Concejo Municipal – 8 oct 2026

City of Somerville, Massachusetts · City Council · Meeting Minutes

Thursday, October 8, 2026 · 7:00 PM

NOTICE: This is NOT the official version of the City Council's minutes. While reasonable efforts have · been made to assure the accuracy of the data provided, do not rely on this information without first · checking with the City Clerk.

1. OPENING CEREMONIES

The meeting was called to order at 7:06 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered recess at 7:27 PM and returned at 7:35 PM.

The City Council entered recess at 9:04 PM and returned at 9:13 PM.

1.1. Roll Call

Call of the Roll.

(ID # 26-1490 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

• Present: Ward Three City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen
• City Councilor At Large Jon Link
• Ward Two City Councilor Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) Scott
• Ward Four City Councilor Jesse Clingan
• City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo
• Ward Five City Councilor Naima Sait
• City Councilor At Large Ben Wheeler
• Ward Seven City Councilor Emily Hardt
• Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin
• City Councilor At Large Wilfred N. Mbah
• Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis

1.2. Remembrances Remembrances.

(ID # 26-1491 )

• Councilor McLaughlin and the entire Council requested a moment of silence

• in memory of Theresa Hussey-Rogers.

• Councilor Clingan requested a moment of silence in memory of Keith

• Michael Mannix.

RESULT: APPROVED

1.3. Minutes

Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 27, 2026.

(ID # 26-1492 ) RESULT: APPROVED

2. CITATIONS

2.1. Citation

By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-1481 ) Commending Nancy Paz for her work with Latino families in the community.

Discussed with items #26-1482, #26-1483, #26-1493, #26-1471.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen recognized each citation recipient, highlighting

their contributions and service to the Latino community. Each recipient expressed appreciation to the City Council for the recognition and its

• continued support of the city’s immigrant community.

RESULT: APPROVED

2.2. Citation

By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-1482 ) Commending Alejandra Bañuelos for her work with Latino families in the community.

Discussed with items #26-1481, #26-1483, #26-1493, #26-1471

RESULT: APPROVED

2.3. Citation

By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-1483 ) Commending Maritza Perdomo for her work with Latino families in the community.

Discussed with items #26-1481, #26-1482.

RESULT: APPROVED

3. PUBLIC HEARINGS

3.1. Grant of Location Comcast applying for a Grant of Location to install 187 feet of conduit in

(ID # 26-1459 ) Sycamore Street and Broadway and one new sidewalk vault, from the existing Comcast Manhole at the intersection of Sycamore Street and Broadway, passing through the proposed sidewalk vault, continuing to points of pickup at 382 Broadway and 386 Broadway.

Dave Flewelling, representing Comcast, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilor Link noted that a curb cut is detailed in the plans and Mr. Flewelling replied that it would receive a temporary

• patch followed by a concrete restoration.

RESULT: APPROVED

3.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 346 feet of conduit in

(ID # 26-1456 ) Newton Street, from the existing Manhole 4115, passing through the existing Manhole 4123 to a point of pickup at existing Manhole 31223 next

• to 24 Webster Avenue.

Councilor Scott recused himself from consideration of the item.

• Michael Katz, an abutter, inquired whether Eversource would coordinate

work on a neighboring property to minimize disruptions in the area. He also requested clarification regarding the anticipated project schedule, duration of construction, and how abutters would maintain access to their homes and driveways throughout the project.

• No representative from Eversource was present to address the questions or

provide additional information. With no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee

3.3. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 15 feet of conduit in

(ID # 26-1457 ) Fellsway West Street, from existing Manhole 1897 to a point of pickup at

the demarcation line next to 49 Fellsway West.

• Emmy McSweeney, representing Eversource, informed the Council that
• Eversource would like to withdraw this item.

RESULT: WITHDRAWN

3.4. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 266 feet of conduit in

(ID # 26-1458 ) School Street, from existing Manhole 29855, passing through existing

Manholes 13425 and 13085 to a point of pickup at 93 Highland Avenue.

Emmy McSweeney, representing Eversource, spoke in favor of the item and explained the purpose of the request. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing was closed.

