City Council

Meeting Date: December 11, 2025 Governing Body: Somerville City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees:

• Councilors Present: Emily Hardt, Jake Wilson, Ben Ewen-Campen, J.T. Scott, Matt McLaughlin, Willie Burnley, Kristen Strezo, Jesse Clingan, Will Mbah, Lance Davis (President)
• Mayor: Katjana Ballantyne
• City Staff: Jill Lathan (DPW Commissioner), Kathy Piantangini (Director of Libraries), Ashley Spiliotis (Director of Council on Aging), Ignacio (Administration), Director Fischer (Director of Emergency Management), City Clerk

• The meeting was called to order.
• Roll Call: All Councilors (Hardt, Wilson, Ewen-Campen, Scott, McLaughlin, Burnley, Strezo, Clingan, Mbah, Davis) were present, establishing a quorum.

• Councilor Strezo honored Carmela M. Collins, 86, a Ward 4 resident, who passed away in October 2025. Ms. Collins was remembered as an avid animal lover, musician, writer, and artist, and a woman of deep faith. She was the mother of Carol A. Stewart, Ferris Collins, Cheryl A. Collins, Patricia M. Jordan, and Theresa Granger.
• Councilor Clingan signed on to the remembrance for Carmela M. Collins, extending condolences to Ferris Collins and her family.
• Councilor Clingan also honored Kevin Wells, 64, of Hampton Beach (formerly Billerica and Burlington), who passed away on December 5, 2025, after a battle with Alzheimer's disease. Mr. Wells was an HVAC mechanic for over 40 years, an active member of IBEW Local 1505, and the uncle of City Clerk Wells. He was survived by his wife Susan, son Kevin Wells Jr., daughter Laura LeBlanc, and five grandchildren.
• A moment of silence was observed for the aforementioned individuals.

• Approval of the minutes from the regular meeting of November 13, 2025, was deferred.

• Commissioner Jill Lathan (DPW) presented the citation to Kevin Ryan.
• Citation: "Be it hereby known to all that the Somerville City Council and the Mayor offer their sincerest commendations to Kevin Ryan for his actions on October 15, 2025, when without hesitation, he provided life-saving assistance by administering Narcan to an individual suffering an overdose in Statue Park. The Council and the Mayor hereby extend their gratitude for your heroic efforts."
• Councilor McLaughlin acknowledged all first responders for their life-saving Narcan administrations.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Kathy Piantangini (Director of Libraries) spoke on behalf of Kelly Gates.
• Mayor Katjana Ballantyne accepted the citation on behalf of Kelly Gates.
• Citation: "Be it hereby known to all that the Somerville City Council and the Mayor offer their sincerest commendations to Kelly Gates for her actions on November 5, 2025, when without hesitation, she provided life-saving assistance by administering Narcan to an individual suffering an overdose at the West Branch Library. The Council and the Mayor extend their gratitude for her heroic efforts."
• Outcome: Approved.

• Councilor Strezo presented the citation, highlighting CPAC's revitalization and advocacy for students with IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) and 504 accommodations. CPAC's achievements include a parent survey, an active online community, advocacy for accessibility and civil rights, holding the school district accountable, and writing to DESE (Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education).
• CPAC Representatives Speaking:
  • Charlotte Walker: East Somerville Community School CPAC representative, parent of two children with 504s.
  • Abby Hare: Parent of an SPS student with an IEP, Capuano CPAC rep, retired teacher committed to inclusive practices.
  • Meredith Brown: Parent of two Winter Hill students, one undergoing the IEP process.
  • Kenneth Sinan: Vice President of Fundraising for Somerville CPAC, parent of a daughter in the AIM program.
  • Jessica Perez-Adams: Kennedy School CPAC representative, parent of three children with IEPs and 504s.
• The representatives expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing CPAC's role in supporting students with disabilities and advocating for full inclusivity. They mentioned initiatives like Somerville's first inclusive playground, the Inclusive Teaching Working Group, and the Apple Institute. They also announced the launch of the "Friends of Somerville CPAC," a 501(c)(3) to provide financial support for programming.
• Councilor Wilson commended MAMAS for their quiet, impactful work, particularly the free store.
• Councilor Mbah thanked MAMAS for their compassion, solidarity, and neighbor-to-neighbor support, recalling volunteering during the pandemic.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen praised MAMAS for emerging during the pandemic to address basic human needs.
• Councilor Scott highlighted MAMAS's role in the Community Fridge Network and encouraged community involvement.
• Councilor Strezo thanked MAMAS for their work during the pandemic and in addressing food insecurity.
• Councilor Clingan noted the strong Ward 4 representation in MAMAS, reflecting the community's spirit of mutual support.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Outcome: Approved (waived reading for 2.4 and 2.5).

