MassVoter.com← Somerville City CouncilSomerville City Council · 2020–2021 Council · Regular meeting
October 8, 2020
76 recorded votes, 16 with disagreement.
Sources: Official minutes (PDF) · Meeting video · City meeting page
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Note on these minutes: Called to order by Ward One City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin.
Present: Wilfred Mbah, Mary Jo Rossetti, William White, Matthew McLaughlin, J.T. Scott, Ben Ewen-Campen, Jesse Clingan, Mark Niedergang, Lance Davis, Katjana Ballantyne, Kristen Strezo
Absent: None
During the meeting:
- J.T. Scott recused from the vote on Grant of Location #210683 (Submitted by Eversouce to install 41 feet of conduit in Prospect Street from Manhole...).
- Matthew McLaughlin recused from the vote on Mayor's Request #210597 (Submitted by Acting Mayor McLaughlin, requesting approval of an amendment to the...).
- Ben Ewen-Campen recused from the vote on Officer's Communication #210708 (City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session to discuss litigation...).
- Ben Ewen-Campen recused from the vote on Officer's Communication #210709 (City Solicitor requesting approval to retain outside legal counsel to represent the...).
Every vote, in order
Minutes #210680
Approve the minutes of the September 10, 2020 regular meeting
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting, September 10, 2020.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Grant of Location #210681
Submitted by Eversource to install 89 feet of conduit in Mossland Street, from Pole 241/4 to a point of pickup st 15 Mossland Street (interim approval granted). Jacqui Duffy from Eversource spoke...
Submitted by Eversource to install 89 feet of conduit in Mossland Street, from Pole 241/4 to a point of pickup st 15 Mossland Street (interim approval granted). Jacqui Duffy from Eversource spoke in favor of the item. Stephen Huff asked about the traffic impact and Ms. Duffy said the work would take no more than 2 days. With no other speakers, the President closed the public hearing. Councilor Niedergang expressed concern about traffic during rush hour and moved approval of a condition that work not begin before 10:00 AM. The condition was unanimously approved.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Grant of Location #210682
Submitted by Eversource to install new Manhole 30893 near 56 Webster Avenue. Jacqui Duffy from Eversource spoke in favor of the item. With no other speakers, the President closed the public hearing
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Grant of Location #210683
Submitted by Eversouce to install 41 feet of conduit in Prospect Street from Manhole 25406 to a point of pickup at 50 Prospect Street. Jacqui Duffy from Eversource spoke in favor of the item. With...
Submitted by Eversouce to install 41 feet of conduit in Prospect Street from Manhole 25406 to a point of pickup at 50 Prospect Street. Jacqui Duffy from Eversource spoke in favor of the item. With no other speakers, the President closed the public hearing.
Yes: Ballantyne, Clingan, Davis, Ewen-Campen, Mbah, McLaughlin, Niedergang, Rossetti, Strezo, WhiteJ.T. Scott recused and is left out of this vote.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [10 TO 0] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne RECUSED: Scott.”
Grant of Location #210684
Submitted by Extenet to install 256 feet of conduit on Inner Belt Road from Manhole 24106 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 3 feet to a replacement pole near the intersection of Washington...
Submitted by Extenet to install 256 feet of conduit on Inner Belt Road from Manhole 24106 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 3 feet to a replacement pole near the intersection of Washington Street and Inner Belt Road. Rosanna Ferranti from Extenet spoke in favor of the item. With no other speakers, the President closed the public hearing.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Grant of Location #210685
Submitted by Extenet to install 31 feet of conduit in Pearl Street from Manhole 4550 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 4 feet to a replacment pole near the intersection of Florence and Pearl...
Submitted by Extenet to install 31 feet of conduit in Pearl Street from Manhole 4550 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 4 feet to a replacment pole near the intersection of Florence and Pearl Streets. No one spoke in favor of the item. The President closed the public hearing. Rosanna Ferranti from Extenet later explained that she was experiencing technical difficulties.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Grant of Location #210686
Submitted by Extenet to install 101 feet of conduit in Broadway from Manhole 1905 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 3 feet to a replacement pole near 332 Broadway. Rosanna Ferranti from...
