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City Council

Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 7 PM

City Council Chamber and Remote Participation Caucus Meeting

This meeting has happened. Minutes are final.

What happened

77 items of legislation were taken up.

  • 48 approved
  • 13 referred for recommendation
  • 6 placed on file
  • 6 work completed
  • 4 approved and sent for discussion

Agenda 77 items

Notices from the agenda

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin.

The meeting was recessed at 9:20 PM and reconvened at 9:30 PM. The meeting was Adjourned at 10:10 PM.

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Published November 18, 2022 10:45AM, Revised November 22, 2022, 2:05PM.

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. 11.1.
    22-2055 Order Approved

    That item 22-1446 be discharged from the Committee on Legislative Matters Committee with the intent that it be sent to the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters.

  2. 11.2.
    22-1446 Order Approved and sent for discussion

    That the Director of Human Resources provide a preliminary report on staff feedback regarding the Commonwealth's Paid Family and Medical Leave policy.

  3. 1. Opening Ceremonies
  4. 1.1.
    22-2025 Roll Call Placed on file

    Call of the Roll.

  5. 1.2.
    22-2026 Remembrances Approved

    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-328\slmult0\qj\tx722\f0\fs24 Councilor Scott offered a moment of silence in memory of the many transgender individuals who have lost their lives to violence.\par Councilor Scott offered a moment of silence in memory of Sabina Carlson Robilard.\par Councilor Strezo offered a moment of silence in memory of those killed during the recent shooting at Club Q, long considered a LGBTQ safe haven.\par \pard Councilors Gomez Mouakad and Ewen-Campen offered a moment of silence in memory of Zakwani Gibbs.\cf1\f1\par }

  6. 1.3.
    22-2027 Minutes Approved

    Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, October 25, 2022.

  7. 2. Citations
  8. 3. Public Hearings
  9. 3.1.
    22-1980 Grant of Location Approved

    Eversource applying for a Grant of Location to install 38 feet of conduit in Trull Street, from Utility Pole 339/6 to a point of pickup at 57 Trull 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\f0\fs24 Jacqueline Duffy, representing Eversource, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.\cf1\f1\par }

  10. 3.2.
    22-1981 Grant of Location Approved

    Extenet applying for a Grant of Location to install a total of 130 feet of conduit in Broadway from existing Eversource Manhole 10191 to a proposed handhole, and continuing to a small wireless facility node located across from 16 Broadway.

    {\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 Rosanna Ferrante, representing Extenet, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.\cf1\f1\par }

  11. 3.3.
    22-1982 Small Wireless Facility Approved

    Extenet applying for a Small Wireless Facility License for facilities on a new pole across from 16 Broadway.

    {\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 Rosanna Ferrante, representing Extenet, explained the reason for the request. There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.\cf1\f1\par }

  12. 3.4.
    22-1921 Officer's Communication Approved

    Chief Assessor presenting proposed FY 2023 Tax Classifications and requesting the adoption of a minimum residential factor for FY 2023 and acceptance of MGL C59 S5C, a residential exemption of 35% of average assessed value for owner-occupied properties for FY 2023.

