Watertown City Council (Tuesday December 9, 2025)

Watertown City Council Meeting Minutes - December 9, 2025

Governing Body: Watertown City Council Meeting Type: Hybrid Meeting (Broadcast and Recorded by Watertown Cable Access, Zoom Meeting) Meeting Date: December 09, 2025

Attendees:

Councilor John Airasian
Councilor Caroline Bays
Councilor Lisa J. Feltner
Councilor John G. Gannon
Councilor Nicole Gardner
Councilor Emily Izzo
Councilor Anthony Palomba
Councilor Vincent J. Piccirilli
Council President Mark S. Sideris

Executive Summary: The Watertown City Council convened on December 9, 2025, addressing several key community issues. Major items included a strong stance against combined sewer overflows into the Charles River, approval of significant capital improvement projects for the Department of Public Works and Howe Park, and the allocation of Community Preservation Committee funds for a group home, Willow Park redevelopment, and Commander's Mansion restoration. The Council also initiated discussions on the City Manager's salary adjustment and authorized a long-term contract for the Blue Bikes program. Public comments primarily focused on traffic safety concerns on Summer and Fayette Streets and the progress of the 103 Nichols Avenue Group Home project.

Roll Call

Councilor Airasian: Present
Councilor Bays: Present
Councilor Feltner: Present
Councilor Gannon: Present
Councilor Gardner: Present
Councilor Izzo: Present
Councilor Palomba: Present
Councilor Piccirilli: Present
Council President Sideris: Present

Public Forum

Samantha Garwin (139 Summer Street):
- Thanked the Committee on Public Works for addressing traffic and safety concerns on Summer and Fayette Streets.
- Presented data from 250 surveys, with over 50 responses, indicating 100% of respondents viewed traffic issues as serious.
- Requested Council support for recommendations to implement traffic calming measures on Summer and Fayette Streets.
Nyla Giselson (105 Summer Street):
- Expressed gratitude for the work done by Samantha Garwin and the responsiveness of the Council.
- Emphasized the need for immediate action on traffic safety, particularly for middle school children and pedestrians, due to heavy commuter and truck traffic.
Emily Lazy:
- As a Summer Street resident, reiterated appreciation for the Council's consideration of community input for street safety.
- Expressed anticipation for progress on the issue.
Dennis J. Duff (33 Spruce Street, CPC Member):
- Addressed questions regarding the delay of the 103 Nichols Avenue project, citing concerns about site cleanup and cost.
- Emphasized the CPC's responsibility to ensure project appropriateness and safety, not just popularity.
- Highlighted the significance of the Willow Park project and the challenges of relocating 60 families.
- Noted historical context of housing projects in Watertown, particularly the East End.

Examination of Minutes

Motion to adopt minutes of November 12th:
- Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.
Motion to adopt minutes of Special City Council meeting of November 18th:
- Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.

President's Report

Request for Letter in Support of Keeping Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) Out of the Charles River:
- Council President Sideris read a letter addressed to the MWRA Board, urging them to table a November 19th vote to downgrade the water quality classification of the Charles River.
- Key passages from the letter:
  - "We would please you table the November 19 vote on the misguided recommendation to downgrade the water quality classification of the Charles River and allow more sewage discharges in the coming years."
  - "We vehemently oppose any attempt to downgrade the water quality standards classification of the Charles River to a Class B. This would be a disastrous result making the status quo a river regularly polluted with sewage and unsafe for recreation and disincentivizing any future efforts to clean it up."
  - "Unlike the MWRA, we are not granted a variance from the water quality standards for decades. to see MWRA attempting to shirk its responsibilities now after decades of investment is not acceptable to us."
- Motion to authorize sending the letter:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Gannon: Expressed disgust at the MWRA's proposal, highlighting Watertown's efforts in reducing CSOs and the historical pollution of the Charles River. Noted that Cambridge and Boston still have CSOs.
  - Councilor Bays: Inquired if Councilors' names would be included as signatories. Confirmed they would be at the bottom of the letter.
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Requested adding the current date to the letter. Emphasized the Council's long-standing commitment to cleaning up illicit discharges. Noted Watertown's historical foresight in having separate sanitary and storm sewer systems, unlike some neighboring cities.
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.

