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  • Meeting Title: City Council
  • City: Somerville, MA
  • Date Published: 2025-07-10
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Meeting Minutes: City Council Meeting

Governing Body: City Council Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Meeting Date: Thursday, July 10th Attendees: * Present: Councilor Will Mbah, Councilor Jake Wilson, Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen (remote), Councilor J.T. Scott, Councilor Matt McLaughlin, Councilor Willie Burnley, Councilor Naima Sait (remote), Councilor Kristen Strezo, Councilor Jesse Clingan (remote), Councilor Lance Davis * Absent: (Not explicitly stated, but implied 3 absent at roll call)

Executive Summary

The City Council convened for a regular meeting on July 10th, where significant actions included the election of Councilor Lance Davis as President and Councilor Will Mbah as Vice President for the remainder of 2025. The Council approved several grants of location for Eversource and Crown Castle Fiber, and passed resolutions supporting Teamsters Local 25 in their labor dispute with Republic Services and advocating for public workers' right to strike. Financial appropriations were approved for school department collective bargaining agreements, participatory budgeting projects, and the Cummings School Warming Center. The Council also confirmed several police officer appointments and accepted a $3 million MassWorks grant. A key discussion revolved around proposed amendments to the condominium conversion ordinance, which was ultimately tabled for further review.

1. Call to Order

  • Meeting called to order by Vice President Lance Davis.
  • Video and audio of the meeting are being recorded and may be shown live on local access government channels and the City of Somerville website.

2. Roll Call

  • Present: Councilor Mbah, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Scott, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Burnley, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Davis.
  • Absent: Councilor Sait, Councilor Clingan.
  • Quorum: Seven councillors present, three absent, establishing a quorum.

3. Moment of Silence

  • A moment of silence was observed.

4. Approval of Minutes

  • Regular Meeting of June 12th: Approved.

5. Election of President of the 2025 City Council

  • Nomination: Councilor Mbah nominated Councilor Lance Davis.
  • Motion to Close Nominations: Approved.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Mbah: Councilor Lance Davis
    • Councillor Wilson: Councilor Lance Davis
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for Davis based on outcome)
    • Councillor Scott: Councilor Davis
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Councilor Davis
    • Councillor Burnley: Councilor Davis
    • Councillor Sait: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for Davis based on outcome)
    • Councillor Strezo: Councilor Davis
    • Councillor Clingan: Councilor Davis
    • Councillor Davis: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for Davis based on outcome)
  • Outcome: Councilor Lance Davis elected President of the City Council for the remainder of 2025 with seven votes.
  • Oath of Office: Administered by the City Clerk.

6. Election of Vice President of the 2025 City Council

  • Nomination: Councilor Wilson nominated Councilor Will Mbah.
  • Motion to Close Nominations: Approved.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Mbah: Councilor William Ba (Mbah)
    • Councillor Wilson: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for Mbah based on outcome)
    • Councillor Scott: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor Burnley: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor Sait: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for Mbah based on outcome)
    • Councillor Strezo: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor Clingan: Councilor Mbah
    • Councillor Davis: Councilor Mbah
  • Outcome: Councilor Will Mbah elected Vice President of the City Council for the remainder of 2025 with seven votes.
  • Oath of Office: Administered by the City Clerk.

7. Public Hearings (Out of Order)

7.1. Item 3.1: Small Wireless Facility - Crown Castle Fiber (10 Hawthorne Street)

  • Description: Upgrade of existing outdated equipment on a new pole at 10 Hawthorne Street.
  • Speaker: Randy Spisano (Crown Castle Fiber) – Stated the upgrade is for updated antenna and radios, requiring power conversion.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.2. Item 3.2: Grant of Location - Eversource (Broadway and Mount Vernon Street)

  • Description: Install approximately 166 feet of conduit in Broadway and Mount Vernon Street from Manhole 1784 to 44 Broadway.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is to provide electric service to an 81-unit building and two retail spaces at 44 Broadway.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.3. Item 3.3: Grant of Location - Eversource (Given Street)

  • Description: Install one new manhole and approximately 76 feet of conduit in Given Street from utility pole 383 over 1 through new manhole 32650 to 156 Highland Ave.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is for electric service to 156 Highland Avenue.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.4. Item 3.4: Grant of Location - Eversource (Warren Street)