RESULT: APPROVED

4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS

4.1. Ordinance

By Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-1476 ) That Section 12-111.1 of the Code of Ordinances be amended as detailed

herein to protect private significant trees during construction.

Councilor Sait explained that, under this ordinance, tree protection would be extended to all significant trees on private property.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee

4.2. Resolution

By Councilor Sait and Councilor Mbah

(ID # 26-1474 ) That the Director of Inspectional Services clarify the permitting process for

heat pump systems.

• Councilor Sait expressed concerns regarding the complexity of Somerville’s

permitting process and noted that certain requirements may be outdated. She reported having discussed these concerns with staff from the Inspectional

Services Department, who will review the existing process and identify opportunities for updates and improvements.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Sustainability and Infrastructure Committee

4.3. Resolution

By Councilor Sait, Councilor Link and Councilor Wheeler

(ID # 26-1475 ) That Chief of Police provide an update to this Council regarding the Municipal Road Safety Grant Program.

• Councilor Sait requested a detailed breakdown of how the grant funds are

allocated and expended prior to consideration of any future acceptance of the grant.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Traffic and Parking Committee

4.4. Ordinance

By Councilor Link, Councilor Hardt and Councilor Ewen-Campen

(ID # 26-1501 ) That the Short-Term Rental Ordinance be amended as detailed within.

• Councilor Link explained that the proposed amendment to the ordinance is

intended to encourage the return of certain short-term rental properties to the long-term rental market while strengthening the City’s ability to enforce the ordinance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee

4.5. Resolution

By Councilor Link, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Scott

(ID # 26-1498 ) That the Director of Mobility add more secure bicycle parking at the Argenziano School.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.6. Resolution

By Councilor Link

(ID # 26-1499 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works, in consideration of children with

sensory sensitivities, utilize electric leaf blowers when doing maintenance on school grounds during school hours.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee

4.7. Resolution

By Councilor Link and Councilor McLaughlin

(ID # 26-1500 ) In support of meeting spaces for Alcoholics Anonymous.

Councilor Link emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability of community meeting spaces. Councilor McLaughlin expressed concern

regarding the loss of meeting space at the Ralph and Jenny Center, noting that he had previously understood the space would remain available

following the City’s assumption of control of the property. He requested clarification regarding the City’s plans for the building.

• Director of Intergovernmental Affairs Amanda Nagim-Williams explained

that three groups had previously utilized the Ralph and Jenny Center for meetings, two of which have since been relocated to alternative spaces. She stated that the City has prioritized securing a suitable meeting location for the remaining group.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee

4.8. Resolution

By Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Hardt and Councilor Link

(ID # 26-1467 ) That the Director of Planning submit a plain-language explanation and fact

sheet for each proposed zoning amendment, to be attached directly to the corresponding zoning amendment item.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.9. Resolution

By Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-1493 ) Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and the contributions of Somerville’s

Hispanic, Latin American, and Caribbean communities.

Discussed with items #26-1481, #26-1482, #26-1483, #26-1471.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.10. Resolution

By Councilor Strezo

(ID # 26-1468 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works repair all broken and inoperable

• plumbing, appliances and privacy treatments of the Winter Hill Innovation

School bathrooms and provide regular work timelines in writing, detailing when work will be initiated to when work is anticipated to be fully

• completed.

Discussed with item #26-1469.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee

4.11. Resolution

By Councilor Strezo

(ID # 26-1469 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works immediately repair the urinal

• fixture, otherwise known as 'The Blaster', at the Winter Hill Innovation

School and present written updated work timelines on a regular basis until the urinal fixture is entirely repaired.

Discussed with item #26-1468.

Councilor Strezo read a letter from a fourth-grade student outlining several longstanding restroom maintenance issues that have reportedly remained

• unresolved for years.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee

4.12. Resolution

By Councilor Wheeler, Councilor Clingan and Councilor Link

(ID # 26-1473 ) That the Director of Inspectional Services Division simplify and clarify the permitting process for small-scale residential repairs and alterations that do not change a building’s structure or use.

