City Council

October 8, 2025
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City Council Meeting Minutes

Governing Body: Boston City Council Meeting Type: City Council Meeting Meeting Date: October 8, 2025 Attendees: Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Councilors Liz Breadon, Gabriela Coletta Zapata, Sharon Durkan, John Fitzgerald, Edward Flynn, Julia Mejia, Erin Murphy, Enrique Pepén, Henry Santana, Benjamin Weber, Brian Worrell.

Executive Summary: The City Council convened to address several critical issues, including the approval of significant grants for elder services, the passage of an ordinance to prioritize affordable housing on surplus municipal property, and discussions on street safety and economic justice. The meeting also featured a presentation on Breast Cancer Awareness Month and resolutions recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day and condemning violence against first responders. Several home rule petitions were approved to waive age requirements for police officer candidates.

I. Call to Order & Roll Call

  • Roll Call:
    • Councilors present: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell.
    • A quorum was present.
  • Welcome: Council President Louijeune welcomed back Councilor Michael O'Neill.

II. Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance

  • Invocation: Pastor Matthew Keith Thompson Jr. of Jubilee Christian Church in Mattapan delivered the invocation, invited by Councilor Santana.
    • Pastor Thompson highlighted Jubilee Christian Church's 43-year legacy of community development, economic empowerment, and youth leadership training.
    • He emphasized the importance of thinking in terms of legacy rather than just the next election.
  • Pledge of Allegiance: Recited by all present.

III. Presentations

  • Uplifting Awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Celebrating the Ellie Fund
    • Speakers: Meredith Mendelson (Executive Director, Ellie Fund), Nakia Clark (Director of Community Engagement, Ellie Fund), Jenny Marcelin (Ellie Fund Beneficiary), Michelle Goldberg (City Council Staff).
    • Purpose: To recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the work of the Ellie Fund.
    • Ellie Fund's Mission: Provides essential support services to breast cancer patients and their families, including transportation, grocery/meal assistance, and household support.
    • Resolution: The Boston City Council presented an official resolution to the Ellie Fund:

      "Be it resolved that the Boston City Council extends its congratulations to the Ellie Fund in recognition of your tireless efforts to provide essential support services for breast cancer patients to ease the stresses of everyday life, allowing the focus to be on family, recovery, and healing."

    • Key Discussion Points:
      • Nakia Clark, a former caregiver and patient, emphasized the need for widespread awareness of the Ellie Fund's services.
      • Jenny Marcelin shared her personal experience benefiting from the Ellie Fund during her breast cancer treatment and recovery, highlighting the non-judgmental support received.
      • Meredith Mendelson stated the Ellie Fund aims to serve 2,000 patients and families this year and is focused on reducing disparities in breast cancer outcomes for Black and Brown women and men, who are 40% more likely to die than their white peers.
      • Councilor Santana shared his personal connection, noting his mother's battle with lung cancer and the importance of organizations like the Ellie Fund for early screening and support.
      • Council President Louijeune acknowledged her grandmother, Immacula, who died of breast cancer, and thanked all involved for their advocacy.

IV. Approval of Minutes

  • Meeting Minutes of October 1, 2025:
    • Vote: Approved by voice vote.
    • Outcome: Ayes have it.