Submitted by Extenet to install 101 feet of conduit in Broadway from Manhole 1905 to a proposed handhole, then continuing 3 feet to a replacement pole near 332 Broadway. Rosanna Ferranti from Extenet spoke in favor of the item. With no other speakers, the President closed the public hearing.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210687
That the Director of Health and Human Services advise this Council what services are available to our neighbors experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and addiction, and where additional...
By City Councilor Davis, Strezo, Ballantyne, Scott That the Director of Health and Human Services advise this Council what services are available to our neighbors experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and addiction, and where additional funding could improve those services or enable new services. Councilor Davis explained that this was not an indictment of the Police Department and wants a conversation with the Administration about how to best assist those in need.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210688
That the Director of Communications or the appropriate department remove the electronic Soofa signs from sidewalks in Ward 3. Councilor Ewen-Campen said he doesn’t think the signs are being widely...
By City Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Director of Communications or the appropriate department remove the electronic Soofa signs from sidewalks in Ward 3. Councilor Ewen-Campen said he doesn’t think the signs are being widely used, and they serve advertisers rather than residents. Councilor Scott agreed and urged removal of the signs.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210689
That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry work with the Ward 3 Councilor to facilitate a community meeting to plan a replacement tree(s) for the large Elm tree in Prospect Hill Park...
By City Councilor Ewen-Campen That the Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry work with the Ward 3 Councilor to facilitate a community meeting to plan a replacement tree(s) for the large Elm tree in Prospect Hill Park that appears to be succumbing to Dutch Elm disease.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210690
That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management prioritize Conwell Avenue for paving as soon as possible. Councilor Ballantyne said the street was in poor repair. Councilor Davis asked if...
By City Councilor Ballantyne That the Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management prioritize Conwell Avenue for paving as soon as possible. Councilor Ballantyne said the street was in poor repair. Councilor Davis asked if Council requests for street paving are back on the table. Councilor Scott said more focus is needed on the entire street paving program, with only 1 of the city's 100 miles of streets being resurfaced annually, and he will not support this item. Councilor McLaughlin said this isn’t how street repaving should be handled, but given the system in place, he supports it.
Yes: Ballantyne, Clingan, Davis, Ewen-Campen, Mbah, McLaughlin, Niedergang, Rossetti, Strezo, WhiteNo: Scott
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [10 TO 1] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne NAYS: Scott.”
Order #210691
That the Election Commissioner and the Chief of Police inform this Council what is being done to address possible voter intimidation at the polls and elsewhere during the month-long election...
By City Councilor Strezo That the Election Commissioner and the Chief of Police inform this Council what is being done to address possible voter intimidation at the polls and elsewhere during the month-long election process. Councilor Strezo sponsored Election Commissioner Nick Salerno to address this item, and he explained that there is a Police Officer at each polling location for the duration of voting. He said he's working with the Police Department on a comprehensive plan.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Ordinance #210185
Proposing an amendment to the zoning map to change 56 Murdock Street from the Neighborhood Residence to the Urban Residence district. Councilor Niedergang urged adoption of this ordinance
From the minutes
“RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210597
Submitted by Acting Mayor McLaughlin, requesting approval of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to the standards of Subsection 9.2.4.d for Cannabis Retail Sales uses. Councilor McLaughlin...
Submitted by Acting Mayor McLaughlin, requesting approval of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to the standards of Subsection 9.2.4.d for Cannabis Retail Sales uses. Councilor McLaughlin explained that this wording change, if not approved, would prevent cannabis retail sales from taking place in the city.
Yes: Ballantyne, Clingan, Davis, Ewen-Campen, Mbah, Niedergang, Rossetti, Scott, Strezo, WhiteMatthew McLaughlin recused and is left out of this vote.
From the minutes
“RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED. [10 TO 0] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne RECUSED: McLaughlin.”
Committee Report #210693
Accept the report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 6, 2020. Councilor Scott summarized the Committee's activities and encouraged interested individuals to view the meeting video. He...
