City Council

August 28, 2025
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Meeting Minutes: City Council Regular Meeting

Governing Body: City Council Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Meeting Date: Thursday, August 28th, 2025 Attendees: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Sait, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Davis (presiding). Absent: One Councilor.

Executive Summary

The City Council held a regular meeting on August 28th, 2025, conducted remotely. Key actions included the approval of a resolution to establish a sister city relationship with Pryluky, Ukraine, following a moving address from Mayor Olga Popenko and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. The Council also approved the appropriation of $1,238,000 from the Open Space Stabilization Fund for the purchase of 217 Somerville Avenue (Kelly Park) and ordained an amendment to sections 764, 765, and 768 of the Code of Ordinances to reduce tenant displacement and update relocation payments. Discussions also covered the need for real-time emergency notifications to councilors and the status of the Highland Avenue redesign project.

Agenda Items

1.3 Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of June 26th, 2025

  • Discussion: No discussion.
  • Outcome: Laid on the table for approval.

10.1 Citation by Councilors Clingan and Wilson, Commending Stephanie Estrella for Leadership and Support During a Recent House Fire

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Clingan highlighted Stephanie Estrella's swift and effective coordination of displaced residents and critical information gathering during a significant fire on Wheatland Street on Sunday, July 6th, 2025. The fire displaced 27 tenants.
    • Councilor Wilson emphasized the remarkable impact of Inspector Estrella's arrival at the scene.
    • Mayor Katjana Ballantyne acknowledged Stephanie Estrella's 16 years of service to the City of Somerville and her leadership in the largest union, commending her for her skills and hard work.
    • Stephanie Estrella, Health Inspector, thanked the Council and Mayor for the recognition, emphasizing the critical role of ISD Health in emergencies, particularly with international and bilingual residents, and the support from the Red Cross.
  • Resolution: "Be it hereby known to all that the City of Somerville, I'm sorry, that the Somerville City Council and the Mayor offer their sincerest commendations to Stephanie Estrella, for displaying professional, clear and calm control and gathering critical information during a recent house fire. Stephanie's proactive leadership prioritized safety and wellbeing and provided critical support to both residents and emergency personnel. The councilors and the mayor offer their sincere gratitude for these outstanding efforts offered this 28th day of August, 2025, signed by all council members, including the mayor."
  • Outcome: Approved.

3.1 Grant of Location from Cambridge Network Solutions to Install a Total of 88 Feet of Conduit in South Street

  • Public Hearing:
    • Jeffrey Harrington, Construction Manager for Cambridge Network Solutions, spoke in favor, explaining the need to join two cables in separate manholes along South Street.
    • No other public comments.
  • Discussion: No discussion.
  • Outcome: Laid on the table.

3.2 Grant Application from Eversource to Install a Total of Approximately 49 Feet of Conduit in Howard Street

  • Public Hearing:
    • Jackie Duffy (Eversource) spoke in favor, stating the conduit is for a new electric vehicle charging station at 33 Thorndike Street.
    • No other public comments.
  • Discussion: No discussion.
  • Outcome: Laid on the table for approval.

