Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 7 PM
City Council Chamber and Remote Participation
This meeting has happened. Minutes are final.
What happened
52 items of legislation were taken up.
- 29 approved
- 13 referred for recommendation
- 5 placed on file
- 3 work completed
- 2 placed on file and sent for discussion
Agenda 52 items
Notices from the agenda
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM by Ward Six City Councilor Lance L. Davis. The City Council entered recess at 8:51 PM and returned at 9:00 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.
The meeting was Adjourned at 10:21 PM.
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Published October 21, 2025, 12:30 PM. Revised published October 23, 2025 12:00 PM.
NOTICE: Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025, this meeting of the City Council may be conducted via remote participation. We will post an audio recording, audiovideo recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of these proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting on the City of Somerville website and local cable access government channels. Register at the following website to listen to this meeting live or to testify at any public hearing: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SKI4k05nRZyp7bxtMYsErA Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e. CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance, at 617-625-6600 x2059 or ada@somervillema.gov.
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7.6.
Requesting approval to create a Housing Assistance Stabilization fund under the provisions of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40, Section 5B.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
- 1. Opening Ceremonies
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1.1.
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1.2.
Remembrances.
{\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 Councilor Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of Robin Dash.\par Councilor Ewen-Campen requested a moment of silence in memory of Ellen Davidson. \par Councilor McLaughlin requested a moment of silence in memory of Marilyn Contreas. \par \pard\cf1\f1\par }
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1.3.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 25, 2025.
- 2. Citations
- 3. Public Hearings
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3.1.
Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 7 feet of conduit in White Street, from Cambridge/Somerville line to a point of pickup at White Street Place.
{\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 Jacqui Duffy, 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. \par \pard\cf1\f1\par }
- 4. Orders, Ordinances, Resolutions and Motions of Members
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4.1.
In support of public higher education in Massachusetts.
{\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\qj\f0\fs24 Councilor Mbah spoke about the research performed at public colleges and universities in Massachusetts and about the high cost of education at a time when colleges and universities are experiencing disruptions in funding. This resolution urges the Massachusetts legislature to dedicate at least $200 million from the more than $2 billion generated annually by the Fair Share surtax as a first step toward stabilizing public higher education funding. Councilor Mbah sponsored three speakers to address the Council.\par \cf1 Dan Rourke spoke about research being performed at universities and the devastating effects of funding cuts and the importance of passing the DRIVE Initiative to supplement funds. Joy Solon spoke in favor of allocating $200 million from Fair Share funds to educational funding for higher education and Marissa Fried spoke of the importance of free and affordable higher education.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.2.
That the Director of Engineering and the Director of Mobility work to block off the end of Virginia Street and Aldrich Street to through traffic.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin moved to waive the readings of items 4.2 through 4.6 and approve them this evening.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.3.
That the Director of Mobility provide an update on the Kensington Connector.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin moved to waive the readings of items 4.2 through 4.6 and approve them this evening.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.4.
That the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development direct that all funds generated from Assembly Row community benefits funds be used in East Somerville.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin moved to waive the readings of items 4.2 through 4.6 and approve them this evening.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.5.
That the Director of Human Resources and the Chief of Police work with state officials to provide crossing guards on McGrath Highway.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin moved to waive the readings of items 4.2 through 4.6 and approve them this evening.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.6.
That the Administration collaborate with East Somerville Main Streets and the Ward 1 City Councilor to promote Eat Out in East to support East Somerville immigrant-owned businesses.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin moved to waive the readings of items 4.2 through 4.6 and approve them this evening.\par \pard\f1\par }
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4.7.
That this City Council commends the members of the Charter Review Committee on their years of volunteer service to the community.
{\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\f0\fs24 Councilor McLaughlin introduced Beverly Schwartz and other members of the Charter Review Committee and thanked them for their work in producing a new city charter. Ms. Schwartz spoke about working on this project for the last 5 years and thanked the City Council for engaging in the process. She urged people to vote in favor of the proposed charter and said that information about it may be found online.\par \cf1\f1\par }
- 5. Unfinished Business
- 6. Reports of Committees
- 6.A. Finance Committee
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6.A.1.
