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  • Meeting Title: City Council
  • City: Somerville, MA
  • Date Published: 2025-09-11
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Meeting Minutes of the Somerville City Council

Governing Body: Somerville City Council Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Meeting Date: Thursday, September 11th, 2025 Attendees: Councilor Jake Wilson, Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen, Councilor J.T. Scott, Councilor Matt McLaughlin, Councilor Willie Burnley, Councilor Naima Sait, Councilor Kristen Strezo, Councilor Jesse Clingan, Councilor Will Mbah, Councilor Lance Davis. (Mayor Katjana Ballantyne was not present for the roll call but was mentioned as speaking at a 9/11 remembrance ceremony). Absent: One Councilor (unnamed in roll call).

Executive Summary

The Somerville City Council convened for a regular meeting on September 11th, 2025. Key discussions included the approval of several Eversource grants of location for utility installations, a detailed presentation and discussion on the Somerville Special Education Parents Advisory Council (CPAC) report regarding the Somerville Public Schools' special education services, and a lengthy debate on a proposed home rule petition to require the city to send informational packets to voters for citywide ballot questions. The Council also addressed concerns about hostile architecture in new bus shelters, federal law enforcement activity within the city, and hiring practices within city departments.

1. Call to Order & Roll Call

  • Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by the President of the City Council on Thursday, September 11th, 2025.
  • Roll Call:
    • Councilor Wilson: Present
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Present
    • Councilor Scott: Present
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Present
    • Councilor Burnley: Present
    • Councilor Sait: Present
    • Councilor Strezo: Present
    • Councilor Clingan: Present
    • Councilor Mbah: Present
    • Councilor Davis: Present
    • Outcome: Nine Councillors present, one absent, constituting a quorum.

1.1 Remembrances

  • Councilor Scott: Announced the passing of David White, a 60-year-old Union Square resident, veteran, and community figure. Noted that arrangements for a memorial at St. Joe's would be forthcoming.
  • Council President: Acknowledged the city's 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Davis Square, thanking Veterans Affairs, Health and Human Services, and first responders. Highlighted Mayor Ballantyne's words on unity in the face of tragedy.
  • Moment of Silence: Observed by all present.

1.3 Approval of Minutes

  • Regular Meeting of July 10th, 2025: Approved.

1.4 Approval of Minutes

  • Special Meeting of July 30th, 2025: Approved.

2. Citations

2.1 Citation by Councilor Davis, Commending Participants of the Inaugural Municipal Civics Academy

  • Discussion: Councilor Davis introduced the citation, inviting Brendan Salisbury, Legislative Analyst, to speak about the program.
    • Brendan Salisbury (Legislative Analyst):
      • Described the inaugural Somerville Municipal Civics Academy, held on August 2nd at the central library.
      • Stated the academy's purpose was to promote understanding of municipal government departments, their work processes, and priority setting.
      • Noted participation from staff across various city departments (Clerk's Office, Constituent Services, Office of Immigrant Affairs, Inspectional Services, Mobility, Infrastructure and Asset Management, Planning, Preservation and Zoning, and the budget team).
      • Reported that 15 residents participated, engaging in activities such as zoning review, permitting, a simulated SOIA workday, construction project complexities, and ordinance analysis.
      • Praised participants' civic engagement and curiosity, expressing hope for future academies.
    • Councilor Davis: Praised the program's positive feedback and the need for deeper civic education.
  • Citation Reading:
    • "Be it hereby known that all the Somerville City Council and the Mayor offer their sincerest commendations to Municipal Civics Academy participants for their thoughtful participation, active commitment to civic engagement, and devotion to their city. We are grateful for the spirit of service that they bring to their community offered this 11th day of September, 2025."
  • Recognition: Participants present in the room were invited to receive certificates and take photos.
  • Action: Brief recess for recognition and photos.

3. Public Hearings

3.1 Grant of Location from Eversource

  • Description: To install a total of 10 feet of conduit in Aldersey Street from utility pole 4 over 3 to a point of pickup at 17 Aldersey Street.
  • Public Hearing Opened.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource)
    • Summary: Stated the installation is to provide electric service to 17-19 Aldersey Street.
  • Public Hearing Closed.
  • Discussion: None.
  • Action: Approved.