  • Description: Install one new manhole and approximately 30 feet of conduit in Warren Street from new manhole 32350 to 8 Medford Street.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is to provide electric service to 18 residential units at 8 Medford Street.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.5. Item 3.5: Grant of Location - Eversource (Moreland Street)

  • Description: Install approximately 40 feet of conduit in Moreland Street from utility pole 236 over 9 to 77 Moreland Street.
  • Speaker 1: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is to provide electrical service to 79 R Moreland Street.
  • Speaker 2: Nick (Resident, 77 Moreland Street) – Expressed concern about the "approximate" pickup location, requesting exact plans to ensure no impingement on private property or need for an easement.
  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to add a condition that Eversource meet with neighbors to address concerns regarding exact location.
  • Outcome: Approved with the condition that Eversource meet with the neighbors to sort out the exact location and ensure acceptability.

7.6. Item 3.6: Grant of Location - Eversource (Prospect Street)

  • Description: Install approximately five feet of conduit in Prospect Street from manhole 23059 to 86 Prospect Street.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is to provide electric service to a 29-unit building at 86 Prospect Street.
  • Outcome: Approved.

7.7. Item 3.7: Grant of Location - Eversource (Prospect Street)

  • Description: Install approximately 17 feet of conduit in Prospect Street from manhole 23058 to an approximate point of pickup near 110 Prospect Street.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource) – Stated the installation is to enhance system reliability in the area.
  • Outcome: Approved.

8. Resolutions and Communications (Out of Order)

8.1. Item 4.1: Resolution in Support of Teamsters Local 25 (Republic Services)

  • Sponsors: Councillors Clingan, Burnley, Ewen-Campen, Scott, Sait, Mbah, Strezo, Wilson, and Davis.
  • Description: Resolution in support of Teamsters Local 25 in their labor dispute with Republic Services.
  • Co-considered with: Item 10.7: Communication of the Mayor conveying a communication to Republic Services urging expeditious resolution to contract negotiations.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Signed on as co-sponsor. Highlighted the dispute with Republic Services, the second-largest waste disposal unit in the country, owned by Bill Gates, with the CEO earning 170 times more than the average trash collector. Emphasized it's a case of corporatization and consolidation of wealth at the expense of workers.
    • Speaker: Bridget Quinn (Legislative Director, Teamsters Joint Council 10 New England) – Summarized that Local 25 represents 450 Republic Services workers. Demands include higher wages, affordable health insurance, and safe working conditions. Stated Republic Services has refused to bargain in good faith, causing strikes in 14 communities. Noted similar strikes in California, Illinois, Georgia, and Washington State. Called on Republic Services to provide wages and benefits comparable to local companies like Capital Waste.
    • Councilor Strezo: Signed on as co-sponsor. Commended Teamsters Local 25, stating the Council stands in solidarity. Criticized Republic Services for contempt towards its workforce and customers. Encouraged residents and businesses to contact Republic Services to express dissatisfaction.
    • Councilor Mbah: Thanked sponsors and Ms. Quinn. Read from the resolution, emphasizing that workers are bargaining for "fair wages, affordable health care, safe working conditions, and adequate paid time off, standards that reflect both the dignity of their labor and the financial success of their employer." Stated Republic Services has failed to meet these reasonable demands.
    • Councilor Scott: Expressed support for the strike. Highlighted the impact on over 100 residential and commercial customers in Somerville. Requested the administration consider extending municipal tipping services for large residential buildings affected by the strike.
    • President Davis: Requested a copy of the Council's resolution be sent to Republic Services, along with the Mayor's letter, to clearly communicate the unified stance of both branches of city government.
  • Outcome: Approved.

8.2. Item 10.1: Order by Councilor Burnley (Cherry Street Speed Bump)

  • Description: Order that the Director of Mobility address in writing the steps the department will take to assess the feasibility and need to install a speed bump on Cherry Street between Highland Avenue and Summer Street.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley: Stated a constituent's repeated calls regarding safety concerns due to speeding cars. Requested the Director assess the street for a speed bump to calm traffic on a small road connecting to major streets.
  • Outcome: Approved.