4.10 Resolution by Councilor Mbah that Somerville Establish a Sister City Relationship with Pryluky, Ukraine

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah introduced the resolution, inspired by recent interactions with Ukrainian individuals, emphasizing Somerville's commitment to cultural exchange and international friendship. He highlighted Pryluky's shared values of community resilience and innovation.
    • Resolution: "The city of Somerville has a longstanding commitment to fostering global connections, cultural exchange, and solidarity through its sister city relationship. And whereas people of Ukraine, including the residents of the city of Pryluky, have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, courage, and commitment to justice and democracy in the face of adversity, And whereas Pryluky, an historic city in northern Ukraine, represents a community whose values of perseverance, cultural heritage, and pursuit of peace align with Somerville's own dedication to equity, justice, and human dignity. And whereas the city of Somerville recognizes that international partnership, strength, and mutual understanding provide opportunities for cultural, educational, and economic education. change and reaffirm our shared vanity. And whereas counselor Wilford was inspired to submit this resolution by his colleagues, residents of the region whom he met at the certificate and public leadership conference in Washington, DC as a symbol of the personal connections that bridge our communities. Now, therefore be it resolved that the Somerville city council hereby declares and to establish a sister city relationship with Pryluky Ukraine as a demonstration of solidarity, friendship and mutual support with our communities and be it further resolved, we have Somerville will work collaboration with community leaders, residents and partners in both cities to foster programs, cultural exchange, educational partnership and mutual support initiatives that strengthen this bond and be it further resolved that copies of this resolution sent to the mayor of Pryluky, the Ukrainian consulate in Boston and representatives of the Ukrainian American community in Boston to affirm Somerville's commitment to international friendship, justice, and ."
    • Mayor Olga Popenko of Pryluky, Ukraine, addressed the Council virtually, expressing gratitude and outlining potential areas of cooperation: education and youth exchanges, culture and art, economic and innovation, and humanitarian and social projects. She emphasized the shared values of freedom, democracy, and respect for human beings.
    • Mayor Katjana Ballantyne expressed support for the resolution, welcoming the virtual guests and emphasizing Somerville's commitment to standing with Ukraine and fostering peace. She shared personal reflections on generational war trauma and the importance of such partnerships.
    • Councilor Scott highlighted Pryluky's courage in resisting Russian forces in February 2022.
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen drew parallels to Cambridge's sister city relationship with San Flores, El Salvador, emphasizing the meaningful impact of such initiatives.
    • Councilor Burnley noted the visible support for Ukraine within Somerville and the importance of global connections.
    • Councilor Sait expressed enthusiasm for the future relationship.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.31 Communication of the Mayor Proclaiming the Week of September 12th through September 21st, 2025, as Welcoming Week

  • Discussion:
    • Mayor Katjana Ballantyne presented the proclamation, emphasizing Somerville's commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and the belief that every person deserves dignity, belonging, and opportunity.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

7.2 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Approval to Appropriate $1,238,000 from the Open Space Stabilization Fund to Pay Additional Costs of Purchasing the Parcel of Land Known as 217 Somerville Avenue and Kelly Park

  • Discussion:
    • Attorney Secretary provided a summary: The City initially paid $1.3 million for the parcel via eminent domain. Appraisers for both parties agreed the highest and best use was for mixed commercial and residential (a five-story building), valuing the property at $2,350,000 (City's appraiser) and $2,760,000 (other appraiser). They settled at $2,555,000. The requested amount covers the difference. The prior owner waived pre-judgment interest.
    • Councilor Strezo requested a summary for the public.
    • Councilor Scott celebrated the opening of Kelly Park at 217 Somerville Avenue, noting it was the first public park created by eminent domain in at least 20 years and was driven by the City Council. He expressed concern that the prior owner made a $1.4 million profit in less than a year.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (10-0).

7.3 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Approval to Appropriate $591,190 from the Capital Stabilization Fund for Information Technology Equipment

  • Discussion:
    • Dave Goodridge, IT Director, explained that the auditing department moved funds for computer equipment from the FSPA 26 budget to the Capital Stabilization Fund, necessitating this appropriation.
    • Councilor Burnley inquired if this procedural change would lead to frequent requests for IT equipment. Goodridge stated it was likely rare, due to the current financial situation.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (10-0).

7.4 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Approval to Appropriate $73,750 from the Salary and Wage Stabilization Fund for DPW School Custodian's Other Lump Sum Payments Account

  • Discussion:
    • Attorney Sergo explained this appropriation funds the retroactive component of a wage re-opener Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Service Employee's International Union Local 3 school custodians for Fiscal Year 2025.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (10-0).

7.8 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Approval of a Transfer of $448,180 from the Salary Contingency Account to Various Departmental Salaries Accounts

  • Discussion:
    • Mike Mastroboni, Budget Director, stated this transfer funds Fiscal Year 2026 non-union employee step increases (pay bands one through four, two steps), which were discussed during the budget process.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (10-0).

7.1 Request of the Mayor, Requesting that this Council Convene an Executive Session to Discuss Techniques for Incentivizing Tenant Recruitment to Vacant Laboratory Spaces

  • Discussion:
    • Solicitor Amara confirmed the item is appropriate for executive session under Exemption 6.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (10-0). The Council entered executive session.

Return to Regular Session

  • Quorum Established: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Davis. (9 Councilors present, 1 absent).