Public Hearings

6A: Proposed Ordinance - Skip the Stuff Waste Reduction Ordinance:
- Action: Referred back to the Committee on Rules and Ordinances.
- Reason: City Attorney had not completed review and made changes.
- Key Points:
  - Original referral was for plastic utensils only.
  - Committee to ensure restaurant owners are aware of proposed changes.
  - Date Certain for City Council consideration: January 27th.
6B: Proposed Loan Order - Department of Public Works Equipment:
- Amount: $879,000
- Purpose:
  - Hydro Excavation Vector Truck: $695,000
  - Sewer and Stormwater Camera Truck: $184,000
- Manager's Report:
  - Conceptual recommendation #46 in the FY26-30 CIP.
  - Immediate priority shifted from a dump truck to a camera truck based on fleet review and division head discussions.
  - Funds from the 2024 CIP version to be utilized.
  - DPW Director available for questions.
- Public Comment: No public comments.
- Motion to approve the loan order:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion: None.
- Roll Call Vote:
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Yes
  - Councilor Airasian: Yes
  - Councilor Bays: Yes
  - Councilor Feltner: Yes
  - Councilor Gannon: Yes
  - Councilor Gardner: Yes
  - Councilor Izzo: Yes
  - Councilor Palomba: Yes
  - Council President Sideris: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
6C: Proposed Loan Order - Howe Park Phase One Construction:
- Amount: $911,900
- Purpose: Construction and construction administration costs for Howe Park Phase One (playground area).
- Manager's Report:
  - Total borrowing number is under the initial budget of over $1 million.
  - Belco Landscaping is the selected low bidder and qualified contractor.
  - Michelle Moon, Senior Planner for Open Space, available for questions.
  - Project expected to start in the spring. Belco Landscaping is also working at Bemis Park.
- Public Comment: No public comments.
- Motion to approve the loan order:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion: None.
- Roll Call Vote:
  - Councilor Airasian: Yes
  - Councilor Bays: Yes
  - Councilor Feltner: Yes
  - Councilor Gannon: Yes
  - Councilor Gardner: Yes
  - Councilor Izzo: Yes
  - Councilor Palomba: Yes
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Yes
  - Council President Sideris: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)