    {\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-284\slmult0\qj\tx2640\f0\fs24 Chief Assessor Frank Golden, Assessor Analyst Janneke Donovan-DeKlerk and Finance Director Ed Bean spoke on this item. Director Bean reported that the city received the Department of Revenue certification last Friday and that $4.2 million dollars in supplemental appropriations are before the Council tonight. The tax recap still needs to be certified by the state. Once the tax rate is certified, the commitment has to be sent and tax bills issued. \par During the presentation, Councilors were informed of several key factors effecting the tax rate:\par \pard\nowidctlpar\fi-360\li1440\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx1440\f1\'b7\tab\f0 the city\rquote s new growth is higher than projected,\par \pard\nowidctlpar\fi-360\li1440\sl-284\slmult0\qj\f1\'b7\tab\f0 20.7% of the new growth was in commercial property,\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 the tax rate increased because of the strength of the market in 1 and 2 family homes and condos, \par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 condos conversions came mostly from 2 and 3 family homes,\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 condo conversions have slowed due to the passage of tenants\rquote rights,\par \f1\'b7\tab\f0 the FY 2023 residential tax levy share has decreased to 70.85% (down 1.68% from the last fiscal year)\par \pard\nowidctlpar\sl-284\slmult0\qj\tx2640 President McLaughlin opened the Public Hearing opened. There were no speakers on the matter and the Public Hearing was closed.\par Councilor Wilson made a motion that the City Council adopt a minimum residential factor of 85.0125, the legal minimum for the City of Somerville for FY 2023. That motion was approved.\par Councilor Wilson made a motion that the City Council accepts the provisions of Chapter 59, section 5C approving a residential exemption of 35% of average assessed value for owner occupied properties for FY 2023. That motion was approved.\par \pard Councilor Wilson moved for reconsideration in the hope that it fails. Reconsideration failed.\cf1\f2\par }

  13. 4. Orders, Ordinances, Resolutions and Motions of Members
  14. 4.1.
    22-2023 Order Approved and sent for discussion

    That the Commissioner of Public Works provide information on options to engage local and minority owned businesses in contract work.

    {\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 Gomez Mouakad would like to know the process to hire local residents to perform work for the city. Councilor Burnley commented that there\rquote s a long paper trail to be untangled with respect to procurements. Councilor Ewen-Campen would like to see the mayor set a goal for hiring local vendors. Councilor Wilson noted the delays in paying its contractors/vendors.\cf1\f1\par }

  15. 4.2.
    22-2024 Order Approved

    That the Director of Economic Development support efforts by the Welcome Project's Worker Center to expand outreach to the immigrant community regarding the Wage Theft Ordinance.

    {\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 Gomez Mouakad reported that discussions were held about performing outreach to the immigrant community.\cf1\f1\par }

  16. 4.3.
    22-2022 Resolution Approved

    That the Administration and the Director of Economic Development recognize and promote November 26th as Small Business Saturday, to celebrate and support small businesses in our 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 Gomez Mouakad commented that small businesses have struggled during COVID and many are still suffering,, adding that the city\rquote s centers won\rquote t be vibrant without these businesses. Councilor Wilson commented that spending money in small businesses keeps money in the community.\cf1\f1\par }

  17. 4.4.
    22-1997 Communication Placed on file

    In his capacity as President, cancelling the Regular Meeting of this Council scheduled for December 22, 2022.

  18. 5. Unfinished Business
  19. 6. Reports of Committees
  20. 6.A. Charter Review Special Committee
  21. 6.A.1.
    22-2031 Committee Report Approved

    Report of the Special Committee on Charter Review, meeting as a Committee of the Whole on November 21, 2022.

    {\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 Scott presented the Committee Report saying that a process was laid out for making recommendations. There will be a virtual public hearing on December 7\super th\nosupersub on the Charter.\cf1\f1\par }

  22. 6.A.2.
    22-2047 Resolution Approved

    That the Charter Review Committee's Writing Team update the text to add a definition for legal holiday.

  23. 6.A.3.
    22-2046 Resolution Approved

    Supporting the Charter Review Committee's proposed language regarding the review of Multiple Member Bodies and the Charter.

  24. 6.B. Finance Committee
  25. 6.B.1.
    22-2028 Committee Report Approved

    Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on November 17, 2022.

    {\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 presented the Committee Report and reviewed some of the items that were discussed and acted on, including payments for prior year invoices, extensions of contracts, approval of grant funding, approval of parking meter receipts, litigation expenses, traffic safety measures, immigrant legal defense services, public safety items and approval of $4.2 million in supplemental appropriations.\cf1\f1\par }

  26. 6.B.2.
    22-1773 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting approval to amend a contract with Greenberg Traurig LLP for an additional two years and $300,000, for ongoing litigation related to the 90 Washington Street eminent domain taking.