9.23 Public Communication from Former Mayor Eugene Bruin, Former Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay, and Former Alderman Jack Conley, Submitting Comments Regarding Chapter 53, Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws

  • Discussion: This item was discussed in conjunction with 10.4.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.4 Order by Councilor Mbah that the City of Somerville Hereby Accept the Provisions of Chapter 53, Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah introduced the order, prompted by constituent Harriet Ranvig, to ensure timely and accessible distribution of a plain language summary of changes to the city charter, which will be on the November 4th, 2025 ballot. This includes normal and large print, Braille, and all languages the city typically uses.
    • Public Comment: Harriet Ranvig (5 Lester Terrace, Davis Square) spoke, emphasizing the need for a well-informed electorate and recalling difficulties with accessible information during a previous election. She highlighted the importance of understanding charter changes.
    • Councilor McLaughlin provided an update that the charter update has passed the House and will proceed to the Senate and Governor.
  • Outcome: Sent to Legislative Matters for discussion, with a copy to the administration for advice on compliance and timing.

5.1 Request of the Mayor Requesting Ordainment of an Amendment to Sections 764, 765, and 768 of the Code of Ordinances to Reduce Displacement of Tenants and Update Relocation Payments

  • Discussion:
    • This item was discussed in conjunction with 5.2 through 5.5 (communications received regarding 5.1).
    • Director Galgani (Office of Intergovernmental Affairs) addressed concerns about the impact on the residential housing market. He stated that while it might slightly increase costs for developers and potentially reduce the number of new homes built, it would not have a catastrophic effect. He emphasized the importance of these changes for tenant protection.
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen strongly supported the amendment, refuting the Chamber of Commerce's objection that it would make it harder to remove tenants. He argued that the city's policy should not be to displace tenants and that those who are displaced deserve reasonable relocation expenses and time.
  • Vote (Approval):
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome (Approval): Approved (10-0).
  • Vote (Enrollment):
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome (Enrollment): Enrolled (10-0).
  • Vote (Ordainment):
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome (Ordainment): Ordained (10-0).

4.1 Communication by Councilor Davis in his Capacity as President, Conveying this Council's Updated Standing and Special Committee Assignments and Commission Appointments for 2025

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

4.2 Order by Councilor Strezo that the Director of Mobility Appear Before this Council to Discuss How the City May Apply for the State's Micro Transit and Last Mile Program Grant

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Strezo proposed exploring the state grant for an 8-seater, 100% EV microtransit bus system to reduce car dependency and foster community partnerships.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait.
  • Outcome: Sent to Community Development.

4.3 Order by Councilor Strezo that the Director of Emergency Management and the Mayor Inform City Councilors in Real Time When Emergency Events are Occurring in the City

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Strezo emphasized the repeated requests from councilors for real-time emergency notifications, citing recent fires in West Somerville and Ward 4 where councilors were not promptly informed. She highlighted the need for councilors to serve constituents effectively during crises.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Burnley.
    • Councilor Burnley reiterated that this has been a long-standing issue, noting that while ward councilors are sometimes notified, at-large councilors are often left out.
    • Director Singh (Intergovernmental Affairs) acknowledged the ongoing conversations about emergency protocols and stated that IGA attempts to notify ward councilors as soon as possible after an emergency is addressed, but real-time notification is challenging as departments focus on the emergency itself. She expressed willingness to discuss processes for all councilors.
    • Councilor Mbah noted a recent fire on North Street where he, as an at-large councilor, was not informed.
  • Outcome: Sent to Public Health and Public Safety.

4.4 Resolution by Councilors Strezo and Davis that the Mayor Commit to and Provide Funds for Installing a Winter Ice Sheet for the 2025-2026 Season at Founders Rink

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Strezo expressed strong desire for the ice sheet, noting the council's and community's unequivocal support.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Sait, Councilor Mbah.
    • Councilor Clingan made a lighthearted comment: "Ice, ice, baby."
  • Outcome: Approved.

4.5 Resolution by Councilors Strezo and Davis that the Administration Direct All Relevant Departments, Including Health and Human Services, to Appear Before the City Council to Discuss and Update on Current and Unhoused Outreach Efforts

  • Outcome: Sent to Public Health and Public Safety.

4.6 Resolution by Councilors Strezo and Wilson Calling on MassHealth to Enforce Existing Administrative Regulations and Statutory Authority Pertaining to the Provision of Applied Behavioral Analysis Services

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Strezo summarized the resolution, highlighting the acute shortage of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) practitioners in Massachusetts, leading to long waitlists (2,000-3,500 children aged 2-5) for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She explained that Massachusetts operates under a two-tier ABA delivery model, unlike California or Michigan's three-tier model, which could expand services. The resolution advocates for MassHealth and insurance companies to accept a three-tier model.
    • Co-sponsor: Councilor Wilson.
    • Councilor Wilson emphasized that the three-tier model works and would significantly benefit Somerville families and youth through early intervention.
  • Outcome: Approved, with copies to the Governor's Office and the State Delegation.

