City Council

October 29, 2025
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Meeting Minutes: City Council Meeting

Date: October 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM Governing Body: Boston City Council Type of Meeting: City Council Meeting Attendees: Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Councilor Liz Breadon, Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata, Councilor Sharon Durkan, Councilor John Fitzgerald, Councilor Edward Flynn, Councilor Julia Mejia, Councilor Erin Murphy, Councilor Enrique Pepén, Councilor Henry Santana, Councilor Benjamin Weber, Councilor Brian Worrell.

Executive Summary: The City Council convened to address several critical issues, including the approval of past meeting minutes, mayoral communications regarding appropriations for Boston Public Schools and a community mitigation grant, and various committee reports. Key discussions centered on a proposed ordinance to establish the Boston Inspector General Oversight Commission, a home rule petition to redefine commercial and residential property definitions for tax purposes, and resolutions recognizing Pedestrian Safety Month and Youth and Young Adult Homelessness Awareness Month. The Council also addressed an emergency order for a hearing on the increase of needle-related public health and safety hazards.

I. Call to Order and Roll Call

  • The meeting was called to order.
  • Roll Call:
    • Councilor Breadon: Yes
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
    • Councilor Durkan: Present (arrived later)
    • Councilor Fitzgerald: Present
    • Councilor Flynn: Present
    • Councilor Louijeune: Present
    • Councilor Mejia: Present (arrived later)
    • Councilor Murphy: Present
    • Councilor Pepén: Present
    • Councilor Santana: Present
    • Councilor Weber: Present
    • Councilor Worrell: Present (arrived later)
  • A quorum was present.

II. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

  • Pastor Wilson Santos, invited by Councilor Santana, delivered the invocation.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

III. Presentations

A. Recognition of Pedestrian Safety Month

  • Presenter: Councilor Enrique Pepén
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Pepén highlighted the shared effort across the city to reinforce pedestrian safety measures, including infrastructure upgrades and the work of crossing guards and advocacy organizations.
    • Reggie Ramos, Executive Director of Transportation for Massachusetts: Emphasized transportation justice, safety as a public health issue, and the need for funding for improvements.
    • Brendan Kearney, Executive Director of Walk Massachusetts: Noted 10 years since the Vision Zero commitment in Boston and the positive trend in reduced pedestrian injuries, attributing it to city staff efforts.
    • Tiffany, Boston Cyclist Union: Advocated for safe streets for all users, especially vulnerable ones, and mobility justice.
  • Official Action:
    • A resolution was presented by the Boston City Council extending gratitude to all advocates for safer streets.
    • Resolution: "Be it resolved that the Boston City Council extends its gratitude to all of you, and recognition of your dedication for better, safer streets for pedestrians in all modes of transportation. Thank you for your advocacy. To be further resolved, that the Boston City Council extends its best wishes for your continued success. That the resolution be duly signed by the President of the City Council and attested to and a copy thereof transmitted by the Clerk of the City of Boston."

B. Recognition of Dr. Edmund Barry Gaither

  • Presenter: Council President Ruthzee Louijeune
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Council President Louijeune honored Dr. Gaither for over five decades of visionary leadership as Executive Director of the National Center of Afro-American Artists (NCAAA).
    • Dr. Gaither spoke about the NCAAA's role in showcasing African-American art and culture, highlighting works like John Wilson's "Eternal Presence" and the "Black Nativity" play.
    • He emphasized the arts' role in fostering human compassion and understanding.
  • Official Action:
    • A citation was presented to Dr. Edmund Barry Gaither.
    • Resolution: "Be it resolved that we extend our congratulations to Dr. Edmund Barry Gaither in recognition of over five decades of visionary leadership as executive director of the National Center of Afro-American Artists, where you champion the brilliance, dignity, and creativity of Black art and artists. Your enduring stewardship, scholarship, and service have left an indelible mark on Boston's cultural and artistic landscape for generations to come."

