City Council

October 22, 2025
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City Council Meeting Minutes

Meeting Date: October 22, 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 Boston City Council convened to address several key issues, including the approval of significant grants for park improvements and workforce development, and the passage of home rule petitions for police age waivers. A major focus was the reclassification of 911 dispatchers to Group 2 employees under the Massachusetts Public Employee Retirement Law, recognizing their critical role as first responders. Discussions also covered youth sports initiatives, automated road safety enforcement, and the city's 2030 Climate Action Plan. The meeting included heartfelt tributes to community leaders and a resolution supporting gender-affirming care.

I. Call to Order and Roll Call

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

II. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

  • Invocation: Pastor DeShae Freymeyer-Jackson, Trans-BIPOC Pastoral Resident at Bryant-Alston Congregational Church, delivered the invocation, invited by Councilor Santana.
    • Pastor Freymeyer-Jackson highlighted the church's community service, including the Austin Brighton Food Pantry and an award-winning thrift shop, and its unique trans-BIPOC pastoral residency.
    • The invocation emphasized listening, community care, and creating opportunities for marginalized individuals.
  • Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

III. Presentations

A. Honoring Former Representative John Santiago

  • Presenter: Councilor Edward Flynn
  • Purpose: To honor former State Representative John Santiago, outgoing Secretary of the Executive Office of Veterans Services.
  • Key Points:
    • Councilor Flynn presented an official resolution acknowledging Secretary Santiago's outstanding service as a state legislator and Secretary of Veterans Services.
    • Secretary Santiago, a veteran and physician, was recognized for his tireless advocacy for veterans and military families, strengthening the system, and leading the transformation of veterans' homes after COVID-19.
    • He highlighted accomplishments including building two new veterans' homes, passing comprehensive veterans' legislation, and increasing investment in veteran homelessness.
    • Secretary Santiago's wife, Alex, was also acknowledged for her support.

B. Honoring Solomon Northup

  • Presenter: Councilor Benjamin Weber
  • Purpose: To honor Solomon Northup and the "Hope Out of Darkness" art installation.
  • Key Points:
    • Councilor Weber introduced Melissa Howell, a direct descendant of Solomon Northup, and Jean-Luc Perit, President of the North American Indian Center of Boston (NICOB).
    • The "Hope Out of Darkness" exhibit, featuring a sculpture by Wesley Woford, is temporarily at the Kennedy Greenway until December, before its permanent installation in Marksville, Louisiana.
    • Melissa Howell spoke about Northup's memoir, "12 Years a Slave," and his visits to Boston to speak with abolitionists. She emphasized Boston's role as a "beacon of conscience" in the anti-slavery movement.
    • Jean-Luc Perit noted the significance of Northup's narrative to the federal recognition of the Tunica Biloxi tribe of Louisiana.
    • The exhibit was brought to Boston in partnership with NICOB and the Greenway Conservancy, with support from Boston 250, New Democracy Coalition, and the Boston People's Reparation Commission.

C. Honoring Mary Williams

  • Presenter: Councilor Enrique Pepén
  • Purpose: To honor the late Mary Williams, a dedicated community member from Mattapan.
  • Key Points:
    • Councilor Pepén recognized Mary Williams for her consistent community work, including leading Bible studies for youth at Almonte Park every Saturday.
    • Martha Williams, Mary's sister, shared personal anecdotes about Mary's dedication, including collecting food and snacks for the children.
    • A plaque is being planned for a park bench in the children's section of Almonte Park to honor Mary Williams, with a goal for unveiling at the 2026 National Night Out event.

IV. Approval of Minutes

  • Motion: Approval of minutes from the meeting on October 8, 2025.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Minutes of the October 8th meeting are approved.

V. Communications from Her Honorable Mayor

A. Docket Number 1831: Ceylon Park Grant Acceptance

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $1,000,000 from the United States Department of the Interior (Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965) for capital improvements to Ceylon Park in Dorchester. This order also confirms Ceylon Park's permanent dedication for park and playground use.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata (Chair, Committee on Environmental Justice, Resiliency and Parks) requested suspension and passage, highlighting the grant's purpose for a new play area, children's bike loop, splash pad, accessible pathways, new trees, rain gardens, and upgraded lighting and courts. She emphasized the park's role in environmental health, community well-being, stormwater management, and urban heat reduction.
    • Councilor Worrell supported the investment, noting the administration's prior work on the soccer field and the benefits for neighborhood children and families.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1831.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1831 is passed.