  27. 6.B.3.
    22-1851 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $409.60 using available funds in the City Clerk Ordinary Maintenance Credit Card Convenience Fees Account for credit card convenience fees.

  28. 6.B.4.
    22-1856 Mayor's Request Approved

    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 transportation to events at the Council on Aging.

  29. 6.B.5.
    22-1857 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $6,000 grant with no new match required, from Somerville Cambridge Elder Services to the Council on Aging for transportation to Council on Aging sponsored events.

  30. 6.B.6.
    22-1858 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension with Stantec Consulting Services Inc. for Poplar Street Pump Station Design Services.

  31. 6.B.7.
    22-1875 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $300,000 to the 90 Washington Demonstration Project Account for ongoing litigation and planning costs.

  32. 6.B.8.
    22-1880 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $116,166.91 using available funds in various Public Works Ordinary Maintenance Accounts for invoices in Administration, Buildings, Grounds, Lights and Lines, Highway, Fleet, Sanitation, and Snow.

  33. 6.B.9.
    22-1888 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $650,000 to the Fire Department Overtime Account.

  34. 6.B.10.
    22-1889 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $50,000 to the Immigrant Legal Services Stabilization Fund for additional immigrant legal defense services.

  35. 6.B.11.
    22-1890 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $110,000 to the Capital Projects Division, Capital Outlay, Fences Account to fund temporary construction fencing at the 90 Washington Street site.

  36. 6.B.12.
    22-1892 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 to the Capital Projects, Building Improvements Account for repairs and upgrades to HVAC systems.

  37. 6.B.13.
    22-1905 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $70,000 to the Fire Alarm Overtime Account.

  38. 6.B.14.
    22-1911 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $10,000 to the Police-Animal Control Overtime Account.

  39. 6.B.15.
    22-1915 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $100,000 to the DPW Sanitation, Hazardous Waste Removal Account to fund a shortfall.

  40. 6.B.16.
    22-1918 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $250,000 to the Law Department, Legal Services Account for outside legal counsel services.

  41. 6.B.17.
    22-1919 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $100,000 to the Law Department, Judgments and Settlements Account.

  42. 6.B.18.
    22-1923 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting the appropriation of $1,616,575 from the Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Parking Meter Receipts Account to reduce the FY 2023 Tax Rate.

  43. 6.B.19.
    22-1925 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $424,950.10 to the Information Technology eRate Account to replace all Somerville Public School network equipment via the eRate grant program.

  44. 6.B.20.
    22-1972 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 to the Salary Contingency, Salaries Account.

  45. 6.B.21.
    22-1979 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $200,000 to the Traffic Safety Stabilization Fund to fund traffic safety measures.

  46. 6.B.22.
    22-1983 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $949,338 to the Capital Outlay, Infrastructure-Streets Account for street resurfacing projects.

  47. 6.B.23.
    22-1985 Mayor's Request Approved

    Requesting a supplemental appropriation of $50,000 to various Finance Department-Auditing Division Accounts to support the Public Participatory Budgeting Project.

  48. 6.C. Land Use Committee
  49. 6.C.1.
    22-2030 Committee Report Approved

    Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on November 17, 2022.

    {\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 Ewing-Campen presented the Committee Report and asked that it be approved as submitted. He noted that the next public hearing on pending legislation before the committee will be held in the next legislative session.\cf1\f1\par }

  50. 6.C.2.
    22-0205 Order Placed on file

    That the City Solicitor update this Council on the previous request to seize by eminent domain, Patsy's Pastries at 182 Broadway and the East End Grill at 118 Broadway.

  51. 6.C.3.
    22-1356 Public Communication Placed on file

    Anthony Pasquale requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Map to change the zoning district of 34 Allen Street from Neighborhood Residential (NR) to Small Business (SB) Overlay.

  52. 6.D. Public Utilities and Public Works Committee
  53. 6.D.1.
    22-2029 Committee Report Approved

    Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting on November 16, 2022.

