The agenda also includes discussions on short-term rental zoning amendments and the implementation of a '311' response system.

• $1,500,000 loan order for Waverley Avenue reconstruction including sidewalks and bike lanes
• Proposed 3% community impact fee on short-term rentals
• $1,955,000 transfer to town streets, sidewalks, and elementary school projects
• $28,500 transfer for police vehicle replacement
• Public hearings for utility installations at 101 North Beacon Street

The Watertown Town Council took several actions on June 22, 2021. It advanced short-term rental regulations by referring amended zoning amendments to the Planning Board and adopting two 3% community impact fees. The Council also approved a revised Eversource grant of location for conduit at 101 North Beacon Street, and authorized multiple fund transfers, including $500,000 for capital projects and $1,955,000 for streets and schools. Town Manager Michael Driscoll announced his retirement for the end of January 2022.

• Referred amended short-term rental zoning amendments to the Planning Board for discussion and deliberation.
• Adopted a 3% community impact fee on short-term rentals (Chapter 64G, Section 3D (a)).
• Adopted a 3% community impact fee on short-term rentals in two- or three-family dwellings with the operator's primary residence (Chapter 64G, Section 3D (b)).
• Approved a revised Eversource petition for a grant of location to install conduit on Irving Street for service to 101 North Beacon Street.
• Authorized a $500,000 transfer to the Capital Projects Stabilization Fund.
• Authorized a $28,500 transfer for a pre-owned police cruiser.
• Authorized a $1,955,000 transfer for streets, sidewalks, and the three elementary schools project.
• Instructed the Town Manager to contract with the Collins Center for a '311' customer service system.

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee will meet to discuss and consider a preamble to the Town Charter. This meeting is scheduled for remote public access only.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager, Environmental Planner, and Climate Action Plan. Members will also discuss a letter to KLA concerning proposed Net-Zero Goals and review the status of several working groups.

• Vote on letter to KLA regarding proposed Watertown Net-Zero Goals
• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Status updates on working groups including Electricity Choice and School Building

The Watertown Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee approved an edited letter to KLA recommending annual updates to the town's greenhouse gas inventory, with the assumption that at least a subset of items can be measured yearly. The committee also approved the May 17, 2021 meeting minutes. Other items discussed included a new shuttle service starting September 7th, a successful clothing recycling program, and ongoing work on the Climate & Energy Action Plan.

• Approved the May 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved the edited letter to KLA recommending annual greenhouse gas inventory updates
• Discussed but did not vote on a press release for the Watertown Electricity Choice program
• Noted the shuttle from Pleasant St. to Harvard Square will operate from September 7th at $1 per ride
• Reported 4,093 pounds of clothing recycled through a town program

Community Preservation

The committee will discuss the evaluation of CPA projects and a proposed application process schedule. The meeting also includes the acceptance of minutes from June 3, 2021.

• Acceptance of June 3, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion on CPA Project Evaluation
• Proposed CPA Application Process Schedule

The Community Preservation Committee voted to accept the proposed application process schedule as amended, adding a meeting before applicants are deemed eligible and moving the CPC meeting to October 7th. The committee also decided to use the evaluation matrix as a qualitative guide, not for numerical scoring, and to simplify it. A vote on the June 3 meeting minutes was delayed until the next meeting.

• Approved the proposed application process schedule as amended, including an additional meeting before eligibility notifications and a meeting date change to October 7th.
• Decided to use the evaluation matrix as a guide, not for numerical scoring.
• Eliminated the narrative column and removed verbs from the criteria column in the matrix.
• Added a 'not applicable' column to the matrix.
• Agreed to simplify wording in the matrix and distribute it to members for comments.
• Delayed the vote on the June 3, 2021 meeting minutes until the next meeting.

Licensing Board

The board is reviewing May 2021 minutes and several applications for one-day special licenses. The agenda also includes reviews of alcohol license transfers and new liquor licenses for various local businesses.

• One-day special licenses for events at 25 Langdon Ave, 465 Mt Auburn Street, 480 Arsenal Street, and 440 Talcott Avenue
• Common Victualler License revision for VR Las Amigas at 218 Arsenal Street
• All Alcohol Common Victualler License for Nzuko – Chikama Phase 2 at 6 Howard Street
• Transfer of All Alcohol and Common Victualler License to Condesa Watertown LLC at 80 Arsenal Yards Blvd
• Transfer of alcohol and common victualler licenses to Broilerplate DBA Branchline at 321 Arsenal Street

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will review a draft Local Preference Policy and the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust. The meeting also includes information regarding the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

• Draft Local Preference Policy
• Municipal Affordable Housing Trust draft and WHP order
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program updates
• Approval of May 18, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Housing Partnership unanimously approved a draft local preference policy and voted to ask the Town Council to endorse it. Members also agreed that trustee removal for a future municipal affordable housing trust should be "for cause," and discussed whether trustees should be town residents. The board approved the May 18, 2021 minutes and reviewed the status of the emergency rental assistance program, with no new housing projects in the pipeline.

• Approved the May 18, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously
• Adopted the local preference policy and voted to send it to the Town Council for endorsement
• Agreed that removal of a trustee for the municipal affordable housing trust should be "for cause"
• Agreed to meet in July and skip August unless a pressing matter arises

Charter Review Committee

The committee will review minutes from several previous meetings and continue discussing items from the last four meetings. Members will also begin reviewing specific articles, including Preamble 1 and Articles 4 through 9.

• Approval of meeting minutes from May 4, May 18, May 24, and June 7, 2021
• Discussion and vote on remaining items from the last four meetings
• Review of Articles 2 and 3 for items raised by committee members
• Discussion of Preamble 1 and Articles 4 through 9
• Update from the Preamble Committee

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted unanimously to adopt new language for Section 2.2(b) defining the council president's powers and duties, including serving as a member of the school committee. The committee also approved, by a 13-1 vote, a new section establishing a Residents' Advisory Committee to assist with appointments to multiple-member bodies, with language emphasizing diversity. Additionally, the committee voted 13-1 to standardize the spelling of 'councilor' throughout the Charter. Motions to limit the vice president to two consecutive terms and to amend salary review language both failed by 4-10 votes.

• Adopted new language for Section 2.2(b) defining council president powers and duties, including school committee membership (unanimous).
• Approved new section after 3-6 establishing a Residents' Advisory Committee with diversity language (13-1, Kounelis opposed).
• Adopted motion to standardize spelling as 'councilor' throughout the Charter (13-1, Feltner opposed).
• Rejected motion to limit vice president to two consecutive terms (4-10).
• Rejected motion to amend salary review language (4-10).
• Approved minutes from May 4, May 18, and June 7 meetings (unanimous).
• Withdrew motion on Section 2-6(a) regarding investigation threshold; requested further clarification on subsections (b) and (c).
• Deferred action on Section 2-5(e) public comment posting; Mr. Ward to provide revised language.

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board will discuss the process for re-opening the Senior Center. The meeting also includes subcommittee reports and a director's report.

• Discussion of Senior Center Re-Opening Process
• Program Advisory Committee report
• Nominating Committee report

The Council on Aging Board approved the minutes from May 12, 2021. The Board discussed the Senior Center's reopening on June 21, aligning with Town Hall, with in-person events starting July 8. The Board also discussed the Nominating Committee's report, noting that Araxie Poladian will serve as Vice-Chair for July and Arlene Smith for September.

• Approved the minutes of the May 12, 2021 meeting.
• Set June 21 as the date for the Senior Center to reopen to the public.
• Scheduled the first in-person events at the Senior Center for July 8.
• Agreed that Araxie Poladian will serve as Vice-Chair for the July meeting and Arlene Smith for the September meeting.

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing regarding requested amendments to the Campus Master Plan at 311 Arsenal St. The proposal includes plans for two new life science R&D buildings and changes to Phase One site improvements.

• Amendments to Campus Master Plan Special Permit (PB-2016-01) at 311 Arsenal St.
• Proposal for two new life science R&D buildings and increased open space
• Replacement of a three-story, 30,000+ SF building with a single-story building connected to the West Garage

The Planning Board continued the 311 Arsenal Street Campus Master Plan amendment to a future meeting, with a 4-0 vote. The board discussed concerns about tree removal, stormwater design, and building placement, but no final decision was made. Staff recommendations and stormwater peer review are still pending.

• Continued 311 Arsenal Street Campus Master Plan amendment to July meeting (4-0)

City Council: Committee on Media and Public Outreach

The Committee on Media and Public Outreach is scheduled to meet remotely on June 10, 2021. The meeting agenda includes a discussion regarding a 311 system.

• Discussion of a 311 System

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold a public hearing to determine if the multi-flat house at 23 Conant Rd. should be preserved and if a demolition delay is warranted. The commission will also review recommendations for updates to the Demolition Delay Ordinance.

• Public hearing for 23 Conant Rd. regarding preservation and demolition delay
• Review of recommendations for Demolition Delay Ordinance updates
• Presentation of the 2021 MHA STAR Award to David J. Russo, Esq.
• Community Preservation Committee update

Council on Aging

The Watertown Council on Aging Board will meet via remote access to review subcommittee reports and past meeting minutes. The board will also hold a discussion regarding the Senior Center re-opening process.

• Discussion of Senior Center re-opening process
• Program Advisory Committee report
• Nominating Committee report

Board of Health

The Board will review the minutes from the May 19, 2021 meeting and discuss COVID-19 regulations. The agenda also includes consideration for biosafety permits for several pharmaceutical companies.

• Approval of biosafety permits for Arkuda Therapeutics, Riparian Pharmaceuticals, Eloxx Pharmaceuticals, Xibus Systems Inc., Explora Biolabs, and Enanta Pharmaceuticals
• Review of May 19, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding COVID-19 regulations

The Watertown Board of Health approved six biosafety permit applications recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, including Arkuda Therapeutics, Riparian Pharmaceuticals, Eloxx Pharmaceuticals, Xibus Systems Inc, Enanta Pharmaceuticals, and Explora BioLabs. The board also approved the minutes from the May 19, 2021 meeting. COVID-19 updates noted zero cases in the past week and Town Hall reopening in June with mask requirements for unvaccinated individuals.

• Approved the minutes of the May 19, 2021 meeting (2-0).
• Approved the Arkuda Therapeutics permit application (3-0).
• Approved the Riparian Pharmaceuticals permit application (3-0).
• Approved the Eloxx Pharmaceuticals permit application (3-0).
• Approved the Xibus Systems Inc permit application (3-0).
• Approved the Enanta Pharmaceuticals permit application (3-0).
• Approved the Explora BioLabs registration with conditions (3-0).

Planning Board

The Watertown Planning Board is reviewing proposals for two development projects. One request involves a new athletic complex at 165 Grove St., while another seeks to amend the master plan at 311 Arsenal St. to include life science R&D buildings.

• Site Plan Review for an athletic complex at 165 Grove St.
• Amendments to Campus Master Plan Special Permit at 311 Arsenal St.
• Proposal for two new four-story life science R&D buildings at 311 Arsenal St.

The Planning Board voted 3-1 to grant the site plan review for Buckingham, Browne & Nichols School's proposed athletic field at 165 Grove Street, based on the Town Attorney's advice that the Dover Amendment protects the educational use. The board also voted 4-0 to continue the 311 Arsenal Street campus master plan amendment to a special meeting on June 14, 2021. The meeting was held virtually and adjourned at 10:40 PM.

• Granted site plan review for BBN athletic field at 165 Grove Street (3-1)
• Continued 311 Arsenal Street campus master plan amendment to June 14, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2021 Planning Board meeting (4-0)

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will conduct an interview with Dr. Barbara Beck concerning her reappointment to the Board of Health. The proposed term for this position expires on February 5, 2024. This meeting is being held remotely.

• Interview with Dr. Barbara Beck regarding Board of Health reappointment

City Council: Special Meetings

The Watertown Town Council will conduct a public hearing and vote on the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding retiree health insurance appropriations and expenditure limits for revolving funds. Additionally, the council will consider appropriating Community Preservation Act funds.