• Councilor Davis thanked Mayor Ballantyne for her many years of service, acknowledging the challenges of the mayoral role.
• Mayor Katjana Ballantyne presented an end-of-term transition report, summarizing her administration's work from 2022-2025.
  • Vision: Inclusive, equitable city.
  • Key Achievements:
    • Strengthened community engagement (participatory budgeting, anti-displacement, public safety for all).
    • ARPA Allocation: $44 million for infrastructure, $35 million for equity initiatives (rental assistance, guaranteed basic income, child support).
    • Wage Compensation Study (SMEA Unit B): Nearly all full-time SMEU positions now start at or around $60,000 (previously $30,000 range).
    • Revenue Diversification: Strategic commercial development (tough tech zoning, Brickbottom plan, Assembly) to generate $255 million in community benefits for affordable housing, job creation, linkage fees, schools, and core services.
    • Education: Increased Somerville Public School budget by nearly 30% over four years.
    • Infrastructure: Built or upgraded 13 parks, strengthened street safety (reduced crash data).
    • Climate Work: Nationally recognized climate initiatives, including a pollinator action plan.
    • Social Justice: Filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to uphold sanctuary city values.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen praised Mayor Ballantyne's investments in schools, municipal unions, and the Community Benefits Agreement for Somernova.
• Councilor Mbah commended Mayor Ballantyne's leadership in prioritizing street safety and the personnel she brought into the administration.
• Councilor Wilson thanked Mayor Ballantyne for her public service, particularly her investment in schools, equity focus, and commitment to street safety.
• Councilor McLaughlin recalled serving with Mayor Ballantyne on the Somerville Community Corporation board and praised her focus on undocumented immigrants, young people, and those without a voice. He also highlighted her humble approach to community service.
• Councilor Sait thanked Mayor Ballantyne for her work on affordability, safe streets, and investing in schools and city staff, as well as empowering women in her administration and defending the sanctuary city status.
• Councilor Clingan acknowledged Mayor Ballantyne's integral role in the 299 Broadway project and her swift action on the Winter Hill school building.
• Councilor Scott expressed gratitude for Mayor Ballantyne's support of neighborhood councils and the Office of Immigrant Affairs, citing the successful intervention in a case of a neighbor abducted by ICE.
• Councilor Hardt thanked Mayor Ballantyne for her integrity, commitment to values, and leadership as both ward councilor and mayor.
• Councilor Strezo praised Mayor Ballantyne as a strong female leader and visionary, acknowledging her fight to become City Council President and her advocacy for women, children, and marginalized voices.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Councilor Davis praised Councilor Burnley's contributions to legislative matters, noting his ability to improve existing ordinances and introduce new initiatives.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen commended Councilor Burnley's ability to channel constituent energy into impactful local action and his courage in speaking on difficult issues like Gaza and Palestine.
• Councilor Wilson appreciated Councilor Burnley's principled advocacy, sharp mind, and sense of humor, considering him a friend.
• Councilor Scott highlighted Councilor Burnley's energy, dedication to lifting up unheard voices, and commitment to justice, acknowledging his perseverance through challenges.
• Councilor McLaughlin reflected on the council's shared values and accomplishments, despite debates, and praised Councilor Burnley's contributions.
• Councilor Mbah expressed admiration for Councilor Burnley's heart-led leadership, dedication to equity, justice, and transparent governance, and his lasting impact on the council.
• Councilor Clingan noted Councilor Burnley's sharp processing of information, humor in licenses and permits, and courage.
• Councilor Sait thanked Councilor Burnley for his consistent dedication to the community, standing up for what is right, and inspiring young constituents and climate activists.
• Councilor Hardt appreciated Councilor Burnley's work in moving the city towards justice and inclusivity.
• Councilor Burnley expressed gratitude for his colleagues, particularly Councilor Scott for mentorship in council processes and Councilor Davis for collaboration on legislative matters. He emphasized his commitment to uplifting marginalized voices and making a material impact on people's lives, citing the gender-affirming healthcare ordinance and the memorialization of Leonard A. Grimes.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Councilor Davis praised Councilor Wilson's leadership of the Finance Committee, noting his ability to reinvent processes and ensure the council's work continued effectively.
• Councilor Burnley acknowledged Councilor Wilson's consistent integrity, even in disagreement, and his ability to keep discussions productive and focused on work.
• Councilor Mbah thanked Councilor Wilson for his dedication, collaborative approach, professionalism, and commitment to public service, noting his upcoming role as mayor.
• Councilor Hardt expressed gratitude for Councilor Wilson's thoughtful and generous support as a new councilor.
• Councilor Clingan commended Councilor Wilson's dedication to the city and youth, his systems approach, attention to detail, and generosity, wishing him well as mayor.
• Councilor Sait thanked Councilor Wilson for his dedication, thoughtfulness, positive focus on work, and guidance, particularly on finance.
• Councilor Scott praised Councilor Wilson's open and joyful approach to the job, his ability to stick up for colleagues, and his decency.
• Councilor McLaughlin recalled Councilor Wilson's entry to the council and his impressive work as Finance Chair, expressing excitement for his mayoral term.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen highlighted Councilor Wilson's reliability, hard work, and commitment to ensuring government supports those who need help, contrasting it with a cynical view of government.
• Councilor Strezo expressed excitement for Councilor Wilson's future, appreciating his open-mindedness, grace, and serious approach to his role.
• Councilor Wilson thanked his colleagues, emphasizing his enjoyment of serving on the body and his commitment to being a good colleague. He praised each councilor individually for their unique contributions.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Order: That the Director of Housing report to this council the number of new housing units approved for development year by year since the adoption of SomerVision 2040, and of those, how many are permanently affordable and how the department defines affordability.
• Councilor Strezo requested this item be sent to the Housing and Community Development Committee for discussion.
• Outcome: Referred to Housing and Community Development Committee.