Report of the Committee on Finance, meeting on October 6, 2020. Councilor Scott summarized the Committee's activities and encouraged interested individuals to view the meeting video. He reviewed pandemic funding from the CARES Act, and said he anticipated a joint meeting with the School Committee’s Finance Committee about School Department funding in the near future. The Committee discussed business license fees, which the administration is not prepared to waive, and vacant property ordinance fees, which after much discussion the Committee reduced from a proposed $500 to $50. The Committee heard the Police Department explain that they hadn’t responded to requests for information about military hardware and equipment transfers to employees because of Covid and because the requests were either too broad or too specific or both. Councilor Rossetti explained her stance against the new fee for vacant buildings and for reduced licensing fees. Councilor Mbah urged an increase in internet...
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of an annual Vacant Property Registration Fee of $500
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED. [UNANIMOUS] (ID:22329) AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210564 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting the appropriation of $240,000 from the Capital Stabilization Fund for the FY21 Tree planting program
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210565 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting a transfer of $13,228 from the Fire Department Ordinary Maintenance Account to the Fire Alarm Ordinary Maintenance Account to fund a technical service agreement for a 911 line into Fire...
Requesting a transfer of $13,228 from the Fire Department Ordinary Maintenance Account to the Fire Alarm Ordinary Maintenance Account to fund a technical service agreement for a 911 line into Fire Alarm.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210566 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $2,332.89 unencumbered using available funds in the DPW Lights and Lines budget
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210567 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $298,280 grant with no new match required, from the MA Department of Mental Health to the Police Department, for Crisis Intervention Team training
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210568 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $99,605 grant with no new match required, from the MA Department of Energy Resources Green Communities program to the Office of Sustainability & Environment for energy...
Requesting acceptance of a $99,605 grant with no new match required, from the MA Department of Energy Resources Green Communities program to the Office of Sustainability & Environment for energy efficiency projects.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210569 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $25,602 grant that requires a match, from the Metro Mayors Shannon Initiative to the Police Department for youth violence prevention
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210570 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $2,250 grant with no new match required, from the MA Cultural Council to the Arts Council for operational and programming support
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210598 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $111,500 grant with no new match required, from MADot to the SPCD Mobility Division for Mystic Avenue Shared Streets improvements
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210599 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of a time-only extension for the FY17 Morse Kelley Playground CPA Grant for an additional 3 years
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210600 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of a time-only extension for the FY17 Healey Schoolyard Design CPA contract for an additional 3 years
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210601 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of a time-only extension for the FY17 CPA grant contract for the Henry Hansen Park Design for an additional 3 years
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210602 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval for a time-only extension of the FY17 Milk Row Cemetery Open Space Master Plan CPA contract through October 2021
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210646 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $106,292.07 unencumbered using available funds in the DPW Building and Grounds budget
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210647 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $30,210.49 unencumbered using available funds in the DPW Highway budget
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210648 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay a variety of prior year invoices totaling $17,214.11 using available funds in the DPW Administration budget
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210649 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay prior year invoices totaling $4,014.19 unencumbered using available funds in the DPW Fleet budget
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210650 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice for $220 using available funds in the Inspectional Services Department's Staff Development Account for staff training
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210651 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $96 using available funds in the Health and Human Services Professional & Technical Account for interpreter services
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210652 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $46,800 grant with no new match required, from Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health and Human Services Department to reduce transportation barriers to food...
Requesting acceptance of a $46,800 grant with no new match required, from Metropolitan Area Planning Council to the Health and Human Services Department to reduce transportation barriers to food access.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210653 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $37,315 grant with no new match required, from the MA Department of Mental Health to the Police Department for the Jail Diversion Program
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210654 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting acceptance of a $5,000 grant with no new match required, from the MA Emergency Management Agency to the Fire Department for emergency management equipment
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210655 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to enter into a power purchase agreement with Solect Energy Development for a solar system at the East Somerville Community School
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210656 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval to enter into a power purchase agreement with Solect Energy Development for a solar system at the High School
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210657 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of an easement to Solect Energy Development for installation, maintenance, and operation of a roof-top solar energy system at the East Somerville Community School
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210658 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of an easement to Solect Energy Development for installation, maintenance, and operation of a roof-top solar energy system at the High School
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210659 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of a time-only contract extension for the 2017 street resurfacing contract with D&R General Contracting Inc
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210660 (report of the Finance Committee)
Requesting approval of the 2020-2021 HUD One Year Action Plan, for CDBG, HOME, and ESG programming
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210661 (report of the Finance Committee)
City Solicitor seeking approval of the settlement of a pending claim for $249,713.69, for damages to the City Hall Annex in 2018
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Committee Report #210694
Accept the report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on September 29, 2020. Councilor Ewen-Campen said the Committee deliberated an affordable housing overlay district, which would only apply...