Councilor Wheeler expressed concerns regarding the complexity of the City’s permitting process, particularly the requirement to obtain permits for minor home repairs. He noted that the Inspectional Services Department will review the existing process and explore the possibility of developing a

simplified application, similar to the short-form permit application used by the City of Boston.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.13. Resolution

By Councilor Hardt, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, (ID # 26-1494 ) Councilor Davis, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler

• Urging Governor Healey to end the Massachusetts Department of

• Correction’s 287(g) Agreement.

• Councilor Hardt expressed concern regarding the number of detentions by

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating that detentions have reached an all-time high this year. She provided an overview of the federal 287(g) program, which allows participating state and local law

enforcement agencies to collaborate with ICE on immigration enforcement, including the transfer of certain incarcerated individuals to federal

• immigration custody upon completion of their sentences.

• Councilor Hardt sponsored Somerville resident and attorney Kristen Laselle

• to speak on the item. Ms. Laselle expressed concerns that ICE exploits

• 287(g) agreements in ways that create risks for local communities.

• Councilor Wheeler discussed the potential benefits of the PROTECT Act

and acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding 287(g) agreements. He noted differing perspectives among those involved in these discussions, with some advocating for the termination of such agreements and others

expressing concern that ending them could result in more adverse consequences.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.14. Resolution

By Councilor Hardt, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor

(ID # 26-1496 ) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler

Expressing deep appreciation to the Somerville firefighters, firefighters from neighboring communities, and all first responders for ensuring the safe

evacuation of every resident from the Teele Square fire and for successfully containing the fire to one side of the building.

• Councilor Hardt addressed the recent fire in Teele Square and commended

the Fire Department and first responders for their efforts in containing the fire and safely evacuating all occupants from the building. She also reported that three businesses affected by the fire have since resumed operations.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.15. Resolution

By Councilor Davis, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Clingan, (ID # 26-1495 ) Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler

In support of Head Start and Early Head Start and the vital role their programs play in the City of Somerville.

Councilor Ewen-Campen briefly highlighted the work and importance of the Head Start program and sponsored David Gibbs, Executive Director of Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), to address the Council.

• Mr. Gibbs discussed federal actions aimed at reducing or eliminating
• funding for the Head Start program.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.16. Communication By Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-1454 ) In his capacity as President, conveying this Council's updated Standing

Committee assignments and Commission appointments for 2026.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

6. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

6.A. FINANCE COMMITTEE

6.A.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 6, 2026.

(ID # 26-1507 )

Councilor Wheeler presented the committee report, noting that the committee recommended approval of a prior-year invoice payment, two

funding transfers, three grants, a time-only contract extension, and authorization to borrow funds for the purchase of two fire trucks.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $169,000 grant with no new

(ID # 26-1340 ) match required, from Urban Areas Security Initiative to the Department of Public Works for equipment to strengthen school security systems.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.3. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension until 2/15/2027 for

(ID # 26-1391 ) Utile Inc to complete any outstanding task related to our up zoning and five

year zoning review efforts.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.4. Mayor's Request Requesting the transfer of $22,596.24 from the Community Preservation Act

(ID # 26-1392 ) (CPA) Historic Preservation Debt Service account to the CPA Historic

Preservation Reserve.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the transfer of $153,987 from the Community Preservation Act

(ID # 26-1393 ) (CPA) Community Housing Debt Service account to the CPA Community

Housing Reserve.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $10,224.39 using

(ID # 26-1396 ) available funds in the Office of Housing Stability Ordinary Maintenance

Account for legal services.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.7. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $2,082,498 in a bond, and to appropriate

(ID # 26-1397 ) $2,082,498 for the purchases of an Aerial Ladder Truck and a Rescue Truck

for the Fire Department.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, City
• Councilor At Large Strezo, Ward Five City Councilor Sait,
• City Councilor At Large Wheeler, Ward Seven City
• Councilor Hardt, Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin,
• City Councilor At Large Mbah, and Ward Six City
• Councilor Davis
• ABSENT: Ward Two City Councilor Scott

6.A.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $57,925 grant with no new

(ID # 26-1412 ) match required, from the Mass Department of Mental Health to the Police

• Department to fund the operation of the jail/arrest diversion program for
• Fiscal Year 2027.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $297,679 grant with no new

(ID # 26-1413 ) match required, from the Mass Department of Mental Health to the Police

Department for operational funding for the Metro Boston Crisis Intervention Training and Technical Assistance Center.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.B. HOUSING, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND EQUITY COMMITTEE

6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Housing, Community Development and Equity, (ID # 26-1502 ) meeting on September 30, 2026.