• Councilor Mbah reported on the Affordable Housing Trust Fund meeting on November 13.
  • 259 Lower Street (Visiting Nursing Senior Housing): Repayment term stretched from 40 to 50 years.
  • 12 Pleasant Street (Somerville Community Land Trust):
    • Converted from renter to condo ownership for six units.
    • City loan of $2.5 million to Somerville Community Land Trust converted to a grant.
    • Additional grant of $700,000 for reconstruction work.
    • $300,000 grant from Community Preservation Act for historic preservation.
    • Repurchase price fixed for two units at 30% AMI and three at 50% AMI.
  • 176-182 Broadway (Former Patsy's Bakery site):
    • Trust approved a $2.8 million loan to Somerville Community Corporation to acquire vacant land.
    • Site to be combined with 184 Broadway for 56 units of 100% affordable housing.
• Councilor Strezo expressed excitement about the redevelopment of the former Patsy's Bakery site.
• Councilor McLaughlin confirmed the significance of the 100% affordable housing project at the former Patsy's Pastries site.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Councilor Mbah reported on the Job Creation and Retention Trust Fund meeting on October 27.
  • Services Provided (since 2020): 1,190 people served (790 in adult education/ESL, 255 in workers' rights, 125 in industry-specific training).
  • Cost: $8.9 million from jobs linkage fees.
  • Post-Secondary Success Program: Helped 90 graduates with college training, tuition, and stipends.
  • 2026 Appropriations: $914,000 for existing programs.
  • New Program: $400,000 to train workers for City of Somerville job vacancies (building maintenance, DPW construction).
  • Future Outlook: Anticipates no new revenue for several years due to real estate market conditions. Trust has $2 million in uncommitted funds for small grants.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Order: That the Director of Mobility increase visibility at the intersection of School Street and the Community Path by permanently installing a convex mirror on the fence.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen advocated for the mirror, noting its previous unofficial installation and removal, and its importance for safety at a dangerous intersection.
• Councilor Scott and Councilor Strezo signed on in support.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Order: That the Director of Mobility install flashing "Watch for Pedestrians" signs on the community path where it intersects with the Gilman Square Station entrance, Walnut Street, Medford Street, Sycamore Street, School Street, and Central Street.
• Councilor Wilson signed on.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen highlighted dangerous cyclist behavior and the need for visual cues to improve safety.
• Councilor Burnley, Sait, and Strezo signed on.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Order: That the Commissioner of Public Works install padding around the base of the metal street lamp at the base of the grass hill between City Hall and Revis Field.
• Amendment: Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to strike "to avoid potential injuries from sledding" from the order, acknowledging unofficial sledding.
• Outcome: Approved as amended.