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 21, 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson summarized the actions taken and reported that the committee recommended for approval payment of two prior year invoices, the acceptance and expenditure of funds from a grant, two appropriations, two contract extensions and the creation of two stabilization funds.\par \cf1\f1\par }
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6.A.2.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $13,084.20 using available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies Account for pool chemicals.
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6.A.3.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,533.75 using available funds in the Parks & Recreation Department Recreation Supplies Account for pool chemicals.
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6.A.4.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $500,000 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to the Office of Sustainability and Environment for six no-cost electric vehicle charging station installations.
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6.A.5.
Requesting approval to appropriate $56,215.42 from the Bike Share Stabilization Fund for installation and startup costs of a Blue Bike station at the 495 Columbia Street development site.
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
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6.A.6.
Requesting approval to appropriate $147,724.07 from the COVID-19 Stabilization Fund for the 2026 Warming Center.
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
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6.A.7.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension until 12/31/2028 for the contract with Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners for design services on the Building Master Plan.
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6.A.8.
Requesting approval of a time-only extension until 12/31/2028 for the contract with Kleinfelder Northeast Inc. for design services on the Morrison Avenue Linear Storage Sewer project.
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6.A.9.
Requesting approval to create the BrickBottom Infrastructure Stabilization fund and accept a payment to the fund of $763,814.81, from off-site infrastructure and other contributions outlined in the BrickBottom district project development covenants, for the purpose of funding public infrastructure projects that mitigate the impact of large-scale development in the BrickBottom district.
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
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6.A.10.
Requesting approval to create the Boynton Yards Infrastructure Stabilization fund and accept a payment to the fund of $384,025, from off-site infrastructure and other contributions outlined in the Boynton Yards district project development covenants, for the purpose of funding public infrastructure projects that mitigate the impact of large-scale development in the Boynton Yards district.
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
- 6.B. Legislative Matters Committee
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6.B.1.
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 20, 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\qj\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the sole agenda item, a request for the approval of a Home Rule Petition to raise the sound business practices and written quote contract thresholds for city contracts, was recommended for approval.\par \pard\f1\par }
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6.B.2.
Requesting approval of a Home Rule Petition to raise the sound business practices and written quote contract thresholds under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30B for city contracts with certified disadvantaged businesses.
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
- 6.C. Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
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6.C.1.
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on October 15, 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Clingan summarized the actions taken by the committee and reported that the committee discussed power outages in Magoun Square, standards for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) furnishings, sidewalk maintenance and overhead utility wires.\par \cf1\f1\par }
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6.C.2.
That the Commissioner of Public Works increase sanitary maintenance of the streets and sidewalks in Magoun Square.
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6.C.3.
That Eversource explain the reasons behind repeated power outages in Magoun Square, and share what they have done to address them in the near term and what is being done to prevent long term recurrence.
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6.C.4.
That the Commissioner of Public Works discuss with this Council the recent snagging of overhead wires by a semi-truck, that took out the electricity in Ward Seven, and what plans have been put in place to prevent a similar occurrence.
- 7. Communications of the Mayor
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7.1.
Requesting authorization to enter into a Tax Increment Financing Agreement with a full building occupant of a laboratory building.
