Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at 6 PM

Agenda 34 items

1. 1.
   24-0373 Committee Minutes Accepted

   Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting of March 12, 2024.

   Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

   • Jake WilsonAye
   • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
   • Naima SaitAbsent
   • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
   • Jesse ClinganAye

   • 📎 Minutes - Finance - 3-12-24 Full
2. 2.
   24-0404 Committee Minutes Accepted

   Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting of March 19, 2024.

   Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

   • Jake WilsonAye
   • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
   • Naima SaitAbsent
   • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
   • Jesse ClinganAye

   • 📎 Minutes - Finance - 3-19-24 Full
3. 3.
   24-0405 Committee Minutes Accepted

   Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Committee of the Whole Meeting of March 19, 2024.

   Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

   • Jake WilsonAye
   • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
   • Naima SaitAbsent
   • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
   • Jesse ClinganAye

   • 📎 Minutes - Finance Committee of the Whole - 3-19-24 Full
4. 4.
   24-0410 Committee Minutes Accepted

   Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Committee of the Whole Meeting of March 26, 2024.

   Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

   • Jake WilsonAye
   • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
   • Naima SaitAbsent
   • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
   • Jesse ClinganAye

   • 📎 Minutes - Finance - 3-26-24 Full
5. 5.
   24-0202 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

   Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

   {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

   • 📎 Mbah Budget Priorities FY25
6. 6.
   24-0204 Resolution Recommended to be placed on file

   That the Administration fund the creation of an entire unit within the Department of Public Works tasked with battling the city's growing rodent infestation.

   {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

7. 7.
   24-0211 Resolution Recommended to be placed on file

   That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, additional funding for rodent mitigation efforts, including an Office of Rodent Prevention similar to the one proposed in Boston, with appropriate staffing.

   {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

8. 8.
   24-0212 Resolution Recommended to be placed on file

   That the Administration include in the FY 2025 budget, funding for a home air filtration pilot program to address air pollution along Interstate 93.

   {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

9. 9.
   24-0214 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

   Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

   {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

   • 📎 Wilson Budget Priorities FY25
10. 10.
    24-0327 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Ewen-Campen Budget Priorities FY25
11. 11.
    24-0340 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Pineda Neufeld Budget Priorities FY25
12. 12.
    24-0342 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Strezo Budget Priorities FY25
13. 13.
    24-0377 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Burnley Budget Priorities FY25
14. 14.
    24-0378 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Davis Budget Priorities FY25
15. 15.
    24-0390 Communication Recommended to be marked work completed

    Conveying budget priorities and requests for FY 2025.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\tx722\tx2760\f0\fs24 This item was discussed at a prior Finance Committee meeting an inadvertently \lquote kept in committee\rquote instead of being \lquote placed on file\rquote .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    • 📎 Sait Budget Priorities FY25
16. 16.
    24-0081 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval of the discontinuance of Palmer Avenue.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-290\slmult0\qj\f0\fs24 Director Inacio informed the committee that this site will be converted to open space.\par Chair Wilson opened the Public Hearing to hear from any interested parties. There being no speakers, either in favor or in opposition to the item, the Public Hearing was closed.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 Palmer Avenue
    • 📎 Palmer Avenue Plan
    • 📎 M-Mayor Palmer Ave closing
    • 📎 October 2023_Nearmap Aerial Photograph with 5 Palmer Located
    • 📎 2018_Assessors parcel-map-104_5 Palmer Located
    • 📎 Chief Breen_Traffic Commission Memo_Palmer Ave fire lanes
17. 17.
    24-0280 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval of a time-only extension to 6/30/2025 for the contract with Classic Site Solutions, to complete approved additional design services for the Healey schoolyard, soccer field and path.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Inacio explained that this extension will provide time to finish work on new plant rails, installing grass, raising the height of fencing, and correcting some measurement lines on the soccer field. It\rquote s expected that the work will be substantially finished by June 15\super th\nosupersub with final completion by June 24\super th\nosupersub .\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 Memo Classic Solutions Change Order No. 6
18. 18.
    24-0193 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval of a time-only extension to 4/30/2025 for the contract with ADS LLC for flow metering services.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 The administration has submitted a memo explaining this item. Chair Wilson stressed that this item is about sewer flow metering, not the recent water/sewer bills that were sent out. Councilor Scott noted that the sewer outflow monitoring is required by the DEP.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye
19. 19.
    24-0323 Mayor's Request Recommended to be discharged with no recommendation