IV. Approval of Minutes

  • Motion: Approval of the minutes from the meeting of October 22, 2025.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: The minutes of the October 22nd meeting were approved.

V. Communications from the Honorable Mayor

A. Docket No. 1924: Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriation Reduction for Collective Bargaining

  • Description: Message and order to reduce the FY26 appropriation for the reserve for collective bargaining by $977,749 to fund Boston Public Schools' FY26 increases from the collective bargaining agreement between the Boston School Committee and the Administrative Guild, SEIU Local 888.
  • Discussion: Councilor Worrell, Chair of the Committee on Ways and Means, explained that this represents the FY26 portion of a three-year agreement (September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2027) with an estimated total cost of $2,917,204. The agreement includes annual base wage increases of 2% and flat amounts of $250, $900, and $850 in each fiscal year, respectively. It also supports professional development, mentoring, and revised hiring procedures.
  • Motion: Councilor Worrell moved to suspend the rules and pass Docket No. 1924.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councilor Breadon: Yes
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
    • Councilor Durkan: Yes
    • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
    • Councilor Flynn: Yes
    • Councilor Louijeune: Yes
    • Councilor Mejia: Yes
    • Councilor Murphy: Yes
    • Councilor Pepén: Yes
    • Councilor Santana: Yes
    • Councilor Weber: Yes
    • Councilor Worrell: Yes
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1924 passed with 12 votes in the affirmative.

B. Docket No. 1925: Supplemental Appropriation for Boston School Department

  • Description: Message and order for a supplemental appropriation of $977,749 for the Boston School Department for FY26 to cover costs of the collective bargaining agreement with the Administrative Guild, SEIU Local 888.
  • Discussion: (See discussion for Docket No. 1924, as they are related.)
  • Motion: Councilor Worrell moved to suspend the rules and pass Docket No. 1925.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councilor Breadon: Yes
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
    • Councilor Durkan: Yes
    • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
    • Councilor Flynn: Yes
    • Councilor Louijeune: Yes
    • Councilor Mejia: Yes
    • Councilor Murphy: Yes
    • Councilor Pepén: Yes
    • Councilor Santana: Yes
    • Councilor Weber: Yes
    • Councilor Worrell: Yes
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1925 passed with 12 votes in the affirmative.

C. Docket No. 1926: Appropriation for School Window and Door Replacement Projects

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to appropriate $11,100,000 for window and door replacement projects at Gardner Pilot Academy School and Linden Elementary School, eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

D. Docket No. 1927: Acceptance and Expenditure of Community Mitigation Grant

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $2,607,000 from a Community Mitigation Grant awarded by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, to be administered by the Office of Budget Management.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

E. Docket No. 1928: Acceptance and Expenditure of State Literacy Program Grant

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $40,685.01 from a State Literacy Program grant awarded by the Mass. Department of Education, to be administered by the Office of Workforce Development.
  • Discussion: Councilor Weber, Chair of the Committee on Labor, Workforce, and Economic Development, requested to suspend the rules and pass without a hearing, citing its low dollar amount and relation to other grants already reviewed.
  • Motion: Councilor Weber moved to suspend the rules and pass Docket No. 1928.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1928 passed.

VI. Reports of Public Officers and Others

A. Docket No. 1929: Notice from City Clerk

  • Description: Notice regarding action taken by the Mayor and papers acted upon by the City Council at its meeting of October 8, 2025.

B. Docket No. 1930: Communication from Councilor Flynn

  • Description: Communication regarding a text amendment to the Boston Zoning Code relating to adult entertainment in Chinatown.
  • Discussion: Councilor Flynn expressed concern about the lack of public process for zoning changes impacting Chinatown, Bay Village, and downtown Boston residents, particularly regarding adult entertainment. He emphasized the need for community input and respect for constituents.