V. Communications from Her Honor the Mayor

  • Docket No. 1777: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $2,316,369 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III-C Nutrition Services Program Grant.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund nutrition services for older adults.
  • Docket No. 1778: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $1,067,829 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III-B Supportive Services Grant.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund home-based support services for older adults.
  • Docket No. 1779: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $540,791 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III-E Family Caregiver Support Program.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund caregiver services for older adults.
  • Docket No. 1780: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $470,366 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III-A Area Plan Administration Grant.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund costs for administration of Title III programs and consumer protection programs for long-term services for older adults.
  • Docket No. 1781: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $177,619 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III Ombudsman Program Grant.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund consumer protection programs to improve long-term services for older adults.
  • Docket No. 1782: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend $84,002 in grant funds for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Title III-D Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, passed through Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
    • Administered by: Age Strong Commission.
    • Purpose: Fund services to assist older adults in preventing illness and managing chronic conditions.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Murphy, Chair of the Committee on Strong Women, Families, and Communities, requested suspension and passage of these six grants, totaling $4,656,979.
    • She noted these are recurring grants and support vital services for seniors.
    • Councilor Durkan expressed full support.
  • Votes on Dockets 1777-1782 (Suspension of Rules and Passage):
    • Docket No. 1777:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
    • Docket No. 1778:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
    • Docket No. 1779:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
    • Docket No. 1780:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
    • Docket No. 1781:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
    • Docket No. 1782:
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
  • Docket No. 1783: Message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend an in-kind donation of eight hand dryers and installation services, valued at $11,070.
    • Donor: Excel Dryer in coordination with Code Design Collaborative.
    • Purpose: Hand dryers for City Hall, Faneuil Hall, and Thomas Johnson Community Center.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Pepén, Chair of the Committee on City Services and Innovation Technology, sought suspension and passage, noting it's a small donation for cleanliness and comfort.
  • Vote on Docket No. 1783 (Suspension of Rules and Passage):
    • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).

VI. Reports of Public Officers and Others

  • Docket No. 1784: Notice from the City Clerk regarding mayoral action on papers from the September 24, 2025, City Council meeting.
    • Outcome: Placed on file.
  • Docket No. 1785: Communication from Councilor Flynn regarding a violent hate crime against LGBTQ+ neighbors.
    • Outcome: Placed on file.
  • Docket No. 1786: Communication from Councilor Flynn regarding a late-night riot in the South End.
    • Outcome: Placed on file.
  • Discussion on Docket No. 1786 (Councilor Flynn):
    • Councilor Flynn spoke on Docket No. 1768 (likely a transcription error, intended to be 1786), detailing an incident where hundreds of people attacked Boston police officers in the South End.
    • He condemned the assault on police officers and called for prosecution and high cash bail for those arrested.
    • He requested Commissioner Cox prioritize additional public safety resources, especially on weekends and late-night hours.
    • He reiterated his long-standing advocacy for hiring more police officers to address staffing shortages and mandatory overtime.

VII. Reports of Committees

  • Docket No. 1690: Committee on Ways and Means report on a message and order for approval of $2,500,000 for a feasibility study and schematic design for the Ruth Batson Academy (formerly John W. McCormack School).
    • Referral Date: September 24, 2025.
    • Purpose: To fund a feasibility study and schematic design for the Ruth Batson Academy project, potentially eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA).
    • Committee Hearing: Held on October 2, 2025.
      • Testimony: Chief Stanislas (Capital Planning, BPS), Executive Director Jones (Public Facilities Department), Project Manager McLaughlin (Public Facilities Department).
      • Attendees: Council President Louijeune, Councilor Fitzgerald.
      • Absences: Councilors Flynn, Pepén, Santana.
    • Key Discussion Points:
      • Mr. McLaughlin provided an overview of MSBA funding for public school construction.
      • The Ruth Batson Academy MSBA core process began in April 2024, with formal invitation in December 2024.
      • The $2.5 million appropriation is for hiring an owner's project manager and architect.
      • Chief Stanislas highlighted community engagement in forming the unified Ruth Batson Academy, blending BCLA and McCormick strengths.
      • The feasibility study is expected to take 18-24 months and will examine the entire campus, including the Deborah Elementary School, with projected enrollment increasing from 604 to 1,000 students.
      • The study will also evaluate climate resilience and outdoor field space options.
    • Committee Recommendation: Ought to be read for the first time and assigned for further action.
    • Council Discussion:
      • Council President Louijeune expressed excitement for the project, noting her attendance at McCormick and the students' eagerness for a new building.
      • Councilor Flynn supported the proposal and acknowledged State Treasurer Deb Goldberg and the MSBA for their support to Boston Public Schools.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1690 (Acceptance of Committee Report and First Reading):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (12 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: The committee report was accepted, and Docket No. 1690 was read for the first time and assigned for further action.