8.3. Item 10.2: Resolution by Councilor Burnley (Harvard Graduate Student Union)

  • Description: Resolution condemning Harvard's attack on its graduate student union.
  • Motion: Councilor Burnley moved to replace the item with amended language.
  • Amended Language (Read by Clerk):
    • "Whereas education, research, and academic inquiry are values intimately connected to the lives, careers, and passions of Somervillians, and whereas the Trump administration has targeted education and research, including grants, funding, and academic freedom at Harvard University, and whereas Harvard University employs many residents of Somerville, and whereas labor unions play a critical role in workplace and economic justice, and whereas Harvard University is attempting to strip union protections away from workers who are in tenuous positions in science research, including by removing hundreds of students from the Harvard Graduate Student Union, now therefore be it resolved that the Somerville City Council strongly opposes these actions by Harvard, is opposed to all forms of union busting, and urges Harvard administrators to undo these actions, and be it further resolved that Somerville urges Harvard administration to seriously engage with the demands of the Harvard Graduate Students Union on issues from fair pay to protections from harassment and discrimination to resources for non-citizens, and be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Harvard University administration and president."
  • Discussion on Amended Language: Approved.
  • Discussion on Resolution:
    • Councilor Burnley: Emphasized the "disturbing and frankly disgusting actions" by Harvard, attempting to remove 973 workers from their union by arguing they are not workers. Stated this is dangerous and existential for all workers, as it degrades the dignity of labor. Accused Harvard of trying to bankrupt the union by cutting dues.
    • Speaker: Dorothy Manovich (Somerville Resident, Harvard Graduate Student Union Member) – Stated her union has enabled her to live a good life in Somerville, providing dental surgery reimbursement, protections from overwork, harassment, and discrimination. Highlighted that Harvard is attempting to strip union rights from 973 workers and partially from an additional 1,000, concentrated in STEM fields already under stress. Called Harvard's actions "pretty explicitly illegal." Explained that if Harvard succeeds, these workers will lose wage protections, harassment/discrimination protections, and access to emergency funds for healthcare, dental, and childcare. Stated the union relies on dues for operations and Harvard's actions aim to weaken it. Called for Harvard to recognize these workers and for community support.
    • Co-sponsors: Councillors Wilson, McLaughlin, Scott, Strezo, Mbah, Davis.
    • Councilor Mbah: Thanked Councilor Burnley and Ms. Manovich for leadership. Shared his experience as a union member in grad school. Emphasized the importance of fighting for workers' rights.
    • Councilor Wilson: Criticized Harvard for taking advantage of Trump-era labor rollbacks. Called academia's exploitation of student labor "disgusting" and "infuriating," with unionization being the best antidote.
    • Councilor Scott: Expressed dismay at the need for this conversation. Urged Harvard to de-escalate conflict, stating graduate students and workers are not the enemy but make the institution flourish.
    • Councilor Strezo: Expressed solidarity with the union, commending their courage and perseverance.
    • President Davis: Echoed thanks to speakers. Supported the resolution, noting the fundamental issue for millions of workers. Shared his mother's experience as a teacher and union representative, highlighting the challenges without the right to strike. Emphasized the need for collaboration on shared values.
  • Outcome: Approved.

8.4. Item 10.3: Resolution by Councilor Burnley (Public Workers' Right to Strike)

  • Description: Resolution in support of certain public workers' right to strike.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley: Argued that the fundamental power of workers is to withhold labor, and public workers should have this right. Supported State House bills to grant this right. Acknowledged concerns about service disruption but emphasized that communities understand when workers fight against injustice from corporations or governments. Stated that denying the right to strike allows punishment for seeking better conditions.
    • Speakers:
      • Colette Burrard (Resident, Ward 7; Public School Teacher): Described her Andover Education Association's strike in November 2023 due to the school committee's refusal to negotiate on issues like recess expansion and living wages for instructional assistants. Stated strikes are risky but necessary when employers refuse to bargain, as current laws incentivize employers to wait out unions. Argued that making strikes illegal doesn't stop them; giving workers the ability to strike when management refuses to negotiate is the solution.
      • Jim Kaplan (Resident, Ward 6; Mass Teachers Association): Stated the division between private and public sector labor rights is historical, rooted in exclusions of agricultural and Black workers from labor protections. Argued that granting public sector workers the right to strike would invigorate the Democratic Party by engaging the working class. Cited the Somerville Municipal Employees Association's long struggle, which would have been shorter with the right to strike.
      • Mary Ann Wallace (Resident, Ward 4; Regional Vice President, SEIU 509): Stated public sector workers are held "at gunpoint" without the right to strike, unable to fight for members, families, and clients. Highlighted that not all contracts are just about wages but also working conditions and community needs. Described how state employers control bargaining, leading to stalled negotiations and withheld payments. Argued that public sector workers, often at a disadvantage, deserve the dignity of the right to strike.
    • Co-sponsors: Councillors Wilson, Davis, Scott, Mbah, McLaughlin, Strezo.
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Supported the resolution. Discussed the historical struggle for labor rights, noting that strikes are not vacations but involve significant risk for workers. Emphasized that if workers vote to strike, it's a serious decision. Connected the decline in union membership to the decline of the Democratic Party.
    • Councilor Wilson: Referenced the UK Labor Party's approach to avoiding public sector strikes by offering good contracts, suggesting this is the solution rather than prohibiting strikes.
    • Councilor Scott: Highlighted that public sector workers often take lower pay due to their commitment to public service values. Argued that denying the right to strike removes their decision-making power in shaping policy and service delivery. Stated that removing impediments to worker involvement leads to a better system.
    • Councilor Mbah: Thanked Councilor Burnley and speakers. Expressed embarrassment that such a conversation is still necessary.
    • President Davis: Reiterated support for the resolution and speakers. Noted that the Council is expressing support for state-level legislation. Emphasized the fundamental nature of the issue and the need for public sector workers to advocate for themselves. Highlighted the importance of collaboration across political divides.
  • Outcome: Approved.