C. Docket No. 0145: Petition for a Special Law to Establish the Commission of Inspectors General on Financial Oversight

  • Committee: Committee on Government Operations
  • Chair: Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata
  • Recommendation: Ought to pass in a new draft.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata provided a detailed history of the petition, originating from a desire to modernize and strengthen the Boston Finance Commission.
    • Proposed Changes:
      • Renames the Boston Finance Commission to the Boston Inspector General Oversight Commission.
      • Maintains a five-member commission of Boston inhabitants, appointed by the Governor with staggered five-year terms, serving without compensation.
      • Empowers the Commission to appoint an Inspector General (IG) with experience in accounting, auditing, public administration, investigation, and criminal justice, requiring IG certification within one year.
      • Grants subpoena power to the Commission through the IG.
      • Authorizes the IG to investigate inefficiencies, waste, misconduct, abuse, or mismanagement.
      • Charges the IG with fostering efficient contract monitoring.
      • Requires engagement with constituents and public awareness campaigns.
      • Creates safeguards and whistleblower protections.
      • Requires the IG to present a recommended budget to the Commission and City Council by February.
    • Councilor Mejia, lead sponsor, thanked collaborators and emphasized the goal of independent, robust oversight. She noted the legislation updates a 1907 body for the 21st century.
    • Councilor Breadon supported the modernization, highlighting the Finance Commission's past success in generating significant revenue (e.g., Winthrop Square Garage sale for $120 million after FinCom intervention, compared to initial appraisal of $28-29 million). She stressed the need for adequate funding, noting the current budget of approximately $350,000 compared to an inflation-adjusted $800,000 from its 1907 budget of $25,000.
    • Councilor Flynn expressed concerns about eliminating the existing Finance Commission and the cost of a new IG, stating he would vote no. He also criticized the City Council's recent "legal and ethical lapses" and advocated for comprehensive ethics reform.
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata clarified that the commission is not made up of IGs but appoints one, and that this is an ethical avenue for residents to report misconduct.
  • Motion: Councilor Coletta Zapata moved to accept the committee report and pass Docket No. 0145 in a new draft.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councilor Breadon: Yes
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
    • Councilor Durkan: No
    • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
    • Councilor Flynn: No
    • Councilor Louijeune: Yes
    • Councilor Mejia: Yes
    • Councilor Murphy: Yes
    • Councilor Pepén: Yes
    • Councilor Santana: Yes
    • Councilor Weber: Yes
    • Councilor Worrell: Yes
  • Outcome: Docket No. 0145 passed with 10 votes in the affirmative and 2 in the negative.

D. Docket No. 1353: Reappointment of Norm Stembridge to Zoning Board of Appeal

  • Committee: Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation
  • Chair: Councilor Sharon Durkan
  • Recommendation: Ought to pass.
  • Discussion: Councilor Durkan stated that Mr. Stembridge is highly qualified and brings deep expertise to the ZBA, emphasizing his commitment to zoning reform and housing affordability.
  • Motion: Councilor Durkan moved to accept the committee report and pass Docket No. 1353.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1353 passed, and the reappointment was confirmed.

E. Docket No. 1354: Appointment of Rob Steinberg to St. Botolph Architectural Conservation District Commission

  • Committee: Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation
  • Chair: Councilor Sharon Durkan
  • Recommendation: Ought to pass.
  • Discussion: Councilor Durkan noted Mr. Steinberg's qualifications, including an MIT degree and construction management background, bringing valuable technical expertise.
  • Motion: Councilor Durkan moved to accept the committee report and pass Docket No. 1354.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1354 passed, and the appointment was confirmed.

F. Docket No. 1412: Appointment of Selena Berrios-Mildner to Zoning Board of Appeal

  • Committee: Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation
  • Chair: Councilor Sharon Durkan
  • Recommendation: Ought to pass.
  • Discussion: Councilor Durkan stated that Ms. Berrios-Mildner is highly qualified and brings deep expertise to the ZBA, emphasizing her commitment to zoning reform and housing affordability.
  • Motion: Councilor Durkan moved to accept the committee report and pass Docket No. 1412.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1412 passed, and the appointment was confirmed.