B. Docket Number 1832: Resia Program Grant Acceptance

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $895,657.87 from the United States Department of Labor (Resia Program for Fields Calendar Year 25 grant) to be administered by the Office of Workforce Development. The grant will fund re-employment needs for unemployment insurance claimants, prevent improper benefit payments, and assist with training and education resources.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1832 will be referred to the Committee on Labor, Workforce, and Economic Development.

C. Docket Number 1833: Pipeline Emergency Response Grant Acceptance

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $99,476 from the United States Department of Transportation (Pipeline Emergency Response Grant) to be administered by the Fire Department. The grant will fund training for emergency responders in high-consequence areas to protect against gas or hazardous liquid pipeline accidents.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1833 will be referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Criminal Justice.

D. Docket Number 1834: Mayor's Challenge Project Grant Acceptance

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $48,900 from the United Nations Development Program (2025 Mayor's Challenge Project Grant) to be administered by operations. The grant will fund a study to address chronic school bus delays through AI-enabled traffic signal priority and piloting innovative pickup/drop-off scenarios.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Pepén (Chair, Committee on City Services and Innovation Technology) requested suspension and passage, emphasizing the grant's potential to mitigate school bus delays, a major priority for Boston Public Schools.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1834.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1834 is passed.

E. Docket Number 1835: Chandler Park Pond Water Quality Assessment Grant Acceptance

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $44,780 from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (Water Quality Assessment of Chandler Park Pond Grant) to be administered by the Parks and Recreation Department. The grant will fund 12 months of water quality monitoring, develop a watershed-based plan, and engage the community in restoring Chandler Park and Faneuil Brook.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata (Chair, Committee on Environmental Justice, Resiliency and Parks) requested suspension and passage, noting the grant's support for water quality monitoring and restoration efforts in partnership with the Charles River Watershed Association.
    • Councilor Breadon supported the grant, highlighting Chandler Pond as the only remaining pond in Allston Brighton, its drainage into the Charles River, and the importance of monitoring to prevent algae blooms, control invasive species, and ensure water safety for users and wildlife.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1835.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1835 is passed.

F. Docket Number 1836: Extension of Ladder Truck Procurement Contract

  • Description: Message and order authorizing the Procurement Department to extend the term of an existing three-year contract for the purchase of Ladder Trucks for the Boston Fire Department. Two trucks were delivered in December 2024, with four remaining trucks scheduled for delivery in October 2026 and March 2027. The extension is to ensure delivery within the contract timeline without additional cost to the city.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Flynn expressed concern about the lack of detailed information, stating, "I would like to know what I'm voting on other than four or five sentences in the agenda." He supported the extension but requested a hearing for more information on the issue, emphasizing its importance for firefighter safety.
    • Council President Louijeune clarified that the extension is solely to allow for the city to issue a purchase order at the time of each delivery and avoids significantly higher re-bid costs.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1836.
  • Vote:
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Breadon: Yes
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
      • Councilor Durkan: Yes
      • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
      • Councilor Flynn: Yes
      • Council President Louijeune: Yes
      • Councilor Mejia: Yes
      • Councilor Murphy: Yes
      • Councilor Pepén: Yes
      • Councilor Santana: Yes
      • Councilor Weber: Yes
      • Councilor Worrell: Yes
    • Outcome: 12 votes in the affirmative. Docket Number 1836 is passed.