{\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\cf1\f0\fs24 Mayor Ballantyne addressed the Council and said that the city is aiming to bring TransMedics (TMDX) to the city. TransMedics needs a larger facility to accommodate their expansion plans and is considering other locations besides Somerville. The Mayor commented that the city will be facing a deficit in coming years due to federal funding cuts and having TransMedics move its operations here would fill an entire building that is currently vacant and ensure high quality jobs for the area. TransMedics is the largest life sciences movement in the region, and they share the city\rquote s ideals. The Mayor told members that the structure of the package is sound and that this proposal would yield benefits for the city. Should TransMedics select Somerville as its new site, this agreement would need to be in place for them to move forward.\par Representatives from TransMedics, Chief Financial Officer Gerardo Hernandez Omana, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain & Operations Nick Corcoran, and Chief of Cardiothoracic Programs Farhan Zafar addressed the Council and explained what the company does. Founded in Andover in 1998, TransMedics operates an Organ Care System that was invented by their Chief Executive Officer. The company saw shortcoming in the organ transport process and launched an improved system, the National Organ Care System (OCS) Program (NOP), a complete, esnd-to-end donor organ retrieval and clinical management service that successfully executes procuring and delivering healthy donor organs from anywhere in the United States on-demand to transplant centers through a network of 18 clinical and surgical hubs across the nation. The system can track and manage organs, i.e., keep them alive outside of the human body, from donation to transplantation. The company has a dedicated fleet of 22 jets positioned around the country which makes it possible to increase the number of transplants performed as well as increasing their outcomes. For the company to increase its volume, it needs a larger space.\par \pard Rachel Nadkarni, Director of Economic Development, explained the details of the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement and told the Council that the agreement that is being negotiated is for 10 years, which is a common term for such agreements. Should TransMedics move to Somerville, 500,000 square feet of lab space will be removed from the market. The company presently employs 300 people and will be adding another 600 jobs to their workforce. In addition to providing these jobs, the presence of TransMedics would reinforce Somerville\rquote s vision of becoming an emerging destination for life-science and healthcare innovation, create economic growth by driving meaningful economic activity and local spending at local businesses, and strengthen the city\rquote s commercial ecosystem. \f1\par }
Roll call: 10 aye
- Jake WilsonAye
- Ben Ewen-CampenAye
- Jefferson Thomas (J.T.) ScottAye
- Matthew McLaughlinAye
- Willie Burnley Jr.Aye
- Naima SaitAye
- Kristen StrezoAye
- Jesse ClinganAye
- Wilfred N. MbahAye
- Lance L. DavisAye
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7.2.
Requesting approval of the amended 90 Washington Street Demonstration Project Plan.
{\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\qj\tx722\tx2760\cf1\f0\fs24 This item was discussed with items #25-1595, #25-1596 and #25-1607.\par \pard\f1\par }
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7.3.
Requesting approval of an amendment to the Memorandum of Agreement between the City Council and Redevelopment Authority regarding the redevelopment of 90 Washington 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-328\slmult0\qj\tx722\tx2760\cf1\f0\fs24 This item was discussed with items #25-1594, #25-1596 and #25-1607.\par \pard\f1\par }
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7.4.
Requesting approval of the development objectives for the redevelopment of 90 Washington 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-328\slmult0\qj\tx722\tx2760\cf1\f0\fs24 This item was discussed with items #25-1595, #25-159 and #25-1607.\par \pard\f1\par }
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7.5.
Requesting approval to create the Community Benefits Stabilization fund and accept a payment to the fund of $3,946,742.98 from the community benefit contributions outlined in project development covenants.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.6.
Requesting approval to create a Housing Assistance Stabilization fund under the provisions of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40, Section 5B.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.7.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $1,110,000 grant with no new match required, from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and Police Department for the development of the Union Square Plaza and Streetscape Phase 1.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.8.
Requesting approval to accept and expend a $3,000 grant with no new match required, from Somerville Cambridge Elder Services to the Council on Aging for senior transportation.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.9.
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $23,109.33 using available funds in various Department of Public Works Accounts for various 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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the readings of items 7.5 through 7.9 and refer them to the Finance Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.10.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for use of an Unmanned Aircraft System at the High School.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.13 and refer them to the Legislative Matters Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.11.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Under Door Cameras.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.13 and refer them to the Legislative Matters Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.12.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Thermal Imaging Monoculars.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.13 and refer them to the Legislative Matters Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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7.13.
Requesting approval of the Surveillance Technology Impact Report for Ball Cameras.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott moved to waive the readings of items 7.10 through 7.13 and refer them to the Legislative Matters Committee.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
- 8. Communications of City Officers
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8.1.
Chief Assessor requesting to appear at this Council's November 13, 2025 meeting for the Tax Classification Public Hearing and the determination and adoption of tax levy percentages for FY 2026.
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8.2.
Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development conveying a summary of the 90 Washington process review and development objectives.