8.5. Item 10.4: Communication by Councilor Burnley (Wage Theft Advisory Committee)

  • Description: Communication regarding the reconstitution of the Wage Theft Advisory Committee.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley: Reminded colleagues of amendments to the Wage Theft Ordinance, specifically that committee positions are approved by the Council President and City Council. Stated that the committee currently lacks a quorum. Announced plans to reach out to unions to find representatives to fill seats and ensure the committee can effectively address wage theft in Somerville.
  • Outcome: Approved.

9. Executive Session

  • Item 5.1: Officer's communication from the Director of Economic Development requesting an executive session to discuss strategy regarding the disposition of 90 Washington Street.
  • Legal Opinion: Attorney Selkirk confirmed the item is appropriate for executive session.
  • Motion to Move to Executive Session: Councilor Wilson moved to move to executive session.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: (Not explicitly stated, but assumed vote for executive session based on outcome)
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Aye
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Motion approved with seven councillors in favor, none opposed, and three absent. Council entered executive session.
  • Return from Executive Session: No votes were taken in executive session other than the vote to adjourn.

10. Committee Reports

10.1. Item 6C: Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters (July 1st, 2025)

  • Chair: Councilor Davis.
  • Discussion:
    • Mopeds/Motorized Bicycles: Discussed regulation of mopeds/motorized bicycles, focusing on insurance and community path safety. Item left in committee to explore further regulations with the law department.
    • Proposed Amendments to Condominium Conversion Ordinance (Item 24-1740 / 25-1044):
      • Motion: Councilor Davis moved to sever Item 25-1044 with the intent of placing it on file.
      • Outcome: Item 25-1044 severed and placed on file.
      • Explanation: Councilor Davis explained that Item 7.1 (a request from the Mayor) is a replacement for the committee item, incorporating an October 1st effective date.
  • Outcome: Report accepted as submitted.

10.2. Item 7.1: Request of the Mayor (Condominium Conversion Ordinance Amendment)

  • Description: Requesting ordainment of an amendment to sections 7-64, 7-65, and 7-68 of the Code of Ordinances to reduce displacement of tenants and update relocation payments.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Davis: Stated this item is a replacement for the one placed on file, substantively identical except for the October 1st effective date. Explained the changes resulted from a working group addressing loopholes in the ordinance that allowed tenants to be displaced before condo conversion. The intent is to make it more attractive to keep folks in their homes. Noted that the administration requested no action be taken tonight, and feedback has been received.
    • Councilor Scott: Thanked the working group. Explained the fundamental problem: tenants' rights were being circumvented due to the ordinance's timeline, allowing displacement before compensation. Stated the proposed changes are an "elegant solution" that reinforces the intent of the ordinance and inconveniences those attempting to avoid tenant relocation benefits. Thanked the clerk's office for resolving the effective date issue.
    • Councilor Davis: Added that the intended effect is to make it more attractive to keep folks in their homes. Acknowledged constituent concerns and feedback received since the committee meeting. Stated that the administration's position is that the October 1st effective date would not change regardless of when the Council acts.
    • Councilor Wilson: Suggested tabling the item until the next meeting to allow all councillors to be present and for further public input, given the October 1st effective date provides time.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to table Item 7.1, along with related public communications (Items 9.8, 10.18, 10.19, 10.20), until the next meeting.
    • Councilor Davis: Supported the motion to table, stating it allows time to consider feedback and potential unintended consequences without affecting the October 1st effective date.
  • Outcome: Motion to table approved. Items 7.1, 9.8, 10.18, 10.19, and 10.20 laid on the table until the next meeting.

