City Council – Oct 22, 2026

City of Somerville, Massachusetts · City Council · Meeting Minutes

Thursday, October 22, 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 7:03 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered Executive Session at 8:01 PM and returned at 8:38 PM.

1.1. Roll Call

Call of the Roll.

(ID # 26-1558 )

Councilor Scott arrived at 7:14 PM.

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
• 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

Absent:

City Councilor At Large Kristen Strezo

1.2. Remembrances Remembrances.

(ID # 26-1559 )

• Councilors Clingan and McLaughlin requested a moment of silence in
• memory of Patricia A. Galvin Sullivan.

RESULT: APPROVED

1.3. Minutes

Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 10, 2026.

(ID # 26-1560 ) RESULT: APPROVED

2. CITATIONS

3. PUBLIC HEARINGS

4. ORDERS, ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS OF MEMBERS

4.1. Ordinance

By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor

(ID # 26-1551 ) Ewen-Campen, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler

That Section 7.64 of the Code of Ordinances, pertaining to condominium conversions, be amended as detailed within.

Councilor McLaughlin explained that the purpose of this amendment is to strengthen the city’s condominium conversion ordinance by making it clear

that the provisions would still apply in cases where a building is demolished and replaced by condominiums.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee

4.2. Resolution

By Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Hardt and Councilor Mbah

(ID # 26-1550 ) Requesting support for local businesses damaged by recent fires.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Public Health and Public Safety Committee

4.3. Ordinance

By Councilor Link, Councilor Mbah and Councilor Wheeler

(ID # 26-1557 ) That the City of Somerville adopt the Artificial Intelligence Ordinance as

detailed within.

• Councilor Link expressed concerns about the potential harm artificial

intelligence (AI) could cause to communities and emphasized the need to restrict certain uses. The proposal would not prohibit city staff from using

AI but would require an annual report detailing its use and clear labeling of any AI-generated content.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Legislative Matters Committee

4.4. Order

By Councilor Link, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Mbah and Councilor

(ID # 26-1555 ) Wheeler

• That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management report to this City
• Council on the status of the roof at the West Somerville Neighborhood

School, including necessary repairs, what the leak has revealed about the condition of the city’s aging school roofs, and the effectiveness of the continuity of instruction plan.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee

4.5. Resolution

By Councilor Mbah, Councilor Hardt and Councilor Link

(ID # 26-1529 ) That the Commissioner of Public Works conduct a risk-based review of roof

• drainage systems and other vulnerable building-envelope components at city

school facilities, particularly buildings undergoing active roof construction or repairs, and identify any urgent deficiencies requiring immediate

• attention.

RESULT: APPROVED AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: School Building Facilities and Maintenance Committee

4.6. Resolution

By Councilor Link, Councilor Ewen-Campen, Councilor Mbah, Councilor

(ID # 26-1553 ) Clingan, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hardt, Councilor McLaughlin, Councilor Sait, Councilor Scott, Councilor Strezo and Councilor Wheeler

• Supporting the Artificial Intelligence Civil Rights Act of 2025.

• Councilor Link stated that the request seeks to support federal legislation

regulating the use of artificial intelligence in consequential decisions affecting individuals’ lives, including those related to civil liberties, banking, and employment.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.7. Resolution

By Councilor Link, Councilor Sait and Councilor Scott

(ID # 26-1554 ) Calling on the Mayor to adopt policies prohibiting city staff from using

artificial intelligence to generate public-facing media and prohibiting the replacement of city employees with artificial intelligence as detailed within. Councilor Link explained that the request seeks to establish a practical city policy on artificial intelligence (AI) use that prioritizes engaging local artists over AI-generated work whenever possible and prohibits replacing city staff

• with AI.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.8. Resolution

By Councilor Mbah, Councilor Hardt and Councilor Link

(ID # 26-1530 ) That the Administration develop or update a written protocol for

severe-weather preparedness during construction and roof repair projects, including verification that roof drains are functioning properly, temporary

protective measures are in place, and responsible personnel are available to respond promptly to reports of water intrusion.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.9. Resolution

By Councilor Wheeler, Councilor Hardt, Councilor Sait, Councilor Link, (ID # 26-1547 ) Councilor Clingan, Councilor McLaughlin and Councilor Mbah

Urging the state to protect Mass Save and clean energy grants.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.10. Communication By Councilor Wheeler

(ID # 26-1548 ) Sharing the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region's (MBHSR) Urban

Area Security Initiative (UASI) fiscal year 2024 plan and allocations.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE AND SENT FOR DISCUSSION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

4.11. Resolution

By Councilor Clingan

(ID # 26-1549 ) That the Director of Mobility install a "SLOW - CHILDREN CROSSING"

sign on Heath Street, close to the corner of Heath & Moreland Streets.