• Public hearing and vote on the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget
• Resolution for FY2022 retiree health insurance appropriation and OPEB Trust Fund expenditures
• Resolution establishing FY2022 expenditure limits for revolving funds
• Motion to appropriate Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds for Fiscal Year 2022

The Watertown Town Council held a public hearing and voted to approve the Fiscal Year 2022 budget totaling $164,430,000, including two amendments: a transfer of $44,395 to Police Holiday Pay and $8,605 to the Town Auditor Full Time Salaries Account. The Council also unanimously approved the FY2022 Retiree Health Insurance appropriation of $4,195,000 from the OPEB Trust Fund, established FY2022 expenditure limits for eight revolving funds, and appropriated $3,051,210 in Community Preservation Act funds. A motion to reconsider the budget vote was rejected unanimously.

• Approved FY2022 budget of $164,430,000 (unanimous roll call)
• Rejected motion to reconsider budget approval (unanimous roll call)
• Approved $4,195,000 FY2022 Retiree Health Insurance appropriation from OPEB Trust Fund (unanimous)
• Established FY2022 expenditure limits for eight revolving funds (unanimous)
• Appropriated $3,051,210 in FY2022 Community Preservation Act funds (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:39 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The Town Council will consider confirming Kathleen Colleary to the Board of Assessors. The council will also discuss a referral regarding expanding sidewalk snow removal ordinances for non-commercial properties.

• Confirmation of Kathleen Colleary to the Board of Assessors
• Referral to explore expanding sidewalk snow removal ordinances
• Parks and Recreation Committee report on Howe Dog Park
• Proclamation honoring Mary Walkowska Cicconi's 100th birthday

The Watertown Town Council voted 6-2 to leave the District D Councilor seat vacant until after the November election, rejecting a motion to interview and appoint a candidate. The council also unanimously approved several items, including signing onto a letter about gas utility partnerships, confirming a Board of Assessors reappointment, and referring sidewalk snow removal expansion to committees. The meeting was held remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• Left District D Councilor seat vacant until after election (6-2)
• Rejected motion to interview and appoint District D candidate (1-7)
• Authorized signing onto Harvard Law letter on gas utility partnerships (unanimous)
• Confirmed Kathleen Colleary to Board of Assessors until May 15, 2024 (unanimous)
• Referred sidewalk snow removal expansion to joint committees (unanimous)
• Adopted Juneteenth proclamation (unanimous)
• Accepted Howe Dog Park committee report (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from May 11 and May 25 meetings (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss a preamble for the Town Charter. The meeting will be held via remote public access only.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will review the Bike Ped Implementation Plan and Bluebikes statistics. Members will also receive updates on Knowles Rd., Greenough Blvd., and the 94 Pleasant St development project. Discussions include the School St./Arsenal St. intersection and bike training.

• Bike Ped Implementation Plan update
• Bluebikes statistics review
• Knowles Rd. update
• 94 Pleasant St development project discussion
• School St./Arsenal St. intersection discussion

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee met via Zoom and approved the May 3, 2021 minutes. They discussed the Bike Ped Implementation Plan with Council subcommittees, reviewed Bluebikes ridership data, and heard updates on several projects including Knowles Rd., Resilient Watertown, and development at 64 Pleasant St. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved minutes of May 3, 2021

City Council: Budget Hearings

The Town Council will hold a series of public hearings regarding the Town Manager’s proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budget. These sessions cover various departments, including Public Safety, DPW, and the School Department. A vote on the proposed budget is scheduled for June 8.

• Proposed $164,430,000 General Fund Budget
• Proposed $19,689,313 Water and Sewer Enterprise Budgets
• Public hearings for School Department and Library
• Public hearings for Public Safety and DPW

Community Preservation

The committee will consider adopting the 2021 Community Preservation Plan and allocating CPA funds for the FY2022 budget. The agenda also includes reviewing previous meeting minutes and discussing graphic designer fees.

• Acceptance of April 15 and May 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Allocation and transfer of CPA funds for FY2022 budget
• Additional graphic designer fees
• Adoption of Community Preservation Plan - 2021

The Watertown Community Preservation Committee voted to adopt the 2021 Community Preservation Plan after amending it to replace the word 'standard' with 'NRPA national median' and to clarify that the open space ratio refers to town-owned land. The committee also approved the FY2022 CPA budget allocation of $3,051,210, set a $500 maximum for additional graphic designer fees, and accepted the meeting minutes from April 15 and May 20, 2021.

• Adopted 2021 Community Preservation Plan with amendments (9-1, Jon Bockian opposed)
• Approved FY2022 CPA fund allocation of $3,051,210 (unanimous)
• Set $500 maximum for additional graphic designer fees (unanimous)
• Accepted 4-15-21 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 5-20-21 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved application packet and forwarded plan to Town Council (unanimous)

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will review registration applications for six biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from April and May 2021.

• Registration application: Arkuda Therapeutics
• Registration application: Riparian Pharmaceuticals
• Registration application: Eloxx Pharmaceuticals
• Registration application: Xibus Systems Inc.
• Registration application: Explora Biolabs

The Watertown BioSafety Committee recommended approval of six applications to the Board of Health, each with conditions. All votes were unanimous (4-0). The committee also established a rotating Designated Reviewer role for Explora BioLabs' client IBC minutes.

• Recommended approval of Arkuda Therapeutics application (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Riparian Pharmaceutics with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Eloxx Pharmaceuticals with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Xibus Systems with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Explora BioLabs with conditions (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Enanta Pharmaceuticals with conditions (4-0)
• Approved minutes for May 6 and May 20, 2021 (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding several development proposals, including a new two-story commercial building at the Williams Pond parcel. The meeting also includes requests for order extensions and notices of intent for utility pole equipment and renovations at 64 Pleasant Street.

• Extension request for Watertown Riverfront Park Restoration Project
• Proposed equipment attachment at North Beacon St. and Charles River Rd.
• Notice of intent for a 2-story commercial building at 0 Arlington St.
• Notice of intent for renovations at 64 Pleasant Street
• Agent report updates on Arsenal Park phase B and the Climate and Energy Plan

The Commission unanimously approved a 3-year extension for the Watertown Riverfront Park Restoration Project, allowing DCR to proceed with construction. It also accepted a proposal for wireless equipment installation at North Beacon St. and Charles River Rd., with conditions to be set later. Public hearings for 0 Arlington St. and 64 Pleasant St. were continued to future meetings.

• Approved 3-year extension for Riverfront Park Restoration (unanimous)
• Accepted proposal for wireless equipment at North Beacon St. and Charles River Rd., with conditions (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 0 Arlington St. and scheduled a site visit (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 64 Pleasant St. to next meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from May 5, 2021, as modified (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:20 PM (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review language from previous meetings and vote on specific items. The committee also plans to proceed through Articles 2 and 3 and begin discussions on several preamble articles. Additionally, the committee will review minutes from May 2021 Preamble Committee meetings.

• Approval of May 3 and May 24, 2021, Preamble Committee meeting minutes
• Review and vote on language for remaining items from the last three meetings
• Chronological review of Articles 2 and 3
• Discussion of preamble articles 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted on several proposed charter amendments. It approved new language for Section 2.10 on annual meetings, including a State of the Town address, an annual public forum, and individual councilor meetings. The committee rejected a proposal to allow the council president to delegate their school committee role, and approved changes to the town manager's duties, including removing a residency requirement and adding a communications responsibility.

• Approved Section 2.10(a) State of the Town message (unanimous)
• Approved Section 2.10(b) Annual Open Public Forum (unanimous)
• Approved Section 2.10(c) Individual Councilor Meetings (12-2)
• Rejected language allowing council president to delegate school committee role (2-12)
• Approved removing town manager residency requirement (13-1)
• Approved language clarifying town manager implements council policies (unanimous)
• Approved town manager communications duty, amended to remove 'in coordination with council president' (unanimous after 9-5 amendment vote)
• Tabled language on town manager annual performance review for next meeting

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The agenda includes a public hearing regarding facade repairs at 120 Mt. Auburn St. The commission will also discuss driveway and fence changes at 18 Palfrey St and siding work at 34 Marshall St.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Public hearing for facade repair at 120 Mt. Auburn St
• Discussion of driveway and fence changes at 18 Palfrey St
• Discussion of siding removal and repair at 34 Marshall St

Traffic Commission

The Watertown Traffic Commission will meet to review April 2021 minutes and discuss two parking requests. These include a request for handicap-only parking at 9 Goldie Street and new signage on Dexter Avenue.

• Request for handicap-only parking at 9 Goldie Street
• Request for 'No Parking Here to Corner' sign on east side of Dexter Avenue
• Approval of April 2021 meeting minutes

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and Town Organization will conduct an interview with Kathleen Colleary. The interview is regarding her reappointment to the Board of Assessors for a term ending May 15, 2024.

• Interview of Kathleen Colleary for Board of Assessors reappointment

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals is reviewing several property applications. These include requests for a new laboratory building, residential additions, and driveway variances.

• Special Permit for a three-story research & development laboratory at 23-29 Elm St.
• Special Permit Finding for a two and a half story addition at 47 Waltham St.
• Variance request for a pervious driveway at 23-25 Molloy St.

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on May 26, 2021, and voted to continue all four petitions on the agenda to the June hearing. The board also tabled the April minutes. No substantive decisions were made.

• Continued April minutes (4-0)
• Continued petition for 23-29 Elm St. to June hearing (4-0)
• Continued petition for 47 Waltham St. to June hearing (4-0)
• Continued petition for 23-25 Molloy St. to June hearing (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will review April 20, 2021 minutes and discuss WHA Conversion regarding PILOT and Chapter 59. Updates on personal property audits and staffing will be provided. The meeting will move to executive session for votes on FY21 exemptions and abatement application #42, after which the public meeting will not reconvene.

• Review/vote on April 20, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of WHA Conversion (PILOT, Chapter 59)
• Update on personal property audits
• Vote on FY21 exemptions
• Vote on abatement application #42

The Board of Assessors met via Zoom and approved the April 20, 2021 meeting minutes with changes to spell out acronyms. They discussed the Watertown Housing Authority's planned conversion of 50 units into an LLC, expected in late 2021, and agreed with legal advice that the transfer is a taxable event.

• Approved April 20, 2021 meeting minutes with recommended changes to spell out acronyms (3-0)
• Agreed that Watertown Housing Authority's transfer of 50 units to an LLC is a taxable event

City Council

The Town Council will discuss collective bargaining strategies with several municipal unions and review a process to fill the District D vacancy. The agenda also includes approving various gift acceptances and discussing firearms restrictions in zoning.

• Resolution to accept $187,253 in donations for the Watertown Food Pantry
• Acceptance of $1,400 for the Saltonstall Park Concert Series from local entities
• Temporary construction easement agreement for property at 204 Arsenal Street
• Adoption of a process to fill the District D Councilor vacancy
• Ordinance establishing a Research Analyst position

The Town Council adopted a process recommended by the Ad Hoc Committee for filling the vacant District D councilor seat, with a 6-2 vote. The Council also approved several gifts and easement agreements, and referred a proposal for a research analyst position to committees.

• Adopted process for filling District D vacancy (6-2)
• Approved $187,253 in gifts to Watertown Food Pantry (unanimous)
• Approved $1,400 in gifts for Saltonstall Park Concert Series (unanimous)
• Approved Ben & Jerry's ice cream samples gift for concert series (unanimous)
• Approved 'Perfect Crime' band free concert gift (unanimous)
• Approved temporary construction easement at 204 Arsenal Street (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to grant of easements for 85 Walnut Street (unanimous)
• Referred research analyst ordinance to committees (7-1)

City Council: Budget Hearings

The Town Council will hold public hearings regarding the Town Attorney and Health and Human Services departments. These sessions are part of a series reviewing the proposed $164,430,000 Fiscal Year 2022 General Fund Budget. Remote participation is the only option provided for these meetings.

• Public hearing for Town Attorney budget
• Public hearing for Health and Human Services Departments budget

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee will meet remotely on May 24, 2021. The meeting is scheduled to discuss a preamble for the Town Charter.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

City Council: Budget Hearings

The Town Council will hold public hearings regarding the Town Manager’s Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2022. This session focuses on Public Safety, Department of Public Works, and Water & Sewer Enterprise Budgets. These hearings are part of a series preceding a final budget vote scheduled for June 8.