    {\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 presented the Committee Report and said that the Fire Department will need to hire an additional 12 fire fighters to fully staff a fire truck at Assembly Square.\cf1\f1\par }

  54. 6.D.2.
    22-0185 Order Work completed

    That the Chief Fire Engineer report on the safety risks for all municipal buildings not fully equipped with automatic sprinkler systems.

  55. 6.D.3.
    22-0193 Order Work completed

    That the Chief Fire Engineer provide this Council with the plan for staffing the future Assembly Square fire station.

  56. 6.D.4.
    22-1691 Order Work completed

    That the Director of Water and Sewer appear before this Council to address the issue of constituents reporting unusually high water bill spikes.

  57. 6.D.5.
    22-1692 Order Work completed

    That the Director of Water and Sewer report to this Council, the account, purchase and usage information requested within.

  58. 6.D.6.
    22-1705 Order Work completed

    That the Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment update this Council on the status of household hazardous waste collection.

  59. 6.D.7.
    22-1796 Order Work completed

    That the Director of Inspectional Services develop a policy requiring all redevelopments to post the information detailed within on the outer perimeter of the property.

  60. 7. Communications of the Mayor
  61. 7.1.
    22-2000 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to dedicate for recreational use, in perpetuity, the parcel of land known as 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  62. 7.2.
    22-2017 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting authorization to borrow $89,332,819 in a bond, and to appropriate the same amount for the Poplar Street Pump Station construction project.

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  63. 7.3.
    22-2006 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to accept and expend a $53,200 grant with no new match required, from the Mass Cultural Council to the Arts Council for the Local Cultural Council grant program.

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  64. 7.4.
    22-2005 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $224,473.60 using available funds in various Department of Public Works ordinary maintenance budgets.

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  65. 7.5.
    22-2009 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $3,850 using available funds in the Human Resources Arbitration Services Account for FY 2021 arbitration 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  66. 7.6.
    22-2010 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $3,600 using available funds in the Human Resources Professional & Technical Services Account for temporary consulting 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  67. 7.7.
    22-2008 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,575 using available funds in the Human Resources Ordinary Maintenance Advertising Account for advertising vacant city positions.

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  68. 7.8.
    22-1824 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $1,500 using available funds in the Department of Racial and Social Justice Translation Services Account for Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  69. 7.9.
    22-2011 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $137.50 using available funds in the Human Resources Postage Account for FedEx delivery 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\f0\fs24 Councilor Wilson moved to waive the reading of items 7.1 through 7.9 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  70. 7.10.
    22-2007 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting confirmation of the appointment of Matthew McCune to the position of Police Officer.

  71. 8. Communications of City Officers
  72. 8.1.
    22-2021 Officer's Communication Placed on file

    Director of the Office of Housing Stability conveying an update on the new municipal voucher program and other tools to promote affordable housing.

    {\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 Kelly sponsored Director of Intergovernmental Affairs Sahni and Director of the Office of Housing Stability Ellen Shachter to speak. Director Sahni said this is an important step towards promoting affordable housing and that the city is attempting to create sustainable funding to replace the ARPA funds that will be used up. Director Shachter gave a presentation on the Municipal Voucher Program and FLEX-ARPA. She spoke about the lack of deeply affordable units, lack of access to immigrants, demonstration of need, inadequate existing solutions and said that the program is free from state and federal regulations. The voucher program is intended to be available for the long haul, prioritizing families ineligible for federal housing due to immigration status. Approximately 30-35 families would be helped yearly. Director Shachter reviewed the qualifications for participation in the program, saying that the vouchers may be project-based or tenant-based. Since the program is not subject to state or federal regulations, the city can design it as needed with some flexibility. The program would be funded by ARPA funds for the first 2 years (2023-2024) and then the city would share the cost with the trust fund for the next 5 years. The FLEX-ARPA would be administered by the Somerville Homeless Coalition and CAAS and may be used for anything the team believes is needed to promote housing stability. The program started in July of 2022. $4.4 million in ARPA funds have been allocated by the administration for the program.\cf1\f1\par }

  73. 9. New Business
  74. 9.1.
    22-1988 License Approved

    Renewing Used Car Dealer License Class 2, Barnes and Walsh Company, 224 Somerville Ave.