RESULT: APPROVED

4.12. Resolution

By Councilor Hardt, Councilor Link and Councilor Mbah

(ID # 26-1552 ) Opposing the draft combined sewer overflows long-term control plan and calling for a regional solution.

• Councilor Hardt explained the purpose of the combined sewer overflow
• (CSO) system and noted that the City is legally required by the
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Environmental

Protection (DEP) to develop a draft control plan. She expressed concerns about the limitations of the process, the significant costs involved, and the plan’s ability to keep pace with climate change. She described the issue as a technical approach to a political problem. The resolution calls for examining the root causes, building on existing efforts, exploring hybrid solutions that provide greater control, and advocating for additional state, regional, and federal funding.

• Councilor Wheeler raised concerns about financial inequities identified in

previous CSO presentations and stated that he could not support the resolution’s call for more costly solutions. Councilor McLaughlin

acknowledged the need for CSO improvements but expressed frustration with rising water and sewer rates despite previous assurances that rates

would stabilize following major infrastructure investments. He argued that addressing pollution in a state river should be a state or regional

• responsibility rather than falling primarily on the City.

Councilor Wheeler requested a roll call vote on the item.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

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

NAY:

• City Councilor At Large Wheeler
• ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Strezo

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 20, 2026.

(ID # 26-1568 )

Councilor Wheeler reported that the committee recommended approval of several items, including funding for the 2026 Community Grant Cycle, acceptance and expenditure of a $35,000 grant from the Massachusetts

Department of Mental Health, a reduction in the borrowing appropriation for the Poplar Street Project, and additional borrowing and appropriations for

the Poplar Street Pump Station. The committee also discussed Teen Center costs, artificial intelligence contracts, and bankruptcy-related financial

• matters concerning 808 Windsor Place.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.2. Order

By Councilor Link and Councilor Wheeler

(ID # 26-1032 ) That the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services provide this City

Council with a report of all artificial intelligence vendors and services for which the city currently has contracts or ongoing payment obligations.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.A.3. 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.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.4. Order

By Councilor Mbah

(ID # 26-1429 ) That the Director of Finance and the Director of Economic Development

report to this Council on the situation of financial bankruptcy, involving the investor funds, holding equity in the empty lab building at 808 Windsor

• Place, Boynton Yards.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.A.5. 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.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.6. 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.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.A.7. 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.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, Ward Four
• City Councilor Clingan, 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: City Councilor At Large Strezo

6.B. LAND USE COMMITTEE

6.B.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on October 15, 2026.

(ID # 26-1567 )

• Councilor Ewen-Campen reported that the committee discussed several

proposed zoning ordinance amendments, including changes to ground-story elevations, principal entrances, affordable housing terminology, and corrections to typographical errors. As the Planning Board has not yet issued its recommendations, the committee recommended laying the items on the table.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.B.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 3.2.17, 4.1.15, 4.2.15, (ID # 26-1258 ) 4.3.15, 4.4.15, 5.1.16, 6.1.13, 6.2.14, 6.3.13, 6.4.16, 6.5.13 of the Somerville

Zoning Ordinance to correct parking maximums.

RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE

6.B.3. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.4.4, 3.1.7, 3.1.8, (ID # 26-1259 ) 3.1.9, 3.1.10, 3.1.11, 3.2.7, 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 4.1.7, 4.2.7, 4.3.7, 4.4.7 of the Somerville Zoning Ordinances to remove ground story elevation

• requirements.

RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE

6.B.4. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.4.5, 3.1.17, 3.2.16, (ID # 26-1337 ) 4.1.8, 4.1.9, 4.1.14, 4.2.8, 4.2.9, 4.2.14, 4.3.8, 4.3.9, 4.3.14, 4.4.8, 4.4.9, 4.4.15, 5.1.7, 5.1.8, 5.1.9, 5.1.16, 6.1.12, 6.2.7, 6.2.8, 6.2.14, 6.3.12, 6.4.9, 6.4.15, 6.5.7, 7.2.8 of the Somerville Zoning Ordinance to clarify

• requirements for principal entrances.

RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE

6.B.5. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.1.1, 2.4.5, 3.1.16, (ID # 26-1338 ) 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 3.2.15, 4.1.3, 4.1.7, 4.1.8, 4.1.9, 4.1.10, 4.1.13, 4.2.3, 4.2.7, 4.2.8, 4.2.9, 4.2.10, 4.2.13, 4.3.3, 4.3.7, 4.3.8, 4.3.9, 4.3.10, 4.3.13, 4.4.3, 4.4.7, 4.4.8, 4.4.9, 4.4.13, 5.1.3, 5.1.7, 5.1.8, 5.1.9, 5.1.10, 5.1.11, 5.1.14, 6.1.3, 6.1.7, 6.1.8, 6.1.11, 6.2.3, 6.2.7, 6.2.8, 6.2.9, 6.2.12, 6.3.3, 6.3.8, 6.4.3, 6.4.9, 6.4.11, 6.5.3, 6.5.7, 6.5.8, 6.5.11, 7.2.7, 7.2.10, 7.4.3, 7.4.6, 7.4.7, 7.4.8, 7.4.11, 8.1.1, 8.1.2, 8.1.4, 8.1.5, 8.1.6, 8.2.2, 8.2.4, 8.2.5, 8.4.16, 8.4.17, 8.4.19, 9.1.7, 12.1.1, 12.1.2, 12.1.4, 12.1.5, 12.1.6, 12.1.7, 12.3.5, 12.3.6, 12.3.7 of the Somerville Zoning Ordinance to update

• terminology for affordable dwelling units and commercial spaces.

RESULT: LAID ON THE TABLE

6.C. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS COMMITTEE

6.C.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 13, (ID # 26-1565 ) 2026.

Councilor Scott reported that the committee held a public hearing on the civilian oversight process and discussed several items, including the establishment of a rental registry, short-term rental regulations, the proposed ethical procurement ordinance, and enforcement authority for various

• ordinances.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.C.2. Resolution

By Councilor Link

(ID # 26-0240 ) That the Director of Inspectional Services review the rules for short-term

rentals and inform this Council what enforcement tools are available and how the city may take action against known violations.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.3. Public

Digital Fourth submitting comments re: Surveillance Technology Annual

Communication Report.

(ID # 26-0475 ) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.4. Public

Urban Forestry Committee submitting comments re: anti-coagulant

Communication rodenticides.

(ID # 26-0478 ) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.5. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-0484 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-0485 ) Crime Tracer.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.7. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-0830 ) CrimeTracer.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.8. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-0999 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.9. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Technology-Specific Surveillance Use Policy for

(ID # 26-1000 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.10.Public

89 registered voters submitting a petition requesting a public hearing

Communication regarding Police Body-Worn Cameras, pursuant to Section 2-11 of the City (ID # 26-1006 ) Charter.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.11.Order

By Councilor Scott

(ID # 26-1027 ) That the City Clerk provide the procedure followed upon a Mayoral veto of any measure approved by this Council.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.12. Officer's

Chief of Police conveying information regarding item #26-0378, a request of Communication the Mayor for acceptance of a grant for a body-worn camera program.

(ID # 26-1034 ) RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.13.Public

74 registered voters submitting a petition requesting a public hearing

Communication regarding the proposed ethical procurement ordinance, pursuant to Section (ID # 26-1185 ) 2-11 of the City Charter.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

6.C.14.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Technology-Specific Surveillance Use Policy for

(ID # 26-1189 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.15.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-1192 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.16.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Technology-Specific Surveillance Use Policy for

(ID # 26-1272 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.17.Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-1273 ) Body Worn Cameras.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

6.C.18.Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Section 1-11(b) of the Code of (ID # 26-1274 ) Ordinances to update enforcement personnel.

RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Two City Councilor Scott, 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 Four City Councilor Clingan, and City Councilor At
• Large Strezo

6.D. LICENSES AND PERMITS COMMITTEE

6.D.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Licenses and Permits, meeting on October 21, (ID # 26-1569 ) 2026.

• Councilor Hardt reported that the 2 Grants of Location before the committee
• were recommended for approval.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.D.2. Grant of Location Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 7 feet of conduit in

(ID # 26-1159 ) Wheatland Street, from utility pole 141/2 to a point of pickup at 6

Wheatland Street.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.D.3. 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.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.E. TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE

6.E.1. Committee Report Report of the Committee on Traffic and Parking, meeting on October 14, (ID # 26-1566 ) 2026.

• Councilor Sait reported that the committee held a public hearing on

construction parking permits and the impact of current enforcement policies on neighborhood residents. The committee plans to discuss the matter

• further with city staff at a future meeting.

RESULT: APPROVED

6.E.2. Order

By Councilor Scott, Councilor Mbah, Councilor Wheeler, Councilor Sait

(ID # 26-1024 ) and Councilor Link

• That this Council schedule a Public Hearing regarding construction parking

permits and the impact of current enforcement policy on neighborhood residents.

RESULT: WORK COMPLETED

7. COMMUNICATIONS OF THE MAYOR

7.1. Mayor's Request Requesting that this Council convene in Executive Session to discuss the (ID # 26-1542 ) matter of Richard Nurse, Ronald Bonney, & Michael Browne v. City of Somerville, et al.

Following guidance from City Solicitor Cindy Amara that the matter met the criteria for executive session under Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, the Council voted to enter into executive session to discuss the matter.

RESULT: APPROVED

AYE:

• Ward Three City Councilor Ewen-Campen, City Councilor
• At Large Link, Ward Four City Councilor Clingan, 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, and City Councilor At
• Large Strezo

7.2. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 3.1.16, 3.2.15, 4.1.13, (ID # 26-1525 ) 4.2.13, 4.3.13, 4.4.13, 5.1.14, 6.1.11, 6.2.12, 6.3.11, 6.4.14, 6.5.11, 8.2.4, 9.1.1, 9.2.8, and 9.2.9 of the Zoning Ordinance to amend use tables and standards.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through
• 7.5 and refer them to the Committee on Land Use.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

7.3. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.1.1, 2.3.1, 2.4.1, (ID # 26-1526 ) 2.4.2, 2.4.3, 2.4.6, 3.1.6, 3.2.6, 9.2.11, 9.2.13, 9.2.14, 10.2.1, 10.2.2, and 14.1.5 of the Zoning Ordinance to simplify regulation of accessory

• structures.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through

• 7.5 and refer them to the Committee on Land Use.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

7.4. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.1.1, 2.4.3, 2.4.4, (ID # 26-1527 ) 4.1.14, 4.2.14, 4.3.14, 4.4.14, 5.1.15, and 6.2.13 of the Zoning Ordinance to allow greater adoption of sustainable development elements.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through
• 7.5 and refer them to the Committee on Land Use.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

7.5. Mayor's Request Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 2.4.6, 3.1.13, 3.2.12, (ID # 26-1528 ) 4.1.10, 4.2.10, 4.3.10, 4.4.10, 5.1.11, 6.1.8, 6.2.9, 6.3.8, 6.4.11, and 6.5.8 of the Zoning Ordinance to simplify regulation of building components.

• Councilor Ewen-Campen moved to waive the reading of items 7.2 through
• 7.5 and refer them to the Committee on Land Use.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

7.6. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to appropriate $100,000 from the Encore Artist and (ID # 26-1514 ) Cultural Support Stabilization Fund to support Local Cultural Council grants

to artists, organizations, and schools.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of item 7.6 and refer it to the Committee on Finance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.7. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $2,500,000 from the Unreserved Fund

(ID # 26-1543 ) Balance ("Free Cash") to the Judgments & Settlements Account to fund the settlement of Richard Nurse, Ronald Bonney, & Michael Browne v. City of Somerville, et al.