• Public Safety Departments budget hearing
• Department of Public Works budget hearing
• Water & Sewer Enterprise Budgets hearing
• Proposed $164,430,000 General Fund Budget
• Proposed $19,689,313 Water and Sewer Enterprise Budgets

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee is holding a public hearing regarding the adoption of the Watertown Community Preservation Plan. The plan outlines the process for requesting funds for community housing, historic preservation, open space, and outdoor recreation projects.

• Public hearing for the adoption of the Community Preservation Plan
• Presentation of Community Preservation Plan highlights

The Watertown Community Preservation Committee held a public hearing on May 20, 2021, to present the draft Community Preservation Plan and gather public comments. No formal decisions were made; the committee is scheduled to vote on adopting the plan at its June 3rd meeting. Public comments addressed open space preservation, the application process, and fund management.

• Opened public hearing on draft Community Preservation Plan
• Heard public comments on plan, open space, and application process
• Adjourned hearing and meeting (unanimous votes)

BioSafety Committee

The committee will discuss which types of life science work fall under the Watertown Biotechnology Regulation. Members aim to craft recommendations regarding BSL-2 and rDNA work exemptions. The meeting also includes a discussion on procedures for experiments requiring Health Department review.

• Crafting recommendations for BSL-2 and rDNA work not subject to regulation
• Defining requirements for exempt rDNA work using BSL-2 materials
• Discussing procedures for experiments requiring Health Department review of IBC minutes

The Watertown Special BioSafety Committee voted 4-0 to recommend that commercially procured human and animal cell lines, tissues, and products (excluding non-human primate material) that have been screened negative for known pathogens be exempt from the Watertown Biotechnology Regulation. Primary human cells or tissues from clinical sources are not exempt. The committee also discussed the need for a 'low risk facility' registration for exempt rDNA work using BSL-2 materials, and considered future lab inspections and protocol changes.

• Approved motion to exempt screened commercial human cell lines (4-0)
• Approved motion to exempt screened commercial animal cell lines, tissues, and products, excluding non-human primate material (4-0)
• Approved motion that primary human cells or tissues from clinical sources are not exempt (4-0)
• Agreed that exempt rDNA work with BSL-2 materials requires a 'low risk facility' registration

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will consider several one-day special licenses for Arsenal Yards and a wedding reception at St. James Armenian Church. The agenda also includes business license transfers, renewals, and name changes.

• One-day entertainment and alcohol licenses for Arsenal Yards
• One-day all alcohol license for St. James Armenian Church wedding reception
• Name change on flammable storage at 39 Watertown Street
• License transfer for Branch Line at 321 Arsenal Street
• All alcohol common victualer license for PHO-SHA at 356 Arsenal Street

Board of Health

The Board will review minutes from the April 21 meeting and discuss COVID-19 regulations. Agenda items include a review of the Watertown Farmers’ Market and Wellness programs. The Board will also consider permits for biosafety committee items involving biotechnology companies.

• Permitting for Forma Therapeutics at 500 Arsenal Way
• Permitting for Forma Therapeutics at 300 North Beacon Street
• Permitting for SQZ Biotechnologies Company
• Review of Watertown Farmers’ Market and Wellness programs
• Discussion of COVID-19 regulations

The Watertown Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 21, 2021 meeting. The board also approved the registration of Forma Therapeutics and SQZ Biotechnologies, as recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee, with unanimous 2-0 votes. COVID-19 updates were discussed, including the upcoming removal of state regulations on May 29th and mask guidance for outdoor sports. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from April 21, 2021 meeting (2-0)
• Approved registration of Forma Therapeutics (2-0)
• Approved registration of SQZ Biotechnologies (2-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission will hear from guest speakers regarding AudioEyes and the Arsenal Garden Project. The meeting also includes discussions on parking complaints, park updates, and street accessibility.

• Stop & Shop AAB parking complaint
• Audible signal for Church and Summer Streets
• Pedestrian crossings at North Beacon and Charles River Road
• Detectable warnings at Lexington and Main Streets
• Intersection improvements at Lexington and Orchard

The Watertown Commission on Disability met via Zoom and heard public concerns about deteriorating sidewalks, discussed website accessibility improvements with the town's CIO, and received updates on accessible garden plans. The commission voted unanimously to accept the April meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report for April. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or referred to other departments.

• Accepted April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report for April (unanimous)

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will discuss local preference policies, including minority participation in home ownership lotteries. The meeting also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust.

• Approval of April 20, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion of local preference and minority participation in home ownership lotteries
• Information regarding the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and federal COVID relief
• Update on the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Housing Partnership reviewed and approved the April minutes, discussed local preference in affordable housing lotteries, and agreed to draft a local preference policy for review next meeting. They also reviewed the emergency rental assistance program and the municipal affordable housing trust status, with no formal votes taken on these items.

• Approved April 20, 2021 minutes with one revision (unanimous)
• Agreed to draft a local preference policy for review at next meeting

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee is scheduled to continue discussions regarding Town Council composition and potential votes on amended Article 2 text. The committee also plans to begin discussing Article 3 topics and receive updates from the Communications and Preamble subcommittees.

• Discussion of Town Council composition and vote
• Review of potential new and amended Article 2 text
• Initial discussion of Article 3 topics
• Communications Subcommittee update
• Preamble Subcommittee update

The Charter Review Committee approved an amendment to Section 2.7(d) allowing the Town Council to establish additional staff and consultant positions by ordinance, with appointments requiring an affirmative vote of at least five members. The amendment also includes language requiring town officials to cooperate with council staff and consultants. The motion passed 13-1, with Member Mello voting against.

• Approved Section 2.7(d) amendment on council staff and consultants (13-1)
• Adopted friendly amendment adding cooperation language (8-6)
• Adopted new Section 2.4(b) on council policy establishment (unanimous)
• Tabled minutes of April 6, 2021 meeting
• Adopted minutes of April 20, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of March 22, 2021 Preamble Committee (unanimous)

City Council: Ad Hoc Committees

The Ad Hoc Committee on District D Councilor Vacancy will meet to continue discussions regarding the process for filling a vacant seat. The meeting is being held remotely in accordance with COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Discussion of the process to fill the District D Councilor vacancy

City Council: Budget Hearings

The Town Council will hold a series of public hearings regarding the Town Manager’s proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budget. These sessions cover various departments, including Public Safety, Schools, and Public Works. A vote on the proposed budget is scheduled for June 8.

• Proposed $164,430,000 General Fund Budget
• Proposed $19,689,313 Water and Sewer Enterprise Budgets
• Public hearings for Public Safety and Department of Public Works
• Public hearings for School Department and Library

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner. Members will also receive an update on MBTA plans for electric buses and discuss the status of several working groups.

• Update on MBTA plans for electric buses
• Climate Action Plan Report
• Energy Manager Report
• Environmental Planner Report
• Discussion of working groups including Net Zero and Electricity Choice

The Watertown Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee approved the minutes from its 4/26/2021 meeting and discussed several ongoing initiatives, including the Watertown Electricity Choice program, the Resilient Watertown climate plan, and the MBTA's electric bus transition. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved meeting minutes from 4/26/2021
• Removed town seal from door hangers to expedite printing (decision made)
• Targeted 12,000 door hangers for distribution
• Continued bidding process for electricity choice, with aggressive renewable requirements
• Proposed webinar format for Resilient Watertown meetings (suggestion made)
• Planned to address artificial turf and tree ordinances in working group
• Encouraged public participation in MBTA and Planning Board meetings

City Council: Joint Committees

The Committees on Economic Development and Planning and Public Works will meet to discuss next steps for the Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan. This meeting is scheduled to be held remotely.

• Discussion of next steps for the Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings to determine if buildings at 104 Arlington Street and 580 Pleasant Street should be preserved. The commission will also discuss updates to the Demolition Delay Review and the Historic Plaque Program.

• Public hearing for 104 Arlington Street regarding preservation and demolition delay
• Public hearing for 580 Pleasant Street regarding preservation and demolition delay
• Update on Demolition Delay Review and Recommendations
• Update on Historic Plaque Program research duties

The Watertown Historical Commission held public hearings on two demolition delay requests. It unanimously determined that the building at 104 Arlington St. and the structures at 580 Pleasant St. are not preferably preserved, meaning no demolition delay will be imposed. The commission also discussed updates to the Demolition Delay Ordinance and the Historic Plaque Program.

• Determined 104 Arlington St. not preferably preserved (unanimous, minus recused chair)
• Determined 580 Pleasant St. structures not preferably preserved (unanimous)
• Accepted April 8, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:45 PM (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review site plan requests for two projects. This includes a request for a five-story light industry, office, and lab building at 57-105 Coolidge Ave. The board will also consider an amendment to allow lab and R&D use at 617 Arsenal St.

• Special Permit and Site Plan Review for 255,000 gross square feet of light industry, office, and lab space at 57-105 Coolidge Ave
• Site plan review for a six-level parking structure at 57-105 Coolidge Ave
• Amendment to Master Plan Special Permit at 617 Arsenal St to allow lab and R&D use

The Watertown Planning Board conditionally approved a Master Plan Special Permit and Final Site Plan Review for a lab/R&D building at 57-105 Coolidge Ave (ARE-MA Region No.77, LLC), with a 4-0 vote. The board also conditionally approved a minor amendment to the Master Plan Special Permit for 617 Arsenal Street (BP Watertown Retail LLC) to add a floor and renovate the building, also 4-0. Both approvals include conditions from the staff report.

• Approved Master Plan Special Permit and Final Site Plan Review for 57-105 Coolidge Ave lab/R&D building (4-0)
• Approved minor amendment to Master Plan Special Permit for 617 Arsenal Street to add floor and renovate (4-0)
• Added condition to 617 Arsenal Street approval: passenger pick-up/dropoff locations to be identified and approved with DCDP staff
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2021 Planning Board meeting (4-0)

City Council

The Town Council will consider several public hearings regarding utility installations at 101 North Beacon Street. The meeting includes proposed orders to authorize funding for sewer, water, and lead pipe replacement projects. Additionally, the council will discuss recycling programs and sidewalk replacements on Belmont Street.

• $1,050,000 for sewer system improvements
• $500,000 for water system improvements
• $600,000 for replacing lead pipes
• Utility installations at 101 North Beacon Street by Eversource and Verizon
• Sidewalk replacement agreement with Cambridge for Belmont Street

The Town Council unanimously approved a $9,440,000 amendment to the FY2021 budget, which establishes two stabilization funds: $6.5 million for land acquisition/open space and $2.5 million for a new high school. The Council also unanimously approved three MWRA loan orders totaling $2.15 million for sewer, water, and lead pipe improvements, and tabled utility pole petitions for the 101 North Beacon Street development to a future meeting.

• Approved $9.44M FY2021 budget amendment (unanimous)
• Established $6.5M Acquisition of Land/Open Space Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Established $2.5M New High School Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $1.05M sewer system improvement loan order (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 water system improvement loan order (unanimous)
• Approved $600,000 lead pipe replacement loan order (unanimous)
• Tabled Eversource and Verizon utility pole petitions for 101 North Beacon St. (unanimous)
• Approved intermunicipal agreement with Cambridge for Belmont Street sidewalk replacement (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will meet to discuss expanding the capacity of the Health Department. The discussion aims to identify unmet needs and determine if existing budgets can cover them or if additional resources are required.

• Discussion with Department of Public Health staff regarding department capacity and budget needs

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee will review progress on brochure delivery, website updates, and Q&A efforts. The committee will also discuss next steps and schedule their next meeting.

• Review of brochure delivery, website, and Q&A efforts
• Approval of minutes
• Discussion of next steps

City Council: Committee on Parks and Recreation

The Watertown Committee on Parks and Recreation will hold a remote meeting to continue discussions regarding the Howe Dog Park. The meeting is being conducted via remote access in accordance with COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Continued discussion on Howe Dog Park

Parks and Recreation Open Forum

The Watertown Committee on Parks and Recreation is holding a remote meeting. The agenda includes a continuation of discussion regarding the Howe Dog Park.

• Discussion on Howe Dog Park

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee is reviewing registration applications for five biotechnology companies. These include Forma Therapeutics, Arkuda Therapeutics, SQZ Biotechnologies Company, and Riparian Pharmaceuticals. The committee will also approve minutes from meetings held between December 2020 and April 2021.