VIII. Matters Recently Heard

  • Docket No. 1276: Ordinance to prioritize surplus municipal property as affordable housing.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Louijeune, Pepén, Worrell.
    • Referral Date: June 25, 2025.
    • Committee Hearing: Held on August 15, 2025, with a working session on October 6, 2025.
      • Testimony: Jamie Smith Sr. (Environmental Compliance Manager, Mayor's Office of Housing - MOH), Daniel Lesser (Chief of Staff, MOH), Rebecca Tomasovic (Director of Real Estate, Planning Department).
    • Key Discussion Points:
      • The ordinance amends the City of Boston Code to prioritize affordable housing on surplus city-owned property.
      • MOH will evaluate surplus sites for affordable housing and can exempt properties with clear reasoning.
      • Community advocates strongly supported codifying the process for transparency and consistency.
      • Summary of Amendments:
        • Section 1 (Purpose): Clarified scope, striking "and subsidies" and replacing "while allowing flexibility when other municipalities need clearly apply" with "once the city has determined the property is not needed for other municipal purposes."
        • Section 2 (Definitions):
          • Affordable Housing: Struck "with housing costs not exceeding 30% of gross annual income as defined by Mass General Law Chapter 44B and Chapter 8-12 of the Boston City Code" and inserted "including at least 40% of the units are considered affordable in the overall project."
          • Exception Determination: Changed 90 days to 180 days for determination, and added language for written notice and automatic 180-day extension if needed, with public availability.
          • Surplus Municipal Property: Reworded language, striking "and has been formally designated as surplus by the Public Facilities Commission. This includes but is not limited to former BRA, BPDA Property, Police, Fire, EMS, and Public School Buildings under the care, custody, and control of the City of Boston."
          • Feasibility Evaluation: Struck in its entirety.
        • Section 3 (Procedure): Inserted "community input," replaced "Mayor's Office of Housing" with "the city," and replaced "Public Facility Commission" with "pertinent city department." Clarified exception determinations for future RFPs.
        • Section 4 (Reporting): Inserted "and the planning department" for joint reporting, and added language to ensure reports are submitted even without new designations, including a summary of housing units created.
        • Section 5 (Authority and Enforcement): Inserted "and any other applicable laws or regulations regarding the disposition of property."
    • Committee Recommendation: Ought to pass in a new draft.
    • Council Discussion:
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata (Chair, Government Operations) thanked colleagues, administration, and advocates, emphasizing the ordinance provides structure and gives MOH "first right of refusal" for affordable housing.
      • Council President Louijeune highlighted the ordinance's focus on predictability, transparency, and accountability, ensuring affordable housing is the city's priority for surplus property. She acknowledged former Councilor Tito Jackson and Mayor Wu's contributions.
      • Councilor Pepén supported the ordinance, citing examples like the Sarah Roberts School and the Pride building in his district as successful repurposing of old buildings.
      • Councilor Fitzgerald inquired about the process, confirming it doesn't favor any one developer and that the 30B procurement process remains protected by state law.
      • Councilor Flynn supported the proposal but cautioned against giving land to "politically connected developers," emphasizing due diligence.
      • Councilor Santana stressed the importance of using city-owned land to address the housing crisis and empower cost-burdened residents.
      • Councilor Breadon noted that while housing is a priority, the ordinance allows for other public goods like food hubs or non-profit spaces.
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata clarified that the council retains accountability through a two-thirds majority vote on any disposition.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1276 (Acceptance of Committee Report and Passage in New Draft):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (12 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: The committee report was accepted, and Docket No. 1276 passed in a new draft.
  • Docket No. 1450: Order for a hearing to discuss next steps to improve safety on the northern stretch of Hyde Park Avenue from Walk Hill Street to the Arborway.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Weber, Pepén, Worrell.
    • Committee Hearing: Held on October 6, 2025, at BTU School on Walk Hill Street.
      • Testimony: Yasha Franklin-Hodge (Chief of Streets), Matt Moran (Transit Team Director), Tyler Liu (Project Manager, Streets Department).
      • Attendees: Council President Louijeune, Councilors Murphy, Flynn.
      • Absence: Councilor Santana.
      • Public Testimony: Approximately 40 community members spoke, with nearly 100 in attendance.
    • Key Discussion Points:
      • Community members expressed urgent need for safety improvements.
      • City officials provided background on the project and reasons for delays.
      • Councilor Durkan (Chair, Planning, Development, and Transportation) noted the administration's plan for repaving, while residents desire more comprehensive traffic calming. She praised the off-site hearing for allowing residents to voice frustrations.
      • Councilor Weber highlighted the ongoing issues of traffic congestion, unsafe driving, and pedestrian/cyclist safety, referencing the death of Glenn Ingram. He advocated for red light cameras and better public transportation infrastructure.
      • Councilor Pepén emphasized that Hyde Park Avenue is a critical corridor and called for prompt action, especially at the intersection of Ukraine Way and Hyde Park Avenue.
      • Councilor Worrell supported automated traffic enforcement and transit signal priority systems, and called for increased traffic enforcement by BPD.
      • Councilor Flynn stressed the critical need for traffic enforcement, citing an incident of a car driving 70 mph on Hyde Park Avenue. He also advocated for revisiting concurrent signaling policies where pedestrians and vehicles have the right-of-way simultaneously.
      • Councilor Murphy praised the off-site hearing format for engaging residents and acknowledged the city-wide nature of traffic concerns.
    • Outcome: Docket No. 1450 will remain in committee.