G. Dockets No. 1625, 1658-1660, 1691-1695, 1697, 1832: Labor, Workforce, and Economic Development Grants

  • Committee: Committee on Labor, Workforce, and Economic Development
  • Chair: Councilor Benjamin Weber
  • Recommendation: Ought to pass.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Weber reported on a hearing held on October 27, reviewing 11 grants, primarily from the US Department of Labor, for career centers and youth employment.
    • Joseph Lay (Chief of Staff, Worker Empowerment Cabinet), Katie Gall (Director of Grants), Neal Sullivan (Executive Director, Private Industry Council), and Anna Scher (Office of Workforce Development) provided an overview.
    • Grants focus on services for job seekers, including unemployed individuals, those with disabilities, and veterans.
    • YouthWorks funding supports year-round and summer employment for low-income and at-risk youth (ages 14-25).
    • Neal Sullivan highlighted the braiding of revenue streams and the role of citizen committees (Workforce Development Committee and Youth Council) in fund distribution. He also linked youth employment to public safety.
    • Councilor Flynn emphasized the importance of these programs and encouraged colleagues to learn more about them.
  • Specific Grants and Amounts:
    • Docket No. 1625: YouthWorks FY25-26 Grant: $1,045,187.20
    • Docket No. 1658: WIOA Youth Activities Administration Grant: $222,041.20
    • Docket No. 1659: WIOA Adult Activities Administration Grant: $173,229.50
    • Docket No. 1660: Wagner-Peyser Administration Grant: $89,593.02
    • Docket No. 1691: WIOA Youth Program Grant: $1,998,370.80
    • Docket No. 1692: WIOA Adult Activities Grant: $1,559,065.50
    • Docket No. 1693: Wagner-Peyser Program Grant: $1,040,435.67
    • Docket No. 1694: WIOA Dislocated Workers Grant: $966,006
    • Docket No. 1695: One-Stop Career Center Grant: $884,111
    • Docket No. 1697: WIOA Dislocated Workers Administration Grant: $107,334
    • Docket No. 1832: RESEA Program for Field Calendar Year 25 Grant: $895,657.87
  • Motions and Votes (for each docket individually): Councilor Weber moved to accept the committee report and pass each docket.
  • Outcome: All dockets (1625, 1658-1660, 1691-1695, 1697, 1832) passed unanimously.

H. Docket No. 1434: Ordinance Codifying the Office of Youth Engagement and Advancement (OYEA)

  • Committee: Committee on Government Operations
  • Chair: Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata
  • Recommendation: Remain in committee.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata reported on a hearing to codify OYEA within the Human Services Cabinet, making it a permanent part of city government.
    • Chief Jose Masseau and Executive Director Pedro Cruz stressed that codifying OYEA would institutionalize youth voice and strengthen cross-departmental collaboration.
    • Youth testified about the positive impact of the office on their lives.
    • Councilor Santana, lead sponsor, highlighted the initiative of his Citywide Youth Council in developing this policy.
    • Councilor Flynn and Murphy praised the youth testimony and the work of OYEA.
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1434 will remain in committee for further review of redlined language from the administration.

I. Docket No. 0176: Order for a Hearing on Government Accountability, Transparency, and Accessibility of Decision-Making Protocols in City Government (White Stadium)