RESULT: APPROVED AYE:

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

NAY:

• Ward One City Councilor McLaughlin
• ABSENT: City Councilor At Large Strezo

7.8. Mayor's Request Requesting the appropriation of $171,922 from the Salary Contingency

(ID # 26-1544 ) Salaries account to various Fire Department and Human Resources

• Accounts to fund a collective bargaining agreement with the Firefighters

• Association of Somerville, Local 76 Union.

• Assistant City Solicitor/Labor Counsel Matthew Sirigu explained this

appropriation will be used to fund the retroactive component of the labor agreement that was ratified this past August.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.9. Mayor's Request Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $72,824.03 to various accounts

(ID # 26-1545 ) in the Election Department to fund the two special elections.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of item 7.9 through 7.11 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.10. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of a transfer of $545,649 from the Infrastructure:

(ID # 26-1524 ) Inspectional Services Salaries account to various Health and Human

• Services: Public Health Personal Services accounts to correct an allocation
• error in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of item 7.9 through 7.11 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.11. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to enter into a 60-month contract with Boston Carting

(ID # 26-1539 ) Services LLC for hauling municipal solid waste, recycling, and yard waste.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of item 7.9 through 7.11 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.12. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $25,000 grant with no new

(ID # 26-1522 ) match required, from the Barr Foundation to the Sustainability and Environment Division to extend the Community Heat Resilience pilot

• program.

• Director Stephen Nutter explained that the funds will be used for climate

• resiliency projects

RESULT: APPROVED

7.13. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,776 grant with no new match

(ID # 26-1523 ) required, from Somerville Cambridge Elder Services to the Council on

Aging for senior transportation.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.14. Mayor's Request Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $12,844.97 using

(ID # 26-1531 ) available funds in the Health and Human Services-Administration Ordinary

Maintenance Account for Medicaid billing and collection services.

Councilor Wheeler moved to waive the reading of item 7.14 and refer it to the Committee on Finance.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Finance Committee

7.15. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Technology-Specific Surveillance Technology

(ID # 26-1540 ) Impact Report for Body Worn Cameras.

Discussed with item # 26-1541.

• Councilor Scott explained that this item includes changes requested by
• councilors.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.16. Mayor's Request Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for

(ID # 26-1541 ) Body Worn Cameras.

Discussed with item # 26-1540.

• Councilor Scott explained that this item includes changes requested by
• councilors.

RESULT: APPROVED

7.17. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Gary Rogers to the (ID # 26-1533 ) Condominium Review Board.

• Councilor Mbah moved to waive the reading of item 7.17 and 7.18 and refer
• them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
• Matters .

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

• FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
• Committee

7.18. Mayor's Request Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Fatima Climaco to the (ID # 26-1534 ) Condominium Review Board.

• Councilor Mbah moved to waive the reading of item 7.17 and 7.18 and refer
• them to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel
• Matters .

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

• FOLLOWUP: Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters
• Committee

7.19. Mayor's

Conveying the Fiscal Year 2027-2031 Capital Investment Plan.

Communication

(ID # 26-1556 )

• Mayor Wilson introduced the Capital Investment Plan, emphasizing its

focus on ongoing projects, infrastructure maintenance, and critical school and facility repairs while limiting new borrowing due to anticipated budget

• constraints.

• Budget Director Michael Mastrobuoni presented the plan, which includes

approximately $8.1 million in ongoing investments funded primarily through reserves and Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds. The plan

prioritizes fleet replacement, street and sidewalk improvements, fire apparatus, school repairs, and facility upgrades. He noted that future

borrowing capacity is limited by projected operating budget pressures and that several long-term priorities, including public safety infrastructure, decarbonization, fire station rehabilitation, and school improvements, remain unfunded. These projects will require additional financial planning, grants, or alternative funding sources before proceeding.

• Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Richard Raiche was also
• available to address engineering and infrastructure-related questions.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

8. COMMUNICATIONS OF CITY OFFICERS

8.1. Officer's

Chief Assessor requesting to appear at this Council's November 12, 2026

Communication meeting for the Tax Classification Public Hearing and the determination and (ID # 26-1546 ) adoption of tax levy percentages for Fiscal Year 2027.