{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset2 Symbol;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} \viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\qj\tx722\tx2760\cf1\f0\fs24 This item was discussed with items #25-1594, #25-1595 and #25-1596.\par \pard\qj Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Senior Planner Ben Demers gave a presentation explaining the guiding\cf0 documents, high level goals, development and minor changes to the plan. The site in question is a 4-acre parcel which was taken by the Somerville Redevelopment Authority (SRA) in 2019. The original price paid by the SRA was $9 million, however the seller sued and was awarded another $30 million.\par Mr. Demers explained that the scope of the project has changed to eliminate the public safety complex, and he outlined steps yet to be performed. The project delineation and design (phase 3) are ongoing and will include public engagement. Phase 4 will be the selection of a developer and issuance of a request for proposals (RFP), and phase 5 will be project implementation. Mr. Demers noted that a requirement will be that the project would need to break ground within 3 years of the land transfer.\par The proposed changes were introduced and included the removal of the public safety component from the plan and recouping money from sale of the land (to offset the additional $30 million paid to the seller), replacing the Technical Advisory Committee with the Civic Advisory Committee, and lengthening the time for developers to break ground.\par Mr. Demers listed the development objectives and uses as: \par \pard\fi-360\li720\qj\f1\'b7\tab\f0 recouping a significant portion of funds paid for the taking of 90 Washington Street, \par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 achieving a combination of some or all the following land uses: new housing, new commercial space, new civic space and green space,\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 meeting the following development principles: mixed-use building formats, dense development, flexibility in form or massing,\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 meeting the following development principles: sustainable design, no surface parking, robust urban canopy and natural landscape, and\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 having diversity, equity, and inclusion in the development process\par \pard\nowidctlpar\sl-328\slmult0\qj\tx722\tx2760 Councilor McLaughlin informed the Council that there will be a public hearing regarding 90 Washington Street in the Land Use Committee on November 6, 2025, at 6:30 P.M.\par \pard\cf1\f2\par }
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8.3.
Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management conveying the draft Combined Sewer Overflow Plan.
{\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\qj\f0\fs24 Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management Rich Raiche spoke on the item, saying that Somerville, along with Cambridge and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), are responsible for drafting and executing a plan for a combined sewer overflow. Work on a plan began in 2022 and a draft of that plan must be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by the end of this year. Approval is anticipated during 2026 with construction commencing in 2027. \par Director Raiche reviewed a number of slides and spoke about the city\rquote s legal and moral obligations and presented a high-level summary of the processes and conclusions, to date, and said that 39 alternative projects were considered, with the overall conclusion being that a full-scale separation is not recommended at this time due to downstream and space constraints. \par He spoke about the projected financial impact and Financial Capability Assessment and noted that the provisional bill impacts show a 208% increase from FY 2026 to FY2 055. Regarding the FY 2027 Water and Sewer rates, the director spoke about a long-term Capital Investment Plan, future revenue requirements, enterprise fund health, maintaining financial metrics, raising rates early to cash-fund future projects and preparing for annual rate increases of 15% to 20% for next 4 to 5 years.\par Director Raiche touched on the planning process which includes community outreach and engagement and public meetings on the Combined Sewer Overflow Plan.\par In closing, Director Raiche told the councilors that the Infrastructure and Asset Management Department would like a sense of the Council\rquote s position on the plan. While Council approval is not required for the plan itself, the Council will be responsible for approving the necessary rate changes to fund the work articulated in the plan. The EPA has determined that increasing rates will not create a sufficient hardship for the city to make any subsidies available. \par \pard\cf1\f1\par }
- 9. New Business
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9.1.
Tufts University conveying its Fall 2025 Accountability Report.
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9.2.
Harvard University conveying its Fall 2025 Accountability Report.
- 10. Supplemental Items
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10.1.
City Clerk conveying Block Party Licenses issued.
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10.2.
New Drainlayer's License, American Site Corp.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.2 through 10.5 and approve them this evening.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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10.3.
New Drainlayer's License, Despres Landscape & Excavation.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.2 through 10.5 and approve them this evening.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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10.4.
Somerville YMCA applying for a Public Event License for Community Bike Giveaway on October 26 from 2:30pm to 5pm.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.2 through 10.5 and approve them this evening.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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10.5.
Office of Immigrant Affairs applying for a Public Event License for 102nd Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye Flag Raising Ceremony on October 29 from 2:30pm to 4:30pm.
{\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-325\slmult0\qj\tx722\cf1\f0\fs24 Councilor Burnley moved to waive the readings of items 10.2 through 10.5 and approve them this evening.\fs20\par \pard\f1\fs24\par }
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10.6.
Bill Valletta submitting comments re: item #25-1557, requesting approval to create the BrickBottom Infrastructure Stabilization fund.
- 11. Adjournment