• Registration application: Forma Therapeutics (500 Arsenal Way)
• Registration application: Forma Therapeutics (300 North Beacon Street)
• Registration application: Arkuda Therapeutics
• Registration application: SQZ Biotechnologies Company
• Registration application: Riparian Pharmaceuticals

The Watertown BioSafety Committee recommended approval of biosafety applications from Forma Therapeutics (two sites) and SQZ Biotechnologies, with conditions, and tabled Arkuda Therapeutics' application until the next meeting. The committee also approved minutes from April 1, 2021, and scheduled a special meeting for May 20 to clarify registration vs. permitting requirements.

• Approved minutes for April 1, 2021 (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Forma Therapeutics application for 500 Arsenal Way (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Forma Therapeutics application for 300 North Beacon Street with conditions (4-0)
• Tabled Arkuda Therapeutics application until June meeting (4-0)
• Recommended approval of SQZ Biotechnologies application with conditions (4-0)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Town Cultural Council will hold a remote meeting to conduct elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The agenda also includes a presentation on the council membership process and an update on current grants.

• Nominations and voting for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Presentation on the process for becoming a council member
• Check-in on current grants
• Farewell to outgoing members

Conservation Commission

The Watertown Conservation Commission unanimously approved two major redevelopment projects: the 57 Coolidge Ave office/lab project and the Arsenal on the Charles campus redevelopment at 311 Arsenal St. Both approvals were made after closing public hearings. The commission also discussed a potential fence removal at Arsenal Yards and supported an MVP Action Grant application.

• Approved 57 Coolidge Ave office/lab redevelopment with open space and stream corridor improvements (unanimous)
• Approved 311 Arsenal St Arsenal on the Charles campus redevelopment with public open space (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Intent for 0 Arlington Street to June meeting
• Discussed potential fence removal and invasive species management at Arsenal Yards (no action)
• Unanimously supported Rose to draft MVP Action Grant support letter
• Accepted March 3, 2021 minutes as modified (unanimous)
• Accepted April 7, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will continue discussions regarding Town Council composition from a previous meeting. The committee will also review proposed language for council staffing, policy-setting authority, and the creation of an annual public forum.

• Discussion of Town Council composition changes
• Proposed language for determining Town Council staffing needs
• Proposed language on Town Council's policy-setting role and authority
• Proposal for a State of the Town and/or an Annual Public Forum
• Updates from the Communications and Preamble Committees

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted 10-3 to continue the current practice of electing the Council President by voters at large, rather than by the Town Council. The committee deferred other votes on proposed charter changes, including council composition and terms, due to the absence of Council President Sideris and lack of time. Public comments were heard on various topics, including council salaries, term limits, and the Council President's role on the School Committee.

• Adopted motion to continue electing Council President by voters at large (10-3)
• Deferred votes on proposed charter changes due to Council President's absence
• Deferred discussion of Items 3-5 (staffing, policy role, State of the Town) due to lack of time

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss, consider, and act on the preamble to the Town Charter. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom or television.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will hear a presentation from DPW Superintendent Greg St. Louis. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Bike-Ped Implementation Plan and updates on Greenough Blvd and Birmingham Parkway. Members will also discuss bike training and an Allston collaboration.

• Presentation by DPW Superintendent Greg St. Louis
• Bike-Ped Implementation Plan discussion
• Updates on Greenough Blvd and Birmingham Parkway
• Representative selection for Climate and Energy Action Plan Advisory Group
• Discussion of bike training and Allston collaboration

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee discussed a 9-step implementation plan for the Bike-Ped plan, to be presented at a sub-committee meeting on May 13. Andy Compagna and Amy Plovnick volunteered to represent the committee on the Climate & Energy Action Plan Advisory Group. The committee also discussed updates on Greenough Blvd and Birmingham Parkway, and new business including an adaptive bike program and the high school rebuild.

• Volunteered Andy Compagna and Amy Plovnick to represent committee on Climate & Energy Action Plan Advisory Group
• Discussed 9-step Bike-Ped Implementation Plan for sub-committee meeting on May 13
• Noted Greenough Blvd closed by DCR from mid-April to November
• Discussed adaptive bike program from Franciscan Hospital; Andy to follow up with parent
• Noted high school rebuild plan to keep in same place with Moxley Field as transition space

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will hold a discussion with Planning Director Steve Magoon regarding processes for permitting laboratory and biotechnology facilities prior to Board of Health permitting. The meeting also includes a discussion on the future of the biotechnology industry in Watertown.

• Discussion with Planning Director Steve Magoon on lab/biotechnology facility permitting processes
• Discussion on the future of the Biotechnology industry in Watertown

The Watertown BioSafety Committee met remotely to discuss its role in lab space approvals and safety oversight. Planning Director Steve Magoon clarified that the committee does not determine zoning or prohibit work for non-safety reasons, but reviews compliance with the Watertown Biotechnology regulation. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM (all in favor)

City Council: Committee on Media and Public Outreach

The Committee on Media and Public Outreach is continuing discussions regarding town communications. This includes reviewing a Town Council Newsletter, updates to the Town Council web pages, and priorities from the October 23, 2019 Kitchen Table Conversations.

• Discussion of a Town Council Newsletter
• Updates to the Town Council pages on the Town's website
• Review of recommendations and priorities from the October 23, 2019 Kitchen Table Conversations

Traffic Commission

The commission will consider requests for handicap parking on Spruce Street and new regulations for EV charging spaces behind the library. The meeting also includes updates on pedestrian safety improvements and solar-powered driver feedback signs.

• Request for handicap-only parking at 130 Spruce Street
• Parking regulations for four metered EV charging spaces behind the library
• Pedestrian safety presentations for three intersections
• Update on solar-powered driver feedback signs on North Beacon Street

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding several property requests. The agenda includes a special permit for an R&D laboratory and additions to existing structures. The board will also review minutes from February and March 2021.

• Special Permit for a three-story research & development laboratory at 23-29 Elm St.
• Request for a new roof, dormer, and two and a half story addition at 47 Waltham St.
• Variance request for a pervious driveway and parking at 23-25 Molloy St.
• Approval of February 24th and March 24th, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing and voted to continue all three petitions on the agenda to the May hearing. The Board approved the minutes from February and March. No final decisions were made on any of the petitions.

• Approved February and March meeting minutes (4-0)
• Continued petition for 47 Waltham St. to May hearing (4-0)
• Continued petition for 23-25 Molloy St. to May hearing (5-0)
• Continued petition for 23-29 Elm St. to May hearing (4-0)

City Council

The Town Council will review proposed orders to borrow funds for sewer, water, and lead pipe replacements. The agenda also includes first readings on salary amendments and budget updates. Additionally, the council will discuss collective bargaining strategy in executive session.

• $1,050,000 order for sewer system improvements
• $500,000 order for water system improvements
• $600,000 order for replacing lead pipes
• Resolution to fund agreement with Watertown Police Association
• First reading on amendments to Town Auditor and Council Clerk salaries

The Watertown Town Council voted 4-3-1 to begin a process, defined by an ad hoc subcommittee, to fill the vacant District D council seat by appointment. The council also unanimously approved a $337,200 transfer to fund a police union contract, and heard first readings on several loan orders and budget items. The FY2022 budget was presented but not voted on.

• Approved motion to begin process to fill District D vacancy by appointment (4-3-1)
• Approved $337,200 transfer from Town Council Reserve to fund Watertown Police Association agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of March 23 and March 30 meetings (unanimous)
• Accepted Arbor Day 2021 Proclamation (unanimous)
• Held first readings on sewer, water, and lead pipe loan orders (no vote)
• Held first readings on salary ordinances for Town Auditor and Town Council Clerk (no vote)
• Received FY2022 budget presentation (no vote)
• Referred reappointment of Kathleen Colleary to Board of Assessors to committee

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner. Members will vote on three letters regarding Alexandria Development addressed to the Planning Board. They will also discuss a proposal for WE3C representation at biweekly climate action plan meetings.

• Votes on letters regarding Alexandria Development from Trees, Net Zero, and Transportation Working Groups
• Proposal for a WE3C representative to attend biweekly climate action plan meetings
• Status updates on Watertown Electricity Choice, school outreach, and composting
• Reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner

The Watertown Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee approved a motion allowing its working group to act on behalf of the committee during the bidding process for Watertown's electricity choice program. The committee also approved three letters to the Planning Board and Alexandria regarding trees, transportation, and net zero concerns on the Alexandria-Arsenal on the Charles development, with minor revisions to the trees letter. Additionally, a motion passed to designate Ed Lewis to submit a letter of support for the MVP Action Grant proposal.

• Approved motion to allow WE3C working group to act on behalf of committee during electricity bidding process
• Approved three letters on trees, transportation, and net zero for Alexandria-Arsenal on the Charles project, with revisions to trees letter
• Approved motion to designate Ed Lewis to fill out and send MVP Action Grant support letter template
• Approved minutes of 3/15/2021

City Council: Committee on Public Safety

The Committee on Public Safety will continue its discussion of the Watertown Police Department. The meeting focuses on current operations and services provided by the department.

• Discussion of Watertown Police Department operations and services

Board of Health

The Board will review minutes from the March 17, 2021 meeting and discuss COVID-19 updates. The agenda includes permit considerations for Arranta Bio, MA LLC, Pandion Therapeutics, Platelet BioGenesis, Inc., and C4 Therapeutics. Additionally, the board will receive a social services report and introduce new staff.

• Permit approvals for Arranta Bio, MA LLC, Pandion Therapeutics, Platelet BioGenesis, Inc., and C4 Therapeutics
• Review of March 17, 2021 minutes
• Introduction of Carly Foster, ACO
• COVID-19 updates

The Watertown Board of Health approved the registration of four bioscience companies—Arranta Bio, Pandion Therapeutics, Platelet BioGenesis, and C4 Therapeutics—following recommendations from the Watertown Biosafety Committee. The board also approved the minutes from the March 17, 2021 meeting. No public comment was made, and the meeting included updates on COVID-19 vaccine distribution and staffing changes.

• Approved minutes of March 17, 2021 meeting (3-0)
• Approved registration of Arranta Bio, LLC (3-0)
• Approved registration of Pandion Therapeutics (3-0)
• Approved registration of Platelet BioGenesis, Inc. (3-0)
• Approved registration of C4 Therapeutics (3-0)

Commission on Disability

The meeting includes presentations from the DPW Superintendent and Arsenal Garden Project. Members will discuss audible signals, pedestrian crossings, and sidewalk issues at several intersections. The agenda also covers a parking complaint and special education updates.

• Audible signal for Church & Summer Streets
• Pedestrian crossings at North Beacon & Charles River Road
• Detectable warnings at Lexington & Main Streets
• Intersection accessibility at Lexington and Orchard
• Stop & Shop AAB handicapped parking complaint

The Commission on Disability met via Zoom and heard from DPW Superintendent Greg St. Louis and Town Engineer Matt Shuman about ongoing road construction and accessibility issues. They discussed resident concerns about raised tables on Dexter Road, audible signals, pedestrian crossings, and detectable warnings, with DPW noting that some items are completed or under review. The Commission voted unanimously to accept the March meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report for March.

• Accepted March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report for March (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The board will discuss a conversion involving the Watertown Housing Authority regarding PILOT and Chapter 59. Members will also receive updates on personal property audits and exemptions. An executive session is scheduled to review abatement applications and litigation strategies.

• Watertown Housing Authority conversion discussion (PILOT, Chapter 59)
• Review and vote on specific abatement applications
• Litigation review for Bridge Street Owner LLC
• Litigation review for 71 Arlington Street Trust
• Potential settlement review for VIP Tire and Service

The Board of Assessors approved the March 30, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed the Watertown Housing Authority conversion and its tax implications, deciding to further investigate with the BLA for Cambridge opinion and revisit next meeting. They also discussed hiring a person for the Personal Property Audit, with timeline and budget considerations. No other substantive decisions were made; the board moved into executive session for confidential abatement applications and litigation.

• Approved March 30, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Discussed Housing Authority conversion, decided to investigate further and revisit next meeting
• Discussed hiring person for Personal Property Audit, no decision made
• Moved into executive session for abatement applications and litigation

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will discuss local preference in affordable housing selection and proposed short-term rental regulations. The meeting also includes updates on the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust and a linkage fee/nexus study. Additionally, members will review the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

• Local preference in affordable housing selection
• Overview of proposed short-term rental regulations
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program updates
• Municipal Affordable Housing Trust updates
• Linkage fee/nexus study updates

The Watertown Housing Partnership reviewed preliminary data on local preference in affordable housing lotteries and discussed supporting a 50% local preference for rental units, but no formal decision was made. The group agreed to continue the discussion, potentially expanding it to include ownership lotteries. The Partnership also received updates on the emergency rental assistance program, a municipal affordable housing trust, a nexus study, and proposed short-term rental regulations.