VI. Reports of Public Officers and Others

  • Docket Numbers 1837-1846: Notices received from the Mayor regarding various appointments and communications.
    • Docket Number 1837: Appointment of Stephen Farrell as a trustee of the Boston Groundwater Trust (term expiring November 2, 2025).
    • Docket Number 1838: Appointment of David O'Donohue as a trustee of the Boston Groundwater Trust (term expiring October 6, 2029).
    • Docket Number 1839: Appointment of Bethany Patton as a trustee of the Boston Groundwater Trust (term expiring October 6, 2029).
    • Docket Number 1840: Appointment of Robert Kua as a trustee of the Boston Groundwater Trust (term expiring October 6, 2029).
    • Docket Number 1841: Delegation of authority to Brian Sweat as Chief of Environment, Energy and Open Space for the City of Boston (effective October 20, 2025).
    • Docket Number 1842: Communication from the Massachusetts Port Authority regarding Boston Logan International Airport 2023-2024 Environmental Data Report.
    • Docket Number 1843: Communication from Evandro Carvajo, Executive Director, regarding the Office of Police Accountability and Transparency's Annual Report Fiscal Year 25.
    • Docket Number 1844: Appointment of Matthew Dickey as a member of the Boston Commemoration Commission (effective immediately).
    • Docket Number 1845: Appointment of Hester Farah as a member of the Boston Commemoration Commission (effective immediately).
    • Docket Number 1846: Appointment of Claire Tilluni as a member of the Participatory Budget External Oversight Board (term expiring November 15, 2025).
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata spoke on Docket Number 1842, the Massachusetts Port Authority's Environmental Data Report for Logan Airport. She noted it was the first such report since 2022 and highlighted that passenger traffic surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 2% in 2024, leading to increased carbon emissions in East Boston. She urged residents and colleagues to review the report and hold Massport accountable during the public comment period, which closes on January 9, 2026.
  • Outcome: These dockets will be placed on file.

VII. Reports of Committees

A. Docket Number 1277: Special Law for Certified Emergency Telecommunicators

  • Committee: Committee on Government Operations
  • Description: Petition for a special law, "An Act Relative to the City of Boston Certified Emergency Telecommunicators," seeking to reclassify Boston's 911 call center employees (dispatchers, dispatch supervisors, and communication center directors/chiefs) from Group 1 to Group 2 under the Massachusetts Public Employee Retirement Law (MGL Chapter 32, Section 32G).
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata (Chair, Committee on Government Operations) presented the report, emphasizing that 911 dispatchers are misclassified as clerks and administrators despite their high-stress, essential first responder roles.
    • A hearing on July 29, 2025, heard testimony on chronic staffing shortages, low base pay (around $23/hour), and mandatory extended shifts (up to 18 hours).
    • A Boston Retirement Board analysis projected a cost increase of $127,000 (0.05% of system costs excluding teachers) and an actuarial accrued liability increase of $1.6 million, with a fiscal 2028 appropriation impact of $2.36 million. The board noted these increases are "proportionally small."
    • Council President Louijeune, a lead sponsor, thanked the committee and administration, stating, "Our first responders deserve this." She highlighted the dispatchers' critical role, composure under stress, and the need for recognition in compensation and benefits. She thanked SEIU Local 888 representatives and dispatchers for their advocacy.
    • Councilor Worrell emphasized that dispatchers are frontline workers and a "lifeline" in moments of crisis, supporting the reclassification as earned benefits.
    • Councilor Flynn, an original co-sponsor, acknowledged former City Councilor Michael Flaherty's prior work on the issue. He stressed the need to hire more dispatchers to reduce forced overtime and improve working conditions, stating, "We certainly support Group 2, but we also have to recognize this is not enough."
  • Motion: Acceptance of the committee report and passage of Docket Number 1277 in a new draft.
  • Vote:
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Breadon: Yes
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
      • Councilor Durkan: Yes
      • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
      • Councilor Flynn: Yes
      • Council President Louijeune: Yes
      • Councilor Mejia: Yes
      • Councilor Murphy: Yes
      • Councilor Pepén: Yes
      • Councilor Santana: Yes
      • Councilor Weber: Yes
      • Councilor Worrell: Yes
    • Outcome: 12 votes in the affirmative. The committee report has been accepted, and Docket Number 1277 has passed in a new draft.