3.2 Grant of Location from Eversource

  • Description: To install a total of 40 feet of conduit in Hinkley Street from utility pole 170 over 6 to a point of pickup at 35 Richardson Street.
  • Public Hearing Opened.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource)
    • Summary: Stated the installation is to provide electric service to 35 Richardson Street for a new four-unit building.
  • Public Hearing Closed.
  • Discussion: None.
  • Action: Approved.

3.3 Grant of Location from Eversource

  • Description: To install a total of 104 feet of conduit in Glenwood Road from manhole 7417 to a point of pickup at 72 Glenwood Road.
  • Public Hearing Opened.
  • Speaker: Jackie Duffy (Eversource)
    • Summary: Stated the installation is to provide electric service to 72 Glenwood Road.
  • Public Hearing Closed.
  • Discussion: None.
  • Action: Approved.

4. Orders & Resolutions

4.1 Order by Councilor Strezo

  • Description: That this council discuss the Somerville Special Education Parents Advisory Council (CPAC) report sent to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in response to the upcoming DESE District Review of Somerville Public Schools for the 2025-2026 school year.
  • Recusal: Councilor Davis recused himself due to an immediate family member working in a school with out-of-district placements. Vice President Mbah presided over this item.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Strezo:
      • Explained her motivation for the order, stemming from her role on the Construction Advisory Committee (CAC) for the Winter Hill Innovation School and Brown School.
      • Expressed concern that special needs families and children, including those in the AIM program for autistic children at Winter Hill, were not adequately included in CAC discussions regarding school design and consolidation.
      • Cited an example of a kindergartner at Healy School with undiagnosed autism experiencing behavioral issues due to sensory overload in the cafeteria, highlighting the need for intentional spaces for children with special needs.
      • Emphasized that school decisions are "family decisions," "future of Somerville decisions," and "child decisions," not solely financial or infrastructure decisions.
      • Introduced Liz Eldridge, Chair of Somerville CPAC, to speak on their report.
    • Liz Eldridge (Chair, Somerville Special Education Parents Advisory Council - CPAC):
      • Provided context for the 25-page report submitted to DESE, prompted by DESE's notification of a district review to assess equity and quality of education for all students.
      • Stated the report ensures family and educator voices are heard, based on district data, public records, and extensive testimony.
      • Highlighted key findings:
        • Somerville Special Education was designated "needs assistance" by DESE in early May 2025 due to noncompliance and MCAS scores.
        • A significant gap exists between the district's stated vision of equity/inclusion and the reality for students with disabilities, with legally required services often missing, delayed evaluations, and IEPs based on staffing shortages rather than student needs (which is illegal).
        • Students with disabilities comprise over 20% (1,070 students) of the student population.
        • 2024 MCAS data: Only 12% of students with disabilities (grades 3-8) were proficient in English Language Arts (vs. 46% general education peers); 10% proficient in Math (vs. 39% general education peers). This means nearly 9 out of 10 students with disabilities are not meeting grade-level expectations.
        • Root causes are structural: understaffing, lack of training, inconsistent school-level planning, communication challenges, weak multi-tiered system of support, and budgets failing to prioritize legally mandated services.
      • Called for corrective action:
        • Ensure every student receives legally entitled education and support (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Massachusetts regulations).
        • IEPs must be based on student needs and fully implemented, requiring adequate funding, qualified staff, timely evaluations, and service delivery.
        • Create inclusive classrooms and buildings, staff co-teachers, provide paraprofessionals and specialist support, and train general education teachers in inclusive practices.
        • Meaningfully engage families and CPAC, as required by state law, and foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and inclusion.
      • Emphasized that the issue is systemic, not individual teachers or families, and called for the DESE review to be a turning point.
  • Action: Placed on file. Councilor Strezo requested colleagues review the report.

4.2 Order by Councilor Strezo

  • Description: That the Commissioner of Public Works provide information regarding the installation, safety, and accessibility of a railing on the concrete stairs between the play structures and the soccer field at the Winter Hill Community Innovation School playground.
  • Discussion: Councilor Strezo requested referral to committee.
  • Action: Referred to School Buildings, Facilities, and Maintenance Committee.