• Approved minutes of March 16, 2021 meeting unanimously
• Discussed supporting 50% local preference for rental lotteries (no vote taken)
• Agreed to continue discussion on local preference, including ownership lotteries
• Noted state funds for Eviction Diversion Initiative, not direct town rental assistance

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review minutes from several March 2021 meetings and subcommittee sessions. The committee is also scheduled to discuss potential changes to Article 2, which covers the legislative branch.

• Review and approval of minutes from March 2, March 16, and March 22, 2021
• Review of potential changes in Article 2, the Legislative Branch
• Communications Committee update
• Preamble Committee update

The Charter Review Committee held a discussion-only meeting on April 20, 2021, reviewing potential changes to Article 2 of the Watertown Home Rule Charter. Topics included adding staff positions for the Town Council, clarifying the balance of power, and considering changes to council composition, term lengths, and the election of the Council President. No formal votes were taken on these substantive items; the only actions were approving prior meeting minutes and tabling the Preamble Subcommittee minutes due to a technical issue.

• Approved minutes of March 2 and March 16, 2021 meetings (unanimous roll call)
• Tabled minutes of Preamble Subcommittee meeting of March 22, 2021 due to link failure
• Discussed adding language to permit Town Council to employ staff, with debate over 'subject to appropriation' vs. 'subject to ordinance'
• Discussed adding language to Section 2-4 to clarify Town Council's policy-setting role
• Agreed to consider including a State of the Town Address and Annual Public Forum in the charter
• Discussed council composition, with most members favoring retaining 9 members and current district/at-large mix
• Discussed term lengths and term limits, with most members opposing term limits
• Discussed whether the Council President should be elected by voters or by the Council, with no consensus reached

Community Preservation

The committee will review a presentation for a public hearing and discuss its promotion. The agenda also includes the acceptance of minutes from March 25, 2021. No specific projects or dollar amounts are listed in this agenda.

• Acceptance of March 25, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review of presentation for public hearing
• Promotion of public hearing

The Watertown Community Preservation Committee met remotely and approved the minutes from its March 25, 2021 meeting with corrections. The committee also reviewed and discussed a draft presentation for an upcoming public hearing on the community preservation plan, and made plans to promote the hearing and make the plan available to the public.

• Approved March 25, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (8-0)
• Reviewed draft public hearing presentation and discussed changes
• Discussed promotion of public hearing, including website posting and library availability
• Adjourned meeting (9-0)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will consider a new Common Victualer License for The Hibernian Club. The meeting also includes the renewal of several livery and limousine licenses. Additionally, the board will review minutes from March 18, 2021.

• New Common Victualer License for The Hibernian Club (151 Watertown Street)
• Renewals for J-M Limousine Service, Hadi Coach, and Lamazi Limousine
• Non-renewals for D & G Sedan Service, Luxury and Comfort Transport, and City Wide Livery, LLC
• Acceptance of March 18, 2021 minutes

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board will meet remotely to review past meeting minutes and subcommittee reports. The agenda includes a discussion about the Senior Shuttle Bus and updates from the Director's report.

• Senior Shuttle Bus discussion
• Program Advisory Committee report
• WCA-TV programs update
• "Notify Me" update
• Discussion of Vice Chair Role membership

The Watertown Council on Aging Board approved the March 10, 2021 minutes and discussed updates on programs, the senior shuttle bus, and reopening plans. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy changes; decisions were limited to approving minutes and agreeing to collect shuttle comments by April 21 for May discussion.

• Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by Carol Airasian, seconded by Dorothy-Jean Brown)
• Agreed to collect shuttle bus guideline comments by April 21 for May meeting discussion
• Esther Keaney accepted role as one-person nominating committee for upcoming Chair election
• Carol Airasian accepted position of Vice Chair for May meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a special permit request for a new light industry, office, and lab building at 57-105 Coolidge Ave. The project proposes a five-story structure with approximately 2 acres of public open space. The board will also discuss residential projects moving to the ZBA.

• Special Permit Master Plan and Final Site Plan Review for 57-105 Coolidge Ave.
• Proposed 255,000 gross square foot light industry/office/lab/R&D building
• Notice that 47 Waltham Street and 23-25 Molloy Street will proceed to the ZBA without a Planning Board Report

The Watertown Planning Board held a public hearing for a special permit and site plan review for a proposed life science building and parking garage at 57-105 Coolidge Ave. The board heard a detailed presentation from the developer and public comments, then voted 4-0 to continue the petition to the May 12, 2021 meeting. The board also voted 4-0 to allow 1-2 family projects to go directly to the Zoning Board of Appeals without a Planning Board report.

• Continued 57-105 Coolidge Ave special permit/site plan review to May 12, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of March 10, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Voted to allow 1-2 family projects to go directly to Zoning Board of Appeals without Planning Board report (4-0)

City Council

The Town Council will consider amendments to allow light industry and research in the CB District. The meeting also includes resolutions for fund transfers to the IT Department and Middle School air conditioning project. Additionally, the council will discuss creating a Public Arts and Culture Committee.

• Zoning amendment for light industry and research in the CB District
• $559,100 transfer to the IT Department
• $101,000 transfer for Middle School air conditioning design
• Resolution to establish a Public Arts and Culture Committee
• Salary increases for Town Council Clerk and Town Auditor

The Town Council unanimously approved a zoning amendment to allow light industry, non-nuisance manufacturing, laboratories/research, and renewable research in the Central Business District, with a note allowing such uses in pre-1937 structures by right up to 4,000 square feet and with site plan review if larger. The council also approved fund transfers for school air-conditioning design and IT improvements, and tabled utility pole requests for the 101 North Beacon Street development. A motion to petition for special legislation on liquor license conversion failed 3-5.

• Approved zoning amendment for light industry in CB district (unanimous)
• Approved $101,000 transfer for Middle School second floor air-conditioning design (unanimous)
• Approved $559,100 transfer for IT improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 transfer for Charter Review assistance (unanimous)
• Tabled Eversource and Verizon utility pole grants for 101 North Beacon Street (unanimous)
• Endorsed revised Wayfinding design with 'Established 1630' (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to establish Public Arts and Culture Committee (unanimous)
• Denied petition for special legislation on liquor license conversion (3-5)

City Council: Committee on State, Federal, and Regional Government

The Committee on State, Federal, and Regional Government will conduct an interview with Jonathan Hecht. The interview is regarding his appointment to the Board of Election Commissioners for a term expiring April 1, 2025.

• Interview of Jonathan Hecht for appointment to the Board of Election Commissioners

City Council: Joint Committees

The Joint Committees on Economic Development and Planning and Human Services will continue discussing recommendations for the Housing Plan. The committees will also consider Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Funds.

• Discussion of Housing Plan recommendations
• Consideration of Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Funds

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee met to discuss and consider the "Steps Forward" brochure. This meeting was held via remote access due to COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Review of Brochure Steps Forward

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review minutes from the March 11, 2021 meeting. The commission will discuss the Vice Chair position and recommendations for demolition delay updates. Members will also address the continuation of the Historic Plaque Program.

• Review of March 11, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding the Historical Commission Vice Chair position
• Review and recommendations for demolition delay updates
• Discussion on the continuation of the Historic Plaque Program
• Community Preservation Committee update

The Watertown Historical Commission met remotely on April 8, 2021, with three members present. They approved the minutes from the February 11, 2021 meeting. After discussion, the commission decided not to elect a vice chair at this time, opting to continue with a single chair. The demolition delay ordinance review and the plaque program were discussed, with plans to compile past comments and train new volunteers. An update from the Community Preservation Committee was tabled due to a member's absence.

• Approved the minutes from the February 11, 2021 meeting.
• Decided not to elect a vice chair, continuing with a single-chair structure.
• Discussed the demolition delay ordinance, with plans to compile past comments for review.
• Discussed the historic plaque program, with members volunteering to assist with research.
• Tabled the Community Preservation Committee update due to a member's absence.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:30 PM.

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works will introduce the new Superintendent of Public Works. The committee will discuss cost/benefit analyses for organic and inorganic waste recycling and potential policy guidance. Members will also address unfinished business regarding recycling surveys and programs.

• Introduction of Gregory St. Louis, New Superintendent of Public Works
• Consideration of 'Simple Recycling' or similar programs
• Consideration of a recycling survey with Republic Services
• Cost/benefit analysis on organic and inorganic waste recycling
• Discussion regarding the reestablishment of the Recycling Advisory Committee

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding several new construction and renovation proposals. These include a commercial building at 0 Arlington St and lab renovations at 580 Pleasant St. The meeting also includes updates on the Climate and Energy Plan and Arsenal Park phase B.

• Notice of Intent for a 2-story commercial building at 0 Arlington St
• Certificate of Compliance for riverbank plantings at 580 Pleasant St
• Notice of Intent for lab and R&D renovations at 580 Pleasant St
• Amendment to Charles River Basin vegetation management plan
• Notice of Intent for life sciences redevelopment at 57 Coolidge Ave

The Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 580 Pleasant St with a statement of non-completion, and approved a Notice of Intent for the same property to renovate a building for lab and R&D space, including a public path and stormwater improvements. The hearing for a proposed life-science development at 57 Coolidge Ave was continued to allow for an arborist report and other responses. A continuance was granted for the 0 Arlington St hearing, and minor amendments to a DCR test plot plan were approved.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 580 Pleasant St with statement of non-completion (unanimous).
• Approved Notice of Intent for 580 Pleasant St lab/R&D renovation with supplemental materials (unanimous).
• Continued public hearing for 0 Arlington St commercial building to allow for 3rd-party consultant review.
• Approved minor amendments to DCR test plot plan for Charles River Basin (unanimous).
• Continued public hearing for 57 Coolidge Ave life-science development; arborist report requested.
• Deferred approval of March 3, 2021 minutes to May meeting.

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and Town Organization will hold a remote meeting. The committee is scheduled to consider compensation for the Town Council Clerk and the Town Auditor.

• Consideration of compensation for the Town Council Clerk and Town Auditor

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review minutes from several recent subcommittee and committee meetings. The committee is scheduled to discuss and vote on the Mayor or Manager form of government. Members will also receive an update regarding communications flyers and funding requests.

• Vote on Mayor or Manager form of government
• Review of February and March meeting minutes
• Funding request for a Charter Review Committee flyer

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted 13-1 (with 1 present) to retain the current Town Council/Town Manager form of government, rejecting a switch to a mayoral system. The decision followed extensive public comment and committee discussion. The committee also approved a motion recommending the Town Manager fund a communications flyer, pending approval.

• Retained Town Council/Town Manager form of government (13-1, 1 present)
• Approved motion recommending Town Manager fund communications flyer (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Feb 2, Feb 16, Mar 8, and Mar 11 meetings (unanimous)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will review minutes from March 1, 2021, and hear a presentation from the DPW Superintendent. Updates are scheduled for the Community Path, Greenough Blvd, and Birmingham Parkway. The agenda also includes discussions on development projects at 99 Coolidge Ave and Arsenal on the Charles.

• Presentation by DPW Superintendent Greg St. Louis
• Updates on Community Path, Greenough Blvd, and Birmingham Parkway
• Discussion of development projects at 99 Coolidge Ave and Arsenal on the Charles

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee discussed the Community Path, noting the Council Committee wants to explore a quicker option along Arsenal Street while still considering the old railroad bed route. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was primarily updates and discussions on various projects.

• No formal votes taken; meeting was informational and discussion-based

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee is meeting to review registration applications from four biotech firms. The agenda also includes approving minutes from previous meetings and a period for public comment.

• Registration application: Arranta Bio, MA LLC
• Registration application: Pandion Therapeutics
• Registration application: Platelet BioGenesis, Inc.
• Registration application: C4 Therapeutics

The Watertown BioSafety Committee recommended approval of biosafety applications from Arranta Bio, Pandion Therapeutics, Platelet BioGenesis, and C4 Therapeutics to the Board of Health, each with specific conditions. Minutes from four prior meetings were tabled, and a discussion on transferring a biosafety permit was also tabled. No public comments were made.