Report of the Committee on Land Use, meeting on September 29, 2020. Councilor Ewen-Campen said the Committee deliberated an affordable housing overlay district, which would only apply to 100% affordable-housing buildings. It would authorize them by right and allow for larger buildings, depending on the underlying zoning. The proposal was kept in committee. The Committee also recommended approval of a citizens petition to upzone certain parcels in Gilman Square. The Homans property was changed to civic, and an adjoining property was left unchanged, so with the new GLX station, there is a rare opportunity to do something above and beyond what the private real estate market would deliver.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Public Communication #210364 (report of the Land Use Committee)
15 registered voters requesting the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning map to re-zone six parcels along Medford Street between School Street and Marshall Street
The minutes give the result only, with no count, so MassVoter does not show how each councilor voted.
From the minutes
“RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED AS AMENDED..”
Committee Report #210695
Accept the report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 1, 2020. Councilor Davis said the Committee reviewed a number of items. First was a home rule petition to repeal...
Report of the Committee on Legislative Matters, meeting on October 1, 2020. Councilor Davis said the Committee reviewed a number of items. First was a home rule petition to repeal so-called antigang loitering state legislation, to complete the Council’s work after last meeting’s repeal of a similar ordinance. Next was a proposed ordinance to prohibit the use of prison labor for city projects. The Committee couldn’t identify any good programs that employ incarcerated folks, and agreed they should be banned. The Committee also took action on amending the tree ordinance, to effectively protect the invasive Norway Maple species. The Council discussed prison labor, and considered defining "good" programs that could be used, but decided to leave the ordinance unchanged.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Ordinance #209190 (report of the Legislative Matters Committee)
Place on file: Proposing an amendment to Tree Preservation Ordinance 12-102 - Definitions, to add to the definition of Invasive Plant the following sentence: “However, Norway Maples and other...
By City Councilor Niedergang Proposing an amendment to Tree Preservation Ordinance 12-102 - Definitions, to add to the definition of Invasive Plant the following sentence: “However, Norway Maples and other trees larger than 24" diameter at breast height shall not be considered Invasive Plants.” For the approved Ordinance see #210724.
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Committee Report #210696
Accept the report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting as a Committee of the Whole on October 5, 2020. Councilor Davis reported that the Committee discussed the status of...
Report of the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety, meeting as a Committee of the Whole on October 5, 2020. Councilor Davis reported that the Committee discussed the status of Covid-19 in the city. Somerville had just moved back into the Green category, but Public Health Director Doug Kress pointed out that there are significant concerns, with more and more activities moving indoors, and the city could easily slip into the Red category. Just yesterday, Councilor Davis said, it appears we moved to the Yellow category. So we need to continue following best practices: maintain distances, wear masks, wash hands, and be smart with our choices.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Committee Report #210697
Accept the report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting as a Committee of the Whole on September 30, 2020. Councilor Clingan reported that the meeting started with a...
Report of the Committee on Public Utilities and Public Works, meeting as a Committee of the Whole on September 30, 2020. Councilor Clingan reported that the meeting started with a public hearing on two items related to the enforcement of conditions on special permits to control developers. 13 residents spoke about their concerns regarding different developments, and a lack of compliance and enforcement. The Committee learned that there are 4 vacancies in the Inspectional Services Department, so that creates a deficiency. Councilor White referenced Ordinance 8.3, which enables the city to deny a permit, with a 12-month wait, and he said he would proposed a reduced timeframe.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210700
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $421.65 using available funds in the Parking Department Meter Repair Account, for parking meter batteries
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210701
Requesting approval to pay a prior year invoice totaling $126 using available funds in the Health and Human Services Department's Professional and Technical Services Account for interpreting services
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210702
Requesting acceptance of a $53,437.50 grant with no new match required, from the Center for Tech and Civic Life Cares Act to the Elections Department for postage to cover mailing out voting ballots
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210703
Requesting acceptance of a $6,744.50 grant with no new match required from the MA Department of Public Health (through the Cambridge Health Alliance) to the Health and Human Services Department...