4.7 Order by Councilor Mbah that the Director of Finance Provide a Comprehensive Accounting of All Stabilization Accounts that Have Remained Unspent for Three or More Fiscal Years

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah explained the need for this information due to funds drying up in the Job Creation and Retention Trust and the Affordable Housing Trust. The report should include original contributions, current balances, planned uses, and any legal/contractual obligations preventing repurposing.
  • Outcome: Sent to Finance.

4.8 Order by Councilor Mbah that the Director of Economic Development Provide a Report to this Council on the Impact of Greentown Labs

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah highlighted Greentown Labs as a leading climate technology incubator bringing recognition and opportunity to Somerville. He requested a comprehensive report on its measurable local impact, including job creation, economic activity, community engagement, climate contributions, and equity outreach, to align with Somerville's goals.
  • Outcome: Approved, with a copy to Open Space, Environment, and Energy.

4.9 Order by Councilor Mbah that the Director of Parks and Recreation Install a Clock on Top of the Dillboy Pool Building

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah stated this addition would improve the experience for residents at a widely used public amenity.
  • Outcome: Approved, with a copy to Open Space, Environment, and Energy.

4.11 Communication by Councilor Mbah, Conveying a Report of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah reported on the August 14th meeting of the Somerville Affordable Housing Trust. Key points:
      • New trustees welcomed.
      • Financial reports: $2.3 million in CPA account (including FY25 allocation), $11.8 million in non-CPA account, $50,000 in early action acquisition fund.
      • CPC approved returning $264,000 in CPA interest (FY2019-2025) to the trust.
      • Staff recommended allocating up to $400,000 in CPA funds for FY26 housing assistance program via competitive RFP.
      • Trustee recruitment ongoing for banking/finance and non-profit seats.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

4.12 Communication by Councilor Mbah, Conveying a Report of the Job Creation and Retention Trust Fund

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah reported on the August 21st meeting of the Job Creation and Retention Trust. Key points:
      • Voted to issue an RFP for job training and career counseling providers, offering four or five grants of approximately $200,000 each for FY26-27.
      • Committed $1 million to this RFP, despite concerns that with no new construction projects, spending now will reduce reserves to less than $2 million, potentially threatening sustainability. This concern prompted his previous order regarding stabilization accounts.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

4.13 Order by Councilors Ewen-Campen and Wilson that the Director of Health and Human Services Create a Summer Job in the Mayor's Jobs Program by Which Youth Can Travel by Bike to Water Public Trees Around the City

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen introduced the order, inspired by a Tufts student's experience with a similar program in Cambridge DPW. Youth would bike to water trees, connect to fire hydrants, and receive community appreciation.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Clingan, Councilor Sait, Councilor Mbah.
    • Councilor Clingan recalled discussing a similar idea during a drought.
    • Councilor Wilson supported the idea as an interesting opportunity to expand the Mayor's Summer Jobs Program for older teenagers.
    • Councilor Sait saw it as a great project-based learning opportunity for students.
  • Outcome: Approved, with a copy to Open Space, Environment, and Energy.

4.14 Order by Councilor Ewen-Campen that the Director of Mobility Install a Left Turn Signal for Vehicles Turning Left from Somerville Avenue onto Bow Street

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen explained the issue: the current signal at Somerville Ave before Gracie's causes significant backups for left-turning vehicles due to a long red light intended for straight traffic. He proposed a dedicated left-turn arrow to improve traffic flow.
  • Outcome: Approved, with a copy to Traffic and Parking.

4.15 Resolution by Councilor Ewen-Campen that the Mayor Explained to this Council Why the Community Process for a Redesigned Highland Avenue Appears to Have Been Postponed Indefinitely

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen expressed strong frustration and disappointment regarding the indefinite postponement of the Highland Avenue redesign community process. He noted that the initial meeting was in October 2021, and despite repeated statements and a dedicated city website indicating a July 2025 start for design and outreach, no action has been taken. He criticized the lack of honest communication from the Mayor's office, stating that misleading the public erodes trust. He argued that a redesigned Highland Avenue with bike lanes is crucial for commuter safety and to alleviate congestion on the Community Path.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Davis, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait, Councilor Clingan.
  • Outcome: Approved.