4.3 Order by Councilor Mbah

  • Description: That the city clerk implement the hiring practices detailed within for positions in the city council and city clerk departments.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Mbah:
      • Expressed a desire for municipal government to reflect the diversity of the community.
      • Read the full text of the proposed order into the record, emphasizing:
        • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and workforce diversity.
        • Strengthening public trust and accountability through representation of people of color.
        • Requirement for hiring committees/interview panels to include at least one person of color from Somerville's community (staff, Councillors, or qualified residents), "to the extent practicable."
        • Requirement for finalist pools to include at least one qualified candidate of color, "whenever reasonably possible."
        • Personnel Department, City Clerk, and City Council President to develop implementation guidelines (outreach, compliance, equity training).
        • Annual report from Personnel Department on implementation, compliance, and outcomes (demographic data).
        • Policy to be consistent with equal opportunity laws, not establishing quotas or unlawful preferences.
      • Requested referral to committee for further discussion.
    • Councilor Sait: Supported referral to committee to discuss existing systems and council involvement in hiring practices.
    • Council President: Requested a copy of the order be sent to the Law Department for review.
  • Action: Referred to Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters Committee.

4.4 Order by Councillors Clingan, McLaughlin, and Wilson

  • Description: That the Director of Mobility and the Director of Engineering collaborate to install crosswalks across Walnut Street and Wigglesworth Street near Sunnyside Avenue to protect Winter Hill Community Innovation School students, families, and educators using the Otis Street footbridge.
  • Discussion: Councilor Clingan requested referral to Traffic and Parking.
  • Action: Referred to Traffic and Parking Committee.

4.5 Order by Councilor Scott

  • Description: That the City Clerk provide this Council with an update regarding promulgation from the State Cannabis Control Commission of regulations and licensure procedures related to the operation of cannabis consumption lounges.
  • Sign-ons: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Davis, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott: Noted the delay in state regulations for cannabis consumption lounges and the need for an update for both advocates and business owners.
    • Clerk:
      • Confirmed the Cannabis Control Commission is still working on final regulations.
      • Stated comments on the draft regulations were due earlier this week (Monday), with final regulations expected by the end of the month (TBD).
      • Noted Somerville is using the draft regulations as a guide and is about to begin public and business community outreach sessions.
  • Action: Referred to Licenses and Permits Committee.

4.6 Order by Councilor Scott

  • Description: That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry discuss with this council a policy for use of open space on municipal property around city buildings for community gardens.
  • Sign-ons: Councilor Wilson, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott:
      • Explained the order was prompted by constituent inquiries about underused green space around city buildings, particularly closed schools like Winter Hill.
      • Suggested community gardens could deter issues like squatting or fires and utilize public resources.
      • Expressed hope for a discussion on practicalities and policy development.
  • Action: Referred to Open Space, Environment, and Energy Committee.

4.7 Resolution by Councilor Scott

  • Description: That the administration, including the Director of Mobility, discuss with this council a process for establishing municipal standards for furnishings at bus stops and shelters.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott:
      • Praised new protected bike lanes on Washington Street but criticized "hostile architecture" (armrest obstructions) on benches in new bus shelters.
      • Recalled previous council discussions on hostile architecture at Red Line stops and the city's subsequent use of movable, accessible furniture in new parks (King Kelly Park, Lake Street Pocket Park).
      • Stated that current bus shelter furnishings were purchased from MBTA-approved contractors with MBTA-approved designs, which included hostile elements.
      • Emphasized that the city bought and installed these and has the choice to do otherwise in the future.
      • Expressed interest in discussing future standards for fully accessible public furniture, whether through administrative policy or ordinance.
  • Action: Referred to Public Utilities and Public Works Committee.