    {\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 Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item tonight.\cf1\f1\par }

  75. 9.2.
    22-1989 Public Event Approved

    Union Square Main Streets applying for a Public Event License for 8th Annual Holiday Stroll on December 10 from 10am to 7pm (raindate December 11).

    {\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 Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item tonight.\cf1\f1\par }

  76. 9.3.
    22-2016 Public Event Approved

    BA Events Promotions applying for a Public Event License for Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk on December 17 from 7am to 1pm.

    {\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 Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item tonight.\cf1\f1\par }

  77. 10. Supplemental Items
  78. 10.1.
    22-2033 Order Approved

    That the Director of Parks and Recreation, the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry, and the Commissioner of Public Works adopt a policy of proactively communicating closures of parks to the public, including contacting nearby daycare providers and posting signage at least five business days in advance.

  79. 10.2.
    22-2034 Order Approved

    That the Director of the Office of Housing Stability update this Council on the Municipal Voucher Program.

    {\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 See item 8.1.\cf1\f1\par }

  80. 10.3.
    22-2036 Order Approved and sent for discussion

    That the Director of Inspectional Services inspect Chuckie Harris Park, the General Insulation building and 161 Broadway for signs of rodent issues and food waste.

    {\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 noted that the city has declared a partial victory in the war on rats, however, it\rquote s time to accelerate the efforts. He submitted various orders re: rats and he supports the city\rquote s efforts.\cf1\f1\par }

  81. 10.4.
    22-2037 Order Approved and sent for discussion

    That the Director of Inspectional Services bait the sewers along Pennsylvania Avenue and adjacent streets and develop a plan to address rodent issues, in anticipation of planned water pipeline renovation.

  82. 10.5.
    22-2038 Order Approved

    That the Director of Parking address the falling ONE WAY sign on Michigan Avenue.

  83. 10.6.
    22-2039 Order Approved

    That the Commissioner of Public Works place trash barrels next to all city-owned benches along East Broadway.

    {\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 noted the lack of trash barrels in that part of the city.\cf1\f1\par }

  84. 10.7.
    22-2040 Order Approved

    That the Commissioner of Public Works move the new speed bump sign in front of 91-93 Franklin Street, to avoid blocking the sidewalk.

  85. 10.8.
    22-2035 Resolution Approved

    That the Administration allocate funding to expand the rodent SMART box technology throughout East Somerville.

  86. 10.9.
    22-2043 Resolution Approved

    That February 4, 2023 is proclaimed to be Transit Equity Day.

    {\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 Burnley commented about the opening of the GLX on December 12\super th\nosupersub and the city\rquote s efforts to implement a comprehensive bicycle plan as well as north//south traffic patterns. He spoke about the need for transit equity to reduce barriers that have held communities apart for a long time.\cf1\f1\par }

  87. 10.10.
  88. 10.11.
    22-2041 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting approval of the Alternative Transportation Corridor Lease Agreement with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of item 10.11 through 10.12 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  89. 10.12.
    22-2015 Mayor's Request Referred for recommendation

    Requesting an interdepartmental transfer of $175,000 from the DPW Buildings, OT Labor Account to the DPW Grounds, OT Labor Account for Grounds overtime labor costs through FY 2023.

    {\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 moved to waive the reading of item 10.11 through 10.12 and refer them to the Committee on Finance.\cf1\f1\par }

  90. 10.13.
    22-2042 Officer's Communication Placed on file

    City Clerk conveying the non-binding votes of the 2023 City Council Caucus.

  91. 10.14.
    22-2032 License Approved

    New Outdoor Parking License, Star Market, 275 Beacon Street, 3 cars.

    {\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 Burnley moved to waive the reading and approve the item tonight.\cf1\f1\par }

  92. 11. Late Items
  93. 12. Adjournment