7A: Community Preservation Committee (CPC) Funding Proposals

Presenter: Alan Gallagher, Interim Chairperson of the CPC.
General Note: All three projects were approved without objection by the CPC.
1. 103 Nichols Avenue Group Home:
- Amount: $1,500,000
- Source: CPA Housing Reserve Fund
- Purpose: To build a five-bedroom home for five developmentally disabled adults on land owned by the Watertown Housing Authority.
- Total Project Cost: Approximately $2.5 million (Housing Authority raised $1 million, CPC requested $1.5 million).
- Consultant: Cambridge Housing Authority (Joe Bednar present).
- Housing Authority Executive Director: Jacqueline Weir present.
- Motion to appropriate $1.5 million:
  - Moved: Councilor Bays
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Palomba: Inquired about the project's long timeline. Mr. Gallagher explained delays due to initial opposition, site cleanup concerns (former gas station), and the need to secure zoning and funding.
  - Council President Sideris: Noted a letter from the Housing Authority confirming expected construction in spring and favorable bidding climate.
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Expressed excitement, noting alignment with Watertown's housing plan for adults with disabilities. Confirmed the project received relief from Chapter 149 prevailing wage requirements, allowing for a firm bid from Seaver Construction. Clarified that the $220,000 developer fee for Watertown Housing Development Corporation would return to the Housing Authority for other projects, as WHDC is an arm of WHA.
  - Councilor Gannon: Thanked the Housing Authority and CPC, highlighting the project's attractiveness and suitability for individuals with disabilities. Noted that bids for this and Howe Park are coming in under estimate.
  - Councilor Gardner: Firmly supported the project, emphasizing its alignment with CPC goals (deed-restricted affordable housing, unmet housing need, lasting community asset) and Watertown's inclusive values.
  - Councilor Feltner: Inquired about local preference for residents and cost per square footage. Ms. Weir explained DDS manages the waitlist, striving for local residents but prioritizing individual needs. Joe Bednar (Cambridge Housing Authority) explained costs are typical for public construction, built to higher standards (fire protection, sprinklers, generator) despite procurement relief.
  - Councilor Palomba: Clarified that Beaverbrook, a long-time partner, would need to apply through a procurement process to be the service provider.
  - Council President Sideris: Confirmed bids were received in September and are held with a bid bond through June, awaiting funding.
- Roll Call Vote:
  - Councilor Bays: Yes
  - Councilor Feltner: Yes
  - Councilor Gannon: Yes
  - Councilor Gardner: Yes
  - Councilor Izzo: Yes
  - Councilor Palomba: Yes
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Yes
  - Council President Sideris: Yes
  - Councilor Airasian: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
2. Willow Park Redevelopment Additional Request:
- Amount: $2,000,000 ($1,000,000 from Housing Reserve Fund, $1,000,000 from unreserved budgeted fund)
- Purpose: To address a $2 million funding shortfall for the Willow Park redevelopment project, which involves demolishing 60 units of state-aided public housing and adding 77 units of affordable housing.
- Context: Previously, $4 million was approved, conditioned on securing other funding. The state and federal government lost $2 million in anticipated funding.
- Presenter: Corey Myon from POA (present).
- Motion to appropriate $2 million with stipulation:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Stipulation: Disbursement of funds subject to securing remaining additional funding.
- Discussion:
  - Council President Sideris: Expressed eagerness for the project to proceed due to its significant impact.
  - Councilor Palomba: Appreciated POA's efforts in reducing soft costs.
- Roll Call Vote:
  - Councilor Feltner: Yes
  - Councilor Gannon: Yes
  - Councilor Gardner: Yes
  - Councilor Izzo: Yes
  - Councilor Palomba: Yes
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Yes
  - Council President Sideris: Yes
  - Councilor Airasian: Yes
  - Councilor Bays: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
3. Commander's Mansion Envelope Restoration and Elevator Modernization:
- Amount: $610,000
- Source: Historic Preservation Reserve Fund
- Purpose: 60% for repairs (including elevator), 40% for future architectural and design fees. This is Phase One.
- Presenter: Alan Gallagher (Chris Nixon on Zoom, Denise present).
- Motion to appropriate $610,000:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion:
  - Council President Sideris: Emphasized the Commander's Mansion as a "jewel" of Watertown.
  - Councilor Gannon: Thanked the committee for considering this historic building and for utilizing CPA funds for worthy projects.
- Roll Call Vote:
  - Councilor Gannon: Yes
  - Councilor Gardner: Yes
  - Councilor Izzo: Yes
  - Councilor Palomba: Yes
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Yes
  - Council President Sideris: Yes
  - Councilor Airasian: Yes
  - Councilor Bays: Yes
  - Councilor Feltner: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)

7B: First Reading - Proposed Loan Order for Parker Building Upgrades

Amount: $1,156,000
Purpose: Envelope and mechanical energy system upgrades to the Parker Building, including all costs.
Manager's Report:
- Request is for FY26, but utilizes funds originally intended for FY27.
- Opportunity to combine system updates with ongoing fire suppression system installation.
- Discovery of uninsulated ceilings necessitates insulation to prevent sprinkler system freezing.
- Goal is to transition to an all-electric building with air source heat pumps and updated electrical service.
Action: First reading. Full hearing at the January meeting.

7C: First Reading - Proposed Loan Order for Phillips School Security Enhancements

Amount: $95,000
Purpose: Security system enhancements, including installation of a standby generator and associated equipment at the Phillips School.
Manager's Report:
- Conceptual recommendation #9, line 238 of the CIP.
- Annual request for security system enhancements.
- Phillips School, as the school administration building, houses IT and communication systems, making emergency backup generation a high security need.
Action: First reading. Full hearing at the January meeting.