IX. Motions, Orders, and Resolutions

  • Docket No. 1787: Petition for a special law regarding an act directing the City of Boston Police Department to waive the maximum age requirement for police officers for Elijah Osborne.
    • Sponsor: Councilor Fitzgerald.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Flynn, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Fitzgerald stated Elijah Osborne, 43, passed the civil service exam and attended orientation.
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata noted a deadline for such petitions and mentioned her efforts at the Committee on Public Service for similar home rule petitions.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1787 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (12 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1788: Petition for a special law regarding an act directing the City of Boston Police Department to waive the maximum age requirement for police officers for Domingos Rosa.
    • Sponsor: Councilor Fitzgerald.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Flynn, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Fitzgerald stated Domingos Rosa, 44, is a lifelong Dorchester resident, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, former correctional officer, and current compliance officer with the Boston Public Health Commission. He is fluent in Cape Verdean Creole and understands Spanish and Portuguese.
      • Councilor Flynn emphasized giving consideration to veterans who have served the country.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1788 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (12 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1789: Petition for a special law regarding an act directing the City of Boston Police Department to waive the maximum age requirement for police officers for Latiana Taylor-Rosny.
    • Sponsor: Councilor Santana.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Santana stated Latiana Taylor-Rosny, 40, was hired in 2019 but withdrew due to childbirth. She has consistently passed the civil service exam since then.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1789 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (11 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1790: Petition for a special law regarding an act directing the City of Boston Police Department to waive the maximum age requirement for police officers for Edney Joseph.
    • Sponsor: Councilor Weber.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Worrell, Louijeune.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Weber stated Edney Joseph, 44, lives in West Roxbury, is Haitian-born, a West Roxbury High School graduate, and has family in law enforcement. He previously worked as a court officer and a Northeastern police officer.
      • Council President Louijeune inquired about an upcoming deadline for age waivers.
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata noted anecdotal information about an upcoming academy or test deadline.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1790 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (11 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1791: Order for a hearing to discuss the role of publicly owned grocery stores in addressing food insecurity.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Louijeune, Coletta Zapata.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Breadon emphasized the hearing's purpose to explore publicly funded grocery stores as a tool to strengthen food infrastructure, especially with rising food costs and SNAP benefit cuts. She highlighted "food deserts" and "food apartheid" in Boston.
      • Council President Louijeune supported the hearing, linking it to economic justice and the need to support non-profit grocers and urban farming. She cited examples from Atlanta and Madison, Wisconsin.
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata discussed the concept of a "food hub" and the success of the refrigerated storage space at Newmarket, funded by ARPA. She highlighted East Boston's food desert status and the need for affordable, healthy food access.
      • Councilor Flynn acknowledged the role of co-ops, community gardens, and non-profits like Women's Lunch Place.
      • Councilor Worrell advocated for supporting the Dorchester Food Co-op and other food access initiatives like Common Square Farmer's Markets and Fresh Truck.
    • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on City Services, Innovation, and Technology.
  • Docket No. 1792: Order for a hearing to discuss the minimum wage in Massachusetts.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Breadon, Louijeune, Weber.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Breadon proposed the hearing to discuss raising the minimum wage, citing Boston's high cost of living, inflation, and the impact on workers. She reviewed the history of the "Raise Up Massachusetts" campaign and the current $15 minimum wage.
      • Councilor Weber supported the hearing and suggested discussing the Boston Living Wage Ordinance, which sets a higher minimum wage for city vendors.
      • Council President Louijeune connected the issue to food justice and economic justice, advocating for a minimum wage for city employees and addressing pocketbook issues.
    • Outcome: Referred to the Committee on Labor, Workforce, and Economic Development.
  • Docket No. 1793: Resolution recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Boston.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Flynn highlighted the prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault, citing 19 domestic violence homicides in Massachusetts in 2023 and 903 incidents of domestic aggravated assault in Boston in 2024. He emphasized the increased risk of homicide with a gun and the underreporting in immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities. He acknowledged organizations like Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence and Casa Myrna.