10.3. Item 6A: Report of the Committee on Finance (July 8th, 2025)

  • Chair: (Not explicitly stated, but likely Councilor Wilson based on previous discussions).
  • Discussion:
    • Report Summary: Committee met on July 8th, with four of five members present.
    • Recommendations (4-0 vote):
      • Authorization to dispose of unclaimed bicycles through a program with the YMCA for free, tuned-up bikes for Somerville residents.
      • A new contract with Blue Bikes, with requests for new stations in underserved areas.
      • Extension of the lease agreement for the parking lot off Grove Street (between Elm and Highland Ave).
      • Time-only extension with the Franklin Cummings Institute for Job Training for the Job Creation Retention Trust.
    • Withdrawn Items: Three items withdrawn at the administration's request. Items 25-1163 and 25-1164 are being replaced by Items 7-2 and 10-5.
  • Outcome: Report accepted.

10.4. Item 25-0978: Fourth Amendment to Lease (Grove Street Parking Lot)

  • Description: Fourth amendment to a lease for the Grove Street parking lot.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Aye
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

10.5. Item 25-1160: Final Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Agreement (299 Broadway)

  • Description: Final Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Agreement for the 299 Broadway project.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Aye
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

11. Immediate Consideration Items (Out of Order)

11.1. Item 7.2: Request of the Mayor (Sewell Park Maintenance Agreement)

  • Description: Requesting approval of a maintenance agreement and landscape management and maintenance plan for the future Sewell Park at the 299 Broadway development.
  • Co-considered with: Item 10.5: Request of the Mayor requesting approval of a public access and maintenance access easement for 299 Broadway property owner, LLC.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson: Thanked the developer, attorney, law department, and IGA for quickly preparing the replacement items.
  • Roll Call Vote (for both 7.2 and 10.5):
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Yes
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Both items approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

11.2. Item 7.3: Request of the Mayor (School Department Appropriation)

  • Description: Requesting approval to appropriate $1.5 million from the Salary and Wage Stabilization Fund to the school department to fund collective bargaining agreements.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Yes
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

11.3. Item 7.4: Request of the Mayor (Participatory Budgeting Appropriation)

  • Description: Requesting the appropriation of $1,045,000 from the Participatory Budgeting Stabilization Fund for the purpose of implementing the winning projects from the second participatory budgeting cycle.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Yes
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

11.4. Item 7.5: Request of the Mayor (Cummings School Renovations)

  • Description: Requesting approval to appropriate $800,000 from the Facility Construction and Renovation Stabilization Fund for renovations to the Cummings School for the Warming Center project.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Aye
    • Councillor Sait: Yes
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with nine councillors in favor, none opposed, and one absent.

11.5. Item 10.6: Request of the Mayor (Police Department Retroactive Payments)

  • Description: Requesting approval to appropriate $3,892,796 from the Salary and Wage Stabilization Fund to the police department other lump sum payments account to fund retroactive payments in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement with the Somerville Police Employees Association.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councillor Wilson: Yes
    • Councillor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councillor Scott: Yes
    • Councillor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councillor Burnley: Yes
    • Councillor Sait: Yes
    • Councillor Strezo: Yes
    • Councillor Clingan: Yes
    • Councillor Mbah: Yes
    • Councillor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved with eight councillors in favor, none opposed.

12. Immediate Consideration Items (Out of Order - Second Set)

12.1. Item 7.6: Request of the Mayor (MassWorks Infrastructure Program Grant)

  • Description: Requesting approval to accept and expend a $3 million grant with no new match required from the MassWorks Infrastructure Program to the Department of Infrastructure and Asset Management for the Inner Belt and Brick Bottom Pedestrian Crossing and Associated Project Area.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson: Noted this item was initially considered for finance committee but was brought directly to the Council.
  • Outcome: Approved.

12.2. Item 7.7: Request of the Mayor (Police Officer Appointment - Daquan Goodnow)

  • Description: Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Daquan Goodnow to the position of police officer.
  • Outcome: Approved.