7D: Authorization to Sign a Contract Exceeding Three Years - Blue Bikes

Purpose: Extend the Blue Bikes contract, expiring in early 2026.
Contract Term: Five-year agreement with two optional two-year renewals, for a maximum term of nine years.
Manager's Report (Assistant Manager Magoon):
- Regional process to enhance service delivery, strengthen sponsorship, and support continued operations.
- Motion to authorize signing the extension:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Palomba: Inquired why the contract was re-bid. Mr. Magoon explained the previous contract was expiring, and the new regional bid ensures all communities, including Watertown, receive similar beneficial arrangements, unlike the original contract which favored initial communities.
  - Councilor Feltner: Asked about expanded opportunities and ridership data. Mr. Magoon stated that the new regional contract would eliminate operational costs for communities like Watertown, making it more beneficial. He offered to provide updated ridership data. He also noted that while a nine-year contract is the intention, changes could occur within the five-year initial term.
  - Councilor Gannon: Inquired about financing and subsidies. Mr. Magoon clarified that revenue from riders goes to Lyft. The new contract aims to eliminate operational costs for communities, making the system more cost-effective for Watertown. Capital costs are primarily covered by developer contributions or grants.
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.

7E: First Reading - Proposed Ordinance Adjusting City Manager's Salary

Purpose: Adjust the City Manager's salary to $244,658.
Context: Salary adjustments for City Council employees are done by ordinance. Follows discussions on the Manager's evaluations.
Action: First reading. Public hearing at the next meeting.