  • Committee: Committee on Government Accountability and Transparency and Accessibility
  • Chair: Councilor Julia Mejia
  • Recommendation: Remain on file.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Mejia reported on a hearing examining decisions made regarding White Stadium, focusing on transparency, civil rights, and environmental review.
    • Expert Panel:
      • Retired Judge Shannon Fristlund: Emphasized the need for due process and highlighted legal and civil rights implications of proceeding without a full environmental justice review.
      • Architect Dan Adams: Presented an alternative public renovation proposal (estimated $64 million, with an initial $12 million phase) aligned with the Franklin Park Action Plan, restoring community access and returning the field to BPS students sooner.
      • Economist Andrew Symbolist: Raised concerns about the financial structure of the current proposal, including rising cost estimates, lack of line-item breakdown, and the need to separate the stadium's capital budget from the BPS budget.
      • Ed Burley (NAACP Boston branch): Stressed that Franklin Park is public land and should remain accessible, calling for equity-centered processes and ensuring BPS athletes are not displaced.
    • Public testimony expressed frustration with a "closed process" and limited public input, questioning if the public-private partnership truly serves the community.
    • Councilor Mejia reiterated that while there is support for renovation, there are widespread concerns about the project's handling.
    • Councilor Flynn supported Councilor Mejia's concerns, particularly regarding the lack of process and respect for voices of color, calling it a "civil rights issue."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 0176 will remain in committee.

J. Docket No. 1432: Ordinance Regarding the Safety and Efficacy of Commercial Autonomous Vehicle Operations

  • Committee: Committee on Government Operations
  • Chair: Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata
  • Recommendation: Remain in committee.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata reported on a hearing with panels representing labor unions, rideshare drivers, and autonomous vehicle (AV) technology advocates.
    • Unionized Drivers: Described reliance on rideshare work and warned that AVs would eliminate jobs and erode the human element.
    • Union Representatives: Stressed that technological progress should not come at the expense of workers.
    • Public Testimony: Some called for strong protections against AVs due to job loss and safety risks; others, including residents with disabilities, supported AVs for greater independence and transportation access.
    • Waymo, Carroll Center for the Blind, Mothers Against Drunk Driving: Highlighted AVs' potential to improve safety and mobility.
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1432 will remain in committee for further work.

VII. Motions, Orders, and Resolutions

A. Docket No. 1931: Ordinance Regarding Living Wage for City Employees

  • Sponsors: Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Councilor Enrique Pepén, Councilor Brian Worrell (added as co-sponsors).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Council President Louijeune introduced the ordinance, building on a wage study of lowest-paid City Hall employees. The study found 135 employees earning below the city's living wage for vendors and contractors (almost 200 including seasonal workers).
    • The ordinance aims to ensure every city employee earns at least the Boston living wage (currently $18.78/hour), with exemptions for boards, commissions, internships, and stipends.
    • It requires the Office of Human Resources to submit an implementation plan aligned with collective bargaining and fiscal responsibility.
    • Councilor Pepén emphasized that many city workers are Bostonians and the need to match pay with the cost of living to retain talent.
    • Councilor Worrell highlighted the importance of updating the ordinance to lift lowest-wage workers and the need for regular wage studies.
    • Councilor Murphy stressed the need to support lowest-paid workers, citing personal stories of municipal employees struggling to live in the city.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Santana, Weber.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Government Operations.

B. Docket No. 1932: Petition for a Special Law, an Act Relative to Redefining Commercial and Residential Definitions and Creating Further Exemptions

  • Sponsor: Councilor Brian Worrell
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Worrell introduced the petition to rebalance the tax code, arguing that homeowners and small landlords carry a heavier load while large apartment owners often pay less per unit.
    • Proposal Aims:
      • Homeowners save nearly $1,000/year on average.
      • Small landlords receive relief.
      • Large affordable housing owners get breaks for keeping rents low.
      • Office sector property tax rates stabilize.
      • Developers get a lower short-term tax rate to encourage building.
    • He cited examples like a Seaport high-rise paying less per unit than it should due to commercial classification, and the Avalon at North Station paying significantly less in taxes than 1 Dalton (a hotel/condo building of similar size).
    • Councilor Durkan expressed deep concern about potential negative impacts on District 8 and housing production, particularly for buildings with over 30 units. She cited an MIT dissertation suggesting renters absorb 80-90% of commercial property tax increases.
    • Councilor Breadon acknowledged the stress on residential homeowners due to tax-exempt properties but shared Councilor Durkan's concerns about implementation and impact on affordable housing.
    • Councilor Mejia supported Councilor Worrell's "courageous leadership" in proposing solutions for vulnerable residents.
    • Councilor Weber thanked Councilor Worrell for initiating a conversation about innovative ways to build affordable housing.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Mejia, Weber.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Government Operations.