4.8 Resolution by Councilor Scott

  • Description: That the mayor update this council on any plans to issue a requirement for federal law enforcement agents acting within the city of Somerville to provide identification upon request and preventing the use of identity concealing masks within the city by federal agents.
  • Sign-ons: Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Davis, Councilor Wilson.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott:
      • Noted recent ICE activity in Somerville, including reports of agents in front of City Hall.
      • Stated the resolution was inspired by similar measures in Chicago and Illinois.
      • Expressed a desire to reduce "abductions of our neighbors by masked people" and ensure clarity on who is operating within the city.
      • Requested referral to committee for discussion.
    • Councilor McLaughlin:
      • Supported referral to Public Health and Safety.
      • Cited Terence Cunningham, head of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, condemning federal agents using masks in a democratic society, emphasizing the need for public identification and empathy.
      • Criticized ICE's actions in Somerville, including alleged "trolling" of City Hall, failure to identify themselves during an abduction of a Tufts student, and intentionally instilling terror.
      • Drew a parallel to his military service in an occupied country, where professionalism and respect were paramount, and masks were not worn, contrasting it with ICE's conduct.
      • Expressed dismay at such behavior being allowed and encouraged at high government levels.
  • Action: Referred to Public Health and Safety Committee.

6. Committee Reports

6A. Report of the Committee on Finance

  • Meeting Date: September 9th, 2025
  • Attendees: Four out of five Councillors present.
  • Summary of Report:
    • Met for 58 minutes, addressing a 22-item agenda.
    • Two items were inadvertently recommended for approval but were requested to be withdrawn and replaced by new items on the agenda (7.7 and 7.11) for immediate consideration, as they secured full-year funding.
    • Recommended approval of minutes from the July 8th meeting.
    • Recommended approval of three appropriation items, including the annual appropriation from the Community Preservation Act to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
    • Recommended approval of two grant acceptances.
    • Recommended approval of a transfer for the grant match for the Shannon Grant.
    • Recommended approval of 11 prior year invoices.
    • Discharged with no recommendation the acceptance of the annual $1.1 million block grant from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (item 6A-22), following extensive discussion and requests for more information, particularly on geographic areas for traffic enforcement. Follow-up memos were provided by IGA.
  • Action on Report: Accepted as submitted.

Severed Items from Finance Committee Report:

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to sever items 6A-19 and 6A-20 from the committee report.
  • Outcome: Motion approved. Items 6A-19 and 6A-20 were withdrawn.

Vote on Item from Finance Committee Report:

  • Item 25-1289: Requesting approval to appropriate $56,601 from the salary and wage stabilization fund to the non-contributory pension account to fund an increased pension amount.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Yes
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (9 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent).

Immediate Consideration of Replacement Items:

  • Item 7.7: Request of the Mayor requesting approval to accept and expend a $301,000 grant with no new match required from the Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for crisis intervention training and technical assistance for personnel and program expenses.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to approve.
    • Discussion: None.
    • Action: Approved.
  • Item 7.11: Request of the Mayor requesting approval to accept and expend a $50,000 grant with no new match required from the Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for jail diversion program personnel expenses.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to approve.
    • Discussion: None.
    • Action: Approved.

Vote on Discharged Item from Finance Committee Report:

  • Item 6A-22: Request of the Mayor, requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,100,000 grant with no new match required from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and the Police Department for the development of the Union Square Plaza and Streetscape Phase 1.
  • Discussion: Councilor Wilson noted the prior discussion in Finance and asked if colleagues had further questions.
  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to approve.
  • Discussion on Motion: None.
  • Action: Approved.

6B. Report of the Committee on Land Use

  • Meeting Date: September 4th, 2025
  • Attendees: Four out of five Councillors present (Councilor Clingan substituted).
  • Summary of Report:
    • Discussed one item: Gilman Square upzoning, an informal proposal from a land use analyst.
    • Focused on upzoning Gilman Square while the city completes its Broadway corridor process.
    • Weighed pros and cons, including potential increased tax burden, building height (especially high-rise), and the situation with the city-owned Homans Building.
    • Scheduled another discussion for September 18th.
  • Action on Report: Accepted as submitted.

6C. Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters

  • Meeting Date: September 8th, 2025
  • Attendees: Four out of five Councillors present.
  • Summary of Report:
    • Met for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
    • Item 25-1317: Licensing Commission recommendation for acceptance of Mass General Law Chapter 138, Section 12D, allowing current wine and beverage license holders to convert to an all-forms license.
      • Recommendation: Approved by a 4-0-1 vote.
    • Item 25-1373: Order from Councilor Mbah that the City accept the provisions of Chapter 53, Section 18B of Mass General Laws (voter information provision).
      • Recommendation: Discharged without a recommendation due to limited committee attendance and the item's significance.
      • Discussion in Committee:
        • Concern from Mayor's staff and Elections Department regarding an estimated $40,000 cost for mailing and deadline issues.
        • One ballot measure (Palestine voter petition) certified; two others (charter adoption, four-year mayoral term) awaiting State House approval by September 19th (or 30th, creating timeline bind).
  • Action on Report: Accepted as submitted.