VIII. Matters Recently Heard for Possible Action

A. Docket Number 0473: Biannual Review of Boston Employment Commission and Boston Residence Jobs Policy

  • Description: Order for a hearing regarding the biannual review of the Boston Employment Commission and the Boston Residence Jobs Policy.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Weber (Chair, Committee on Labor Workforce and Economic Development) summarized the hearing held yesterday morning, co-sponsored by Council President Louijeune and Councilor Mejia.
    • The Boston Residence Jobs Policy sets goals for city and large construction projects: 51% of hours by Boston residents, 40% by people of color, and 12% by women.
    • Deputy Chief of Worker Empowerment, Jody Sugarman Brazen, reported operational improvements for data collection.
    • Findings: The goal for people of color (40%) is met, but not for women (7%) or local Boston residents (23%).
    • Kenitra Porch (IBEW Local 103 apprentice) highlighted childcare challenges for women in trades.
    • Dan Daly (IBEW Local 103) raised concerns about out-of-state workers impacting local hiring data.
    • Liz Skidmore (Policy Group on Tradeswomen) suggested looking at other city ordinances for accountability.
    • Councilor Weber noted that Boston Employment Commission members expressed fear of prosecution under the Trump administration's stance on civil rights and DEI, despite assurances of city representation.
    • Councilor Flynn emphasized the importance of the policy, established under Mayor Flynn, and the need for better enforcement and support for women in trades, including childcare.
    • Councilor Mejia highlighted the lack of retention tracking, stating, "One thing is to get more women and people of color into these opportunities. But if we don't have any real way of demonstrating whether or not we're keeping them throughout the length of a project, then it's just really scaffolding." She also suggested stronger penalties than the current $300 sanction for non-compliance and exploring a tax for non-Boston residents employed on projects.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 0473 will remain in committee.

IX. Motions, Orders, and Resolutions

A. Docket Number 1847: Special Law for Ryan Cazole (Police Age Waiver)

  • Description: Petition for a special law, "An Act Directing the City of Boston Police Department to Waive the Maximum Age Requirement for Ryan Cazole."
  • Sponsor: Councilor Benjamin Weber
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Weber requested the home rule petition for Ryan Cazole, 42, who passed the police exam and seeks to join the Boston Police Department. Cazole is a West Roxbury resident, a graduate of Everett High School and Fisher College, and has a strong desire to serve.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1847.
  • Vote:
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Breadon: Yes
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
      • Councilor Durkan: Yes (added name and vote after initial roll call)
      • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
      • Councilor Flynn: Yes
      • Council President Louijeune: Yes
      • Councilor Mejia: Yes
      • Councilor Murphy: Yes
      • Councilor Pepén: Yes
      • Councilor Santana: Yes
      • Councilor Weber: Yes
      • Councilor Worrell: Yes
    • Outcome: 12 votes in the affirmative. Docket Number 1847 is passed.

B. Docket Number 1848: Special Law for Jose Reyes (Police Age Waiver)

  • Description: Petition for a special law, "An Act Directing the City of Boston Police Department to Waive the Maximum Age Requirement for Police Officers for Jose Reyes."
  • Sponsor: Councilor Brian Worrell
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Worrell requested the home rule petition for Jose Reyes, 46, a lifelong Bostonian from Dorchester and Roslindale. Reyes has a history of community service and youth mentorship.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1848.
  • Vote:
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Breadon: Yes
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
      • Councilor Durkan: Yes (added name and vote after initial roll call)
      • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
      • Councilor Flynn: Yes
      • Council President Louijeune: Yes
      • Councilor Mejia: Yes
      • Councilor Murphy: Yes
      • Councilor Pepén: Yes
      • Councilor Santana: Yes
      • Councilor Weber: Yes
      • Councilor Worrell: Yes
    • Outcome: 12 votes in the affirmative. Docket Number 1848 is passed.

C. Docket Number 1849: Hearing on Automated Road Safety Enforcement

  • Description: Order for a hearing to discuss House 3754 and automated road safety enforcement in the City of Boston.
  • Sponsors: Councilor Enrique Pepén, Councilor Benjamin Weber, Councilor Brian Worrell (added as co-sponsor by suspension of rules).
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Santana, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Pepén emphasized transportation safety as a top priority and the need for camera-based enforcement to address speeding, road rage, and traffic law violations. He cited Providence, RI, as an example and mentioned Massachusetts House Bill 3754, which would allow municipalities to use cameras for red light, speeding, and intersection blocking violations.
    • Councilor Weber highlighted the success of red light cameras in New York City, reducing violations by approximately 70% at intersections, and advocated for their use in Boston as a deterrent.
    • Councilor Worrell noted that Boston's police department lacks the traffic enforcement division it once had, and technology could fill this gap, changing driver behavior.
    • Councilor Flynn stressed pedestrian safety, advocating for traffic calming infrastructure and expressing frustration with the city's current approach. He called for immediate action on confusing pilot projects (e.g., bus lanes on Boylston Street and Summer Street) that impact public safety.
    • Councilor Durkan supported automated enforcement, noting that police cannot actively patrol all streets and that other states successfully use this technology.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1849 will be referred to the Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation.