• Order: That this council amend the rules of the City Council related to committees.
• Councilor Davis explained the proposed reorganization:
  • Based on 10 years of service, discussions with colleagues, and data on committee meetings and items.
  • Aims to streamline processes, align substantive issues, and make scheduling easier.
  • Resulted in 10 committees, allowing each member to chair one.
  • School Buildings, Facilities, and Maintenance to become a regular committee.
  • Rodent issues to be handled by Public Health and Public Safety Committee.
  • Proposed calendar for monthly committee meetings.
• Councilor McLaughlin supported the changes, emphasizing that the quality of discussion matters more than the number of committees.
• Councilor Strezo expressed concern about not being consulted on the changes and the vagueness of committee titles, particularly regarding the "Equity" committee.
• Motion to Amend: Councilor Strezo moved to change the name of the "Community and Equity Committee" to "Housing, Community Development, and Equity Committee."
  • Councilor Ewen-Campen supported the amendment.
  • Councilor Wilson supported the amendment, emphasizing the need for commas.
• Vote on Amendment:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Motion to amend approved (11-0).
• Vote on Item as Amended:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved as amended (11-0).
• Motion for Reconsideration: Councilor Wilson moved for reconsideration, which failed as no one changed their vote.

• Order: That this City Council discuss the safety of the Summer Street bike lane design around or near Putnam Street to Benton Road and how and if additional safety modifications can be made.
• Councilor Strezo requested this item be laid on the table to keep it alive for discussion in the new year, as the constituent who requested it was ill.
• Outcome: Laid on the table.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen reported unanimous recommendations for Fire Department promotions:
  • Stephen Mauris: Deputy Chief
  • Mark Ardolino: Fire District Chief
  • Jay McKenzie: Fire Captain
  • Nicholas Halloran: Fire Lieutenant
  • Raymond Busey: Fire Lieutenant
  • Ronald Hampton: Fire Lieutenant
  • Andrew Patrick Quinn: Fire Captain
• Outcome: Report accepted.

• Councilor Wilson reported on the 99th and final Finance Committee meeting he chaired.
  • Key Highlights:
    • Street paving projects (details in engineering presentation).
    • City being gifted the Ralph and Jenny Center.
    • Tufts softball team raised funds for food insecurity.
    • All orders and resolutions in finance marked as work complete, except for two items to be discharged.
• Outcome: Report approved as submitted.

• Councilor McLaughlin reported on three items:
  • Change to daycare use to enable more daycares (approved unanimously).
  • Ordinance to make pre-submittal meetings optional for most permits (approved unanimously).
  • Citizen's communication requesting zoning map amendment from MR4 to MR6 for an address on Highland Ave (abandoned auto body shop for housing).
• Motion to Sever: Councilor Wilson moved to sever item 6C3 (zoning map amendment) with the intention of making an amendment.
  • Outcome: Item 6C3 severed.
• Outcome (Remainder of Report): Approved.