    Requesting approval to enter into a contract with outside legal counsel for the appeal of the Superior Court judgment against the Somerville Redevelopment Authority in the matter of the 90 Washington Street property at Cobble Hill.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Counsel Salchert reported that the city secured an opinion from outside legal counsel that indicated that the city has a viable case to appeal. Due to the engagement deadlines, outside counsel has already done a good amount of work on the city\rquote s behalf without being paid for such work. At the present time, the parties are waiting for a hearing date. All of the pleadings filed so far are public. Counsel Salchert noted that the specifics of this matter may be discussed in Executive Session at the April 11\super th\nosupersub City Council meeting. \par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

20. 20.
    24-0245 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to appropriate $450,000 from the Traffic Safety Stabilization fund for engineering and streetscape reconstruction work in the Western Washington Street area.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Postlewaite explained that during the fall of 2022, the community requested the addition of two items that would have impacted the budget of the project (that had already been approved and could not be revised). Since that time, alternate funding mechanisms were found to bridge the funding gap to provide these safety items. Work on the drainage improvements began last fall and have work on sidewalk demolition and replacement has commenced. \par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 Street & Sidewalk Repairs_Capital Program Request Sheet_FY23 CIP 1
    • 📎 Western Washington Street & Sidewalk Repairs_Capital Program Request Sheet_FY24 CIP
21. 21.
    24-0336 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to appropriate $2,300,000 from the Parks Stabilization Fund to purchase the parcel located at 508-512 Columbia Street.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with item# 24-0335.\par Director Galligani explained that this is a friendly taking of 2 parcels to be used as a park. The Property was put up for sale and the owner and the city signed a Purchase and Sale agreement. The actual Order of Taking will be before the City Council at its meeting on April 11\super th\nosupersub . The total purchase price is $6 million. The remaining $1.4 million is coming from Community Block Grant Funds.\par \par Councilor Scott asked why there is an Order of Taking if it\rquote s a negotiated purchase and Counsel Salchert replied that the eminent domain procedure allows parties to agree on a price if there is an appraisal of the property performed, and in this case, the city has 2 appraisals done. The sale amount for this property is the approximate average of those 2 appraisals. The seller also had and appraisal that was higher than both of city\rquote s appraisals, so the final sale amount was negotiated. Director Galligani commented that in most circumstances of eminent domain, property is taken by force. This property was offered on the market and the city didn\rquote t want to take it forcibly. \par \pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\highlight1\par \pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\highlight0 Councilor Burnley commented that this is the beginning of creating a park and the city is committing itself to unearthing a very old area. Director Galligani stated that the city doesn\rquote t suspect that anything exceptional will be found at the site, but there may be a need to bring in additional fill to provide a cap in case some hazardous material if found. He said that the city is confident of what it\rquote s getting into, adding that there were no \lquote show stoppers\rquote in the phase 1 ground assessment. Councilor Scott inquired about the 21E phase 1 site assessment and Director Galligani said that the property owner has one from a couple years ago and the city did its own. The draft assessment has been presented but not accepted yet. Councilor Scott noted that state law requires a seller to clean up a property if it is found to be contaminated and Counsel Salchert said the city\rquote s position is if an environmental conditions exist, the city has no intention to go after the seller since the property could still be used for park by bringing in fill to mitigate the contamination. The city is relying on the consultant\rquote s report for the condition of land. Councilor Scott commented that he wants to be cautious in spending taxpayer money and he noted that contamination was found at Somerville High School and at Conway Park. \par Chair Wilson was also concerned about potential financial risks to taxpayers and Director Galligani pointed out that MGL 21E was created 20+ years ago when there was no or little science to deal with contamination risks. He said that it\rquote s standard practice, in cases of a park, to have 3 to 4 feet of fill piled over some contamination to make it safe for use while also protecting those who use it. He thinks that the nature of contaminates at Conway was such that it required more remediation than just capping with clean fill. Chair Wilson asked if it is possible that there may be something at this site as serious as what was found at Conway and Director Galligani replied that the city is not getting a signal from consultant to get a phase 2 assessment. Councilor Scott said he has been accused of managing details and at some point he has to have faith in city staff doing their jobs properly and Chair Wilson noted that creating open space in Somerville is probably going to involve acquiring parcels such as this. Councilor Burnley commented that he is 100% in favor of the city buying back the city.\par \pard\cf2\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 CBRE_508_512 Columbia Street Somerville Appraisal 07.12.2023 FINAL