C. Docket No. 1933: Order for a Hearing Regarding Parking Access for Traveling Boston Public Schools Employees

  • Sponsors: Councilor Erin Murphy, Councilor Edward Flynn, Councilor John Fitzgerald (added as co-sponsor).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Murphy, a former teacher, highlighted the issue of traveling BPS employees (e.g., special education, music teachers) receiving tickets and tows while moving between schools. She noted the Transportation Department's efforts but called for systemic solutions.
    • Councilor Flynn cited the Josiah Quincy School in Chinatown as an example, where teachers struggle to find parking, impacting their ability to get to school on time. He linked this to broader parking issues and the consequences of approving developments with "zero parking."
    • Councilor Fitzgerald shared a constituent's experience and emphasized the importance of supporting BPS employees, especially those working with students needing the most help.
    • Councilor Durkan, while not owning a car, supported the initiative and suggested a broader conversation about district parking and parking minimums.
    • Councilor Breadon mentioned specific schools (Gardner Pilot Academy, Baldwin) where this is a problem and the need for creative solutions.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Education.

D. Docket No. 1934: Resolution Recognizing October as Pedestrian Safety Month in the City of Boston

  • Sponsors: Councilor Enrique Pepén, Councilor Benjamin Weber, Councilor Brian Worrell (added as co-sponsor).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Pepén reiterated the importance of pedestrian safety beyond cars, including sidewalks, intersections, and adherence to traffic laws. He noted Halloween is one of the deadliest days for pedestrians.
    • Councilor Weber thanked co-sponsors and highlighted the need for pedestrian safety, citing recent fatalities and the redesign of Hyde Park Avenue.
    • Councilor Worrell emphasized the importance of sidewalk conditions and suggested designating daycare centers as school/slow zones.
    • Councilor Durkan, as Chair of Planning, Development, and Transportation, stressed the personal importance of pedestrian safety in her walkable district and the need to achieve Vision Zero goals. She advocated for empowering the Streets Cabinet to build speed humps.
    • Councilor Flynn recounted his eight years of advocating for a 12-point pedestrian plan and traffic calming infrastructure. He criticized the Chief of Streets for refusing to address concurrent phasing signals despite a unanimous Council vote.
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata highlighted the core function of pedestrian safety in city government, citing data on injuries from sidewalk issues in the North End and advocating for various infrastructure improvements.
    • Councilor Fitzgerald suggested prioritizing 10-15 streets per district for safety improvements based on councilor familiarity.
    • Councilor Breadon noted the severe pedestrian safety issues in Allston-Brighton, including fatalities and the recent installation of only seven speed bumps.
    • Councilor Pepén thanked the Public Works Department for their responsiveness to sidewalk repairs.
    • Councilor Durkan thanked the Mayor's Administration for the citywide brick contract, which has improved sidewalks in her district.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Santana.
  • Motion: Councilors Pepén, Weber, and Worrell moved to suspend the rules and adopt Docket No. 1934.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1934 passed.