Requesting acceptance of a $6,744.50 grant with no new match required from the MA Department of Public Health (through the Cambridge Health Alliance) to the Health and Human Services Department for 2020 Seasonal Flu Vaccine Clinic support.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210707
Requesting the change of 3 voting locations: W5 P2 from the Brown School to the Kennedy School Gym, W5 P3 from the Highland Ave Fire Station to the Kennedy School Gym, and W2 P3 from Lowell St...
Requesting the change of 3 voting locations: W5 P2 from the Brown School to the Kennedy School Gym, W5 P3 from the Highland Ave Fire Station to the Kennedy School Gym, and W2 P3 from Lowell St Fire Station to the Argenziano School. Councilor Niedergang approved of the change, and asked about signage in advance of election day to inform residents of the polling location change. Election Commissioner Nick Salerno said that signage will be posted at both the old and new locations on election day, and the city will also inform residents via CTY calls.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210708
City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session to discuss litigation strategy and a negotiating position in the matter of 9-11 Aldersey Street. The President sponsored Assistant City...
City Solicitor requesting to appear in Executive Session to discuss litigation strategy and a negotiating position in the matter of 9-11 Aldersey Street. The President sponsored Assistant City Solicitor David Shapiro, who said the item was appropriate for Executive Session. The Council moved to Executive Session at 7:30 PM, and reconvened at 8:05 PM. The President reported that no votes were taken in Executive Session.
Yes: Ballantyne, Clingan, Davis, Mbah, McLaughlin, Niedergang, Rossetti, Scott, Strezo, WhiteBen Ewen-Campen recused and is left out of this vote.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [10 TO 0] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne RECUSED: Ewen-Campen.”
Officer's Communication #210709
City Solicitor requesting approval to retain outside legal counsel to represent the City in the matter of 9-11 Aldersey Street. Following the Executive Session (see #210708), the Council took up...
City Solicitor requesting approval to retain outside legal counsel to represent the City in the matter of 9-11 Aldersey Street. Following the Executive Session (see #210708), the Council took up this item.
Yes: Ballantyne, Clingan, Davis, Mbah, McLaughlin, Niedergang, Rossetti, Scott, Strezo, WhiteBen Ewen-Campen recused and is left out of this vote.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [10 TO 0] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne RECUSED: Ewen-Campen.”
Officer's Communication #210710
Assistant City Solicitor submitting a Home Rule Petition to repeal Chapter 327 of the Acts of 2004, relative to gang loitering. For discussion of this item see #210561
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210711
Chief Labor Counsel submitting an ordinance prohibiting the use of prison labor, as approved by the Committee on Legislative Matters on 10/1/20. For discussion of this item see #210454
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210712
Place on file: Acting Director of Personnel responding to #210382 re: staffing in the E-911, Fire Alarm, and Constituent Services Departments
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210713
Place on file: DPW Commissioner responding to #210475 re: the broken street light on Woods Ave
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210714
Place on file: Director of Economic Development conveying the Notice of Environmental Notification Form Submission for the Winter Hill Urban Renewal Plan
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210715
Place on file: Planning Board conveying its recommendations re: #s 210185, 210364, and 210597, 3 requests for zoning amendments. Councilor McLaughlin recused himself from the portion of this item...
Planning Board conveying its recommendations re: #s 210185, 210364, and 210597, 3 requests for zoning amendments. Councilor McLaughlin recused himself from the portion of this item dealing with marijuana issues.