D. Docket Number 1850: Hearing on Boston's 2030 Climate Action Plan

  • Description: Order for a hearing to discuss the City of Boston's 2030 Climate Action Plan.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata highlighted the 2030 Climate Action Plan as the latest roadmap for carbon neutrality, resilience, and equity. She referenced the committee's 18-page report, "Boston Rising," which documented over $33 million in environmental investments and proposed a municipal climate bank. She emphasized the need for local leadership given federal rollbacks and called for accountability, transparency, and community participation in implementing the plan.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1850 will be referred to the Committee on Environmental Justice, Resiliency, and Parks.

E. Docket Number 1851: Hearing on Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Units

  • Description: Order for a hearing to facilitate the creation of single room occupancy units in the City of Boston.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Henry Santana
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Mejia, Pepén, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Santana emphasized the housing crisis and the potential of SROs as permanent, affordable housing. He noted the drastic decline in SROs due to urban renewal, gentrification, and complex zoning laws (Boston Zoning Code is ~4,000 pages). He stated that SROs are crucial for low-income residents, immigrants, formerly incarcerated individuals, domestic violence survivors, and formerly unhoused people.
    • Councilor Breadon supported the initiative, citing the successful model of the Bill McGonigal House on Quintav in Allston Brighton, which provides 14 SROs for formerly homeless individuals in recovery.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1851 will be referred to the Committee on Housing and Community Development.

F. Docket Number 1852: Hearing on Mayor's Youth Sports Initiative

  • Description: Order for a hearing to learn how the City Council can support the Mayor's Youth Sports Initiative to increase youth sports participation across Boston.
  • Sponsors: Councilor Benjamin Weber, Councilor John Fitzgerald, Councilor Erin Murphy (added as co-sponsor by suspension of rules).
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Flynn, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Weber noted that a prior version of this order was filed last year. He highlighted the Mayor's Office and Human Services Cabinet's report on youth sports, which identified lower participation rates in Boston compared to surrounding towns, with disparities based on income, race, and gender.
    • Councilor Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of athletics for youth development and the need to involve more parents as coaches. He also stressed addressing cost and scheduling barriers.
    • Councilor Murphy, a former BPS teacher and coach, highlighted the benefits of sports (confidence, teamwork, resilience) and the barriers families face (cost, limited access, lack of information). She called for collaboration between city departments, nonprofits, and labor unions to support programs and ensure equitable access.
    • Councilor Flynn stressed equal access for all BPS students, including transportation to and from events, and acknowledged the dedication of volunteer coaches.
    • Councilor Worrell highlighted lower youth sports participation in Dorchester and Mattapan, advocating for more programming in these neighborhoods and collaboration with nonprofits like YES, Dorchester Little League, and Sportsman's Tennis Center.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1852 will be referred to the Committee on Strong Women, Families, and Communities.