E. Docket No. 1935: Resolution Recognizing November 2025 as Youth and Young Adult Homelessness Awareness Month

  • Sponsors: Councilor Henry Santana, Council President Ruthzee Louijeune (added as co-sponsor), Councilor John Fitzgerald (added as co-sponsor).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Santana emphasized housing as a human right and the disproportionate impact of homelessness on youth (1 in 30 youth ages 13-17, 1 in 10 young adults ages 18-25). He noted that 65% of homeless youth in Massachusetts are BIPOC and 26% identify as LGBTQIA2+.
    • Council President Louijeune praised the Mayor's Office of Housing for its work to eradicate young adult homelessness and highlighted organizations like The Hub at Breaktime, Covenant House, Y2Y Project, The Haven Project, and Bridge Over Troubled Waters.
    • Councilor Fitzgerald, Chair of Public Health, Homelessness, and Recovery, connected youth homelessness to broader issues like Mass and Cass and the need for early intervention.
    • Councilor Mejia acknowledged organizations supporting youth aging out of foster care (e.g., Treehouse, Tree Life) and the importance of dedicated budget line items for 19-24 year olds.
    • Councilor Flynn thanked Councilor Santana and highlighted the work of Bridge Over Troubled Waters, especially with LGBTQ+ youth.
    • Councilor Durkan shared her experience on a homeless outreach walk, emphasizing the need to support outreach workers and advocating for increased funding in the next budget.
    • Councilor Worrell uplifted Tech Boston Academy students' initiative, "Quality Home for Humankind," focused on workforce development and supportive housing for their peers.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Weber, Worrell.
  • Motion: Councilors Santana, Louijeune, and Fitzgerald moved to suspend the rules and adopt Docket No. 1935.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Docket No. 1935 passed.

VIII. Personnel Orders

  • No personnel orders were on the agenda.

IX. Green Sheets

A. Docket No. 0102: Harvard-Allston-Brighton Fund Grant

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $25,000,000 from the Harvard-Allston-Brighton Fund Grant awarded by the Harvard Business School, to be administered by the Mayor's Office of Housing, for affordable homeownership and rental housing in Allston-Brighton.
  • Discussion: Councilor Breadon requested to pull this docket. She explained that the administration-filed docket contained errors regarding the amount and source of money. She requested to place it on file with the intention to refile an amended version in 2026.
  • Outcome: Docket No. 0102 was placed on file.

X. Late Files

A. Three Late File Personnel Orders

  • Motion: To add the three late file personnel orders to the agenda.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: Added to the agenda.
  • Description:
    • Councilor Louijeune for Councilor Mejia (Personnel Order 1)
    • Councilor Louijeune for Councilor Mejia (Personnel Order 2)
    • Councilor Louijeune (Personnel Order 3)
  • Motion: To vote on the late file personnel orders.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: All three personnel orders passed.

B. Late File Resolution: Condemning the Trump Administration's Failure to Fully Fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

  • Sponsors: Councilors Gabriela Coletta Zapata, Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Councilor Sharon Durkan (added as co-sponsor).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata condemned the federal administration's actions, stating that 1.1 million Massachusetts residents face hunger due to SNAP cuts. She highlighted the impact on working people, seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and single parents. She criticized billionaires for paying "starvation wages" and the administration for prioritizing other spending over food assistance.
    • Council President Louijeune echoed the condemnation, calling the cuts "deliberate," "intended to cause harm," and "inhumane." She praised Governor Maura Healey's leadership in pushing back and noted the inability of local food banks to cover the gap.
    • Councilor Durkan shared personal experiences with SNAP and homelessness, emphasizing that "nobody should be going hungry" in a city with world-class healthcare. She thanked the "Make Hunger History Coalition" and advocated for increased pay for homeless outreach workers.
    • Councilor Flynn acknowledged the impact on veterans, elderly, and working families, and highlighted the work of South Boston Neighborhood House, ABCD, and Women's Lunch Place.
    • Councilor Pepén expressed dismay, noting that "one in five children eat because of SNAP benefits" and called for community support.
    • Councilor Mejia called for local innovation and mutual aid to fill the gap, seeing it as an opportunity to demonstrate collective power.
    • Councilor Breadon noted the "double whammy" of federal workers also needing food assistance and highlighted local food pantries.
    • Councilor Murphy stressed the need to share information about available resources.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell.
  • Motion: Councilors Coletta Zapata, Louijeune, and Durkan moved to suspend the rules and adopt this late file resolution.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: The resolution passed.