• Councilor Scott reported on several items:
  • Snow Removal Ordinance: Councilor Clingan's ordinance on snow removal was recommended to be discharged without recommendation and placed on file, as new language from the Clerk's office addresses commercial properties.
  • Community Preservation Committee: Amendment to modify the appointment process to allow for partial terms.
  • Neonicotinoid Pesticide Requirement: Sunset date extended to 2028.
  • City Charter Rules: Updates to align with the new charter.
  • Surveillance Technology Impact Reports: Several kept in committee for edits, one recommended for approval.
• Motion to Sever: Councilor Scott moved to sever item 25-1676 (snow removal ordinance) with intent to place on file.
  • Outcome: Item 25-1676 severed.
• Councilor Clingan inquired about the scope of the snow removal ordinance, particularly regarding curb cuts.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen explained the committee's concern about ticketing residents for difficult-to-clear curb cuts and the need for more city resources.
• Councilor Mbah (taking the chair) and Councilor Davis discussed the snow removal ordinance, agreeing that commercial properties should be clearly obligated to clear curb cuts as a starting point, with further discussion needed for residential properties.
• Outcome: Report approved.

• Councilor Burnley reported on three contested items that did not require a public hearing. Compromises were reached, and communication was established between residents and utility companies. One item was held for further communication regarding Warwick Street.
• Outcome: Report approved.

• Councilor Sait reported on the committee meeting, focusing on Greentown Labs.
  • Public Space and Urban Forestry: Presented the 10-year plan for open space and recreation and the Pollinator Action Plan.
  • Greentown Labs Update: Director of Economic Development provided an update on Greentown Labs' impact on the clean energy sector.
    • Assisted over 500 new firms since 2015.
    • Companies grow from 3-4 founders to 10-15 employees, then graduate to accelerators or independent spaces.
    • Currently hosts 140 companies with 200 people working daily.
    • Generates new investment capital and supports local small businesses.
    • Noted recent federal policy changes impacting funding (e.g., $87 million cut from a $150 million grant).
• Outcome: Report approved.

• Councilor Wilson reported on the final meeting of the committee.
  • Received a fourth-quarter update on education, enforcement, and mitigation efforts.
  • Encouraged public to tune into the Public Health and Public Safety Committee next year for continued discussions on rodent issues.
• Councilor Burnley highlighted the discussion on hormonal birth control for rats.
• Outcome: Report approved.

• Councilor Clingan reported on the meeting, stating that items discussed are on tape and in the minutes.
• Outcome: Report approved.

• Request: Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Chapter 7 of the Code of Ordinances to establish a rental registry and energy disclosure.
• Councilor Scott expressed enthusiasm for this long-awaited item.
• Outcome: Referred to Legislative Matters Committee.

• Request: Requesting approval of a change in the senior tax work-off program qualification criteria to a maximum income of 80% of area median income (AMI).
• Ashley Spiliotis (Director of Council on Aging) explained:
  • Program provides 25 spots for seniors to work in city departments, receiving a tax exemption of $15/hour up to $1,500 (soon $2,000).
  • Current income cap: $48,800 (80% of 2015 AMI).
  • Proposed income cap: 80% of current AMI, which is $92,650.
  • The program is currently undersubscribed (no more than 12 participants) due to income guidelines.
• Councilor Scott questioned the need for means testing and the $15/hour rate.
• Councilor Mbah supported the equity aspect of the income cap and inquired about expanding the number of spots (currently 25, city-level cap).
• Councilor Burnley asked about increasing program awareness and suggested councilors help disseminate information.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Request: Requesting approval to use available funds in the city clerk salaries account in the amount of $3,590.41 to fund Assistant City Clerk vital records and licensing and Assistant City Clerk legislative services positions.
• City Clerk explained the reorganization: consolidating three positions into two, with expanded responsibilities for the remaining two, leading to approximately $50,000 in savings for FY26 and $100,000 annually thereafter.
• Councilor Clingan confirmed one position would be eliminated.
• Councilor Burnley sought clarification on the expanded role of the Assistant City Clerk Legislative Services position, which includes clerking City Council meetings and staff management.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Request: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1.4 million grant (no new match required) from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development for the MassWorks Program for the Union Square Plaza and Streetscape Phase 1 Construction.
• Ignacio (Administration) stated these funds would be applied to the eventual construction, helping keep the project on track.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen clarified that Phase 1 largely focuses on the intersection of Prospect and Webster, a dangerous intersection.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Request: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,367,300 grant (no new match required) from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program for the Blessing of the Bay Urban Heat Resilience Project.
• Outcome: Approved (taken with 7.6).