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
License/Permit #210716
Renewing Drainlayer's License, BSI Engineering Inc. Councilor White moved to waive the readings and approve items 41 and 42
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
License/Permit #210717
Renewing Outdoor Seating License, 130 Broadway LLC for Fat Hen and Perfect Dental
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210720
That the Director of Inspectional Services review Zoning Ordinance 1.7 and act accordingly. Councilor Rossetti explained that the intent of this item was to bolster the enforcement of Stop Work Orders
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210721
That this Council prepare for interviews of applicants to the Wage Theft Advisory Committee. Councilor Rossetti said no city staff would be assigned to this committee, so it will be under the...
By City Councilor Rossetti That this Council prepare for interviews of applicants to the Wage Theft Advisory Committee. Councilor Rossetti said no city staff would be assigned to this committee, so it will be under the purview of this Council. She said she expects members to be appointed by the Mayor and the various organizations with appointing authority, and she'll set up a meeting of the Committee on Confirmation of Appointments and Personnel Matters to consider them.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Mayor's Request #210722
Requesting approval of a transfer of $40,000 in the City Council's budget, from the Professional and Technical Services Account to the Salaries and Wages Temporary Account, to fund staff to...
Requesting approval of a transfer of $40,000 in the City Council's budget, from the Professional and Technical Services Account to the Salaries and Wages Temporary Account, to fund staff to develop a civilian oversight process for the Police Department. Councilor Scott said this was a straightforward transfer to fund the Council's positions to develop a policy for civilian review of the Police Department. Councilor Davis explained that this was an estimate of the cost needed to accomplish the task.
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210724
City Clerk submitting an ordinance to amend the definition of invasive plants in Ordinance 12-102 of the Tree Preservation Ordinance, as approved by the Committee on Legislative Matters on...
City Clerk submitting an ordinance to amend the definition of invasive plants in Ordinance 12-102 of the Tree Preservation Ordinance, as approved by the Committee on Legislative Matters on 10/1/20. For discussion of this item see #209190.
From the minutes
“RESULT: ORDINANCE ORDAINED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210725
Place on file: Planning Division requesting to present a SomerVision 2040 update. Planner Melissa Woods said an updated SomerVision 2040 plan would be provided to the Council in the next 30 days...
Planning Division requesting to present a SomerVision 2040 update. Planner Melissa Woods said an updated SomerVision 2040 plan would be provided to the Council in the next 30 days and would include a spotlight on senior issues. She said the Council would have an opportunity to comment prior to its submission to the Planning Board.
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Officer's Communication #210726
Place on file: Chief Assessor responding to #209562 re: senior tax exemptions and #210591 re: tax abatements for arts organizations
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Public Communication
Place on file: Tufts President responding to #210623 re: Tufts' Dining Workers
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] (ID:23600) AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Public Communication #210728
Place on file: 2 residents submitting comments re: #210645, Conway Park remediation and renovation
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210729
That the Director of Parking place NO PARKING signs on the corner of Cross St and Chester Ave
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Order #210730
That the Director of Public Works trim the tree at 21 Mt. Vernon St
From the minutes
“RESULT: APPROVED. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
Public Communication #210731
Place on file: 2 residents submitting comments re: #210364, a residents' petition to rezone 6 parcels in the Gilman Sq area
The minutes record the result as “Placed on file”, with a roll call.
From the minutes
“RESULT: PLACED ON FILE. [UNANIMOUS] AYES: Mbah, Rossetti, Strezo, White Jr., McLaughlin, Scott, Ewen-Campen, Clingan, Niedergang, Davis, Ballantyne.”
From the Somerville City Council’s official minutes, posted on the city’s Legistar meeting calendar (July 2022 on) and its older meeting portal (2010 to mid-2022), both linked from the City Council page on somervillema.gov. We check every vote against the councilors present and quote the exact wording. MassVoter never grades or scores officials. Councilor photos: City of Somerville (somervillema.gov) official headshots for Ben Ewen-Campen, Jesse Clingan, Lance Davis, Wilfred Mbah, Naima Sait, J.T. Scott and Kristen Strezo; The Somerville Times (thesomervilletimes.com) for Emily Hardt, Jon Link, Matthew McLaughlin and Ben Wheeler. Former councilors show initials.
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