      • Council President Louijeune stressed the personal importance of the issue and the link between domestic violence and other forms of violence. She provided resources: SafeLink (1-877-785-2020) and Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence (617-338-2355).
      • Councilor Murphy thanked Councilor Flynn and emphasized the importance of uplifting resources and supporting victims. She acknowledged the work of BPD, the Family Justice Center, social workers, the Public Health Commission, and the DA's office.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1793 (Suspension of Rules and Passage):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (11 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1794: Resolution in support of an East Boston cultural district designation.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Coletta Zapata, Louijeune, Mejia.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Coletta Zapata stated the request came from the East Boston community, recognizing its creativity, resilience, and diversity. She highlighted the potential for preserving historic landmarks, supporting artists, attracting investment, and protecting residents from displacement. She noted East Boston's history as an artist community and the current cultural renaissance.
      • Council President Louijeune thanked East Boston advocates and emphasized the importance of economic empowerment alongside cultural designation. She mentioned Michael Bobbitt from the Mass Cultural Council.
      • Councilor Mejia highlighted the resolution as a reminder of indigenous communities' strength and stewardship, advocating for amplifying indigenous voices and investing in partnerships.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Flynn, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Fitzgerald, Murphy.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1794 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).
  • Docket No. 1795: Resolution supporting Boston's police officers and first responders and condemning violence against those who serve.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Murphy, Flynn, Fitzgerald.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Murphy detailed recent violent incidents against first responders, including a police cruiser being torched and officers assaulted in the South End/Roxbury, and an incident in West Roxbury and Hyde Park. She also mentioned an incident last night where officers responding to an arrest were blocked and assaulted by protestors. She called for reaffirming commitment to resources, respect, and protection for first responders.
      • Councilor Flynn condemned the assaults, including an officer shot in Roxbury and the "attempted murder" of officers whose car was set ablaze. He described last night's event as a "riot" and called for prosecution, state sentences, and higher bail. He reiterated his call for more police officers and better equipment.
      • Councilor Fitzgerald condemned the violence, citing six officers injured and multiple vehicles vandalized in recent days. He called for discipline and for protestors to "lead by example" and embrace non-violence.
      • Councilor Santana thanked the sponsors and condemned the violence, linking it to a broader "epidemic of violence." He committed to ensuring first responders are protected and supported.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell, Louijeune.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1795 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell (11 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1796: Resolution recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Boston.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Louijeune, Santana.
    • Discussion:
      • Council President Louijeune thanked the Ellie Fund, Jenny Marcelin, and Michelle Goldberg, emphasizing the importance of screenings, reducing disparities, and supporting residents.
      • Councilor Santana thanked Council President Louijeune and highlighted the work of Dr. Flores and Milagros Maltes in promoting early screening, especially in Latino, Black, and Asian communities.
      • Councilor Mejia uplifted Angie Dickerson and the Boston Rhythm Writers for their advocacy and awareness efforts, particularly for people of color.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Mejia, Murphy, Worrell, Flynn, Weber.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1796 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Yes: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Santana, Weber, Worrell (10 votes)
        • No: 0
        • Abstain: 0
      • Outcome: Passed.
  • Docket No. 1797: Resolution recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day.
    • Sponsors: Councilors Louijeune, Mejia, Weber.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Breadon read a land acknowledgment, recognizing the Massachusetts, Pawtucket, Wampanoag, and Nipmuc peoples as traditional stewards of the land and acknowledging the painful history of colonization.
      • Council President Louijeune honored the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, particularly the Massachusetts people and the Ponkapoag tribe. She acknowledged the difficult legacy of colonization and the importance of advancing justice and healing. She highlighted the North American Indian Center of Boston (NAICOB) and its work.
      • Councilor Mejia emphasized that Indigenous Peoples' Day is a reminder of both injustices and the continued strength and stewardship of indigenous communities. She called for amplifying indigenous voices and investing in partnerships.
      • Councilor Weber thanked the sponsors and acknowledged NAICOB as a valuable resource in his district.
      • Councilor Worrell highlighted the city's Equity and Inclusion Cabinet's program manager for indigenous communities.
    • Co-sponsors: Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Fitzgerald, Flynn, Murphy, Santana.
    • Vote on Docket No. 1797 (Suspension of Rules and Adoption):
      • Outcome: Passed by voice vote (Ayes have it).