• Tabled minutes from December 3, 2020, January 7, February 4, and March 4, 2021 meetings until next meeting
• Recommended approval of Arranta Bio application with conditions including larger floor plan, removing BSL4 language, and adding spore kill time to safety manual
• Recommended approval of Pandion Therapeutics application with conditions including vivarium protocols and emergency action plan
• Recommended approval of Platelet BioGenesis application with conditions including chemical safety and hazardous waste disposal plan
• Recommended approval of C4 Therapeutics application with conditions including updated chemical safety and liability insurance naming the town as insured
• Tabled discussion of transferring a biosafety permit to another owner or location

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will hold a remote meeting. The agenda includes discussions regarding Wayfinder Grant designs and the Public Arts Master Plan.

• Discussion of the Wayfinder Grant Designs
• Discussion of the Public Arts Master Plan

Board of Assessors

The Board will review and vote on specific abatement applications in executive session. Members will also discuss a settlement strategy for the Athenahealth v. Board of Assessors litigation. The agenda includes updates on personal property audits and the board's website.

• Review and vote on abatement applications
• Vote on settlement for Athenahealth v. Board of Assessors litigation
• Discussion regarding Overlay Account surplus vote
• Discussion on personal property audits
• Update on Board of Assessor’s website page

The Board approved a warrant to collect $50,314.36 in supplemental personal property tax, and voted to declare $1.5 million in overlay surplus to be moved to the town's General Budget. They also approved the February 16, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed website updates, personal property audits, and exemptions. The meeting then moved into executive session to discuss confidential abatement applications and pending litigation.

• Approved the February 16, 2021 meeting minutes.
• Approved the warrant to collect $50,314.36 in supplemental personal property tax.
• Declared $1.5 million in overlay surplus and approved moving it to the overlay surplus account of the Town's General Budget.
• Moved into executive session to review and vote on abatement applications and discuss pending litigation (Athenahealth v. Board of Assessors).

City Council: Special Meetings

The Watertown Town Council is meeting to conduct a public hearing and vote on a proposed update to the town's noise ordinance. This special meeting will be held remotely due to COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Public hearing and vote on a proposed updated noise ordinance

The Town Council held a public hearing and then voted on a proposed updated noise ordinance to replace the 1983 version. The motion to adopt the ordinance failed on a roll call vote of 1 Yes, 7 No, and 1 Present, with only Councilor Bays voting Yes and Councilor Palomba voting Present. The Council President declined a request to amend the motion to refer the ordinance back to committee, but stated he would request a referral at a later session.

• Rejected the proposed updated Noise Ordinance (Chapter 95) on a roll call vote of 1 Yes, 7 No, 1 Present.
• Denied a request to amend the motion to refer the ordinance back to the Rules and Ordinances and Human Services Committees for further work.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously at 8:04 p.m.

City Council: Committee on Rules and Ordinances

The Committee on Rules and Ordinances is continuing a discussion regarding short-term rental local options and related legislative issues. This meeting was held remotely in accordance with COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Continuation of discussion regarding short-term rental local options and related legislation

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee will meet to review and approve minutes. The subcommittee will also discuss flyers and other communication methods for the April 6, 2021, Charter Review Committee meeting.

• Review and approval of minutes
• Discussion of flyer and other communication for the April 6, 2021 meeting

City Council: Joint Committees

The Economic Development and Planning and Public Works committees are meeting to hold discussions on town matters. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the Community Path and a resolution for a climate emergency declaration.

• Discussion on the Community Path
• Discussion on a resolution endorsing a climate emergency declaration

Community Preservation

The Watertown Community Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss revisions to the CP Plan from March 20, 2021. The committee will also engage in planning for an upcoming public hearing. The agenda includes the acceptance of minutes from the March 18, 2021, meeting.

• Acceptance of March 18, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding CP Plan Revision
• Planning for a public hearing

The Community Preservation Committee voted 8-1 to accept the revised Community Preservation Plan as redrafted, with Lanae Handy and Elodia Thomas to incorporate changes into a final draft. A prior motion to make the open space list comparable in style to other sections and identify it as sample initiatives was defeated 3-6. The committee also approved adding a statement that the CPC does not initiate, implement, or manage projects under community suggestions.

• Approved revised Community Preservation Plan as redrafted (8-1)
• Defeated motion to revise open space list to be comparable in style and identify as sample initiatives (3-6)
• Approved adding statement that CPC does not initiate, implement, or manage projects under community suggestions (8-1)
• Approved 3-18-21 meeting minutes (unanimous)

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee is holding a special meeting. The committee will discuss how to best permit unique incubator spaces.

• Discussion on how to best permit unique incubator spaces

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is reviewing several special permit applications for industrial and commercial uses. Items include a new request for a marijuana facility and construction plans for a research laboratory. One applicant has requested to withdraw their case.

• Special Permit for adult-use and medical marijuana at 390 Arsenal St.
• Construction of a light industrial bay at 46 Kondazian St.
• Site Plan Review for a three-story research & development laboratory at 23-29 Elm St.
• One-year extension request for 85 Walnut St.

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals held a remote public hearing and approved two petitions with conditions: 46 Kondazian St. and 390 Arsenal St. The board also continued the 23-25 Elm St. petition to allow the applicant to provide more parking data, withdrew the 90 School St. petition without prejudice, and granted a one-year extension for the special permit at 85 Walnut St.

• Approved 46 Kondazian St. with conditions (5-0), including limiting traffic, landscaping, and matching materials.
• Approved 390 Arsenal St. with conditions (5-0), including closing one curb cut and realigning loading/parking areas.
• Continued 23-25 Elm St. petition (5-0) to next month for additional parking data.
• Withdrew 90 School St. petition without prejudice (5-0).
• Approved one-year extension for 85 Walnut St. special permit (5-0).
• Tabled previous month's minutes to next meeting.

City Council

The Town Council will consider adopting the Watertown Housing Plan and reviewing capital improvement recommendations. The agenda includes public hearings for utility conduit installations by Eversource Energy on Arsenal Street and North Beacon Street. Additionally, the Council may vote on changing operating hours for the Administration Building and Senior Center.

• Adoption of the Watertown Housing Plan
• Capital Improvement Program recommendations and spending limits
• Utility conduit installation grants from Eversource Energy
• Ordinance to modify hours for the Administration Building and Senior Center
• Naming a private way as Arsenal Place

The Town Council approved four grants of location for utility conduit installation by Eversource and RCN, adopted the Watertown Housing Plan, and approved a seasonal change to Administration Building and Senior Center hours. The Council also adopted the Capital Improvement Program recommendations and referred salary adjustment requests to committees.

• Approved Eversource grant of location for conduit on Arsenal Street for 100 Talcott Street.
• Approved Eversource grant of location for conduit on North Beacon Street for 300 North Beacon Street.
• Approved Eversource grant of location for conduit on Arsenal Street for 400 Arsenal Street.
• Approved RCN grant of location for conduit on 485 Arsenal Street.
• Adopted the Watertown Housing Plan, with implementation plans to be brought forward.
• Adopted 33 conceptual recommendations for the Capital Improvement Program.
• Recommended Town Manager maintain FY2022 capital spending at no more than 8% of operating budget.
• Approved ordinance to modify Administration Building and Senior Center hours for summer.

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss the preamble to the Town Charter. This meeting is being held via remote access only due to COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

Community Preservation

The committee will discuss a public hearing for the CP Plan and consider changing the meeting start time. The agenda also includes the acceptance of minutes from the February 18, 2021, meeting.

• Discussion about CP Plan Public Hearing
• Consideration of change to meeting start time
• Acceptance of February 18, 2021, meeting minutes

The Community Preservation Committee discussed and set the format for a public hearing on the Community Preservation Plan, scheduled for May 20, 2021. The hearing will include a brief presentation followed by public comments via Zoom Q&A, with comments limited to two minutes per person. The committee also voted to change its regular meeting start time from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., effective for future meetings.

• Set May 20, 2021, as date for CP Plan public hearing
• Approved hearing format: brief presentation, then public comments via Zoom Q&A, 2-minute limit per speaker
• Approved change of meeting start time to 7:00 p.m. (6-3)
• Accepted February 18, 2021, meeting minutes with corrections

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will review minutes from January 21, 2021. The board will also consider special entertainment licenses for 130 Arsenal Yards Blvd and a manager change for Shake Shack Massachusetts, LLC.

• Special Entertainment License for 130 Arsenal Yards Blvd (April 4 to October 3)
• Change of Manager for Shake Shack Massachusetts, LLC at 106 Arsenal Yards Blvd

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review minutes from the February 17, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes updates on COVID-19 and reports from the Watertown Biosafety Committee regarding several organizations.

• Review of February 17, 2021 minutes
• Biosafety Committee reviews for Werewolf Therapeutics, ALS Therapy Development Institute, Root Path, and Prolacta Bioscience
• COVID-19 updates
• Staffing and department updates

The Watertown Board of Health approved four biosafety registrations recommended by the Watertown Biosafety Committee: Werewolf Therapeutics, ALS Therapy Development Institute, Root Path, and Prolacta BLS2. All motions passed unanimously. The board also discussed COVID-19 vaccine clinic operations and staffing updates.

• Approved registration for Werewolf Therapeutics (motion 3-0).
• Approved registration for ALS Therapy Development Institute (motion 3-0).
• Approved registration for Root Path (motion 3-0).
• Approved registration for Prolacta BLS2 (motion 3-0).
• Approved minutes of the February 17, 2021 meeting (motion 2-0).

Commission on Disability

The Commission will hear from guest speaker Laurence Field regarding the Watertown Housing Plan. The meeting also includes reviews of pedestrian-bicycle plans and ongoing accessibility issues at several intersections.

• Audible signal for Church and Summer Streets
• Pedestrian crossings at North Beacon and Charles River Road
• Detectable warnings at Lexington and Main Streets
• Sidewalk and signal repairs at Lexington and Orchard

The Commission heard a presentation from Senior Planner Larry Field on the Watertown Housing Plan, which was approved in December and is on the next council agenda. The plan includes 25 recommendations, 3 of which relate to disabilities, such as loans for home accessibility, universal design standards, and partnerships with service providers. The Commission discussed these recommendations and provided feedback. The Commission also voted to accept the January meeting minutes and the January Treasurer's Report.

• Voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the January meeting.
• Voted unanimously to accept the Treasurer's Report for January.
• Discussed the Watertown Housing Plan's disability-related recommendations (no formal vote).
• Discussed pedestrian issues, including curb cuts at Watertown Square, and requested a DPW update.
• Reviewed several development projects (Arsenal Yards, Arsenal on the Charles, Coolidge Ave) with no issues noted.
• Discussed school reopening dates and the potential temporary high school at Moxley Field.
• Reviewed safety and access sites, including Church and Summer, Charles River Rd, and Lexington and Main.
• Noted no new business was brought before the Commission.

Watertown Housing Partnership

The Watertown Housing Partnership will review the WestMetro HOME Consortium Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. The meeting includes discussion regarding the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and federal COVID relief information. Members will also receive updates on the Housing Plan, Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, and local preference selection.

• Approval of February 16, 2021 minutes
• WestMetro HOME Consortium Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program and federal COVID relief information
• Updates on the Housing Plan and Municipal Affordable Housing Trust
• Local Preference in Affordable Housing Selection updates

The Watertown Housing Partnership unanimously approved a motion to authorize Steve Magoon to apply up to $20,000 from the CDBG program income account to cover enrolled households whose 6-month rental assistance period is expiring. The decision follows a discussion about the emergency rental assistance program, which has disbursed or reserved all authorized funds and is not accepting new applications. The partnership also approved the February 16, 2021 minutes and took no action on the WestMetro HOME Consortium's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, noting no formal approval was necessary.

• Approved the February 16, 2021 minutes unanimously.
• Took no action on the WestMetro HOME Consortium's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing.
• Authorized up to $20,000 from CDBG program income for rental assistance, moved by Cliff Cook and unanimously adopted.
• Discussed but did not decide on committing additional funds beyond the $20,000 authorization.