G. Docket Number 1853: Text Amendment to Boston Zoning Code (Chinatown Adult Entertainment)

  • Description: Order regarding a text amendment to the Boston Zoning Code relative to Chinatown Adult Entertainment. This amendment would change adult entertainment from an "allowed use" to a "conditional use" in Article 43, Section 24, Appendix B to Article 43.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Edward Flynn
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Fitzgerald, Murphy, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Flynn stated his intention to ensure residents of Chinatown, downtown Boston, and Bay Village are heard and respected. He argued that the current zoning allows adult entertainment without a full community process or ZBA hearing, except for groundwater issues. He emphasized the need for residents to have a voice in what takes place in their community, citing concerns about public safety and quality of life.
    • Councilor Coletta Zapata acknowledged the complexity of the debate and the varying views. She cautioned against "weaponizing the zoning code to police or make others feel less than for their chosen profession," and stressed considering individual agency, labor rights, and public perception.
    • Councilor Durkan clarified that, as of this morning, with the passage of "Plan Downtown," the Adult Entertainment District in Chinatown has been entirely removed from Chinatown and confined to a small area in downtown with existing uses. She acknowledged Councilor Flynn's intent to stand up for his community and the historical efforts to move Chinatown away from its "combat zone" reputation.
    • Councilor Flynn reiterated his advocacy for his constituents, stating, "My constituents might not have the political access or sophistication, but they deserve respect." He emphasized the need for a full community process for all establishments.
  • Outcome: Docket Number 1853 will be referred to the Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation.

H. Docket Number 1854: Information Request on Boston Housing Authority Operations (17F)

  • Description: Order requesting certain information under Section 17F regarding Boston Housing Authority operations and standard practices.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Edward Flynn
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Flynn filed the 17F in response to a recent Boston City Council Committee on Housing and Community Development hearing on the status of elevators at the BHA Ruth Barclay Apartments and a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development report on BHA.
    • He expressed disappointment with the lack of attendance by colleagues at the hearing, where seniors, persons with disabilities, and public housing tenants shared "heartbreaking stories" of waiting hours for elevators, missing medical appointments, and lack of ADA accessibility.
    • Councilor Flynn stated, "If we're afraid to stand up for public housing residents, we've lost our way in the city." He emphasized that denying equal access for persons with disabilities violates federal law and that these are "moral issues."
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and passage of Docket Number 1854.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1854 is passed.

I. Docket Number 1855: Resolution Recognizing Intersex Awareness Day

  • Description: Resolution recognizing October 26, 2025, as Intersex Awareness Day.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Henry Santana
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Santana expressed pride in being an ally to Boston's intersex community, noting Boston's historical significance as the site of the first public intersex demonstration in the U.S. He defined intersex as natural variations in sex characteristics, affecting up to 1 in 20 people. He highlighted the stigma, discrimination, and non-consensual surgeries faced by intersex individuals and the importance of awareness, visibility, and inclusion.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and adoption of Docket Number 1855.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1855 is passed.

J. Docket Number 1856: Resolution Recognizing Hope Out of Darkness Art Installation

  • Description: Resolution recognizing the "Hope Out of Darkness" art installation commemorating 170 years since Solomon Northup's visit to Boston.
  • Sponsors: Councilor Benjamin Weber, Council President Ruthzee Louijeune
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Worrell.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Weber reiterated the resolution's support for the "Hope Out of Darkness" exhibit. He drew parallels between the Fugitive Slave Act era in Boston, where the Boston Vigilance Committee advocated for abolition, and contemporary issues with ICE detentions, stating, "the more things change, the more things stay the same." He urged everyone to visit the exhibit at the Rose Kennedy Garden before December.
    • Council President Louijeune thanked Councilor Weber for bringing the resolution forward and acknowledged the powerful story of Solomon Northup and Boston's role in the abolitionist movement, including the Black Heritage Trail and homes on Beacon Hill that aided the Underground Railroad.
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and adoption of Docket Number 1856.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1856 is passed.

K. Docket Number 1857: Resolution in Support of Access to Gender-Affirming Care

  • Description: Resolution in support of access to gender-affirming care in the City of Boston.
  • Sponsor: Councilor Julia Mejia
  • Co-sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mejia highlighted attacks on trans and LGBTQIA2S+ communities nationwide and the federal administration's "weaponizing fear." She cited Fenway Health's recent announcement to stop providing gender-affirming care to patients under 19 due to threats to $36 million in federal funding. She emphasized Boston's commitment as a sanctuary city for the LGBTQIA2S+ community and the need for intentional coordination to ensure access to care. She also mentioned ongoing efforts to establish an LGBTQIA2S+ Commission.
    • Councilor Durkan supported the resolution, condemning federal actions that threaten the health and dignity of residents. She noted Fenway Health's difficult choice between its mission and federal funding, stating, "We can't let them be undermined by political coercion from the Trump administration."
  • Motion: Suspension of the rules and adoption of Docket Number 1857.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1857 is passed.