X. Consent Agenda

  • Outcome: Adopted.

XI. Announcements

  • Upcoming Birthdays:
    • Deborah Glennon: October 11
    • Shawn Jacobson: October 17
    • Aracey: October 21
  • Upcoming Events:
    • Open Streets, Mattapan: October 18
    • Dietrich Weiss block party, Mattapan Teen Center block party: Next Saturday
    • Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month celebration: Next Wednesday (October 15th)
  • Councilor Murphy: Announced her sons' birthdays (Brian, Collin, Michael) and the upcoming birth of her grandson.
  • Councilor Weber: Announced a celebration of life for Marie Turley on Sunday, October 12, from 4-6 PM at Evergreen Cafe in Jamaica Plain.
  • Councilor Flynn: Announced a City Council hearing on the impact of the government shutdown on veterans, tomorrow at 10 AM, with an informal reception at 9:30 AM in the Curley Room.

XII. Memorials

  • Councilor Coletta Zapata: Memorialized Rocco Talese, East Boston's last World War II veteran, who passed at 100 years old. He served in the U.S. Army, earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, and was the inspiration for a best-selling book.
  • Councilor Murphy: Memorialized Greg Timmelty, who passed suddenly, leaving behind young children and family.
  • Councilor Flynn: Also mentioned Greg Timmelty. Memorialized Nancy Lee, a wonderful woman, mother, and grandmother from South Boston, active in the community and local sports programs.
  • Council President Louijeune: Memorialized Luis A. Velez-Cortez, husband of Hyde Park community leader Eileen McClellan de Velez.
  • Adjournment in Memory: The council adjourned in memory of Rocco Talese, Joseph Gerald Denumustiae, Marie McGuire, Peter Joseph Meade, Ian Nancy Lee, Luis A. Valiz-Cortez, Andre Taylor, and Greg Timelty.

XIII. Adjournment

  • Next Meeting: Wednesday, October 22nd, at 12 noon in the INLF chamber.
  • Vote: All in favor of adjournment said aye.
  • Outcome: The council adjourned.

Last updated: Nov 15, 2025

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