Charter Review Committee

The committee will consider a memo from Collins Center proposing a two-track charter review concept. Depending on the vote, members may discuss implementation recommendations or begin direct discussions regarding the form of government. The agenda also includes updates from the Communication and Preamble committees.

• Vote on Collins Center Memo proposing Two-Track Charter Review Concept
• Review of Charter Review Committee timeline
• Review and approval of website FAQs
• Communication Committee updates regarding recent meeting minutes
• Preamble Committee update regarding February 22 meeting minutes

The Watertown Charter Review Committee voted 11-4 to reject a two-track charter review concept proposed by the Collins Center, which would have split work between revising the current charter and creating a new one. The committee also voted 10-5 to hold a public hearing and vote on the mayor vs. manager form of government at its next meeting. Additionally, the committee approved placing FAQs on the website and authorized Marcia Ciro to respond to website questions.

• Rejected two-track charter review concept (11-4)
• Scheduled public hearing and vote on mayor vs. manager form of government for next meeting (10-5)
• Approved placing FAQs on the website (unanimous)
• Authorized Marcia Ciro as primary responder to website questions, with John Gannon and Anne Fitzpatrick as backups (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of January 19, 2021 Charter Review Committee meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of Communication Committee meetings (Jan 28, Feb 11, Mar 4) (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of Preamble Committee meeting (Feb 22) (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Rules and Ordinances

The Committee on Rules and Ordinances will continue consideration of special legislation regarding package store licenses. The proposed act aims to enable local control over transitioning from beer and wine licenses to all alcohol licenses.

• Special legislation for transitioning beer and wine package store licenses to all alcohol licenses

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will review reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner. Members will also discuss updates for the Trees and Climate Change Symposium and various working group statuses.

• Vote on letter to DOT Board and MBTA boards regarding buses
• Update on Trees and Climate Change Symposium scheduled for March 20
• Status discussions for working groups including Net Zero, Composting, and Electricity Choice

The Watertown Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee approved sending a letter to the MBTA and MassDOT urging them to delay a decision on replacing trolley buses on routes 71 and 73 with hybrid diesel-electric buses, and to consider fully electric In Motion Charging buses instead. The committee also voted to send the letter to local officials and the newspaper, and decided to draft a letter to Alexandria and the Planning Board regarding tree loss at the Athena Health complex.

• Approved sending letter to MBTA/MassDOT urging delay of bus replacement decision (motion passed)
• Voted to CC letter to Town Council, state senators, state reps, and others (resolution passed)
• Approved sending letter to recipients first, then to local newspaper (motion passed)
• Decided to draft letter to Alexandria and Planning Board about tree loss (to be voted on next meeting)

City Council: Committee on Public Safety

The Committee on Public Safety will hold a discussion regarding the current operations and services provided by the Watertown Police Department. The meeting also includes a discussion of next steps.

• Discussion of Watertown Police Department operations and services

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss public information materials. The agenda includes reviewing a flyer, an FAQ, and a distribution plan for these documents. The committee will also review proposed changes to their website.

• Review Flyer and FAQ
• Review Flyer/FAQ Distribution Plan
• Review Website Changes

Historical Commission

The Watertown Historical Commission will meet to determine if various local properties should be preserved and if demolition delays should be imposed. The agenda also includes a vote on a committee re-appointment.

• Demolition delay determinations for 85 Walnut St., 33 Flint Rd., and 47 Maple St.
• Preservation review for three buildings at 23 Elm St.
• Vote on the re-appointment of Susan Steele to the Community Preservation Act Committee
• Demolition delay determination for a house and accessory structure at 87 Common St.
• Preservation review for a 2-family house and two structures at 41 French St.

The Watertown Historical Commission voted unanimously that the house and accessory structure at 87 Common St. are not preferably preserved, clearing the way for demolition. The commission also voted 3-2 that the structures at 41 French St. are not preferably preserved, and unanimously made similar findings for properties at 85 Walnut St., 33 Flint Rd., 47 Maple St., 133 School St., and 23 Elm St. The commission reappointed Susan Steele to the Community Preservation Committee. Vice Chair David Russo announced his resignation from the commission.

• Approved minutes from the February 11, 2021 meeting.
• Reappointed Susan Steele to a second term on the Community Preservation Committee.
• Voted unanimously that the house and accessory structure at 87 Common St. are not preferably preserved.
• Voted 3-2 that the house and accessory structures at 41 French St. are not preferably preserved.
• Voted unanimously that the office building at 85 Walnut St. is not preferably preserved.
• Voted unanimously that the house at 33 Flint Rd. is not preferably preserved.
• Voted unanimously that the garage at 47 Maple St. is not preferably preserved.
• Voted unanimously that the garage at 133 School St. is not preferably preserved.

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will discuss COVID-19 vaccine updates and future Grab-n-Go meal events. The meeting also includes nominations for Vice Chairperson and an update on the New High School Building Project.

• Nominations for Vice Chairperson
• Future Grab-n-Go Meal Events
• COVID-19 Vaccine Update & Discussion
• Update on New High School Building Project
• Program Advisory Committee Report

The Watertown Council on Aging board met via Zoom and approved the minutes from its January 13 and February 10 meetings. The board discussed nominating a vice chairperson to lead meetings in the chair's absence, with no formal nomination made. Updates were provided on COVID-19 vaccine clinics, Grab-n-Go meal events, and the new high school building project, but no substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved January 13 meeting minutes (motion by Dorothy-Jean Brown, seconded by Arlene Smith)
• Approved February 10 meeting minutes (motion by Dorothy-Jean Brown, seconded by Carol Airasian)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review proposed changes to the Table of Use Regulations to allow light industry, manufacturing, and research in certain zones. The meeting also includes reviews for marijuana facility permits, site alterations at 580 Pleasant St., and building additions at 311 Arsenal St.

• Zoning amendments to allow Light Industry, Non-nuisance Manufacturing, and Research in 'CB' zones
• Special Permit for an adult-use retail marijuana and medical marijuana facility at 390 Arsenal St.
• Special Permit for site alterations and parking reconstruction at 580 Pleasant St.
• Final Site Plan Review for a two-story addition at 100 Talcott Avenue (311 Arsenal St.)

The Planning Board voted 4-0 to recommend that the Town Council approve a zoning amendment to allow laboratory and related uses in pre-1937 buildings in the Central Business (CB) district, as requested by the owner of 64 Pleasant Street. The board also voted 4-0 to recommend approval of a special permit for a cannabis dispensary at 390 Arsenal Street, approved a special permit for a life science conversion at 580 Pleasant Street, and approved a minor amendment to the Athena Master Plan at 311 Arsenal Street.

• Recommended approval of zoning amendment to Section 5.01 and 5.03 to allow lab and related uses in pre-1937 CB district buildings (4-0).
• Recommended approval of a special permit for a cannabis dispensary at 390 Arsenal Street, subject to staff conditions (4-0).
• Approved a special permit for life science conversion and parking lot reconstruction at 580 Pleasant Street, subject to staff conditions (4-0).
• Approved a minor amendment to the AODD Campus Special Permit for a 2-story addition and loading dock at 100 Talcott Avenue (311 Arsenal Street) (4-0).
• Approved the minutes of the February 10, 2021 meeting (4-0).

City Council

The Watertown Town Council will consider a resolution endorsing a climate emergency and an ordinance to modify building hours. The council will also review recommendations for the Upper Waverley Avenue design. Additionally, reports regarding Howe Dog Park and housing authority reappointments are on the agenda.

• Resolution endorsing a declaration of a climate emergency
• Ordinance to modify hours for the Administration Building and Senior Center
• Reappointment of Allan Gallagher to the Watertown Housing Authority
• Upper Waverley Avenue Conceptual Design Option 2 recommendation
• Report on issues at Howe Dog Park

The Watertown Town Council voted unanimously to refer a resolution endorsing a climate emergency declaration to the Committees on Public Works and Economic Development and Planning, rather than adopting it directly. The council also approved the Upper Waverley Avenue Conceptual Design Option 2, subject to conditions, and reappointed Allan Gallagher to the Watertown Housing Authority.

• Referred the climate emergency resolution to the Committees on Public Works and Economic Development and Planning (unanimous).
• Approved proceeding with Upper Waverley Avenue Conceptual Design Option 2, with conditions to address business concerns and bicycle lane transition (unanimous).
• Reappointed Allan Gallagher to the Watertown Housing Authority for a term expiring May 15, 2025 (unanimous).
• Referred the establishment of a 311 line to the Committee on Media and Public Outreach (unanimous).
• Requested the Town Manager to commission a high-resolution image of the original Town Seal if not found (unanimous).
• Adopted the minutes of the February 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous).
• Referred the reappointment of Elodia Thomas to the Community Preservation Committee to the Committee on Parks and Recreation (unanimous).
• Held a first reading on a proposed ordinance to modify hours of the Administration Building and Senior Center (no vote).

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss and consider a preamble to the Watertown Town Charter. The session will be conducted via remote public access only.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight will meet to make recommendations regarding the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program. This meeting is scheduled to be held remotely due to COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program

Charter Review Committee

The Communications Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee will meet to discuss various public information materials. The agenda includes reviewing versions of flyer and FAQ content, planning distribution, and receiving updates on advertisements and sandwich boards.

• Discussion of flyer/FAQ content versions
• Planning for flyer/FAQ distribution
• Review of last request submittal
• Update on ads and sandwich boards

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight will meet remotely to consider recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program. The meeting is being held via remote access in accordance with COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will review registration applications from Werewolf Therapeutics, ALS Therapy Development Institute, Root Path, and Prolacta Bioscience. The committee will also discuss FAQ clarifications and other permitting concerns.

• Registration application: Werewolf Therapeutics
• Registration application: ALS Therapy Development Institute
• Registration application: Root Path
• Registration application: Prolacta Bioscience
• Discussion on FAQ and permitting concerns

The Watertown Biosafety Committee voted 5-0 to recommend the Board of Health approve rDNA permit applications from Werewolf Therapeutics, ALS Therapy Development Institute, RootPath, and Prolacta, each subject to conditions such as removing hydrogenation references, correcting Fire Department contact info, and providing IBC meeting minutes. Prolacta's low-risk BSL-1 registration was also approved 5-0. The committee discussed updating FAQs and coordinating with town development.

• Recommended approval of Werewolf Therapeutics rDNA permit with conditions (5-0)
• Recommended approval of ALS Therapy Development Institute rDNA permit with conditions (5-0)
• Recommended approval of RootPath rDNA permit with conditions (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Prolacta rDNA permit with conditions (5-0)
• Approved Prolacta low-risk facility registration for BSL-1 work (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Watertown Conservation Commission will review a notice of intent regarding renovations to a building at 580 Pleasant St. The meeting also includes presentations on the Whitney Hill Park Annual Report and Arsenal Park Phase B. Additionally, the commission will receive updates on climate, energy, and pollinator plans.

• Notice of Intent: Renovating 2-story building at 580 Pleasant St for lab and R&D space
• Presentation of Whitney Hill Park Annual Report 2020
• Informational update on Arsenal Park Phase B
• Review of January 6 and February 3, 2021 meeting minutes
• Agent reports regarding Climate and Energy Plan and Pollinator updates

The Watertown Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the Notice of Intent at 580 Pleasant St. until the April meeting. The project, proposed by Griffith Properties, involves renovating a building for lab/R&D space with stormwater improvements and riverfront work. No final decision was made on this application.

• Continued public hearing for 580 Pleasant St. NOI to April meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted January 6, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Accepted February 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:55 PM (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will conduct an interview with Dr. John Straus. The discussion concerns his reappointment to the Board of Health for a term expiring February 6, 2023.

• Interview Dr. John Straus regarding his reappointment to the Board of Health

Charter Review Committee

The Watertown Charter Review Committee met remotely on March 2, 2021, and continued its review of the Town Charter with Michael Ward of the Collins Center. The committee discussed potential changes to Article 3 (Town Manager), including removing the residency requirement, strengthening language on policy direction and communication, and adding annual evaluation language. They also reviewed Articles 4-8, considering changes to the School Committee size, budget goal-setting processes, and the charter review cycle itself. No formal votes were taken on these proposed changes; the only action was the unanimous adoption of the January 5, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Adopted the minutes of the January 5, 2021 Charter Review Committee meeting unanimously.
• Discussed removing the Town Manager residency requirement from the Charter.
• Discussed strengthening the Town Manager's duties language to include policy direction and communication.
• Discussed adding language for an annual Town Manager evaluation as provided by Ordinance.
• Discussed expanding the School Committee from seven members and reconsidering term limits.
• Discussed clarifying the budget goal-setting process and increasing public participation.
• Discussed changing the Charter Review year from a year ending in 0 to a year ending in 4.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously at 8:09 p.m.