Vote on Item from Legislative Matters Committee Report:

  • Item 25-1317: Acceptance of Mass General Laws Chapter 138, Section 12D, to allow current wine and malt beverage license holders to apply to convert to a non-transferable all-forms alcohol license.
  • Roll Call Vote:
    • Councilor Wilson: Yes
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Yes
    • Councilor Scott: Yes
    • Councilor McLaughlin: Yes
    • Councilor Burnley: Yes
    • Councilor Sait: Yes
    • Councilor Strezo: Yes
    • Councilor Clingan: Yes
    • Councilor Mbah: Yes
    • Councilor Davis: Yes
  • Outcome: Approved (9 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent).

Discussion on Item Discharged from Legislative Matters Committee Report:

  • Item 25-1373: That the City of Somerville hereby accepts the provisions of Chapter 53, Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Scott:
      • Clarified that without accepting this provision, the city cannot legally spend money on a citywide mailer to inform residents about ballot questions.
      • Supported the measure for increased voter information, despite logistical concerns.
    • Councilor Davis:
      • Supported the principle of providing information but expressed concern that it is too late for the current election cycle due to timelines and early voting.
      • Suggested acting on this for future years and referring it back to committee.
    • Councilor Mbah:
      • Acknowledged the oversight in not adopting this during the charter review process.
      • Introduced Harriet Randvig, a constituent, to speak on the policy's intent.
      • Stated the law requires pre-election notifications with full text, impartial summaries, and pro/con arguments for ballot questions.
      • Expressed concern about the implications of not adopting it for voters.
    • Harriet Randvig (5 Leicester Terrace, Somerville):
      • Summary: Emphasized the need for accessible information beyond websites, suggesting printed copies in public places (libraries, City Hall) and large print/embossed copies. Stated the website is not fully accessible to her as a blind computer user. Highlighted the difficulty of voting without understanding legalese.
    • Councilor McLaughlin:
      • Announced the charter passed the Senate and awaits the governor's signature.
      • Clarified that incorporating MGL Chapter 53, Section 18B into the charter itself would not have been appropriate.
      • Expressed concern about rushing the decision and potential "mistakes" given the upcoming preliminary and general elections.
      • Supported sending it back to committee for further review.
      • Noted the new charter is in plain language and available online at SomervilleMA.gov/charterreview.
    • Councilor Ewen-Campen: Agreed with Ms. Randvig and affirmed the city's commitment to developing a communication plan for ballot information.
    • Councilor Wilson:
      • Affirmed universal support for transparency and voter information.
      • Stated the $40,000 cost is not a primary concern, but feasibility and logistics are.
      • Supported the idea of a later start date for the provision, possibly for future charter amendments.
      • Expressed concern about rushing and "getting it wrong."
    • Councilor Mbah: Noted the imperfect but improving implementation of Braille voter guides.
      • Emphasized the need to understand legal implications to avoid "undue burden" or "unintended consequences."
    • Liaison Radazzi:
      • Affirmed the city's desire for an informed electorate.
      • Stated the city is open to continued discussion on adopting the statute.
      • Confirmed the city is working with Communications and Law Departments to ensure legal and neutral information dissemination.
      • Acknowledged suggestions for large print, embossed copies, robocalls, and text messages, noting the need to consult the Law Department on OCPF regulations for ballot question advocacy.
      • Emphasized the goal of using a variety of methods and neutral, plain language summaries.
    • Councilor Mbah: Suggested robocalls and text messages in multiple languages to reach those not typically accessing websites.
    • Bev Schwartz (Charter Committee Member):
      • Summary: Stated five charter committee members are volunteering for outreach. Suggested the city could at minimum robo-call or email a link to the actual charter language. Emphasized the extensive work on the charter and the importance of it not failing due to a technicality.
    • Councilor Wilson: Thanked the state delegation for their work on the charter's passage.
  • Action: Referred back to committee (Legislative Matters).