RESULT: APPROVED

8.2. Officer's

SomerStat Director conveying an update on measuring and sharing progress

Communication for strategic plans.

(ID # 26-1532 )

• Principal Analyst Samuel Shaffer gave a presentation that provided an

update on the city’s effort to better organize and track community goals. To make planning more accessible and transparent, the city has grouped its

work into 12 broad focus areas, including housing, transportation, public safety, public health, education, sustainability, and city services. These focus areas bring together priorities from many existing plans and initiatives into a single framework. The update also introduces a new public dashboard that

will allow residents to see how the city is progressing toward its goals through clear objectives, performance measures, and status updates. The

dashboard is designed to provide a high-level view of community outcomes, making it easier for the public to understand key priorities and monitor

progress over time. A draft version is already available, with a full public release planned for November 2026.

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

8.3. Officer's

City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued.

Communication

(ID # 26-1538 )

RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

9. NEW BUSINESS

9.1. Public Event East Somerville Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for

(ID # 26-1536 ) Halloween Block Party & Pet Spooktacular on October 31 from 10am to 5pm (raindate November 1).

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 and 9.2 and approve them this evening

RESULT: APPROVED

9.2. Public Event The Office of Sustainability and Environment applying for a Public Event

(ID # 26-1537 ) License for Pumpkin Smash on November 7 from 9am to 3:30pm (raindate

November 8).

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of items 9.1 and 9.2 and approve them this evening

RESULT: APPROVED

9.3. License

New Garage License, Toucan Auto Center Inc, 619 Somerville Avenue, 39

(ID # 26-1535 ) vehicles inside, 1 vehicle outside, for autobody work, spray painting, and operating a tow, Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 8am-2pm, Sun: closed.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Licenses and Permits Committee

9.4. Public

Caroline Levy submitting comments re: Combined Sewer Overflow.

Communication

(ID # 26-1561 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

9.5. Public

Paul Garbarino submitting comments re: discrepancies between state law

Communication and proposed zoning ordinances.

(ID # 26-1562 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

9.6. Public

Lisa Shatz submitting comments re: item #26-1023, that Chapter 2, Article

Communication VIII, Division 1 of the Code of Ordinances be amended as detailed within.

(ID # 26-1563 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

9.7. Public

Nathaniel Verter submitting comments re: Tufts University.

Communication

(ID # 26-1564 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

10. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS

10.1. Ordinance

By Councilor Scott

(ID # 26-1579 ) An ordinance amending the Somerville Zoning Ordinance to establish the Upzoning Overlay (UO) District at Davis Square, Porter Square, and Ball

• Square.

• As a supplemental item, the matter was initially referred to the Land Use

Committee without discussion. Councilor Scott moved for reconsideration to provide a statement of intent. Upon reconsideration, Councilor Scott

explained that the proposal would establish a transit-oriented upzoning district to encourage affordable housing development and mitigate

displacement by modifying height and bulk restrictions to allow additional development on eligible parcels.

RESULT: REFERRED FOR RECOMMENDATION

FOLLOWUP: Land Use Committee

10.2. Public Event Nicholas Farrell applying for a Public Event License for Powderhouse Park

(ID # 26-1573 ) Foam Sword Games and fundraiser on October 24 from 10am to 4pm

(raindate October 25).

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of item 10.2 through 10.4 and approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

10.3. Public Event Mutual Aid of Medford and Somerville applying for a Public Event License

(ID # 26-1574 ) for MAMAS Free Store on November 14 from 7:30am to 4pm (raindate

November 21).

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of item 10.2 through 10.4 and approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

10.4. License

New Drainlayer's License, Duffy Excavation Inc.

(ID # 26-1570 )

Councilor Hardt moved to waive the reading of item 10.2 through 10.4 and approve them this evening.

RESULT: APPROVED

10.5. Public

Jon Landry submitting comments re: item #26-1501, that the Short-Term

Communication Rental Ordinance be amended.

(ID # 26-1571 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

10.6. Public

Alexandra Sheldon submitting comments re: affordable housing.

Communication

(ID # 26-1572 ) RESULT: PLACED ON FILE

11. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was Adjourned at 10:07 PM.