• Councilor Strezo presented the committee report, highlighting discussions
• regarding the availability of community meeting spaces, the Americans with
• Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator position, concerns related to the

Commission for Persons with Disabilities' access to information, and potential meeting space at St. James Church. She also reported that the committee approved the Urban Development One-Year Action Plan.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the 2026-2027 Housing and Urban Development

(ID # 26-0688 ) One Year Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant, Home

Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.B.3. Resolution

By Councilor Mbah and Councilor Hardt

(ID # 26-0821 ) That the Administration, the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic

• Planning and Community Development, the Director of Health and Human

Services, and the Director of the Office of Housing Stability, engage with leadership of Saint James Church to explore opportunities for partnership

between the city and the church to activate underutilized space for community-serving purposes.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.B.4. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the 2026-2027 Housing and Urban Development

(ID # 26-0870 ) One Year Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant, Home

Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.C. LAND USE COMMITTEE

6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on October 1, 2026.

(ID # 26-1504 )

Councilor Ewen-Campen presented the committee report, noting that the committee met in joint session with the Planning Board and conducted five

public hearings. He reported that much of the public interest and participation centered on the proposed regulations for backyard cottages. He further explained that, under state law, the City cannot impose restrictions on backyard cottages that are more stringent than those applicable to the primary structure on the property.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.D. PUBLIC HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting on

(ID # 26-1503 ) September 30, 2026.

Councilor McLaughlin presented the committee report, noting that the committee discussed the potential purchase of trash barrels equipped with

latches. He also reported that a scheduled discussion regarding the warming center was postponed due to City staff responding to the fire in Teele

• Square.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.D.2. Resolution

By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Wheeler and Councilor Hardt

(ID # 26-0708 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works invest in trash barrels with latches

to address rodent issues.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.D.3. Public

Christopher Rosol submitting comments re: off leash dogs.

Communication

(ID # 26-0914 ) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

• 6.E. SCHOOL BUILDING FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE
• 6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee,

(ID # 26-1506 ) meeting on October 6, 2026.

• Councilor Link presented the committee report, highlighting discussions

regarding snow removal procedures at schools, temperature control concerns at the Kennedy School, changes at the Argenziano School, and issues

involving exterior tiles at the high school. The committee also received an update on the progress of the new Winter Hill School project.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.E.2. Order

By Councilor Davis

(ID # 26-0710 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works and the Director of Infrastructure

• and Asset Management update this Council and the School Committee about

safety improvements to security cameras, enclosed schoolyard fencing, balconies, and other infrastructure at the Argenziano School.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.E.3. Order

By Councilor Link and Councilor McLaughlin

(ID # 26-0841 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works provide an update on the improvements made to the temperature in the Edgerly Education Center

Cafetorium and kitchen following the installation of the air conditioning unit.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.E.4. Resolution

By Councilor Link and Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-0842 ) That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry consider snow

• clearing requirements to maintain inclusive winter use when selecting turf
• materials for the new Kennedy School inclusive playground.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.F. TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE

6.F.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on October 5, (ID # 26-1505 ) 2026.

• Councilor Sait reported that the committee discussed the Massachusetts Bat

Transportation Authority (MBTA) network redesign, NO TURN ON RED at certain intersections, safety improvements at various intersections, traffic calming measures in Prospect Hill, and community path safety. The

committee also received an update on the Lowell and School Street crosswalks.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.F.2. Order

By Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-0137 ) That the Director of Engineering provide an update on the construction of the Lowell Street and School Street crosswalks facing the Green Line

• stations.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.F.3. Resolution

By Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-0138 ) That the Director of Mobility add additional signage helping users of the Community Path get through Maxwell's Green to the Community Path and add clear signage directing users to the ramp and stairs on Lowell Street.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.F.4. Resolution

By Councilor Link, Councilor Ewen-Campen and Councilor Mbah

(ID # 26-1112 ) Calling for traffic calming measures in the Prospect Hill neighborhood.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.F.5. Public

Pedestrian and Transit Advisory Committee submitting comments re: bus

Communication network redesign.