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program. The committee is scheduled to make recommendations regarding this program.

• Recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee met via Zoom and discussed updates on several projects. The Bike-Ped Plan is scheduled for Town Council discussion and vote on February 9, with implementation to follow. Updates were provided on Greenough Blvd (DCR response pending) and Waverley Ave (upper part to be redone with bike lanes). The committee also discussed development projects and new business, including the Mt Auburn redesign.

• Approved minutes from February meeting.
• Discussed Bike-Ped Plan scheduled for Town Council vote on February 9.
• Noted DCR response on Greenough Blvd is pending, with follow-up planned.
• Discussed Waverley Ave upper part redo with bike lanes on uphill portion.
• Noted DPW Committee Recommendation adopted by Council for Waverley Ave.
• Scheduled DPW Director to attend April meeting.
• Discussed MassBike events and Yard Art participation.
• Discussed development projects at 99 Coolidge Ave and 1 Arsenal Marketplace.

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works will meet to discuss design options for Upper Waverley Avenue. This meeting is scheduled to be held remotely.

• Upper Waverley Avenue design options

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will review the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and discuss the status of the Permanent Rental Assistance Program. The committee will also discuss progress on creating a Municipal Affordable Housing Trust and review the Watertown Housing Partnership's Housing Production Plan.

• Review of Emergency Rental Assistance Program
• Discussion of Permanent Rental Assistance Program status
• Progress on Municipal Affordable Housing Trust
• Review of Housing Production Plan from Watertown Housing Partnership

City Council: Joint Committees

The Joint Committees on Economic Development and Planning and Human Services will meet to discuss the Watertown Housing Plan. The meeting is scheduled to be held remotely due to COVID-19 emergency orders.

• Discussion of the Watertown Housing Plan

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold an executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding three properties. The public hearing includes several special permit requests for residential expansions and new laboratory or R&D facilities. Some items are continuances from previous meetings.

• Litigation strategy regarding 195 Mt. Auburn St., 36-38 Hillcrest Circle, and 202 Arsenal St.
• Special Permit for a second-story expansion at 25 Sparkill St.
• Special Permit for an addition at 47 Maple St to increase FAR to approximately 0.59.
• Site plan review for lab/R&D use at 705 Mt. Auburn St and 64 Grove St.
• Special Permit for a three-story R&D laboratory building at 23-29 Elm St.

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits with conditions for properties at 25 Sparkill St., 174 Boylston St., 47 Maple St., and 705 Mt. Auburn St./64 Grove St., all by 5-0 votes. The board continued hearings for 46 Kondazian St. and 23-29 Elm St. to the March meeting. The board also approved the January meeting minutes and held an executive session on pending litigation.

• Approved special permit for 25 Sparkill St. with conditions (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 174 Boylston St. with conditions (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 47 Maple St. with conditions (5-0)
• Approved special permit/site plan review for 705 Mt. Auburn St. & 64 Grove St. with conditions (5-0)
• Continued 46 Kondazian St. petition to March (5-0)
• Continued 23-29 Elm St. hearing to March (5-0)
• Approved January meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council

The Town Council will consider loan orders for street and sidewalk repairs and middle school air conditioning. The agenda also includes discussions regarding collective bargaining strategy and the Public Arts Master Plan.

• $2,500,000 loan order for street and sidewalk improvements
• $548,000 loan order for Middle School Cafeteria air conditioning
• Salary adjustment transfers for four non-union employees
• Adoption of the Public Arts Master Plan
• Collective bargaining strategy for municipal unions

The Town Council unanimously approved two loan orders: $2.5 million for street and sidewalk repairs on seven streets, and $548,000 to install air conditioning in the Middle School cafeteria. It also adopted the Public Arts Master Plan, referred creation of a Public Arts and Culture Committee, and authorized fund transfers for salary adjustments and a police supervisors' agreement.

• Approved $2.5M loan for street/sidewalk repairs on Grandview Ave, Gertrude St, Goldie St, Elmwood Ave, Alden Rd, Sheldon Rd, Hazel St
• Approved $548,000 loan for Middle School cafeteria air conditioning (phase 1 of 4)
• Adopted the Public Arts Master Plan
• Referred creation of a Public Arts and Culture Committee to Economic Development and Planning Committee
• Authorized transfer to fund salary adjustments for four non-union confidential employees
• Authorized $195,475 transfer for Police Supervisors Association agreement (FY20-FY22)
• Referred Community Path review to Public Works and Economic Development and Planning Committees
• Accepted revised Wayfinding Design Grant report

Charter Review Committee

The Preamble Subcommittee of the Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss a preamble for the Watertown Town Charter. This meeting will be held via remote public access only.

• Discussion of a Preamble to the Town Charter

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The committee will discuss chair and membership planning and review reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner. Members will also vote on forwarding a letter to Buckingham, Browne and Nichols School concerning artificial turf planned for the Grove St site.

• Vote on forwarding a letter to Buckingham, Browne and Nichols School regarding artificial turf at Grove St site
• Update on Trees and Climate Change Symposium scheduled for March 20
• Reports from the Energy Manager and Environmental Planner
• Working group reports including Net Zero, Composting, and Transportation

The Watertown Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee approved minutes from the prior meeting, elected Emma Clement and Jeanne Trubek as co-chairs, and voted to send a letter to BB&N School recommending natural turf instead of artificial turf at the Grove St site. The committee also discussed updates on school construction, the municipal electricity aggregation, and the Climate & Energy Action Plan, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 1/11/21 meeting
• Elected Emma Clement and Jeanne Trubek as Committee Co-chairs
• Approved motion to send letter to BB&N Head of School, parent organization & board of trustees, CC to Town Manager, recommending natural turf at Grove St site

Community Preservation

The committee will review draft sections of the Community Preservation Plan regarding Open Space and Recreation, Housing, and Historic Preservation. The agenda also includes electing a new CPC Chair and approving cost of living adjustments for the CP Coordinator.

• Election of CPC Chair
• Approval of CP Coordinator Cost of Living Adjustments for FY20 and FY21
• Review of draft Community Preservation Plan sections for Open Space, Recreation, Housing, and Historic Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee elected Mark Kraczkiewicz as chair and Jason Cohen as vice chair, and approved a cost-of-living adjustment for the coordinator. The committee also reviewed draft sections of the Community Preservation Plan, discussing edits but taking no final votes on the plan content.

• Approved FY20 and FY21 cost-of-living adjustment for CPC Coordinator Lanae Handy (unanimous)
• Elected Mark Kraczkiewicz as CPC Chair (unanimous)
• Created the position of Vice Chair for a one-year term (unanimous)
• Elected Jason Cohen as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Accepted the 1-28-21 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Watertown Board of Health will discuss biosafety permit applications for RootPath and Aldatu Biosciences. The meeting also includes an application for six hens at 137 School Street and updates on COVID-19 and department staffing.

• Permit/registration applications for RootPath and Aldatu Biosciences
• Application for six hens at 137 School Street
• COVID-19 updates
• Staffing and department updates

The Watertown Board of Health denied a variance request to keep hens at 127 School Street, as the property does not meet required setbacks and is on a corner lot. The board also approved the registration of Aldatu Biosciences as a BSL-1 lab and tabled RootPath's application pending more information. COVID-19 vaccine clinics and other updates were reported.

• Approved minutes of January 20, 2021 meeting (2-0)
• Approved registration of Aldatu Biosciences as BSL-1 lab (3-0)
• Tabled RootPath biosafety application until March WBSC meeting
• Denied variance to keep hens at 127 School Street (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will receive status updates on motor vehicle excise tax bills and various tax forms. Members will also vote to enter an executive session to act on several abatement applications.

• Action on abatement applications #5, #8, #28, #30, #32, #41, and #43
• Status update on Motor Vehicle Excise Tax bills
• Status updates on Forms of List, 3ABCs, and Income and Expense Questionnaires
• Status update on exemptions/local options

The Board of Assessors met via Zoom and approved the January 26, 2021 meeting minutes with a correction. They discussed status updates on tax forms, exemptions, and utility company filings. The board then moved into executive session to review eight confidential abatement applications.

• Approved January 26, 2021 meeting minutes with correction (3-0)
• Moved into executive session to review eight abatement applications (3-0)

Watertown Housing Partnership

The partnership will discuss the HOME Annual Action Plan and the WestMetro HOME Consortium Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. The agenda also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, and local housing plans.

• Approval of January 19, 2021 meeting minutes
• HOME Annual Action Plan review
• WestMetro HOME Consortium Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing
• Emergency Rental Assistance Program updates
• Municipal Affordable Housing Trust updates

The Watertown Housing Partnership unanimously approved the draft HOME Annual Action Plan for submission to the WestMetro Collaborative. Members discussed the WestMetro HOME Consortium's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing but deferred endorsement to the next meeting for further review. Updates were provided on rental assistance, the Housing Plan, and local preference data.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 unanimously
• Approved draft HOME Annual Action Plan unanimously
• Deferred endorsement of fair housing analysis to next meeting

Charter Review Committee

The committee will review minutes from three meetings held in late 2020. Members will also consider a funding request for the Communications Subcommittee and receive an update from that group. Additionally, the Collins Center will review the current Charter to identify areas for potential change.

• Approval of minutes from November 17, December 1, and December 15, 2020
• Approval of a funding request by the Communications Subcommittee
• Review of the current Charter by Collins Center to identify potential changes
• Communications Subcommittee update

The Charter Review Committee held a non-binding straw poll on whether to favor a Town Council or Mayoral form of government. The poll resulted in 6 members leaning toward a Town Manager form of government, 0 for mayoral, and 9 abstaining. The committee also approved funding for communications materials and continued its high-level review of the charter.

• Approved $250 funding for sandwich boards and posters (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Nov 17, Dec 1, and Dec 15, 2020 meetings (unanimous)
• Held non-binding straw poll on government form: 6 for Town Manager, 0 for Mayoral, 9 abstained
• Determined to continue reviewing charter at a high level at next meeting

City Council: Committee on Parks and Recreation

The Committee on Parks and Recreation will meet to discuss a citizen petition concerning Howe Park. This meeting is scheduled to be held remotely.

• Citizen petition on Howe Park

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will discuss the Demolition Delay Ordinance and specific sites currently under delay. The meeting also includes a review of January 14, 2021, minutes and an update on the Community Preservation Committee.

• Review of January 14, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding the Demolition Delay Ordinance
• Discussion regarding sites under Demolition Delay
• Community Preservation Committee update from Susan Steele

The Watertown Historical Commission reviewed and unanimously approved the January meeting minutes. The commission discussed potential changes to the Demolition Delay Ordinance, including a proposed 1935 cut-off date for reviews, but took no formal action. Members debated the merits of the cut-off date and other approaches, and agreed to continue research and discussion at a future meeting.

• Approved January 14, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed demolition delay ordinance changes; no action taken
• Noted owners of 56 School St. and 16 Ladd St. have no renovation plans; will wait out delay

Parks and Recreation Open Forum

The Committee on Parks and Recreation will hold a remote meeting to discuss a citizen petition concerning Howe Park. This is the only substantive item listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of the Citizen petition on Howe Park

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board will discuss COVID-19 vaccine updates and review information regarding the February 18, 2021, Grab-n-Go Meal Event. The meeting also includes a report from the Program Advisory Committee.

• Program Advisory Committee Report
• February 18, 2021 Grab-n-Go Meal Event
• COVID-19 Vaccine Update & Discussion

The Watertown Council on Aging board met via Zoom and tabled approval of January minutes until March. They discussed the successful COVID-19 vaccine clinic for seniors over 75, upcoming meal events, and a proposal from the Recreation Department to use the activity room. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Tabled approval of January 13, 2021 minutes until March meeting
• Discussed COVID-19 vaccine clinic for seniors over 75 with 200 vaccines
• Reviewed Grab-n-Go meal events for February and March
• Discussed Recreation Department's request to use activity room (no vote taken)