7. Mayoral Communications

7.1 Request of the Mayor

  • Description: Requesting approval of a home rule petition to raise the sound business practices and written quote contract thresholds under Mass General Law Chapter 30B for city contracts with certified disadvantaged businesses.
  • Action: Anticipated referral to Legislative Matters.

7.2 - 7.6, 7.8 - 7.10, 7.12 - 7.20, 10.5, 10.6

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of these items and send them to Finance.
  • Action: Readings waived, referred to Finance Committee.

7.21 Request of the Mayor

  • Description: Requesting approval of an exemption for Jonathan Siragatis as required by Master Journal Law Chapter 268A, Section 20B.
  • Action: Approved.

8. Officer's Communications

8.1 Officer's Communication from the City Clerk

  • Description: Conveying block party licenses issued.
  • Discussion: Councilor Davis noted the inclusion of Josephine, one of the oldest block parties.
  • Action: Placed on file.

9. Public Communications

9.1 - 9.10

  • Motion: Councilor Clingan moved to waive the readings of these items and 10.7, and move for approval.
  • Discussion:
    • Council President: Noted 10.7 was a supplemental item and typically requires explanation for immediate action or referral to committee for proper public notice. Stated he was comfortable with its approval if it was the will of the council.
  • Action: Readings waived, items 9.1-9.10 and 10.7 approved.

9.11 Public Communication from Michael Vaglica

  • Description: Submitting comments regarding bike lanes.
  • Action: Placed on file.

9.12 Public Communication from Greta Pintacuda

  • Description: Submitting comments regarding bird feeding.
  • Action: Placed on file.

9.13 Public Communication from Lindsay McCassey

  • Description: Submitting comments regarding Davis Square.
  • Action: Placed on file.

10. Supplemental Items

10.1 Resolution by Councilors Strezo and Clingan

  • Description: That the administration inform this council of the process, action, and communication used to consider acquiring the closed school building privately owned by the Archdiocese of Boston on Thurston Street after the Winter Hill Community Innovation School was deemed unsuitable for use.
  • Discussion:
    • Council President: Reiterated policy for supplemental items: explanation for time sensitivity or referral to committee.
    • Councilor Clingan:
      • Requested referral to the School Buildings Committee.
      • Noted the city's awareness of the St. Anne's school building and rumors of leasing by the Archdiocese (possibly to a charter school).
      • Stated the property could be integral to expanding the footprint at 115 Sycamore if the Winter Hill project proceeds there.
      • Emphasized the need to determine its availability before the opportunity is lost, noting its mention by MSBA design firms.
    • Councilor Strezo:
      • Added that CAG committee members have repeatedly raised this topic.
      • Stated that Director Reich (Infrastructure Asset Management) claimed it was explored, but no documentation or evidence has been provided.
      • Requested actual documentation or evidence of the exploration and why it was deemed not viable.
    • Sign-on: Councilor Wilson.
  • Action: Referred to School Buildings, Facilities, and Maintenance Committee.

10.2 Order by Councilor Wilson

  • Description: That the city clerk work with this council to amend the code of ordinances to better regulate the sale of secondhand goods.
  • Sign-ons: Councilor Mbah, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Strezo, Councilor Scott.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson:
      • Stated the order was prompted by a local business owner's frustration with "questionably worded language" in the code of ordinances regarding secondhand goods licensing.
      • Discussed with the City Clerk and Legislative Analyst, identifying significant room for improvement in the current language.
      • Requested referral to Legislative Matters to craft better wording.
  • Action: Referred to Legislative Matters Committee.

10.3 Order by Councilor Burnley

  • Description: That the City Solicitor update this Council on the new Immigration and Customs Enforcement Cooperation requirements attached to forthcoming Urban Area Security Initiative grants.
  • Action: Referred to Public Health and Public Safety Committee.

10.4 Order by Councilor Burnley

  • Description: That the Chief of Police or the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region Representative update this Council on the strategy for applying for Urban Area Security Initiative or any other federal grants that require Immigration and Customs Enforcement cooperation.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Burnley: Noted this issue arose in Finance, where a UASI grant from FY23 did not contain the updated language requiring cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
    • Requested discussion in Finance.
  • Action: Referred to Finance Committee.

Adjournment

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to adjourn.
  • Action: Meeting adjourned.
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