Committee Reports

Committee on Economic Development and Planning Report (November 20th Meeting):
- Presenter: Councilor Feltner (Chair)
- Meeting Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025, 5:00 PM
- Attendees: Councilor Feltner (Chair), Councilor Gannon (Vice Chair), Councilor Piccirilli (Secretary).
- Purpose: Conduct Historic District Commission and Public Arts and Culture Committee interviews.
- Interview Summaries:
  - Lei Ma (Public Arts and Culture Committee): Biologist and educator, Harvard. Dragon Boat co-captain, Civics Academy attendee. Skills in relationship building, eager to make Watertown an arts destination.
  - Brendan Shanahan (Historic District Commission): Historical Society of Watertown representative. Joined in 2022, transcribed past minutes. Studied at North Bennett Street School, works as a carpenter specializing in historic woodworking. Volunteers at Royal House and Slave Quarters in Medford.
  - Don Scoltrato (Public Arts and Culture Committee - Reappointment): Artist, musician, illustrator, art teacher. Original member (2021), currently Secretary. Loves coordinating with other arts groups, schools, and library.
  - Harvey Steiner and Linda Sternberg (Historic District Commission - Reappointment): Live in the district, originally appointed in 2003. Serve as Chair and Vice Chair. Emphasized balancing change with preserving historic characteristics. Expressed concerns about new wayfinding signs and desire for better signage and public amenities. Eager to return to in-person meetings.
  - Matt Hanna (Public Arts and Culture Committee - Reappointment): Served since 2023. Musician, music teacher, podcast host. Attended Live Well Walks and Watertown Business Coalition events. Worked on inaugural Porch Fest (2024), now managed by Cultural District Partnership. Working on live music in restaurants.
- Motion to accept the report:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.
- Motions for Appointments/Reappointments:
  - Lei Ma (Public Arts and Culture Committee): Term to expire November 15, 2027.
    - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
  - Brendan Shanahan (Historic District Commission): Term to expire November 15, 2026.
    - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
  - Don Scaltretto and Matt Hanna (Public Arts and Culture Committee): Terms to expire November 15, 2028.
    - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
  - Harvey Steiner and Linda Sternberg (Historic District Commission): Terms to expire November 15, 2028.
    - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
    - Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
Committee on Economic Development and Planning Report (October 21st Meeting):
- Presenter: Councilor Feltner (Chair)
- Meeting Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 6:00 PM
- Attendees: Councilor Feltner (Chair), Councilor Gannon (Vice Chair), Councilor Piccirilli (Secretary). Staff included Steven Magoon (Assistant City Manager), Gideon Schreiber (Director of Planning and Zoning), Zeke Mermel (Transportation Planner), Lydia McCoy (Director of Senior Services), Laurel Schwab (Sustainability Program Manager - Zoom), Sophia Gallimore (Watertown TMA Director - Zoom). Consultants Liza Cohen (Stantec) and Dan Beres (Journey). Councilors Palomba and Gardner. Council President Sideris (Zoom). Residents Jean Trubeck, Lise Paul, Paul Shea, Ernesta Kreskiewicz, Deborah Peterson, Mark Peterson, Angie Kanellis (Zoom).
- Purpose:
  1. Presentation and discussion of ARPA-funded study for improving city-supported mobility.
  2. Update on consideration and recommendation of Transportation Network Company (TNC) funds.
- Mobility Study Discussion:
  - Mr. Magoon: Explained dual goals: efficiently serving people for transit and reducing vehicle emissions.
  - Consultants (Ms. Cohen, Mr. Beres): Presented study summary.
    - Two Metrics for Success: Expand access for underserved neighborhoods, reduce single-occupancy vehicle travel.
    - Seven Key Issues: Limited north-south transit/bike options, increased travel to Arsenal Yards/Boston Landing, two-thirds of trips are local, many trips pass through Watertown, major street crossings lack signalized crossings, high density supports fixed-route transit, neighborhoods further from Watertown Square have fewer transit destinations.
    - Five Key Strategies: Expand local transit, universal access design, invest in top corridors, comprehensive safety approach, pursue local/regional priorities.
    - Local Transit Approach: Explore unified Watertown connector route, microtransit for seniors/disabled, microtransit for general public. Hypothetical scenario: 6 vans, estimated annual operating cost of $3 million.
    - Project Classification: High feasibility/high impact, low feasibility/high impact, high feasibility/low impact, low feasibility/low impact.
  - Public Comments:
    - Jean Trubeck (Watertown Faces Climate Change): Asked about reducing speed limit to 25 mph and reducing cut-through traffic.
    - Deborah Peterson, Ernesta Kreskiewicz, Lise Paul (Watertown Faces Climate Change): Presented a letter, offered assistance, emphasized local transit and Vision Zero. Highlights included funding sources, business engagement, north-south route, Newton connections, MBTA advocacy (Bus 65), and more.
    - Bob Shea: Spoke about microtransit benefits for environment and disabled.
    - Mark Peterson: Advocated for unified connectors, noted issues with 70 bus (800 riders/day, inconsistencies, no shelters). Suggested a TMA subcommittee for future mobility recommendations.
    - Lydia McCoy (Director of Senior Services): Discussed GoGo Grandparent pilot for seniors ($2,000/month, 90 low-income seniors, 1200+ free door-to-door trips). Exploring models with Newton.
  - Committee Discussion: Agreed more discussion needed with staff on costs, funding, and prioritization before recommendations to City Council.
  - Motion to continue discussion:
    - Moved: Councilor Piccirilli
    - Seconded: Councilor Gannon
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
- TNC Funds for 2024 Discussion:
  - Mr. Magoon: Presented memo on $59,525.50 TNC fund disbursement (per-ride assessment for rides originating in Watertown).
  - Recommendation: Apply funds towards supporting and operating the Pleasant Street Shuttle Branch of the Watertown Connector.
  - Motion to recommend appropriation of TNC funds:
    - Moved: Councilor Piccirilli
    - Seconded: Councilor Gannon
    - Outcome: Motion passed.
- Meeting Adjourned: 8:00 PM.
- Motion to accept the report:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion: None.
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.
- Motion to appropriate 2024 TNC funds:
  - Amount: $59,525.50
  - Purpose: Operation of the Pleasant Street Watertown Connector Shuttle.
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion: None.
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.
Committee on Public Works Report (October 22nd Meeting):
- Presenter: Councilor Piccirilli (Chair)
- Meeting Date: October 22, 2025
- Attendees: Councilor Piccirilli (Chair), Councilor Feltner (Vice Chair), Councilor Palomba (Secretary).
- Purpose: Review and make recommendations on FY26 Capital Improvement Program items #42 and #44.
- DPW Presentation:
  - Background on road programs, anticipated utility work (gas, water, sewer mains).
  - Citywide Pavement Condition Index (PCI): 66 (increase from 60 last year).
  - 2025 Completed Streets: Moore Street and Russell Avenue (punch list under review). North Beacon Street Bottleneck Program under construction, expected completion Spring 2026.
  - Local Road Construction Projects (FY26):
    - Proposed Loan Order: $2,875,000
    - Streets for Full Depth Reconstruction (2026) in Cottage Street neighborhood: Cottage Street, Sawins Court, Rifle Court, Lyons Street, Sexton Street, Cottage Lane, Molloy Street, Hearn Street.
    - Additional Streets (Bid Alternates): Winter Street, potentially Brigham Street and Appleton Terrace.
    - Bidding Period: November 2025 - January 2026.
    - Challenges: Short, narrow streets in Cottage Street neighborhood pose challenges for typical full-depth reconstruction elements (concrete sidewalks, ADA, grass strips, street trees). Concerns about driveway curb cuts and safety.
  - Longer Roads / Longer Streets Projects:
    - Fifth Avenue: FY23 loan order. Bids planned for November 2025, construction Spring 2026.
    - Spring Street, Springfield Street, Forest Street: FY24 loan order. Design 50% complete (hope for 75% by Halloween). Construction to begin Spring 2025.
    - Riverside Street: FY25 loan order. Design 25% complete. Construction possibly Spring 2026.
- Public Comment:
  - Representative Patrice Wartown: Asked about tree process during road construction.
  - Hurston Street Resident: Explained disrepair, advocating for 3.5 years. Safety concerns (sidewalks, gas leaks). Disappointed by mature tree removal without notice.
    - DPW Response: Hurston Street scheduled for mill and overlay in Spring 2026, funded by Chapter 90.
  - Summer Street, Fayette Street, Forest Street Residents: Extensive discussion on safety concerns.
    - Key Concerns: Need for redesign and construction, traffic safety measures. Summer Street (20,000 vehicles/week) and Fayette Street experience high volume and speeding (40-90 mph). Parking on both sides/sidewalks narrows streets. Few stop signs, no speed bumps. Drag racing, pedestrian safety (children, seniors).
    - DPW Response: Summer Street and Fayette Street recommended for next major design effort. FY27 funds for construction (2028). Design work in 2026, funded by Chapter 90.
- Committee Recommendations:
  - Motion to approve loan order for $2,875,000: For Cottage Street, Sawins Court, Ruffley Court, Rifle Court, Lyon Street, Sexton Street, Cottage Lane, Molloy Street, Hearn Street, Winter Street, and potentially Brigham Street and Appleton Terrace as bid alternates.
    - Outcome: Unanimously approved.
  - Motion to approve loan order for $2,300,000: For connector roads/longest street projects (second half of funding for Springfield Street and Forest Street).
    - Outcome: Unanimously approved.
- Other Requests to DPW:
  - List of streets scheduled for mill and overlay.
  - Coordinate design work for Summer, Fayette, and Forest Streets, including traffic, pedestrian, and bicycle safety recommendations from the Traffic Commission.
  - Address need for more sidewalks and curbing, environmental priorities, green space, tree planting.
  - Referral to future CPW meeting to discuss CIP recommendations for capital projects.
- Chapter 90 Fair Share Money Discussion:
  - Typo in CIP: FY24 amount was $309,000, not $390,000.
  - FY24 Funds: $309,000. FY25 Funds: $167,000. Allocated for Main Street bus stop and crosswalk (MBTA MOU).
  - FY26 Funds: Amount not yet calculated by Department of Transportation.
  - Possible Projects: Rapid flashing beacons ($100,000 per beacon at police station and School/Belmont Street intersection), ADA transition ramps and repairs.
  - Committee Request: DPW to create a list of possible projects and costs for when funds are allocated.
- Meeting Adjourned: 8:47 PM.
- Motion to accept the report:
  - Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
  - Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Discussion:
  - Councilor Piccirilli: Confirmed Riverside Street is still on the list for long connector roads, and DPW is working to advance its design.
  - Councilor Izzo: Noted a spelling correction for "Hersom" Street in the report (should be H-E-R-S-O-M).
  - Councilor Gannon: Commended the CPW for a robust meeting and recommendations, particularly for Summer and Fayette Streets. Inquired if the design work would be a public process.
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.
First Reading - Loan Order for $2,875,000: For local road construction projects (Cottage Street neighborhood, Winter Street, Brigham Street, Appleton Terrace).
- Action: Placed on next agenda for public hearing and action.
First Reading - Loan Order for $2,300,000: For Connector Road / Longer Streets projects (Springfield Street and Forest Street).
- Action: Placed on next agenda for public hearing and action.