• Request: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $500,000 grant (no new match required) from the Department of Conservation and Recreation for the Blessing of the Bay Greenway Project.
• Ignacio (Administration) explained these funds, along with CPA funding, will continue the Blessing of the Bay Trail Project to completion.
• Outcome: Approved (taken with 7.5).

• Request: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $65,000 grant (no new match required) from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to the Police Department for the Municipal Road Safety Program.
• Councilor Wilson suggested referring this to the Finance Committee for the new year.
• Outcome: Referred to Finance Committee.

• Request: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $25,000 grant (no new match required) from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to the Council on Aging for direct transportation costs for the Senior Taxi Program.
• Ashley Spiliotis (Director of Council on Aging) explained the program provides 650 rides/month, primarily for medical appointments (71%), food access (20%), and pharmacies (6%). The program will expand in January to include access to senior center meals.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive readings and approve items 7.9 through 7.12.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Communication: Conveying a memorandum regarding implementation of the prison labor prohibition ordinance.
• Councilor Scott summarized that the memo addresses an oversight where the city made a small purchase from a prison labor service. Department heads are being re-educated, and the administration is working to tighten future purchasing.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Communication: Conveying an end-of-term report.
• Outcome: Placed on file (discussed under 2.8).

• Communication: Submitting an amendment to section 12-8 of the Code of Ordinances to require owners of commercial properties to clear snow and ice from accessible curb cuts.
• Councilor Davis clarified that the amendment includes the existing snow clearance ordinance and adds curb cuts for commercial and mixed-use properties.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen reiterated concerns about the difficulty of clearing curb cuts and the need for city involvement.
• Councilor Davis (taking the chair) and Councilor Mbah discussed the amendment, agreeing it's a starting point for commercial properties, with further discussion needed for residential.
• Vote on Enrollment:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Enrolled (11-0).
• Vote on Ordainment:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Ordained (11-0).