(ID # 26-1183 ) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.F.6. Resolution

By Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-1426 ) That the Director of Mobility take the steps necessary to make the intersection of Vernon Street and Partridge Avenue safer.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR

7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to borrow $3,143,557 in a bond, and to appropriate

(ID # 26-1487 ) the same amount for additional costs of design, construction, and equipping

of the Poplar Street Pump Station.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the Finance Committee.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $384,000 from the Salary & Wage

(ID # 26-1489 ) Stabilization Fund to the Police Department - Other Lump Sum Payment

• Account to fund a collective bargaining agreement with the Somerville

• Police Superior Officers Association.

• Chief Administrative Officer Kim Wells explained that the funds would be

used to cover retroactive financial obligations associated with the collective bargaining agreement.

Councilor Link questioned why stabilization funds were being utilized rather than funding from two recently approved Police Department grants. Ms.

Wells clarified that stabilization funds consist of resources from prior fiscal years and may be used to address obligations incurred during those periods, whereas newly allocated funding is intended to support expenses in the current and future fiscal years.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four
• City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
• Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large
• Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City
• Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and
• Ward Six City Councilor Davis

7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $107,636 from the Salary & Wage

(ID # 26-1463 ) Stabilization Fund to the Department of Public Works School Custodians

• Other Lump-Sum Benefits Account to fund a collective bargaining
• agreement with the Service Employees International Union Chapter 3 -
• School Custodians.

Discussed with item #26-1464.

• Chief Administrative Officer Kim Wells explained that the funds will be

used to satisfy retroactive components of the collective bargaining agreement.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four
• City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
• Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large
• Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City
• Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and
• Ward Six City Councilor Davis

7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting authorization to reduce the borrowing appropriation of (ID # 26-1486 ) $89,332,819 for the Poplar Street Project by $2,097,667.05.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the Finance Committee.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $308,504 from the Salary Contingency

(ID # 26-1488 ) account to various departmental Personal Services accounts to fund a

• collective bargaining agreement with the Somerville Municipal Employees

• Union, Unit A.

• Chief Administrative Officer Kim Wells explained that the funds will be

• used as stated above.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Racial and Social

(ID # 26-1472 ) Justice Fund to implement the 2026 Community Grant Cycle.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the Finance Committee.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $59,307 from the Salary Contingency

(ID # 26-1464 ) Salaries account to various Department of Public Works School Custodians

• Personal Services Account to fund a collective bargaining agreement with
• the Service Employees International Union Chapter 3 - School Custodians.

Discussed with item #26-1463.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $35,000 grant with no new

(ID # 26-1414 ) match required, from the Mass Department of Mental Health to the Police

• Department for overtime/backfill to support officers and supervisors in
• obtaining/maintaining Crisis Intervention Team Training certification.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading and refer this item to the Finance Committee.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to enter into a lease agreement with the Center for the (ID # 26-1465 ) Arts at the Armory to provide commercial arts space at the Somerville

Armory Building, 191 Highland Avenue.

• Property and Tenant Relations Manager Josh McCorkle spoke on the item
• and asked for approval this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four
• City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
• Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large
• Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City
• Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and
• Ward Six City Councilor Davis

7.10. Mayor's

Proclaiming that September 15 through October 15, 2026 to be Latin

Communication American Caribbean Heritage Month.

(ID # 26-1471 )

Discussed with items #26-1481, #26-1482, #26-1483, #26-1493.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Christopher Gaeta to the (ID # 26-1455 ) Board of Assessors.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

• FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
• Committee

8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS

8.1. Officer's

City Clerk submitting an amendment to Chapter 1 of the Code of Communication Ordinances to add a periodic review of the Code of Ordinances, pursuant to (ID # 26-1485 ) the requirements of the City Charter.

• Legislative and Policy Analyst Brendan Salisbury explained that this
• ordinance is required in order to review the Code of Ordinances.

RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four
• City Councilor Clingan, City Councilor At Large Strezo,
• Ward Five City Councilor Sait, City Councilor At Large
• Wheeler, Ward Seven City Councilor Hardt, Ward One City
• Councilor McLaughlin, City Councilor At Large Mbah, and
• Ward Six City Councilor Davis

8.2. Officer's

City Council Legislative and Policy Analyst conveying information on the Communication upcoming periodic review of the Code of Ordinances.

(ID # 26-1484 )

• Legislative and Policy Analyst Brendan Salisbury presented an overview of

the City’s planned 2027 recodification of the Code of Ordinances, which has not undergone a comprehensive revision since 1963. He explained that the initiative aims to modernize and reorganize the Code by removing outdated

provisions, standardizing legislative language, improving its overall structure, and identifying ordinances requiring substantive updates.

• Proposed recommendations will be submitted to the City Council for

consideration, with public hearings and deliberations to take place prior to the adoption of any final changes.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

8.3. Officer's

Commissioner of Elections conveying the Municipal Special Election

Communication Calendar for 2026-2027.

(ID # 26-1470 )

• Elections Director Nicholas Salerno explained that due to the requirements

of the city charter and state statute, the earliest preliminary election date would be Tuesday, February 2, 2027, and the earliest final election date

• would be Wednesday, March 24, 2027.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

8.4. Officer's

Fair Housing Commission conveying the Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report

Communication pursuant to Section 17-7 of the Code of Ordinances.

(ID # 26-1453 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Housing, Community Development and Equity Committee

8.5. Officer's

City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued.

Communication

(ID # 26-1466 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

9. NEW BUSINESS

9.1. License

New Drainlayer's License, New England Construction Managers.

(ID # 26-1460 )

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.3 and approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

9.2. License

New Sign/Awning License, Assembly Connect, 355 Artisan Way, 8 Signs.

(ID # 26-1461 )

• Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.3 and
• approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

9.3. Public Event Mayor's Office applying for a Public Event License for All City Fall Clean

(ID # 26-1462 ) Up 2026 on November 7 from 9am to 1pm.

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 through 9.3 and approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

9.4. Public

Boynton Yards LandCo LLC and Windsor Place Owner LLC requesting a

Communication Zoning Text Amendment to amend section 8.4.12.e.ii.

(ID # 26-1480 ) RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

9.5. Public

Barbara Phillips submitting comments re: Warming Center.

Communication

(ID # 26-1478 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee

9.6. Public

Digital Fourth submitting comments re: body-worn cameras.

Communication

(ID # 26-1479 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee

10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS

10.1. Public Event Wilks Productions Consultancy applying for a Public Event License for

(ID # 26-1521 ) Gurk McGurk Back To School Cops and Cars Car Show on October 18

from 9:30am to 2:30pm (raindate October 25).

RESULT: APPROVED

10.2. Public Event Arts Council applying for a Public Event License for Somerstreets: Monster

(ID # 26-1513 ) Mash on October 18 from 10am to 7pm (raindate October 25).

RESULT: APPROVED

10.3. Public

Commission for Persons with Disabilities submitting comments re: item

Communication #26-0825, that the Administration submit a written report to this Council (ID # 26-1508 ) regarding the timeline and process for staffing the Americans with

Disabilities (ADA) Coordinator role and update this Council on the plan to process ADA complaints and accessibility coordination when this position is vacant.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

10.4. Public

36 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Communication Zoning Ordinance Section 3.1.12 Backyard Cottage.

(ID # 26-1509 )

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 10.4 through
• 10.7 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning
• Board.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

10.5. Public

36 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend the Communication Zoning Ordinance Section 3.1.12 Backyard Cottage.

(ID # 26-1510 )

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 10.4 through
• 10.7 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning
• Board.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

10.6. Public

36 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend Zoning

Communication Ordinance Section 15.7.2.d Zoning Board of Appeals Board Rules.

(ID # 26-1511 )

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 10.4 through
• 10.7 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning
• Board.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

10.7. Public

36 registered voters requesting a Zoning Text Amendment to amend Zoning

Communication Ordinance Section 12.1.2 regarding affordable dwelling units.

(ID # 26-1512 )

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 10.4 through
• 10.7 and refer them to the Land Use Committee with a copy to the Planning
• Board.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

11. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was Adjourned at 10:28 PM