Communications from the City Manager

Tree Canopy Study: Underway, with a completion date of June 30, 2026. Official response to RFI forthcoming.
Hooli Toy Drive: Toy collection box in City Hall Annex for new, unwrapped gifts.
Mayor's Monarch Pledge: City pledged for 2025, received Leadership Circle achievement for the second year. Supports pollinator gardens and climate goals.
Flock Safety Cameras:
- Ongoing conversation with ACLU of Massachusetts attorney regarding best practices and contract concerns.
- Police Department and City Manager requested language changes to Section 5.3 of the contract to limit data disclosure to judicial warrants, rather than the current broad "good faith belief" clause.
- Cameras not yet installed, allowing for policy adjustments.
- Police Department policy document on Flock Safety cameras to be completed in coming weeks.
- January "Tuesday Night Talks" on technology and policing at Hosmer Elementary School.
Holiday Hours:
- Wednesday, December 24th (Christmas Eve): City Hall, Parker Building, Senior Center close at 12:30 PM; DPW at 11:00 AM; Library at 12:00 PM.
- Christmas Day: City Hall, Parker Annex, Senior Center, Library, DPW all closed.
- Friday, December 26th: City Hall, Parker Annex, Senior Center, DPW closed; Library open 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
- Wednesday, December 31st (New Year's Eve): City Hall, Parker Building, Senior Center close at 12:30 PM; DPW at 11:00 AM; Library at 5:00 PM.
- Friday, January 2nd: City Hall, Parker Senior Center, DPW closed; Library open regular hours.
Farewell to Councilor Airasian: City Manager thanked Councilor Airasian for his support and service.

Requests for Information

Council President Sideris: Requested the City Manager provide the written policy for the Flock Safety cameras to the City Council for referral to a subcommittee for public discussion as soon as possible.

Announcements

Councilor Feltner: Charles River Watershed Association is screening "Reconnecting Rivers," a documentary on dam removal (Watertown Dam, South Natick Dam), at the Watertown Library on January 8th at 6:30 PM.
Council President Sideris:
- Wished everyone a healthy holiday season.
- Thanked Councilor Airasian for his years of service.
- Read a proclamation honoring Councilor John M. Airasian for his distinguished service as an at-large City Councilor, his dedication to the community, his roles on various subcommittees (Climate and Energy, Rules and Ordinances, Education and School System Matters, Chair of Public Safety), and his leadership in community organizations (Watertown Rotary Club President, Watertown Cable Access Board of Directors, youth sports volunteer). The proclamation acknowledged his continuation of his father's legacy of community enrichment and expressed deep appreciation for his service.
Councilor Airasian:
- Thanked city staff, City Manager, and Assistant City Manager for their hard work and responsiveness.
- Thanked Doug and Brandon.
- Thanked his wife for her sacrifices.
- Thanked fellow Councilors, stating he learned from each of them and that the Council exemplifies how government should work.
- Expressed pride in his four years of service and encouraged citizens to continue engaging with the Council.

Adjournment

Motion to adjourn:
- Moved: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Seconded: [Unidentified Councilor]
- Vote: All in favor. (Aye: 9, Nay: 0, Abstain: 0)
- Outcome: Motion passed.

Podcast Summary