12.3. Item 7.8: Request of the Mayor (Police Officer Appointment - Andrew Pasqualino)

  • Description: Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Andrew Pasqualino to the position of police officer.
  • Outcome: Approved.

12.4. Item 7.9: Request of the Mayor (Police Officer Appointment - Benji Antoine)

  • Description: Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Benji Antoine to the position of police officer.
  • Outcome: Approved.

12.5. Item 7.10: Request of the Mayor (Police Officer Appointment - Victor Souza)

  • Description: Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Victor Souza to the position of police officer.
  • Outcome: Approved.

13. Committee Reports (Continued)

13.1. Item 6B: Report of the Committee on Housing and Community Development (June 30th, 2025)

  • Chair: Councilor Strezo.
  • Discussion:
    • Meeting Summary: Met on Monday, June 30th, with two of three members present (Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Strezo).
    • Housing Bond Bill: Discussed Councilor McLaughlin's order regarding the housing bond bill and strengthening condominium conversion and tenant protection laws.
    • Sealing of Evictions: Conveyed important information about recent state legislation (effective May 5th) allowing tenants to petition courts to seal records from no-fault evictions (e.g., landlord selling property, significant rent increase, dismissed cases). Noted the Office of Housing Stability is working to disseminate information and hold workshops.
    • Economic Impact on Small Businesses (Federal Immigration Policies): Discussed with Deputy Director Dana Whiteside. Reviewed older efforts like the business impact packets (1033) and the leasing handbook. Encouraged constituents to reach out to economic development for assistance in obtaining tax IDs for small businesses to participate in city events like "Slice of the City."
    • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) One-Year Action Plan: Discussed with Director of Finance and Community Development Ellen ANC Sicko. Highlighted that for the first time in 20 years, the city will fully leverage CDBG financing capabilities, requiring an annual entitlement payment of $500,000, resulting in long-term community benefits.
    • Impact of Construction on Small Businesses: Item kept in committee for further discussion.
  • Outcome: Report accepted as submitted.

14. Other Items

14.1. Item 7.11: Request of the Mayor (90 Washington Street Demonstration Project Plan)

  • Description: Requesting that the City Council schedule a joint public hearing with the Somerville Redevelopment Authority regarding updating the 90 Washington Street demonstration project plan.
  • Outcome: Approved to be sent to the Land Use Committee.

14.2. Item 8.1: Officer's Communication (Chief of Police Biannual Report)

  • Description: Officer's communication from the Chief of Police conveying a biannual report pursuant to section 2-6G of the Code of Ordinances.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

14.3. Item 8.2: Officer's Communication (City Clerk Block Party Licenses)

  • Description: Officer's communication from the City Clerk conveying block party licenses issued.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson: Inquired about the availability of block party supplies funded in the budget.
    • City Clerk: Stated the scope of work has been drafted, vendors are being sourced, and quotes are being obtained. Acknowledged being in the middle of block party season and moving urgently, but the contracting process is lengthy.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

14.4. Items 9.1 - 9.6 and 10.8 - 10.16 (Waived Readings)

  • Motion: Councilor Burnley moved to waive readings and approve these items.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott: Expressed enthusiasm for the July 19th Honk Community Concert at Lincoln Park Soccer Field.
    • President Davis: Announced the second annual community event at Davis Square on September 4th or 5th, sponsored by the Somerville Foundation and Davis Square Merchants.
  • Outcome: Approved.

14.5. Item 9.7: Public Communication (Courtney Foster - Climate Superfund Bill)

  • Description: Public communication from Courtney Foster, submitting comments regarding item 25-1170 in support of the Climate Superfund Bill.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

14.6. Item 10.17: Public Communication (Margaret Sapir - Sea Spire)

  • Description: Public communication from Margaret Sapir, submitting comments regarding a sea spire.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

14.7. Item 10.21: Public Communication (John Angeloni - Davis Square)

  • Description: Public communication from John Angeloni, submitting comments regarding Davis Square.
  • Discussion: President Davis noted he had a conversation with the Director of Engineering regarding this item.
  • Outcome: Placed on file.

15. Late Items / Motions from the Floor

  • Motion: President Davis moved that the Council congratulate Councilor Sait on the birth of her child, who arrived on July 3rd. Noted that everyone is doing well.
  • Outcome: Approved.

16. Adjournment

  • Motion to Adjourn: Councilor McLaughlin moved to adjourn.
  • Outcome: Approved.
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