X. Personnel Orders

A. Docket Number 1858: Personnel Order (Councilor Santana)

  • Description: Personnel Order, Councilor Louijeune for Councilor Santana.
  • Motion: Passage of Docket Number 1858.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • All opposed: Nay
    • Outcome: The ayes have it. Docket Number 1858 has passed.

XI. Green Sheets

A. Docket Number 1690: Ruth Batson Academy Feasibility Study Appropriation

  • Description: Message and order for approval and authorizing the City of Boston to appropriate $2,500,000 for a feasibility study and schematic design for the Ruth Batson Academy (formerly John W. McCormick School) at 315 Mount Vernon Street, Dorchester. This includes incidental costs and potential eligibility for a Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grant.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Worrell (Chair, Committee on Ways and Means) presented this as the second affirmative vote for the feasibility study.
  • Motion: Second reading of Docket Number 1690.
  • Vote:
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Breadon: Yes
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Yes
      • Councilor Durkan: Yes
      • Councilor Fitzgerald: Yes
      • Councilor Flynn: Yes
      • Council President Louijeune: Yes
      • Councilor Mejia: Yes
      • Councilor Murphy: Yes
      • Councilor Pepén: Yes
      • Councilor Santana: Yes
      • Councilor Weber: Yes
      • Councilor Worrell: Yes
    • Outcome: 12 votes in the affirmative. Docket Number 1690 has passed its second reading.

XII. Late Files

  • No late file matters were presented.

XIII. Consent Agenda

  • No additions to the consent agenda.
  • Motion: Approval of the various matters contained within the consent agenda.
  • Vote:
    • All in favor: Aye
    • Outcome: The consent agenda has been adopted.

XIV. Announcements

  • Council President Louijeune congratulated Shane Pack on 10 years with the Boston City Council and welcomed back Ellen. She wished the Celtics good luck on their season opener.
  • Councilor Pepén wished his youngest sister, Lisa, a happy birthday on Saturday, October 25th.
  • Councilor Durkan wished her sister, Kaylee Finley, a happy 40th birthday.
  • Councilor Mejia announced the "School Vibes Clothing Boutique" on Monday, October 27th, from 3-7 PM at the Bruce Bowen Building, offering gently used clothes and resources for families navigating BPS issues. The event will also feature youth entrepreneurs.
  • Councilor Weber announced the JP Dog Costume Parade on Saturday, starting at First Baptist Church at noon and proceeding to Lorien Greenau House for judging.

XV. Memorials

  • The Council adjourned in memory of the following individuals:
    • Judge Leslie Harris: Honored by Council President Louijeune as an icon, mentor, and advocate for young people, particularly in Boston's Black neighborhoods. He founded the Black Alumni Network at BC Law and was known for his work as a juvenile court judge.
    • Paula Alexander: Honored by Councilor Breadon as a stalwart of the Allston Civic Association and Friends of the Honan Library. Her services will be at St. Anthony's on November 4th.
    • Peachy Bowdens: Honored by Councilor Mejia as a beloved community member. A vigil and fundraiser will be held tonight at Slade's.
    • Richard Mitchell Sr.: Honored by Councilor Worrell.
    • Mary Williams: Honored by Councilor Pepén.
    • Lisa Dix: Honored by Councilor Pepén.
    • Sinclair Osner Bernadeau: Father of Marjorie Bernadeau, honored by Council President Louijeune.
    • David Milhom: Of Temple Salem Church, honored by Council President Louijeune.
    • Jean Beauregard: Haitian community leader, honored by Council President Louijeune.
    • Billy Richtberg: 39-year civilian employee of the Boston Police Department, honored by Council President Louijeune.
    • D'Angelo (Michael Eugene Archer): R&B singer, honored by Council President Louijeune.
  • A moment of silence was observed.
  • Motion: The Chair moved that when the Council adjourns today, it does so in memory of the aforementioned individuals.

XVI. Adjournment

  • The Council is scheduled to meet again in the Ayanala Chamber on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM.
  • Motion: All in favor of adjournment.
  • Vote: Aye
  • Outcome: The Council is adjourned.

Last updated: Nov 15, 2025

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