C. Late File Emergency Order for a Hearing: Regarding the Increase and Spread of Needle-Related Public Health and Safety Hazards in Boston

  • Sponsors: Councilor Erin Murphy, Councilor Edward Flynn (added as co-sponsor), Councilor John Fitzgerald (added as co-sponsor).
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councilor Murphy introduced the emergency order, citing a study by James Piccarilli showing a 75% increase in needle reports since 2022, spreading beyond Mass and Cass to neighborhoods like South End, Roxbury, and Dorchester. She called for restoring the Community Syringe Redemption Program.
    • Councilor Flynn shared a personal story of a child in his district being pricked by a needle in a park, emphasizing the devastating impact on public safety and quality of life. He called for the City Council to take action.
    • Councilor Fitzgerald provided an update, noting that while the spread of activity from Mass and Cass has increased 311 reports, there are now 10,000 fewer needles distributed per week. He mentioned proactive sweeps of schools and parks and extended outreach hours (5 AM to midnight) for 311 calls.
    • Councilor Durkan thanked the Sharps team for picking up needles on state-owned land and requested a lens on coordination with the state. She supported harm reduction strategies but stressed the urgency of addressing discarded needles for public safety.
    • Councilor Weber, while acknowledging the problem, suggested that safe injection sites have a proven track record of reducing needles on streets and should be part of the conversation.
  • Co-sponsors added: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell.
  • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Public Health, Homelessness, and Recovery.

XI. Consent Agenda

  • No additions to the consent agenda.
  • Motion: Approval of the various matters contained within the consent agenda.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: The consent agenda was adopted.

XII. Announcements

  • Council President Louijeune:
    • Birthday wishes to Claire Brooks.
    • Chamber Trick or Treat: Friday, October 31st, at 11 AM (bring candy).
    • JP Open Streets: Sunday, November 2nd.
    • Election Day: Tuesday, November 4th.
    • Early Voting: Today, tomorrow, and Friday at City Hall; tomorrow at BCYF Tobin (Mission Hill), Florian Hall (Dorchester), and St. Nectarios (Roslindale) from 12 PM to 8 PM.
  • Councilor Breadon: Invited all to a "Lunch and Learn" immediately after adjournment in the Curley Room, featuring "The Common Room," a nonprofit for young adults on the autism spectrum. Lunch provided by Swiss Bakers.
  • Councilor Durkan:
    • Happy early Halloween.
    • Marlboro Street annual Halloween celebration: Friday, 5:30 PM - 8 PM.
    • NAB Mobility Forum: Tonight, 6:30 PM - 8 PM, with Chief Yasha Franklin-Hodge.
    • Congratulations to Jim Lucchese, new Berkeley president, on his inauguration tomorrow.
  • Councilor Weber:
    • Confirmed Open Streets on Sunday.
    • Congratulated his daughter, Hannah, on her 14th birthday.
    • Allendale Farm will host farmers markets at the Lorraine Greenau House on Thursdays (November 6th, 13th, 20th) from 11 AM to 1 PM for those who lost SNAP benefits.
    • Trader Joe's opening tomorrow in West Roxbury.
  • Councilor Worrell: Called for donations to support Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa, directing to supportjamaica.gov for a list of needs.

XIII. Memorials

  • Council President Louijeune offered condolences for the late Judge Honorable Leslie Earl Harris.
  • A moment of silence was held for Gregory Andre and Paul Ledwell, two Pyle Driver Local 56 members who died in an Everett Crane collapse on the Mystic River.

XIV. Adjournment

  • Motion: To adjourn in memory of Gregory Andre and Paul Ledwell.
  • Next Meeting: Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Ayanala Chamber.
  • Vote: All in favor said "aye."
  • Outcome: The meeting was adjourned.

Last updated: Nov 15, 2025

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