4.16 Order by Councilor Sait that the Director of Mobility Update this Council on When the Speed Limit Signage and No Motorized Vehicle Signage Will Be Installed Along the Community Path

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Sait requested an update, noting a similar order was placed last fall with no subsequent update.
  • Outcome: Sent to Traffic and Parking for follow-up.

4.17 Order by Councilor Sait that the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Update this Council on When the School Buildings Maintenance Project Website Will Be Available to the Public

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Sait requested an update, noting this has been a long-standing request from parents.
  • Outcome: Sent to School Building Facilities and Maintenance.

4.18 Order by Councilor Sait that the Commissioner of Public Works Clear the Overgrowth on the Sidewalk at 19 Elm Street and that the Director of Inspectional Services Cite the Property Owner Accordingly

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Sait highlighted the long-standing issue of overgrowth and rodents at this abandoned property, noting constituent complaints.
  • Outcome: Approved.

4.19 Resolution by Councilor Sait that the Administration Release the Report on the School Department Composting Pilot Program and that the Commissioner of Public Work Update this Council on Any Plans to Reintroduce Composting in the Schools

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Sait requested the release of the composting pilot program report and an update on future plans.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Scott, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Mbah.
    • Councilor Mbah noted the long history of this initiative, dating back to 2017-2018.
  • Outcome: Approved, with a copy to School Buildings, Facilities and Maintenance.

7.5 - 7.7 and 7.9 - 7.26 (Various Financial Items)

  • Outcome: Waived readings, sent to Finance.

7.27 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Confirmation of the Appointment of Olivia Mobiah to the Zoning Board of Appeals

  • Outcome: Referred to Confirmation of Appointments.

7.28 Request of the Mayor, Requesting Confirmation of the Appointment of Suzanne Warner to the Urban Forestry Committee

  • Outcome: Approved.

7.29 Communication of the Mayor Conveying an Update Regarding Work Completed During Summer 2025 on Somerville Public Schools Building

  • Outcome: Sent to School Buildings, Facilities and Maintenance.

7.30 Communication of the Mayor Conveying an Update on the Status of the Charter for the City of Somerville

  • Discussion: Councilor McLaughlin provided a brief update on the charter's progress through the state legislature.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

8.1 Officer's Communication from the City Clerk Requesting Approval of Her Public Official's Bond

  • Outcome: Approved.

8.2 Officer's Communication from the Licensing Commission Requesting the Acceptance of Mass General Laws Chapter 138, Section 12D to Allow Current Wine and Malt Beverage License Holders to Apply to Convert to a Non-Transferable All Forms Alcohol License

  • Discussion: Councilor Burnley suggested sending this to committee.
  • Outcome: Sent to Legislative Matters.

8.3 Officer's Communication from the City Clerk Conveying Block Party Licenses Issued

  • Discussion: Councilor Burnley highlighted the upcoming Gilman Square Arts and Music Festival (September 13th, 1-5 PM) and the Forever Fluff events (September 20th, 11 AM - 8 PM). The Clerk noted that block party kits are now available.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

9.1 - 9.4 and 9.8 - 9.19 (Various Event and License Approvals)

  • Discussion: Councilor Burnley highlighted the Gilman Square Arts and Music Festival and the Forever Fluff events.
  • Outcome: Waived readings, approved.

9.5 New Extended Operating Hours License for Mint Indian Eatery for In-Store Takeout and Delivery Until 4 AM

  • Outcome: Sent to Licenses and Permits.

9.6 New Extended Operating Hours License for The Pub for In-Store Takeout and Delivery Until 4 AM

  • Outcome: Sent to Licenses and Permits.

9.7 New Outdoor Goods License for a Martial Arts Center

  • Outcome: Approved.