    • 📎 Reynolds _ 508 512 Columbia Appraisal - FINAL
22. 22.
    24-0335 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to appropriate $2,300,000 from the Open Space and Acquisition Stabilization Fund to purchase the parcel at 508-512 Columbia Street.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with item# 24-0336\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 CBRE_508_512 Columbia Street Somerville Appraisal 07.12.2023 FINAL
    • 📎 Reynolds _ 508 512 Columbia Appraisal - FINAL
23. 23.
    24-0054 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting the appropriation of $35,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Fund Open Space Reserve to the Public Space & Urban Forestry Division for design of the Kennedy Schoolyard.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Inacio explained that this request is for an off cycle project for a universal playground at the Kennedy Schoolyard.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 CPC Funding Rec Kennedy Schoolyard FY24
24. 24.
    24-0276 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting the appropriation of $10,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Fund Historic Preservation Reserve to the Somerville Museum for preservation of assets in the museum's collections.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-290\slmult0\f0\fs24 Director Inacio explained that this appropriation request was submitted some time ago and got lost in the shuffle. The item has since been re-voted and submitted here..\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 CPC Funding Rec Somerville Museum FY24 Archives & Artifacts Preservation
    • 📎 Somerville Museum_CPA FY24 Application Packet_9.15.23
25. 25.
    24-0274 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,873,000 grant with no new match required, from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to the Office of Strategic Planning & Community Development Housing Division for replacing windows in the Mystic River and Mystic View housing developments.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Inacio told the committee that these funds, secured by the city\rquote s congressional delegation, represent a straight pass-through to the Housing Authority. The funds will be used for window improvements, but due to increased costs, won\rquote t cover as many windows as originally planned. Councilor Clingan stated his desire to have the windows along Mystic Avenue upgraded first to provide relief from traffic noise.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 Grant Agreement B-22-CP-MA-0374
26. 26.
    24-0319 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $375,224 Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) grant with no new match required, from MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Public Space and Urban Forestry Division for renovation and construction of Henry Hansen Park.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Inacio commented that this is another example of the city\rquote s track record of getting park grants. This project has been in the pipeline for awhile and should be going out for bid soon, if it hasn\rquote t not already. Because there is some grading work needed, the project may take a little longer to complete. Director Inacio will ask Director Franzen to contact Councilor Burnley to discuss his questions.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 Somerville #30 FY23 PARC grant Contract Signed - Arn
27. 27.
    24-0414 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $76,867 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Office of Elder Affairs to the Council on Aging for social, educational and physical wellness programming.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red255\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 The administration has submitted a memo explaining this item. \cf1\par \pard\cf2\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye
28. 28.
    24-0320 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $131,920 grant from the Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program to the Office of Sustainability and Environment to partially fund the Argenziano LED conversion project.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red255\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 The administration has submitted a memo explaining this item. \cf1\par \pard\cf2\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 EECBG Grant Award Letter
    • 📎 SignatureReport22-Nov-2023-02-16-20
29. 29.
    24-0334 Mayor's Request Recommended to be approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $79,500 grant with no new match required, from SFY2024 Massachusetts Municipal Public Safety Staffing Program to the Police Department for overtime to provide adequate shift coverage.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 Director Delmonaco explained that the funds would pay for overtime and coverage for early voting on the upcoming election.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 4 aye · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 OGR - Somerville PD
30. 30.
    24-0333 Mayor's Request Recommended to be not approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $24,150 grant that requires a match, from the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition Community Safety Initiative to the Police Department for youth violence prevention..