• Communication: Submitting an amendment to the rules of the City Council to align with the provisions of the City Charter.
• Councilor Davis clarified this is similar to a committee item, with added clarity on temporary delegation of clerk duties.
• Vote on Approval:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Communication: Conveying the response to item 25-1715, Osnat Hoffman's open meeting law complaint of November 16, 2025.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Communication: Conveying the 2024-2025 Cummings School Winter Warming Center After Action Report and Improvement Plan.
• Director Fischer presented the report:
  • Operation: December 9, 2024 - April 13, 2025, 5 PM - 8 AM.
  • Services: 3,692 safe overnight stays, meals, hygiene supplies, transportation, referrals.
  • Data Collection: Client surveys, resident surveys, staff surveys, public listening session.
  • Client Feedback: Felt welcome, respected, safe; praised staff; valued stability, transportation, and information access. Concerns: long outdoor wait times, inconsistent outside security, cleanliness, blanket availability, need for multilingual staff, longer hours/days, increased capacity.
  • Resident Feedback: 51% satisfied/very satisfied; supportive of shelter efforts. Concerns: long waiting times (noise, visible hardship), lack of clear information on how to help, confusion about private security.
  • Improvements:
    • Capacity: Expand space, renovate (ADA accessible bathrooms and entrance now complete).
    • Donations: Clear communication to donate directly to Housing Families (housingfamilies.org/donate) or Somerville Homeless Coalition (somervillehomelesscoalition.org/giving).
    • Security: Uniform, consistent security presence during lineup; coordination with Somerville Police for directed patrols; clear performance expectations for security vendor (now the same vendor as the Engagement Center, experienced with unhoused populations).
    • Accessibility: Language access (telephonic translation offered), ADA renovations.
    • Cleanliness: Daily logs for cleaning and laundering, clear rules against smoking in bathrooms, signage, smoke detectors.
• Councilor Mbah (taking the chair) and Councilor Davis commended the thoroughness of the report and the improvements made since the first warming center. Councilor Davis suggested involving the Communications Department for public outreach.
• Councilor Strezo inquired about protocols for unhoused individuals during cold weather, noting that individuals must consent to go to the warming center.
• Councilor Ewen-Campen noted positive feedback from neighbors since the center opened this year and praised the city's responsiveness.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Communication: Conveying a memorandum regarding recommendations related to water and sewer department restructuring.
• Councilor Wilson encouraged review of the memo, predicting "restructuring" would be a buzzword in 2026.
• Councilor Strezo inquired about the action item, building consolidation, and the impact on forward-facing services and employee housing.
• Councilor Wilson clarified the memo brings water and sewer under the IAM umbrella.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Communication: Conveying recommendations for items 25-1554, 1552, and 1539.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Councilor Burnley moved to waive readings and approve items 9.1 through 9.25 and 10.3 through 10.6.
• Highlights: Renewal of automatic amusement devices, annual menorah lighting, and the 250th first flag raising ceremony on January 1st.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Councilor Burnley presented the citation, acknowledging MAMAS's critical role since 2020 in providing community support (food, clothing, financial aid) during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted their distribution of over $1 million, multilingual hotline, mutual aid gardens, free events, grocery card distribution, car sharing, and community building.
• MAMAS Representatives Speaking:
  • Crystal Huff: Ward 5, Somerville.
  • Rachel Hands: Ward 4, Somerville.
  • Jessica King: Ward 6, Somerville.
  • Murphy Spence: Ward 4, Somerville.
• The representatives emphasized mutual aid as a manifestation of community sharing, highlighting their impact beyond financial redistribution. They called on city officials to invest more in food security, rental relief, senior assistance, education, and environmentally conscious responses, and to stop means-testing for support.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Communication: Conveying the fiscal year 2024 annual report pursuant to section 7-70 of the Code of Ordinances.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Communication: Submitting comments regarding item 25-1757, Eversource applying for a grant of location to install a total of 48 feet of conduit in Vernon Street.
• Outcome: Placed on file.

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Councilor Wilson moved to discharge items 25-1745 and 25-1746 from committee, waiving the 60-day rule due to vital funds for immigrant legal services and a miscommunication.
• Outcome: Approved.

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Hardt: Yes
• Wilson: Yes
• Ewen-Campen: Yes
• Scott: Yes
• McLaughlin: Yes
• Burnley: Yes
• Sait: Yes
• Strezo: Yes
• Clingan: Yes
• Mbah: Yes
• Davis: Yes
• Outcome: Approved (11-0).

• Enrollment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Enrolled (11-0).
• Ordainment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Ordained (11-0).

• Enrollment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Enrolled (11-0).
• Ordainment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Ordained (11-0).

• Councilor Davis recused himself.
• Motion to Amend: Councilor Wilson moved to amend by striking "and 110 Willow Avenue, MR4 to MR6" to align with the Planning Board's recommendation.
  • Outcome: Motion to amend approved.
• Enrollment Vote (as amended):
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Recused
  • Outcome: Enrolled (10-0, 1 recused).
• Ordainment Vote (as amended):
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Recused
  • Outcome: Ordained (10-0, 1 recused).

• Enrollment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Enrolled (11-0).
• Ordainment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Ordained (11-0).

• Enrollment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Enrolled (11-0).
• Ordainment Vote:
  • Hardt: Yes
  • Wilson: Yes
  • Ewen-Campen: Yes
  • Scott: Yes
  • McLaughlin: Yes
  • Burnley: Yes
  • Sait: Yes
  • Strezo: Yes
  • Clingan: Yes
  • Mbah: Yes
  • Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Ordained (11-0).

• Councilor Burnley and Councilor Wilson moved to adjourn.
• Outcome: Adjourned.