9.20 Public Communication from the Massachusetts Attorney General, Issuing a Determination Regarding Item 25-0105, Open Meeting Law Complaint Filed Against Council by Laura Ortiz on January 11th, 2025

  • Discussion: The full records responsive to this request are available on Legistar.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

9.21 Public Communication from Jonah Abrams Submitting Comments Regarding Davis Square

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

9.22 Public Communication from Thuy Jones, Submitting Comments Regarding Bike Lanes

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.2 Order by Councilor Burnley that the Director of Engineering Respond to the Pedestrian and Transit Advisory Committee's Recently Released Walk Audit and How the City Will Implement Its Short-Term Recommendation

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley referenced a Somerville Times article about the PTAC walk audit in Union Square, highlighting its recommendations for a safer Union Square, including short-term signal changes.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah.
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen requested that item 10.14 (the PTAC report) be sent along with this order.
    • Councilor Mbah commended PTAC for their work.
  • Outcome: Sent to Traffic and Parking.

10.3 Resolution by Councilor Burnley in Support of Innovation in East Somerville

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley introduced the resolution concerning 161 Broadway, a historic automotive garage. He described an opportunity for a local company, Topologic (automated sweater manufacturing), to share the space, creating jobs and civic space. The challenge is the current owner's desire to retain the existing licenses (used car dealer, garage) even if not actively used, to ensure future flexibility. He sought council support to facilitate this innovation.
    • Councilor McLaughlin moved to send it to Housing and Community Development.
    • Councilor Burnley preferred Licenses and Permits, arguing it's more relevant to licensing.
    • Councilor Davis argued it's more of an economic development issue and that Housing and Community Development is appropriate, especially since the ward councilor sits on that committee.
  • Outcome: Sent to Housing and Community Development.

10.5 Order by Councilors Wilson and Scott that the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management and the Director of Public Base and Urban Forestry Update this Council on the Status of Art Farm and the Funding for the Project

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson requested an update on Art Farm, the open space to be constructed above the completed stormwater storage tank at Poplar Street.
    • Co-sponsors: Councilor Scott, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Mbah.
    • Councilor Scott expressed concern about the status of projects committed by the administration.
  • Outcome: Sent to Open Space, Environment, and Energy.

10.6 Order by Councilor Wilson that the Commissioner of Public Works Update this Council on the Policy for Mattress Recycling for Residents of Buildings with Seven or More Units

  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson highlighted the disparity in mattress recycling: residents in buildings with six or fewer units can use city services, but those in larger buildings (seven or more units) lack clear guidance. He emphasized the need for clear information for all residents.
  • Outcome: Approved.

10.7 Officer's Communication from the Director of Emergency Management Conveying Information About the Recent Local Recovery Resources

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.8 New Dog Kennel License for a Pup Yard at 321 Somerville Ave for 30 Dogs, Commercial Boarding and Training

  • Outcome: Referred to Licenses and Permits.

10.9 - 10.12 (Various Items)

  • Outcome: Waived readings, approved.

10.13 Public Communication from Scott Peterson, Submitting Comments Regarding

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.14 Public Communication from the Pedestrian and Transit Advisory Committee, Somerville Alliance for Safe Streets, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Groundwork Somerville Green Team, and Union Square Main Street, Submitting Comments Regarding the Union Square Walk Audit

  • Outcome: Sent to Traffic and Parking (with item 10.2).

10.15 Public Communication from Ruth Burns, Submitting Comments Regarding Sidewalk

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.16 Public Communication from Nicholas Elton, Submitting Comments Regarding Balcony Solar

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

10.17 Public Communication from Christopher Beland, Submitting Comments Regarding Item 25-1311, Eversource Applying for a Grant of Location to Install, Total of Approximately 49

  • Outcome: Placed on file.

Late Item: Congratulating Clark Kim Wells

  • Outcome: Not formally addressed in the minutes, but acknowledged.

Votes on Items Laid on the Table

  • Items Approved: 1.3, 3.1, 3.2, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 4.13, 4.14, 4.15, 4.16, 4.17, 4.18, 4.19, 7.28, 8.1, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 9.10, 9.11, 9.12, 9.13, 9.14, 9.15, 9.16, 9.17, 9.18, 9.19, 10.1, 10.2, 10.5, 10.6, 10.9, 10.10, 10.11, 10.12.
  • Items Placed on File: 4.1, 4.11, 4.12, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 7.29, 7.30, 7.31, 8.3, 9.20, 9.21, 9.22, 9.23, 10.7, 10.13, 10.14, 10.15, 10.16, 10.17.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yep
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved and placed on file as indicated (10-0).

Adjournment

  • Motion: Councilor Mbah moved to adjourn.
  • Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Aye
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Aye
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Adjourned (10-0).

Last updated: Oct 6, 2025

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