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with Item# 24-0332.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 2 aye · 2 nay · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottNay
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Nay
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 FY24 MOU-Shannon Grant Award
    • 📎 FY24 Shannon Grant Award Letter
    • 📎 Shannon Grant Award Approved Budget
    • 📎 Shannon Grant Award FY24 Contract
31. 31.
    24-0332 Mayor's Request Recommended to be not approved

    Requesting approval of a transfer of $8,050 from the Police Department Personal Services Overtime Account to the Police Department Special Items Grant Match Account to fund the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition Community Safety Initiative Shannon Grant match.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with Item# 24-0333.\par Director Delmonaco told the committee that this is a required match for securing the grant referenced in Item# 24-0333. The funds would be used to support a variety of programs, e.g., youth sports, dialogue sessions with parents and at risk youth, patrols of hot spot areas, firearm violence, community outreach, etc.\par Councilor Scott stated his intention to vote against this item.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

    Roll call: 2 aye · 2 nay · 1 absent

    • Jake WilsonAye
    • Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottNay
    • Naima SaitAbsent
    • Willie Burnley Jr.Nay
    • Jesse ClinganAye

    • 📎 FY24 MOU-Shannon Grant Award
    • 📎 FY24 Shannon Grant Award Letter
    • 📎 Shannon Grant Award Approved Budget
    • 📎 Shannon Grant Award FY24 Contract
32. 32.
    24-0337 Order Kept in committee

    That the Director of Water and Sewer and the Director of Procurement and Contracting Services update this Council on the bidding process for IFB 24-39 (Repairs to Water Main Gate Valves and Appurtenance) and IFB 24-29 (Water Distribution System Maintenance & Repairs) and ensure documentation is updated on the city's website for these bids and the previous versions of these bids (IFB 21-51 and IFB 21-52) when they were previously awarded in 2021.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 The administration has submitted a memo explaining this item. \par Director of Procurement and Contracting Services Angela Allen was not available to attend tonight\rquote s meeting, so this item will be kept in committee. The committee would like to have staff from the Water and Sewer Department present to answer questions when this item is discussed by the committee on April 23\super rd\nosupersub . Councilor Scott would like to have the documents that are referenced in the item made available for review. He also commented that he\rquote s getting several questions from constituents about the Water Department and said that the outsourcing of work is tremendously costly to the city. Councilor Clingan wants to have a conversation about bids, how many bidders participate, what is the city paying vs. previous bids for maintenance work. Chair Wilson raised the concern of what would happen if the city\rquote s vacant water and sewer positions got filled during a period of time when the city was in a contract with a private vendor.\par \pard\cf1\f1\par }

33. 33.
    24-0369 Order Recommended to be marked work completed

    That the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Director update this Council on plans to allocate funds to implement a medical debt cancellation program.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green32\blue96;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with Item# 24-0326.\par Director Satin-Hernandez informed the committee that the Atrius Equity Health Foundation will be allocating $5.5 million to RIP Medical Debt to eliminate medical debt for residents of eastern MA, including Somerville. For that reason, the city will prioritize the Atrius funds rather than using ARPA funds to relieve medical debt. \par Additional information is available here:\par \pard\cf1\ul <https://www.atriusfoundation.org/medicaldebt>\ulnone and here:\par \fs20\par \ul\fs24 https://hcfama.org/press-release-atrius-health-equity-foundation-announces-initiative-to-eliminate-nearly-500-million-in-medical-debt-in-eastern-massachusetts-february-28-2024/#:~:text=The%20Atrius%20Health%20Equity%20Foundation%20will%20grant%20national%20non%2Dprofit,more%20of%20their%20annual%20income <https://hcfama.org/press-release-atrius-health-equity-foundation-announces-initiative-to-eliminate-nearly-500-million-in-medical-debt-in-eastern-massachusetts-february-28-2024/>\ulnone .\par \cf0\par Director Satin-Hernandez stated that the city just found out in February that Atrius Health Equity Foundations was going to help with medical debt reduction. The city does not have to contribute any funds to the medical debt reduction program.\par \cf2\f1\par }

34. 34.
    24-0326 Resolution Recommended to be marked work completed

    That the Administration provide a written update to this Council on the status of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) spending to date.

    {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red70\green120\blue134;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2760\f0\fs24 Discussed with Item# 24-0369.\par The administration has submitted memos explaining this item.\par \pard Director Hartke gave an ARPA update presentation that covered ARPA program highlights and terminology, spending timelines and spending summaries, and management of ARPA funds. To date, $37.2 million has been expended, $21 million has been encumbered and $13.1 million remains unexpended. Funds have been applied to 140 projects and over 60 community non profits have received funds. Director Hartke noted that data will be updated and available on the website: \cf1\ul www.somervillema.gov/arpa <http://www.somervillema.gov/arpa>\cf0\ulnone \par \par ARPA funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024 and spent by December 31, 2026. Any unspent funds must be returned to the U. S. Treasury Department, however, Treasury prefers that ARPA funds to be used by the deadline rather than be returned. Treasury has provided guidance saying that if funds aren\rquote t spent as a result of a vendor problem, or if a project comes in under budget, then those funds may be put towards another project. \par \par Director Hartke explained the coordinating transfers process and said that the Evaluation Manager is focusing on relating how the funds were used. In addition to the required quarterly and closeout reports, evaluation of the impact of the project as a whole would include a public process.\par \cf2\f1\par }